Laurel AA group seeks new home after fire

A new nonprofit, potential 15-year lease, and a proposed $500,000 state grant could restore a full schedule of 12-step meetings and create room for other recovery groups in Laurel.

Published on Mar. 8, 2026

Laurel's longtime AA community is working to secure a new meeting space on Montgomery Street after a December fire destroyed its busy Main Street location, sharply reducing in-person support. The group is establishing a new nonprofit and seeking a 15-year lease, as well as a $500,000 state grant, to rebuild and expand recovery services in the city.

Why it matters

The loss of the Main Street AA meeting space has been a significant blow to Laurel's recovery community, which relied on the centrally located and accessible venue. Establishing a new, long-term home for 12-step meetings and other support groups is crucial to ensuring continued access to these vital services.

The details

The December fire that destroyed the AA group's Main Street meeting space has forced the community to find a new location. They are now working to set up a new nonprofit organization that would secure a 15-year lease on a building on Montgomery Street. The group is also seeking a $500,000 state grant to help fund the renovation and expansion of the new facility, which they hope will allow them to restore a full schedule of meetings and potentially host other recovery-focused organizations as well.

  • The AA group's Main Street meeting space was destroyed in a fire in December.
  • The group is now working to establish a new nonprofit and secure a 15-year lease on a building on Montgomery Street.

The players

Laurel AA group

A community of Alcoholics Anonymous members who have been meeting in Laurel for many years.

Got photos? Submit your photos here. ›

What’s next

The judge in the case will decide on Tuesday whether or not to allow Walker Reed Quinn out on bail.

The takeaway

This case highlights growing concerns in the community about repeat offenders released on bail, raising questions about bail reform, public safety on SF streets, and if any special laws to govern autonomous vehicles in residential and commercial areas.