Billionaire-Backed Group “Neighbors for a Better SF” Sparks Controversy by Funding Opposition to Mayor London Breed’s Affordable Housing Bond

In a surprising turn of events, Neighbors for a Better San Francisco Advocacy, a well-funded group with billionaire backing, has come under scrutiny for supporting a voter guide opposing Mayor London Breed’s affordable housing bond. The controversial donation of $110,000 to a slate mailer organization urging voters to reject Proposition A has stirred consternation across the city’s political spectrum.

Todd David, head of AbundantSF and a housing advocate, criticized the move, stating that opposing affordable housing is a quick way to become irrelevant in San Francisco politics. In response, David initiated fundraising efforts, securing $100,000 to support the Yes on A campaign.

Board President Aaron Peskin, rallying donors for Prop. A, criticized Neighbors for sending a message that they want to save on property taxes, emphasizing the destructive nature of billionaire opposition. The group’s funding of the “No B.S. Voter Guide” against the housing bond was executed by TakeActionSF, known for its right-leaning recommendations.

TakeActionSF, which transitioned from a website to an official slate mailer organization in November 2023, has received significant funding, with at least $123,500 for printing voter guides. The group’s opposition to tax increases, support for police staffing increases, and recommendations against progressive candidates have raised eyebrows.

Neighbors’ donation was labeled to support California Proposition 1, a mental health bond, and oppose San Francisco’s Proposition B, tying police staffing increases to future revenue. The bulk of TakeActionSF’s funding came from Neighbors, allowing the group to publish a voter guide urging voters to reject Prop. A as “more bond debt.”

Proposition A, the lone housing bond on this year’s ballot, aims to raise $300 million for affordable housing, potentially financing over a thousand units. However, its success is uncertain, requiring a two-thirds majority to pass. Supporters criticize Mayor Breed for not doing enough to ensure success, as fundraising efforts focus on other propositions.

Historically, Prop. A has struggled for funds, with market-rate and affordable housing developers contributing $702,000—far less than previous housing bonds. Neighbors for a Better San Francisco Advocacy and its sister organization have not responded to requests for comment, leaving the controversy unresolved.

Political consultant Jim Ross questioned the effectiveness of an unknown voter guide, emphasizing the importance of well-known endorsements from established entities. Neighbors, one of many interconnected groups financed by tech and real estate donors, continues to be a significant player in shaping San Francisco’s political landscape.

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