Public Meetings - Santa Rosa, California

The Public Safety Subcommittee met on January 28, 2025, at 9:00 AM in the Council Chamber. Chair Jeff Okrepkie and Committee Member Eddie Alvarez were present; Natalie Rogers was absent. The meeting focused on a proposed Drone as First Responder (DFR) program, the police department's new five-year strategic plan, and updates from the police and fire departments. The meeting adjourned at 10:09 AM. Public Comments & Testimony - Jim Duffy (oversight practitioner, NAACP and ACLU member speaking individually) spoke in opposition to the DFR program, urging the city to adopt a surveillance technology ordinance before expanding surveillance. He raised concerns about data retention, sharing with ICE, and lack of published policies for the real-time crime center. - Annette Arnold, a Santa Rosa resident, spoke in favor of the DFR program, stating it would save money, time, and lives, and support an understaffed police department. Discussion Items 6.1 Drone as First Responder (DFR) Program Police Lieutenant Josh Ludtke and Chief John Cregan presented an overview. The DFR program would deploy drones automatically to emergency calls, aiming to reduce response times from about 6 minutes 31 seconds to under 2 minutes. Drones would be launched from a central location, with a 40-minute flight time and automated battery swap. The program would be funded by grants, not the general fund. Key features: no facial recognition, no listening devices, public flight dashboard, and policy prohibiting sharing with ICE. Subcommittee members expressed support but raised concerns about future use and policy guardrails. Chair Okrepkie noted majority positive feedback and supported moving forward with preferences for recording on arrival and U.S.-made parts. 6.2 Santa Rosa Police Department Strategic Plan (2025-2029) Chief Cregan presented the five-year plan developed with input from internal staff, a citywide survey (945 respondents), a community meeting (65 attendees), and the Chief's Community Advisory Team (21 members). Six pillars: fostering community safety, organizational excellence, enhancing technology and innovation, organizational wellness, facility and equipment needs, and community engagement. The plan includes 35 objectives and is publicly available on the police department website. Subcommittee members praised the focus on organizational wellness and community engagement. Department Reports Police Department Update Chief Cregan reported on 2024 crime statistics: shooting incidents down 52% (from 361 to 173), illegal firearm seizures up 51% to a record 390 (including ghost guns up 125% to 124), homicides down 80% (from 10 to 2), homeless-related calls down 14%, priority one response time improved to 6:31. However, injury collisions up 19% and fatal collisions up 200% (from 2 to 6). So far in 2025, five homicides reported. The department is focusing on traffic safety and collaboration with Transportation and Public Works. Fire Department Update Fire Chief Scott Westrope reported staffing: 165 FTE, three vacancies with an academy in progress. Fire Station 5 construction pouring pad, expected completion April 2026. Fire Station 8 in design phase. Fleet updates: five Type 1 engines on order, two delivered in December 2024; two Type 6 engines expected soon; a ladder truck ordered for 2028. Squads (funded by sales tax measure) running 100-130 calls per week, with a comparative analysis to be presented next quarter. Key Outcomes - No formal votes were taken. The subcommittee received the DFR presentation and provided feedback supportive of continued exploration, with an emphasis on policy development and community transparency. - The strategic plan was presented and noted; subcommittee members expressed approval. - Department updates were informational; no action required. - The meeting minutes from October 15, 2024, were adopted as presented.

The Santa Rosa City Council held a regular meeting on January 28, 2025, starting at 4:05 PM and adjourning at 7:00 PM. All council members were present except Councilmember Natalie Rogers. The meeting included a proclamation, consent items, a public hearing on budget priorities, and reports on the state legislative platform, homelessness strategic plan, sewer code amendments, and mid-year budget adjustments. Several votes were taken, and public comments were heard on a range of topics. Consent Calendar - Item 13.1 – Approved a sole manufacturer bid award for the purchase of three 2025 Chevrolet Silverado 2500HD 4WD Crew Cab vehicles from Winner Chevrolet, Inc., for a total amount not to exceed $187,359.63. (Resolution RES-2025-005; adopted unanimously 6-0) - Item 13.3 – Approved a revision to the Permanent Local Housing Allocation Program (PLHA) Plan to allocate 40% of Round 5 PLHA funds (estimated $456,230) to Affordable Owner-Occupied Workforce Housing for low- or moderate-income households. (Resolution RES-2025-006; adopted unanimously 6-0) - Item 13.5 – Adopted on second reading an ordinance amending Title 20 of the Santa Rosa City Code to modify zoning code provisions related to density bonus, parking requirements, and accessory dwelling units. (Ordinance ORD-2025-001; originally introduced January 7, 2025, by a 4-3 vote; adopted 6-0) - Item 13.2 (HVAC maintenance agreement) was withdrawn. Item 13.4 (Homekey+ grant application for Caritas Homes Phase II) was continued to a date uncertain. Public Comments & Testimony - Duane DeWitt spoke on multiple occasions throughout the meeting. He expressed appreciation for the January 27 town hall, raised concerns about gang graffiti in Roseland, urged the city to address the former Caritas site as a warming center, and opposed annexations until existing city infrastructure is improved. He also commented on the Renewal Enterprise District (RED) and the need for open government, youth involvement, and fire safety in Roseland Creek Park. He thanked city staff for recent cleanups but criticized the city's response to volunteer efforts. - Gregory Fearon supported the town hall held January 27 and praised the mayor and vice mayor. - Cameron Miller referenced the book "Strong Towns" and asked the council to consider the long-term fiscal impacts of new development, requesting more information on infrastructure repair obligations. - Sher Ennis spoke about high permit fees in the historic district, noting that a permit fee for a roof replacement increased from $1,337 in 2018 to $10,000 currently, which she said discourages compliance. - Ken MacNab (representing property owners in south Santa Rosa) requested the council discuss an annexation strategy for the South Santa Rosa area during upcoming goal-setting sessions to avoid delays after the specific plan is adopted. Discussion Items - Item 7.1 – Proclamation: Mayor Stapp presented a proclamation declaring the 2025 Lunar New Year celebration by the Redwood Empire Chinese Association (RECA). Rena Wang accepted on behalf of RECA, highlighting the association's cultural and community programs. No public comments. - Item 15.1 – 2025 State Legislative Platform: Staff and consultant Dane Hutchings presented the proposed platform, covering priorities in insurance, housing, homelessness, economic development, public safety, environment, water, transportation, and more. Councilmember MacDonald requested adding support for after-school and summer program funding under economic development. Councilmember Okrepkie requested adding support for local control in housing and planning and support for hospitals regarding the seismic retrofit deadline. The platform was adopted in two resolutions: Resolution RES-2025-007 (on insurance for Wildland Urban Interface) passed 5-0 (Okrepkie recused); Resolution RES-2025-008 (overall platform as amended) passed 6-0. - Item 15.2 – Homelessness Solutions Strategic Plan Year Two Report (2024): Staff reported an 18% decrease in homelessness in Santa Rosa from 2022 to 2024 (from 1,658 to 1,365 persons). The city invested approximately $5 million annually. Key accomplishments: 579 individuals housed through city-sponsored programs (52% increase over prior year), 43% reduction in encampments with 10+ dwellings, 89% reduction in occupied vehicles/RVs, and a $3.9 million homelessness prevention pilot (Keep People Housed Sonoma). The council received the report (motion 5-0, Alvarez absent). Speaker Duane DeWitt noted challenges with HUD-VASH voucher utilization and urged attention to veterans. - Item 15.3 – Sewer Code Amendments (EPA Compliance): Staff presented minor edits to Title 15 to correct typographical errors and clarify reporting and recordkeeping requirements following the 2022 EPA audit. The ordinance was introduced on first reading (motion 5-0, Alvarez absent; will return for second reading). - Item 15.4 – Mid-Year Budget Adjustments: CFO Alan Alton presented FY 2024-25 budget reductions totaling $16.6 million in one-time and ongoing savings, including $9.2 million from stale appropriations and $7.4 million from vacant position reductions and operating cuts. Adjustments from the October study session included restoring five positions (in streets, facilities, recreation) and removing the $1.15 million PERS trust withdrawal. Two resolutions were adopted: Resolution RES-2025-009 (Parks Maintenance budget reductions) passed 4-0 (MacDonald recused, Alvarez absent); Resolution RES-2025-010 (General Fund reductions, new Trucked Waste Coordinator classification, and $50,000 appropriation to Renewal Enterprise District) passed 5-0 (Alvarez absent). Councilmember Fleming raised concerns about cutting aquatics concessions at Howarth and Ridgeway parks; the city manager agreed to explore raising prices to offset costs. - Item 16.1 – Public Hearing on FY 2025-26 Budget Priorities: The hearing was held as required by the City Charter. No action was taken. Public speakers included Ken MacNab (support for annexation planning) and Duane DeWitt (opposition to annexation until existing neighborhoods are served). Input will inform council goal setting and budget development. Key Outcomes - The council approved the purchase of three vehicles (Resolution RES-2025-005) and a revision to the PLHA Plan (Resolution RES-2025-006), both unanimously. - The council adopted on second reading the density bonus/ADU zoning ordinance (ORD-2025-001). - The council adopted the 2025 State Legislative Platform with amendments: Resolution RES-2025-007 (insurance priorities) passed 5-0; Resolution RES-2025-008 (overall platform) passed 6-0. Added priorities include support for after-school programs, local control in housing, and seismic retrofit relief for hospitals. - The council received the Homelessness Solutions Strategic Plan Year Two Report (2024) and noted progress toward functional zero homelessness. - The council introduced on first reading an ordinance amending Title 15 (sewers) to comply with EPA standards (second reading to follow). - The council adopted mid-year budget reductions: Resolution RES-2025-009 (Parks Maintenance) passed 4-0; Resolution RES-2025-010 (General Fund) passed 5-0. The actions authorize $16.6 million in savings, create a Trucked Waste Coordinator position, and allocate $50,000 from reserves to the Renewal Enterprise District. - Appointments: Council approved Mayor Stapp's appointments to regional bodies, joint powers authorities, board chairpersons, and council subcommittees (all votes 6-0). Notable: Council Member Fleming appointed to Sonoma Clean Power, RED, and ABAG; Council Member Okrepkie to SCTA and Public Safety Subcommittee; Council Member Bañuelos to Homeless Coalition and Climate Action Subcommittee. - The meeting was adjourned in memory of Joe Wang.

The Board of Building Regulations Appeals of Santa Rosa met on January 15, 2025, at 4:00 PM (called to order at 4:07 PM, adjourned at 4:38 PM) to approve previous minutes, elect officers, and hear an appeal regarding a Notice and Order to Vacate at 961 Stony Point Road. The board unanimously denied the appeal, upholding the city's order. Consent Calendar - Approval of Minutes: The board approved the draft minutes from October 18, 2023, and July 17, 2024, as submitted without changes. Board Business - Chair Election: Board Member David Cooper was re-elected as Chair by a unanimous vote (4-0). - Vice Chair Election: Board Member Craig Lawson was re-elected as Vice Chair by a unanimous vote (4-0). Public Comments & Testimony - Non-agenda public comments: No members of the public commented during the initial public comment period (opened and closed at 4:09 PM). - Appeal hearing public comments: After the board's vote, Chair Cooper re-opened public comment at 4:35 PM. Janice Karrman spoke in support of the board's denial of the appeal. She also shared general concerns about building and development in Santa Rosa and Sonoma County, emphasizing the need to preserve green spaces and respect environmental constraints. Public comment closed at 4:38 PM. Appeal Hearing: 961 Stony Point Road - Staff Presentation: Lou Kirk, Assistant Chief Building Official, presented the city's case. The property at 961 Stony Point Road has been subject to code enforcement cases since 1995 due to chronic failure to maintain the property. In October 2024, the city's water department terminated water service for non-payment. The property lacks potable water (a well on site is certified for external use only), has trash and debris, and shows signs of disrepair (tarps on roof, no trash service). The city recommended denial of the appeal. - Appellants' Position: Gary and Lili Pigsley, the property owners, appealed the administrative notice and order to vacate. In their written appeal, they claimed the premises is safe and habitable, that they have hot and cold water, and that the city's lack of responsibility for surrounding neighborhoods caused unsafe conditions from homeless individuals. Staff noted contradictions within the appeal. - Board Discussion: Board members questioned staff about the property's water service, the status of an accessory dwelling unit (ADU) on the property, and the extent of code enforcement. Staff clarified that water service remains off as of January 7, 2025; the ADU may have a separate meter but that is unclear; the property has not been inspected inside due to lack of access. The board reviewed photographs from December 2024 and January 2025 showing the condition of the property, including trash, debris, and a tarp-covered roof. Key Outcomes - Motion to Deny Appeal: Board Member Lawson moved, seconded by Board Member Gordon, to deny the appeal by Gary and Lili Pigsley and uphold the city's issuance of the Notice and Order to Vacate. The motion carried unanimously (4-0). - Next Steps: The property owners must vacate the premises until water service is restored and the property is brought into compliance with health and safety codes. The city may continue enforcement actions, including interior inspections. The meeting adjourned at 4:38 PM.

This regular meeting of the Santa Rosa City Council convened at 2:30 PM with a study session on water and wastewater rates, followed by interviews for the Housing Authority at 3:30 PM, and the regular session beginning at 4:00 PM. The meeting adjourned at 6:59 PM. Council took significant actions including introducing a zoning code amendment to comply with new state housing laws (passed 4-3), adopting the 2025 Federal Legislative Platform (unanimous), and approving several consent items. Public comment was heard on various topics. Consent Calendar - Item 14.1: Resolution appropriating $406,933.91 in additional cell tower lease revenues to the Help 2 Others (H2O) program was adopted (Resolution RES-2025-001). - Item 14.2: Resolution approving the Eighth Amendment to the General Services Agreement with Smile Business Products, Inc. for citywide copier lease, maintenance, and repairs (extension of one year, increase of $200,000, total not to exceed $1,433,173.80) was adopted (Resolution RES-2025-002). - Item 14.3: Resolution approving a Professional Services Agreement with Remix Technologies LLC for transit scheduling and planning software (five base years with two one-year extensions, amount not to exceed $303,867.00) was adopted (Resolution RES-2025-003). - Item 14.4 (Purchase of two Kenworth dump trucks for $579,053.79) was continued to a date uncertain. Public Comments & Testimony - On Proclamation (8.1): Speakers thanked Common Ground Society for its work on inclusion and belonging. Olivia Ellis described how isolation affects families with disabilities; Terrance Sanders (Luther Burbank Rose Parade Chair) highlighted the importance of inclusive spaces; Duane De Witt advocated for understanding; Jana Adams (Common Ground President) expressed gratitude. - On Community Empowerment Plan (9.1): Duane De Witt proposed a “red curb patrol” to paint curbs at intersections for safety under the new state daylighting law, suggesting community volunteers use donated paint. - On Consent Items (14): Duane De Witt commented on Item 14.3 (Remix software), urging stable transit schedules and criticizing frequent changes. - On Non-Agenda Matters (15): Duane De Witt gave New Year wishes and suggested partnering with the Southwest Greenway for funding; Janice Karrman requested drone mapping of Santa Rosa to document losses from fires and complained about a residential project causing street congestion and tree removal. - On Zoning Code Text Amendment (17.1): Duane De Witt urged a cautious approach given small sample size; Yolanda Galvez opposed components, citing parking issues at specific developments in Coffee Park (3790 and 3800 Coffee Lane). - On Federal Legislative Platform (16.1): No public comments. Discussion Items - 4.1 Comprehensive Water and Wastewater Rate Study Report (Study Session): Santa Rosa Water Director Jennifer Burke, consultant Mark Hildebrand, and Interim Assistant City Attorney Dustin Cooper presented proposed rate increases for FY 2025/26–2029/30: water rates increase 6% for three years, then 7% for two years; wastewater rates increase 5% per year for five years. Key drivers: capital underinvestment (infrastructure report card target of $34M/year for water, $42M/year for wastewater), Sonoma Water wholesale cost pass-through reinstatement, and inflation. The study session provided direction to staff to proceed with Proposition 218 notice. - 5.1 Housing Authority Interviews: Council interviewed four applicants (Claudia Cappio, Wayne Downey, Miles Horton; two others absent). Applicants discussed housing challenges, funding, and experience. - 8.2 Sonoma Water Presentation: Kent Gylfe (Sonoma Water Director of Engineering) presented capital projects update, rehabilitating wells and tanks, seismic retrofitting, and cathodic protection. Council and staff discussed rate projections, infrastructure spending, and the need for long-term CIP planning. - 9.1 Community Empowerment Plan Update: Ana Horta announced upcoming community meetings (Jan 22 – drone program; Jan 27 – mayor/vice mayor meet & greet) and CPR training for 7th graders. - 12.2 Board and Commission Appointments: Council appointed incumbents David Cooper and Craig Lawson to the Board of Building Regulation Appeals (7-0). For Housing Authority, appointed Claudia Cappio and incumbent Wayne Downey (7-0). - 16.1 2025 Federal Legislative Platform: Presented by Assistant City Manager Jason Nutt and MMO Partners (Kyriakos Pagonis, John O'Donnell). Highlights of 2024 accomplishments: over $10M in federal funding secured (including $898,000 for police, $1.75M for transportation safety, $210,000 for energy efficiency). The 2025 platform covers wildfire resilience, surface transportation, water/energy, PFAS, climate change, housing/homelessness, public safety, and education. Councilmember Banuelos moved to add language on immigration policy; Councilmember MacDonald proposed three additional amendments: (1) monitor immigration policy consistent with city's indivisible resolution (2018-199), (2) protect entitlement funding (Social Security, Medicare, Medicaid, SNAP, TANF, veterans benefits, child nutrition), (3) support highest level of FY2026 funding for K-12 and special education. - 17.1 Public Hearing – State Legislation Zoning Code Text Amendment: Senior Planner Monet Sheikhali and Supervising Planner Amy Nicholson presented amendments to comply with new state laws (ADU rules, density bonus, shared parking, SB9). Staff proposed limiting ADUs on properties developed under both provisions of SB9 to one ADU and one JADU, but only outside the Wildland Urban Interface (WUI) and on streets at least 36 ft wide (or 30 ft if parking on one side). Discussion centered on safety, street width, WUI concerns, and housing goals. Councilmember Fleming offered a friendly amendment to apply the restrictions only in the WUI and remove the street width provision; it was not accepted by the motion maker. The original motion (staff recommendation) passed with a vote of 4-3 (Stapp, Alvarez, Okrepkie, Rogers in favor; Banuelos, Fleming, MacDonald opposed). Key Outcomes - Water/Wastewater Rate Increases: Council gave direction to staff to proceed with the Proposition 218 notice, including a 45-day exhaustion period (written objections due March 5, 2025) and a public hearing on April 1, 2025. Rates will increase 6% per year for three years for water (then 7% for two years) and 5% per year for wastewater for five years. - Zoning Code Text Amendment (REZ24-004): Introduced by a 4-3 vote. The ordinance modifies Zoning Code chapters on density bonus, parking adjustments, ADUs, and rules of interpretation, including the staff-recommended limitation on ADUs/JADUs when both provisions of SB9 are used (only outside WUI and on streets meeting width requirements). - Federal Legislative Platform: Adopted unanimously (7-0) with four amendments: inclusion of immigration policy monitoring, protection of entitlement funding, support for K-12 and special education funding, and a reference to the city's indivisible resolution. - Appointments: Unanimous reappointments to Board of Building Regulation Appeals (Cooper, Lawson) and Housing Authority (Cappio, Downey). - Consent Calendar: Approved unanimously (14.1-14.3; 14.4 continued). - Minutes: Approved as submitted (13.1 with Banuelos and MacDonald abstaining; 13.2 with Banuelos abstaining; 13.3 as amended with spelling correction).

The Santa Rosa City Council held its regular meeting on Tuesday, December 17, 2024, beginning at 4:02 p.m. in Council Chamber. Mayor Natalie Rogers presided, with Vice Mayor Mark Stapp and Council Members Eddie Alvarez, Victoria Fleming, Dianna MacDonald, and Jeff Okrepkie present. Council Member-elect Caroline Bañuelos joined the dais after taking the oath of office later in the evening. No closed session items, study sessions, proclamations, public hearings, or written communications were scheduled. The meeting included a staff briefing on data dashboards, approval of a nine-item consent calendar, an American Rescue Plan Act spending plan update, a public service easement vacation, Community Advisory Board alignment, certification of the November 2024 election, and election of the Mayor and Vice Mayor. The meeting adjourned at 7:42 p.m. Staff Briefing - Item 8.1: The Council received a presentation on the new “Santa Rosa Insights” data dashboards, presented by Administrative Analyst Luke Faser and Chief Information Officer Brian Tickner. The dashboards provide public access to data on community service requests, police calls, building permits, and other city services. Council received and filed the item. Public commenters Duane De Witt and Gregory Fearon spoke in support. Consent Calendar - The Council approved Consent Items 13.1 through 13.9 by a 6-0 vote, with a motion by Vice Mayor Stapp seconded by Council Member Okrepkie. Adopted resolutions included: - RES-2024-190: Second Amendment to Best Best & Krieger LLP agreement for continued legal representation in the Airport Business Center appeal, increasing compensation by $95,000 to a total not to exceed $195,000, with a $110,000 appropriation from unassigned General Funds. - RES-2024-191: Fifth Amendment to Best Best & Krieger LLP agreement for real estate legal services, increasing compensation by $140,000 to a total not to exceed $640,000, with a $140,000 appropriation. - RES-2024-192: Purchase order for one Caterpillar 306 compact excavator from Peterson Tractor of Santa Rosa for $143,162.09 through Sourcewell Cooperative Agreement No. 011723-CAT. - RES-2024-193: Waiver of competitive bidding and approval of a non-standard agreement with Peregrine Technologies, Inc. for software purchase, implementation, and training, not to exceed $283,500 for an initial three-year term with two optional one-year renewals. - RES-2024-194: Waiver of competitive bidding and approval of a Master Services Agreement with Flock Group Inc. for Automatic License Plate Recognition cameras and stationary cameras, not to exceed $897,999.94 for an initial three-year term with three optional renewals. - RES-2024-195: Extension of the proclamation of a local homeless emergency. - RES-2024-196: Seventh Amendment to David J. Powers & Associates, Inc. agreement for environmental services for the Roseland Creek Community Park and Master Plan, increasing compensation by $118,854 to a total not to exceed $365,224. - RES-2024-197: Purchase order for one RapidView IBAK sewer inspection vehicle from Jack Doheny Company of Northville, Michigan, for $421,434.80 through Sourcewell Cooperative Agreement No. 120721-RVL; this item had been continued from the November 19 and December 10, 2024 meetings. - RES-2024-198: Waiver of the competitive bid process and approval of a Professional Services Agreement with OIR Group LLC as independent Police Department auditor, not to exceed $270,000 over three years. - During public comment on the consent calendar, Duane De Witt spoke on Item 13.7, raising concerns about Roseland Creek restoration and calling for community “ground truthing” by the consultant. Public Comments & Testimony - Item 8.1: Duane De Witt and Gregory Fearon expressed support for the data dashboards. - Item 9.1: No public comments were made on the litigation report. - Item 11: Nicole Price spoke on HIV and AIDS awareness in Sonoma County, urging increased testing and outreach. - Consent calendar: Duane De Witt commented on Item 13.7. - Item 15.1 (ARPA): Gregory Fearon expressed concern that some services funded by ARPA could end and urged continued support; Duane De Witt criticized what he described as a lack of infrastructure investment in Roseland; Adina Flores spoke in opposition to the item. - Item 14 (non-agenda public comment): Duane De Witt thanked outgoing Mayor Rogers and Council Member Alvarez for their work in Roseland and welcomed Caroline Bañuelos; Adina Flores raised concerns about campaign manager conduct; Gregory Fearon discussed new behavioral health responsibilities; Eric Fraser spoke in support of Adina Flores and raised short-term rental and civic responsibility issues. - Item 15.2 (easement vacation): No public comments were made. - Item 15.3 (Community Advisory Board): Gregory Fearon supported the item; Calum Weeks supported the item and favored Option 2; Duane De Witt suggested abolishing the CAB; Eric Fraser suggested an additional composition option with alternates; Adina Flores spoke in support; Janice Karrman spoke in opposition and asked the Council to delay action. - Item 18.1 (election results): Adina Flores criticized the business tax measures and questioned whether all businesses were paying taxes; Raj spoke in support of Council Member Dianna MacDonald; Gregory Fearon thanked election officials and voters. - Item 18.3 (Mayor election): Public commenters included Duane De Witt and Janice Karrman, who advocated for a mayor elected directly by voters; Madonna Feather, Ana Diaz, and Aundray Rogers voiced support for Eddie Alvarez; Larry Liguri supported Victoria Fleming; several speakers thanked outgoing Mayor Rogers. - Item 18.4 (Vice Mayor election): Adina Flores expressed disappointment with the mayoral result and voiced support for Eddie Alvarez and Dianna MacDonald. - Item 19 (final non-agenda public comment): Jen Klose of Generation Housing offered support and invited Council members to a Housing 101 event on February 7, 2025; Veronica Cruz congratulated Council Member Bañuelos. Discussion Items - ARPA Spending Plan Update (Item 15.1): Staff presented an update on Santa Rosa’s $34,637,465 allocation from the American Rescue Plan Act. Funds must be obligated by December 31, 2024, and fully spent by December 31, 2026. As of November 1, 2024, approximately $19.4 million had been expended (about 55%), $6.7 million was encumbered, and $8.4 million was obligated, with the largest remaining obligation being the Hearn Community Hub. Staff reported that 43 of 45 small business support grant agreements had been executed as of the meeting, equivalent to 96%. Program highlights included: 260 individuals sheltered through the Safe Parking program, 71 participants exiting to permanent housing, 9 undocumented youth securing Special Immigrant Juvenile Status through the Secure Family Fund, 640 individuals sheltered at Sam Jones Hall, 502 adults and children sheltered at Coritas Family Support Center, and the In-Response mental health team responding to nearly 4,800 calls in 2023. The item was received and filed; no action was taken. - Summary Vacation of Public Service Easement (Item 15.2): City Planner Sachnoor Bisla presented the request for 5608 Newanga Avenue. The easement, recorded in 1983, had never been used for public access or public utilities; a relocated emergency vehicle access easement off Newanga Avenue would supersede the existing emergency access. The Council adopted RES-2024-199 by a 6-0 vote. - Community Advisory Board Alignment (Item 15.3): City Clerk Dina Manis, City Attorney Teresa Stricker, and Community Engagement Manager Ana Horta presented recommended changes to align Community Advisory Board (CAB) geographic areas with City Council elected districts. The recommendations reduced CAB membership from fourteen to seven members, established a quorum of four members, clarified motion-passing language, and amended Council Policy 000-06. The City Attorney recommended amending the voting language in Resolution 1 so that a majority of CAB members present is required to pass a motion, with abstentions effectively counted as no votes. The Council discussed two transition options: Option 1 allowed all seven seats to be filled immediately with existing appointees while prioritizing future appointments from the correct districts; Option 2 required immediate appointments from within each district and left two vacancies. The Council adopted RES-2024-200 and RES-2024-201, and approved the Option 1 transition plan, all by 6-0 votes. Council Reorganization - Election Results (Item 18.1): City Clerk Dina Manis reported the certified results of the November 5, 2024 General Municipal Election. The Council adopted RES-2024-202 by a 6-0 vote, declaring Eddie Alvarez elected for District 1, Dianna MacDonald for District 3, Caroline Bañuelos for District 5, and Natalie Rogers for District 7, each for a full four-year term, and declaring that voters approved Measure EE (Business Tax) and Measure FF (Transient Occupancy Tax). - Oaths of Office (Item 18.2): City Clerk Manis administered the Oath of Office to newly elected Council Members Alvarez, MacDonald, Bañuelos, and Rogers. Council Member Bañuelos then joined the Council at the dais. - Election of Mayor (Item 18.3): Following nominations, Council Members voted by ballot. In the first round, Eddie Alvarez, Dianna MacDonald, and Mark Stapp each received 4 votes. In the second round, Mark Stapp received 4 votes, Eddie Alvarez received 3 votes, and Dianna MacDonald received 0 votes. Mayor Rogers declared Mark Stapp elected Mayor and passed the gavel. - Election of Vice Mayor (Item 18.4): Jeff Okrepkie and Eddie Alvarez were nominated. By ballot, Eddie Alvarez received 4 votes and Jeff Okrepkie received 3 votes. Mayor Stapp declared Eddie Alvarez elected Vice Mayor. Key Outcomes - Consent calendar adopted 6-0, approving RES-2024-190 through RES-2024-198. - ARPA spending plan update received and filed; staff confirmed compliance with the December 31, 2024 federal obligation deadline. - Public service easement vacation at 5608 Newanga Avenue approved 6-0 as RES-2024-199. - Community Advisory Board realignment resolutions RES-2024-200 and RES-2024-201 adopted 6-0, and the Option 1 CAB appointment transition plan approved 6-0. - November 2024 election results certified 6-0 as RES-2024-202. - Mark Stapp elected Mayor and Eddie Alvarez elected Vice Mayor. - Meeting adjourned at 7:42 p.m.; the next regular meeting was scheduled for January 7, 2025.

The Santa Rosa Planning Commission held a regular meeting on December 12, 2024, at 4:30 PM. The meeting included two public hearings: a state legislation zoning code text amendment to ensure compliance with new state laws, and a proposal to streamline the Landmark Alteration Permit process and consolidate the Cultural Heritage Board and Design Review Board into a single Design Review and Preservation Board. Both items were recommended for City Council adoption. The commission also received a department report on the cancellation of the Woodlands at Chenate EIR scoping meeting. Consent Calendar - Approved the November 14, 2024 draft minutes as submitted. Public Comments & Testimony - Brian Meuser (past chair, Cultural Heritage Board) spoke in support of the streamlining and consolidation proposal (Item 11.2), but urged making professional qualifications mandatory for the new board, at-large appointments, mandatory training for staff, and reducing or eliminating landmark alteration permit fees. - Sher Ennis (West End resident) spoke in opposition to the high landmark alteration permit fees, which increased from $1,337 in 2018 to an estimated $8,000–$10,000 in 2024, making simple repairs financially infeasible and discouraging preservation. - Denise Hill spoke in support of the proposal, emphasizing the need for mandatory training for staff and board members, and recommended that the city pursue Certified Local Government (CLG) status to access grant funding and state resources. Discussion Items - Department Report: Deputy Director Jessica Jones reported that the Woodlands at Chenate project EIR scoping meeting scheduled for December 12 was canceled due to a conflict with a Santa Rosa School Closure Committee meeting. The meeting will be rescheduled for after January 5, 2025. - Item 11.1 – State Legislation Zoning Code Text Amendment: Supervising Planner Amy Nicholson presented amendments to align the city code with 2023-2024 state laws. Key changes include: expanding detached ADU allowances on multifamily properties (up to 8), eliminating owner-occupancy deed restrictions, permitting unpermitted ADUs built before 2020, updating density bonus provisions (including new options for up to 100% density bonus without requiring 100% affordable units), requiring shared parking accommodations under certain conditions, and removing the need for rezoning for housing projects to achieve General Plan consistency. The commission discussed options for regulating ADUs on SB9 properties (staff recommended Option 3 – prohibiting ADUs in high-fire areas and on narrow streets). Questions were clarified on unpermitted ADUs, non-conforming structures, and General Plan consistency. - Item 11.2 – Landmark Alteration Process Improvements & Board Consolidation: Deputy Director Jones presented proposed amendments to streamline the Landmark Alteration Permit (LMA) process and consolidate the Cultural Heritage Board (CHB) and Design Review Board (DRB) into a single Design Review and Preservation Board (DRPB). The proposal creates a director-level review for minor alterations, expands exemptions, and moves many items from CHB to the zoning administrator. The DRPB would have required qualifications: at least two architects, one landscape professional, and one archaeologist/historian. The commission discussed concerns about professional qualifications, at-large appointments, training for staff and board members, and the high permit fees. The panel noted that fees are not within their purview but would be addressed by the City Council. The commission also discussed the potential for pursuing Certified Local Government status. Key Outcomes - Item 11.1 – Resolution PC-2024-026: The commission voted 6-0 (Commissioner Carter absent) to recommend that the City Council adopt the zoning code text amendment to ensure consistency with state law. - Item 11.2 – Resolution PC-2024-027: The commission voted 5-0-1 (Commissioner Sanders recused, Commissioner Carter absent) to recommend that the City Council adopt the zoning and municipal code amendments to streamline the LMA process and consolidate the CHB and DRB into a single Design Review and Preservation Board. - Commissioners expressed support for: making the new board an at-large appointment to ensure qualified members; requiring mandatory training for staff (director and zoning administrator) and board members; reducing or eliminating landmark alteration permit fees; and exploring Certified Local Government (CLG) status. These comments were noted for transmittal to the City Council.

The Santa Rosa City Council met on December 10, 2024, at 2:00 PM for a closed session, followed by a study session at 3:30 PM and a regular session at 4:00 PM. The meeting included a study session on capital improvement program prioritization, a staff briefing on a homeless prevention pilot program, a public hearing on a property default, and reports on public safety tax and transit planning. The council took several actions, including approving consent items, accepting an annual report, and extending a development deadline for negotiation. Consent Calendar - Item 13.1: Approved a Sixth Amendment to Professional Services Agreement with Geary, Shea, O’Donnell, Grattan & Mitchell P.C. for legal representation in the amount of $550,000 (total contract not to exceed $100,000)—adopted (Resolution RES-2024-186). - Item 13.2: Approved a Memorandum of Understanding and Single Role Paramedic Side Letter for Unit 2 Firefighting (IAFF Local 1401), effective July 1, 2024 through June 30, 2027—adopted (Resolution RES-2024-187). - Item 13.3: Approved the Assignment and Assumption of Professional Services Agreement and First Amendment with U.S. Bancorp Asset Management, Inc. (dba PFM Asset Management) for investment advisory services, extending the term to October 1, 2029 and increasing compensation by $1,720,000 for a total not-to-exceed amount of $3,220,000—adopted (Resolutions RES-2024-188 and RES-2024-189). - Item 13.4: The purchase of a RapidView IBAK Sewer Inspection vehicle ($420,342.17) was continued to the December 17, 2024 regular meeting. Public Comments & Testimony - Item 4.1 (Study Session): Chris Guenther (Bikeable Santa Rosa) expressed strong support for the proposed capital improvement prioritization approach, emphasizing a “fix-it-first” strategy and the benefits of designing streets for all users. - Item 13.2 (Consent): Steve DelPorto spoke in support of the firefighter MOU, thanking staff for negotiations. Duane De Witt spoke in support of both the MOU and the sewer inspection vehicle purchase, highlighting the importance of paramedic and EMT wages and the need for infrastructure inspection in Roseland. - Item 15.1 (PSAP Report): Duane De Witt advocated for increased funding for violence prevention programs and questioned the $2.1 million purchase of the Roseland Library building for a police substation; he also noted the need for proportional parking at the Southeast Greenway. - Item 14 (Non-Agenda): Duane De Witt discussed parking ratios for the Southeast Greenway compared to Roseland Creek Park, urging equity. Connie Aust opposed a proposed Quick Quack Car Wash near her residential community due to noise, traffic, and visual impacts. - Item 16.1 (Public Hearing): Duane De Witt supported staff’s recommendation to repurchase the 410 B Street property from Cornerstone Properties, arguing against further extensions and urging the city to seek a developer with a viable plan. Discussion Items - Study Session (4.1) – Capital Improvement Program Prioritization Update: Director Dan Hennessey presented a revised approach to prioritize existing infrastructure maintenance over new road-widening projects, proposing a programmatic five-year funding plan, increased flexibility, and a new mobility and infrastructure subcommittee. Council members expressed support for the reprioritization, accountability measures, and the idea of a subcommittee, with interest in regular updates. - Staff Briefing (8.1) – Prevention Pilot Program Update: Sasha Brown presented the Keep People Housed Sonoma (KPH) program, a countywide homeless prevention pilot funded by public-private partnerships ($3.9 million total, including $1.3 million from the city). The program aims to prevent 350–400 households from becoming homeless over two years by providing rapid financial assistance and stabilization services. Launch is scheduled for December 16, 2024. Council members praised the program. - Report (15.1) – FY 2023-24 Public Safety and Prevention Tax (PSAP) Annual Report: Fire, Police, and Violence Prevention Partnership (VPP) staff presented the annual report. Key highlights: 6% sales tax increase to $4.6 million; expenditures of $6.5 million (including $2.1 million for the Roseland Library purchase); fire department staffing supported 10 engine companies; police department 17 positions contributed to a 54% reduction in shootings and 75% reduction in homicides year-to-date; VPP programs served 5,197 individuals through Choice Grants and launched a Clean Slate tattoo removal program. Council accepted the report unanimously. - Public Hearing (16.1) – Cornerstone Properties Default at 410 B Street: The city sold the property in 2021 with development milestones. Cornerstone failed to meet deadlines despite two extensions totaling 2.5 years. City staff recommended repurchasing the property for $1,340,000. After public comment, council debated options. Councilmember Okrepkie proposed a 120-day extension to allow staff to negotiate an amended agreement with tighter timelines and proof of financing. The motion passed 6-0, directing staff to negotiate a revised scope, number of units, proforma, and construction timeline. - Report (15.2) – Marin Sonoma Coordinated Transit Service Plan (MASCOTS) Update: Matthew Wilcox (City Bus), Kathleen Sullivan (Marin Transit), and Rachel Ede (Deputy Director) presented initial findings from the MASCOTS effort, which analyzes transit service along the Highway 101 corridor. Key findings: SMART train has captured a larger share of regional travel; there is duplication between Golden Gate Transit and SMART; the plan will recommend service adjustments to improve connectivity and efficiency. The report was informational; no action taken. Key Outcomes - Study Session: Received and filed; staff received direction to proceed with the proposed prioritization framework and explore a subcommittee. - Staff Briefing: Received and filed. - Consent Items 13.1–13.3: Adopted unanimously (6-0). - Board Appointment (11.2.1): Scott Conrad appointed to the Marin/Sonoma Mosquito Vector Control District Board of Trustees for a two-year term ending December 31, 2026 (vote 4-0-1-1, with Councilmember MacDonald recused and Councilmember Fleming absent). - Minutes (12.1): Approved as submitted. - PSAP Report (15.1): Accepted by motion (6-0). - Public Hearing (16.1): Motion to extend deadlines by 120 days and direct staff to negotiate an amendment with Cornerstone Properties passed 6-0. The extension allows time for negotiation; if no agreement is reached, staff will return for further action. - MASCOTS Report (15.2): Received and filed. - Written Communications (17.1, 17.2): Received and filed. - Meeting Adjourned: at 7:03 PM.

The Santa Rosa City Council met on November 19, 2024, starting with a closed session at 1:33 PM and reconvening in open session at 4:03 PM. The meeting was adjourned at 5:50 PM. Councilmember Dianna MacDonald was absent. The council approved consent items, declared two parcels of land as surplus, set a 50% tax increment commitment for a downtown Enhanced Infrastructure Financing District, approved a street outreach and crisis response contract with New Hope for Youth, and held a public hearing to authorize up to $45 million in bonds for the Casa Roseland affordable housing project. Councilmember Chris Rogers announced his resignation effective December 2, 2024, after being elected to the State Assembly. Consent Calendar - Resolution 13.1 – Approved a fourth amendment to a legal services agreement with Geary, Shea, O’Donnell, Grattan & Mitchell P.C., increasing compensation by $190,000 for a total not to exceed $540,000, and appropriating $290,000 from the General Fund for continued representation in the Vannucci litigation. - Resolution 13.2 – Approved a second amendment to the banking services agreement with JPMorgan Chase Bank, extending the term to September 4, 2028, and increasing the not-to-exceed amount to $600,000. - Resolution 13.3 – Accepted a $2,500,000 grant from the California Department of Housing and Community Development for Casa Roseland (665 and 883 Sebastopol Road) and authorized payment to MidPen Housing Corporation. - Resolution 13.4 – Approved a general services agreement with PCD for audio/visual system upgrades at the Utilities Field Operations Building, totaling $482,641.29. - Item 13.5 (purchase of a sewer inspection vehicle) and Item 13.6 (firefighter MOU and paramedic side letter) were continued to the December 10, 2024, regular meeting. - Ordinances 13.7, 13.8, and 13.9 – Adopted on second reading as part of the Resilient City Standards update, including amending the zoning code, reclassifying 8,383 parcels, and adding tentative map extensions for the Tubbs/Nuns Fire areas. All consent items were approved unanimously (6-0). Public Comments & Testimony - Non-agenda matters (Items 14 and 18): No members of the public provided comments. - Public Hearing (Item 16.1): No public comments were made during the TEFRA hearing for Casa Roseland bonds. - Item 15.3: Henry Corona, a representative of New Hope for Youth, spoke in support of the street outreach program, highlighting the organization's preventive work with youth as young as nine years old. Discussion Items - 15.1 – Surplus Land Declarations: Jill Scott, Real Estate Manager, presented two parcels: 2610 Franz Kafka Avenue (non-exempt surplus, suitable for housing) and 655 1st Street (exempt surplus, under half an acre). Both were declared surplus; the Franz Kafka site will be offered for affordable housing, and the 1st Street property will be pursued for economic development. The council adopted both resolutions (6-0). - 15.2 – Downtown Enhanced Infrastructure Financing District (EIFD) Tax Commitment: Gabe Osburn, Director of Planning and Economic Development, presented the proposed EIFD, which would capture a portion of future property tax increments within the downtown boundary to fund public infrastructure and economic development. The county had committed 25% of its increment. Councilmember Fleming proposed setting the city's commitment at a minimum of 50%, with the option to revisit and adjust (up or down) after the Infrastructure Financing Plan is further developed. The council adopted the resolution as amended (6-0). - 15.3 – Street Outreach and Crisis Response Agreement: Jeff Tibbetts, Danielle Garduno, and Phillip Rodriguez presented the need for a credible messenger model to address a gap in intervention services since 2017. Data showed a 55% increase in juvenile firearms arrests, a 129% increase in ghost guns seized, and a 49% increase in juvenile case filings year-over-year. The contract with New Hope for Youth is for $1,200,000 over two years (2025-2026), funded by Measure H (PSAP) and potential grants. The council approved the resolution (6-0). - 16.1 – Public Hearing for Casa Roseland Bonds: Angela Morgan presented the proposal for 75 affordable rental units at 665 and 883 Sebastopol Road. The California Municipal Finance Authority would issue up to $45 million in tax-exempt bonds, with all financial obligations borne by the borrower. The council conducted the public hearing and approved the plan of finance (6-0). Key Outcomes - Approved (6-0): Consent items 13.1-13.4 and 13.7-13.9. - Approved (6-0): Resolutions declaring 2610 Franz Kafka Avenue as surplus land and 655 1st Street as exempt surplus land. - Approved (6-0): Resolution setting the city’s minimum property tax increment commitment for the Downtown EIFD at 50%, with an option to revisit. - Approved (6-0): Resolution approving a professional services agreement with New Hope for Youth for street outreach and crisis response services ($1.2 million). - Approved (6-0): Resolution approving the plan of finance and issuance of up to $45 million in tax-exempt bonds for Casa Roseland. - Continued: Items 13.5 and 13.6 to the December 10, 2024, regular meeting. - Councilmember Chris Rogers announced his resignation effective December 2, 2024, having been elected to the California State Assembly.

The Santa Rosa Planning Commission convened a regular meeting on November 14, 2024, at 4:30 PM. The meeting included a public hearing on the General Plan 2050 Draft Environmental Impact Report (EIR), a continuation of the Elm Tree Station item to a date uncertain, and a public hearing on the Lance Drive Housing Development project, which was approved unanimously. Commissioners also heard public comments on non-agenda matters, approved the October 10, 2024 minutes, and received a department report. Public Comments & Testimony - Duane DeWitt (Roseland resident) spoke on intelligent transportation systems from Copenhagen, Denmark, advocating for improved bicycle and pedestrian infrastructure, tree planting along roads, and cautioning that new housing in Roseland is attracting commuters from other counties, increasing driving and water demand. Discussion Items Elm Tree Station EIR (Item 11.1) Chair Weeks announced that this item, previously continued from October 24, 2024, was being continued again to a date uncertain. No further discussion occurred. General Plan 2050 Draft Environmental Impact Report (Item 11.2) Staff from the Planning and Economic Development Department (Amy Nicholson, Supervising Planner; Nancy Woltering, Senior Planner) and Placeworks consultants (Terry McCracken, principal) presented the Draft EIR. The 45-day public review period closes November 20, 2024. The EIR evaluates impacts of the proposed General Plan 2050, which includes land use changes to accommodate growth, a greenhouse gas reduction strategy targeting 40% below 1990 levels by 2030 and 85% by 2045, and carbon neutrality by 2045. Key findings: The EIR identifies significant and unavoidable impacts in five areas: agricultural resources (conversion of farmland), air quality (exposure of sensitive receptors to pollutants), noise (construction and traffic), residential vehicle miles traveled (VMT) (increase of 57.9 million additional VMT per year, or about 158,630 daily VMT), and wildfire risk (exacerbation due to development in high-risk areas). Mitigation measures and policies are included but some impacts remain unavoidable at the program level. Public testimony: - Alexa Forester (Bikeable Santa Rosa) opposed the project, citing the projected VMT increase and arguing that the impacts are avoidable with different priorities. - Ken McNabb (KMAC Advising, representing property owners in the Todd Creek area) opposed, stating the Draft EIR fails to acknowledge the South Santa Rosa Specific Plan process, which could lead to annexations and additional impacts not analyzed. Commissioner questions and comments focused on VMT mitigation banks, autonomous vehicle considerations, consistency with the South Santa Rosa Specific Plan, and requests for clarifications in the final EIR (e.g., definition of “established community,” inclusion of street sign standards, updates on police and fire facilities, and corrections to school district references). Staff and consultants (Zach Matley, W Trans) responded, noting that VMT mitigation banks are in early development and that individual projects will still be held to VMT thresholds. The commission took no action; comments will be included in the final EIR. Lance Drive Housing Development (Item 11.3) Staff (Connor McKay, Senior Planner) and applicant representatives (Andrew Rosenberg and Sean Murphy, Pacific Development) presented a proposal for a 672-unit apartment complex, 98 single-family homes (small lot subdivision), and 4,800 square feet of community-serving retail on approximately 34.93 acres. The project is within the North Santa Rosa Station Area Specific Plan, near the SMART station. It includes 1,414 parking spaces, a 10-foot-wide Class I bike path along Guerneville Road, two new bus stops, a community garden, and 562 new trees. The project is planned in three phases, with all units electric. The applicant noted that affordable housing will be provided on-site (inclusionary units in phases 1 and 3, in-lieu fee for phase 2). The project is exempt from further CEQA review under the Specific Plan EIR. Public testimony: - Paula Souffle (President, Westbury Condominium HOA) opposed, citing evacuation safety concerns from the 2017 Tubbs Fire and traffic on Guerneville Road. - Susan Hicks (Westbury resident) opposed, raising concerns about health impacts of power lines, flood mitigation, noise, and inadequate affordable housing. - Azita DeVinci (Westbury homeowner) opposed, emphasizing public safety and evacuation risks. - Cassandra Boyd (homeowner on Ponemos Street) opposed, recounting personal experience during the 2017 fire and questioning evacuation planning. - Unidentified Spanish-speaking speaker opposed, citing parking issues and wildlife habitat loss. - Adrian Covert (Santa Rosa YIMBY) supported, highlighting the project’s proximity to transit and retail as a model for reducing VMT. - Calum Weeks (Generation Housing) supported, noting the site is an infill opportunity near a SMART station and critical for meeting housing goals. - Abby Arnold (Santa Rosa homeowner) supported, emphasizing the need for housing for workers who currently commute long distances. - Alexa Forester (Bikeable Santa Rosa) supported, but urged the city to provide safe bike/pedestrian connections and evacuation plans. Staff and the Fire Marshal (Paul Lowenthal) and Traffic Engineer (Rob Sprinkle) responded to evacuation concerns, citing improvements since 2017: zone-based evacuation system (project falls in Northwest 2 zone), battery backups at traffic signals, real-time camera monitoring, and phased evacuation plans. The Fire Marshal noted that during the 2020 Glass Fire, the east side of Santa Rosa was evacuated in about 2.5 hours due to these improvements. All seven commissioners expressed support, stating they could make the required findings. They noted the project aligns with the North Santa Rosa Station Area Specific Plan, provides much-needed housing near transit, and incorporates thoughtful amenities. Key Outcomes - Elm Tree Station EIR (Item 11.1): Continued to a date uncertain. - General Plan 2050 Draft EIR (Item 11.2): Public hearing held; no vote. Commission comments will be incorporated into the final EIR, which will return for certification in spring 2025. - Lance Drive Housing Development (Item 11.3): Two motions were made by Commissioner Sanders, seconded by Commissioner Pardo, and passed unanimously (7-0): - Resolution No. PC-2024-024: Approved a Conditional Use Permit for Phase 2 (98-unit small lot subdivision). - Resolution No. PC-2024-025: Adopted the Tentative Map for the entire Lance Drive Housing Development. The decisions are final unless appealed within 10 calendar days. Consent Calendar - Approved minutes of October 10, 2024, as submitted. Commissioner Reports - Vice Chair Duggan noted she would read notes from her phone due to a hand injury. Department Reports - Deputy Director Jessica Jones reminded that November has only one meeting due to Thanksgiving, and the December 12 meeting will include legislative code amendments and proposed changes to the Lemark alteration permit process.