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Commission waives $50,000-style fee for Lick Wilmerding expansion, citing community benefits
Summary
After extensive public testimony from parents, alumni and Lick Wilmerding representatives, the Planning Commission approved the school's conditional-use request to expand into 31 House Street and voted 4–3 to waive a historic 'loss-of-dwelling' mitigation fee.
The Planning Commission on May 17 approved a conditional-use authorization allowing Lick Wilmerding High School to occupy a residential property at 31 House Street and increase enrollment from 399 to 490 students. The Department presented its analysis and recommended approval with conditions but raised the issue of mitigation for loss of dwelling units, citing precedent where a $50,000 per-unit payment had been imposed.
Supporters — including current and former school leaders and many parents — told commissioners the school provides substantial public benefits, scholarship opportunities and neighborhood service. "Dollars 50,000 would represent two full scholarships at Lick," said Al Adams, the school's head, who urged a modest or waived fee so community programs would not be harmed.
Opponents and some commissioners raised concerns about consistency and the city’s policy toward loss of housing. Commissioners debated whether a fee should be applied in this case and whether precedent compelled a similar imposition.
On a roll-call vote, a motion to approve the project while waiving the fee passed 4–3, with Commissioners Soule, Olague and Alexander voting no. The record shows the commission weighed the school's public‑purpose work and the inclusionary/affordability tradeoffs in reaching its decision. Staff will incorporate conditions of approval into the permit record and issue follow-up notifications for implementation.
