Over twenty neighbors gathered Sept. 8 to discuss the operating hours, sale of alcohol, security measures, gambling, age limits, and parking for the billiard hall proposed for 1948 Ocean Ave.
Two Discretionary Review applications had been submitted to San Francisco’s Planning Department requesting a public hearing on the proposed changed use for the building.
The business partners of Legendary Billiard Hall wanted to change the building’s use from
“Other Institutions, Large” that the previous occupant, a senior center, operated under to “Bar and Other Entertainment.”
The partners made concessions after an August 24 meeting with the Ocean Avenue Association, the neighborhood’s new community benefit district. Hours would be reduced
late at night. An alcohol license would not be sought. There would also be a security guard during operating hours, on top of security cameras. The age limit would also be 18.
Originally, the business plan called for 10 billiard tables and a wine and beer bar along with some food service. Now there will be nine tables, wireless internet and coffee, an idea proffered by Taraval Police Station’s Lt. Mar at the OAA meeting.
“It will have a family atmosphere,” said Mike Alahwal of Comax Realty, who represents
the partners.
The Discretionary Review
Yong Winchell Yu and his partner have leased the space for six months, but neighbors only learned of the permit request notice a month before its expiration date.
“We’re trying, you know,” Mr. Alahwal said. “It’s bad. My clients have paid $60,000 in rent We have to start again or go to the hearing. I have to check with my lawyer.”
Fairfield Way resident Jeff Harding, 51, who filed a DR, split the $500 fee with one of his neighbors. Other neighbors later gave him money to recoup part of his half.
“Hours and alcohol are my concern,” he said. Mr. Harding went door to door with his five-year-old child to inform neighbors about the permit request.
If Legendary Billiard Hall receives a change of use permit, remodels, and opens, a liquor license could still be pursued. If that occurs, Mr. Harding said, “at least we will have their track record to look at.”
The Ingleside Terraces Homeowners Association also filed a DR application.
The Business
A resident of the Sunset, Mr. Yu, 29, graduated from San Francisco State University and works at a hospital. His business partner lives in Ingleside, attends City College of San
Francisco and works at a restaurant.
“There’s not much entertainment in this neighborhood,” Mr. Yu said.
Situated across the street from the Voice of Pentecost Academy and in the same building as a 1944 Ocean Collective medical marijuana dispensary, 1948 Ocean Ave. has been vacant for many months.
$150,000 will be spent on remodeling the building, updating windows, flooring, signage, electrical work, and painting, according to Mr. Alahwal.
“The OAA was supportive,” Mr. Alahwal said. “Howard Chung, the president, supported the idea of fixing up the building.”
Mr. Alahwal also said the rusted billboards on the facade could be restored or removed.
Neighborhood Safety
Throughout the meeting, residents found safety the primary concern.
“Pot patients already smoke in their cars in front of our homes,” a resident said.
When a resident pointed out that even if alcohol is not served, patrons will go elsewhere to drink, like to the nearby 7-11, Mr. Alahwal said, “We won’t allow drunks on the premises.”
“Isn’t it bad enough a security guard is required?” another resident asked.
“We know how to secure the neighborhood,” Mr. Alahwal replied.
The article appeared in The Ingleside Light’s September 2011 issue.
