Public Meetings - Santa Rosa, California

The Santa Rosa Planning Commission met on Thursday, December 11, 2025, at approximately 12:30 PM. All seven commissioners were present. The agenda included a presentation on the draft Community-Based Transportation Plan for the South Santa Rosa Avenue Corridor and a public hearing for the Lago Fresca Apartments conditional use permit. Item 11.1 (Housing Element Implementation) was continued to January 8, 2025. No consent or report items were heard. Consent Calendar - The minutes from the November 13, 2025 meeting were approved as submitted with no changes or corrections. Public Comments & Testimony - Non-agenda items: No public comments were received. - Item 8 – Transportation Plan: No public comments were made during the public comment period for this informational item. - Item 11.2 – Lago Fresca Apartments: Multiple members of the public spoke in opposition to the project, raising concerns about: - Traffic safety at the intersection of Hoen Avenue and Summerfield Road, citing recent fatalities and near-misses. - Inadequate parking (63 spaces for 50 units), with fears of overflow onto residential streets. - Evacuation difficulties during wildfires, given the area's narrow roads and high density. - The project's reliance on state density bonus law, which the speakers argued allowed insufficient affordable housing (only 4 of 50 units designated very low-income). - Construction impacts on nearby businesses and residents. - The proximity of the single driveway to the intersection, creating queuing hazards. - One speaker from Generation Housing spoke in support, noting the project's location near transit, services, and parks, and the need for diverse housing options. Discussion Items - Item 8 – Community-Based Transportation Plan (South Santa Rosa Avenue): - Presented by Torina Wilson (City Transportation Planner) and Steph Britt (Sonoma County Transportation and Climate Authority). The plan identifies transportation improvements prioritized by community input from low-income and disadvantaged neighborhoods. Key recommendations include a shared-use path on Yolanda Avenue, safety improvements on Santa Rosa Avenue, higher frequency bus service on CityBus route, and better east-west connections across Highway 101. The plan is funded by MTC and leverages state and federal grants. Public comment period closes December 12, 2025. The presentation was informational; no action required. - Item 11.2 – Lago Fresca Apartments (Conditional Use Permit CUP 22-050): - The project proposes a 50-unit multifamily residential development on two parcels at 2445 Summerfield Road and 4744 Hoen Avenue. It includes 4 very low-income affordable units (deed-restricted for 55 years) and 63 parking spaces. The project qualifies for state density bonus, resulting in two concessions and five waivers from local standards (including reduced setbacks, reduced parking, and increased building height up to 45 feet on Building D). - Staff, led by Michelle Kali, presented the project's consistency with the General Plan, zoning, and CEQA (infill exemption). The design review board will consider the project's design on the following Thursday. - The applicant (Janver Hawley and partners) and architect presented visuals, emphasizing compatibility with the neighborhood, unbundled parking, and a parking management plan with 24-hour enforcement. - Commissioners questioned staff and the applicant on affordability levels, parking management, traffic studies, and evacuation safety. The Assistant Fire Marshal confirmed that recent evacuation improvements (zones, early notification) would mitigate wildfire risks. The traffic engineer explained that the driveway location, crosswalk with flashing beacon, and striping changes were intended to improve safety. - After public testimony, the commission discussed the project. Some expressed disappointment over the limited number of affordable units and the sober living designation for the four-bedroom units, but acknowledged the city's need for housing and the constraints of state law. Key Outcomes - Item 11.2 – Motion by Commissioner Sisko, seconded by Commissioner Pardo, to approve Resolution approving Conditional Use Permit (CUP 22-050) for the Lago Fresca Apartments. Vote: 7-0 in favor (all commissioners present voted aye). The decision is final unless appealed to the City Clerk within 10 calendar days. - Item 8 – No action taken; the plan was presented for informational purposes and will be finalized after the comment period closes on December 12, 2025.

The Santa Rosa City Council met on December 2, 2025, at 2:30 PM to discuss several key items, including a community empowerment plan update, a capital improvement program status report, a long-negotiated agreement for the Jennings Avenue bicycle and pedestrian railroad crossing, a proposal for dynamic pricing at Bennett Valley Golf Course, and the appointment of an interim city manager. All council members were present except Councilmember Alvarez was absent initially but later arrived. The meeting included public testimony on multiple agenda items and closed with unanimous votes on most items except the golf course pricing. Consent Calendar - The council unanimously adopted consent items 13.1 through 13.8, which included routine approvals, mid-block crosswalk authorization, and an extension of the homeless emergency. Public comment was received in support of the traffic calming measures and the Buccalo programs. Public Comments & Testimony - Duane DeWitt (Roseland resident) expressed support for the community empowerment plan and suggested written announcements and district meetings for the incoming city manager. He later commented on capital projects, urging safe sidewalks on Barham Avenue and naming South Davis Park after George Maby, a WWII casualty. On the Jennings Crossing, he warned against trusting SMART and urged ironclad agreements. He also raised concerns about criminal activity in Roseland Creek and called for police presence. - Janice Carmen supported DeWitt’s idea for meet-and-greets with the city manager and later noted that she was misquoted in previous meeting minutes (item 12). She also commented on road conditions in East Santa Rosa, describing the city as dirty and in need of street improvements. - Fred Olibach praised city amenities in the Northeast Quadrant and supported the capital improvement program. - Steve Bertelba (public comment on Jennings Crossing) urged swift completion, noting the danger of bicyclists on busy roads and the low accident risk of pedestrian crossings. - Abby Arnold supported the Jennings Crossing agreement and advocated for community education on train safety. - James Duncan (public comment on Jennings Crossing) argued that SMART’s requirements were contrary to the CPUC ruling and that the agreement should be invalid if SMART lacks jurisdiction; he also opposed SMART’s ability to terminate construction without cause. - Joanna (resident near Jennings) expressed distress over SMART’s exceptional demands and the risk of closure after investment. - Kalilani (new resident on Manhattan Way) said the crossing would be life-changing for her as a cyclist and for children biking to school. - Chris Gunther (Bikeable Santa Rosa) thanked staff and expressed relief at reaching this point, while noting regret over delays. - Daniel Pablo (Coffee Park area) urged the council to raise the minimum wage, citing county increases and the need to help the poorest residents. Discussion Items - Community Empowerment Plan Update – Anna Horta, Community Engagement Manager, presented December events including the Handmade Holiday Craft Fair (50th anniversary, Dec 5-6), creek cleanup volunteer days (Dec 6 & 20), a police holiday toy drive, a citywide food drive, and a park volunteer program on Dec 13. Councilmember Rogers commended the team for hosting town halls in every district. The plan was received without formal action. - Capital Improvement Program Update – Krista Siegenthaler, Deputy Director of Engineering Services, reported major milestones: Hearn Community Hub groundbreaking (Oct), Fire Station 5 temporary occupancy and ribbon cutting (Nov), and Highway 101 bicycle/pedestrian overcrossing bidding (bids open Dec 16). Since August, five projects were successfully bid (four under engineer’s estimate), and 17 projects have been awarded in 2025, with 20 more planned for Q1 2026. Parks projects using Measure M funding are underway, including Dutch Floor Park (completing Jan), South Davis Park, Kawana Springs Garden, and Howarth Courts. The Southeast Greenway master plan RFP will go out in early 2026. Councilmember McDonald and Mayor Stepp praised the team’s work. - Jennings Avenue Bicycle and Pedestrian Railroad Crossing – Assistant City Manager Jason Nutt and Assistant City Attorney Adam Abel presented the results of negotiations with SMART. Key points: The “but for” clause (which made the city liable regardless of cause) was removed. Negligence language was expanded to include sole negligence, gross negligence, and willful misconduct. The license area was narrowed to “in connection with or adjacent to” the crossing. The construction and funding agreement includes one-way indemnification (SMART indemnified, city not mutually), but contractors will list the city as additional insured. Staff recommended approval despite the lack of mutual indemnification, citing controlled risk. The council unanimously approved the motion to delegate authority to the city manager to execute the agreements and return to SMART’s board. - Bennett Valley Golf Course Dynamic Pricing – Jason Nutt presented a proposal by Kemper Sports for dynamic pricing on non-resident golf fees to increase revenue without reducing rounds. The model uses variable pricing based on historical data, weather, sales, and demand, with a range below and above current flat rates. Estimated annual revenue increase: $85,000 (conservative, based on 60% of non-resident rounds paying the maximum). The proposal applies only to non-residents (20-25% of rounds). Councilmember Fleming voiced philosophical objections, arguing government should not use dynamic pricing. Councilmember Ben Wellos cited confusion and concerns for affordability. Councilmember Alvarez also opposed dynamic pricing but would support a flat increase. Councilmember McDonald and Vice Mayor O’Krepke supported it as a creative way to reduce the general fund subsidy (currently $500,000/year). The resolution passed 5-2, with Councilmembers Fleming and Ben Wellos voting no. - Appointment of Interim City Manager – Assistant City Manager Nutt introduced Lori Ann Farrell, former city manager of Costa Mesa, selected by council in closed session. Her compensation: salary of $291,200 annually, temporary housing assistance ($3,000/month), auto allowance ($500/month), and benefits consistent with executive management. The council unanimously approved her appointment effective January 2, 2026, and introduced the ordinance setting her salary. Key Outcomes - The council received the community empowerment plan update without formal action. - The capital improvement program report was received, with praise from council. - Consent items 13.1–13.8 were approved unanimously. - The Jennings Avenue crossing agreement (real property license and construction/funding) was approved unanimously, with delegation of authority to the city manager. - Dynamic pricing for non-resident golf fees at Bennett Valley Golf Course was approved by a vote of 5-2 (Rogers, McDonald, Alvarez, O’Krepke, Stepp in favor; Fleming, Ben Wellos opposed). - Lori Ann Farrell was appointed interim city manager unanimously, and the salary ordinance was introduced. - No reportable action from closed session.

The Santa Rosa City Council convened at 2:30 PM on November 18, 2025, with six members present (Councilmember McDonald joined remotely later due to illness). The meeting covered a proclamation, multiple public hearings, adoption of consent items, and key policy reports. Major actions included approving a 3.7% Recology rate increase, accepting the Fleet Electrification Master Plan, denying a variance appeal for an assisted living facility, adopting a resolution of necessity for eminent domain, and electing Jeff O'Krepke as Vice Mayor. Proclamation - Family Court Awareness Month – The council proclaimed November 2025 as Family Court Awareness Month. Several speakers, including survivors and advocates (Emily Stifler, Connie Rodriguez, Renee, Asia Gonzalez, Joan Collins, Janice Corman), testified about systemic failures in family court, the need for child safety, and the impact of domestic violence. The proclamation was adopted. Consent Calendar - Items 13.1–13.8 – Approved unanimously (6-0) after public comment from Duane DeWitt, who raised concerns about rezoning notification (3,932 properties rezoned) and the Oakmont bus route cost. The council waived further reading of the text. Public Comments & Testimony - Non-Agenda Items – Speakers addressed: - Accessibility of agenda attachments (Janice Corman noted 367 pages). - Veterans Day ceremony and the proposed "Pomo Park and Preserve" naming (Duane DeWitt). - A personal complaint about hospital notification and APS policies (Alan Cook). - Bike infrastructure improvements on West College and North Dutton (Chris Gunther of Bikeable Santa Rosa). Discussion Items - City Manager’s Report – Announced a citywide food drive from November 13 to December 18 in support of the Redwood Empire Food Bank. - City Attorney’s Report – Litigation update: 32 current matters, trial dates for about one-third, five appeals in favor of the city. - Council Reports – Included the Tunnels to Towers run (over 250 participants, $30,000 raised), Hub groundbreaking, Fire Station 5 dedication, MTC funding for 101 bike overcrossing, Santa arrival at the mall, finance subcommittee meetings with police and planning departments, food security discussions with Sonoma County cities, and the county Threads Conference on homelessness. - Recology Rate Increase (Item 15.1) – Staff recommended a 3.7% rate increase (about $1/month per residential customer) effective January 1, 2026, under the existing contract. Approved 6-0. - Fleet Electrification Master Plan (Item 15.2) – Presentation by Peter Martin and Brent Johnson. The plan estimates a net additional cost of $38 million over 15 years to comply with California’s Advanced Clean Fleets Rule (100% zero-emission fleet by 2040). Near-term compliance is challenging due to vehicle availability and cost. The plan also includes backup generator options for power outages and policies for public EV charging. Council accepted the plan 6-0, with discussion on flexibility given federal policy uncertainty. - Public Hearing 16.3 – Variance Appeal for 635 Benjamin’s Road – Appellants Kim Pham and her husband sought relief from frontage improvement requirements for a 15-bed assisted living facility. The city engineer partially denied the variance, requiring roadway, curb, gutter, and sidewalk (but not undergrounding). The appellants argued the improvements are disconnected, create safety issues, and are a financial burden. Generation Housing supported the appeal. Council denied the appeal (5-2) after debate, upholding the engineer’s determination. - Public Hearing 16.4 – Resolution of Necessity for 408 Duncan Street – To acquire an easement (363 sq ft additional) for the Santa Rosa Creek Trail Access at North Dutton Avenue. The property owner did not appear; no written objections. Council approved the resolution 6-0 (Banuelos recused) with a two-thirds vote. Key Outcomes - Recology Rate Increase – Approved (6-0). Effective January 1, 2026. - Fleet Electrification Master Plan – Accepted (6-0). Staff to revisit annually. - Variance Appeal Denied – Motion to uphold the city engineer’s denial passed 5-2 (Rogers, O'Krepke, Fleming, Alvarez, Stapp in favor; McDonald, Benwellos opposed). - Eminent Domain Resolution – Adopted 6-0 (Banuelos recused). Council will pursue acquisition via eminent domain if negotiations fail. - Vice Mayor Election – Jeff O'Krepke elected unanimously by acclamation after a single nomination. He assumed the role for the coming year.

The Santa Rosa City Council held a special meeting on November 18, 2025, at 1:30 PM. The sole agenda item pertained to potential employment-related claims. The council convened in open session, took roll call, and then immediately adjourned to closed session. Upon reconvening, the city attorney reported on the closed session, after which the meeting was adjourned. No votes or formal decisions were taken. Closed Session Report - The council met in closed session to discuss potential employment-related claims. Upon returning to open session, the city attorney provided a report (details not transcribed). No action was taken.

The Santa Rosa Planning Commission held a public hearing on November 13, 2025, to consider a minor conditional use permit for Pure Vita Recovery Services to expand an existing 6-bed community care facility to a 24-bed non-medical adult residential alcohol and drug treatment program at 5761 Mountain Hawk Drive (APN 153-180-029). The meeting lasted approximately two and a half hours, from 12:30 PM start to adjournment after the vote. The commission voted 4-2 to approve the permit, with four ayes (Commissioners Sisko, Horton, Pardot, and Chair Weeks) and two nos (Commissioners Carter and Sanders). Vice Chair Duggan was absent. Public Comments & Testimony - Opposition speakers (approximately 20): Residents and parents expressed concerns about proximity to Austin Creek Elementary School (within half a mile), potential safety risks, increased traffic, parking impacts, and incompatibility with the neighborhood-serving commercial center. Many cited the 2022 denial and argued that the 10-day public notice was insufficient for a 178-day-old application. Speakers included David Chen (president of Skyhawk United, representing over 400 families), Dr. Andrew Maynard, and several medical professionals. - Support speakers (approximately 12): Former clients, recovery advocates, and neighboring business owners (Edward Jones, Massage Envy, Anytime Fitness, Colleen's Coffee Shop) testified to Pure Vita's professional operation, zero complaints or police calls in three years, and the critical need for treatment beds following the closure of Azure Acres (50+ beds). Supporters included Dr. Ben Goldberg (psychiatrist), Tim McAllister (37 years sober), and Michelle Sawyer (co-founder of Micah's Hugs). - Applicant presentation: Alex Wignall (owner) described the program as non-medical residential treatment, with 24-hour staff supervision (4-8 staff), no client vehicles on site, and a structured daily schedule. Medical Director Dr. Roderick Fontenette clarified that the facility is licensed by the California Department of Health Care Services as a non-medical alcoholism or drug abuse recovery facility, providing only incidental medical services. Discussion Items - Staff report (Nora Bisla): The proposed use meets the zoning code definition of a community care facility, is consistent with the General Plan, and is categorically exempt from CEQA. Parking (42 spaces) exceeds the required 8 spaces. Police Lieutenant Brenda Harrington confirmed no crime increase linked to the existing facility. - Commission deliberation: - Commissioners Sisko, Horton, Pardot, and Chair Weeks found the project consistent with zoning and General Plan, noting the applicant addressed previous concerns (smoking location, medical vs. non-medical designation). - Commissioner Carter cited inability to make findings C and D (compatibility with existing/future land uses and site suitability due to increased intensity from 6 to 24 beds). - Commissioner Sanders questioned whether the expansion documented a specific need at this location and argued it may not fully align with General Plan policies for complete neighborhoods. Key Outcomes - Motion: Commissioner Sisko moved to approve the minor conditional use permit (PLN 25-0136) with conditions including a minimum of 3 overnight staff and 6 daytime staff, no smoking visible from Highway 12, and client supervision at all times. Seconded by Commissioner Pardot. - Vote: 4-2 in favor (Sisko, Horton, Pardot, Weeks ayes; Carter, Sanders nos; Duggan absent). - Next steps: The decision is final unless appealed to the City Clerk within 10 calendar days per Zoning Code Section 20-62.

The Santa Rosa City Council met on November 5, 2025, for a regular meeting lasting over seven hours. Key actions included approval of the General Plan 2050 implementation with amendments, adoption of new development fees and parking rate adjustments, and acceptance of the Tourism BIA annual report. The meeting also featured presentations on dynamic pricing at Bennett Valley Golf Course, community updates, and public comments on various issues. Consent Calendar - Approved items 13.1 through 13.10 (including purchase orders, professional services agreements, resolutions, and ordinance second reading) with a motion by Councilmember McDonald, seconded by Councilmember O'Krepke. The vote passed 5-0 (Councilmember Fleming and Vice Mayor Alvarez absent). Public Comments & Testimony - Fred Olibach opposed dynamic pricing at Bennett Valley Golf Course, calling it unfair and greedy, comparing it to airline pricing. - Nate Coogan raised concerns about discrepancies in the business tax code (Measure EE) for small commercial property owners. - Rebecca (owner of Energize Hot Yoga) reported negative impacts from increased homeless population after reopening of St. Vincent's dining hall at 610 Wilson Street. - Janice Corman spoke about an illegal tree-clearing project near her property and lack of city response. - Peter Alexander (multiple times) gave lengthy comments on constitutional issues, FEMA camps, and veteran affairs. - During the General Plan public hearing, multiple speakers addressed missing middle housing and rezoning: - Fred and Abby Arnold supported the plan for housing equity. - Richard and Craig Keene opposed the proposal at 2016 Dennis Lane, citing fire safety and traffic concerns, and noting state law SB 1123. - Gwen and Kevin asked for removal of Deterk Commons block from missing middle overlay due to existing density. - Al Stavola expressed concerns about property values, parking, and lack of communication. - Armando Cruz highlighted that many Spanish-speaking residents were unaware of the plan. - Matt thanked staff for listening on Parker Drive rezoning. - Stephanie (Generation Housing) and Cal supported the missing middle housing initiative. - Anna (community member) requested more outreach to Latino families. Discussion Items - Dynamic Pricing at Bennett Valley Golf Course (Item 4.1): James Birchall and Greg Anderson (Kemper Sports) presented a "True Demand" system for non-resident tee times, projecting $85,000–$100,000 additional annual revenue. Councilmembers asked about implementation and revenue use. Public comment opposed. Council expressed support for the direction. - Community Empowerment Plan Update (Item 8.1): Anna Horta listed November events, including community meetings, tunnel to towers run, park volunteer day, creek cleanup, holiday toy drive, and winter tree lighting ceremony. - City Manager Reports (Item 9): Updates on CalFresh benefit reductions (43,000 residents affected), gold designation for EV charging infrastructure, and release of bid for bike/ped overcrossing. - Council Reports (Item 11): Councilmember O'Krepke reported on public safety subcommittee (e-bike misuse). Councilmember Rogers highlighted SRPD trunk or treat and Veterans Day ceremony. Councilmember Ben Wellows reported on Sonoma County Coalition on Homelessness (NOFO funding concerns) and announced appointment of Pam Rivis to Board of Parks and Recreation. Councilmember McDonald attended Sonoma Family Meals event and trunk or treat. Mayor Stapp reported on finance subcommittee, groundwater agency, and water advisory committee meetings. - General Plan 2050 Implementation (Item 16.1): Amy Nicholson and Gabe Osburn presented three ordinances to amend zoning code, rezone 2,089 properties for consistency, and add missing middle housing overlay on 1,991 properties. The planning commission had recommended removing Parker Drive properties from the rezoning. Council discussed and approved with an amendment to remove Deterk Commons and Kingwood Street areas from ordinance three, directing staff to work with those neighborhoods for future amendment. The vote was 6-0. - Development Related Cost of Service Fee Update (Item 16.2): Gabe Osburn presented minor fee adjustments, including caps on surcharges and reductions for tree removal, sidewalk replacement, and multiple entitlements. Revenue impact estimated at $40,000 reduction per year. Council approved unanimously (6-0). - Downtown Parking Rate Adjustment (Item 16.3): Chad presented new rate structure and permit options, with validation program, additional free parking areas, and citation fee increases. Projected $350,000 annual revenue to general fund. Council approved (6-0). - Tourism BIA Annual Report (Item 15.1): Scott Adair presented 2024 report, budget, and future work plan. No boundary or assessment changes. Council approved continuation of 3% assessment (6-0). Key Outcomes - Approved dynamic pricing direction for Bennett Valley Golf Course (non-resident only) – no formal vote, council supportive. - Approved General Plan 2050 implementation ordinances (first reading) with amendment to remove Deterk Commons and Kingwood Street from missing middle overlay. Vote: 6-0. - Approved development fee resolution (Item 16.2). Vote: 6-0. - Approved parking fee and rate resolution (Item 16.3). Vote: 6-0. - Approved Tourism BIA annual report, budget, work plan, and continuation of assessment (Item 15.1). Vote: 6-0. - Approved consent calendar items 13.1–13.10. Vote: 5-0 (Fleming and Alvarez absent). - No reportable actions from closed session. - Council directed staff to work with Deterk Commons and Kingwood Street neighborhoods on future general plan amendment regarding missing middle housing.

The Santa Rosa City Council held a special meeting on November 4, 2025, at 5:30 PM. The sole agenda item was a closed session regarding public employment. All council members were present except Councilmember Rogers, who was absent under the just cause provisions of AB 2449. No members of the public provided comment, either in person or via Zoom. The council unanimously voted to recess into closed session. Consent Calendar - No items were considered on the consent calendar. Public Comments & Testimony - No members of the public spoke. Discussion Items - Closed Session – Public Employment (Item 3.1): The council discussed a public employment matter in closed session. No details were disclosed publicly. Key Outcomes - The council recessed into closed session at approximately 5:30 PM to discuss the public employment item. - Councilmember Rogers was excused under AB 2449 just cause provisions. - No votes or decisions were rendered in open session.

The Public Safety Subcommittee of the Santa Rosa City Council met on October 28, 2025 at 9:00 AM. Chair O'Kropkey and Committee Member McDonald were present; Committee Member Fleming was absent by prior arrangement. The subcommittee received updates on Measure H implementation, wildland-urban interface (WUI) mapping, e‑bike safety concerns, and the police department's response to the independent auditor's recommendations, followed by department reports. Consent Calendar - The minutes of the previous meeting were approved as submitted. Public Comments & Testimony - Non‑agenda items: No public comment was offered. - E‑bike concerns (Item 6.3): - Eris Weaver (Sonoma County Bicycle Coalition) spoke in favor of e‑bikes as a transportation tool but urged accurate labeling of non‑compliant vehicles and supported state‑level regulation over local ordinances. - Chris Cunther (Bikeable Santa Rosa) reinforced the value of e‑bikes for families and seniors, noted that many incidents involve cars, and supported education and potential speed limits on bike paths. Discussion Items 6.1 Measure H Implementation Plan (Chief Westrope) - The City has received $6.642 million in sales tax revenue through Measure H, consistent with projections of a countywide $60 million total. - Two limited‑term fire inspector positions have been converted to full‑time equivalents; the fire prevention bureau capacity has increased by 25%. - Engine 9 and Battalion 2 were placed in service on October 6, 2025, increasing daily engine availability from 10 to 11 and adding a second on‑duty supervisor (reducing span of control from 14–15:1 to 7:1). - A heavy rescue unit is planned but delayed until revenue and expenditure patterns are confirmed over a full fiscal year. - A working group is developing the rescue deployment strategy; the search for a temporary and permanent Station 9 site is underway near Santa Rosa Avenue and Elsa Court. - The first Measure H Citizens Oversight Committee meeting has been held; future meetings will be Brown Act compliant. 6.2 Wildland Urban Interface Area Mapping (Fire Marshal Lowenthal) - Cal FIRE released updated State Responsibility Area maps in December 2022; the City adopted those maps in March/April 2025. - New high‑severity zones now extend into the fairgrounds, Montgomery High School, Creekside, and parts of Oakmont; some previously mapped areas (Rincon Valley, Bennett Valley) were removed. - The Fire Department recommends revising the local WUI boundaries to contract where risk has decreased and expand where the state has identified high/very high risk, while also incorporating areas already subject to state code requirements. - The recommendations will be brought to a community meeting and then to City Council for formal adoption. 6.3 Addressing Bike/E‑bike Concerns (Captain Marinzik) - E‑bike incidents have risen from 33 in 2023 to 80 so far in 2025; many complaints involve juveniles near schools and parks. - California law defines three e‑bike classes (Class 1: 20 mph, no throttle; Class 2: 20 mph, throttle; Class 3: 28 mph, age 16+). Vehicles not meeting these classes are motorized bicycles requiring a license and motorcycle endorsement. - The Police Department has conducted internal training, public education campaigns, school partnerships, and dedicated enforcement/education days. - AB 875 (effective October 1, 2025) allows impoundment of improperly operated e‑bikes for a minimum of 48 hours. - Additional local restrictions (e.g., age, helmet, sidewalk prohibitions) are under consideration; Marin County’s pilot program was noted as a precedent. 6.4 Response to OIR (Independent Police Auditor) Recommendations (Chief Cregan) - The OIR Group’s 2024 annual report made five recommendations, all focused on process and training rather than reacting to any single incident. - Recommendation 1: Enhance use‑of‑force review – being addressed through upgraded Axon Standards software and expanded supervisor evaluation questions. - Recommendation 2: Improve computerized force tracking – the department is migrating to Axon Standards, expected to launch by end of 2025, enabling data analytics. - Recommendation 3: Maximize training cadre influence – two full‑time training officers have been assigned to identify trends and develop proactive training. - Recommendation 4: Improve PIT (pursuit intervention technique) training – currently limited by funding; cost to establish an internal program is approximately $50,000/year; the department is exploring shared regional options. - Recommendation 5: Comprehensive review of vehicle pursuits – the department has conducted proactive internal investigations, canceled over 30% of pursuits, and uses Axon fleet video for analysis. - The department maintains daily contact with the auditor, who participates in interviews; complaint dashboards are available on the city and police websites. Key Outcomes - Measure H: The subcommittee acknowledged the revenue and deployment progress; no formal vote was taken (information item). - WUI Mapping: Subcommittee members expressed support for the proposed local WUI adjustments, with a caution not to promise insurance impacts. The staff will return to City Council with a formal recommendation. - E‑bike Concerns: The subcommittee encouraged continued education, enforcement, and coordination with schools and transportation/public works on signage and design standards. No formal action was taken. - OIR Recommendations: The subcommittee commended the police department for its proactive approach and professionalism. No further action was required. - Department Reports: The subcommittee noted updates on fire station construction (Station 5 opening November 15, 2025; Station 8 groundbreaking; Station 11 planning), fleet challenges (rising costs and extended delivery times), and the new fire canine, Onyx.

The Santa Rosa City Council meeting on October 21, 2025, centered on a mid-year general fund financial update, revealing a reduced but persistent structural deficit. The council also addressed the adoption of updated state fire codes and revised internal voting procedures for electing the mayor and vice mayor. Consent Calendar - Items 13.1, 13.2, and 13.4 through 13.9 were approved unanimously. Item 13.3 (professional services for the Route 101 bicycle/pedestrian overcrossing) was continued to a later date. Public Comments & Testimony - Janice Carmen expressed support for fiscal discipline and urged the city to explore AI technology. She also advocated for changing the mayor's term to four years. - Peter Alexander commented on promoting social behavior to boost economic vitality and advocated for living cactus fences as fire barriers. - Tay Butler and Anya described being victims of an assault and criticized the police response, alleging a lack of justice and violation of victims' rights. - Tyler echoed concerns about police accountability and called for action on the assault case. - During non-agenda comments, Janice Carmen also spoke about rising community violence and emphasized the need for kindness. Discussion Items - Budget Presentation: Interim CFO Scott Wagner and Budget Manager Veronica Connor presented the general fund update. They reported positive outcomes from mid-year reductions, including a $9.5 million reserve increase, but highlighted a structural deficit projected at $17.5 million, driven by stagnant sales tax and rising CalPERS costs. Councilmembers discussed tiered cuts, public safety funding, and revenue strategies. Councilmember McDonald sought clarification on fire department overtime and utility costs. Councilmember Rogers emphasized exploring cost savings and revenue increases. Councilmember Fleming linked fiscal policy to social investments that promote public engagement. - Fire Code Adoption: Assistant Fire Marshal Mike Johnson presented the 2025 California Fire Code and Wildland Urban Interface Code with local amendments. Discussion included grazing as a fire management tool and potential insurance impacts for residents. - Voting Procedure Revision: City Attorney Teresa Stricker proposed revisions to the council's manual for electing the mayor and vice mayor. The new process limits nominations, clarifies runoff rules for tied votes, and introduces random selection (e.g., drawing names from a hat) for deadlocked scenarios. Council debated transparency and Brown Act considerations, particularly around self-seconding nominations. Key Outcomes - Consent Calendar: Approved with a 7-0 vote, excluding item 13.3. - Fire Code: Ordinances to adopt the 2025 codes with local amendments were introduced, and a public hearing was set for November 18, 2025. Vote: 7-0. - Voting Procedure: A resolution revising the manual of procedures and protocols was adopted, including random selection for ties. Vote: 5-2, with Councilmembers Fleming and Ben Willows opposed.