San Francisco Supervisors Grapple with Neighborhood Power in Home Renovation Dispute

On Tuesday, the attention of San Francisco's top governing body was captured by a seemingly minor issue - the proposed raising of a Victorian home by 7 feet and 3 inches. The homeowners, Julie Park and Tom McDonald, sought approval for their $2.1 million renovation project, which had already received unanimous consent from the San Francisco Planning Commission.

Unusual Power of Neighbors

In San Francisco, the dynamics surrounding home renovations are peculiar. Neighbors hold significant sway over the smallest of improvements, and even the replacement of deteriorated front steps can be subject to appeal. This peculiar situation led 11 members of the Board of Supervisors to preside over the deliberations, with Ms. Park, her legal representative, adjacent neighbors, and Planning Department experts presenting their cases.

The Languor of Construction

Beyond this individual case, the dispute between affluent neighbors sheds light on the broader issue of construction in San Francisco. The city has faced criticism from state housing officials for its sluggish construction pace. State authorities have mandated the addition of 82,000 housing units within the next seven years, a target that appears increasingly unattainable given the numerous rounds of challenges and years-long delays that many projects encounter.