Community news
San Francisco voters will weigh Muni parcel tax
A November ballot measure will ask San Francisco property owners to fund Muni through a new parcel tax. The money is intended to help close the transit agency's budget gap and avoid service cuts.
San Francisco expands drone and camera use against illegal dumping
San Francisco supervisors approved new surveillance rules allowing Public Works to use drones and a camera system tied to license plate readers for illegal dumping cases. A separate proposal would raise fines beyond the current $1,000 cap.
Portsmouth Square renovation begins in San Francisco Chinatown
Construction has started on the $73 million renovation of Portsmouth Square in San Francisco's Chinatown. The project follows years of disputes and is expected to take two years.
SFPD releases new details in shooting that injured officer
San Francisco police shared body camera footage and a timeline for a May 31 pursuit that ended with gunfire near Bayshore Boulevard and Jerrold Avenue. Officer Brittney Taylor and passenger Ariunsanaa Dolgorsuren were injured, and suspect Norris Reed III faces felony charges.
Blueprints show ICE facility planned outside Gilroy
Plans for an ICE site at 7240 Holsclaw Road include detention, processing and holding areas. Santa Clara County officials are reviewing legal options to challenge the project.
Pacific baseball coach Reed Peters dies after illness
University of the Pacific is mourning head baseball coach Reed Peters, who died unexpectedly after an illness. Peters had led the Tigers for two seasons after a long run at San Joaquin Delta College.
Becerra advances in California governor race
Xavier Becerra won a spot in the November governor election after a late primary surge. Republican Steve Hilton is likely to be his opponent.
San Francisco food notes include Bar Malone and Goop Kitchen
The latest local food notes point to new activity in SoMa and near Townsend Street. Bar Malone has started service in the former District space, and Goop Kitchen is preparing another San Francisco location.
Golden Gate Bridge protest case goes to jury
Seven defendants are awaiting a verdict over a 2024 Gaza war protest that blocked traffic on the Golden Gate Bridge. The charges include conspiracy, false imprisonment, trespassing, unlawful assembly and obstructing a thoroughfare.
World Cup could lift South Bay bars, but expectations vary
World Cup matches at Levi's Stadium are expected to bring international visitors to Santa Clara County from June 13 to July 1. Some San Jose bars are preparing for heavier crowds, while others expect a smaller bump because the local schedule is centered on early group play.
Australia's World Cup team makes Oakland its base
Australia's men's soccer team is using the Oakland Roots and Soul practice facility as its World Cup base camp. The stay is bringing public events, restaurant promotions, watch parties and a possible boost for local soccer venues.
New bar opens near Oracle Park as SF food scene shifts
Bar Malone's has opened softly at 216 Townsend Street in the former District space near Oracle Park. Other local food updates include a second SoMa Goop Kitchen, a new Korean comfort food project in Oakland and new business filings tied to Anchor Brewing.