S2 Episode 3: YIMBY vs NIMBY

What is "YIMBY" ? What's a "NIMBY"? and why so much anger and controversy? Join Richie, Erica and special guest Mark on this episode of Really, San Francisco? where they discuss this all-important controversy and how it affects policy in San Francisco (and beyond). Questions, comments: press@richiegreenberg.org 

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Transcript

Quick recap

The podcast season 2 episode 3 focused on discussing the YIMBY and NIMBY movements in San Francisco, exploring their contrasting ideologies, political dynamics, and impact on housing policies. Participants examined the city's unique character, housing challenges, and the complexities of balancing preservation with development. The discussion also touched on recent political developments, the effectiveness of various housing strategies, and the need for nuanced approaches to address San Francisco's housing and homelessness issues.

Yimby vs Nimby San Francisco Debate

Richie and Erica discussed the topic of Yimby versus Nimby in San Francisco, focusing on the conflict between developers and preservationists. They were joined by Mark, who expressed his disdain for both groups but had a particular issue with the Yimby movement and its leadership. The hosts agreed to define the two groups and explore the dynamics between them in the podcast episode.

NIMBY vs YIMBY Housing Debate

The discussion focused on the contrasting ideologies of NIMBYs and YIMBYs in San Francisco, with Erica explaining that NIMBYs oppose overbuilding and prioritize neighborhood protection, while YIMBYs advocate for high-density housing, transit-friendly development, and reduced car usage. Richie and Mark discussed how YIMBY extremists, including Senator Scott Wiener, push for aggressive housing policies that some believe are unrealistic and potentially harmful, leading to resistance from both NIMBYs and others concerned about local control. Richie noted that Wiener's shift from a moderate to a left-wing stance and his promotion of state legislation to override local control have contributed to these tensions.

YIMBY vs NIMBY Dynamics

The group discussed the dynamics between YIMBYs and NIMBYs, with Erica highlighting how YIMBYs often dismiss single-family homes as racist and structurally problematic, despite many YIMBY activists living outside San Francisco in suburban areas. Richie and Mark agreed that YIMBYs tend to be younger, tech-oriented renters who feel excluded from homeownership, while NIMBYs are typically older homeowners focused on protecting property values. The discussion concluded with Erica noting that YIMBY leaders like Matthew Lewis from California YIMBY have been unwilling to engage in direct conversations about their policies, suggesting a lack of transparency in their movement.

San Francisco Housing Debate Insights

Mark, a native San Franciscan with roots tracing back three generations, shared his perspective on the city's transformation and the current housing debate. He criticized the YIMBY movement, noting that it is often led by younger, affluent tech workers who prioritize lifestyle over financial discipline, contributing to their inability to afford homes despite high salaries. Erica highlighted the political complexity of the YIMBY versus NIMBY debate, pointing out that both sides can include individuals from across the political spectrum, creating an unusual blend of ideologies in San Francisco.

San Francisco's Balanced Development Strategy

Erica and Richie discussed the unique character and appeal of San Francisco's neighborhoods, emphasizing the importance of preserving its historic areas while allowing for controlled development in certain parts. They noted that unlike other cities like Prague, London, or Paris, San Francisco is geographically constrained, but there is still room for growth in areas like Mission Bay without disrupting the city's character. They agreed that San Francisco should maintain its old-world charm while allowing for new developments in a way that complements the existing landscape.

San Francisco Politician Election Surprises

The group discussed the surprising performance of certain San Francisco politicians in recent elections, particularly Aaron Peskin and Connie Chan, who exceeded expectations despite being seen as opponents of rapid change. Mark shared his observations about the effectiveness of phone banking and texting in the election, while Richie and Mark identified several YIMBY-related organizations in San Francisco, including SF YIMBY and GROW SF, with the latter being described by Mark as anything but moderate in its approach to housing policies.

San Francisco Housing Development Debate

The group discussed San Francisco's housing situation, with Erica noting that the city is losing population and has existing housing inventory, though it is expensive. They debated the effectiveness of building 82,000 new homes by 2030, with Erica questioning the wisdom of mandates based on past data rather than current circumstances. The conversation touched on different housing movements, including public housing and YIMBY ("Yes In My Back Yard"), with Erica advocating for sensible development that makes economic sense rather than random building.

Complexity of San Francisco's Housing Debate

The group discussed the ongoing housing and homelessness debate in San Francisco, expressing frustration with both YIMBY and NIMBY positions. They agreed that building more housing would not solve the city's drug and homelessness problems, as the root causes were addiction and mental illness rather than a lack of housing. The conversation concluded with a call for people to question simplistic narratives and consider the complexity of the issues at hand.

San Francisco Housing Policy Divide

The hosts discussed the political climate in San Francisco, particularly focusing on the tension between YIMBY (Yes In My Back Yard) and NIMBY (Not In My Back Yard) movements. They noted that some San Francisco Board of Supervisors members, like Matt Dorsey, are supportive of the YIMBY movement, while others face pressure to align with pro-transit, anti-car, and housing-focused policies. The hosts emphasized that questioning these policies doesn't make someone a "bad person" and encouraged continued dialogue and questioning. The episode concluded with the hosts expressing hope for future discussions on various San Francisco topics.