ONTHECOVER
Osvaldo Segura, Maintenance
Worker II, with the City’s Water division, works on a water leak repair.
Keep reading this issue to learn more about the project and what our teams do as we celebrate Water Professionals Appreciation
Week this week!
Fire/Life Safety Emergencies 9-1-1 Report Non-Emergency Maintenance
Click here.
The Friendly City SPOTLIGHT
October 5 through 13, 2024 is California Water Professionals Appreciation Week!
Help us take a moment to thank our water professionals for the essential services they provide in our community
Osvaldo Segura (opposite), Jordan Oden (left), and Mitch Pearson (right) worked through the recent heat wave on a water leak repair in B Section
David Owen, Brendan Betts, and Kyle PonikvarDolney (not pictured) worked through the same heat wave to replace an older compound meter with a new ultrasonic one in B Section
CITYOFROHNERTPARK HOLIDAYCLOSURE
ROHNERTPARK DEPARTMENTOF PUBLICSAFETYHOSTS FREECOMMUNITY
PANCAKEBREAKFAST INHONOROFFAITH& BLUEWEEKEND
Strengthen community ties and enjoy a free pancake breakfast with the Rohnert Park Department of Public Safety (RPDPS) on October 12!
Building community trust through strong relationships is a priority for RPDPS. One way we're supporting this mission is through amplifying organizations like Faith & Blue, the largest, most consolidated police-community outreach initiative in history. It fosters connection between law enforcement, residents, businesses and community groups. These connection efforts focus on partnerships through local faith-based organizations
To honor Faith & Blue Weekend, October 11–14, RPDPS is hosting a pancake breakfast. We invite the entire community to join us from 8 to 11 a m on October 12. at Fire Station #2 (5200 Country Club Dr., Rohnert Park) at no charge. RPDPS will feature several children's activities at the event. This includes a showcase of the new Youth Explorer Program Attendees will learn more about this program designed for eight through 12th graders. Local congregations will also join us. They will tell stories demonstrating how places of worship can support public safety needs. These partnerships are especially beneficial to our community during disasters and evacuations They will also be providing additional community resources and important information.
Faith & Blue began in 2020, created by Movement Forward, Inc. and the Office of Community Oriented Policing Services (COPS). They developed the initiative to facilitate safer, stronger and more unified communities It is active in all 50 states and reaches over 1,600 faith-based organizations. Over 1,000 national, state and local law enforcement agencies participate as well.
Nationwide Faith & Blue Weekend celebrations include community service projects, marches or public gatherings. RPDPS is proud to celebrate Faith & Blue and promote unity and trust among the people we protect and serve.
To learn more about Faith & Blue and its mission please visit faithandblue.org
PUBLIC SAFETY EXPLORER PROGRAM
Rohnert Park Department of Public Safety announces the return of their Public Safety Explorer program.
Public Safety Exploring is a career education program for teens and young adults aged 14-20. Teens interested in learning more about public safety and criminal justice careers volunteer their time and gain practical experience and connections. Explorers are expected to attend monthly meetings, tentatively beginning in October Explorers will receive instruction and hands-on learning on crime prevention, crime scene investigation, CPR and first aid, fire suppression techniques, etc.
If you or your teen are interested in learning more about the Public Safety Explorer program, please submit your interest through our website www.rpcity.org/explorers.
CYBERSECURITY AWARENESSMONTH
Founded in 2004, Cybersecurity Awareness Month, held each October, highlights the growing importance of cybersecurity in our daily lives and encourages individuals and businesses to take important cybersecurity steps every day to Secure Our World and stay safe online.
Cybersecurity Awareness Month is a collaborative effort among businesses, government agencies, colleges and universities, associations, nonprofit organizations, tribal communities, and individuals committed to educating others about online safety
The City of Rohnert Park is proud to support this critically important online safety awareness and education initiative, led by the Cybersecurity and Infrastructure Security Agency and the National Cybersecurity Alliance.
The theme of Cybersecurity Awareness Month is Secure Our World, which encourages all of us to take four easy steps each day to ensure our online safety:
1 Understand the benefits of strong passwords and use of a password manager
Recognize and report phishing –still one of the primary threat actions used by cybercriminals today
2. Turn on multifactor authentication on personal devices and business networks
4
3. Install updates on a regular basis and turn on automated updates
For more information about Cybersecurity Awareness Month and how to participate, visit: cisa.gov/cybersecurityawareness-month staysafeonline.org/cybersecurityawareness-month
WINTER/SPRING RECREATION GUIDEPHOTO CONTEST
We're thrilled to announce the Winter/Spring Recreation Guide Parks Make Life Better! Photo Contest.
We invite you to share pictures that highlight winter/spring fun in the beauty of our parks and recreation programs, and show how they bring joy and energy to our community during these seasons. Whether it's winter walks, spring blossoms, or family fun in the park, we want to see how YOU enjoy our outdoor spaces here in Rohnert Park
The grand prize?
Your photo featured on the cover of the Winter/Spring Rohnert Park Recreation Guide!
As a reminder, the "Parks Make Life Better" logo you've seen around town embodies our commitment to enhancing your quality of life through various aspects:
PLAY: Safe, outdoor spaces
NATURE: Beauty and serenity
EXERCISE: Healthy movement
POSITIVE SPACES: Free-time fun
GATHERING PLACES: Socializing and learning
FOREVER: Valued today and always
Submission Deadline
Don't miss out! Submit your winter/spring themed photos in JPEG format, to Amanda Foley at afoley@rpcity.org by Tuesday, October 15.
Why Participate?
Be a Local Star: Your winning photo will grace the cover of the Winter/Spring Rohnert Park Recreation Guide, reaching every household in our community.
Showcase Your Talent: Whether you're a professional photographer or a smartphone snapper, we welcome entries from all skill levels.
Promote Our Parks and Recreation Services: Your photo will become a symbol of how parks truly make life better in Rohnert Park.
Contest Guidelines
Each participant can submit up to three photos. Photos should be in highresolution JPEG format. Ensure your photos are appropriate and free from offensive or inappropriate content.
By entering, you grant us permission to use your photos in our publications and promotional materials, with proper credit to you as the photographer.
Join us in celebrating the winter/spring spirit of our community.
We are so excited to see your entries and look forward to showcasing the wonderful parks and recreation services that make life better right here in our friendly city.
KEEPSHOPPING LOCALROHNERT PARK,WEAREONE OFTHEBESTSMALL CITIESINTHEUS!
Rohnert Park has been named one of the best small US cities in the United States by Wallet Hub!
WalletHub looked at 1,318 U S cities with populations between 25,000 and 100,000 and compared data in each city across five categories: affordability, economic health, education and health, quality of life and safety.
Rohnert Park was grouped in the 56th percentile, with our best rankings found in economic health (#263) and education/health (#359). You can read more about Wallet Hub’s findings and see where Rohnert Park measures up among small cities in the U.S. So which city was number one? Carmel, Indiana, with a population of just under 100,000, and also the “Roundabout Capital” of the United States, was crowned the best small city in the United States
When we look at four of Rohnert Park’s economic health attributes, specifically, our population growth, income growth, job growth, and unemployment rate, it’s easy to see why Rohnert Park deserves a spot on the Wallet Hub small city list. Our unemployment rate is right at the national average of 4 1%, and we have 1,615 total businesses powered by 13,704 employees driving our economic growth. And, when we mention Rohnert Park’s 1,615 total businesses, it’s impossible not to mention the variety of local businesses and the exceptional community support to these businesses; approximately 77% of the Rohnert Park community prefers to shop local vs shopping at a national store chain.
No doubt, many of you have heard the urging of the media, your friends, and family to “Shop Local!” But why? Is shopping local worth it? As it turns out, it is! Small local businesses are the largest employers nationally, employing over 52% of the nation’s employees. Shopping local benefits the local business owner and the local community by keeping your money in the city. When you spend your money locally, that money can be re-spent locally, which raises our overall level of economic activity, pays more salaries, and builds the tax base4. Where does this money go? Wages and benefits paid to local residents, profits earned by the local owners, purchases of local goods/services for from local suppliers/distributors, and contributions to local nonprofit organizations. How much money? Well, the American Independent Business Alliance found that 48% of each purchase at a local independent business was recirculated locally, which gives us a multiplier of 1.48. this means for every dollar of earnings generated, $1.48 is paid out in wages, salaries, and other compensation throughout the economy. Compare this to 14% of each purchase at a local chain store, and it’s clear to see that shopping at local independent retailers creates more revenue for local businesses and more local jobs.
So what can you do Rohnert Park? Well…keep doing what you are doing!
With 77% of the community preferring to shop local, we are in a better position than many other cities. If you are one of those shoppers who sometimes prefers the convenience of online shopping (I’m guilty as charged), make a commitment to shift your shopping to a local establishment one purchase at a time. Instead of buying that new board game online, find it locally. Our local shops and businesses provide a foundation on which our community is built. Let’s keep that foundation strong by shopping local!
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: Online In-person Mail Phone
Visit rpanimalshelter.org/licensing to learn more
“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
AREYOUREGISTEREDTOVOTE?
National Voter Registration Day is everyday in Rohnert Park!
According to election data, one in four Americans are not registered to vote or do not know if they are registered to vote.
Get Vote Ready in time for Election Day this November 5, 2024! October 21 is the last day to register to vote in this election.
Voter Registration Forms are available at the Rohnert Park City Clerk's Office, Sonoma County Registrar of Voters, local libraries, Department of Motor Vehicles Offices, and U.S. Post Offices.
Not sure if you’re registered to vote or need to register to vote? Click here to check your voter registration status or register. Remember, you must reregister if you moved, changed your name or political affiliation
To get Vote Ready: Register to vote 1. Make a plan to vote 2 Know what’s on the ballot 3. Locate poll places or Vote by Mail 4. Make sure your voice is heard! 5.
For more election information click here.
MAKEA DIFFERENCE INROHNERT PARK!
Make a difference in Rohnert Park by filling a vacancy on a City advisory body! Advisory bodies encourage public involvement in creating a thriving, familyfriendly community.
Three seats are available on each of the advisory bodies below:
The Bicycle and Pedestrian Advisory Committee maintains the City’s Bicycle Master Plan, reviews bicycle transportation and safety matters and participates in countywide bike trail coordination efforts. The committee meets on the fourth Monday of the month at 5:30 p.m.
The Mobile Home Parks Rent Appeals Board prevents unreasonable rent increases for controlled mobile homes. The board meets on the first Thursday of the month at 6:00 p.m.
The Parks and Recreation Commission reviews policies and programs and makes recommendations to City Council and the recreation department. The commission meets on the first Monday of the month at 5:30 p.m.
The Planning Commission manages the General Plan, Zoning Ordinances and review of development applications. The commission meets on the second and fourth Thursday of the month at 6 p.m.
The Senior Citizens Advisory Commission identifies and brings awareness to our elderly community's needs Commissioners must be at least 60 years old. The commission meets on the third Thursday of January, April, July, and October at 12:30 p.m.
One seat is available on the Building Appeals Board. This board works with the building division to review and make decisions on matters related to Building Standards Codes and other regulations Meetings occur as needed.
Community input from advisory bodies ensures that our City is a safe, enjoyable place to live, work and play The application period closes on Nov. 15. Get involved now and apply through the city’s website.
For more information, email cityclerk@rpcity.org or call 707-5882227. You can also visit us at the City Clerk’s Office at 130 Avram Avenue, Rohnert Park, weekdays from 8 a m to 5 p.m.
JOIN OUR TEAM!
Looking to apply for a new position, or know someone interested in joining our team?
Check out our latest open positions! Click here to learn more or apply ACCOUNTING SUPERVISOR
$104,952.84 - $127,570.56 Annually
Closes October 25, 2024 | 5:00 p.m.
CIP PROJECT MANAGER
$104,952.84 - $127,570.56 Annually
Closes October 30, 2024 | 5:00 p.m. LATERAL
$7,541.99 - $10,722.37 Monthly
$81,988.43 - $115,572.94 Annually
Closes October 17, 2024 | 5:00 p.m.
#CONNECT
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
Council District 4
Phone: (707) 899-3086
jelward@rpcity.org
SAMANTHA RODRIGUEZ COUNCILMEMBER
Council District 1
Phone: (707) 899-3092
srodriguez@rpcity.org
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, October 22, 2024 | 5:00 p.m.
Rohnert Park City Council Chambers
130 Avram Avenue, Rohnert Park
Tuesday, November 12, 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
Where Friends Become Family
PETS OFTHE WEEK!
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) 584-1582 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!
MAPACHE
Is this handsome guy a showstopper, or what?!
Mapache may be a bit shy about his dashing looks, but with just a little nudge, he’ll confidently strut his stuff like a pro!
We estimate he’s around 4-5 years old, but what we know for sure is that he's as sweet as he is stunning.
Don’t let this charmer slip through your fingers!
CANNOLI
Holy Cannoli, is this the cutest little 3month-old Himalayan-mix bunny ever?!
Cannoli is looking for a foster-to-adopt home right here in Sonoma County. She's as soft as powdered sugar and as sweet as her namesake, getting along wonderfully with people of all ages.
If you're looking to add a sprinkle of cuteness to your life, Cannoli is the perfect treat!
DAKOTAH
Meet Dakotah, a dazzling 3-year-old Border Collie/Aussie mix who's ready to charm her way into your heart!
This stunning gal had to say goodbye to her last family because they couldn't keep up with her care, but now she's all set for her next big adventure - with you!
Dakotah is a social butterfly with her dog pals and has even lived with a kitty friend. She'd thrive in a home with adults or older kiddos, that’s active and into adventures.
If you're ready for a new bestie who's got brains, beauty, and a heart of gold, come meet Dakotah today!
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JOINTHE COMMUNITYALTAR
The City of Rohnert Park is excited to invite you to contribute to our Community Altar, part of our annual Halloween Carnival and Dia de los Muertos Celebration!
Dia de los Muertos altars, or ofrendas, are a beautiful way to honor and remember loved ones who have passed. These vibrant displays feature photos, flowers, food, and personal mementos to celebrate their memory
You can be part of this special tradition by contributing items to the altar!
We recommend framing photos stand upright. Since the altar is open to the public, please avoid leaving valuable or irreplaceable items. To ensure your belongings are returned, mark your initials on them and check in at the Community Center front desk when dropping off and picking up. Please click here for more information and to sign up.
Questions? Please reach out to Silvia at scarreno@rpcity.org.
We look forward to celebrating together and honoring your loved ones through this meaningful tradition!
