Public Meetings - Santa Rosa, California

The Santa Rosa Planning Commission met on April 10, 2025, at 4:30 p.m. to consider a single public hearing item: the Elm Tree Station project, a Conditional Use Permit for a gas station, two retail spaces, one apartment unit, and an outdoor amenity at 874 N. Wright Road. After extensive public testimony and deliberation, the commission voted unanimously (6-0, with one recusal) to deny the project, citing inconsistencies with the General Plan, zoning code, and inability to make required findings that the project would not be injurious to public health, safety, or welfare. The meeting adjourned at 7:36 p.m. Public Comments & Testimony - Jennifer Lapuerta (during non-agenda public comment) expressed concerns about emergency evacuation infrastructure not keeping pace with new housing developments in southwest Santa Rosa. - Woody Hastings (co-coordinator of the Coalition Opposing New Gas Stations, CONGAS) urged denial of the addendum and CUP, citing a letter from 22 organizations and a petition with 230 signatures, and argued the project would constitute a nuisance. - Caitlin Rekowskie opposed the project due to congestion at the Highway 12/N. Wright Road intersection, evacuation fears during fires, and questioned the term "fresh food market." - Matt Calloway (Sonoma County Conservation Action) argued that every new gas station deepens fossil fuel dependency and opposes climate emergency declarations. - Tyler Krueger cited health risks (childhood asthma, heart disease, dementia) from proximity to gas stations, noted EPA classification as potential brownfield sites, and warned of groundwater contamination. - Jennifer Lapuerta (retired environmental health specialist) spoke about her experience cleaning up leaking underground storage tanks, argued the gas station ban should apply, and called for leaving trees to sequester carbon. - Denis Knowles (Community Advisory Board, District 4) opposed the project due to traffic, environmental contamination, proximity to another fueling station, and conflict with the city's climate emergency resolution. - Wendy Cropnick cited discretionary decision-making, wetland concerns, and inadequacy of the addendum regarding current traffic and climate extremes. - Rebecca Rydlebock (resident of Miles Avenue, less than 0.75 miles from site) objected on behalf of neighbors, calling the proposal "lipstick on a pig" and stating the neighborhood needs the amenities without the gas station. - Laurel Chambers (public health professional, Vintage Oaks) highlighted safety hazards for children walking/biking to Wright Charter School, air and water pollution, and the site's ranking in the 96th percentile for groundwater threats in CalEnviroScreen. - Aria Muirhead (healthcare worker, Chico Avenue resident) opposed due to groundwater contamination risks (noting shallow wells), cited research that 10 gallons of petroleum can contaminate 12 million gallons of water, and noted the area's 96th percentile groundwater threat score. - Wayne Yamaguishi (30-year resident) argued traffic data is outdated, noting a half-mile backup at 7:30-8 a.m. and a 12-car accident with one fatality in August 2024 at the Highway 12 intersection. - Jack James (District 5 resident, cyclist on Joe Rodota Trail) argued that Blue Star Gas, which sells "auto gas" (propane for vehicles), meets the definition of a service station, violating the 500-foot separation requirement. - Alexa Forrester (Bikeable Santa Rosa) stated firm opposition, citing safety risks for cyclists and noting that gas stations generate high turnover traffic; suggested converting to a community market without fuel. - Jenny Blaker cited a nearby abandoned gas station site that remained undeveloped for 36 years (21 years of remediation), average cleanup cost of $154,000, and listed conflicts with the General Plan (e.g., GHG reductions, discouraging auto travel, protecting groundwater recharge). - Ana Glossen (likely "Anika Lawson" per transcript) (nanny who uses the trail with a toddler) said the trail is unsafe now and a gas station would not improve it; called a one-bedroom apartment over a gas station unlivable, and said the park is unnecessary given existing parks. - Michael Hilbur (nearby homeowner) noted clay layer (2 ft down) and high water table (8 ft), arguing underground tanks would be in groundwater; raised concerns about attracting methamphetamine users, citing issues at a Chevron on Stony Point. - Marla Charbonneau (Cotati) applauded Santa Rosa's gas station ban, noted California's 80% of smog from vehicles, 9,000 new leaks annually in the U.S., and a $1.7 million settlement for improper hazardous waste handling at 14 Northern California gas stations (including 2 in Sonoma County) in 2023. - Kate Steen (retired environmental health and safety specialist) warned of explosion risk from Blue Star's large propane tanks if a fire at the gas station reached them; said the project would turn natural land into a brownfield; cited General Plan vision statement on sustainability. - June Rushares highlighted the April 9 CONGAS letter documenting failures of the addendum on groundwater threats and traffic; argued the CUP requires five findings that cannot be made; noted the resolution should explicitly prohibit liquor sales without a CUP modification. - Steven Pierce (Sebastopol) emphasized risk vs. reward: gas station profit margins 1%, peak gasoline sales in Santa Rosa was 2016, and the area's zip code (95472) has the highest concentration of electric cars in the county (8% of passenger vehicles). All 21 public speakers (including the applicant's representative who was redirected) expressed opposition to the project. Discussion Items - Project Presentation: Senior Planner Conor McKay presented the Elm Tree Station project, which included 6 gas pumps with 4 EV charging stations, two retail buildings (3,448 sq ft and 432 sq ft), one 900 sq ft apartment, and a park with Joe Rodota Trail connection. Noted corrections: no extended hours of operation; the project is exempt from the 2022 gas station ban because it was deemed complete before the ban. Staff recommended approval of the addendum and CUP. - Applicant Presentation: Jean Kapolchak (land use consultant) presented project history: originally denied in 2008, approved in 2013, entitlements expired, resubmitted in 2018/2021. Project is consistent with General Plan and zoning. Addendum addressed changes in circumstances (gas station ban, health risk assessment) and new information (updated air quality, GHG, VMT, traffic, wildfire). - Commissioner Deliberation: All six voting commissioners stated they could not make the required findings for approval. Commissioner Cisco (motion maker for the addendum) said the city council's own findings in the gas station ban ordinance (EPA classification, contaminants, threat to public health) prevented finding the project would not be injurious. Vice Chair Duggan cited inconsistency with General Plan goals for scenic entryways (Highway 12), prohibition of convenience store in PD 0435, setback issue for residential unit, and proximity to Blue Star Gas (within 500 ft). Commissioner Carter noted risks from underground storage not adequately addressed. Commissioner Pardo said the project conflicts with the broader gas station ban. Commissioner Horton highlighted the city's climate emergency resolution. Chair Weeks cited the studies referenced in the gas station ban ordinance. - The commission first voted on the motion to adopt the addendum (Resolution 1), which failed 0-6 (1 recusal). Then, after a recess to draft a denial resolution, they voted on a motion to deny the CUP (Resolution PC-RES-2025-007), which passed 6-0 (1 recusal). Key Outcomes - Motion to adopt the Addendum to the Mitigated Negative Declaration (Resolution 1): Failed 0-6 (Commissioner Sanders recused). - Motion to deny the Conditional Use Permit (Resolution PC-RES-2025-007): Carried 6-0 (Commissioner Sanders recused). The resolution found the project inconsistent with zoning code (convenience store prohibited by PD 0435, residential unit too close to gas station per 20-42.150A2), inconsistent with General Plan (scenic entryway policies), incompatible with the Joe Rodota Trail, and that granting the permit would be injurious to public health, safety, and welfare due to greenhouse gas emissions, air pollution, groundwater contamination risks, and failure to comply with CEQA (the addendum did not adequately analyze new information on traffic, water quality, GHG, and air quality). The decision is final unless appealed within 10 calendar days.

The Santa Rosa City Council met on April 1, 2025, at 2:30 PM for a closed session (evaluation of City Manager and labor negotiations) and reconvened at 4:12 PM for the regular session. Council Member Natalie Rogers was absent. The meeting included staff briefings, consent calendar, public hearings on water/wastewater rate increases and renaming an advisory board, and acceptance of the annual General Plan report. Key actions included approving a five-year rate increase schedule, responding to written objections under AB 2257, and renaming the Board of Community Services to the Recreation and Parks Board. Consent Calendar - Resolution 2025-042: Approved the 2025 update to the Santa Rosa CityBus Title VI Program. - Resolution 2025-043: Authorized receipt of a $250,000 State and Local Cybersecurity Grant. - Resolution 2025-044: Accepted $39,317 in Urban Areas Security Initiative Grant funds. - Resolution 2025-045: Ratified and extended blanket purchase orders for records management services with Corodata Records Management, Inc. (total not to exceed $278,000). - Resolution 2025-046: Approved a second amendment to blanket purchase order with Superior Supplies for cement concrete (total $150,000). - Resolution 2025-047: Approved a second amendment to blanket purchase order with Cream’s Towing, Inc. for abandoned vehicle abatement (total $295,000). - Resolution 2025-048: Extended the proclamation of local homeless emergency. - Ordinance 2025-006 (Second Reading): Adopted fire hazard severity zones as recommended by CalFire. All consent items were approved by a 6-0 vote (Council Member Rogers absent). Public Comments & Testimony - Duane De Witt (Roseland resident, individual, not as a Board of Public Utilities member) spoke on multiple items: supported the CIP update, requested clarification on water rate impact tables (monthly vs annual), expressed concerns about the AB 2257 process (lack of public access to written objections), opposed the rate increases, praised the City Manager’s salary freeze, and invited council to the Roseland Earth Day event. - No other public comments were made on non-agenda matters. Discussion Items - Capital Improvement Program (CIP) Status Update: Director Dan Hennessey reported that over $100 million in projects are expected to be bid in the next 12–15 months across water, wastewater, transportation, and parks. Key projects include the bicycle/pedestrian overcrossing (awaiting approvals from Caltrans and PG&E), Bennett Valley Golf Course irrigation pond, and the Hearn Community Hub. Council discussed funding strategies and project prioritization. - Community Empowerment Plan Update: Community Engagement Manager Ana Horta highlighted upcoming events including a virtual town hall with the Mayor and Vice Mayor, Women in Public Safety Day, and the Street to Creek cleanup. The Neighbor to Neighbor program with new AmeriCorps members was introduced. - Sonoma County Mayors’ and Councilmembers’ Association Appointments: Council approved four appointments: Jeff Okrepkie and Sandra Lowe to the Measure H Oversight Committee; Susan Harvey and Janice Cader Thompson to the North Bay Division LOCC Executive Board; John Shribbs and Karen Nau to the Sonoma County Agricultural Preservation and Open Space District Citizens Advisory Committee; and authorized the Mayor to vote on late nominations. All passed 6-0. - Approval of Minutes: February 25, 2025 and March 4, 2025 regular meeting minutes were approved (Council Members Okrepkie and MacDonald abstained from the February 25 minutes). Key Outcomes - AB 2257 Response (Item 15.1): Adopted Resolution 2025-049 responding to 10 written objections to proposed water and wastewater rates, finding no basis for amendments, and proceeding to the Proposition 218 protest hearing. Vote: 6-0. - Water and Wastewater Rate Increases (Item 16.1): After a public hearing and verification that only 163 valid written protests were received (0.26% of 58,470 parcels, far below the 29,236 majority threshold), the Council adopted Resolution 2025-050 approving five-year rate increases: water rates 6% (FY25/26–27/28) then 7% (FY28/29–29/30), wastewater rates 5% annually, plus a wholesale rate pass-through provision. The ordinance amending Title 14 to allow water rates to be set by resolution was introduced. Both resolutions passed 6-0. - Board of Community Services Renaming (Item 16.2): Introduced an ordinance to rename the Board of Community Services to the Recreation and Parks Board, reduce membership from 8 to 7, align term lengths with council members, and update powers and duties. Introduced 6-0. Adopted Resolution 2025-051 amending Council Policy 000-06 to reflect the new name (5-1, Council Member MacDonald opposed). - 2024 General Plan Annual Review (Item 15.2): Accepted the 2024 General Plan, Inclusionary Housing, and Growth Management Annual Review Report. Vote: 6-0. The report covered housing production (297 building permits issued in 2024, including affordable projects), economic development, transportation improvements, and greenhouse gas reduction efforts. - City Manager Compensation: During the closed session report, it was announced that City Manager Maraskeshia Smith requested a freeze on her salary and cost-of-living adjustments for two years. Council directed staff to bring a future agenda item to consider the request. Upcoming Meetings The next regular meeting is scheduled for April 15, 2025.

The Planning Commission met on March 27, 2025, at 4:30 p.m. in the Council Chamber. The main agenda item was the presentation and discussion of the 2024 General Plan, Inclusionary Housing & Growth Management Annual Review Report. The commission unanimously voted to recommend forwarding the report to the City Council for approval. No public comments were made on any agenda item. Discussion Items 10.1 – 2024 General Plan, Inclusionary Housing & Growth Management Annual Review Report City Planner Sheila Wolski presented the report, which summarized progress on 12 General Plan elements during calendar year 2024. Key highlights included: - Economic Vitality: Adoption of the Economic Development Strategy in April 2024; creation of a business concierge program and a work café at City Hall; ongoing investment in Montgomery Village Shopping Center; preliminary discussions with the United Soccer League for professional teams; and a pop-up business initiative for vacant downtown storefronts. - Downtown Revitalization: Free weekend parking in city garages from Thanksgiving through January 1; installation of Tavoli-style string lights along 4th Street; progress on the Santa Rosa Public Art Walk. - Housing: 297 residential building permits were issued in 2024 (156 Reserve A, 141 Reserve B). Notable projects included Mahonia Glen (99 affordable units), South Park Commons (62 affordable units), the Cannery (129 affordable units), 420 Mendocino (the Felix), and Fountain Grove Apartments (239 units). Approved but not yet built projects include Cornerstone (114 units), Cherry Ranch (67 units), and Lance Drive (672 multifamily units, 98 small-lot single-family homes, plus retail). - Inclusionary Housing: All 297 permits issued were for market-rate units; $1.52 million in lieu fees were collected to support affordable housing. - Growth Management: The ordinance caps residential growth at 800 allotments per year. The city’s estimated population as of 2024 was 174,890. The city is working to align the growth management ordinance with the Regional Housing Needs Allocation (RHNA) and may remove the growth management element in the General Plan update (2050). - Transportation: Multiple bicycle and pedestrian improvements were completed, including class II and IV bike lanes; the Southeast Greenway acquisition closed; the Finley Aquatic Center spray ground is expected to open summer 2025. - Open Space & Conservation: The Creek Stewardship Program engaged 9,968 residents, removing 1,160 cubic yards of trash; lower Colgan Creek projects continue; zero waste efforts included 1,104 site visits and 187 trainings by Recology. - Climate & Greenhouse Gases: A draft community-wide greenhouse gas reduction strategy is being prepared as part of the General Plan update, aiming for carbon neutrality by 2045. - Youth & Family: The Youth Unlimited Rides program (free bus rides for youth) is funded through June 2025; the city’s violence prevention partnership (funded by Measure H) launched a Clean Slate Tattoo Removal Program in 2024 and a street outreach/crisis response team in January 2025. - Public Safety: Police response times for priority one calls averaged 6 minutes 31 seconds in 2024 (down from 6:57 in 2023). Fire services are conducting a standards of coverage study. The In-Response mental health crisis team handled 4,977 calls in 2024, diverting the majority from police officers and improving priority one response times to sub-six minutes. Commissioners asked questions and provided feedback on housing production, inclusionary fees, growth management, public safety staffing, greenhouse gas targets, street performers, Fremont Park, Roseland Creek Park, the Zawa Fountain, and the In-Response program. Staff committed to including more longitudinal data (e.g., year-over-year response times) in future reports. No members of the public spoke. Key Outcomes - The commission voted 7-0 (motion by Vice Chair Duggan, seconded by Commissioner Sanders) to recommend the 2024 General Plan, Inclusionary Housing & Growth Management Annual Review Report be forwarded to the City Council for approval. - Staff noted that the report will be submitted to the state Office of Land Use and Climate Innovation after council acceptance. - The meeting was adjourned at 6:00 p.m.

The Santa Rosa City Council met on March 18, 2025, at 2:00 PM for a closed session, reconvening at 4:00 PM for the regular session. The meeting included proclamations, a Downtown Action Organization update, a briefing on the Active Transportation Plan, approval of consent items, a public hearing on fire hazard severity zones, and direction on Sonoma Water's proposed water rate increase. Two council members (Vice Mayor Alvarez and Council Member Fleming) were absent; all votes were 5-0. Consent Calendar - Contract Award – Dutch Flohr Neighborhood Park: Council consented to the withdrawal of RRR Pirooz Engineering's bid and awarded the $2,480,000 contract to Pat Nelson Construction, Inc., with a 15% contingency for a total of $2,852,000. Funded by Capital Improvement Fund, no General Fund money. (Motion approved.) - Hearn Avenue at Highway 101 – Phase 3 Maintenance Agreement: Approved a Project Specific Maintenance Agreement with Caltrans and delegated signature authority to the City Manager. (Resolution RES-2025-038 adopted.) - Southern Tire Mart – Second Amendment: Approved a $20,000 increase in blanket purchase order for retread tires, total not to exceed $120,000. (Resolution RES-2025-039 adopted.) - National Print + Promo – Second Amendment: Extended term by one year and increased compensation by $50,000, total not to exceed $150,000. (Resolution RES-2025-040 adopted.) - Bequest from Estate of Rosemary Maki-Ramatici: Accepted $153,987.86 for Homeless Shelter Operations Fund. (Resolution RES-2025-041 adopted.) - Massage Regulation Ordinance (Second Reading): Adopted ordinance repealing Chapter 6-32 and adding Chapter 20-49, with related zoning amendments. (Ordinance ORD-2025-004 adopted.) - Adult Entertainment Business Ordinance (Second Reading): Adopted ordinance amending Zoning Code sections for adult entertainment businesses. (Ordinance ORD-2025-005 adopted.) Public Comments & Testimony - Active Transportation Plan: Eris Weaver, Executive Director of Sonoma County Bicycle Coalition, expressed strong support for the plan, praising its clarity and prioritization. - Non-Agenda Public Comments (Doyle Park Dog Leash Enforcement): - Dr. Richard Buswell, Rich Caro, Emily Winfield, Carol Cranston, Brenda Fowler-Hart, and Janice Karmann all criticized animal control officers for aggressive enforcement of leash laws at Doyle Park, citing excessive fines ($350–$800), lack of warning signs, and officers hiding/spying. They requested extended off-leash hours, better signage, and a more balanced approach. - Stephan Dalporto (Santa Rosa Firefighters) updated on Measure H implementation, noting the first funds are in the bank and expressing optimism for new resources (Engine 9, Engine 12, Rescue One, station upgrades, additional battalion chief, and vegetation management inspectors). - Fire Hazard Severity Zones: No public comments. - Sonoma Water Proposed Rate Increase: No public comments. Discussion Items - Santa Rosa Active Transportation Plan Update: Torina Wilson, Transportation Planner, presented the Public Review Draft (released March 3, 2025; comments accepted through March 31). The plan replaces the 2018 Bicycle and Pedestrian Master Plan with an "Active Transportation Plan" to be more inclusive. Prioritization focuses on high-injury networks, disadvantaged communities, transit/school access, gap closure, and coordination with pavement maintenance. Council members asked about specific segments (e.g., Montgomery Drive) and public feedback to date. No action taken; plan expected back for adoption in June 2025. - Sonoma Water Proposed FY 2025/26 Water Transmission Budget and Rate Increase: - Background: The City purchases 93% of potable water from Sonoma Water. The proposed budget includes an 8.68% increase in the wholesale rate (from $1,289.02 to $1,400.86 per acre foot). Staff and Board of Public Utilities recommended Council direct its Water Advisory Committee (WAC) representative to vote in favor. - Presenters (Jake Spaulding, Lynn Rosselli, Nick Harvey) described the aging infrastructure (aqueducts built 1959–1963), asset management needs, hazard mitigation projects, and a planned $33 million bond. They noted that through collaborative cuts and deferrals, the originally forecast 40% increase was reduced to 8.68% for Santa Rosa Aqueduct customers. Long-range financial plan projects 8.7% annual increases over five years. - Santa Rosa Water's budget can absorb the $1.94 million increase without impacting fund balance. The rate pass-through to customers would begin in FY 2026-27. - Council members asked about rate comparisons with other contractors and long-term modeling. The Council expressed appreciation for improved transparency. Key Outcomes - Active Transportation Plan: Received and filed; no action. Public comment period open through March 31, 2025; plan adoption anticipated June 2025. - Consent Items (13.1–13.7): All approved unanimously (5-0). - Fire Hazard Severity Zones Ordinance (16.1) : Introduced and adopted on first reading by a 5-0 vote, designating moderate, high, and very high fire hazard severity zones per CalFire maps (released Feb 24, 2025). Effective May 2025, triggering state building code requirements and hazard disclosure inspections. - Sonoma Water Rate Increase (15.1) : Approved motion (5-0) to approve Sonoma Water's FY 2025/26 water transmission budget and 8.68% rate increase, and direct WAC representative (Council Member Rogers) to vote accordingly at the April 7, 2025 WAC meeting. - Future Agenda Items: Council Member Rogers withdrew requests for agenda items on downtown cannabis dispensary operations and solar panel certification understanding process, citing focus on council goals. - Minutes: February 19, 2025 special meeting minutes approved as submitted. February 25, 2025 regular meeting minutes continued to April 1, 2025. - Other: Council Member Bañuelos appointed Douglas Mondell to the Community Advisory Board. Council and Mayor reported on various subcommittee meetings, lobbying trip to D.C., and discussions with the county on homelessness funding.

The Santa Rosa Planning Commission met on March 13, 2025, at 4:30 PM in the Council Chamber. The meeting included a presentation on the Active Transportation Plan update, and public hearings on the Dutton Avenue Development Project and a Housing Element Amendment. All items were recommended to the City Council. The meeting adjourned at 5:36 PM. Presentation: Santa Rosa Active Transportation Plan Update - Transportation Planner Torina Wilson presented the update to the 2018 Bicycle and Pedestrian Master Plan, now renamed the Active Transportation Plan (ATP). The public review draft was released on March 3, 2025, with public comment accepted through March 31, 2025. Wilson highlighted the plan's focus on safety, equity, and "all ages and abilities" infrastructure. The plan includes goals of making safety the default, and prioritizes projects based on safety, health equity, transit access, demand, connectivity, feasibility, and coordination with pavement maintenance. Phase 1 engagement received almost 500 comments and 2,000 interactions. The plan is expected to go to the Bicycle and Pedestrian Advisory Board in May and to the City Council in June 2025. Commissioners asked questions about lighting, project prioritization metrics, specific projects like the Jennings/SMART crossing and Humboldt Street bike boulevard, and clarification on mileage numbers. No public comments were received. Public Hearings: Dutton Avenue Development Project - Item 11.1(a): A request for a General Plan Amendment (GPAM24-002) and Rezoning (REZ24-002) for a 5.95-acre parcel at 3150 Dutton Avenue, from Medium Density Residential (R-3-18) to General Industrial (IG), to allow future industrial development. The site was previously designated residential in 2006 due to a planned SMART station that is no longer planned. The project includes an Addendum to a 2018 Mitigated Negative Declaration (MND) per CEQA. Staff received three written comments, with concerns about industrial/residential proximity and support for industrial use. The 2023-2031 Housing Element listed the site for 86 moderate-income units, which will be offset in the upcoming General Plan 2050 update on a site on Acacia Lane within 180 days of Council action. The Planning Commission voted 5-0 to adopt three resolutions recommending the Council: 1. Adopt the Addendum to the MND (Resolution PC-RES-2025-003). 2. Approve the General Plan Amendment to General Industry (Resolution PC-RES-2025-004). 3. Approve the Rezoning to IG (Resolution PC-RES-2025-005). - Commissioners expressed support, noting the logical return to industrial use, with Commissioner Cisco recalling the 2006 denial that was overturned by Council. Public Hearings: Housing Element Amendment - Item 11.1(b): An update to the 2023-2031 Housing Element to reflect a transfer of 641 Regional Housing Needs Allocation (RHNA) units from Sonoma County to the City following the annexation of 34.93 acres at Lance Drive. The transfer was agreed upon with the county and includes 34 very low-income units and 607 above moderate-income units, matching the approved Lance Drive project. Two clerical errors were corrected: the title of Table 5-2 and a mathematical error in Table 5-11. The California Department of Housing and Community Development (HCD) confirmed the amendment maintains substantial compliance. The Planning Commission voted 5-0 to adopt Resolution PC-RES-2025-006 recommending the Council approve the amendment. Commission Business - The Commission approved the minutes of February 27, 2025, as submitted. - Vice Chair Duggan reported on the Planning Commissioners Academy and Brown Act training. - The Commission recognized former Commissioner Julian Peterson for his seven years of service. No public comments were made on any agenda or non-agenda items throughout the meeting.

The Santa Rosa City Council held a regular meeting on March 4, 2025, beginning with a closed session at 2:30 PM to evaluate the City Attorney's performance, followed by the regular session at 4:14 PM. The meeting included proclamations, staff briefings, consent items, public hearings, and a police military equipment report. All seven council members were present. The meeting adjourned at 7:05 PM. Consent Calendar - Item 13.1: Accepted the 2024 Annual Public Records Requests Report. Approved 7-0. - Item 13.2: Authorized an additional $2,000,000 in contingency funds for the Coffey Park and Fountaingrove Neighborhood Roads Disaster Recovery Project, increasing the total contract to $22,031,245.97. Approved 7-0. - Item 13.3: Adopted Resolution RES-2025-031 authorizing submission of a Homekey+ grant application for Caritas Homes Phase II for up to $13.95 million. Approved 7-0. - Item 13.4: Adopted Resolution RES-2025-032 authorizing a matching grant application for the Lower Colgan Creek Neighborhood Park Improvement Project for $1,600,000 (19% of $8,365,495 total). Approved 7-0. - Item 13.5: Adopted Resolution RES-2025-033 approving a service contract with Santa Rosa City School District for summer youth programs. Approved 7-0. - Item 13.6: Adopted Resolution RES-2025-034 authorizing the Mayor to sign a letter agreeing to transfer 641 Regional Housing Needs Allocation (RHNA) units from Sonoma County to Santa Rosa after annexation of 34.93 acres. Approved 7-0. - Item 13.7: Adopted Resolution RES-2025-035 approving a Professional Services Agreement with Dyett & Bhatia for the South Santa Rosa Specific Plan and Environmental Impact Report for up to $765,272. Approved 7-0. Public Comments & Testimony - Duane DeWitt (Roseland resident, Sonoma County Housing Advocacy Group) spoke on several items: he supported the Arbor Week proclamation and praised Parks staff; he expressed concern about Item 13.4 (Lower Colgan Creek park) noting that developers should bear park costs rather than taxpayers; he also commented on Item 13.6 (RHNA transfer) urging that the transfer include enforceable timelines for housing unit construction. During non-agenda public comment, he raised concerns about Burbank Housing Development Corporation converting affordable rental units to ownership, and urged the city to oppose federal cuts to HUD housing vouchers. - Adina Flores (public comment on non-agenda) raised potential conflict of interest concerns regarding Council Member Okrepkie's employment at George Peterson Insurance Agency and his clients in construction, requesting disclosure. - Stephanie Bower (Generation Housing Deputy Director) spoke in support of the Renewal Enterprise District (RED), praising its collaborative financing model for housing. - Duane DeWitt (during RED presentation) expressed support but requested more robust community outreach, especially in Roseland. - Duane DeWitt (on City Manager report) advocated for a bikeway/greenway along Roseland Creek in the Active Transportation Plan. - Public Hearing on Massage Ordinance (Item 16.1): - Curtis Bennett spoke in support, noting the link between illicit massage businesses and human trafficking. - Patrick Murray spoke in support, praising the balanced approach. - Mark Dixon (Chair, California Massage Therapy Council) spoke in support, requesting consideration of later operating hours. - Laurie Fong (Asian American Pacific Islander Coalition of North Bay) spoke in support, emphasizing victim-centered enforcement. - Brad Childs spoke in support, noting challenges with fictitious business name filings. - No public comments were made on the Police Military Equipment report. Discussion Items - Item 7.1 & 7.2 Proclamations: Council presented proclamations for Red Cross Month and Arbor Week. Red Cross volunteer Andy Witthohn and Parks Superintendent James Castro spoke. Public comment by Duane DeWitt supported the Parks team. - Item 8.1 Renewal Enterprise District (RED) Overview: Robin Stefani (Executive Director) and Sonoma County Supervisor Chris Coursey presented. The RED, formed in 2018, has facilitated over 630 housing units in Santa Rosa through $20 million in city/county contributions plus leveraged funds. Projects highlighted: Pullman Lofts (114 market-rate units), Corazone (77 affordable units), Aviara (136 affordable units), South Park Commons (75 affordable units), 420 Mendocino (168 market-rate units), and Casa Roseland (affordable, under construction). Council member questions focused on available loan amounts ($2.3 million currently, with potential $7 million from 420 Mendocino maturity). Public comment supported the RED but requested outreach improvements. - Item 8.2 Community Empowerment Plan Update: Presented by Ana Horta (Community Engagement Manager). Upcoming events included a Leprechaun Treasure Hunt in parks. Mayor Stapp highlighted ongoing city-school collaboration on violence prevention and school safety, referencing the 3x3 committee. - Item 16.1 Public Hearing - Massage Ordinance and Adult Entertainment Zoning: Staff (Gabe Osburn, Lou Kirk, Jessica Jones) presented the proposed comprehensive replacement ordinance to regulate massage establishments (certification, hours, enforcement) and a separate zoning amendment for adult entertainment businesses (requiring major conditional use permit). Key features: 180-day compliance period, certificate fees ($200 new, $150 renewal with no violations, $330 with violations), administrative adjustments, and restrictions on illicit businesses (e.g., immediate closure for gross violations). Police Chief John Cregan and Detective Tim Raymond outlined a victim-centered enforcement approach, coordinating with code enforcement and victim advocates. Council discussion covered staffing, enforcement, human trafficking victim support, and regional cooperation. The public hearing opened and closed with multiple speakers in support. - Item 15.1 Police Department Annual Military Equipment Report (AB 481): Presented by Chief Cregan and Lieutenant Christopher Mahurin. The report covered eight categories of military equipment held (none obtained from military). Use in 2024 was limited: 40mm launchers used to break vehicle windows (0 uses on persons), chemical agents used in three incidents without additional force, drones used for de-escalation and search. Requests for future purchases include ammunition and equipment, but no funding was requested. Council members expressed support; Council Member Bañuelos abstained on the final vote. Key Outcomes - Consent Items: All seven items approved unanimously (7-0). - Massage Ordinance (Ordinance 1): Introduced by motion (Okrepkie/Fleming) and passed 7-0. The ordinance repeals Chapter 6-32, adds new Chapter 20-49, and amends zoning sections to regulate massage establishments. - Adult Entertainment Zoning (Ordinance 2): Introduced by motion (Flemming) and passed 7-0. The ordinance amends Title 20 to require a major conditional use permit for adult entertainment businesses. - Massage Certification Fees (Resolution): Adopted 7-0, establishing fees for certifications, renewals, administrative adjustments, and inspections. - Police Military Equipment Report and Ordinance Renewal: Approved by motion (MacDonald/Alvarez) with a 6-0-1 vote (Bañuelos abstaining). Resolution RES-2025-037 approved the report and renewed Ordinance ORD-2022-007. - Future Agenda Items: Council Member Rogers requested two future items: (1) revisit downtown cannabis dispensary operations (narrowed to downtown focus by friendly amendment), and (2) develop a solar ordinance requiring disclosure of solar output to homeowners. Both were seconded and will be agendized separately. - Appointments: Council Member MacDonald appointed Kathryn Kelly to the Bicycle and Pedestrian Advisory Board and Omar Lopez to the Board of Community Services.

The Santa Rosa Planning Commission held a regular meeting on February 27, 2025, from 4:30 PM to 6:17 PM. The meeting included public comments, commissioner reports, a department report, and a public hearing on proposed amendments to the Massage Ordinance and Adult Entertainment Business Zoning Code. All seven commissioners were present. Consent Calendar - None. Public Comments & Testimony - Duane Dewitt (Roseland resident) urged the commission to advocate for the inclusion of a greenway and bikeway along Roseland Creek in the Active Transportation Plan. He noted that land was purchased in 2011 for this purpose and criticized the lack of progress. - Mike Cook (business owner) expressed support for the proposed massage ordinance but objected to the 10:00 PM closing time, stating legitimate massage businesses typically close by 7:00 PM. He reported 32 massage parlors within a half-mile of his office and concerns about late-night operations. - Kurtis Bennett spoke in support of the ordinance but raised concerns about the draft language allowing certification by bodies “equivalent or superior” to the California Massage Therapy Council (CAMTC), arguing that CAMTC is the only state-authorized certifying body and that the language could create loopholes. He also recommended against allowing three procedural violations before revocation, suggesting that even a single violation should trigger revocation. - Jessie Spearlings (certified massage therapist) supported the ordinance but called for stronger consequences for landlords who rent to illicit businesses and for a dedicated reporting line for suspicious activity. She noted that many legitimate therapists face reputational harm from illicit operators. Discussion Items - Commission Business: - Statement of Purpose was read by Chair Weeks. - Commissioner Reports: Commissioner Sanders reported on the Waterways Advisory Committee (WAC), noting the election of a new chair, Art Dike, and vice chair Kevin Shea. He announced that 400 volunteers removed 1,200 cubic yards of garbage from local creeks during Creek Week and that the Colgan Creek Restoration project (budgeted at $6.5 million) is out to bid. - New Commissioner Introduction: Chair Weeks welcomed newly appointed Commissioner Miles Horton, who thanked the council and staff. - Vice Chair Election: Commissioner Sanders nominated Vicki Duggan for vice chair; seconded by Commissioner Cisco. Commissioner Duggan accepted and was unanimously re-elected by a 7-0 vote. - Waterways Advisory Committee Reappointment: Chair Weeks reappointed Commissioner Sanders to the WAC; he accepted. - Department Report: Deputy Director Jessica Jones welcomed Commissioner Horton, noted that the General Plan update will come before the commission within months, and announced a study session on the Missing Middle Housing Ordinance before the Design Review Board on March 20 and a community meeting on March 24. An orientation for boards and commissions is scheduled for March 11. - Public Hearing – Massage Ordinance and Adult Entertainment Zoning Amendment: - Staff presented by Gabe Osburn (Planning Director) and Lou Kirk (Assistant Chief Building Officer). They highlighted that approximately 130 massage businesses operate in Santa Rosa, some linked to illicit activities including prostitution and human trafficking. The proposed ordinance would replace Chapter 6-32 with a new Chapter 20-49, requiring city certification, background checks, operational standards, and tiered enforcement. Separate amendments would clarify permitting requirements for adult entertainment businesses (requiring a conditional use permit). - Key features discussed: 180-day compliance period, prohibition of neon signs, exemptions for short-term events (e.g., farmers markets), and administrative adjustments for minor relief. - Commissioners debated provisions: Hours of operation: Originally 7:00 AM – 10:00 PM. Commissioners expressed consensus to close by 8:00 PM (with patrons vacated by 8:30 PM and custodial staff allowed from 9:00 PM). Definitions: Commission directed staff to add a definition for “administrative adjustment” and to refine the definition of “certified massage therapist” to clarify CAMTC as the certifying body, with a safety net for future state law changes. Violation threshold: After discussion, the commission retained the original structure—three procedural violations within two years trigger revocation—rejecting proposals to change the number or timeframe. Staff explained that procedural violations are minor (e.g., late fee payments) and are distinct from gross violations (which warrant immediate action). - Staff also noted two minor scrivener’s errors (section references) that would be corrected. Key Outcomes - Vice Chair Election: Commissioner Vicki Duggan was re-elected vice chair for the upcoming year (7-0 vote). - Waterways Advisory Committee: Commissioner Sanders was reappointed as the commission’s representative. - Resolution PC-RES-2025-001 (Massage Ordinance): The commission voted 7-0 to recommend the city council adopt the amended ordinance, incorporating changes to hours (8:00 PM closing), definitions, and administrative adjustment language, as read into the record. The corrections to section references were included. - Resolution PC-RES-2025-002 (Adult Entertainment Business Zoning): The commission voted 7-0 to recommend a zoning code amendment requiring conditional use permits for adult entertainment businesses in commercial and industrial zones. - Both resolutions will advance to the Santa Rosa City Council on March 4, 2025, with second reading on March 18 and effective date 30 days later. The massage ordinance includes a 180-day compliance period for existing businesses.

The Santa Rosa City Council met on February 25, 2025, for a regular meeting that included closed session, interviews for the Personnel Board, a proclamation, staff briefings, reports, consent items, and a report on the Community Wildfire Protection Plan. All votes were 5-0 with Councilmembers McDonald and O'Krepke absent. No action was reported from closed session.

The Santa Rosa City Council held a regular meeting on February 25, 2025, beginning at 2:30 PM with a closed session, followed by interviews for Personnel Board vacancies at 3:30 PM, and the regular session at 4:00 PM. The meeting adjourned at 5:40 PM. Council Members Mark Stapp, Eddie Alvarez, Caroline Bañuelos, Victoria Fleming, and Natalie Rogers were present; Council Members Dianna MacDonald and Jeff Okrepkie were absent. The council approved numerous consent items, received staff briefings, and accepted the fourth annual Community Wildfire Protection Plan report. Consent Calendar - Resolution RES-2025-023: Approved submittal of a $5,000,000 CalHome grant application to the California Department of Housing and Community Development for downpayment assistance and housing rehabilitation loans. - Resolution RES-2025-024: Acknowledged receipt of the Fire Chief's compliance report for California Health and Safety Code Sections 13146.2 and 13146.3 for calendar years 2022, 2023, and 2024. - Resolutions RES-2025-025 and RES-2025-026: Approved two General Services Agreements for grazing services: $125,000 to Capra Environmental Services, Corp, and $125,000 to Therese Oyarzun dba Goats R Us, for a total not to exceed $250,000. - Resolution RES-2025-027: Approved General Services Agreement F002957 with Matrix HG, Inc. for HVAC maintenance and repair services for two years with three one-year renewal options, not to exceed $132,930, plus a $300,000 repair service contingency. - Resolution RES-2025-028: Approved Cooperative Agreement 04-3020 with Caltrans for quality management assessment of construction activities for the Highway 101 Bicycle and Pedestrian Overcrossing project. - Resolution RES-2025-029: Authorized a $10,600,000 Regional Measure 3 grant allocation request to the Metropolitan Transportation Commission for the same overcrossing. - Resolution RES-2025-030: Authorized a $12,000,000 Active Transportation Program grant and $1,292,000 Housing Incentive Pool grant allocation request to the California Transportation Commission and Caltrans for the overcrossing. - Ordinance ORD-2025-003 (second reading): Amended Titles 10, 17, 19, 20, and 21 of the Municipal Code to streamline the Landmark Alteration Permit process and consolidate the Cultural Heritage Board and Design Review Board into a single Design Review and Preservation Board. This ordinance was introduced on February 4, 2025, by a 6-0-1-0 vote (Alvarez absent). Public Comments & Testimony - Duane De Witt (Roseland resident) spoke on consent items 14.1, 14.3, 14.5, 14.6, and 14.7, suggesting cost reductions for the Highway 101 overcrossing and expressing concerns about usage of the Armory Drive bike path. He also commented on the EPIC trash pilot, recommending Roseland school children provide artwork and noting the need for regular cleaning of solar trash cans. During non-agenda public comment (Item 15), he suggested discontinuing the Art in Public Places Committee and Community Advisory Board to cut costs, and criticized the Design Review Board's meeting on February 6, 2025, for making Roseland residents wait over two hours for a public hearing. - Drew Weigl (Design Review Board member) spoke in support of Item 14.8 (ordinance consolidation), stating he fully supports the ordinance and noted the board's positive track record of working with applicants. - Karen Squaglia (President, Valley Vista I and II Homeowner Association) advocated for urgent repair of city-maintained streets in her senior development, citing a Pavement Condition Index of 28–37 (poor condition) as a safety hazard for residents, 90.1% of whom are aged 60 or older. - Lola Johnson (Santa Rosa resident) during the final public comment period (Item 19) asked the council to consider more discretionary enforcement of leash laws at parks, after being ticketed at Franklin Park while her dog was off-leash in an empty park. Discussion Items - Proclamation – American Heart Month (Item 8.1): Council Member Rogers read the proclamation, and Shane Valentine (Community Impact Director, American Heart Association) accepted it, urging residents to learn CPR. The proclamation noted that CPR can double or triple a person's chance of survival, but only about 46% of cardiac arrest victims receive bystander CPR. - Staff Briefing – Every Piece Inspires Change (E.P.I.C.) Collaborative (Item 9.1): Nick Sudano (Senior Environmental Specialist) presented a trash pilot study along a 0.75-mile segment of Sebastopol Avenue to comply with the state's 2030 Trash Compliance Amendment, which requires preventing particles 5mm or greater from entering storm drains. The pilot will test three approaches across three segments, including increased street sweeping, four solar-powered Big Belly trash cans (holding 5–10 times more than traditional cans), and a bilingual educational campaign featuring local artwork. The pilot runs April–June 2025. Council members expressed support, with Vice Mayor Alvarez emphasizing outreach to the Roseland business community and Council Member Bañuelos noting the importance of bus stop placement. Public commenter Duane De Witt suggested involving Roseland school children in the art. - Staff Briefing – Laguna Treatment Plant Disinfection Project Update (Item 9.2): Mike Prinz (Deputy Director of Regional Water Reuse Operations) provided an update on the UV disinfection upgrade, under construction since October 2022. Key statistics: 136 concrete pours, 7,000+ cubic yards of concrete, nearly 40,000 cubic yards of excavation (3,500 truckloads), almost 3 million pounds of rebar, 175,000 labor hours, and 20–30 contractor staff on site daily. Completion was estimated around July 2025, with $55 million spent to date. The new system will restore 70 million gallons per day capacity and save over $400,000 annually in electricity costs. Council Member Rogers thanked staff for their work; public commenter Duane De Witt questioned whether the city receives revenue from water sent to the Geysers geothermal fields. - City Manager/City Attorney Reports (Item 10): City Manager Maraskeshia Smith reported that the Recreation and Parks Department's "A Start For Your Heart" free class demo day on February 15 drew 159 participants, funded by Measure M. The BlockBlast spring/summer program guide offers low- and no-cost activities for at-risk youth, funded by the Public Safety Prevention Tax. City Attorney Teresa Stricker reported no settlements over $50,000 finalized in January and approximately 30 pending litigation matters, mostly in discovery. - Mayor/Council Member Reports (Item 12): Council Member Fleming reported on the MTC Wayfinding pilot launch in Santa Rosa. Council Member Bañuelos announced the reappointment of Jeff Nathanson to the Art in Public Places Committee. Council Member Rogers expressed sorrow over recent child deaths and called for community unity and education. Mayor Stapp reported on the February 13 joint city/county meeting and noted that TPW Director Dan Hennessey was named a Forty Under 40 recipient by the North Bay Business Journal. - Chairperson Appointments (Item 12.2.1): The council approved Mayor Stapp's appointments: Jeff Nathanson (Art in Public Places), Omar Lopez (Board of Community Services), Andrea Rodriguez (Community Advisory Board), Evette Minor (Public Safety and Prevention Tax Citizens' Oversight Committee), and Lisa Maldonado (Personnel Board). Approved 5–0. - Personnel Board Appointments (Item 12.3.1): After interviews with Deanna Martin, Stacy Spector, and Erika Thibault (incumbent Luana Vaetoe was absent), the council appointed Deanna Martin and Erika Thibault to two at-large vacancies with four-year terms ending December 31, 2028. Approved 5–0. - Council Liaison Regional Positions (Item 12.4.1): The council approved Mayor Stapp's appointments: Council Member Rogers as ABAG General Assembly alternate, Council Member Bañuelos as Library Advisory Board alternate, replacement of Council Member MacDonald with staff Kelly Kuykendall as Sonoma County Homeless Coalition alternate, and Mayor Stapp as Public Financing Authority alternate. Approved 5–0. - Alternate to Renewal Enterprise District (Item 12.5.1): Council Member Rogers appointed as alternate. Approved 5–0. - Minutes Approval (Item 13): January 28, 2025, and February 4, 2025, regular meeting minutes were approved as submitted. Council Member Rogers recused from January 28 minutes (absent); Vice Mayor Alvarez recused from February 4 minutes (absent). - Report – Community Wildfire Protection Plan (CWPP) Annual Report (Item 16.1): Interim Deputy Chief Paul Lowenthal presented the fourth annual report of the CWPP, a five-year plan funded initially with $5.25 million. The report covered nine objectives and 46 action items, including vegetation management, evacuation route improvements (with a new vegetation management ordinance), public education (three successful Wildfire Ready events), structural hardening ($2.1 million in home hardening grants), and new grazing services. The council accepted the report by a 5–0 vote. Lowenthal noted that new CalFire high fire hazard severity zone maps were released the day before the meeting, and the city has 120 days to adopt them, with potential modifications to the Wildland Urban Interface (WUI) boundaries. Key Outcomes - Consent Agenda: All eight items (14.1–14.8) were approved unanimously (5–0) with the reading waived. - Chairperson and Board Appointments: Five chairperson appointments, two Personnel Board appointees (Deanna Martin and Erika Thibault), regional liaison positions, and an alternate to the Renewal Enterprise District were all approved 5–0. - Minutes: Both sets of minutes approved. - Community Wildfire Protection Plan Report: Accepted by motion 5–0. - Note: Two council members (MacDonald and Okrepkie) were absent for all votes. Vice Mayor Alvarez clarified he could vote on Item 14.8 as he viewed the prior discussion via Zoom.