Entertainment Commission approves change of ownership for The Stud

The San Francisco Entertainment Commission voted to approve a change‑of‑ownership permit for The Stud at its March 7 meeting, allowing a 17‑member collective to assume operations and preserve the venue's legacy programming.

Deputy Director Weiland told commissioners that Southern Station approved the application with standard police conditions and that the collective has received 40 signatures and letters of support. Applicant Maria Davis described the Stud as a long‑standing cultural institution for the LGBT community and said the cooperative intends to maintain ‘‘many of the iconic nights that have become mainstays at the Stud.' She said the group has trained staff, guard‑card security and a neighborhood outreach plan.

Support for the application came from neighborhood groups and Supervisor Jane Kim's office; Barbara Lopez, speaking for the supervisor, said the collective demonstrated capacity and leadership for nightlife in South of Market. Multiple commissioners praised the community effort to preserve the venue and asked about programming and who will manage bookings; Davis said Micah Sigourney (also known as Vivian Forevermore) will head the programming committee.

A motion to approve the permit, including recommended police conditions and the commission's good neighbor policy, passed by voice vote. The commission congratulated the new owners and welcomed them to the neighborhood. The Stud's temporary permit granted by the executive director remains in place while final inspections are completed.