San Francisco Voters May Support Government-Funded Grocery Stores
San Francisco residents might soon have the chance to vote on funding government-backed grocery stores. This idea aligns with proposals from New York Mayor Zoran Mamdani aimed at tackling food affordability issues.
Supervisor Bilal Mahmoud is set to introduce two ballot measures in November. These proposals would establish a fund to support grocery stores and impose a tax on chain companies that leave grocery and pharmacy locations vacant. Reports indicate that this move comes as the city faces challenges with grocery store and pharmacy closures, leading to limited access to fresh food and essential items in some neighborhoods.
Food prices are rising, adding to the city’s broader affordability concerns. One of the proposals would create a fund that could receive both city and private contributions to help keep food prices manageable. Rather than just subsidizing stores, Mahmoud’s plan could also turn corner stores into full-service grocery markets stocked with fresh produce and enable the city to purchase vacant buildings to rent to grocers at reduced prices.
The second proposal seeks to tax “zombie stores,” targeting chains that intentionally leave grocery locations and pharmacies empty.
Mahmoud emphasizes the right to access fresh food and essential items within communities. However, the plan has garnered some skepticism. Critics question if the relatively small number of publicly supported stores can effectively lower grocery costs in large cities.
Business groups have also raised concerns. For instance, Chris Wright, a senior vice president of Advance SF, acknowledged the need for more grocery options but wondered if new taxes would truly attract businesses back or if the focus should shift to the root causes of their departure.
Questions about the efficacy of the plan in reaching those in need have arisen. Enrico Moretti, an economics professor at UC Berkeley, pointed out that many low-income residents are already covered by food assistance programs. He noted that the city-backed grocery store initiative might end up being available to all residents, including those who aren’t struggling with food insecurity.
Meanwhile, San Francisco recently opened District 10 Market, the city’s first government-funded free grocery store, aimed at supporting low-income residents. This market also serves as a community hub connecting households with necessary services.
Supporters of the measures believe they could enhance food access and create jobs. Ademola Oyefeso, an international vice president of the United Food and Commercial Workers, highlighted the opportunity for San Francisco to provide affordable food while fostering good-paying union jobs.
The financial implications of the proposal are still unclear. Mahmoud mentioned that an upcoming report from the city manager is expected to provide estimates showing that the tax could generate significant revenue annually.
