Board of Appeals delays two appeals to Aug. 24 to allow settlement talks

The San Francisco Board of Appeals voted unanimously July 20 to continue two related appeals to Aug. 24 to allow parties time to negotiate potential settlements.

The continuance request was presented after counsel for a determination holder told the board that productive settlement discussions with city agencies and Homeownership SF were underway and that additional time was needed to secure bank agreement and implementation details. Cory Teague, zoning administrator for the planning department, told the board the department supported a continuance to facilitate coordination and permit occupancy if parties could reach agreement.

One appellant, who identified himself as Mr. Digiocomo, opposed further delay. He said he had been excluded from negotiations, described procedural limits on filings and oral argument time, and urged the board to proceed rather than prolong the process.

Commissioners discussed fairness to the parties, the progress reported by counsel and the planning department, and the practical issue that only three commissioners would be available at an earlier date. Vice President Anne Lazarus moved to continue the items to Aug. 24; the motion carried 5–0.

The continuance applies to the two appeals noted on the agenda; the board directed parties to use the interval to pursue settlement and return if necessary for a full hearing.