The ongoing battle between outraged citizens and corporate bigwigs trying to take control over this years Bay to Breakers festival was addressed once again at this months Board of Supervisors meeting.
Several citizens spoke directly to the board in order to gain support from their district leaders to keep the traditions and spirit of Bay to Breakers alive while improving safety and control of the large crowd the event draws. In other business, the board addressed new tobacco zoning polices and recognized local women who have worked to improve the city’s quality of life.
Supervisor Ross Mirkarimi urged the adoption of collaboration between the organizers of Bay to Breakers, city agencies, neighborhood groups, race advocates and residents to develop a comprehensive plan that protects the neighborhoods while preserving the unique spirit of the race.
Public urination, public intoxication and disorderly conduct are at the top of the list of concerns for all organizations and citizens. There may be several solutions to these problems such as more port-a-potties, alcohol enforcement officers and more police on patrol during the event.
“The logistical issues will be an important thing to look at as the race approaches and we work out the details,” said Ed Sharp, member of Citizens for the Preservation of Bay to Breakers.
The issue was sent to committee for further discussion and will be addressed again at next month’s board of supervisors meeting.
“I think it’s really important that the council acknowledge that this is a San Francisco tradition and we need to keep hold of the traditions we have here,” said San Francisco resident Christopher Watson. “Letting corporations come in and set the guidelines and be the dictators of what does on in our city ends up taking away from all of the San Francisco traditions and makes it an ING tradition.”
In another order of business, a resolution, which will enforce more strict guidelines and operational standards for tobacco paraphernalia establishments in the Haight Street Neighborhood Commercial District, was adopted.
“This is just to supplement what is now a citywide law in providing for a conditional use in trying to regulate some of the tobacco and head shop paraphernalia stores with the concentration in the retail stores in the upper Haight,” said Mirkarimi. “There are approximately 16 within a four or five block region. We thought we could do a little bit better in regulating.”
Finally, Several women were recognized as leaders who have not only improved the quality of life in San Francisco but have also made a “green” impact on the planet.
The women were recognized as part of a celebration for Women’s History Month. Since 1996 the San Francisco Commission and the Department on the Status of Women have recognized the important work local women do.
Among the women recognized were Melonie and Melorra Green, residents of Lower Haight, who were recognized for their dedication to mending the gap between the artist community and the rest of San Francisco to help residents gain an understanding of what it really means to be “green.”
“Literally, their last name is Green,” said Mirkarimi.
The Green sisters have held several different events and demonstrations in order to teach people the easiest and cheapest ways to lead an environmentally friendly lifestyle. They are also owners of Infin8 Sync, an ego-friendly art environment, which provides a monthly networking and showcasing art event.
“Today is really about celebrating women living in their purpose,” Melonie Green said.