South SF has many Latino residents and public officials but it’s not a sanctuary city. There is a somewhat higher crime zone centered on its downtown and Latin areas. But still, SSF only has a couple of major crimes a year — unlike San Francisco which is pretty much a criminal battle zone. Ssf is home to Genentech and several smaller bioengineering outfits , formerly having been a steel and animal slaughter town (but all that’s gone now. Crime as noted exists but most folks would tell you the place’s biggest problem is traffic
One of my daughters has worked at Genentech for many years. It's a complex spanning many blocks with 40 to 50 buildings and growing. The old steel plant is now home to new luxury hotels, with more being built. The entire bay shoreline has been redeveloped with walking trails, fishing spots and picnic areas. Completely different than the old slaughterhouse days.
What you refer to as the higher crime zone downtown, is still relatively crime free compared to other towns in the Bay Area. The downtown has been gentrified with upscale restaurants and is nice, mostly due to business from the biotech companies (which give large donations annually to local schools and organizations here). A huge construction project is underway to build a new railroad station and more hotels. South SF is rapidly changing for the better. Except for the traffic, like you say. A lot of people don't realize it's in San Mateo County, separated from SF by several other towns.
Open Carry and Concealed Carry without permit, such as we have here in Idaho, would cut down on crime and make these dirtbags uncomfortable living there. We have a little crime here and a polite society. The Law Enforcement and the judges in Ca oppose 2nd amendment rights. Its good “business”for them to keep the status quo. Im a former Stockton resident for 40 years.
Excellent historical knowledge on your part to call SSF a former animal slaughter town.
I award you points!