Public Meetings - Santa Rosa, California

The Santa Rosa City Council held a regular meeting on June 17, 2025, starting with a closed session at 3:30 PM and reconvening in open session at 4:00 PM. The meeting adjourned at 6:43 PM. Major actions included adopting the Fiscal Year 2025-26 Operations and Maintenance Budget and Capital Improvement Program Budget, approving consent items, and hearing public testimony on homelessness and public safety. The Council approved a total citywide expenditure budget of $553.8 million, with a general fund deficit of $8.1 million, and made reductions totaling $15.76 million. Consent Calendar - 13.1 Awarded a contract for the 2025 Residential Slurry to American Pavement Systems, Inc. for $708,378.40 (including contingency). - 13.2 Approved an additional $2,396,375 contingency for the Hearn Community Hub Phase 1 project, total authorized contract $35,396,375. - 13.3 Authorized submittal of a Safe Streets and Roads for All federal grant application for the Sebastopol Road Multimodal Safety Corridor and Neighborhood Traffic Calming Demonstration Project. - 13.5 Approved a five-year courier service agreement with Rapid Express Courier Systems for $194,230.80. - 13.6 Adopted the FY 2025-26 appropriations limit for the City at $355,353,000. - 13.7 Approved a three-year concession license agreement with Pony Express Equine Assisted Skills for Youth for $360,000 to operate pony rides at Howarth Park. - 13.8 Approved a professional services agreement with Moore Iacofano Goltsman, Inc. for Rincon Valley Community Park play area renovation for $297,020. - 13.9 & 13.10 Confirmed administrative cost recovery liens: $4,753.58 against 515 5th Street (Russian River Properties, LLC) and $9,077.99 against 1727 Burbank Avenue (Rosalinda Wilbor). - 13.13 Approved amendments to City Manager and City Attorney employment agreements waiving cost-of-living increases, and eliminated July 2025 market equity adjustments for Unit 10 Executive Management. - 13.14 Adopted on second reading an ordinance rezoning 3150 Dutton Avenue from R-3-18 (Multi-Family Residential) to IG (General Industrial). - Items 13.4, 13.11, and 13.12 were continued to the July 8, 2025 meeting. Public Comments & Testimony - On Consent Item 13.3 (Safe Streets grant): Adina Flores stated that the city is not a sanctuary city and referenced a case of a deportee who committed suicide. - Non-Agenda Matters (Item 14): Speakers raised concerns about art booklets, code enforcement, a Personnel Board appointee's conduct, a drug house (police called over 200 times), government deception calls for collective action, benefits of community gardens, and homelessness/poverty. - Budget Public Hearing (Item 16.1): - Peter Alexander questioned whether homeless spending aligns with UN Agenda 21. - Jennielynn Holmes (Catholic Charities) reported double-digit decreases in homelessness, expressed support for the city's progress, but warned that reductions (58% drop-in center hour cut and weekend closures) will increase visible homelessness. - Matt Finnegan (Teamsters 856) opposed layoffs, naming employees affected, and urged a hiring freeze before job losses. - Patricia Seffrens (Santa Rosa Police Management Association) opposed eliminating the ninth police officer position, citing impacts on special enforcement, downtown enforcement, traffic safety, and response times. - Ananda Sweet (Santa Rosa Metro Chamber) committed to partnership for economic growth. - Kim Hawkins described business costs from homeless and mentally ill populations, credited the downtown enforcement team with improvements, and opposed police cuts. - Tommy Isachsen (Police Sergeant) stated cutting the ninth position would eliminate a detective from domestic violence/sexual assault or collapse the special enforcement team (which seized more firearms in 2025 than all of 2024). Discussion Items - Proclamation (7.1): LGBTQ+ Pride Month proclaimed; Joy Bessonen (LGBTQ Connection) accepted, emphasizing the role of queer, trans, Black, Indigenous, and people of color. - Summertime Construction Update (8.1): Director Dan Hennessey reported that construction contracts awarded in 2025 will exceed 2023 and 2024 combined. Projects include residential slurry, arterial pavement work, park improvements, and fire-break paths. The city is also applying for SCTA funding for 10 priority projects. - Litigation Report (9.1): City Attorney Teresa Stricker reported one settlement finalized in May (JM Manufacturing case, 50-year extended warranty) and 32 ongoing litigation matters. - Future Agenda Item (11.2.1): Council discussed authorizing the City Manager to hire a consulting group for department efficiency assessments. City Manager Smith confirmed this is already underway and will return with a cost for appropriation if needed. The item did not require a council vote. - Budget Presentation (16.1): CFO Alan Alton announced retirement. Staff presented the FY 2025-26 budget with a general fund deficit of $8.1 million after $11 million in reductions. The budget eliminates 55 FTEs (16.8 filled, 38.2 vacant) from the general fund, resulting in 8 layoffs, plus demotions. Citywide net reduction of 31 FTEs. Reserves projected to last through FY 2026-27. Council debate: Council Member MacDonald moved to retain a ninth police officer position, and the Council agreed. Key Outcomes - Adopted six budget resolutions: 1. Homeless Services Program Budget (RES-2025-109) - passed 6-0 (Rogers recused). 2. Recreation & Parks Budget (RES-2025-110) - passed 6-0 (MacDonald recused). 3. Recreation & Parks FTE changes (RES-2025-111) - passed 6-0 (MacDonald recused). 4. Primary budget and CIP (RES-2025-112) - passed 7-0 with amendment to remove the ninth police officer cut. 5. Salary plan and schedule (RES-2025-113) - passed 7-0 with removal of ninth officer cut. 6. Stormwater utility budget (RES-2025-114) - passed 7-0. 7. Public Safety and Prevention Tax Implementation Plan amendment (RES-2025-115) - passed 7-0. - Approved all consent items as listed. - Directed City Manager to proceed with efficiency consultant and bring back budget appropriation if needed. - Next steps: Mid-year budget review in October 2025; formation of a Budget Advisory Committee to include community and labor participation. - Noted that the City Manager and City Attorney waived salary adjustments/cost-of-living increases for FY 2025-26.

The Santa Rosa Planning Commission held a regular meeting on June 12, 2025, at 4:30 PM in the Council Chamber. Chair Karen Weeks presided, with Vice Chair Vicki Duggan, Commissioner Charles Carter, Commissioner Patti Cisco, and Commissioner Miles Horton present. Commissioners Aaron Pardo and Terrence Sanders were absent. The meeting adjourned at 5:10 PM. The primary agenda items were a presentation on the FEMA flood risk mapping project and a public hearing to find the Fiscal Year 2025-2026 Capital Improvement Program (CIP) consistent with the newly adopted General Plan 2050. Consent Calendar - No consent items were presented. Public Comments & Testimony - No members of the public spoke during public comment periods or public hearings. Presentation – FEMA Flood Risk Mapping Project - Claire Myers, Storm Water and Creeks Manager, and Jimmy Bliss, Chief Building Official, presented an update on FEMA’s flood risk mapping for the Santa Rosa Creek watershed. The project is in Phase 2 (analysis and mapping) with preliminary maps expected by the end of June 2025. - The presentation covered: the definition of Special Flood Hazard Areas (1% annual flood chance), impacts on property owners (potential insurance requirements, stricter building standards), and the multi-step timeline (preliminary release, 90-day appeal period, final determination, effective date around spring 2027). - The city expressed concerns about properties mapped into floodplains where floodwater stays within creek banks, and a specific disagreement about a Lakeview Drive property being in the 500-year floodplain. FEMA agreed to review these, but updated maps have not been seen. - City outreach includes a direct mailer, a community meeting with FEMA representatives, and an online FAQ. Insurance discount opportunities (pre-FIRM and newly mapped discounts) were noted, and the city is exploring participation in the Community Rating System to offer up to 45% discounts. - Commissioner Horton asked how climate change factors into FEMA’s mapping. Myers responded that FEMA uses current data, not forward-looking scenarios; the city’s own flood study included climate scenarios and shows similar but not identical extents. - Chair Weeks asked about the potential impact of federal efforts to dissolve FEMA. Myers stated that as of the meeting, FEMA is operating business as usual, though they lost their project manager and face new meeting policy restrictions (no in-person travel). FEMA still plans to release maps at month’s end. - There were no public comments on this item. Public Hearing – Fiscal Year 2025-2026 Capital Improvement Program Consistency with General Plan 2050 - Sheila Wolski, City Planner, presented the recommended resolution to find 18 new CIP projects consistent with the General Plan 2050. The projects span multiple departments and include: - Water/sewer line replacement in Montgomery Village - Traffic signal at Morgan Street & 9th Street; roundabouts at A Street & 6th and A Street & 7th - Safe Streets and Roads for All (federal grant) projects - Contingency funds for approved CIP projects - Reservoir seismic upgrade at Newgate & Fountain Grove Parkway - Repairs to four high-priority reservoirs - Conversion of emergency wells to production wells - Laguna treatment plant gate replacement and bypass piping - Geyser Pump Station vibration monitoring upgrades - CIP software tools upgrade - Reclamation valve condition assessment and mapping - Permanent fire station at Fire Station 11 (550 Lewis Road) - Bear Park natural play area replacement - Environmental assessment for Youth Community Park master plan - The projects are exempt from CEQA under Guideline 15378 as a consistency determination; each project will undergo separate environmental review later. - Commissioner Carter asked about the CEQA process for the Youth Community Park master plan. Wolski and Amy Nicholson clarified that the environmental assessment is preliminary and would inform any future CEQA document if a specific project is proposed. - Commissioner Horton asked why a signal is proposed at 9th & Morgan while roundabouts are planned nearby. Rob Sprinkle, Deputy Director for Traffic Engineering, explained that the roundabouts originated from the 2004 Linkages project and were advanced with the Caritas development; the 9th & Morgan location is too constrained for a roundabout, though the city is increasingly favoring roundabouts. - Horton also asked about the viability of the Safe Streets federal grant given federal changes. Sprinkle confirmed the grant has been awarded but not yet obligated, and the city is proceeding. - Chair Weeks opened and closed the public hearing at 5:09 PM; no public comments were offered. Key Outcomes - Motion and Vote: Commissioner Cisco moved, and Vice Chair Duggan seconded, to adopt Resolution No. PC-RES-2025-011 finding the 18 new CIP projects consistent with the General Plan 2050. The motion passed unanimously (5-0), with Commissioners Pardo and Sanders absent. - The approval of the May 8, 2025 draft minutes was deferred to the next meeting (July). - Chair Weeks noted that the appeal of the Elm Tree Gas Station will go to City Council on August 19, 2025, and reminded commissioners that Merit Award nominations close June 30, 2025.

The Santa Rosa City Council met on June 3, 2025, starting with a closed session at 2:00 PM and reconvening in open session at 4:02 PM. The meeting included presentations, multiple public hearings, and a lengthy consent agenda. Major actions included adopting the General Plan 2050, approving a Downtown Enhanced Infrastructure Financing District (EIFD) plan, and voting on several land-use amendments. All council members were present initially; Council Member Okrepkie left during the evening and was absent for later votes. Consent Calendar - Adoption of Final Report of City Council Priorities 2025‑2027 – Approved unanimously (6‑0, Okrepkie absent). - Installation of Speed Cushion on Eighth Street between A Street and B Street – Approved. - Maintenance Agreement with Caltrans for Mendocino Avenue Overcrossing – Approved. - Transfer of Real Property Interests to Caltrans for State Route 12/Boas Drive Intersection Safety Project – Approved. - Cooperative Purchase of Computer and Server Equipment from Dell Marketing L.P. (up to $2,100,000 over three years) – Approved. - Amendment to Operations and Maintenance Management Agreement with Touchstone Golf LLC for Bennett Valley Golf Course – Approved. This extends the term two years through June 7, 2027, with an additional two‑year city option and consents to an ownership assignment to Kemper Sports Management. Council Member MacDonald queried why the general fund still subsidizes the course; staff explained Touchstone is a management company, and course revenue belongs to the city. Further discussion on fee increases and irrigation improvements followed. - First Amendment to Joint Powers Agreement with Rincon Valley Union School District for Recreational Area – Approved. - Extension of Proclamation of Local Homeless Emergency – Approved. Public Comments & Testimony - Closed Session Comments: Peter Alexander and Thomas Ells spoke on behalf of Clare Hartman regarding litigation against the city. - FEMA Flood Risk Mapping: Richard expressed concerns about FEMA flood insurance practices (broker profits, claim settlement issues). Janice Karrman urged discounted insurance for seniors. - Council Reports: Adina Flores thanked the mayor for speaking to conservatives and requested additional speaker series. - Gas Station Zoning Item: Janice Karrman opposed any weakening of the gas station moratorium, citing a recent denial and appeal on North Wright Road. - ABAG Appointments: Frank Quint (Petaluma council member) spoke in support of his appointment, emphasizing his transportation and economic development background. Adina Flores supported Susan Adams and criticized Quint’s ties to a council member she described as racist. - Public Hearing 16.2 (General Plan Package): - Ken MacNab (KMac Advising) expressed support for the 2050 General Plan and its EIR, while noting some of his comments were not incorporated. - Richard criticized the city’s annexation process, arguing the city forfeits millions in wealth creation for taxpayers. - Janice Karrman raised concerns about traffic, air quality, fire risk, and evacuation on Acacia Lane. - Ron Reinking supported rezoning Dutton Avenue back to industrial, citing a shortage of viable industrial parcels. - Mark Garay, owner of 3150 Dutton Avenue, opposed new tribal cultural resource conditions of approval added after the Planning Commission meeting, calling them onerous and lacking nexus. The City Attorney and Assistant City Attorney defended the conditions under Senate Bill 18 and recent case law. - Public Hearing 16.3 (EIFD): Richard argued the EIFD resembles redevelopment, which was abolished due to corruption, and that bonds benefit wealthy investors tax‑free while the city incurs debt with vacant retail already existing. - Non‑Agenda Public Comments: - Richard urged the city to apply for FEMA’s competitive 404 mitigation program. - Janice Karrman described a sidewalk citation dispute related to nearby construction. - Adina Flores requested recognition of Children’s Awareness Month and remembered Gianna Duran. Discussion Items - Closed Session Report: City Attorney Teresa Stricker reported that the Council unanimously directed joining a lawsuit (San Francisco et al. v. Trump et al.) to prevent federal funding cuts to local governments that do not cooperate with immigration authorities, as such cooperation would likely violate state law and city policy. - Proclamation – National Wildfire Awareness Month: Presented to Interim Fire Marshal Kemplen Robbins, who noted fire season began June 2 and described the annual weed abatement program. - Staff Briefings: - Community Empowerment Plan Update: Ana Horta reported upcoming events (June 8 market, June 18 graffiti meeting, June 25 water‑smart expo). - FEMA Flood Risk Mapping Project: Flannery Banks and Jimmy Bliss presented updates on the multi‑year mapping for Santa Rosa Creek watershed. Preliminary maps expected by end of June, with a 90‑day appeal period. The city disagreed with some mapped areas and will hold a public meeting with FEMA and the county. - Mayor/Council Reports: - Council Member Okrepkie reported on the ICSC conference in Las Vegas to attract investment. - Council Member Rogers highlighted a Memorial Day remembrance and community support. - Council Member MacDonald reported on Violence Prevention Partnership (600 hours of youth services, tattoo removal program, fentanyl awareness) and recommended a future agenda item to hire a consulting group for departmental efficiency review (seconded, placed on future agenda). - Council Member Bañuelos discussed the behavioral health bridge housing site (80 beds) and meetings with Railroad Square Association (public safety concerns) and Recology. - Council Member Fleming noted the SMART train Windsor station opening and seniors ride free. - Vice Mayor Alvarez reported on the Abel de Luna Community Center dedication and a youth barbecue. - Mayor Stapp highlighted successful downtown events (Rose Parade, Pride, Wednesday Night Market), top priorities from Mayors’ and Council Members’ Association (mental health, homelessness, emergency preparedness, shared resources), and Santa Rosa being named “most business friendly city in Sonoma County” by NorthBay Biz magazine. - Formation of Ad‑Hoc Committee for United Soccer League: Mayor Stapp established a two‑member committee (himself and Council Member Okrepkie) to explore feasibility of a USL partnership. - Future Agenda Item – Zoning Code Section 20‑61.020(E) (Gas Station Modifications): Council Member Okrepkie requested a discussion on modifications to existing gas stations. After debate (some members favored limiting to renovations), the motion to agendize passed 6‑1 (Fleming opposed). - Sonoma County Mayors’ and Council Members’ Association – ABAG Appointments: Council appointed Susan Adams (primary) and Stephen Zollman (alternate) and authorized the mayor to vote on late nominations – both motions passed 7‑0. - Public Hearing 16.1 – Status of Vacant Positions (AB 2561): Human Resources Director Dominique Blanquie presented an 8.24% citywide vacancy rate (based on 1,289 FTEs). Staff noted 50‑60 vacant positions, but due to the hiring freeze, no salary savings are expected. The report was received unanimously. - Public Hearing 16.2 – First 2025 General Plan Amendment Package: This comprehensive item included three sub‑items: a) Housing Element Amendment: Transfer of 641 RHNA units (34 very low‑income, 607 above moderate) from the county due to the Lance Drive annexation, plus two clerical corrections – approved 6‑0. b) Dutton Avenue General Plan Amendment and Rezoning: Change land use at 3150 Dutton Avenue from Medium Density Residential to General Industry and rezone accordingly – approved 6‑0. The General Plan 2050 includes a compensating density increase on Acacia Lane to maintain “No Net Loss.” An addendum to the 2018 Mitigated Negative Declaration was adopted; tribal consultation conditions were debated but kept. c) General Plan 2050 Final EIR, General Plan 2050, and Specific Plan Amendments: Certify EIR, adopt Statement of Overriding Considerations, adopt General Plan 2050 – approved 6‑0. Key features include 21 areas of change, an environmental justice element, a greenhouse gas reduction strategy (40% below 1990 by 2030, 85% by 2045), and missing middle housing zoning. - Public Hearing 16.3 – Downtown Enhanced Infrastructure Financing District (EIFD) Infrastructure Financing Plan: Gabe Osburn presented the plan to form an EIFD (Downtown Business Corridor) funded by property tax increment (50% city, 25% county). Projected revenues: city $72 million (ad valorem) + $33 million (VLF), county $120 million; total available $81 million. Funds allocated 80% to catalyst projects/placemaking, 20% to affordable housing, with bonding beginning after 2030 and a 10‑year review. The county approved earlier that day. The plan was adopted 6‑0. Key Outcomes - Closed Session Direction: Unanimous vote to join multi‑city lawsuit against federal immigration‑related funding cuts. - General Plan 2050: Six resolutions and one ordinance approved (all 6‑0, Okrepkie absent): Housing Element amendment, Dutton Avenue GPA and rezoning, Dutton Avenue MND addendum, General Plan 2050 EIR certification, General Plan 2050 adoption, and introduction of Dutton Avenue rezoning ordinance. - EIFD Infrastructure Financing Plan: Approved unanimously (6‑0). Next steps: PFA final hearing June 16, judicial validation, and Board of Equalization application. - Future Agenda Items: Two items set: gas station zoning code modifications (6‑1) and hiring a consulting group for departmental efficiency (placed on future agenda by request). - Ad‑Hoc Committee: United Soccer League committee formed (Mayor Stapp and Council Member Okrepkie). - ABAG Appointments: Susan Adams (primary), Stephen Zollman (alternate). - Consent Agenda: All eight items approved (6‑0). - Public Hearings: Vacancy report received; General Plan package and EIFD plan adopted. - Meeting Adjourned: at 7:33 PM; next regular meeting June 17, 2025.

The Santa Rosa City Council met on Tuesday, May 13, 2025, at 4:02 PM in the Council Chamber, adjourning at 7:06 PM. The meeting included proclamations, presentations, a staff briefing on ambulance contract compliance, reports, public hearings, a consent agenda, and reports on extending the youth transit fare-free program and approving a school resource officer (SRO) agreement. All council members were present except Council Member Victoria Fleming, who joined later (at 4:53 PM). Proclamations and Presentations - Mayor Stapp proclaimed May 18–24, 2025 as National Public Works Week (Item 7.1). Five public works employees were recognized. Dan Hennessey, Director of Transportation and Public Works, accepted. - The California Massage Therapy Council presented Santa Rosa with the 2025 City of the Year Award (Item 7.2) for collaboration on a massage ordinance. Mark Dixon, Chair, and Ahmos Netanel, CEO, presented. - Council Member Rogers read a proclamation declaring May 2025 as Water Awareness Month (Item 7.3). Claire Nordlie, Senior Water Resources Planner, highlighted activities including a garden tour with over 3,000 attendees and six gardens in Santa Rosa. - Mayor Stapp presented Water Efficiency Awards (Item 7.4) to Alfredo Valencia, Deborah Debret, and Richard Dobbins, who collectively saved over 61,000 gallons of water annually. Staff Briefings Item 8.1 – EOA-1 Ground Ambulance Contract Compliance Fire Chief Scott Westrope, Sonoma County Fire District Chief Bush, and Medic Ambulance President/COO James Pierson presented compliance data for the ground ambulance contract covering Exclusive Operating Area 1. They reported that approximately 80% of service calls occur within Santa Rosa city limits. Compliance for the Santa Rosa core zone reached 98.45% (June) and 98.84% (other months). Oakmont zone compliance was 91%. The system operates with a peak of 21 ambulances (15 ALS, 6 BLS). They highlighted a fully staffed workforce (no travel medics), pathway programs with SRJC, and enhanced equipment (autoloader gurneys, bariatric ambulance, mobile command center). Council Member Okrepkie requested more digestible compliance data; staff agreed to provide simplified reports. Public Comments & Testimony - Non-Agenda Matters (Item 14): Richard urged use of independent news sources; Duane De Witt discussed an affordable housing covenant lapse on a former affordable home that now sells for market rate ($630,000); Janice Karrman expressed concern about delayed PG&E wildfire settlement payments affecting seniors. - Consent Items (Item 13): Bailey Hurley (Credo High School student) spoke against Item 13.3 (PG&E EV Fleet Program), citing environmental risks from lithium battery fires. Duane De Witt urged that the Community Wildfire Protection Plan (Item 13.8) include riparian corridors and that the Southeast Greenway plan (Item 13.10) incorporate housing. Janice Karrman also opposed Item 13.3, requesting it be considered separately. - School Resource Officer Agreement (Item 15.2): Janice Karrman and Ana Diaz spoke in support. Ana Diaz, a Roseland resident, praised the chief’s diverse hiring and expressed confidence in the SRO program, stating it could prevent violence. - Other Public Comments: Duane De Witt (during City Manager report) urged transparency regarding the planned location of the Roseland Creek bike path, referencing a $2.5 million land purchase. Janice Karrman (during MCA priorities discussion) questioned the EIFD’s role in city contracts. Discussion Items Item 15.1 – Extension of Santa Rosa CityBus Unlimited Rides for Youth (UR Free) Program Rachel Ede, Deputy Director – CityBus, presented. Since its launch in July 2021, youth ridership increased 125%, reaching 450,000 rides in the current fiscal year. 78% of surveyed households reduced car trips. The program is currently funded through June 2025; the proposal extends it through June 30, 2030, using an estimated $220,000/year from GoSonoma sales tax funds and $300,000/year from Low Carbon Transit Operations Program funds. Council members praised the program and discussed managing youth behavior on buses (cameras, school partnerships, potential future Clipper card shift). Item 15.2 – School Resource Officer (SRO) Agreement Police Chief John Cregan and Sergeant Matt Crosby presented. The SRO program was paused in 2020. After a 32-member ad hoc committee (30-2 vote to continue with modifications) and a 13-member working group, a new SRO MOU was reached between the City and Santa Rosa City Schools. The MOU defines roles, requires enhanced training (implicit bias, restorative justice, adolescent development), and establishes quarterly public reporting of arrest data. Cost is estimated at $2.1 million first year and $1.7 million annually. Funding has not been secured; staff will pursue state and federal grants. Council members expressed support but concern over funding given the city’s budget constraints. The three-by-three committee (Council Members Rogers, Okrepkie, MacDonald and school board members) worked on the MOU for 15 months. Item 11.2.1 – Sonoma County Mayors’ and Council Members’ Association (MCA) Priorities Council identified three key issues to present at the MCA Board of Directors special meeting on May 22, 2025: (1) Homeless services funding and transparency with Measure O funds; (2) Service level and cost of the current ambulance contract countywide; (3) Coordination of emergency services and disaster training alignment across agencies and the county. Consent Calendar All consent items were approved as follows: - Items 13.1–13.8, 13.10–13.14: Approved unanimously (7-0). These included: - 13.1: Contract award for garage hoist purchase and installation ($1,593,000 to Power Builders Inc., with 15% contingency, total $1,831,950). - 13.2: Delegation of authority to staff to execute Project Work Orders up to $500,000, cumulative sum not to exceed $18 million. - 13.3: Authorization to participate in PG&E EV Fleet Program for battery-electric bus and medium-duty vehicle charging infrastructure. - 13.4: Second amendment to BPO with Everon LLC ($125,000 increase, total $403,500). - 13.5: Amendment to BPO with Geotab USA Inc. ($150,000 increase, total $750,000). - 13.6: Grant of easement to PG&E at 700 Fifth Street for EV charging. - 13.7: Fourth amendment with Bureau Veritas for fire code plan review ($75,000, total $645,000). - 13.8: Professional Service Agreement with AP Triton LLC for updating Community Wildfire Protection Plan ($139,799). - 13.10: Local support resolution for $750,000 MTC grant for Southeast Greenway Master Planning and Design. - 13.11: Amendment to Council Policy 000-06 renaming Recreation and Parks Board to Board of Parks and Recreation. - 13.12: Administrative cost recovery lien of $16,009.77 against 2100 Sebastopol Road for code violations. - 13.13: Grant of easement to County of Sonoma at 5565 Pine Flat Road for FEMA storm damage restoration. - 13.14: First amendment with Spectrum Canine Isabel LLC for police K-9 training ($94,000 increase, three-year term). - Item 13.9: Bid award to Brightview Landscape Services, Inc. for roadway landscape services ($1,888,347.84 over three years with two one-year renewals). Approved 6-0 (Council Member MacDonald recused due to past personal relationship). Key Outcomes - Resolutions Adopted: RES-2025-071 (parking zone expansion); RES-2025-072 through RES-2025-084 (consent items); RES-2025-085 (youth bus program extension); RES-2025-086 (SRO agreement). - Public Hearing – Parking Zone (Item 16.1): Approved unanimously (7-0) to expand the Talbot/Memorial Residential Permit Parking Zone to include the 100 block of Sotoyome Street. - Public Hearing – General Plan Amendment (Item 16.2): Continued to the June 3, 2025 regular meeting. - MCA Priorities: Approved unanimously to focus on homeless services/Measure O, ambulance contract service/cost, and emergency services coordination/disaster training. - Future Agenda Item: Council Member Okrepkie requested a future discussion on modifying Zoning Code Section 20-61.020(E) regarding gas station modifications; seconded by Vice Mayor Alvarez, to be agendized for June 3.

The Santa Rosa Planning Commission held its regular meeting on May 8, 2025, beginning at 4:30 PM and adjourning at 5:02 PM. All five members were present (Chair Karen Weeks, Vice Chair Vicki Duggan, Commissioners Patti Cisco, Aaron Pardo, and Terrence Sanders) with Commissioners Charles Carter and Miles Horton absent. The meeting included approval of minutes, public comments on non‑agenda matters, commissioner and department reports, and a public hearing on a Conditional Use Permit (CUP) for alcohol sales at a Circle K gas station. Public Comments & Testimony - Non‑agenda public comment (4:31‑4:34 PM): Janice Carrman expressed disappointment that the “Hand” sculpture was removed to Geyserville, arguing the city should have cooperated to keep it in Santa Rosa. She also objected to Commissioner Terrence Sanders’ appointment to the Planning Commission, stating he lives in District 4 while she is in District 3, and that commissioners should represent their own district. Chair Weeks clarified that Planning Commissioners are appointed by council members to serve the entire city, not tied to a specific district. - Public hearing comment (4:49‑4:50 PM): The same speaker, Janice Carrman, requested that the hours for alcohol sales at the Circle K be reduced, suggesting a 9:00 PM cutoff, citing nearby hotels, drinking activity, and the risk of underage access. Discussion Items - Commissioner Reports: Vice Chair Duggan reported on the grand opening of The Cannery apartment building near the train station. Commissioner Sanders echoed that and reminded everyone about the upcoming Rose Parade on May 17, 2025, at 10:00 AM. - Department Report: Deputy Director Jessica Jones updated that the first General Plan Amendment package for 2025, including the Dutton Avenue property and a Housing Element amendment, was continued to June 3, 2025, and will be combined with the General Plan 2050 item. - Public Hearing – Circle K Store & 76 Gas Station (CUP24‑047): Planner Hana Michaelson presented the request for a Type 20 (beer and wine off‑sale) conditional use permit at 2799 4th Street, an existing Circle K and 76 station. The project is exempt from CEQA. Staff noted that the police department had no objections. The ABC representative, Megan Brewer, explained that Type 20 (beer/wine only) differs from Type 21 (includes spirits), and that within the relevant census tract, six Type 20 licenses are allowed but only one is currently active. Commissioners raised concerns: Commissioner Sanders noted the area already has multiple alcohol retailers (CVS, Safeway, Lucky’s, bars) and questioned “public convenience or necessity”; Commissioner Cisco pointed out the misalignment between zoning code criteria and available police records; Chair Weeks requested that future reports include a map of all nearby alcohol sales outlets, not limited by arbitrary census tracts. Commissioners also noted that store hours are set by ABC (6:00 AM‑2:00 AM for alcohol sales) but the store’s operating hours (5:00 AM‑11:00 PM) can be regulated by the city. Commissioner Cisco suggested the applicant voluntarily avoid selling single cans/bottles to reduce loitering, though this could not be conditioned. Key Outcomes - Minutes: The April 24, 2025 draft minutes were approved as submitted. - Conditional Use Permit Approval: Motion by Commissioner Cisco, seconded by Commissioner Pardo, to adopt Resolution PC‑RES‑2025‑010 approving the CUP for off‑site beer and wine sales at the Circle K, 2799 4th Street. The motion passed 5‑0 (Chair Weeks, Vice Chair Duggan, Commissioners Cisco, Pardo, Sanders in favor; Commissioners Carter and Horton absent). The decision is final unless appealed to the City Clerk within 10 calendar days per Zoning Code Section 20‑62.030.

The City Council continued its two-day study session on the Fiscal Year 2025-26 Operations and Maintenance Budget and Capital Improvement Program (CIP). The meeting began at 9:01 a.m., recessed for lunch at 12:54 p.m., reconvened at 1:21 p.m., and adjourned at 5:23 p.m. Council heard presentations from the Fire, Police, Planning & Economic Development, Recreation & Parks, Transportation & Public Works, and Santa Rosa Water departments, followed by public comment and a final discussion on a revised budget reduction package. Public Comments & Testimony - Fire Department: Multiple speakers from Local 1401 and community members (Sam Hoel, Carl Carr, Stephan Dalporto, Iris Harrell, Christel Antone, Sam Crenshaw, Jessie Taintor, James Geissinger, Doug Lyons, John Holt, Brittany Ernst) opposed any brownout or blackout, arguing that even temporary station closures would delay emergency response and endanger lives. Several cited the 2017 Tubbs Fire and the recent Los Angeles fires as examples of why staffing must be maintained. - Police Department: Matt North (SRPD Lieutenant), Christopher Mahurin, Patrice Seffens, Brenda Harrington, Sgt. White, Brian Fix (SRPOA), and Garrison Swartz opposed cuts to sworn positions, especially the proposed elimination of a lieutenant position, warning of increased liability and reduced oversight. Speakers also urged funding for School Resource Officers (SROs) and retention of the downtown enforcement team. - Other Public Safety: Michael Hilber supported budget reductions and fiscal discipline. Jennifer Holmes (Catholic Charities) acknowledged the need for cuts but asked for alternative consideration for the drop-in center and HOST program. - Community Services: Renee Rosetti (YWCA) opposed elimination of Safe House funding; Juan Torres (Sonoma C.A.N.) opposed cuts to the Seasons of Sharing program; Patrick McDonell (Legal Aid) warned of increased homelessness without upstream legal services. - Parks & Recreation: Joel Stras opposed closure of Ridgway Swim Center, highlighting its importance for swim lessons, Special Olympics, and summer camps. - Labor/Process: Matt Finnegan (Teamsters) and Carl Carr (Operating Engineers) argued the city’s projections are too pessimistic and urged the council to slow down and use actual financial data rather than forecasts. Discussion Items - Fire Department (Chief Scott Westrope): Presented the proposed budget and operational highlights. Council discussed alternatives to a ladder truck blackout or brownout. After collaboration with the union, the department offered a 1.227 million reduction alternative: eliminating a deputy chief position, two vacant firefighter positions, two civilian positions (deputy emergency manager and administrative secretary), and additional services/supplies cuts. Council members expressed strong opposition to any brownout or blackout. - Police Department (Chief John Cregan): Presented the budget and operational statistics—117,000 calls, 390 illegal guns seized, two homicides in 2024 (down 80%). The proposed cuts included eliminating a lieutenant, one sergeant, eight police officers, and four civilian positions. Multiple council members voiced concern about the lieutenant cut, citing accountability and liability. Chief Cregan indicated he would work with labor to find alternative savings, possibly by reducing a specialty team (gangs, narcotics, or special enforcement). - Planning & Economic Development (Gabe Osburn): The department proposed cuts including an assistant chief building official, a code enforcement officer, and an administrative secretary. Council asked about fee recovery and possible efficiencies. - Recreation & Parks (Donte Watson): Presented a balanced budget with a 366,000 reduction through fee increases and staff adjustments; no facilities would close. Council supported the proposal. - Transportation & Public Works (Dan Hennessey): Highlighted increased capital project delivery and a commitment to pavement maintenance. Council thanked staff. - Santa Rosa Water (Jennifer Burke): Presented a 278-FTE budget that returns to normal CIP funding after last year’s reduction. Council noted the utility’s complex regional role. - Finance Update (Veronica Conner): Presented revised reduction options reflecting council direction from May 6, including fire department alternatives, homeless service adjustments, and recreation fee increases. Key Outcomes - Fire Department: Council gave direction to not implement a brownout or blackout. Instead, they approved the alternative 1.227 million reduction package agreed to by the fire chief and union, contingent on meet-and-confer with affected bargaining units (including Teamsters). - Police Department: Council accepted all proposed sworn and civilian cuts except the lieutenant position. Staff were directed to explore alternative ways to achieve the same savings, such as eliminating a specialty team or through attrition. - Homeless Services: Council approved the revised package that restores 50,000 for the drop-in center, reduces Sam Jones Hall funding, and reduces HOST contract savings, with Catholic Charities absorbing the warming center. - Recreation & Parks: Council approved the proposed reductions (366,000) including fee increases and elimination of three positions, with a commitment to no facility closures. - Other Reductions: Council supported the remaining cuts from the May 6 discussion (including non-departmental and administrative items) as modified, and removed furloughs from consideration. - Ongoing Process: The council stressed that this is not a final decision; meet-and-confer sessions will occur before the June 1 draft budget and final adoption on June 17. Council also requested further analysis of outside contracts and potential revenue measures (e.g., sales tax, grant advocacy). Note: Council Member MacDonald recused from Recreation & Parks discussion. Council Member Rogers recused from Seasons of Sharing discussion.

The Santa Rosa City Council held a regular meeting on May 6, 2025, starting at 12:00 p.m. with a study session on the Fiscal Year 2025-26 Operations and Maintenance Budget and Capital Improvement Program, followed by a regular session at 4:00 p.m. The meeting was adjourned at 6:21 p.m. Council Members Mark Stapp, Eddie Alvarez, Caroline Bañuelos, Victoria Fleming, and Natalie Rogers were present; Dianna MacDonald and Jeff Okrepkie were absent (Okrepkie participated remotely for the study session but was absent for the regular session). Consent Calendar - Contract Award – B Street and Third Street Right Hand Turn Pocket Improvements (Item 13.1): Approved a motion awarding Contract No. C02408 to Argonaut Constructors, Inc. for $738,076, plus a 15% contingency, totaling $848,787.40. - Purchase of Toyota Tacoma Pickups (Item 13.2): Adopted Resolution RES-2025-065 authorizing the purchase of ten Toyota Tacoma SR pickups for up to $383,209.20 from Freeway Toyota of Hanford, California. - Zero-Emission Bus Voucher Applications (Item 13.3): Adopted Resolution RES-2025-066 authorizing the Director of Transportation and Public Works to submit voucher applications for battery electric transit buses. - Declaration of Surplus Property – 0 Coffey Lane (Item 13.4): Adopted Resolution RES-2025-067 declaring the parcel surplus and authorizing compliance with the Surplus Land Act. - Violence Prevention Partnership MOU Extension (Item 13.5): Adopted Resolution RES-2025-068 approving a Memorandum of Understanding with the Sonoma County Probation Department to extend the Guiding People Successfully Program through June 30, 2028, with $480,000 in appropriations and a limited-term Community Outreach Specialist. - Sanitary Sewer Easement at 5107 Middlebrook Court (Item 13.6): Adopted Resolutions RES-2025-069 and RES-2025-070 accepting a 2,216-square-foot easement and vacating a 2,218-square-foot easement. Public Comments & Testimony - Proclamation – Affordable Housing Month: Omar Lopez (Generation Housing) expressed support for the proclamation and thanked the city for recognizing May as Affordable Housing Month. - Proclamation – Bike to Work Month: Calum Weeks and Janine spoke in support of the proclamation and bicycle access. - Public Comment on Non-Agenda Matters: - Janice Karmann spoke about the relocation of a marble sculpture in front of Santa Rosa Plaza. - Adina Flores spoke on the Potter Valley Dam decommissioning and its potential water supply impacts. - Public Hearing – Bennett Valley Golf Course Fees: Catherine Conrado and Janice Karmann both spoke in support of the fee increases. - Public Comment on Non-Agenda Matters (second session): No speakers. Discussion Items - Study Session – FY 2025-26 Budget (Item 4.1): The council reviewed the proposed $517.7 million citywide budget, including a $6.7 million general fund deficit. Staff presented $13.1 million in proposed reductions, including elimination of 58.9 positions (25 sworn, 33.9 non-sworn), with 21 filled positions. Key options included blacking out or browning out a fire company, reducing police positions, and cutting homeless services. Council provided preliminary direction: - Additional Considerations (Personnel): Council supported most options except the elimination of the community engagement manager position; the city manager was directed to explore alternatives. The police lieutenant position was kept, with the city manager to discuss trade-offs with the chief. - Additional Considerations (Homeless Services): Council supported the proposed reductions ($1.46 million), with the caveat to preserve the warming center and drop-in center if possible. Council Member Rogers recused herself from the vote on Seasons of Sharing due to a conflict of interest. - Additional Considerations (Recreation and Parks): Council favored full cost recovery through fee increases rather than program closures, with a note to maintain subsidies for low-income participants. - Proclamation – Affordable Housing Month (Item 7.1): Council Member Fleming read the proclamation presented to Lauren Koenigshofer of Abode Services and Freebird Development Company. - Proclamation – Bike to Work Month and Day (Item 7.2): Council Member Bañuelos read the proclamation presented to Eris Weaver of the Sonoma County Bicycle Coalition. - Community Empowerment Plan Update (Item 8.1): Ana Horta reported on upcoming community events, including Cinco de Mayo Festival, Kids to Park Day, and Pride Festival. - Chairperson Appointment – Design Review and Preservation Board (Item 11.2.1): Mayor Stapp initially nominated Adam Sharon, but after a substitute motion by Council Member Fleming, the council approved Melanie Jones-Carter as chair by a 5-0 vote. - Letter of Support for HR 2269 (Item 11.3.1): Council authorized the mayor to sign a letter supporting the WIPPES Act (wastewater infrastructure pollution prevention), approved 5-0. Key Outcomes - Budget Direction: Council provided preliminary direction to staff on budget reductions, including preservation of the community engagement manager and exploration of attrition-based police cuts. The city manager will incorporate feedback and bring a final budget for adoption in June. - Bennett Valley Golf Course Fees: Adopted Resolution RES-2025-064 approving revised fees effective July 1, 2025, with increases of 2.5% to 5% for most categories, expected to generate approximately $150,000 in additional annual revenue. - Minutes Approval: Approved minutes from April 1 and April 15, 2025, regular meetings. - Legislative Update: The council received and filed information on support and opposition letters for several state bills (SB 454, AB 237, AB 60, AB 532, SB 601, AB 933). - Meeting Adjournment: The meeting adjourned at 6:21 p.m., with the budget study session to continue on May 7, 2025, at 9:00 a.m.

The City Council met in a special closed session on Tuesday, May 6, 2025, convened at 10:04 a.m. and recessed to closed session at 10:06 a.m. The meeting addressed two litigation-related items, with public comment limited to closed session topics. The Council reconvened in open session at 11:19 a.m. and adjourned at 11:21 a.m. Closed Session Items - 3.1 Conference with Legal Counsel – Anticipated Litigation: One potential case was discussed under Government Code Section 54956.9(d)(4). - 3.2 Conference with Legal Counsel – Existing Litigation: Discussion of the pending case United States et al. ex rel. John Hendrix v. J-M Manufacturing Company, Inc. d/b/a JM Eagle and Formosa Plastics Corporation, U.S.A. (United States District Court, Central District of California, Case No. 5:06-CV-00055-GW). Key Outcomes - Council, by unanimous vote of all seven members present during closed session, authorized the initiation of litigation (defendants and details to be disclosed upon inquiry after action has commenced). - Both closed session items (3.1 and 3.2) were received and filed. - No public comments were made during the announcement of closed session items. - Upon reconvening, five members were present (Mayor Stapp, Vice Mayor Alvarez, Council Members Bañuelos, MacDonald, Rogers); Council Members Fleming and Okrepkie were absent. - City Attorney Teresa Stricker reported the unanimous vote and the authorization.

The Santa Rosa Planning Commission met on April 24, 2025, at 4:30 p.m. (called to order at 4:31 p.m.) in the City Hall Council Chamber. The primary agenda item was a public hearing to consider recommending certification of the Final Environmental Impact Report (EIR) and adoption of the General Plan 2050, along with associated specific plan amendments, for City Council consideration. The meeting included public comment on non-agenda matters, commissioner reports, and a department update on the Elm Tree Station project appeal. After presentations and deliberation, the commission voted unanimously (7-0) on two resolutions forwarding the General Plan 2050 to the City Council. Public Comments & Testimony - Non-agenda public comment: Janice Carmen (Santa Rosa District 3) objected to the appointment of Commissioner Terrence Sanders to the Planning Commission, stating that her district representative appointed someone from District 4 and that having a commissioner from the same district is important for local knowledge on planning, building, and zoning issues. - Public hearing on General Plan 2050: - Ken McNab (KMAC Advising, representing property owners in unincorporated Santa Rosa) thanked staff for their hard work and expressed appreciation for the city's commitment to public engagement. He stated that while none of his suggestions were included, they were considered, and he supported staff's recommendation to forward the General Plan 2050 and EIR certification to City Council. - Pheena Borenson (Santa Rosa District 7, member of Sonoma County Food System Alliance) thanked the commission for including healthy food access in the general plan and for collaboration on an August 2023 forum. She expressed readiness to assist with developing an urban agriculture ordinance. - Ray Morgan (self-represented, Third Street resident) expressed strong opposition to the parking policies in the Station Area Plan, stating that zero parking requirements for apartments would lead to congestion and anxiety. He called the policy "lunacy" and argued that even low-income residents want cars for freedom and work access. He urged the commission not to approve the plan unless adequate parking is required. Discussion Items - Presentation and staff report: Supervising Planner Amy Nicholson, Senior Planner Nancy Woltering, and Terry McKracken from Placeworks presented the General Plan 2050 update, which began in March 2020 and involved extensive community engagement (over 4,700 community members, 90 groups, 12 virtual open houses, pop-up events, youth engagement). Key features include 21 identified “areas of change,” equity priority areas and populations, a greenhouse gas reduction strategy aiming for 40% below 1990 levels by 2030 and 85% by 2045, and a program-level EIR evaluating 18 environmental topics. Significant and unavoidable impacts were identified for agricultural resources, air quality, noise, and transportation due to the programmatic nature. Staff recommended certification of the EIR and adoption of the plan with a minor revision to Action 6.6-2 (adding farmers markets by right in non-residential zones without restriction) and Figure 6-2 correction, read into the record. - Commissioner questions and feedback: - Commissioner Sanders questioned the selective use of phrases like "especially in equity priority areas" in some policies but not others, expressing concern that such language might unintentionally exclude or “other” communities. Staff and consultant explained that the phrasing was deliberate to prioritize historically underserved areas (per SB 1000 and a Kaiser healthy communities grant) and that policies using “all” already include everyone. - Commissioner Sanders also suggested adding language to waterway-related policies (Action 3-5.19) to encourage developers to consider habitat preservation and aesthetics (e.g., avoiding chain-link fences and razor wire along creeks). - Commissioner Carter asked whether Policy 3-5.3 should reference the Creek Master Plan at the policy level rather than only in actions. Staff noted that actions under that policy vary and the master plan is already referenced in applicable actions; using “if applicable” would be better placed in actions. - Chair Weeks noted the strong public support and thanked staff for their thorough work. Key Outcomes - Resolution PC-RES-2025-008 (recommending certification of the Final EIR and adoption of CEQA findings, mitigation monitoring, and statement of overriding considerations) was moved by Commissioner Cisco, seconded by Vice Chair Duggan, and passed unanimously (7–0). All commissioners confirmed they could make the required findings. - Resolution PC-RES-2025-009 (recommending adoption of General Plan 2050 and specific plan amendments) was moved by Commissioner Cisco, seconded by Vice Chair Duggan, with the motion explicitly including the staff revisions read into the record (Action 6.6-2 and Figure 6-2 in Exhibit B). The motion passed unanimously (7–0). All commissioners confirmed they could make the required findings. - The City Council will consider the Planning Commission’s recommendations at a public hearing scheduled for June 3, 2025. Following adoption, staff will return to the Planning Commission and City Council with zoning code and map amendments, including the missing middle housing initiative.