The Friendly City Spotlight CITY NEWS • COMMUNITY EVENTS • LOCAL UPDATES Featured Event: Halloween Carnival & Día de los Muertos
Welcome, Chief Navarro Swearing-In Ceremony
What You Need To Know: Measure K & Election Resources
ISSUE NO.10, VOLUME 3 RPCITY.CA.GOV Published by the City of Rohnert Park, October 2026
ON THE COVER Aztec dancers opened Rohnert Park’s Third Annual Downtown Car Show & Festival with a traditional blessing and dance, kicking off a day celebrating classic cars, custom builds, lowriders, motorcycles, music and community.
Fire/Life Safety Emergencies 9-1-1 Report Non-Emergency Maintenance Click here.
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CITY OF ROHNERT PARK | 130 AVRAM AVENUE | ROHNERT PARK, CA 94928 (707) 588-2226 | RPCITY.ORG
Dear Neighbor: After hearing from over 800 City residents, visiting community organizations, and performing community engagement meetings to solicit input on resident priorities and needs, the Rohnert Park City Council placed Measure K, the Rohnert Park Financial Viability, Community Health/Safety Measure, on the November Municipal Election Ballot. Over the last year, the City of Rohnert Park has heard from residents about their priorities. The community identified priorities such as: Maintaining 911 Emergency Response and Fire Protection services Preventing cuts to public safety officers patrolling neighborhood streets Protecting local drinking water sources Providing safe places for kids to play Keeping public areas clean and safe If enacted by Rohnert Park voters, Measure K would enact a half-cent local sales tax, providing $5.5 million annually for local needs that address community priorities identified over a year-long community engagement effort.
SCAN QR CODE
Measure K is not a tax on homes or real property, and is not applied to rent, utilities, food purchased as groceries, or prescription medicine. Measure K would also be paid by the thousands of out-of-towners who visit Rohnert Park for the police, fire, and other services they use when they visit our City. Learn more about Rohnert Park’s Municipal Election and Measure K by scanning the QR Code or visiting rpcity.ca.gov/RPMeasureK.
DON’T GHOST YOUR BALLOT! REGISTER TO VOTE TODAY Monday, October 19, 2026, is the last day to register or update your registration for this November election. California residents who are U.S. citizens and meet the eligibility requirements can register online, and eligible 16 and 17 year olds can preregister to vote. To vote in Rohnert Park, you must reside in the City and be registered with the Sonoma County Registrar of Voters so don’t leave your registration to the ghosts!
There are so many ways to register to vote or check your registration status today: Visit MyVoterStatus Call 707-565-6800 Email rov-voterreg@sonoma-county.org Visit Sonoma County Registrar of Voters website You can also pick up voter registration forms at libraries, DMV offices, post offices, and elections offices. You may also stop by City Hall during business hours to pick up a voter registration form and receive limited edition election stickers! For more information on voter resources visit RPCity.ca.gov/Elections or scan the QR code if you dare. Still have questions? Email cityclerk@rpcity.ca.gov
SKIP THE LINES, VOTE EARLY! Want to vote early but don’t know how? You have options to make sure your vote is counted. Use an Official Ballot Drop Box Sonoma County Official Ballot Drop Boxes will be open 24/7 from October 6 to Election Day (November 3) at 8:00 p.m. Rohnert Park has two convenient locations:
Rohnert Park-Cotati Regional Library, 6250 Lynne Condé Way Sonoma State University, 1801 E. Cotati Avenue Use this interactive map to see all Official Ballot Drop Box locations.
Vote In Person Polling Places will be open October 31 to November 2, 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. (including Saturday and Sunday) and on Election Day (November 3) from 7 a.m. to 8 p.m. In Rohnert Park, you may visit: Rohnert Park Community Center, 5401 Snyder Lane open (open October 24 through November 3rd) Rohnert Park Senior Center, 6800 Hunter Drive Sonoma State University, Tuscany Village, Casentino Room, 1801 E. Cotati Avenue Click here to see all Vote Centers available for in-person voting in Sonoma County.
Vote By Mail Your vote by mail ballot comes with a prepaid return envelope, so no postage is required. However, the U.S. Postal Service cannot guarantee that a ballot mailed close to Election Day will receive a postmark on the same day it is collected. For this reason, please keep these things in mind: The California Secretary of State recommends mailing your ballot at least seven days before Election Day. If you are mailing your ballot on or close to Election Day, you can take it to a United States Post Office and ask a postal employee for a manual postmark. Return your completed ballot to any Official Ballot Drop Box, Vote Center, or polling location in California by 8:00 p.m. on November 3, 2026. To be counted, a ballot returned by mail must be postmarked on or before November 3, 2026, and received by the Sonoma County Registrar of Voters no later than November 10, 2026. For more information on voting by mail and postmarks watch this video. For more information, visit the Sonoma County Registrar of Voters by clicking here, RPCity.ca.gov/Elections, or scan the QR code below. Still have questions? Email cityclerk@rpcity.ca.gov
ROHNERT PARK LEADERS ATTEND STATE OF THE LATINO COMMUNITY ADDRESS
Pictured from left to right: Chief Rick Navarro, City Clerk Sylvia Lopez Cuevas, Councilmember Samantha Rodriguez, Vice Mayor Jackie Elward, Director of Community Services Cindy Bagley, Mayor Emily Sanborn, and City Manager Marcela Piedra.
As we celebrate Hispanic Heritage Month, City of Rohnert Park staff was honored to attend Los Cien Sonoma County’s 13th Annual State of the Latino Community Address at Sonoma State University. This year’s conversation focused on the growing economic power and opportunity within the Latinx community, the impact of artificial intelligence on the workforce, and how immigration enforcement policies affect local families, businesses, and the regional economy. The event also highlighted the importance of Latinx leadership in public service. In 2022, Samantha Rodriguez became Rohnert Park's first Latina mayor, marking a historic milestone for our city. City Manager Marcela Piedra became the city’s first Latina City Manager in 2023.
According to Los Cien, 13% of the local elected seats are held by Latinx officials, reflecting broader growth in Latino civic engagement and representation across the region. An increase from 11% in 2019! According to the latest U.S. Census data, Rohnert Park is one of Sonoma County's most diverse communities, with nearly one in three residents, identifying as Hispanic or Latino. For more census information click here. Did you know? Our City Manager, City Attorney, City Clerk, and Chief of Police all identify as Latino, reflecting the strength of representation in public service and the diverse community we proudly serve. Events like today's remind us that investing in education, economic mobility, civic leadership, and inclusive opportunities helps build a stronger future for everyone in the Friendly City!
HALLOWEEN CARNIVAL AND DÍA DE LOS MUERTOS CELEBRATION RETURNS OCTOBER 24 Costumes, music, dancing, and a few well-placed scares are coming to the Rohnert Park Community Center Complex on Saturday, October 24, from 12:00 to 5:00 p.m. The annual Halloween Carnival with Día de los Muertos Celebration is presented by the City in partnership with Latino Alliance, and admission and parking are free. The event happens rain or shine, so if the weather tries to spook us, everything moves indoors. Guests can enjoy Aztec and Ballet Folklórico performances, magic shows with Perry the Magician, and a haunted maze that alternates between a scarier version for thrill-seekers and a not-so-scary version for younger kids. There’s also a pumpkin walk, arts and crafts, face painting, a juggler, a photo booth, and a food court. Adults can visit the cash-only beverage booth hosted by the Education Foundation of Cotati & Rohnert Park. Día de los Muertos is a time to remember and celebrate loved ones, and Latino Alliance will present colorful ofrendas at the event. Everyone is also welcome to add photos, flowers, letters, or small keepsakes to the Rohnert Park Community Altar at the Community Center. Events like this bring neighbors together and celebrate the cultures that make our community what it is. Visit rpcity.ca.gov for the entertainment schedule and altar details as they’re posted. We hope to see you there. Saturday, October 24 | 12:00–5:00 p.m. | 5401 Snyder Lane | Free
CELEBRATING COMMUNITY AT THE DOWNTOWN CAR SHOW & FESTIVAL Rohnert Park’s Third Annual Downtown Car Show & Festival brought residents and visitors together for a lively day of classic cars, custom builds, lowriders, motorcycles, live music, local food and community connection. The day began with a traditional blessing and dance by Aztec dancers before the festival got underway. City staff were also out connecting with residents, helping community members find their City Council district and sharing voting and election resources ahead of the upcoming election. Throughout the day, neighbors had the chance to connect with City staff, ask questions and learn more about their community while enjoying everything the festival had to offer. A special thank you to the City staff, vendors, car enthusiasts, performers, community partners and guests who helped make this year’s event such a memorable celebration of Rohnert Park and its Friendly City spirit.
ROHNERT PARK PUBLIC WORKS TAKES HOME MOST PATRIOTIC AWARD AT FOUNDER’S DAY PARADE The Rohnert Park Founder’s Day Parade made its return on September 26, bringing together families, community organizations, local businesses, and City employees for a celebration of community spirit. Organized by the Rotary Club of Sonoma Mountain Twilight, the parade featured 45 entries traveling along Snyder Lane, including an impressive lineup of City Public Works vehicles. Our Public Works team proudly showcased the City's VacCon sewer truck, 410 backhoe, John Deere parks tractor, and new forestry bucket truck, all decorated with American flags. Their efforts earned them the Most Patriotic Award, one of just three awards presented during the event! Congratulations to our Public Works employees for this well-deserved recognition, and thank you to everyone who helped bring this beloved community tradition back to Rohnert Park.
THE CUTEST ASSIGNMENT OF THE DAY City Hall welcomed some especially adorable visitors when Devan Amundsen and Free Dog Trainers stopped by with five puppies for a little practice meeting new people. Staff were happy to help the four boys and one girl build their confidence, and the puppies had no shortage of attention, affection or willing laps. Free Dog Trainers is a nonprofit that provides dog training education and support at no cost, helping strengthen the bond between people and their pets and keep dogs with the families who love them. The puppies will be available October 9. If you’re interested in learning more about them, contact Devan at Devan@FreeDogTrainers.org. You can also support the organization’s work by donating at FreeDogTrainers.org.
ROHNERT PARK WELCOMES NEW DIRECTOR OF PUBLIC SAFETY RICK NAVARRO The City of Rohnert Park officially welcomed Rick Navarro as its new Director of Public Safety during a swearing-in ceremony on September 22, surrounded by City Councilmembers, staff, public safety personnel, family, friends and members of the community. Navarro brings 36 years of public safety experience to the role, including more than three decades in leadership, along with a long-standing connection to Rohnert Park, where he has lived for more than 30 years. During the ceremony, Navarro spoke about the importance of partnership, communication, accountability and trust, emphasizing his commitment to being present, supporting employees and strengthening relationships throughout the community. He also shared his belief that trust is earned through consistent action and service. The event marked an important leadership transition for the Department of Public Safety and included recognition of Interim Director Tim Mattos for his steady leadership and support during the transition. As Navarro begins his new role, the City looks forward to the experience, perspective and collaborative approach he brings to serving Rohnert Park.
THE TERRACES AT COPELAND CREEK: A NEW CHAPTER FOR HOUSING IN ROHNERT PARK On September 16, the City joined Burbank Housing, Sonoma County, and regional partners to celebrate a milestone for The Terraces at Copeland Creek. The project will turn the former Best Western hotel at 6500 Redwood Drive into 70 permanent supportive homes for seniors who are experiencing homelessness or at risk of it. It’s funded by state, federal, County, and healthcare sources, not City General Fund dollars. The first residents are expected to move in next summer, in 2027. “For someone experiencing homelessness or living in fear that they could lose their home, stable housing can be transformative,” Mayor Emily Sanborn said. The City thanks Burbank Housing and all the partners who helped make this possible. To learn more, contact Burbank Housing at (707) 526-9782 or development@burbankhousing.org.
FIRE PREVENTION WEEK RESOURCES: CHARGE INTO FIRE SAFETY Although Fire Prevention Week, October 4 through 10, has passed, the safety tips shared during this year’s campaign are useful year-round. The theme, “Charge Into Fire Safety: Safe Charging Is a Superpower,” focused on reducing fires caused by lithium-ion batteries and everyday charging habits. Keep these tips in mind when charging phones, tablets, e-bikes, power tools and other devices: Use the charging cord recommended by the device manufacturer and avoid generic or incompatible chargers.
Charge devices on a flat, solid surface, not on beds, couches or other soft materials. Stop using a device or battery if it begins making unusual noises, changing shape, overheating or producing an unusual odor. Unplug devices once they are fully charged. Whenever possible, charge larger lithiumion devices, including e-bikes and power tools, outdoors and away from combustible materials. When charging devices on an airplane, keep them where you can see and access them, such as on the tray table, rather than placing them in an overhead bin. Fire safety does not end when Fire Prevention Week does. These simple charging habits can help protect your home, family and community throughout the year. For additional information, safety resources and graphics, visit the National Fire Protection Association’s Fire Prevention Week website.
RPDPS TO PARTICIPATE IN DEA NATIONAL PRESCRIPTION DRUG TAKE BACK DAY The Rohnert Park Department of Public Safety will participate in the DEA National Prescription Drug Take Back Day on Saturday, October 24, from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. The event provides community members with a safe, free, and anonymous way to dispose of unwanted or expired medications while helping prevent medication misuse and abuse. RPDPS will accept expired or unused prescription medications, including tablets, capsules, patches, and other solid forms of prescription drugs. Liquid medications, such as cough syrup, will also be accepted when they are sealed in their original containers. The collection site will not accept syringes, sharps, or illicit drugs. National Prescription Drug Take Back Day provides an opportunity to safely remove unwanted medications from homes and help prevent them from being accidentally or intentionally misused. Community members are encouraged to take advantage of this free disposal opportunity and safely clean out their medicine cabinets.
LEARN ABOUT THE FRIENDLY CITY THROUGH OUR NEW EDUCATIONAL VIDEO SERIES The City of Rohnert Park has released several videos in a new six-part educational series designed to help residents better understand how government in the Friendly City works. The first video, How the Friendly City Elects Its Leaders, provides an overview of the City's election process, including how residents can vote and how to run for City Council.
Additional videos in the series will be released throughout the year and will explore a variety of topics, including the City budget, the role of the City Council, how residents can participate in local government, City services and resources, and how tax dollars support City operations. The series is part of the City's ongoing commitment to educating and engaging the community. Watch the first video on Channel 27, the City's Facebook page, the City’s YouTube channel, or clicking the link below:
WATCH NOW! For more election information, visit RPCity.ca.gov/Elections.
LIBRARY SERVICES ARE STAYING CLOSE TO HOME THIS FALL The Rohnert Park-Cotati Regional Library will temporarily close this fall while interior improvements are completed, but residents will still have several ways to enjoy library programs and services nearby. Throughout September, October and November, the Sonoma County Library will offer free programs for children, teens and adults at the Burton Avenue Recreation Center, 7421 Burton Avenue. Activities will include storytimes, bilingual yoga, early reader book clubs, sensory crafts, adult book groups, craft programs and a weekly robotics program for teens. The Library is also planning to offer holds pickup service at Sonoma County Library Headquarters, 6135 State Farm Drive. Additional information about this service will be shared as plans are finalized. Rohnert Park residents are also welcome to attend library craft programs offered in Cotati during October and November. Although the library building will be closed temporarily, the Sonoma County Library and City of Rohnert Park are working together to keep programs and services accessible to the community. Visit the Sonoma County Library’s online calendar for the latest dates, times and service updates.
CITYWIDE PAVEMENT MAINTENANCE Thank you to our residents for your patience during the most recent phase of the Citywide Pavement Preservation Project. The slurry seal that was applied is a cost-effective surface treatment that extends the life of the asphalt by sealing small cracks and protecting the pavement from water intrusion and sun damage. Preventative maintenance like this helps to avoid extremely costly street rebuilding in the future. With the slurry seal phase now complete, the overall project is still underway and is anticipated to be finished in November 2026. To stay informed, please continue to visit the project’s webpage at rpcity.ca.gov/852 and check out the City’s Facebook, Instagram, and NextDoor pages!
SEE WHAT’S BEING BUILT IN ROHNERT PARK Have you ever noticed construction around town and wondered what’s happening or what’s coming next? Our website, rpcity.org, now has a dedicated Projects in Progress page that gives residents an easy way to see the public works projects currently underway across Rohnert Park. From street improvements and park upgrades to building repairs and safety improvements, this page offers a clear snapshot of how the City is investing in our community. Each project is listed in one place, making it simple to understand what work is happening and where. You can explore projects related to roads, sidewalks, parks, public buildings, utilities, and more, all without digging through technical reports or budget documents. It is designed to be straightforward and resident-friendly. We invite you to check out the Projects in Progress page anytime you want to stay informed about what’s happening in your neighborhood and throughout the city. It is a great way to see how City projects support safety, mobility, and quality of life for everyone in Rohnert Park.
2-1-1 SERVES AS A DIRECT LINE TO SUPPORT
KNOWING WHO TO CALL CAN MAKE ALL THE DIFFERENCE In moments of crisis, knowing the right number to call matters. While 9-1-1 is essential for emergencies that require immediate response, many situations call for a different kind of support. That is where 2-1-1 comes in. Available 24 hours a day, 2-1-1 connects residents to trusted local information, services, and resources when help is needed but the situation is not an emergency. Calling 9-1-1 should always be reserved for urgent situations such as medical emergencies, fires, crimes in progress, or immediate threats to safety. For everything else, 2-1-1 serves as a direct line to community support. Residents can receive assistance with housing and shelter, food resources, disaster relief and preparedness, tax preparation help, immigration services, mental health support, services for seniors and veterans, and more. By making the right call, residents help ensure emergency lines remain available for those who need them most. United Way’s 2-1-1 service is free, confidential, and available by phone or text. Residents can dial 2-1-1 or text their ZIP code to 898-211 to connect with a trained community specialist who can help guide them to the right resources. Knowing when to call 2-1-1 helps strengthen our community, reduces strain on emergency services, and ensures neighbors get the support they need, when they need it.
SPRECKELS PERFORMING ARTS CENTER 2026-27 SEASON It’s that time of year again…time for theaters around the country to reveal their 2026-27 seasons! Spreckels is excited to share the upcoming season of shows, a wonderful mix of genre, tone and subject matter, with something for everyone! For tickets and more information, click here. Beginning Nov. 27 and running through Dec. 13, 2026, audiences have the opportunity to see the North Bay premiere of Rooted, a charming and quirky comedy by Deborah Zoe Laufer. Sprinkled lightly with magical realism, Rooted tells the tale of shy, middle-aged Emery, who is happy living in her tree house, communing with her beloved plants.
When her innocent plant-care videos go viral, she is suddenly faced with an adoring cult built around her and her greenery. A gentle, funny and insightful play about self-knowledge and mob mentality.
In December, All Is Calm: The Christmas Truce of 1914 returns to the Spreckels stage for a “blink and you’ll miss it” oneweekend run, Dec. 11-13. It’s Christmas Eve, 1914, on the Western Front. Out of the violence of World War I, a silence, then a song. A German soldier steps into No Man’s Land singing “Stille Nacht.” Thus begins an extraordinary night of camaraderie, music and peace. Featuring a glorious, all-male, a cappella chorale, All Is Calm is a remarkable true story told in the words and songs of the men who lived it. All Is Calm has quickly become a holiday tradition, eagerly anticipated by theatergoers looking for something meaningful and exquisitely beautiful for the holiday season. Simply presented in concert style in the Codding Theater. The Sycamore family is back, and we couldn’t be happier to see them! The fifth show of the season is the classic comedy, You Can’t Take It With You, written by Moss Hart and George S. Kaufman.
In our never-ending quest to make live theater affordable, we are happy to announce that each of our shows this coming season, with the exception of All Is Calm, will offer one “Pick-Your-Price” performance on the opening night of each run, allowing patrons to choose any ticket price they wish, starting at $10. This season at Spreckels promises to be an exciting year! From offering new theatrical experiences with the North Bay premieres of Dear Evan Hansen, Rooted and Frozen, to the thought-provoking Equivocation, to the zany joy of You Can’t Take It With You and finally, the beautiful and moving All Is Calm, Spreckels is bringing a sensational season of music and stories that challenge, inform and entertain. All tickets are on sale now! A true masterpiece of American comedy, You Can’t Take It With You has been charming audiences since 1936 with its laugh-out-loud humor and exuberant message of “live and let live!” Come visit this iconoclastic family from Feb. 12-28, 2027. This play is presented in the Codding Theater.
Spreckels is honored to present the North Bay premiere of Disney’s Frozen to close out the 2026/27 season. Running April 30-May 16, 2027, Frozen, set in the beautiful mountainous kingdom of Arendelle, tells the story of two sisters, Elsa and Anna, who face nearly insurmountable obstacles as they struggle to find their places in the world…and each other. A story of sisterly love that took the world by storm, first as a film, then as this stage musical. A magical night of theater for the entire family. Music and lyrics by Kristen Anderson-Lopez and Robert Lopez. Book by Michael Grandage. Spreckels Theatre Company is a leading performing arts organization located in the heart of Sonoma County. Learn more about Spreckels at spreckelsonline.com
Your Services, Close to Home RO H N E RT PARK PEO PL E S E RV I C ES C E N T E R
The Rohnert Park People Services Center (RPPSC), operated by Petaluma People Services Center (PPSC), provides access to a range of services at no initial cost, designed to support the well-being, independence, and stability of individuals and families in our community. For more information, go to petalumapeople.org.
Connecting Residents With Resources RPPSC has an onsite Bilingual Spanish Community Navigator who helps Rohnert Park residents navigate and connect with community resources. The center also has an onsite Health Care Options (Medi-Cal) customer service agent who assists clients with health plan changes, including transitions between Partnership Health Plan and Kaiser Permanente, and connects them with appropriate enrollment resources.
Senior Services iRide Transportation
iRide provides assisted transportation for older adults ages 60 and older, helping them get to essential appointments, shopping, errands, and other important destinations in Rohnert Park.
Youth Services MENTORING
CAREER COACHING
The mentoring program connects young people in grades K-12 with caring adults who meet with them for one hour each week.
Out-of-school youth ages 16-24 who face barriers to employment are connected with long-term career coaching to support them in obtaining sustainable employment.
Supporting the Well-Being of Our Community
ADDITIONAL SERVICES AVAILABLE THROUGH THE ROHNERT PARK PEOPLE SERVICES CENTER
Mental Health Services COUNSELING Individual, couples, and family counseling services provide a supportive, confidential space to improve mental and emotional well-being.
SAFE TEAM The Specialized Assistance for Everyone (SAFE) Team provides crisis response in partnership with local law enforcement, connecting individuals experiencing behavioral health or other crises with appropriate support and resources.
Volunteering
Interested in giving back? Volunteer with the Rohnert Park People Services Center and help support older adults, youth, and families in our community. We are looking for iRide drivers and youth mentors.
Contact Us
ROHNERT PARK PEOPLE SERVICES CENTER VISIT US
GET IN TOUCH
6800 Hunter Drive, Suite B Rohnert Park, CA 95492
Email cares@petalumapeople.org
Bilingual Spanish Community Navigator
HOURS
Monday through Friday 9 a.m. to 4 p.m.
LEARN MORE
707-765-8488, ext. 105
Health Care Options (Medi-CaI) Enrollment Support 707-765-8488, ext. 135
petalumapeople.org/rppsc
ADOPT THESE PETS! 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!
OVER 350 DAYS. That’s too many days for Luna to be waiting for her person.
LUNA
Meet Luna, our gentle, moon-soft sweetheart who is hoping this is the year she finally gets to go home. Luna is a 1.5-year-old Pittie mix with the sweetest, most tender soul. She can be shy at first and may need a little time to feel comfortable, but once she trusts you, you get to see the beautiful girl underneath that quiet exterior. She’s affectionate, loyal, and so deserving of a family who will let her blossom at her own pace. Luna would be happiest in a calm home with adults or older teens who understand that the best relationships take time to build. She seems to enjoy having other dogs around and may love having a confident canine companion to help show her that the world is a safe place. We’re still unsure how she feels about cats.
LUNA She doesn’t need a perfect home. She just needs her home. A little patience. A little encouragement. A lot of love. And someone willing to give her the time she needs to become the confident, happy companion we know she can be. We would really love to see Luna out of the shelter before she reaches one full year with us. She has already waited over 350 days. She deserves to spend her next chapter curled up on someone’s couch, getting spoiled, loved, and finally knowing she belongs.
REMY Remy is a handsome 1.5-yearold large-breed mix who has been through a lot, but he’s showing us just how resilient he is. He came to us as a surrender with severe skin issues, and he’s making wonderful progress every day. His fur is growing back beautifully, and underneath it all is an absolutely wonderful dog. Remy previously lived with three other large-breed dogs and did well with them. His previous family also noted that their neighbor had several cats who would wander into the yard, and Remy never had any issues with them. Remy will need a special someone who is committed to continuing his skin care and making sure he stays comfortable and healthy. In return, you’ll get a sweet, handsome guy who is ready to show you what a wonderful dog he is. Think Remy might be your guy? Come down and meet our handsome man!
PROTECT YOUR PET! Did you know that pet licenses are required for all dogs and cats in the City of Rohnert Park? Licensing helps reunite lost pets with their owners, supports local animal services, and helps keep pets safe. The City uses DocuPet as its official online pet licensing platform, making it easy to license, renew, and manage your pet’s information anytime. You can now license or renew your pet's license: Online In-person Mail Phone Visit rpanimalshelter.org/licensing to learn more.
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Where Friends Become Family
CITY OF ROHNERT PARK | ROHNERT PARK ANIMAL SERVICES 301 J ROGERS LANE | ROHNERT PARK, CA 94928 (707) 584-1582 | RPANIMALSHELTER.ORG
WHY LEASHING MATTERS IN ROHNERT PARK 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: Leash Requirements – RMC 6.14.010 Dogs in Parks – RMC 6.14.030
R. P arker
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 hosted off-leash rentals.
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? Get in contact with Kevin King! Senior Analyst Economic Development 707-588-2268 kking@rpcity.org 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!
START HERE! 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
Book an in-person appointment now at RPCity.org/SBDC
Download the Reach Rohnert Park App! Connect with the City through Reach Rohnert Park!
Download it in your phone’s app store and let us know what we can fix.
If you need to report any non-emergency issue around the city, do so in our app: Reach Rohnert Park!
FLOODEDSTREETS STREETLIGHT PROBLEMS ABANDONED CARTS GRAFFITI You can also report issues directly on the City’s website: REPORT ISSUES HERE
#CONNECT FACEBOOK The City of Rohnert Park Rohnert Park Police + Fire Rohnert Park Community Services Rohnert Park Animal Services Spreckels Performing Arts Center INSTAGRAM The City of Rohnert Park Rohnert Park Police + Fire Rohnert Park Community Services Rohnert Park Animal Services Spreckels Performing Arts Center NEXTDOOR The City of Rohnert Park LINKEDIN The City of Rohnert Park THE FRIENDLY CITY SPOTLIGHT Read our free, digital, monthly newsletter at FriendlyCitySpotlight.com! EMERGENCY ALERTS Get real-time alerts about missing persons, severe weather, evacuations, and more.
CHANNEL 26 IS NOW
CHANNEL 27! Available to Comcast cable subscribers.
Same Friendly City, New Channel Number! Looking for City Council meetings, local updates, community events, and the latest happenings around Rohnert Park? You can still find your favorite local programming in the same place on your TV lineup, just with a brand-new number.
STAY TUNED, ROHNERT PARK! Grab your remote, tune in to Channel 27, and stay connected with the people, projects, and updates that make Rohnert Park the Friendly City.
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.
EMILY SANBORN MAYOR Council District 2 Phone: (707) 899-3088 esanborn@rpcity.org
JACKIE ELWARD VICE MAYOR Council District 4 Phone: (707) 899-3086 jelward@rpcity.org
SUSAN H. ADAMS COUNCILMEMBER Council District 5 Phone: (707) 899-3085 sadams@rpcity.org
GERARD GIUDICE COUNCILMEMBER Council District 3 Phone: (707) 332-1162 ggiudice@rpcity.org
SAMANTHA RODRIGUEZ COUNCILMEMBER Council District 1 Phone: (707) 899-3092 srodriguez@rpcity.org
CITY COUNCIL MEETINGS The City of Rohnert Park welcomes your participation at City Council meetings at 5:30 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 27, YouTube, or by visiting our Meeting Central. Come get involved! Want to receive email notifications when agendas are posted? Subscribe here. UPCOMING CITY COUNCIL MEETINGS Tuesday, October 27, 2026 - 5:30 pm Rohnert Park City Council Chambers 130 Avram Avenue, Rohnert Park
PARTICIPATE IN CITY COUNCIL MEETINGS IN-PERSON OR FROM HOME
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 27
Tuesday, November 10, 2026 - 5:30 pm Rohnert Park City Council Chambers 130 Avram Avenue, Rohnert Park Holiday Schedule Notice: The City Council meetings scheduled for November 24 and December 22, 2026, will not be held due to the holiday schedule.
Provide Public Comment Provide public comment in-person during the meeting or from home by emailing your comment to publiccomment@rpcity.org. You can also submit a public comment using our online form.
SCAN TO GO TO MEETING CENTRAL
DISTRICTS & REPRESENTATIVES AT A GLANCE
2026 COMMUNITY EVENTS EVENTOS COMUNITARIOS DE 2026
PUMPKIN SPLASH
VETERAN’S DAY
OCTOBER 17 Saturday, 2:00PM-5:00PM Honeybee Pool
NOVEMBER 11 Wednesday, 11:00AM Rohnert Park Community Center
HALLOWEEN CARNIVAL
HOLIDAY ARTS & CRAFTS FAIRE
& DÍA DE LOS MUERTOS
OCTOBER 24 Saturday, 12:00PM-5:00PM Rohnert Park Community Center
NOVEMBER 27-28 Friday-Saturday, 10:00AM-4:00PM Rohnert Park Community Center
HOLIDAY LIGHTS + REC THE HALLS
DECEMBER 5, 2026 Saturday, 5PM-7:30PM Rohnert Park Community Center
FOR MORE INFORMATION VISIT: www.rpcity.org FOLLOW: @rp_communityservices CALL: 707-588-3456
*Event dates, times, activities, and vendors are subject to change.
CLICK HERE TO VIEW OUR FALL RECREATION GUIDE!