Public Meetings - Santa Rosa, California

The Santa Rosa Planning Commission met on August 13, 2026, at 4:30 p.m. (actual start 4:40 p.m., adjourned 6:43 p.m.) in the Council Chamber. Commissioners present: Chair Karen Weeks, Vice Chair Vicki Duggan, Commissioners Charles Carter, Patti Cisco, Miles Horton, and Terrence Sanders. Commissioner Aaron Pardo was absent. The meeting included a study session on the South Santa Rosa Specific Plan Draft Preferred Alternative and a public hearing on a Conditional Use Permit for a Starbucks at 131 College Avenue. Study Session – South Santa Rosa Specific Plan Draft Preferred Alternative (File No. ST23-004) Staff (Senior Planner Connor McKay) presented the Draft Preferred Alternative for the South Santa Rosa Specific Plan, a grant-funded long-range planning document. The plan proposes land use and circulation changes for the general South Santa Rosa area, including: - A mixed-use district on the southern portion of Santa Rosa Avenue, scaled down from Alternative 1 to preserve existing uses and mobile home parks. - City-centered growth around the Costco shopping center with higher-density residential. - Smaller integrated parks connected by a greenway along Todd Creek. - Improved east-west connections across Highway 101, including a new multimodal overcrossing at Bellevue Avenue. - No redesignation of the Plan Area’s 17 mobile home parks. - Upon full buildout (over several decades), the plan envisions approximately 6,300 new residential units, 15,000 new residents, and nearly 3 million square feet of non-residential construction. Public Comments: Ten speakers addressed the Commission, most expressing concerns about displacement, mobile home park conditions, and the need for strong anti-displacement measures. Speakers included: - Fred Allebach: Characterized the plan as a potential “urban renewal” project that could lead to displacement and urged specific anti-displacement policies. - Mary McCormick, Angel Portillo, Alma Leon, Juana, Patrick McDonald (Legal Aid of Sonoma County), Lima Blanco (North Bay Organizing Project), Ken Rinelo-Western, Carolyn Brew, and Nicole Bordilo (field representative, North Coast State Carpenter Union). They described hardships from private equity management (e.g., Harmony Communities) in mobile home parks, including rent increases, tree removal, and lack of maintenance. They called for protections such as mobile home park preservation, rent stabilization, just-cause eviction ordinances, and a rental registry. Commissioner Discussion: Commissioners asked about housing unit comparisons (the preferred alternative has 6,300 units vs. 5,500–6,000 in earlier alternatives), protection of mobile home parks, anti-displacement strategies, and coordination with Sonoma County (13 of 17 parks are in county jurisdiction). Staff confirmed that anti-displacement and anti-homelessness strategies will be developed as part of the goals and policies in the final plan, and that an implementation plan will outline timelines. Commissioner Horton suggested examining higher densities in the eastern low-density area to fight displacement. Commissioner Sanders emphasized that this study session is an early stage and encouraged continued public engagement. Public Hearing – College Avenue Starbucks Conditional Use Permit (File No. PRJ23-013) The applicant (Steve Thomas, represented by Frank Coda of Greenberg Farrow) requested a Conditional Use Permit to demolish an existing 3,300 sq ft auto repair building and construct a 1,280 sq ft Starbucks pickup store with drive-through and walk-up service, no indoor or outdoor seating, and extended hours (4 a.m. to 11 p.m., seven days a week). The site is at 131 College Avenue. Staff recommended approval. Public Comment: One speaker, Carolyn Ayers, owner of adjacent property, opposed the project. She cited concerns about noise from idling cars and the drive-through speaker, hours of operation (4 a.m. start), traffic, employee parking, and health impacts (asthma, lung cancer). She stated that the residential properties are very close to the site and that she prefers a different business. Commissioner Discussion: Staff and applicant representatives responded to inquiries. Traffic engineer Colin Burgett (TJKM) stated that queuing analysis based on other Santa Rosa Starbucks (max 16 cars on weekends) showed 21 queuing spaces, and that pass-by trips would not add new traffic. Transportation Director Dan Hennessy reported only two crashes on that segment of College Avenue in 12 years. The applicant noted that the 9 parking spaces are intended for employees, a sound wall will be built, and the drive-through speaker has automatic volume control. Commissioners discussed traffic, noise, and the suitability of the site. Commissioners Duggan and Carter expressed concerns about traffic enforcement, noise, and the impact on adjacent residents; they indicated difficulty making the finding that the site is physically suitable. Commissioners Cisco, Horton, Sanders, and Chair Weeks stated they could make all required findings. Vote: A motion by Commissioner Cisco, seconded by Commissioner Sanders, to waive reading and adopt Resolution PC-RES-2026-021 approving the Conditional Use Permit passed 4-2. Ayes: Chair Weeks, Commissioners Cisco, Horton, Sanders. Noes: Vice Chair Duggan, Commissioner Carter. Absent: Commissioner Pardo. Key Outcomes - Study Session: The Commission provided input on the Draft Preferred Alternative. Staff will incorporate feedback and continue outreach. The final specific plan and environmental impact report are expected for public release later this year, with adoption targeted for spring 2027. - Public Hearing: The Conditional Use Permit for the Starbucks at 131 College Avenue was approved. The decision is final unless an appeal is filed with the City Clerk’s office within 10 calendar days of the meeting (August 13, 2026). - Other: The meeting minutes from July 9, 2026, were approved as submitted.

At its regular meeting on August 4, 2026, the Santa Rosa City Council (with Council Members Fleming and MacDonald absent) addressed consent items, received staff briefings and reports, and took action on two major housing-related items: the renewal of the state Prohousing Designation and the extension of the High-Density Multi-Family Residential Incentive Program. The meeting adjourned at 5:15 PM. Consent Calendar - Resolution RES-2026-091 (approved 5-0): Authorized receipt of an additional $1,496,623.27 in Community Development Block Grant – Disaster Recovery funds from the California Department of Housing and Community Development for the Coffey Park and Fountaingrove Neighborhood Road Disaster Recovery Project. - Resolution RES-2026-092 (approved 5-0): Extended the local homeless emergency proclamation (Resolution No. 28839) within Santa Rosa. Public Comments & Testimony - On Agenda Items: - Gregory Fearon spoke in support of the Prohousing Designation renewal, noting the potential for funding low‑income projects. - Gregory Fearon also commented on the High-Density Multi-Family Incentive Program, emphasizing that fee deferrals help middle‑income developers. - Caller 8309 expressed concern about the impact of a proposed women’s homeless shelter on the West Third and Fulton neighborhood, citing safety and blight issues. - On Non‑Agenda Matters: - Adina Flores raised concerns about Council Member Okrepkie’s connections to former Windsor Mayor Dominic Foppoli, who is facing rape allegations, and about litigation involving the Boys and Girls Club. - John Claeys spoke about graffiti abatement, specifically along the 101 freeway corridor, and urged more action. - Brian Fix, representing the Santa Rosa Police Officers Association, expressed the POA’s support for the November 2026 tax measure (Measure Q), noting the city’s financial cuts and the need for community support. - Caller 8309 again spoke about the homeless shelter under construction at West Third and Fulton, reporting increased graffiti and neighborhood distress. Discussion Items Prohousing Designation Program Renewal (Item 15.1) - Staff (Jessica Jones, Deputy Director of Planning, and Amy Nicholson, Supervising Planner) presented the City’s renewal application. Santa Rosa was one of the first cities to receive the designation in 2023 (57 points). The new application scores 89 points, which would rank in the top three among 74 designated jurisdictions in California and well above other Sonoma County cities. Benefits include priority processing and extra points for state grants, plus access to a dedicated funding pool. - Council members inquired about the return on investment (no local control benefits), the range of income levels served, and the total grant amounts received. Staff noted that the city was awarded $1.25 million from the most recent exclusive funding round (a statewide pool of $8 million) and has also received other infill infrastructure grants totaling about $30 million for downtown projects. - Council adopted Resolution RES-2026-093 (5‑0) authorizing submission of the renewal application after the required public review period. High-Density Multi-Family Residential Incentive Program Extension (Item 15.2) - Staff (Jessica Jones and Gabe Osburn, Director of Planning and Economic Development) recommended extending the program to August 31, 2031. The program, originally adopted in 2018, reduces or defers capital facilities fees (CFF), park impact fees, and water/wastewater fees for high‑density residential projects in downtown Santa Rosa. Since its inception, six projects have been completed (Cannery, Pullman Lofts, 8884 Street, Felix) and three more are pending. - Council discussed the effectiveness of fee incentives, the need for a comprehensive nexus fee study, and the importance of addressing moderate‑income housing. Staff indicated that a study session is planned for late 2026 to refine the overall incentive strategy. - Council adopted Resolutions RES-2026-094, RES-2026-095, and RES-2026-096 (all 5‑0) to rescind previous resolutions and set revised fee schedules and payment options, extending the program through August 31, 2031. Key Outcomes - Approved consent items allocating additional disaster recovery funds and extending the homeless emergency. - Authorized submission of the Prohousing Designation renewal application (Resolution RES-2026-093). - Extended the High-Density Multi-Family Residential Incentive Program through August 31, 2031, with updated fee schedules (Resolutions RES-2026-094, 095, 096). - Received and filed the Community Empowerment Plan update, City Manager’s report, Council member reports, and noticed final map (Holly Hock). - Conducted public comment periods, including one on non‑agenda matters. - Meeting adjourned at 5:15 PM; the next regular meeting is scheduled for July 18, 2026 (time TBD).

The Public Safety Subcommittee of the Santa Rosa City Council met on July 28, 2026, at 9:01 a.m. in the Council Chamber. Chair Jeff Okrepkie and Vice Mayor Mark Stapp were present; Councilmember Victoria Fleming was absent. The meeting adjourned at 9:53 a.m. The subcommittee received presentations from the Police Chief and Fire Chief, reviewed the response to the Independent Police Auditor’s annual report, and received departmental updates. Consent Calendar - Approval of Minutes (April 21, 2026): The minutes were approved as submitted without public comment or discussion. Discussion Items - Response to the Independent Police Auditor’s 2025 Annual Report (Item 6.1): Police Chief John Cregan and Lieutenant Kyle Philp presented the Santa Rosa Police Department’s response to the seven recommendations from the OIR Group’s 2025 Annual Report. All seven recommendations were administrative in nature and the department concurred with each. The recommendations included: delegating investigations to patrol sergeants for professional development; enhancing new supervisor training (including a one‑on‑one session with the Professional Standards Unit and mandatory internal affairs school within one year); improving investigative thoroughness (e.g., holdover forms and checklist compliance); expanding the Major Incident Review Board (MIRB) to cover incidents at the chief’s discretion; formalizing the post‑criminal‑case review process for officer‑involved shootings; and replicating the success of the PFAP (pointing a firearm at a person) tracking system through Axon Standards. Chief Cregan highlighted the department’s real‑time collaboration with the auditor, the creation of a dedicated training team, and the implementation of the MIRB. The subcommittee members expressed strong support for the department’s culture of accountability and continuous improvement. - Police Department Update (Item 8.1): Chief Cregan provided a high‑level overview of upcoming community events and departmental initiatives. Key items included: (1) National Night Out on August 4, 2026 (5–8 p.m.) at Dick’s Sporting Goods parking lot; (2) a dedicated community meeting on Flock ALPR cameras on September 17, 2026 (6–7:30 p.m.) at 35 Stony Point Road, to discuss policies, training, and community feedback; (3) the second annual gun buyback program on October 3, 2026 (9 a.m.–1 p.m.) at the Veterans Memorial Building, funded entirely by the Santa Rosa Police Foundation (no city funds), offering no‑questions‑asked, no‑ID‑required firearm turn‑in with cash payment, and all firearms destroyed (melted down); (4) a record pace of ghost gun seizures (over 200 in 2026, up from 124 in 2024 and 0 ten years ago); and (5) active recruitment with 14 officers in training, two academies in progress, and multiple civilian positions open (field/evidence technicians, dispatchers, etc.). The subcommittee appreciated the transparency and community engagement. - Fire Department Update (Item 8.2): Fire Chief Scott Westrope presented an update on staffing, facilities, fleet, and operational changes. Key items included: (1) current position control of 160 FTE with only two firefighter vacancies (intentionally held for internal in‑response candidates); (2) progress on Fire Station 8 (Roseland) with framing underway, completion expected summer 2027; Fire Station 9 (southeast, former Mancini Sleep World building) in design‑build phase; Fire Station 11 (junior college district) CIP account funded to support future permanent station; (3) fleet: five new engines received (three in service, two undergoing retrofitting); a ladder truck ordered in April 2024 not expected until at least 2028; four additional type‑1 engines ordered with three‑year build time; (4) operationalization of the plan to replace SAFER squads with Measure H resources, successfully standing up Rescue One and the rescue task force concept, which responded to a commercial structure fire on its first night in service. The subcommittee commended the creative solutions to funding and fleet challenges. Key Outcomes - The minutes of the April 21, 2026, regular meeting were approved unanimously. - No action was taken on the police or fire department updates; the subcommittee received the information and thanked the presenters. - The next regular meeting is scheduled for October 20, 2026, at 9:00 a.m.

The Santa Rosa City Council met on July 28, 2026, for a regular meeting that began at 2:00 p.m. with two study sessions and continued into the evening with a public hearing, a major report on a sales tax ballot measure, and consent items. The Council addressed transit-oriented development policies, the CityBus short-range transit plan, weed abatement, and authorization of a November 2026 ballot measure to reauthorize and increase the city’s sales tax. The meeting was adjourned at 6:37 p.m. Consent Calendar - Approved a five-year agreement with West Publishing Corporation (Thomson Reuters) for Westlaw legal research and CoCounsel software, not to exceed $174,432. (Item 13.1) - Waived competitive bidding and issued a three-year sole-source blanket purchase order with Bigbelly Solar, LLC, for garbage/recycling/compost receptacles, not to exceed $1,000,000. (Item 13.2) - Rejected the bid of Mike Brown Electric Co. due to a bidding error; awarded Contract No. C02283 (Santa Rosa Avenue at Bellevue Avenue traffic signal installation) to St. Francis Electric, LLC for $1,026,700, plus a 15% contingency for a total of $1,180,705. (Item 13.3) - Accepted a $750,000 donation from the Sonoma Land Trust for the Southeast Greenway Master Plan. (Item 13.4) - Appropriated $4,442,100 in Expedited Drinking Water Grant funding from the State Water Resources Control Board for the Robin Way Water System Consolidation Project. (Item 13.5) - Authorized submission of a Homekey Plus grant application (co-applicant with Burbank Housing Development Corporation) for Caritas Homes Phase II, not to exceed $30 million, to fund 64 permanent supportive housing units including 10 for homeless veterans. (Item 13.6) Public Comments & Testimony - TOC Policy (Item 4.1): Abby Arnold (Santa Rosa YIMBY) supported parking maximums to reduce housing costs; Duane De Witt urged a South Santa Rosa SMART station and higher inclusionary housing; Fred supported a ministerial ordinance to combat NIMBYism and align with fair housing laws. - CityBus Short-Range Transit Plan (Item 4.2): Gregory Fearon suggested linking parking fees to transit subsidies for students; Abby Arnold noted 30% of the population cannot drive; Duane De Witt recommended smaller buses and holding buses at transfer points. - Non-Agenda Matters (Item 14): Duane De Witt requested city action on Roseland Creek stormwater management and weed abatement on city property. - Weed Abatement Public Hearing (Item 16.1): Duane De Witt raised concerns about fire hazards at Roseland Community Park from transient camping. - Tax Ballot Measure (Item 15.1): Support expressed by Abby Arnold (Santa Rosa YIMBY—450 members), Bob Gamble (Citizens Budget Advisory Committee), Marc Beauchamp (Operating Engineers Local 3), Sara Roberts (Teamsters 856), and Stephan Dal Porto (Fire Fighters Local 1401). Duane De Witt opposed, citing regressive nature and lack of representation for low-income residents. - Consent Items: Abby Arnold and Jocelyn Linn (Burbank Housing) supported the Homekey Plus application; Roberta highlighted the Sonoma Land Trust’s role in the Southeast Greenway. - City Manager/City Attorney Reports: Duane De Witt asked for a report on pavement preservation in Roseland and thanked the legal team for reducing legal fees in a lawsuit. Discussion Items - 4.1 Transit-Oriented Communities (TOC) Policy (Study Session, 2:02–4:45 p.m.): Staff presented options to meet MTC’s TOC scoring threshold by July 1, 2027, to unlock $2–4 million in OBAG funding. Three policy options were discussed: - Parking maximums (worth 1–8 points): Council leaned toward partial consistency (e.g., 2 spaces per residential unit) rather than full consistency. - Transportation Demand Management (TDM, worth 1 point): Council supported expanding TDM requirements to all Priority Development Areas (PDAs), not just station areas. - Ministerial housing ordinance (worth 4 points): Several Council members expressed interest but deferred further action due to staff capacity and community engagement concerns; staff will bring back a future study session. Council direction: prioritize TDM expansion and a middle-ground parking maximum; ministerial housing to be revisited later. - 4.2 Santa Rosa CityBus Short-Range Transit Plan Update (Study Session, 4:45–6:37 p.m.): Staff highlighted a structural deficit, declining on-time performance (73% vs. 90% goal), and potential reserve depletion by FY 2030. Proposed immediate focus (next six months) on retiming routes, reinvesting in Route 1 to address overcrowding, and strategic interlining to improve connectivity to SMART. Three low-productivity routes were flagged for potential reallocation: Route 10 (North City Connector), Oakmont deviated fixed route (down 74% ridership), and Route 18 (East Circular). Council expressed confidence in staff’s productivity-focused approach, with emphasis on equity for transit-dependent populations and maintaining service to vulnerable communities. - 15.1 Transaction and Use Tax Ballot Measure: CFO Scott Wagner and Communication Officer Misti Wood presented the community engagement results and the proposed measure. After a 3-year budget process with 80 staff cuts and other efficiencies, the City faces a $14 million structural deficit growing to $23 million in 2031. The measure would reauthorize the existing 0.5% Measure Q at a 1.0% rate (generating $46 million annually) until ended by voters, with strict audit and disclosure requirements. Council introduced the ordinance (6-0) and adopted the election resolution (6-0) to place the measure on the November 3, 2026 ballot. - 9.1 Report of Settlements and Active Litigation: City Attorney reported on Johnson v. City of Santa Rosa: jury awarded $10,000 general damages (no punitive); court awarded $113,000 in fees/costs (reduced from $357,000 requested). Active litigation total: 34 matters as of July 7, 2026. - 11.2.1 Appointment to Design Review and Preservation Board: Council appointed Vincenzo Signoretti to the archaeologist/architectural historian/historian position (term ending December 31, 2028) by a 6-0 vote. Key Outcomes - TOC Policy Direction: Staff directed to pursue a transportation demand management program for all Priority Development Areas and partial parking maximums (2 spaces per residential unit) as the primary path to meet MTC eligibility by July 1, 2027. A future study session on a ministerial housing ordinance will be scheduled. - CityBus Plan Next Steps: Staff to conduct public engagement and return in early fall 2026 with recommendations for service changes to improve on-time performance, with initial changes targeted for January 2027. A longer-range plan including a potential 10% service cut scenario will be developed in 2027. - Weed Abatement Report Confirmed: Resolution RES-2026-085 adopted (6-0), confirming the Fire Department’s cost report for weed/rubbish abatement. - Sales Tax Ballot Measure Approved: Ordinance introduced (first reading) and Resolution RES-2026-086 adopted (6-0), ordering the submission of a measure to voters on November 3, 2026, to reauthorize the existing half-cent sales tax at one cent until ended by voters. - Consent Calendar Approved: All six items (13.1–13.6) approved as presented (6-0). - Minutes Approved: July 14, 2026, regular meeting minutes approved as submitted.

The Board of Building Regulation and Appeals met on July 17, 2026, to elect a chair and vice chair and to hear an appeal from property owner Jeff Greenberg regarding a notice to vacate issued for 2371 Corby Avenue Unit 15. The board unanimously upheld the notice to vacate but denied the determination that the displaced tenants were eligible for relocation benefits. Chair and Vice Chair Elections - The board elected David Cooper as chair via a motion and second, with no opposition. - The board elected Vice Chair Lawson (name inferred from later reference) via a motion and second, with no opposition. Discussion Items: Appeal of Notice to Vacate at 2371 Corby Avenue Unit 15 - City Code Enforcement Presentation: Code Enforcement Officer (name not stated) testified that on February 5, 2026, a complaint was received about living conditions at the unit. An inspection on February 6, 2026, revealed substandard conditions including an inoperable wall heater with exposed wires (electrical hazard), 100% moisture readings on walls and windows, mold, cockroach infestation, and rodent feces. The unit was declared substandard under California Health and Safety Code sections 17920.3(a)(6) (lack of adequate heating), (a)(11) (dampness), and (a)(12) (infestation). The city recommended denying the appeal and upholding the notice to vacate, including the determination that tenants are eligible for relocation benefits. - Appellant's Presentation: Attorney Michelle Zairobsky (Zaromsky Connor Sack) and property owner Jeff Greenberg (appearing via Zoom) argued that the tenants caused or substantially contributed to the conditions and therefore should not receive relocation benefits under Civil Code section 1797.5.4. Greenberg testified that he was unaware of the issues until the notice was served, that he fixed the heater in 10 minutes, and that windows were properly installed (no interior caulking required). He noted that the mold report attributed high humidity (82-87%) to tenant activities (overcrowding with 8-9 people, lack of cleaning, failure to ventilate). He also stated he offered alternative accommodations (hotel, Airbnb, other units) but tenants refused for 11 weeks and did not pay rent. He argued that the conditions were solely the tenants' fault and that relocation benefits would reward them for causing the problems. - Board Questions: Board members asked about the property manager, maintenance logs, lease terms, and the relocation offers. The city attorney clarified that the board could rule on the notice to vacate and the relocation benefits separately. The relocation benefit amount was stated as $5,000. Key Outcomes - Motion 1: To uphold the Code Enforcement Division's notice to vacate for 2371 Corby Avenue Unit 15. Passed unanimously (all ayes, no nays). - Motion 2: To deny the determination that the displaced tenants are eligible for relocation benefits. Passed (all ayes, no nays). - The board declined to order any further monetary payment from the property owner to the tenants. Public Comments & Testimony - No public comments were submitted for this item. The meeting was adjourned after the appeal hearing.

The Santa Rosa Planning Commission met on July 14, 2026, to conduct two public hearings: an appeal of a zoning administrator's approval for a 15-bed community care facility (FAM Assisted Living) at 631 Benjamin's Road, and a request for a major conditional use permit for alcohol sales and extended hours at MD Market (1995 Sebastopol Road). The meeting also included approval of prior minutes, public comments on non-agenda matters, and commissioner reports. Consent Calendar - Approval of minutes from May 28, 2026. A public commenter (Janice Carmen) noted she was omitted from those minutes; the commission approved the minutes as submitted without changes. Public Comments & Testimony - Non-Agenda Public Comments: Janice Carmen raised concerns about representation in District 3, stating that City Council member Diana (a lame duck) had been stripped of meetings and commissions, and that Commissioner Terry Saunders (appointed from District 4) does not represent District 3. She also cited multiple building projects east of Melita Road and a lack of public hearing opportunities. - Public Hearing on Item 11.1 (FAM Assisted Living): Multiple speakers supported and opposed the project. Supporters (e.g., Marty McCormick, Mel Fagoni, Chaplain Chin Wynn, Annan Fam) emphasized the applicants' integrity, the growing need for senior care, and minimal neighborhood impacts. Opponents (e.g., Lindsay Lawson, Fred Seidel, Sherman Wong, Mike Faria, Rich Gardner) raised concerns about parking adequacy, traffic generation, deception regarding project scale (initial six beds vs. 15 beds), and the legality of the SB9 lot split due to non-occupancy by the owner. The appellant, Jay Giles, argued that the parcel was created through fraud (perjury on owner-occupancy affidavit) and thus the minor use permit should be denied. - Public Hearing on Item 11.2 (MD Market): No public comments were made. Discussion Items - Item 11.1 – FAM Assisted Living Appeal: Staff presented the project history, noting that the appeal raised five grounds, none of which involved SB9. Staff argued that the minor use permit met all zoning, parking, traffic, fire, and operational standards. The applicants (Kim and Hal Fam) described their personal commitment to senior care and their family's background. The appellant's focus on SB9 fraud was not addressed in the staff report as it was not a ground for appeal. The commission discussed parking (five on-site spaces per code), traffic (low trip generation per ITE manual), fire safety (sprinklers, evacuation plan), and the legality of requiring visitors to call ahead. The city attorney stated that the appointment condition was appropriate but could be removed. The commission voted to deny the appeal (5-0, with Commissioners Carter and Barter absent; Commissioner Sanders recused from this item). - Item 11.2 – MD Market Conditional Use Permit: Staff explained that the applicant requested a major conditional use permit to sell alcohol for off-site consumption and operate from 6 a.m. to 12 a.m. daily (no change from current hours except Friday/Saturday currently 2 a.m.). The new location is across the street from the existing market. Staff noted no net increase in alcohol licenses, 37 alcohol-related calls for service in the surrounding area over two years, and no police objections. The applicant (Herman Dillon) confirmed that the old site would be redeveloped for mixed-use housing. The commission approved the permit (4-0-1, with Commissioner Sanders abstaining; Commissioners Carter and Barter absent). Key Outcomes - Appeal Denied (5-0): The planning commission denied the appeal and upheld the zoning administrator's approval of a minor conditional use permit for a 15-bed community care facility at 631 Benjamin's Road. The facility will be conditioned to meet all applicable standards. - Conditional Use Permit Approved (4-0-1): The commission approved a major conditional use permit for MD Market to sell alcohol for off-site consumption and operate extended hours (6 a.m. to 12 a.m. daily) at 1995 Sebastopol Road. The approval allows relocation of the existing business and paves the way for future mixed-use redevelopment of the old site. - Next Steps: Both projects will proceed subject to standard conditions; the FAM Assisted Living facility must also comply with state licensing and fire safety requirements.

On July 14, 2026, the Santa Rosa City Council met in regular session beginning at 2:30 PM with a closed session, followed by a study session on revenue enhancement at 3:00 PM, and a regular session at 4:00 PM. The meeting lasted until 6:07 PM. All council members were present except Council Member Victoria Fleming for part of the closed session; she joined later and participated in all votes. The council discussed the city's structural deficit, community feedback on services, potential sales tax ballot measure, approved bond financing for affordable housing, adopted consent items, accepted the annual diversity report, and directed staff to schedule a study session on unpermitted food vendors. Consent Calendar - 13.1 – Adopted the Federal Highway Administration Title VI Implementation Plan. - 13.2 – Approved the Fourth Amendment to Blanket Purchase Order with Geotab USA, Inc., increasing compensation by $200,000 to a total not to exceed $950,000. - 13.3 – Approved $2,000,000 in construction contingency funds for the Route 101 Bicycle and Pedestrian Overcrossing, increasing total contract to $39,574,978.70. - 13.4 – Authorized additional $50,000 contingency for Howarth Courts Renovation, total contract now $1,313,571.75. - 13.5 – Approved Cooperative Funding Agreement with Sonoma County Transportation Authority for the Safe Streets and Roads for All FY24 project (no fiscal impact). - 13.6 – Increased contingency by $150,000 for Kawana Springs Community Park Garden, total contract $1,875,111.30. - 13.7 – Approved Second Amendment with Redwood Veterinary Clinic, increasing compensation by $50,000 to $145,000 and extending term through June 30, 2029. - 13.8 – Adopted Resolution No. RES-2026-082 accepting $4,600,000 from Sonoma County Measure O for the inRESPONSE Mental Health Support Team over three years, and appropriating funds. - 13.9 – Adopted Resolution No. RES-2026-083 approving the Memorandum of Understanding for Unit 9 – Fire Safety Management, effective July 1, 2026 through June 30, 2027. - 13.10 – Adopted Resolution No. RES-2026-084 authorizing submission of a $1,500,000 grant application to the U.S. Bureau of Reclamation for WaterSMART Drought Response Program for reconstruction of Carley Well, with a local match of $3,868,250. The consent agenda was approved unanimously (7-0). Public Comments & Testimony - Duane DeWitt (Roseland resident) spoke on closed session transparency, supported parks maintenance staff, encouraged connectivity through Roseland, suggested fees for park vendors and selling city properties rather than tax increases, opposed spending on Route 101 overcrossing and Kawana Springs garden, and advocated for equitable distribution of Community Advisory Board grants to disadvantaged neighborhoods. - Michael Hilber opposed the revenue enhancement tax measure, calling it a waste and arguing the city should cut spending instead; opposed the $4.6 million Measure O funding as inappropriate. - Gregory Fearon supported the tax measure, emphasized the need to wake the community to service reductions, spoke on oversight of Measure O funds, and mentioned a new nonprofit to support youth serving on boards. - Fred A (written comment read by staff) supported the TEFRA bond issuance and submitted written remarks on Proposition 13. - Fred (oral) spoke in support of the Santa Rosa Garden Apartments bonds. - Public comments also occurred on non-agenda matters (Item 14) about trusted developers and city property sales. Discussion Items - Revenue Enhancement Study Session (Item 4.1) – The council heard a detailed presentation from CFO Scott Wagner and Communications Officer Misti Wood on the city's structural deficit, impact of 82 FTE cuts, pension restructuring savings of $28 million over five years, and reserve depletion projections (from $49 million in FY 2028 to $11.5 million by FY 2030). Police Chief John Cregan and Fire Chief Scott Westrope outlined potential cuts: up to 24 sworn officers eliminated by 2030 (police) and closure of one engine company (2027) and a truck company (2030) for fire. Community survey results showed 80% rated fire/EMS as extremely/very important; 55% of respondents would likely support a one-cent sales tax reauthorization (Measure Q) until repealed by voters, estimated to generate $23.5 million additional annual revenue. The council expressed unanimous support for bringing back ballot measure language for consideration. Council members noted the tax would be a general purpose tax requiring a simple majority, 100% staying in Santa Rosa. - Greenway Connectivity Study Staff Briefing (Item 8.1) – Transportation Planner Torina Wilson presented three feasible alternatives to link Prince Memorial Greenway and future Southeast Greenway. Over 550 survey responses received; mailers sent to 10,000 property owners. An in-person workshop is scheduled for July 29. Council encouraged public participation. - Community Empowerment Plan Update (Item 8.2) – Community Engagement Manager Ana Horta listed upcoming events: Live at Julia concert series, creek cleanup, National Night Out, among others. Council noted the importance of outreach despite limited resources. - TEFRA Public Hearing – Santa Rosa Garden Apartments (Item 16.1) – The council held a public hearing and unanimously adopted Resolution No. RES-2026-081 approving issuance of tax-exempt revenue bonds not exceeding $20 million by the California Statewide Communities Development Authority for the acquisition, rehabilitation, and equipping of the 111-unit affordable housing project at 4601 Montgomery Drive. No fiscal impact to the city. - Diversity Report on Boards, Commissions, and Committees (Item 15.1) – City Clerk Dina Manis presented the 2025 annual report. Key figures: 106 applications from 81 individuals, 45 appointments made. Female appointees increased to 60% appointment rate (vs. 19% in 2024). Hispanic appointees at 15% remain underrepresented relative to community (37%). African American appointees increased from zero to two. Districts 2 and 7 improved from zero appointments in 2024 to 70% of active members from those districts appointed in 2025. Council discussed lowering the minimum appointment age (currently 18) and adjusting meeting times to improve diversity. The report was accepted unanimously. - Unpermitted Food Vendors (Item 11.3.1) – Council Member Alvarez requested a future study session to address environmental impacts (grease disposal) and regulatory issues. Director Osborn noted existing city and county regulations and state law protections. Council voted unanimously to direct staff to bring forward a study session. Key Outcomes - Revenue Measure: Council directed staff to return with ballot measure language for a potential November 2026 election, reauthorizing Measure Q at one cent (instead of half-cent) until repealed by voters. (Vote: 7-0, study session, no formal action but clear consensus.) - Santa Rosa Garden Apartments Bonds: Resolution No. RES-2026-081 adopted unanimously (7-0). - Consent Agenda: Approved 7-0. - Zero Waste Sonoma Alternate: Dan Hennessey appointed as staff alternate to the Zero Waste Sonoma Agency Board of Directors (7-0). - Unpermitted Food Vendors Study Session: Directed staff to schedule a study session (7-0). - Minutes: June 2 and June 16, 2026 minutes approved as submitted. - Diversity Report: Accepted unanimously (motion by Council Member Fleming, second by Rogers). - Appointments: Council member reports included recognition of community events and subcommittee updates; no formal actions beyond the Zero Waste appointment. - City Manager's Report: Jason Nutt announced Dominique Blanquie as Acting Assistant City Manager, fall/winter recreation guide release, blood drive on July 21, and opening of nomination period for November 2026 City Council elections. - Upcoming: Next regular meeting tentatively scheduled for July 28, 2026.

The Santa Rosa Planning Commission convened on July 13, 2026, to discuss transportation impact analysis (TIA) requirements and review public outreach for the Greenway Connectivity Study. The meeting opened with consent calendar approvals and public comment on non-agenda items. Consent Calendar - Routine approvals were passed as submitted without discussion or objection. Public Comments & Testimony - No public comments were made during the non-agenda public comment period. - No public comments were made during the study session or Greenway presentation. Discussion Items Study Session: Transportation Impact Analysis Requirements - Dan Hennessy, Transportation staff, presented an overview of TIA purposes, limitations, and considerations for updating guidelines. He emphasized that TIAs are forecasting tools with inherent uncertainty and are not value-neutral; they reflect city policy goals. - Hennessy noted that traditional delay-focused analyses disadvantage infill development and incentivize road widening, which can conflict with safety and compact growth goals. - He discussed induced demand and the shift from congestion-focused metrics to broader safety and accessibility goals, aligning with Vision Zero and the General Plan. - In response to questions from commissioners, Hennessy explained that studies are valid for about two years, and staff reviews and approves consultant-prepared studies as official city documents. - Commissioner Sanders inquired about communicating traffic impacts to the public, and Hennessy underscored that peak-hour congestion can indicate a healthy city but that safety is his priority. Report: Greenway Connectivity Study Public Outreach - Terina Wilson, Transportation Planner, presented three alternatives for connecting the Prince Memorial Greenway (downtown) to the future Southeast Greenway multi-use path: Alternative 1 (Sonoma Avenue with protected bike lanes), Alternative 2 (via Doyle Park and Hoen Avenue), and Alternative 3 (neighborhood greenway on residential streets). - Wilson described the public outreach efforts: a survey with over 500 responses, a community bike ride on July 29, pop-up events, and presentations to advisory boards. - Commissioners inquired about cost estimates, safety of park routes, and compatibility with Caltrans for Farmers Lane improvements. Wilson indicated Alternative 3 is likely cheapest, followed by Alternative 1, with Alternative 2 most expensive. She noted funding for construction may come from future grants or pavement maintenance. - Vice Chair appreciated the survey's clarity and expressed concerns about women’s safety on the Doyle Park route after dark. Key Outcomes - No formal votes or decisions were taken. The study session provided background for future decision-making on TIA thresholds. - Commissioners encouraged staff to make cost comparisons public and offered to promote the survey to their networks. - Staff will continue public outreach and report findings to City Council and other bodies. - Commissioner Sanders excused himself for the Greenway item. The meeting adjourned without public hearings.

The Santa Rosa Planning Commission held a regular meeting on July 9, 2026, at 4:30 PM in the City Hall Council Chamber. The meeting included a study session on Transportation Impact Analysis (TIA) requirements and a report on public outreach for the Greenway Connectivity Study. No public hearings were held, and no formal actions were taken on either agenda item. Commissioner Sanders recused himself from the second item and left the chambers at 5:10 PM. Consent Calendar - Minutes of June 25, 2026: Approved as submitted without public comment. Public Comments & Testimony - Non-agenda items: No members of the public spoke. - Item 8.1 (Study Session): No public comments were made. - Item 10.1 (Greenway Report): No public comments were made. Discussion Items 8.1 Study Session: Transportation Impact Analysis (TIA) Requirements - Presented by: Dan Hennessey, Director of Transportation and Public Works. The session was informational only; no formal action was taken. - Key points: - Hennessey explained that TIAs are forecasting tools used to evaluate a project’s travel demand, operational impacts, access, and consistency with both current and planned transportation networks. They help identify necessary improvements and establish a nexus between development and mitigation. - He noted that traditional TIAs focus on vehicle delay at intersections, often leading to capacity expansion (e.g., widening roads) which can induce demand. "Wider roads also create more traffic," he stated. - Hennessey emphasized that TIAs are "not value neutral" and should reflect city goals such as safety, compact infill, and multimodal access. He warned that delay-focused analysis can make infill development appear more impactful than greenfield development. - He discussed the limitations of TIAs: they communicate a false sense of precision (e.g., "27.8 seconds per vehicle") and rely on historical data with inherent uncertainty. Models cannot predict future conditions with certainty. - Hennessey noted that studies are typically considered current within two years; beyond that, staff reassesses conditions. - He acknowledged that traffic is often used as a "proxy for other discussions around growth, neighborhood character, and broader development policy." He cited research showing that traffic concerns are more frequently raised in opposition to multifamily housing in higher-income, whiter neighborhoods. - Staff perspective: "We looked back at the last several years of transportation impact analyses that we’ve required, and very rarely did the analysis tell us anything that we didn’t already know." Hennessey expressed a desire to reduce unnecessary burden on both applicants and staff. - Commissioner comments: - Vice Chair Duggan asked how commissioners should weigh a private consultant’s study against public opposition. Hennessey responded that studies are scoped and reviewed by the city, so "it’s our traffic study, it’s just done by somebody else." - Commissioner Sanders noted the difficulty of communicating that 50 new peak-hour cars on a street that already serves 1,000 is a minor change. - Chair Weeks emphasized the importance of having traffic experts present at hearings when traffic is a major issue, despite staffing constraints. 10.1 Report: Public Outreach for the Greenway Connectivity Study - Presented by: Torina Wilson, Transportation Planner. The item was informational; no formal action was taken. - Background: The city received a federal Thriving Communities technical assistance grant to study how to connect the existing Prince Memorial Greenway (west) to the future Southeast Greenway (east), creating a full east-west active transportation network across Santa Rosa. Three alternatives were developed after a stakeholder listening session. - Alternatives: 1. Alternative 1 (Orange): From Prince Memorial Greenway, south on Santa Rosa Avenue cycle track, east on Sonoma Avenue via parking-protected bike lanes (with some parking removal), then south on Homan and Hoen to the Southeast Greenway. 2. Alternative 2 (Blue): Same start, then east on Sonoma Avenue, but at Doyle Park Drive, meanders south through Doyle Park (using widened paths and signage), continues on Hoen Avenue, and connects to the Southeast Greenway. 3. Alternative 3 (Yellow): Mostly residential streets (neighborhood greenways) with traffic calming, starting south on Santa Rosa Avenue, meandering through streets (primarily Vallejo Street), and crossing Farmers Lane via a raised bike lane. - Public outreach: Outreach runs June–July 2026, with a project webpage (English and Spanish survey), in-person workshop (July 29 at City Hall), community bike ride (July 11 at 10 AM from Prince Gateway Park), and pop-up events. As of the meeting, over 500 survey responses had been received; the city sent 10,000 mailers. - Cost considerations: Wilson stated that Alternative 3 (neighborhood greenway) is likely the cheapest due to flexible traffic-calming materials and phased implementation. Alternative 1 (Sonoma Avenue) is likely second cheapest, and Alternative 2 (through Doyle Park) is likely most expensive due to pavement improvements on Hoen Avenue. She declined to provide specific dollar figures, noting that estimates can become outdated quickly. - Commissioner comments: - Vice Chair Duggan expressed safety concerns about women riding alone after dark through Doyle Park (Alternative 2). She noted the survey allowed open-ended comments. - Duggan also asked about Caltrans jurisdiction on Farmers Lane (also Highway 12) for Alternative 3; Wilson acknowledged potential complexity and added time/cost. - Commissioner Cisco asked whether cost estimates could be shared with the public. Wilson noted that all alternatives were vetted as fiscally achievable, but exact costs were not published. - Commissioner Sanders inquired about the impact of the upcoming closure of French American Charter School on Alternative 2; Wilson said the connection would remain valuable regardless of future land use. Key Outcomes - No votes or decisions were taken on either agenda item; both were for information only. - Commissioner Sanders recused himself from Item 10.1 (Greenway Connectivity Study) and left the meeting at 5:10 PM after the study session. - The Commission approved the June 25, 2026, minutes as submitted. - No public hearings were held; the meeting adjourned at 5:40 PM.