An oligarch who plans to lead through tyranny Supervisor Walton unloads on Mayor Lurie
District 10 Supervisor Shamann Walton has vocally opposed Mayor Daniel Lurie’s decision to expand homelessness services at 2177 Jerrold Ave. , labeling him an “oligarch” and accusing him of acting without community input. Walton contends that the Bayview is already overwhelmed with homeless services and has urged for a more equitable distribution across the city. Lurie’s announcement of the first phase of Jerrold Commons, which includes 68 shelter beds for older adults, has exacerbated tensions, particularly as Walton points out that it also reduces RV parking spots in the area. He highlighted that District 10 houses around 18% of the city’s homeless population and has several existing shelters.
The mayor claims to have collaborated with community members for nearly two years, yet Walton feels the community's voices were largely ignored in the official communications. The expansion aligns with Lurie’s broader promise to create 1,500 interim beds throughout the city, yet Walton argues that the concentration of services undermines community welfare. Walton's remarks reflect deeper issues of racial and socioeconomic equity in urban homelessness responses. As the debate continues, the implications for both the city’s homeless population and the residents of District 10 remain significant.