Entertainment Commission continues Adobe Books hearing, asks co‑op to finalize security plan

The San Francisco Entertainment Commission on Feb. 21 continued a hearing on Adobe Books’ limited live performance permit to allow the bookstore’s cooperative to complete a security plan that staff can review and, if appropriate, make a condition of the permit.

Staff opened the discussion after a violent incident near the store on Jan. 13 drew renewed attention to crowd management and sidewalk obstruction outside the Mission District storefront. Director Wylen told the commission the incident exposed a gap: Adobe is an LLP permit holder and, unlike full places-of-entertainment, was not required to file a preexisting security plan, leaving staff without a clear regulatory path to require one.

Permit-holder Heather Holt, represented by attorney Mark Rennie, disputed that the shooting was caused by Adobe events and said the organization has already taken steps to address staff concerns. “We have sound limitations, posted signage that says ‘please respect our neighbors,’ we’re hiring a security person for events expected to draw over 50 people, and I’ve finished a first draft of a 15‑page Adobe security plan,” Rennie told the commission.

Dozens of volunteers, curators and longtime neighbors spoke in support of Adobe Books during public comment, describing the space as a cornerstone for local arts and youth programming and urging the commission to collaborate rather than impose onerous, one‑size‑fits‑all conditions. “Adobe is a vital community space,” said volunteer curator Carlos Sanoval. Several neighborhood residents said they had experienced amplified outdoor activity and crowding at times and asked for enforceable measures to keep sidewalks clear.

Commissioners and staff discussed a menu of potential conditions—ranging from requiring identifiable event staff or contracted public‑safety personnel to wristbands and crowd‑control protocols—and stressed that any requirement should be tailored to Adobe’s cooperative, volunteer model. Staff recommended Adobe submit a security plan for review; commissioners agreed to continue the item so staff and the co‑op could refine the plan and consider binding it to the permit at a future hearing.

The commission voted to continue the matter to its March meeting; staff said they will work with Adobe to finalize a plan and provide guidance on measurable conditions the commission could adopt if needed.