June 26, 2008SAN FRANCISCO
PLANNING COMMISSION
Meeting Minutes
Commission Chambers - Room 400
City Hall, 1 Dr. Carlton B. Goodlett Place
Thursday, June 26, 2008
1:00 PM
Regular Meeting
COMMISSIONERS PRESENT: Olague, Miguel, Antonini, Borden, Moore and Sugaya
COMMISSIONER ABSENT: Lee
THE MEETING WAS CALLED TO ORDER BY PRESIDENT OLAGUE AT 1:08 P.M.
STAFF IN ATTENDANCE: John Rahaim – Director of Planning, Larry Badiner – Zoning Administrator, Amit Ghosh – Chief Planner, Edgar Oropeza, Diego Sanchez, Elizabeth Watty, Jonas Ionin, Tim Frye, Mary Woods, Joy Navarrete, Viktoriya Wise, Kevin Guy, AnMarie Rodgers, and Linda Avery – Commission Secretary.
A. CONSIDERATION OF ITEMS PROPOSED FOR CONTINUANCE
The Commission will consider a request for continuance to a later date. The Commission may choose to continue the item to the date proposed below, to continue the item to another date, or to hear the item on this calendar.
1. 2005.0927E (T. BLOMGREN: (415) 575-9023)
36-38 Downey Street/755 Ashbury - Lots 007, 011, and 065 of Assessor's Block 1254, mid-block on Ashbury and Downey Street between Frederick and Waller Streets Appeal of Preliminary Negative Declaration. The proposed project includes a lot line adjustment between Lot 007 and Lot 065, and the relocation of the existing two-unit residential building at 36-38 Downey Street to Lot 007 (next to 737 Ashbury Street), and four off-street parking spaces from Lot 007 (next to 36-38 Downey Street). The project site is zoned RH-2 (Residential House, Two-Family), and RH-3 (Residential House, Three-Family) and is in a 40-X Height and Bulk District in the Haight-Ashbury Neighborhood. The proposed project would require approval of a lot line adjustment and the modification of an existing Planned Unit Development.
Preliminary Recommendation: Uphold Preliminary Negative Declaration
(Continued from Regular Meeting of May 1, 2008)
(Proposed for Continuance to July 17, 2008)
SPEAKER(S): None
ACTION: Continued as proposed
AYES: Olague, Miguel, Antonini, Borden, Moore and Sugaya
ABSENT: Lee
2. 2008.0095T (T. Sullivan-Lenane: (415) 558-6257)
Amendments to the Planning Code by adding Section 226.5: Alcohol Reduction and Safer Neighborhoods Act - Permitted Locations on New Liquor Stores and their Conditions of Operation. Ordinance introduced by Supervisor Sandoval amending the San Francisco Planning Code by adding Section 226.5 to impose a distance requirement of 500 feet or more between new off-sale liquor stores and existing liquor stores, elementary and secondary schools, public libraries, and recreation centers throughout San Francisco and establishing conditions for operation of liquor stores.
Preliminary Recommendation: Pending
(Continued from Regular Meeting of May 22, 2008)
(Continued from Regular Meeting of April 24, 2008)
(Proposed for Continuance to July 17, 2008)
SPEAKER(S): None
ACTION: Continued as proposed
AYES: Olague, Miguel, Antonini, Borden, Moore and Sugaya
ABSENT: Lee
3. 2007.1067C: (A. Hollister: (415) 575-9078)
1164 Powell Street - southeast corner of Powell and Jackson Streets, Lot 043 in Assessor's Block 0192 - Request for Conditional Use Authorization to legalize an existing Small Fast Food Restaurant (d.b.a. Quickly) of approximately 450 square feet within the existing ground floor retail space. No physical expansion of the building is proposed. This site is within the CRNC (Chinatown Residential Neighborhood Commercial) Mixed-Use District, and a 65-N Height and Bulk District.
Preliminary Recommendation: Pending
(Proposed for Continuance to July 17, 2008)
SPEAKER(S): None
ACTION: Continued as proposed
AYES: Olague, Miguel, Antonini, Borden, Moore and Sugaya
ABSENT: Lee
4. 2006.0700T (C. NIKITAS: (415) 558-6306)
LOSS OF DWELLING UNIT Legislation - Code Implementation Document - Proposed implementation procedures, criteria, and application forms used to implement newly-adopted Code Section 317, requiring Planning Commission hearings for the removal of certain dwelling and live-work units. The document also sets numerical criteria, some of which are subject to administrative adjustment in response to changing economic conditions.
Preliminary Recommendation: Adoption
(Proposed for Continuance to July 10, 2008)
SPEAKER(S): None
ACTION: Continued as proposed
AYES: Olague, Miguel, Antonini, Borden, Moore and Sugaya
ABSENT: Lee
5. 2007.0703D (G. CABREROS: (415) 558-6169)
850 Francisco Street - north side between Leavenworth and Hyde Streets; Lot 005 in Assessor's Block 0045 - Request for Discretionary Review of Building Permit Application No. 2006.10.18.5416 proposing to revise an issued building permit application for new construction of a four-story, single family residence. The revision consists of construction of two additional basement levels within the footprint of the proposed new construction project. The property is located in an RH-1(D) (Residential, House, One-Family, Detached) Zoning District and a 40-X Height and Bulk District.
preliminary Recommendation: Do not take Discretionary Review and Approve project
(Continued from Regular Meeting of May 1, 2008)
(Proposed for Indefinite Continuance)
SPEAKER(S): None
ACTION: Continued as proposed
AYES: Olague, Miguel, Antonini, Borden, Moore and Sugaya
ABSENT: Lee
B. CONSENT CALENDAR
All matters listed hereunder constitute a Consent Calendar, are considered to be routine by the Planning Commission, and will be acted upon by a single roll call vote of the Commission. There will be no separate discussion of these items unless a member of the Commission, the public, or staff so requests, in which event the matter shall be removed from the Consent Calendar and considered as a separate item at this or a future hearing
6. 2008.0360C (E. Oropeza: (415) 558-6381)
3242 22nd Street - north side between Bartlett and Mission Street, Lot 009 in Assessor's Block 3616 - Request for Conditional Use Authorization to establish a small self-service restaurant, (dba Tortas El Primo) within the NC-3 (Moderate-Scale Neighborhood Commercial) District, and a 50-X Height and Bulk District. The project is also within the Mission Street Fast-Food Subdistrict and the Mission Alcoholic Beverage Special Use Subdistrict. Planning Code Section 712.44 and 790.91, limit a small self-service restaurant to no more than 1,000 square feet in gross floor area.
Preliminary Recommendation: Approval with Conditions
SPEAKER(S): None
ACTION: Approved
AYES: Olague, Miguel, Antonini, Borden, Moore and Sugaya
ABSENT: Lee
MOTION: 17632
7. 2008.0366C (D. SANCHEZ: (415) 575-9082)
870 VALENCIA STREET - west side, between 19th and 20th Streets, Lot 009 in Assessor's Block 3597 - Request for Conditional Use Authorization under Planning Code Sections 726.43 and 303 to allow for the establishment of a large fast food restaurant (dba Borderlands Cafe) within the Valencia Street Neighborhood Commercial District and a 50-X Height and Bulk designation.
Preliminary Recommendation: Approval with conditions
SPEAKER(S): None
ACTION: Approved
AYES: Olague, Miguel, Antonini, Borden, Moore and Sugaya
ABSENT: Lee
MOTION: 17633
8a. 2008.0461CVP (E. Watty: (415) 558-6620)
4245 LAWTON STREET (aka 1600 Great Highway) - southeast corner of Great Highway; Lot 043 in Assessor's Block 1895 - Request for Conditional Use Authorization, pursuant to Planning Code Sections 209.3(f) and 303 to allow a child-care facility for 13 or more children (dba Sunset Co-Op Nursery School ) within a new one-story plus mezzanine structure in the RH-2 (Residential House, Two-Family) Zoning District, 40-X Height and Bulk District, and Local Coastal Zone Permit Area. The existing structure is proposed for demolition and a new structure is proposed in a similar location.
Preliminary Recommendation: Approval with Conditions
SPEAKER(S): None
ACTION: Approved
AYES: Olague, Miguel, Antonini, Borden, Moore and Sugaya
ABSENT: Lee
MOTION: 17634
8b. 2008.0461CVP (E. Watty: (415) 558-6620)
4245 LAWTON STREET (aka 1600 Great Highway) - southeast corner of Great Highway; Lot 043 in Assessor's Block 1895 - Request for Coastal Zone Permit, pursuant to Planning Code Section 330.1, to authorize the demolition of an existing one-story building and the new construction of a one-story plus mezzanine building in a similar location. The new building will be occupied by the same child care facility (dba Sunset Co-Op Nursery School ) with the same permitted occupancy as the existing structure. The Subject Property is located within the RH-2 (Residential House, Two-Family) Zoning District, 40-X Height and Bulk District, and Local Coastal Zone Permit Area.
Preliminary Recommendation: Approval with Conditions
SPEAKER(S): None
ACTION: Approved
AYES: Olague, Miguel, Antonini, Borden, Moore and Sugaya
ABSENT: Lee
MOTION: 17635
8c. 2008.0461CVP (E. Watty: (415) 558-6620)
4245 LAWTON STREET (aka 1600 Great Highway) - southeast corner of Great Highway; Lot 043 in Assessor's Block 1895 - Request for Rear Yard and Parking Variances, pursuant to Planning Code Section 134 and 151, to allow the new one-story plus mezzanine building to encroach six-feet, six-inches into the 54-foot deep required rear yard and to provide no off-street parking where one off-off street parking space is required in the RH-2 (Residential House, Two-Family) Zoning District, 40-X Height and Bulk District, and Local Coastal Zone Permit Area.
SPEAKER(S): None
ACTION: Zoning Administrator closed public hearing and granted the variances subject to standard conditions of approval
Item 9 was taken off consent
9. 2008.0444C (Tape IA) (E. Watty: (415) 558-6620)
2342-2348 MARKET STREET - north side between 16th and Castro Streets; Lot 007 in Assessor's Block 3562 - Request for Conditional Use Authorization, pursuant to Planning Code Sections 303, 721.21, 790.130, 721.41, 790.22, 721.48, 790.38, for a use size exceeding 2,999 square feet that will accommodate an expansion of the existing bar with other entertainment (dba Jet) into the adjacent ground-floor commercial space, which is currently occupied by a campaign headquarters. The Project also includes an outdoor activity area, pursuant to Sections 721.24 and 790.70, consisting of a front smoking patio. The Subject Property is within the Upper Market Neighborhood Commercial District and 65-B Height and Bulk District.
Preliminary Recommendation: Approval with Conditions
SPEAKER(S)
Tony Kim, Project Sponsor Representative
- The proposed project is to expand the existing bar as part of the capital improvement plan for the establishment. It is needed to meet the businesses demands for its growing clientele.
- We held an informational neighborhood meeting on April 30, 2008, mailing over 400 invitations to property owners, occupants, and neighborhood groups within a 300 foot ratios of the subject property.
- Project sponsor has demonstrated his ability to operate successfully a responsible business.
(-)Marco
- Opposed to the project because it is creating many disturbances in the neighborhood. The quality of life is deteriorating for the people who live there.
(+)Judy
- You should have a letter from Steve Hall regarding that Eureka Valley Promotion Association. He supports the bar. We do feel that the conditions of use are going to address the concerns of the neighbors.
(+)Gregg
- I have been in the Castro for over 10 years. I spend most of my time there. I live and work there and I am one hundred percent committed mentally, physically and financially to the area.
- I have a 10 year record of hiring and promoting locally, thereby creating successful businesses in the community, giving back to the community and working with the neighbors.
ACTION: Approved
AYES: Olague, Miguel, Antonini, Borden, Moore and Sugaya
ABSENT: Lee
MOTION: 17637
Item 10 was taken off consent
10. 2008.0481C (Tape IA) (J. IONIN: (415) 558-6309)
378-382 18th AVENUE - east side between Geary Boulevard and Clement Street, Assessor's Block 1449, Lots 021B and 022 - Request for Conditional Use Authorization under Planning Code Sections 303 and 712.21 to allow a non-residential use that exceeds 5,999 square feet in area. The proposal is to connect the Golden Gate Christian Church with the adjacent vacant commercial building to the south, to be used as a community center (the Agape Community Center) in an NC-3 (Neighborhood Commercial, Moderate Scale) District and a 40-X Height and Bulk District. The total use size of the combined spaces would be approximately 20,300 square feet.
Preliminary Recommendation: Approval with Conditions
SPEAKER(S)
LincolnLeu, Architect
- The work involves restoring the front of the building by changing the dilapidated wood windows; removing the non-functional, unsafe, unpleasant looking fire-escape and replacing it with code compliant interior stairs.
- In this project we are trying to not do much to the exterior of the building because of the fact that this has some historical implications.
- The Church is doing a good job by updating the building to address physical handicap accessibility, computer programs for the youth, keeping kids off the street, and programs for elders.
(+)Pat
- Spoke in favor of the project.
ACTION: Approved as amended:
-Project sponsor shall ensure that all proposed façade treatments including window replacement and mortar replacement would be in-kind and in keeping with the original materials.
-This Commission is willing to work with staff on any issues related to the submittal.
AYES: Olague, Miguel, Antonini, Borden, Moore and Sugaya
ABSENT: Lee
MOTION: 17638
11a. 2008.0376CV (J. IONIN: (415) 558-6309)
1599 HAIGHT STREET (aka 612 Clayton Street)- southeast corner of Haight and Clayton Streets, Assessor's Block 1245, Lots 023 - Request for Conditional Use Authorization under Planning Code Sections 161(j) and 303 to convert the vacant second floor medical clinic offices (formerly occupied by the Haight-Ashbury Free Clinic) to four dwelling units without providing the required off-street parking in the Haight Street Neighborhood Commercial District, the Haight Street Alcohol Restricted Use Subdistrict and a 40-X Height and Bulk District. The existing ground floor commercial spaces are to be retained.
Preliminary Recommendation: Approval with Conditions
SPEAKER(S): None
ACTION: Approved
AYES: Olague, Miguel, Antonini, Borden, Moore and Sugaya
ABSENT: Lee
MOTION: 17636
11b. 2008.0376CV (J. IONIN: (415) 558-6309)
1599 HAIGHT STREET (aka 612 Clayton Street) - southeast corner of Haight and Clayton Streets, Assessor's Block 1245, Lot 023, located in the Haight Street Neighborhood Commercial District (NCD), the Haight Street Alcohol Restricted Use Subdistrict and in a 40-X Height and Bulk District. USABLE OPEN SPACE AND EXPOSURE VARIANCES SOUGHT - The proposal is to convert vacant second floor medical clinic offices to four residential units. The existing ground floor commercial spaces are to be retained.
SPEAKER(S): None
ACTION: Zoning Administrator closed public hearing and granted the variances subject to standard conditions of approval
Items 12a & b were taken off consent
12a. 2007.1437C (Tape IA; IB) (T. FRYE: (415) 575-6822)
901 ALABAMA STREET - southeast Corner of Alabama and 21st Streets, Assessor's Block 4146; Lots 034 - Request for Conditional Use Authorization pursuant to Planning Code Sections 209.4 and 303 of the Planning Code to allow the renovation and expansion of a community facility (known as "San Francisco Boys and Girls Club"), within a residential district. The site is located within an RM-1 (Residential, Mixed) District with a 40-X Height and Bulk limit.
Preliminary Recommendation: Approve with Conditions
SPEAKER(S)
Mary Murphy, Project Sponsor Representative
- This is one of the most beloved and vital institutions in the Mission District.
Rob Konelli, Executive Director
- The Boys and Girls Club has been in San Francisco since 1891. We have been in the Mission since 1908 and at this site since 1927.
- We serve kids from the ages of 6 to 18 years. We operate summer camps and summer schools.
- We are eager to get this club house on line because there are many needs in this community.
(+)Tracy Brown
- The club is a very special place for kids to go while parents are at work. It is a safe place with a family environment.
- [Shared her own experience as an ex-member of the club and now has a son as a member and is hoping that the rest of the family can have that experience]
(+)Susana Rojas, Club House Director
- Urged the Commission to approve the project to allow us the ability to serve the children. The building has some sort of historic significance but the children are part of that history.
(+)Sharil Andrews
- Shared her experience of how the club has helped her and her family.
- She is hoping that the club will be able to come back to business.
ACTION: Approved with modified condition #4 to include the oversight of Commissioner Sugaya concurrently with the review of staff.
AYES: Olague, Miguel, Antonini, Borden, Moore and Sugaya
ABSENT: Lee
MOTION: 17639
12b. 2007.1437CV (T. FRYE: (415) 575-6822)
901 ALABAMA STREET - southeast Corner of Alabama and 21st Streets, Assessor's Block 4146; Lots 034 - Request for Variance pursuant to Section 134 of the Planning Code to expand the community facility into the required rear yard setback within an RM-1 (Residential, Mixed) District with a 40-X Height and Bulk limit.
SPEAKER(S): Same as those stated on item 12a
ACTION: Zoning Administrator closed public hearing and granted the variance subject to standard conditions of approval
C. GENERAL PUBLIC COMMENT – 15 MINUTES
At this time, members of the public may address the Commission on items of interest to the public that are within the subject matter jurisdiction of the Commission except agenda items. With respect to agenda items, your opportunity to address the Commission will be afforded when the item is reached in the meeting. Each member of the public may address the Commission for up to three minutes.
SPEAKER(S)
Patricia Vaughey, Re: Usage of Architectural Buildings
- Offered tapes of Sacred Trust Foundation Convention in Salt Lake City on how several churches have been converted for uses.
D. PUBLIC COMMENT ON AGENDA ITEMS WHERE THE PUBLIC HEARING HAS BEEN CLOSED
At this time, members of the public who wish to address the Commission on agenda items that have already been reviewed in a public hearing at which members of the public were allowed to testify and the public hearing has been closed, must do so at this time. Each member of the public may address the Commission for up to three minutes.
SPEAKER(S)
None
E. CONSIDERATION OF FINDINGS AND FINAL ACTION – PUBLIC HEARING CLOSED
13. 2007.1064C (Tape IB) (M. Woods: (415) 558-6315)
1860 LOMBARD STREET - north side between Buchanan and Laguna Streets; Lot 023 (formerly Lot 011), in Assessor's Block 0494 - Request for Conditional Use Authorization to allow a formula retail use that is also a large fast food restaurant (dba Subway) pursuant to Sections 303(c), 303(i), 703.4 and 712.43 of the Planning Code, in an NC-3 (Moderate-Scale Neighborhood Commercial) District and a 40-X Height and Bulk District.
Preliminary Recommendation: Approval with Conditions
(Continued from Regular Meeting of June 19, 2007)
Note: On April 24, 2008, following public testimony, the Commission closed public hearing and continued the matter to May 1, 2008 to allow absent commissioners the opportunity to participate by a vote of +3 -1. Commissioner Moore voted no. Commissioners Sugaya and W. Lee were absent.
Note: On May 1, 2008, without further hearing, the item was continued to May 29, 2008.
note: On May 29, 2008 the Commission passed a motion of intent to disapprove with final language on June 19, 2008 by a vote of +6 -0
ACTION: Disapproved
AYES: Miguel, Antonini, Moore and Sugaya
NAYES: Olague
EXCUSED: Borden
ABSENT: Lee
MOTION: 17640
F. REGULAR CALENDAR
14. 2006.1308E (Tape IB) (J. NAVARRETE: (415) 575-9040)
VISITACION VALLEY REDEVELOPMENT PROGRAM - Public Hearing on the Draft Environmental Impact Report - The Redevelopment Agency and the Planning Department are proposing to adopt and implement a redevelopment program for the Visitacion Valley neighborhood to overcome adverse blighting influences, improve housing opportunities, and facilitate neighborhood-serving commercial development. The proposed redevelopment program includes adoption and implementation of a Redevelopment Plan, the Visitacion Valley/Schlage Lock Design for Development, a set of General Plan and Planning Code revisions, and other actions to facilitate re-use of the dormant Schlage Lock property along the east side of Bayshore Boulevard, redevelop properties along the opposite (west) side of Bayshore Boulevard, and revitalize Leland Avenue. It is estimated that the proposed Visitacion Valley Redevelopment Program would facilitate a net housing increase of up to 1,600 new units, a net retail commercial increase of up to 132,000 square feet, a net decrease in office and production/distribution/repair uses of up to 39,000 square feet, and a net increase in cultural/institutional/educational uses (community centers and library) of up to 25,000 square feet.
Preliminary Recommendation: No Action Required.
Note: written comments will be accepted at the Redevelopment Agency's offices until the close of business on July 21, 2008.
SPEAKER(S)
FranceMartin, Visitacion Valley Alliance
- We need to have the Geneva extension on the transit line in order to relieve us from some of the traffic that is going to caused.
Chris Barnett
- Even though I support the project, these developments are going to have a lot of impacts on transportation and I think the planning efforts should focus on that particular issue.
ACTION: No action is required of the Commission. Public comments only
15. 2007.0706E (Tape IB) (V. WISE: (415) 575-9049)
1 La Avanzada Street/Sutro Tower Digital Television Project - Public Hearing on the Draft Environmental Impact Report (EIR). The proposed project would involve conversion of the television antennas on Sutro Tower from the current combination of analog and digital to an all-digital system. Project components would include: 1) replacement of nine existing analog main antennas at the top of Sutro Tower with no more than five digital main antennas; 2) structural upgrades to the tower to enable the tower to meet Building Code wind resistance requirements for an essential facility and to accommodate the placement of new digital television equipment on the tower; 3) removal of four digital main television antennas; 4) removal of nine analog auxiliary television antennas and installation of three digital auxiliary antennas; 5) alteration, replacement, or addition of small ancillary and accessory antennas and equipment associated with the operation of Sutro Tower broadcasters; and 6) addition of auxiliary equipment, and electrical, elevator, and public safety improvements associated with the proposed project. The project would result in an overall net reduction of approximately 14 television antennas, from 22 to 8 antennas. There would be no expansion of the tower itself or the ancillary buildings at the base of the tower.
Preliminary Recommendation: No Action Required
Note: Written comments will be accepted at the Planning Department's offices until the close of business on July 1, 2008.
SPEAKER(S)
Dona Craoder
- Questioned the neutral authorities that the project sponsor has quote to support their evidence regarding the need for this project.
- Suggested neighborhood meetings to present any documents when coming before the City.
Doris Linnenback
- Just this Monday, Sutro Towers finally held an informational meeting regarding this EIR for this neighborhood and it is such a short time to prepare to submit comments.
- We have many concerns that need to be addressed by experts and we need extra time, at least until September 30.
Susan Keeney
- The primary failing of the Draft Environmental Report is the block of attention to the fact that the existing facility already meets the needs of those who rely on broadcast television signal in the digital format.
- We need to balance the welfare of the residents against the needs for Sutro Towers.
Thomas Le
- Requested more time to review because the neighborhood has had little time to evaluate the report. It is a rather complex document.
Debra Stein, Sutro Towers
- Notices went out to 200 individuals and organization - all owners within 300 feet and all adjacent residents. In addition, there was a large scale neighborhood meeting this past week.
- There has been over compliance of the notice requirement and the community has been involved and aware of this project since December.
ACTION: No action is required of the Commission. Public comments only
16a. 2008.0001BX (Tapes IB; IIA) (K. GUY: (415) 558-6163)
505-525 Howard Street - south side between 1st and 2nd Streets, Lots 114 and 121 of Assessor's Block 3736 - Request for Allocation of Square Footage under the Annual Office Development Limitation Program. The proposed project is to demolish an existing one-story commercial building and construct a new 11-story building containing approximately 252,500 square feet of office uses and approximately 9,500 square feet of ground-floor retail space. The proposal is a modification/expansion of a previously-approved 178,000 square-foot office building for this site. The previous project was approved with other office buildings, all of which comprise the "Foundry Square" office development project. This expanded project would be the last of the four buildings to be constructed. The project site is located within a C-3-O (SD) Zoning District, and the 200-S and 350-S Height and Bulk Districts. The Planning Department has made an initial determination that 228,500 square feet of the proposed office uses would be subject to the requirements of the Downtown Park Special Fund, Housing for Large-Scale Development, and Child-Care for Office and Hotel Development Projects.
SPEAKER(S)
Tom Salomon, Developer
- This project had a very environmentally progressive design concept from the very beginning.
- [Explained the design of the buildings with features of energy efficiency, parking, landscaping, ground floor, and retail spaces]
- We generally have received support from SPUR on this project and would be happy to work on any other ideas with respect to open spaces.
George Williams, SPUR
- Foundry Square is the most efficient of all the open spaces that we have evaluated.
- Everything is gorgeous but they are hostile to the public. One example, the only signage on the sidewalk says Right to pass by permission and subject to the control of the owner.' There is no required signage that says that it is a public space.
ACTION: Approved as modified:
-Project sponsor shall made best efforts to lease at least one of the spaces to a food service. In the event of inability to do that, food service shall be provided by cart or other portable device.
-To come back in six months for a review of project sponsor's efforts on signage to open spaces.
AYES: Olague, Miguel, Antonini and Borden
NAYES: Moore and Sugaya
ABSENT: Lee
MOTION: 17641
16b. 2008.0001BX (K. GUY: (415) 558-6163)
505-525 Howard Street - south side between 1st and 2nd Streets, Lots 114 and 121 of Assessor's Block 3736 - Request for Determination of Compliance under Planning Code Section 309 (the Downtown Plan), with exceptions to the "Freight Loading and Maneuvering" Requirements and Bulk Limits. The proposed project is to demolish an existing one-story commercial building and construct a new 11-story building containing approximately 252,500 square feet of office uses and approximately 9,500 square feet of ground-floor retail space (see item above for a more complete project description). The project site is located within a C-3-O (SD) Zoning District, and the 200-S and 350-S Height and Bulk Districts.
Preliminary Recommendation: Approval with Conditions
SPEAKER(S): Same as those listed on item 16a
ACTION: Approved as modified:
-Project sponsor shall made best efforts to lease at least one of the spaces to a food service. In the event of inability to do that, food service shall be provided by cart or other portable device.
-To come back in six months for a review of project sponsor's efforts on signage to open spaces.
AYES: Olague, Miguel, Antonini and Borden
NAYES: Moore and Sugaya
ABSENT: Lee
MOTION: 17642
G. COMMISSIONERS' QUESTIONS AND MATTERS (Tape IIA)
17. Commission Comments/Questions
· Inquiries/Announcements. Without discussion, at this time Commissioners may make announcements or inquiries of staff regarding various matters of interest to the Commissioner(s).
· Future Meetings/Agendas. At this time, the Commission may discuss and take action to set the date of a Special Meeting and/or determine those items that could be placed on the agenda of the next meeting and other future meetings of the Planning Commission.
Commissioner Antonini
- In the last couple of months we have heard a lot about the development of the area that is adjacent to Mission Bay and right across the bridge from the Giant's Ballpark.
- We have seen a number of plans that have come through and what I am hearing is that two of these are being proposed. There are a number of options that have been brought forward.
- One of the plans, I believe, spoke to the possibility of some sort of an arena in the area. I believe it was fairly small in capacity.
- Recently I had the occasion to go back to Indianapolis and was very impressed with what they did there with a place called the Canseco Field House.
- They architectural did something that looks a little bit more traditional than the arenas we have seen and fitted very well within the neighborhood. Everyone there is very impressed with it.
- It would be my feeling that I would be very encouraging of project sponsors for the various projects to try to include in their site an arena that would be large enough to accommodate the needs of larger concerts, perhaps an NBA or NHL team to go up to that 18 to 20,000 seats.
- The site is big enough to include that kind of thing and still provide mixed use housing.
- We see how it is working with the Giant's Stadium - that people can reach the Mission Bay on foot or by using Muni and with the growth of Mission Bay, you rarely see any kind of problems with people arriving or dispersing from the games.
Commissioner Miguel
- The Sunday's June 8th New York Times Magazine had an interesting architect issue on the next city. I suggest everyone taking a look at it because it is interesting.
- Last Sunday had in its letters a reply from an individual in London referring to a book The Next City' by Nicolai Ouroussoff.
- Nicolai Ouroussoff, (The New, New City) puts forth - "Why not start by designing cities based on metrics we know to be relevant, regardless of country, continent or creed: the finite distance people are willing to walk to work, the distance a child playing can be herd through an open window, the width of sidewalks necessary for ease of movement and public exchange, street dimensions that prioritize people over traffic. There is more to these principles than the vagaries of style.
- This was from a Letter to the Editor by Andrew Salzberg, London in the New York Times Magazine, 6/22/08 in response to the Times The Next City feature article, 6/8/08.
Director Rahaim
- Nicolai Ouroussoff is the architectural critic of The New York Times.
Commissioner Borden
- I just wanted to take this opportunity to introduce myself to my fellow Commissioners and also to the viewing public.
- I am honored to serve among you and look forward to all that I would learn from you and the time that I will get to spend on the Commission.
- I love San Francisco and the opportunity to serve on the Commission that frames how the City looks and grows in the future is extremely exciting.
- My passion is for neighborhoods. And what makes San Francisco so great is the vitality and the strength of our neighborhoods providing enough stock and amenities.
Commissioner Olague
- I want to thank the appointing body with the Mayor's Office for appointing a woman of a color. The African-American community has not been represented here since the departure of Commissioner Alexander.
- Welcome and we look forward to working with you.
Commissioner Moore
- 1960, San Francisco Planning Department – The City of Gold [book]. Some of the names in that book are quite familiar to me, except that all Planning Commissioners were men. I am really glad to welcome Ms. Borden because we have now three women.
- I want to bring to your attention an article which I really want us to think more of and that is SF firm finds fresh potential unused lands. That is an idea of urban gardens and urban farming.
- When we are talking about neighborhood open space and the money that Park and Recreation Department does not have to maintain the parks, why not actively think about urban farming as we plan?
- It is a great supplement for the money you have to go by organic food, but also urban gardens are maintained by neighborhoods.
- I would like us, as a group, to take a look at it.
Commissioner Miguel
- I would like to welcome the new Commissioner. I really appreciate you coming on board.
Commissioner Sugaya
- A quick question to staff; on some of these environmental reports and other documents that I think are in the department somewhere - should we be giving these back to you?
Larry Badiner, Zoning Administrator
- You may give those back to us. We can certainly use them in our library.
Commissioner Olague
- I really appreciate Commissioner Moore's comments about the urban gardening and I am hoping too that we can start that in relationship to all the new neighborhood plans that we are reviewing.
- Also, Sunday's Chronicle had a cover story on the exodus of the middle class in San Francisco.
- I think that at some point it might be good to have a special hearing on the subject of families. What does it mean really when we talk about family housing, requiring larger units in certain developments? What are the types of the things they are requiring or looking for in housing? Would that include schools, open spaces, urban gardens?
- I think there is a lot that we need to look at.
If we do ultimately calendar that hearing, perhaps we can have someone from the school system, Coleman Advocates, and DCYF [Department of Children Youth and Families]
Commissioner Borden
- That is a great idea because we see an exodus of families of all income levels and that is very unfortunate. We need to look at parks, open space, schools, neighborhood commercial corridors, whether or not they have the types of businesses that support families.
- The second thing is the urban gardens. The woman that the article mentioned doing a urban garden in her backyard is a friend of mine. It is a very exciting initiative.
- I have also been involved in a garden in Bay View Hunter's Point and I know the difference it makes in the lives of the young people that work in that garden. I definitely recommend that we do something like that.
Commissioner Antonini
- Welcomed Commissioner Borden.
- What is really an important point is that we have to ask the people who are leaving what it is that they want in housing. Is it cost, price or other factors?
- It does not make a lot of sense to build a lot of housing even if it is at a reasonable price and find out that families are not going to stay anyway because it is not acceptable to what they need for their families.
- I would encourage, if we have that hearing, to have members of the San Francisco Department of Police, Fire, Public Safety and all the types of groups that we talk about like teachers, personnel of various types of businesses throughout San Francisco and try to get leaders to hear their comments about the types of things we can do as we approve housing to make it more family friendly.
Commissioner Olague
- I would like to understand who has jurisdiction over HOA fees. [Home Owners Association]
Commissioner Sugaya
- If we are going to have a special hearing, before inviting people someone needs to set forward what it is that we are trying to get to.
- It is fine to hear statistics but the Commission needs to sort of sit down and say within the jurisdiction that we have we are looking to do something that is regulatory in conjunction with the Mayor's Office of Housing. That way we can have a more focused discussion.
H. DIRECTOR'S REPORT (Tape IIA)
18. Director's Announcements
Director Rahaim
- Welcomed Commissioner Borden to the Commission.
- The National AIA Convention is in San Francisco at the end of April 2009. The deadline for submitting proposals for sessions is next Tuesday. The Planning Department is in the process of submitting three proposals and we are not sure that all are going to be accepted.
- The Charter Amendment – The creation of the Landmark's Board Commission. Supervisor Peskin did make a revised draft of the Charter amendment last Friday. You received a memorandum from us. The latest draft does include some of our staff's proposed revisions but not all of them. There are still discussions on it and they are scheduled to take it up at the Rules Committee tomorrow.
- The Budget Committee of the Board of Supervisors approved the Department's Budget yesterday and two of the four positions that we had initially proposed for lay-offs were restored. Thanked the Board for their vote.
19. Review of Past Week's Events at the Board of Supervisors and Board of Appeals
AnMarie Rodgers reported:
Land Use Committee
A- Urgency Ordinance that would extend interim moratorium on enterprises that sell tobacco pharaphenilia – It would be extended for six additional months. As an urgency ordinance this item was not referred to the department or the Commission. If permanent controls are developed, those would come to you before implementation.
B- Eastern Neighborhoods Plan Hearing – The Committee heard what you heard in your last week's hearing.
C- Three Charter Amendemts – Music and Culture Amendment. It seems that Supervisor Mirkarimi may be interested in amending that Charter Amendment in response to this Commission's resolution. It is likely to be modified that the Charter Amendment would require Planning Code consistency with the Charter Amendment but still would not alter the Planning Commission's role as the sole author of the General Plan.
Full Board
A- Parking and Off-street Loading – Sponsored by Supervisor Peskin. When this was before you, you recommended two technical clean-ups and two policy changes: one to expand the definition of space efficient parking to include tandem parking where no more than one car needed to move and (2) to allow residential accessory parking to also be rented to neighbors. All of the amendments were incorporated into the final legislation. Passed
B- Introductions:
a. 901 Bush Street Special Use District was formally introduced by the Board
b. Creation of New Mission – Harrington Special Use District introduced by Supervisor Sandoval. This is in the 400 Mission Street block and it would contain a parcel on that area.
I. PUBLIC COMMENT
At this time, members of the public may address the Commission on items of interest to the public that are within the subject matter jurisdiction of the Commission except agenda items. With respect to agenda items, your opportunity to address the Commission will be afforded when the item is reached in the meeting with one exception. When the agenda item has already been reviewed in a public hearing at which members of the public were allowed to testify and the Commission has closed the public hearing, your opportunity to address the Commission must be exercised during the Public Comment portion of the Calendar. Each member of the public may address the Commission for up to three minutes.
The Brown Act forbids a commission from taking action or discussing any item not appearing on the posted agenda, including those items raised at public comment. In response to public comment, the commission is limited to:
(1) responding to statements made or questions posed by members of the public; or
(2) requesting staff to report back on a matter at a subsequent meeting; or
(3) directing staff to place the item on a future agenda. (Government Code Section 54954.2(a))
SPEAKER(S)
None
Adjournment: 4:33 P.M.
THESE MINUTES ARE PROPOSED FOR ADOPTION AT THE REGULAR MEETING OF THE PLANNING COMMISSION ON THURSDAY, July 24, 2008.
SPEAKER(S): None
ACTION: Approved
AYES: Olague, Miguel, Antonini, Borden, Lee, Moore and Sugaya
NOTE: Per Section 67.18 of the Administrative Code for the City and County of San Francisco, Commission minutes contain a description of the item before the Commission for discussion/consideration; a list of the public speakers with names if given, and a summary of their comments including an indication of whether they are in favor of or against the matter; and any action the Commission takes. The minutes are not the official record of a Commission hearing. The audiotape is the official record. Copies of the audiotape may be obtained by calling the Commission office at (415) 558-6415. For those with access to a computer and/or the Internet, Commission hearings are available at www.sfgov.org. Under the heading Explore, the category Government, and the City Resources section, click on SFGTV, then Video on Demand. You may select the hearing date you want and the item of your choice for a replay of the hearing.
