San Francisco
San Mateo CountyNCCLF, the manager of OrgSpaces, is actively involved in Arts and Economic Development. We’ve found that most art organizations are great at what they do but few arts organizations understand the underlying business model needed to manage their real estate. NCCLF is an active also an active participant in Mid-Market redevelopment efforts. This effort focuses on the creation of a creative community that will help jump start the revitalization efforts in the Mid-Market District.
The Mills Act Program can allow owners of historic properties to enter into contracts with local governments, providing economic incentives for the restoration and preservation of historic buildings. Owners of historic buildings may qualify for property tax relief if they pledge to improve and maintain the historical and architectural character of their buildings for at least a ten-year period.
This program is especially beneficial for recent buyers of historic properties and for current owners who have made major improvements on their properties. Note that the Mills Act Program is different from the Historic Preservation Tax Credit Program (pdf), but the two can often be used together by a nonprofit organization. Participants may realize substantial property tax savings between 40% and 60% each year because valuations of Mills Act properties are determined in a unique way.
Local governments decide whether and how to implement the Mills Act Program in their area; property owners in San Francisco can learn more from this application (pdf) and from their local Mills Act Contacts.
Any decision about facilities and property requires careful consideration and strategic planning. This site’s online resources can help clarify the process. Reviewing the intricacies of San Francisco leasing laws will help nonprofit tenants in the city make informed decisions. Before signing a lease, learn how the building’s operating expenses (PDF), common space (PDF) and effective rent (PDF) can affect your organization’s financial load.
The Volunteer Legal Services Program of San Francisco provides pro bono legal services for low-income individuals and the organizations that serve them. Their award-winning program changes lives by using a holistic approach that offers social services as well as legal assistance.
By way of The 1% Program, Mission Graduates was paired with an architecture firm who provided space and façade re-design at no cost. The firm helped Mission Graduates transform their 16th street office into a cohesive community space, appropriate for staff offices as well as comfortable for parents and youth.
Through The 1% Program, the Homeless Prenatal Program was paired with Peterson Architects, a design firm who at no charge helped the San Francisco organization to find a building suitable to their needs. By making minimal alterations to the existing building, HPP could keep construction costs low and focus on their mission, providing poor and homeless families the ability to end childhood poverty.
