The Oakland Planning Commission on Oct. 15, 2025, voted 3-2 to deny a major variance request by Tidewater Capital to convert roughly 7,000–7,500 square feet of 2nd and 3rd floor office space at 1205 Franklin St. into self/mini storage. Staff said the proposal conflicted with the Downtown Oakland Specific Plan and lacked the unique physical hardship required for a major variance; the applicant argued economic hardship and neighborhood benefits.