By Alex Randolph

Growing up in Germany, I watched my mother and godmother organize people against nuclear power plants because of the aftermath from the Chernobyl disaster. The environmental disaster that followed meant not being able to play outside when it rained, or drink milk or eat certain fruits. My mother and godmother brought people to the kitchen table to discuss, plan, and protest for and with their community, giving me my first glimpse into how all political or policy issues are ultimately local and how important it is to be at the decision-making table, and make sure that your voice is heard.

San Francisco voters are voting right now in several local races, including some important citywide ballot measures on housing and clean energy, as well as races for Mayor, Sheriff, and Community College Board (for which I am running). These are all vital issues and offices that shape the identity and future of our city. However, they can be decided by less than 1,000 voters in what looks to be a very low turnout election.

During my campaign to retain my seat as Trustee of City College, I’ve had the humbling opportunity to meet with voters across the city and to listen to their stories. The loudest concern is for housing and affordability in San Francisco. My partner Trevor and I have been renting in the Castro for nearly a decade, and have personally observed the changes (good and bad) the neighborhood has gone through and share the concerns of many. There is an affordability crisis going on not only in the Mission, but also throughout San Francisco.

At City College, many of our students, faculty, and staff struggle to find housing they can afford while they pursue their education. This is why it is so important to vote Yes on Proposition A, which will fund $310 million of affordable housing programs (see page 6 for more about Prop A). By the same account, we have to vote Yes on Prop D that makes smart growth in San Francisco a reality and brings open spaces, housing, and a livable community to the Mission Bay neighborhood. A Yes on Prop K will further ease our affordability crisis, expanding the income range needed to afford homes on surplus public lands.

Housing is just one of the issues on the ballot this Election Day that will decide what we value as San Franciscans. Ultimately, our laws are the promises we make to ourselves and to our community about who we are as a city and what we stand for. So take a stand for San Francisco and make sure to vote by mail, early at City Hall, or at your nearest polling location on Tuesday, November 3.

Alex Randolph is a Trustee for City College of San Francisco. He has previously served in President Obama’s administration and as an LGBT advisor for Mayor Newsom. He lives in the Castro with his partner Trevor.