The San Francisco City Planning Commission convened on July 4, 2025, to discuss a contentious remodeling project at 2442 Great Highway, which has sparked complaints from neighboring residents regarding privacy concerns and construction practices.

The meeting highlighted a permit issued for remodeling two units in a four-unit building, which included alterations to the front facade and the addition of two new windows. The planning department confirmed that the permit was approved without the need for neighborhood notification, as there was no increase in the building's size or unit count. However, Tony Braul, the owner of the adjacent 20-unit apartment complex, raised concerns that the new windows would infringe on tenant privacy. His complaint, filed in August, was inspected and subsequently dismissed by city officials, who found no violations.

Commissioners questioned the definition of the "front facade" and whether the alterations would indeed impact the neighboring property. The planning department clarified that the facade includes visible sides from the street, and the new windows would not directly face the neighboring building due to a significant setback.

Residents from the adjacent complex voiced their frustrations during public comments, citing a lack of notification about the project and unsafe construction practices. Anthony Settles, a resident, reported that construction workers had damaged a public mailbox and were performing work without proper safety measures. He also expressed concerns about a proposed rooftop patio and solar array that could invade his privacy.

Another resident, Gary Anderson, echoed these sentiments, questioning the transparency of the permit process and the potential impact of the construction on his living conditions. He noted that he had not seen any posted notices regarding the permit, which he believed should have been visible to the public.

The Department of Building Inspection reiterated that the project had followed all necessary procedures and recommended denying the jurisdiction request from the neighboring property owner. The commission will continue to evaluate the situation, balancing the interests of the property owners with the concerns raised by residents.