Development foes camp on Potrero Hill.(city planners want eighteen months of planning time, developers worry about state of economy)(Brief Article)

Supervisors, developers clash over building hiatus: Is it planning or banning?

New development, including biotech, housing and offices, would be banned for 18 months in parts of San Francisco's South of Market area and Potrero Hill, if the city's Board of Supervisors approves proposed interim controls.

Developers and their attorneys contend the bans would worsen the local economy, while advocates say the temporary bans are needed to provide time for comprehensive planning.

The proposals, introduced by Supervisors Chris Daly and Sophie Maxwell, will be discussed during an Oct. 25 committee meeting before being voted on by the board.

"My …