Appeal over trees delays playground work

ON SAN FRANCISCO Late appeal delays Glen Canyon Park playground renovation

C.W. Nevius, Chronicle Columnist

Read more: http://www.sfgate.com/bayarea/nevius/article/Appeal-over-trees-delays-playground-work-3965944.php#ixzz29r1YHagMIt is an issue of constant conflict in San Francisco. Neighborhoods are torn asunder, city officials are berated, and groups stage demonstrations. It may very well be the single most contentious problem in the city.

Trees.

This is a city that loves its foliage, particularly if it has been in place for a while. But that’s just the beginning. Activists not only have strong views against removing trees, changing parks and open space, they have a process that can make it work for them.

The City Charter makes it possible for a single person to stall a project for months, simply by filing an appeal. You could say that it is the most democratic possible process. Unless you’re hoping to upgrade a playground for your kids, or renovate an aging recreation center. Then it is intensely frustrating.

This time the issue is Glen Canyon Park in Diamond Heights. The Recreation and Park Department has a $5.8 million renovation project for the area. The children’s playground will be redone, tennis courts will be moved and improved, and a new, safer drop-off area will be created for parents with children.

In the final minutes of the last day of the 15-day public comment period, Anastasia Glikshtern filed an appeal of the building permit for improvements to the recreation building. Glikshtern did not return calls for comment. But her appeal has stalled all work until a Dec. 5 hearing.