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On January 22, 2024, the Request for Qualifications for the Downtown Rohnert Park closed. We received several qualifications packages from qualified mixed-use developers The City is finalizing the review of the qualifications packages and will hold interviews with selected developers in the next few months. Following the interviews, City staff will tour selected developers’ properties, to personally review the developments and see the developers’ work firsthand. We expect to tour the properties in May 2024 After touring the properties, the Downtown team is expected to make a recommendation of whom the City should partner with to the City Council in June 2024.
The Downtown Rohnert Park project has been one of the most high-profile projects in Rohnert Park since 2010, when State Farm Insurance vacated 6400 State Farm Drive and moved to Bakersfield, California. Since 2010, the property has been purchased by two separate developers (SunCal in 2014, Laulima in 2017) and was finally purchased by the City in April 2022.
Questions about the Downtown Rohnert Park development?
Contact Paul Carey, Senior Analyst at (707) 799-9918 or pcarey@rpcity.org.
The City has developed several site plans and conceptual drawings that illustrate what the development could look like. We recognize how frustrating it is to have an uncertain final design, however, even though the City owns the property, we do not have the money on hand to unilaterally build this without external funding sources. A developer will help provide the money and mixeduse development expertise we need to complete this project. We will need to negotiate with them to come up with a feasible plan, and that’s going to take some time. If you have not had an opportunity to see the conceptual drawings, please click here
The plan calls for at least 300 units of residential housing, 25% of the total amount of housing must be affordable housing, a central green space (town square), a 120 to 160key boutique hotel, and anywhere from 100,000 sq.ft. to 160,000 sq.ft. of new retail spaces. The most challenging part of the project is going to be finding local retailersshops and restaurants - that are essential to meeting our vision. We have consistently heard about the need for non-chain/non-formulaic retail, as Rohnert Park has plenty of corporate type retail We have already started communicating with local and regional businesses to let them know what’s coming and to get them interested.
As soon as the City bought 6400 State Farm Drive in April 2022, the property became subject to the Surplus Land Act, a 1960s era law that mandates government agencies to prioritize housing, schools, or parks when the government disposes of public land. The Surplus Land Act law was recently given teeth in the late 2010s through Assembly Bill 1486. If you have time, Google “Anaheim Stadium Deal Surplus Land Act” and see what happens when cities don’t follow the Surplus Land Act Law The good news is the City has already gone through the Surplus Land Act process and declared 6400 State Farm Drive as “Exempt Surplus Land,” meaning as far as the State of California is concerned, Rohnert Park has completed the required process. Declaring the property “Exempt Surplus Land” means the City is committed to building at least 300 housing units (we plan to) and committed to building at least 25% of the housing units as affordable housing (we have a great track record with affordable housing). We also qualified for the “exemption” since the property is already zoned for mixed-use and is larger than one acre.
During the town hall meeting on March 6, Mayor Adams gave the best answer - Transient Occupancy Tax (TOT) TOT is a tax that vacation rental hosts (hotels, motels, AirBnB) in California are required to charge their guests. The proceeds from the tax go towards funding local public services such as police, fire, and parks and recreation –basically going into the general fund Here’s why that’s important This is going to be a multi-milliondollar project, which will pay for the buildings, the infrastructure, the greenery, everything. The problem is the City doesn’t have cash on hand to pay for this. The City is actively seeking state and federal grants – but that is still a long way off from the final price tag Much of the money is put up by developers, either through their own money or through tax credits and other forms of funding available to developers. One of the ways cities can raise money is through taxes. Since there is little appetite for raising taxes within the City, one of the other ways to get money is from other people – in this case, other people who stay in hotels and pay Transient Occupancy Taxes.
Most retail reports will tell you there needs to be a certain population density to support retail, either the resident population or through tourism/visitors This is why certain retail places need a certain population density/demographics to support them (Top Golf = 500,000 people, Dave and Busters = 500,000 people, Trader Joe's stores are generally located in counties where the household median income is about $10,000 higher than the average median income). While this is going to be a community project and a community amenity, it needs to be supported externally by visitors, otherwise it won’t work. Look at some of the retail in Sonoma County. Some of the businesses are closing or moving due to larger economic forces while some are closing due to lack of support. Mayor Adams made this point regarding the movie theater at the town hall. The population of Rohnert Park (≈46,000) is not enough to support a multi-million-dollar development by itself. We will need visitors and places for them to stay to help make this project work.
The City of Rohnert Park
Rohnert Park Police + Fire
Rohnert Park Community Services
Rohnert Park Animal Services
Spreckles Performing Arts Center
The City of Rohnert Park
Rohnert Park Police + Fire
Rohnert Park Community Services
Rohnert Park Animal Services
Spreckles Performing Arts Center
The City of Rohnert Park
The City of Rohnert Park
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The City of Rohnert Park and HomeFirst Services are pleased to announce the successful closure of the Robert's Lake Safe Sleeping Program
The safe sleeping program, located at the Roberts Lake Park and Ride, was closed after the final resident moved out on January 31, 2024. The closure of the site represents a significant achievement for the City and its partners. Between October 2022 and January 2024, 122 individuals were served; 72% of those individuals moved into interim or permanent housing.
"This marks a significant milestone in our ongoing efforts to address homelessness in our community. The Roberts Lake Safe Sleeping Program demonstrated the compassion of our city and its partners and the initiative needed to achieve our program goals Together, we've provided stability and support to those in need while guiding them toward interim and permanent housing solutions. This success underscores our commitment to creating a safer, more inclusive Rohnert Park,” said Rohnert Park Mayor Susan Adams.
In October 2022, the City began a coordinated effort to reorganize a large, unregulated homeless encampment at the Roberts Lake Park and Ride. In partnership with HomeFirst and Defense Block Security, a "safe sleeping" program was implemented at the site with the following goals: stop the growth of the encampment, increase safety, and manage the encampment to closure by transitioning the unhoused individuals to stable housing.
Program participants were provided with housing and supportive services and were connected with transitional and permanent housing, including temporary housing at Labath Landing, an interim housing program in Rohnert Park. To ensure the safety of the participants, as well as that of the neighboring businesses and residences, 24/7 security was provided.
“These types of programs are important,” said Julian Elliot, Director of HomeFirst’s Emergency Housing Division. “The ability to have a place, even in a ‘camping’ setting that is safe from theft, vandalism, and violence, can provide a sense of stability and peace of mind that is so important when looking towards the future.”
Grant funding was provided through the County of Sonoma’s Measure O Program, which helped offset City funding. The County also assisted in connecting individuals from the encampment to interim and permanent housing throughout the county.
Tackling homelessness is a priority for the City of Rohnert Park The County of Sonoma’s 2023 Point-In-Time Count, a count of people experiencing homelessness in the county, identified 210 unhoused individuals residing in Rohnert Park This number reflects a 43% decline in the city’s homelessness from 2022 and highlights the successes of the city’s innovative initiatives to address homelessness
Want to learn about what it would be like to become a Rohnert Park first responder?
Join us at the Women in Public Safety Day!
SATURDAY, APRIL 27, 2024
10 a.m. to 2:00 p.m.
Santa Rosa Fire Department Training Tower
2126 W. College Avenue
Santa Rosa This educational career expo offers LIVE demonstrations and networking opportunities to encourage more women and girls to enter the field of public safety – law enforcement, fire, emergency medical services, emergency communications, and other life safety services.
Food will be available for purchase by a local vendor on site. Additional parking is available at the Finely Center.
Join us on Tuesday, April 16 from 4:30 to 6:30 p.m. for a night of fun, games, and camaraderie at the Sonoma State University Rec Center!
Grab some swag, learn about resources, participate in vehicle tours, play some games, and speak with Sonoma County’s finest including the Rohnert Park Department of Public Safety, Cotati Police, Petaluma Police, Santa Rosa Police, US Army, US Coast Guard, Civil Air Patrol, SAFE Team.
This FREE event is geared toward all ages and community members
Can't wait to see you there!
The City of Rohnert Park is beginning a citywide traffic signal system improvement project.
The project includes replacing and upgrading traffic signal infrastructure, including signal heads, emergency vehicle preemption, and pedestrian push buttons.
This work will improve safety and update intersections to meet modern Americans with Disabilities (ADA) Act requirements.
Work is anticipated to be completed by June 31 (weather dependent).
Questions about the project?
Contact Jason Sampietro, Associate Engineer in our Public Works Department at (707) 588-2235 or jsampietro@rpcity org
The Rohnert Park Senior Center invited seniors to boogie back to the 70’s at its 4th annual Senior Prom on Saturday, April 6.
Ninety tickets were sold and those in attendance enjoyed an evening of catered food, dancing, and socialization. The Doc Kraft band provided live music that kept everyone dancing throughout the event!
The success of the Senior Prom is in large part to our generous community sponsors: Cogir of Rohnert Park, Senior Helpers, and Valley Orchards Retirement Community.
We are also grateful to have had the Rotary Club of Rancho Cotate join the event to sell beer and wine with the proceeds of the sales benefiting their club.
We’ll see you on the dance floor again in 2025!
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!
Meet Nugget and Boo Boo, our heart-melting duo of two year old Guinea Pig sisters
Despite their sweetness and love for each other, they've been in our care for over 300 days - nearly half their lives!
They find joy in exploring the floor in their pen and snuggling up in their bed. These inseparable sisters are a package deal, longing for a forever home together
Can you be the one to fill the remaining days of their lives with love and warmth?
Meet Rio, the charismatic eight year old cat who found his way to us as an owner surrender.
Despite being on a diet, this big boy exudes charm and personality Rio's welcoming nature ensures he's the first to greet you and the last to let you go.
If you're seeking a confident companion who thrives on attention, Rio is your guy. Come meet him and discover the joy of having this affectionate feline by your side.
Meet Zeus, the cute mix of Lab and maybe chow chow, though his exact family tree is still a bit of a puzzle!
At just six months old, he's still figuring out how to be a dog, but he's full of energy and excitement. Found all alone at a dog park, Zeus is now looking for a forever home, preferably with someone who loves big pups. With his fluffy fur and happy tail, Zeus is a little ball of joy ready to bring smiles and snuggles into your life.
If you're ready for a furry friend who's a mix of mystery and mischief, then Zeus is the one for you! Adopt him today and get ready for lots of fun and cuddles with this adorable pup.
April27,2024
10a.m.to2:00p.m.
Rohnert Park
Department of Public Safety
500 City Center Drive, Rohnert Park
Help us ensure that unwanted, unused, or expired prescription drugs are properly disposed of by participating in our annual Spring collection event
Accepted
Prescription drugs in the original container or plastic bags
E-cigarettes and vape pens (batteries MUST be removed)
Cough syrup and liquid medications if sealed tightly in the original container
NOT
Accepted
Illegal or illicit substances, drugs, or paraphernalia
Intravenous solutions, injectables, and syringes
Do you know others outside of Rohnert Park who need to dispose of prescription drugs?
Visit takebackday.dea.gov and use the collection site locator to find other locations participating in Take Back Day.
The Community Round Table (CRT) is a bridge between the City of Rohnert Park and our community.
The CRT facilitates conversations and strengthens relationships. It lets City leadership know about the community’s views and concerns on public safety matters. These conversations are the guiding focus of our law enforcement services
The Community Round Table is comprised of a diverse group of people who care about our community.
This includes those who live and work in Rohnert Park. Members of the Round Table meet every other month to discuss a range of topics related to policing and community engagement. Members also take part in community outreach, police events, ride-alongs, tours, and more.
We are currently accepting applications for the 2024 Community Round Table. If you are interested in contributing to the direction and focus of Rohnert Park’s public safety and working together to best serve our community, please apply! The application period will remain open until positions are filled.
You can learn more and apply at rpcity.org. You may also apply in person at Rohnert Park Public Safety (500 City Center Drive).
APRILISNATIONAL DISTRACTEDDRIVING AWARENESSMONTH
April is Distracted Driving Awareness Month - and a time to put safety in the driver’s seat.
Throughout the month, our Department of Public Safety will be actively looking for drivers who violate the state’s hands-free cell phone law.
According to the 2023 California Statewide Public Opinion Survey, more than 74% of drivers surveyed said that distracted driving because of texting was their biggest safety concern. In 2021, there were at least 140 people killed in distracted driving traffic crashes in California. The numbers are likely underreported because law enforcement officers may not always be able to tell that distraction was a factor in a crash.
Under current law, drivers are not allowed to hold a phone or electronic communications device while operating a vehicle, even when stopped at a red light. This includes talking, texting or using an app. Using a handheld cell phone while driving is punishable by a fine, and violating the hands-free law for a second time within 36 months of a prior conviction for the same offense will result in a point being added to a driver’s record
"In today's fast-paced life, it is common to lose focus while driving. Distracted Driving Awareness Month is a crucial reminder that even a moment of inattention or a quick glance at the phone can lead to serious consequences
Let’s get off our apps and keep our eyes on the road Before starting the car, silence your phone or put it in the glove box, trunk or back seat Anywhere you can’t reach "
- Sergeant Keaney, Rohnert Park Department of Public SafetyIf you have an important phone call, text or email, or are in a situation with other distractions, such as looking up directions, pull over to a safe parking spot to complete the task without putting yourself and others at risk. Other distractions can be eating, grooming, reaching for something that fell on the floor, putting on or taking off clothing, talking with passengers, or children in the back seat.
Funding for distracted driving enforcement is provided by a grant from the California Office of Traffic Safety, through the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration
Youth ages 18 and under, as well as seniors ages 65 and older, can now ride Sonoma-Marin Area Rail Transit (SMART) for FREE!
The new fare structure is a pilot program running until June 30, 2025 and aims to promote the use of public transit among these age groups
Youth and seniors do not need to use a Clipper Card or the SMART e-ticket App. If you have a Clipper Card, you'll be charged $0 when you tag on Train Conductors may ask for proof of age, like a student ID, state ID or driver’s license.
By promoting public transit, SMART is helping the environment and providing more eco-friendly transportation options for both our younger and older passengers. Ride SMART and make a positive impact!
Plan your trip today and view the train schedule here.
World Autism Awareness Day is recognized every year in April. The day raises understanding and awareness of neurodiversity and autism spectrum disorder (ASD) Organizations partner to increase inclusion, safety, and resources for ASD communities. The City of Rohnert Park knows it is important to provide our public safety staff with ASD training. We also show our support with our new Autism Awareness Patch.
Our officers receive training for those with a variety of disabilities This includes those who are autistic or neurodivergent. When possible, we provide accommodations at special events to make sure that those living with Autism Spectrum Disorders can participate For example, our Easter Egg hunt offered a separate time frame for those with sensory needs. An indoor hunt was also available. This helps everyone enjoy the festivities without being overstimulated by crowds or noises.
Our officers also receive training for those in crisis. We want to make sure we are successful in responding to these types of calls. To do this, we work with a variety of local organizations. These organizations specialize in providing resources. One of these partners is the SAFE Team The SAFE Team responds to certain calls for service. The SAFE team helps our most vulnerable community members. This includes people who are experiencing a behavioral or mental health crisis It also includes those with substance abuse issues and those experiencing homelessness.
This teamwork allows for a safer community for all.
When you meet someone else from Rohnert Park, the first question you’re asked is “what section do you live in?”
Another great question is "what district do you live in?” or “who is your councilmember?”
In 2020, the City of Rohnert Park transitioned from at-large elections to by-district elections. This means the City was divided into five geographic districts and voters in each district vote for a councilmember to represent the district they live in.
Every ten years, after the US Census results are received, the City will review the district lines to reflect how local populations have changed to determine if district boundary lines need to be redrawn. The City completed this redistricting process in 2022.
Not sure what district you’re in? Visit our find your district tool on our website or scan the QR code. If you are not fan of computers, give us a call at (707) 588-2227 and we will assist you with finding your district or your representative councilmember.
May3-19,2024
Embark on a magical journey with The Wind in the Willows, an enchanting experience that's perfect for the whole family!
Join Mole, Rat, Toad, and Badger in a whimsical escapade through the captivating countryside, filled with thrilling adventures, unforgettable melodies, and uproarious comedy. This heartwarming tale celebrates the enduring power of friendship and the importance of protecting our cherished home. This exuberant musical is a must-see for families, and kids will be absolutely captivated!
Spreckels is committed to making great theatre accessible, so we are offering this this extraordinary theatrical experience at a super discounted price!
$10 children (under 18)
$20 general admission
Get your tickets now and treat your family to an enchanting evening of entertainment!
Friday and Saturday at 7:30 p m Sunday matinee at 2:00 p.m.
Online spreckelsonline com
Phone (707) 588-3400
Box Office
Spreckels Performing Arts Center 5409 Snyder Lane
Wednesday - Saturday | 12 - 5 p m
And one hour before performances
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.
SUSAN H. ADAMS MAYOR
Council District 5
Phone: (707) 899-3085
sadams@rpcity.org
GERARD GIUDICE VICE MAYOR
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
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.
Tuesday, April 23, 2024 | 5:00 p.m.
Rohnert Park City Council Chambers
130 Avram Avenue, Rohnert Park
Tuesday, May 14, 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
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.
Part-Time Community Services Coordinator - Camp Director
Part-Time Facility Attendant
Part-Time Humane Educator - Critter Camp Leader
Lateral Public Safety Officer
Public Safety Officer Trainee
PUBLIC WORKS
Collection System Supervisor
Part-Time Seasonal Maintenance Assistant
In an emergency, ALWAYS dial 911.
For non-emergency storm-related calls, please dial (707) 588-3307.
Text "RPDPS" to 888-777 and sign up for emergency alerts here to receive community updates, including storm and road closures
Please click here for additional storm information and contacts.
The City of Rohnert Park offers free sand and bags to Rohnert Park residents.
The sandbag filling station is open 24/7 through the rainy season. The station is located in the parking lot behind the Callinan Sports and Fitness Center, 5405 Snyder Lane. Sandbags are limited to 25 bags per household. Please bring gloves and a shovel.
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
