sell us his unit. we were all very aware of the fact that two other identical units on two other floors had already been merged in this fashion and one of those resulting three bedroom units has a family with a couple of kids and the mom tells me it's a great place for their family home. we, of course, are at a very different place in our life, but we think it would allow us to enjoy our retirement more. we'd be able to have friends and family members come and visit san francisco and stay with us and maybe even more importantly as we grow older, should we have illness situations, it would give us enough space to have a family member or caregiver perhaps live with us for awhile if that was needed. so, in conclusion i would just like to say we think that having this a bit bigger 3 bedroom unit would allow us to not only enjoy our retirement more, but hopefully stay in our home much longer. thank you very much.

>> thank you. is there any public comment? seeing none, commissioners, [speaker not understood] had to leave early but did want to get a sense whether the commission wants to continue to see these type of cases that are probably demonstrably not affordable. they are coming in front of us because of the executive directive that's in the spirit of how you're reading into the executive direct i have want to get a sense of if he we want to continue to see them. commissioner antonini. ~ districtive >> well, to answer that question, in this casey would probably have said no, it should have been approved administratively because it was demonstrably unaffordable, but i'm hearing that because the line is higher now, one of the units falls below. so, that's kind of a technicality and it's a little bit after the fact. but it's fine that we hear this one bit it seems to me if they're demonstrably unaffordable at the time that

the case is brought -- put on the calendar, first brought, it was first begun in august. then, you know, if the rules happened to change in between, then it still should be unaffordable. i think it's within $5,000 or something. >> i'm not sure about that part of it, but this case is -- it has been administratively approved. it would have been done three months ago and it would have one below the or above the 1.34 2 threshold. the number only changed last week as this was going to hearing ~. >> and also there's been a change with the new legislation that does not allow things to be approved administratively. i guess only under certain circumstances -- >> only if the building has two or less units. >> two or less units, yes. >> it wasn't accounting for these larger condominiums. >> yeah, my feeling is certainly in this case it would probably -- we probably shouldn't hear it. it's here now and we can opine on it.

in the future, i would think if they're not affordable, probably kind of defeats the purpose of not allowing mergers because i think this meets all the criteria but one. they say it doesn't meet 2, but i mean the elimination of a rent stabilized unit is sort of like saying if pigs could fly, pork would be more expensive. you know, it's never been a rental. 52 years the guy has been in there. the building was built as condos. almost they're all condos. maybe somewhere in the building someone is rentsing a unit here or there. many of these buildings have restrictions on the number of units that could be rented to keep their condominium status. so, i don't think that's even a factor. but i would be strongly in support of not taking d-r and approving this merger because it seems to make a lot of sense and it creates a unit that will be more family friendly with three bedrooms and two baths

and i think it meets all the other criteria, even the new ones in terms of the situation where it brings it more in conformity with the zoning for the area, which is rm-2, and everything else, owner occupied, nobody displaced. so, that's my feeling on it. >> thank you. commissioner borden. >> i would agree and not take -- i move to not take d-r and approve the project. >> second. >> but the other thing i was going to say, i do think there is a problem when demonstrably affordable is 1.5. i mean it's a weird number, especially when you're talking about a thousand square foot one bedroom. we're not talking about a house. i mean, you know, i feel like that number -- maybe the director ought to look at how many -- it doesn't sound like it's the square footage [speaker not understood]. to me to say that a one bedroom at 1.5 million is

demonstratively affordable, obviously 1.5 million is demonstrably affordable anywhere in the world is an obscene thing to say. but to the extent of what we're trying to capture, you would think it would be more than one bedroom that you'd be talking about because that's the kind of housing we're generally talking about as much as bedroom. that's what part of the districtive is related to that. i think when we're looking at that number, i don't know if that's something that the task force is looking into can kind of sort through. but it is about bedrooms, one bedroom at 1.5 million is not affordable. >> demonstrably not affordable is in the planning code. and it is defined as 80% of the combined land structure of family home. it doesn't break it out by size he. that may be something else to look at within the code. >> it's hard because on one hand i understand the

rationale. at the same time it's still out of whack. there is a judgment that has to be made and i'm not sure where we want to put that line, but in this particular case, especially in this building that was built as a condo building, it clearly was a building not designed to be affordable, it doesn't seem like it's worth the time we're spending. >> commissioner sugaya. >> yes, thank you for reminding us about the calculation what it's based on because it seems weird to me that we're even using the term single-family house value when most -- we don't have any mergers that relate to single-family houses. at least, i don't remember -- >> [speaker not understood]. >> oh, okay, yeah. but in any case, so, it seems like somebody ought to take a look at it and like maybe try to have a different -- related to i think what commissioner

borden is saying the type of housing unit itself rather than to use a single-family house which is a lot more -- would have a lot more bedrooms usually than one, at least two, i would imagine. ~ in most cases. just a suggestion to staff to maybe take it back and take a look at it at some point. just one last question from me. when you indicate on the diagram that originally combined units, which is 12 through 18, originally combined -- maybe i missed it in the text -- means that those with combined immediately when the building was put into service -- >> yes, they were all like converted from the plan to what they sold as ~. really, that was probably a bad description on our part. those upper floors were originally designed with just two units, whereas the lower

floors had three units sold. they were never combined. they were originally designed to be the same layout as we're proposing to combine [speaker not understood] at this point. >> okay, thanks. >> commissioner moore. >> in principle i'm in support of the project. the only thing i'd like to ask the department, it is very funny to say that this brings a project more in conformance with rm-2 zoning. [laughter] >> i sit there and laugh. across from the [speaker not understood] house, historic building and three other victorians on all sides -- on all sides going to the east and going south and going to the east and going to the north and going to the west to the south and the west to the north are all multi-story buildings, some of them even taller than the building they're talking about. so, this zoning reference doesn't quite fly. [speaker not understood]. so, i think we need to be a little bit more discerning when

we say that, the argument about the finances that i tend to agree with commissioner borden. but that's neither here for us to decide because it's [speaker not understood] as it is [speaker not understood]. and i do think that the descriptions and this is a condominium and since i do have to support of their hoa which is basically they wouldn't have that, we couldn't do anything anyway. we are just giving a nod to something which is what is it is. >> thank you. commissioner hillis. >> i feel like i'm aging in place here. [laughter] >> i'm doing two shows nightly. [speaker not understood]. [laughter] >> i just wanted to say the value always confuses me. [speaker not understood] it's a condo. i think the fact it's a condo, and we had one like this before

is why i want to see it, not because of the value. [speaker not understood]. >> thank you. >> so, was there a consensus or no consensus? >> i heard there was some consensus not to hear these type of units particularly the unaffordable units, but to relook at the definition of demonstrably and affordable. commissioner moore. >> it is a different situation when we're talking about condos and when we're talking about multi-families and their units which are being merged in those buildings. so, i would distinguish that we should be viewing those -- >> a distinction of condo units. >> we owe it to the public. we're kind of slipping in the background and we're trying to hold the value and very carefully looking at mergers, half of them someplace else. >> okay, thank you. commissioner antonini. >> not to belabor this, but

it's been long enough already. [laughter] >> this doesn't come up -- last week we had one, whenever you're bringing it back for further input from the commission, we have to figure out whether a studio is, in fact, a bedroom. i mean, a studio is a living room, but it's implied it's a bedroom, because you sleep in it, but i'm not sure a studio is really a one bedroom. and, so, when you count the number of bedrooms, we come out equal in this one and we did last week, too, although staff didn't feel we did because one of them was a studio. we just have to get a definition what is considered a bedroom whether a studio is in fact a bedroom. >> thank you. >> commissioners, there is a motion and a second to not take d-r and approve the merger. on that motion, commissioner antonini? >> aye. >> commissioner borden? >> aye. >> commissioner hillis 1830s aye. >> commissioner moore? >> aye. >> commissioner sugaya? >> aye. >> commissioner fong? >> aye. >> and commission president wu? >> aye. >> so moved, commissioners, that motion passes unanimously

7 to 0 and places you on general public comment. i have no speaker cards. >> is there any general public comment? seeing none, meeting is adjourned. public comment is closed. [adjourned]

>> hello, i am with the recreation and parks department. we are featuring the romantic park location in your backyard. this is your chance to find your heart in santa and cisco with someone special. -- san francisco with someone special. our first look out is here at buena vista park, a favorite with couples and dog walkers. both have a significant force.

a refreshing retreat from urban life. the romantic past that meander up and down the park under pines and eucalyptus. hang out in this environment and you might see butterflies it, fennel, and then the lines. -- dandelions. is ada accessible. public transit is plentiful. we have conquered the steps, we have watched the dogs, and we have enjoyed a beautiful view. this is a place to take someone special on a romantic stroll and enjoyed a beautiful look out. welcome to corona heights located in the heart of this

district. it offers a view of the downtown skyline, the bay bridge, and the east bay. it is one of the best kept secrets in the city. it is hardly ever crowded. on any given day, you will run into a few locals. , bought a 37 bus to get there without any parking worries. for legged friends can run freely. there is also a patch of grass for the small box. >> it is a great place. it is a wonderful place to have these kinds of parks. that dog owners appreciate it. >> take time to notice of the wildfires that are on the grassland and keep your head out on the lookout for hawks and other bird life. be sure to take your camera and be prepared to take a view of the city will not forget. it has a beautiful red rock formations.

you could watch the sunrise over the bay. this is another one of our great lookouts. we are at mount davidson. 928 feet. this is the place for you to bring someone special. to not forget that dogs and enjoy all of the pathways and greenery that surrounds you. it provides a peaceful oasis of open space and great hiking trails. the spectacular view offers a perfect place to watch the sunrise or sunset with someone you love. >> it is a good place to get away from the hectic life of the city. come up here and listen to nature, i get some fresh air. that view is fantastic.

>> where sturdy shoes. hikers get the feeling of being in a rain forest. mount davidson is also a great place to escape the noise and the bustle of the city. take the 36 bus and it will drop you at the entrance. it is quite a hike to the top but the view is worth every step. this is the place to bring that someone special. golden gate park's largest body of water is an enchanting place. is a popular spot for paddling around in boats, which can be rented. created in 1893, it was designed for these your boating -- for

leisure boating. it is named for the wild strawberries that once flourished. there is also a waterfall, two bridges, and trails the climb to the summit, the highest point at more than four hundred feet. you can catch glimpses of the western side of the city that make this hilltop a romantic look out. for public transit, i take the n train. the lad the ad -- lake is ada accessible. watch many ducks, swans, and siegel's. -- seagulls.

it is a great place to stroll and sail away. many couples come here to take a ride around a lake, going under the bridges, passing the chinese pavilion and the waterfall. for a quiet getaway, making for a memorable and magical experience. located on 19th avenue, this growth is the place to where you're hiking boots, bring the family and the dog because it has so much to offer you and your loved ones. it is a truly hidden gem in the city. the park is rich with eucalyptus trees. long paths allow you to meander, perfect for a dog walking in a wooded environment. >> i enjoy the history.

the diversity of nature that exists in such an urban city, concrete streets, cars, we have this oasis of the natural environment. it reminds us of what the history was. >> there is a section for dogs and plenty of parking. transit is available on the 28 bus to get you very easily. the part is ada -- park is ada accessible. it is also a natural lake. this is your chance to stroll around the lake and let the kids run free. it also has many birds to watch. it is a place to find and appreciate what you -- a wonderful breath of fresh air.

come and experience in this park and enjoy the people, picnics, and sunshine. this is a lovely place to take a stroll with your loved ones. in the middle of pacific heights, on top of these hills, it offers a great square, a peaceful beauty, large trees and grass and greenery. it features tables and benches, a playground, restaurants, and tennis courts. there are plenty of areas for football and picnics. it is very much a couple's park. there are many activities you can experience together. stroll on the pathways, bring your dog, or just picnic at one of the many tables and enjoy all that it has to offer together. many couples find this is a perfect park to throw down a

blanket and soak up the sun. it is a majestic place that you can share with someone you chairs. lafayette park is also easily accessed from the 47, 49, and 90 buses. it is ada accessible. we are here at the historic palace of fine art in the marina district. originally built for the 1950's exposition, the palace is situated on san francisco's number waterfront. it is ada accessible and is reached by the 28, 30, and 91 bus lines. set against the reflecting

waters of the lagoon and eucalyptus trees, the palace is one of san francisco post most -- san francisco's most romantic spots to relax with that special someone while listening to the water and gazing at the swans. a beautiful to view from many locations along the mattoon, an ideal place to -- all -- lagoon, an ideal place to walk with a loved one. reservations for weddings are available at sfrecpark.org. discarding contains plants referred to by william shakespeare's plays and poems. welcome to the shakespeare garden here in the famous golden gate park. located near the museum and the

california academy of sciences, the garden was designed by the california spring blossom and wildfilower association. here is a truly enchanting and tranquil garden along a path behind a charming gate. this garden is the spot to woo your date. stroll around and appreciate its unique setting. the gorgeous brick walkway and a brick wall, the stone benches, the rustic sundial. chaired the part -- share the bard's word hundred famous verses from a shakespearean plays. this is a gem to share with someone special. pack a picnic, find a bench, and

enjoy the sunshine, and let the whimsical words of william shakespeare and floats you and your loved one away. this is one of the most popular wedding locations and is available for reservations. take a bus and have no parking worries. shakespeares' garden is ada accessible. located at the bottom of this hill, it is a secret garden with an infinite in captivating appeal. carefully tucked away, it makes the top of our list for most intimate pyknic setting. avoid all taurus cars and hassles by taking a cable car. or the 30, 45, or 91 bus.

the garden was designed by thomas church in 1957. grow old with me, the best is yet to be is inscribed on a sundial. it is anchored by twin white gazebos and flowers that bloom year-round. this is the place to tell someone special or the place to declare the commitment you two share. weddings and the event reservations are available for this adorable hidden gem. we know there are many other romantic parks in san francisco. we hope you have enjoyed this torre of lookouts, picnics, and strolls that are available every day. until next time, do not forget to get out and play. for more information about

reserving one of these romantic locations or any other location, call 831-5500. this number is best for special events, weddings, picnics, and the county fair buildings. or for any athletic field, call 831-5510. you can write us at -- or walk in and say hello. and of course you can find more information moresfrecpark.org. -- >> so what brought you out here for the bike ride today? >> i grew up in san francisco

but i have been living in new york. i wanted to see what san francisco is doing with infrastructure. >> cities are where people are living these days. the bay area is doing a lot with construction and the way to change the world starts here. >> we are about to take a bike ride. we have 30 cyclist. i'm really excited to hit the road and see what the city has in store.

>> i definitely recommend it to people. it's a fun afternoon and you learn so many things. >> this is so much fun. i go to parts of the city that i don't come to. this will make the city a more sustaout. >> hi, i'm japanese with the san francisco public utilities combination sometime people call me sewer girl our systems has served the area for 1 hundred and 50 years we're planning you understand public health and our environment don't think that so

come in down and see how good a the board of supervisors san francisco land use & economic development committee i'm supervisor scott weiner the chairman the committee to my right is supervisor jane kim and i want to thank sfgovtv for broadcasting today's hearing especially jennifer lowe moichldz. >> yes. please turn off all electronic devices completed speaker cards shall be on the - >> thank you very much