Volume 3, Issue 2- The Friendly City Spotlight, Rohnert Park by rohnertparkcity

SPOTLIGHT The Friendly City

FEBRUARY 5, 2026 | VOLUME 3, ISSUE 2

ONTHECOVER

Rohnert Park’s Sewer Division is rolling out a new sewer camera inspection van to help keep the City’s wastewater system running smoothly.

Equipped with modern video inspection technology, the van allows staff to better monitor sewer lines, improve maintenance, and meet updated state requirements This upgrade replaces an older trailer and gives staff a safer, more efficient workspace. It is another step toward protecting public health and keeping Rohnert Park’s infrastructure reliable

The Friendly City SPOTLIGHT

One of the best things about Rohnert Park is how much our community cares Residents here are thoughtful, engaged, and passionate about keeping our city safe, welcoming, and a great place to live. That community spirit is exactly why we launched our Community Priorities Survey.

The survey helps us understand what services and investments matter most to you as we plan for the future And so far, your feedback has been loud and clear: protecting essential services is a top priority. Residents have emphasized the importance of strong emergency response, fire protection, safe drinking water, clean and wellmaintained parks, and keeping the City financially healthy.

Public safety continues to be front of mind. Our integrated public safety model, where officers are trained in both fire and police response, allows us to respond quickly and effectively when you need help. Survey responses reinforce how much our community values fast response times and highly trained professionals.

Parks also earned major love. With 28 parks across Rohnert Park, these spaces are where families gather, kids play, and neighbors connect. Residents want to see continued care for playgrounds, restrooms, sports fields, lighting, and park infrastructure so these spaces stay clean, safe, and fun for everyone.

More than 400 residents have already shared their input, and we are grateful for every response. If you have not taken the survey yet, there is still time. It only takes a few minutes and is one of the easiest ways to have a direct say in the future of our city.

TAKETHESURVEY

This is your chance to help shape Rohnert Park’s priorities, services, and future direction. The more voices we hear, the stronger and more representative our planning becomes Thank you for being engaged, staying informed, and caring about the future of our Friendly City. We look forward to hearing your thoughts and continuing this conversation together.

ENHANCESWASTEWATER SYSTEMMONITORING

The City of Rohnert Park Sewer Division recently received a new sewer camera inspection van that will be used to inspect sewer lines throughout the City’s wastewater collection system. On June 5, 2023, the City was issued a new Wastewater Discharge Permit, which included several revised requirements One of these requirements mandates routine evaluations and condition assessments of the sewer system.

The City’s Sewer System Management Plan (SSMP) establishes the procedures and schedules for citywide sewer line cleaning and inspection activities As part of the SSMP, the City is required to inspect sewer lines and document the effectiveness of its cleaning program. This is accomplished through systematic closed-circuit television (CCTV) video inspections of the sewer system

The Sewer Division’s previous sewer camera inspection trailer had reached the end of its useful life. Sewer staff evaluated and demonstrated multiple camera inspection systems and ultimately selected the RapidView IBAK camera system

The system is installed in a box-style van, providing staff with a safe, efficient, and weather-protected environment to perform sewer line video inspections while improving inspection quality, documentation, and overall system condition assessment.

JANUARY PARKSUPDATE: FIELDGLOW-UP

Our softball and baseball fields got some love this month. Crews dragged and refreshed the infields to keep surfaces smooth, safe, and ready for athletes of all ages. Check out the before-and-after photos for a satisfying look at the upgrade.

BEFORE: AFTER:

PREPARING ROHNERTPARKFOR WINTERSTORMS

DIDYOUKNOW?

The City of Rohnert Park has several commissions, committees, and boards made up of community volunteers who advise on important topics such as land use, seniors wellbeing, mobile homes, bicycle and pedestrian paths, parks, and recreation? These include the Planning Commission, Parks and Recreation Commission, and other advisory bodies that play a key role in shaping our community To learn more about each group, their purpose, and how to get involved, visit:

https://www.rpcity.org/772/Commissi ons-Committees-Boards

As winter storms continue, Rohnert Park residents are encouraged to prepare by using sandbags to help protect homes from flooding. Free sand and bags are available at the 24/7 sandbag filling station located in the rear parking lot behind the Callinan Sports and Fitness Center at 5405 Snyder Lane, with a limit of 25 bags per household. For questions about sandbag distribution, contact the Public Works Department at 707-588-3307. Please use caution during storms and avoid flooded or barricaded roadways, as even shallow water can be dangerous

February 2026

EDCLITESHONORED FOROUTSTANDING COMMUNITYSERVICE

On January 27, 2026, the Rohnert Park City Council recognized Ed Clites for his outstanding volunteer service to the 2025 Holiday Toy Drive. Ed generously volunteered his time to collect donated toys and help ensure they reached families in need, bringing joy to children and families throughout the community. His dedication, kindness, and commitment to service exemplify the spirit of community care that makes Rohnert Park a welcoming and compassionate place to call home.

MONTH

On January 27, 2026, Mayor Emily Sanborn proclaimed February 2026 as Black History Month in the City of Rohnert Park. The proclamation recognizes the centennial of national Black history observances and honors the history, culture, achievements, and lasting contributions of Black Americans. It also acknowledges the important role local Black residents, organizations, and business owners have played in strengthening Rohnert Park, while encouraging the community to celebrate Black history and continue working toward equality, justice, and inclusion.

ROHNERTPARKWELCOMESNEWLY SWORNPUBLICSAFETYOFFICERS

On January 13, 2026, Director of Public Safety Mattos introduced the City’s newly sworn Public Safety Officers, Daniel Beltran and Logan Elliott. The officers were formally welcomed by the City Council and City staff and participated in a pinning ceremony attended by their friends and family.

VOLUNTEERSNEEDEDFORFREETAXFILINGSEASON

As tax season approaches, United Way of the Wine Country is calling on community members to help neighbors keep more of what they earn. Through the Earn It! Keep It! Save It! program, volunteers play a critical role in providing free, trusted tax assistance to local individuals and families. This service helps low-to-moderate income households maximize their state and federal refunds while building greater financial stability

Volunteers are needed in a variety of roles, including Tax Preparers, Intake Coordinators, and Spanish Interpreters. No prior tax experience is required, and all volunteers receive free training in January. Volunteer service runs from February through April, making this a meaningful way to give back during a defined and impactful window. By offering time and support, volunteers help ensure community members can access refunds and credits they may otherwise miss.

This program is powered by United Way of the Wine Country in partnership with community organizations and supported by the IRS VITA program. Volunteers make a direct, tangible difference by helping families keep more of their hard-earned money and move toward financial security Those interested in volunteering can learn more and sign up here!

KNOWINGWHOTOCALLCANMAKEALLTHEDIFFERENCE

In moments of crisis, knowing the right number to call matters While 9-1-1 is essential for emergencies that require immediate response, many situations call for a different kind of support. That is where 2-1-1 comes in. Available 24 hours a day, 2-1-1 connects residents to trusted local information, services, and resources when help is needed but the situation is not an emergency.

Calling 9-1-1 should always be reserved for urgent situations such as medical emergencies, fires, crimes in progress, or immediate threats to safety For everything else, 2-1-1 serves as a direct line to community support. Residents can receive assistance with housing and shelter, food resources, disaster relief and preparedness, tax preparation help, immigration services, mental health support, services for seniors and veterans, and more. By making the right call, residents help ensure emergency lines remain available for those who need them most

United Way’s 2-1-1 service is free, confidential, and available by phone or text. Residents can dial 2-1-1 or text their ZIP code to 898-211 to connect with a trained community specialist who can help guide them to the right resources. Knowing when to call 2-1-1 helps strengthen our community, reduces strain on emergency services, and ensures neighbors get the support they need, when they need it

SEEWHAT’SBEING BUILTINROHNERTPARK

Have you ever noticed construction around town and wondered what’s happening or what’s coming next? Our website, rpcity.org, now has a dedicated Projects in Progress page that gives residents an easy way to see the public works projects currently underway across Rohnert Park. From street improvements and park upgrades to building repairs and safety improvements, this page offers a clear snapshot of how the City is investing in our community

Each project is listed in one place, making it simple to understand what work is happening and where. You can explore projects related to roads, sidewalks, parks, public buildings, utilities, and more, all without digging through technical reports or budget documents. It is designed to be straightforward and resident-friendly

We invite you to check out the Projects in Progress page anytime you want to stay informed about what’s happening in your neighborhood and throughout the city. It is a great way to see how City projects support safety, mobility, and quality of life for everyone in Rohnert Park.

CURTAINSUP: AMAGICAL SEASONAT SPRECKELS

The new year at Spreckels begins with the soulful, country-rock musical Hands on a Hardbody, on the Mainstage from February 13 to March 1, 2026. This quirky, high-stakes musical, based on real events, follows ten Texans competing to keep one hand on a brandnew truck—the last one standing wins. More than just a contest, this is a hilarious, heartfelt look at resilience, community and the dreams that drive us.

With a moving score and unforgettable characters, Hands on a Hardbody is a ride you’ll want to take

The season concludes with the beloved, family-friendly musical Seussical by Stephen Flaherty and Lynn Ahrens, running May 1–17, 2026 Join the Cat in the Hat, Horton the Elephant, and all your favorite Dr. Seuss characters in this high-energy, heartfelt musical that brings these treasured stories to life! With toetapping songs, dazzling visuals, and a timeless story about friendship, courage, and believing in the impossible, this wholesome extravaganza is pure joy from start to finish, directed by Gene Abravaya.

Enjoy significant savings by treating yourself to a season subscription! Tickets and subscriptions will be available now at spreckelsonline.com.

For more information, press materials, or interview requests, please contact Lauren Heney at lheney@rpcity.org.

ADOPT THESEPETS!

Discover a world of cuddly companions waiting to find their forever homes at the Rohnert Park Animal Shelter! Located at 301 J Rogers Lane off Redwood Drive, our doors are open from Wednesday to Sunday, 1:00 - 5:30 p.m.

To ensure you receive the best experience, we recommend giving us a call at (707) 5841582 to schedule your visit. Complete and submit an adoption questionnaire before arriving to streamline the process, ensuring more quality time with your potential new family member.

View all our charming animals and access the adoption questionnaire at rpanimalshelter.org. Your search for your new BFF (best furry friend) begins today!

MEETLUNIZ!

Luniz is a 2-year-old male brown tabby with a laid-back attitude and a handsome face to match This chill guy is looking for a home where he can just hang out and enjoy life lots of cozy spots and calm vibes are a must.

Luniz gets along well with dogs, but we’re still figuring out how he feels about other cats. He would do best in a home with respectful, patient people who can appreciate his easygoing nature. If you’re looking for a low-key companion who’s content to lounge, watch the world go by, and occasionally demand pets, Luniz might be your perfect match.

Oh my goodness! Is there anything cuter than a baby bunny? (obviously the answer is no!) And Mistletoe does not disappoint. In addition to all this cuteness, Mistletoe has benefited from lots of socializing so he is exceptionally friendly!

Mistletoe is about 9 weeks old and he’s looking for a foster-to-adopt home in Sonoma County where he will be a house-rabbit and part of the family. If you’re interested in helping this sweet little bunny start life on the right paw, Mistletoe would love to meet you. Interested in meeting Mistletoe? Fill out an adoption questionnaire here! https://www.shelterluv.com/matchme/ adopt/RPAS/Rabbit

MEETADDY!

Addy is an estimated 6-month-old mixed medium-breed pup who appears to be a Shepherd–Collie mix. She has the sweetest soul and is timid at first, but once she feels comfortable (just takes going slow and a couple of treats!), she is sweet as pie.

Addy does wonderfully with other dogs and would benefit from having a confident dog friend to show her the ropes. We don’t know how she feels about cats With a little patience, love, and reassurance, Addy will blossom into a gentle, affectionate companion who will happily steal your heart.

Meet your match at the Rohnert Park Animal Shelter! Visit us in person Wednesday–Sunday from 1:00 PM to 5:30 PM or browse available pets online at rpanimalshelter.org. Reach out anytime at (707) 584-1582 or animal@rpcity.org — we can't wait to connect you with your new best friend

LEARNMORE

INTERESTEDIN VOLUNTEERING?

The Animal Shelter is in need of volunteers for the following positions: Front Office

Wednesdays 1:00 p.m. – 5:30 p.m.

Kennel Assistant Tuesdays 9:00 a.m. – 11:00 a.m. Wednesdays 9:00 a.m. – 11:00 a.m.

If you’re interested, please complete an application, here.

PROTECT YOURPET!

Did you know that pet licenses are required for all dogs and cats in the City of Rohnert Park?

Licensing helps reunite lost pets with their owners, supports local animal services, and helps keep pets safe

The City uses DocuPet as its official online pet licensing platform, making it easy to license, renew, and manage your pet’s information anytime

You can now license or renew your pet's license: Online In-person Mail Phone Visit rpanimalshelter.org/licensing to learn more.

WHYLEASHINGMATTERS INROHNERTPARK

City law requires all dogs to be leashed (max 6 ft) in public areas at all times. Help keep our community safe—always keep dogs leashed in public

Dogs in parks must be leashed unless you’re in a designated dog park. Thank you for helping protect our shared spaces!

LEARN MORE:

DID YOU KNOW?

Unrestrained animals can be impounded Always leash your dog and prevent trespassing onto private property.

COMMUNITY COURTESY STARTS WITH A LEASH

Leashes protect pets, people, and wildlife

Fines start at $100 and can go up to $500 3 violations in a year? That’s a misdemeanor.

LOCAL DOG PARKS

Rohnert Bark

Location: 5010 Roberts Lake Rd

Hours: Dawn till Dusk

Field of Friends

Location: 7471 Bernice Ave

Hours: Dawn till Dusk

RP Animal Services - Public Field

Location: 301 J Rogers Ln

Hours: Dawn to 8:00 am 10:30 am to 1:00 pm 6:30 pm to Dusk

Maurice Fredericks Dog Park

Location: 1600 Wisdom Ln

Hours: Dawn till Dusk

Best Friends Canine Club

Location: 1450 Golf Course Dr

Membership Inquiries: “Best Friends Canine Club of Golis Park” on Facebook

Looking for a private space? Check out SniffSpot.com for locally

CITYOFROHNERTPARK HOLIDAYCLOSURE

IMPORTANTINFORMATION ABOUTWATERRATES

Beginning in January, household water bills changed as the City moved forward with longplanned investments to maintain and improve essential water infrastructure, including water lines, wells, and storage facilities To help ensure residents continue to have access to support if needed, the following community resources are being shared as a reference for assistance with utilities, food, and other basic needs.

COMMUNITYASSISTANCERESOURCES

The following organizations and programs may be able to help residents with utilities, housing stability, food access, and other basic needs. Availability and eligibility vary by program and funding.

HELPFINDINGTHERIGHTRESOURCE

2-1-1 Sonoma County

Dial 2-1-1 or (866) 211-5295

211sonoma org

A central referral line connecting residents to utility, housing, food, and emergency financial assistance programs.

FOODASSISTANCE

Catholic Charities of Northwest California (707) 528-8712

gethelp@ccnwc.org

Food distribution and limited emergency financial assistance, including utility support when funding is available.

Salvation Army, Santa Rosa Corps (707) 542-0998

Food assistance and emergency utility support when available.

St. Vincent de Paul (local parish conferences) (707) 584-1579

One-time assistance with utility bills for qualifying households, depending on funding

COTS (Committee on the Shelterless) son.keeppeoplehoused.org

Emergency utility assistance for residents at risk of losing housing due to financial hardship, depending on funding.

North Coast Energy Services

1-800-233-4480

Low-income energy assistance programs serving Sonoma County.

PG&E Assistance Programs pge.com

Low-income and medical baseline programs including CARE, FERA, REACH, and Medical Baseline Allowance.

Redwood Empire Food Bank (707) 523-7903

refb.org

Grocery distribution and food support to help reduce household expenses.

CITYOFROHNERTPARKPROGRAMS

Utility Payment Arrangements (707) 585-6750

ubpayments@rpcity.org rpcity.org

Low-income customers with documented medical need for water service may contact the City’s Finance Department to request a payment plan.

Cash for Grass Rebate Program (707) 585-6750

ubpayments@rpcity.org rpcity.org

Provides a $1 per square foot rebate, up to 1,000 square feet, for lawn removal and water-efficient landscaping.

NOTE:

Program availability, eligibility, and funding may change. Residents are encouraged to contact each organization directly for current information and assistance.

GOT E-WASTE?

Zero Waste Sonoma partners with Conservation Corps North Bay to host free collection events for ewaste. Bring your e-waste and join us at the next event! Appointments are not required.

For more information, including what is, and is not accepted at the collection events, please click here.

MARIN/SONOMAMOSQUITOAND VECTORCONTROLSERVICES

Mosquitoes, yellowjackets, and other pests can make outdoor living tough—but free help is available through the Marin/Sonoma Mosquito and Vector Control District The District provides no-cost services to residents, including:

Mosquito control inspections and treatment

Free mosquitofish for ponds, fountains, or animal troughs

Yellowjacket nest removal (in-ground nests)

Rodent prevention advice and home inspections

Insect identification submit a photo or specimen online

School presentations for grades K–8

Community education on preventing bites and protecting health

You can help by eliminating standing water, repairing screens, clearing gutters, and reporting problem areas early. These simple steps reduce breeding grounds and protect neighbors from mosquito-borne illnesses like West Nile virus.

Contact: (707) 285-2200

Learn more or request service: msmosquito.org

Together, we can keep Rohnert Park healthy, comfortable, and mosquito-free.

Need help with housing, mental health, or financial guidance? The Rohnert Park People Services Center (RPPSC) is here for you right in the heart of our community. The Rohnert Park People Services Center (RPPSC), operated by Petaluma People Services, is your local hub for health and human services. Located at 6800 Hunter Drive, Suite B, the center offers a welcoming space for residents who need support with housing, mental health, finances, or other life challenges.

Services include housing placement and rental referrals, financial and Medicare assistance, domestic violence and mental health counseling, CalFresh enrollment, parenting classes, and more Trained navigators provide person-centered case management to connect clients with programs that fit their needs.

No long drives or waitlists—just accessible, compassionate help right here in Rohnert Park.

�� Hours: Monday–Friday, 9 a.m.–4 p.m.

�� Phone: 707-765-8488

�� More info: petalumapeople.org

AARP Tax-Aide

Free Tax Preparation

The AARPFoundation Tax-Aide program provides free taxpreparation and filing, with a focus on taxpayers who are over 50 with low to moderate income. AARP will be at the Rohnert Park Senior Center every Friday from February 6-April 10. There will be no tax aid on 2/13 or 4/3. This free tax preparation service is by appointment only. On-site walk-ins will not be accepted.

Starting January 22, you can call AARP at 707-582-0251 to make an appointment or NEW this year, you can book an appointment for yourself online at taxaide.info/soco

Please bring all tax documents and if possible, last year’s tax return, to your appointment.

Location: Rohnert Park Senior Center 6800 Hunter Drive, Suite A

LOCAL BUSINESS SPOTLIGHTS

The Rohnert Park Business Spotlight is your and the City’s chance to give a special “thank you” to all those unique, fun, and community businesses that make Rohnert Park a great place to live, work, and eat!

We love to take the time to visit with our local business owners, write a little about their business in The Friendly City Spotlight, and feature their business on the City’s social media platforms.

Want to be featured in the Rohnert Park Business Spotlight?

You can now schedule a time to chat directly with our Economic Development team!

Maybe you have a business milestone coming up, are new to the Rohnert Park business family, or maybe you want to let everyone know something unique about your business.

Whatever it is, we are looking forward to hearing from you!

Jan.13

StartingLine

Selectyourracingcourseby lettingourprofessionalsdo aSWOTanalysisofyour business Whatyouare doingright,whereyouneed toimprove,andhowtoget there.

STARTHERE!

Are you a small business starting up or expanding into Rohnert Park? Are you looking for assistance with your business plan, navigating permits, growing revenue, marketing, or understanding funding? If you are interested in starting or expanding into RP, you can receive in-person one-on-one services locally!

The City of Rohnert Park has partnered with Sonoma Small Business Development Center (SBDC) to provide you with local, in-person consulting services to help you grow your small business and find funding.

Whether your business is burgeoning or established, you can access these free advisory services and resources...all in-person. Services include:

Workshops and Training

Starting a business is a big decision. Keeping it profitable is a constant challenge. SBDC offers a wide range of workshops to help you understand best business practices for your success. Workshops are provided at no cost throughout the North Bay year-round.

One-on-One Advising

SBDC offers no-cost, confidential advising in the following areas:

• Planning

• Management

• Restaurants

• Cottage Business

• Manufacturing

• Procurement

• Capital

• Finance

• e-commerce

• Retail

• AgriBusiness

• Trademarks • Marketing

Human Resources • Resilience • Technology • International Trade

Patents

DownloadtheReach RohnertParkApp!

Are you a GoRequest user? Then it’s time to upgrade to Reach Rohnert Park!

Download it in your phone’s app store and let us know what we can fix.

If you need to report any non-emergency issue around the city, do so in our newest app: Reach Rohnert Park!

FLOODEDSTREETS

STREETLIGHT PROBLEMS ABANDONED CARTS GRAFFITI

You can also report issues directly on the City’s website: REPORT ISSUES HERE

#CONNECT

MEET YOUR CITY COUNCIL

The Rohnert Park City Council is elected by the Rohnert Park voters to serve for four-year terms There are five members of the Council, including a Mayor and a Vice Mayor.

The City Council adopts goals and policies during Council meetings to set the direction for the City. The Council approves and adopts the City's Financial Plans, General Plan and the Capital Improvement Plan

The City Council appoints the City Manager, the City Attorney, and members of City Commissions, Committees, and Boards.

To find your district, please click here and simply type in your address at the top-right search bar of the interactive map.

srodriguez@rpcity.org

CITYCOUNCIL MEETINGS

Friendly reminder that City Council meetings now start at 5:30 pm, beginning with the January 13, 2026 meeting. Be sure to mark your calendar. We appreciate everyone who joins us to stay engaged with our community.

The City of Rohnert Park welcomes your participation at City Council meetings at 5:30 p.m., on the second and fourth Tuesdays of every month

If you are interested in learning about issues going on in your own backyard, community events, and other hot topics, please feel free to watch on Cable Channel 26, YouTube, or by visiting our Meeting Central.

Come get involved!

Want to receive email notifications when agendas are posted? Subscribe here.

UPCOMING CITY COUNCIL MEETINGS

Tuesday, February 10, 2026 - 5:30 pm

Rohnert Park City Council Chambers

130 Avram Avenue, Rohnert Park

Tuesday, February 24, 2026 - 5:30 pm

Rohnert Park City Council Chambers

130 Avram Avenue, Rohnert Park

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