SAN FRANCISCO—Five local real estate-related measures were on the ballot this week and all but two seem to be headed for defeat. In addition, two statewide propositions having real estate implications were passed by California voters, GlobeSt.com learns.

Voters backed Proposition X, a measure aimed at requiring builders to replace any arts, nonprofit or production space that is eliminated during development. The measure, an attempt to slow gentrification, seems to be poised for victory. This requires development projects in the Mission or South of Market to get a conditional use authorization if the project would demolish or convert space used by production, distribution, repair, arts activities or nonprofit groups and requires the new development to replace the demolished or converted space.

Proposition O seems to be in the win column as well. It would exempt the Hunters Point Shipyard project from voter-imposed Proposition M, a citizen initiative in 1986, limiting new office space that can be approved each year to 950,000 square feet. It will allow the developer, FivePoint, to win approvals for up to 5.1 million square feet of office space at its Shipyard and Candlestick Point properties without competing against office projects in high-rent downtown districts.

Proposition M looks to be facing defeat. It would have established a housing commission to oversee responsibilities now handled by the mayor's office to oversee the city's housing and community development and economic and workforce development agencies.

Proposition P was met with a resounding no. It would have required a competitive bidding process for selecting developers of affordable housing funded by the city and county of San Francisco on sites owned by the city.

Voters also roundly rejected Proposition U. The measure would have increased the income eligibility limit for below-market-rate rental units offered through the city's inclusionary housing program.

California Proposition 64, the California Marijuana Legalization Initiative, was on the ballot as an initiated state statute and was approved. This will legalize recreational marijuana for persons aged 21 years or older under state law and establish certain sales and cultivation taxes. This will undoubtedly have implications for real estate with regard to the leasing, acquisition, development and disposition of dispensaries.

Proposition 51, a state school facilities bond measure, also passed.

“We are pleased California voters chose to support creating quality learning environments for all students, investing in critical school infrastructure projects, and helping protect housing affordability. With the passage of Proposition 51, the strong and successful partnership between the state and local communities will continue to fund school facilities projects– resulting in better classrooms for kids, good paying jobs for Californians, and increased funds for school districts,” says Don Hofer, chairman of the California Building Industry Association.

Proposition 51, a state school facilities bond measure, also passed.

Instant Insights /

Local Measures Find Opposition and Support

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