SFGov Watch

1. Impact Fees for PDR to Non-Residential Uses
   1. Waiver Proposal Sparks Debate
   2. Jobs-Housing Linkage Fee
   3. Outcome
2. 2301 Chestnut Street Special Sign District
   1. Supporting Corner Businesses
   2. Expansion of Policy
   3. Outcome
3. Citywide Objective Design Standards
   1. Aligning with State Housing Laws
   2. Implementation Challenges
   3. Outcome
4. Miscellaneous Important but Minimally Discussed Topics

Impact Fees for PDR to Non-Residential Uses

Waiver Proposal Sparks Debate

A proposal to waive impact fees for converting Production, Distribution, and Repair (PDR) spaces to non-residential uses drew significant attention. Mayor Breed’s office emphasized the importance of reducing barriers for small businesses, citing examples where fees had deterred expansions. However, community groups like SOMCAN and the Mission Economic Development Agency (MEDA) expressed concerns about the loss of PDR spaces that provide blue-collar jobs, particularly in equity-focused neighborhoods like the Mission and SoMa. Critics argued that waiving fees would benefit larger, well-funded companies rather than the small businesses it intended to support.

Jobs-Housing Linkage Fee

Commissioners debated whether the Jobs-Housing Linkage Fee should remain intact. Supporters of maintaining the fee pointed to its role in funding affordable housing, a critical need in the city. A compromise motion suggested retaining the fee or providing only a partial waiver while continuing conversations with community stakeholders.

Outcome

The proposal passed with amendments to preserve the Jobs-Housing Linkage Fee and a commitment to further community engagement. Despite the outcome, concerns lingered about balancing economic development with the preservation of vital PDR spaces.

2301 Chestnut Street Special Sign District

Supporting Corner Businesses

A new special sign district was proposed to allow two projecting signs for the corner business Little Original Joe’s in the Marina neighborhood. Supervisor Stefani’s office argued that increased signage would improve visibility and customer flow for corner businesses, which often serve as anchors for commercial corridors.

Expansion of Policy

While the original proposal focused solely on 2301 Chestnut Street, commissioners debated extending this policy citywide. Many felt that a broader application would prevent the need for piecemeal legislation and benefit other corner businesses in neighborhood commercial districts.

Outcome

The commission approved the proposal with a modification to extend the policy citywide. This change was hailed as a step toward supporting small businesses across San Francisco.

Citywide Objective Design Standards

Aligning with State Housing Laws

The commission reviewed new citywide design standards developed to meet state requirements under the Housing Accountability Act (HAA). These standards aim to streamline approvals for housing projects while maintaining architectural quality. Community members raised concerns about ensuring the standards reflect equity and cultural preservation, particularly in historically marginalized neighborhoods.

Implementation Challenges

Commissioners and staff acknowledged that the standards represent a baseline and will need adjustments as they are applied to real-world projects. Feedback from architects and community groups has already refined the standards, which prioritize clarity and flexibility.

Outcome

The standards were adopted, with the understanding that they would be revisited for improvements based on practical application.

Miscellaneous Important but Minimally Discussed Topics

• Tenderloin Community Action Plan: Progress updates highlighted ongoing investments in housing, public safety, and community development.
• Public Notification for Oversized Housing Projects: Residents voiced concerns about insufficient notice for large-scale developments approved under state density bonus laws.
• Consent Calendar Items: Routine approvals included an extension of hours for Hi-Lo Club at 1423 Polk Street.