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Historic Preservation Commission continues two landmark matters after public testimony on Justice for Vicha mural, Webster Street project
Summary
The Historic Preservation Commission voted to continue consideration of a landmark matter at 717 California Street and a Certificate of Appropriateness for 2229 Webster Street, citing outstanding materials and ongoing discussions between property owners and community representatives.
The Historic Preservation Commission voted to continue two agenda items after extended public comment: the landmark designation item for 717 California Street (the location of the Justice for Vicha mural) was continued to Oct. 15, and the Certificate of Appropriateness application for 2229 Webster Street was continued to Nov. 19.
Why it matters: Both items drew sustained public interest. Commenters spoke about community memory and the mural’s role in Chinatown, and neighbors of 2229 Webster said they wanted progress on building repairs. The continuances give staff and applicants additional time to resolve outstanding materials and stakeholder concerns.
What the commission decided and why - The commission considered public testimony limited to whether the items should be continued. Dozens of speakers addressed the continuance calendar on the mural, the Webster Street project or both. - For 717 California Street, proponents and building representatives asked for continuance while the property owner and family representatives seek to resolve a licensing disagreement about the artwork’s status; supporters said the mural holds community significance. - For 2229 Webster Street, neighbors urged the commission to act, while staff said the project team requested more time to provide updated drawings and documentation. - Commissioner Baldauff announced a recusal earlier in the meeting from item 5(d) (735 Columbus Avenue) because of a conflict of interest; that recusal was handled before the separate legacy-business vote.
Formal actions - Motion to continue case 2025‑8893 COA at 2229 Webster Street to Nov. 19, 2025, and to continue case 2025‑7801 DES (717 California Street) to Oct. 15, 2025; outcome: motion passed unanimously, 6–0.
Public testimony highlights - Supporters of the mural, including community leaders and residents, described the Justice for Vicha mural as public art and a site of remembrance; some asked commissioners to resolve the landmark application in favor of recognition, while others supported the continuance so parties could resolve legal or licensing questions. - Representatives of the property at 717 California said they had licensing agreements and asked for continuance to resolve differences with the family and applicant. - Neighbors of 2229 Webster urged the commission to address the site without further delay; staff explained the applicant requested time to provide updated drawings and a preservation consultant’s package.
Next steps - Staff will work with applicants to assemble requested documentation and return both matters to the commission on the continued hearing dates.
