Chinatown Uplift Measures Referral
Motion 20 · Council Meeting, November 15, 2022
Summary
- Motion directing staff to report back by January 2023 with a draft action plan to revitalize Chinatown, modelled in part on San Francisco's multi-pronged approach (alley beautification, graffiti response, enhanced cleaning, volunteerism).
- Specific measures requested: enhanced street and alley cleaning, litter and needle pickup, new graffiti removal strategies, murals and place-making, removal of punitive graffiti-related fines for repeat victims, and establishment of a satellite City office in Chinatown (e.g., Chinatown Plaza).
- Context: 17% commercial vacancy rate (vs. 10% citywide), 400% increase in anti-Asian hate crimes since 2018, ongoing safety concerns, and loss of legacy businesses.
- Referred unanimously to the Standing Committee on Policy and Strategic Priorities (November 16, 2022) for public speakers, debate, and decision.