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Commission reviews ROSE update and presses for stronger cultural‑landscape preservation language
Summary
The commission reviewed the Recreation and Open Space Element update and discussed adding preservation‑friendly policies; public commenters and commissioners urged stronger cultural‑landscape protections and called for more time and explicit preservation language; staff said the comment period was extended to Feb. 12 and adoption was tentatively scheduled for Feb. 27.
The Historic Preservation Commission heard an informational update on the Recreation and Open Space Element (ROSE) and a preview of draft policies to incorporate historic preservation and cultural‑landscape concerns.
Department staff presented the ROSE revision process (initiated 2007), the draft’s priority acquisition/renovation mapping approach and new objectives including biodiversity, green connections and a new objective on community engagement. Staff said the draft now proposes language to "implement appropriate treatment to preserve significant historic features while responding to contemporary needs" and suggested weaving preservation policy into ROSE while a separate, more complete Preservation Element is revived once funded.
Members of the public and preservation organizations urged stronger, less permissive language. Catherine Howard of the Golden Gate Park Preservation Alliance asked the Commission to submit written comments and warned that vague language creates “wiggle room” that could open parkland to building projects. Desiree Smith of San Francisco Heritage urged more emphasis on preserving existing historic fabric rather than modernizing landscapes.
Commissioners debated whether cultural landscapes and preservation policy belong in ROSE or should wait for the full preservation element. Tim Frey and other staff said they plan to seek funding in the upcoming budget to revive a dedicated Preservation Element involving public outreach and CEQA. Staff noted the comment period was extended to Feb. 12 and that adoption had been tentatively scheduled for Feb. 27 but might move if more review is needed.
Several commissioners requested the item return to a future agenda for additional Commission feedback and public input; the Commission accepted community requests for more robust preservation language and asked staff to circulate responses to submitted comments.
Next steps: staff will respond to public comments, incorporate Commission feedback where appropriate, and the commission expects ROSE to return for further review before final adoption and concurrent work on the separate Preservation Element when budgeted.
