Noriega medical cannabis dispensary hearing continued to Oct. 3 after neighborhood pushback

The Board of Supervisors on Sept. 5 approved a motion to continue items related to a proposed medical cannabis dispensary at 2505 Noriega Street (items 31'38 on the agenda) to Oct. 3, with the hearing scheduled to begin no earlier than 4:30 p.m. The continuance was granted unanimously.

Why it was continued: Dozens of speakers from the Sunset District and neighborhood groups urged more time for supervisors to meet with residents, merchants and local organizations. Speakers raised concerns about the proposed location'noting a preschool and churches nearby'and asked for the time to present alternative locations and to clarify conditional-use standards and zoning. Several neighborhood groups and community-service organizations asked the board to meet directly with constituents before a decision.

Board action: Supervisor Tang moved to continue items 31'38 to Oct. 3 at 4:30 p.m.; the motion was seconded and carried unanimously (11-0). The board clarified that the continuance is a scheduling action only; public comment at the Oct. 3 hearing will be the appropriate opportunity to address the substance of the conditional-use application and CEQA determinations.

Speakers: Public testimony included residents, representatives of Sunset neighborhood groups, childcare operators and the Pacific Justice Institute (which said it would represent some residents'a point that generated public reaction in the chamber). Several speakers asked that supervisors meet with local stakeholders ahead of the Oct. 3 hearing.

Next steps: The item will be on the board calendar for Oct. 3 at or after 4:30 p.m.; the Planning Department and the applicant remain available for follow-up during the continuance period.

Speakers of record: Supervisor Katy Tang (mover); Ray Hackie (Pacific Justice Institute speaker at hearing); multiple Sunset District residents and community groups.