Dear Mayor Sparks and Councilmembers of the City of Cota�, As a resident of Cota�, I urge you to take a posi�on to oppose Measure J. Measure J is the biggest threat on our en�re county today. If passed, Measure J will force mul�-genera�onal family farms out of business. In doing so, several jobs will be lost, as well as housing in that these farms providing housing for employees and their families. However, the effect of Measure J will not be felt solely on the farms that meet the animal popula�on of the proposed ordinance, but the rest of the farms in Sonoma County will struggle due to the loss of economies of scale. Smaller farms that are able to take advantage of bulk pricing on account of supply and demand, will find their feed and input prices increase; this at a �me when viability is already in ques�on. Other businesses will close, including feed mills, feed stores, and livestock supply stores. Veterinary services may s�ll be available, but at a higher price and less availability.
As taxpayers, we should not have to endure cuts in the county budget to pay for this unnecessary program should Measure J pass. The dairies, farms, and ranches in Sonoma County prac�ce sustainability, and are leaders in regenera�ve agriculture and climate-smart prac�ces.
This measure is simply part of a larger agenda to end animal agriculture. It doesn’t look like Sonoma County is going to fall prey to this tac�c and I urge you to join us in opposing Measure J.
Respec�ully,
Cindy Bordessa