Committee forwards planning-code change to allow nonprofit arts education use at 800 Chestnut

The Land Use and Transportation Committee voted Nov. 13 to forward to the full Board an ordinance amending the Planning Code to establish a nonprofit arts education special-use district at 800 Chestnut Street.

President Aaron Peskin, sponsor of the item, said the Historic Preservation Commission and the Planning Commission recommended approval and that the change would allow an unaccredited arts institution with residential components to occupy the San Francisco Arts Institute property at 800 Chestnut. Veronica Flores reiterated the commissions’ recommendations and confirmed the Planning Department’s CEQA determination.

"The historic preservation did meet Wednesday and they were finally able to adopt a recommendation for approval," Peskin said, urging the committee to send the matter as a committee report for the Board’s consideration. Veronica Flores said the Planning Commission also recommended approval and that she was available for questions.

No members of the public spoke on the item. President Peskin moved to send the item as a committee report to the full Board; President Peskin and Vice Chair Dean Preston voted 'Aye' and the motion passed.

The item will proceed to the Board for consideration, potentially on the schedule noted by the clerk.