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Commission backs rezoning to let St. Boniface sell TDRs for window repairs
Summary
The commission recommended approval of a zoning and general-plan amendment to allow St. Boniface (landmark no. 172) to participate in the city's Transfer of Development Rights (TDR) program to fund repair and maintenance, including conservation of 27 stained-glass windows.
The Historic Preservation Commission voted unanimously to recommend rezoning 133-135 Golden Gate Avenue to allow St. Boniface, a locally designated landmark, to participate in San Francisco's Transfer of Development Rights (TDR) program.
Aaron Starr, the planning department's legislative analyst, explained that the rezoning (proposed by Supervisor Kim) would change St. Boniface from RC-4 to C-3-G to permit sales of unused development potential into eligible downtown receiving sites. The department found the rezoning consistent with the general plan and said any TDR application would require a preservation, rehabilitation and maintenance plan and compliance with the Secretary of the Interior's Standards.
Edward Zaharski of Fortress Property Group, representing the church, described St. Boniface as "one of the most economically challenged parishes in Northern California" and said proceeds from TDR sales would be earmarked for critical conservation work, including repair of 27 historic stained-glass windows dating to 1908. He and others said they have broad community support for the rezoning and TDR participation.
Why it matters: Allowing the landmark to sell TDRs would create a funding path for costly conservation work while retaining local review and preservation conditions. The commission's recommendation will go to the Board of Supervisors, with the Planning Commission scheduled to vote on the ordinances.
