The Friendly City Spotlight | June 6, 2024

SPOTLIGHT

ONTHECOVER

From L to R: Mayor Susan Adams, City Manager Marcela Piedra, Vice Mayor Gerard Giudice, Councilmember Emily Sanborn, Allison Mattioli, Kevin King, and Paul Carey accept the 2024 NorthBay Business Journal’s Best Business Friendly City award on behalf of the City.

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The Friendly City SPOTLIGHT

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ATALEOFTWOCITIES: NEEDLESANDROHNERT

PARK’SPRO-HOUSING JOURNEYS

Guest article by Jackie Krentzman, freelance writer and editor

Rohnert Park: planning is in its DNA

Rohnert Park is perhaps a more familiar tale for some In 1962, the Sonoma County community was incorporated as a planned city with 2,700 residents clustered in neighborhoods near schools and parks But like many other cities during the 2007 economic downturn, it struggled to promote housing development. In fact, between 2007 and 2014, Rohnert Park issued no permits for new housing.

Rohnert Park prides itself on being a “planned community” with neighborhoods clustered around a park, an elementary school, and access to neighborhood retail

Thanks to its planning efforts and commitment to promoting affordable housing, Rohnert Park earned the state’s pro-housing designation in 2023. These accomplishments, along with the City’s efforts to develop the downtown, were recently highlighted in an article by the League of California Cities.

However, Rohnert Park (now 45,000) has made tremendous progress in the last decade. It has issued 1,972 new housing permits (300 affordable), far exceeding its state-mandated target of 899 units for the past eight years. The city has another 3,000 planned housing units in the pipeline. Many of these units are in three new, distinct neighborhoods: University District, Willowglen, and SOMO Village. Each development includes a park, marketrate and affordable housing units, and access to neighborhood retail.

Rohnert Park’s history as a planned community played a significant role in its ability to meet its housing goals The city long had a robust general and specific housing plan, which means the sites that can accommodate housing have already been studied and approved

“This prework provides certainty for developers and streamlines the development process,” said Housing Manager Jenna Garcia. “Our city council has always been very engaged in the long-term vision for how the Rohnert Park is being developed and has long prided itself on being developer friendly.”

The city also has gone above and beyond the state’s requirements by requiring that 15% of all new developments over 50 units be affordable In 2022, Labath Landing a 60-unit city-owned and sponsored interim housing project funded in part through the State’s Homekey program — opened The city promotes affordable housing developments throughout the city and partners with the nonprofit Housing Land Trust of Sonoma County for an affordable ownership program.

“We've enjoyed tremendous success in the region and have developed a strong relationship with the city of Rohnert Park and its commitment to providing muchneeded affordable housing to residents," said Geoff Brown, president of USA Properties Fund.

For these efforts, Rohnert Park earned the state’s prohousing designation in 2023. This designation made the city more competitive for several state funding programs, including Affordable Housing and Sustainable Communities, Infill Infrastructure Grant, and Transformative Climate Communities.

The designation and the funding it unlocks will improve the city’s ability to fulfill its vision of a robust downtown.

For many years, residents have asked the city to create a vibrant mixed-use downtown district a “heart” for Rohnert Park. In 2022, the city purchased a 30-acre parcel near the Sonoma-Marin Area Rail Transit train station as the site for the future downtown. This new, walkable heart of Rohnert Park will include 300 to 500 residential units, a quarter of which will be affordable. Residents will also have access to a range of food, beverage, art, and retail options, an upscale hotel, walkable streets, and a central community square.

“The fact that the state has recognized our efforts is extremely gratifying and a major milestone that will allow us to build upon our ongoing commitment to housing development for all Rohnert Park residents," said Mayor Susan Hollingsworth Adams. “We are committed to developing a vibrant community where residents have access to safe and affordable housing, both in our welcoming neighborhoods and in the coming years, a dynamic downtown.”

HAPPY FATHER’S DAY FROM THE CITY OF ROHNERT PARK!

CITYOFROHNERTPARK HOLIDAYCLOSURE

WEDNESDAY, JUNE 19, 2024

Cityofficeswillbeclosedon Wednesday,June19inobservanceofJuneteenth.

WewillreopenonThursday,June20,2024at8:00a.m.

GROUNDBREAKINGOFTHEBICYCLE+ PEDESTRIANPATHWAYCONNECTING

ROHNERTPARK+SANTAROSA

Join us on Friday, June 14, at 3:30 p.m. at Andy's Unity Park in Santa Rosa to celebrate this exciting milestone as we work towards connecting more communities.

This pathway project underscores the commitment to sustainable and green transportation solutions The SMART Pathway/Great Redwood Trail strengthens community bonds, provides access to outdoor activities, fosters social connections, and contributes to a more environmentally responsible North Bay.

Construction will begin this summer and, once completed, will create a bicycle and pedestrian pathway linking Penngrove, Cotati, Rohnert Park, and Santa Rosa

Guests are encouraged to carpool due to limited parking availability. Parking will be available at the Recology parking lot, accessible from W Los Robles Road There is limited on-street parking near Andy's Unity Park.

Click here for more information and to register.

The City of Rohnert Park and Sonoma State University are proud to host the second annual Juneteenth Luncheon! The luncheon will take place on Wednesday, June 19 at 11 a m and promises to be an afternoon filled with reflection, unity, and joy.

As we gather to honor this significant milestone in history, we are delighted to extend an invitation to you, your friends, and your family. Please join us for a delicious lunch catered by Red Rose Catering, an esteemed local African American-owned business. Let your taste buds savor the mouthwatering flavors while we celebrate freedom, unity, and inclusivity together.

In addition to the tasty lunch, we have planned a special program to acknowledge the achievements and contributions of African Americans in Sonoma County, including a musical performance by Juke Joint Jukebox. During the event, we will honor two distinguished African-American individuals who have made a significant impact on our community.

We believe in making this celebration accessible to all, which is why admission to the Juneteenth event is entirely free. However, due to limited seating, advanced registration is required Please click here to register.

This year, we have also added a free childcare option for children ages 3-10 years old. Childcare will take place on-site and will include lunch. Registration is required, here.

To register, simply click on the "Book Now" button at the provided link. If you haven't created an account with the City of Rohnert Park, you will be prompted to create one during the registration process This will enable us to keep you updated on future community events and initiatives.

Let us come together on Juneteenth to reflect on our shared history, strengthen bonds of camaraderie, and continue our collective journey towards a more inclusive and equitable future. We eagerly await your presence at this remarkable event!

Proper gun storage and handling increases public safety for everyone

SAFEGUN STORAGE

We live in a society where owning firearms is considered both a right and a responsibility. It is critical to follow strict storage and handling practices for the safety of yourself, and for others.

From January 2023 to April 2024, the City’s Department of Public Safety booked 118 guns into property and evidence. Those guns fell into a variety of categories. These include evidence from a case, found property, turned in for destruction, and surrendered by a court order.

Community members who wish to safety dispose of their guns are always encouraged to turn in their firearms to local law enforcement agencies. It is also an option to sell them using a dealer who holds a federal firearms license

The Rohnert Park Department of Public Safety partners with Project ChildSafe to offer free gun locks. Locks are available at the Department, at 500 City Center Drive. Locks are offered on a first-come, first-served basis.

To schedule an appointment to turn in firearms (of any kind) for safe disposal and destruction, please contact the Department of Public Safety at (707) 584-2600. Please DO NOT bring loaded firearms into the station

For more tips on gun storage safety and regulations, please visit oag.ca.gov/firearms/tips

From tractors to backhoes, fire engines to police cars and vacuum trucks to trailers, our mechanics play an essential role in keeping our city running.

JUNE3-9

Working behind the scenes, they ensure our public safety officers, public works crews, parks crews, and more have safe and reliable equipment to get the job done.

Thank you, Martin and Roy!

Martin Avila, Fleet Services Supervisor (right) and Roy Garcia, Fleet Mechanic (left)

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YOUR INPUT IS NEEDED FOR THE BIKE + PEDESTRIAN PLAN

The Rohnert Park Bike and Pedestrian Advisory Committee and the Sonoma County Active Transportation Plan Team are eager to know what you think!

Share your thoughts on walking, biking, and rolling in Rohnert Park and all areas of Sonoma County at the Active Transportation Plan Open House on Wednesday, June 12 between 6 p m and 8 p.m. at the Rohnert Park Community Center (5401 Snyder Lane).

View draft maps and project lists, ask questions, leave us your comments. Visit with a Rohnert Park Bicycle and Pedestrian Committee representative and let's chat about our walking, biking and rolling experiences

Your input will help inform the Sonoma County Active Transportation Plan (Countywide AT Plan) and the Rohnert Park Active Transportation Plan (formerly Bicycle and Pedestrian Master Plan), which is one of several components of the overall Countywide AT Plan When completed, the Rohnert Park Active Transportation Plan will also function as a stand-alone plan.

LOCAL BUSINESS SPOTLIGHT:

SAM’S MEDITERRANEAN CAFÉ+DELI

In this episode of our Local Business Spotlight, we visit Sam’s Mediterranean Café and Deli and sample some of the great dishes that made/make Sam’s locally famous. We also sit down with Sam and discover his passions behind creating an authentic Mediterranean eating establishment.

Where is Sam’s?

Sam’s is in West Rohnert Park at 613 Martin Ave #111

Sam’s is in the same business park as North Bay Industries, Life Storage Rohnert Park, and Wind Toys Water Sports Center.

Sam’s offers patrons a true taste of the Mediterranean. From fragrant chicken shawarma and savory baba ghanoush to crisp falafel and nutty hummus, Sam’s offers you a journey to the complex and aromatic cuisines of the Mediterranean and Middle East. Not ready to jump on the plane yet? Don’t worry, Sam’s offers some of the best deli sandwiches you can find. The locally famous “Sams-tassteak”, a grilled tri-tip steak sandwich on a toasted Dutch crunch is sure to make you happy. How about something a little more dangerous? Then you won’t want to refuse “The Godfather” sandwich, a combination of Italian salami, smoked ham and provolone cheese topped with marinated artichoke hearts on sourdough.

What is Sam’s Inspiration?

Samer “Sam” Hourania aims to bring the complex cuisine of the Mediterranean and Middle East to Rohnert Park. He loves to turn customers skeptical of Mediterranean food into devotees. His inspiration for coming to work everyday is to bring people together and make the world a little smaller through the power of food.

Services Sam’s offers.

Sam’s offers lunch and take out dinner, as well as catering for any occasion. From birthdays and graduations to business functions and weddings… Sam’s will go where the party is! If you want to avoid the lunch-time rush, we recommend you order ahead at samsdeli.com or by phone at (707) 5840220

What do people say about Sam’s?

Sam’s enjoys a 4 8 average rating on Google Maps and an average 4.8 rating on Yelp.

Our Local Business Spotlight is your and the City’s chance to give a special “thank you!” to our unique, fun, and community-oriented businesses that make Rohnert Park a great place to live, work, and play (and eat!)

These highlights give you and other locals a snippet of what makes each restaurant, entertainment zone, toy store, and business, such a great fit in the Friendly City.

Have a business you think is worthy of a special shoutout? Are you a business owner yourself? Please email Kevin King at kking@rpcity.org or Paul Carey at pcarey@rpcity.org and let’s shine a light on your favorite Rohnert Park business today!

“GOREQUEST” SMARTPHONEAPP

The City of Rohnert Park offers an easy way to sub it t b t ffiti l d i stor mor Sca here sma Play Pref Visit Issu Report concerns from wherever you are! GoR duri If yo plea

PETSOF THEWEEK!

Discover a world of cuddly companions waiting to find their forever homes at the Rohnert Park Animal Shelter! Located at 301 J Rogers Lane off Redwood Drive, our doors are open from Wednesday to Sunday, 1:00 - 5:30 p m

To ensure you receive the best experience, we recommend giving us a call at (707) 5841582 to schedule your visit. Complete and submit an adoption questionnaire before arriving to streamline the process, ensuring more quality time with your potential new family member.

View all our charming animals and access the adoption questionnaire at rpanimalshelter.org. Your search for your new BFF (best furry friend) begins today!

Frijole is a charming Husky, estimated to be between one and three years old

This lively and fun-loving guy was found as a stray and is now eagerly searching for his forever home.

Frijole adores the company of both other dogs and people, making him a perfect addition to any loving family.

If you're looking for a playful and affectionate companion, Frijole is nacho average dog - he's the whole enchilada!

FRIJOLE

OBIE

Meet Obie, the 'pawfect' gentleman with a tail-wagging tale to tell!

Estimated to be a five to six year old shepherd mix, this dapper dude was left tied to a pole at a dog park.

Despite his 'ruff' start, Obie has proven himself to be the epitome of charm, exuding a laid-back and relaxed demeanor that's sure to steal your heart

With a repertoire of commands under his collar and an eagerness to please, Obie is the ideal companion for anyone seeking a smart, middle-aged man we mean, dog!

Don't wait any longer-swing by and let Obie 'fetch' your affection today!

HENRIETTA+HUDSON

Meet Henrietta and Hudson, an inseparable bonded pair of one year old siblings.

This special duo, originally from Pets Lifeline, has captured our hearts with their wonderful personalities.

Currently in foster care at the Point West Flower Market in Rohnert Park, they are thriving and making new friends daily.

Henrietta and Hudson are the ultimate salesmen, charming everyone they meet with their affectionate nature and playful antics

If you're looking for double the love and double the fun, don't miss the chance to bring Henrietta and Hudson into your home!

MEET YOUR CITY COUNCIL

The Rohnert Park City Council is elected by the Rohnert Park voters to serve for four year terms There are five members of the Council, including a Mayor and a Vice Mayor.

The City Council adopts goals and policies during Council meetings to set the direction for the City. The Council approves and adopts the City's Financial Plans, General Plan and the Capital Improvement Plan

The City Council appoints the City Manager, the City Attorney, and members of City Commissions, Committees, and Boards.

To find your district, please click here and simply type in your address at the top-right search bar of the interactive map.

Council District 5

Phone: (707) 899-3085

sadams@rpcity.org

Council District 3

Phone: (707) 899-3087

ggiudice@rpcity.org JACKIE ELWARD COUNCILMEMBER

Council District 4

Phone: (707) 899-3086

jelward@rpcity.org

SAMANTHA RODRIGUEZ COUNCILMEMBER

Council District 1

Phone: (707) 899-3092

srodriguez@rpcity.org EMILY SANBORN COUNCILMEMBER

Council District 2

Phone: (707) 899-3088

esanborn@rpcity.org

CITYCOUNCIL MEETINGS

The City of Rohnert Park welcomes your participation at City Council meetings at 5:00 p m , on the second and fourth Tuesdays of every month.

If you are interested in learning about issues going on in your own backyard, community events, and other hot topics, please feel free to watch on Cable Channel 26, YouTube, or by clicking here.

Come get involved!

Want to receive email notifications when agendas are posted? Subscribe here.

UPCOMING CITY COUNCIL MEETINGS

Tuesday, June 11, 2024 | 5:00 p.m.

Rohnert Park City Council Chambers

130 Avram Avenue, Rohnert Park

Tuesday, June 25, 2024 | 5:00 p.m.

Rohnert Park City Council Chambers

130 Avram Avenue, Rohnert Park

Sign-up for agenda posting notifications

Visit Meeting Central here to sign-up for email updates

Review Agenda Materials

Visit Meeting Central at here to view agenda materials for upcoming and past meetings

Attend the meeting in-person or watch live from home

Meeting Central YouTube Cable Channel 26

Provide Public Comment

Provide public comment in-person during the meeting or from home by emailing your comment to publiccomment@rpcity.org

JOINOURTEAM!

Looking to apply for a new position, or know someone interested in joining our team?

Check out our latest open positions below! Click here to learn more or apply

FINANCE

Director of Finance

COMMUNITY SERVICES

Part-Time Community Services Coordinator - Camp Director

Part-Time Facility Attendant

Part-Time Humane Educator - Critter Camp Leader

PUBLIC WORKS

Collection System Supervisor

Collection System Operator I/II/III

PUBLIC SAFETY

Public Safety Officer Trainee