Historic Preservation Commission approves four legacy businesses, citing community value

The San Francisco Historic Preservation Commission unanimously approved four legacy business registry applications at its April 15, 2020 remote hearing.

Preservation staff presented recommendations to support City Nights (715 Harrison St), the Korean Martial Arts Center (1414 Ocean Ave), the New Conservatory Theater (25 Van Ness Ave) and Royal Motor Sales (285 South Van Ness Ave). Staff noted City Nights was founded in 1985 and described as one of the city’s long‑running large‑capacity nightclubs; the Korean Martial Arts Center was founded in 1983 and is one of the oldest family‑run businesses in Ingleside; the New Conservatory Theater operates in the Masonic Temple and provides queer and allied theater productions; and Royal Motor Sales was founded in 1947.

Shelly Keltagerone (preservation staff) said the Small Business Commission’s review is expected after its shelter‑in‑place order is lifted and that the Office of Small Business would continue to provide support to these applicants in the interim. Staff also reported a number of named community members had contacted staff in support of the applications.

Commissioner Johns moved to adopt staff recommendations to approve all four legacy business registry applications; the motion was seconded and the commission approved the recommendations by unanimous roll call, 7–0.

Commissioners expressed regret that some applicants were disconnected by technical issues during the remote hearing but welcomed the businesses and said they looked forward to working with applicants and the Office of Small Business to provide support during the emergency period. The approvals will be recorded and applicants notified by preservation staff.