The San Francisco County government has taken a significant step towards supporting local recycling efforts by approving a new lease for Our Planet Recycling SF LLC. During a recent meeting, the Board authorized the lease of over 4,000 square feet of city-owned land adjacent to Alameda Boulevard for an initial five-year term, with an annual base rent of approximately $23,400, which will increase by 3% each year.

This decision is crucial as Our Planet Recycling is one of the few remaining small business recycling centers in the city. The leased land will be utilized for parking and storage, enhancing the operations of the recycling center located on adjacent Caltrans property. Since 2017, Our Planet Recycling has been using the city land under a permit, during which time they have made significant improvements, including clearing debris, installing fencing, and maintaining the area.

Claudia Gorham, Deputy Managing Director of the Real Estate Division, highlighted that the lease is a result of a lengthy process that included obtaining a conditional use authorization, which was finally approved in July 2023. This authorization was necessary due to the unique nature of the land, which serves primarily as an access route rather than for public use.

The lease agreement stipulates that Our Planet Recycling is responsible for all services and utilities related to the property, and it will automatically terminate if the tenant loses the conditional use authorization. This arrangement not only supports the recycling efforts in San Francisco but also ensures that the city-owned land is utilized effectively.

Public comments during the meeting reflected strong community support for the lease, with residents recognizing the importance of maintaining local recycling services. David Pilpel, a member of the public, emphasized that Our Planet Recycling plays a vital role in the city’s waste management strategy, particularly through its involvement in a mobile bottle and can recycling pilot project.

As San Francisco continues to navigate its environmental challenges, this lease represents a commitment to fostering local businesses that contribute to sustainability and community well-being. The next steps will involve monitoring the lease's implementation and ensuring that the conditions set forth are met, ultimately benefiting both the city and its residents.