Rules committee forwards West SoMa entertainment-zone ordinance to full board

The Rules Committee on Dec. 1 voted to forward an ordinance that would eliminate the existing Folsom Street entertainment zone and create a West SoMa Entertainment Zone covering specified blocks of Folsom, Harrison, 7th–12th and adjacent streets. The clerk read the ordinance language and the committee affirmed the Planning Department's California Environmental Quality Act (CEQA) determination.

Brian Dahl, legislative aide to Supervisor Matt Dorsey, said the zone would permit patrons to carry to-go beverages in portions of South of Market corridors, support signature events such as the Folsom Street Fair, and provide economic support for cultural districts and small businesses. Representatives from the SoMa West Community Benefit District and the Leather & LGBTQ Cultural District said they would serve as leads for the zone if it goes into effect.

Public comment included criticisms that entertainment zones are being considered amid what one resident described as a "war on drugs" and policies that punish and displace people experiencing homelessness; Leah McGeever objected to street-partying proposals while emphasizing compassion for unhoused residents. Bob Goldfarb, executive director of the Leather & LGBTQ Cultural District, urged passage, saying street activation helps businesses and can reduce crime.

Chair Walton moved to forward the item to the full board as a committee report; Vice Chair Cheryl and Member Mandelmann voted "aye," as did Chair Walton, and the motion passed without objection. The committee record identifies the item for transmittal to the full Board of Supervisors.