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.

Five years after voters approved Measure O, access to mental health care, substance use treatment and homelessness services has expanded in Sonoma County, according to a new report detailing how those investments are reaching residents in need.

Approved by 68 percent of voters in November 2020, Measure O created a quarter-cent sales tax to strengthen behavioral health and homelessness services. Now nearing the midpoint of its 10-year term, the measure is supporting a more coordinated system of care that reaches residents earlier, responds more effectively in crisis, and connects more people to treatment and housing.

 “Measure O reflects this community’s decision to invest in care, stability and dignity for our most vulnerable residents,” said Supervisor Rebecca Hermosillo, chair of the Sonoma County Board of Supervisors. “Five years into this effort, we are seeing tangible results: more people are getting help when and where they need it, and we are building a stronger, more responsive system of care.”

The latest annual report shows Measure O generated $33.1 million in fiscal year 2024-2025, helping fund services across crisis response, treatment and housing. The report highlights measurable results, including:

• Mobile crisis teams responded to more than 22,000 calls across Sonoma County. Most were resolved without law enforcement involvement, shifting behavioral health response away from emergency rooms and police.
• The Sonoma County Healing Center, a short-term inpatient facility for people experiencing psychiatric emergencies, provided care to more than 200 residents. The program helps individuals stabilize locally and stay connected to family, support systems and follow-up care.
• The County’s Crisis Stabilization Unit served more than 650 people experiencing mental health emergencies, providing rapid assessment and short-term care to help stabilize individuals and connect them to appropriate treatment.
• School-based mental health services returned to 16 high school campuses, ending a six-year pause. The program connected 109 students to care and responded to 33 on-campus crises.
• Expanded outreach and care coordination programs helped people move from encampments into shelter and permanent housing while providing ongoing support to help them stay housed.

The Measure O Annual Report was presented Tuesday to the Board of Supervisors. It is available online in English and Spanish.

This map displays roads targeted for repair work. View it on the County’s website.

The County is refocusing its efforts to fix deteriorating roads in unincorporated areas, prioritizing roads that serve the most residents while maintaining key travel corridors before they require costly repairs.

The changes to the County’s $35 million Pavement Preservation Program were approved March 10 by the Board of Supervisors. The updated project list now targets 42 roads for maintenance or repair work, up from 40 roads in the original plan. Sonoma County Public Infrastructure selected the projects based on factors such as pavement condition, traffic levels, bus and bike routes, and proximity to public safety facilities. The program also emphasizes early pavement repairs to make maintenance more cost-effective.

The changes increase the number of roads rated “very poor” on the pavement condition index from 24 to 26, directing more attention to streets in the worst condition. Six of the roads prioritized for repair or maintenance work are along existing bus routes and 13 are included in the County’s Bicycle and Pedestrian Plan, helping improve connections for transit riders and cyclists.

In total, the two-year program will repair or preserve 39.5 miles of County roads in unincorporated areas. The updated plan adjusts which streets will be repaired while keeping the same funding approved by the Board last June.

“This plan helps us focus our limited resources where they’ll benefit the most residents while fixing roads before they fall into even worse condition,” said Supervisor Rebecca Hermosillo, chair of the Board of Supervisors. “Sonoma County already commits more discretionary funding to road repairs than any other county in California, and this update demonstrates our commitment to maintaining the infrastructure our communities depend on.”

Sonoma County residents agreed to tax themselves in 2018 to invest in local parks. That decision is paying dividends across the county, from new trails and restored habitats to youth programs and safer, more accessible spaces.

A new report documents the impact of Measure M – Parks for All, the one-eighth-cent sales tax that is now more than halfway through its 10-year term. The tax generated nearly $15 million last year for park improvements, maintenance and environmental protection. Revenues are shared across the county, with two-thirds supporting Sonoma County Regional Parks and one-third distributed to cities.

Those investments are visible in every corner of the county, from the creation of Monte Rio Redwoods Regional Park to new trails at Taylor and Hood mountains in Santa Rosa and improvements at Helen Putnam Regional Park in Petaluma. Measure M has also helped fund major renovations of Maxwell Farms and Larson parks in the Sonoma Valley and the rebuilding of Foothill Regional Park in Windsor after the Kincade Fire.

By pairing local funding with outside grants, the County and its partners are multiplying the impact of each dollar. The tax revenue has added restrooms, bolstered park maintenance, reduced wildfire risk, protected wildlife and waterways and expanded community programs that connect residents to nature through field trips, bilingual outreach, youth internships and senior outings.

“Measure M continues to deliver on its commitment to care for and improve our parks,” said Supervisor Lynda Hopkins, who served as chair of the Board of Supervisors during the period covered by the annual report. “These local dollars help us keep parks safe and welcoming, restore natural areas and leverage additional state and federal grants to stretch every investment even further.”

The tax, which has generated nearly $70 million for park improvements since its inception, is set to expire in 2029. Details of how the funds are being spent are available in the Measure M – Parks for All annual report, published in English and Spanish.

At Spud Point Marina, ice is essential to keeping fish fresh as it moves from boat to processors, grocery stores and restaurant tables. When the aging icehouse breaks down, Bodega Bay fishing crews must truck in ice from far away, adding cost, delays and risk during short and unpredictable fishing seasons.

Now, Sonoma County Regional Parks is moving forward with long-planned upgrades to the County-owned marina, backed by a $1.5 million grant from the California State Coastal Conservancy and additional federal and state funding.

The Spud Point icehouse is the only bulk ice production facility between San Francisco and Fort Bragg, serving about 250 commercial vessels, charter operators and recreational fishers. When it goes offline, disruptions during limited fishing windows can carry significant economic consequences for fishing crews and the businesses that rely on fresh seafood.

The $2.8 million project will replace outdated refrigeration systems with modern, energy-efficient equipment, improving reliability while reducing operating costs and greenhouse gas emissions. Regional Parks will coordinate design and construction to avoid disrupting marina operations while continuing to engage local partners and the fishing community.

“Bodega Bay’s working waterfront depends on reliable infrastructure,” said District 5 Supervisor Lynda Hopkins, who represents the Sonoma Coast. “Investments like this help ensure the commercial fleet, charter operators and local businesses can continue supporting the community that depends on this harbor.”

Increased airline service at the Charles M. Schulz–Sonoma County Airport is driving a major reconstruction project to modernize the airfield and expand parking space for commercial jets.

The Board of Supervisors approved a $6.3 million contract with Granite Construction on March 10 to start the second phase of a project to rebuild Apron C. The apron – the area where aircraft park, board passengers, load luggage and refuel – was built in the early 1960s, when the airport handled far fewer commercial flights.

Since then, airline activity has grown significantly. A third of the apron was rebuilt in 2015, enough to accommodate air service needs at the time, with the remaining pavement slated for renewal as service expanded. The project will rehabilitate the apron and expand aircraft parking from four commercial jets to six. Workers will also install electrical systems for ground power units, lighting and a new security fence.

The improvements will enhance safety and reliability while allowing the airport to accommodate more commercial planes. Most of the project will be funded through grants from the Federal Aviation Administration, with the local match paid through airport revenues.

“The airport is an important gateway for our community,” said Supervisor Rebecca Hermosillo, chair of the Board of Supervisors. “Rebuilding and expanding this apron will allow the airport to safely accommodate more aircraft and keep operations running smoothly. It’s a practical investment that supports our local economy, welcomes tourists, and makes travel more accessible for Sonoma County residents.”

Charles M. Schulz–Sonoma County Airport offers direct flights to 11 destinations served by Alaska Airlines and American Airlines. Southwest Airlines will begin service at the airport in April, offering nonstop flights to San Diego, Las Vegas, Burbank, Denver and Austin.

As Sonoma County moves forward with plans to create a memorial honoring those lost in the 2017 wildfires, residents are invited to meet the artist who will help bring that vision to life.

Creative Sonoma will host a Zoom webinar with Cliff Garten at 7 p.m. March 30, offering the community an early look at the thoughtful process behind the Fire Memorial at Nagasawa Community Park.

Garten will share examples of his past work and describe how he listens to communities and translates shared experiences into meaningful places for reflection. He will be joined by Karin Demarest, project manager for the Fire Memorial, for a conversation about how community voices will help shape the memorial’s design. The one-hour webinar will conclude with an opportunity for attendees to ask questions and engage directly in the process.

The memorial is envisioned as a space for remembrance, healing and resilience, grounded in the lived experiences of those most affected by the 2017 fires. This event offers residents a chance to learn how that vision will take shape – and how their voices can help guide it.

The FBI is warning of a nationwide phishing scam targeting people and businesses with active planning or zoning permit applications. Criminals are impersonating county and city officials by using public information – such as property addresses and permit application numbers – to send convincing demands for payment.

These messages may include fake invoices and request immediate payment through wire transfers, peer-to-peer platforms or cryptocurrency, often warning that delays could affect permit approval.

Permit Sonoma urges applicants to verify any payment request by contacting the County directly at (707) 565-1900. Do not assume an email is legitimate based on letterhead, logos, or official names.

At least one suspected case has been identified in Sonoma County, and officials caution there may be others that have not yet been reported. Suspected fraud should be reported to PermitSonoma@sonomacounty.gov and the FBI’s Internet Crime Complaint Center at www.ic3.gov.

Visitors and employees at the Sonoma County Administration Center now have a new way to get around town.

Redwood Bikeshare, a regional electric bike-share system serving Sonoma and Marin counties, has added several drop zones across the County campus in north Santa Rosa. Riders can now start or end trips at bike racks located at five County facilities: the Human Services Building at 2550 Paulin Drive; Permit Sonoma at 2550 Ventura Ave.; the County Clerk-Recorder at 585 Fiscal Drive; the Human Resources Building at 575 Administration Drive; and the Sonoma County Hall of Justice at 600 Administration Drive.

The pedal-assist e-bikes can be picked up at hubs across Santa Rosa – including the SMART Downtown Santa Rosa and Santa Rosa North stations – and ridden to the County campus. Riders simply park the bike at a designated rack to end their trip.

To encourage people to give the service a try, Redwood Bikeshare is offering three free 30-minute rides. Download the app at RedwoodBikeshare.com, create an account and use the code RIDEREDWOOD.

Michelle Whitman, executive director of the Sonoma County Community Development Commission, is being recognized for her work to strengthen communities across the region by expanding access to housing.

Whitman received the Leadership in Government award from the North Bay Leadership Council on Tuesday as part of its 2026 Leaders of the North Bay honors, which celebrate innovation, collaboration and public service. The award recognizes local government leaders who work to cut through red tape, eliminate barriers to economic growth, enhance efficiency and improve the local business climate.

The Community Development Commission works to expand affordable housing, invest in community development projects and administer programs that subsidize rents for 5,785 low-income residents in Sonoma County. Whitman has served as executive director of the County agency since 2023, leading its efforts to create thriving, inclusive neighborhoods by opening doors to permanent housing and opportunity.

“This recognition reflects the work of our entire team and our partners,” Whitman said. “Affordable housing is the foundation for everything else in a person’s life – health, education, employment and stability. When people have a safe, stable place to live, they are better able to work, care for their families and contribute to their communities. That’s why expanding access to housing is so critical to the long-term well-being of Sonoma County.”

Matt Brown, left, supervising communications specialist in the County Executive’s Office, speaks with Rebecca Hermosillo, chair of the Board of Supervisors, during a new episode of SoCo Chat.

In January, Rebecca Hermosillo wrapped up her first year on the Sonoma County Board of Supervisors and stepped into a new role as Chair of the Board. In a new episode of SoCo Chat, Hermosillo reflects on lessons from her first year in office and outlines her priorities for the year ahead. Join us as we explore her views on some of the big decisions facing the County, from budget challenges and road repairs to expanding support for mental health services and local immigrants.

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:

• When a young person enters the juvenile justice system, what happens next can shape their future. Vista Academy, a partnership between Circuit Rider Community Services and Sonoma County Probation, provides a structured alternative to juvenile hall. Circuit Rider CEO Rob Izzo explains how the program works to reduce re-arrest rates, prevent gang involvement, and help young people build skills, confidence, and stronger decision-making habits.
• Respiratory virus season is here in Sonoma County. Dr. Michael Stacey, the county’s new interim health officer, breaks down the latest trends with COVID-19, flu and RSV and shares some practical tips to stay healthy. We clear up confusion around new federal vaccine guidance for children, share where to find reliable health information, and dig into a concerning spike in toxic mushroom poisonings.
• Need a puppy? The Sonoma County Animal Shelter has lots of them – and would love to send one home with you. Shelter Supervisor Emma Diemert shares some practical tips for adopting and offers guidance on how you can keep your animals safe over winter. Plus, learn how fostering a pet can make a big difference without a full-time commitment.

How can the County help young people stay safe from drugs and alcohol? The Sonoma County Department of Health Services is asking residents to share their perspectives in a new survey that will guide future investments in prevention, education and support for youth and families.

The Community Needs Assessment asks participants about concerns they see in their communities, factors that may contribute to youth substance use, and barriers that can make it harder to access help. Your feedback will help local leaders better understand community needs and identify opportunities to strengthen prevention efforts across Sonoma County.

Young people, parents, caregivers, educators and service providers are all encouraged to participate. The anonymous survey is available in English and Spanish, and takes only a few minutes to complete. Responses will be accepted through April 6.

When Sonoma County Probation staff donned shark costumes and plunged into the chilly water at Doran Beach earlier this month, they did it for a good cause.

The Probation Department joined the March 7 Polar Plunge to raise money and awareness for Special Olympics Northern California, which organizes sports competitions and provides free year-round training programs for children and adults with intellectual disabilities.

The department, along with the Sonoma County Sheriff’s Office and District Attorney’s Office, is a longtime supporter of Special Olympics. The three County agencies also participate in the annual Law Enforcement Torch Run, Special Olympics' largest grassroots fundraising and awareness campaign. Every June, thousands of law enforcement personnel carry the Special Olympics torch – the “Flame of Hope” – through counties across Northern California, culminating at the opening ceremonies of the Summer Games.

Last year, Sonoma County Probation raised $7,700 for Special Olympics, ranking third among law enforcement agencies across 43 Northern California counties. Special Olympics Northern California recognized the department last week with a plaque honoring its fundraising achievements.

“This effort reflects the heart of our department,” said Vanessa Fuchs, the County’s Chief Probation Officer. “Our staff always shows up with energy and purpose, whether they are raising money for Special Olympics or another cause or working to keep our community safe. We’re proud to stand alongside the Sheriff’s Office and District Attorney’s Office to support some incredible athletes who inspire us every day.”

As the days grow longer and gardens across Sonoma County begin to wake up, the UC Master Gardener Program of Sonoma County is a great resource to help residents make the most of the spring planting season.

Trained volunteers are ready to share research-based information to help you grow healthy plants, conserve water and garden in ways that support the environment. Their guidance is available through a variety of free services, including public workshops, library talks, demonstration gardens, monthly gardening tips and a help desk where residents can ask questions by phone, email or in person.

Throughout the year, Master Gardeners host classes across the county on topics such as seed starting, pruning, drip irrigation, climate-resilient landscaping and gardening for wildlife. Volunteers also maintain demonstration spaces like the Los Guilicos Demonstration and Teaching Garden, where visitors can see sustainable gardening practices in action.

The program publishes a monthly newsletter filled with seasonal advice, upcoming events and practical gardening guidance. The March issue, for example, offers reminders on planting spring flowers, managing pests and preparing soil for the growing season.

Whether you’re planting your first vegetable bed or maintaining a mature landscape, the UC Master Gardener Program is available to help. The program is part of the local UC Cooperative Extension office, which is funded by the County and the University of California to provide research-based solutions that support agriculture, natural resources, youth development and healthy living across Sonoma County.

Planning a festival, fundraiser or community gathering in Sonoma County is about to get easier and more predictable.

In December, the Board of Supervisors approved updates to the County’s zoning code that clarify the permit process for special events in unincorporated areas. The changes make it easier for organizers to plan events while maintaining standards that protect public safety and neighborhood quality of life. Many of the updates formalize existing County practices, while introducing a few new standards to improve clarity and consistency.

Special events – ranging from one-time celebrations to recurring gatherings – often use public spaces like streets and sidewalks. Others take place on private property but include activities that go beyond typical zoning allowances. While special events are allowed in all zoning districts, the updates make the review and approval process more predictable.

The updated ordinance will take effect June 9. Periodic special events will generally be capped at 2,500 attendees, though events spanning both private property and public right-of-way are exempt from that limit. Events held 30 or more days apart will require separate permits. Periodic special events may occur up to four times within a two-year period. Neighbors will continue to receive courtesy notices after permits are issued.

One of the biggest changes is behind the scenes: most special events in unincorporated Sonoma County will now go through a single, consolidated permit process. Some elements, like food service or temporary structures, may still require additional approvals. The changes create a clearer, more predictable path for applicants while still allowing County staff to review each event for safety and community impact.

“Special events bring energy and vibrancy to our communities, but they also affect people who live nearby,” said Supervisor Rebecca Hermosillo, chair of the Board of Supervisors. “These updates strike the right balance by making it easier to gather and celebrate while continuing to safeguard neighborhoods and prioritize public safety.”

The County currently has more than 30 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 April 7 at 2 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@sonomacounty.gov to register for the April 7 class or sign up for our mailing list to be notified of future classes.

My name is Ginny. I’m a 2 ½-year-old German Shepherd mix who was brought to the shelter in October. I was just 50 pounds when I was found as a stray, but I’ve been thriving in foster care and gained 11 pounds. I’m housebroken and a true cuddle bug who loves pets, snuggles and giving kisses. I’m still learning about the world and can be startled by loud noises or sudden movements, but I’m making progress every day. Will you bring me into your family?

Ginny is one of dozens of cats, dogs, rabbits and other animals at Sonoma County Animal Services in need of adoption.

Animal Services helps match pets and families through an adoption process designed to support your lifestyle and the animal’s needs. Shelter staff are ready to assist with applications, answer questions and share details about each animal’s health, temperament and care. All animals adopted through the shelter go home spayed or neutered, microchipped and up to date on vaccinations, giving your new companion the healthiest start possible in your forever home.

Government is only as good as the people who step forward to serve. There are many opportunities available now to support the community by serving on County boards, commissions and committees. Here are just three examples:

• The Behavioral Health Board provides recommendations to the Board of Supervisors and the Behavioral Health Division on community needs, services and policies. 
• The Child Care Planning Council fosters countywide coordination to support a unified system of quality child care and early education services.
• The Independent Citizens’ Pension Committee provides recommendations to help ensure a fair, equitable and sustainable pension system for County employees.

Check out the full list of current vacancies and discover how you can help shape the future of Sonoma County.

Volunteer opportunities

Make a difference in your community. Find out how you can give back here.

Employment opportunities

Take your next career step with the County of Sonoma. Explore employment opportunities here.

(stories may require subscriptions)

• Mental health and homelessness services expand in Sonoma County under Measure O (March 25)
• New Sonoma County plan outlines emergency response to federal immigration actions (March 23)
• Parking controversy around Bodega Bay preserve defused by pivot to proposed solutions (March 20)
• Sonoma County airport releases February passenger figures as it prepares for Southwest's arrival (March 20)
• Applications open for long-awaited Roseland apartments as work on plaza, community space continues (March 18)
• Sonoma County airport welcomes Alaska Airlines’ flight to Ontario (March 18)
• Security screeners at Sonoma County airport unaffected by government shutdown (March 17)
• What happens when officers walk away: Rise of unenforced psychiatric holds in Sonoma County troubles families, mental health care advocates (March 14)
• County investment brings critical funding to Rohnert Park (March 13)

Upcoming meetings and events

March 26        Coast Municipal Advisory Council

March 31        Farmworkers Day (most County offices closed)

April 1             Parks and Recreation Advisory Commission

April 2             Planning Commission

April 7             Board of Supervisors

April 8             Mark West Area Municipal Advisory Council

April 8             IOLERO Community Advisory Council

April 9             Commission on the Status of Women

April 14           Board of Supervisors

April 15           Community Development Committee

April 15           Aging & Disability Commission

April 15           Fire Memorial Task Force

April 16           Homeless Coalition Quarterly Membership Meeting

April 16           Planning Commission

April 16           Dry Creek Valley Citizens Advisory Council

April 16           Fish and Wildlife Commission

Getting outside and enjoying the county

April 3             Rainbow Hike for LGBTQIA2S+ people – Foothill Regional Park

April 4             Volunteer: Shoreline Sweep – Riverfront Regional Park

April 4             Park Preview – Mark West Creek Regional Park and Preserve

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A publication of the County Executive Office – Communications Staff