Van Ness and Fillmore Safeway Property Exempted from Formula Retail Ban by Supervisors

Overview

The San Francisco Board of Supervisors has voted to exempt the Van Ness and Fillmore Safeway property from the city’s formula retail ban, allowing the grocery store to continue operating in the area.

Background

• The formula retail ban, also known as the “formula retail control ordinance,” restricts the number of chain stores in certain neighborhoods in San Francisco.
• The Van Ness and Fillmore Safeway has been operating in the area for over 50 years and is considered a staple in the community.
• The store was at risk of being forced to close or relocate due to the formula retail ban.

Arguments for Exemption

• Supporters of the exemption argued that the Safeway provides essential services to the community and is not a typical chain store.
• They also pointed out that the store employs over 100 people, many of whom are long-time residents of the neighborhood.
• The Safeway also provides affordable groceries to low-income residents in the area.

Opposition to Exemption

• Opponents of the exemption argued that it goes against the purpose of the formula retail ban, which is to preserve the unique character of neighborhoods and support local businesses.
• They also expressed concerns about the potential for other chain stores to seek exemptions, leading to a proliferation of formula retail in the area.

Final Decision

After much debate, the Board of Supervisors voted 8-3 in favor of exempting the Van Ness and Fillmore Safeway from the formula retail ban. The exemption will allow the store to continue operating in the area without any restrictions.

Key Takeaways

• The Van Ness and Fillmore Safeway has been exempted from San Francisco’s formula retail ban, allowing it to continue operating in the area.
• The store has been a staple in the community for over 50 years and provides essential services to residents.
• The decision has sparked debate about the purpose and effectiveness of the formula retail ban.

In conclusion, the exemption of the Van Ness and Fillmore Safeway from the formula retail ban highlights the ongoing tension between preserving the unique character of neighborhoods and supporting local businesses. The decision has significant implications for the future of formula retail in San Francisco.