Public Meetings - Santa Rosa, California

The Santa Rosa City Council met on February 24, 2026, at 2:00 PM in the Council Chamber. The meeting included a closed session, a study session, proclamations, staff presentations, consent items, and two public hearings. The primary focus was the appeal of the Lago Fresca Apartments project, which was denied unanimously. The meeting adjourned at 8:07 PM. Consent Calendar - Minutes: The February 10, 2026, regular meeting minutes were approved as submitted. - Resolution RES-2026-015: Approved a second amendment to the professional services agreement with Atkinson, Andelson, Loya, Ruud & Romo for continued legal services, increasing compensation by $175,000 to a total of $375,000, and appropriated $375,000 from unassigned general fund reserves. - Motion: Awarded Contract No. C02406 for Hopper Avenue Corridor Fire Recovery Improvements to Argonaut Constructors for $4,054,718, plus a 15% contingency of $608,207.70, for a total of $4,662,925.70, funded by the Capital Improvement Fund (no General Fund money). - Motion: Approved the cooperative purchase of four 2029 Pierce Enforcer Type 1 Fire Engines from Golden State Fire Apparatus Inc. for $5,709,802, using the Houston Galveston Area Council Interlocal Cooperative Agreement. - Resolution RES-2026-016: Approved amendments to the Classification and Compensation & Salary Plan and Schedule, adopting an updated Salary Plan and Schedule, and increasing appropriations by $163,122.15. - Item 13.3 (Grant Writing Services): Continued to the March 24, 2026, regular meeting. Public Comments & Testimony - Non-Agenda Matters: Janice Karrman spoke about overlapping city and county meeting schedules making it difficult to attend all meetings. - Lago Fresca Apartments Appeal (16.1): - Opposition: Many residents and community members expressed opposition, citing traffic congestion, parking shortages, safety concerns for pedestrians and cyclists, and emergency evacuation risks. Speakers included Katy Moranda (appellant), Michael Ann Blatt, Jeanette McFall, Richard Hunt Sr., Analisa Hunt, Ann Butler, Robert Ostling, Michael Fried (BV Neighbors Against Lago Fresca), Anthony Nuno, Mindy Shambaugh, Mary Alice Wilson, Diane Martini, Kashy Ghazzagh, Mike Raymond, Stephen Schwartz, Rebecca Hopper, Jerry Huffaker, Richard Molley, Patti Fitch, Keith Woxerman, and an anonymous speaker. - Support: Abby Arnold (Santa Rosa YIMBY) and Sonia Barwick (Generation Housing) spoke in support, noting the project's alignment with housing goals and infill development. - First 2026 General Plan Amendment Package (16.2): - Ken MacNab (KMAC Advising) spoke in support of the changes to Maxwell Drive properties, stating that the "maker mixed use" designation is more appropriate. - Fred Allebach spoke on land-use compatibility, encouraging flexibility in future zoning decisions across the city. Discussion Items - Study Session: An overview of Senate Bill 707 (Brown Act amendments) was continued to the March 10, 2026, regular meeting. - Proclamation - Black History Month: Council Member Natalie Rogers read and presented the proclamation to Nancy Rogers (Black Chamber of Commerce) and Arthur Chaney (100 Black Men of Sonoma County). Ruben Scott (2025 Merit Award winner) also spoke. - Presentation - Sonoma Water: David Royall (Assistant General Manager) and Kent Gylfe (Director of Engineering) provided updates on water transmission system capital projects and maintenance. Highlights included the Eli Booster Pump Station, tank rehabilitation, well activation, and a new computer maintenance management system (NextGen). Council discussed deferred maintenance and the aquifer recharge pilot program. - City Manager's Reports: Lori Ann Farrell announced the launch of a citywide survey for the City Manager recruitment, Sonoma County Restaurant Week, after-school program sign-ups, and the CalHome Rehabilitation Loan Program. - City Attorney's Report: Teresa Stricker reported no settlements in January and ongoing litigation caseload of 33 matters, with trial dates for about one-quarter. - Mayor/Council Reports: Council Member Fleming noted the upcoming Metropolitan Transportation Commission meeting on the Transit Oriented Communities policy. Mayor Stapp reported on the reopening of Dutch Flohr Neighborhood Park and recent Sonoma County Mayor's and Council Members' meetings, including a focus on crisis response. - Lago Fresca Apartments Appeal (16.1): - Staff presented the project: a 50-unit multifamily development (including 4 very low-income units) at 2445 Summerfield Road and 4744 Hoen Avenue. The Planning Commission (unanimous) and Design Review Board (4-1-1) had approved the project. The appeal was filed by the Bennett Valley Community Against Lago Fresca Project. - The appellant, Katy Moranda, argued that the driveway location near the Hoen/Summerfield intersection, lack of visitor parking, and emergency evacuation concerns create safety risks. She requested an independent traffic study and design modifications. - The applicant, Jan Verhawley, and team (architect, landscape architect, traffic engineer) presented, stating that the project meets all city and state standards, including Caltrans site distance requirements. They noted that the project has been redesigned over five years in response to city and community input. - Council discussion focused on the legal constraints under the state Density Bonus Law and Housing Accountability Act. City Attorney Ashley Crocker and Planning staff explained that denial would require substantial evidence of a specific adverse impact on health or safety, which was not present in the technical reports. The council also heard from Fire Marshal Paul Lowenthal about improved evacuation procedures since the 2017 wildfires. - First 2026 General Plan Amendment Package (16.2): - Staff presented amendments to the General Plan 2050 land use diagram and text, including changes to 10 properties to ensure consistency with zoning. Key changes included re-designating areas near Memorial Hospital to low-density residential, reclassifying properties on Mountain Hawk Drive, and adjusting the Maxwell Drive properties to "maker mixed use." A text amendment added Active Transportation Plan maps. Key Outcomes - Closed Session: No reportable action taken. - Lago Fresca Apartments Appeal: Council voted 7-0 to deny the appeal and uphold the Planning Commission's approval of the Conditional Use Permit and the Design Review Board's approval of Design Review. Resolutions RES-2026-017 and RES-2026-018 were adopted. - First 2026 General Plan Amendment Package: Council voted 7-0 to adopt the addendum to the General Plan 2050 EIR (RES-2026-019), adopt the land use and text amendments (RES-2026-020), and approve the first reading of the ordinance rezoning 10 properties. The ordinance will be brought back for a second reading. - Meeting adjourned at 8:07 PM.

The Santa Rosa Planning Commission met on February 12, 2026, at 12:30 PM (actual meeting start time not specified but agenda indicates 12:30 PM) to consider a conditional use permit for a drive-through at the existing Del Valle Mexican restaurant, among other routine items. After extensive public testimony and deliberation, the commission voted 5-2 to deny the permit, citing incompatibility with the neighborhood, inadequate site design, and potential nuisance. Consent Calendar - Minutes from January 22, 2026: Approved as submitted without changes. Public Comments & Testimony - Dwayne DeWitt (Roseland resident): Spoke in support of creating Pomo Park and Preserve along Roseland Creek, urging the commission to honor Pomo heritage. Also commented on the need for younger and more diverse representation on boards and commissions. - Edina Flores (civil rights activist): Expressed strong support for the Del Valle drive-through, arguing that approval is a matter of equity for the Latino community. Warned that denial would show the commission does not support the community. - Andy Mayhew (Kenmore Lane resident): Opposed the project, stating the traffic study did not adequately analyze Kenmore Lane and that additional traffic would worsen cut-through conditions and safety. - Sam Metz (Kenmore Lane resident): Opposed, noting that proposed perpendicular parking would overhang into the roadway and that directing traffic on public streets poses liability. Concerned about employees parking and litter. - Manuel Benjibar (Kenmore Lane resident): Opposed, citing proximity to a school, lack of sidewalk and lighting on Kenmore Lane, and difficulty making turns onto Sebastopol Road. - Howard Leighton (Kenmore Lane resident): Opposed, describing turning onto Sebastopol Road as a game of Frogger and noting that on-street parking already narrows the road. - Don Gibble (supporter): Spoke in favor, arguing the project should be given a chance and that traffic is already heavy in the area. - Scott Robinson (Kenmore Lane resident): Opposed, questioning the traffic study's comparison to Fourth Street, raising concerns about future tenants if the business fails, noise from customers, and emergency vehicle access. - Colleen O'Neill (44-year Kenmore Lane resident): Opposed, detailing difficulties turning onto Sebastopol Road and predicting that exiting customers would use side streets to avoid congestion. - Ken Davis (40-year Kenmore Lane resident): Opposed, objecting to claims that opposition is racist, noting many Latino neighbors also oppose. Called the queue management plan unworkable and unsafe. - Unnamed supporter: Spoke briefly in favor of giving the business an opportunity, suggesting traffic would not be as bad as feared. Discussion Items Item 11.1 – Del Valle Drive-Through Conditional Use Permit (CUP 23-041) - Staff Presentation (Sachinora Bisla): Proposed an 850-square-foot drive-through building as an extension of the existing restaurant at 2000 Sebastopol Road. The site is zoned General Commercial. The revised site plan includes ingress from Sebastopol Road only and egress onto Kenmore Lane. A queue management plan would close the entrance at 10 vehicles. Staff recommended a condition limiting hours to 10 PM (originally proposed 11 PM, staff had earlier suggested 9 PM) to comply with noise ordinance, but the applicant did not agree. Staff found the project consistent with zoning and General Plan but left the hours condition for commission decision. - Applicant (Pedro Martinez Navarro): Presented over three years of planning, revisions based on public input, and studies (traffic, noise, queue management). Emphasized that the drive-through would provide year-round stability for the family-run business. Traffic study (by WTrans) concluded 30-35 vehicles per hour with a 230-foot queue accommodating 10 vehicles, and no spillback onto public streets. Noise study (by York Engineering) found less-than-significant impacts due to existing background traffic noise. Applicant expressed willingness to accept a 10 PM closing time but not 9 PM. - Commission Questions: Commissioners questioned the queue management plan, easements on neighboring property, employee count (2 initially), and ability to direct traffic. The traffic consultant (Dailen Whitlock) acknowledged that Kenmore Lane impacts were not specifically studied, and that left-turn delays onto Sebastopol Road would increase. Staff confirmed that parking spaces are 17 feet long and that fire truck access is feasible. - Public Hearing: Opened and closed after extensive testimony. Key Outcomes - Vote on motion to approve (moved by Commissioner Sanders, seconded by Commissioner Pardo): Failed 2-5 (Sanders and Pardo in favor; Carter, Sisko, Horton, Duggan, Weeks opposed). - Subsequent motion to deny (moved by Commissioner Sisko, seconded by Vice Chair Duggan): Passed 5-2 (Carter, Sisko, Horton, Duggan, Weeks in favor; Sanders and Pardo opposed). - Findings for denial: The commission adopted findings that the project is not compatible with existing and future land uses (finding C), the site is physically unsuitable due to inadequate ingress/egress and queue constraints (finding D), and granting the permit would constitute a nuisance injurious to public safety and welfare (finding E). - Re-election of Vice Chair: Vice Chair Duggan was re-elected by unanimous vote (7-0) for another term.

The Santa Rosa City Council met for over eight hours on February 10, 2026, to discuss and act on several major items including a study session on federal immigration enforcement and its local impacts, adoption of a master plan amendment for Martin Luther King Jr. Park, and contract awards for the Highway 101 bicycle and pedestrian overcrossing. The meeting also featured a proclamation for American Heart Month, community reports, and a resolution urging Congress to improve oversight of federal immigration agents. Consent Calendar - Approved consent items 13.2 through 13.6 (routine approvals, no discussion). - Continued items 13.1 and 13.7 to February 27, 2026. - Unanimously adopted minutes from January 13, 20, 27, and 28, 2026. Public Comments & Testimony - Immigration Enforcement Study Session (Item 4.1): Over 20 community members spoke, nearly all urging the city to pass a strong non‑collaboration ordinance and sanctuary city policy. Speakers included representatives from the Sonoma County Sanctuary Coalition, RAICES, Almas Libres, the Interfaith Council, and the NAACP. Many cited the deaths of Renee Good and Alex Predi in Minneapolis, expressed fear for family safety, and called for limits on ICE access to city property, no sharing of resident data with ICE, and an alert system for ICE presence. Several speakers also raised concerns about Flock license plate readers and shared data with ICE. - MLK Park Master Plan (Item 16.1): Residents of the South Park neighborhood, including soccer club parents and coaches, requested timely completion of the park improvements and stressed the need for immediate safety upgrades (lighting, police patrols) due to recent shootings. Some advocated for synthetic turf for year‑round play; others supported natural turf and environmental review. - Bicycle/Pedestrian Overcrossing (Item 15.3): Supporters noted the project has been discussed for over 20 years and urged approval to avoid losing $12 million in state grant funds. A bid protest from the lowest bidder was discussed; the council heard from the low bidder’s representative who claimed their bid was improperly rejected. - Resolution on Federal Immigration Enforcement (Item 15.1): No public comment in chambers or online. - Other Items: Comments on the Community Empowerment Plan, consent calendar, and mayor/council reports included concerns about road maintenance, homelessness, the Santa Rosa Police Foundation’s nonprofit status, and whistleblower retaliation. Discussion Items - Federal Immigration Enforcement Study Session (4.1): Assistant City Manager Nutt and Police Chief Cregan presented a background on city resolutions (2017 Indivisible City, SB 54, executive orders), recent ICE operations (including Operation Metro Surge with 3,000 agents), and the city’s participation in three federal lawsuits. Chief Cregan detailed training differences: SRPD officers receive 855 hours of academy training plus 21 weeks of field training; federal special agents receive 520 hours plus 8 weeks agency‑specific. The council heard that local public safety is already affected—reports of domestic violence and crime are down, likely due to fear of ICE. Councilmembers Fleming, Benwellas, Alvarez, McDonald, and Rogers expressed support for a sanctuary ordinance and for the resolution to Congress. Discussion included limitations on local enforcement: city cannot impede ICE but can deny use of city resources for enforcement. Council directed staff to return with policy options, including a potential sanctuary ordinance. - MLK Park Master Plan Amendment (16.1): Staff presented the $12 million plan including a synthetic turf soccer field, playground, basketball courts, fitness area, and a trail connecting to Petaluma Hill Road. $8 million in funding is available, with the remainder expected in FY 2026-27. Council debated synthetic turf vs. natural grass, with some members wanting a separate policy discussion. The mayor noted that a previous subcommittee discussion and “two‑by‑two” meetings had occurred, but no full council vote on turf policy. Staff confirmed phasing is possible: Phase 1 (north half, $6.6 million) could move forward without the turf field. Council voted unanimously to adopt the master plan amendment, with the understanding that a separate discussion on turf policy would occur. - Bicycle/Pedestrian Overcrossing (15.3): Director Hennessy reported that the low bid came in $8.5 million over the engineer’s estimate, requiring $10.4 million already spent and an additional $6.3 million immediately. Funding sources include grants (a $12 million Caltrans grant with a February 14 deadline) and reallocations from other projects (Hearn Avenue interchange, ADA reserves, Hopper Avenue underrun). The bid protest was upheld, so the contract is recommended for the second lowest bidder (Gelotti) at essentially the same price. Council unanimously approved the contract award and related support contracts (15.4, 15.5), acknowledging trade‑offs that delay other safety and pavement projects such as the Stony Point Corridor project. - Resolution on ICE Oversight (15.1): Council unanimously adopted a resolution urging Congress to enact legislation requiring federal immigration agents to meet standards comparable to local law enforcement: clear identification, body cameras, independent investigations, minimum training, no masks, civil rights accountability, and local notification of enforcement actions. The resolution incorporated a last‑minute addition to include vehicles in the identification clause. Key Outcomes - Immigration Policy Direction: Council directed staff to prepare a report on options for a sanctuary ordinance, including limits on ICE use of city property, information sharing, and alert systems. A separate policy discussion on synthetic turf versus natural grass will be added to a future council agenda. - MLK Park Master Plan: Unanimously adopted; staff will return in March with design‑build authorization and information on turf options. - Highway 101 Overcrossing: Approved contracts for construction (Gelotti Construction, $44.5 million), construction management, and design support, despite cost overruns and budget reallocations that delay other projects. - Resolution to Congress: Passed unanimously, urging stronger federal oversight of immigration enforcement agents.

The Santa Rosa Public Safety Subcommittee met on February 3, 2026, from 9:02 AM to 10:19 AM. The meeting included a presentation on a proposed regional police training center, annual reports from the police and fire departments, and public comment on ICE enforcement. Consent Calendar - Approval of October 28, 2025 Minutes: The subcommittee unanimously approved the minutes from the previous meeting with no adjustments. Public Comments & Testimony - A speaker, on behalf of an SRJC student who could not attend, raised two questions regarding agendas 8.1 and 8.2: 1) whether the city has training procedures for responding to ICE activity, and 2) whether the city plans to cooperate with or aid ICE in its operations. The Chair noted that the Brown Act restricts discussion but stated that the full city council would address ICE-related items at its meeting the following week (starting around 3:00 PM). - Janice Carman spoke in support of the regional training center concept, suggesting partnerships with other organizations (e.g., Sheriff's office, First Responder Resilience) to share costs and facilities. - Janice Carman also praised the fire department report, expressing appreciation for new fire stations and the positive story of Firefighter Nathan Dilley. Discussion Items - Regional Police Training Center Presentation: Chief John Kriegan and Sergeant James Vickers presented the need for a dedicated training facility. Key points: - SRPD lacks a facility capable of modern law enforcement training (firearms, pursuit driving, defensive tactics, de-escalation, scenario-based training). - Currently uses 7+ external facilities, with 10–30% of training days spent driving. Distances range from 33.6 miles (Novato) to 57 miles (Fairfield). - Training costs have risen, and external facilities often cancel booked days, forcing schedule disruptions. - Example facilities: Fairfield PD (3 acres, $12M, revenue neutral); San Mateo Sheriff (8 acres, $11M, revenue positive); Fresno PD (80 acres, $15M, revenue negative due to pricing model). - Chief Kriegan noted that federal earmark applications require a site assessment and property acquisition. He has met with North Bay police chiefs, who expressed strong interest in using a regional center. - The estimated cost for an initial site feasibility assessment is around $50,000; full design could cost several hundred thousand dollars. The goal is to secure federal/state funding to avoid adding to the city's structural deficit. - Committee members expressed strong support for pursuing a feasibility study, with Council Member Fleming emphasizing the need for the site to be revenue positive and to avoid polarization. Council Member Stapp asked about past progress and confirmed no feasibility study had been done. Chair Krepke noted the potential for the center to support climate goals (reducing travel) and economic development (officers staying in Santa Rosa). - Police Department 2025 Year-End Report: Chief Westrope presented key statistics: - 179,000 calls dispatched; 111,000 field responses, of which 11,000 (6% increase) were homeless-related. - 6,600 arrests; 20,000 traffic stops resulting in over 10,000 citations; 615 DUI offenders removed from streets. - 8 fatal collisions (plus one medical-related); 684 injury collisions investigated. - 184 reported shootings; 12 homicides (100% clearance rate for 2025, and 36 of 37 homicides solved since 2022). - 321 firearms seized (including 107 ghost guns), down from 390 the previous year. - 78 organized community engagement events; focus on foot patrols downtown and in parks. - Council Member Stapp asked why the report did not mention the Colombian theft gang and Asian theft ring; Chief Westrope acknowledged the work of the property crimes team and organized retail theft cases. - Fire Department 2025 Year-End Report: Chief Scott Westrope provided an update: - Staffing: 174 FTEs, including positions funded by SAFER (12), Measure H (14), and PSAP (10.25). 7 new firefighter paramedics graduated in December 2025. 3 operational vacancies on hold. - Facilities: Fire Station 5 (Fountain Grove) opened November 2025; minor issues being resolved. Fire Station 8 (Roseland) broke ground November 2025, completion expected summer 2027. Fire Station 9 (southeast area) – evaluating purchase and retrofit of an existing building near Santa Rosa Avenue and Elsa Court. Fire Station 11 (Santa Rosa Junior College district) – new CIP account opened to fund a permanent station; concept plans exist but no construction yet. - Fleet: Apparatus costs have doubled in two years due to private equity consolidation; build times extended from 1 year to 4–5 years. The city has raised this with state/federal lobbyists. - Upcoming: Deployment analysis and community risk reduction plan to be presented at next subcommittee; surge ambulance project update expected at next meeting; ongoing WUI map adoption education. - Firefighter of the Year 2025: Nathan Dilley, honored for a heroic rescue at a vehicle fire where he entered a burning car to save a trapped occupant; the victim suffered only minor burns. - In response to Council Member Fleming's question, Chief Westrope confirmed that interfacility transport is still a long-term goal but not immediate. On the Measure H plan for Fire Station 12 and moving Engine 6 east, he stated that rising costs have delayed that project; the southeast station (Station 9) is the current priority. Key Outcomes - The subcommittee expressed unanimous support for advancing the regional police training center concept. A feasibility study (site assessment) will be pursued, with the intention of presenting a proposal to the full council. - The subcommittee received and acknowledged the police and fire department annual reports. - No formal votes were taken other than the consent calendar approval. - The meeting adjourned at 10:19 AM.

A special session of the Santa Rosa City Council was called to order at 5:01 PM on January 28, 2026. The meeting consisted of a roll call, a single public comment, and a recess to closed session. No substantive discussion or votes occurred in open session. Public Comments & Testimony - Dwayne DeWitt, a resident of Roseland, expressed concern about the vagueness of the agenda item referencing a "threat to public service or facilities." He requested more specific information, noting that a decade ago a task force had worked to provide timely public information. He asked whether the closed session was about a specific threat and urged greater transparency. Discussion Items - No open-session discussion items were considered. Following the public comment, the mayor recessed the meeting to closed session. Upon reconvening, the city clerk called the roll, which showed all council members present except Vice Mayor O'Krepke, Councilmember McDonald, and Councilmember Rogers (as per the record). No further business was conducted in open session. Key Outcomes - No decisions, votes, or directives were made in open session. The council adjourned after the closed session, which is not reported on in the open meeting summary.

The Santa Rosa City Council met on January 27, 2026, for a regular meeting that included a closed session on real property negotiations, a study session on entertainment zones, reports from the city manager and city attorney, council member reports, appointments to regional boards, a public hearing on fiscal year 2026–27 budget priorities, and acceptance of the annual Public Safety and Prevention Tax (PSAP) report. The meeting lasted from approximately 10:00 a.m. to after 5:00 p.m., with a brief recess between sessions. Consent Calendar - Items 13.1 through 13.6 were adopted unanimously (5–0). Item 13.7 was continued to February 10, 2026. Public Comments & Testimony - Closed Session (Items 3.1 & 3.2): Three downtown property owners and stakeholders spoke in favor of selecting a local developer (Airport Business Center) for the redevelopment of Parking Garage 5. They emphasized the need to maintain at least 50 hourly parking spaces and to ensure developer accountability. No decision was reported from closed session. - Entertainment Zones Study Session: Multiple residents and business representatives expressed support for creating entertainment zones, urging a pilot program with regular weekly activation (Friday–Sunday, 12 p.m.–10 p.m.) rather than event-only activation. Concerns were raised about public safety resources, lighting, and connectivity between Courthouse Square and Railroad Square. - Non-Agenda Public Comments: Speakers addressed a range of issues: homeless veteran housing vouchers, mobile home park senior protections, road repairs, gang violence in Roseland, surveillance concerns (Flock cameras), and the need for anti-displacement strategies in the South Santa Rosa Specific Plan. - Budget Priorities Public Hearing: Residents requested infrastructure improvements (road repair, crosswalk safety), senior mobile home park overlay ordinance, anti-gentrification measures, and no further cuts to homelessness services. Some speakers warned of declining sales tax revenue and urged fiscal restraint. Discussion Items - Entertainment Zones Study Session: City staff presented two proposed zone areas (Courthouse Square from D to B Streets, 7th to 3rd; Railroad Square from Davis to Wilson, 5th to 3rd) and a third zone for signature events. Hours proposed were Friday–Sunday, 12 p.m.–10 p.m. Police Lieutenant Chris Maheran reported 5,095 calls for service in the district in 2025, with 499 arrests, and noted that regular weekly activation would be easier for enforcement than event-only. Council members expressed broad support for a pilot program with weekly activation, connectivity through the mall, and flexibility to adjust. Mayor Stapp directed staff to bring back a draft ordinance based on a pilot approach. - City Manager & City Attorney Reports: City Manager highlighted the upcoming streamline of conditional use permits, the spring/summer activity guide, and Transit Equity Day (Feb. 4). City Attorney reported two settlements: $250,000 to former city manager Marakisha Smith and $205,000 to former planning director Claire Hartman, both for full releases of claims. The city denies liability in both cases. - Council Member Reports: Councilmembers welcomed Dave & Busters’ opening, thanked participants in MLK Day of Service, and voiced strong opposition to recent federal immigration enforcement actions, reaffirming the city’s compliance with its Indivisible Ordinance and state SB 54. - Appointments: Council approved (5–0) Tanya Potter and Mayor Mark Stapp to the Sonoma County Aviation Commission, and Samantha Rodriguez to the Child Care Planning Council. Council also confirmed Councilmembers Fleming and Banuelos as equal representatives to the Public Financing Authority (5–0). Key Outcomes - Entertainment Zones: Council directed staff to draft an ordinance establishing pilot entertainment zones in Courthouse Square and Railroad Square, with regular weekly activation (Friday–Sunday, 12 p.m.–10 p.m.), a separate event-based zone, and flexibility to adjust based on police feedback and community input. A management plan addressing wristbands, reusable cups, signage, and lighting improvements to be developed. - PSAP Annual Report: Council unanimously accepted the FY 2024–25 report from the Fire Department (Chief Westrope), Police Department (Chief Cregan), and Violence Prevention Partnership (VPP Manager Ronshausen). Highlights: Fire Department used PSAP funds to staff an entire paramedic engine company; Police funded 17 positions, added fleet cameras and substation; VPP reported no gang-related homicides in 2025, a 61% referral increase, and 129 youth completions (85% success rate). Council commended the work but noted flatlining sales tax revenue poses future challenges. - Budget Process: The public hearing on FY 2026–27 budget priorities was held; no formal action taken. Council will receive a mid-year financial update in March/April, review department budgets on May 5–6, and adopt the final budget on June 16, 2026.

The Santa Rosa Planning Commission met on January 22, 2026, at 12:30 PM to consider the first General Plan Amendment Package of the year (PLN 25-0650) and other routine business. The commission approved three resolutions recommending adoption of an addendum to the General Plan 2050 EIR, land use diagram and text amendments, and zoning map amendments for 10 properties. Consent Calendar - The minutes from the January 8, 2026 meeting were approved as submitted with no changes. Public Comments & Testimony - Janice Carman spoke during non‑agenda public comment, urging the commission to limit construction hours to Monday–Friday, 5:30 PM, with no weekend work. She cited personal experience with noise and traffic disruptions in her neighborhood near the hospital. - Janice Carman again during the public hearing on the General Plan amendment, reiterating her concerns about zoning compatibility and traffic impacts, and referencing a large development project in Solano County. - Ken McNabb (KMAC Advising), representing the owner of the Maxwell Drive properties, expressed support for the proposed changes and asked the commission to forward a recommendation of approval to the City Council. Discussion Items - Department Report (Ms. Jones): Upcoming zoning code amendments for beekeeping regulations and conditional use permit streamlining are open for public review. The South Santa Rosa Specific Plan land use and circulation alternatives report will be released next week, with community workshops in February/March. The City Council will hold a study session on entertainment districts next week. - General Plan Amendment Package (PLN 25-0650): Staff (Amy Nicholson) presented the package, which includes: - Land use diagram changes for 33 properties (7 within the Downtown Station Area Specific Plan). - Addition of two new figures (3A and 3B) to the Circulation Element reflecting bicycle and pedestrian improvements from the Active Transportation Plan. - Zoning map amendments for 10 properties to align with proposed land uses. - An addendum to the General Plan EIR concluding no new significant environmental impacts. - Key clarifications: - The Maxwell Drive properties (asphalt plant) would be rezoned from neighborhood mixed-use to maker mixed-use to match surrounding parcels; the current use is non‑conforming under existing regulations. - The Janet Drive property would receive a medium density residential land use and missing‑middle housing overlay, enabling future development including an ADU. - The Parker Drive neighborhood (20 properties) would be changed to low density residential, except for office‑designated portions on Montgomery Drive. - Commissioner questions: Addressed details of the proposed changes and confirmed that the eight properties added to the Parker Drive/Montgomery Drive area would be rezoned to low density residential. Key Outcomes - Resolution 1 – EIR Addendum: Moved by Vice Chair Duggan, seconded by Commissioner Sanders. Adopted unanimously (6‑0). - Resolution 2 – General Plan Amendment & Text Changes: Moved by Vice Chair Duggan, seconded by Commissioner Sanders. Adopted unanimously (6‑0). - Resolution 3 – Zoning Map Amendments: Moved by Vice Chair Duggan, seconded by Commissioner Sanders. Adopted unanimously (6‑0). All three resolutions recommend approval to the City Council. The meeting adjourned after the votes.

The Santa Rosa City Council held a study session on gas station land use regulations and conducted regular business including adoption of federal and state legislative platforms, appointments to boards and committees, and adoption of the 2025 California Building Code. The meeting took place on January 13, 2026, with Councilmembers Rogers and McDonald absent throughout. Study Session: Gas Station Land Use Regulations Staff presented background on the 2022 ordinance banning new gas stations and expansion of fossil fuel infrastructure. They reviewed prior regulations, existing 44 stations in Santa Rosa, trends in EV sales (25% of new vehicle market in Sonoma County in 2024), and gas station trip data showing stable visits around 13 million annually. Options presented: no change, revert to prior regulations, or amend to allow limited expansions or relocations with mitigation measures. Council members expressed divergent views. Vice Mayor O'Krepke and Councilmember Fleming voiced strong support for retaining the ban, citing climate goals and public health. Mayor Stapp and Councilmember Ben Wellows raised concerns about economic impacts and the need for flexibility, noting that no other municipalities have followed the North Bay's lead since 2022. Council requested staff return with more data on environmental effectiveness, economic impacts, mitigation strategies (e.g., EV charging requirements), and analysis of federal policy changes affecting EV adoption. Public comments included support from CONGAS representatives (Woody Hastings, Christine Hooks, Matt Callaway) urging retention of the ordinance. Scott Singer, representing a developer seeking to relocate the Costco gas station, argued the relocation would improve safety and reduce emissions. Ananda of the Economic Development Board advocated for targeted amendments. No vote was taken; the study session concluded with direction to staff to gather additional information for a future session. Community Empowerment Plan Update Anna Horta presented upcoming community events: Colgan Creek volunteer planting day (Jan 17), Rural Cemetery work day (Jan 17), MLK Day of Service (Jan 19), and Start Your Heart free class demo day (Feb 7). Public comment: Duane DeWitt requested similar events for Roseland Creek. Consent Calendar Items 13.1-13.8 approved unanimously (5-0) with no discussion. Public comment from Duane DeWitt on contracts with out-of-city vendors. Public Comments on Non-Agenda Matters Duane DeWitt presented historical documents on Roseland development and requested city action on housing vouchers and brownfields. Fred Wood discussed need for social equity in sustainability metrics. Federal Legislative Platform (2026) MMO partners (John O'Donnell, Kyriakos Spagonas) presented funding successes: $38.6 million awarded to date, with pending $30.5 million. They outlined changes to the platform, including additions on flood insurance, FEMA reform, and safe parking programs. Council adopted the resolution (5-0) after public comment. Appointments to Boards, Commissions, and Regional Bodies Mayor Stapp reappointed all existing chairs of city boards. He made two changes to council subcommittees: appointed Councilmember Ben Wellows to the Violence Prevention Partnership as chair, and appointed himself to the Public Safety Subcommittee. For regional positions, he proposed flipping primary/alternate roles on Sonoma Clean Power (himself primary, Fleming alternate) – approved 5-0. He also moved to remove Councilmember McDonald from the Zero Waste Sonoma board, citing workload and previous censure discussion. The motion passed 5-0 despite public objection from Duane DeWitt. 2025 California Building Code Adoption with Amendments Chief Building Official Jimmy Bliss and Director Osburn presented the adoption by reference of the 2025 state building codes. Council adopted the ordinance (5-0) after brief explanation by staff. 2026 State Legislative Platform Dane Hutchings and Ethan Nagler from CPPG presented highlights: 530 touchpoints, 62% success rate on legislation, $28 million in grants secured. Proposed minor changes to platform statements, including additions on flood risk and organic waste collection. Due to Vice Mayor O'Krepke's recusal on disaster prevention section, council voted in two parts: first resolution on disaster prevention section (4-0), then after O'Krepke returned, second resolution on remainder (5-0). Key Outcomes - Study session on gas station regulations concluded with direction to staff to gather more data; no policy change. - Federal Legislative Platform adopted (5-0). - State Legislative Platform adopted in two resolutions (4-0 and 5-0). - Councilmember McDonald removed from Zero Waste Sonoma board (5-0). - Chairs of city boards reappointed; subcommittee assignments updated. - 2025 California Building Code adopted (5-0).

The Santa Rosa Planning Commission held a regular meeting on January 8, 2026, commencing at approximately 12:30 PM. All commissioners were present except Commissioner Horton. The meeting included approval of prior minutes, a staff report, and a public hearing on housing element implementation, culminating in a unanimous vote. Consent Calendar - The commission unanimously approved the minutes from the previous meeting without changes or corrections. Public Comments & Testimony - No members of the public spoke during the open comment period for non-agenda items. During the public hearing on the housing element implementation item, no one offered testimony. Discussion Items - Staff Report: Staff provided updates on three upcoming appeals: the Pira Vita project (now rescheduled from the first council meeting in March), the Lago Fresca project (scheduled for council on February 24, 2026), and an assisted living facility on Benjamin’s (appealed to the planning commission, date to be determined). Staff also announced the filling of two senior planner vacancies via promotions of Sheila Walski (internal) and Hanna Michelson (external), and noted two vacant architect positions on the Design Review and Preservation Board. - Public Hearing – Housing Element Implementation (PLN 25-0397): Staff presented a package of amendments to implement Housing Element Programs H6 (innovative housing options: tiny homes on wheels and housing cooperatives) and H38 (zoning code amendments for state law compliance, including farm worker housing, community care facilities, and accessory dwelling unit updates). The amendments also address definitions, parking, land use tables, and an inclusionary housing exemption for tiny homes. The CEQA determination included a tiered environmental impact report and statutory exemptions. The Planning and Economic Development Department recommended the commission adopt a resolution recommending city council approval. No public comment was received. Key Outcomes - Vote: Commissioner Sanders moved, and Vice Chair Duggan seconded, a resolution of the planning commission recommending city council adoption of the zoning and municipal code amendments (filed under PLN 25-0397). All six voting commissioners (Carter, Sisko, Pardot, Sanders, Duggan, Weeks) voted aye, with Commissioner Horton absent. Each commissioner stated they could make all required findings. The resolution passed unanimously (6-0).