GOOD NEWS REAL NEWS HOMETOWN NEWS
SINCE 1916 Making Communities Better Through Print.™ VOL. CX, NO. XVII
THURSDAY, MAY 1, 2025
atascaderonews.com • $1.00 • WEEKLY
Atascadero residents notified of proposed wastewater rate increases
Del Rio Road project advances, with hopes to boost local economy Valley Fresh Market and Central Coast Distillery are confirmed to open in early summer
City informs property owners of potential rate hikes; residents may file protests under Proposition 218 ahead of June 10 public hearing
By CAMILLE DEVAUL camille@atascaderonews.com
By HAYLEY MATTSON Publisher, Editor In Chief
ATASCADERO — Following last week’s City Council meeting, Atascadero’s Public Works Department has mailed detailed notices to property owners connected to the city’s wastewater system, outlining proposed rate increases and informing them of their right to protest under Proposition 218. The rate-hike proposal marks a pivotal effort to modernize Atascadero’s aging wastewater infrastructure, which serves about 5,500 parcels within the city’s 2,000-acre urban core. While Atascadero spans over 15,000 acres, most properties outside the core rely on private septic systems. City officials say the wastewater system— originally inherited from the Atascadero County Sanitation District in 1982 — has seen little modernization since and no longer meets the state’s environmental standards. “We can’t afford to keep kicking the can down the road,” City Manager Jim Lewis said during last week’s meeting. “Eventually, it will cost more, and we still won’t have met the necessary regulatory standards. We must move forward with a new wastewater plan.” Currently, the city operates a Water Reclamation Facility (WRF) near the Chalk CONTINUED ON PAGE A2
Farron Elizabeth Walker is shown during the 10th anniversary open house for Walker’s boutique, Farron Elizabeth. Photo by Hayley Mattson/ATN
Rooted in resilience: Farron Elizabeth’s journey of growth, grit, and giving back From navigating challenges to nurturing community, owner’s entrepreneurial spirit and unwavering dedication continue to shape the heart of downtown Atascadero By HAYLEY MATTSON Publisher, Editor In Chief
ATASCADERO — It’s been a decade since Farron Elizabeth Walker opened the doors of her boutique in the heart of Atascadero, and what a journey it’s been. Celebrating her 10th anniversary, Farron reflects on the immense support from the
community that has been the backbone of her success. The anniversary open house last Friday was a heartfelt celebration not just of her store, but of the loyal customers, friends, and partners who have helped her build a thriving business. “I didn’t really know what to expect, especially with the construction happening around us,” Farron admits. “But the turn-
out was amazing. It wasn’t about celebrating me; it was about celebrating the community. They’re the reason I’ve been able to stay in business this long.” Her openness and gratitude toward the people who have supported her over the years are palpable. When Farron first opened her store, she didn’t know anyone in Atascadero. Having
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ATA S C A D E R O — Construction is moving forward on the Del Rio Road Commercial Area, a long-anticipated development designed to bring new businesses, jobs, and services to the community. With five buildings currently under construction out of a total of 10 planned, city officials say the project is on track and already attracting notable tenants. The development includes a mix of retail, office, and light industrial spaces, as well as potential housing. Currently under construction are five buildings: a 32,000-square-foot space for Valley Fresh Market, a 9,000-square-foot retail building, two three-story buildings sized at 10,000 and 8,600 square feet for office and mixed-use, and a 4,500-square-foot retail structure. Two major tenants — Valley Fresh Market and Central Coast Distillery — are confirmed to open in early summer, with doors expected to open in June and July. “This location has been planned for commercial development for many years as part of the Del Rio Road Commercial area specific plan,” said Community Development Director for the City of Atascadero Phil Dunsmore. “The city is trying to focus commercial development that will produce jobs, services for the community, and even housing within close proximity to Del Rio Road, El Camino CONTINUED ON PAGE A2
Wine 4 Paws returns with record community support Over 80 wineries and hundreds of animal lovers joined forces in SLO County to raise life-saving funds for Woods Humane Society By CAMILLE DEVAUL camille@atascaderonews.com
NORTH COUNTY — More than 80 wineries, businesses, and hundreds of pet lovers came together April 26–27 to celebrate the return of Wine 4 Paws, a beloved tradition that pairs wine tasting with fundraising to support the life-saving work of Woods Humane Society. Now in its 16th year, Wine 4 Paws transformed San Luis Obispo County’s wine country into a hub of community giving and four-legged fun. The week-
end offered wine enthusiasts and animal advocates the chance to sip, shop, and socialize — all while raising critical funds for homeless pets. CEO of Woods Humane Society Emily L’Heureux emphasized the impact of the event. “Every year it makes all of the difference for us. As a private nonprofit that receives no tax funds, we exist solely based on donations, events, and fees for services,” she said. “To see an entire industry, the wine industry and then our beautiful community come together for one cause is heartwarming. And it makes all of the world of difference. It’s quite literally providing life-saving impact.” The festivities officially kicked off Friday evening, April 25, with a sold-out launch party at Cal Coast Beer, hosted by Hayseed and Housdon Winery. The event
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featured live music from the Mark Adams Band, food, beer, and wine, and drew over 150 attendees. Organizers credited Martha and Rich Clayton of Cal Coast Beer for generously donating the Patina Room for the evening, helping to ensure the success of the fundraiser. Throughout the weekend, visitors could explore a tasting map featuring more than 80 participating wineries, each donating a portion of proceeds to Woods Humane Society. From the coast to Paso Robles, events offered something for everyone: from a Sip & Shop at Bijou on the Park and dog-friendly movie nights to Super Saturday at Paso Market Walk and a Pet Cupcake Decorating Contest at Hoyt Family Vineyards. Additional activities included Brunch & Bingo, “paint your pet” art sessions, book signings, Wine 4 Paws organizer Sarah Tomasetti (left) and Hayseed and Housdon owner Ted Ross are shown at this year’s Wine 4 CONTINUED ON PAGE A2
NORTH COUNTY LIFE
Paws event April 25 at Hayseed and Housdon. Photo courtesy of Wine 4 Paws
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