We sat down with Aaron Blatter, co-founder of Banner Pest Services, and came away seriously impressed. From 18-month bed bug standoffs to picking up the phone in 4 seconds flat, Banner is quietly redefining what great commercial pest control looks like in the Bay Area.

San Francisco's permitting process has been a nightmare for decades. Mayor Lurie's PermitSF initiative is one year in, and a lot has actually changed.

SF just loosened zoning rules in North Beach, Nob Hill, and Jackson Square with Ordinance 250682. It’s a move aimed at filling vacant storefronts and bringing more life back to these key commercial areas.