Neighbors Call For Restoration Of Historic Bloomfield Home In Webster Street District

In a recent San Francisco Historic Preservation Commission meeting, community members voiced their concerns regarding the ongoing renovation of a historic property on Webster Street, previously owned by the Bloomfield family. The discussions highlighted the importance of preserving the architectural integrity of the neighborhood while addressing violations related to unauthorized construction work.

Ray Greenwell, a neighbor, expressed his desire to see the house restored to match the historic character of the area. He noted that while some proposed changes were acceptable, the removal of original features, such as windows, was troubling. Greenwell emphasized the need for better communication among neighbors regarding the project’s developments.

Mark Zier, another neighbor, shared a statement from the late Anne Bloomfield's daughter, advocating for the preservation of the house as an Italianate Victorian, in line with its historic significance. Zier expressed satisfaction with plans to restore the front entrance and replace asbestos siding but raised concerns about the proposed installation of single-pane windows, which he felt did not align with the neighborhood's character.

Woody Labonte, president of San Francisco Heritage, urged the commission to take a firm stance against the property owner for the unauthorized demolition of historic elements. He referenced past preservation efforts in other cities, advocating for strict enforcement to prevent similar incidents in the future.

The commission discussed the enforcement actions taken against the property owner, who had begun renovations without the necessary permits. The planning department confirmed that a building permit was issued in error, leading to a series of violations. The commission is now considering a one-time penalty of up to $500,000 for significant damage to the historic resource.

Commissioners expressed frustration over the situation, with some advocating for a more robust response to ensure compliance and protect the neighborhood's historic fabric. They discussed the possibility of requiring the property owner to restore original features, including salvaged windows, and to adhere to stricter oversight during the renovation process.

As the commission deliberates on the next steps, the community remains hopeful that the historic character of Webster Street will be preserved, reflecting the shared values of its residents and honoring the legacy of the Bloomfield family. The commission plans to continue discussions and finalize decisions regarding the enforcement actions and restoration strategies in the coming weeks.