Public Meetings - Santa Rosa, California

On May 10, 2023, the Santa Rosa City Council continued its FY 2023-24 budget study session from 9:02 a.m. to 3:27 p.m., including a lunch break. Presentations covered the Fire, Police, Planning & Economic Development, Parks & Recreation, Transportation & Public Works, Water departments, and the Capital Improvement Program. The council heard public comments and provided early direction ahead of formal budget adoption in June. Public Comments & Testimony - Ken MacNab (KMac Advising, representing property owners in the 2010 area) thanked the council and staff, expressing support for budgeting resources for the South Santa Rosa Specific Plan. - Chris Guenther (co-leader of Bikeable Santa Rosa) supported investment in multimodal transportation and reducing motor vehicle trips, noting collaboration with CityThread on a bike network acceleration plan. - Bob Gaiser (co-chair, Southeast Greenway Campaign Committee) supported city staff for Southeast Greenway acquisition and planning, and the Parks & Recreation budget proposal. - Tom Robertson (CEO, SCI Office, LLC) emphasized safety concerns in downtown Santa Rosa, reporting multiple car break-ins and requesting two additional police officers for the downtown area. - Duane DeWitt (Sonoma County Housing Advocacy Group) discussed the budget deficit, past cuts, replacement of 30 picnic tables/benches, offloading city properties for revenue, and requested a set time for public speaking. - Joshua Shipper (Generation Housing) urged the council to reduce building costs, specifically by waiving most impact fees on affordable housing (following Petaluma) and applying the ADU fee structure to affordable-by-design multifamily housing. - Chris Eggers (by speaker card) prioritized funding for protected and connected bikeways. - Gregory Fearon spoke on ARPA and PG&E one-time fund allocations, suggesting a community update meeting and requesting all funds be utilized. - Rigel Bowen (North Bay Organizing Project Police Accountability Task Force) opposed adding money from the general fund to the police budget, advocating instead for departments like Housing, Planning, Parks, and Transportation. - Kelsey Vero (same task force) opposed general fund money for police, especially for school resource officers (SROs), suggesting funding for evidence-based alternative solutions. - Alyn Wolves (same task force) opposed additional patrol officers and SROs in schools. - Elizabeth Ridlington (vice chair, Bicycle and Pedestrian Advisory Board, speaking as a citizen) requested funding for Vision Zero and safe routes to school, citing a need for crosswalk improvements. - Brandon Cho (on behalf of Efren Carrillo, CEO of Gallaher Community Housing) supported modifying development impact fees for affordable housing. - Shaun Du Fosee favored hiring in-house labor relations staff over outside consultants, and supported planning for potential SROs. - Cadance Hinkle Allinson (Downtown District) thanked staff, supported hiring an assistant city attorney, a comprehensive economic development plan, and increasing public safety measures/law enforcement, including possible expansion of the downtown enforcement team. - Lee (North Bay Organizing Project Police Accountability Task Force and Sonoma County Tenants Union) supported funding community programs over increased police funding, opposing police in schools. - Hugh Futrell (Downtown Action Organization) supported additional public safety investments, an assistant city attorney for code/misdemeanor enforcement, additional downtown enforcement team officers, and retaining park impact fees within the downtown core. - Stevan Stankovich (Santa Rosa Plaza mall manager) advocated for a safe downtown, additional downtown enforcement team officers, and an extra city attorney for misdemeanor/property claims. - Michael Lipelt supported investment in active transportation infrastructure and safe, protected bicycle lanes over continued vehicle infrastructure investment. Discussion Items - Fire Department (Scott Westrope, Chief): Proposed budget includes a $1.5M increase in salaries/benefits, $250K for REDCOM dispatch (due to call volume), and $1.6M for fleet replacement. The department is fully staffed in fire prevention for the first time since 2007. Challenges include recruiting technical positions, non-contract overtime, and behavioral health. The chief noted progress on plan review backlog (down to 14-day turnaround). - Police Department (John Cregan, Chief): Proposed total $79M, a 4.4% general fund increase. Highlights include a $2.6M Roseland substation purchase (via Measure H), overtime increase for realistic budgeting, and $50K for large vehicle towing (RVs). The department is recruiting heavily (25 officers in training). Accomplishments include a side show ordinance, restorative justice program, and gun buyback (423 firearms). Challenges: staffing roller coaster, violent crime (record 12 homicides in 2022), and response times (priority one calls at 7:07 minutes vs. 6-minute goal). Chief discussed costs for SROs: $218K per officer, $660K for three new positions; a full program would require 7-8 officers ($1.5M). - Planning & Economic Development (Clare Hartman, Director): Proposed budget $19.3M (1.6% general fund increase). Adding a code enforcement officer, centralizing admin, and a technology specialist (housed in IT). Key accomplishments: issued permits for 1,400 housing units, 1,200 land use approvals, general plan in final year, downtown fee incentives extended. Challenges: balancing many initiatives, fee study underway (first update since 2014), and emerging efforts like South Santa Rosa Specific Plan (grant dependent). - Parks & Recreation (Jason Nutt, Acting Director): Reorganization transferring 31 staff from Public Works. Proposed budget reflects increased costs for MOU, pool chemicals, and Bennett Valley Golf Course operations (new Touchstone agreement). New recreation director position (offset by eliminating other FTE). Challenges: landscape maintenance resources (26 staff for 1,100 acres; national average is 1/3 more staff per acre), infrastructure costs, and grant management. Discussion included after-school programs (Measure O funded), Northwest Community Park ownership, and the need for a funded landscape maintenance contract. - Transportation & Public Works (Jason Nutt, Acting Director): Budget shifted due to park maintenance transfer. Major increases in electricity, gas, and SB 1383 compliance. Accomplishments: local road safety plan, Hearn Avenue Interchange Phase 3 funding, 4 battery-electric buses deployed. Challenges: 49 vacancies (50% in capital projects engineering), equipment delivery delays (24-36 months for some fleet), and need for climate action staffing. Transit enterprise fund ($16.6M, 9% increase) balanced without using reserves, but fuel costs are uncertain; 14 vacant bus operator positions limit service restoration. First/last mile scooter program (Bird) struggling due to operator issues. - Water Department (Jennifer Burke, Director): Proposed budget reflects Sonoma Water wholesale rate increase (10.56% approved) and expected demand rebound. Wastewater treatment plant grade dropped to D+; underinvestment of $16M/year. Reserves are funded, but the department is spending down reserves intentionally to manage rate increases. Challenges: workforce turnover (10% loss so far this year), aging infrastructure, and rising chemical/electricity costs. - Capital Improvement Program (Jason Nutt): Total $75M for FY 2023-24. General fund component: $2M (ADA improvements, Roseland lighting, Roseland pavement). Park impact fees fund projects in four districts; Measure M (Parks for All) splits 50% capital/40% maintenance/10% recreation. Key projects: Hearn Avenue Interchange, Highway 101 bike/pedestrian overcrossing, Lower Colgan Creek Phase 3, and various water/wastewater infrastructure. Key Outcomes - No formal actions were taken, as the session was for discussion and direction. - Councilmember C. Rogers proposed reducing the deputy director for community engagement position (saving $200K) and capping the labor contract negotiator at $200K instead of $500K, redirecting savings to planning/economic development priorities. - Councilmember O'Krepke requested clarification on reallocation within the city attorney's office and a definitive cost estimate for a full SRO program. - Vice Mayor MacDonald expressed interest in staffing law enforcement to reduce response times, exploring shared costs with school districts for SROs, and considering an outreach coordinator for restorative justice. - Councilmember Fleming requested cost estimates for replacing supervised adult crews with unincarcerated labor and for a higher-level DEI position. - Councilmember Stapp supported investing in grants management and technology. - Mayor Rogers addressed the SRO topic, noting the need for proactive budgeting and ongoing discussions with the school board. - Staff will incorporate feedback and present a revised budget for formal adoption in June.

The Santa Rosa City Council held a two‑day study session beginning May 9, 2023, to review the proposed Fiscal Year 2023‑24 Operations and Maintenance Budget and Capital Improvement Program Budget. The session covered a citywide overview, General Fund segment, and administrative departments. The regular session that afternoon included proclamations, staff briefings, approval of minutes, unanimous consent items, and public comment on non‑agenda matters. Consent Calendar - Resolution 12.1 – Approved the SB1 State of Good Repair Project List and authorized filing a funding claim for an estimated $27,383 from Caltrans for FY 2023‑24. Adopted unanimously (RES‑2023‑079). - Resolution 12.2 – Authorized filing a claim for Transportation Development Act Article IV and State Transit Assistance funds of approximately $12,255,165 for transit operations and capital needs. Adopted unanimously (RES‑2023‑080). - Resolution 12.3 – Approved a split bid award for chemicals for city swimming pools: liquid carbon dioxide from Knorr Systems Int’l, LLC (up to $26,984.76) and liquid chlorine from SCP Distributors LLC dba Lincoln Aquatics (up to $88,033.66), total not to exceed $115,018.42. Adopted unanimously (RES‑2023‑081). - Resolution 12.4 – Expressed support for Senate Bill 55 (Umberg), which would require car dealers to etch the VIN on catalytic converters of vehicles listed for sale. Adopted unanimously (RES‑2023‑082). - Resolution 12.5 – Approved an extension of the proclamation of a local homeless emergency (Resolution No. 28839). Adopted unanimously (RES‑2023‑083). Public Comments & Testimony - Study Session (public comment deferred to May 10): No public comment was taken on the budget study session during the May 9 meeting. - Proclamations (6.1 & 6.2): Duane DeWitt (Sonoma County Housing Advocacy Group) spoke in support of Affordable Housing Month, emphasizing that residential rentals are key to solving the housing crisis. Eris Weaver (Sonoma County Bicycle Coalition) spoke on the importance and joy of bicycling. - Community Empowerment Plan Update (7.1): Duane DeWitt thanked staff for graffiti‑removal assistance, suggested moving future Cinco de Mayo celebrations to Courthouse Square, and provided historical context on the cruising ordinance. - Consent Items (12): Duane DeWitt suggested partnering with faith‑based organizations to provide safe parking and tiny homes for homeless individuals. - Non‑agenda Matters (13): Multiple speakers addressed the council: - Alexa Forrester (Bikeable Santa Rosa) presented a mural with over 100 resident comments urging safer, low‑stress bike infrastructure. - Duane DeWitt supported keeping hybrid meetings and urged council to engage with younger residents. - Micah Reyes and Isabella Barnard spoke in favor of investing in protected bike routes for safety and health. - Bernadette Burrell, Nancy Wang, and Jose Ibarra spoke in opposition to non‑hosted short‑term rentals in residential neighborhoods, citing noise, safety, and enforcement failures. Discussion Items - Study Session – FY 2023‑24 Budget Review (Item 3.1): Staff presented a $2.5 million General Fund deficit, addressed through fiscal stability reserves. Citywide revenues budgeted at $503.2 million and expenditures at $534 million. Administrative departments (City Council, City Manager, City Attorney, Communications, Human Resources, Finance, IT, Housing & Community Services) presented their budgets. Key challenges include leveling sales tax, rising benefit costs, labor negotiations, and grant management. Council asked questions about PERS rates, unfunded actuarial liability, parking fund deficits, and reorganization of community engagement into the Communications department. - Proclamations (Items 6.1 & 6.2): Council proclaimed May as Affordable Housing Month and May 2023 as Bike to Work Month & Day. - Community Empowerment Plan Update (Item 7.1): Danielle Garduno reported on a successful Cinco de Mayo event in Roseland (est. 2,000 attendees), planned repeal of the cruising ordinance on May 23, and recruitment for a community engagement coordinator. - Council Member Reports (Item 10): Reports included updates from the Sonoma Clean Power Authority, SCTA/RCPA budget discussions, the Renewal Enterprise District, the Metropolitan Transportation Commission appointment, and local community events. - Approval of Minutes (Item 11.1): Minutes of the March 9‑10, 2023 regular meeting were approved as submitted. - Written Communication (Item 16.1): Notice of Final Map for Stonebridge Subdivision Phase 1 was received and filed; Vice Mayor MacDonald abstained due to property proximity. Key Outcomes - All five consent resolutions were adopted unanimously (7‑0). - The minutes of the March 9‑10 regular meeting were approved. - The study session was recessed to May 10 at 9:00 AM to continue with Fire, Police, Planning & Economic Development, Parks & Recreation, Transportation & Public Works, Water, and Capital Improvement Program budgets. - Council provided direction to staff on budget questions; a formal response document will be compiled before final adoption in June. - The proclamation of local homeless emergency was extended; the cruising ordinance repeal is scheduled for May 23. - Public comment on short‑term rentals highlighted strong resident opposition to non‑hosted properties; no formal action taken. - The meeting adjourned at 5:20 PM.

The Santa Rosa City Council held a special meeting on May 4, 2023, beginning at 7:32 a.m. and adjourning at 8:42 a.m. The sole purpose was to convene in closed session to discuss two items continued from the April 25, 2023 meeting: a labor negotiation with the unrepresented City Attorney and the appointment of a City Attorney. Council Member Eddie Alvarez was absent. No public comments were made. Closed Session Items - 2.1 Conference with Labor Negotiators (Gov. Code § 54957.6): The Council met with its designated representative, Mayor Natalie Rogers, to discuss the unrepresented employee: City Attorney. This item was received and filed. - 2.2 Public Employee Appointment (Gov. Code § 54957): The Council discussed the appointment for the position of City Attorney. This item was received and filed. Report on Closed Session City Attorney Sue Gallagher reported that the Council met in closed session on Items 2.1 and 2.2. The Council provided direction, and no final action was taken. Adjournment The meeting adjourned at 8:42 a.m.

The Cultural Heritage Board held a regular meeting on May 3, 2023, at 4:33 PM, adjourning at 6:05 PM. Chair Brian Meuser presided. A quorum was present (5 members; Bonnie Boren absent, one vacancy). The meeting included approval of prior minutes, introduction of new members, election of a Vice Chair, a staff report, and a scheduled presentation on The Cannery at Railroad Square project. No formal actions were taken on the presentation. Consent Calendar - None. Public Comments & Testimony - None during the public comment period (agenda item 3). Public comments on the scheduled presentation were taken during that item (see below). Board Business - Member Introductions: New members Patrick Carney and Heidi Klyn introduced themselves, along with incumbents Cappie Garrett, Laura Fennell, and Chair Meuser. Each shared their background and interest in historic preservation. - Vice Chair Election: Chair Meuser nominated Board Member Cappie Garrett for Vice Chair; Board Member Carney seconded. The motion carried unanimously (5 yes, 1 absent, 1 vacancy). Garrett will serve as Vice Chair, providing a chair from a different historic district to reduce recusal conflicts. Department Reports - Staff Liaison Susie Murray (Senior Planner) introduced herself and provided an update. Chair Meuser requested that two items be added to a future agenda: (1) a discussion of work done without permits in preservation districts, focusing on detached single-family residences, and (2) an update on Fremont Park. Murray agreed to pursue both. Discussion Items - Item 8.1 – Applicant Presentation: The Cannery at Railroad Square - The project, approved via Senate Bill 35 (streamlined ministerial process) in August 2020, is now under construction on the 3 West Third Street parcel. It will provide 129 affordable housing units (128 affordable family units + 1 staff unit), with 32 units set aside for formerly homeless households. Rents target households earning 30%–80% of area median income. Total project cost is $95 million, with significant state and local subsidies. - The design team (Michelle Gervais, Don Lesty from John Stewart Company, and architect Mimi Sullivan) presented plans to preserve the historic brick walls facing Third Street and the new A Street, including restoring the metal canopy and loading docks. The new six-story building is set back 12–15 feet from the historic walls, uses materials (board-and-batten siding, cement plaster, metal balconies) that contrast with and do not compete with the brickwork. A public promenade connects Fourth Street to Santa Rosa Creek, with landscaping referencing the site’s cannery history. - Public Comments: Two members of the public spoke: - Leanne Wentz (representing the Saturday Afternoon Club History Section) expressed strong support for resurrecting the historic water tower, questioning its distance from the current building and separation between phases. She asked for specific dimensions. - Carole Quandt asked about the building’s setback from the creek trail, the height and material of the fencing, and how new occupants would access the creek trail. - Board Member Positions: - Vice Chair Garrett strongly emphasized that the water tower must be preserved and restored, calling it a “focal point” for Railroad Square. She also expressed concern that open balconies could become messy, resembling “tenements.” - Board Member Fennell praised the design for creating separation between the historic walls and the new structure, and urged the water tower be included close to the original vision. She echoed balcony concerns. - Board Member Klein supported the water tower’s retention and questioned the dark color of the new building, preferring a softer tone. She also raised balcony concerns. - Board Member Carney asked about temporary connectivity from Fourth Street to the promenade; the team noted this depends on other property owners. - Chair Meuser commended the team for preserving the walls despite not being required to go through CHB review, and asked that the water tower be protected and funded. He noted the water tower is “a big deal” in terms of funding and engineering. - Applicant/Staff Responses: Project representatives confirmed that the water tower is tied to the future Plant 5 parcel (a separate project with no current plans) and that its restoration is not funded within this project. The setback from the creek trail varies (approx. 30–48 feet from the building to property line). Fencing will be 5–6-foot black powder-coated metal mesh. The building management (John Stewart Company) will enforce house rules to address balcony clutter. Key Outcomes - Vice Chair Election: Cappie Garrett was elected Vice Chair by unanimous vote (5 yes, 1 absent, 1 vacancy). - Future Agenda Items: Chair Meuser directed staff to add discussions on unpermitted work in preservation districts and a Fremont Park update to the next agenda. - No Action Taken on Cannery Presentation: The presentation was informational only; no formal vote or approval occurred. The project is already entitled and under construction (scheduled completion February 2025, occupancy by August 2025).

The Santa Rosa Planning Commission held a regular meeting on April 27, 2023, from 4:30 p.m. to 10:15 p.m. in the City Hall Council Chamber. Commissioners present: Chair Karen Weeks, Vice Chair Julian Peterson, Commissioner Vicki Duggan, Commissioner Terrence Sanders, Commissioner Charles Carter, and Commissioner Patti Cisco. Commissioner Jeffrey Holton was absent. The meeting included a public hearing on a conditional use permit for Lazzini's Market and a public hearing on proposed Short-Term Rental (STR) Ordinance amendments. The Commission approved the Lazzini's permit unanimously and recommended the STR amendments to the City Council on a 4-2 vote, with one friendly amendment. Consent Calendar - There were no consent items on the agenda. Public Comments & Testimony - Non-agenda public comment: Duane DeWitt (Sonoma County Housing Advocacy Group) spoke in favor of building extended-stay suites for seniors and veterans, arguing that commercial models could bring housing faster than traditional affordable housing. - Public hearing on Lazzini's Market: No public comments were received. - Public hearing on Short-Term Rentals: The Commission heard extensive testimony from approximately 45 speakers, with both supporters and opponents of STR regulations. Supporters (including property owners, managers, and hosts) cited economic benefits, flexibility, and income for families; opponents (residents and neighbors) cited noise, parties, safety concerns, loss of housing stock, and lack of enforcement. Several speakers expressed specific positions: Chris Clark, Jennifer Cogliandro, Gary Lentz, and others supported STRs; Marsha Shotwell, Eric Rail, Priscilla Bale, Maureen Lindy, and many others opposed non-hosted STRs in residential neighborhoods. Some requested adjustments to proposed rules, such as one-owner limits, the 1,000-foot rule, and fine schedules. Discussion Items - Lazzini's Market Type 21 Off-Sale ABC License (CUP22-074): Project Planner Mike Janusek presented the proposal to change the existing ABC license from Type 20 (beer and wine) to Type 21 (general) to allow the sale of distilled spirits for off-site consumption at the existing market at 3449 Bennett Valley Road. No interior or exterior alterations are proposed. The site is in a low-crime area; police had no concerns. Staff found the project consistent with General Plan policies and eligible for a Class 1 CEQA exemption. The Commission discussed the difference between Type 20 and Type 21 licenses and the legal allowance for off-site consumption. - Short-Term Rentals Ordinance Amendments (REZ23-001): Senior Planner Shari Meads presented a comprehensive overview of the proposed Zoning Code text amendments to Chapter 20-48. The amendments include technical changes, new definitions, unit type restrictions, a one-per-owner limit for non-hosted permits, outdoor lighting standards, trash/recycling rules, water conservation signage, and expanded code enforcement penalties. Staff highlighted community engagement: two surveys, pop-up events, and meetings. Key statistics cited: 198 cap on non-hosted permits, 168 issued/18 pending (as of two weeks prior), 8 noise complaints out of 281 STR-related complaints since September 2022, 119 administrative citations, $85,000 in assessed penalties, and less than 1% of the city's 69,495 housing units used as STRs. The Commission discussed whether to ban non-hosted STRs (failed), the one-per-owner limit (maintained), fine scheduling (kept as proposed), and fire pit restrictions. Key Outcomes - Lazzini's Market: Motion by Commissioner Duggan, seconded by Vice Chair Peterson, to adopt Resolution PC-2023-012 approving Conditional Use Permit CUP22-074. Vote: 6-0 (Commissioner Holton absent). The Commission found the project consistent with all applicable findings. - Short-Term Rental Ordinance: Motion by Commissioner Cisco, seconded by Commissioner Duggan, to adopt Resolution PC-2023-013 recommending the STR ordinance amendments to the City Council, as amended by a friendly amendment to delete section 20-48.070(B)(5) (outdoor burning, recreational fires, fire pits, barbecue grills, and similar items are not permitted). The Commission discussed but did not adopt changes to the fine schedule, two-night minimum stays, or a ban on non-hosted STRs. Vote: 4-2 (Chair Weeks, Commissioner Duggan, Commissioner Carter, and Commissioner Cisco in favor; Vice Chair Peterson and Commissioner Sanders against). The item will proceed to City Council, anticipated for the first meeting in July 2023. - Next Steps: City Council consideration of the STR ordinance amendments; Planning Commission meeting scheduled for May 11, 2023, to appoint a Vice Chair.

The Santa Rosa City Council held a regular meeting on April 25, 2023, beginning with a closed session at 2:31 p.m. and reconvening to open session at 4:04 p.m. The meeting included proclamations, reports, consent items, public hearings, and discussion items, with all votes passing 7-0. Consent Calendar - 12.1 Resolution approving a Professional Services Agreement with Kitchell/CEM, Inc. for construction management and inspection services for the Fire Station 5 Resiliency and Relocation project in an amount not to exceed $2,385,201.64. - 12.2 Resolution approving a purchase order for two Bandit 12XP drum-style wood chipper trailers from Cal-Line Equipment, Inc. for a total not to exceed $131,067.66. - 12.4 Resolution approving a two-year blanket purchase order with three one-year extension options to ADT Security Corporation for fire sprinkler inspection and repair services, total amount not to exceed $203,500 (including 10% contingency). - 12.5 Resolution approving a third amendment to General Services Agreement with Rapid Express Courier Systems, extending two years and increasing compensation to a total cumulative amount not to exceed $172,800. - 12.6 Resolution approving a Professional Services Agreement with Koff & Associates for a citywide classification and compensation study in an amount not to exceed $450,000, funded from General Fund unassigned reserves. - 12.7 Resolution approving a third amendment to Professional Services Agreement with Kronick, Moskovitz, Tiedemann & Girard for confidential work-related investigations, increasing compensation by $100,000 for a total not to exceed $200,000. Item 12.3 (Camino Technologies software agreement) was pulled from the agenda. Public Comments & Testimony - Duane Dewitt spoke multiple times: on closed session noticing (Item 2), in support of affordable housing and criticizing the commercial model (Item 6.3), supporting collection of current data for entry-level positions and opposing costs for Fire Station 5 (Item 12.6), advocating for community engagement in Roseland development (Item 13), and urging inclusion of Roseland in the EIFD boundaries (Item 14.1). - Eric Fraser commented on the city attorney's litigation report, questioning the short-term rental ordinance and alleging preferential permit treatment (Item 8.1), and later on Item 14.2 expressing concern about electricity rate increases and mandates, and criticizing the short-term rental ordinance process (Item 17). - Cliff Whigham spoke on Item 14.1, requesting zoning changes for the Roberts Road area and asking that his property be rezoned back to 25-40 units per acre to allow development. - Hugh Futrell (Downtown Association) spoke in favor of the EIFD, arguing that incorporating Roseland would delay the process and that a separate Roseland EIFD should be pursued later. - Cadance Allinson (Downtown District) expressed appreciation for staff work on the EIFD and noted its positive impact on downtown. Discussion Items - 14.1 Enhanced Infrastructure Financing District (EIFD): Deputy Director Raissa De La Rosa presented a proposal to establish a Downtown Enhanced Infrastructure Financing District to capture tax increment from property taxes (no new taxes) to finance public infrastructure. The district boundaries exclude Roberts Road area for a potential future Roseland EIFD. Consultants from DTA, Gamble Strategies, and Jones Hall answered questions. Council discussed board composition and benefits to the county. Council Member Chris Rogers proposed an amendment to add a second county supervisor seat and a third public member to the Public Financing Authority, which was accepted. The Council adopted both resolutions (RES-2023-076 and RES-2023-077) unanimously (7-0). - 14.2 Regional Water Reuse System Budget: Nick Harvey, Budget and Financial Analysis Manager, presented the preliminary FY 2023/24 budget totaling $72.1 million, including $43.8 million O&M, $10 million cash-funded CIP, and $23.1 million debt service. The allocation to user agencies increased due to utility costs, chemicals, and salary increases. The Council adopted the resolution (RES-2023-078) unanimously (7-0). - 15.1 FY 2023/2024 Action Plan and Grant Agreements: Public hearing to authorize submission of the annual HUD Action Plan and approve $790,265 in grant agreements for public services, fair housing, and HOPWA programs. No public testimony was received. The Council adopted the resolution (RES-2023-075) unanimously (7-0). - 8.1 Litigation Report: City Attorney Sue Gallagher reported on 33 total litigation matters, including a jury verdict of $87,500 in Meyer v. City of Santa Rosa, a settlement in the Owner & Renters Rights Association short-term rental case (dismissed without prejudice), and other settlements. Key Outcomes - All consent items (12.1, 12.2, 12.4-12.7) were approved unanimously (7-0). - Resolution of Intention to form the Downtown Enhanced Infrastructure Financing District (RES-2023-076) approved 7-0, with an amendment to the Public Financing Authority composition. - Resolution establishing the Downtown Business Corridor EIFD Public Financing Authority (RES-2023-077) approved 7-0, with amendments. - Preliminary FY 2023/24 Regional Water Reuse System Budget (RES-2023-078) approved 7-0. - FY 2023/24 Action Plan and grant agreements (RES-2023-075) approved 7-0. - Minutes of April 11, 2023 were approved as amended. - The closed session items (2.1 and 2.2) were continued to a future date due to a noticing error. - Mayor Rogers appointed an Ad Hoc Committee (Rogers, Rogers, Stapp) to support the hiring of a new City Attorney.

The Santa Rosa Planning Commission held a regular meeting on April 13, 2023, at 4:30 PM in the Council Chamber (100 Santa Rosa Ave) and via Zoom. The meeting lasted approximately 1 hour 45 minutes, adjourning at 6:15 PM. Commissioners present: Chair Karen Weeks, Vice Chair Julian Peterson, Commissioners Vicki Duggan, Jeffrey Holton, Terrence Sanders, and Patti Cisco. Commissioner Charles Carter was absent. The meeting addressed two public hearings: a conditional use permit for alcohol sales at The European Food Store and three one-year extension requests for the North Village II tentative map. Approval of Minutes - Minutes from February 23, March 9, and March 23, 2023, were approved as submitted. Public Comments & Testimony - No public comments were made on non-agenda items. - During the North Village II public hearing, five residents of North Village I spoke via Zoom, expressing concerns about parking, traffic, unfulfilled promises (community center, pool, daycare), maintenance of the vacant property, and protection of wetlands. They urged the commission to ensure commitments from Phase I were honored before Phase II proceeds. Discussion Items 8.1 - European Food Store Conditional Use Permit (CUP22-054) - Project Planner Suzanne Hartman presented a proposal to allow beer and wine sales for off-site consumption (Type 20 ABC license) at the existing European Food Store (100 Burt Street, Suite M). The store is under 10,000 square feet. Staff determined the project is exempt from CEQA (Class 1 & 3). The applicant had submitted a Public Convenience or Necessity (PCN) letter due to an over-concentration of licenses in the area, which was approved by the City. The police department raised no objections. The project required a conditional use permit per Zoning Code 20-42.034. The updated staff report clarified that the over-concentration finding was based on the 2021 submittal date. No ex parte disclosures were made. The public hearing opened at 4:51 PM and closed at 4:52 PM with no public testimony. Commissioners unanimously supported the project, noting the store’s quality and the appropriateness of the use. 8.2 - North Village II Extensions (EXT17-0026, EXT20-0003, EXT22-0012) - Contract Planner Mike Wixon presented the request for three consecutive one-year extensions of the tentative map for North Village II, a 120-unit residential subdivision (24 detached single-family, 90 attached single-family, and a 6-unit apartment complex) on 17.9 acres at 2406 Fulton Road. The project includes 8 affordable units, a pool, gym, daycare, 11 acres of open space, and a bike/pedestrian connection. The project was originally approved in 2011 and extensions were delayed by the Tubbs fire and COVID-19. Staff recommended approval with a modification to Condition 85 (park construction) to allow the applicant to amend the park agreement rather than requiring construction prior to final map recording. Commissioners questioned staff and the applicant (Frank Gobar) about parking, HOA formation, and the community center. Public testimony highlighted parking issues, traffic concerns, and unfulfilled promises from Phase I. The public hearing opened at 5:20 PM, closed at 5:33 PM, reopened at 6:01 PM for a late speaker, and closed at 6:04 PM. The commission approved all three extensions with minor corrections to the date (April 13 instead of April 14) and the street name (Fulton Road instead of Fulton Avenue). Key Outcomes - Resolution PC-2023-008 (European Food Store): Approved unanimously (6-0, Commissioner Carter absent) to grant a conditional use permit for alcohol sales. The decision is final unless appealed within 10 calendar days. - Resolution PC-2023-009 (EXT17-0026): Approved unanimously (6-0) to grant a one-year extension of the tentative map, as revised. - Resolution PC-2023-010 (EXT20-0003): Approved unanimously (6-0) to grant a one-year extension of the tentative map, as revised. - Resolution PC-2023-011 (EXT22-0012): Approved unanimously (6-0) to grant a one-year extension of the tentative map, as revised. - All three extensions require the final map to be recorded by October 2023; if not, the project would need to re-apply for new entitlements. - The commission directed staff to correct the date and street name in the resolutions before finalization.

The Santa Rosa City Council held a regular meeting on April 11, 2023, beginning at 4:02 PM and adjourning at 5:33 PM. All seven council members were present. The meeting included proclamations, staff briefings, reports, committee appointments, approval of minutes, and a consent calendar covering 11 items, all of which were unanimously approved. Public comments addressed mobile home park concerns, a proposed pickleball stadium, and rental rate issues. Proclamations & Presentations - Week of the Young Child: Council Member Fleming presented the proclamation to Laura Magnusdottir of the Community Child Care Council, who thanked the Council for supporting child care initiatives. - Sexual Assault Awareness Month: Mayor Rogers presented the proclamation to Metzli Perez Flores of Verity, who highlighted Verity’s 24/7 crisis line and services for survivors. Staff Briefings - Community Empowerment Plan Update: Danielle Garduno, Interim Violence Prevention Program Manager, announced the launch of the Diversity, Equity, Inclusion, and Belonging Spaces Mini-Grant program ($5,000 per eligible application, due June 30). She also noted community concerns about rising violence and outlined efforts to update the five-year strategic plan, seek funding for street/school intervention programs, and expand crisis response. Public commenter Duane DeWitt urged community engagement on graffiti removal and infrastructure issues in Roseland. - 2023 Earth Day Event: Alicia Quilici presented details on the 14th annual Earth Day on Stage festival, scheduled for April 22 from 12-4 PM at Courthouse Square. The free event will feature workshops, live performances, a kids’ section, and zero-waste practices. Duane DeWitt spoke in support and invited the Council to a concurrent Roseland Creek cleanup starting at 10 AM. City Manager’s Report City Manager Maraskeshia Smith announced: - Assistant City Manager Daryel Dunston’s selection as a North Bay Business Journal 40 Under 40 recipient. - Certification of the Santa Rosa 2023-2031 Housing Element by the state on April 7. - Merit Award nominations are open. - Finley Aquatic Center’s 30th birthday celebration on April 17 with free programming and cake. Mayor’s & Council Members’ Reports Council members provided updates on meetings and community events. Highlights included: - Council Member Stapp reported on water advisory committee meetings, noting a healthy groundwater basin and a well-attended Sonoma County Alliance water infrastructure discussion. - Council Member Rogers reported on Sonoma Clean Power’s approved budget, noting a 5% savings over PG&E bundled service despite the Power Charge Indifference Adjustment; and flagged PG&E delays in energizing new developments as a concern. - Council Member Fleming reported on the Renewal Enterprise District (RED), noting that $10 million in city and county funds helped leverage approximately $400 million to fund over 600 housing units, with an estimated multiplier effect up to 7x. She also announced RED Executive Director Michelle Whitman’s departure and upcoming steps. Committee Appointments (Item 10.2) The Council voted unanimously (7-0) to support the following appointments for the Sonoma County Mayors’ and Councilmembers’ Association / City Selection Committee: - ABAG Executive Board: Susan Adams (primary), Stephen Zollman (alternate) - Sonoma County Agricultural Preservation and Open Space District Citizens Advisory Committee: John Shribbs and Kevin McDonnell - Metropolitan Transportation Commission: Victoria Fleming (Santa Rosa) - Golden Gate Bridge, Highway & Transportation District: Gerard Giudice - For two seats with no letters, Council authorized the Mayor to vote in case of late nominations. Consent Calendar All consent items were approved unanimously (7-0) by a single motion: - 12.1: Awarded Contract No. C01620, Santa Rosa Avenue Corridor Improvements, to Granite Construction Company (Watsonville, CA) for $2,179,030.68, plus a 15% contingency for a total not-to-exceed $2,505,885.28. Vice Mayor MacDonald questioned the 43% overage vs. engineer’s estimate; staff explained volatile pricing and that all three bids were competitive. - 12.2: Received and approved the 2022 General Plan, Inclusionary Housing, and Growth Management Annual Review Report. - 12.3: Appointed Hugh Futrell (Hotel E) and Janelle Meyers (Visit Santa Rosa) to the Tourism Business Improvement Area Advisory Board. - 12.4: Authorized entering into National Opioid Settlements with Teva, Allergan, CVS, Walgreens, and Walmart; authorized the City Manager to execute agreements and direct settlement proceeds for permissible uses. - 12.5: Approved a $100,000 increase to General Services Agreement with California Patrol Operations Inc. (total not-to-exceed $195,000). - 12.6: Approved a two-year concession license agreement with Pony Express Equine Assisted Skills for Youth to operate pony rides at Howarth Park (total not-to-exceed $500,000). - 12.7: Approved a change order for CityBus electric fleet electrification, adding two chargers and a contingency for a total not-to-exceed $1,100,733.50. - 12.8: Authorized applications for One Bay Area Grant 3 (OBAG 3) funding: $1,321,000 for Highway 101 Hearn Avenue Multi-Use Pathway and Pavement Rehabilitation, and $2,588,000 for Downtown Connectivity to Support Housing Density Intensification; committed local non-general funds for matching. - 12.9: Authorized submittal of SB1 funding requests for FY 2023-24: $3,714,279 for Highway 101 Hearn Interchange and $1,174,065 for Highway 101 Bicycle and Pedestrian Overcrossing. - 12.10: Approved a five-year Professional Services Agreement with GMV Syncromatics Corp. ($931,787) for a new Computer Aided Dispatch and Automated Vehicle Location system (continued from March 28). - 12.11: Adopted Ordinance No. ORD-2023-004 (second reading) rezoning seven parcels on West Barham and Barham Avenues from Planned Development 96-002 to Light Industrial (IL) for General Plan consistency. Public Comments on Non-Agenda Matters - Tom LaPenna (Santa Rosa Manufactured Homeowners Association) requested adding language to the rent control ordinance to protect senior mobile home park designations, citing a Press Democrat article on Carriage Court. - James Foley proposed a downtown pickleball stadium on the upper parking lot of the Santa Rosa Mall to revitalize the area and attract sports tourism. - Duane DeWitt promoted an All-American Car Show on July 1 at the Vets Memorial Building and invited attendance at the Roseland Earth Day event. - Yvonne Rawhouser expressed distress over a 10% rent increase at her mobile home park, urging Council protection for tenants. - Sloane (high school journalist) thanked Council members and staff for interviews on local government for a school newspaper article. Key Outcomes - All consent items, minutes, and committee appointments passed unanimously (7-0) with Council Member Fleming abstaining from approval of the March 28 minutes. - The Earth Day event was encouraged, and the violence prevention strategic plan update will continue with community engagement. - The City will proceed with opioid settlement participation, grant applications, and infrastructure contracts as approved.

The Santa Rosa City Council met on March 28, 2023, in a regular session that began at 4:00 p.m. following a closed session (3:00 p.m. to 4:02 p.m.) on litigation. The meeting was attended by Mayor Natalie Rogers, Vice Mayor Dianna MacDonald, Council Members Eddie Alvarez, Jeff Okrepkie, and Mark Stapp. Council Members Victoria Fleming and Chris Rogers were absent. Key actions included approval of the consent calendar, a vote to oppose Sonoma Water’s proposed 10.56% wholesale water rate increase, approval of a rezoning ordinance, authorization for up to $30 million in bonds for affordable housing, and approval of a sanitary sewer easement vacation. Consent Calendar - 12.1 – Approved a third amendment to a purchase order with Municipal Emergency Services for firefighting gear, not to exceed $450,000 (total $944,000), with optional one-year extensions. - 12.2 – Approved and ratified submission of a Priority Development Area Grant application for $1,200,000 to prepare the South Santa Rosa Specific Plan and Environmental Impact Report, and authorized the City Manager to accept and execute grant documents. - 12.3 – Approved a $16,000 increase (to $252,000 total) for Catholic Charities of the Diocese of Santa Rosa to operate warming center services at the Homeless Services Center in response to extreme weather, funded from Homeless Fund reserves. - 12.5 – Approved a request for $185,000 in Transportation Development Act Article 3 funding for installation of Rectangular Rapid Flashing Beacons at a minimum of seven locations. - 12.6 – Approved a Measure M Cooperative Funding Agreement with Sonoma County Transportation Authority for $343,000 for bicycle and pedestrian improvements on the Santa Rosa Avenue Corridor. - Items 12.4 (Linda Tunis Senior Apartments completion) and 12.7 (GMV Syncromatics CAD/AVL system) were continued to future dates. Public Comments & Testimony - Non-Agenda Matters (Item 13): Barbara Walsh, a member of the Sonoma County Civil Grand Jury, encouraged residents to apply for the Grand Jury by April 17, 2023, describing it as a rewarding community service opportunity. No other public comments were made on any agenda item. Discussion Items - 14.1 – Sonoma Water 2023/24 Water Transmission Budget and Rate Increase: - Sonoma Water proposed a 10.56% increase in the wholesale water rate, from $1,061.04 per acre-foot to $1,173.09 per acre-foot, citing aging infrastructure, deferred maintenance, and reduced water deliveries due to drought. The proposed budget is $68.3 million, down $3.5 million from the current year. Santa Rosa Water staff noted that the increase exceeds the 6% maximum assumed in the city’s adopted rate model, requiring an estimated $750,000 in one-time fund balance use in the first year and potentially $1.8 million if 11.3% increases materialize in future years. The city’s Technical Advisory Committee representative voted against the proposal, and the Board of Public Utilities recommended opposition. Council members questioned the lack of prior notice and the impact on ratepayers. After a motion to support the increase failed for lack of a second, a motion to oppose the increase passed 5-0. Public Hearings - 15.1 – West Barham Avenue and Barham Avenue Rezone: - The Council held a public hearing and introduced an ordinance to rezone seven parcels (APNs 125-281-032, 125-281-046, 125-281-035, 037-101-042, 037-101-043, 037-101-015, 037-101-020) from Planned Development PD 96-002 to Light Industrial (IL) to achieve General Plan consistency. No public comments were made. The ordinance passed 5-0. - 15.2 – TEFRA Public Hearing and Bond Issuance for Bennett Valley Apartments: - The Council conducted a TEFRA public hearing and approved a resolution authorizing the California Municipal Finance Authority to issue up to $30 million in tax-exempt multifamily housing revenue bonds. The bonds will finance a 62-unit affordable housing project (51% of units set aside for homeless individuals) at 702 & 716 Bennett Valley Road and 921 & 927 Rutledge Avenue. No public comments were made. The resolution passed 5-0. Key Outcomes - Vote to Oppose Sonoma Water Rate Increase: The Council directed Water Advisory Committee representative Mayor Natalie Rogers to vote against the proposed 10.56% wholesale water rate increase at the April 3, 2023 WAC meeting. (Motion by Council Member Stapp, seconded by Vice Mayor MacDonald; passed 5-0.) - Approval of West Barham Avenue Rezone: Ordinance introduced and passed 5-0. - Approval of Bennett Valley Apartments Bonds: Resolution passed 5-0. - Approval of Summary Vacation of Easement (Item 14.2): The Council approved a resolution (RES-2023-058) vacating a public sanitary sewer access easement at 4332 Highway 12 to allow development of the Storage Pro II project (30-unit apartment building and self-storage facility). Passed 5-0. - Other Unanimous Approvals: All consent calendar items (12.1, 12.2, 12.3, 12.5, 12.6) were adopted; minutes of the February 14, 2023 meeting were approved. - Next Steps: The Sonoma Water Board of Directors will make the final decision on the rate increase on April 18, 2023. The next regular City Council meeting is scheduled for April 11, 2023.