SPOTLIGHT The Friendly City
ONTHECOVER
We have officially kicked off the 2025 Holiday Toy Drive. This year, the need in our community is especially significant, and we are grateful to partner with local organizations, nonprofits, and volunteers to support families throughout Rohnert Park. Thank you to everyone who has already contributed Your generosity helps brighten the holidays for children who need it most.
The Friendly City SPOTLIGHT
NeighborsOrganizedAgainstHunger(NOAH),inpartnershipwith theCityofRohnertPark,hasputonafooddrivetocollectessential itemsforlocalfamiliesandindividualsinneed.Everydonation bringsusclosertobuildingahunger-freefuture.
WhatWe’reLookingFor:
Proteins:Peanutbutter,cannedtuna,canned chicken,anddriedorcannedbeans
Grains:Pasta(wholegrainpreferred),rice, oats,andlow-sugar/whole-graincereal
Cannedgoods:Soups,fruits,andvegetables
Other:Shelf-stablemilk,applesauce,and whole-graincrackers
-RohnertParkCityHall -RohnertParkCommunityServices -RohnertParkPublicSafety -RohnertParkSeniorCenter -CallinanFitnessCenter
NeighborsOrganizedAgainstHunger(NOAH),encolaboraciónconlaciudadde RohnertPark,haorganizadounacampañaderecoleccióndealimentospara reunirartículosesencialesparalasfamiliasypersonasnecesitadasdela localidad.Cadadonaciónnosacercamásalaconstruccióndeunfuturosin hambre.
Loquebuscamos:
Proteínas:mantequillademaní,atúnenlatado, polloenlatadoyfrijolessecosoenlatados.
Cereales:pasta(preferiblementeintegral),arroz, avenaycerealesintegralesbajosenazúcar. Productosenlatados:sopas,frutasyverduras.
Otros:lechedelargaduración,puréde manzanaygalletasintegrales
PóngaseencontactoconPaulCarey,
Dóndedonar
Lugaresdeentrega
Fechadefinalizacióndelacolección -AyuntamientodeRohnertPark -ServicioscomunitariosdeRohnertPark -SeguridadpúblicadeRohnertPark -Centroparapersonasmayoresde RohnertPark -GimnasioCallinan
15dediciembrede2025
If you have driven along Rohnert Park Expressway recently, you may have noticed the holiday lights look a little different this year Instead of hanging lights from the overhead branches, our Public Works team wrapped the redwood tree trunks in light. This new method creates a cleaner, brighter, and more uniform look along the corridor. The trunks act as natural pillars of light, making the display approximately twenty times more visible for drivers traveling on RPX rather than only those passing from the freeway overcrossing.
Beyond the visual improvement, this approach also supports better safety for our crews and fewer traffic interruptions Trunk wrapping significantly reduces overhead work, which means staff spend less time navigating branches and more time installing lights at ground level. This shift decreases the need for extensive traffic control Instead of closing both directions of RPX, crews now only close a single eastbound lane while completing the installation, which helps keep traffic moving and reduces disruption for the community.
You will also see expanded holiday lighting at the Rohnert Park Community Center this season These upgrades are part of our ongoing effort to add festive touches throughout the City and create welcoming public spaces for families and visitors during the holidays.
BENICIAPARK CONCESSIONSTAND RENOVATIONPROJECT
Benicia Park Concession Stand is receiving upgrades to the building interior and exterior as a result of an arson incident and tree branch falling on the roof. The interior concession area will receive new counters, shelving, hand washing station, and fresh paint. Additionally, the concession window will be upgraded to meet ADA standards. Exterior improvements include painting and replacing the roof. Along with this work the City’s local baseball user group, Cal Ripken plans to donate a new scoreboard to the City that this project will install. A temporary closure of the dog park adjacent to the ball field may be required to complete the scoreboard installation. The City is grateful for its partnership with its user groups and looks forward to delivering a fresh space to kick off spring season!
SMOOTHERTRAFFICAHEADONROHNERT PARKEXPRESSWAY
If you’ve driven westbound on Rohnert Park Expressway lately, you may have noticed something different and hopefully something smoother The City recently completed a lane reconfiguration project on the westbound side of Rohnert Park Expressway between Commerce Boulevard and Redwood Drive, designed to reduce congestion and improve traffic flow during the busiest afternoon hours.
This stretch of roadway is one of Rohnert Park’s most heavily traveled corridors, with nearly 29,000 vehicles passing over Highway 101 each day. For many drivers, it’s a key route to local grocery stores, big-box retailers, and the on-ramps to both northbound and southbound 101. That mix of destinations often led to backups in the right lane, sometimes stretching as far as State Farm Drive
To fix that, the City partnered with traffic engineering firm W-Trans to study how to make traffic move more efficiently through the corridor. Their analysis showed that clearly designating each lane by destination, one for Highway 101 North, one for Highway 101 South, and one for Redwood Drive, would balance the traffic load and allow more vehicles to move through each green light.
After careful planning and coordination with Caltrans, the work was completed over three nights in October 2025 by Bayside Stripe & Seal While it may take drivers a little time to adjust to the new striping, early results already show smoother flow and fewer bottlenecks during the 3:00 to 6:00 p.m. rush hour.
This project is a great example of how small changes can make a big difference for everyone who lives, works, and shops in Rohnert Park. Thank you to our residents for your patience as we continue improving our streets for a safer, more efficient, and more connected community.
CITYCOUNCILADVANCESPLANSFORA FUTUREDOWNTOWNROHNERTPARK
At the Nov. 18 meeting, the City Council unanimously approved preliminary terms with CenterCal Properties, LLC for the development of 6400 State Farm Drive, a property that has sat vacant since 2010. The proposed plan outlines a path toward creating 300 or more housing units, more than 140,000 square feet of retail space, and a hotel with at least 100 rooms, all centered around a new one-acre community plaza located along the SMART rail station. The City will retain rights to host community events in the plaza, offering a future gathering space designed to bring residents together and strengthen connections across Rohnert Park, Sonoma County, and the greater North Bay.
This partnership also includes critical infrastructure improvements. CenterCal will relocate the aging 50-year-old waterline that currently crosses the site, moving it to Enterprise Drive, while the City has committed to enhancing offsite traffic circulation in the surrounding area. The project will continue through the formal City approval process, with final plans anticipated to go before the Planning Commission and City Council in the second half of 2026. To follow project updates, explore design concepts, and learn about upcoming opportunities for community input, visit rpcity.org/Downtown.
ATHANKSGIVINGTRADITION THATKEEPSGROWING
Thanksgiving in Rohnert Park and Cotati once again highlighted what our community does best: we organize, we show up, and we take care of one another in practical, meaningful ways The Rotary Club’s annual Complimentary Community Thanksgiving Meal continued that tradition, and this year the effort expanded to two locations.
At the Rohnert Park Senior Center, the familiar scene returned. A full dining room, plenty of conversation, and hundreds of residents who look forward to this gathering each year It has become a reliable touchpoint for many, and the strong turnout reflected that.
Cotati hosted its first meal service, and while the crowd was smaller, the need was clear. With recent changes to SNAP benefits affecting many households, providing an additional location mattered Those who attended made a point of expressing their appreciation
Councilmember and local business owner Gerard Giudice supported the Cotati meal by covering the cost of the catered service through Sally Tomatoes. He also ensured that leftover food made its way to Labath Landing His support helped the new location get off the ground smoothly.
Rotary volunteers covered everything from setup to cleanup at both locations. Many split their time between sites, which helped both events run efficiently. Their coordination is a big reason this program remains dependable year after year
The Thanksgiving Meal Program is a reminder of what can happen when community partners take a straightforward idea and follow through. This year’s events showed that the tradition is steady, adaptable, and responsive to the needs of our residents.
FIELDUPDATESAND SEASONALMAINTENANCE
As part of our ongoing commitment to keeping Rohnert Park’s parks and recreation spaces safe and enjoyable, Colegio Vista Park Baseball Field has been closed for turf renovation since October 23, 2025. The field is expected to reopen in early 2026, once winter weather subsides and conditions are suitable for play.
The Sunrise Park All-Weather Soccer Field remains open, and all other grass and dirt fields are currently open unless standing water is present, in which case the field should be considered closed.
Field conditions are typically updated on our website by 3:30 p.m., Monday through Friday. Following significant rain, fields are usually closed for 1–2 days to allow for proper drainage and to prevent damage to the turf.
We appreciate the community’s patience and cooperation as we work to keep our fields in top shape for everyone to enjoy
HONORINGLOCALHEROSTEVEHUMMEL
At the November 18 Council meeting, the City of Rohnert Park recognized resident Steve Hummel as an Honorary Citizen for his remarkable bravery during a violent incident earlier this year While shopping with his wife in January, Hummel stepped in to protect a store employee who was being attacked. Acting quickly and without hesitation, he subdued the assailant and prevented further harm, allowing the injured employee to receive urgent, lifesaving medical care.
During the presentation, Hummel reminded the community that heroism often comes from simply choosing to help when help is needed. “I didn’t run and tackle the assailant for recognition. I did it because someone desperately needed help. Things this severe are rare, thank God, but I hope this reminds us to watch out for one another and for those who have the ability to help in situations should ”
Mayor Gerard Giudice highlighted the significance of Hummel’s actions and the values they reflect. “The City of Rohnert Park proudly recognizes Steve Hummel for his bravery, his compassion, and his decisive action in the face of danger.”
Hummel’s courage serves as a powerful example of community spirit and the difference one person can make in a critical moment.
CURTAINSUP: AMAGICAL SEASONAT SPRECKELS
The 2025–2026 Spreckels Theatre Company season is already underway, and audiences are loving it. This year’s lineup is a vibrant mix of bold new works, beloved classics, and family-friendly favorites that promise humor, heart, and unforgettable moments from misbehaving parrots to fractured fairy tales, holiday miracles, and the marvelous world of Dr Seuss
For the holiday season, audiences can delight in the tradition of not one but two returning theatrical events It’s a Wonderful Life: A Live Radio Play by Joe Landry runs November 21–December 14, offering a nostalgic retelling of It’s A Wonderful Life as a 1940s radio broadcast with live foley sound effects. This heartwarming production is a reminder of the impact one life can have on an entire community.
Jenny Hollingworth directs this festive gem. Running in tandem for one weekend only, December 12–14, All Is Calm: The Christmas Truce of 1914 by Peter Rothstein recounts the extraordinary true story of World War I soldiers who laid down their arms on Christmas Eve.
Featuring an all-male a cappella ensemble, this powerful production celebrates peace, humanity, and hope in the midst of war, directed by Sheri Lee Miller
The soulful, country-rock musical Hands on a Hardbody kicks off the new year on the Spreckels mainstage, February 13th – March 1st, 2026. This quirky, highstakes musical, based on real events, follows ten Texans competing to keep one hand on a brand-new truck—the last one standing wins More than just a contest, this is a hilarious, heartfelt look at resilience, community and the dreams that drive us. With a moving score and unforgettable characters, Hands on a Hardbody is a ride you’ll want to take.
The season concludes with the beloved, family-friendly musical Seussical by Stephen Flaherty and Lynn Ahrens, running May 1–17, 2026. Join the Cat in the Hat, Horton the Elephant, and all your favorite Dr Seuss characters in this high-energy, heartfelt musical that brings these treasured stories to life! With toetapping songs, dazzling visuals, and a timeless story about friendship, courage, and believing in the impossible, this wholesome extravaganza is pure joy from start to finish, directed by Gene Abravaya.
Spreckels Theatre Company continues the tradition of presenting high-quality, community-rooted theater that inspires and entertains.
Enjoy significant savings by treating yourself to a season subscription! Tickets and subscriptions will be available now at spreckelsonline.com.
For more information, press materials, or interview requests, please contact Lauren Heney at lheney@rpcity.org.
ADOPT THESEPETS!
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!
EMBER
Meet Ember a shy soul ready to shine! Ember is a 1year-old female Torbie cat who came to us very shy and withdrawn, but she’s slowly blossoming each day. With patience and gentle guidance, she’s beginning to show her sweet and affectionate side She gets along well with other cats but a dog might be overwhelming for her. Ember would thrive in a quiet, patient household where she can feel safe and gradually reach her full potential If you’re looking for a gentle companion to nurture and love, Ember could be the perfect match for you.
MICKEYMOUSE
Meet Mickey Mouse! This 1.5year-old smooth coat guinea pig may be small, but he’s big on personality! Mickey is currently a singleton and is wishing for a family of his very own. He’s especially vocal when he hears the snack bag rustle letting everyone know he’s ready for treats! With love, care, and plenty of veggies, Mickey will be a delightful little companion.
OSO
Oso is a 9-year-old Husky with a big heart and a bigger personality. He was first adopted from us in 2018 and, through no fault of his own, has found his way back twice due to changes in his families’ circumstances. Now, he’s hoping that the third time will truly be the charm Oso has lived with children and even a small dog, and he thrived in a busy home. He does best, however, in a cat-free, smallanimal-free environment. At this stage in his life, he’s looking for a calm, steady household where he can relax, be loved, and show off his sweet, quirky nature Despite the ups and downs, Oso hasn’t lost his gentle spirit he’s just waiting for someone who will commit to him for good. Could that be you?
ALIFETIMEOF LOVEISWAITING
Meet your match at the Rohnert Park Animal Shelter! Visit us in person Wednesday–Sunday from 1:00 PM to 5:30 PM or browse available pets online at rpanimalshelter.org. Reach out anytime at (707) 584-1582 or animal@rpcity.org we can't wait to connect you with your new best friend.
INTERESTED IN VOLUNTEERING?
The Animal Shelter is in need of volunteers for the following positions: Front Office
Wednesdays 1:00 p m – 5:30 p m
Kennel Assistant Tuesdays 9:00 a.m. – 11:00 a.m. Wednesdays 9:00 a.m. – 11:00 a.m.
If you’re interested, please complete an application, here.
DECEMBER SPECIAL
Animals come health-checked, vaccinated, microchipped, dewormed and spayed or neutered All cats and dogs go home with a small bag of food, a toy and a collar with a personalized pet tag. Dogs get a leash and others go home in a secure carrier box.
PROTECT YOURPET!
Did you know that pet licenses are required for all dogs and cats in the City of Rohnert Park?
These licenses help keep our pets and community safe
To make this process easier, we’re thrilled to announce the launch of our new partnership with DocuPet!
You can now license or renew your pet's license:
Visit rpanimalshelter.org/licensing to learn more
WHYLEASHINGMATTERS INROHNERTPARK
City law requires all dogs to be leashed (max 6 ft) in public areas at all times. Help keep our community safe—always keep dogs leashed in public
Dogs in parks must be leashed unless you’re in a designated dog park. Thank you for helping protect our shared spaces!
LEARN MORE:
DID YOU KNOW?
Unrestrained animals can be impounded Always leash your dog and prevent trespassing onto private property.
COMMUNITY COURTESY STARTS WITH A LEASH
Leashes protect pets, people, and wildlife
Fines start at $100 and can go up to $500 3 violations in a year? That’s a misdemeanor.
LOCAL DOG PARKS
Rohnert Bark
Location: 5010 Roberts Lake Rd
Hours: Dawn till Dusk
Field of Friends
Location: 7471 Bernice Ave
Hours: Dawn till Dusk
RP Animal Services - Public Field
Location: 301 J Rogers Ln
Hours: Dawn to 8:00 am 10:30 am to 1:00 pm 6:30 pm to Dusk
Maurice Fredericks Dog Park
Location: 1600 Wisdom Ln
Hours: Dawn till Dusk
Best Friends Canine Club
Location: 1450 Golf Course Dr
Membership Inquiries: “Best Friends Canine Club of Golis Park” on Facebook
Looking for a private space? Check out SniffSpot.com for locally
CITYOFROHNERTPARK HOLIDAYCLOSURE
WEDNESDAY, DECEMBER 24, 2025
THURSDAY, DECEMBER 25, 2025
CITYOFROHNERTPARK HOLIDAYCLOSURE
GOT E-WASTE?
Zero Waste Sonoma partners with Conservation Corps North Bay to host free collection events for ewaste. Bring your e-waste and join us at the next event! Appointments are not required.
For more information, including what is, and is not accepted at the collection events, please click here.
MARIN/SONOMAMOSQUITOAND VECTORCONTROLSERVICES
Mosquitoes, yellowjackets, and other pests can make outdoor living tough—but free help is available through the Marin/Sonoma Mosquito and Vector Control District The District provides no-cost services to residents, including:
Mosquito control inspections and treatment
Free mosquitofish for ponds, fountains, or animal troughs
Yellowjacket nest removal (in-ground nests)
Rodent prevention advice and home inspections
Insect identification submit a photo or specimen online
School presentations for grades K–8
Community education on preventing bites and protecting health
You can help by eliminating standing water, repairing screens, clearing gutters, and reporting problem areas early. These simple steps reduce breeding grounds and protect neighbors from mosquito-borne illnesses like West Nile virus.
�� Contact: (707) 285-2200
�� Learn more or request service: msmosquito.org
Together, we can keep Rohnert Park healthy, comfortable, and mosquito-free.
Need help with housing, mental health, or financial guidance? The Rohnert Park People Services Center (RPPSC) is here for you right in the heart of our community. The Rohnert Park People Services Center (RPPSC), operated by Petaluma People Services, is your local hub for health and human services. Located at 6800 Hunter Drive, Suite B, the center offers a welcoming space for residents who need support with housing, mental health, finances, or other life challenges.
Services include housing placement and rental referrals, financial and Medicare assistance, domestic violence and mental health counseling, CalFresh enrollment, parenting classes, and more Trained navigators provide person-centered case management to connect clients with programs that fit their needs.
No long drives or waitlists—just accessible, compassionate help right here in Rohnert Park.
�� Hours: Monday–Friday, 9 a.m.–4 p.m.
�� Phone: 707-765-8488
�� More info: petalumapeople.org
LOCAL BUSINESS SPOTLIGHTS
The Rohnert Park Business Spotlight is your and the City’s chance to give a special “thank you” to all those unique, fun, and community businesses that make Rohnert Park a great place to live, work, and eat!
We love to take the time to visit with our local business owners, write a little about their business in The Friendly City Spotlight, and feature their business on the City’s social media platforms.
Want to be featured in the Rohnert Park Business Spotlight?
You can now schedule a time to chat directly with our Economic Development team!
Maybe you have a business milestone coming up, are new to the Rohnert Park business family, or maybe you want to let everyone know something unique about your business.
Whatever it is, we are looking forward to hearing from you!
STARTHERE!
Are you a small business starting up or expanding into Rohnert Park? Are you looking for assistance with your business plan, navigating permits, growing revenue, marketing, or understanding funding? If you are interested in starting or expanding into RP, you can receive in-person one-on-one services locally!
The City of Rohnert Park has partnered with Sonoma Small Business Development Center (SBDC) to provide you with local, in-person consulting services to help you grow your small business and find funding.
Whether your business is burgeoning or established, you can access these free advisory services and resources...all in-person. Services include:
Workshops and Training
Starting a business is a big decision. Keeping it profitable is a constant challenge. SBDC offers a wide range of workshops to help you understand best business practices for your success. Workshops are provided at no cost throughout the North Bay year-round.
One-on-One Advising
SBDC offers no-cost, confidential advising in the following areas:
• Planning
• Management
• Restaurants
• Cottage Business
• Manufacturing
• Procurement
• Capital
• Finance
• e-commerce
• Retail
• AgriBusiness
• Trademarks
• Marketing
• Human Resources
• Resilience
• Technology
• International Trade
• Patents
DownloadtheReach RohnertParkApp!
Are you a GoRequest user?
Then it’s time to upgrade to Reach Rohnert Park!
Download it in your phone’s app store and let us know what we can fix.
You can also report issues directly on the City’s website: REPORT ISSUES HERE
If you need to report any non-emergency issue around the city, do so in our newest app: Reach Rohnert Park!
FLOODEDSTREETS
STREETLIGHT PROBLEMS ABANDONED CARTS GRAFFITI
#CONNECT
ROHNERTPARKCITYCOUNCIL REORGANIZATION
On November 18, 2025, the City Council elected Emily Sanborn as the new Mayor and Jackie Elward as the new Vice Mayor for 2026.
The Mayor plays an important role in city leadership, including:
• Representing the city at official events with city and other government organizations.
• Working with Councilmembers to set City Council priorities.
• Serving as the spokesperson for the city and its residents.
• Leading Council meetings and setting policies and initiatives.
The Council officially reorganized at the December 9 meeting, where Mayor Sanborn and Vice Mayor Elward stepped into their new leadership roles We also took a moment to recognize outgoing Mayor Gerard Giudice and outgoing Vice Mayor Emily Sanborn for their dedicated service throughout 2025.
To learn more about Mayor Emily Sanborn and Vice Mayor Jackie Elward, please click here.
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.
srodriguez@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 visiting our Meeting Central.
Come get involved!
Want to receive email notifications when agendas are posted? Subscribe here.
UPDATE! Beginning with the January 13, 2026 City Council meeting, the regular meeting start time will shift to 5:30 pm. This update replaces the current 5:00 pm start time and will apply to all meetings moving forward.
UPCOMING CITY COUNCIL MEETINGS
Tuesday, December 9, 2025 - 5pm Rohnert Park City Council Chambers 130 Avram Avenue, Rohnert Park
Tuesday, December 23, 2025 Meeting is CANCELED!
Sign-up for agenda posting notifications
Visit Meeting Central here to sign-up for email updates
Review Agenda Materials
Visit Meeting Central 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
