Alioto would limit drug store chains. (San Francisco Supervisor Angela Alioto seeks zoning controls)

Alioto would limit drug store chains

Interim controls sought with study of effect on neighborhood pharmacies

SAN FRANCISCO -- Backed by San Francisco neighborhood groups and environmental organizations, Supervisor Angela Alioto has asked the Board of Supervisors to impose interim zoning controls on "large-scale drug stores" like Thrifty Jr. and Walgreen.

Prompted, in part, by Thrifty Drug Stores' plans to open 17 new stores in the city, the Alioto legislation would establish a task force of city planners and merchants to study the effects of chain drug stores on local traffic, parking and small independent drug stores in San Francisco neighborhoods.

After an 18-month study, the …