Committee narrows four‑unit density exception to owners with 1‑year ownership, forwards amended measure

The Land Use & Transportation Committee on Oct. 3 advanced an amended ordinance intended to allow small multifamily conversions in areas zoned RH, narrowing a proposed ownership 'lookback' period to one year and continuing a companion rezoning item for further work.

Supervisor Rafael Mandelmann, the legislation’s sponsor, asked the committee to amend item 7 to a one‑year ownership lookback after conversations with the mayor’s office and planning staff. He also asked the committee to continue the related rezoning item (item 8) to the call of the chair so more conversations can occur. Mandelmann said he supports eliminating single‑family‑only RH1 zoning but that continued discussion was needed for the rezoning piece.

Committee members debated the lookback’s purpose and enforceability, with supporters calling the bill an incremental approach to add housing and opponents warning of potential speculation or enforcement burdens. Tom Radulovich of Livable City told the committee that a lookback can create wrong incentives and urged moving the legislation forward without the longer restriction; neighborhood commenters offered mixed views.

After public comment the committee voted to replace the originally proposed four‑year lookback with a one‑year ownership requirement and to recommend item 7 to the full Board with a positive recommendation. The committee continued item 8 (rezoning RH1 to RH2) to the call of the chair to allow further negotiation and analysis.