Public Meetings - Santa Rosa, California

The Santa Rosa City Council met on December 5, 2023, starting with a closed session at 3:00 PM and reconvening in open session at 4:00 PM. The meeting included proclamations, staff briefings, consent items, reports, and public hearings. The Council took unanimous votes on all agenda items, including approving a purchase order for eight Ford trucks, expanding a residential permit parking zone, adopting revised animal services fees, introducing a hazardous vegetation ordinance, and accepting the Measure O annual report with a name change for the oversight committee. Consent Calendar - Resolution RES-2023-193: Ratified Purchase Order 170391 for eight 2023 Ford F-350 Super Duty Cab and Chassis from 72 Hour LLC dba National Auto Fleet Group for $432,967.73, using cooperative purchasing through Sourcewell. No City General Fund money was used. The motion passed 7-0. Public Comments & Testimony - Item 2.3 (Closed Session): Duane Dewitt spoke about potential pollution from former underground storage tanks at the 1215 Sebastopol Rd site, urging consideration of EPA brownfield funds. - Item 6.1 (Proclamation): Jason Nutt, city employee, expressed appreciation for Eddie Curiel's 49 years of service and mentorship. - Item 7.1 (Staff Briefing): Duane Dewitt urged authentic community engagement, referencing the city's history of community action teams and environmental justice principles. - Item 14.1 (BAHFA Bond): - Duane Dewitt (Sonoma County Housing Advocacy Group) spoke in favor of the bond, emphasizing the need for affordable rental housing and serving those most in need, while cautioning against vague language in the expenditure plan. - Thomas Els, civil and environmental engineer, supported the bond and highlighted the importance of preservation and production funding, noting bond mechanics. - Cal Mason (Generation Housing) spoke in favor and requested the Council bring a resolution to support the bond soon. - Item 13 (Non-Agenda): - Thomas Els discussed the need for an additional overcrossing at Hearn Avenue to improve east-west crossings of Highway 101. - Duane Dewitt requested portable speed limit signs on Hearn Avenue to address speeding and safety concerns. - Item 15.1 (Parking): Andy Graham, resident of 300 block Lincoln St, spoke in favor of the permit parking expansion but objected to the $20 annual permit fee, considering it a principle issue. - Item 14.2 (Vegetation): Duane Dewitt requested that the hazardous vegetation ordinance apply citywide, not just in the Wildland Urban Interface, and urged the city to be proactive on city-owned lands. - Item 14.3 (Measure O): Duane Dewitt proposed a three-way equal split (33% each) of Measure O funds among police, fire, and youth/violence prevention programs, citing unspent balances and the need to serve disadvantaged communities. Discussion Items - Proclamation - Eddie Curiel Retirement: Council Member MacDonald read a proclamation honoring Streets Crew Supervisor Eddie Curiel for 49 years of service, from December 4, 1974, to December 4, 2023. Curiel thanked the council and staff. - Staff Briefing - Community Empowerment Plan Update: Lon Peterson announced a police toy drive through December 31, 2023, benefiting United Women's Group, and that the city is hiring a Community Engagement Manager. - Report 14.1 - Bay Area Housing Finance Authority (BAHFA) and 2024 Regional Affordable Housing Bond: Megan Basinger and Nicole Del Fiorentino presented. The bond is proposed at $10-20 billion for the November 2024 ballot. If passed, Santa Rosa could receive $121 million (at $10B) to $242 million (at $20B) for affordable housing production, preservation, tenant protections, and flexible use. The bond requires voter approval at 55% if ACA1 passes, else two-thirds. Council Member Fleming noted her involvement in the BAHFA advisory group and emphasized regional coordination, building complete communities, and addressing equity. Council Member Rogers expressed support in concept but sought more details. Council directed staff to conduct outreach and develop an Expenditure Plan, returning for adoption. The motion passed 7-0. - Public Hearing 15.1 - Downtown Residential Permit Parking Expansion: Chad Hedge and Tania Cordova presented. Residents of the 300 block of Lincoln Street petitioned to join the program. The area has a 2-hour time limit, 9 a.m. to 8 p.m., Monday-Friday. Residents can purchase $20 annual permits. The Council approved expansion via Resolution RES-2023-194, 7-0. - Public Hearing 15.2 - Revised Animal Services Fees: Jason Nutt, Brian Whipple, and Michelle Renee presented. Sonoma County Animal Services proposed fee increases after a fee study. Dog license fees for unneutered/unspayed dropped from $100 to $20 due to efficiencies with DocuPet. Dangerous dog investigation fees increased due to staff time. The Council adopted the revised fees via Resolution RES-2023-195, effective December 6, 2023, 7-0. - Report 14.2 - Hazardous Vegetation and Fuels Management Ordinance: Chief Paul Lowenthal and Adam Abel presented. The ordinance adds Chapter 9-30 to the City Code, requiring defensible space throughout the Wildland Urban Interface (approx. 9,000 properties), removal of dead trees along rights-of-way within 30 feet (effective 365 days after adoption), removal of invasive species (Scotch/French broom) along evacuation routes and property lines, and removal of fibrous mulch (gorilla hair) within 30 feet of structures. The ordinance was introduced (first reading) via motion, 7-0. - Report 14.3 - Measure O Annual Report and Name Change: Veronica Conner, along with police, fire, recreation, and violence prevention staff, presented the FY 2022-23 annual report. The Measure O Citizen Oversight Committee recommended changing its name to the Public Safety and Prevention Tax Citizen's Oversight Committee (PSAP COC) and amending the Implementation Plan to an annual format. Police reported a 13% reduction in shootings and a 20% reduction in homicides (from 12 to 9 year-over-year). Fire Department noted Measure O funds 9 firefighters and a training captain, effectively an entire engine. Neighborhood Services served over 1,600 youth with nearly 200,000 service hours. Violence Prevention Partnership activated crisis response three times and saw a 43% increase in referrals. The Council accepted the report, approved the name change, and adopted the annual implementation plan via two motions, both 7-0. Key Outcomes - Ratified Purchase Order: Approved 8 Ford F-350 trucks for $432,967.73 (7-0). - BAHFA Bond Direction: Directed staff to conduct outreach and develop an Expenditure Plan for the 2024 Regional Affordable Housing Bond (7-0). - Parking Zone Expansion: Approved expansion of the Downtown Residential Permit Parking Zone to include the 300 block of Lincoln Street (7-0). - Animal Services Fee Increase: Adopted revised fees effective December 6, 2023 (7-0). - Hazardous Vegetation Ordinance: Introduced Chapter 9-30 (first reading) with a 7-0 vote; a second reading will be required for adoption. - Measure O Actions: - Accepted the FY 2022-23 Annual Report. - Changed the oversight committee name to Public Safety and Prevention Tax Citizen's Oversight Committee. - Amended the Implementation Plan to an annual format. Both motions passed 7-0.

The Santa Rosa City Council held a regular meeting on November 28, 2023, convening first in closed session at 3:00 PM and reconvening in open session at 4:00 PM. The council took significant actions including opting out of PFAS class action settlements, accepting a Cannabis Equity Assessment (while declining to immediately move forward with a full equity program), approving over $2.3 million in HOME-ARP homelessness prevention grants, and electing a new Vice Mayor. Consent Calendar - Resolution RES-2023-189: Adoption of the City’s Salary Plan and Schedule. - Resolution RES-2023-190: Second Amendment to Professional Services Agreement with Green Valley Consulting Engineers for Fire Damaged Roadway Landscaping (total contract amount not to exceed $1,031,932). - Ordinance ORD-2023-015: Extension of the Resilient City Development Measures and -RC Combining District zoning code to December 31, 2024. All three items were approved unanimously (7-0). Public Comments & Testimony - Thomas Ells spoke during the closed session announcement, urging the council to pursue the PFAS litigation seriously. He provided comments on the Capital Projects Overview, criticizing the historical isolation of Southwest Santa Rosa due to limited highway crossings and showing maps. During the Cannabis Equity discussion, he questioned whether cannabis was the right industry for an equity program and suggested real estate training instead. He also commented on the HOME-ARP item, noting the administrative burden of the 5% administrative caps on nonprofits. During non-agenda public comment, he elaborated on the cost and design of the proposed Hearn Avenue overcrossing. - Peter Allen (President, Wild Oak Homeowners Association) spoke in support of the CIP briefing and transparency efforts. He asked for clarification on how to submit service requests (the My Santa Rosa app). During non-agenda public comment, he raised a concern about a Notice of Violation at 805 White Oak Drive, stating the city paused enforcement on an easement dispute despite recognizing the easement was private property. - Moses Flickenger spoke in support of establishing the cannabis equity program, urging the council to expedite the process for operators and people of color who have been waiting. - Jennielynn Holmes (CEO, Catholic Charities of the Diocese of Santa Rosa) expressed full support for the HOME-ARP funding award, detailing the need for financial assistance, food distributions, and mental health services, noting 200 people were on a waiting list for financial assistance to stay housed. - Sanford Robinson (Director of Grants, COTS) expressed gratitude to the city for the opportunity to partner on providing homelessness prevention services. Staff Briefing: Transportation and Public Works Capital Projects Overview (Item 7.1) - Deputy Director James Jensen, Supervising Engineer Greg Mariscal, and Supervising Engineer Lisa Welsh presented a statistical overview. The city has 99 active capital projects (48 non-utility/TPW, 51 water/utility). The total contract value for TPW projects is over $38 million (largest: Fulton Road at $15.5M), and for water projects is over $106 million (largest: disinfection project at $68M). - Specific projects highlighted included the Hopper Avenue project ($4.9M est., design-build, construction expected Fall 2025–Spring 2026), the Hearn and Burbank traffic signal ($600k), and the Highway 101 bike and pedestrian overcrossing ($29–31M est., 95% design, construction expected Fall 2024–Fall 2026). - Council members requested improved public transparency, such as interactive maps, district-level project breakdowns, and a color-coded status system (red/yellow/green). Vice Mayor MacDonald questioned how landscaping maintenance costs are budgeted for after CIP project completion. Cannabis Equity Assessment (Item 14.1) - The council received a detailed presentation on the Cannabis Equity Assessment, funded by a $75,000 Type 1 GO-Biz grant. The assessment analyzed 4,781 cannabis-related arrests from 2004–2023, finding that Black/African American individuals constitute 2% of the population but accounted for 9.4% of arrests (nearly 5x higher). Key recommendations included financial assistance (loans/grants), technical assistance, expungement programs, and workforce development for disproportionately impacted communities. - Debate: Council Member Chris Rogers, Council Member Fleming, and Mayor Rogers supported moving forward with the program, framing it as a historic promise to address injustices. Council Members Stapp, Okrepkie, and Vice Mayor MacDonald expressed concerns about single-industry focus, staff capacity, budget impacts (10% admin cap, 1:1 match for grants over $500k), and the lack of equity programs for other industries. - Vote 1: On the motion to accept the assessment and direct staff to prepare a full equity program, the vote was 3-3-1, FAILING (Yes: N. Rogers, Fleming, C. Rogers; No: MacDonald, Okrepkie, Stapp; Abstain: Alvarez). - Vote 2 (Revised): To satisfy Type 1 grant requirements, the City Attorney proposed an amended resolution to accept the Cannabis Equity Assessment only. This motion passed 6-0-1 (Yes: All except Alvarez who abstained). Staff will not prepare a full program at this time but the assessment is officially accepted, making the city eligible to later apply for Type 2 funding. HOME-ARP Funding Awards (Item 14.2) - The council approved the allocation of $2,326,819 in HOME-ARP funds for an eighteen-month period (January 1, 2024 – June 30, 2025). - Awards were made to Committee on the Shelterless (COTS) for $711,375 and Catholic Charities of the Diocese of Santa Rosa (CCDSR) for $1,615,444. - The funds will target homelessness prevention, providing financial assistance, food, housing counseling, case management, and mental health services. - The motion passed unanimously (7-0). Election of Vice Mayor (Item 10.2) - The council elected Council Member Mark Stapp as Vice Mayor for a one-year term. He was nominated by Council Member Chris Rogers and seconded by Council Member Okrepkie. Outgoing Vice Mayor Dianna MacDonald was thanked for her service. Key Outcomes - Litigation Strategy: Council opted out of the DuPont and 3M class action settlements related to PFAS to preserve the city’s right to pursue independent claims. - Cannabis Equity: The report/assessment was formally accepted (6-0-1), but the council did not direct staff to create a full equity program at this time. - Homelessness Prevention: Over $2.3 million in HOME-ARP grants awarded to COTS and Catholic Charities. - Vice Mayor: Mark Stapp elected to the position. - The meeting was adjourned at 6:25 PM in honor of former Planning Commissioner Frances Diaz.

The Santa Rosa City Council met on November 14, 2023, in a full-day session that included a closed session, board interviews, study sessions, and a regular session. Key actions included the extension of the Resilient City Development Measures, adoption of a consent calendar with multiple resolutions, and appointment of a public member to the Public Financing Authority. Study sessions focused on parks capital improvements and a proposed tobacco retail license ordinance. Consent Calendar - Resolution 13.1 (RES-2023-183): Approved a Memorandum of Understanding with the County of Sonoma for a reciprocal unlimited rides pilot program for employees on Santa Rosa CityBus and Sonoma County Transit. Passed unanimously. - Resolution 13.2 (RES-2023-184): Approved a first amendment to a professional services agreement with MuniServices, LLC/Avenu Insights & Analytics, LLC for revenue audit and consulting services, extending the term by two years and increasing compensation by $853,020 for a total not-to-exceed $1,453,020. Passed unanimously. - Resolution 13.3 (RES-2023-185): Approved a fourth amendment to a general services agreement with BrightView Landscape Services, Inc. for a one-year extension and increased scope of services, cumulative value not to exceed $6,899,691.10 plus ratification of $138,155.05 and a contingency of $4,000.16. Passed 6-0 with Vice Mayor MacDonald abstaining due to a personal relationship. - Resolution 13.4 (RES-2023-186): Accepted a revised Infill Infrastructure Grant award from the State of California Department of Housing and Community Development in the amount of $19,652,636 (reduced from $20,651,354) and approved a budget revision transferring $7,407,551 to the Recreation and Parks Department for Martin Luther King Jr. Park improvements. Passed unanimously. - Resolution 13.5 (RES-2023-187): Approved an operating agreement for the Safe Parking Program with Catholic Charities of the Diocese of Santa Rosa in the amount of $1,949,739 for an eighteen-month period (January 1, 2024 to June 30, 2025). Passed unanimously. - Resolution 13.6 (RES-2023-188): Extended the proclamation of a local homeless emergency within Santa Rosa. Passed unanimously. - Ordinance 13.7 (ORD-2023-014): Adopted on second reading an ordinance amending Chapter 14-21 of the Santa Rosa City Code (Water Waste Regulations) to include administrative fines and clarify enforcement and appeals processes. Passed unanimously. Public Comments & Testimony - Item 4.1 (Parks Capital Improvements): Duane De Witt spoke about the historical southwest area plan parks development impact fees that were ended, and requested more community involvement in park planning and naming. - Item 4.2 (Tobacco Retail License): Several speakers expressed support for a strong tobacco retail license ordinance, including Courtney Scott (Zero Waste Sonoma), Gary Damron, Samuel Damron (who recounted participating in undercover purchase surveys and being sold to 60 times), Jennie Bard, Greg Damron, and Pam Granger (Tobacco-Free Sonoma County Community Coalition). Michelle McGarry submitted a comment card in support. - Item 11.1 (Council Reports): Thomas Els spoke on water topics and the SMART train multi-use path. - Item 14 (Non-Agenda Matters): Topics included: Thomas Els on the Hearn Avenue overcrossing; Duane De Witt on the Sonoma County Community Development Commission history; JoAnne Jones (SRMOA) requesting additional protections for mobile home residents; Sidnee Cox (Safe Tech for Santa Rosa) requesting stronger small cell tower placement ordinance; Tom LaPenna (SRMOA president) requesting a senior zoning overlay for mobile home parks; Mary Dahl on small cell tower concerns; and Kim Schroeder requesting stronger small cell tower ordinance. - Item 15.1 (Resilient City Extension): Alethea Larson (The Living Room) spoke in support; Duane De Witt spoke in opposition, advocating for more Design Review Board involvement; Josh Shipper (Generation Housing) spoke in support; Thomas Els spoke in favor of allowing ADUs to be built ahead of the main house. Discussion Items - Item 4.1 – Parks Capital Improvements Funding and Prioritization: Deputy Director Jen Santos presented a detailed overview of current and future capital projects across four city quadrants, funding sources (park development impact fees, Measure M, grants), and a $48 million project list with $21 million unfunded. Council discussed equity, accessibility (including inclusive playgrounds at Kawana Springs Park), budget structures, and the need for quarterly updates. Vice Mayor MacDonald requested a breakdown of funding and faster project delivery. - Item 4.2 – Tobacco Retail License Ordinance: Staff from the City Manager’s Office and Impact Sonoma presented data on youth tobacco use (11th grade e-cigarette use at 11% in Santa Rosa), decoy purchase survey results (48% buy rate in 2021), and a proposed framework including an annual fee, youth deterrence buffer (600 feet from youth-oriented areas), retail cap, and enforcement tiers. Council members expressed strong support for a comprehensive ordinance, including a cap on retailers (123 at present), a 1,000-foot buffer, a full flavor ban, minimum pack size, prohibition of online sales, and robust enforcement with escalating fines. Vice Mayor MacDonald suggested more frequent compliance checks for retailers near youth areas. Council directed staff to develop the ordinance further. - Item 11.1 – Mayor’s/Council Members’ Reports: Council members reported on various community events, including the 20th anniversary of the Geysers Project, SMART station groundbreaking, Veterans Day events, and the Violence Prevention Partnership seminar. Councilmember Rogers noted that the charter review committee’s recommendation to change “registered voter” to “resident” in council policies for board appointments had not yet been implemented and requested staff to bring it back. - Item 15.1 – Resilient City Development Measures Ordinance Extension: Staff presented a one-year extension (from December 31, 2023 to December 31, 2024) for the Resilient City Combining District and Development Measures, to allow time for a comprehensive update. Council discussion focused on the importance of the measures for rebuilding after wildfires and streamlining housing production. Councilmember Rogers noted that over 100% of lost homes have been approved for replacement. The ordinance was introduced. Key Outcomes - Appointment to Public Financing Authority: Carmen Gonzalez was unanimously appointed as the Joint City of Santa Rosa/Sonoma County representative on the Public Financing Authority (motion by Councilmember Rogers, second by Councilmember Fleming). - Study Session Direction: Council directed staff to return with a detailed breakdown of park funding, consider quarterly updates on capital projects, and explore the history and flexibility of the quadrant funding system. For the tobacco retail license, Council directed staff to develop a draft ordinance incorporating a retail cap (at current number of 123), a 1,000-foot youth-sensitive buffer, flavor ban, minimum package size, prohibition of online sales, and a three-tier enforcement structure with escalating fines and potential license revocation. - Consent Calendar: All items (13.1–13.7) were approved as described above. - Ordinance Introduction: The Resilient City Development Measures extension was introduced on first reading (7-0 vote) and will return for second reading. - Minutes: The October 24, 2023 regular meeting minutes were approved as submitted, with Vice Mayor MacDonald abstaining due to absence. - Litigation Report: The City Attorney reported one settlement over $50,000 (Brown v. City of Santa Rosa, $100,000 settlement for a trip-and-fall on a sidewalk). - Next Meeting: The next regular meeting is scheduled for November 28, 2023, at a time set by the Mayor.

This regular meeting of the Santa Rosa Planning Commission convened at 4:30 PM on October 26, 2023, in City Hall Council Chamber. Commissioners unanimously approved minutes from September 14 and September 28, 2023, and heard public comments on non-agenda items. The primary action was the reconsideration and approval of a Conditional Use Permit (CUP22-052) for 7-Eleven at 136 College Avenue to sell beer and wine for off-site consumption, previously continued from August 24, 2023, due to a 3-3 tie vote. The permit was approved by a 5-2 vote. Public Comments & Testimony - Duane DeWitt (Roseland resident) commented on revitalizing downtown Santa Rosa. He suggested using Transfer of Development Rights and land swaps involving the Chenay property (former community hospital) and the Paulin Creek Preserve (nine acres acquired by the Agon Open Space District 22 years ago) to create over 1,000 to 1,500 housing units in the core area, benefiting taxpayers and citizens rather than developers. Discussion Items - 7-Eleven Conditional Use Permit (CUP22-052) – Continued from August 24, 2023. The existing convenience store at 136 College Avenue sought a permit to sell beer and wine for off-site consumption. Staff recommendation (presented by Supervising Planner Susie Murray) was approval, supported by the Police Department and Housing and Community Services after multiple site visits. The applicant (7-Eleven representative and store owner Raj Abhol) noted the store has been open two years with no significant issues, and they voluntarily worked with the California Department of Alcoholic Beverage Control (ABC) to add enforceable conditions: limiting container size, reducing sales hours to 10 AM – 10 PM, posting no-loitering signage, and removing trash from neighboring properties. ABC representative Heather Williams confirmed these conditions are unusual and enforceable. Staff noted the general plan land use and zoning are Neighborhood Mixed Use, and six required findings could be met. - Commissioner Discussion: Commissioner Cisco clarified that the city cannot impose operational conditions on alcohol sales; only ABC has that authority, and commended the applicant for securing ABC conditions. Commissioner Sanders questioned ABC about overconcentration metrics, learning that population-based formulas (not geographic proximity) are used, allowing multiple outlets within a short walk without triggering overconcentration. Commissioner Duggan reviewed the August 24 video and noted the site’s rezoning to Neighborhood Mixed Use supports neighborhood-serving uses. Commissioner Cisco remained opposed, citing existing nuisance impacts, proximity to homeless services, vacant lots, and overconcentration of alcohol outlets (three within a 10-minute walk: Speedway Express, 9th Street Market, and 7-Eleven). Commissioner Sanders echoed concerns about neighborhood livability and consistency with the General Plan’s vision of safe, livable residential neighborhoods. Commissioner Holton changed his vote from no (August) to yes, citing the applicant’s good-faith effort to secure ABC conditions, particularly the hours restriction. Others (Carter, Peterson, Weeks) maintained earlier support, noting the operation is well-run and does not constitute a nuisance. Key Outcomes - Approval of CUP22-052: Motion by Commissioner Carter, seconded by Commissioner Peterson. The resolution (PC-2023-023) was approved by a vote of 5 to 2: Chair Weeks, Vice Chair Duggan, Commissioner Carter, Commissioner Holton, and Commissioner Peterson voting yes; Commissioner Cisco and Commissioner Sanders voting no. - Conditions: The permit includes self-imposed ABC conditions (container size limit, restricted hours 10 AM–10 PM, anti-loitering and graffiti control, property cleanup) that run with the operator but not the land. The city’s conditions of approval apply to the property. - Finality: The decision is final unless an appeal is filed with the City Clerk within 10 calendar days (by November 6, 2023) per Zoning Code Section 20-62. - Other: The meeting was adjourned at 5:17 PM.

The Public Safety Subcommittee met on October 24, 2023, at 9:00 AM in the Council Chamber at 100 Santa Rosa Avenue. The meeting covered updates on the Independent Police Auditor's recommendations, SAFER grant implementation, Measure H funding, and the Vegetation Management Program, followed by department reports from the Police and Fire Departments. No public comments were made on any agenda items. Discussion Items - Independent Police Auditor’s Recommendation (Item 5.1): Police Chief John Cregan presented responses to eight recommendations from the 2022 Independent Police Auditor (OIR) annual report. The recommendations addressed complaint investigation processes, use-of-force review, de-escalation documentation, training on racial equity and implicit bias, and external facilitators. Chief Cregan detailed improvements including body-worn cameras, in-car cameras, enhanced supervisory reviews, and new training programs. OIR representatives Michael Chanako and Steve Conley expressed satisfaction with the department's responsiveness and noted that Santa Rosa's approach is among the best they have encountered. Councilmember Alvarez asked about the complaint process, verification of officer statements, and metrics for measuring trust. The subcommittee discussed the integration of OIR in critical incident investigations and future audits. - SAFER Grant Implementation (Item 5.2): Fire Chief Scott Westrope reported on the SAFER grant (FEMA) to fund 12 additional firefighter/paramedics to staff two advanced life support (ALS) squads. The program will operate from 8 a.m. to 8 p.m. during peak hours and staff engine companies at night. The implementation team is developing a plan due November 1, 2023. Hiring is underway with 16 candidates in interviews. Apparatus acquisition is ongoing, with interim vehicles available. The grant period runs from March 13, 2024 to March 12, 2027. - Measure H Update (Item 5.3): The Fire Department, Police Department, and Violence Prevention Partnership (VPP) presented how Measure H (formerly Measure O) funds are used. Fire Chief Westrope highlighted that Measure H funds personnel, station construction, and specialized equipment, including an entire engine company. Police Chief Cregan stated that Measure H provides $4.2 million annually, funding 16 positions including patrol officers, traffic officers, downtown enforcement team, and civilian support staff. VPP Deputy Director Jeff Tibbetts and Program Manager Danielle Gardunio described the VPP's programs, including the GPS program (serving 515 youth since 2015), Choice Grant program (11th cycle, funding 8 agencies), crisis response after the Montgomery High School incident and shootings, and community wellness pop-ups. Councilmember Alvarez asked about accountability and transparency in grant funding. The subcommittee discussed the Citizens Oversight Committee and VPP policy and operational teams. - Vegetation Management Program Update (Item 5.4): Division Chief Paul Owenthal presented an update on the Vegetation Management Program, funded by $5.25 million from the city and grants. The program implements the Community Wildfire Protection Plan (CWPP) with 9 objectives and 46 actionable items. Efforts include fuel treatment projects, prescribed burns, shaded fuel breaks, and a hazardous vegetation and fuels management ordinance to be presented to City Council in December 2023. The ordinance will require removal of invasive vegetation (Scotch broom, French broom, bay) and certain mulches within 30 feet of structures, and expand defensible space inspections to the entire wildland-urban interface (9,000 properties). Councilmember Alvarez expressed interest in including eucalyptus as a priority pending funding, and in the use of naturally based herbicides. Department Reports - Police Department Update: Chief Cregan reported on three major initiatives: (1) Sideshow enforcement – through a countywide protocol, impounding 115 vehicles, and a city ordinance, sideshows have been reduced from weekly to one in 2023; (2) Expansion of the Downtown Enforcement Team to 8 officers, providing 7-day coverage and focusing on downtown safety and outreach to the unsheltered; (3) Recruitment – sworn vacancies have dropped from 21 to 2, with 4 lateral officers in the background process, and the department is on track to be fully staffed for the first time in over a decade. Future agenda items requested include a gang crimes unit update and a police substation study session for January 2024. - Fire Department Update: Chief Westrope provided updates on staffing (2 vacancies in operations), fire station construction (Station 5 rebuild, Station 8 in Roseland), Emergency Operations Center (seismic retrofit starting November 2023), fleet (9 fire engines on order, 2 type 6 engines arriving soon, 2 pickups from the Foundation), and the Recruitment and Diversity Task Force, which hosted the second annual Women in Public Safety Day with 400 attendees. A countywide fire service sales tax measure (half-cent) will be on the March 5, 2024 ballot, expected to bring $9 million annually to Santa Rosa for new stations and staffing. The subcommittee discussed future updates on the ground ambulance contract and implementation of the tax measure if passed. Key Outcomes - The subcommittee received and discussed all reports. No formal votes were taken. - The police department will continue working with OIR on future audits and recommendations. - The SAFER grant implementation is on track for March 2024 deployment. - The Measure H update was accepted; the subcommittee requested a long-term funding discussion for VPP at the January 2024 meeting. - The vegetation management ordinance will be brought to the full City Council in December 2023. - The subcommittee set future agenda items for January 23, 2024: police gang crimes unit update, police substation study session, ground ambulance contract update, and possible countywide fire sales tax measure implementation update after the March 2024 ballot.

The Santa Rosa City Council met on October 24, 2023, in a regular session that began with a closed session at 1:32 PM and reconvened in open session at 4:02 PM. The meeting included a proclamation, staff briefing, consent agenda, public comments, a public hearing, and a report item. The council adopted all consent items and introduced an ordinance updating water waste regulations, and accepted the Water Supply Alternatives Plan, all by 5-0 votes (with two members absent). The meeting adjourned at 6:06 PM. Proclamation - Filipino American History Month: Council Member Eddie Alvarez read and presented the proclamation. Jeanette Anglin of the Filipino American National Historical Society accepted and thanked the council. Staff Briefings - Russian River Water Forum and Potter Valley Project Update (Item 7.1): Jennifer Burke, Director of Santa Rosa Water, reported on a collaborative effort to address the planned decommissioning of PG&E’s Potter Valley Hydroelectric Project. A proposal from Mendocino County Inland Water and Power Commission, Round Valley Indian Tribes, and Sonoma Water was accepted in concept by PG&E. The council received the update; no action taken. A public commenter, Thomas Ells, expressed support for the project. Consent Calendar - All four consent items were approved unanimously (5-0) with two members absent. Items included: - 12.1: Resolution to amend the NextRequest LLC agreement for public records management, extending three years and adding $35,679.29 (total not to exceed $118,435.06). - 12.2: Resolution to approve a cooperative purchase of four Hamm Asphalt Rollers from Nixon-Egli Equipment Company for $268,701.44. - 12.3: Resolution to award a five-year blanket purchase order to Ramos Oil Co., Inc. for gasoline and renewable diesel, not to exceed $750,000. - 12.4: Resolution to amend the Homeless Outreach Services Team grant with Catholic Charities, adding $100,000 in ARPA funds for expanded downtown outreach (total $1,135,450). Public comment: Eric Fraser spoke on Item 12.1, raising concerns about the NextRequest platform’s usability and transparency. Public Comments & Testimony - Non-Agenda Matters (Item 13): Multiple speakers addressed topics not on the agenda: - Michelle Escobar-McGarry read a letter from a high school student (Giselle) supporting restrictions on flavored tobacco and vape products. - Pam Granger, Chair of Tobacco Free Sonoma County Community Coalition, urged the council to pass a tobacco retail license ordinance, noting the county had just passed a first reading. - Melissa Stewart (Safe Campus Alliance) called for immediate campus supervision at Montgomery High School and temporary SRO presence. - Eric Fraser criticized the Press Democrat’s coverage of public records requests and alleged corruption. - Thomas Ells discussed the Hearn Avenue overcrossing design and water issues. - Other speakers supported school safety, veterans’ events, and community stewardship. - Public Hearing (Item 15.1): Thomas Ells spoke on water waste concerns, particularly for apartments in the county without individual meters. - Report Item (Item 14.1): Thomas Ells commended the Water Supply Alternatives Plan presentation. Discussion Items - Public Hearing – Water Waste Regulations Ordinance (Item 15.1): Deb Lane and Claire Nordlie presented proposed amendments to Chapter 14-21, including refined definitions of water waste, escalating administrative fines ($100, $200, $500 per violation), an exception process, and an appeals process. The council discussed the value of the AMI system and customer engagement. No questions were raised before the vote. - Water Supply Alternatives Plan (Item 14.1): Colin Close, Senior Water Resources Planner, presented the plan (WSAP) developed after analyzing 18 options. The plan proposes an adaptive approach focusing on groundwater, recycled water, and efficiency. Four portfolios were presented, with Portfolio 4 being the most adaptive and including a future reconsideration of desalination. The council commended the thorough process and stakeholder engagement. Key Outcomes - Consent Items: Items 12.1–12.4 adopted by resolution (5-0). - Ordinance Introduction (Item 15.1): The council voted 5-0 to introduce an ordinance amending Water Waste Regulations. Second reading scheduled for November 14, 2023, with an effective date of December 14, 2023. - Water Supply Alternatives Plan (Item 14.1): The council voted 5-0 to accept the plan. - Reports: The City Manager announced upcoming community meetings for the Hearn Community Hub (virtual Oct. 25, in-person Oct. 26) and a survey on pickleball/tennis courts. Council members reported on subcommittee meetings, including the Public Safety Subcommittee’s review of police oversight, Vegetation Management Plan (to return in January), and the Enhanced Infrastructure Finance District progress. - Next Meeting: Regular meeting scheduled for November 14, 2023. Attendees: Mayor Natalie Rogers, Council Members Eddie Alvarez, Jeff Okrepkie, Chris Rogers, Mark Stapp present; Vice Mayor Dianna MacDonald and Council Member Victoria Fleming absent.

Discrepancy Note: The provided agenda and meeting minutes indicate the meeting was held on October 18, 2023, at 4:00 PM, while the user instruction states the meeting took place on October 23, 2023, at 19:45 UTC. This summary uses the date from the user instruction per the prompt, but the source materials consistently refer to October 18, 2023. The meeting was brief and focused on administrative and organizational matters, with no public comments or appeals heard. Board members present: Chair Cooper, Board Member Coker, Board Member Larson, and Board Member Colgrove. Staff Liaison Report - Chief Building Official Jesse Oswald introduced the new Assistant Chief Building Official Lou Kirk, who has been with the city for about a year and a half. - Oswald reviewed the purpose of the Board of Building Regulations Appeals (BOBRA), which hears appeals under the building codes, including plumbing, mechanical, electrical, residential, historical, and the International Property Maintenance Code (adopted with local amendments). - He noted that the fire code is under the authority of the Fire Marshal, but appeals involving fire code issues may also come before this board if not resolved by the Fire Chief. - Oswald emphasized that the building and code enforcement divisions work hard to resolve issues before they reach the board, so only matters requiring professional judgment are expected. Board Business - Statement of Purpose: The board read the official purpose of BOBRA as defined in Santa Rosa City Code Section 18-04.050: to hear and decide appeals of orders, decisions, or determinations made by the Building Official or Code Official regarding building codes and ordinances. - Appointment of Chair and Vice Chair: - Chair: Board Member Coker nominated incumbent Chair Cooper. Board Member Larson seconded. No objections. Roll call vote: 3 ayes (Coker, Larson, Colgrove), 0 nays, 1 abstention (Cooper). Cooper was elected Chair. - Vice Chair: Board Member Larson nominated Board Member Coker. Board Member Colgrove seconded. No objections. Roll call vote: 3 ayes (Colgrove, Larson, Cooper), 0 nays, 1 abstention (Coker). Coker was elected Vice Chair. Key Outcomes - Approved the November 16, 2022 meeting minutes as submitted (motion by Coker, second by Colgrove, approved at 4:14 PM). - Re-elected David Cooper as Chair and elected Ken Coker as Vice Chair for the upcoming term. - No public comments were received. - Meeting was adjourned at 4:21 PM by Chair Cooper.

The Santa Rosa City Council met on October 10, 2023, convening in closed session at 3:00 PM and reconvening in open session at 4:00 PM. The meeting included a proclamation recognizing Domestic Violence Awareness Month, staff briefings on the Down Payment Assistance Loan Program, Violence Prevention Partnership Strategic Plan, and Community Empowerment Plan updates, along with a consent agenda of seven resolutions. The meeting adjourned at 5:42 PM. Consent Calendar - Item 12.1 – Resolution creating the Community Engagement Manager classification (salary $111,603–$142,926) and reclassifying a vacant Deputy Director position. Adopted unanimously. - Item 12.2 – Resolution modifying the Diversity, Equity, Inclusion, and EEO Officer salary range to $111,603–$142,926. Adopted unanimously. - Item 12.3 – Resolution creating the Water Quality Systems Supervisor classification (salary $93,984–$111,940) and reclassifying a vacant Water Quality Supervisor position. Adopted unanimously. - Item 12.4 – Resolution approving and adopting the City’s Salary Plan and Schedule. Adopted unanimously. - Item 12.5 – Resolution freezing and correcting two MissionSquare “opt-in” retirement plans, authorizing replacement plans, and designating a fiduciary. Adopted unanimously. - Item 12.6 – Resolution waiving competitive bidding and approving a sole source blanket purchase order with Yarbrough Bros. Towing, Inc. for vehicle impound services (up to $500,000 over two years with three one-year renewals). Adopted unanimously. - Item 12.7 – Resolution accepting a $560,653 grant from the Board of State and Community Corrections for the Organized Retail Theft Prevention Grant Program. Adopted unanimously. Public Comments & Testimony - On Closed Session (Item 2.1): No public comments. - On Proclamation (Item 6.1): Gregory Fearon spoke in support of the YWCA and also recognized The Living Room organization. - On Down Payment Assistance Loan Program (Item 7.1): Duane De Witt expressed support but urged thoughtful oversight to ensure funds benefit long-time Santa Rosa residents. Gregory Fearon thanked the Council and staff for creating the program. - On Violence Prevention Partnership Update (Item 7.2): Duane De Witt requested attention to graffiti removal and suggested involving youth and veterans. Erika Klohe (Buckelew Foundation) supported the strategic plan, emphasizing prevention and family support. Madonna Feather Cruz supported the plan and requested youth attendance at the November 2 seminar, inclusion of tribal organizations, and consideration of poverty. Kevin Anderson (Chops Teen Club) supported the plan and appreciated community input. Ernesto Olivares (City consultant) supported the plan, noting the shift from enforcement-only to prevention/intervention/re-entry. - On Community Empowerment Plan Update (Item 7.3): Duane De Witt criticized the top-down approach and suggested holding meetings without a preset agenda to better incorporate community input. - On Consent Items (Item 12): Duane De Witt commented on Item 12.1, suggesting the Community Engagement Manager role should be linked to the Community Advisory Board and focus on listening to residents. - On Mayor/Council Reports (Item 10): Duane De Witt requested ADA-accessible toilets at Bayer Farm. Gregory Fearon supported Councilmember Fleming’s report on the Bay Area Housing Finance Authority bond, urging focus on extremely low-income housing. - On Non-Agenda Matters (Item 17): Peter Allen (Wild Oak HOA President) requested timely issuance of a notice of violation for code violations at 805 White Oak Dr. Michelle Escobar-McCrarry submitted 348 letters supporting a Tobacco Retail License ordinance and cited high tobacco retailer density near schools. Jim Ahlsten (Wild Oak HOA) noted a 1,215-day delay in code enforcement and requested equitable treatment. Drew Gorayeb (Wild Oak resident) alleged favoritism toward an architect owner and asked for enforcement. Duane De Witt presented historical documents on the Southwest Area Plan and requested attention to blight on Sebastopol Road. Discussion Items - Closed Session Report (Item 5): Assistant City Attorney Jessica Mullan reported that Council met in closed session on Constance Brown v. City of Santa Rosa (trip and fall incident) and approved a settlement of $100,000 (7-0). - Proclamation – Domestic Violence Awareness Month (Item 6.1): Mayor Rogers read and presented the proclamation to Madeleine Keegan O’Connell, CEO of YWCA Sonoma County. O’Connell highlighted YWCA services: 24/7 crisis hotline (only in Sonoma County), confidential safe house, and serving 3,000 individuals annually (90% female, 47% Latino, 23% children, 7% seniors, 15% homeless). - Staff Briefing – Down Payment Assistance Loan Program (Item 7.1): Megan Basinger (Housing Director) and Nicole Del Fiorentino (Manager) reported the program, funded with $2 million from PG&E settlement, assists moderate-income households (up to 120% AMI, $153,000 for family of four). Applications opened October 2, 46 received so far. Website: srcity.org/dpal. - Staff Briefing – Violence Prevention Partnership Update (Item 7.2): Program Manager Danielle Garduno presented the 2023-2028 Strategic Plan, developed through interviews, focus groups, community meetings, and online engagement. Five focus areas: Intervention (street outreach, crisis response, tattoo removal); Prevention (pro-social opportunities, youth engagement); Communication, Outreach & Education (annual seminar Nov 2 featuring Luis Rodriguez); Investment (leveraging Measure H and other grants); Collaboration (building organizational structure). Over 70 partner organizations. Councilmember questions led to discussion on integration with joint city-school board, annual prioritization, and tribal outreach. Councilmember Stapp and Mayor Rogers announced a town hall on Oct 11. - Staff Briefing – Community Empowerment Plan Update (Item 7.3): Lon Peterson (Chief Communications & Intergovernmental Relations Officer) reported the city is partnering with C Collaborative on an equity plan. Upcoming engagement: Faith in Blue event (Oct 7, 300 attendees), town hall (Oct 11), Hearn Community Hub meetings (Oct 25 virtual, Oct 26 in-person), Halloween trunk-or-treat (Oct 25), Halloween bash (Oct 28). - Council Reports (Item 10): Councilmembers provided updates on subcommittees and liaison roles, including Sonoma County Transportation Authority (Hearn Overcrossing bids 2% under estimate), Sonoma Clean Power, Climate Action Subcommittee, and Bay Area Housing Finance Authority (possible $100M+ direct allocation for Santa Rosa). Key Outcomes - Closed session settlement of $100,000 in Constance Brown v. City of Santa Rosa approved (7-0). - Proclamation for Domestic Violence Awareness Month presented. - Consent Agenda (Items 12.1–12.7) adopted by unanimous vote (7-0). - Staff briefings received; no formal action taken, but council directed staff to consider public comments. - Minutes of September 26, 2023 regular meeting approved as submitted. - Written Communication (Item 16.1) – State Legislative Update supporting AB 531 (Behavioral Health Infrastructure Bond Act of 2024) received and filed.

The Planning Commission met on September 28, 2023, at 4:30 PM and adjourned at 4:47 PM. The meeting included one report item: a request to phase the Roseland Village (Tierra de Rosas) subdivision tentative map. The commission also received a public comment on non-agenda matters and a brief department report. Public Comments & Testimony - Cliff Wigham, a property owner in the Roberts District, spoke about zoning issues in the Roberts District, specifically a 6.0 floor area ratio that he said makes development unfeasible. He also mentioned homeless encampment issues. He expressed support for the Roseland Village project on the agenda. Department Reports - Deputy Director Jessica Jones reported that the October 12, 2023 Planning Commission meeting will be canceled. A tentative item (711 alcohol conditional use permit) is scheduled for the October 26 meeting, pending sufficient commissioners. Discussion Items - Report Item 8.1: Request to Phase Roseland Village Subdivision (Tierra de Rosas) Tentative Map – 665 & 883 Sebastopol Road. Supervising Planner Amy Nicholson presented the request. The previously approved tentative map subdivides a 7.41-acre site into five lots for 175 multi-family units (75 affordable), a civic building, marketplace, and a 1-acre public plaza. The request would allow phasing of the final map into three phases without changing the approved configuration. Phase 1 includes lots 1 and 3 and streets; Phase 2 includes lots 2 and 4; Phase 3 includes the public plaza (Parcel A). The project is exempt from CEQA. The commission asked no questions. No public testimony was offered on this item. Key Outcomes - The commission adopted Resolution No. PC-2023-022 approving the request to phase the Roseland Village subdivision tentative map. The motion was made by Commissioner Holton, seconded by Vice Chair Duggan, and passed 5-0 (Commissioners Carter and Cisco absent). The decision is final unless appealed within 10 calendar days.