We are nowhere near a decision A long day for S.F. budget talks
San Francisco's Budget and Appropriations Committee faced challenges on Budget Day as they attempted to finalize the city budget amid proposed cuts that include 1,400 city jobs and substantial funding reductions for nonprofits. Mayor Daniel Lurie's draft of $15. 9 billion has drawn criticism, particularly as the committee can only influence a small fraction of the budget. Advocates rallied at City Hall earlier in the week, with nonprofit leaders like Adrian Tirtanadi on a hunger strike to protest the potential loss of $2 million in funding. A memo from the city attorney's office added to the tension, indicating that Lurie's funding changes regarding homeless services may conflict with city law.
The committee's "add-back" process offers a glimmer of hope for restoring some funding, but the amounts at stake are minimal compared to the overall budget. Negotiations will continue through July, leading up to the final budget ratification on August 1. Supervisor Connie Chan expressed that the committee was far from a decision as the day concluded. The outcome of these budget talks will significantly impact city workers and the future of vital services.