Click here for the Spanish version
| | | | |
Dear Friends,
So much of what we do locally is shaped by decisions made at the Federal or State level. I am often reminded that while much of the work to strengthen our community happens locally, the decisions currently being made at the federal level have very real detrimental impacts right here in our community. Whether it’s unfunded mandates that strain our county budget, shifting federal policies that disrupt critical programs, federal funds delayed or canceled outright and then requiring us to break state laws in order to receive those funds. It all creates so much uncertainty for County residents and local agencies, and our community is left bearing the burden of decisions made far from Sonoma County. I want to reassure you that my focus remains on continuing to govern our county and protecting our core values.
Two weeks ago, I suggested forming an immigrant support ad hoc and serve on that ad hoc committee with my colleague, Chair Lynda Hopkins. I look forward to the work product that will come out of this ad hoc, that is not just a statement of solidarity but that will identify tangible actions we can take as a county to support our immigrant community.
As we mark Labor Day, I want to take a moment to honor those who fought and continue to fight for fair wages, safe conditions, and dignity on the job. From health care providers, teachers, construction workers, agricultural workers who collectively are the backbone of what makes this country so great.
There are also some exciting updates to share:
- Taylor Mountain Regional Park just opened eight new miles of trails, funded by Measure M, with sweeping views of Bennett Valley, Mount Saint Helena, and Santa Rosa.
- Permit Sonoma has completed its Safety and Environmental Justice Element, a big step in the General Plan Update that will shape housing, transportation, and climate resilience for decades to come.
As we head into fall, I hope you take time to enjoy the long evenings and all the places that make Sonoma County so special — from a walk around Spring Lake to a day on the Russian River or simply connecting with neighbors close to home.
As always, I’m committed to keeping you informed, listening to your concerns, and working together to strengthen our community.
In service,
| | | | |
| |
|
Big Milestones for Sonoma County's General Plan
Safety Element Update
The updated Safety Element sets new goals and policies to protect people and property from wildfires, floods, earthquakes, drought, extreme heat, air pollution, and rising sea levels. It includes new hazard maps and climate strategies based on lessons learned from recent fires and floods, and calls for additional evaluation of evacuation routes in high-risk areas.
Environmental Justice Element
The new Environmental Justice Element sets goals to improve health and quality of life in 22 disadvantaged communities across unincorporated Sonoma County. It emphasizes cleaner air and water, better access to parks and healthy food, safe housing, and stronger community voices in local decision-making.
Community Visioning Results
The Board also received the results of the General Plan Sonoma Community Visioning effort, the first major step in the comprehensive update. Thousands of community voices helped shape this vision, which will now guide the next phase: Policy Development, set to begin in 2026 and the process will take approximately three years.
What’s Next?
Permit Sonoma will soon issue a Request for Proposals to bring on a consultant team to support this ambitious process. The policy development phase is expected to take about three years and will include many opportunities for public participation.
Learn more and stay engaged at: www.permitsonoma.org/generalplan
| | | | | | |
Notice of Preparation Scoping Meeting
The County of Sonoma has released the Notice of Preparation for the Environmental Impact Report for the Sonoma Developmental Center Campus Specific Plan and the Eldridge Renewal Project. This begins the process of evaluating potential environmental impacts and gathering community input.
A public scoping meeting will be held to provide information about the project and receive comments from the community. Residents, organizations, and stakeholders are encouraged to participate and share feedback.
Date: Thursday, September 25, 2025
Time: 6:00 PM
Location: Altamira Middle School Multi-Purpose Room, 17805 Arnold Drive, Sonoma, CA 95476
Also via Zoom: https://dyettandbhatia.zoom.us/j/83943750136
Phone: (669) 900-6833 | Meeting ID: 839 4375 0136
The public is encouraged to submit responses at the earliest possible date. All responses must be submitted no later than the close of the Notice of Preparation review period, which runs from August 29, 2025 to September 29, 2025. Comments may be sent by email to sdc@sonomacounty.gov.
For more information, visit permitsonoma.org/sdcproject.
| |
Upcoming Newsletter: Sonoma Developmental Center Updates
My office will be sending out a dedicated newsletter focused on the Sonoma Developmental Center. This will provide timely updates on the process, upcoming meetings, and opportunities for community input. Keep an eye out for this special edition in your inbox.
| | | | | |
|
Measure H Investments Enhances Safety on Mark West Springs and Porter Creek Roads
Sonoma County Public Infrastructure partnered with CAL FIRE Sonoma-Lake-Napa and the Sonoma County Fire District on a proactive vegetation management project along Mark West Springs and Porter Creek roads, two of the county’s most critical evacuation routes.
Your Measure H funds are hard at work. Crews are working to clear vegetation and create fuel breaks, improving wildfire safety and evacuation access. This collaboration combines the expertise of fire professionals and county crews to strengthen public safety and reduce wildfire risk.
| |  | |
Sonoma County Resilient was Launched!
SonomaCountyResilient.org, is a one-stop hub for tools, funding, and training to reduce wildfire risk and protect local ecosystems.
The site offers workshops, grants, webinars, and project maps funded through the County’s $25 million PG&E settlement, helping communities create safer neighborhoods and healthier landscapes.
Visit website here: https://www.sonomacountyresilient.org/
| | | | | |
Sonoma Water Advances Potter Valley Solutions
Last year Sonoma Water marked it's 75th anniversary and they are focused on upgrading aging infrastructure, expanding groundwater recharge, and strengthening regional climate resilience to ensure safe, reliable water for the next 75 years.
Sonoma Water provides high-quality drinking water to 600,000 residents while managing floods, restoring habitat, and preparing for climate change. Thanks to Forecast-Informed Reservoir Operations, nearly 30,000 acre-feet of water was saved last year at Lakes Sonoma and Mendocino, leaving both reservoirs in strong condition.
A major focus today is the Potter Valley Project. PG&E has filed to surrender its license and remove Scott and Cape Horn dams on the Eel River. Sonoma Water, along with tribal, county, and conservation partners, is advancing the “Two-Basin Solution,” which seeks to restore salmon habitat in the Eel River while ensuring continued water diversions to the Russian River. These diversions are vital to maintaining Lake Mendocino storage, protecting local fisheries, and securing reliable water for Sonoma and Marin communities. The partnership recently secured $18 million in state funding to support Eel River restoration and construction of a new diversion facility.
For more information, visit sonomawater.org.
| | | | | | |
|
County and HomeFirst Introduce Rapid Rehousing Program for Sonoma Valley
Sonoma County and HomeFirst have launched the first-ever Rapid Rehousing Program dedicated to Sonoma Valley, where about 100 people are experiencing homelessness. Funded by the County and managed by HomeFirst, the program helps individuals and families move into permanent housing with rental assistance, security deposits, and case management services. In its first year, it is expected to house approximately 20 people across 13 households.
To make this effort possible, HomeFirst is seeking Sonoma Valley landlords willing to rent to program participants. Landlords receive up to $1,000 in incentives, tenant mediation support, and coverage for unexpected damages. If you're a landlord I encourage you to be apart of the change.
Interested landlords can contact bianca.rojas@homefirstscc.org for more information.
| | | | | | |
|
Great News!
New Non-Stop Flights to Palm Springs
Beginning October 26, 2025, Alaska Airlines will offer five weekly non-stop flights from Charles M. Schulz – Sonoma County Airport to Palm Springs!
The seasonal service will run through May, giving travelers easy access to one of California’s most popular desert destinations.
For details, visit sonomacountyairport.org.
| | | |
Congratulations to Child Support Services team for earning Top State Recognition!
The Sonoma County Department of Child Support Services was recognized by the State of California for leading the way in helping parents reach agreements that strengthen children’s financial stability.
Because of their work they they were able to resolve 58% of local cases through stipulated orders which is more than double than the statewide average—and collecting over $30 million to support 13,100 children in our community.
On August 26, the Board of Supervisors approved a Gold Resolution proclaiming August as Child Support Awareness Month, honoring parents, caregivers, and employers who support children’s well-being.
Learn more at sonomacounty.gov/child-support-services or call (866) 901-3212.
| | | | | |
| |
|
Events Happening in First District:
Sonoma Art Walk
Join us for an inspiring evening celebrating local art, creativity, and community on Thursday, September 5, 2025, from 5:00 PM to 7:30 PM. Start your stroll at the Sonoma Valley Museum of Art (5:00–5:30 PM) before exploring galleries, shops, and pop-up experiences throughout downtown (5:30–7:30 PM). The evening will feature visual art, live music, performances, short films, poetry, and more.
For full event details, visit: sonomaartwalk.org.
Sonoma Sundays on the Plaza
Enjoy the last free outdoor concert series every Sunday afternoon from 2:00 PM to 5:00 PM. The series wraps up September 28, 2025, at Sonoma Plaza. Sixteen shows will feature artists from across the Bay Area, with Sonoma wines available and new Music In Place (MIP) merchandise on sale.
Produced by Music In Place and sponsored by Jambar, the Dawn Redwoods Trust, the KHR McNeely Family Foundation, and the Sonoma Community Center.
Sonoma County Harvest Fair
Celebrate 50 years of Sonoma County’s agriculture, wineries, and culinary talent at the Sonoma County Harvest Fair, October 3–5, 2025, at the Sonoma County Fairgrounds. The Fair includes one of the country’s premiere regional wine competitions, professional food contests, a Grand Tasting of award-winning wines, and the World Championship Grape Stomp.
For tickets and event details, visit: sonomacountyfair.com.
Weekly Compost Hub at the Children's Museum
The Children’s Museum of Sonoma County, in partnership with Zero Waste Sonoma, offers free community compost every Tuesday from 9:00 AM to 12:00 PM at 1835 W. Steele Lane, Santa Rosa, CA 95403. Compost is USDA organic certified and locally produced. Residents must bring their own containers and shovels.
For more information, contact Zero Waste Sonoma at zerowastesonoma@sonoma-county.org or (707) 565-3375.
Pumpkin Hunt in Santa Rosa City Parks
Beginning October 1, 2025, search Santa Rosa’s city parks for hidden pumpkin cutouts through October 24. Each pumpkin includes instructions on how to collect a prize.
- Prize Pickup: Finley Community Center, 2060 W. College Ave., Santa Rosa, Monday–Friday, 8:00 AM–6:00 PM.
- Prizes: Treats from Santa Rosa Recreation & Parks, the Charles M. Schulz Museum, and Snoopy’s Home Ice. The first ten participants will receive a special rock redeemable at the Schulz Museum (Oct. 22–27).
- Final Day: October 31 is the last day to collect prizes.
Questions? Call (707) 543-3737 or visit https://www.srcity.org/Calendar.aspx?EID=2289
| | | | | |
Sonoma Valley Community Advisory Commission (SVCAC)
The Sonoma Valley Community Advisory Commission (SVCAC) was established through a Joint Powers Agreement between Sonoma County and the City of Sonoma to serve as a vital public forum for discussing planning decisions that affect both the city and its unincorporated areas. The SVCAC not only offers advisory recommendations to key Land use issues but also fosters citizen engagement in shaping public policy.
| | | | |
Springs Municipal Advisory Council (SMAC)
The Springs Municipal Advisory Council (MAC) serves the Springs area of Sonoma, including Boyes Hot Springs, El Verano, Fetters and Agua Caliente. It connects the community with the Board of Supervisors by offering recommendations on transportation, safety-net services, and local improvement projects like public art, clean-ups, and landscaping.
The SMAC meets every month on the Second Wednesday at 6:30pm the Sonoma Valley United School District Boardroom
17850 Railroad Ave
Sonoma, CA 95476
Next meeting: 9/10/25
Email district1@sonoma-county.org to receive SMAC agendas
| |
North Sonoma Valley Municipal Advisory Council (NSVMAC)
The North Sonoma Valley Municipal Advisory Council (MAC) serves the Glen Ellen and Kenwood communities, connecting residents with the Board of Supervisors. The MAC provides recommendations on key issues such as transportation, traffic calming, bike and pedestrian infrastructure, and essential services like housing stability and homelessness.
The NSVMAC meets the First and Third month of each quarter at 5:30pm at the
Glen Ellen Community Church Mayflower Hall
5311 O'Donnell Ln
Glen Ellen, CA 95442
Next meeting: 9/16/25
Email district1@sonoma-county.org to receive NSVMAC agendas
| | | | |
Sonoma Valley Community Advisory Commission (SVCAC)
The SVCAC advises land use bodies, provides a forum for community input on Sonoma Valley issues, and serves as a bridge between residents, elected officials, and government agencies.
There is a County Alternate seat available
Springs Municipal Advisory Council (SMAC)
The Springs Municipal Advisory Council (MAC) will represent the best interests of the entire community while acting as a bridge for communication between the County and local residents and businesses on the following topics for the Springs Area
Agricultural Preservation and Open Space Advisory Committee (APOSD)
The 19-member Ag + Open Space Advisory Committee, representing local government, youth, and key sectors, provides public input and recommendations to the Board and General Manager while serving as ambassadors for Ag + Open Space.
Commission on Human Rights
The purpose of the Commission is to promote better human relations among all people in Sonoma County through education, mediation, cooperation with County and community agencies, and by initiating action that fosters the recognition of and an appreciation for the cultural diversity of the community.
Economic Development Collaborative Advisory Board
The Economic Development Board promotes Sonoma County’s resources to strengthen the economy, expand jobs, and improve quality of life, while advising the Board of Supervisors on economic issues and policy recommendations.
Flood Control Advisory Committee Valley of the Moon Watershed Zone 3A
Flood Control Zone 3A Advisory Committee members meet to discuss stormwater management and flood control issues and provide recommendations on annual budgets involving expenditures related to flood protection, stream maintenance, and stormwater management.
Sonoma County Local Task Force on Integrated Waste Management
This is an advisory group to the Sonoma County Zero Waste Agency and the Board of Supervisors. It serves as a vehicle for county citizens and organizations to share information, collaborate, and provide recommendations on county solid waste diversion (prevention, organics, reuse, and recycling) and disposal issues.
Behavioral Health Board (FKA Mental Health Board)
The Board advises the Sonoma County Board of Supervisors and the Behavioral Health Division Director, working to build a strong community network that unites voices, expands understanding of behavioral health, upholds service integrity, and encourages active participation in planning.
Sonoma County Regional Parks Foundation Board
The Sonoma County Regional Parks Foundation raises funds, fosters partnerships and advocates on behalf of Sonoma County Regional Parks.
| | | | |
| |
| |
