Land Use and Transportation Committee: Dec 2, 2024

The Committee discussed impact fees for PDR space conversions, affordable housing obligations for the 30 Van Ness project, revisions to disability access requirements, density requirements for residential projects, and the establishment of a special sign district at 2301 Chestnut Street. Several items were amended or continued for further review.

Impact Fees for Changes of Use from PDR to Other Non-Residential Uses

Debate on Preserving PDR Spaces

This proposal to eliminate impact fees for converting Production, Distribution, and Repair (PDR) spaces to non-residential uses sparked heated discussion. Critics, including community advocates and neighborhood representatives, argued that the legislation undermines efforts to preserve blue-collar jobs and affordable workspaces in San Francisco. They noted that the fees support critical infrastructure and help offset the displacement caused by these conversions. Proponents, led by the Mayor’s Office, argued the fees posed significant barriers to small businesses and startups, though data proving this was sparse.

Community Calls for Targeted Amendments

Public commenters suggested amendments to restrict exemptions to essential services like childcare, non-profits, and residential care facilities, while retaining fees for other uses. These amendments aimed to balance economic development with equity and preservation goals. Despite the dialogue, Supervisor Peskin motioned to table the proposal, citing inadequate justification for such sweeping changes.

30 Van Ness Avenue Special Use District

Affordable Housing and Breach of Agreement

The discussion centered on a developer’s request to revise affordable housing obligations for the stalled 30 Van Ness project. Community groups highlighted a breach of the original agreement requiring 25% of units to be affordable. Labor representatives pushed for urgency, emphasizing the economic downturn’s impact on blue-collar workers and the thousands of construction jobs at stake. Supervisor Peskin expressed hope for a compromise that upholds the city’s affordability commitments while allowing the project to proceed.

Continued for Further Negotiations

The item was continued to the next meeting to allow stakeholders to refine the proposal and explore solutions.

Disability Access Improvements for Places of Public Accommodation

Small Business Burdens

Supervisor Mandelman’s proposal to revise accessibility requirements for existing buildings was met with disappointment when postponed. Small business advocates argued the current rules impose exorbitant costs, often exceeding $100,000, and invite frivolous lawsuits. Supporters of the ordinance called for swift repeal to alleviate financial pressures and encourage compliance through less punitive measures.

Scheduled for January

The proposal was rescheduled for January 27, 2025, to allow more time for stakeholder engagement.

Conditional Use for Residential Projects in Certain Districts

Maximizing Residential Density

Supervisor Peskin’s ordinance seeks to enforce density requirements in Residential-Mixed (RM) and similar districts, preventing luxury low-density projects from dominating. The proposal aligns with state housing laws and San Francisco’s Housing Element goals. Amendments introduced during the meeting clarified minimum density standards and reduced exemptions, ensuring the city prioritizes affordable, high-density housing.

Amended and Continued

The committee unanimously agreed to amend and continue the item for further discussion, signaling strong support for advancing housing density reforms.

2301 Chestnut Street Special Sign District

Supporting Small Businesses

Supervisor Dorsey championed the creation of a special sign district to allow two projecting signs for Original Joe’s, a local favorite. The proposal received widespread community and committee support, with discussions focusing on improving neighborhood aesthetics and pedestrian wayfinding. A duplicate file was created to explore expanding the policy citywide.

Sent to the Full Board

The item was approved for recommendation to the Board of Supervisors, with a duplicated file to remain under committee review.

SFGov Watch