Infinity Salvage Owner Warns Intake Restriction Could Cost State Contracts

Mike Baker, who identified himself as the owner of Infinity Salvage, told the commission the business has operated for decades and holds three state contracts that depend on accepting new vehicles. "I own Infinity Salvage for many years, and, I've had a tough year this year, you know, with the fire and a lot of break ins... I have 3 state contracts, you know, to recycle cars," Baker said while explaining why an intake restriction would harm his operations.

Baker said he expects daily intake of "3 or 4 cars a day" and many inbound requests by phone. He told commissioners he plans to bring in a buyer from Sims Metals to crush and remove roughly 100–150 vehicles from the back of the property to clear space and address weeds, and said that would take about two weeks once scheduled. Baker asked the commission to consider that remediation plan when applying conditions that could otherwise interrupt his state contracts.

Commissioners acknowledged Baker's long-term service but said staff and the commission rely on the Menlo Park Fire Protection District and San Mateo County Environmental Health for technical guidance on safety and remediation. The planning commission approved the permit with conditions and authorized staff to work with the applicant and the regulatory agencies to seek a workable approach that protects public health without unduly harming business viability.