Berkeley eyes stiffer landmark rules to curb frivolous attempts to thwart more housing - Local News Matters

Berkeley city officials are drafting changes to the landmark petition process to prevent delays in housing development caused by frivolous landmark designations. The proposal seeks to increase the required signatures from 50 to 200 and impose a five-year freeze on landmark designations after preliminary building permits are filed. Councilmember Rashi Kesarwani argues that this change would ensure a broader community base supports landmark petitions. Recent examples highlighted in Kesarwani's proposal show that a small group of residents often dominate signatures, undermining the process. Developers have reported that landmark petitions have delayed their projects by months, creating uncertainty for financing.

The Landmarks Preservation Commission's review process can extend project approval timelines significantly compared to other applications. The City Council is currently reviewing these proposals and will consider further recommendations from city staff. This move reflects a growing tension between historic preservation and the urgent need for affordable housing in Berkeley.