Gonzalez has plan to block chain stores - Goes further than other candidates' plans

Gonzalez has plan to block chain stores
Bill gives city final say over letting them in

Rachel Gordon, Chronicle Staff Writer Wednesday, August 27, 2003

San Francisco Supervisor Matt Gonzalez put a populist spin on his campaign for mayor Tuesday when he unveiled a proposal that targets new chain stores in the city.

He introduced a bill that would require chain-operated businesses to seek city approval to open if there's any formal neighborhood objection to the project.

"San Franciscans are highly sensitive to and proud of their distinct neighborhood character," Gonzalez said. "The increasing number of formula/chain stores has a homogenizing effect on our neighborhoods and makes it more difficult for local and independent business to have a foothold in the city." Gonzalez got a late start in the mayor's race and is only now starting to cement his platform.

For Gonzalez's proposal to become law, it would have to be approved by the Board of Supervisors and withstand the potential of a mayoral veto. It is unclear whether it would even be voted on before the Nov. 4 election in which nine people are running for mayor.