Bavishi owners seek approval for completed project amid illegal demolition concerns

In a pivotal San Francisco city meeting, the future of a controversial housing project took center stage as city officials grappled with the implications of an illegal demolition. The project, which includes two residential units at 3790 and 3792, has sparked significant debate due to its deviation from approved plans and the circumstances surrounding its construction.

The current owners, Sachin and Manjiri Bavishi, expressed their desire to remedy the situation after discovering that the previous developer had made unauthorized changes, resulting in what officials termed a "defacto demolition." The couple, who moved from New York in 2022, emphasized their commitment to the community and their intention to comply with city regulations. "We were blindsided by these issues," Sachin Bavishi stated, highlighting that they were unaware of any problems when they purchased the property.

City officials noted that while the majority of the construction adhered to the approved plans, several modifications—such as changes to window types and the elimination of closets—were made without proper authorization. The planning department had previously approved three permits for the project, but questions remain about whether demolition calculations were submitted correctly.

Public comments during the meeting reflected a mix of support and concern. Some community members voiced apprehension about the loss of affordable housing, arguing that the original flats were suitable for families and contributed positively to the city's housing stock. Georgia Shutish, a local resident, raised concerns about the economic diversity of the neighborhood and the implications of the illegal demolition on relative affordability.

As the meeting concluded, the commission faced the challenge of balancing the need for compliance with the realities of the housing market. The Bavishis are seeking conditional approval to move forward, hoping to resolve the issues stemming from the previous developer's actions. The outcome of this case could set a precedent for future housing developments in San Francisco, as the city continues to navigate the complexities of urban growth and community needs.