Supervisor Peskin recommends landmark designation for historic coffee building at 447 Battery Street

The San Francisco County government meeting held on July 4, 2025, focused on significant discussions regarding the landmark designation of the Jones Thiruback Coffee Company building located at 447 Battery Street. The meeting commenced with the closure of public comments on the previous agenda item, followed by a motion from Supervisor Peskin to recommend the item, which passed with unanimous support from Supervisors Preston and Melgar.

The second agenda item involved an ordinance amending the planning code to officially designate the historic building as a landmark. Supervisor Peskin acknowledged the extensive research conducted by Ms. LaValley from the Planning Department, highlighting the building's historical significance related to the coffee industry in San Francisco and its role in the city's recovery after the 1906 earthquake.

Ms. LaValley presented details about the building, constructed in 1907, which served as a coffee roastery and storage facility until 1967. The Historic Preservation Commission had previously voted in favor of the landmark designation, citing its importance to the local coffee industry and its historical context. However, the Commission noted that the building did not meet certain architectural criteria for designation.

Following the presentation, public comments were solicited, but no speakers were queued to address the item. Supervisor Peskin proposed a minor amendment to the ordinance, which was subsequently approved. The final motion to recommend the landmark designation, as amended, also passed with unanimous support from the supervisors.

In conclusion, the meeting underscored the county's commitment to preserving its historical sites, with the landmark designation of the Jones Thiruback Coffee Company building marking a significant step in recognizing San Francisco's rich coffee heritage. The next steps will involve further discussions and actions by the board regarding the ordinance.