BOMA SF Views Q2 2023

A Home Run for BOMA at the Ballpark

The 21st annual BOMA at the Ballpark was a home run! Members enjoyed plentiful networking opportunities, inventive selections from our food and beverage sponsors, and exploring the newly reimagined outdoor space at the China Basin building in the shadow of Oracle Park.

Thanks to Event Sponsor Skyline Construction for supporting this marquee BOMA SF event and to our Venue Sponsor, McCarthy Cook, for providing the welcoming ambiance of its space at China Basin.

“Skyline Construction takes pride in being the lead sponsor for BOMA at the Ballpark,” said Greg Drosky, Assistant Project Manager for Skyline. “We had a fantastic time with our industry partners, as well as meeting new partners. Thanks to the entire BOMA event staff for such a wonderful event. We can’t wait to see everyone next year!” The Skyline team was out in full force, with bags of caramel corn and clear stadium bags at its booth.

The property team at China Basin took delight in hosting BOMA members in its inviting space. Following an extensive renovation, the property recently won a

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The Future of Downtown and the Office Market

by Colin Shinners, BOMA SF President and Managing Director, Vanbarton Group LLC

With the return of the BOMA SF member luncheon (aptly known as “BOMA Chicken”), I wanted to reflect on some of the topics that were discussed as well as the current office market environment and the future of downtown San Francisco.

The San Francisco office market has been a cornerstone of the City’s economy for many years and was thriving until March 2020. While San Francisco boasted some of the lowest COVID death rates in the country, the slow reopening of the City allowed the biggest office users (i.e. tech companies) to realize that a physical office was no longer necessary for success. As a result, San Francisco has experienced one of the weakest recoveries of any downtown in the country, and the City’s office vacancy rate has hit an all-time high (nearly 30%). This, compounded with other issues the City is experiencing (dysfunctional government, crime and safety problems, homelessness, etc.), and a rise in interest rates, has made the once highly coveted city unattractive to institutional investors and lenders.

Where do we go from here?

In some ways, we have the ability to influence the future and the market, while vicious and unapologetic, will take care of the rest. BOMA San Francisco continues to work hard to help shape new policy and generate new ideas for the City of San Francisco to revitalize downtown. We are currently engaged in a discussion with Mayor Breed, SF Board of Supervisors President Aaron Peskin, and a coalition of various SF business organizations to move an omnibus piece of legislation focused on reforming the tax code, reducing regulatory barriers to housing development and business permitting, and making strategic investments for “placemaking” downtown. While these initiatives will surely help, the return of people to downtown and the revitalization of a strong local economy will ultimately be the key to San Francisco’s success.

There seems to be some optimism growing among the office leasing brokerage community that office leasing demand is starting to slowly return. Some of the drivers of this include companies finally enforcing their return-to-office plans and the rapid pace

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Thanks to Our 2023 Corporate Sponsors

Platinum Sponsor ABM

Gold Sponsors

Allied Universal

Clune Construction

Kastle Systems

ProGuard Security Services

Recology

San Francisco Electrical Contractors Association

Vornado Realty Trust

Silver Sponsors

BXP

CBRE

CommonWealth Partners

eWaste Direct

Hudson Pacific Properties

Metro Services Group

Rubicon Point Partners LLC

Schnitzer Properties

Seagate Properties, Inc.

Service by Medallion

Skyline Construction

Township Building Services, Inc.

United Mechanical UG2

Vanbarton Group

Bronze Sponsors

CBF Electric Cordia

Field Construction

HCI Systems Inc.

JLL

LAZ Parking

McNevin – Bay Area Cleaning Specialists

Rossi Builders

Securitas Security Services, USA, Inc.

Shorenstein Realty Services

The Swig Company

Friends of BOMA

Alliance Roofing Company Inc.

Garratt-Callahan

McMillan Electric | MNetworks

The Lawson Roofing Co. Inc.

Transwestern

Young Electric + Communications

For sponsorship opportunities, please contact Tory Brubaker at toryb@BOMA.com

BOMA International Conference Registration Now Open!

You rely on your people every day — the property managers, the asset managers, the building engineers … everyone that keeps your building running efficiently and effectively. More than ever, employees are looking for a company that invests in them, and there is no better way to show you’re invested in their professional advancement than with three full days of powerful networking, deep-dive educational sessions and access to cutting-edge products and services at the BOMA International Conference & Expo in Kansas City, Missouri.

Beyond showing your commitment to your team, the BOMA Conference gives you access to executive level sessions on leadership and insights into the future of commercial real estate during the highly anticipated stateof-the-industry address by BOMA International president and COO, Henry Chamberlain.

Get discounted group rates and maximize the opportunities available at the conference — and bring your building engineer for free! Learn more at www.BOMAConference.org.

San Francisco’s CRE Market: What’s Next?

Panel Explores Key Issues at BOMA Program

by Michael Choung, Vice President, BXP and BOMA SF Education Committee Chair

BOMA San Francisco hosted its first membership luncheon in over three years on March 22 at the City Club of San Francisco. With more than 200 principal and associate members in attendance, I moderated a panel discussion about the current state of the San Francisco office market and considering “what’s next?” We heard industry insights from Alexander Quinn, Senior Director of Research, JLL; Nicole Hom, Managing Director of Operations, JLL; Rod Diehl, Senior Vice President of Leasing, BXP; and Amy Campbell, AIA, Studio Director, Gensler.

Quinn kicked off the conversation with an economic overview of the downtown San Francisco market and the Bay Area at large and the impact of the recent regional banking turmoil. He also highlighted trends of “flight to quality” by office tenants toward highly amenitized buildings in desirable and safe areas with access to parking and public transportation.

The panel discussed the roadmap for upgrading and repositioning existing assets and creative reuse of vacant space based on current market demand as well as the due diligence required for office-to-residential conversions.

Diehl provided insight from a leasing outlook and feedback from the tenant and broker communities, while Hom highlighted the operational opportunities and challenges associated with these concepts. From a design perspective, Campbell shared the strategy behind a few of her clients’ projects and the considerations needed in the new world of “return to office.”

The panel also touched on topics ranging from the before and after of the pandemic; its impact on development, design, leasing and operations; the “amenity wars” of office landlords; talent acquisition and retention strategies; and opportunities to improve the overall tenant experience. The panel’s consensus was that building owners and employers alike must consider the means to incentivize office utilization and demonstrate the power of an in-person culture, whether through tangible amenities such as communal space, private huddle rooms, secure bike and repair facilities, or soft services like curated food and beverage options, locker and towel service, and creative lobby activations.

As public policy is intertwined with commercial real estate, the group also examined the impact of the macro economy and local government on the decision-making of both owners and occupiers of space. The panel closed the discussion with what they foresee as necessary steps towards the rebound and future of a renewed San Francisco. If the turnout from the BOMA San Francisco membership is an indicator, we are trending in the right direction.

The reunion among BOMA members served as a welcoming sight, especially as our industry professionals are collectively striving for more and more engagement from our associate partners and respective client bases. Although we are living in challenging economic times, the bustling City Club was a friendly yet critical reminder of BOMA San Francisco’s resiliency.

Program’s panelists included: Rod Diehl, BXP; Nicole Hom, JLL; Michael Choung, BXP; Amy Campbell, Gensler; and Alexander Quinn, JLL.

CREATE Embraces Its Mission: EDUCATE, CONNECT, EMPLOY

As the school year comes to a close, CREATE is thrilled to graduate 40 career-ready candidates from the SF State and Merritt College Fellows programs. Prepared to enter the commercial real estate (CRE) industry, these students have received 16 hours of curriculum instruction plus numerous additional

networking and hands-on opportunities to learn more about the industry and its career opportunities.

In addition, CREATE will graduate nine students from its CREATE 2.0 program — a series of eight workshops designed to give participants (alums of CREATE 1.0) a deeper understanding of CRE and how value is created. Fellows 2.0 is intended to allow the most serious students to take a deeper dive into a specific property and expand their vocabulary and understanding of CRE as a sound investment choice.

The Commercial Real Estate Alliance for Tomorrow’s Employees (CREATE) educates a diverse workforce and connects career-ready candidates to employers in the Commercial Real Estate (CRE) industry. Since 2011, CREATE has educated hundreds of students from San Francisco State University and Merritt College, recognized as having among the most diverse student populations in the nation. Approximately 50% of these students have been hired directly into the industry upon graduation. CREATE’s signature program is the 16-week, 32-hour Fellows program led by industry subject matter experts. Student Fellows learn fundamentals of the industry and about career opportunities available in commercial real estate. The experience is enhanced by mentoring, job shadowing, building tours, internships, and networking as well as the free career portal that connects students with employers offering internships and entry-level jobs.

EDUCATE CONNECT EMPLOY

Additional Resources Provided by Alliance Partners

CREATE is supported by its Alliance Partners in providing additional resources to CREATE Fellows to expose them to the CRE industry and build their networks. BOMA SF’s Careers Committee hosted its annual Mentor Match and matched 16 Fellows with two mentors each —

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Photo above: Fellows joined by industry professionals at a networking event.

CREATE (Continued from page 6)

one seasoned and one emerging professional. Alexis Escaranio, CREATE Fellow Alum and Tenant Rep Associate with CBRE, was named Mentor of the Year for her exemplary mentorship in the annual Mentor Match program.

The Careers Committee also hosted a panel discussion on networking skills, and students had a chance to put those skills into practice during a networking session following the presentation.

NAIOP published a podcast featuring CREATE Chair Tawni Sullivan discussing CREATE’s value to the local CRE industry and how employers and individuals can support this effort.

Listen here: https://naiopsfba.org/ resources/podcasts/.

Career Center | https://jobboard. createworkforce.org/

Employers can take advantage of CREATE’s free job bank portal which connects employers and students for entry-level commercial real estate-related positions and internships. This value-add supports CREATE’s goal of connecting educated and trained students and graduates with local industry employers.

Learn More or Donate

To donate or get more information, visit www.createworkforce.org or contact Tory Brubaker at info@ createworkforce.org.

Mentor of the Year Alexis Escaranio, CBRE, with her mentee Michael Apolonio, SFSU CREATE Fellow.

The Regulatory Landscape for Commercial Building Electrification

by David Harrison, BOMA SF Manager of Government and Public Affairs

As local and state governments approach their climate goals to get to Net Zero, commercial buildings represent one of the largest targets for electrification mandates. Years removed from pledges of decarbonizing by a certain target date, local governments are now implementing the actual policies that will enforce the rules to get to their targets. Carbon emissions from space heating represent about a third of emissions from commercial buildings. Building owners should be aware of the rapidly approaching regulations that will govern their natural gas boilers in the years to come.

Outside of their own ESG strategy, building owners, their management team, and their engineering teams should be familiar with the three regulatory bodies that will govern their natural gas usage: The California Air Resources Board (CARB), The Bay Area Air Quality Management District (BAAQMD), and the City and County of San Francisco. These three agencies have

either enacted or proposed regulations that would eliminate the use of natural gas in existing commercial buildings.

To meet federal ozone standards and state-mandated decarbonization goals, CARB has proposed banning the sale of new natural gas heaters, water heaters, and furnaces by 2030. CARB will now engage in a public process and finalize a program by 2025. Similarly, the BAAQMD has approved a new regulation that will ban the sale of new natural gas equipment in commercial buildings by 2031. Both the state and regional plan would not mandate that an existing system be replaced by that date, but that a system be replaced upon the end of its useful life.

The City’s Aggressive Climate Action Plan

San Francisco’s Climate Action Plan is even more aggressive than the state and regional plans. Under the Climate Action Plan, the City’s current goal is to mandate that all large commercial buildings replace their existing natural gas equipment by 2035. This proposal still requires approval from the Board of Supervisors and will likely be joined by other potential implementation measures such as a carbon emissions tax.

While these goals are admirable, the impact on building owners in San Francisco could be significant. For many buildings, converting from natural gas to electric power is not technically or financially feasible, especially for space-constrained structures that are not currently suitable for electric heat pumps. Recognizing these challenges, BOMA SF is working to secure exemptions from these proposals in certain cases. BOMA argues that building owners should not be forced to bear the full cost of converting their buildings to electric equipment, especially if they are already very efficient or unable to do so through simple project paybacks.

BOMA staff and committee members sit on local and regional task forces charged with voicing these concerns to policy makers. We will continue to promote policies that allow us to meet these goals in a manner that is technologically and financially feasible. As this process plays out, it is critical that building owners and their management teams start thinking about their pathway to electrification now.

To learn more about these issues contact David Harrison at davidh@boma.com or consider joining BOMA SF’s Energy & Environment Committee.

WE DO IT RIGHT THE FIRST TIME!

The Plumbers, Steamfitters & HVACR of UA Local 38 and the Electricians and Technicians of IBEW Local 6 represent a Skilled & Trained Workforce that help construct Affordable Housing for the San Francisco Bay Area.

Our apprentices and journey-level workers spend years, in both on the job training and classroom education, to develop the skills and knowledge of their crafts. We are the EXPERTS in the plumbing and electrical trades and maintain our skills through upgrade classes covering the newest and best techniques in the industry.

For well over a century, the Solidarity, Teamwork, and Respect between Building Trades members working together on jobsites has ensured the delivery of the highest quality craftsmanship that is 100% union built, completed on time and on budget.

Our Pathway to Revitalizing Downtown San Francisco

by David Harrison, BOMA SF Manager of Government and Public Affairs

Over the past year, BOMA San Francisco has partnered with a coalition of downtown stakeholders to envision the next iteration of a successful downtown. The “Better Together” coalition has outlined four major priorities:

1) Support Arts, Culture and Entertainment;

2) Support Small Businesses; 3) Support Existing Businesses and Welcome New Ones; and 4) Support New Housing. Ultimately, our goal is to create a vibrant, 24/7 destination that meets the needs of not just office workers, but also locals and tourists.

The most glaring prerequisite to downtown recovery is a much-needed business tax overhaul. In February, the Bay Area Council released a study underscoring just how high the City’s business taxes are. A company’s tax burden in San Francisco is likely to be more than double what it would be in Oakland and more than ten times what it would be in San Jose or Sunnyvale.

Due to requirements from the City Charter as well as a reluctance to support business tax incentives from a majority of the Board of Supervisors, the tax overhaul will likely require a ballot measure in November 2024. BOMA SF is already working with partner associations and city officials to develop a more competitive tax structure that will attract new businesses and help existing businesses thrive.

To show immediate progress, however, Mayor London Breed has announced a series of proposals to temporarily reduce or delay various business taxes to encourage new companies to lease office space in San Francisco and to reduce the tax burden on existing small businesses.

The proposals still require approval by the San Francisco Board of Supervisors, and it remains unclear whether the progressive members of the board are willing to support any assistance to downtown.

BOMA SF recognizes that business tax incentives alone won’t solve the problem of downtown revitalization. The way workers interact with the office has fundamentally changed. We now must actively entice workers back downtown with new, exciting amenities that make not working from home worth their while. To help achieve this goal, BOMA SF is focused on finding creative ways to fill ground-floor retail spaces with tenant amenities.

The goal is to create a network of tenant amenities that interact with an activated public realm to make downtown feel like a 24/7 destination. These amenities will not only make downtown a more desirable place to work, but they will also create foot traffic, support local businesses, and generate new revenue for the city. This reimagination of how we interact with downtown, when coupled with the difficult work of fixing our public safety, transportation and business climate, will be the foundation of the next iteration of downtown San Francisco.

BOMA SF is your advocate for solutions to improve our downtown, and our Government Affairs Policy Advisory Committee monitors issues that affect our industry. For further information or to get involved with this important committee, contact David Harrison at davidh@boma.com.

Principal Member Profile

Jim Albrecht, Vice President/General Manager Barker Pacific Group

Over his 25-year tenure with Barker Pacific Group (BPG), Vice President/General Manager Jim Albrecht has experienced three different careers within the same organization. “The thing I enjoy most is interacting with people and delivering results,” he reflects. “I started out at our 100 First Street Property as Project Accountant and transitioned into construction management for our Hamilton Landing development in Novato. While there, I developed our in-house general contractor model which I subsequently ran for multiple BPG-owned projects for 20 years. BPG acquired One Sansome Street along with our JV Partner PGIM in mid-2010. I ran all CapEx and TI Projects at One Sansome until we were 100% leased, and I transitioned to my current position as General Manager approximately five years ago.”

BPG embarked upon an extensive renovation of One Sansome and is close to reopening the re-imagined ground floor project. The redesign will activate a formerly under-utilized public open space and feature a new bar/restaurant called the Holbrook House. A new tenant amenity conference center and lounge are other additions, and the entire ground floor converts to a first-class event venue. “It took years to distill down to what we believe is a very special utilization of the ground floor space that has many unique elements,” Albrecht says. “One Sansome will be one of the top-tier buildings in San Francisco which can win an International TOBY.”

At BOMA SF, Albrecht co-chairs the Codes and Regulations Committee. BPG has been a BOMA member for decades, so he has participated in many events. “I have great memories from golf tournaments from years back. I also value the relationships I have with many BOMA Associate Members whom I have worked with over the course of my career,” he adds.

During his off-hours, Albrecht says he “enjoys skiing, adventure motorcycle trips, motocross adventures on my Beta 500, golf, and various construction projects as a side business.” He has been happily married to his wife Jessica for 11 years (a former property manager before becoming a full time mom to their two children). His San Francisco roots run deep. He attended Sacred Heart Cathedral Preparatory for high school and is a proud University of San Francisco graduate.

Jim Albrecht

Associate Member Profile

HCI Systems, Inc. Account Manager Angela Arnett serves as a point person for clients, ensuring that their properties’ low-voltage components are operating efficiently. “I participate in and facilitate consultations with our team to discuss the most appropriate options for new/ ongoing construction projects, tenant improvements, maintenance and ongoing inspections, and provide the agreements to move forward,” she explains. “I see myself both as HCI’s representative for my clients and my clients’ representative within HCI. I’m always available to answer questions about our services and to expedite billing, scheduling or other concerns or needs that arise.”

The company’s range of solutions include fire alarm, fire suppression, fire sprinklers, electronic security, access control, video management, audio/visual, surveillance and nurse call. “HCI can engineer, install, maintain and service all low-voltage needs, reducing the number of vendors our clients need to manage down to one,” says Arnett. “Though we have a large team of specialized experts, we streamline the process with our relationship-based approach. Your account manager is your point person throughout. Our goal is to keep buildings safe, code-compliant, secure and efficient in the most direct, cost-effective and organized way possible.”

Arnett lends her energy and expertise to several BOMA committees. “My time on the Emergency Preparedness Committee has given me a broader perspective on the moving parts involved in the city. I’m really proud to be a part of the life-safety services that contribute to ensuring security during this symphony of activity,” Arnett says. “The DEI Committee has been incredibly rewarding but, more importantly, has solidified the importance of creating an inclusive and respectful working environment. Being a part of the Events Committee has helped HCI truly feel like a part of BOMA. We’ve loved hosting a booth at the BOMA at the Ballpark and enjoying a taco and beer with so many of you.”

Angela’s favorite weekend activity is exploring new places with her dogs — the Point Reyes Lighthouse was her latest adventure. She also loves finding treasures at the monthly Alameda Point Antique Fair and spending time with her niece and nephew at home on the family’s vineyard.

Angela Arnett

Angela Arnett, Account Manager HCI Systems, Inc.

Wes Dean has been named CEO & President of Capital Building Maintenance, where he oversees the 35-year-old window washing, pressure washing, and construction final clean-up organization. His 37 years in construction started in Pennsylvania and continued in California, where he helped build multiple successful organizations. Wes is a licensed contractor and owns two successful painting and contracting businesses.

Kendra Horsfield joined UG2 as Director of Strategic Partnerships & Solutions, Northern California. In her new role, she will help facilitate UG2’s growth by leading new business opportunities as well as developing relationships with existing clients. Kendra joins UG2 from BluSky Restoration Contractors, where she managed the Bay Area portfolio of multifamily, commercial, construction, and healthcare clients as the Business Development Manager. Kendra is an active member of BOMA SF and serves as Vice Chair of the Emerging Professionals Committee.

Jen Miller has joined BluSky Restoration as Business Development Manager for the San Francisco Region, focusing on the commercial vertical. Her background in commercial property management and project management helps her build long-standing partnerships. BluSky Restoration, formerly known as Harbro, is a national restoration and reconstruction company that fosters quality connections and provides professional detail in time of need. Jen is active on the BOMA SF Events Committee and very involved in the community. Reach out to her anytime — she’ll always show up with a smile and eager to help.

In announcing its 2023 promotions, Kilroy Realty stated: “We are proud of our collective resiliency and thrilled to announce these well-deserved promotions. Congratulations to all Kilroy teammates; we thank you for your ongoing commitment to the Kilroy experience.” BOMA SF members taking on new roles at Kilroy include those featured below.

Cameron Fletcher, formerly an Asset Management Coordinator, was promoted to Assistant Property Manager. He will support 303 Second Street, a 784K square-f00t property. Cameron is active in the BOMA Emerging Professionals Committee and recently joined ULI (Urban Land Institute) to further continue his growth in commercial real estate in the Bay Area.

Andrew Hennis was promoted to Senior Property Manager. In his new role, he will oversee the operations of 100 Hooper Street and 201 Third Street. He is looking forward to the new challenge and the opportunity to continue working with the incredible team at Kilroy. Andrew is actively working towards his CCIM designation and serves as a member of the Yerba Buena Community Benefit District Board.

A 2019 alumna of CREATE, Tiffany Yeh was promoted to Senior Assistant Manager. In this position, she manages the day-t0-day operations of five San Francisco properties: 60 Third, 250 Brannan, 301 Brannan, 333 Brannan & 345 Brannan (combined total of 900,000+ sq. ft.). Tiffany serves as Vice Chair of the BOMA SF Careers Committee and is a member of the Emerging Professionals Committee.

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Members on the Move

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Congratulations to Glenn Good, General Manager, Brookfield, and Immediate Past President of BOMA San Francisco, on being selected by BOMA International as a BOMA Fellow — the only Fellow in the 2023 class. This is a welldeserved honor for Glenn, who has demonstrated an outstanding commitment to the commercial real estate industry and to BOMA. As a BOMA Fellow, Glenn joins a distinguished group of professionals who have demonstrated excellence in their careers and have made significant contributions to the industry, their profession, the community and BOMA at all levels and have continually answered the call to leadership and service throughout their careers. He will be honored at the TOBY Banquet at the BOMA International annual conference in June. We are proud to have Glenn as a member of BOMA San Francisco, and are thrilled that his hard work and dedication have been recognized by BOMA International.

Celebrating 40 years of business excellence, EMCOR Services Mesa Energy has been providing best-in-class customer service since 1983.

“We are truly thankful to our industry partners and customers for teaming up with us through the years — we would not be here without you! We bring our best to our organization every day, and our values speak to that commitment — Mission First, People Always” says Business Development Specialist Victoria Jackson

“Our capabilities have grown over the years from basic HVAC service needs to providing a full suite of energy solutions, enabling us to help our partners with the ever-changing needs of the market and our world. We have enjoyed the challenge of meeting those needs. We look forward to the next 40 years of being a name you can continue to trust in HVAC and energy efficiency.”

Did you get promoted? Earn a designation or award? Hire new staff or start a new job? Send your news to megank@boma.com.

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UPCOMING EVENTS

Mark Your Calendars for these BOMA SF Events*

June 8 | BOMA Block Party

July 20 | DEI Scavenger Hunt

July 27 | BOMA Java

August 9 | Member Lunch

August 17 | Emerging Professionals Summer Bash

September 11 | Elmer Johnson Golf Tournament

September 20 | Emergency Preparedness Seminar

October 19 | Annual Meeting & Celebration

October 25 | BOMA Java

November 8 | Codes Webinar

*

Tours and Works hops Further Knowledge for EPs

The Emerging Professionals Committee had an eventful first quarter of 2023. “We had a great turnout for our first Tour & Toast of the year at 1455 Market Street,” says EP Committee Chair Brandon Lee, JLL. “Thank you to Hudson Pacific Properties for hosting us.”

The committee’s recent Career Success Workshop (CSW), entitled “Serving the Industry – Who, When & Why,” featured seven panelists from Hines, EMCOR Services Mesa Energy, ABM, Skyline Construction, Nalco Water – Ecolab, BluSky Restoration Contractors, and CBF Electric. EP committee members were very engaged, and additional workshops are being planned for the rest of the year. Thanks again to our event sponsor, Vanbarton Group, and to Post Montgomery Center for hosting the seminar at their property.

At press time, committee members were excited about our signature event of the year, the Bay Area Boat Bash on May 18. “This is always a chance for members to visit with their peers and make new industry connections,” adds Lee. “We can’t wait to network on board the Sausalito Empress and cruise around the Bay.”

We have a very busy quarter ahead as the committee plans our next CSW, Tour & Toast, and the Summer Bash: EP Lands which is scheduled for August 17. Be on the lookout when event registration opens. The EP Committee facilitates association awareness and participation opportunities for members with 0-7 years of industry experience. Contact Brandon Lee at Brandon.Lee@am.jll.com to learn more.

DEI Committee Offers a Welcoming Vibe

“You belong here,” says Ebony Horace, Chair of BOMA SF’s DEI (Diversity, Equity and Inclusion) Committee. “Our vibrant and diverse community is better because you are part of it.” This welcoming vibe is conveyed in all of the committee’s events and resources. The group marched into spring with a full schedule of fun and educational activities — and more are in the works!

To honor Women’s History Month in March, the DEI Committee partnered with The Women’s Building by sponsoring a collection drive through BOMA, gathering more than eight barrels of supplies. This community center serves more than 25,000 clients each year, offering in-house programs and helping clients gain access to social services, volunteer and deepen community connections. Thanks to all BOMA members who contributed! Also in March, the committee paid tribute to the women on the current BOMA SF Board of Directors and all past women presidents through social media.

BOMA SF has a strong history of bold, principled and visionary women leaders guiding our industry.

Candid Conversation Series Going Strong

On May 3 the committee held its latest in the Candid Conversation Series. The program focused on what organizations can do to create an inclusive and equitable workplace for disabled employees, address the legal requirements under the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA), and provide resources for the types of accommodations that should be considered. Improving disability inclusion in the workplace can

DEI Springs Forward with Events

April was Celebrate Diversity Month, a time to recognize and honor diversity. By celebrating differences and similarities during this month, the hope is that people will gain a deeper understanding of each other. “As we look forward to the DEI Committee’s growth, we continue to advocate for equality, spearhead initiatives to improve the diversity landscape and form ways to ensure inclusion is a part of all workplaces and communities,” Horace adds. “We appreciate the support of our partners, sponsors, volunteers and attendees. Thank you for continuing your journey with us!”

Speakers at the Candid Conversation program on disability awareness: Jerry Kuns, mobility and wayfinding consultant; Lucy Greco, web accessibility evangelist at UC Berkeley DEI Committee Chair Ebony Horace; Cecily Ng, Leddy Maytum Stacy Architects; and Katy Hawkins, Mark Cavagnero Associates.

add unique perspectives and a sense of belonging to team members, increase innovation and enhance the products and services delivered.

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DEI Committee members deliver contributions from BOMA members to The Women’s Building.

BOMA SF TOBY Award Winners Receive Regional Honors, Proceed to International Competition

Three of the BOMA SF member properties that won 2022 TOBY Awards (The Outstanding Building of the Year) at the local level have advanced to win TOBY Awards in the Pacific Southwest (PSW) Region. Congratulations to the PSW regional winners: 525 Market Street, Bay Area Metro Center, and The Exchange at Larkspur Landing

The winners now proceed to International competition. TOBY International winners will be announced at the awards banquet at the BOMA International Conference in June in Kansas City. We wish all of them the best of luck!

BAY AREA METRO CENTER

Category: Historical

Managed by: Cushman & Wakefield

Owned by: Bay Area Headquarters Authority

525 MARKET STREET

Category: 1 million+ SF

Managed by: Cushman & Wakefield

Owned by: Knickerbocker Properties

DEI Committee (Continued from page 18)

Events and Opportunities

We are excited to bring back our annual social event, Scavenger Hunt 3.0, on July 20. “This is a unique and entertaining way to interact with other members, explore San Francisco and learn more about diversity,” says Committee Vice Chair Danielle Katches. Attendees are grouped together and compete to uncover clues and then gather afterwards for networking. All BOMA members are encouraged to join us for the third rendition of this popular event.

Applications will open in June for the Akiba Davis Scholarship which sponsors the Foundations of Real Estate Management course and encourages young professionals to expand their knowledge.

THE EXCHANGE AT LARKSPUR LANDING

Category: Suburban Office (Low-Rise)

Managed by: Jamestown Urban Management

Owned by: Jamestown L.P.

To learn more about the DEI Committee, please contact committee leaders Ebony Horace (ebony.horace@ cis.cushwake.com) or Danielle Katches (danielle@ mcnevincleaning.com).

Follow the committee on BOMA SF’s LinkedIn (linkedin.com/ company/boma-san-francisco) and Instagram (@bomasf).

BOMA SF TOBY Award in the renovated category.

“We love partnering with BOMA SF for the annual BOMA at the Ballpark! It is our privilege to host the event every year and share China Basin’s gorgeous campus with our BOMA SF colleagues,” said Phoebe Ross, Assistant Property Manager, McCarthy Cook.

“We were thrilled that so many members joined the fun and strengthened their connections while enjoying some BOMA hospitality,” said Sylwia Pries, BOMA SF Manager, Events & Education. “There is much to celebrate as we come together to build relationships and support our association.”

Food and beverage booth sponsors’ creative contributions added to the

festivities. These sponsors included: ABM, Allied Universal, CBF Electric, Clune Construction, Field Construction, GSH Group, HCI Systems, ProGuard Security Services, Rossi Builders, Service by Medallion and UG2

A first stop for many was to get a libation at the Bubbles & Brews cart, sponsored by ProGuard Security Services. Prosecco, wine and craft beers were on tap.

A feast of traditional ballpark fare as well as other choices were offered. Field’s Pizza Zone, sponsored by Field Construction, served piping hot pizzas from an onsite pizza oven. HCI Systems offered tasty tacos at its Mexican-themed booth.

Sweet treats were on hand, including cookies and coffee from Rossi Builders and GSH Group and mini donuts from CBF Electric. Adding to the excitement, there were a variety of games for members to play during the event. Guests enjoyed competing for prizes donated by BOMA members.

Clockwise from top left:

Representatives from Event Sponsor Skyline Construction. ProGuard Security Services serves Bubbles & Brews.

BOMA members compete in a spirited game.

BOMA at the Ballpark (Continued from front page)

Simmu Kaur, ProGuard Security; Regina Donnelly, Tishman Speyer; and Kat Mendoza, Jamestown Urban Management.

Food & Beverage Sponsors Entertain the Crowd

Colin Shinners, BOMA SF President; John Grcina, Field Construction; and John Bryant, BOMA SF CEO.

Jill Machi, Jamestown Urban Management; and Marcell Eclevia, Township Building Services, Inc.

CBF Electric team members: Lindsay Rosecrans, Chelsea Webb, John Walsh, Kristin Sellards, and Delilah Walsh

Clune Construction team in front of their beer truck.

Frank Doyle, Jeffrey Jewell, Christian Arno, and Marlowe Robles, with Allied Universal or Allied Security.

The enthusiastic team from ABM welcomes BOMA colleagues to its booth.

The Future of Downtown (Continued from page 2)

of innovation and growth around artificial intelligence. Additionally, the frozen solid investment sales market is starting to thaw. There are currently several office buildings on the market for sale that will likely transact but at historically low values. These low sale values, that were unimaginable a few years ago, will start the “great repricing.” This will cause office values to decline which will force difficult decisions for investors and lenders alike. While this “great repricing” will have negative impacts on the City’s tax revenue and cause pain for lots of investors and lenders in the short term, the mere presence of a sales market is a welcome sign on the road to recovery.

Personally, I am optimistic that San Francisco will eventually bounce back, but we likely face a long and painful road ahead. A recent visit from our CEO, in from New York, ended with a common refrain, “San Francisco is not nearly as bad as I thought it would be. Downtown is clean and there are people on the streets.” We have a lot of hard work and difficult decisions ahead of us, but San Francisco isn’t dead and the buildings of downtown San Francisco aren’t going anywhere. We just need to figure out how to get people to use them again. n

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Associate Publisher: Megan Kelly

Editor: Henry Eason

Managing Editor/Ad Director: Ellen Eason, Eason Communications LLC

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BOMA at the Ballpark

For the 21st year in a row, members gathered on April 20 for our annual BOMA at the Ballpark event.

Mark Kelly, ABM; Kendra Horsfield, UG2; Michelle Nash, RiverRock Real Estate Group; Anne Hill, RiverRock Real Estate Group, Sam Shapiro, ABM; and Dana Foote, Bay Area Stone.

Stefanie Lee, Garrett Callahan; Brandon Lee, JLL; Rachel George, JLL; and Siena Martinucci, Garrett Callahan.

Julie Anaya, Belfor Restoration; and Angela Arnett, HCI Systems.

Cameron Edwards, Bay City Mechanical; John Legnitto, UG2; and Joel Goold, Western Specialty Contractors.

Jose Guevara, American Assets Trust; Jeff Palmer, UG2; Anne Chung, BXP; Malinda Min, BXP; Brodie Pattinson, BXP; and Jeff Spicker, Parking Concepts.

Jordan Blair, Sarah St. Clair, and Richard Chan, all with Shorenstein Realty Services.

415.362.8567

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The Last Word

by BOMA SF CEO John Bryant

The Value of DEI in the CRE Industry

Diversity, equity and inclusion (DEI) are increasingly becoming essential considerations in today’s workforce. Bringing together people with varied backgrounds increases creativity, innovation and productivity. In commercial real estate, these advantages translate into better decision-making, a wider range of perspectives and, ultimately, better outcomes for everyone involved. Diversity can spark creativity and innovation, leading to more effective and innovative solutions to problems. This is particularly relevant to commercial real estate professionals, where the industry requires a broad range of skills and expertise. With diverse teams, businesses can access a wider range of knowledge, leading to better decisions, higher-quality projects and increased profitability.

In light of the many advantages and relevant challenges to changing old mindsets, BOMA SF is working to embed these principles in all of our activities with our DEI committee spearheading numerous Candid Conversation programs, having social and networking events for emerging professionals and DEI committee members, and offering resources for both employers and employees to learn how to better engage. In addition

to promoting innovation and creativity, we believe that DEI efforts also support a more inclusive and welcoming workplace culture. When people from different backgrounds feel included and valued, they are more likely to feel motivated, engaged and committed to their work. This translates into a better work environment, increased productivity and reduced employee turnover. By fostering a culture of inclusion, businesses can attract and retain talent, leading to a more diverse workforce and better business outcomes.

However, promoting diversity, equity, and inclusion requires significant effort, commitment and investment, which is why BOMA ‘s DEI efforts remain a continued priority. For the industry, this involves companies taking proactive measures to attract, hire and retain talent from diverse backgrounds, as well as providing ongoing training and support to ensure that everyone feels valued and respected. There are many ways to promote diversity and inclusion within your company. These include: training programs to help employees recognize and address unconscious bias, creating inclusion committees to promote awareness and education, recruiting talent from diverse backgrounds and providing continued mentorship and career development opportunities for underrepresented groups.

Our website has a variety of resources to get you started, and I encourage you to get involved with BOMA’s DEI efforts by joining one of our committees and encouraging your staff to participate. Only by working together can we create a more diverse, equitable and inclusive industry that benefits everyone involved.

John Bryant is the Chief Executive Officer of BOMA San Francisco. You may reach him at jbryant@boma.com.