City Hall, Room 400, 1 Dr. Carlton B. Goodlett Place, San Francisco, CA 94102
Fourth Monday each month at 4:30 PM (special meetings as posted)
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Proposition ESmall Business Commission18d agoFebruary 23, 2026
Proposition E Commission Streamlining Task Force and Future of the Small Business Commission
During the Director's Report and subsequent discussion, commissioners held an impassioned debate about the Proposition E Commission Streamlining Task Force recommendations that could fundamentally change the Small Business Commission's structure. Vice President Ortiz-Cartagena described the threat as 'existential,' warning that converting the commission to a council with three-year sunset reviews would undermine its independence and subject it to political cycles. President Huie argued the commission was created by ballot measure out of genuine community need and is irreplaceable—the only body in the city representing businesses that don't belong to any paid association. Three public commenters spoke in strong support of preserving the commission. Commissioners agreed to place the issue on a future agenda for formal action when more commissioners are present.
San Francisco
OEWDSmall Business Commission18d agoFebruary 23, 2026
FY 2026-2027 OSB Budget Priorities and OEWD Reorganization
Director Tang provided a second budget hearing update. OEWD was instructed to cut $10 million from its budget to meet the citywide $400 million reduction target, including $100 million in position reductions. OSB has not proposed reductions to its division, but that doesn't mean cuts won't occur during negotiations with the mayor's office and Board of Supervisors. Key changes include transferring a position previously funded by the Disability Access and Education Fund fully onto OSB's budget, and reorganizing programs between OSB and OEWD's Community Economic Development Division. The disaster relief grant and barrier removal grant are moving to CED, while SF SHINES Design Services is moving to OSB. Tang flagged that some positions rely on temporary funding sources, particularly the two-person commercial leasing support team, whose continuation is uncertain.
San Francisco
Sidewalk Flower StandsSmall Business Commission18d agoFebruary 23, 2026
Sidewalk Flower Stand Permit Program Overhaul (BOS File 260133)
Director Tang presented legislation to modernize San Francisco's antiquated sidewalk flower stand permit program. Currently only about 4 of the approximately 16 downtown stands are operating, and permits can only be passed to immediate family members. The new ordinance opens permits to any florist if family members decline, sets annual permit costs under $2,000, requires 35 minimum operating hours per week, mandates that 75% of stand space be dedicated to flowers/plants, and prohibits leasing, subleasing, or transferring permits. President Huie raised the question of formula retail restrictions, which are not currently addressed in the legislation; Director Tang suggested adding that as a commission recommendation to the Board. Vice President Ortiz-Cartagena described flower stands as an essence of San Francisco's character. Passed unanimously 4-0.
San Francisco
First Year FreeSmall Business Commission18d agoFebruary 23, 2026
First Year Free Program Extension (BOS File 260118)
Lorenzo Rosas presented Supervisor Sherrill's ordinance to extend the First Year Free program from June 2026 to June 2027, waiving first-year permit, license, and business registration fees for new small businesses. The program has now enrolled over 13,000 businesses since inception, adding approximately 3,000 in the past year alone. Rosas explained the extension is only one year due to budget constraints. Commissioners praised the program as a key incentive that tips the scales for entrepreneurs choosing San Francisco, especially with upcoming major events (Super Bowl, F1, World Cup). President Huie noted the program helps counter negative narratives about San Francisco and suggested exploring incentives for businesses beyond just the first year. Passed unanimously 4-0.
San Francisco
Legacy Business RegistrySmall Business Commission18d agoFebruary 23, 2026
Legacy Business Registry – 12 New Applications Including 500th Business
Richard Carillo presented 12 Legacy Business Registry applications spanning restaurants, arts venues, barbershops, travel agencies, a chiropractic office, a language school, an electrical contractor, a grocery market, and a tour company. All met the three required criteria and received positive recommendations from the Historic Preservation Commission. If all 12 are approved, Santa Clara Organic Market becomes the 500th business on the registry since the program began in 2015. Seven business representatives delivered public comment describing their deep community roots and multi-generational histories. Commissioners shared personal connections to many of the businesses. The motion passed unanimously 4-0.
San Francisco
DeficitSmall Business Commission46d agoJanuary 26, 2026
FY26–27 budget priorities
OEWD presented the deficit context and process. The Commission adopted priorities centered on affordability, safe/clean corridors, transportation balance, and community-rooted economic development.
San Francisco
CashlessSmall Business Commission46d agoJanuary 26, 2026
Repeal of cash-acceptance mandate (Article 55)
Board President’s office proposed repealing the 2019 mandate to accept cash, citing small business safety and modern financial inclusion tools; Commission supported the change after discussion on equity implications.
San Francisco
Public SafetySmall Business Commission46d agoJanuary 26, 2026
Tenderloin/SoMa late-night retail hours pilot
Supervisor Dorsey’s office presented data supporting expanded late-night retail restrictions. Commissioners discussed equity, enforcement, displacement, and mitigation. The Commission voted to oppose the ordinance.
San Francisco
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