Civic Issues
Topics getting the most attention in Rohnert Park public meetings, ranked by how frequently they are discussed.
6 issues in water utilities
Water Meter Replacement and AMI Project CIP1918
The city is replacing roughly 9,600 aging water meters with smart meters that read usage every 15 minutes and alert customers to leaks. The shockingly low bid from an out-of-state contractor triggered labor compliance concerns and a two-week delay while the council seeks answers.
Water well rehabilitation
The city is rehabilitating four of its own wells (Nos. 14, 33, 35, and 40), spending about $420,000 in water funds. Councilmember Adams, now on the Russian River Watershed Association board, warned water will get tighter and noted the city already produces about 40% of its own supply locally.
Water supply reliability through 2050
Sonoma Water updated the council on major transmission projects — including the Wilfred Booster Station here in Rohnert Park — plus a new maintenance-tracking system and drought and earthquake resiliency planning. Residents will see the results in water reliability and in the water system budget discussions ahead.
Sonoma Water FY 2026-27 rates and budget
Sonoma Water proposes a $78.4 million transmission system budget with rates between $8.21 and $8.97 per acre-foot, and its long-range plan hints at roughly 10% annual increases over five years. The Water Advisory Committee votes March 6 and the Sonoma Water board April 28.
Lap Swim Subsidy and Membership Restructuring
Lap swim is subsidized at 92% of its true cost, and a full cost-based price would be over $41 per visit — unaffordable for the mostly senior and working-adult swimmers who use it. Staff will study creating a standalone lap swim membership and limiting or removing the unlimited lap swim benefit in sports center packages.
Public Works leadership and reorganization
Mark Hendersen was made permanent Director of Public Works, and the city has merged engineering divisions under Public Works with Julian De Anda appointed City Engineer. Hendersen brings 25+ years of water and wastewater experience.