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Happy Thanksgiving! We have so many things to be grateful for in Sonoma County. At the top of the list is you – our readers, neighbors and partners – who help make our community stronger every day by staying connected, informed and involved. As a reminder, most County offices will be closed Nov. 27 and 28 for the holiday.
SoCo Correspondent delivers the latest news from the County of Sonoma, twice a month, to your email inbox. Subscribe in English or Spanish and share with your friends and neighbors.
| | Sonoma County joins statewide coalition to oppose offshore drilling and deep-sea mining | | |
When federal agencies began moving quickly this year to expand offshore oil and gas drilling and advance permits for deep-sea mining, counties up and down the California coast faced a common challenge with limited opportunities for public input.
On Nov. 4, the Sonoma County Board of Supervisors voted to take a proactive stand. The Board approved a resolution opposing offshore drilling and deep seabed mining, and agreed to join a revived coalition of California coastal jurisdictions working together to protect the state’s shoreline.
The move came in response to two federal executive orders signed earlier this year – the Unleashing American Energy Act in January and the Unleashing America’s Offshore Critical Minerals and Resources order in April. Both actions encouraged expanded offshore drilling and deep-sea mining, activities that could threaten fisheries, tourism, visitor-serving industries and the broader coastal economy. Today (Nov. 20), the Trump administration put them into action, announcing plans to allow new oil and gas drilling across nearly 1.3 billion acres of U.S. coastal waters, including California.
The Board authorized $30,000 to support the Local Governments Outer Continental Shelf Coordination Program, which was formed in the 1980s and reestablished this year by Santa Cruz County. The initiative will be coordinated by longtime coastal advocate Richard Charter, a Bodega Bay resident and senior fellow with The Ocean Foundation. Participating jurisdictions receive regular briefings, coordinated advocacy with Congress and federal agencies, and science-based communication tools designed to help local governments respond quickly to emerging offshore proposals.
“Sonoma County has a long history of protecting the coast, and we will continue to fight to keep oil slicks and fossil fuel infrastructure from touching our shores,” said Board Chair Lynda Hopkins, who will represent Sonoma County on the program. “These new federal proposals threaten our environment and our economy. I’m proud to be part of a local government coalition that will stand together and fight back against offshore drilling.”
| | New real-time bus tracking system coming to Sonoma County Transit in 2026 | | |
As they wait, Sonoma County Transit riders will soon be able to track the location of their approaching bus in real time, the result of a new technology upgrade approved by the Board of Supervisors this month. The Intelligent Transportation System will replace the County’s decade-old bus tracking and dispatch equipment, which has become increasingly unreliable.
For riders, the biggest change will be access to interactive tools that show exactly when a bus will arrive based on live GPS data, not just the printed schedule. Riders will be able to check their bus using online maps, see accurate arrival times, and make connections with greater confidence. The system will also provide automatic stop announcements, improving accessibility for all passengers.
“This is a great example of how thoughtful technology upgrades can improve everyday life while delivering long-term cost savings,” said Supervisor Lynda Hopkins, chair of the Board of Supervisors. “This investment will make our transit system more predictable, more accessible, and ultimately more useful by giving the public real-time tools to plan their day with confidence.”
The technology, developed by GMV Syncromatics, is already used by Santa Rosa CityBus and Petaluma Transit. By joining the same platform, Sonoma County Transit will help create a unified, seamless travel experience for people moving across different transit systems within the county.
Behind the scenes, the upgrade will make daily operations more efficient. Staff will gain better tools to monitor on-time performance, streamline dispatching and use detailed stop-level ridership data to adjust service based on community needs.
Acquisition and installation of the new system will cost nearly $895,000, funded by the state, with an annual service fee of $48,765. By replacing the County’s outdated and repair-heavy equipment, Sonoma County Transit expects to save nearly $59,000 each year in reduced operating and repair costs.
Installation is expected to begin in early 2026, with full rollout by April 15.
| | Sonoma County prepares for updates to building codes | | |
Every three years, California updates the statewide set of rules that govern how buildings are designed, constructed and maintained for safety. Local jurisdictions – such as the County of Sonoma – may add stricter rules when justified by local conditions such as climate, geography or wildfire risk.
On Nov. 4, the Sonoma County Board of Supervisors advanced a set of ordinances that would implement the state’s new Building Standards Code with targeted local amendments for construction projects in unincorporated areas of the county. The Board will hold a public hearing on Dec. 9 to consider final adoption.
The statewide updates would increase standards for fire-resistant construction in high-risk wildfire zones, require all-electric heat pump systems for space and water heating, and set new mandates for EV chargers, construction waste diversion and wiring for electric appliances in new buildings. These updates aim to make homes safer, healthier and more energy-efficient across California.
Sonoma County’s proposed amendments focus on clarity, safety and consistency. They would continue long-standing standards such as Class A fire-resistant roofs, maintain options like non-flush toilets in limited situations, clarify how septic standards are approved and restore a tool that lets property owners lock in the rules that apply to their septic system projects. The amendments also align with the new uniform fire code language developed this year by the County Fire Marshal, cities and local fire districts to standardize wildfire protections across the county.
To help residents and design professionals navigate these changes, Permit Sonoma will host a Zoom session on Dec. 18 at noon. Staff will provide a brief overview of the new codes and be available to answer questions.
| | Orr named director of Permit Sonoma | | |
When Scott Orr first walked through the doors of Permit Sonoma nearly a decade ago, he was an entry-level planner. This month, he was picked to lead the department, which helps guide how Sonoma County grows while safeguarding what makes our region special.
Orr has served as interim director since July, when longtime leader Tennis Wick announced his retirement. With deep experience in local planning and permitting, Orr has played a key role in many of the major projects defining Sonoma County’s future. He was recently elected vice president of the California County Planning Directors Association, a testament to the respect he has earned from peers throughout the state.
“Scott has the knowledge and the temperament to lead Permit Sonoma into the future,” said County Executive M. Christina Rivera. “He is deeply familiar with the nuances of the planning and permitting world, and he knows all of the major projects that Permit Sonoma has undertaken.”
Permit Sonoma is the County's consolidated land use planning and development permitting agency. Virtually any land development or construction in the unincorporated area of Sonoma County is reviewed, permitted and inspected by Permit Sonoma. The department plays a major role in how communities evolve and how the County protects people, property and natural resources. By consolidating planning, code enforcement, engineering, fire prevention, environmental review and natural resource expertise under one roof, Permit Sonoma helps ensure that development is safe, responsible and aligned with the County’s long-range goals.
| | Two Sonoma County Probation employees honored for excellence in juvenile justice | | |
Roman Jordan, left, and Scott Isaac.
Two longtime mentors in the Sonoma County Probation Department have been recognized with statewide awards for their exceptional service and innovative work in juvenile justice.
Roman Jordan was named Bay Region Line Staff of the Year for his more than 25 years of service at Sonoma County Juvenile Hall. Known for his calm presence and steady guidance, the juvenile correctional counselor has helped shape a culture of professionalism and care within the facility. Jordan now shares his experience as an instructor in the department’s New Employee Orientation program.
“Roman’s fingerprints are everywhere in our building,” said Supervisor Jon Koepp. “His influence will be felt for generations of staff and youth to come.”
Like Jordan, Scott Isaac has made a lasting mark through creativity and dedication. The juvenile correctional counselor received the prestigious Jerry Darling Award for his work revitalizing the department’s garden program. Isaac helped create an aquaponics program that teaches residents how to grow plants using recycled water and fish-based nutrient systems, providing lessons in science, sustainability and self-reliance.
“Scott embodies the spirit of the Jerry Darling Award,” said Supervisor Jason Bowman. “He combines professional skill with a deep passion for helping young people see new possibilities for themselves and the world around them.”
The annual awards, issued by the California Association of Probation Institution Administrators, recognize individuals who demonstrate leadership, creativity and commitment to youth rehabilitation.
| | Six Sonoma County sheriff’s deputies honored with Medal of Valor for courage under fire | | |
Six Sonoma County sheriff’s deputies have received the California State Sheriffs’ Association Medal of Valor, one of the highest honors in California law enforcement, recognizing extraordinary bravery in the face of imminent danger. The award honors Deputies Joseph Nouguier, Giulia Geary, Jeannine Yebra, Karl Huey, Keegan Cutting and James Blount for their actions during a 2024 shootout outside a nightclub in unincorporated southwest Santa Rosa.
Shortly after midnight on March 4, deputies responded to calls for help from a restaurant and nightclub at Todd and Stony Point roads. As they reached the scene, a gunman opened fire with an AK-47-style rifle. When the deputies returned fire with their handguns, the gunman tried to drive away. The pursuit ended when the suspect intentionally crashed into a deputy’s patrol car, dying in the collision. Four deputies were injured, one critically.
“The Medal of Valor is awarded to peace officers who display conspicuous bravery or heroism above and beyond the call of duty,” said Sheriff Eddie Engram. “All six deputies exemplified the highest ideals of service and sacrifice, risking their own lives to protect one another and the community. We commend them for their courage, professionalism and steadfast commitment to keeping Sonoma County safe.”
| | Survey highlights gaps, opportunities in services for local immigrants | | |
The stories that emerged from more than 1,000 surveys paint a clear picture: immigrants across Sonoma County are facing steep barriers to housing, legal support and a sense of belonging. These findings, contained in a report issued to the Board of Supervisors on Nov. 4, identified urgent gaps in services and offered data-driven recommendations to guide future investment and planning.
The state-funded Local Immigrant Integration and Inclusion Grant survey reached 1,012 individuals and 70 organizations, representing voices from Mexico, Haiti, China, Central America and many other communities. Two-thirds of respondents were women, and more than a third reported annual household incomes under $30,000, underscoring the economic pressures facing many local families.
The results were striking. Affordable housing surfaced as the most significant need, cited by 33 percent of respondents. Residents also described long waitlists for immigration legal services, gaps in culturally responsive mental health support, limited workforce development opportunities and challenges navigating County systems. Geographic disparities persisted as well, with lower access to services in Sonoma Valley, west Sonoma County and coastal communities.
The report emerged from a partnership between the Sonoma County Economic Development Collaborative, the County Executive’s Office, the Secure Families Collaborative and United Way of the Wine Country. It outlines 10 recommendations, including expanding help for residents searching for affordable homes, increasing language support so people can get services in the languages they speak, strengthening immigration legal services and creating a campaign to promote Sonoma County as a welcoming place for immigrants.
“These findings make it clear that we have more work to do,” said Supervisor Lynda Hopkins, chair of the Board of Supervisors. “When people face barriers to housing, legal help or basic information, it affects the well-being of our entire community.”
| | County-backed initiative strengthens support for immigrant families | | |
On any given week this summer, community rooms, kitchens, classrooms and living rooms across Sonoma County were filled with immigrants learning about their legal rights, connecting with trusted local organizations and preparing plans to keep their families organized and safe if someone is detained or unable to return home.
These gatherings are just one result of the County’s investment in the Secure Families Collaborative, a Santa Rosa nonprofit that helps local immigrants access legal and social services. The Board of Supervisors, which established the collaborative in 2018 to respond to community needs arising from changes in federal immigration policy and North Bay wildfires, approved a $500,000 grant in February to help the organization support residents navigating fast-changing federal immigration policies.
On Nov. 4, the Board received an early progress report on the yearlong partnership. Since the grant launched in June, the Secure Families Collaborative and its network of six community-based partners have reached thousands of people with clear, reliable information about legal and social services. In the first three months alone, they delivered Know Your Rights presentations to 1,447 individuals; helped 187 families create preparedness plans; provided follow-up health and equity support to 80 residents; and connected dozens of households with legal referrals, social services and other assistance they might not otherwise have found.
Partners continue to face real challenges, including community fear, rapid shifts in federal immigration enforcement and a shortage of immigration attorneys. Even so, the County’s investment is helping smaller organizations grow their capacity through shared training, collaborative planning and technical support, actions that will strengthen the local safety net well beyond the life of the grant.
| | Faces of Sonoma County: Meet Devon Paulding | | This is part of an ongoing series of profiles highlighting public servants across a variety of departments at the County of Sonoma. | | |
Name: Devon Paulding
Title: Juvenile Correctional Counselor, Sonoma County Probation Department
Years with County: 20
Personal side: My family is everything. I’ve been happily married since 1998. My wife and I raised our two boys as a couple of beach bums. They are now 23 and 26, but we still get out to the coast every chance we have as a family to this day.
Education and/or certifications: The school of life is the only education I had when I was hired. I was fortunate to be given the opportunity to start a career that would allow a young husband and father to provide for his family. Not having a college degree does allow me to connect with some of the youth I work with, which was an unexpected plus. Not all life success is linear; sometimes a non-traditional route can be just as rewarding.
What do you do? I work as a Correctional Counselor at Juvenile Hall. It is a safe and secure place to house youth who have been accused or convicted of a crime. On any given day, more than 55 young people between the ages of 12 and 25 are held in our facility, which is located in the Sonoma Valley across from Oakmont. Some youth stay here as short as a day, others are serving sentences for up to seven years. Every single one is assessed for their needs and risks, which allows us to provide them with individualized programming designed to help them reenter our community successfully upon release.
First and foremost, correctional counselors are responsible for the safety and security of the residents. We are also role models, social workers, advocates, parental figures, case workers, referees and life coaches. Staff is responsible for the day-to-day grind as well. We make sure the residents are fed and their personal hygiene needs are met. We make sure the youth are keeping up with their school credits, ranging from middle school to college. I am using “we” when describing these tasks because it literally takes a village. We are a team, from our administrators, line staff and kitchen staff to workers with the Health and Human Services departments, the Sonoma County Office of Education, and local community-based organizations. None of us would be successful without the others.
What gives you fulfillment? The one aspect of the job that gives me a personal sense of fulfillment is running into a former resident of Juvenile Hall in the community and hearing their success story. Whether it's graduating college or holding a job and being clean and sober, the small wins keep me coming back.
What is one of the biggest misconceptions about Juvenile Hall? One of the biggest misconceptions is that these youth are all unredeemable, that we just hold them and release them into the community no better than when they came in. The actual truth is that we all do our best to guide and support these youth. Our intent is to help them become a better version of themselves.
Passions outside of work? Since I’m an old guy, trying to stay physically fit is a big part of my life outside of work. Whether it’s weight training or running or martial arts, I stay moving as much as possible. And I love cooking. I’ve really leveled up my culinary skills over the past few years, and I’m debating culinary school after retiring.
| | New pickleball, tennis courts at your service in Occidental | | |
Tennis and pickleball players have a fresh place to play in west Sonoma County. The sport courts at the Occidental Community Center were resurfaced this summer to create one tennis court and four dedicated pickleball courts, transforming them into a beautiful new space for residents to gather and play together.
The lighted courts are open daily from 8 a.m. to 9 p.m. for first-come, first-served play. The project was made possible by community-led fundraising, support from the Sonoma County Parks Foundation, and the Parks for All – Measure M sales tax.
The upgrades come as pickleball’s popularity continues to soar nationwide. More than 13 million people now play pickleball across the United States, a 223 percent increase in just four years. Sonoma County Regional Parks is helping meet that growing demand by creating safe, high-quality facilities close to home. In addition to the new courts in Occidental, Regional Parks operates tennis and pickleball courts at parks across the county. Check them out at SoCoParks.org/FindAPark.
| | Get creative and shop local this holiday season | | |
Sonoma County is home to a vibrant community of artists, craftspeople, creative businesses and cultural organizations whose work shapes the character of our region. Creative Sonoma, a division of the County’s Economic Development Collaborative, invites residents to make this holiday season uniquely local by exploring the many ways you can support the arts while finding a meaningful gift. It offers the following suggestions:
Attend a local craft fair or holiday event: Open studios, maker markets and seasonal performances are happening across the county. Creative Sonoma has compiled a rich list of holiday events on its Creative Calendar, and GoLocal offers an additional roundup of craft fairs featuring local artisans. It’s an easy way to discover new artists and spend a festive day close to home.
Give a gift that lasts all year: Memberships to local museums and galleries, or tickets to a play, concert or dance performance, offer unforgettable experiences long after the holiday lights come down. These gifts support hardworking cultural organizations and help keep Sonoma County’s creative scene thriving.
Give the gift of arts learning: From ceramics and printmaking to music and movement, local arts organizations offer classes and workshops for adults and youth alike. Signing up a loved one – or yourself – is a memorable way to nurture creativity, build new skills and stay inspired into the new year.
And don’t forget to check out Trellus, which expanded to Sonoma County this month. The new local-first online marketplace and same-day delivery service is designed to help small businesses succeed during the busy holiday season and beyond. Local businesses can join here.
| | Join the conversation at SoCo Chat | | |
Matt Brown, left, the County's supervising communications specialist, speaks with Allison Goodwin, CEO of Redwood Empire Food Bank, during a recording of SoCo Chat.
Thousands of Sonoma County families rely on CalFresh to put food on the table, but the recent federal government shutdown temporarily eliminated that safety net. When federal funding stops, hunger doesn’t. Allison Goodwin, CEO of Redwood Empire Food Bank, stopped by SoCo Chat recently to share how her team is stepping up to meet the surge in need – and what each of us can do to help make sure no one in our community goes hungry.
Subscribe to SoCo Chat on Spotify, Apple Music, Amazon Music and YouTube, and check out our growing library of episodes in both English and Spanish (Descubre nuestra creciente selección de episodios en inglés y español). Recent guests and topics of discussion have included:
- Federal budget cuts could have significant impacts in Sonoma County, affecting everything from housing and health care to infrastructure and social services. Deputy County Administrator Peter Bruland explains what’s at stake – and why the County may face some tough choices in the future.
- Open Doors is a new initiative that will make it easier than ever for people to get help with food, housing, child care and much more. It’s based on a simple concept: It shouldn’t matter which door you knock on first, whether it’s a County agency or one of the hundreds of local nonprofits that are joining in this effort. Every door should be open, and every door should take you to the services you need. Angela Struckmann, director of the Sonoma County Human Services Department, explains how Open Doors works and why it could transform the way people connect with services in our community.
- Sonoma County’s Family Justice Center empowers victims to live free from domestic violence and abuse. It is a model of collaboration, uniting government, law enforcement agencies and nonprofits to deliver comprehensive services to victims through a single point of access. Marsha Lucien, its executive director, explains how the Santa Rosa agency protects the vulnerable, stops violence and restores hope.
- For more than 40 years, La Luz Center has helped Latino families in the Sonoma Valley attain their dreams by connecting them to education, health care and economic opportunity. Leonardo Lobato, executive director of the Sonoma nonprofit, describes the challenges these local families are facing every day – and how La Luz is evolving to help them thrive.
| | Find room to grow with a County job | | |
The County currently has more than 40 job openings posted on its website. How can you improve your chances of landing one?
Sign up for the next Start Here! class, which provides an overview of the County of Sonoma’s job application, examination and selection processes. The next two-hour class will be held Dec. 4 at 5:30 p.m. on Zoom.
The free class is intended for the public, whether you are looking for a new position now or planning for a future employment opportunity. Participants will learn how to submit a thorough application, best practices for the interview and examination, and much more.
Contact us at careers@sonoma-county.org to register for the Dec. 4 class or sign up for our mailing list to be notified of future classes.
| | Adopt the pet of the week | | |
My name is Loki. I’m a 2-year-old Alaskan husky and pit bull terrier mix who was brought to the shelter in May. I’m playful, curious and always up for a walk or a cuddle. Will you bring me into your family?
Loki is one of dozens of cats, dogs, rabbits and other animals at Sonoma County Animal Services in need of adoption.
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