Two Castro Community Benefit District grants were spared cuts in Mayor Daniel Lurie’s proposed 2025-26 balanced budget of $15.9 billion. The spending plan, which will now be reviewed by the Board of Supervisors, closes an $800 million deficit and sets aside $400 million in reserves.

A Lurie spokesperson confirmed that the two grants – one for $100,000 that funds 40 hours of cleaning per week in Jane Warner Plaza at 17th and Castro streets, and another $415,000 grant that funds four full-time Castro Cares community ambassadors – will continue. 

Andrea Aiello, a lesbian who is executive director of the Castro Community Benefit District, was relieved at the news.

“The Castro CBD board and I are thrilled these crucial public safety and cleaning services are fully funded in Mayor Lurie’s bud

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