Board upholds planning department's CEQA exemption for 939 Lombard after lengthy hearing; opponents cite school safety and landslide risk

The San Francisco Board of Supervisors on Sept. 12 upheld the Planning Department’s determination that the proposed project at 939 Lombard Street is categorically exempt from environmental review under the California Environmental Quality Act (CEQA).

After a public hearing that included presentations by neighbors, parents, Yick Wo Elementary School community members and the project sponsor, the board voted unanimously to approve item 16—affirming the Planning Department class 1 and 3 categorical exemption—and tabled items 17 and 18. Supervisor Mandelmann made the motion; Supervisor Preston seconded. The roll call was recorded as 11 ayes.

What the project proposes: The project sponsor plans to demolish an existing two-car parking structure at the front of the lot and construct a four-story, 5,173-square-foot single-family home, bringing the parcel to two homes with the existing rear residence. The Planning Department’s staff report and briefing materials state the proposed structure is 40 feet tall, complies with applicable planning code and residential design guidelines, and that the project fits within CEQA…