Committee backs Category‑3 designation and Mills Act timeline for 149–155 Ninth Street in SoMa

Jonathan Lamers of the Planning Department told the committee the Historic Preservation Commission unanimously passed Resolution No. 743 recommending the Board approve changing 149–155 Ninth Street from unrated to Article 11 Category 3 contributory. Lamers said the building "exhibits a high level of architectural quality and retains outstanding physical integrity" and that the designation could make the property eligible for a Mills Act contract and the sale/transfer of development rights.

Lamers noted that office use on all floors could be permitted in certain zoning districts only after the zoning administrator consults with the Historic Preservation Commission to determine whether a proposed use would enhance feasibility of preserving the resource. "For any proposed change of use, the zoning administrator will consult with the historic preservation commission to determine whether the proposed use would enhance the feasibility of preserving the subject building," he said.

Supervisor Jane Kim, whose district includes the building, proposed a technical amendment to allow the applicant to submit a Mills Act application through Aug. 15, 2015, citing the applicant’s intent to pursue a Mills Act contract this year. Property representatives and preservation professionals supported the designation: Ani Bartanian of Rubicon Point Partners described the building’s adaptive reuse history and said the owners discounted a lease to keep non‑profit tenant Code for America in the space; Ruth Todd of Page & Turnbull summarized the architectural‑historical study and maintenance plan submitted with the application.

Following public comment the committee adopted the amendment and forwarded the item to the full Board with a positive recommendation.