San Francisco District 1 Supervisor candidate forum on AAPI issues

(1) District 1 Supervisor Candidate Jeremiah Boehner

Wind Newspaper Question 1: Can you give us a brief introduction of yourself? What has made you decide to run for your district's next Supervisor?

Boehner Answer 1: The rising crime and attacks on elders is what got me involved. Defunding the Police was supported by everyone except Sherman. So I decided to step up and run.

Wind Question 2: Public safety is the top priority for the Asian community. Your district covers a number of Asian neighborhoods. What is your plan to combat crimes, especially anti-Asian hate and violence?

Boehner Answer 2: I will personally do the work to recruit officers. I will call ones that transferred or were let go due to the Vax mandates and defund movement and ask them to come back. I will go out to Army Reserve and National Guards to get new officers. And I will continue the work of honoring police like I have been with the American Legion Cathay Post 384.

Wind Question 3: What is your plan to support the small businesses who have faced huge challenges of losing customers and retail crimes in recent years?

Boehner Answer 3: Work to reduce taxes and fees. I'll also sit down with merchants to bring ideas like the night markets to life. I'll work with the police and District Attorney to curb retail crimes in my district using policies that have worked in other areas.

Wind Question 4: Both residents and businesses are impacted by the related problems from homelessness. How will you handle homelessness in your district?

Boehner Answer 4: I'll give addicts a choice treatment and shelter or a bus ticket back to wherever they came from. I won’t tolerate encampments in District 1.

Wind Question 5: Do you think Asian voters in your district should vote for you and why?

Boehner Answer 5: I'm the only candidate who worked to recall the racist school board members and Chesa Boudin. I've been showing up to show support for events in Chinatown, my opponents have not.

(2) District 1 Supervisor Candidate Connie Chan

Wind Newspaper Question 1: Can you give us a brief introduction of yourself? What has made you decide to run for your district's next Supervisor?

Chan Answer 1: I’m a first generation immigrant who came to San Francisco at the age of 13, arriving in the city with my single mother and brother. My long-time partner Ed became a San Francisco firefighter in 2011 – the same year we bought our home in the Richmond where we are now raising our son. I’m running for re-election because there is more to do in making sure City Hall is working for our residents to deliver clean and safe streets, great opportunities and support for seniors, families and vulnerable residents.

Wind Question 2: Public safety is the top priority for the Asian community. Your district covers a number of Asian neighborhoods. What is your plan to combat crimes, especially anti-Asian hate and violence?

Chan Answer 2: In the Richmond, our senior population is one of our fastest growing demographics. We have a large number of monolingual Chinese- and Russian-speaking seniors and I have pushed for expanded services that are culturally and linguistically appropriate. It has been my top priority to keep the Richmond clean and safe with the continuing increase of retired police ambassadors and street crisis teams, and graffiti abatement and street cleaning by the Public Works team. I’m fighting to bring more patrols to our streets. I will continue to push for accountability and results from our law enforcement agencies, and will advocate for funding for comprehensive public safety.

Wind Question 3: What is your plan to support the small businesses who have faced huge challenges of losing customers and retail crimes in recent years?

Chan Answer 3: When I talk to business owners in the Richmond (big and small), they all have the same ask for city support: clean and safe streets. This is why I have pushed the Breed Administration for more public safety resources. I also worked with merchants to mitigate negative impacts from city construction projects, advocated for and funded fee waivers for new small businesses and helped existing businesses get support to negotiate lease and rent increases, so they can stay and thrive in the Richmond.

Wind Question 4: Both residents and businesses are impacted by the related problems from homelessness. How will you handle homelessness in your district?

Chan Answer 4: The drop in our homeless count during the pandemic was the direct result of providing additional shelter and measures preventing tenants from being evicted due to lost income. Instead of building on a strategy that works, we are returning to this failed approach. We need to be data and results-driven and utilize all the tested effective tools available to make progress. Our law enforcement should focus on violent crimes while expanding our street crisis response teams. I will continue to advocate for a regional approach to demand state and federal funding and resources because we must work together to solve this crisis.

Wind Question 5: Do you think Asian voters in your district should vote for you and why?

Chan Answer 5: When I first took office in 2021, I became the second bilingual and biliterate Chinese-speaking Supervisor since Mabel Teng and have been able to talk directly with many Chinese-speaking residents and merchants about their issues and address their concerns. I have worked to support the community through different cultural events and celebrations, resources for safer streets and assistance to small businesses. As the only Asian American member on the Board, I know the Asian American community is not a monolith. So it is critical we are able to communicate with them directly to make sure their diverse needs are met. I will continue to work to make sure our city services are inclusive with cultural and language competency.

(3) District 1 Supervisor Candidate Sherman D’silva

Wind Newspaper Question 1: Can you give us a brief introduction of yourself? What has made you decide to run for your district's next Supervisor?

D’silva Answer 1: I decided to run for the district seat because the condition of the neighborhood has deteriorated over the last decade. The things government is supposed to be taking care of are not getting done or are completed inefficiently. Instead of increasing police visibility, our city representatives were discussing reducing and defunding police just four years ago. We need a supervisor who will work on those items that are the responsibility of city government - keeping us safe, keeping the city clean and ensuring the taxes we pay are used correctly and efficiently. If elected those will be the things I will focus on.

Wind Question 2: Public safety is the top priority for the Asian community. Your district covers a number of Asian neighborhoods. What is your plan to combat crimes, especially anti-Asian hate and violence?

D’silva Answer 2: I will triple the number of officers in the neighborhood so that they can be proactive instead of reactive to crime. Increasing the number of officers makes everyone safer including our neighbors who are Asians. I will also seek to increase city penalties for crimes committed within the city.

Wind Question 3: What is your plan to support the small businesses who have faced huge challenges of losing customers and retail crimes in recent years?

D’silva Answer 3: The first responsibility of government is protecting its people. I will triple the officers in the neighborhood so there are faster response times and more police on the street to deter crime in the first place. I will also increase the penalties on the local level for shoplifting and burglary.

Wind Question 4: Both residents and businesses are impacted by the related problems from homelessness. How will you handle homelessness in your district?

D’silva Answer 4: Homeless issues are complex. First, I will strictly enforce the law. No sleeping or camping on streets. Encampment will immediately be removed and services offered to individuals.

Wind Question 5: Do you think Asian voters in your district should vote for you and why?

D’silva Answer 5: Voters including Asian voters should vote for me because I am the candidate who wants to increase actual officers on the street, increase penalties for violating the law, clean up our neighborhood and address the problems that have been going on and on for decades. I'm the candidate who will establish an office in the neighborhood to assist residents with issues with the city as well as how to access city services. I will install all the missing traffic lights on Geary, Balboa, Fulton, Clement and California to help traffic move and keep us safe when we need to cross the street. I will audit city agencies to see where we can be more efficient and effective. Perhaps the most important reason to vote for me is that I will be independent and serve only your interests.

(4) District 1 Supervisor Candidate Jen Nossokoff

Wind Newspaper Question 1: Can you give us a brief introduction of yourself? What has made you decide to run for your district's next Supervisor?

Nossokoff Answer 1: I'm a medical provider, mother of two, and a proud resident of the Inner Richmond. My decision to run for Supervisor stems from my deep commitment to ensuring that our neighborhoods are safe, vibrant, and inclusive. As someone who is actively involved in the community, from advocating for safer streets to supporting local businesses, I understand the needs and concerns of our diverse residents. I believe my unique perspective as both a healthcare provider and a public school parent equips me with the skills needed to address the critical issues facing our district, from community safety to health equity and transportation.

Wind Question 2: Public safety is the top priority for the Asian community. Your district covers a number of Asian neighborhoods. What is your plan to combat crimes, especially anti-Asian hate and violence?

Nossokoff Answer 2: Safety is paramount, and the rise in anti-Asian violence has deeply impacted our community. I plan to work closely with law enforcement, community organizations, and residents to ensure that every neighborhood in our district feels secure. This includes increasing foot patrols in high-traffic areas, particularly near schools and senior centers, improving street lighting, and investing in community-led safety initiatives. I also support educational programs that foster understanding and inclusion to combat racial hatred at its root. Additionally, I will advocate for stronger hate crime laws and resources for victims.

Wind Question 3: What is your plan to support the small businesses who have faced huge challenges of losing customers and retail crimes in recent years?

Nossokoff Answer 3: Small businesses are the backbone of our local economy. To support them, I will push for streamlined permitting processes, tax incentives for those recovering from the pandemic, and initiatives to increase foot traffic, such as pop-up markets and neighborhood events. I will also work to improve public transportation and street safety, so customers feel more comfortable visiting local shops. Combatting retail crime is another priority—I will collaborate with law enforcement to ensure swift responses to crimes and will advocate for stronger penalties for repeat offenders targeting our local businesses.

Wind Question 4: Both residents and businesses are impacted by the related problems from homelessness. How will you handle homelessness in your district?

Nossokoff Answer 4: Homelessness is a complex issue that requires compassionate yet effective solutions. My approach will focus on expanding access to mental health services, substance abuse treatment, and housing options that meet the needs of different populations. I will advocate for more temporary shelters, supportive housing, and job training programs, and ensure that enforcement is paired with meaningful offers of assistance. At the same time, we must work to keep our streets clean and safe for all residents and businesses by coordinating efforts between service providers, law enforcement, and local government.

Wind Question 5: Do you think Asian voters in your district should vote for you and why?

Nossokoff Answer 5: Asian voters in our district should support my candidacy because I am committed to protecting their safety, preserving the unique culture and businesses that make our district special, and ensuring that their voices are heard in City Hall. As someone who has worked closely with diverse communities, I understand the importance of cultural competence and inclusion in policy making. My track record of advocacy on issues like public safety, transportation, and health equity aligns with the priorities of many in the Asian community, and I will continue to fight for policies that benefit all residents of the district.

(5) District 1 Supervisor Candidate Marjan Philhour

Wind Newspaper Question 1: Can you give us a brief introduction of yourself? What has made you decide to run for your district's next Supervisor?

Philhour Answer 1: I was born at French hospital on 6th and Geary and now my husband Byron and I are raising our three children in the neighborhood. My parents immigrated to San Francisco in 1968 from Iran and the Philippines and met as students at San Francisco State. This community is where I want my children to thrive. However, over the years, I’ve witnessed the leadership that too often fails to respond to the real needs of our residents. I am running for Supervisor because I believe our neighborhood deserves better. My extensive background in public service and community advocacy, combined with my experience as a small business owner, has equipped me with the skills to tackle these challenges.

Wind Question 2: Public safety is the top priority for the Asian community. Your district covers a number of Asian neighborhoods. What is your plan to combat crimes, especially anti-Asian hate and violence?

Philhour Answer 2: Public safety is a top priority in my campaign. The rise in anti-Asian hate crimes is unacceptable, and I’m committed to taking concrete actions to protect our residents. My plan

includes fully staffing our police department and ensuring they have the necessary tools to prevent and respond to crimes effectively. The Richmond deserves a leader who prioritizes safety for all and stands up against hate.

Wind Question 3: What is your plan to support the small businesses who have faced huge challenges of losing customers and retail crimes in recent years?

Philhour Answer 3: Having run small businesses myself, I know how critical it is to support our local entrepreneurs. I co-founded the Balboa Village Merchants Association and ran a pottery studio and gift shop with my sister for many years in the neighborhood. My plan focuses on streamlining the bureaucratic processes. I will push for an over-the-counter permitting system to speed up approvals and reduce costs for small businesses.

Wind Question 4: Both residents and businesses are impacted by the related problems from homelessness. How will you handle homelessness in your district?

Philhour Answer 4: First and foremost, we need to prioritize moving people out of dangerous and unsanitary encampments and into safe, stable housing. This means accelerating the development of interim housing solutions, expanding shelter beds, and providing immediate access to mental health and addiction services. We must commit to clearing the most hazardous encampments in the city and ensuring that every individual we relocate is offered safe shelter and services.

Wind Question 5: Do you think Asian voters in your district should vote for you and why?

Philhour Answer 5: Yes, I believe I am the right choice for Asian voters. I have run for Supervisor before and would not have come so close had it not been for strong Asian community support for my candidacy. I am committed to enhancing public safety, supporting small businesses, and ensuring effective representation for all residents.

*Editor's Note:

Wind Newspaper, an English and Chinese bilingual weekly news publication based in San Francisco, was launched during the pandemic in 2020 with a goal to keep the Chinese and Asian community members informed with local news and be the voice for them.

In a major election year in 2024, while most of the local news media coverage is focused on the mayoral race in San Francisco for the November 5 election, Wind Newspaper is interested in helping San Francisco Asian voters who make up 37% of the population to know more of the candidates who are running for Supervisor positions in six districts where all of them cover the Asian populated neighborhoods.

Wind Newspaper sent a questionnaire with the same five questions to all 34 supervisor candidates and provided two different deadlines to accommodate their busy schedules.

Wind Newspaper publishes the Supervisor Candidate Forum in both English and Chinese languages. Some answers in Chinese were submitted by candidates, some were translated by Wind Newspaper. Some answers were edited due to the length of their submissions.

Seven candidates who have not responded or answered to our questionnaires are Allen Jones and Scotty Jacobs running for District 5 Supervisor, Edward Yee for District 7, Julian Bermudez and H. Brown for District 9, Oscar Flores and Roger Marenco for District 11.