12/07/2025
Michael Nulty's Role in the Tenant Associations Coalition of San Francisco (TAC SF)Michael Nulty has been a pivotal figure in San Francisco's tenant rights movement for over three decades, with his involvement in the Tenant Associations Coalition of San Francisco (TAC SF) spanning its entire existence since its founding in 1998. As a grassroots organizer, civic leader, and advocate for low-income, disabled, and senior renters, Nulty's contributions emphasize community empowerment, policy advocacy, and coalition building in neighborhoods like the Tenderloin and South of Market (SoMa).
Below is a detailed breakdown of his roles, achievements, and ongoing impact within TAC SF and related efforts, drawing from organizational records, public recognitions, and his broader civic work.I. Founding and Leadership Positions in TAC SFNulty co-founded TAC SF in 1998 alongside his identical twin brother, John Nulty, and has served in key leadership capacities that have shaped the organization into a vital support network for residents in single-room occupancy (SRO) hotels and supportive housing.Co-Founder (1998–Present): Nulty helped establish TAC SF as a fully volunteer, community-based organization dedicated to unifying low-income renters, facilitating communication among tenant associations, and partnering with allies to preserve affordable housing and improve living conditions. His vision stemmed from personal experience as a graduate of the Mental Health Association of San Francisco's Tenant Leadership Training Program, where he honed skills in grassroots organizing.
Program Director (Ongoing): In this role, Nulty oversees daily operations, including monthly resident unity meetings at 201 Turk Street (TAC SF's hub in the Tenderloin). He supports tenant leaders in establishing and maintaining associations, building community ties, and advocating for habitability issues like repairs, evictions, and rent stabilization. Under his direction, TAC SF has grown to serve over 100 members across citywide supportive housing developments, focusing on families, single adults, disabled individuals, and seniors.
Master of Ceremonies and Event Producer: Nulty has emceed major TAC SF milestones, such as the 9th Anniversary Celebration (2007), 10th Anniversary (2008), and 15th Anniversary (2013), where he coordinated awards ceremonies, keynote speakers (e.g., Bevan Dufty), and networking events. These gatherings highlighted tenant achievements and fostered camaraderie, often co-produced with figures like Steve Conley.
II. Key Contributions to Tenant Rights and Coalition BuildingNulty's work extends beyond administration, driving TAC SF's advocacy on displacement, economic justice, and policy reform. His efforts bridge resident needs with those of small businesses and service providers.Advocacy and Organizing: As Program Director, Nulty has led campaigns against developer-driven evictions and upzoning loopholes, including opposition to projects displacing 84,000+ affordable units (e.g., 2013–2021 San Francisco Planning Commission memos). He facilitated the 2007 Mayoral Forum on tenant issues and co-signed letters to federal committees (2012–2021) securing COVID-19 relief and National Housing Trust Fund support.
Leadership Trainings and Empowerment: Drawing from his own training, Nulty delivers workshops on board participation, eviction defenses, and resource navigation. TAC SF under his guidance has honored eight resident leaders for non-profit board service and compiled toolkits for tenant bylaws and advocacy.
Coalition and Partnership Development: Nulty recruits members through door-to-door outreach and interacts with elected officials, service providers (e.g., Tenderloin Housing Clinic), and partners like the San Francisco Tenants Union (SFTU) and Central City SRO Collaborative. He co-founded related groups, such as the Alliance for a Better District 6 (1999–2006, where he later served as Executive Director) and North of Market Planning Coalition (Board of Directors, 1999–2007), amplifying TAC SF's reach.
Broader Civic Engagement: Nulty's roles in the Lower Eddy/Leavenworth Corridor Task Force (1998–2001) and San Francisco Neighborhoods Alliance (1999–2002) informed TAC SF's focus on pedestrian safety and inclusive land-use policies. His 2014 candidacy for District 6 Supervisor (where he pledged to address displacement of residents and small businesses) highlighted TAC SF's priorities, though he was defeated by incumbent Jane Kim.
III. Recognition and AwardsNulty's dedication has earned him and TAC SF numerous honors, underscoring his role as a "Mental Health Champion" and community unifier.Year
Award/Recognition
Issuing Body
Details
2007
Unsung Hero Award
Housing Rights Committee of San Francisco (HRCSF) and Senior Action Network
For nine years of service in tenant empowerment and affordable housing preservation.
2007
Mental Health Champion Honor
Mental Health Association of San Francisco (60th Anniversary)
Recognized for overcoming personal obstacles while leading community organizing for low-income renters.
2007
Certificate of Honor
San Francisco Board of Supervisors
For leadership in improving living conditions and tenants' rights in supportive housing.
2008
California State Resolution Honoree
California State Assembly (via Commissioner Debra Walker)
Celebrating TAC SF's 10th anniversary and Nulty's role in unifying residents.
2013
Community Impact Award Nominee
North of Market Business Association
For proactive engagement on public safety and tenant-business alliances.
These accolades often spotlight Nulty's ability to inspire action, as noted in commendations for his work in organizing around public safety and engaging neighbors.IV. Administrative and Sustaining EffortsAs an all-volunteer program, TAC SF relies on Nulty's behind-the-scenes work to maintain momentum.Recruitment and Updates: He handles member onboarding via community referrals and email blasts with policy wins (e.g., Prop A Affordable Housing Bond, 2024), ensuring frequent updates from coalition members to combat isolation.
Resource Development: Nulty connects residents to legal aid (e.g., via HRCSF) and develops mutual support networks, creating an environment of camaraderie through shared stories at meetings.
Ongoing Operations: Despite no formal budget, he secures in-kind donations for events and manages logistics, sustaining TAC SF's 27+ years of service as of 2025.
V. Personal Background and Inspirational ImpactBorn and raised in San Francisco, Nulty earned his high school diploma from the San Francisco Unified School District in 1977 after attending multiple institutions from ages 14–19. His journey from tenant trainee to coalition leader exemplifies resilience, particularly in mental health advocacy. As a facilitator and citizen planner, Nulty's emphasis on mutual support has inspired countless residents, positioning him as a bridge between vulnerable communities and city policymakers. His twin brother John's parallel activism (e.g., 2014 District 8 candidacy) further amplifies the Nulty family's legacy in tenant rights.
