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Planning Commission approves Sur La Table on Union Street with conditions
Summary
The commission approved a formula‑retail permit for Sur La Table at 2224 Union Street after staff found the change of use compatible with the neighborhood commercial district; the vote was unanimous.
The Planning Commission granted Sur La Table a formula‑retail conditional use permit on July 11 to occupy 2224 Union Street in the Union Street Neighborhood Commercial District.
Staff found the proposed cookware retailer compatible with the neighborhood, noting a low concentration of formula retail nearby and absence of a comparable cookware specialty store in the NCD. Bonnie Alsayed, Sur La Table’s director of design and construction, said the store will include a demonstration kitchen and hiring of up to 30 staff. Supporters argued the store will generate foot traffic and help revitalize the far‑west block between Fillmore and Steiner; opponents warned about chain stores displacing independent merchants.
Commissioners weighed merchant and neighborhood testimony and concluded the proposal fit the district’s mix and offered economic benefits, approving the permit with conditions. The store will proceed to standard building and signage permits and must comply with any conditions listed in the approval.
