Latest Board of Appeals Hearing Update (Feb 10)

Background: Medjool has been running a large, open air rooftop restaurant and bar (the “Sky Terrace”) at 2522 Mission Street (behind the San Francisco Buddhist Center) for the last five years without proper permits. Almost a year ago, the Planning Department served a Notice of Violation, which Medjool appealed. The case was heard by the Board of Appeals eight months later on Dec. 16, 2009, and was continued (postponed) until February, 2010.

At a hearing on February 10, the Board of Appeals voted to delay upholding the violation, in order to give Medjool time to legalize the rooftop without incurring $100/day fines. By concluding that Medjool needs to secure a Conditional Use Permit (CUP) at the Planning Commission, the Board essentially confirmed that the Sky Terrace has been operating illegally.

Planning Department staff estimate 60 days (mid April) for the CUP to come before the Planning Department for approval. The following month neighbors can appeal to the Board of Supervisors, which could extend the CUP process.

Impacted neighbors would be wise to be prepared to attend Planning Commission meetings and offer their point of view. Mark all Thursdays in April and May in your calendar! The meetings are at 1:30pm. Then in May and June save time on your calendar for a possible appeal at the Board of Supervisors on a Tuesday at 2:00pm.

More information about the Feb 10 Board of Appeals hearing:

• Transcript of the hearing.
• Article about the hearing on Mission Local.
• Watch the hearing (about 90 minutes) on SFGTV.