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Commission approves relocation of long-running adult video store on Polk Street after mixed testimony
Summary
The Planning Commission approved a conditional-use to move Frontline Video to 1424-1428 Bush Street, citing relocation of an existing nonconforming use and absence of police objections. Neighbors raised concerns about proximity to senior housing; supporters called Frontline a long-standing mom-and-pop business.
The Planning Commission approved a conditional-use authorization on Jan. 15 for Frontline Video to relocate from 1259 Polk Street to 1424-1428 Bush Street, a move proponents said preserves a long-standing neighborhood business and opponents said would negatively affect a nearby senior residential community.
Project owner Henry Silverberg told the commission he has run Frontline for 20 years and wants to stay in the neighborhood. "We feel that we've been part of the neighborhood now for the last 20 years," Silverberg said. Staff reported receipt of letters both in support and opposition and said the Police Department raised no objections to the proposed relocation.
Opponents included residents of a nearby retirement complex who asked the commission to disapprove the relocation given proximity to frail and elderly residents. Jerry Adams, representing the residents council of San Francisco Towers, urged disapproval on those grounds.
Supporters from the Lower Polk Neighbors and the Office of Economic Development described Frontline as a small, locally owned business with neighborhood ties. "Frontline Video has been a good neighbor for 20 plus years," said Chris Schulman of the Office of Economic Development.
Commission discussion focused on whether the move would introduce a new adult use in the corridor versus relocate an existing nonconforming use. Commissioners noted that the proposal would not increase the number of adult establishments in the neighborhood and that staff and police did not object. Commissioner Lee moved the approval; the motion passed on a unanimous roll-call vote.
