Good news, gang. Just a moment ago, the Planning Commission unanimously approved Ragazza’s permit to use their back garden!
At today’s hearing, chef/owner Sharon Ardiana and her business partner Laurie Aaronson presented their plans for the patio and explained their desire to be good neighbors. Ardiana also revealed that Ragazza has a 20-year lease on the space, emphasizing their long-term commitment to being part of the community.
Sharon Young, the Commission staffer we encouraged you to email this morning, also revealed that the Commission had received 3 letters and 1 email opposing the garden, and a whopping 80 letters and emails in support. (!!!!)
After Ardiana and Aaronson spoke, the Commission opened the hearing up to public comment. Just one neighbor spoke — a resident of Broderick Street — and she was strongly in support of Ragazza’s plans.
Finally it came to a vote. Various Commission members spoke in support, with one having enjoyed a meal at Ragazza before, and another saying that anyone willing to sign a 20-year lease on a restaurant in this economy deserves to be applauded. The vote was quick and unanimous.
Congrats to Ragazza, and to everyone who sent in letters of support. Go treat yourself to an extra-large green beer tonight — you’ve earned it!