Commission approves conditional use for ATM at Haight/Clayton, 4–2 vote amid design concerns

The Planning Commission approved a conditional use authorization on July 22 allowing a walk‑up, nonbank ATM at 601 Clayton Street (case 2010.0183C) despite concerns about its location on a historic building’s facade.

Planning staff described the proposed machine as 1 foot 8 inches wide and 2 feet 8 inches tall, to be located 2 feet 5 inches above the sidewalk and operating 24 hours a day. Staff noted that a prior unpermitted ATM had been installed for about a decade and later removed following enforcement. The department’s preliminary recommendation was to approve the conditional use with conditions.

On behalf of the applicant, a representative said Clayton is a wider, secondary thoroughfare (15 feet of sidewalk) than Haight Street and that a 3‑foot setback required by ordinance would unduly alter the historic facade and be structurally difficult and costly, potentially requiring new foundations and extensive interior repair costing “in excess of $20,000‑$30,000.” The sponsor argued the proposed installation would restore a longtime neighborhood service.

Commissioners debated aesthetics and pedestrian character. Commissioner Moore said recessed ATMs better preserve corner storefront expression and reduce the risk of ATMs becoming oversized advertising panels; he opposed the proposal on those grounds. Other commissioners, noting limited bank access in the area and the previous high use of an unpermitted ATM, supported approval. The motion carried 4–2 with Commissioners Moore and Seguin voting no.

Outcome: conditional use authorization granted to allow the ATM without the 3‑foot setback; staff will finalize permit conditions.