City Council
City Council
Tue, September 15, 2026
Agenda items
Vote records
Discussion summary
Transcript
Meeting summaryAI-generated
City Council — September 15, 2026
This was a regular City Council meeting notable for its relatively light agenda — no major action items beyond the consent calendar — but featuring spirited public comment on flock license plate reader cameras and a heartfelt series of staff recognition stories from Councilmember Rogers. Vice Mayor Okrepkie was absent throughout. Councilmember MacDonald participated remotely via teleconference under Brown Act rules.
Proclamation: National Transit Month (Item 7.1)
Councilmember Fleming read a proclamation declaring September 2026 as National Transit Month in Santa Rosa, recognizing City Bus and Paratransit for providing 1.5 million passenger trips annually, over 780,000 service miles, and approximately 2,100 weekday student trips. Rachel Bhatt, Deputy Director of Transit, accepted on behalf of staff, highlighting the agency's motto "Moving Lives Forward." Luis Rivera, a longtime bus operator and SEIU Unit 8 chief steward, formally received the proclamation. Peter Edwards, a Vice President from the transit operations partner, also thanked the Council for 20 years of partnership.
Public comment included Councilmember Alvarez (speaking from the dais) praising District 1's high ridership and the technology improvements to the system, and an online caller named Stephen who praised SMART and rapid transit connectivity while noting some transfer difficulties in Rohnert Park.
Proclamation: Creek Week 2026 (Item 7.2)
Councilmember Rogers read a proclamation recognizing September 19–25, 2026 as Creek Week. Michael Centering, an environmental specialist with Santa Rosa Water's stormwater and creeks section, outlined a full week of events: a creek-to-coast cleanup along Prince Memorial Greenway (September 19), a guided nature walk along Santa Rosa Creek (September 20), Milkweed Monday at Lower Colgan Creek (September 21), downtown underground culvert tours beneath City Hall (September 22 and 24), and a bilingual birding event at the Laguna de Santa Rosa (September 25). No public comment was received.
Community Empowerment Plan Update (Item 8.1)
Community Engagement Manager Rana Horta presented upcoming city engagement events, including: a Fire Department story hour at Rincon Valley Library (September 19); two municipal election information meetings — one with the NAACP Sonoma County Branch (September 28) and one with SKIN at Finley Community Center (October 9); a District 5 and 6 community meeting hosted by Councilmembers Okrepkie and Bañuelos (October 1); a gun buyback event at the Veterans Memorial Building (October 4, funded by the Santa Rosa Police Foundation at no city cost); a boards and commissions volunteer workshop at City Hall (October 6); "Pumpkins in the Parks" throughout October; and a community coffee with police at the Promise Center (October 11). No council action was taken; no public comment was received.
City Manager and City Attorney Reports (Item 9)
City Manager Maraskeshia (name unclear from transcript) highlighted several items:
A community meeting on Thursday, September 17 hosted by SRPD to inform and gather feedback on the use of Flock automated license plate reader cameras, with Chief John Cregan and department staff available for questions. Spanish translation and accessibility accommodations will be provided.
The city received the Sonoma County Bicycle Coalition's 2026 Bike Infrastructure Project of the Year Award for the Highway 101 Coddingtown Avenue bicycle and pedestrian overcrossing.
The 44th Annual Merit Awards Ceremony will be held Monday, September 21 at 5:30 p.m. at Finley Community Center.
Bennett Valley Golf Course was named Best Golf Course in Sonoma County in the Press Democrat's 2026 Readers' Choice Awards.
City Attorney Suzanne Bragdon had no report.
Public comment on these reports included two speakers on Flock cameras: one resident (Cynthia) asking about visual demonstrations at the Thursday meeting (staff confirmed images would be included), and Jenny Gilpin of the North Bay Organizing Project, who read a statement from a Minnesota resident criticizing surveillance technology and its alleged use by federal immigration enforcement.
Mayor's and Council Members' Reports (Item 11)
Councilmember Rogers reported on several items: SCTCA awarded $25 million in cycle grants to Santa Rosa projects including Stony Point Road improvements, the Joe Rodota Trail, Cleveland Avenue, a shared-use path on Farmers Lane, and further study on Petaluma Hill Road and Santa Rosa Avenue. She also rode along with the Parks landscape crew and gave a shout-out to workers Moses, Ramon, and Craig. Most notably, she described three separate acts of heroism by Parks maintenance employees:
Jerry Garner rescued a driver from a submerging vehicle in a pond at A Place to Play Park in April 2026, then in August 2026 intervened during a stabbing at Coddingtown Mall, distracting the attackers and providing police with key information.
Edward Wundrey and Moses (last name unclear) rescued an adult woman and a three-year-old child from drowning in a pond at A Place to Play Park in August 2026.
Rogers called on the city to formally recognize these employees.
Councilmember Alvarez reported visiting Roseland University Prep High School in District 1 to observe the integration of former RCP students, noting that no physical altercations had occurred and classrooms were well-integrated.
Councilmember MacDonald (remote) thanked Parks and Recreation Board member Katie Bockel for alerting her to the opening of new pickleball courts at Howard Park, which opened ahead of schedule.
Councilmember Bañuelos announced a Violence Prevention Policy Team joint meeting the following morning at 9:00 a.m. at Finley Community Center, open to community partners and the public.
Mayor Stapp covered a wide range of items: a state legislative fix on goat herder wages that preserves the city's use of animal vegetation management in parks (crediting Senator Chris Cabaldon); the success of the Santa Rosa Marathon on August 24; a former mayors luncheon; a District 2–3 town hall co-hosted with Councilmember MacDonald; Santa Rosa being named the most business-friendly city in Sonoma County for the second consecutive year; early discussions at the Russian River Watershed Association about consolidating watershed management into a new JPA; praise for Councilmember Fleming's work at SCTCA; and several recent ribbon-cuttings and openings including at the Children's Museum, Rosemont and Roseland Elementary Schools, Catholic Charities' new youth shelter, and Gallaher Companies' Sparrow affordable living center on Duel Drive (roughly 40 beds for men, including fathers).
Public comment on council reports came from one speaker (Mr. Helber) urging council members to visit the area around Sam Jones shelter to observe what he described as encampments in drainage ditches, arson activity, and a neighbor's vehicle fire. Mayor Stapp acknowledged the city is aware of conditions in that area.
Consent Calendar (Items 13.1–13.10)
The following items were approved together without discussion:
13.1 First Amendment to Professional Services Agreement with Best Best & Krieger LLP
13.2 Bid award and approval of a general services agreement (title truncated in agenda)
13.3 Fifth Amendment to Blanket Purchase Order 168068 with CalMat Co. (dba Vulcan Materials), extending the term and adding $150,000 for a cumulative total not to exceed $729,615.45, for road materials
13.4 First Amendment to the Amended and Restated JPA for Zero Waste Sonoma, clarifying the agency's authority to accept certain items
13.5 Cooperative purchase of four replacement paratransit cutaway vehicles through CalACT-MBTA Joint Procurement Contract No. 20-01 from Model1 Commercial Vehicles Inc. for $744,450
13.6 Appropriation of expedited drinking water grant funds and authorization of future grant-related appropriation adjustments for the Park Royal Water Consolidation Project
13.7 Clean Water State Revolving Fund application and Water Infrastructure Finance and Innovation Act letter of interest and loan application for the Fulton Road Sewer Lift Station Relocation
13.8 Approval of the Amended and Restated JPA of the Santa Rosa (groundwater agency — full title truncated in agenda)
13.9 Resolution acknowledging receipt of the Fire Department's SB 1205 state-mandated annual inspection compliance report for calendar year 2025
13.10 Second reading adoption of an ordinance amending City Code Chapter 14-21, Water Waste Regulations, to add definitions, prohibitions on irrigation of nonfunctional turf, and compliance deadlines
Public comment on the consent calendar came from Mr. Helber, who objected to Item 13.8 (the groundwater agency JPA), arguing the fee structure is burdensome for well users outside city limits and that some grant funds are being misused by nonprofit contractors.
Vote: Moved by Councilmember Alvarez, seconded by Councilmember Rogers. Passed 6–0 (Vice Mayor Okrepkie absent).
General Public Comment (Non-Agenda Items)
Several members of the public spoke, most on the topic of Flock license plate reader cameras:
Ronnie expressed concern that community members were not aware of or did not consent to the cameras, and said he looked forward to Thursday's SRPD meeting for transparency.
Jason "the Young Rapper" delivered an original rap opposing the Flock system, criticizing mass surveillance, Fourth Amendment implications, and the expansion of surveillance infrastructure.
Juniper Shares urged the Council to review information compiled by the North Bay Organizing Project and called for non-renewal of the Flock contract in January and adoption of a surveillance ordinance before contracting with any future surveillance vendors.
Bruce argued against renewing the Flock contract on constitutional grounds, invoking Justice Louis Brandeis on Fourth Amendment privacy protections.
Stephanie raised specific concerns from reviewing Flock audit logs, including: searches appearing to go back to 2024 despite a stated 30-day retention policy, a search entry dated 2036, searches logged with no stated reason, agencies outside Sonoma County appearing to access cameras, and a large discrepancy in search volume data.
Cynthia Brady (representing Safe Cannabis 707) advocated for city policy changes to allow renters and medical cannabis patients access to safe, legal consumption spaces, arguing the current ordinance creates an equity gap between homeowners and renters.
An unnamed downtown business owner asked the Council to consider free parking downtown to help struggling businesses and boost foot traffic.
Michael raised concerns about drug activity at an affordable housing building called The Cannery in Railroad Square, citing a Bay City News article from June 2026 about a narcotics bust at the property.
Informational Items
Legislative Update (17.1): Provided for information; not discussed.
Support Letter for SB 692 (Vehicles: homelessness) and Support Letter for AB 2296 (Planning and zoning: housing element/RHNA): Both provided for information only.
Notice of Final Map — Meadowood Ranch (17.2): Provided for information.
Key Takeaways
Flock cameras dominated public attention. Multiple speakers called on the Council to cancel or not renew the city's Flock license plate reader contract, citing Fourth Amendment concerns, lack of community consent, and specific discrepancies in audit log data. SRPD is holding a public community meeting Thursday, September 17, to address these questions directly.
Parks staff heroism recognized. Councilmember Rogers spotlighted three separate life-saving interventions by Parks maintenance employees — a vehicle rescue, a stabbing intervention, and a drowning rescue — calling for broader recognition of city staff who go above and beyond.
$744,450 for four new paratransit vehicles approved via the consent calendar, supporting ongoing service for riders with disabilities.
$25 million in regional cycle grants were awarded by SCTCA to Santa Rosa bicycle, pedestrian, and transit projects, as reported by Councilmember Rogers in her liaison report.
Creek Week runs September 19–25 with a full slate of free and low-cost community events, from creek cleanups to underground culvert tours beneath City Hall.
AI-generated summary from voice-to-text transcript. Not the official record. Verify important details with the source documents linked above.
What happened at this meeting
PROCLAMATION - NATIONAL TRANSIT MONTH
# National Transit Month Proclamation Summary
Staff presented a proclamation recognizing September 2026 as National Transit Month in Santa Rosa, highlighting the vital role of Santa Rosa City Bus and paratransit services, which provide 1.5 million passenger trips annually and support mobility for students and individuals with disabilities. Rachel, Deputy Director of Transit, and Luis Rivera, a longtime City Bus operator and chief steward of SEIU Unit 8, accepted the proclamation on behalf of transit staff, with Rachel thanking the Council for recognizing public transit as essential infrastructure for mobility and equity. Peter Edwards, Vice President from a transportation partner organization, praised the City's 20-year partnership and the local team's long tenure, while Councilmember Alvarez commended the exceptional service quality and technology implementation, including real-time bus tracking. Community members, including an online commenter named Stephen, provided positive feedback about the transit system's connectivity with bike trails and services, though Stephen suggested room for improvement in corridors like Rohnert Park.
Staff presented a proclamation recognizing September 2026 as National Transit Month in Santa Rosa, highlighting the vital role of Santa Rosa City Bus and paratransit services, which provide 1.5 million passenger trips annually and support mobility for students and individuals with disabilities. Rachel, Deputy Director of Transit, and Luis Rivera, a longtime City Bus operator and chief steward of SEIU Unit 8, accepted the proclamation on behalf of transit staff, with Rachel thanking the Council for recognizing public transit as essential infrastructure for mobility and equity. Peter Edwards, Vice President from a transportation partner organization, praised the City's 20-year partnership and the local team's long tenure, while Councilmember Alvarez commended the exceptional service quality and technology implementation, including real-time bus tracking. Community members, including an online commenter named Stephen, provided positive feedback about the transit system's connectivity with bike trails and services, though Stephen suggested room for improvement in corridors like Rohnert Park.
PROCLAMATION - CREEK WEEK 2026
# PROCLAMATION - CREEK WEEK 2026 Summary
The Council considered a proclamation recognizing September 19-25, 2026 as Creek Week in Santa Rosa, introduced by Councilmember Rogers. Michael Centering from the Water Department's stormwater and creeks section presented a comprehensive schedule of activities including a creek-to-coast cleanup on September 19 along the Prince Memorial Greenway, a guided nature walk on September 20, Milkweed Monday restoration work on September 21, downtown underground tours on September 22 and 24, and a bilingual event on September 25. The Council received no questions or concerns from members and no public comment was submitted in-person or online.
The Council considered a proclamation recognizing September 19-25, 2026 as Creek Week in Santa Rosa, introduced by Councilmember Rogers. Michael Centering from the Water Department's stormwater and creeks section presented a comprehensive schedule of activities including a creek-to-coast cleanup on September 19 along the Prince Memorial Greenway, a guided nature walk on September 20, Milkweed Monday restoration work on September 21, downtown underground tours on September 22 and 24, and a bilingual event on September 25. The Council received no questions or concerns from members and no public comment was submitted in-person or online.
COMMUNITY EMPOWERMENT PLAN UPDATE This is a standing item on the agenda. Council will take no action except for possible direction to staff. This item has no impact on current fiscal year budget.
# Community Empowerment Plan Update Summary
Rana Horta, community engagement manager with the Communications and Intergovernmental Relations Office, presented an update on the Community Empowerment Plan, detailing upcoming community events scheduled for September and October. September activities include a firefighter story hour on September 19 at Rincon Valley Regional Library and two community information meetings about the 2026 municipal election on September 28 with the NAACP and October 9 with SKIN. October events include a District 5 and 6 community meeting on October 1, a police department gun buyback event at the Veterans Memorial building offering safe, anonymous firearm surrender with cash compensation funded by the Santa Rosa Police Foundation, a boards and commissions volunteer workshop on October (date) from 5-6:30pm at City Hall, Pumpkins in the Park from October 1-30 at participating city parks, and a police community connection event on October 11 at the Promise Center. When a council member asked about the frequency of Pumpkins in the Park, staff confirmed it has been held annually. No public comments were received.
Rana Horta, community engagement manager with the Communications and Intergovernmental Relations Office, presented an update on the Community Empowerment Plan, detailing upcoming community events scheduled for September and October. September activities include a firefighter story hour on September 19 at Rincon Valley Regional Library and two community information meetings about the 2026 municipal election on September 28 with the NAACP and October 9 with SKIN. October events include a District 5 and 6 community meeting on October 1, a police department gun buyback event at the Veterans Memorial building offering safe, anonymous firearm surrender with cash compensation funded by the Santa Rosa Police Foundation, a boards and commissions volunteer workshop on October (date) from 5-6:30pm at City Hall, Pumpkins in the Park from October 1-30 at participating city parks, and a police community connection event on October 11 at the Promise Center. When a council member asked about the frequency of Pumpkins in the Park, staff confirmed it has been held annually. No public comments were received.
MAYOR'S/COUNCIL MEMBERS' SUBCOMMITTEE AND LIAISON REPORTS (AND POSSIBLE COUNCIL DIRECTION TO BOARD REPRESENTATIVE ON PENDING ISSUES, IF NEEDED) 11.1.1 Council Subcommittee Reports 11.1.2 Sonoma County Transportation and Climate Authorities (SCTCA) 11.1.3 Sonoma County Water Agency (SCWA) - Water Advisory Committee 11.1.4 Association of Bay Area Governments (ABAG) 11.1.5 Sonoma County Agricultural Preservation and Open Space District
# Mayor's/Council Members' Subcommittee and Liaison Reports Summary
During the Mayor's/Council Members' Subcommittee and Liaison Reports, the City Manager highlighted Bennett Valley Golf Course's recognition as the best in Sonoma County, while Councilmember Rogers reported on a $25 million CMAQ grant for road and transit improvements and commended Parks maintenance employees Jerry Gardner, Edward Wondrey, and Moses for extraordinary heroic actions including vehicle rescues and crime intervention. Other council members reported on successful community initiatives including AUP/RCP student integration, new pickleball courts at Howard Park, and ribbon cuttings at various community facilities, while the Mayor celebrated Santa Rosa's correction of state goat herder wage law and the city's recognition as the most business-friendly in Sonoma County for the second consecutive year. The Mayor and Councilmember Fleming also highlighted ongoing Russian River Watershed consolidation efforts and public transit funding work. Public commenter Mr. Helber raised concerns about vagrancy, trash, and arson activity near a shelter facility, requesting council members visit the area in person, which the City Manager acknowledged the city is aware of.
During the Mayor's/Council Members' Subcommittee and Liaison Reports, the City Manager highlighted Bennett Valley Golf Course's recognition as the best in Sonoma County, while Councilmember Rogers reported on a $25 million CMAQ grant for road and transit improvements and commended Parks maintenance employees Jerry Gardner, Edward Wondrey, and Moses for extraordinary heroic actions including vehicle rescues and crime intervention. Other council members reported on successful community initiatives including AUP/RCP student integration, new pickleball courts at Howard Park, and ribbon cuttings at various community facilities, while the Mayor celebrated Santa Rosa's correction of state goat herder wage law and the city's recognition as the most business-friendly in Sonoma County for the second consecutive year. The Mayor and Councilmember Fleming also highlighted ongoing Russian River Watershed consolidation efforts and public transit funding work. Public commenter Mr. Helber raised concerns about vagrancy, trash, and arson activity near a shelter facility, requesting council members visit the area in person, which the City Manager acknowledged the city is aware of.
August 18, 2026, Special Meeting Minutes.
The Council reviewed the August 18, 2026 Special Meeting Minutes. No amendments or edits to the minutes were proposed by council members. No members of the public in council chambers wished to make comment on the minutes, and no one online via Zoom raised their hands to comment. The minutes were adopted as submitted.
Agenda items (25)
Procedural (7)
1ProceduralHTTPS://SANTA-ROSA.LEGISTAR.COM/CALENDAR. CLICK ON THE "IN PROGRESS" LINK TO VIEW;
This is procedural information directing residents to the city's online calendar system to view meeting details and progress.
2ProceduralVIA ZOOM WEBINAR BY VISITING
This is procedural information on how residents can join the meeting via Zoom webinar.
3ProceduralCOMCAST CHANNEL 28 OR 24 (ESPAÑOL); AND
This is procedural information on how residents can watch the meeting on Comcast cable TV in English or Spanish.
4ProceduralVIA YOUTUBE AT HTTPS://WWW.YOUTUBE.COM/CITYOFSANTAROSA Public Comment may be made live during the meeting In-Person from Council Chamber, via Zoom webinar or dial-in, or submitted in advance via email at cc-comment@srcity.org by 5:00 p.m. the Monday before the City Council Meeting.
Residents can submit public comments in person at the meeting, via Zoom, by phone, or by emailing cc-comment@srcity.org by 5:00 p.m. on the Monday before the meeting.
12.1ProceduralAugust 18, 2026, Special Meeting Minutes.
The council will review and approve the minutes from the August 18, 2026 special meeting.
What happened
The Council reviewed the August 18, 2026 Special Meeting Minutes. No amendments or edits to the minutes were proposed by council members. No members of the public in council chambers wished to make comment on the minutes, and no one online via Zoom raised their hands to comment. The minutes were adopted as submitted.12.2ProceduralAugust 18, 2026, Regular Meeting Minutes.
The council will review and approve the minutes from the August 18, 2026 regular meeting.
What happened
The Council reviewed the August 18, 2026 Regular Meeting Minutes. No amendments or edits to the minutes were proposed by council members. No members of the public in council chambers wished to make comment on the minutes, and no one online via Zoom raised their hands to comment. The minutes were adopted as submitted.21.1ProceduralUPCOMING MEETINGS LIST *Did not appear on the preliminary agenda. **Quasi-judicial or adjudicative action, ex-parte communication disclosure is required.
The council will provide a list of upcoming meetings.
General Business
22General BusinessSupport Letter for - SB692 Vehicles: homelessness - Provided for information.
The council has drafted a support letter for SB692, a state bill addressing vehicle issues related to homelessness.
23General BusinessSupport Letter for - AB2296 Planning and zoning: housing element: regional housing needs allocation - Provided for information.
The council has drafted a support letter for AB2296, a state bill about housing element requirements and regional housing needs.
7.1General BusinessPROCLAMATION - NATIONAL TRANSIT MONTH
The city council will proclaim August as National Transit Month to recognize public transportation services in Santa Rosa.
What happened
# National Transit Month Proclamation SummaryStaff presented a proclamation recognizing September 2026 as National Transit Month in Santa Rosa, highlighting the vital role of Santa Rosa City Bus and paratransit services, which provide 1.5 million passenger trips annually and support mobility for students and individuals with disabilities. Rachel, Deputy Director of Transit, and Luis Rivera, a longtime City Bus operator and chief steward of SEIU Unit 8, accepted the proclamation on behalf of transit staff, with Rachel thanking the Council for recognizing public transit as essential infrastructure for mobility and equity. Peter Edwards, Vice President from a transportation partner organization, praised the City's 20-year partnership and the local team's long tenure, while Councilmember Alvarez commended the exceptional service quality and technology implementation, including real-time bus tracking. Community members, including an online commenter named Stephen, provided positive feedback about the transit system's connectivity with bike trails and services, though Stephen suggested room for improvement in corridors like Rohnert Park.
7.2General BusinessPROCLAMATION - CREEK WEEK 2026
The city council will proclaim a week in 2026 as Creek Week to celebrate local waterways and environmental stewardship.
What happened
# PROCLAMATION - CREEK WEEK 2026 SummaryThe Council considered a proclamation recognizing September 19-25, 2026 as Creek Week in Santa Rosa, introduced by Councilmember Rogers. Michael Centering from the Water Department's stormwater and creeks section presented a comprehensive schedule of activities including a creek-to-coast cleanup on September 19 along the Prince Memorial Greenway, a guided nature walk on September 20, Milkweed Monday restoration work on September 21, downtown underground tours on September 22 and 24, and a bilingual event on September 25. The Council received no questions or concerns from members and no public comment was submitted in-person or online.
8.1General BusinessCOMMUNITY EMPOWERMENT PLAN UPDATE This is a standing item on the agenda. Council will take no action except for possible direction to staff. This item has no impact on current fiscal year budget.
Council will review an update on the Community Empowerment Plan and may give direction to staff, but no budget impact is expected.
What happened
# Community Empowerment Plan Update SummaryRana Horta, community engagement manager with the Communications and Intergovernmental Relations Office, presented an update on the Community Empowerment Plan, detailing upcoming community events scheduled for September and October. September activities include a firefighter story hour on September 19 at Rincon Valley Regional Library and two community information meetings about the 2026 municipal election on September 28 with the NAACP and October 9 with SKIN. October events include a District 5 and 6 community meeting on October 1, a police department gun buyback event at the Veterans Memorial building offering safe, anonymous firearm surrender with cash compensation funded by the Santa Rosa Police Foundation, a boards and commissions volunteer workshop on October (date) from 5-6:30pm at City Hall, Pumpkins in the Park from October 1-30 at participating city parks, and a police community connection event on October 11 at the Promise Center. When a council member asked about the frequency of Pumpkins in the Park, staff confirmed it has been held annually. No public comments were received.
11.1General BusinessMAYOR'S/COUNCIL MEMBERS' SUBCOMMITTEE AND LIAISON REPORTS (AND POSSIBLE COUNCIL DIRECTION TO BOARD REPRESENTATIVE ON PENDING ISSUES, IF NEEDED) 11.1.1 Council Subcommittee Reports 11.1.2 Sonoma County Transportation and Climate Authorities (SCTCA) 11.1.3 Sonoma County Water Agency (SCWA) - Water Advisory Committee 11.1.4 Association of Bay Area Governments (ABAG) 11.1.5 Sonoma County Agricultural Preservation and Open Space District
Council members will report on their work with various regional committees and agencies including transportation, water, and land conservation efforts, and may provide direction to representatives on specific issues.
What happened
# Mayor's/Council Members' Subcommittee and Liaison Reports SummaryDuring the Mayor's/Council Members' Subcommittee and Liaison Reports, the City Manager highlighted Bennett Valley Golf Course's recognition as the best in Sonoma County, while Councilmember Rogers reported on a $25 million CMAQ grant for road and transit improvements and commended Parks maintenance employees Jerry Gardner, Edward Wondrey, and Moses for extraordinary heroic actions including vehicle rescues and crime intervention. Other council members reported on successful community initiatives including AUP/RCP student integration, new pickleball courts at Howard Park, and ribbon cuttings at various community facilities, while the Mayor celebrated Santa Rosa's correction of state goat herder wage law and the city's recognition as the most business-friendly in Sonoma County for the second consecutive year. The Mayor and Councilmember Fleming also highlighted ongoing Russian River Watershed consolidation efforts and public transit funding work. Public commenter Mr. Helber raised concerns about vagrancy, trash, and arson activity near a shelter facility, requesting council members visit the area in person, which the City Manager acknowledged the city is aware of.
17.1General BusinessLEGISLATIVE UPDATE
Staff will brief the council on current state and federal legislation affecting the city.
17.2General BusinessNOTICE OF FINAL MAP - Meadowood Ranch - Provided for information.
The city is notifying the public of a final approved map for the Meadowood Ranch subdivision development.
Consent Calendar
13.1Consent CalendarMOTION - FIRST AMENDMENT TO PROFESSIONAL SERVICES AGREEMENT NUMBER F003242 WITH BEST BEST & KRIEGER LLP
The city will approve an amendment to its legal services contract with the law firm Best Best & Krieger LLP.
13.2Consent CalendarMOTION - BID AWARD AND APPROVAL OF A GENERAL SERVICES
The council will award a bid and approve a general services contract.
13.3Consent CalendarMOTION - APPROVAL OF FIFTH AMENDMENT AND INCREASE COMPENSATION TO BLANKET PURCHASE ORDER 168068 WITH CALMAT CO., DBA VULCAN MATERIAL COMPANY RECOMMENDATION: The Transportation and Public Works and Finance Departments recommend that the Council, by motion, approve the Fifth Amendment to Blanket Purchase Order 168068 with CalMat Co., doing business as Vulcan Materials Company, Birmingham, Alabama, to extend the term and increase compensation in the amount of $150,000 for a total cumulative amount not to exceed $729,615.45. This item has no impact on current fiscal year budget.
Santa Rosa will extend and increase spending by $150,000 with Vulcan Materials Company for aggregate and construction materials, bringing the total contract amount to $729,615.45.
13.4Consent CalendarMOTION - FIRST AMENDMENT TO THE AMENDED AND RESTATED JOINT EXERCISE OF POWERS AGREEMENT FOR ZERO WASTE SONOMA RECOMMENDATION: The Transportation and Public Works Department recommends that the Council, by motion: 1) approve the First Amendment to Amended and Restated Joint Exercise of Powers Agreement for Sonoma County Waste Management Agency known as the Zero Waste Sonoma JPA to clarify the Agency's authority to accept
The council will approve an amendment to the joint agreement governing Zero Waste Sonoma to clarify the agency's authority and operations.
13.5Consent CalendarRESOLUTION - COOPERATIVE PURCHASE UNDER THE CALACT-MBTA JOINT PROCUREMENT CONTRACT NO. 20-01 OF FOUR REPLACEMENT PARATRANSIT CUTAWAY VEHICLES RECOMMENDATION: The Transportation and Public Works Department recommends that the Council, by resolution: 1) approve the Assignment to Purchase Agreement for the purchase of four replacement paratransit cutaway vehicles under the CalACT-MBTA Joint Procurement Cooperative Contract No. 20-01; 2) and authorize the Purchasing Agent to issue a purchase order and with Model1 Commercial Vehicles Inc., Chino, California in the amount of $744,450 for the purchase of four replacement paratransit cutaway vehicles; and 3) authorize the City Manager to make non-substantive changes, subject to approval by the City Attorney, and to execute all documents necessary to execute purchase. This item has no impact on current fiscal year budget.
The city will purchase four new paratransit vehicles for $744,450 to replace older vehicles used to transport seniors and people with disabilities.
13.6Consent CalendarRESOLUTION - APPROPRIATION OF EXPEDITED DRINKING WATER GRANT FUNDS AND AUTHORIZATION OF FUTURE GRANT-RELATED APPROPRIATION ADJUSTMENTS FOR THE PARK ROYAL WATER CONSOLIDATION PROJECT RECOMMENDATION: The Board of Public Utilities, Santa Rosa Water and the Transportation and Public Works Department recommend that the Council, by resolution: 1) increase revenue and expenditure
The city will approve accepting expedited drinking water grant funds and adjust the budget to support the Park Royal Water Consolidation Project.
13.7Consent CalendarRESOLUTION - CLEAN WATER STATE REVOLVING FUND APPLICATION AND WATER INFRASTRUCTURE FINANCE AND INNOVATION ACT LETTER OF INTEREST AND LOAN APPLICATION FOR THE FULTON ROAD SEWER LIFT STATION RELOCATION
Santa Rosa will apply for state funding through the Clean Water State Revolving Fund and federal loan program to finance the relocation of the Fulton Road Sewer Lift Station.
13.8Consent CalendarRESOLUTION - APPROVAL OF THE AMENDED AND RESTATED JOINT EXERCISE OF POWERS AGREEMENT OF THE SANTA ROSA
The council will approve an amended joint powers agreement involving Santa Rosa and other partner agencies.
13.9Consent CalendarRESOLUTION - RESOLUTION OF THE COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF SANTA ROSA ACKNOWLEDGING RECEIPT OF SB1205 STATE MANDATED REPORTING FOR CALENDAR YEAR 2025 RECOMMENDATION: The Fire Department recommends that the Council, by resolution, acknowledge receipt of the Fire Department’s calendar year 2025 report regarding compliance with the annual inspection requirements of California Health and Safety Code Sections 13146.2 and 13146.3. This item has no impact on current fiscal year budget.
The fire department will present its 2025 compliance report for state-mandated building and fire safety inspections.
13.10Consent CalendarORDINANCE ADOPTION SECOND READING - ORDINANCE OF THE COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF SANTA ROSA AMENDING SANTA ROSA CITY CODE CHAPTER 14-21, WATER WASTE REGULATIONS, TO INCLUDE DEFINITIONS, PROHIBITIONS ON IRRIGATION OF NONFUNCTIONAL TURF, COMPLIANCE DEADLINES AND City of Santa Rosa Regular Meeting Agenda and Summary Report
The council will adopt an updated water waste ordinance that defines nonfunctional turf, sets deadlines for removing it, and establishes penalties for violations.
Additional votes recorded in minutes
Adopt Consent Calendar Items 13.1 through 13.10
aye 6 · absent 1
Caroline Bañuelosaye
Dianna MacDonaldaye
Eddie Alvarezaye
Jeff Okrepkieabsent
Mark Stappaye
Natalie Rogersaye
Victoria Flemingaye
Approve Meeting Minutes (August 18, 2026 Special and Regular Meetings)
aye 1
voice voteaye
Verbatim transcript available
80 transcript segments indexed
>> Good afternoon. Had like to Greisl currently on the Spanish Channel to commence interpretation of the meeting. For those just joining the meeting, live interpretation in Spanish is available and members of the public or staff wishing to listen in Spanish. Can join the Spanish channel by clicking on the interpretation icon in the Zoom toolbar, it looks like a glow. If you are on your cell phone or tablet locate the 3 dots tempt them lightly and put a check mark on your preferred language. Click done to activate can begin. The interpretation when she joined the Spanish Channel, we recommend you shut off the main audio. So you only hear the Spanish interpretation. Claudia, will you please restate this in Spanish? >> But notice that personas because come and they will need to back into with us here
in b, will spend goes to point that out these 20 lead? But honestly, little sip will be but somebody can see his coach had a nice play on when you see an coming on the spying with an essay committee this one in make a longer look back states. And I mentioned sent a letter your phone tablet that clinical settings. But it's pushed cardinals to hit. I mean, think people need Matthew Cheek that Inc to give you money. But fitting when say don't click on the 69 settle down, but at the ready, come and try think that. But at the scene, you can see one of can spring you're gonna come. And then los kits. You didn't putting to which is going to stomach us to sort of a mix. Thank you very much. Back to you. >> Welcome everyone. In the Times, 4 o'clock, it will call this meeting or MADAM City Councilmember Rogers, PRESIDENT Councilmember
MacDonald Councilmember Fleming Councilmember Ben well lows here, councilmember over as PRESIDENT, vice mayor cookies apps. And this evening, mayor, stop here. Let the record show that all councilmembers are present with the exception of Councilmember or Vice Mayor Crappie. Thank you very much. And we have one of our members Donald participating remotely doing? Need to make any kind of announcement pertaining that. >> No mayor, she is on participating under traditional teleconferencing rules on the Brown Act. >> Wonderful. Only, MISTER Donald. Glad to have you here. We will move on that and we versus singer very a agenda this evening will go right to the fun part here. Our proclamations, we have to then this evening proclamation. Opportunity to National Transit Month and I'll hand it
over to funding. >> Thank Whereas public transportation plays a vital role in connecting communities supporting economic vitality and enhance ing quality of life. And whereas center is a city bus in center of the pair transit, provide safe, reliable and accessible climate-friendly transportation that which connects residents, 2 essential destinations, including employment, education, health care and recreation, whereas centers, a city bus and center. The paratransit provide essential transportation services supporting mobility throughout the community, including 1.5 million passenger trips annually and more than 780,000 service miles with an average of 2100 weekday student trips helping students get to and from school whereas paratransit promotes independence. Mobility for
individuals with disabilities, advancing equity and inclusion in our community. Whereas the dedicated operators, providers and staff of center in the city bus in Centre is a pair of transit, provide critical public service with professionalism and care. And whereas public transit reduces traffic congestion, improved air quality support, cities, climate goals, and whereas the city of Santa Rosa is committed to transitioning to a 0 emission transit fleet, reducing greenhouse gas emissions and advancing a more sustainable future. And whereas National Transit Month provides an opportunity to recognize importance of transit and encourage residents to utilize these services. Now, therefore, be it resolved that Mayor Mark staff and the city of Santa Rosa hereby proclaim SEPTEMBER of 2026. Is National Transit Month in the City of Saint
Rose and encourages residents to recognize and support city bus and paratransit. >> And it's great. We have so many members are transit team out tonight. And you've got you've got a number of dedicated bus riders up here on the dance, including, I believe, misspent way. Not get you here this evening. >> It was wonderful and very efficient. I really appreciate the work that you all you know. I had to take the bus. I can't drive right now. So, you know, you're there when people need to do. And also for everyone else that need join a daily basis. So thank you. >> Thank you. Indeed. Alright, renew a photo eventually, but is it? But Jamie Smet is sore region need which of Rachel, are you to accept the proclamation? By all means a few words. >> Yeah. I'd like to say a few words and I have someone else. I'd like to accept the
proclamation. So good afternoon, mayor and council, I'm racially deputy director transit on behalf of the staff of Santa Rosa City bus and Santa Rosa paratransit. I'd like to thank the Council for this Proclamation for National Transit Month and for recognizing Public Transit as an essential component of the infrastructure of mobility and equity in Santa Rosa and beyond. A few years ago, one of our longtime bus operators coined a motto for city bus moving lives forward. It's on the buttons that I think you all have in front of you right now. It's a deceptively simple motto that reflects the deep impact access to public transit has on individuals and communities. Public transit is for everyone and whether it's providing access to education, employment, health care, shopping, recreation or any other opportunity. Our transit and paratransit services make
it possible for all of us to move our lives forward. This is a mission the dedicated staff of center is a city bus in Santa Rosa. Paratransit take to heart and deliver on 7 days a week in the field every day delivering service to the public are bus and paratransit operators, customer service, staff and field supervisors supported by our fleet maintenance teams and the bus service workers who fuel in cleaner buses overnight in the office. We have staff providing technology support, planning and scheduling services, managing our finances and providing the administrative support required to keep everything moving smoothly. We have several representatives of the city bus in Santa Rosa. Paratransit teams here today. And Luis Rivera, a longtime city bus operator and chief steward of seiu Unit 8. We'll accept this proclamation on
behalf of our team. Thank you again for your support and recognition of National Transit Month during transit month, we encourage everyone to come out and take a ride on city bus or one of our partner transit agencies to discover where public transit can take you. Thank you so much. Thank you very much. Director and Louise. Did you want to say a few words? >> Well, thank thanks for coming out tonight. All right. Let's go to public comment. First animal to animal to a photo. Are there any members of the public they would like to celebrate our public transit in Santa Please, sir. The floor is yours. We can. We can hear you. Speak hosted a Mike Mike. That's all right. There's up very well. >> All right. Mayor Council members and city staff. My name is Peter Edwards. And there is a vice PRESIDENT From transportation. So on behalf
of transitional want to thank you for the trust partnership over the past 20 years we've been honored to serve this community. It's a fun, reliable transportation and this local team that we have here to bury. That's the foundation of that service with all of them being part of the team between 12 and 20 years. They've been big part of the journey that we've had with this with the city. And I'm really proud that. So thank you for occupation. >> Thank you so much. Are there any other members of the public would like to say a few words? MR. Alvarez. You know, I just ask for the floor, but I don't know where to start. It's it's amazing me. >> The amount of level are actually the level of services provided to community even in down economy. I represent district one. And to my knowledge, it's the most have used use of of the ridership.
And it also has the most amount of buses traveling up and down some bouts road, whether it's 2 or to be. So it's to be a great thing that is happening right and for those of you who've never ridden the bus before the amount of technology that's been implemented into the system is jaw dropping from the 4, 1, 4, 1, 1, that you can put into your text and the bus number to receive a very, very accurate time when that bus is going to be traveling through your through your bus station, 2 of apps on your phone, which really helps you travel throughout. It really map your route throughout the city of Santa Rosa, its exceptional level service Councilmember Rogers, when we're first things that we did, we were elected back in 2020. We'll show up early in the Dawn morning and get a taste of what it takes to keep these buses clean. Watching
them out the morning so that every day level of of claiming and and and just really the level of respect that that our system ask for community. It's it's inspiring. So thank you. On behalf of my community who rides the bus more than any other district in Santa Rosa, thank you. Thank you, MR. Alvarez and I should have asked earlier, do we have anyone online making public comment? >> We'll ask Adam Zoom host, whether anybody mind as you can see, cooking star 9 are raising their hand. >> Yeah. Thank you, Mayor. I'm not seeing any one poll. Hold on. We do have someone we have Stephen wishing to speak. Stephen, I'm gonna go ahead and allow your permissions. You'll have 2 minutes and a time or will alert at the end of that time. You've been asked to Unmute. >> Yeah, I just want to say thanks for snow. Rapid
Transit. Train. Really providing wonderful service and bike trail. Really good. Like to see expanded and future. That would be wonderful. But for right now, it's just a big thumbs up for snow, murder and rapid transit and connectivity with bus system there's maybe some room for improvements in some of them. Corridors, for example, Rohnert Park. It drops you off. You're city hall in Rohnert Park. But it's sort of. Difficult to access some of the m Connection points with the county buses. Really, it's it's really a going in the right direction. And public transit definitely appreciated. If you don't public transit. And you know, I to walk there or takes a lot longer it also adds to the safety, the community, transportation system thanks a lot during a really good job for right now that got things. >> Thank you, Stephen.
>> You from you. >> And I am seeing no other callers wishing to speak on this item. >> Thank you very much. And thank you, Stephen, for those kind comments as well and highlighting that Santa Rosa is ahead, Aurora Park in terms of our connections. With that are going to close public comment and will ask anybody was a feeling with the transit teams to come down front. Let's do it. Let's do a photo. Thank you again. Everyone making public transit work in Santa Rosa. Thank you for coming out today. We'll move on to our second proclamation item. 7.2, our proclamation for Creek Week 2026. All right. Another big one. And that's We're going to MISS Rogers, of course. Thank you, mayor. >> Whereas throughout much of California cities, counties and stewardship organizations recognize Creek Week as an
annual celebration of our creeks watersheds in the ocean. And whereas the 238 creeks and approximately 360,000 residents of the Russian River watershed are connected and mutually support. Each other, making the Russian river and its tributaries important resources to the people of Sonoma and Mendocino counties. And we're at pollution in the form of trash and debris. Chemicals nutrients and sediment degrade the quality of life in the quality of resources within the Russian River watershed. Whereas the city of Santa Rosa strives to protect our lands and waterways through ongoing pollution prevention outreach to raise awareness of the harmful effects of pollutants. Natural systems now, therefore, maybe resolve that. Our mayor marks that. On behalf of the entire city Council recognizes SEPTEMBER
19 through SEPTEMBER, 25th 2026 as Creek Week in the city of Santa Rosa and ask all members of our community to protect our watershed health by participating in Creek week. Activities taking steps to reduce pollution in caring for our environment throughout the year. All right. We can. We can't celebrate or water team often enough. So thank you for thank you for coming out tonight. And Michael, are you going to accepting the proclamation? >> Police say a few words. Well, thank you. Council Councilmember Rogers and good afternoon, mayor strap and council members a lot closer. A lot closer. So my name is Michael centering. I'm an environmental specialist for the water Department stormwater and creeks section. I'm excited to be here today to talk with you all about another fun week of activities that we have planned for Creek
week this year. To kick We Creek Week often celebrate California's coastal cleanup day. We will be hosting a creek to coast cleanup along the Prince Memorial Greenway on Saturday, SEPTEMBER 19. This year is particularly special as the commission is celebrating 50 years of the California Coastal Act, which was adopted in 1976. Please come bollen tear to help make the Prince Memorial Greenway a clean and welcoming space for all. On Sunday. SEPTEMBER 20th, our staff will lead a guided nature walk along Santa Rosa Creek. And on Monday, SEPTEMBER, 21st volunteers are invited to join Milkweed Monday at the Lower Colgan Creek Restoration Project will be weeding invasive plants and scattering milkweed. Another wild flower seeds across the recently restored creek landscape. Our most popular downtown underground tours will take place on Tuesday.
SEPTEMBER 22nd Thursday, SEPTEMBER. 24 registered participants are welcome to attend to this event and explore the culverts beneath City Hall anytime between 04:00pm and 06:00pm. And then Finally, Creek Week will conclude on Friday, SEPTEMBER 25th with the bilingual burden event off. Will a side road. But by the Laguna de Santa Rosa Foundation. We ask anyone interested in attending one of these events to please visit our Creek Week website for additional details and registration links. And thank you for your time. And we hope to see you at one of our Great Creek week. Events. Michael, thank you for all. Those are all that news. All those great events. We'll open up to the public. Are there any members of the public that would like to make a comment this item? Seeing none. We'll close public we want yet because we have to go online I'm Adam
Online zoom host. Is there anybody online wishing to make public comment? >> If you're wishing to make a comment, please raise your hand or if you are on the phone. Please dial 9. And mayor and seeing no one wishing to comment. >> Thank you very much. Alright, we'll close public comment and will ask anybody who's here from the center water team to come Come on up. Let's take a photo. Thanks again to our Santa Rosa Water team. Move on to item 8.1. Our community Empowerment Plan update. Rana Horta isn't being called upon for her photographer skills. She's also running our community engagement for the city of Santa Rosa. And I thank you for all that you do. Don't tell us what's new with community engagement. >> Good afternoon, Mayor Vice mayor and city council and a
note that community engagement manager with the communications and Intergovernmental Relations Office and that will be presenting the community Empowerment plan update call during SEPTEMBER and part of OCTOBER. On SEPTEMBER 19, the Santa Rosa Fire Department will host firefighter story hour. The Rincon Valley Regional Library from 10, 30 to 11, 30 in the morning. The department has also hosted successful story hours for the rules and in the Northwest Library branches. The city of Santa Rosa will host 2 community information meetings about the 2026 municipal election. The first presentation is in collaboration with the naacp, Sonoma County Branch, which will be held on SEPTEMBER 28th from 5.32 to 06:30pm, one force. You know, one 4th street, the second presentation will be in
collaboration with skin. Will be held on OCTOBER 9th from 9 from 10, 30 to noon at the Finley Community Center to see, you know, West College Avenue person, senior room, 5 community members will hear information about Mission Hill. The city council election and how to ensure votes are counted. On OCTOBER. First to several so will host the final does to community meeting. Notice Uni's showing cancel members. Jeff Okrepkie and Carolyn by new Windows and Community Advisory board member rates for the district 5th and 6 community meeting at Community Center to see, you know, West College Avenue Pearson, senior 5 from 6.30, to 08:00pm community members are invited to share ideas. Ask question about projects sheep their neighborhoods for more information visit Inside City dot Org slash these 2 meeting or email community engagement and that is our
city org. On OCTOBER. Senator dissenters, police department will host a community buyback event. The senator a veterans Memorial building when 35 to Maple Avenue from 09:00am to 01:00pm, they then will provide residents with this safe, anonymous and can be a new way to surrender unwanted firearms. But this been me exchange qualifying firearms for cash with funding provided entirely by the Santa Rosa Police Foundation no cost to the city to then support the department's broader in Florida to reduce gun violence removing unwanted and unsecured firearms from the community helping prevent accidental shootings and firearms. That's building on the success of the department's twenty-twenty to buy back event which collected 438 firearms. The program all through residents and responsible. And these postal option while exchanging
overall community safety for more information. This it is to see dot org slash gun buyback. On OCTOBER seeks to several will hosting boards. Commissions and committees could mean workshop here at the City Hall Council chamber, 100 Senators avenue from 5 to 06:30pm. The city of Santa Rosa a variety of opportunities for community members to participate in local Coleman. Well, volunteer positions and they use board commissions and committees the stros up or city council and city departments and appointments are made individual council members or the full City Council for questions and additional details. Please contact the city clerk's office. Phone number 7, 0, 7, 5, for 13. The c o 1, 5, via email at city clerk at sr City Dot org. Pumpkin saying the parks are back. The center is this. Kevin Hart will be hosted from
OCTOBER. First to OCTOBER 30 U.S. The city participating, participating, see park and search for 8 inch laminated pumpkin cut out. Find out. Find one. And when price instructions for claiming the prize are in the back of the plane down for a list of participating parks in complete details. This it is our city Dot org, slash calendar or call 707-543-3737. Finally on OCTOBER 11, the Senator Wilson Police Department planning another phase in the new event, the Promise Center, 1, 2, 1, 1, North Dutton Avenue from 4.30, to 06:30pm. This event is to sign to commit police officer who that a local face based company stations and the stronger connections. Anyone is welcome to And that concludes today's Community Empowerment Plan Update. Thank you. Impressive lineup is always an a when have we done pumpkins in the park annually.
>> Are we building up the leprechaun and pot of gold? Same. >> It's been an end. >> All right. And slit my slit my intention of past years. That's that's exciting. Alright, quick questions from no questions from council. Any questions from members of the public. Any public comment in chambers seeing none. We'll go go online. Are there anyone online wishing to make public comment on this item? >> Seeing no one raised their hand. Mayor. >> All right. Thank you very much. We'll close public comment and I'll just say thank you. That's all. That's a lot of work on behalf of the city. All right. Now, when on to item 9, our city manager and city attorneys reports city manager not mean any items to report evening. Yes, mayor, thank you very much. A couple items report on. >> First and foremost, this
this Thursday, SEPTEMBER, the 17th, the Santa Rosa Police Department is hosting a community meeting provide information and gather public feedback regarding the use of flock, automated license plate reading cameras, how this meeting will educate attendees on how technology support investigations into serious crimes, including homicides, kidnappings, robberies, and organized theft, retail retail theft, while also highlighting the department's privacy protections and oversight measures, Committee members will have the opportunity to ask questions directly to Chief John Cregan and department staff learn about data retention and Audi and audit auditing practices and share feedback on policies, transparency, accountability and community Trust. Translation services will be available in Spanish along with accommodations for
additional language and accessibility needs wanted to make sure that we're highlighting that. I know that that's been very well published, but wanted to continue to provide additional feedback for today on a different note, I'd like to share some exciting news. The city of Santa Rosa was recently honored with the Sonoma County Bicycle Coalition's 2026. Bike Infrastructure Project of the Year. Award for the highway 101, current avenue bicycle and pedestrian overcrossing in presenting the award. The coalition noted that even a highway overcrossing can be a, quote, Complete street project benefiting residents walking biking, using transit and driving. The project has improved connectivity, safety and East-West access across highway will expand walk, spending transportation options for the community. The
achievement reflects the collaboration of city staff Caltrans the Sonoma County transportation and climate authorities and our community and highlights what can be accomplished through strong regional partnership and and really it's a fantastic project, really, really thrilled with the work that transportation public works, tend to complete that. On Monday, SEPTEMBER, 21st at 05:30pm, at the Finley Community Center. We would like to invite the community to attend city of Santa Rosa's 44th annual Merit Awards ceremony. The special event celebrates the volunteers who make it strong. Who make Santa Rosa stronger, more connected community through their service, leadership and dedication to others. We hope you'll join us. We recognize and recognize the remarkable people who help make our city such a wonderful place to live
work and play. And finally, I want to express congratulations to the Valley Golf course on being named the best golf course in Sonoma County in the press, Democrats 2026 readers Choice Awards. The recognition of reflects an outstanding experience provided at the golf course through a partnership with touchdown Gulf, which is now Kemper Sports, which operates the course on the city's behalf. We think the golfers, visitors staff and everyone in our community who voted and we hope you'll take that opportunity to discover why Bennett Valley Golf Course continues to be a favorite destination for players throughout Sonoma County and Northern California. Thank you. City manager, not. City attorney so unique. Rocker, thank you. I do not have any reports this afternoon. >> All right. Thank you both the public comment any members
of the public in council chambers. Wish to comment on either. Those reports. If you wish to comment and I the report, make your way to that. Make your way to the podium. We'll take your comments there. And if there are others who wish to comment, if you if you can begin making your way to the podium now just to be efficient. All right. The floor is yours. >> My name's Cynthia, freest. And I just have a question about the flock cameras when they come in. Will they be prepared with having visual imagery, for example, a point of view from operators perspective so we can see what they're looking work. We can't get into a back and forth during in a public comment session. But that at at Thursday's meeting, we would have lots of information about how the system works. Me ready to answer any questions. There.
>> Well, the be visual representation of the explanation on how the system works. >> I will defer to our our city manager if you want to address that. Thank you. I thank you for the feedback and the and the information we will be providing in for images that demonstrate how city of Santa Rosa Police Department utilizes that technology for the benefit of the work that they do. So, yes, there will be images included. Thank you. Thank you. All right. At the other podium, please go ahead. >> Hi, my name is Jenny Gilpin. I'm resident of district. 2. I'm here with the North, the organizing project. You guys probably saw us out front. We've been out door knocking and talking to our neighbors about the dangers of the flock cameras in our communities. Considering that over 200 cities, even just
this afternoon, Boston is canceled. Their flock contract, Florida, Texas. I wanted a lot of people across the country have been sharing their comments and their outrage and these particular comments were out of Minnesota from a man named Dan Hartman. As most of us, I came here to build a life, a future with my family. It's caused me to think a lot about the future about the world will be building for our children. I want that world to be one where we trust one another. A world where newcomers to the community are greeted with open arms and kindness. Flock is not that. Or we can spend our money. Uniting our community and building and it it into something for everyone to trust an we instead send it to unproven tech oligarchs to invade and spy on our communities. That spying is not without consequence. When the federal invaders arrive to
terrorize Minnesota in the name of scams, lawlessness and racism. That very network was used to trap and kidnap our neighbors. As we know, our children will look back on this moment with revulsion nauseated by the cowardice that led us to turn our guns n word nauseated by the squandering of our national resources to build the data centers and surveillance infrastructure, a monument to fear, voyeurism and illusion. We must not forget this is much bigger than a few cameras spying creepily on civilians. The surveillance state cannot exist without data centers. Every second that these cameras, we have plenty of them here in Santa Rosa are running is another second spent s# # # # # #
the life out of our planet. You keep this up and we're staring down toward the future that without privacy, we're staring down the destruction of our future entirely. >> Thank you for coming out tonight and again on the 70's on Thursday. We're going to have a lot of our city staff and much more information presented. So thank you for making comment tonight. Do any other members of the public wish to speak. We're in council chambers. Seeing none all go to our zoom host. Is there anybody online who was raised their hands or Dial star 9? >> Thank you, mayor. Not seeing anyone agreed to hand on zoom. >> Thank you. Alright, we'll close public comment on this item and will go on to item. 10 are statements of abstention are accused council members. Do we have any
statements of Ascension are accused this evening? Seeing none. We will go on to see our approval of minutes. We have to 2 sets of minutes 7 item, 2.1, our AUGUST 18th 2026 special meeting Minutes and then items 12 point to our 8/18/2026, regular meeting minutes. Are there any amendments to the minutes or edits? Seeing none. We can go to public comment. DR. Do any member the public in council chambers wish to make comment on the minutes? That is a rare one for for folks to make comment on what we've seen. It happen once seeing none. We'll go online. MADAM Zuma, host. >> Yes, thank you, mayor. No one's raising their hands on zoom. >> No one's reason wonderful will close public comment and we can adopt the minutes as submitted. Which brings us to I want I skipped over one. We have to do. Our mayor and Councilmember reports. I was
so ready have a comment. Oh, yes, no. I just as I just mentioned, I skipped over our mayor and Councilmembers reports right to the approval of minutes. Let's go back to item 11. My apologies. And again, we've got we've got 25 minutes, folks. This is our time to shine. Is it MISS Rogers, you kick us off and just take as long as you like? >> I would love to mayor. So I have a few to report. One, c t met yesterday awarding a number of fun meeting cycle to grant awards to a city road bicycle. Pedestrian and transit projects totaling 25 million dollars. These include by projects that council had approved for middle last year, including improvements to Stony Point Road, the job or do to trail Cleveland Avenue. A share to you use path in farmer on Farmers. Lane extension right of way. And further study for improvements on Petaluma Hill
Road in Santa Rosa Avenue so we are very happy about that in yesterday I had the opportunity to go on a ride along with Arpa Park's landscape crew. I know you guys are wondering. So what exactly do they do or they helped to make our city look beautiful. It's dangerous work. Let me tell ya so we had to block off the road in the middle of the median. We have to do that ahead of time because we had to notify all the drivers and the public that it was going to be blocked off. So we have to do that. And then we had to go do something else which involved a lot pulling an wood chipper ing that they would not allow me to do because I was not approved to do so. So I had to pick up trash we did a lot. Mayor, I'll just say we did a lot and I did not go to the gym yesterday morning. But when I got home, I was tired. So I know that they do a lot.
So I want to give a shout out. >> To Moses and Ramon in Craig in. Thank them very much for allowing me to tag along in see what they do. And I also want to tell all the drivers out there that when you see our workers >> that are doing that that are trying to beautify the city. I'm asking you. Please slow down help to keep them safe because they are trying keep the city beautiful. So please do that for them for their families. And also for us Well, I was able to sit down with them for a little bit. I learned some incredible news that I would like to share some so happy that we have time for me to share. Are we ready? Mayor on APRIL? 26 2026 part maintenance employee Jerry Gardner was off duty and enjoying fishing at a place to play park heavier a fish there. Mayor. Me either. But maybe we need to go Jarrett to do that. So MR. Garner
witnessed a vehicle traveling at a high rate of speed striking multiple parked cars before leaving the roadway in entering a nearby pond. Recognizing the immediate danger to human life, MR. Garner. Acted without hesitation, leaving his personal belongings behind he ran toward the scene. Enter the water as the vehicle began to submerge. He swam to the vehicle located the driver, assisted her to safety and brought her back to shore. That was one I was like, oh, our staff are amazing one incident, right? But they're amazing. That's amazing. He saved a life. No, that's not it. I will continue an 8/19/2026. MISTER Garner. The same person was cleaning the decorative found that Comstock Mall when he heard a loud commotion nearby. Looking toward the disturbance he saw 2 men attacking another man who was lying on the ground.
One of the assailants was repeatedly stabbing the guy that was lying on the ground, MR. Garner courageously ran towards the scene and attempted to distract the attackers in an effort to protect the victim. The assailant, armed with a knife charge at MISTER Garner before turning back and stabbing the victim again. Both assailants fled the area, MR. Garner immediately call 9-1-1, and provided. Responding. Officers with detailed information about the attack. The police were able to fine the people that attacked the gentleman that was on the ground. So I was like, wow, that's amazing. Here they go again. They're doing so much Mayor. You gave me 20 minutes and I'm not done so I'm happy we have this time on AUGUST. 21st 2026 parks maintenance employee and Edward One drey in Moses just sent over. Mayor is I know I just butchered some names.
We're returning to the maintenance shed at a place to play when they heard calls for help coming from a nearby pond. They immediately responded and found an adult woman struggling to remain above water while holding a 3 year-old child head above the water line. These are the stories that we do not talk about. And this is really scary because this could have been in the press Democrat, but had totally different outcome if it weren't for our staff. MR. W# # # , great position himself along the ponds embankment in lifted the child to safety, MR. Just in Aires and immediately took care of the child while MR. Assisted the woman out of the water because of their coordinated and immediate response. Both the woman and child were safely rescued and
able to leave the area without further assistance. These are the stories that we don't tell our staff go above and beyond. Not only do they provide a beautiful place for us to live and in a place for us to recreate. But when they see something wrong, they do something about it. So MR. Garner and MISTER And MISTER Just sent over. Mayor is demonstrated extraordinary courage. Sound judgment in genuine concern for the lives of our community members through their swift, decisive action and willingness to intervene. They prevented what could have resulted in a tragic loss of several lives. Their actions exemplify the highest standards of public service and reflect great credit upon themselves. I would like to thank those staff, but I would also like to thank all the staff that we have that go above and beyond that constantly do what they
need to do to keep our public safe. And mayor, I did not use my whole 20 minutes, but thank you so much for allowing me to share that and thank the staff. Truly thank the staff because this could have had a different outcome. Thank you, Mayor. Thanks for signing a spotlight on our I hope that there are a number of unexpected twists and turns in that story. We everyone is ok. >> So thank you. Thank you for for presenting that. Let's go to MISTER Alvarez. Can you can you speak for longer than that? I'm almost done. I want to report that are up high school in district. One. And the purpose was really for me to find out how the integration of the are up and the rcp students going not long ago. Rcp was closed. Other campus located in arts for near And the reality is the children of our up have been ever so welcoming to students of Rcp and this
coming from rcp students. There's been no type physical altercations of any type. And in fact, was visit the classrooms and I asked them to raise your hands with her, they're are up or cp. The classes are very well integrated. So it's it's great to see the the rose and spirit is strong months. The children, Rosen and definitely welcoming spirit. Just a strong. Thank you. Thank you for that. I'm gonna look to our online calling But Donald is there. I did. You wish to make a report this evening earns. >> It's hard to it's hard any of your hand raised. All right. McConnell during the fun. >> Hi, thank you. And I appreciate the opportunity. I just wanted to thank representative on the Parks and Recreation Board. Keating vocal for coming to the month event with me not this month,
but the month before her eagerness to share with me that the pickleball court she had heard were opening in Howard part. And so I recently drove by there and saw that. In fact, everyone was playing on the pickleball courts and Howard Park and just think that and staff in and our contractor for getting those open earlier than anticipated. I know this has been a long time coming over in district 3 to have those courts finally finished. And and that folks are able to plan them. But I just wanted to thank heating for her service and Adam for attending that. And keeping me informed on what's happening in our parks. I really appreciate it. That's it. >> Thank you, MR. Donald will turn next spend Wheeless. >> Thank you. Mayor just had a really in quick announcement. Just thought I should announce it tomorrow morning at 9 o'clock. The violence
Prevention policy team is going to be meeting over at stealing community center and that's 4 our community partners, but also for the public. We don't normally meet their Not only meet over at Findlay, but we're having a joint meeting with the operation team. So it's going to go a little longer than usual. But I just wanted to let the public know because we don't get much public involvement. Our feedback and would love to see you all come out. If you're interested in violence prevention, particularly with youth. So thank you. Thank you for that. And MISS Fleming, did you did you have anything? Nothing. Nothing reforming. All right. I can. I can use up a little bit of time. >> So in in no particular order here, I wanted I wanted to celebrate the fact that the city of Santa Rosa was helpful statewide in getting a
correction to a law that affected how goat herders were paid. Many of you have noticed that we've got and we have it. We have I go. Herds sheep, herds in the city to do vegetation management in our parks and open spaces. There was a loophole in the state law that was threatening the viability of There would some of the some of the wage issues with respect to go to hurting. We're going to be negatively compromise and that can become financially infeasible to do animal vegetation management, which would have been sad for for all of us here in the city. But I want I want to say thank you to Chris Rogers Chris Rogers, former Mayor Chris Rogers and Senator Chris Cub all done. There are 2 of our state colleagues, North Bay colleagues. He jumped in and made a fix. So rest assured we do have goats and sheep in our park in the years to come. I want to thank
everybody in the city team with the center is a marathon possible on AUGUST 24th. We had an how many thousands of people downtown states, a packed event and again, city staff and and especially the srp were very work very closely with the marathon team. And I'm also pleased to say that both Chief Korean I broke 2 hours and a half marathon. So it was a successful day. We brought back all of the former mayors who are free a few weeks ago to a former mayors luncheon. And that was delightful to see mayors to go back as far from the Mid 70's to come together and talk about city policy and talk about and talk about their experiences. Thank you again to this our community engagement team Danaher to and others for arranging a district 2, 3 town hall MR. Donovan, I spoke together to a number of r r residents here in the city about all the
issues expect our roads, public safety flock cameras, pick your issue. It was it was a robust hour and a half long discussion. Thanks to all those in the community who came out as most of the city team who organized that our our city manager and city manager not forgot one big award from his from his last. So in addition to the city of Santa Rosa being better than Rohnert Park in terms of our public transit and public transit connections. We're also for the second straight year named the most business friendly in Sonoma County. A title that had traditionally been held Runner Park but is no longer multiple years in a row that we as Santa Rosa has owned that award and that will continue. Thank you so much, North Bay Biz for making that possible on the 10th. We have the Russian River Watershed Association, association meeting. Big news out of that
meeting was that the thanks to the Board of Supervisors, we're looking to consolidate regarding how we manage the Russian rocket Russian River. Russian River watershed. Right now. It's a collection of government entities and nonprofits. All well intentioned but not as tightly coordinated or as efficient as it might be. And there are. There's now an intend and funds available to perhaps bring in creating a new organization, probably a gpa of some kind to better manage the watershed better allocate resources. And so we had initial discussion at the Russian River Watershed Association board meeting about that. And that's going that's going continue be interesting in the months to come. And then that evening there was a meeting of the mayor and council Mayors and Councilmembers Association board meeting where we have a
presentation on smart ctca where Councilmember Fleming, her praises worsen quite a bit. James Cameron, he went into great detail about all the work funding is done to bring funds and direction into public transit in our area. Thank you very much. Councilmember Fleming. And then just on a more general note, the last couple of weeks have seen a number of really great ribbon cuttings, more openings here in the county just in no particular order. We had a groundbreaking at the Children's Museum. We had a ribbon cutting at the Rosemont and and Rose an elementary school that both missed bin. We listen. I tendon we had it. We had a tour of the cast of Catholic Charities, New Youth Shelter, which you can be providing how it's I think it's a plus beds desperately need in our community for for youth that don't have have a place to go. And then there's
we had the opening for the gala her company's sparrow. So when it's over, Libya, liver living center on dual drive, which is going just under 40 bags 4 men, including men with who are responsible for children to have a safe place to safe place to stay as they continue their recovery. So it continues a larger trend in our community a building and of economic development providing resources for residents. It's been it's been a great few weeks and then in in conclusion, I'm tempted to make this into a full filibuster seeing as I only have 10 minutes to go. I'm never I'm never going to add more at the end. Okay. Good Mismas Rogers can fill in for me. Read When I did want to college, there was a prayer vigil for Nepal about a week or so ago where we had a number of local elected officials attend. And we had 100 150 people out there who
speaking to are Nepalese community and sympathizing with them given what's going on in the Paul right now. It was a lovely event and grab Democrat covered it. And then finally, least from from my part. This past Saturday, we have the latest iteration of the Vince Harper in Martin Luther King Park. Thank you so much of the South Park to all the oranges, not of and there were more foods and vendors. I remember from past years it was it was quite full again. The city of Santa Rosa was there in force are Srp arts rpd the fire department. Our city staff. So it was a beautiful day in Martin Luther King Park and thinks end of South Park or wishon and all the organizers for making that happen again this year. All right. I was that's as close as I can get to a filibuster as Rodgers will turn it back to you. >> I don't have 10 minutes
though. I guess I can talk. Was what you got. Okay. So I did forget to say that on the district, one in district 7 had our community meeting. It was very well. It ended. I do want to think the 4 her time and commitment to make sure that we have these come community meetings and also thank all the staff that were present because you could have been home eating dinner or doing something fabulous. But you are not. You are there with us eating popcorn and that's in having water. So thank you so much for for your time. For your commitment to to Santa Rosa in. I wish you the best for the one that you guys have coming up, which is If you are not able to get to any that we have had thus far, it does not matter what district you live in. Please, please go. That's how we know what we're supposed to be doing up here what you feel and how we can advocate for
Thank you. That was like one minute. >> We'll take all we can get I think you MR. Rogers, anything from any of the rest of my colleagues. All right. Let's turn up in a public comment, MR. Helber, are you wishing comment on this item? Briefly, greens. You don't be brief, MR. However, take your full 2 minutes, ok? >> You go around visit places and report on. So I will suggest you for future reporting one or more of you go visit the area around about this and don't show too. Preferably early evening, maybe from 5 before dark. You know, look around the area, make note of the vagrancy in the trash and especially like the camping in the ditch. Also the arson activity. There've been several fires said in the area around there so tour that area and give us a report on that. And you know, think about what to do about it
because one of my friends had cars set on fire. It's on family in the car was parked in a driveway. And she said it was done by one of the guys camps in the ditch around there. It's not the first fire he started. But anyway. Her car was parked right there in the dry road and is burned and it's covered with a tarp or you could still see it. There. It's in plain sight. So anyway, I remind you the one Sam Jones was open. We were promised. There will be no spillover into the neighborhood that operating the shoulder. There would not. Adversely impact surrounding neighborhood. So I I think you ought to make an in-person visit to that think about what's going on over there because there's quite a bit to camping in a ditch. Thank you, MR. Hill over I will say is the city's is. >> Well aware of that particular area. And it's been
it's been a topic of much discussion over the last few months. So thank you for highlighting it. Are there any other members of the public in council chambers who wish to make comment? Seeing none? We'll go online. Host as anyone plus star 9 or had a raise their hand. >> I am seeing no one wishing to speak on this item air. >> Thank you very much. Alright, we'll close public comment on that item and we vary slowing. Go to item 13 having guard on the minutes out of order. We will go through consent. MADAM City clerk to we want to go old school and read all the titles for items. 13.1 through. There are 13 point. And is that something that we have an interest in? >> Nowhere respectfully. >> Then I will simply I was. We know that we have items. 13.1 to 13 point, Dan, does anybody want to ask any
questions? But any of these items looking to my colleagues? Now would be the time to do it, ok? Let's go to public comment. MR. Helber back to you. >> 13.8. Appointment of directed to the ground water agency. Our object, you no business. I'm the director. On the board. Decides. How tax people pay. We're getting stuck was somebody certainly dollars a year. It's just a real office. Just an excuse to create a pot of money in ways. Wasted. You don't do with Mooney representing well users because Myanmar outside the city limits you. Happy vote to impose a fee And I see the money given to the. You got some MAY be tied. Con artists with some nonprofit need taken money and the they want to get paid to spread wood chips and nonsense like They got some phony tank over in a park and they're they're getting paid to do nonsense with our money.
And I really do send thank you. Thank you, MR. Helmer, are there any other members of the public in council chambers wish to comment? >> Seeing none. We will go online then. MADAM Zuma, host, anybody online as raise their hand or press star 9. >> Thank you, Mayor. I am seeing no one wishing to comment on this item. >> All right. Well, seeing. 4 minutes before 5 o'clock we're going to do is we're going to recess for exactly 4 minutes and start again at on the on the dot 5. Thank you, everyone. >> Respectfully, mayor, would you care to put a motion on the floor to adopt the consent calendar >> already jumping ahead. Yes, I forgot the most important part. Yes, I would like a motion. MISTER Alvarez. Is there a motion? And either as mayor and I'll see if I can take 4 months to present this
motion. A reason I'd like to make a motion to adopt the 13.1 through 13.1, 0 and wait for the reading of the text. All right. We have a motion and we have a second by MISS Rogers. I guess we can go ahead and call the vote. >> Thank you, Mayor. Councilmember Rogers. I don't think I can kill burn through 3 minutes. Mayor, I'm just going to get to and councilmember and I councilmember Councilmember Ben Willows. Yes, Bres. I Vice Mayor Craig Cates. Absent mayor Stapp but the records councilmember passes unanimously airport me with 5 affirmative votes, 6 affirmative votes. >> Thank you very much. All right. And are I guess we are going to recess for 2 minutes and come back in 2 minutes. Thank you for your patience. Everyone. All right. Welcome back. Everyone to the time is
now precisely 5 o'clock. So we get ourselves going. Thanks to everyone for their patience. MADAM City clerk reconvene. Would you please call the roll? >> Thank you, Mayor. Councilmember Rogers, Councilmember MacDonald. Councilmember Fleming Councilmember Ben Wells here Bres present. Vice Mayor Cook is absent. Mayor, stop here. Let the record show all councilmembers are present with the exception Vice Mayor >> All right. Thank you very much. And again, we couldn't start our public comment non agenda matters before 5 o'clock. That's where we had that short break. But now here we are. We're having one public comment on non agenda matters tonight because we have nothing else on the agenda. So this is this is the public's only chance to comment this evening. If you wish to make public comment on
any item not listed on the agenda, please make your way to the podium. And if you could be waiting, you both podiums and can be waiting as the speaker for new concludes. Let's let's keep the sufficient and go as we go back and forth. So again, are there. If we have any member the public who wish to speak, please make your way to one or the actually got a list here. Let's go and order the names that icy out, MR. Michel, MR. Helber will go. Michael Hill Baronne and Matthew and then Jenny. Sir Michael Matthew and Jenny. >> ok, I'm speaking on. Michael over Saint new apartment building called the Cannery. Which is your 100% affordable housing apartment building and railroad Square have an article earlier from the. >> Bay City News. JUNE 9, 2026 is a big a narcotics bust. It that. Facility. Quite a bit of
cocaine and substantial amount of cash at that place. So apparently there were. That suggests the you got to drug dealers. They're living Section 8 apartments. That's appalling. Absolutely appalling. Qualifies low-income because it casts and make from doing drugs is non reportable. It's just ridiculous. And I've got some online comments from somebody who lives are. These are current comments. And the person is a female. And she says when living there feeling safe and they feel especially concerned about the maintenance guy, makes him feel unsafe. And she goes on to say that despite that drug acts. Drug arrests there, you know, it continues to be a drug den. I mean, just horrendous. You know, somebody should taken seriously in looking into it because it really makes you look And I just know so no. Rosa police
made a really press release just now the rest of the bunch, too. Mexican drug dealers just today. You know. You have a pound of methamphetamine. Senor Ruis Martinez. His name is never ending. >> All right. Matthew Janney and Cynthia Matthew Janney and Cynthia, as Matthew here. Jenny. Cynthia. Cynthia, you have the floor. Thank you. Cynthia. >> Brady free U.S. And the coast be walking pillow student because we walk with a cent. I'm also a student at Santa Rosa Junior College. I'm also a local resident and a community advocate today. I'm here representing safe cannabis 707. I'm standing before you tonight on our ancestral lands to address a critical housing equity gap and are sitting one that directly impacts local renters medical patients and working families while commercial
cannabis is legal in our sand in Santa Rosa, our current local ordinances, including Chapter 9.20, smoking regulations. The renters and medical patients with virtually no safe legal or dignified place to use their medicine, homeowners are granted the private right to consume while renters face, eviction or fines for doing the exact same thing community safety and equity mean ensuring that every resident, regardless of whether they own their or rent their home has access to safe, legal and protect the spaces. The on closing this equity gap this moment presents a creative relative revenue-generating opportunity designed to satisfy both private rights and public concerns by modernizing our local policies and sensible regulations. Our city can generate. I don't Cult tax revenue in fees to help remedy Santa Rosa's,
current fiscal deficit while simultaneously providing immediate funding are really far fire and emergency safety services. We cannot have safe cannabis without fire and safety services. Part of me. Bridging this equity gap protects tenants, housing, you security ensures medical access and addresses neighborhood in family concerns 3 structure, honesty and respect in closing real solutions require bold leadership and true collaboration. The challenges facing Santa Rosa from fiscal constraints and fire safety needs to housing. I'm sorry for fiscal constraints and fire and safety needs to housing equity for renters. And medical patients cannot be solved in isolation. I stand before you ready to work. I invite the mayor, Vice mayor council members and city staff to sit down with me in our community advocates to
collaborate with this policy transformation could look like for Santa Rosa. I welcome opportunity to meet with you. Within the next 2 weeks, I left contact information. Cynthia, thank you very much. Jenny Dana and Ronnie. >> here. Dana. Ronnie. >> There you go in. If you have put your card in and wish to speak, if you could be waiting by the podium. All right. Welcome the floor is yours. >> My name is Ronnie. I'm here Santa Rosa resident of CHAIRMAN Concerns regarding the flock technology utilized by a local police department. There's a lot of misconception being and I've been doing a lot of canvassing and various districts in Rosa and a lot of consensus that I've gotten from folks is that they were not aware of the cameras being installed and they also did not consent to. Unwarranted and long searches of the
implementation of ai within these cameras. So many looking forward to the will be having on Thursday with the police department to get better transparency and understanding of why we have this technology in our community. And was it really mean to keep our community safe while also protecting our 4th constitutional right. But yeah, thank you. Ronnie, thank you very much. >> Jason JUNE and Bruce. Jc. He's a Jason yet perfect. Jason Europe, thanks for coming out tonight. >> So do hear my name is Jason or the Young and the rapper in this area, someone to Little Rock for young. So enjoy it. Deflect the country, take the cameras down. We don't need a database tracking every town. Every play lot removing getting map freedom, a freedom. When the people get tracked, deflect the country that the people read. I don't
need the government watching me when I leave privacy the right. But it take the ship back. We don't need a nation built follow every track. They put 9 uphold eye on the block to the digital file with every tick of the clock where you went where you left, what route you took. >> Whole life getting a lot like a page in a book say if you guilty, what you're worried about oldest little trick when surveillance rolled out, cause right. Seen a privilege for the party. Clean through a wall between the people in a powerful machine. No a pocket. No judge in the right to permanent witness for every time that I drive into a bill today for a reasonable cost can be handed out tomorrow for a reasonable laws, deflect the country. Take the cameras down. We don't need a database tracking every town. Every plate logged every movement getting Matt
Freedom, a freedom. When the people get tracked, the flock, the country that the people briefed. I don't need the government watch him. You would not leave privacy right. But take the ship back. We don't need a nation built to follow every track first public safety than the mission expands. More data gets collected, more power changes hands. Local cops, corporations, weather gets the key. That's a dangerous equation for a population that's free. I don't care left right power. He just ranked civil liberties disappear underneath the fresh paint. You can promise good intentions. You can swear. It's also cure to get under arrest with no evidence to procure. So pull the network back, make them justify the search. Don't run every neighborhood into a surveillance parts. Put the burden on the state. Keep the
right to the crowd. It privacy, these freedom that I'm saying that wow, no permanent. I know permanent file, no track and everybody every bone, every Trust us when the infrastructure built his right to work, why are proof that you and got the guilt? The young Coming We even if we give an award for public comment that would have to be in running very, very, very memorable. Alright, thank you. Thank you for coming out tonight. Thank you for that. >> We wanted JUNE, Bruce and Stephanie, we have JUNE here. JUNE. You're out. Thank you for coming out. >> Is this going on? Okay. >> If you need closer to my kid doesn't pick very well. >> So high on Juniper shares. Good afternoon and I'm here because I was just as one of the community members out at the informational session that front starting at 3 today that north the organizing Project
Ranch. And it was really informative. I would everybody here to look at some of the information that the organizing project has put together. Got ongoing researching new information every day is coming out. And at what struck me was all the concerns of the committee members who are here this afternoon and how they're feeling impacted by the presence of all these cameras. So I would encourage you to also meet with opd. Hear what they've been hearing from the community because it in a lot of people cannot stay on of people left. But it really alarmed me. How is impacting people. What also was alarming was information of the discrepancy between what's been put out in public by this are I mean, the Santa Rosa Police Department and then what's actually been being obtained from Public Records Act requests. And so, you
know, there's not enough time to go through it all. But there's a lot of distribute information there about those differences and even the inconsistencies between how public record x requests are being responded to or similar requests for information are similar time frame. That time frames are very different. And who's getting access to information? There's just a number of sexual adventure alarming. That's of information there that causes great concern. I mean, it all does point to we really do need to cancel the flock on track to not renew in JANUARY. And we really do need in the surveillance ordinance in place with strong protections before we do any contracting was anymore surveillance companies. So just encourage you to take a deeper look at some of the strong evidence and information that's coming out to help inform your
decision making going forward. Jim, thank you very much. All right. We got and if we get holder applause, Tony, and you can do jazz fingers, want to want to keep the. >> The noise under control here? Alright, we got Bruce and Stephanie is a Yes, Bruce, you have the floor? Yes, my name is Bruce. The ban and i am speaking out against in opposition to Santa Rosa. >> Continuing its flock contract. We have to be very cautious about granting the government surveillance powers because governments are made up of people and people are flawed. Incorruptible. >> History shows us that with power comes abuse of power. Always. It's too enticing. >> The instances of misuse mistake, an error by I monitored flock cameras are well documented. >> Our public spaces are already saturated with cameras recording our daily activities
and law enforcement can obtain location data from cell phones. So any additional monitoring is intrusive and unnecessary. Why on Earth should the taxpayer foot the bill to implement a surveillance system that violates our 4th Amendment right to a reasonable expectation of privacy. Even while in public. The great Supreme Court Justice Louis Brandeis wrote every unjustifiable intrusion by the government upon the privacy of the individual with whatever the means employed must be deemed a violation of the 4th Amendment. The flock surveillance system is not in accordance with the values and ideals of America as envisioned by our founding fathers. Our constitutional rights are under saleable and non-negotiable. Secure the blessings of liberty. It says in the Constitution. In other words, guard and value your
freedom. Let's Deif Walk Santa Rosa. And joined the 153 other communities across the country that have said no to automated license plate readers. Thank you, Bruce. Stephanie. >> Hi, my name is Stephanie and I have a series of questions that I wish that the city council would be posing to srpd in regards to flock. And I'm just going to ask him questions. I really wish we would all be asking. Having looked audit logs, which I have been struggling to obtain since MAY and having lived through them. I would like know. If Srp these retention policy is 30 days. Why do I see municipalities accessing our cameras as far back as 2024 acquiring best bass as far back as 2020. Why do I see municipalities searching our cameras for the year 2036? Is that like a typo? And if their time foes, why are they being caught? Why icu reasons such as identification? Illegal
Parker. Low cow. Officer safety. Patrol test sales as reasons that these audit logs were accessed. Why do time see? No reason listed whatsoever. We've been reassured that that is not srp policy and the policy is being followed. Why is it that when I look at the portal? I can see that as of today, there are supposedly 774 searches. And u n. 500 or excuse me 5 over 5,000 a month on average. That doesn't seem right to me. Why do I seen a grant? That's a good question. Why do I see so many different agencies accessing our camera when the portal has been updated to say that we're only sharing with in Sonoma County. Why have I been able to find all of these discrepancies within like 5 minutes viewing the logs in Srp has not notified us of any of these. >> Thank you, Stephanie. Our ask again, our Jenny or data here. Is anyone else
encounter? Does anyone else in council chambers wish to make public comment? Seeing none. We'll go online. MADAM Zuma host, do we have anybody online who was raised their hands or Dial star 9? >> We do not. Mayor. >> Sir, you're looking to make you wishing to make public comment. Make your way podium. >> Good So can Have a. I mean here in the downtown. Business and on. Right now we're going through our times. Think everybody hears. I it was like the. Price goods, gas. It is going up so. One thing that I'm here for is. Ask, you know, parking. Free hearing on Santa Rosa. But Townsend County. You know, have the same thing. It is one of the things that one of the reasons at all it is here, not thriving like they should as opposed to. Hillsbor I talked to many business owners, restaurants, especially. Very low margins. And very low
attendance because of the fear of economic times that we're going right now. It's just something that I think will help putting more money in the pockets of Centers Inc and businesses and have downtown 5. Again. Used to be. Among other things that I think we can. Facebook. This is one thing that I feel that will help everybody. Businesses in the cbo like Citizens. >> Thank you. Thanks for coming out. Are there any other member is? Is there anybody else in council chambers wish to speak? Seeing none. We'll close public comment on that was our only public comment agenda items this evening will all will note that item 17 under item 17. We have 2 different, 2 different items. >> We have some a couple of legislative updates and then you notice a final map offer Meadowood ranch. And beyond that, we are adjourned. Thank