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San Francisco's City Attorney's Office announced a $1.425 million settlement with engineer Rodrigo Santos, who misappropriated $1.6 million and engaged in bribery. Santos, sentenced to 30 months in federal prison, altered checks and exploited city building regulations for personal gain. The settlement reflects a fraction of the city's costs in pursuing his fraudulent activities since 2018.
San Francisco Mayor Daniel Lurie signed a $15.9 billion city budget for the next two fiscal years, closing an $817.5 million deficit. The budget maintains funding for key departments while allocating significant resources to public works and community health.
San Francisco Pride faces financial challenges as it loses key sponsors and city funding, which could impact the 2026 event. Executive Director Suzanne Ford warns that rising entertainment costs and reduced alcohol sales are forcing difficult decisions about scaling back. City leaders emphasize the importance of Pride to the local economy but have cut funding to address budget shortfalls.
Kaiser Permanente will pause gender-affirming surgeries for patients under 19 starting August 29, citing federal pressure. The decision has sparked protests among staff and criticism from advocates, who argue it will harm transgender youth. Supporters of the pause believe it reflects necessary caution regarding irreversible medical procedures.
ICE officers arrested three asylum-seekers leaving court hearings in San Francisco, including a man deemed potentially mentally impaired by a judge. The arrests follow a pattern where over 30 immigrants have been detained by federal agents after similar hearings at local immigration courts. This incident raises concerns about the treatment of vulnerable asylum-seekers in the immigration system.
Rock Bottom Restaurant & Brewery in Campbell closed unexpectedly, leaving 46 employees jobless. Staff received no prior notice of the closure, which followed a week of corporate actions indicating financial distress. Employees and regulars expressed grief over the loss of a beloved community spot.
The U.S. Coast Guard Barque Eagle will offer free public tours this weekend in San Francisco at Pier 17. The 295-foot tall ship, originally built in Germany in 1936, now serves as a training vessel for the Coast Guard Academy. This is the Eagle's second visit to the city in two months.
Tree Frog Treks in Bernal offers hands-on science education to thousands of children each year, engaging them with reptiles and amphibians. Founded by zoologist Chris Giorni in 1999, the program combines full-price fees with scholarships for low-income families. The initiative serves 2,000 to 3,000 kids annually, promoting outdoor learning and environmental awareness.
Jack Epstein operates Chocolate Covered, a candy shop in Noe Valley, featuring 5,000 hand-crafted tin boxes depicting San Francisco landmarks. He sells a wide variety of chocolates, including unique flavors, and has successfully run the store with his partner since 2006. Epstein's innovative approach has attracted regular customers and ensured the business thrives despite rising costs.
Morgan Hill City Attorney Donald Larkin retires Friday after nearly ten years, transitioning to an interim role through a contract with Burke, Williams & Sorensen, LLP. Larkin, who has served as the city’s chief attorney since 2016, emphasized his honor in serving the community and expressed gratitude for his dedicated team. Mayor Mark Turner acknowledged Larkin's unmatched wisdom and integrity in his farewell.