Whats so dangerous about funding more S.F. shelter beds? The fight over Prop. C, explained.

The San Francisco Board of Supervisors will decide on Mayor Daniel Lurie's proposal to reallocate $35 million from permanent supportive housing to temporary shelter beds, a move that has ignited protests among housing advocates and former residents. Critics argue that reducing funds for permanent housing will perpetuate the cycle of homelessness, especially given that only 13 percent of those leaving shelters found permanent housing in 2024. Lurie's proposal also seeks to amend Proposition C, which requires a supermajority for reallocating funds, to allow changes with just a simple majority. This change would lower the threshold from eight votes to six, increasing the likelihood of future reallocations. The Budget and Appropriations Committee previously approved the proposal, which has drawn concerns about undermining voter intent from the 2018 ballot measure that garnered 61 percent support.

The City Attorney's Office has raised legal questions about the proposal, further complicating the matter. The outcome of this vote could significantly alter San Francisco's approach to homelessness funding and services. If approved, it might pave the way for easier modifications of voter-approved measures in the future.