Historic Preservation Commission adds Savoy Tivoli, Russian Hill Dog Grooming and DeFlora to Legacy Business Registry

The San Francisco Historic Preservation Commission unanimously approved adding three businesses to the Legacy Business Registry on Aug. 21: Savoy Tivoli (1434 Grant Ave.), Russian Hill Dog Grooming (2178 Bush St.) and DeFlora (Columbus & Filbert). The motion to adopt staff recommendations passed 6–0.

Heather Samuels, the Planning Department's Legacy Business Registry coordinator, presented the nominations and recommended the commission adopt resolutions to add each business. Samuels described Savoy Tivoli as a North Beach institution dating to 1907 that later hosted the early run of Beach Blanket Babylon, said Russian Hill Dog Grooming maintains distinctive signage and service since opening in 1994, and noted DeFlora’s longstanding neighborhood role since 1994.

Woody Labounty of San Francisco Heritage told the commission he "very much support[s] these legacy business applications," calling the program an example other municipalities seek to emulate. Commissioners emphasized the registry's role in preserving neighborhood character. Commissioner Wright said these "businesses are the backbones of our community," and Commissioner Foley thanked staff for their work on the applications.

The registry additions carry no change to property ownership or zoning; they recognize businesses for historical and cultural value and can make owners eligible for outreach and technical assistance. The commission recorded no public opposition during the hearing. The items move forward as registry additions; there is no further action required in this meeting.

The vote recorded yes/aye responses from Commissioner Campbell, Commissioner Vergara, Commissioner Wright, Commissioner Foley, Vice President Nagas Warren and Commission President Matsuda.