Historic Preservation Commission adds four businesses to San Francisco Legacy Business Registry

The San Francisco Historic Preservation Commission voted unanimously Dec. 4 to add four long‑standing local enterprises — Ace Mailing, the African American Shakespeare Company, Jay's Laundry and Walter Adams Framing — to the city's Legacy Business Registry.

Planning staff presented each nomination, emphasizing longevity and community roles. Heather Samuels, planning staff, said Ace Mailing had provided 'full service to San Francisco clients for over 47 years' and staff recommended the resolution to add the business to the registry. Kat Chippo (planning staff) described African American Shakespeare Company as a 30‑year nonprofit that has provided arts education 'to more than 240,000 performers, writers, students, and patrons.'

Public testimony backed the nominations. Sherry Young, executive director and founder of the African American Shakespeare Company, said the organization was 'a historic pillar in our community, a space where stories are told, voices are amplified, and lives are transformed.' Woody LaBounty of San Francisco Heritage urged commissioners to support the slate and noted the program's role in preserving a wide range of businesses.

Commissioners praised the variety of businesses and the role they play in neighborhood life. A motion to approve staff recommendations for all four nominations was seconded and carried on a unanimous voice vote. The record shows the motion passed 7–0; the clerk will add the four businesses to the official Legacy Business Registry following administrative processing.

The commission flagged displacement pressures in some neighborhoods and encouraged continued city efforts to support vulnerable small businesses. Staff said nominees will be added to the registry following standard documentation and filing processes.