SoNiC appeals Planning Commission decision
The South of Nimitz Improvement Council (SoNiC) announced Monday that it has filled an appeal against the actions taken March 17th by Oakland City Planning Commission. Gary Knecht of SoNiC stated, "We decided the parking issues were too important to leave to the good will of City Council". After a frantic effort SoNiC paid the $863 filing fee and submitted its appeal almost at the last minute on Monday. "[By doing this] we think we forced City staff to address some of the issues SoNiC has been unable to get anyone (except Michael Lighty) to pay attention to.", said Knecht.

The appeal contests decisions made by the planning commission regarding the environmental impact report, issuance of a permits that could allow unconstrained use of space for fast-food restaurants, design review, the development agreement, rezoning and conditions of approval. In addition to contesting specific points, the appeal also cites the wealth of feedback given by the local community over the last six months of City meetings. The full text of the appeal is available from the Jack London District website.

SoNiC would welcome contributions to help defray costs of filing the appeal. Anyone interested in making a donation should contact Gary at gary.knecht@jacklondondistrict.org.
Posted 3/30/2004