Public Meetings - Santa Rosa, California

This special meeting of the Santa Rosa City Council was convened for a Goal Setting Workshop, focusing on establishing priorities for the upcoming fiscal year and evaluating the City Manager's performance. The meeting included presentations from Jacob Green & Associates (JGA) on strategic planning best practices and from the Chief Financial Officer on the city's financial outlook, followed by extensive public comment. The council then adjourned to closed session to discuss the City Manager's performance evaluation. Public Comments & Testimony - Tom LaPenna (Santa Rosa Manufactured-Home Owners Association - SRMOA) supported recent council actions for manufactured home owners and requested a zoning overlay to protect senior parks and lowering the in-place transfer fee from 10% to 5%. - Gregory Fearon urged staff to prepare for rapid utilization of a potential new revenue source for permanent supportive housing, pending a November 2024 voter approval for housing subsidies. - Roger McConnell (SRMOA) supported lowering the in-place transfer fee and adopting a zoning overlay. - Duane DeWitt (Sonoma County Housing Advocacy Group) advocated for a hard-headed fiscal oversight approach, not using reserves for the upcoming budget, addressing housing constraints, seeking federal and state funding for extremely low-income rental housing, and exploring grant funding for Roseland. - Cris Eggers (Bikeable Santa Rosa) supported recent and upcoming bike projects and suggested allocating 15% of transportation funding to protected, connected bikeways. - JoAnn Jones (SRMOA) supported creating an overlay to designate senior parks as senior parks. - Calum Weeks (Generation Housing) supported zoning reforms, parking policy updates, impact fee relief, and housing goals. - Melissa Stewart supported funding for the Violence Prevention Program (VPP) and other safety programs, including School Resource Officers (SROs) at high schools. - Bill Montgomery (Friends of Prince Memorial Greenway) supported funding for parkways and median landscape maintenance and formally adopting the Friends of Prince Memorial Greenway as a city activity. - Ananda Sweet (Santa Rosa Metro Chamber) supported goals in six areas: Economic Development/Business Support, Housing, Homelessness, minimizing fire risk, downtown vibrancy, and early care/education. - Steve Rabinowitsh supported goals for Prince Memorial and Southeast Greenways to address climate change and enhance community attractiveness. - Chris Guenther (Bikeable Santa Rosa) supported creating a low-stress bicycle network as part of the transportation system. - Ryan Mathis supported budgeting for SROs at high schools. - Yvonne Berg (SRMOA) supported lowering the in-place transfer fee, noting that the current 10% fee was causing buyers to fail loan qualification due to high rent costs. - Joti Chandi supported funding or in-kind services for the Wednesday Night Market. - Karen Weeks supported complete implementation of the 2014 Open Government report. - Danielle Nelson (General Manager, Santa Rosa Plaza Mall) supported an office incentive policy, downtown parking strategy review, allocation of an Assistant City Attorney for misdemeanor enforcement, addressing safety at the Transit Mall, and overall downtown safety and attraction. - Rebecca Sullivan (Safe Campus Alliance) supported prioritizing city safety programs and school campus safety, including funding for SROs and VPP. - Mike Montague (Railroad Square Association President) supported additional funding for parks, specifically Prince Memorial Greenway maintenance. - Michelle Klimek supported funding for bicycle paths, better connectivity, and downtown beautification. - Jim Pedgrift (Southeast Greenway Campaign) supported making the Southeast Greenway a priority goal with adequate staff time in Planning and Recreation/Parks departments. - Margaret DeMatteo (Legal Aid) supported lower in-place transfer fees and adoption of senior mobile home park overlay zone to prevent displacement, and suggested proactive rental inspection programs and eviction protections. - Dianne Monroe supported adopting a zoning overlay to protect senior parks and lowering in-place transfer fees. - April Liggett Ritts supported funding for safety on school campuses, including return of SROs. - Jen Klose (Generation Housing) urged council to set “moonshot” goals to address the housing crisis, calling for a six-fold increase in production. - Jeremy De La Torre supported overall safety as a main priority, focus on youth violence, continued funding for VPP, and wrap-around support services. - Thomas Ells supported infrastructure and maintenance funding as a priority. - Christopher Williams supported increased funding for maintenance of Prince Memorial Greenway and other creek maintenance. - Anabell Nunez opposed SROs on campus, asked for focus on children’s safety, pedestrian access, homeless spending, and equitable distribution of funds across districts; supported more funding for VPP. - Rick Dunniston supported SROs on campus. - Cadance Hinkle Allinson (DAO) supported improving downtown safety, lighting, parking strategy review, retention/expansion of businesses, transit mall safety, and allocation of an Assistant City Attorney for misdemeanor enforcement. Discussion Items - City Council Priority Setting Workshop (Item 2.1): Jacob Green from Jacob Green & Associates (JGA) presented on strategic planning best practices, emphasizing the council-manager form of government, the need for alignment between council vision, staff execution, and budget. He outlined the Santa Rosa process: already held a public hearing in January (19 speakers), individual council member meetings, today’s second public input opportunity, followed by closed session for city manager expectations, work planning by staff, third public input at budget review (May), and final budget adoption in June. Green noted that the city has already done substantial foundational work. - Financial Presentation by CFO Alan Alton: Alton highlighted several financial challenges: a structural general fund deficit (with a $3.3 million deficit adopted for the current year), deferred maintenance, overextended programs with insufficient funding, rising labor costs and turnover (e.g., water department had 23% turnover in the last calendar year), and new unfunded mandates like electric vehicles. He presented the city’s reserves: total general fund reserves around $80 million (after PG&E settlement), unassigned reserves at $60 million (32% of operating expenditures vs. 17% policy), and fiscal stability reserves declining from $40 million to about $24 million. Alton projected a deficit of approximately $5.2 million for FY 2024-25, growing in subsequent years. He stressed the need to examine core services, add revenue, and use reserves strategically. Vice Mayor Stapp clarified that the city has about a 2-3 year runway before reserves are exhausted unless revenue increases or cuts are made. Councilmember MacDonald discussed the potential of using one-time reserves for deferred maintenance to avoid higher future costs. - Council Discussion: Council members asked clarifying questions about the deficit timeline, reserve growth, and the relationship between reserves and structural deficits. There was general agreement on the need for fiscal sustainability and prioritization. Key Outcomes - The presentation (Item 2.1) was received and filed by the council. - Public comments were received and noted for incorporation into the priority setting process. - The council adjourned to closed session at 11:43 a.m. to discuss Item 4.1 (Public Employee Performance Evaluation – City Manager) and reconvened at 1:41 p.m. - Closed Session Report: City Attorney Teresa Stricker reported that there was no reportable action from the closed session. - The meeting was adjourned at 1:42 p.m. - Next steps include staff developing work plans based on council direction and public input, with a third public input opportunity during the budget review process in May 2024, leading to formal budget adoption in June 2024.

The Santa Rosa City Council met on January 30, 2024, in a combined closed session (12:30 PM), study session (2:00 PM), and regular meeting (starting at 4:00 PM). The council approved consent items, adopted the 2024 Federal Legislative Platform, accepted the third annual Community Wildfire Protection Plan report, and approved bond issuance for Orchard Commons. Public comments featured repeated calls for a ceasefire in Gaza, as well as support for violence prevention and other local issues. Consent Calendar - 13.1 – Approved a lease agreement with Skikos Properties, LLC for a temporary police substation at 1215 Sebastopol Road. (Resolution RES-2024-014) - 13.2 – Approved purchase of one West-Mark 3-axle potable water tank truck for $243,149.02 via Sourcewell cooperative. (Resolution RES-2024-015) - 13.3 – Approved a professional services agreement with Burke, Williams & Sorensen, LLP for legal representation in Bay Cities Paving & Grading, Inc. v. City of Santa Rosa, not to exceed $725,000, with retroactive effective date of October 25, 2023, and authorized a $725,000 budget amendment from unassigned General Fund reserves. (Resolution RES-2024-016) - 13.4 – Adopted on second reading an ordinance increasing the Mayor's monthly salary from $2,200 to $2,220, retroactive to December 14, 2022, to correct a clerical error. (Ordinance ORD-2024-001) All consent items passed unanimously (7-0). Public Comments & Testimony - Study Session 4.1 (Development Fee Study): Calum Weeks, Policy Director of Generation Housing, expressed full support for the cost recovery measures, stating that resourcing departments is essential for pro-housing policies. - Study Session 4.2 (Violence Prevention Partnership): Duane DeWitt spoke in support of the program, emphasizing the need for a community advisory committee that includes individuals with street experience. - Non-Agenda Matters (Item 14 & 18): At least 12 speakers addressed the council. The majority urged adoption of a resolution calling for a ceasefire in Gaza, citing humanitarian concerns and the impact on local Palestinian residents. Several speakers, including Irene Hodes (Jewish Community Relations Council) and Linda Elyad, asked the council not to bring forward a ceasefire resolution, arguing it is not a local issue and could be divisive. James Duncan raised the urgency of the Jennings Avenue rail crossing deadline (March 1, 2024) and requested a staff report. - Item 13.1 (Police Substation Lease): Duane DeWitt spoke in support, noting the importance of a visible police presence in Roseland and suggesting community engagement. - Item 16.1 (Orchard Commons Bonds): Duane DeWitt spoke in support, stating the housing advocacy group supports the project. - Item 15.3 (Wildfire Protection Plan): Duane DeWitt and Thomas Els spoke in support of using grazing for vegetation management and asked that Roseland be included. Discussion Items - 4.1 Draft Development Related Cost of Service Fee Study: Staff (Gabe Osburn, Cindy Sconce) presented the study, showing a 23% discrepancy between costs and current fees. Council members discussed subsidies for affordable housing, childcare, grocery stores, and fee deferrals. Staff was directed to develop an affordable housing subsidy program and bring the fee schedule back for adoption in March. - 4.2 Violence Prevention Partnership Implementation Plan: Program Manager Danielle Garduno and Community Outreach Specialist Rogelio Roman presented Year 1 strategies, including a Safe Campus Intervention Program, hospital-based crisis response, tattoo removal restart, and workforce development. Council discussed staffing needs (estimated $400,000/year for two to three additional community outreach specialists) and potential funding sources. - 15.1 2024 Federal Legislative Platform: Lobbyists from MMO Partners highlighted FY2023 federal funding successes (e.g., $7M SAFER grant, $10M transit grant) and outlined priorities for wildfire mitigation, transportation, water resilience, housing, and public safety. Council questions focused on preparing projects for funding. The platform was adopted 5-0-2 (Councilmembers MacDonald and Okrepkie recused due to fire-related conflicts). - 15.3 Third Annual Report of the Community Wildfire Protection Plan: Fire Marshal Paul Lowenthal presented accomplishments including GIS tracking, vegetation management, public education, and the new vegetation management ordinance. The report was accepted 6-0-1 (Councilmember C. Rogers absent). - 16.1 TEFRA Public Hearing for Orchard Commons Bonds: The council held a public hearing and approved the issuance of up to $20 million in tax-exempt multifamily housing revenue bonds for the 46-unit affordable housing project (completed January 2023) to convert construction financing to permanent financing. Approved 6-0-1 (C. Rogers absent). Key Outcomes - Consent Calendar approvals (7-0) – Lease, water truck, legal services agreement, and salary correction. - Direction to staff on Development Fee Study: Develop a subsidy program for affordable housing and other council priorities; bring fee schedule back for adoption in March. - Direction to staff on Violence Prevention Partnership: Continue building programs; explore additional staffing and potential ballot measure support. - Adoption of 2024 Federal Legislative Platform (5-0-2) – Resolution RES-2024-017. - Acceptance of Community Wildfire Protection Plan third annual report (6-0-1) – Motion carried. - Approval of bond issuance for Orchard Commons (6-0-1) – Resolution RES-2024-018. - Item 15.2 (2024 State Legislative Platform) was continued to the next regular meeting. - Council appointments: Council Member Fleming appointed to Zero Waste Sonoma, with Renae Gundy as alternate (approved 7-0).

The Public Safety Subcommittee met on January 23, 2024, from 9:01 a.m. to 10:53 a.m. All three members (Chair Jeff Okrepkie, Councilmember Eddie Alvarez, and Mayor Natalie Rogers) were present. The meeting included presentations and discussions on the First Response Advanced Life Support (FRALS) partnership agreement, the newly formed Gang Crimes Team, the Roseland Police Substation update, and departmental updates from the Police and Fire Departments. No formal actions were taken; the subcommittee provided direction to staff. Public Comments & Testimony - Anabelle Nunez (during the Gang Crimes Team item) asked several questions concerning the number of arrests on school campuses, school disciplinary processes, youth incarcerations, arrests of children of color, youth interrogated without legal or parental representation, children on Individualized Education Programs (IEPs), and youth arrested or questioned for probation/parole violations. She expressed concern about potential targeting of youth on probation. - Annette Arnold (representing the South Park Coalition) spoke in support of the Gang Crimes Team and the Violence Prevention Partnership, urging adequate funding and resources to tackle crime and gangs in her neighborhood. Discussion Items - 5.1 First Response Advanced Life Support (FRALS) Partnership Agreement – Fire Chief Scott Westrope and Division Chief Jack Thomas presented key elements of the new FRALS agreement between the City of Santa Rosa and the Sonoma County Fire District under the new ground ambulance contract. The agreement, effective January 16, 2024, provides $1.5 million per year in compensation (up from $605,000) and achieves full cost recovery for the city’s EMS division. It includes a dedicated medical director, a continuous quality improvement (CQI) coordinator, and provisions for a mutual aid surge ambulance agreement and a future EMS subscription fee program. The subcommittee discussed staffing requirements (maintaining 12 ALS units) and how service quality will be measured (real-time dashboards, patient outcome metrics). No public comments were made. - 5.2 Gang Crimes Team – Police Chief John Cregan, Sergeant Travis Menke, and Violence Prevention Partnership Program Manager Danielle Garduno presented an overview of the newly formed Gang Crimes Team, which consists of four plainclothes detectives and one sergeant. The team’s four priorities are prevention, intervention, education, and enforcement. Chief Cregan emphasized that this is not a task force and does not use the CalGang database. The team will focus on responding to violent gang crimes, building relationships, and referring youth to restorative justice and community resources. Councilmember Alvarez asked about the distinction between identifying gang members vs. gang participants, the role of the team with school campuses, and metrics for success. Mayor Rogers inquired about resources for individuals leaving gang life (safety plans, relocation support) and the capacity of the Violence Prevention Partnership to handle increased referrals. The subcommittee discussed the importance of tracking data on school-related incidents and graffiti abatement. - 5.3 Roseland Substation Update – Chief Cregan provided an update on the permanent and temporary police substations in Roseland. The city purchased a 4,500-square-foot building at 470 Sebastopol Road (currently housing the Roseland Library) for a permanent substation, expected to be available around 2026 after the library moves to the Hearn Community Hub. To provide immediate presence, the city is leasing an 800-square-foot temporary space at 1215 Sebastopol Road, which will have four desks and four parking spaces. The temporary substation is expected to be operational by March 2024. The subcommittee discussed the goal of increasing police visibility, improving response times, and offering a community meeting space. Councilmember Alvarez emphasized that the effort is intended to provide service, not instill fear. No public comments were made. - 7.1 Police Department Update – Chief Cregan reported on recruitment and hiring successes: in 2023, the department hired 37 new employees (26 police officers, 11 civilians, and 3 interns). As a result, the department currently has only four sworn officer vacancies. The department joined the 30x30 initiative to increase female representation; current sworn female officers make up 12% (25 officers), and the number of Spanish-speaking officers has grown (42 conversational, 24 fluent). The department is also working with an Equitable Policing Task Force to improve diversity. No public comments were made. - 7.2 Fire Department Update – Fire Chief Westrope reported that the Fire Department has 157 full-time equivalent positions with nine vacancies in operations, plus 12 new hires needed for the SAFER grant. Four new firefighters begin an academy January 29; 11 are in the background process. Fire Station 5 construction is delayed to June 2024, with completion mid-2025. Fire Station 8 in Roseland is in design-build phase. The real estate team is scouting properties for three new fire stations if the March fire service sales tax measure passes. Fleet updates include seven type 1 engines on order and two type 6 engines expected soon. The SAFER paramedic squad program is on track for March 2024 deployment. No public comments were made. Key Outcomes - No formal votes or decisions were taken; all items were informational and for direction. - The temporary Roseland substation at 1215 Sebastopol Road is expected to open in March 2024; the permanent substation at 470 Sebastopol Road is anticipated around 2026. - The subcommittee expressed interest in tracking metrics related to school campus incidents and requested coordination between the Gang Crimes Team and the My Santa Rosa app for graffiti reporting. - A community meeting in the Roseland area is planned for March 2024 to gather feedback on police services. - The next regular meeting of the Public Safety Subcommittee is scheduled for April 23, 2024, at 9:00 a.m.

The Santa Rosa Cultural Heritage Board held a regular meeting on January 17, 2024, beginning at 4:30 p.m. (called to order at 4:32 p.m.). All board members were present except Vice Chair Garrett. The board approved minutes from previous meetings, received a department report, and considered two scheduled items: acceptance of the Downtown Station Area Historic Resources Survey Report and a proposed Wayfinding Sign Ordinance amendment. Approval of Minutes - The board approved the December 6, 2023 draft minutes as submitted. - The board approved the December 13, 2023 draft minutes as amended to reflect that Vice Chair Garrett made a friendly amendment, seconded by Board Member Fennell. Public Comments - No public comments were made on any agenda items. Department Reports - Staff Liaison Murray reported that the 135 Mill Street project is expected to be submitted soon and that City Planner Jandon Briscoe returned to work after an accident. Board Member Klyn requested an update on Fremont Park; Murray agreed to coordinate with the Parks Department. Downtown Station Area Historic Resources Evaluation - Project Planner Sheila Wolski and consultant Mary Ringhoff of Architectural Resources Group presented the Historic Resources Survey Report. The survey covered 779 properties within the Downtown Station Area not in existing preservation districts or designated landmarks. - Key findings: 354 properties were determined to not contain potential for historic resources (streamlining housing approvals), 149 properties appeared potentially eligible as individuals (most at local level), and 4 could not be evaluated. Seven potential historic districts were identified: Wilson Ripley (208 properties), Third Street (28), Sonoma Avenue (22), Fourth Street (17), Civic Center (15), Imwalle Gardens (13 contributing elements), and Juilliard Park (11 contributing elements). No properties were designated as historic; acceptance completes the SB2 grant requirement. - Board members praised the thorough work. Board Member Fennell questioned why Imwalle Gardens and Juilliard Park were identified as districts rather than individual resources; the consultant explained the cohesive elements that convey significance. Late correspondence from property owners in existing districts was determined to be outside the survey scope. - A motion by Board Member Fennell, seconded by Board Member Carney, to waive reading and adopt Resolution CHB-2024-001 accepting the survey report carried 6-0 (Vice Chair Garrett absent). Wayfinding Sign Ordinance Discussion - City Planner Christian Candelaria presented the proposed zoning text amendment (REZ23-009) to create a new section for wayfinding signs, covering business wayfinding and public/civic amenity wayfinding. Permitted areas are the Downtown Station Area and North Station Area. Existing temporary signs in Railroad Square and civic signs downtown informed the proposal. - Board members provided comments and recommendations, including: - Chair Meuser: Signs in historic districts should complement the historic character; consider ornamentation or design that fits the district. - Board Member Carney: Concerned about unlimited signposts; recommended limiting signpost density per block. - Board Member Klyn: Favored hiding signposts behind existing poles for a minimalist look. - Board Member Marzlin and others: Suggested the Cultural Heritage Board conduct concept review for wayfinding signs in preservation districts. - Board Member Boren: Emphasized integrating public/civic signs with business wayfinding; noted the proposal already requires at least one public/civic sign per signpost, which she supported. - The board agreed that business logos do not need to adhere to historic standards but the signpost and overall design should. - Staff acknowledged the feedback and listed key points: follow historic character, limit signpost distances, hide signposts, require concept review for preservation districts, require public/civic sign in business wayfinding, and exempt logos from historic uniformity. - No formal action was taken; the board’s input will inform the ordinance. Key Outcomes - Approved the December 6 and December 13, 2023 meeting minutes (December 13 as amended). - Adopted Resolution CHB-2024-001 accepting the Downtown Station Area Historic Resources Survey Report (6-0). - Provided recommendations on the Wayfinding Sign Ordinance; no vote occurred.

The Santa Rosa Planning Commission held a regular meeting on January 11, 2024, at 4:30 PM in the Council Chamber at 100 Santa Rosa Avenue. Chair Karen Weeks presided with Vice Chair Vicki Duggan and Commissioners Charles Carter, Patti Cisco, Jeffrey Holton, and Julian Peterson present; Commissioner Terrence Sanders was absent. The meeting included approval of previous minutes, public comments, department reports, and two public hearings. The first hearing addressed a proposed Verizon wireless telecommunication tower at 244 Colgan Avenue (Conditional Use Permit), which was approved 6-0 after extensive public testimony. The second hearing considered a citywide zoning code text amendment to exempt senior care facilities from spacing and overconcentration requirements and to allow palliative care; the commission voted 6-0 to recommend adoption to the City Council. The meeting adjourned at 6:25 PM. Consent Calendar - Approval of Minutes: The minutes from October 26, 2023, and December 14, 2023, were approved as submitted without discussion. Public Comments & Testimony - Non‑Agenda Public Comment: Duane DeWitt spoke about overcrowding and infrastructure limitations in the Roseland area of southwest Santa Rosa, urging the commission to consider existing residents when approving new developments. - Public Hearing 9.1 – Verizon Tower (244 Colgan Avenue): Fourteen speakers opposed the project and one spoke in support. Opponents raised concerns about potential health effects from radiofrequency (RF) radiation, inadequate public noticing, the absence of a proven service gap, noise from generator testing, microplastic pollution from the monopine, and the tower’s proximity to low‑income senior housing and a creek. Multiple speakers identified themselves as retired nurses, a physics professor, a city planner, and a creek steward. One speaker (Vincent Hurst) supported the tower, emphasizing the need for improved cellular coverage for public safety. - Public Hearing 9.2 – Senior Care Zoning Code Text Amendment: No members of the public spoke during the open hearing period. Discussion Items - Department Reports: Staff Liaison Jones reported the appointment of Gabe Osburn as permanent Planning and Economic Development Director and announced the adoption of a professional services agreement for a South Santa Rosa specific plan (two‑year process covering 1,900 acres). A public meeting on a draft development services fee study was scheduled for January 22, 2024. - Verizon Wireless Telecommunication Tower (Item 9.1): - Staff Presentation (Suzanne Hartman): The project is a 69‑foot‑tall monopine (telecommunication tower) with ground equipment enclosed by a 7‑foot‑2‑inch chain‑link fence with barbed wire on a light‑industrial zoned parcel at 244 Colgan Avenue. The tower would be placed behind an existing auto repair shop, more than 100 feet from any habitable structure. The project qualifies for a Class 3 CEQA categorical exemption. Staff recommended approval subject to findings including compliance with zoning code and general plan, compatibility, and no public nuisance. - Applicant Presentation (Aaron Delao, Centerline Communications): The tower is needed to address capacity congestion in Verizon’s network (first detected in 2020). Alternative sites were considered but rejected as too far south. The monopine design blends with existing trees, and the site allows future co‑location. An RF report concluded that exposure at full capacity would be 11.8% of the FCC limit. Construction would take about three months; generators would be tested monthly during daytime hours. - Commission Questions and Deliberation: Commissioner Holton asked about generator testing hours – applicant agreed to limit testing to normal business hours (7 AM–7 PM weekdays, 8 AM–6 PM Saturdays, no Sundays/holidays). Commissioner Carter sought clarification that the fence height correction (7’2” instead of 6’) and the amended tolling agreement (extending shot clock to February 2, 2024) would be incorporated into the resolution. Staff confirmed. Multiple commissioners noted federal preemption regarding RF emissions and that the project met all required land‑use findings. - Senior Community Care Facility Zoning Code Text Amendment (Item 9.2): - Staff Presentation (Kristinae Toomians): The amendment proposed (1) exemption of senior care facilities from the 300‑foot spacing and overconcentration requirements for community care facilities, and (2) modification of the definition of “community care facility” to allow palliative and end‑of‑life medical treatments for senior care facilities. The change aligns with California Health and Safety Code Section 1520.5(f) and the General Plan’s support for senior housing. - Applicant Presentation (Peter Stanley, Raj Kalra – physician and owner): Dr. Kalra described a planned memory care facility in Oakmont that would be adjacent to independent living, illustrating how the current code prevents seniors from aging in place. The amendment would enable such complementary uses. - Commission Deliberation: Commissioners viewed the amendment as a housekeeping measure consistent with state law and beneficial for the community. No dissenting comments. Key Outcomes - Approval of Minutes: Unanimous approval (6‑0) of the October 26 and December 14, 2023, minutes. - Item 9.1 – Verizon Tower Approved: Motion by Commissioner Holton, seconded by Commissioner Cisco, to adopt Resolution No. PC‑2024‑001 approving the Conditional Use Permit for the telecommunications tower at 244 Colgan Avenue, including corrections to the fence height and the tolling agreement. The vote was 6‑0 (Sanders absent). - Item 9.2 – Zoning Code Text Amendment Recommended: Motion by Vice Chair Duggan, seconded by Commissioner Carter, to adopt Resolution No. PC‑2024‑002 recommending City Council adoption of the zoning code text amendments as presented. The vote was 6‑0. - Next Steps: The Verizon project will proceed subject to building permits and design review. The zoning text amendment will go before the Santa Rosa City Council for final action.

The Santa Rosa City Council held a regular meeting on January 9, 2024, beginning with a closed session, followed by a study session on an Integrated Pest Management (IPM) policy, interviews for boards and commissions, and a regular session that included a consent calendar, a public hearing on fiscal year 2024-25 budget priorities, and extensive public comments on non-agenda matters, including calls for a ceasefire resolution regarding the Israel-Hamas conflict and local infrastructure concerns. Consent Calendar - Items Approved (6-0, Council Member Rogers absent): Second Amendment with SpeakWrite, LLC for police transcription services ($170,000); Waiver of Competitive Bid and Master Services Agreement with Flock Group Inc. for ALPR technology ($421,650); Second Amendment with Buckelew Programs for the inRESPONSE program ($3,463,563); Agreement for First Responder Advanced Life Support Services with Sonoma County Fire District ($1,500,000 annually); Professional Services Agreement with 4Leaf, Inc. for the South Santa Rosa Specific Plan ($1,000,000 plus $1,200,000 grant); Extension of Local Homeless Emergency; Acceptance of Building Forward Library Facilities Improvement Program grant ($979,942); Addendum to Roseland Area EIR for Traffic Signalization at Hearn and Burbank Avenues; Purchase of five police vehicles ($239,640); Purchase of transit camera equipment ($325,000); Fifth Amendment for security guard services ($3,282,449); Third Amendment for translation services ($130,000); Fourth Amendment for NEOGOV services ($949,068); Introduction of ordinance increasing Mayor’s salary from $2,200 to $2,220 retroactive to correct clerical error. - Item Continued: Item 14.7 (City/County Funding Agreement for Samuel L. Jones Hall Homeless Shelter) was continued to a date uncertain. - Discussion on 14.4: The Fire Chief and Sonoma County Fire District Chief presented the transition to a public ambulance provider (Sonoma County Fire District in partnership with Medic Ambulance), effective January 15, citing improved response times and system control. Council members thanked them and clarified insurance billing. Public Comments & Testimony On Integrated Pest Management (Item 4.1) - Duane DeWitt expressed support for staff safety and suggested using goats and sheep for pest management. On Community Empowerment Plan (Item 9.1) - Duane DeWitt spoke on graffiti abatement by veterans and suggested leveraging veteran volunteers. - Elizabeth Neylon spoke on being a daily protester. On City Manager/City Attorney Reports (Item 10) - Gregory Fearon and Thomas Ells expressed support for the settlement with KBBF, noting its importance for the community and its financial impact. On Board Appointments (Item 12.2) - Duane DeWitt and Thomas Ells spoke in support of the Waterways Advisory Committee incumbents and requested more decision-making power for the committee to protect creeks. On Consent Calendar - Erika Thibault, Sonoma County Library Director, urged approval of the library grant (Item 14.8) for HVAC and electrical upgrades. - Duane DeWitt spoke on the South Santa Rosa Specific Plan (Item 14.5) and the traffic signal addendum (Item 14.9), emphasizing authentic community engagement and safety. - Gregory Fearon spoke in support of the South Santa Rosa plan. - Thomas Ells spoke on the library grant and suggested planting deciduous trees to reduce cooling loads. - Victoria Yanez, Homeless Action!, spoke on the homeless emergency proclamation (Item 14.6) and Sam Jones Hall funding (Item 14.7), criticizing the lack of warming centers. On Non-Agenda Matters (Item 15) - Duane DeWitt discussed Roseland annexation history and advocated for more small parks in the area. - Johanna James, Janet Barocco, and Eris Weaver urged the reopening of the Jennings Avenue pedestrian/bicycle rail crossing, noting a CPUC deadline of March 1, 2024, for an agreement with SMART. - Thomas Ells proposed a “turbo roundabout” design for the Hearn Avenue connection. - Multiple speakers (Jordan, Zoe Kessler, Victoria Yanez, Lexi Bakkar, Michael Titone, Miles Saruis-Wilburn, Dre Antoun) urged the council to adopt a ceasefire resolution regarding the Israel-Hamas war, citing humanitarian concerns and the use of local tax dollars. Speakers also raised homelessness issues and the absence of warming shelters. On Budget Priorities Public Hearing (Item 17.1) - Duane DeWitt: support for parks in Roseland using development impact fees. - Eris Weaver (Sonoma County Bike Coalition): support for allocating at least 20% of transportation budget to bike/pedestrian infrastructure. - Gregory Fearon: support for low-income housing, civic engagement, bicycle paths, and parks. - Thea Hensel (Southeast Greenway Campaign): support for funding greenway planning and maintenance. - Steve Rabinowitsh: support for increased funding for park maintenance. - Jayne Rosenberg: support for parks, especially Southeast Greenway. - Joshua Shipper and Jen Klose (Generation Housing): support for pro-housing budget, including fee waivers and AB 602 implementation, urging concurrent action before the end of Q1. - Al Lerma (Sonoma County Hospitality Association): support for waiver of housing impact fees. - Alexa Forrester (Bikeable Santa Rosa): support for additional staffing and budget for bicycle infrastructure, suggesting 15% of transportation fund for low-stress bike network. - Rich Wallach (Burbank Housing): support for affordable housing funds and fee reform. - Abby Arnold: support for workforce housing and protected bike lanes. - Sonu Chandi (Chandi Hospitality Group): support for downtown funding, workforce housing, AB 602, fee waivers, and schools. - Rena Wang: support for funding a Santa Rosa Teen Council youth internship program. - Peter Rumble (Santa Rosa Metro Chamber): support for housing, downtown revitalization, economic development, childcare, and public safety. - Angie Dillon Shore (First 5 Sonoma, Los Cien): support for fee waiver study session and early childhood development. - Thomas Ells: support for traffic considerations on Hearn Avenue. - Jenny Bard (Sonoma County Bicycle Coalition): support for prioritizing additional protected bike lanes. - Joti Chandi (Chandi Hospitality): support for housing, impact fee reform, and continued funding for Wednesday Night Market. On Non-Agenda Matters (Item 19) - Additional speakers (Oona Risling-Sholl, Jeremy Marquardt, Gary Huntsman, Hannah Barakat, In Hui Lee, Tess Caldwell, Dallas Womack, Jacqueline Oneal Mermet, Summer Abdel Khalik, Sumaya Mughannam) urged the council to adopt a ceasefire resolution, citing humanitarian impacts and local taxpayer funding. Discussion Items Integrated Pest Management Policy (Study Session) - Staff (Sean McNeil, Jen Santos, Paul Lowenthal) presented options for a city-wide IPM policy, recommending: a complete ban on neonicotinoids; minimization of all pesticide use through IPM practices; requirement of certified applicators; a ban on glyphosate in sensitive areas (playgrounds, picnic areas, public gathering spaces) with exceptions for road medians, closed ball fields, and invasive species control; and creation of a public transparency website. They noted that since 2018, the city has used no glyphosate, resulting in a 50-58% cost increase for landscape contracts and the need for an estimated 32,000 additional labor hours (15 FTEs) for mechanical weed removal. Fire Department noted a $2.1 million hazard mitigation grant for fuel reduction. Council discussed safety, costs, and environmental concerns. Council Member Rogers reminded of the public health motivations. No action was taken, but direction was given to staff to draft a policy. Key Outcomes - Closed Session: No reportable action on items 3.1 (litigation), 3.2 (City Attorney evaluation), and 3.3 (labor negotiations). - Study Session: Staff directed to draft an Integrated Pest Management policy. - Appointments: Scott Doig to Bicycle and Pedestrian Advisory Board (Disabled Community Representative); Eric Miller to Board of Building Regulation Appeals; incumbents Art Deicke, Mark Neely, Steve Rabinowitsh, and Kevin Sea reappointed to Waterways Advisory Committee. (Vote: 6-0) - Minutes: December 12, 2023 minutes approved as submitted. - Consent Calendar: Items 14.1-14.6 and 14.8-14.15 approved (6-0); Item 14.7 continued. - Budget Priorities Hearing: Opened and closed; no action taken but public input received for budget development. - Ceasefire Requests: No action taken; multiple public comments were not agendized. - Next Meeting: Scheduled for January 30, 2024, at a time set by the Mayor.

Note on Meeting Date: The agenda and minutes indicate the meeting was held on December 13, 2023, but the instruction specifies using the date December 20, 2023. The summary reflects the latter date as instructed. The Cultural Heritage Board held a special meeting on December 20, 2023. The sole agenda item was a public hearing for a Landmark Alteration Permit (LMA22-016) to construct a new single-family dwelling at 912 McDonald Avenue within the McDonald Avenue Preservation District. After hearing staff presentation, public testimony, and board deliberation, the board voted 6-0 to approve the permit with conditions. Public Comments & Testimony - Doug Bosco (neighbor at 1020 McDonald Avenue) spoke in full support of the project, noting the lot had been used as a community garden for over 20 years and expressing 100% support for applicant Susan Merrill. - Steve Kawanis, landscape architect on the project, expressed full support for the project. - Applicant Susan Merrill (via Zoom) expressed excitement and gratitude, sharing her family's long history in the neighborhood since 1917. - Jeff Burrell, architect from Faral Faber, expressed support and enthusiasm for the project. Discussion Items Staff planner Christian Candelaria presented the project: a one-story, 1,873-square-foot, three-bedroom home with a detached two-car garage, well pump house, and covered outdoor area on an undeveloped lot. The project is exempt from CEQA. A historic standards report found the design compatible with the district character. The concept had been reviewed previously by the board, and changes were incorporated, including ginkgo trees (replacing crepe myrtles) and wood-clad windows. Board members asked questions about the attic gable window treatment, the well house (confirmed as a working well), and landscaping. Vice Chair Garrett raised concerns about the proposed fiber cement (HardiePlank) siding, suggesting smooth wood lap siding instead; the window mullions (preferring exterior grids rather than sandwiched between panes); and the light fixture (preferring a more traditional craftsman style). Applicant Susan Merrill was amenable to changes for windows and light fixture but uncertain about siding. Other board members expressed that the siding material was acceptable for a new home, noting that fiber cement can mimic wood and is fire-resistant. Board Member Fennell raised a concern about the chimney being clad in the same material as the house, suggesting stone or brick to break up the appearance. However, she did not make a motion. Key Outcomes - Motion: Vice Chair Garrett moved to approve Landmark Alteration Permit (PRJ22-027) with a friendly amendment requiring the windows to have exterior mullions (to simulate true divided lights) and a light fixture appropriate to the architectural style. The motion was seconded by Board Member Fennell. - Amendment clarification: The siding requirement was dropped from the amendment; the board accepted the proposed fiber cement lap siding as designed. - Vote: The motion carried 6-0 (Board Member Klyn absent). - Resolution: Resolution No. CHB-2023-001 approving the Landmark Alteration Permit for the Merrill Residence at 912 McDonald Avenue was adopted as amended. The meeting adjourned at 5:22 PM.

On December 14, 2023, the Santa Rosa Planning Commission held a regular meeting. The primary action was postponing the public hearing for a proposed Verizon wireless telecommunication tower at 244 Colgan Avenue to January 11, 2024, at the applicant's request. The commission heard extensive public testimony opposing the project before the postponement. The meeting also included a brief department report on staffing changes. Public Comments & Testimony - Carmen Gonzalez thanked the applicant for extending the hearing to January 11 and requested a similar postponement for a December 21 Design Review Board meeting. - Richard Boyd (retired physics professor) opposed the Colgan Avenue location, criticizing FCC radio frequency radiation limits as inadequate for long-term exposure and citing potential health risks. He urged the commission to return the proposal without suggestion. - Paul Andre Shabrak cited a zoning ordinance prohibiting commercial telecommunications facilities in high-density residential zones and raised safety concerns about fall zones, electrical code compliance, and FHA loan restrictions. He argued that a service coverage gap had not been properly demonstrated. - Michelle Messino de Luca (Vintage Park resident) noted the tower would be less than 500 feet from her 120-unit senior apartment complex, expressing concern for vulnerable residents with health conditions. She stated four other neighbors had COVID and could not attend. - Melody Stewart (urban planning master's degree, resident across from the site) opposed the location, stating that Verizon coverage already exists and that the process lacked adequate public notification. She noted the property owner was unaware of the tower's impact. - Kim Schroeder (Santa Rosa native) argued that Verizon has not proven a coverage gap, presented evidence of health risks from wireless radiation, and cited a 2021 DC Circuit Court ruling that FCC safety limits are outdated. She urged the commission to demand a service gap demonstration. - Unidentified speaker noted the proposed tower lies within a cluster of four other cells, questioned the need, and raised concerns about emissions exceeding safe standards, noise from a 30 kW generator, and inappropriate height (69 feet) and design. He criticized the notification timing (during Thanksgiving week) as cynical. - Sydney Cox (co-director of EMF Safety Network, Safe Tech for Santa Rosa) submitted an eight-page report citing personal harm from RFR, microplastic toxins from fake pine needles, and RFR levels exceeding permissible exposure even with mitigation. She noted no detailed fire safety report and potential for future co-location. She argued Verizon has 40 telecom sites in Santa Rosa, so a coverage gap is unlikely. - Jennifer Laporta (retired registered environmental health specialist, Safe Tech for Santa Rosa) stated there is no gap in service for Verizon and that the towers are for streaming, not essential services. She claimed firefighters are exempt from having towers at stations due to cognitive impairment risks. She compared the issue to tobacco and called EMFs a pollution. - Marty Granucci (Vintage Park senior apartment resident) strongly objected to the tower location, noting it is about 50 feet from the apartment complex and would affect thousands. He referenced advertising for 10G and cited potential harm from complex RF radiation. - Ed Nessinger (property owner at 244 Colgan Avenue) defended the project, questioning the public's willingness to give up modern conveniences like cell phones, Wi-Fi, and Bluetooth. He challenged opponents to turn off their phones, but his comments were cut short by the chair. Discussion Items - Postponement Request: Chair Weeks announced that the applicant requested postponement of Item 9.1 (Verizon tower) to January 11, 2024. Staff clarified that the Design Review Board meeting on December 21 would similarly be continued to January 18, 2024, with opportunity for public comment on non-agenda items. - Commissioner Reports: No reports. - Department Report: Planning Director Ms. Jones noted the December 28 meeting is canceled. She announced recent staff departures: Amy Lyle, Beatrice Guerrero, and Sherry Meads, with a recruitment for a planner upcoming. Key Outcomes - Motion to Continue: Commissioner Duggan moved to continue Item 9.1 (Verizon wireless telecommunication tower conditional use permit) to a date certain of January 11, 2024. Commissioner Sisko seconded. The motion passed unanimously (6-0, with Commissioner Peterson absent). - Next Steps: The public hearing on the tower will occur on January 11, 2024. The Design Review Board item is continued to January 18, 2024. No additional notices will be sent because continuances are to date certain.

The Santa Rosa City Council held a regular meeting on December 12, 2023, beginning with a closed session at 2:00 p.m., followed by a study session at 3:00 p.m., and the regular session at 4:00 p.m. The meeting included a study session on the Draft Economic Development Strategic Action Plan, the approval of consent items, declarations of city-owned surplus parcels, an update on the American Rescue Plan Act (ARPA) spending plan, and extensive public comment on non‑agenda matters, primarily concerning the conflict in Gaza. No reportable action was taken in closed session. Consent Calendar - Item 12.1 – Partnership Agreement for First Responder Advanced Life Support Services between the City and Sonoma County Fire District was continued to the January 9, 2024, regular meeting. - Item 12.2 – Resolution approved (7‑0) a First Amendment with EBA Engineering for on‑call environmental site assessments, increasing compensation by $250,000 to a total of $349,000 (Resolution RES‑2023‑197). - Item 12.3 – Resolution approved (7‑0) a Professional Services Agreement with Callander Associates Landscape Architecture, Inc. for design and engineering services for Martin Luther King Jr. Neighborhood Park and adjacent trail improvements, not to exceed $860,076 (Resolution RES‑2023‑198). - Item 12.4 – Resolution approved (7‑0) amending the City Classification and Salary Plan to add 12.0 FTE firefighter positions funded by a FEMA SAFER grant (Resolution RES‑2023‑199). - Item 12.5 – Ordinance adopted on second reading (7‑0) adding Chapter 9‑30 to the City Code pertaining to hazardous vegetation and fuels management in the Wildland‑Urban Interface Fire Area (Ordinance ORD‑2023‑016). Study Session - Item 3.1 – Council Compensation – Continued to a date uncertain; no action taken. - Item 3.2 – Draft Economic Development Strategic Action Plan – Gabe Osburn, Acting Director of Planning and Economic Development, presented the plan focusing on three pillars: business climate & communication, economic vibrancy, and resiliency & community investment. Council members provided feedback including support for small business assistance, housing and childcare components, workforce development, and the need to review outdated prohibitions on certain downtown businesses. A public commenter (Calum Weeks) spoke in support of objectives 3.1b and 3.1c (housing and childcare). No formal action was taken; staff received direction to refine the plan for future adoption. Report Items - Item 14.1 – Declaration of Surplus City‑Owned Parcels – Jill Scott, Real Estate Manager, presented 16 resolutions to declare 20 parcels (13 exempt, 3 non‑exempt) as surplus. Exempt parcels are small, unbuildable lots; non‑exempt parcels (1942 Rose Avenue, 752 Oak Street, and five parcels on Stony Point Road) may be suitable for housing. Council adopted all 16 resolutions (7‑0) after public comments from Thomas Ells (support for using sites for homeless solutions), Lauren D. (support as adjacent property owner), and Danny Clark (support). - Item 14.2 – ARPA Spending Plan Update – Assistant City Manager Daryel Dunston presented an update. The plan proposed shifting $2,000,000 from the Samuel Jones Hall Capital Project to the Hearn Community Hub to close a funding gap, and authorized the City Manager to shift up to $500,000 between programs without returning to Council. A resolution approving the updated spending plan was adopted (7‑0). Public commenter Thomas Ells spoke in support of the safe parking pilot program. Mayor Rogers noted that her priorities for any future shifts would be the Hearn Community Hub and small business tenant improvements. Public Comments & Testimony (Non‑Agenda Matters) - Ceasefire in Gaza – Seventeen speakers requested the Council place a resolution on a future agenda calling for a permanent ceasefire in Gaza, citing civilian deaths, the use of tax dollars, and comparisons to historical atrocities. Speakers identified as residents, Jewish community members, and activists. Julie Chasen and others emphasized that “never again means never for anyone.” No commitment was made to place the item on a future agenda. - Mobile Home Rent Control – Tom LaPenna, representing the Santa Rosa Manufactured Home Owners Association, thanked the Council for past actions on rent control and requested a zoning overlay to protect senior parks and a reduction in the in‑place transfer percentage. - Other – Thomas Ells also spoke in support of the Hearn Avenue overcrossing and homeless safe‑parking efforts. Key Outcomes - Consent Items: Items 12.2‑12.5 approved unanimously (7‑0). - Surplus Parcels: 16 resolutions adopted (7‑0) declaring 20 parcels as exempt or non‑exempt surplus, directing staff to submit Notices of Availability for non‑exempt parcels and to convey exempt parcels via bid procedure. - ARPA Spending Plan: Resolution approved (7‑0) to move $2,000,000 from Samuel Jones Hall to the Hearn Community Hub and authorize the City Manager to shift up to $500,000 between programs without further Council approval. - Study Session: Council provided direction to staff on the draft Economic Development Strategic Action Plan; no formal action taken. - No action was taken on public requests for a ceasefire resolution.