Instead of joining in on the argument here, I'll just add the the SF Federal Building itself is somewhat architecturally interesting and contentious.<p>Here's an initial review: <a href="https://www.sfgate.com/bayarea/article/new-federal-building-open-to-the-public-3191225.php" rel="nofollow noreferrer">https://www.sfgate.com/bayarea/article/new-federal-building-...</a><p>And a reappraisal: <a href="https://www.sfchronicle.com/bayarea/article/10-years-later-flashy-Federal-Building-falls-11292655.php" rel="nofollow noreferrer">https://www.sfchronicle.com/bayarea/article/10-years-later-f...</a><p>I believe this building is one of many commissionned under the GSA's design excellence program, which has produced a really adventurous range of buildings by American architects across the country: <a href="https://www.gsa.gov/real-estate/design-and-construction/design-excellence-program/design-library" rel="nofollow noreferrer">https://www.gsa.gov/real-estate/design-and-construction/desi...</a><p>Finally, the building was designed by the lead architect named Thom Mayne. Of his other work, Id also recommend the Caltrans district headquarters in LA: <a href="https://en.m.wikipedia.org/wiki/Caltrans_District_7_Headquarters" rel="nofollow noreferrer">https://en.m.wikipedia.org/wiki/Caltrans_District_7_Headquar...</a> Love it or hate it, I think all can agree that this is stimulating architecture compared to most office buildings.
A few months ago the Supreme Court forced CA counties to begin issuing concealed carry weapon permits: <a href="https://oag.ca.gov/system/files/media/legal-alert-oag-2022-03.pdf" rel="nofollow noreferrer">https://oag.ca.gov/system/files/media/legal-alert-oag-2022-0...</a>. Previously it was up to the discretion of the county's sheriff to issue them, which meant only well-connected people had them.<p>More armed citizens isn't the ultimate solution (people need mental and financial help) but it's better than the current situation.
Back in 2021, Seattle's courthouse introduced armed escorts for the same reason.<p><a href="https://www.king5.com/article/news/local/king-county-courthouse-safety-concerns-seattle-security/281-efbd6d5b-9184-4ecc-b91b-6a0aa5017831" rel="nofollow noreferrer">https://www.king5.com/article/news/local/king-county-courtho...</a><p>Not sure if it's still going on today.
Is it something specific to SF and the policies made there? Clearly this doesn’t happen in all states, so what are they doing right that doesn’t lead to this type of degeneracy?
Would add that many cities around the world are struggling with an increase in homelessness and drug use.<p>So whilst SF has its own issues it is far from unique.<p>The rise in global inflation, decreasing home affordability and stagnant wages has resulted in more people struggling.
I have some strong, contentious views on this that I'd like to subject to a good debate. I.e., "tell me why I'm wrong..."<p>But I know HN isn't a great forum for emotional topics like that.<p>Any suggestions for where I can have that kind of discussion online?