Civic Issues
Topics getting the most attention in Rohnert Park public meetings, ranked by how frequently they are discussed.
6 issues with critical priority
Pool closures and staffing cuts from budget deficit
The city is in a budget deficit: 18 full-time positions are frozen and five employees were laid off, including one at the Performing Arts Center. Special event budgets were also cut by $50,000 this year.
Legal vulnerability of the rent stabilization ordinance amid Rancho Verde sale
Rancho Verde is up for sale, and its listing claims an income-based rent control exemption affecting about 40% of tenants, with an eye toward pushing rents to $1,500 a month over four years. Staff say 299 of the park's 300 spaces are protected under the city's rent increase limits and the ordinance has no income-based exemption. Residents and GSMOL are monitoring the sale and want timely information.
Half-cent sales tax ballot measure
The council voted unanimously to let voters decide on a half-cent sales tax that would raise about $5.5 million a year for general services. The city faces a $10 million deficit, has frozen 18 positions and laid off 5 workers, and warns of cuts to pools, parks, and public safety without new revenue. The tax has no sunset and takes effect April 1, 2027 if approved in November.
Rohnert Park 2040 General Plan Adoption
The city needs to plan for 1,580 units by 2031 but only permitted 38 in 2025, with affordable categories lagging. A $28 million state award will fund 70 permanent supportive housing units for seniors experiencing homelessness, with conversion expected to start mid-April 2026.
Clean City Audit and Fund Reserves
The board formally accepted the unaudited annual financial report for fiscal year 2024-25, a routine step that keeps the foundation's books on record for public review.
FY 2026-27 General Fund deficit
The city plans to spend about $59.3 million but expects only $52.6 million in revenue — roughly a $7 million gap covered by one-time money and reserves. Fund balance has already dropped from $31.9M to $22.4M. Residents and councilmembers pressed for a path back to a truly balanced budget.