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Commission narrowly approves CorePower Yoga at Divisadero despite merchant and neighborhood opposition
Summary
After renewed public testimony and a split commission debate over formula retail and community impacts, commissioners approved a conditional-use authorization for CorePower Yoga at 619 Divisadero Street by a 4–3 vote; opponents cited wage disputes and corridor gentrification while supporters emphasized property-owner rights and vacancy concerns.
The Planning Commission voted 4–3 to approve a conditional use authorization allowing CorePower Yoga, a multi-location formula retail operator, to lease a storefront on Divisadero Street.
The hearing focused on Prop G criteria: whether the formula retail use is necessary or desirable and compatible with the neighborhood. Opponents — merchant associations, neighborhood groups and residents — argued the chain would accelerate gentrification, displace small local businesses and cited a history of wage disputes at CorePower. Supporters including the property owners and some neighborhood residents said long-term vacancies harmed local businesses and that the landlord should be permitted to lease to a viable tenant; CorePower’s representative described community-benefit proposals including discounted memberships and school outreach.
Commissioners weighed competing considerations: local preference for neighborhood-serving small businesses balanced against the property owner’s financial interests and the presence of vacant storefronts. Several commissioners urged the company to follow through on community benefit commitments and to improve outreach and affordability. The motion to approve passed 4–3, with Commissioners Johnson, Moore and Richards voting against.
The commission’s action authorizes the use under the Planning Code with conditions attached at the hearing; opponents said they may pursue other avenues to challenge future formula-retail applications in the corridor. Staff noted the department had received 29 letters of support and 120 letters of opposition prior to the hearing.
