Public Meetings - Santa Rosa, California

The Cultural Heritage Board (CHB) held a regular meeting on September 20, 2023, from 4:31 PM to 5:29 PM. The primary item was a study session to review and provide input on the Draft General Plan 2050 (Santa Rosa Forward). The board focused on the historic preservation chapter and related policies, discussing staff recommendations, a public comment letter from the Sonoma County Historical Society, and potential improvements to the plan. Consent Calendar - None. Public Comments & Testimony - No public comments were made in person or via Zoom. Discussion Items - Study Session – Draft General Plan 2050: Senior Planner Shari Meads presented the multi-year process, vision statement, land use alternatives, and the structure of the draft general plan. The plan includes a new chapter on urban design, historic preservation, and art and culture (Chapter 2), with policies on historic preservation (pages 4-7 to 4-10). Key policies discussed include: - Policy 4-2.11: simplifying obstacles for owners of historic properties. - Action 4-2.12: requiring salvaging of historic materials from demolitions (board member expressed concern about enforceability and feasibility). - Board members supported the recommendations from the Sonoma County Historical Society (e.g., performing a survey of significant event sites, using consistent terminology, and preserving historic aspects of parks). - Board members raised the need for dedicated funding to survey un-surveyed properties and identify standalone historic buildings. The downtown station area historic resource evaluation (750 properties) is nearing completion and will be presented to the board on October 18, 2023. - Staff noted that the public comment period closes October 1, 2023, and additional comments are welcome. Key Outcomes - The board endorsed the Sonoma County Historical Society’s recommendations, agreeing they would strengthen the historic preservation chapter. - The board recommended that Action 4-2.12 be revised to avoid a blanket building code requirement and instead allow case-by-case review of demolition permits for historic structures, with a report to the CHB prior to permit issuance. - Staff will consider the board’s input and may adjust the timeline for final public review of the general plan. - The next CHB meeting (October 18, 2023) will include a presentation on the downtown station area historic resource evaluation.

The Santa Rosa Planning Commission held a regular meeting on September 14, 2023, at 4:30 PM in the Council Chamber, 100 Santa Rosa Ave. The meeting included approval of minutes, a public hearing on a Bunya Bunya tree removal appeal, and a study session on the Draft General Plan 2050. The Commission voted to deny the appeal and uphold the tree removal denial, and provided extensive feedback on the General Plan.

The Santa Rosa City Council met on September 12, 2023, in a regular session that began with a closed session at 1:30 PM and reconvened in open session at 4:12 PM. All seven council members were present. The meeting included proclamations, staff briefings, consent calendar approvals, and a contested vote on a development agreement for a downtown parking garage. Proclamation - Creek Week and Pollution Prevention Week 2023: Mayor Natalie Rogers presented the proclamation. Kyle Spongberg (Environmental Specialist, Santa Rosa Water) accepted and announced Creek Week events beginning September 17, including a guided nature walk at Flat Rock Park. No public comments were made. Staff Briefings - City Thread Grant Update: Torina Wilson (Transportation Planner) and Rob Sprinkle (Deputy Director of Traffic Engineering) reported on a completed grant with Bikeable Santa Rosa. The project produced an “accelerated mobility playbook” to address low-stress active transportation infrastructure. By the end of 2023, the city will have constructed or upgraded 5.58 miles of bike lanes. Public commenters Chris Guenther (Bikeable Santa Rosa) and Eris Weaver (Sonoma County Bicycle Coalition) expressed appreciation and support. - Community Empowerment Plan Update: Lon Peterson (Chief Communications and Intergovernmental Relations Officer) highlighted upcoming events: a town hall with the police chief (attended by 100 residents), Tacos with a Cop (Sept. 19), Police y la Comunidad program (Sept. 20), Ice Cream with a Cop (Sept. 21), and the South Park Day and Night Festival (Sept. 23). No public comments. - Spring/Summer Programs Recap: Jeff Tibbetts (Deputy Director, Recreation) reported over 180,000 program participants, over 500,000 guests at park events, and revenue exceeding $2 million (recovering 90% of pre-COVID levels). Juan Flores introduced Itzel Velarde, a recipient of the $10,000 Harmon and Sue Burns Scholarship through the Junior Giants program (serving 275 youth with 75 volunteers). Council praised the presentation. Consent Calendar - Items 12.1–12.9 and 12.11–12.13: Approved unanimously (7-0). Key approvals included: - 12.1: Contract award to Ghilotti Bros., Inc. for Sonoma Ave Pavement Rehabilitation ($4,348,477 base; $5,000,748.55 total with 15% contingency; no General Fund money). - 12.2: Contract award to Waterworks Industries for Finley Aquatic Center Spray Ground and Renovation ($4,836,801 base; $5,320,481.10 total with 10% contingency). - 12.3: Amendment No. 2 with AECOM for Hearn Avenue Interchange design services ($692,400 increase; total not to exceed $5,271,948). - 12.4: Resolution authorizing continued participation in Clipper START pilot and increasing the low-income fare discount to 50%. - 12.5: Additional $100,000 contingency for HVAC maintenance contract (total $740,000). - 12.6: Ninth amendment to janitorial contract with ADS-Myers ($192,161.32 for new inRESPONSE Team Building; total contract $6,765,346.03 plus contingency). - 12.7: Adoption of the City of Santa Rosa Continuity of Operations Plan (COOP). - 12.8: 5-year professional services agreement with ODP Business Solutions for Storage Area Network update ($160,500.33). - 12.9: Appropriation of $1,500,000 from the 2022 State Budget to the Water Enterprise Fund for a Direct Install Water Use Efficiency Project. - 12.11: Exclusive Negotiation Agreement (ENA) with Burbank Housing Development Corp. and 10 E Street LLC for the White House Site (730 3rd Street) for potential affordable housing development. - 12.12: Lease of 72 golf carts for Bennett Valley Golf Course ($531,360 over 5 years). - 12.13: Second reading and adoption of ordinance establishing monthly salary of $24,500 for the City Attorney (Teresa Stricker), effective November 6, 2023. Public Comments on Consent Calendar - On Item 12.10 (Garage 5): Speakers included business owners expressing concern about parking loss and potential harm to downtown businesses (Ame Van Dyke, ER Sawyer Jewelers; Toraj Soltani, Mac’s Deli; Natalie Balfour; Duane DeWitt). Supporters cited housing need, parking study data (74% of downtown spaces unused), and the $9.53 million state catalyst grant (Mark Hall, Abby Arnold, Victoria Yanez, Alexa Forrester, Stephanie Bowen of Generation Housing, Thomas Ells, Zach Burkowicz, Andrew Rich, Adrian Covert). Several speakers urged a full RFP process citing process concerns. - On Item 12.11 (White House Site): Speakers supported the development, noting the site’s potential for housing and economic activity. - On Clipper START (Item 12.4): Victoria Yanez voiced support for the increased discount and public transit improvements. Discussion Items - Item 12.10 – Exclusive Negotiation Agreement with Rogal Projects for Garage 5 (625 and 637 3rd Street): Councilmember Okrepkie pulled this from consent. Jill Scott (Real Property Manager) explained the state Surplus Lands Act process: a 60-day notice to 1,500+ affordable housing developers, 90-day negotiation period, and selection based on most affordable units. The city was awarded a $9.53 million state catalyst grant for downtown lots, contingent on a tight timeline. Council discussion centered on process (whether the withdrawal of an affordable housing partner required a new RFP), parking impacts, and the feasibility of meeting grant deadlines. Councilmembers Okrepkie and Vice Mayor MacDonald expressed concerns about process and business impacts; Councilmember Rogers stressed the need to act boldly and not delay. A motion to approve the ENA passed 5-2 (Mayor Rogers, Councilmembers Alvarez, Fleming, C. Rogers, Stapp in favor; Vice Mayor MacDonald and Okrepkie opposed). Public Comments on Non-Agenda Matters - Duane DeWitt raised the issue of 110 homeless veterans and urged repurposing pallet homes from the county’s Los Guilicos site to the Veterans Memorial Building. He also called for more collaborative outreach. - Victoria Yanez (Homeless Action!) criticized police harassment and towing of unregistered vehicles, stating it criminalizes homelessness. - Thomas Ells supported saving the pallet homes and noted the benefits of stable shelter for unhoused individuals. Key Outcomes - Consent items 12.1–12.9 and 12.11–12.13 were approved unanimously (7-0). - Item 12.10 (Garage 5 ENA) was approved on a 5-2 vote. - Closed session items (cybersecurity consultation and property negotiations) were received and filed with direction to staff. - The meeting adjourned at 6:30 PM with a recognition of staff member Jandon Briscoe, wishing him a full recovery.

The Santa Rosa Planning Commission met on August 24, 2023, at 4:31 PM in the Council Chambers to conduct three public hearings. The meeting included public comments on non-agenda matters, commissioner reports, and departmental updates. Key actions included a continuance of the Bunya Bunya tree removal appeal, approval of a time extension for the Holly Hock Subdivision, and a tied vote on the 7-Eleven beer and wine conditional use permit, leading to a continuance to October 26, 2023. Public Comments & Testimony (Non-Agenda Items) - Cliff Wigham, a property owner in the Roberts District, argued that the zoning (6.0 FAR) is inconsistent with the area's Roseland context and creates barriers to development. He urged the city to align zoning with the Roseland EIFD. - Dave Zedrick, another property owner, echoed Wigham's concerns, stating that the 6.0 FAR makes it difficult to sell their property and retire after 49 years. - Ricky Schow, a paraplegic, criticized the city for prioritizing tree preservation over sidewalk accessibility, citing numerous sidewalk gaps and hazards that endanger people with disabilities. Commissioner Reports & Department Updates - Commissioner Cisco reported attending the grand opening of Caritas Homes Phase 1, which includes 64 units (30 permanent supportive housing). - Commissioner Sanders reported on the Waterways Advisory Committee meeting, highlighting General Plan 2050 outreach efforts and upcoming Creek Week events (September 16–23, 2023). - Chair Weeks announced the Santa Rosa Merit Awards ceremony on September 18, 2023, at Finley Center. - Staff Liaison Jessica Jones provided updates on the draft General Plan 2050 public review, community outreach, and the Woodlands at Shanate (formerly Chinate) project, which will hold a neighborhood meeting in late September. Discussion Items 9.1 Public Hearing: Bunya Bunya Tree Removal Appeal (1080 2nd St) – TR22-062 - Background: The Salvation Army Residences, Inc. appealed the March 3, 2023 denial of a tree permit to remove an approximately 125-foot Bunya Bunya tree located between the community garden and the sidewalk. - Staff Recommendation: Senior Planner Susie Murray presented and recommended a continuance to review a late-submitted arborist report from the appellant. - Appellant Position: Attorney Kevin Conasack (representing Salvation Army) argued the tree poses a safety risk from falling cones, which can cause catastrophic injuries. He suggested the commission discuss liability with the city attorney and risk management. - Outcome: The commission voted 6–0 to continue the hearing to September 14, 2023. (Motion by Commissioner Cisco, second by Commissioner Peterson.) 9.2 Public Hearing: Holly Hock Subdivision Tentative Map Time Extension (1650 Meda Ave) – EXT23-0001 - Background: The applicant requested a one-year extension (to February 8, 2024) for a previously approved 16-parcel small lot subdivision on two acres. The project is exempt from CEQA. - Public Testimony: - Larry Corbin (adjacent property owner) reported losing 40 yards of dirt due to erosion from the stalled project and urged progress. - Lee J. Pierce (neighbor) described the site as an eyesore with RVs and expressed concerns about traffic and safety, especially for children. - Erin Ford (resident) supported the extension, noting that the new street (Holly Hock Lane) would provide a secondary evacuation route for her neighborhood, which currently has only one exit. - Staff Response: Planner Jandon Briscoe noted that the project has approved improvement plans and a grading permit issued in 2021, but no construction timeline is available. The applicant has used two automatic extensions (due to the Tubbs fire) and would have up to five one-year extensions total. - Outcome: The commission approved Resolution PC-2023-020 (6–0), granting the one-year extension. (Motion by Commissioner Holton, second by Commissioner Cisco.) 9.3 Public Hearing: 7-Eleven Sale of Beer and Wine for Off-Site Consumption (136 College Ave) – CUP22-052 - Background: 7-Eleven requested a Conditional Use Permit (CUP) to sell beer and wine for off-site consumption at its existing convenience store. The project is exempt from CEQA. - Ex Parte Disclosures: - Commissioner Cisco noted witnessing police activity at Ninth Street Market (within 1,000 ft) and reviewed 2004 meeting minutes. - Commissioner Holton reported seeing an inebriated person passed out on the sidewalk at Ninth Street Market. - Staff Presentation: Senior Planner Susie Murray detailed the site's history, including a 2004 denial of a similar permit. She highlighted physical changes (new fence, cleared foliage) and the updated Downtown Station Area Specific Plan, which designates the area as Neighborhood Mixed Use. - Police Position: Captain Ryan Corkin stated that the Santa Rosa Police Department has no opposition, noting that the 7-Eleven is cleaner and more suitable than the other two alcohol-selling outlets within 1,000 feet. - Applicant Presentation: Representatives (Raj Upple, franchisee; Alex Finn, area leader; Shauna Morales, customer) emphasized the store's cleanliness, community involvement, and voluntary conditions: hours limited to 10 AM–10 PM, no small single beers, no malt liquor, no exterior alcohol advertising, and no more than 10% of floor space for beer/wine. City Attorney Ashley Crocker clarified that the city cannot impose such conditions on alcohol sales—only ABC can. - Public Testimony: No members of the public spoke during the hearing. - Commission Discussion: - Opponents (Commissioners Cisco, Holton, Sanders) cited the neighborhood's existing social challenges, proximity to homeless services, and the inability to make finding E (that the permit would not constitute a nuisance or be detrimental to public interest). They argued that one more alcohol outlet could exacerbate problems. - Supporters (Commissioners Carter, Peterson, Weeks) noted the changed zoning, the store's responsible management, police support, and the limited impact of one additional license. - Initial Vote: A motion to approve (by Commissioner Peterson, second by Commissioner Carter) failed 3–3 (Carter, Peterson, Weeks yes; Cisco, Holton, Sanders no). - Outcome: The commission voted 6–0 to continue the hearing to October 26, 2023, to allow for a full seven-member commission. (Motion by Commissioner Peterson, second by Commissioner Holton.) Key Outcomes - Bunya Bunya Tree Appeal: Continued to September 14, 2023 (6–0). - Holly Hock Subdivision Extension: Approved (6–0) with Resolution PC-2023-020. - 7-Eleven CUP: Motion to approve failed 3–3; item continued to October 26, 2023 (6–0). - The meeting adjourned at 6:47 PM.

The Santa Rosa City Council met in regular session on August 22, 2023, at 4:20 p.m. after a closed session on labor negotiations (no reportable action). The meeting included a proclamation, approval of a consent calendar, a public hearing, and reports on investment policy, firefighter staffing, golf course irrigation, board diversity, and the appointment of a new city attorney. The Council also received reports from the Mayor and Council Members, including updates on homelessness counts and city initiatives. Proclamations & Presentations - Women’s Equality Day, August 26, 2023 – Vice Mayor MacDonald read the proclamation. Jan Blalock, past Chair of the Sonoma County Commission on the Status of Women, accepted and spoke about ongoing equity issues. Public comment by Eric Fraser offered a different perspective through the lens of freedom and free will. Consent Calendar - 12.1 – Resolution approving a third amendment to the professional services agreement with Best Best & Krieger LLP for real estate legal services, extending compensation by $100,000 (total not to exceed $400,000). Adopted unanimously. - 12.2 – Resolution accepting the 2023 Annual Report and adopting the 2024 Work Plan for the Santa Rosa Tourism Business Improvement Area (TBIA), including continuation of the annual assessment on lodging businesses. Adopted unanimously. (Public comment in opposition by Eric Fraser, who called the TBIA a "rent-seeking organization" and cited concerns about representation of residential property owners.) - 12.3 – Resolution ratifying grant application and acceptance of $1,333,334 from the California Office of Emergency Services for seismic retrofit and renovation of 55 Stony Point Road as an Emergency Operations Center, with $333,334 in local matching funds. Adopted unanimously. - 12.4 – Ordinance (second reading) repealing and replacing Chapter 11.22 of the Municipal Code on camping on public streets and public property to align with Martin v. City of Boise and establish health/safety standards. Adopted unanimously. - Public comments: Multiple speakers urged adoption (Joe Dietzen, Cadance Hinkle Allinson, Natalie Balfour, Argo T, Pauline Block, Danielle N., Britt C.) citing fire risks (23% of fire responses were encampment-related) and business impacts. Some speakers (Gig Hitao, Michael Titone, Victoria Yanez, Duane DeWitt, Butterfly) requested pulling the item for amendments, arguing it could still violate the Boise decision or lacked sufficient shelter alternatives. Public Comments & Testimony (Non-Agenda Matters) - Item 13 – Duane DeWitt thanked Council Member Alvarez for work in District 1 and supported naming Pomo Park and Preserve along Roseland Creek. Cynthia Lozano reported a glitch in the short-term rental renewal system and requested assistance. City staff said they would help. - Item 17 – Shelby Pryor recommended establishing a cultural center for African American residents in Santa Rosa. Discussion Items - 14.1 – Investment Policy Update – Budget Manager Veronica Connor and PFM Managing Director Monique Spyke presented proposed changes to Council Policy No. 000-26, including: lowering minimum credit quality on municipal obligations from AA to A; increasing commercial paper limit from 25% to 40% of the portfolio; adding fossil fuel restriction language; and clarifying collateralization and policy review procedures. No public comment. Adopted unanimously. - 14.2 – FEMA SAFER Grant Application for 12 Firefighters – Fire Chief Scott Westrope presented: request for $7,084,440 to hire 12 firefighter-paramedics to staff two advanced life support squads, addressing NFPA 1710 compliance (full assembly at structure fires) and declining day-to-day response time compliance (from 77% in 2010 to under 60% in 2022). The grant covers three years with no local match; after the grant, the city may continue funding, find alternative sources, or absorb positions through attrition. Public comment: Adina Flores requested a citizen action group for contract oversight; Shelby Pryor expressed concerns about funding priorities and questioned data. Adopted 6-0-1 (Vice Mayor MacDonald absent). - 14.3 – Bennett Valley Golf Course (BVGC) Irrigation Supply System – Jen Santos, Acting Recreation and Parks Director, presented a request for $2,000,000 from unassigned General Fund reserves for environmental review, design, and construction of a modern irrigation system, plus delegation to the City Manager to use design-build procurement if beneficial. The golf course (150 acres, built 1969) has a 50-year-old critical irrigation system. National Golf Foundation recommended this as the top priority. Public comment: Richard Carlile (support, civil engineer), Shelby Pryor (oppose, citing water use and homelessness), Jim Gurke (support, diversity of users), Adina Flores (oppose, re: priorities), Sheila Bell (support, youth programs). Touchstone management presented junior golf and outreach programs. Adopted unanimously. - 14.4 – Diversity of City Council Boards, Commissions, and Committees – 2022 Annual Report – City Clerk Dina Manis presented data: 66 total applications, 46 unique applicants; 23 appointments made. Gender: 74% male appointees, 26% female. Ethnicity: 78% Caucasian non-Hispanic, 13% African American, 5% Asian/Pacific Islander, 4% Hispanic (Hispanic applicants were 13% of applicants). Council Member Fleming requested age data in future reports. Council Member Okrepkie asked about recruitment efforts (advertising in Press Democrat, La Voz, social media, and future community event booths). Public comment: Shelby Pryor and Adina Flores criticized the report for lack of genuine equity and representation. Adopted unanimously. - 14.5 – Appointment of City Attorney and Employment Agreement – Dominique Blanquie, HR Director, introduced Teresa Stricker as the new City Attorney (nationwide search). Employment agreement includes: annual salary of $294,000 (effective Nov. 6, 2023), deferred compensation (5.5% of base), moving expenses up to $10,000, six months severance, auto allowance $350/month, wellness benefit $400/month, and other standard benefits. An ordinance setting the salary was introduced for first reading. Public comment: Eric Fraser raised concerns about corruption in code enforcement and a recent arrest; Adina Flores echoed concerns about transparency and a former code enforcement official. Resolution adopted unanimously; Ordinance introduced unanimously (7-0). - 15.1 – Public Hearing: Placement of Storm Water Enterprise Charges on Sonoma County Property Tax Roll – Claire Myers, Storm Water and Creeks Manager, presented the proposal for FY 2023-2024 to continue collection of the $39.98 per ERU fee via the county tax roll, as done since 1996. No public comment. Adopted unanimously (7-0, 2/3 vote required). - 16.1 – State Legislative Update – Information items: Support for ACA 1 (local government financing for affordable housing and public infrastructure); Opposition to AB 698 (gas stove bans); Support for SB 470 (urban and small community drought relief programs). Council Member Chris Rogers noted interest in ACA 13 (constitutional amendment, potential support). Received and filed. Key Outcomes - Consent Calendar – All items (12.1–12.4) approved unanimously. - Investment Policy Update – Approved (Resolution RES-2023-149). - SAFER Grant – Application authorized (6-0-1); if awarded, the Fire Chief is authorized to accept. - BVGC Irrigation – $2 million appropriated from General Fund reserves; City Manager authorized to use design-build process if beneficial; contract will return to Council for approval. - Diversity Report – Accepted; staff directed to improve outreach and consider adding age data. - City Attorney Appointment – Teresa Stricker appointed; employment agreement approved; salary ordinance introduced (second reading at next meeting). - Storm Water Charges – Placement on tax roll approved. - Closed Session – No reportable action. Meeting adjourned at 8:17 p.m.

The Santa Rosa Cultural Heritage Board (CHB) held a regular meeting on August 16, 2023, from 4:33 PM to 7:17 PM. The board discussed two major agenda items: a concept review for unpermitted exterior changes at 635 Mill Street (LMA23-005) and a continued brainstorming session on how to address work done without permits within the city's preservation districts. Seven board members were present. The meeting included introductions of a new board member, department reports, recusals, and a vote to continue the second item to a date uncertain. Consent Calendar - None. Public Comments & Testimony - No public comments were made during either public comment period. Discussion Items - Item 8.1 – Concept Review for Exterior Changes at 635 Mill Street (LMA23-005): The applicant, represented by Bob Biederman of Ground School Management and historical architect Mark Perry, sought direction from the board to legalize exterior work done without permits at 635 Mill Street, located in the Luther Burbank Gardens Preservation District. The work included replacement of windows, restoration of original board-and-batten siding, addition of a new front porch, and conversion of a window into a front door. Staff noted that the property was in severe disrepair before the work. Board members provided feedback on the porch scale, the two front doors, the porch railing, exposed foundation materials, and light fixtures. The board generally appreciated the improvement but expressed concerns about the new porch's size and the second front door. Suggestions included using a Dutch door or window for the bedroom access, covering exposed foundation with lattice or landscaping, and refining the front door appearance. The applicant indicated willingness to collaborate. No action was taken; the board's direction will inform a future major landmark alteration permit application. - Item 8.2 – Brainstorming on Unpermitted Work in Preservation Districts: The board continued a discussion started in June 2023 on how to reduce unpermitted alterations in historic districts. Board members suggested better education (e.g., neighborhood meetings, social media, realtor disclosures), streamlining the permit process, reducing fees, and delegating some approvals to staff. Chair Meuser proposed a special study session or a workshop to develop concrete recommendations. After discussion, a motion was made and seconded to continue the item to a date uncertain, which passed 7–0. A subsequent motion to direct staff to set up a workshop (likely in October 2023) also passed 7–0. Key Outcomes - Item 8.1: No formal action taken; board provided conceptual direction to the applicant for future permit submittal. Key points: re-evaluate the two-door configuration, cover exposed foundation, and consider porch scale and materials. - Item 8.2: Motion to continue the discussion to a date uncertain carried 7–0. Board also voted 7–0 to direct staff to schedule a workshop to explore causes and solutions for unpermitted work in preservation districts. - Other Business: The board approved the July 19, 2023 draft minutes as submitted. New board member Janice Marzlin was introduced. Staff reported on the General Plan update, upcoming zoning code changes (Resilient City measures), and a potential special meeting on September 13, 2023, to discuss streamlining landmark alterations. - Recusals: Chair Meuser and Board Member Fennell recused themselves from Item 8.1 due to proximity to the property. Vice Chair Garrett presided over that item.

The Santa Rosa City Council met on August 8, 2023, from 2:33 PM to 9:19 PM. The meeting included a closed session, interviews for Housing Authority vacancies, a staff briefing, consent items, and three public hearings. Key actions included adoption of a revised camping ordinance, authorization of a grant application for paratransit vehicles, and denial of an appeal for a 36-unit apartment project. Consent Calendar - Easement for Fire Station 5: Approved grant of easement to PG&E and AT&T and vacation of 1,086 sq ft of public utility easement (Resolutions RES-2023-135 and RES-2023-136). - Marketing Services Agreement: Approved third amendment with Belinda M. Fernandez, DBA Studio B, extending visitor marketing through June 30, 2024, with an additional $70,000 (total $322,000) (Resolution RES-2023-137). - Software Subscription: Approved first amendment with ePermitHub for electronic plan review software, extending two years for $93,250 (cumulative $192,456.66) (Resolution RES-2023-138). - Computer Equipment Purchase: Ratified and authorized continued cooperative purchase from Dell Marketing L.P. for up to $2,000,000 (total not-to-exceed $5,016,358.79) (Resolution RES-2023-139). - Legal Services: Approved professional services agreement with Sloan Sakai Yeung & Wong LLP for labor relations and employment law in an amount of $500,000 (Resolution RES-2023-140). - Homeless Emergency Extension: Approved extension of the local homeless emergency proclamation (Resolution RES-2023-141). Public Comments & Testimony - Housing Authority Interviews: Gregory Fearon spoke in support of the Housing Authority’s role. - Camping Ordinance (16.1): Over 30 speakers addressed the council. Supporters (e.g., Downtown Action Organization, business owners) argued the ordinance is needed for health and safety. Opponents (e.g., NAACP, homeless advocates) stated it criminalizes homelessness and lacks clear designation of where camping is allowed. Several speakers suggested clarifying language. - ADA Paratransit Grant (16.2): No public comments. - 1650 W Steele Lane Apartments Appeal (16.3): Approximately 20 speakers. Supporters (e.g., Generation Housing, CAP Sonoma, nearby business owner) emphasized housing needs and transit proximity. Opponents (e.g., Charles M. Schulz Creative Associates, Children's Museum, neighbors) argued inadequate parking (36 spaces for 36 units with 69 bedrooms) will harm the historic cultural corridor and local parking. Discussion Items - Community Empowerment Plan Update: Lon Peterson highlighted upcoming engagement events, including a town hall on September 7 at Roseland University Prep and various police-community activities. - Housing Authority Appointments: Council interviewed nine applicants and appointed Angela Conte as At-Large Tenant Commissioner and Doug Shivananda Friedman as Senior Tenant Commissioner (7-0 votes). - Board of Building Regulation Appeals: Appointed Ken Coker (4-year term), Craig Lawson (2-year term), and Carl Colgrove (2-year term) (7-0 vote). - Camping Ordinance (16.1): Staff presented proposed ordinance to repeal and replace Chapter 11-22 to comply with Martin v. City of Boise (2019). Key provisions: prohibitions on camping near specific areas (e.g., within 25 feet of entrances, 150 feet of waterways), conduct regulations (e.g., no fires except in city-installed facilities), and no time restrictions. Council amended language in two sections, changing “in a manner” to “in any way” for clarity. City Attorney confirmed the ordinance aligns with state law. - ADA Paratransit Grant (16.2): Staff requested authorization to apply for FTA Section 5310 funds (approx. $75,000 per vehicle, 45% of cost) to replace four aged paratransit vehicles. No nonprofits indicated ability to provide service. Council approved. - 1650 W Steele Lane Apartments Appeal (16.3): The project (36 units, 4 very low-income, density bonus 100%) was approved by Zoning Administrator in January 2023. Appeal by Charles M. Schulz Creative Associates cited insufficient parking (36 spaces vs. 52 required by code, reduced via concessions). Staff and applicant argued state density bonus law and AB 2097 (effective Jan. 1, 2023) entitle the project to reduced parking. Zoning Administrator and WTrans parking study supported 36 spaces as adequate given unbundled parking and transit proximity. Council discussed legal findings required to deny appeal and ultimately denied it. Key Outcomes - Camping Ordinance: Introduced as amended (7-0 vote). Final adoption set for a future meeting. - ADA Paratransit Grant: Resolution RES-2023-142 adopted (7-0). Authorizes City Manager to file grant application. - 1650 W Steele Lane Apartments Appeal: Three resolutions adopted (each 6-0-1, Councilmember Okrepkie abstained): RES-2023-143 (Addendum to EIR), RES-2023-144 (Minor Conditional Use Permit for density bonus), RES-2023-145 (Minor Design Review). Appeal denied; project to proceed.

The Santa Rosa City Council met on July 25, 2023, beginning with a closed session at 1:30 PM and reconvening in open session at 4:00 PM. Mayor Natalie Rogers was absent; Vice Mayor Dianna MacDonald presided. The agenda included a proclamation for outgoing City Attorney Sue Gallagher, consent items, a major discussion on revisions to the Short-Term Rental ordinance, and several reports including the Southeast Greenway acquisition, water supply assessment, police military equipment report, and weed abatement program. Proclamation - Sue A. Gallagher, City Attorney: Council read and presented a proclamation honoring Gallagher’s seven and a half years of service as City Attorney. She responded with gratitude. No public comments. Consent Calendar - Items 12.1, 12.2, 12.3, 12.4, and 12.6 were approved unanimously (6-0) under the consent agenda. These included: a fourth amendment to a legal services agreement with Geary, Shea, O’Donnell, Grattan & Mitchell P.C. (additional $75,000, total $350,000); approval of tow vendor franchises for police-generated tows; a professional services agreement with Macias Gini & O’Connell LLP for financial audit services ($1,629,060 over five years); a resolution supporting a Transformative Climate Communities Program grant application; and second reading of an ordinance establishing salary and benefits for interim City Attorney Burke, Williams & Sorensen, LLP. Public Comments & Testimony - On Consent Item 12.4 (Transformative Climate Communities Grant): Duane DeWitt expressed concern about lack of community engagement in Southwest Santa Rosa and urged the city to not “pimp us out for you getting money.” - On Short-Term Rental Ordinance (12.5): Multiple speakers (Eric Fraser, J. Storie, Charles, Lauren Requarth, Alex C., Carl, Dan Gudino) spoke in support of short-term rentals and opposed restrictive amendments. They argued the ordinance villainizes operators, raises harassment concerns, and criticized the three-strike revocation and transferability limits. Eric Fraser from Truth in Tourism called it a “war on STRs.” - On Southeast Greenway (14.3): Nine speakers, including Linda Proulx (Southeast Greenway Campaign), John McCaull (Sonoma Land Trust), Eris Weaver (Sonoma Bike Coalition), and pre-recorded messages, all expressed strong support for the acquisition. They praised the partnership and emphasized the need for maintenance and public safety. - On Police Military Equipment Report (14.2): Victor Castro asked about cost savings from drones but did not receive a response during public comment. Discussion Items - Short-Term Rental Ordinance (12.5) – Second Reading with Amendments: Council discussed and voted on several amendments after pulling the item from consent. - Principal Residence Clarification: Councilmember Fleming motioned to direct staff to add “principal residence” definition for hosted rentals and work with the city attorney on application requirements. Friendly amendment to include in application rather than ordinance. Passed 6-0. - Transferability: Motion to limit transfer to spouse/domestic partner only, striking trust language. Passed 4-2 (Okrepkie and Stapp dissenting). - Two-Year Review: Motion to strike specific language requiring reconsideration of the cap in two years, but retain a study session to review impacts. Passed 6-0. - Revocation Applicability: Motion to clarify that revocation applies only to the subject property that received three citations, not all properties owned by the same operator. Passed 6-0. Earlier, a motion to revoke all permits was withdrawn after city attorney raised legal concerns. - Final Adoption: Motion to adopt ordinance as amended passed 6-0. - Southeast Greenway Property (14.3): Staff presented the plan to purchase 49 acres from Caltrans for a public park and bike/pedestrian path, with 10 acres retained for affordable housing. Council approved resolution 5-0 (Fleming absent). The resolution declares public purpose in perpetuity, approves a deed restriction, waives park land dedication requirements for the developable parcels, and authorizes negotiation and execution of a purchase agreement. - Water Supply Assessment (14.1): Staff reported that existing and projected water supplies are sufficient for General Plan 2050 through 2043, with demand management in dry years. Resolution adopted 4-0 (Alvarez, Fleming, Mayor Rogers absent). - Police Annual Military Equipment Report (14.2): Captain Marinck presented a summary of deployments (drones 165 times, armored vehicle 14, etc.) and future purchases. Council approved renewal of the ordinance 5-0. - Weed Abatement Public Hearing (15.1): Fire Marshal presented the annual report; no public objections. Council confirmed the cost report and authorized liens on delinquent parcels. Resolution adopted 5-0. Key Outcomes - Short-Term Rental Ordinance: Adopted with amendments to clarify principal residence, limit permit transferability to spouse/domestic partner, remove specific two-year cap reconsideration language (but retain study session), and clarify that revocation applies only to the violating property. Vote 6-0. - Southeast Greenway: Approved resolution for acquisition and public purpose declaration. Vote 5-0. - Water Supply Assessment: Approved resolution. Vote 4-0. - Police Military Equipment Report: Approved renewal of ordinance and report. Vote 5-0. - Weed Abatement: Confirmed report and authorized assessments. Vote 5-0. - Consent Items: Approved 6-0. - Delegates for League of California Cities Conference: Appointed Mayor Rogers as voting delegate, Vice Mayor MacDonald as first alternate, Councilmember Fleming as second alternate. Vote 6-0. - Appointments to School Subcommittee: Approved Mayor’s appointments (Mayor Rogers, Vice Mayor MacDonald, Councilmember Okrepkie) to the Santa Rosa City Schools and City Council Subcommittee on safety and security. Vote 6-0. - Approval of Minutes: July 11, 2023 special and regular meeting minutes approved as submitted. - The meeting adjourned at 7:33 PM.

The Santa Rosa City Council held a special meeting on July 22, 2023, at 8:30 a.m., primarily to conduct a closed session to interview candidates for the City Attorney position. The meeting was called to order by Mayor Natalie Rogers. Six council members were present (Mayor Rogers, Vice Mayor MacDonald, Councilmembers Fleming, Okrepkie, Chris Rogers, Stapp); Councilmember Eddie Alvarez was absent. The meeting recessed to closed session at 8:33 a.m. and reconvened to open session at 1:00 p.m., with four council members present (Mayor Rogers, Councilmembers Fleming, Okrepkie, Stapp); Vice Mayor MacDonald and Councilmembers Alvarez and Chris Rogers were absent. No final action was taken; direction was provided to staff. The meeting adjourned at 1:03 p.m. Public Comments & Testimony - No public comments were made on the closed session items. Closed Session - Item 2.1: Public Employment – City Attorney Interviews – The Council discussed this item in closed session. No final action was taken; direction was provided to staff. Key Outcomes - Mayor Rogers reported that the Council discussed the City Attorney interview item, provided direction to staff, and took no final action. - The meeting adjourned at 1:03 p.m.