> essential to the character of the city, and the freedom and human dignity of the people living in it.

I find that difficult to believe.

There is a central district in Copenhagen, Denmark, for example which also 'allows' the use of drugs, homelessness etc. As fair as I'm aware, police don't even enter this neighbourhood unless a serious crime (eg murder) takes place.

Yet it's clean, friendly, welcoming and often visited by tourists. Definitely no needles or faeces visible anywhere.

I don't see why the Tenderloin should necessarily be any worse than this.