Online petition launched for upscale SF neighborhood to join Marin County

SAN FRANCISCO (KRON) — In these politically divisive times, rumblings of secessionist movements are increasingly common. A movement for California to break away from the rest of the United States has drawn increased interest in the aftermath of Donald Trump’s return to the White House.

There’s even a movement among several far north red California counties to break away from the rest of the state. Now it seems, even one affluent San Francisco neighborhood wants in on the action.

An online petition has surfaced calling for Noe Valley to break away from San Francisco County and join Marin County instead. The petition which can be found on Change.org calls to “Liberate Noe Vally! Escape the Chaos — Join Marin County Now!”

“Noe Valley Deserves a New Chapter — Join Our Annexation Movement!” the petition reads. “For years, Noe Valley has endured the relentless chaos of San Francisco County: packed streets that choke our mornings, endless construction that disrupts our evenings, and a political system that leaves our once charming neighborhood in a perpetual state of limbo. We’ve had enough. It’s time to pursue a future that truly reflects our community’s spirit.”

So why Marin? More fresh air and open space apparently.

“Imagine stepping outside to cleaner air and open spaces — where the clamor of urban congestion yields to the gentle rustle of trees and the soft hum of a more relaxed pace of life,” the petition reads. “Marin County offers that promise, where each breath feels like a quiet rebellion against the unyielding pace of city life.”

“Noe Valley might be vibrant, but it deserves more than the constraints of high-density urban living,” it continues. “By joining Marin, we reclaim our right to a peaceful, suburban life — where parking spots are a given, and the existential crises over every artisanal loaf of bread become a relic of the past.”

Located in central San Francisco, nestled between the Mission District, Eureka Valley and Glen Park, Noe Valley is known for quaint streets, shops, restaurants and a family-friendly vibe. Colloquially known as “Stroller Valley,” it’s one of the city’s more affluent neighborhoods.

At roughly $185,103, median income in Noe Valley is about $40,000 higher than the city average of $141,446. It’s also one of the SF neighborhoods most resistant to new housing construction.

According to the San Francisco Chronicle, residents in Noe Valley launched more discretionary review petitions — a common tactic used by residents to change or deny construction plans — than any other neighborhood in the city.

Noe Valley was also the center of a city-wide controversy in 2022 when plans were revealed that a new public restroom with a $1.7-million price tag would debut in the neighborhood. The high-priced commode was eventually installed at the greatly reduced cost of around $300,000.

The petition recognizes that it would be physically impossible for Noe Valley to join Marin County. But it seems that’s not what it’s about.

“This petition isn’t merely about geographical borders,” the petition reads, “it’s a statement of intent. It declares that Noe Valley residents are ready for a change, hungry for an environment that aligns with our dreams and values. We are not just signing a petition; we’re joining a movement that dares to imagine life beyond San Francisco’s ceaseless hustle.”

“By signing this petition, you help send a clear message to the Marin County Board of Supervisors: Noe Valley is ready to sever ties with a status quo that no longer serves us. We demand recognition, respect, and future that’s as expansive and hopeful as the Marin horizon.”

At the time of this writing, the petition has garnered just 3 verified signatures.