Motion directing the Clerk of the Board to prepare findings reversing the determination by the Planning Department that the proposed project at Embarcadero Fountain by Armand Vaillancourt (Vaillancourt Fountain) is statutorily exempt from environmental review.

Summary

This motion directs the Clerk of the Board to prepare findings that will reverse the Planning Department's determination that the proposed project at the Embarcadero Fountain is statutorily exempt from environmental review under the California Environmental Quality Act (CEQA). The project involves disassembling and removing the Embarcadero Fountain, designed by Armand Vaillancourt and completed in 1971, for storage and analysis due to its inoperable status since May 2024 and immediate public safety risks. The fountain is located at the northeast corner of the Embarcadero Plaza, managed by the Recreation and Park Department. The Planning Department had initially determined the project was exempt under CEQA Guidelines Section 15269 (emergency actions). However, Docomomo US/Northern California appealed this determination. The Board of Supervisors held a public hearing on January 13, 2026, and conditionally reversed the exemption, pending the adoption of written findings.

Citizen Impact

This action means the Embarcadero Fountain project will undergo environmental review, potentially delaying its disassembly and repair. Residents may experience continued uncertainty regarding the future of this public art piece.

Confidence

high