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Commission legalizes religious use and unit merger at 1060–1090 Randolph Street
Summary
The commission unanimously approved a conditional use authorization to legalize the Hanukkah Nimatullahi Sufi meditation center’s religious use and merge dwelling units at 1060 and 1090 Randolph Street, finding the project consistent with state law and planning policy.
The Planning Commission unanimously approved a conditional use authorization on June 13 to legalize a religious institutional use and a unit merger for the Hanukkah Nimatullahi (Nimatulahi) Sufi order at 1060 and 1090 Randolph Street. Planning staff recommended approval after concluding that state law (SB 330) addresses demolition and replacement but does not prohibit unit mergers.
Staff said the meditation center had used the properties for decades and that the department received 17 letters in support and one opposing letter. "To date, the department has received 18 comments on the project, 17 in support and one opposing," staff stated during the presentation. Members, neighbors and project representatives testified about the center’s community services, charitable projects and long history in the neighborhood.
Supporters described the center’s work during COVID and noted its charitable activity and neighborhood ties. Multiple speakers urged approval so the center could continue to provide services and house a caretaker family on site. Commissioners asked clarifying questions about the merger versus demolition distinction and the department’s legal interpretation; staff and the zoning administrator’s guidance were summarized in the record. The commission voted 7–0 to approve the CUA with conditions.
Next steps: Staff will finalize conditions of approval and the entitlement record. The department noted the project will continue to be subject to the planning code and any operational conditions set in the approval.
