Committee clears Polk Street grocery exception to send to full Board

President Aaron Peskin presented an ordinance allowing a narrowly tailored exception permitting a general grocery use over 4,000 square feet in a portion of the Polk Street neighborhood commercial district, aimed at facilitating a by‑right entry into the former Real Foods site and adjacent space. Peskin said the Planning Commission recommended a broader expansion but that he pursued a narrower approach to expedite grocery access for the neighborhood.

Planning staff and Commissioner Flores (participating) noted the Planning Commission’s hearing (Dec. 1) and unanimous recommendation with some modifications. Remote public comment included Linda Chapman (Nob Hill Neighbors), who said large grocery stores are needed in the Polk-area commercial district and expressed interest in which operator would occupy the site.

President Peskin moved to adopt the amendment adding public‑convenience findings and to send the item as a committee report. The committee voted by roll call; Supervisors Peskin, Preston and Melgar recorded ayes and the motion carried. The item will proceed to the full Board for a hearing.