Civic Issues
Topics getting the most attention in Rohnert Park public meetings, ranked by how frequently they are discussed.
10 issues in taxes budget with medium priority
Small Grants Program final report and unspent funds
The city is planning to review the guidelines for its small grants program and wants to form an ad hoc committee of the foundation board to help shape the rules before the next funding cycle starts.
Library Commission appointment process overhaul
Mayor Sanborn's library commission nominee withdrew, prompting questions about how mayoral nominations work and a possible code of conduct for appointees. The council voted 4-1 to bring back a process discussion — with Councilmember Adams objecting that current commissioner Barbara Mackenzie deserved a timely decision.
Golf Course Oversight Committee's role and financial access
Councilmember Rodriguez wants the council to review the Golf Course Oversight Committee's role, saying the committee was told it couldn't see the golf course's financial reports — the only committee apparently without access. Discussion will come back at a future meeting.
Recology rate increase of 4.52%
Garbage, recycling, compost and street sweeping rates from Recology will rise 4.52% starting July 2026, per the city's franchise agreement formula.
2026-27 Council Priorities and Goals
The council reaffirmed its four long-range goals and adopted this year's priorities: downtown progress, infrastructure and beautification, communication and engagement, and workforce retention — against resident criticism that existing neighborhood shopping centers are being neglected.
Redwood Crossings Community Facilities District (Mello-Roos)
The council finalized Ordinance 993 locking in the developer's annual service payments — currently $1,066 per housing unit — so the Redwood Crossings residential project covers the cost it adds to city services rather than the general fund.
RAB FY 2026-27 budget and registration fees
The board adopted next year's budget, which keeps park registration fees based on actual prior-year costs so residents aren't overcharged. Staff expenses drop by $5,000 due to a staff departure, and members asked for clearer spending breakdowns.
City Manager contract extension
Marcela Piedra stays through January 2031, with no cost-of-living raise and a small deferred comp bump — council members praised her for freezing her own pay during lean budget times.
SBA disaster loans for king tide flooding
The SBA is offering low-interest disaster loans for homes and businesses damaged by the December 31-January 5 king tides and flooding; the physical damage deadline is April 6.
Community survey priorities: safety, parks, and water
Early survey results show residents' top priorities: fast 911 response, clean and safe parks and neighborhoods, protected drinking water, and the city's financial health. Over 400 responses are in and the survey is still open — your input shapes the budget.