S2 Episode 21: SFPD Chief, Upzoning Plan, SF Sues Food Producers

Erica starts off this information-packed episode looking at the latest lawsuit by San Francisco against the nation's top 10 food producers over the quality and ingredients of products. San Francisco SFPD has a new chief. The City Council/Board of Supervisors has approved a zoning plan for new home construction, and more. So much to talk about!

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Transcript

Really, San Francisco? Podcast

Season 2, Episode 21 Thursday, December 4, 2025

Discussed topics

San Francisco City Attorney's lawsuit against food manufacturers

Richie and Erica discussed the recent lawsuit filed by City Attorney David Chu against 10 major food manufacturers.

• Details
  • Richie: Explained that the lawsuit targets manufacturers of ultra-processed foods, candies, and sugary drinks, claiming they've caused health harm to San Franciscans
  • Richie: Drew parallels to previous legislation by former Supervisor Eric Marr that banned toys in Happy Meals
  • Richie: Compared it to the city's previous lawsuit against opioid manufacturers that resulted in a settlement
  • Erica: Called the lawsuit "stupid, performative" and "absurd," especially compared to more pressing public health issues like fentanyl and methamphetamine
  • Richie: Noted that the SNAP program allows purchase of these same foods that the city is now suing manufacturers over
• Conclusion
  • Both hosts viewed the lawsuit as misguided and a distraction from more serious issues
  • They suggested restricting what can be purchased with SNAP benefits would be more effective than suing manufacturers

New SFPD Police Chief appointment

Discussion about Derek Lew being appointed as the new San Francisco Police Chief.

• Details
  • Erica: Shared that Derek Lew is a 20-year veteran of the SFPD and a native San Franciscan
  • Erica: Highlighted his experience in difficult areas including Bayview Hunters Point Station
  • Erica: Contrasted Lew with former Chief William Scott who came from Los Angeles
  • Erica: Emphasized the importance of local knowledge and understanding San Francisco's nuances
  • Richie: Discussed potential policy changes including bringing back mugshots
  • Erica: Advocated for allowing officers to carry tasers, noting most police departments nationwide have them
• Conclusion
  • Both hosts expressed optimism about Lew's appointment due to his local roots and experience
  • They identified two key policy changes they hope Lew will implement: bringing back mugshots and allowing tasers
  • They noted technology improvements like license plate readers and drones are helping reduce crime

Family Zoning Plan approval

Discussion of the Board of Supervisors' approval of the upzoning plan championed by Mayor Daniel Lurie.

• Details
  • Erica: Explained the plan would allow greater density in terms of height and width in areas previously not zoned for it
  • Erica: Noted the plan was approved by a 7-4 vote, with progressive supervisors Walton, Chan, Chen, and Fielder voting against it
  • Richie: Expressed skepticism about implementation, questioning who would build these developments and at what cost
  • Richie: Highlighted challenges including high building costs, labor costs, and regulatory hurdles
  • Erica: Criticized the term "affordable housing" as meaningless without clear definition
  • Erica: Argued for preserving neighborhood character and "housing diversity" while building in areas already suited for density
  • Erica: Identified areas like Pier 71, Van Ness Corridor, and South of Market as better suited for high-density development
• Conclusion
  • Both hosts expressed skepticism about the practical implementation of the plan
  • They advocated for focusing development in areas already suited for density rather than disrupting established neighborhoods
  • They criticized the lack of clear definition for terms like "affordable housing" and "housing crisis"

Social housing concerns

Brief discussion about the concept of social housing being promoted by some progressive groups.

• Details
  • Erica: Identified "San Franciscans for Social Housing" as promoting government-owned housing
  • Erica: Described social housing as "the projects" and "a very far-left concept"
  • Richie: Compared it to Soviet-era housing blocks he had seen in Eastern Europe
  • Erica: Connected Supervisor Jackie Fielder's push for a public bank to financing social housing projects
• Conclusion
  • Both hosts expressed strong opposition to the social housing concept
  • They warned viewers to be cautious about supporting such initiatives