Historic Preservation Commission endorses five businesses for San Francisco’s Legacy Business Registry

The San Francisco Historic Preservation Commission on Nov. 19 recommended that five long-running local businesses be added to the city’s Legacy Business Registry, voting unanimously after staff presentations and public support.

Planning staff presented backgrounds on each nominee and recommended resolutions for inclusion. Kalani Okala described Glamorama Salon (304 Valencia) as “a gender inclusive hair salon known for serving people from all walks of life and all over the gender spectrum,” noting its ties to drag and queer performance communities and its role as a community hub since 1994. Heather Samuels and other planning staff reviewed Catherine Clark Gallery (248 Utah), Debbie’s Hair Place/Moore Barber Shop (longstanding Native American–owned business), The Sword and Rose (85 Carl Street), and Deitch’s Woodwind Workshop (Richmond), and recommended the commission support all five nominations.

Community members and business representatives urged approval during public comment. Kristen McKee, speaking for Glamorama, said, “Hair is deeply personal,” and described the salon as “a sanctuary, a place where self expression, safety, and creativity come first.” Jaguar Rood, Chad Behavior, Chris Starst and others recalled the salon’s cultural role for queer San Franciscans. Tina Fultz (The Sword and Rose) and Daniel Deitch (Deitch’s Woodwind Workshop) testified about their businesses as neighborhood anchors. Catherine Clark, owner of the gallery, described decades of exhibitions and community programming.

After the presentations and public testimony, Commissioner Vergara moved to approve all five nominations. The motion was seconded and passed unanimously, 7–0.

What the commission decided

• Action: Adopt recommendations to add Glamorama Salon (304 Valencia), Catherine Clark Gallery (248 Utah), Debbie’s Hair Place/Moore Barber Shop, The Sword and Rose (85 Carl Street), and Deitch’s Woodwind Workshop to the Legacy Business Registry. • Vote: Unanimous approval, 7–0.

Why it matters

The Legacy Business Registry recognizes longstanding local businesses that contribute to San Francisco’s cultural identity and community life. Commissioners and speakers framed the vote as protecting neighborhood anchors that serve specific communities (LGBTQ patrons, Native American clients, local artists and musicians) and as part of broader efforts to preserve lived cultural heritage even as the city changes.

Next steps

The commission’s recommendation will be transmitted in accordance with the Legacy Business Registry process; staff and the applicants will be notified of the commission’s action.