2024/03/14 Planning Commission Agenda Packet
City of Rohnert Park
Planning Commission
NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN THAT A REGULAR MEETING
will be held on Thursday, March 14, 2024 6:00 P.M.
CITY HALL - COUNCIL CHAMBER
130 Avram Avenue, Rohnert Park, California
To any member of the audience desiring to address the Planning Commission:
For public comment on items listed or not listed on the agenda, or on agenda items if unable to
speak at the scheduled time, you may do so upon recognition from the Chairperson.
Please fill out a speaker card prior to speaking.
1. CALL TO ORDER
2. ROLL CALL
(Epstein_____ Striplen____ Lam____ Orloff____ Austin-Dillion____)
3. READING OF THE LAND ACKNOWLEDGEMENT
The City of Rohnert Park acknowledges Indigenous Peoples as the traditional stewards
of the land. Let it be acknowledged that the City of Rohnert Park is located within the
traditional homeland of the Federated Indians of Graton Rancheria, comprised of Coast
Miwok and Southern Pomo peoples.
4. PLEDGE OF ALLEGIANCE
5. PUBLIC COMMENT – Persons who wish to speak to the Commission regarding an
item that is not on the agenda may do so at this time. Please see above for details on how
to submit public comments.
6. CONSENT CALENDAR - ADOPTION OF MINUTES
6.1 Approval of the Draft Minutes of the Planning Commission Meeting of
February 22, 2024.
Commissioner Motion/Roll Call Vote:
(Epstein _____ Striplen ____ Lam ____ Orloff _____ Austin-Dillion _____)
7. AGENDA ITEMS
7.1 Annual Review of the General Plan and Housing Element.
8. ITEMS FROM THE PLANNING COMMISSION
9. ITEMS FROM THE DEVELOPMENT SERVICES STAFF
10. ADJOURNMENT
NOTE: If you challenge the nature of the proposed action in court, you may be limited to raising only
those issues you or someone else raised at the public hearing(s) described in this agenda, or in written
correspondence delivered to the City of Rohnert Park at, or prior to the public hearing(s).
AMERICAN DISABILITY ACT ACCOMMODATIONS: Any member of the public who needs
accommodations should email the ADA Coordinator at jcannon@rpcity.org or by calling 707-588-2221.
The ADA Coordinator will use their best efforts to provide reasonable accommodations to provide as
much accessibility as possible while also maintaining public safety in accordance with the City procedure
for resolving reasonable accommodation requests. Information about reasonable accommodations is
available on the City website at:
https://www.rpcity.org/city_hall/departments/human_resources/a_d_a_and_accessibility_resources
CERTIFICATION OF POSTING OF AGENDA
I, Clotile Blanks, Community Development Technician, for the City of Rohnert Park, declare that the
foregoing notice and agenda for March 14, 2024, Planning Commission Meeting of the City of Rohnert
Park was posted and available for review on March 8, 2024, at Rohnert Park City Hall, 130 Avram
Avenue, Rohnert Park, California 94928. The agenda is available on the City of Rohnert Park’s website
at www.rpcity.org.
Signed this 8th day of March 2024 at Rohnert Park, California.
Clotile Blanks
__________________________
Minutes of the Planning Commission Meeting
of the City of Rohnert Park
Thursday, February 22, 2024
6:00 P.M.
130 Avram Avenue, Rohnert Park
1. CALL TO ORDER
Vice-Chairperson Striplen called the regular meeting to order at 6:00 p.m.
2. PLEDGE OF ALLEGIANCE
Led by Commissioner Marc Orloff.
3. READING OF THE LAND ACKNOWLEDGEMENT
The City of Rohnert Park acknowledges Indigenous Peoples as the traditional stewards
of the land. Let it be acknowledged that the City of Rohnert Park is located within the
traditional homeland of the Federated Indians of Graton Rancheria, comprised of Coast
Miwok and Southern Pomo peoples.
4. ROLL CALL
Present: Charles Striplen, Vice Chairperson
Marc Orloff, Commissioner
Fanny Lam, Commissioner
Absent: Matthew Epstein, Chairperson
Tramaine Austin-Dillon, Commissioner
5. PUBLIC COMMENT
None.
6. CONSENT CALENDAR - ADOPTION OF MINUTES
6.1 Approval of the Draft Minutes of the Planning Commission Regular
Meeting of February 8, 2024.
ACTION: Moved/Seconded (Orloff/Lam) to adopt the Minutes of the Planning Commission
Meeting of February 8, 2024.
Motion carried by the following (3-0-2) roll call vote: AYES: Striplen, Orloff, Lam, NOES:
None; ABSENT: Epstein and Austin-Dillon
7. AGENDA ITEMS
7.1 PUBLIC HEARING – CONDITIONAL USE PERMIT - SITE PLAN AND
ARCHITECTURAL REVIEW AND CONDITIONAL USE PERMIT - File No. PROJ22-
0001 – Owner/Applicant: Steve Martin, PE, Steve Martin Associates for Michael M. Pati,
President, Papé Properties, Inc - The Planning Commission will consider adoption of a resolution
for a Site Plan and Architectural Review and Conditional Use Permit to allow the development
and operation of a vehicle dealership and rental business (Papé Machinery) in the IL-C (Limited
Industrial, Commercial Overlay) zoning district and grant a deviation from parking standards. The
development will include a 54,000-square-foot building and associated uses, parking, and
landscape improvements. The property is located at 5300 Commerce Blvd (APNs 143-021-013 &
006).
Associate Planner, Elliott Pickett provided a brief PowerPoint presentation. Mr. Pickett
responded to Commission questions and the applicant, Steve Martin, was acknowledged and
responded to questions and comments from the Commission.
Vice-Chairperson Striplen opened the public hearing. There being no comment, Vice
Chairperson Striplen closed the public hearing.
ACTION: Moved/Seconded (Orloff/Lam) to adopt Resolution No.2024-03 for a Site Plan and
Architectural Review, Conditional Use Permit to allow the development and operation of a vehicle
dealership and rental business (Papé Machinery) in the IL-C (Limited Industrial, Commercial
Overlay) district. (APNs 143-021-013 & 006).
Motion carried by the following (3-0-2) roll call vote: AYES: Striplen, Orloff, Lam,
NOES: None; ABSENT: Epstein and Austin-Dillon.
8. ITEMS FROM THE PLANNING COMMISSION
Commissioner Lam requested updated information regarding the rules and policies of the City of
Rohnert Park’s Sign Program. She inquired about the status of the update aimed at facilitating the
application process for businesses requesting sign permits.
9. ITEMS FROM THE DEVELOPMENT SERVICES STAFF
Director Alicia Giudice shared that at the March 14, 2024 meeting, the Commission will consider the
progress made on the General Plan, Housing Element, Growth Management Annual Report, and the
Sonoma State University Sign Program.
10. ADJOURNMENT
There being no further business, Vice Chairperson Striplen adjourned the regular meeting
at 6:28 p.m.
______________________________ ___________________________________
Matthew Epstein, Chairperson Recording Secretary – Clotile Blanks
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City of Rohnert Park
Planning Commission Report
Meeting Date: March 14, 2024
Item No: 7.1
Prepared by: Elliott Pickett, Associate Planner
Jenna Garcia, Housing Manager
Agenda Title: Receive the Annual Report on the Status of the General Plan and Housing
Element for Calendar Year 2023
RECOMMENDED ACTION: Receive the Annual Report on the Status of the General Plan and
Housing Element for Calendar Year 2023.
BACKGROUND: Government Code Section 65400 requires local jurisdictions to submit an
Annual Progress Report on the status of policies and programs of the jurisdiction’s adopted
General Plan and Housing Element and on the progress made toward reaching the jurisdiction’s
Regional Housing Needs Allocation (RHNA) targets. This report must be provided to the
jurisdiction’s legislative bodies and subsequently submitted to the Governor’s Office of Planning
and Research (OPR) and the Department of Housing and Community Development (HCD) by
April 1st of each year. The intent of this requirement is to ensure that the General Plan directs all
land use decisions and remains an effective guide for future development. The outcomes of the
annual reports are also considered by many state grant programs.
This report provides the City of Rohnert Park’s progress in implementing the City’s General Plan
2020 and its progress toward meeting the City’s RHNA during the 2023 calendar year.
ANALYSIS: All cities and counties are required to adopt a General Plan to guide future
development within their jurisdiction. The City of Rohnert Park’s current General Plan 2020
was adopted in 2000, and was amended a number of times since. General Plan 2020 includes the
following mandatory components:
• Land Use
• Transportation
• Open Space (Parks and Recreation)
• Environmental Conservation
• Health and Safety
• Noise
• Housing
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In 2023, the City adopted a comprehensive update of the Housing Element as required by state
law. A comprehensive update to the General Plan (General Plan 2040) is expected to be
completed and ready for adoption in 2024.
General Plan Progress:
In 2023, the City continued implementing policies and working toward goals in the currently
adopted General Plan (General Plan 2020), while continuing work on the General Plan update
(General Plan 2040). Through these policies, the City has continued operational practices and
implemented new programs for safety, fiscal responsibility, sustainability, cohesive community
development, and worked toward best meeting the needs of the residents and priorities of the
City Council.
The City’s 2023 accomplishments, guided by the General Plan, include implementing a safety
improvement project, replacing infrastructure at over 40 signalized intersections, establishing a
Community Facilities District (CFD) for development in SOMO Village, and extending recycled
water into new subdivisions. Progress in meeting specific goals is outlined in Attachment 1.
Housing Element Progress:
The Housing Element is one of the mandated elements of the General Plan and must be updated
on a set schedule, consistent with the eight-year cycle of the Regional Housing Needs Allocation
(RHNA) process. The City is currently reporting under its 2023 Housing Element, which covers
the period between 2023 and 2031. The Housing Element Annual Progress Report (Attachment
2) will be the first progress report submitted on the 2023 Housing Element. The Housing
Element Annual Progress Report (APR) generally includes data for the previous calendar year.
However, in transitional years between RHNA cycles, jurisdictions may choose to count units
permitted during the six months prior to the Housing Element due date towards the new RHNA
cycle. The City of Rohnert Park has opted to do this. For this reason, units entitled, permitted,
and occupied after June 30, 2022 are shown on the Housing Element APR for Calendar Year
2023.
The Housing Element APR reports units by affordability. Housing affordability is measured as a
percentage of area median income (AMI), which is calculated and updated regularly by HCD.
The base income is defined by a household of four and adjustments are made by HCD for other
household sizes. The most current data for Sonoma County, which became effective on June 6,
2023, is summarized in Figure 1 below.
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For the Housing Element 2023-2031 cycle, Rohnert Park’s total RHNA is 1,580 units, with the
affordability profile presented in Table 1.
Table 1: RHNA Allocations for 2023-2031 Cycle, By Income Level
Income Level RHNA Allocation
Very Low (≤50% AMI) 399 units
Low (≤80% AMI) 230 units
Moderate (≤120% AMI) 265 units
Above Moderate (Over 120% AMI) 686 units
TOTAL 1,580 units
The Housing Element Annual Progress Report (Attachment 2) shows the total number of housing
units permitted in the City from July 1, 2022 through December 1, 2023, compared with the
RHNA allocation by income level for this cycle. With 140 market rate units permitted since July
1, 2022, the City is on track to meet its goal of 686 units for the “above moderate-income” level.
In the first of its 8-year RHNA cycle, the City has issued permits for 20% of the overall units in
this income category.
Figure 2 below illustrates the City’s RHNA allocation for above moderate-income (blue)
compared to units permitted July 1, 2022 through December 31, 2023 for above moderate-
income units (orange.)
The City is also on track to meet its RHNA for housing affordable to very low-income earners.
However, it is falling short on RHNA targets for housing affordable to low-income and
moderate-income earners. This is primarily due to the timing of planned affordable housing
developments, including Downtown and SOMO Village. As some of these projects start pulling
permits, and the City continues to implement the programs in its Housing Element, the number
of units permitted in these income categories will increase. Figure 3 below illustrates the City’s
RHNA allocations (blue) compared to units permitted through June 30, 2022 (orange) for each of
the below-market-rate income levels.
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The City’s 2023 Housing Element includes several programs and policies intended to support the
construction of housing available to all income ranges. The City has already begun implementing
many of these programs and will continue to do so over the next seven years. Included in
Attachment 2 is a detailed report on the status of Housing Element program implementation.
Some program implementation requires Planning Commission and City Council to take actions,
including considering amendments to the City’s Municipal Code. Staff will bring some of these
items to Planning Commission and City Council later this year for consideration.
Planning Manager Approval Date: 02/21/2024
Attachments:
1. Annual Report on the Status of the Rohnert Park General Plan (Calendar Year 2023)
2. Housing Element Annual Progress Report (July 2022 – December 2023)
Page 1
Attachment 1
Annual Report on the Status of the Rohnert Park General Plan
Calendar Year 2023
Government Code Section 65400 mandates that the planning agencies of cities submit an annual report on
the status of the General Plan and progress on the implementation to their legislative bodies, the
Governor’s Office of Planning and Research (OPR), and the Department of Housing and Community
Development (HCD) each year. The report must address each City’s progress in its General Plan
implementation, including the progress in meeting its share of regional housing needs. The intent of this
requirement is to ensure that the General Plan directs all land use decisions and remains an effective guide
for future development. The information that follows complies with the Government Code requirements
related to the provision of an annual report on the status of the Rohnert Park General Plan.
Status of the Rohnert Park General Plan
The Rohnert Park General Plan was adopted in July 2000 and has been amended a number of times to stay
current. The General Plan includes the following mandatory components:
• Land Use
• Transportation/Circulation
• Housing
• Open Space (Parks and Recreation)
• Noise
• Health and Safety
• Environmental Conservation
During 2023, the following amendments to the General Plan were approved:
• Resolution No. 2023-004: The previous Housing Element was rescinded and replaced with the
updated 2023 Housing Element. The General Plan Diagram was updated to change the land use
designation for three sites identified in the Housing Element to High Density Residential.
• Resolution No. 2023-063: The General Plan Diagram was updated to change the land use
designation within a portion of Willowglen Phase 4 from Rural Estate Residential to Low Density
Residential and updated related tables and figures to reflect that change.
General Plan Progress in Implementation
The City made progress in 2023 toward achieving General Plan Goals and Policies as listed in the
subsequent tables in this report. Notably, the City has continued to increase the supply of new housing and
approve projects to supply housing into the next decade. The City also continues to complete infrastructure
projects to serve new development, as well as existing neighborhoods.
Page 2
The following series of tables represents the progress the City has made toward implementing its general plan goals during the 2023
calendar year. As is to be expected, the City did not work on all goals in this calendar year and the list covers only activities that took
place in 2023.
Table 2 –Implementation of Land Use Goals and Policies in 2023
Goal or Policy Progress in 2023
Goal LU-B Provide soft urban edges and ensure
that designated intensities provide
gradual transition to open space at city
edges.
On-going The University District and Southeast Specific Plan provide
low densities of housing and an open space buffer as they
transition towards Petaluma Hill Road. The SOMO Village
Final Development Plan provides its high density housing
near the commercial core, with lower density housing at its
edges, and provides open space on the southern and eastern
sides of the property.
Goal LU-F Create a new mixed-use University
District north of Sonoma State
University that would draw visitors,
serve as destination point for the City,
offer a wide mix of residential
employment opportunities and foster
close physical and visual relationship
between the campus and the City.
On-going Construction of housing in the University District Specific
Plan (UDSP) continued. Staff and applicant team continue
coordinating development of the remaining parcels.
Goal LU-I Provide a range of housing variety in
type and price, including large-lot
homes and housing oriented to
students.
On-going Construction and permitting continues on a wide variety of
housing types, including large-lot homes in the UDSP and
Southeast Specific Plan (SESP, Willowglen), multifamily
housing (Adega II, Redwood Crossing), ADUs, and interim
housing.
Goal LU-K Promote a diverse range of jobs within
the city.
On-going There are 8,947 active businesses licenses.
In 2023, unemployment ended at 4%, up from 2.9% in the
end 2022, though within a normal range. Hospitality and
retail make up over one-third of all jobs (34.9%) in the city,
though manufacturing, healthcare, and construction combine
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for the next 22% of employment. The labor is 70.8%, about 8
% over the national average.
Currently and for the foreseeable future, the city spotlights
select, diverse businesses, with retail, restaurant, market,
and entertainment included by the end of 2023
Table 3 –Implementation of Growth Management Goals in 2023
Goal or Policy Progress in 2023
Goal GM-B Undertake efforts to facilitate provision
of housing affordable to low and very
low income household by exemption
affordable housing form any numerical
“trigger cap” restrictions.
On-going The City’s growth management ordinance continues to
exempt affordable housing units from trigger caps.
Goal GM-C Ensure that growth is paced to achieve
General Plan buildout over a 20-year
period, representing an annual average
population growth rate of one percent.
On-going Housing construction rates are averaging less than one
percent per year in Rohnert Park.
Goal GM-F Ensure all new development provides
necessary public facilities to support
development.
On-going The City’s Development Agreements continue to support the
provision of and funding for public facilities to support
development. The Improvement Plans at the intersection of
Keiser Avenue and Petaluma Hill Road were approved by
the County of Sonoma and work is expected to start this
year.
Goal GM-H Minimize impacts – physical, visual and
fiscal – of growth and annexation on
existing homes and businesses.
On-going The City continued collecting maintenance annuity fund
deposits from builders in the University District and special
taxes for services in Willowglen, established a community
facility district for upcoming development in SOMO Village,
and continues to monitor project-specific mitigation
measures to minimize impacts of growth.
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Table 4 –Implementation of Urban Form Goals in 2023
Goal or Policy Progress in 2023
Goal CD-B Establish strong connections between
adjacent neighborhoods and between
neighborhoods and activity centers in
order to encourage walking and
biking.
On-going City is implementing a Bike and Ped master plan to better
understand the connections needed on a regional basis. In 2023,
the City continued to work towards plans for the extension of the
Hinebaugh Creek and Copeland Creek bikeways within the
University District providing a safe way to walk and bike between
existing neighborhoods and new development.
Goal CD-C Establish an open space network that
links residential neighborhoods, parks
and open space areas.
On-going In 2023, the City continued developing plans for the extension of
the Hinebaugh Creek bikeway and Griffin’s Grove Park within
the University District. Construction continued on a new trail
leading to Crane Creek Regional Park, and the City worked on
dedicating 75 acres of open space to the east of the city limits to
Sonoma County Regional Park in order to preserve that space in
perpetuity.
Goal CD-D Preserve and enhance views of the
eastern ridgeline.
On-going When reviewing development proposals and specific plans for
areas along the east of the city, view corridors and view impact
analyses are used to protect the view of the ridgeline. In 2023,
this included approvals for Phase 4 of Willowglen.
Goal CD-F Maintain a distinct urban edge, while
creating a gradual transition between
urban uses and open space.
On-Going Specific Plans along City borders have gradual transitions to
open space and maintain scenic corridors. The City continues to
maintain an Urban Growth Boundary.
Table 5 –Implementation of Street System Goals in 2023
Goal or Policy Progress in 2023
Goal
TR-B
Maintain high levels of mobility along all
major street segments and at major
intersections.
On-going The City is almost complete with safety improvement project that
replaces all of the infrastructure at our 40+ signalized
intersections.
Page 5
Goal
TR-C
Build new roads and improve existing
roadways, where necessary, in
conjunction with new development.
On-going In 2023, Public Works has worked on several preventative
maintenance projects to keep our existing roads in good shape
and installing a new traffic signal to meet the new traffic flow
needs of the UDSP.
New roads have been developed in the UDSP, SESP, and SOMO
Village, in conjunction with new development. The City accepted
improvements to Keiser Avenue, Kerry Road, Oak Circle, and
portions of roads in Phase 2 of Willowglen.
Table 6 –Implementation of Transportation Demand Goal in 2023
Goal or Policy Progress in 2023
Goal TR-
1 and
TR-2
Establish LOS C as the minimum standard for all
arterial and collector roadway segments and
intersections. Require mitigation measures, as
needed, for new development that increases traffic
such that LOS levels fall below the established
minimum standard.
On-going Mitigation of traffic impacts is required of new
developments to maintain a minimum level of
service.
Goal TR-
37
Provide continuous sidewalks along all existing and
future streets.
On-going Installation of sidewalks on existing streets is
required for any new development. All new street
construction requires the installation of sidewalks.
Goal TR-
43
Establish requirements for bicycle parking as part of
the Zoning Ordinance update. Ensure that secure
bicycle parking is provided in conjunction with new
development.
On-going All new commercial and industrial development
requires the installation of bicycle parking facilities.
New project entitlements include conditions of
approval to require the installation.
Goal TR-
N
Promote safe, efficient, and comfortable circulation
for cyclists and pedestrians throughout Rohnert
Park.
On-going Public Works has engaged in a regional bicycle and
pedestrian planning exercise to connect routes
within our city and beyond, and are integrating
more progressive bike protection when restriping/
modifying roadways.
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Table 7 –Implementation of Open Space Goals in 2023
Goal or Policy Progress in 2023
Goal
OS-D
Maintain and enhance the Petaluma
Hill Road Scenic corridor.
On-going Development along the east side of Petaluma Hill Road will be
designed to protect the view of the hills to the east from the roadway.
SOMO Village, Southeast Specific Plan, and University District
Specific Plan are also designed to create view corridors of the hills to
the east. California Environmental Quality Act (CEQA) documents for
development projects require consideration of the visual impact of a
development.
Goal
OS-E
Maintain publicly owned open space
areas in their natural state; provide
public access in a manner that is
compatible with the conservation of
habitat.
On-going Public Works is performing a tree assessment survey to better
understand the health and best options for our natural canopy.
Goal
OS-G
Develop additional parkland in the
City to meet the standards of
required park acreage for new
residents.
On-going During 2023, work continued on Griffin’s Grove Park within
University District, the city entered into a Public Improvement
Agreement for the first park in SOMO Village, and collected a fee for
park purposes associated with changes to Willowglen Phase 4.
Table 8 –Implementation of Wastewater Goals in 2023
Goal or Policy Progress in 2023
Goal
PF-7
Continue participation in the planning, financing and
construction of wastewater treatment capacity
expansions of the Subregional Wastewater Disposal
System. Explore opportunities for increasing
reclaimed water use and decreasing potable water
demand.
On-going The City participated in regional coordination
meetings. Recycled water has been extended into new
developments at the University District, Southeast
Specific Plan, and Stadium Lands. SOMO Village
will be utilizing recycled water within the public
right-of-way
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Goal
PF-P
Require developers to install or pay for new sewer
lines and other sewer improvements needed to
accommodate new development.
On-going New developments are required to provide and pay
for the necessary infrastructure including upgrading
existing sewer and wastewater systems or the
installation of new systems.
Table 9 –Implementation of Water Supply and Conservation Goals in 2023
Goal or Policy Progress in 2023
Goal
PF-G
Continue to encourage water conservation
through the use of reclaimed water and
reduction of water consumption and
discharge, for both existing and new
development.
On-going New technology is being installed on all meters throughout the
city for more accurate readings/ better user interface/ more
information to better manage inefficient water use. All new
development requires water conserving devices and where
feasible, connecting irrigation systems to recycled water.
SOMO Village will be utilizing recycled water within the
public right-of-way
Goal
PF-H
Ensure that groundwater withdrawal does not
exceed safe yield.
On-going The City monitors and manages its groundwater use and
groundwater levels are rising under Rohnert Park. The City
participates in the Joint Powers Authority for the Santa Rosa
Plain Groundwater Sustainability Agency. Public Works
maintains an operational philosophy to let our groundwater
wells rest during normal (mild) weather patterns that allow it.
Table 10 –Implementation of Historic and Archaeological Resources Goals in 2023
Goal or Policy Progress in 2023
Goal
EC-A
Conserve historic and archaeological resources for the
aesthetic, educational, economic and scientific
contribution they make to Rohnert Park’s identity and
quality of life.
On-going New development approval must conform to the
CEQA. Under CEQA, archaeological resources
must be mitigated if found in the development site.
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Table 11–Implementation of Habitat and Biological Resources Goals in 2023
Goal or Policy Progress in 2023
Goal
EC-C
Protect special status species and
supporting habitats within Rohnert
Park, including species that are State
or federally listed as Endangered,
Threatened, or Rare.
On-going The City regularly implements protection of endangered, threatened,
or rare species through California Environmental Quality Act review
for any project.
Goal
EC-C
Protect sensitive habitat areas and
wetlands in the following order of
protection preference: 1) avoidance,
2) on-site mitigation, 3) off-site
mitigation.
On-going The City regularly implements these policies through the California
Environmental Quality Act review for any project.
Goal
EC-D
Maintain existing native vegetation
and encourage planting of native
plants and trees.
On-going The Tree Preservation Ordinance requires staff approval for most
tree removals located not on single-family residences. Native plants
are required to be included in new landscape plans for private
development projects and for public improvements. In 2023, the city
monitored projects and reviewed plans for consistency with these
requirements. Enforcing the Water Efficient Landscaping Ordinance
for new developments and CIP projects creates a palette of drought
tolerant and native vegetation.
Table 12 –Implementation of Water Quality Goals in 2023
Goal or Policy Progress in 2023
Goal EC-
F
Enhance the quality of surface and
groundwater resources and prevent their
contamination.
On-going The City participates in a regular working group hosted by the
water board to coordinate activities on maintaining and
improving water quality. City staff are active members of the
water advisory committee technical advisory committee.
Goal EC-
G
Undertake steps to minimize the
depletion of groundwater resources.
On-going The City has an adopted ground policy resolution that limits
groundwater pumping to 2,577 acre-feet per year. The City
manages its pumping to this level and monitors groundwater
levels (levels have been rising since 2006). The City participates
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in the Joint Powers Authority that is the Santa Rosa Plain
Groundwater Sustainability Agency. Public Works maintains an
operational philosophy to let our groundwater wells rest during
normal (mild) weather patterns that allow it.
Goal EC-
I
Ensure that the City’s drinking water
continues to meet or exceed water
quality standards.
On-going The City has had 100% compliance with testing requirements for
drinking water during 2023 and reports out every year about
our results in the Consumer Confidence Report.
Goal EC-
J
Discourage use of insecticides,
herbicides, or toxic chemical substances
within the city and encourage
development and use of pesticide and
fertilizer management plans for
landscaped areas.
On-going In 2021, the City Council revised the Integrated Pest
Management (IPM) program to eliminate the use of Ranger Pro
Glyphosate and the City continues to implement this program.
Table 13 –Implementation of Air Quality Goals in 2023
Goal or Policy Progress in 2023
Goal EC-K Continue to work toward improving air quality
and meeting all federal and state ambient air
quality standards by reducing the generation of
air pollutant from both stationary and mobile
sources, where feasible.
On-going New projects are required to implement mitigation
measures to reduce air quality impacts of new
development.
Table 14 –Implementation of Seismic and Geological Hazards Goals in 2023
Goal or Policy Progress in 2023
Goal HS-A Minimize the risk to life and property from
seismic and geologic hazards in Rohnert Park.
On-going The City enforces the Uniform Building Code and
requires soils reports for new development.
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Table 15 –Implementation of Drainage, Erosion, Stormwater and Flooding Goals in 2023
Goal or Policy Progress in 2023
Goal HS-B Minimize the risk to life and property from
flooding.
On-going The City reviews proposals for new development in
areas of flooding in accordance with Federal
Emergency Management Agency (FEMA)
requirements and requires drainage study and
review during the development review process.
The City has a Local Hazard Mitigation Plan which
was certified by FEMA and California OES.
Goal HS-C Control erosion and sedimentation to provide
flood protection and water quality.
On-going The City maintain water quality control plans for
construction sites to protect the quality of our storm
drains and streams. The City has adopted and
enforces a grading ordinance and requires all
development be designed to the Sonoma County
low-impact development standards. All
construction projects of any size are required to
secure coverage under the State Water Board’s
General Construction Permit.
Table 16 –Implementation of Solid Waste Management and Recycling Goals in 2023
Goal or Policy Progress in 2023
Goal HS-D Reduce the generation of solid waste and recycle
those material that are used to slow the filling of
local and regional landfills, in accord with the
California Integrated Waste Management Act of
1989.
On-going The City works with Zero Waste Sonoma and
Recology to present educational materials to all
refuse customers within the city limits, perform audits
of residential and commercial cans, etc, and
enforcing strict diversion requirements through our
Franchise Agreement with Recology.
Page 11
Table 17 –Implementation of Hazardous Materials Goals in 2023
Goal or Policy Progress in 2023
Goal HS-G Protect groundwater and soil from
contamination by hazardous materials.
On-going The City coordinates with the Sonoma County Waste
Management Agency, the Santa Rosa Subregional
System and other local agencies on hazardous waste
collection events and the dissemination of
information regarding hazardous material
management. Signs at storm drains are maintained
on an ongoing basis throughout the City. City public
works, public safety and code enforcement staff
respond to and abate hazardous material spills.
Table 18 –Implementation of Emergency Management Goals and Policies in 2023
Goal or Policy Progress in 2023
Goal HS-H Use the Standardized Emergency
Management Plan as a guide for
emergency management in Rohnert Park.
On-going The City continued to utilize the National Incident
Management System to ensure a standard emergency
response and continued to monitor potential emergencies
and hazards to determine the appropriate response. The
City has a Local Hazard Mitigation Plan which was
certified by FEMA and California OES.
Policy HS-23 Prepare and disseminate information to
help households prepare for emergency
situations.
On-going Frequent communication with the public was accomplished
through press releases, social media tools, and other
emergency notification methods and services.
Public Safety personnel assisted in an “Emergency Help
Prep” program, providing presentations to local citizens.
Policy HS-24 Require adequate access for emergency
vehicles, including adequate street width
and vertical clearances, on new streets.
On-going For all projects, including new developments, and
infrastructure improvements, plans are reviewed and
approved by Public Safety personnel.
Page 12
Table 19 –Implementation of Noise Goals in 2023
Goal or Policy Progress in 2023
Goal NS-A Protect public health and welfare by
eliminating or minimizing excessive noise
levels.
On-going Noise is evaluated as new projects are proposed in
compliance with the city noise ordinance.
Goal NS-B Minimize the exposure of noise-sensitive
uses – including residences, schools,
churches, hospitals and other public uses –
to excessive noise levels.
On-going In 2023, the City used its approval authority to review the
noise impacts of projects and impose conditions of
approval to minimize noise impacts.
Jurisdiction Rohnert Park ANNUAL ELEMENT PROGRESS REPORT
Reporting Year 2023 (Jan. 1 - Dec. 31)Housing Element Implementation
Planning
Period 6th Cycle 01/31/2023 - 01/31/2031
1
Projection
Period 3 4
RHNA Allocation
by Income Level
Projection
Period -
06/30/2022-
01/30/2023
2023 2024 2025 2026 2027 2028 2029 2030 2031 Total Units to
Date (all years)
Total Remaining
RHNA by Income
Level
Deed Restricted 60 - - - - - - - - -
Non-Deed
Restricted 3 2 - - - - - - - -
Deed Restricted 2 - - - - - - - - -
Non-Deed
Restricted 4 2 - - - - - - - -
Deed Restricted 2 - - - - - - - - -
Non-Deed
Restricted 6 - - - - - - - - -
Above
Moderate 686 69 71 - - - - - - - - 140 546
1,580
146 75 - - - - - - - - 221 1,359
5 6 7
Extremely low-
Income Need 2023 2024 2025 2026 2027 2028 2029 2030 2031 Total Units to
Date
Total Units
Remaining
200 60 - - - - - - - - 60 140
257
Total RHNA
Please note: The APR form can only display data for one planning period. To view progress for a different planning period, you may login to HCD's
online APR system, or contact HCD staff at apr@hcd.ca.gov.
Progress toward extremely low-income housing need, as determined pursuant to Government Code 65583(a)(1).
Extremely Low-Income Units*
*Extremely low-income houisng need determined pursuant to Government Code 65583(a)(1). Value in Section 5 is default value, assumed to be half of the very low-income RHNA. May be
Note: units serving extremely low-income households are included in the very low-income RHNA progress and must be reported as very low-income units in section 7 of Table A2. They Please note: For the last year of the 5th cycle, Table B will only include units that were permitted during the portion of the year that was in the 5th cycle.
For the first year of the 6th cycle, Table B will only include units that were permitted since the start of the planning period. Projection Period units are in
a separate column.
Total Units
Income Level
Very Low
399 65
Moderate
265 8
334
Low
230 8 222
2
Table B
Regional Housing Needs Allocation Progress
Permitted Units Issued by Affordability
Attachment 2
Jurisdiction Rohnert Park
Reporting Year 2023 (Jan. 1 - Dec. 31)
1 2 3 4
Name of Program Objective Timeframe in H.E Status of Program Implementation
(a) To ensure sufficient residential capacity is maintained to accommodate the RHNA for
each income category, staff will develop and implement a formal, ongoing (project-by-
project) administrative evaluation procedure Within six months of adoption
Active. Procedure developed, staff to update regularly. Identified next steps for
software integration for more streamlined tracking. Staff to revisit in 2024 and make
adjustments where necessary.
(b) No project approval or other action that reduces the density or development
capacity of a site shall be undertaken unless sufficient remaining sites are available or
additional adequate sites are identified to meet the City’s RHNA obligation prior to
approval of the development and made available within 180 days of approval of the
development, as required by Senate Bill 166. Ongoing Active. Procedure developed and being implemented on a project-by-project basis.
HO-1.B Administrative List
of Additional Sites
The City shall create and maintain a list of additional sites with appropriate zoning that
could be added to the City’s Sites Inventory if and when an analysis provided through
the Annual Progress Report indicates that sufficient sites may not exist to accommodate
the City’s remaining RHNA, by income level, for the planning period.
Create list by December 2023, consider adding sites from
list to inventory on an annual basis
Active. Administrative List of Additional Sites has been developed. Sites will be added
to inventory if/when needed as per no net loss procedure.
(a) As part of the General Plan update, the City shall rezone sufficient sites in order to
demonstrate an adequate inventory of sites to meet its Regional Housing Needs
Allocation (RHNA). Within one year of adoption In progress. Rezoning to be complete along with adoption of General Plan in 2024.
(b) The City will amend the code as required to allow non-vacant sites included in one
previous Housing Element inventory and vacant sites included in two previous Housing
Elements to address by-right approval requirements in Government Code § 65583.By 2023
In progress. Code updates are drafted and expected to go to Council for consideration
and adoption in 2024.
(a) Develop a written SB 35 application process, including the pre-application and the
procedure that would be used if the City becomes subject to SB 35 provisions. This
process would provide a streamlined ministerial approval process to qualified
residential and mixed-use development projects. The written procedures and checklists
would be developed and made available on the City’s website.By 2024 Not started, will be completed in 2024.
(b) Develop Objective Design and Development Standards for multi-family and mixed-
use projects. Replace factors 1, 2, and 3 in the City’s Site Plan and Architectural Review
procedures with objective findings.By 2024 Not started, will be completed in 2024.
HO-1.E Replacement
Housing Program
The City will require replacement housing units subject to the requirements of
Government Code Section 65915(c)(3) when any new development occurs on a site in
the Sites Inventory or on a site within the Downtown District Amenity Zone (DDAZ) if
that site meets any of the conditions listed in the Housing Element. Ongoing Active, being implementd on a project-by-project basis.
(a) Post all required information about development standards and fees to an easily
accessed location on the City’s website.By Jan 2024
In progress. City has this information posted on the Development Services webpage.
Staff plan to continue work to make it easier for developers to access and navigate.
(b) When making findings for Government Code Section 66001(d)(1) every five years,
ensure compliance with AB 602 requirements for new development impact fee studies
and resulting fees. By 2025 Not started, will be completed by 2025.
(c) Create and publish a summary that identifies the sites on the City’s Sites Inventory
and make the summary available online in map format. Provide site-specific
development information and support whenever possible in order to reduce up-front
costs for interested housing developers.
Create summary by 2023; Update annually or as sites are
developed
In progress. This information is posted online in the City's certified Housing Element,
and staff regularly directs interested developers to the appropriate sections. Staff are
in the process of creating a dedicated housing developer webpage with a map,
housing site summaries and other tools to help promote housing development. This is
expected to go live in 2024.
ANNUAL ELEMENT PROGRESS REPORT
Housing Element Implementation
Housing Programs Progress Report
Table D
Program Implementation Status pursuant to GC Section 65583
HO-1.C Rezone to meet
RHNA
HO-1.A No Net Loss of
Residential Capacity to
Accommodate RHNA
HO-1.D Streamline
Development Process
HO-2.A Accessible and
Transparent Information
(a) Conduct outreach annually for the housing fair, including contacting developers,
lenders, fair housing organizations, providers of affordable housing, homeless service
providers, regional organizations that provide ADU TA.Annual
In progress. City staff participated in a regional housing fair hosted by the Napa-
Sonoma Collaborative in December 2023, and plans to host its first City annual
housing fair mid-2024.
(b) Facilitate opportunities for collaboration between market-rate and affordable
housing developers through the annual housing fair.Annual Not started. The City plans to host its first annual housing fair mid-2024.
(c) Maintain contacts with nonprofit housing and refer potential developers of such
housing to these organizations for assistance.Review annually and update if needed
Active. The City maintains contacts with nonprofit housing organizations and refers
developers to these organizations.
(a) City staff will bring forward Municipal Code amendments to address recent changes
to State law (see HE program for list of codes that require updating).Amend code by June 2024
In progress. Code updates are drafted and expected to go to Council for consideration
and adoption in 2024.
(b) The City will review all other plans regulating land use and complete any legally
permissible amendments to Specific Plans to ensure compliance with State laws related
to transitional housing, supportive housing, group homes, Low Barrier Navigation
Centers, and Accessory Dwelling Units. Amend remaining plans regulating land use by 2024
Not started. Code updates are expected to go to Council for consideration and
adoption in 2024.
Incentivize and promote the development of accessory dwelling units (ADUs) and
junior accessory dwelling units (JADUs) by providing technical assistance and
resources for their development and rental through the following actions:
(a) Maintain ADU webpage with accessible information, simple application, and contact
information for questions about and assistance with accessory dwelling units. Review annually and update if needed
Active. The ADU webpages are live on the City's web site. Staff is in the process of
conducting the annual review and will be making updates by mid-2024.
(b) Partner with and/or fund regional organizations that provide technical assistance,
including site evaluations, for the development of ADUs and JADUs, and
landlord/tenant support, such as the Napa Sonoma ADU Center and Homes for Sonoma.
Share resources provided by these organizations, including webinars and technical
assistance programs, through the City webpage, newsletter, and social media.
Contact at least one regional organization by the end of
2023 to establish a partnership
Active. Staff met with Napa-Sonoma ADU Center to discuss opportunities to
collaborate. The Napa-Sonoma ADU Center is currently promoted on the City's ADU
webpages.
(c) Facilitate the development of JADUs by developing promotional materials specific to
JADUs and their funding and making these available on the City’s ADU webpage.By December 2023
In progress. Staff will include promotional materials about JADUs on the City's ADU
webpages when they make updates in 2024.
(d) In partnership with regional organizations, promote and publicize new allowances
for ADUs and JADUs to the public, including place-based promotion for locations with
higher income eligibility limits for the CalHFA ADU grant program.By December 2024
Active. The Napa-Sonoma ADU Center is currently promoted on the City's ADU
webpages. The Napa-Sonoma ADU Center and City were working on a collaborative
effort to promote the CalHFA ADU grant program in Fall 2023, however, the program
ran out of funds before the promotion effort got off the ground. City staff look
forward to additional grant funds becoming available in the future and will work with
the Napa-Sonoma ADU Center to promote to Rohnert Park residents.
(e) Help legalize existing unpermitted units. Promote and publicize program through
City website and social media to encourage people with unpermitted units to bring up
to code.By December 2024 Not started, will be completed in 2024.
(f) Annually report out on the City’s successes in the production of ADUs and JADUs
with the City’s APR. Annually
In progress. As demonstrated in Table A2, the City permitted 19 ADUs in the first year
of the 6th RHNA cycle. In its Housing Element, the City had projected permitting 40
ADUs over the course of the 8-year RHNA cycle - an average of 5 per year. In its first
year alone, the City has nearly quadrupled its annual target.
(g) The City will monitor the affordability and production of ADUs every two to three
years (three times in the planning period) as part of the annual report. If production and
affordability does not meet assumptions in the sites inventory then, based on the
results, the City will take appropriate action within 6 months.
Review in 2025, 2027, and 2029, and if necessary,
implement cost-reducing measures within one year.
Not started. Although staff are monitoring ADU production on an annual basis, staff
plan to conduct a more formal monitoring in 2025.
(a) The City will prepare a Workforce Housing Overlay (WFHO) that further provides for
the City’s identified housing needs. The City will determine locational factors for the
implementation of WFHO. Findings and recommendations will be presented to the
Planning Commission and City Council. If directed, WFHO will be adopted into the Code
within 6 months Present by Jan 2026 Not started, due in 2026.
(b) The City will conduct necessary outreach to property owners and residents in
proposed overlay areas.By Dec 2026 Not started, due in 2026.
HO-2.B Outreach to
Developers
HO-2.C Zoning for a Variety
of Housing Types
HO-2.D Incentivize and
Promote ADU and JADU
Development
HO-2.E Workforce Housing
Overlay
HO-3.A Mortgage Credit
Certificate Program
Once the CDC resumes participation in the MCC Program, the program will be
implemented through private lenders so that homebuyers in Rohnert Park can continue
to benefit from the federal Program. The City will invite local lenders to the annual
housing fair (See Program HO-2.B) , provide information on the MCC Program, and
report out on these efforts in the Annual Planning Report. Outreach annually, beginning in 2024
Not started. This program is operated through the County Community Development
Commission (CDC). City staff met with CDC staff who indicated that they plan to
implement this program once they identify a consultant who can run it for them.
HO-3.B City Density Bonus
Program
The City will study the feasibility of providing a supplemental density bonus program
that further incentivizes the provision of units to meet the City’s identified housing
needs. The study will include review of the provisions for which the supplemental (City)
density bonus program may be used which could include, but are not limited to, the
following:
• A deeper level of affordability
• Higher proportion of affordable units
• Units available to persons exiting homelessness
• Universal Design
The City will complete a study by July 2026 to determine the appropriate additional
densities and incentives to development projects, and will present their findings and
recommendations to the Planning Commission and City Council by the end of 2026. If
directed, the City Density Bonus will be adopted into the Code within 6 months.
Complete study by July 2026; Present recommendations
by end of 2026. Not started, due in 2026.
(a) In partnership with a Joint Powers Authority (JPA) and non-profit asset manager,
utilize tax-exempt governmental purpose bonds to fund: (1) the acquisition of existing
market-rate apartment complexes and restrict future rents to be affordable to
households that earn very low to moderate incomes, and (2) the construction of new
development of deed-restricted affordable housing. In order for asset managers to
access these types of bonds, Cities must join a Joint Powers Authority (JPA) and
authorize the JPA to issue these bonds on behalf of the City. The JPA, in partnership
with the non-profit asset manager, then purchases the apartment complex, using only
money from the bond financing, and sets the rents to be affordable to low- to moderate-
income households.
Establish JPA structure or join existing JPA by July 2023
Implement construction or acquisition projects through
2031
In progress. In 2023, City staff met with a rep of the Joint Powers Authority "CA
Statewide Communities Development Authority" (CSCDA), which operates the
"Workforce Housing Program" through which they issue tax-exempt governmental
purpose bonds to acquire existing market-rate housing and restrict the rent to lower
to moderate-income households. The City confirmed that it is already an active
member of CSCDA and can implement this program in Rohnert Park if and when an
eligible market-rate apartment complex is put up for-sale.
(b) Review production of units provided by the Essential Bonds Housing Financing
Program four years into the planning period, compare with Housing Element
requirements and targets, and report progress to City Council.
Report progress to the City Council in 2027, and to HCD
within 30 days of City Council report.Not started, will review production in 2027.
HO-3.D Homes for the
Essential Workforce
In partnership with Housing Land Trust of Sonoma County, the City shall continue to set
aside funds to buy down the affordability on new and existing market-rate homes for
sale in Rohnert Park and make the homes affordable to low- to moderate-income
families. Housing Land Trust adds the homes to their inventory, provides ongoing
stewardship and compliance monitoring of the units, and ensures the ongoing
affordability of the homes if/when they resell. Ongoing Active. This program is currently operating, although the current housing market
Between 2023 and 2033, Rohnert Park has 68 units at high risk and up to 20
affordable units at lower risk of converting to market rents. The City will work to
preserve the units within these 2 projects as affordable by undertaking the following
specific actions:
(a) Maintain an inventory of units at-risk of conversion to market-rate in the next 10
years. Annually update this list during the City’s APR process. Annual Active. City staff maintain an inventory of units at-risk of conversion.
(b) Ensure nonprofit developers and property owners of at-risk housing are aware of
existing State and Federal noticing requirements. Provide education to tenants about
upcoming expiration of affordability and their rights under the law. Provide this
information at the annual housing fair. (See Program HO-2.B)Annual
Active. Staff reached out to the property manager at Edgewood Apartments (whose
affordability covenant is set to expire in October 2026) to notify them about State and
Federal noticing requirements. Staff will be meeting with property management in
early 2024 to talk about their plan to support tenants in these units when the
covenant expires, and to provide education to their tenants.
HO-3.C Essential Housing
Bond Financing Program
HO-3.E At-Risk Units
(c) Proactively outreach to owners at least three years before expiration of affordability
covenants to inform them of state preservation notice law requirements and to ensure
tenants receive the required notices at three years, twelve months, and six months
prior to the scheduled expiration of rent restrictions, as described in Government Code
65863.10. (Government Code Sections 65863.10, 65863.11, 65863.13)
Review annually. Contact at least three years before
expiration of affordability covenants.
Active. As noted above, staff are already in contact with property management at
Edgewood Apartments about noticing requirements and tenant education. The City
also has a loan with a non-profit-owned affordable housing project called Santa Alicia
Apartments, which was set to expire in September 2023. The City extended the terms
of the loan until September 2024. The owner has indicated that they intend to
maintain this property as affordable in perpetuity. At the request of the owner, staff
plan to renegotiate the terms of the loan and take to Council for a longer-term
extension by mid-2024.
(d) Proactively outreach to at least two qualified entities per year to make diligent
efforts to maintain affordability levels. Annual Active.
(e) Meet with owners of at-risk units who intend to opt out of a Section 8 contract or
Affordable Housing Agreement to examine potential strategies to preserve or replace
the units (e.g., transferring the units to a nonprofit developer).Ongoing
Active. This is a strategy the City has successfully utilized in the past, and hopes to do
so again for Edgewood Apartments.
(f) Commit to extending the terms of City loans with affordable projects, thereby also
extending the affordability period. Commit funding, as available, from the City’s housing
fee funds to preserve affordable units. Ongoing Active. See notes under HO-3.E(c) above.
(g) Support grant applications to provide funds for preservation of affordable projects.
Continue coordinating with County Housing Authority to connect people living in units
with expiring affordability covenants with Housing Choice Vouchers. Ongoing Active. See notes under HO-3.E(e) above.
The City shall support the development of affordable housing on underutilized City-
owned sites by taking the following actions:
(a) Outreach to property owners, businesses, and residents of adjacent parcels of City-
owned inventory sites. Provide annual status updates on stakeholders and co-facilitate
community meeting(s) with potential developer of site if site is being actively
considered for housing project.
Ongoing, begin prior to RFP for each project, consistent
with schedule in HO 3.H Timeline tab
Active. The City held a meeting to discuss the future downtown site (which includes
100+ units of affordable housing) in April 2023 with residents of Valley Village Mobile
Home Park, which is located next to the site. Will continue outreach efforts to
neighbors and stakeholders of this and other city-owned inventory sites in the coming
years.
(b) Explore land donation or long-term ground lease of City-owned sites included in
inventory for development into affordable housing projects. Ensure consistency with
the Surplus Land Act through development of a comprehensive and competitive
program to solicit requests for proposals (RFPs), with an application publicly available
on the City's website.
Ongoing, consistent with schedule of actions in HO 3.H
Timeline tab
Active. The City entered into long-term ground lease in 2022 for a Homekey-funded
interim housing project on City-owned land, "Labath Landing." (This project pulled
permits in the 6th RHNA cycle.) In 2023, the City declared its downtown site Exempt
Surplus Land and set aside at least 25% of the overall housing units as affordable to
lower-income households. The RFQ for the downtown site was released in November
2023, and staff hope to have a developer selected by Summer 2024. Staff plan to
explore a land donation or long-term ground lease for the affordable housing project
site. Staff also plan to begin analysis work for an affordable housing project at the City-
owned Roberts Lake Park & Ride site in 2024.
(c) Research and implement appropriate environmental mitigation measures for
housing development of City-owned sites. Ongoing as sites are developed Active. Ongoing as sites are developed.
(d) Pursue funding for appropriate projects on City-owned sites in inventory.
Ongoing, consistent with schedule of actions in HO 3.H
Timeline tab
Active. The City was awarded $14.6 million in Homekey funds to build the 60-unit non-
congregate interim housing project on City-owned land in 2021. This project received
final certificates of occupancy in 2023. In 2024, the City plans to apply for Prohousing
Incentive Program funds to provide gap financing for the affordable housing project at
the future downtown site.
(e) Review production of units on City-owned land four years into the planning period
and compare with Housing Element projections. If actual production is below the
projected level, and the City is not meeting its RHNA targets proportional to the
duration of the planning period, implement an alternative action program aimed at
meeting RHNA targets. This action may include implementation of the Workforce
Housing Overlay Program (see Program HO-2.E.) By 2028 Not started, will review production in 2028.
(f) Coordinate with Cotati-Rohnert Park Unified School District to identify housing
opportunities on underutilized District-owned lands for educator workforce housing
and/or other residential development, including but not limited to 133 units on the
CRPUSD-owned site in University District.
Meet with CRPUSD staff and provide information on
development options by 2026
In progress. City staff had initial meeting with Cotati-Rohnert Park Unified School
District staff in 2022 to discuss housing opportunities on district-owned lands. Staff
plan to follow up again within the next few years.
HO-3.E At-Risk Units
HO-3.F Affordable Housing
on Underutilized City Sites
HO-3.G Prohousing
Designation
In collaboration with the Napa Sonoma Collaborative and local nonprofit organizations,
such as Generation Housing, the City will analyze policies and programs needed to meet
the threshold for the Prohousing Designation program. The City will complete a study
by July 2023 to determine which policies and programs may be required for the
program and will present their findings and recommendations to the Planning
Commission and City Council by the end of 2023.
Complete study by July 2023; Present recommendations
by end of 2023
Completed. The City submitted Prohousing Designation Program application in March
2023. Application was approved and designation awarded in August 2023.
a) Funding: The City will work with affordable housing developers to identify, leverage,
and pursue local, state, and federal funding programs to maximize the number of
affordable units available to low-, very low-, and extremely low-income households,
whenever possible. Additionally, the City will continue to analyze the benefit of joining a
Joint Powers Agreement (JPA), to allow the issuance of bonds in Rohnert Park for the
development of affordable housing and provide funding to the Homes for the Essential
Workforce Program (Program HO-3.D)
Identify, leverage, and pursue funding opportunities as
they arise, beginning in 2023, and at least annually
throughout the planning period
Active. The City does this on an on-going basis. See description of some recent efforts
above under HO-3.F(d).
b) Development Opportunities: The City currently actively participates in subregional
housing planning efforts through the Napa Sonoma Collaborative and will continue this
participation. This includes a regional mapping project that provides relevant
development information and TCAC Opportunity Index Scores for available housing sites
on the City’s Sites Inventory. The City will continue their participation and will provide
updated site information annually to allow developers easy identification of
development opportunities, including opportunities for development of affordable
housing, farmworker housing, and special needs housing.
Beginning in 2023, updated annually during preparation
of the Annual Progress Report
Active. The City participates in regular meetings and efforts led by the Napa Sonoma
Collaborative, and will continue to provide updated site information annually to the
Collaborative to include in their regional mapping project.
c) Small Lot Consolidation: To expand opportunities for affordable housing development
and enhance the financial viability of smaller sites, the City will encourage the
consolidation of small parcels to accommodate larger-scale and higher density
developments that are compatible with existing neighborhoods. The City will also
facilitate lot consolidation for mixed-use developments by providing appropriate
assistance to developers to encourage negotiations between property owners.
By October 2023, the City will develop a list of sites
where lot consolidation is feasible based on ownership,
sales, and existing uses. Provide list to interested
developers when requested, and review annually for
accuracy. Develop incentives for lot consolidation by
October 2024.
In progress. Staff has identified sites that would benefit from small lot consolidation,
and plans to finalize the list in 2024 and consider incentives for lot consolidation.
(d) Farmworker Housing: The City will identify housing opportunities and support
housing development for farmworkers identifying development opportunities
(subprogram (b)), providing priority processing and incentives to farmworker housing
projects coordinating with farmworker advocacy groups (Program HO-4.C: Culturally
Appropriate Outreach and Marketing), developers of farmworker housing (Program HO-
2.B: Outreach to Developers).
By October 2024, the City will develop and provide
developers information about incentives for farmworker
housing Not started, will be completed in 2024.
(e) Special Needs & Extremely Low-Income Housing: The City will expand on its strong
track record of supporting the development of housing affordable to extremely low-
income households including permanent supportive housing, transitional housing, and
low-barrier navigation centers through continued pursuit of Project Homekey and other
funds as they are available. Additional programs supporting the development of
extremely low-income housing include: Programs HO-2.B: Outreach to Developers, HO-
2.C: Zoning for a Variety of Housing Types, HO-3.F: Affordable Housing on Underutilized
City Sites, HO-4.C: Culturally Appropriate Outreach and Marketing, and HO-4.D: Actions
to Address Homelessness. As included in individual programs In progress. See status described within each program referenced.
The City shall take measures to reduce the risk of displacement throughout the City,
especially in areas of increased investment and development, through the following
actions:
(a) Consider a Condominium Conversion ordinance to limit the loss of rental housing
stock.
Present information and data regarding Condominium
Conversions and policy options to the Planning
Commission and City Council in 2028. If directed, adopt
ordinance by December 2028 Not started, due in 2028.
HO-3.H Assist in the
Development of Affordable
Housing
HO-4.A Anti-Displacement
Actions
(b) Continue to promote programs for housing stability and eviction prevention.
Prepare a directory of trusted community partners willing to promote these programs.
Utilize these partnerships to share resources in a culturally sensitive manner and
incorporate place-based outreach. Prepare list by 2023
Active. City shares housing resources and programs for housing stability and eviction
prevention on the City's website and in City Hall. During COVID shut-down, the City
promoted a COVID-related rental assistance program through its website and social
media channels.
(c) When implementing Essential Housing Bond Financing Program, prioritize areas
identified as susceptible to displacement, as identified by the Assessment of Fair
Housing. Present recommendation by July 2023
In progress. As it considers potential sites for this program, the City will prioritize sites
that are susceptible to displacement. (See also status described in Program HO-3.C
above.)
(d) Study the need for and implications of enacting additional anti-displacement
strategies, present findings and recommendations to the Planning Commission and City
Council in 2024, and implement recommendations in 2025, which may result in an
update to the City’s existing rental housing ordinance. Topics to be considered may
include but are not limited to anti-displacement strategies that address unfair evictions,
excessive rent increases, substandard rental housing conditions, rental inspections,
harassment, or other strategies that reflect conditions unique to the City.
Present study of additional strategies in September
2024; Implement recommendation in September 2025 Not started, staff to present study to Council in 2024.
The City shall take measures to provide and publicize information regarding fair
housing programs, housing rights, and complaint procedures, including the following
actions:
(a) Post information regarding local, State, and Federal fair housing programs in public
places, including City Hall, the Community Center, and the Senior Center, and on the
City’s Affordable Housing webpage. Include information about Fair Housing of Sonoma
County to ensure residents with housing complaints can connect to the appropriate
agencies and services.
Review posted information annually and update
postings and website if needed Active.
(b) Invite fair housing organizations, such as Sonoma County Legal Aid, to the annual
housing fair (See Program HO-2.B) to share information and resources.Annual Not started, will begin in 2024.
(c) Continue to maintain an inventory of existing affordable rental housing and
affordable ownership opportunities and programs on the City website.
Review inventory annually and update postings and
website if needed Active.
HO-4.C Culturally
Appropriate Outreach and
Marketing
Develop a program and process for affordable housing providers to conduct outreach to
historically underrepresented populations, including people of color and farmworkers,
when affordable housing programs are being marketed. By July 2023 Active. Staff developed and began implementing this program in 2023.
Continue current City actions to address homelessness, including the following
actions:
(a) Invest funding in outreach services and housing programs, such as interim housing,
rapid rehousing, and permanent supportive housing. Utilize metrics-driven approach to
ensure programs are performing according to their agreement with the City.Ongoing, at least annually, beginning in 2023
Active. In fiscal year 2023/2024, the City is investing over $4 million in homeless
services, including outreach, interim housing, and permanent supportive housing. City
staff closely monitor to ensure that all programs are performing according to their
agreements with the City.
(b) Continue facilitation of the Rohnert Park Homelessness Roundtable on a regular
basis.Monthly or as needed, beginning in January 2023 Active. City staff continue to faciliate the Homelessness Roundtable as needed.
(c) Support the construction, occupancy, and operation of local interim housing.Ongoing, at least annually, beginning in 2023
Active. In 2023, the City issued final certificates of occupancy for its 60-unit Homekey-
funded interim housing project, Labath Landing.
(d) Retain homeless services coordinator to manage and oversee City’s homeless
services program. Ongoing, at least annually, beginning in 2023 Active.
(e) Support regional cooperation efforts to address homelessness, including providing
technical assistance and support to City representatives serving on the Sonoma County
Continuum of Care (CoC) Board and regularly attending and/or participating in CoC
Board and subcommittee meetings. Quarterly, beginning Spring 2023
Active. The City maintains representation on the Sonoma County CoC Board and
participates in subcommittee meetings.
(f) Explore additional innovative strategies and programs to better address and end
homelessness.
Present findings and/or make program
recommendations to City Council annually, beginning in
2024
Active. Staff present findings and make recommendations regarding homeless service
programs to City Council at least annually.
HO-4.E Inclusionary Housing
Ordinance
The City shall review its Inclusionary Housing Ordinance requirements for rental
residential developments with the provisions of Government Code 65850.01 as
amended by AB 1505. If necessary, the City shall amend its Inclusionary Housing
Ordinance to promote fair housing opportunity and meet housing needs. The City will
consider a variety of provisions for its Inclusionary Housing Ordinance, including
allowances for alternative equivalents and units that are affordable by design.
Review ordinance by December 2028; Recommend any
necessary amendments to Planning Commission and City
Council by December 2028 Not started, will review in 2028.
HO-4.D Actions to Address
Homelessness
HO-4.A Anti-Displacement
Actions
HO-4.B Fair Housing
Information
The City shall continue to partner with the Sonoma County Community Development
Commission (CDC) on housing rehabilitation programs for low-and moderate-income
households, including the following actions:
(a) Update and distribute information about the CDC’s rehabilitation programs to
individuals with disabilities, seniors and the elderly, and advocacy groups that represent
these special needs groups. Ongoing at least annually, beginning by December 2025 Not started, will review in 2025.
(b) Provide and maintain information on rehabilitation programs, including the CDC
rehabilitation program, on the City’s website. Ongoing, beginning in 2023 Active, this information is on the City's website.
(c) Pursue grant opportunities to create a residential rehabilitation program for lower
income residents. Work with the Community Development Commission to apply for
HOME, CalHome, and CDBG funds, as well as promote Section 504 Home Repair
Program loans and grants to provide housing rehabilitation loans and weatherization
services for income-eligible households to improve living conditions
Review of grant funding opportunities annually,
beginning in 2023
In progress. City staff are in regular contact with staff at the Sonoma County
Community Development Commission about opportunities to apply to grant programs
to provide housing rehabilitation loans to income-eligible households.
The City will continue to provide protections for mobile home parks and residents
within them by implementing its existing Chapters 17.23 and 9.70 of its City Code:
• Its voter-approved Mobile Home Ordinance (Chapter 9.70; includes rent stabilization
tied to CPI, vacancy decontrol, and creation of a rent appeals board); and Ongoing, with any activity reporting in the APR Active.
• Its Mobile Home Park Conversion Ordinance (Chapter 17.23), which prohibits the
conversion of a mobile home park to another use unless certain findings are made Ongoing, with any activity reporting in the APR Active.
The City will develop a mixed-use downtown with housing, retail and commercial space
on a 30-acre City-owned parcel in the central Rohnert Park area, adjacent to the
Sonoma-Marin Area Rail Transit (SMART) train station. This area, located at 6400 State
Farm Dr, is known as “Station Center.” Additionally, the City will continue its investment
in bicycle and walking paths as well as a pedestrian/bicycle overcrossing of Highway
101, to connect the east to the west side of the city. This will increase the walkable
amenities and resources in areas in the City with higher concentration of lower-income
households including the Copeland Creek Corridor, Central and West Rohnert Park, as
well as A and B Sections. Between 2023 and 2031, the City will undertake the following
specific actions:
(a) Explore options to accelerate construction of major backbone infrastructure to
facilitate development of a walkable mixed-use downtown area.
Present findings and recommendations to Council by
July 2023, and begin to implement recommendations in
the 2023-2024 Capital Improvement Program
In progress. Staff presented recommendations to City Council to accelerate
construction of major backbone infrastructure in 2023.
(b) Consistent with the Exempt Surplus Land Act resolution adopted by the City Council
on March 14, 2023, implement land donation or long-term ground lease in the Station
Center area for development of housing, of which 25% shall be targeted as deed-
restricted as affordable to lower-income households, through development of a
comprehensive and competitive program to solicit request for proposals (RFPs), with an
application publicly available on the City’s website.
Adopt resolution in March 2023. Release RFP by January
2025.
In progress. Surplus Land Act resolution was adopted by the City Council on March 14,
2023 and the RFQ was released on November 1, 2023. Of the total housing units built
at the site, at least 25% will be deed-restricted as affordable to lower-income
households.
(c) Pursue funding for infrastructure and affordable housing to support development of
project, including Infill Infrastructure Grant (IIG) funding. Ongoing, starting in 2023
In progress. City submitted letter of interest for IIG Catalytic grant in early 2023,
nominated its downtown site for the ABAG Priority Sites Program in mid-2023 and
plans to apply for funds through the Prohousing Incentive Program to help promote
the development of the 100+ unit affordable housing project in downtown.
(d) Uphold equitable transit-oriented development (eTOD) best practices for the Station
Center site, including but not limited to the pursuit of local match for affordable
housing subsidy, removal of barriers to development, and infrastructural improvements
to serve transit and pedestrian access.
By January 2025, incorporated into the Station Center
RFP
In progress. Staff included eTOD best practices in the RFQ for this site, which was
posted on November 1, 2023. Staff will continue to consider this as they pursue
outside funding opportunities.
HO-5.A Housing
Rehabilitation for Low-and
Moderate-Income
Households
HO-5.B Continuing
Protections for Mobile
Home Parks
HO-5.C Community
Revitalization
(e) Per the City’s five-year capital improvement plan, continue to prioritize investments
in infrastructure in the City’s lower-resource areas, including Copeland Creek Corridor,
Central and West Rohnert Park, and A and B Sections. This includes constructing and
improving bicycle and walking paths, as well as pedestrian/bicycle overcrossings of
Highway 101 to connect the Central and West Rohnert Park areas. These paths provide
direct connections to Sonoma State University, public transit (including the SMART
train) and the downtown area. Apply for funding to develop and improve bicycle and
walking paths and transit access, as available including regional efforts with the
Community Based Transportation Planning (CBTP) Program. Revisited annually, starting in 2023
Active. The City's capital improvement plan was adopted in June 2023 along with the
City's annual budget. The plan continues to prioritize investments in infrastructure in
the City’s lower-resource areas, including Copeland Creek Corridor, Central and West
Rohnert Park, and A and B Sections.
General Comments
HO-5.C Community Revitalization