Committee forwards Mills Act contract for 942–944 Fell Street after owner pledges preservation

The committee voted to forward to the full Board of Supervisors a resolution approving a Mills Act historical property contract for 942–944 Fell Street, a contributing building in the Alamo Square historic district.

Planning staff said the Mills Act allows local governments to enter into rolling 10‑year contracts with private owners of qualified historic properties that lower property taxes so owners can invest savings in restoration and maintenance. Planning staff presented a rehabilitation plan that includes siding repair and painting, roof replacement, window repair and other restoration work, with an estimated rehabilitation cost of $308,100 over 10 years and maintenance estimated at about $8,655 annually. The assessor's office calculated potential tax savings to the owner at approximately $11,687 per year.

Julie Chen, the property owner, told the committee she intends to steward and restore the building and said tenants in the two units will not be displaced by the work. Chen said her goal is to keep rents affordable for existing tenants and to invest personally in the property's preservation. Vice Chair Connie Chan presided after Chair Preston recused himself because the property is within 500 feet of his residence.

The committee moved the item to the full board with a positive recommendation.