Civic Issues
Topics getting the most attention in Rohnert Park public meetings, ranked by how frequently they are discussed.
3 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.