Cotati City Council
October 14, 2025

AGENDA

JOINT MEETING OF THE COTATI CITY COUNCIL AND THE SUCCESSOR AGENCY TO THE

FORMER COTATI COMMUNITY REDEVELOPMENT AGENCY
City Council Chamber, City Hall 201 W. Sierra Avenue
Tuesday, October 14, 2025
6:00 PM REGULAR MEETING
The Cotati City Council welcomes you to its meetings that are generally scheduled for the 2nd and 4th Tuesday of every month. Your interest and participation are encouraged and appreciated.

City Council meeting agendas, minutes and recordings are posted on the City’s Meeting Portal at www.cotaticity.gov. For questions about the agenda or to receive the City Council agenda by e-mail, contact the City Clerk at [email protected] or 707-665-3622.

Cotati City Council Meetings will be conducted in person in the Council Chamber. To guarantee your ability to participate, you must attend the meeting in person. As a courtesy to the public, the City allows citizens the opportunity to view and offer public comments virtually through Zoom Online video conferencing platform. Technical difficulties may occur that make the Zoom platform unavailable. If Zoom is unavailable, the meeting will continue. Participants considering using Zoom should consider attending in person, if they desire to ensure their ability to view the meeting and offer public comments.

Subject to the above disclaimer, Zoom Online video conferencing is available to watch or listen in the following ways:

1. Using the following online livestream meeting portal link: https://www.youtube.com/@cityofcotati7280/streams

2. Cable T.V. Broadcast, local channel 28
Members of the public can participate in the meeting online by clicking the link below:
https://us02web.zoom.us/j/88012903963?pwd=t987Gf7wkU3qqF0laWa87XTi2TfaKK.1 If you do not have the ability to join online, but would like to participate in the meeting, you can call into the meeting using your telephone, by dialing one of the following numbers and entering the meeting credentials:

Webinar ID: 880 1290 3963 Passcode: 288038
+1 (669) 900-6833 or +1 (346) 248-7799 or +1 (253) 215-8782 or +1 (301) 715-8592 or +1 (312) 626-6799 or +1 (929) 436-2866 Attendees may join the meeting any time after 5:45pm. Attendees will be muted until they are called upon for Public Comment. To make a public comment, use the “raise hand” icon on your smart device or desktop computer, or dial *9 if you are using just your telephone. Please listen carefully for the Mayor or City Clerk to address you by name (or phone number) and for the audible Zoom notification that you have been unmuted. Once you begin your public comment, your three minutes will begin.

If you would prefer to submit your public comment in writing, please email your comments to [email protected]. If you are commenting on a specific agenda item or items, please state the agenda item number(s) in the subject line of the email. All comments received via email will be provided to the City Council in writing and included as part of the record of the meeting. They will not be read aloud into the record at the meeting.

Notice is hereby given that Council may discuss and/or take action on any or all of the items listed on this agenda, in accordance with the City Council Rules of Conduct.

Any writings or documents provided to a majority of the Cotati City Council regarding any item on this agenda will be made available for inspection in the online Meeting Portal at www.cotaticity.gov and in the City Manager’s office located at 201 West Sierra Avenue, Cotati, California, during the City’s posted business hours.

Accommodations: Upon request, this agenda will be made available in appropriate formats to persons with disabilities as required by Section Cotati City Council Agenda October 14, 2025
202 of the Americans with Disabilities Act of 1990. Any person with a disability who requires a modification or accommodation in order to participate in a meeting should contact the City Clerk at (707) 665-3622 at least 48 hours in advance of the meeting.

Rules of Decorum: To avoid distraction, the following meeting etiquette shall be enforced. • Silence electronic devices, including cell phones.
• Audience members are advised to keep conversations to a minimum or conduct them outside the building. • Members of the public are prohibited from speaking, yelling, or otherwise making loud noises from the audience that disrupt the orderly proceeding of the meeting.
• Photographs or video recordings using tri-pods or other means that would be distracting are to be taken only from the designated media area. • The Presiding Officer shall request that the audience withhold expressions of support or opposition for speakers in the interest of time and to encourage the full expression of differing views.

Public Comment: Public comment on any one agenda item is limited to no more than three (3) minutes per person, in accordance with the City Council Rules of Conduct.

Waiver Warning: If you challenge decisions/direction of the City Council of the City of Cotati in court, you may be limited to raising only those issues you or someone else raised at public hearing(s) described in this agenda, or in written correspondence delivered to the City of Cotati at, or prior to, the public hearing(s).

Announcements:

A. Meeting Orientation for New Attendees/Viewers. In conformance with the Brown Act and the adopted City Council Rules, if the City Council is considering an item in which action will be taken, citizens will be invited to provide comments relevant to the item being discussed.

The meeting agenda also includes a Citizen Business item, which is the designated place on the agenda where citizens have the right to comment on any matter within the City’s subject matter jurisdiction. However, Citizen Business items do not generally receive a response because the Brown Act prohibits the City Council from taking action or considering any item that is not on this agenda, so as to ensure that other members of the community who wish to provide comment are notified in advance through a properly noticed meeting agenda. Nonetheless, in accordance with the Brown Act, the Council may briefly respond, may ask a question for clarification, or may direct an item be placed on a future agenda.

B. Measure S supports police services, a variety of recreation programs for all ages, and the maintenance of our streets, parks, and public buildings. See details on the web at cotaticity.gov.

C. Citizens interested in receiving City of Cotati community alerts via text or email are encouraged to enroll with CivicReady, by signing up on the City’s website, www.cotaticity.gov, under the “How do I” link at the top of the homepage.

D. Have you noticed a street light out, pothole, or issues in a City Park? We want to keep Cotati beautiful and running smoothly, so please let us know what needs to be fixed, by going to the City website under “How do I” and “Report a Service Request.” E. Like always, we love to hear from you, so please feel free to contact the City at 707-792-4600 or [email protected]. If you have a nonemergency issue after normal business hours, you can contact us at 707-792-4611 and of course if you have an emergency, please contact 9-1-1.

Continue to look for updates on the City's website and social media channels available on Facebook, Instagram, and CivicReady.

City Council meetings are conducted according to City Council Policy 2025-03: City Council Rules of Conduct. This policy available for inspection in the online Meeting Portal at www.cotaticity.gov and in the City Manager’s office located at 201 West Sierra Avenue, Cotati, California, during the City’s posted business hours.

Those wishing to address the Council are asked to complete a speaker card and give it to the City Clerk. When you are called, step to the podium and state your name and address for the record. Persons wishing to address the Council are not required to identify themselves or complete a speaker card; (Gov’t. Code § 54953.3); however, this information assists the Mayor by ensuring that all persons wishing to address the Council are recognized and it assists the City Clerk in preparing the City Council meeting minutes.

1. CALL TO ORDER - ROLL CALL

2. APPROVAL OF MINUTES AND NOTICE OF WAIVING OF READING OF ALL

RESOLUTIONS AND ORDINANCES INTRODUCED AND/OR ADOPTED UNDER THIS

AGENDA (ACTION)
A. COTATI CITY COUNCIL – REGULAR MEETING – SEP 23, 2025

3. PROCLAMATIONS
A. PROCLAMATION OF THE CITY OF COTATI IN SUPPORT OF NORTH BAY ZERO WASTE WEEK OCTOBER 11TH THROUGH 18TH, 2025
Cotati City Council Agenda October 14, 2025

4. PRESENTATIONS
A. ZERO WASTE SONOMA UPDATE
It is recommended that the City Council receive a presentation about Zero Waste Sonoma (ZWS) from Leslie Lukacs, Executive Director of ZWS.

B. PRESENTATION BY THE RANCHO ADOBE FIRE DISTRICT
It is recommended that the City Council receive a presentation from the Rancho Adobe Fire District Fire Chief regarding the status of Rancho Adobe Fire District’s potential consolidation with Sonoma County Fire. No action will be taken.

5. AGENDA REVIEW (ACTION)

6. CITIZEN BUSINESS AND PUBLIC COMMENT FOR CONSENT CALENDAR ITEMS Any member of the public wishing to speak to the Council on any item(s) listed on the Consent Calendar or any matter(s) not listed on the agenda that are within the subject matter jurisdiction of the Council may do so at this time. Pursuant to the Brown Act, the Council is not allowed to consider issues or take action on any item not listed on the agenda. Pursuant to City Council Policy 2025-03, comments of any member of the public are normally restricted to a total of three (3) minutes in length per person for matters not on the agenda and a total of three (3) minutes per person in length for any and all items on the Consent Calendar. The Mayor may extend the time limit for a reasonable time where a disability accommodation has been requested. To facilitate public comment, the timer indicator lights will display yellow when there are thirty seconds remaining, and red when time has expired.

7. CONSENT CALENDAR (ACTION)
A. CONSIDERATION AND ADOPTION OF A RESOLUTION TO APPROVE 2025

AGRICULTURAL COMMUNITY EVENTS FARMERS MARKETS - DOWNTOWN

SHOP AND STROLL HOLIDAY EVENT IN DOWNTOWN COTATI
It is recommended that the City Council adopt a resolution approving the 2025 Agricultural Community Events Farmers Markets Downtown Shop and Stroll Holiday Event in Downtown Cotati.

B. CONSIDERATION AND ADOPTION OF RESOLUTION APPROVING THE 2025 CITY

OF COTATI HOLIDAY TREE LIGHTING CEREMONY
It is recommended that the City Council adopt a resolution approving the 2025 City of Cotati Holiday Tree Lighting Event.

C. CONSIDERATION AND ADOPTION OF RESOLUTION APPROVING THE CITY OF COTATI’S 2025 COTATI CANDYLAND EVENT
It is recommended that the City Council adopt a resolution approving the City of Cotati’s 2025 Cotati Candyland Event.

D. ADOPTION OF RESOLUTION APPROVING THE 2026 COTATI ACCORDION

FESTIVAL AND ASSOCIATED SALE OF ALCOHOLIC BEVERAGES, AMPLIFIED

MUSIC, AND TEMPORARY STREET CLOSURES
It is recommended that the City Council adopt a resolution approving the 2026 Accordion Festival including the sale of alcoholic beverages on public property, amplified music, and the temporary closure of certain public streets.

8. DIRECTION ON FUTURE AGENDA ITEMS

9. PUBLIC HEARINGS (ACTION)
Cotati City Council Agenda October 14, 2025
A. CONSIDERATION, INTRODUCTION AND FIRST READING OF DRAFT

ORDINANCE UPDATING THE RULES OF CONDUCT FOR PARKS AND OTHER

PUBLIC AREAS AND ADDING PERMIT PROCEDURES BY AMENDING CHAPTERS

4.04 (FEES FOR USE OF FACILITIES), 7.12 (LICENSING AND KEEPING OF DOGS AND CATS), 7.24 (ANIMAL RESTRICTIONS), 7.28 (DOGS IN PARKS DURING FESTIVALS), 9.33 (PUBLIC URINATION, DEFECATION AND EXPOSURE), 9.36 (CONDUCT IN PARKS, PLAZAS, STREETS AND SIDEWALKS AND OTHER PLACES) AND 9.40 (OBSTRUCTING STREETS AND SIDEWALKS) OF THE COTATI

MUNICIPAL CODE
It is recommended that the City Council introduce and conduct the first reading of a draft ordinance adding permit procedures and updating the rules of conduct in the City parks and other public areas by amending Cotati Municipal Code (CMC) Chapters 4.04 (Fees for Use of Facilities), 7.12 (Licensing and Keeping of Dogs and Cats), 7.24 (Animal Restrictions), 7.28 (Dogs in Parks During Festivals), 9.33 (Public Urination, Defecation and Exposure), 9.36 (Conduct in Parks, Plazas, Streets and Sidewalks and Other Places) and 9.40 (Obstructing Streets and Sidewalks).

10. REGULAR AGENDA (ACTION)
A. RESOLUTION IN SUPPORT OF THE POLLUTERS PAY CLIMATE SUPERFUND

LEGISLATION
It is recommended that the City Council adopt a resolution supporting the enactment of the proposed Polluters Pay Climate Superfund Act (SB 684/AB 1243).

11. CITY MANAGER'S REPORT

12. CITY COUNCIL MEMBER REPORTS

13. PUBLIC COMMENT ON NON-ACTION AGENDA ITEMS

14. INFORMATION RECEIVED AFTER THE AGENDA WAS POSTED

15. ADJOURNMENT
Certification of Posting of the Notice: I declare under penalty of perjury that I am employed by the City of Cotati and that I posted this notice on the City’s website, bulletin boards of City Hall, Veterans’ Memorial Building and the SMART Train Depot, on or before October 10, 2025. /s/ Kevin Patterson, City Clerk

MINUTES

JOINT MEETING OF THE COTATI CITY COUNCIL AND THE SUCCESSOR AGENCY TO THE

FORMER COTATI COMMUNITY REDEVELOPMENT AGENCY
City Council Chamber, City Hall 201 W. Sierra Avenue
Tuesday, September 23, 2025
6:00 PM REGULAR MEETING

1. CALL TO ORDER - ROLL CALL
Mayor Ford called the meeting to order at 6:00pm.

Attendee Name Title Status
Ben Ford Mayor Present
Sylvia Lemus Vice Mayor Present
Susan Harvey Councilmember Absent
Laura Sparks Councilmember Present
John Savage Councilmember Present
Staff Present: City Manager Damien O’Bid, City Attorney John Bakker, City Clerk Kevin Patterson, Director of Administrative Services Angela Courter, Director of Community Development Noah Housh, Director of Public Works/City Engineer Craig Scott, Police Chief Chris Simmons

2. APPROVAL OF MINUTES AND NOTICE OF WAIVING OF READING OF ALL

RESOLUTIONS AND ORDINANCES INTRODUCED AND/OR ADOPTED UNDER THIS

AGENDA (ACTION)
A. COTATI CITY COUNCIL – REGULAR MEETING – SEP 9, 2025
RESULT: Approve [4 TO 0]
MOVER: Laura Sparks, Councilmember
SECONDER: John Savage, Councilmember
AYES: Ford, Lemus, Sparks, Savage
NAYS: None
ABSENT: Harvey

3. PRESENTATIONS
A. INTRODUCTION OF LIZ RUSSELL, DISTRICT REPRESENTATIVE FOR SENATOR CHRISTOPHER CABALDON 5 of 120
Cotati City Council Minutes September 23, 2025
Liz Russell gave a brief presentation.

4. AGENDA REVIEW (ACTION)
City Manager O’Bid recommended removing Item 6B from the consent calendar, stating it was not ready for a vote. There being no objection from the Council, the item was removed.

No public comment.

5. CITIZEN BUSINESS AND PUBLIC COMMENT FOR CONSENT CALENDAR ITEMS Any member of the public wishing to speak to the Council on any item(s) listed on the Consent Calendar or any matter(s) not listed on the agenda that are within the subject matter jurisdiction of the Council may do so at this time. Pursuant to the Brown Act, the Council is not allowed to consider issues or take action on any item not listed on the agenda. Pursuant to City Council Policy 2025-03, comments of any member of the public are normally restricted to a total of three (3) minutes in length per person for matters not on the agenda and a total of three (3) minutes per person in length for any and all items on the Consent Calendar. The Mayor may extend the time limit for a reasonable time where a disability accommodation has been requested. To facilitate public comment, the timer indicator lights will display yellow when there are thirty (30) seconds remaining, and red when time has expired.

6. CONSENT CALENDAR (ACTION)
A. ADOPTION OF A RESOLUTION TO APPROVE THE 2025 GIRASOL COLLECTIVE

DAY OF THE DEAD EVENT IN LA PLAZA PARK
C. RESPONSE TO THE 2024-25 CIVIL GRAND JURY, ANIMAL SERVICES D. ADOPTION OF A RESOLUTION ACCEPTING THE COMPLETED PARK AND RIDE

PROJECT IMPROVEMENTS
E. APPROVAL OF AN AGREEMENT TO UPDATE THE NEXUS STUDY FOR

AFFORDABLE HOUSING DEVELOPMENT IMPACT FEES
F. APPROVAL TO CANCEL THE NOVEMBER 11, 2025 CITY COUNCIL MEETING During Agenda Review, City Manager O’Bid recommended removing item 6B from the Consent Calendar. Motion to approve the Consent Calendar included only Items A & C-F.

RESULT: Approve [4 TO 0] ITEMS A, C-F
MOVER: Laura Sparks, Councilmember
SECONDER: John Savage, Councilmember
AYES: Ford, Lemus, Sparks, Savage
NAYS: None
ABSENT: Harvey

7. DIRECTION OF FUTURE AGENDA ITEMS
None.

8. REGULAR AGENDA (ACTION)
A. SANTERO WAY AND TOC REZONING WORKSHOP
Before the presentation of this item, Councilmember Savage announced that he would recuse 6 of 120
Cotati City Council Minutes September 23, 2025
himself due to living within the Santero Way Zoning District.

Presentation by Director of Community Development Noah Housh.

Councilmembers comment.

Public Comment:

Laurie Alderman of Cotati

After discussion, Council provided feedback that they supported Staff’s recommendations.

B. DOWNTOWN PARKING LOT LEASE RENEWAL
Before the presentation of this item, Mayor Ford announced that he would recuse himself, due to living near the parking lot in question.

Presentation by City Manager Damien O’Bid.

Councilmembers comment.

No public comment.

RESULT: Adopt [3 TO 0]
MOVER: John Savage, Councilmember
SECONDER: Laura Sparks, Councilmember
AYES: Lemus, Sparks, Savage
NAYS: None
ABSENT: Harvey
RECUSE: Ford
C. APPOINTMENT OF A VOTING DELEGATE AND ALTERNATE TO THE 2025

LEAGUE OF CALIFORNIA CITIES (LOCC) ANNUAL CONFERENCE
Presentation by City Manager Damien O’Bid.

Councilmembers comment.

No public comment.

By motion, Council voted to appoint Mayor Ben Ford as the voting delegate, with Vice Mayor Sylvia Lemus serving as the first alternate, and City Manager Damien O’Bid as the second alternate.

RESULT: Approve [4 TO 0]
MOVER: Laura Sparks, Councilmember
SECONDER: John Savage, Councilmember
AYES: Ford, Lemus, Sparks, Savage
NAYS: None
ABSENT: Harvey
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Cotati City Council Minutes September 23, 2025
D. APPROVAL OF AN EXTENDED COUNCILMEMBER LEAVE OF ABSENCE Before the presentation of this item, Councilmember Laura Sparks announced that she would recuse herself, due to being the subject of the item in question.

Presentation by City Manager Damien O’Bid.

Councilmembers comment.

Public Comment:

Laurie Alderman of Cotati
Neil Hancock of Cotati
RESULT: Approve [3 TO 0]
MOVER: John Savage, Councilmember
SECONDER: Sylvia Lemus, Vice Mayor
AYES: Ford, Lemus, Savage
NAYS: None
ABSENT: Harvey
RECUSE: Sparks

9. LAND ACKNOWLEDGEMENT & PLEDGE OF ALLEGIANCE
The City of Cotati recognizes that we’re on the ancestral lands of the Coastal Miwok, who are the original caretakers of this area. We respectfully acknowledge the Indigenous peoples who have been stewarding and maintaining a relationship on this land as knowledge keepers for millennia. This acknowledgment does not take the place of authentic relationships with Indigenous communities but serves as a gesture of respect to the land we are on.

10. CITY MANAGER'S REPORT & COUNCILMEMBER REPORTS
Report by City Manager Damien O’Bid.

Councilmembers report out on local and regional events and meetings

11. CLOSED SESSION
A. CONFERENCE WITH LEGAL COUNSEL—EXISTING LITIGATION (PARAGRAPH (1) OF SUBDIVISION (D) OF SECTION 54956.9) NAME OF CASE: CITY OF COTATI V.

COUNTRYSIDE MHP LLC, SONOMA COUNTY SUPERIOR COURT CASE NO. 24CY07691
Mayor Ford announced the closed session topic.

No public comment.

Council adjourned to closed session at 7:48pm.

12. REPORT OUT OF CLOSED SESSION
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Cotati City Council Minutes September 23, 2025
Council returned from closed session at 8:18pm. Mayor Ford announced that there was nothing to report out of closed session.

13. INFORMATION RECEIVED AFTER THE AGENDA WAS POSTED

14. ADJOURNMENT
Mayor Ford adjourned the meeting at 8:19pm.
/s/ Kevin Patterson, City Clerk
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PROCLAMATION

OF THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF COTATI

PROCLAMATION OF THE CITY OF COTATI IN SUPPORT OF NORTH BAY ZERO WASTE WEEK OCTOBER 11TH THROUGH 18TH, 2025
WHEREAS, the City of Cotati has assumed a leadership role by setting Zero Waste as a goal and adopting a Zero Waste Resolution (2019-58) on September 10, 2019 that set a goal of Zero Waste by 2030; and
WHEREAS, each year, Zero Waste Sonoma and community partners host a one-day Zero Waste Symposium as a local opportunity for industry and the public to gain insight on zero waste topics and trends, share ideas, and network; and
WHEREAS, this year, Zero Waste Sonoma has collaborated with North Bay groups and volunteers to expand the community event for the entire week in October, aimed at educating and empowering various sectors of the public to act toward zero waste; and WHEREAS, the City of Cotati along with other organizations will be hosting zero waste events throughout the week of October 11-18.

NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT FURTHER PROCLAIMED on this day of October 14, 2025, by the City Council of the City of Cotati do hereby proclaim October 11th through 18th, 2025, Zero Waste Week.

Approved:_____________________________
Mayor
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Cotati City Council
Agenda Staff Report
Item type: PRESENTATIONS
To: City Council
Subject: ZERO WASTE SONOMA UPDATE
Date: October 14, 2025
Written by: Damien O'Bid, City Manager
Recommendation
It is recommended that the City Council receive a presentation about Zero Waste Sonoma (ZWS) from Leslie Lukacs, Executive Director of ZWS. No action will be taken. 11 of 120
10/7/2025 1
ZWS TRAINING 101
SEPTEMBER 25, 2019

LESLIE LUKACS

EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR
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ZWS BACKGROUND
 ZWS is a Joint Powers Authority (JPA) formed to
implement AB 939
 Established in 1992
 Governing body is a 10-member Board of Directors
 One representative from each City and the County
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MISSION & VISION
Zero Waste Sonoma’s mission is to empower personal action in waste reduction and materials management by implementing practical solutions to protect our natural resources.

Our vision is an engaged and informed community with the shared goal of thriving in a sustainable region without waste. 14 of 120

OUTREACH AND EDUCATION
 Website
www.zerowastesonoma.gov
 Comprehensive topics for residents
and businesses
 Robust search function
 Approximately 144,000 visitors
 460+ visitors from Cotati residents
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 Recycling Guide (English & Spanish)
 In 2025, printed 25,000 English and
13,000 Spanish Guide
 Distributed to transfer stations,
community partners, nonprofits, tribal
organizations, local businesses, and
more
 .pdf version available on
zerowastesonoma.gov website

OUTREACH AND EDUCATION
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 Events and Fairs
 Participated in 171 outreach
events in 2024
 7 events in Cotati
 Includes Spanish language
outreach conducted through a
contractor

OUTREACH AND EDUCATION
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 Spanish language outreach
 Call-in radio programming
(KBBF, Radio Lazer,
La Mejor)
 Targeted outreach events
 Countywide annual Latino business
visits
Spanish outreach leveraged by Soluna Outreach
Services

OUTREACH AND EDUCATION
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REPAIR FAIRS & FIXIT CLINICS
1 Repair Fair for each member jurisdiction
in FY 25/26
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§ Permanent HHW Facility at Central
§ Tues-Wed for qualifying businesses
§ Thurs-Sat for residents
§ HHW Collection Events
§ Every Tuesday, locations vary
§ 1-2 Saturdays per year in Sea Ranch
§ HHW Rover Pick-up Service
§ Every Wednesday by appointment
§ Reuse Program
§ “Like new” items available for reuse
to the public for free
§ Paint Reprocessing in four colors

HOUSEHOLD HAZARDOUS WASTE
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ELECTRONIC WASTE COLLECTION
E-Waste Programs
§ Public E-Waste Drop-Off Locations
§ Available at all 5 transfer stations
§ E-Waste Recycling Events
§ 14 events per year, locations vary
§ 10 events also have free mattress
recycling
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CalRecycle Grant – Residential Solar Panel
Collection Events
 12 events collecting 1000+ panels
 Partnered with Conservation Corps North
Bay
 10% of the panels were reused
 Habitat for Humanity ReStore, farms, HS

SOLAR PANEL COLLECTION
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§ New North County HHW Facility
§ 5885 Pruitt Ave, Windsor
§ 100% design of facility completed
§ Working with Sonoma Public
Infrastructure for a construction loan
§ Possible additions
§ ZWS Offices
§ Hard-to-recycle item collection

NEW HHW FACILITY - WINDSOR
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Jurisdiction
Inspection &
Enforcement
Commercial
Edible Food
Generators
Recycled Paper
Procurement
Compost/mulch
Procurement
Edible Food
Recovery
Program
Education &
Outreach
Waivers Contamination
Minimization
Hauler
Program
Collection
Services

SHORT-LIVED

CLIMATE

POLLUTANTS LAW
(SB 1383)

IN ACTION

JURISDICTION

REQUIREMENTS
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SB 1383 COMPLIANCE
 Support Haulers
 Investigate Complaints
 Contract with Environmental Health
 Inspections
 Work with Jurisdictions
 Notices of Violation
 Citations
 Maintain Implementation Record
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FOOD RECOVERY GRANTS
 CalRecycle $300k grant
 CalVolunteers $2.5 mill grant
 CA Youth Service Corps $1 mill
grant
 USDA grant $298.5k (food
recovery + carbon sequestration)
Picture: fresh produce boxed up for
redistribution
Picture: CCNB food recovery truck purchased through a
grant
Picture: Corpsmembers redistributing packaged food items Picture: fruit being consolidated for redistribution 26 of 120
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Compost Hubs
• Free compost for residents, yearround
• More access for residents and
more resilient than events
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20 29 of 120

PROPOSED SONOMA COUNTY AIRPORT ORGANICS FACILITY
 Currently County-led project
 Completed feasibility study Dec 2022
 30% design completed, permitting now
 On top of closed landfill; county-owned
 Process up to 65,000 TPY of organics
 Solar, energy-efficient equipment, green
building materials, etc.
 ZWS to lead RFP to find composter 30 of 120

CONSTRUCTION & DEMOLITION
 County of Sonoma Climate Resiliency grant
 Develop Model CD&D Ordinance
 Fund Green Halo Software for 3 years
 Collaboration with Permit Sonoma
 Launched Green Halo May 4th
 Next Steps
 Transition Cotati to use Green Halo
 Present model ordinance to City Council 31 of 120
NORTH BAY ZERO WASTE WEEK 2024
• 60+ events in Sonoma,
Marin, and Napa
• 50 community partners
• All free and open to the
public
https://northbayzerowasteweek.org/
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10/7/2025 22
QUESTIONS?
THANK YOU!
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Cotati City Council
Agenda Staff Report
Item type: PRESENTATIONS
To: City Council
Subject: PRESENTATION BY THE RANCHO ADOBE FIRE DISTRICT Date: October 14, 2025
Written by: Damien O'Bid, City Manager
Recommendation
It is recommended that the City Council receive a presentation from the Rancho Adobe Fire District Fire Chief regarding the status of Rancho Adobe Fire District’s potential consolidation with Sonoma County Fire. No action will be taken.
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Cotati City Council
Agenda Staff Report
Item type: CONSENT CALENDAR (ACTION)
To: City Council
Subject: CONSIDERATION AND ADOPTION OF A RESOLUTION TO
APPROVE 2025 AGRICULTURAL COMMUNITY EVENTS

FARMERS MARKETS - DOWNTOWN SHOP AND STROLL
HOLIDAY EVENT IN DOWNTOWN COTATI.

Date: October 14, 2025
Written by: Ashley Wilson, Recreation Manager
Recommendation
It is recommended that the City Council adopt a resolution approving the 2025 Agricultural Community Events Farmers Markets Downtown Shop and Stroll Holiday Event in Downtown Cotati.

Background
Agricultural Community Events Farmers Markets is a 501(c)(5) non-profit company which operates several farmers' markets in the region. It currently operates markets in Santa Rosa, Marinwood, Glen Ellen, Rohnert Park, Petaluma, Downtown Novato, Fairfax, and has been operating the market here in Cotati for the past twelve years. They have also been operating the Cotati Downtown Shop and Stroll event since 2017, which has grown in success over the years and become a local tradition among the community. Agricultural Community Events Farmers Markets has proposed this year’s Shop & Stroll event format to be very similar to that of past years and will host many of the same vendors. A full description of event operations and a map of activities are attached to the resolution as Exhibit B. This year’s proposed event will be on Saturday, December 6, 2025.

Analysis/Discussion
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As requested, and approved in prior years, Agricultural Community Events Farmers Markets has again requested a street closure of Old Redwood Highway from East Cotati Avenue to Charles and Henry Street and the closure of the two side streets of La Plaza between East Cotati Avenue and West Sierra Avenue. It is not expected that this will significantly impact traffic, as both Charles and Henry remain open for residents and businesses, and regional traffic diversion continues as in previous years with the closure of Old Redwood Highway.

The event in downtown Cotati on Old Redwood Highway will be free of charge to enter and is family friendly, taking place from 11:00am until 5:00pm. Street closures have been requested from 7:30am - 6:30pm to allow for set-up and clean-up. The event will include amplified music, vendors selling goods, food, and beverages (including sales of alcohol from current Cotati businesses with ABC compliant establishments), as well as visits with Santa and a petting zoo.

The prior years’ event received positive reviews from the downtown businesses that City staff spoke with.

The exhibits attached to the resolution describe the street closures and parking restrictions necessary to allow for the orderly movement of vehicle and pedestrian traffic during street closures. City staff will place the no parking signs along Old Redwood Highway the morning of the event.

The street closure signs will also be placed by the City’s Public Works Department on the day of the event. Agricultural Community Events Farmers Markets has reviewed the insurance requirements and has indicated that they can provide adequate insurance. A Condition of Approval has been included which requires proof of insurance be supplied to the City before the event.

Financial Considerations
Agricultural Community Events Farmers Markets has requested fee waivers and City support for staff time. In accordance with the Park Use and Special Event Policy regarding fee waiver requests, staff recommends that these costs be partially waived by 50%, as this event is a free community event offered by a non-profit organization, is a significant annual event, and will increase the number of visitors to the City. The event would provide increased opportunities to promote economic development and increase sales tax revenue. Total costs and waivers would be as follows:
• Street Closure Fee: $1,924 (reduced by 50% to $962)
• Special Event Application Fee: $54 (reduced by 50% to $27) • Special Event Permit Fee: $137 (reduced by 50% to $68.50) • Staff Time - 6 hours, estimated cost $1,146 (reduced by 50% to $573) • Refundable deposit of $500 prior to the event (not subsidized).

The total cost of the waivers and staff time is $1,630.50 and would be funded by the City’s General Fund account.

Environmental Issues
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This action is exempt from the California Environmental Quality Act (CEQA) because it is not a project which has a potential for resulting in either a direct physical change in the environment, or a reasonably foreseeable indirect physical change in the environment, pursuant to CEQA Guideline section 15378.
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RESOLUTION NO. (XX)
APPROVING 2025 AGRICULTURAL COMMUNITY EVENTS FARMERS

MARKETS - DOWNTOWN SHOP AND STROLL HOLIDAY EVENT
WHEREAS, Agricultural Community Events Farmers Markets submitted applications to the City for the Downtown Shop and Stroll Holiday event on August 6, 2025; and WHEREAS, California Vehicle Code Section 21101(e) authorizes temporary street closures where certain conditions exist; and
WHEREAS, it will be necessary to temporarily close certain streets, as described in the Exhibits attached, to facilitate this event and improve pedestrian safety; and WHEREAS, the closure is necessary for the safety and protection of persons who are to use that portion or portions of the street(s) during the temporary closing; and WHEREAS, the Chief of Police of the City of Cotati will arrange for temporary street closure and traffic re-routing, which would minimize the traffic hazard conditions and allow for orderly movement of traffic; and
WHEREAS, the Chief of Police will contact the Rancho Adobe Fire Protection District, ambulance service providers, bus service providers, and others who may need ingress, egress, or the ability to traverse the affected area and will reasonably provide for their needs; and WHEREAS, the City Council finds that these events are part of a comprehensive economic development strategy in that they increase visitation to the City, promote the Cotati community and result in increased sales tax revenues; and WHEREAS, the City Council approves the waived staff costs, permit fees and street closure fees of an amount not to exceed $1,630.50 as funded by the City General Fund; and WHEREAS, the City Council further finds that the health, safety, and welfare of the citizens of the City of Cotati will not be jeopardized by the approval of these events; and WHEREAS, it will be necessary to conform to certain conditions as described in “Exhibit A,” attached hereto, to facilitate this event; and WHEREAS, the action of approving a Downtown Shop and Stroll event does not constitute a project as defined by California Environmental Quality Act Guidelines Section 15378; therefore, no further environmental review is required NOW THEREFORE BE IT RESOLVED, by the City Council of the City of Cotati as follows:

1. The above recitals are declared to be true and correct and are incorporated herein as findings of the City Council.
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2. The City Council hereby approves of a portion of the special event permit and street closure fees and staff time associated with road closures to be funded by the City’s General Fund.

3. The temporary closure of portions of Old Redwood Highway from La Plaza to Page Street on December 6, 2025, between 7:30am and 6:30pm, is hereby approved.

4. Amplified music, the sales of goods, food, and beverages, including alcohol, and other Downtown Shop and Stroll activities as described in the accompanying staff report, is hereby approved.

5. The Conditions of Approval, attached as Exhibit A to this resolution, are hereby approved.

6. This Resolution shall become effective immediately.

7. Each portion of this resolution is severable. Should any portion of this resolution be adjudged to be invalid and unenforceable by a body of competent jurisdiction, then the remaining resolution portions shall be and continue in full force and effect, except as to those resolution portions that have been adjudged invalid. The City Council of the City of Cotati hereby declares that it would have adopted this resolution and each section, subsection, clause, sentence, phrase and other portion thereof, irrespective of the fact that one or more section, subsection, clause, sentence, phrase or other portion may be held invalid or unconstitutional.

IT IS HEREBY CERTIFIED that the foregoing resolution was duly adopted at a regular meeting of the City Council of the City of Cotati held on October 14, 2025, by the following vote, to wit:

Approved:___________________________
Mayor
Attest:______________________________
Kevin Patterson, Deputy City Clerk
Approved as to form:______________________________
City Attorney
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“EXHIBIT A”

CONDITIONS OF APPROVAL
Agricultural Community Events Cotati Shop and Stroll Event 2025

1. The applicant shall provide the City with evidence of the proper insurance 30 days prior to the event.

2. The applicant shall submit a deposit of $500 within 30 days of approval of this event.

3. The City of Cotati shall arrange for trash, recycling, and compost bins to be delivered and collected.

4. The applicant shall ensure the public facilities (public spaces, parking spaces, and streets) are cleaned and returned to pre-event condition by 6:30 pm on the night of the event. This includes the removal of any chalk or tape used to mark vendor spaces. Spray paint and drilling of holes in any concrete or asphalt roadway or sidewalk area is strictly prohibited.

5. The event shall be carried out as described in the written descriptions submitted by the applicant and in compliance with these Conditions of Approval.

6. The applicant shall provide evidence of the proper Department of Alcoholic Beverage Control (ABC) license as well as evidence of server training.

7. The applicant shall provide the City with a map of the event no later than 7 days prior to each event date.

8. The applicant shall obtain the required permits and follow all regulations from the Sonoma County Environmental Health Department, and shall ensure each food vendor complies with Health Department requirements.

9. Applicant shall notify all neighboring businesses and residents of the event and street closures, no later than 14 days prior to each event date.

10. The applicant shall ensure that all vendors follow Cotati Municipal Code 8.20.030 (Prohibited food service ware and products), which bans the selling or serving of food ware that contains polystyrene foam or PFAS.

11. The applicant shall contact the Rancho Adobe Fire Protection District and comply with any permit requirements of the District.
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12. The applicant shall comply with all local, state, and federal laws regarding trash, recycling, and composting collection and sorting.

13. The organizer shall prominently feature the City of Cotati as an event sponsor on all advertising and marketing materials.
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Cotati City Council
Agenda Staff Report
Item type: CONSENT CALENDAR (ACTION)
To: City Council
Subject: CONSIDERATION AND ADOPTION OF RESOLUTION
APPROVING THE 2025 CITY OF COTATI HOLIDAY TREE

LIGHTING CEREMONY
Date: October 14, 2025
Written by: Ashley Wilson, Recreation Manager
Recommendation
It is recommended that the City Council adopt a resolution approving the 2025 City of Cotati Holiday Tree Lighting Event.

Background
The Annual Holiday Tree Lighting is an event that the City of Cotati sponsors each year, bringing the community to La Plaza Park to celebrate the holiday season. Continuing this year, staff intend to incorporate crafts and other goods that vendors can sell throughout the evening, as well as food vendors and trucks, live entertainment, and the sales of alcoholic beverages by the Cotati Chamber of Commerce.

Analysis/Discussion
Below is a summary of the event. The logistics, operation and participants are anticipated to be similar to the 2024 event. The request includes the following: 1) exclusive use of La Plaza Park; 2) closure of public streets, including parking spaces; 3) food truck and other vendor sales in the park; 4) the sale of alcoholic beverages by the Cotati Chamber of Commerce; 5) live, amplified entertainment as well as animals in the park.

Event Attendance Dates/Times

Holiday Tree Lighting 500-750 Friday, December 5th (4:00pm-8:00pm) California Vehicle Code Section 21101 (e) authorizes the temporary closing of any street for 47 of 120
celebrations, parades, local events and other purposes when, in the opinion of local authorities having jurisdiction, the closing is necessary for the safety and protection of persons who are to use that portion of the street during the temporary closing. In this instance, the public street would be heavily used for horse and carriage rides, vendor logistics, porta-potties, and equipment, so closure would be in the best interest of public safety. The Police Department will notify the appropriate public and emergency response agencies of the closures.

The Holiday Tree Lighting is a yearly event that brings many children and adults together. The event will begin at 4:00 pm with vendors selling items in the park. Participants will then enjoy multiple activities and events in La Plaza Park, including amplified live entertainment, horse and carriage rides, visits with Santa, and the lighting of the tree. Exclusive use of La Plaza Park, the Bandstand, and La Plaza from Old Redwood Highway to West Sierra Avenue, including parking spaces from 8:00am through 10:00pm to allow for set-up, breakdown, and clean-up, is requested.

To maximize the safety of those attending, the Police Department would need to temporarily close La Plaza Street from Old Redwood Highway to West Sierra Avenue from 12:00 pm through 10:00 pm.

A Condition of Approval has been included which requires the California Department of Alcohol and Beverage Control to approve the temporary permit to allow for the sale of alcohol to be supplied to the City before the event.

Financial Considerations
This event is widely marketed and has increased the number of visitors to the City. The increased visitation is evidenced at the event and local businesses. The event provides increased opportunities to promote economic development and increased sales tax revenue. Financial considerations for the City would be expenditure of about $14,968 in staff costs accommodated in the FY 25-26 budget. The staff costs are comprised of Recreation staff ($6,755) and Public Works staff ($8,213) and are broken out below.

Staff Time - 98 hours, estimated cost $14,724
• Recreation Staff prep work & day of event – 55 hours
• Install/Remove tree and lights in La Plaza Park – 41 hours • Install/Remove overhead banner at Old Redwood Highway – 2 hours Environmental Issues
This action is exempt from the California Environmental Quality Act (CEQA) because it is not a project which has a potential for resulting in either a direct physical change in the environment, or a reasonably foreseeable indirect physical change in the environment, pursuant to CEQA Guideline section 15378.
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RESOLUTION NO. (XX)
APPROVING 2025 HOLIDAY TREE LIGHTING EVENT
WHEREAS, the City of Cotati sponsors an annual Holiday Tree Lighting event, traditionally held in La Plaza Park; and
WHEREAS, California Vehicle Code Section 21101(e) authorizes temporary street closures where certain conditions exist; and
WHEREAS, it will be necessary to temporarily close certain streets, as described in this resolution and Exhibit “A,” to facilitate this event; and WHEREAS, the closure is necessary for the safety and protection of persons who are to use that portion or portions of the street(s) during the temporary closing; and WHEREAS, the Chief of Police of the City of Cotati will arrange for temporary street and lane closure and traffic re-routing, which would minimize the traffic hazard conditions and allow for orderly movement of traffic; and
WHEREAS, the Chief of Police will contact the Rancho Adobe Fire Protection District, ambulance service providers, bus service providers, and others who may need ingress, egress, or the ability to traverse the affected area and will reasonably provide for their needs; and WHEREAS, the City Council finds that this event is part of a comprehensive economic development strategy by the City of Cotati in that it increases visitation to the City, promotes the Cotati community and results in increased sales tax revenues; and WHEREAS, the City Council further finds that the health, safety, and welfare of the citizens of the City of Cotati will not be jeopardized by the approval of this event; and WHEREAS, it will be necessary to conform to certain conditions as described in “Exhibit A,” attached hereto, to facilitate this event; and WHEREAS, the event organizers have been conditioned to provide evidence of their serve alcohol responsibly and in conformance with all rules and regulations of the California Department of Alcoholic Beverage Control and conditioned to return the park and streets to their prior condition of cleanliness and repair as set forth in Exhibit “A” attached hereto; and WHEREAS, the action of approving a Holiday Tree Lighting event does not constitute a project as defined by California Environmental Quality Act Guidelines Section 15378; therefore, no further environmental review is required.

NOW THEREFORE BE IT RESOLVED, by the City Council of the City of Cotati as follows:

1. The above recitals are true and correct and are incorporated herein by reference. 49 of 120

2. The closure of La Plaza Park for use for the Holiday Tree Lighting on Friday, December 5, 2025, between 8:00 am and 10:00 pm is hereby approved, to include amplified music, vendor and food truck sales, alcohol sales, and other activities as described in the accompanying staff report.

3. The temporary closure of portions of La Plaza Street, between Old Redwood Highway and West Sierra Avenue on December 5, 2025, between the hours of 12:00pm and 10:00pm is hereby approved.

4. The use of staff time and City Funds for the Holiday Tree Lighting, as further described in the accompanying staff report, is hereby approved.

5. The Conditions of Approval, attached as Exhibit A to this resolution, are hereby approved.

IT IS HEREBY CERTIFIED that the foregoing resolution was duly adopted at a regular meeting of the City Council of the City of Cotati held on October 14, 2025, by the following vote, to wit:

Approved:___________________________
Mayor
Attest:______________________________
Kevin Patterson, City Clerk
Approved as to form:______________________________
City Attorney
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EXHIBIT “A”

CONDITIONS OF APPROVAL

HOLIDAY TREE LIGHTING

1. The City of Cotati shall ensure the public facilities (park, parking spaces and streets) are cleaned completely and returned to pre-event condition within 48 hours of the event.

2. The event shall be carried out as described in the written descriptions submitted by the applicant, approved by the City Council, and in compliance with these Conditions of Approval.

3. The City of Cotati is granted exclusive use of La Plaza Park, including closure of all public streets and parking spaces necessary to accommodate the event on Friday, December 5 th, 2025, from 8:00am to 10:00pm for the event. This approval includes amplified live entertainment, food and vendor sales, alcohol sales, and closure of La Plaza Street between Old Redwood Highway and West Sierra Avenue between 12:00pm-10:00pm.

4. The City of Cotati shall arrange for trash, recycling, and compost bins to be delivered and collected.

5. The applicant shall provide evidence of the proper Department of Alcoholic Beverage Control (ABC) license as well as evidence of server training.

6. The City of Cotati shall adhere to the following approved event area:
o La Plaza Park
o La Plaza from West Sierra Avenue to West Cotati Avenue & down West Cotati Avenue
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Cotati City Council
Agenda Staff Report
Item type: CONSENT CALENDAR (ACTION)
To: City Council
Subject: CONSIDERATION AND ADOPTION OF RESOLUTION
APPROVING THE CITY OF COTATI’S 2025 COTATI

CANDYLAND EVENT
Date: October 14, 2025
Written by: Ashley Wilson, Recreation Manager
Recommendation
It is recommended that the City Council adopt a resolution approving the City of Cotati’s 2025 Cotati Candyland Event.

Background
Cotati Candyland is an event that the City of Cotati sponsors each year, bringing the community to La Plaza Park and throughout the City to celebrate Halloween. This will be the City’s 6th year running this event. This year, staff intend to incorporate crafts and other goods that vendors can sell throughout the event, as well as food vendors and trucks, and carnival games.

Analysis/Discussion
Below is a summary of the event. The logistics, operation and participants are anticipated to be similar to the 2024 event. The request includes the following: 1) exclusive use of La Plaza Park; 2) closure of public parking spaces; 3) food truck and other vendor sales in the park; 4) live, amplified entertainment as well as animals in the park.

Event Attendance Dates/Times

Cotati Candyland 250-500 Friday, October 31 (2:00pm-5:00pm) California Vehicle Code Section 21101 (e) authorizes the temporary closing of any street for celebrations, parades, local events and other purposes when, in the opinion of local authorities 52 of 120
having jurisdiction, the closing is necessary for the safety and protection of persons who are to use that portion of the street during the temporary closing. In this instance, the public parking spaces would be heavily used for vendor logistics and equipment, so closure would be in the best interest of public safety. The streets will remain open so no emergency service agencies will need to be notified of road closures.

Cotati Candyland is a yearly event that brings many children and adults together. The event will begin at 2:00 pm with vendors and agencies handing out candy and other goodies in the park, carnival games hosted by Rancho Cotate High School students in the park, and vendors selling items in the park. Staff is requesting exclusive use of La Plaza Park, the Bandstand, and parking spaces on La Plaza between West Sierra Avenue and Old Redwood Highway from 11:00am through 7:00pm to allow for set-up, breakdown, and clean-up.

Financial Considerations
This event is widely marketed and has historically increased the number of visitors to the City.

The increased visitation is evidenced at the event and local businesses. The event provides increased opportunities to promote economic development and increased sales tax revenue.

Financial considerations for the City would be expenditure of about $5,828 in staff costs accommodated in the FY 25-26 budget. The staff costs are comprised of Recreation staff ($5,255) and Public Works staff ($573) and are broken out below.

Staff Time - 58 hours, estimated cost $5,828
 Recreation Staff prep work & day of event – 55 hours
 Install/Remove no parking signs in La Plaza Park – 3 hours Environmental Issues
This action is exempt from the California Environmental Quality Act (CEQA) because it is not a project which has a potential for resulting in either a direct physical change in the environment, or a reasonably foreseeable indirect physical change in the environment, pursuant to CEQA Guideline section 15378.
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RESOLUTION NO. (XX)
APPROVING CITY OF COTATI’S 2025 COTATI CANDYLAND EVENT
WHEREAS, the City of Cotati sponsors an annual Cotati Candyland Trick or Treat event, traditionally held in La Plaza Park; and
WHEREAS, California Vehicle Code Section 21101(e) authorizes temporary street closures where certain conditions exist; and
WHEREAS, it will be necessary to temporarily close parts of certain streets, as described in this resolution and Exhibit “A,” to facilitate this event; and WHEREAS, the closure is necessary for the safety and protection of persons who are to use that portion or portions of the street(s) during the temporary closing; and WHEREAS, the City Council finds that this event is part of a comprehensive economic development strategy by the City of Cotati in that it increases visitation to the City, promotes the Cotati community and results in increased sales tax revenues; and WHEREAS, the City Council further finds that the health, safety, and welfare of the citizens of the City of Cotati will not be jeopardized by the approval of this event; and WHEREAS, it will be necessary to conform to certain conditions as described in “Exhibit A,” attached hereto, to facilitate this event; and WHEREAS, the event organizers have been conditioned to return the park and streets to their prior condition of cleanliness and repair as set forth in Exhibit “A” attached hereto; and WHEREAS, the action of approving a trick or treating event does not constitute a project as defined by California Environmental Quality Act Guidelines Section 15378, and therefore, no further environmental review is required.

NOW THEREFORE BE IT RESOLVED, by the City Council of the City of Cotati as follows:

1. The above recitals are true and correct and are incorporated herein by reference.

2. The closure of La Plaza Park for use for the Cotati Candyland Trick or Treat event on Friday, October 31, 2025, between 11:00 am and 7:00 pm is hereby approved, to include amplified music, vendor and food truck sales, and other activities as described in the accompanying staff report.

3. The temporary closure of parking spaces on La Plaza Street, between Old Redwood Highway and West Sierra Avenue on October 31, 2025, between the hours of 11:00am and 7:00pm is hereby approved.
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4. The use of staff time and City Funds for Cotati Candyland, as further described in the accompanying staff report, is hereby approved.

5. The Conditions of Approval, attached as Exhibit A to this resolution, are hereby approved
IT IS HEREBY CERTIFIED that the foregoing resolution was duly adopted at a regular meeting of the City Council of the City of Cotati held on October 14, 2025, by the following vote, to wit:

Approved:___________________________
Mayor
Attest:______________________________
Kevin Patterson, Deputy City Clerk
Approved as to form:______________________________
City Attorney
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EXHIBIT “A”

CONDITIONS OF APPROVAL

COTATI CANDYLAND

1. The City of Cotati shall ensure the public facilities (park, parking spaces and streets) are cleaned completely and returned to pre-event condition within 48 hours of the event.

2. The event shall be carried out as described in the written descriptions submitted by the applicant, approved by the City Council, and in compliance with these Conditions of Approval.

3. The City of Cotati is granted exclusive use of La Plaza Park, including closure of all public streets and parking spaces necessary to accommodate the event on Friday, October 31st, 2025, from 11:00am to 7:00pm for the event. This approval includes amplified live entertainment, food and vendor sales, and closure of parking spaces connected to La Plaza Park on La Plaza Street between Old Redwood Highway and West Sierra Avenue between 11:00am-7:00pm.

4. The City of Cotati shall arrange for trash, recycling, and compost bins to be delivered and collected.

5. The City of Cotati shall adhere to the following approved event area:
o La Plaza Park
o Parking spaces on La Plaza from West Sierra Avenue to Old Redwood Hwy 56 of 120
Cotati City Council
Agenda Staff Report
Item type: CONSENT CALENDAR (ACTION)
To: City Council
Subject: ADOPTION OF RESOLUTION APPROVING THE 2026

COTATI ACCORDION FESTIVAL AND ASSOCIATED SALE

OF ALCOHOLIC BEVERAGES, AMPLIFIED MUSIC, AND

TEMPORARY STREET CLOSURES
Date: October 14, 2025
Written by: Ashley Wilson, Recreation Manager
Recommendation
It is recommended that the City Council adopt a resolution approving the 2026 Accordion Festival including the sale of alcoholic beverages on public property, amplified music, and the temporary closure of certain public streets.

Background
The Annual Cotati Accordion Festival is proposed for Saturday, August 15th, and Sunday, August 16th of 2026. The event coordinators are requesting permission to use La Plaza Park, including the bandstand with electricity, and the right-of-way surrounding the park. The event and the request to utilize City facilities are the same as prior years, including a request for use of the City owned lot near the SMART station on East Cotati Ave. for parking. Additionally, the applicant has requested use of La Plaza Park on Thursday, Friday, August 14th for set up of the event.

Cotati Accordion Festival, Inc. has submitted a completed City of Cotati Request for Use of Park Facilities application along with sufficient descriptions of the event.

Analysis/Discussion
La Plaza Park, as well as La Plaza Street and West Sierra Avenue adjacent to the park, would be closed from 10:00 a.m. Friday, August 14th through 10:00 a.m. Monday, August 17th. The event hours would be 9:30 a.m. to 8:00 p.m. both days, with live music played 9:45 a.m. to 8:00 p.m. each day.
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The proposed traffic routing plan would be the same as that used over the past several years. La Plaza Street and West Sierra Avenue adjacent to the park would be closed and utilized for parking and event space. This traffic plan has reduced negative community impact by keeping Old Redwood Highway and East Cotati Avenue open throughout the event. The plan also allows for parking on William Street, Olof Street, Henry Street and La Plaza Avenue between East Cotati Avenue and Old Redwood Highway and affects only one bus stop. Additional parking will be available on a private lot on West Cotati Ave, which will be permitted through the Community Development Department.

As in recent years, the City has been installing “No Parking” signs in the bicycle lanes on West Sierra Avenue from La Plaza Avenue to East School Street. This also ensures that bicycle lanes remain open for their designated use.

The exhibits attached to the resolution describe the street closures and parking restrictions necessary to allow for the orderly movement of vehicle and pedestrian traffic during street closures. All parking restriction signage will be put in place by the City at least twenty-four (24) hours in advance.

A Condition of Approval has been included which requires proof of adequate insurance and an approved permit from the California Department of Alcohol and Beverage Control to allow for the sale of beer and wine to be supplied to the City before the event.

Financial Considerations
The fees approved by Council in 2024 were $2,737.50, which was after a 50% fee waiver and waived staff costs of $7,183. The fees and deposit approved by Council in 2025 were $3,041, which was after a 50% fee waiver and waived staff costs of $7,719.

Below shows the fees associated with the permit and requests submitted by the applicant in accordance with the City Master Fee Schedule, as of the 2025 fee schedule.

Application Fee – $54
Street Closure Fee – Large w/traffic rerouting – Old Redwood Hwy – $1,924 Street Closure Fee – Large w/traffic rerouting – West Sierra Ave – $1,924 Street Closure Fee – Small – La Plaza – $769
Park Permit Fee – $877
Parking Lot Permit Fee – $274
Restroom Cleaning Fee – $220
Total Fees: $6,042
In prior years, the City has collected the $500 refundable deposit in accordance with the City Master Fee Schedule but is recommending a larger deposit of $1500 moving forward. This is because the 2025 event caused irrigation damage to the park, which cost more than the deposit amount being held at the time. Given the logistics and length of the event, staff believe it is appropriate to collect a larger deposit.
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The applicant has requested the same waiver they received in 2025, which was a 50% waiver of all City fees and a full waiver of all staff costs for this event. The Special Events and Park Permit Policy allows for non-profit groups to request a 50% fee waiver for fees associated with their event when no admission fees are charged. Although this event does charge admission fees, the Council decided to approve a 50% waiver of permit fees in 2025. Given that the 2025 50% fee waiver was granted by the City Council, staff are proposing to also grant the 50% waiver for this year’s event. The event brings visitation to the City and has potential to support local businesses.

Staff spends an average of 40 hours each year processing the application and for labor associated with setting up and taking down the street closures and rerouting traffic. The adopted fees are intended, on average, to cover the costs of performing these activities, but it is important to also understand the true costs. The estimated staff costs are shown below, which are proposed to be completely waived.

Recreation Staff – 5 hours – $955
Public Works Staff – 36.5 hours – $6,971.50
Total Staff Costs – $7,926.50
The proposed fees to be collected would be a fee of $3,021 (50% of the total $6,042) and a $1500 refundable deposit to be collected and returned following the event if no unusual damage occurs or extra staff time is needed to return the park to its original state.

Additionally, the Cotati Accordion Festival is designated as a City-sponsored event, which allows them to be considered as one of the ten (10) community events designated to receive free trash/recycling/compost service in 2026, as permitted under the City’s waste franchise agreement with Recology. As a City Sponsored Event, it is expected that the organizer will prominently feature the City of Cotati as an event sponsor on all advertising and marketing materials.

The net impact to the City’s General Fund is reduced revenue of $3,021 and absorbing the estimated staff costs of $7,926.50, for an estimated total City contribution of $10,947.50, in addition to the donated trash/recycling/compost service.

Any event that requests City funding or fee waivers, above what is permitted under adopted policy, will be required to provide the City with event budgets and post-event actuals. Therefore, at the request of the City, the Accordion Festival event organizers provided the following budget for the event, based on 2024 actuals.
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Revenue Expenses
Ticket Sales $ 80,274 Executive Director $ 16,812
Beer & Wine $ 29,090 Admin/Office $ 30,705
T-Shirts & Merch Sales $ 17,334 T-Shirts & Merch Purchase $ 10,364 Program Ad Sales $ 4,445 Advertise/Printing $ 25,000
Vendor Booths $ 30,600 Rentals $ 15,323
Accordion Donations $ 1,855 Production (+permits, fees) $ 32,815 Cash Donations $ 26,533 Bands & Travel $ 37,625
Refunds in City Fees $ 1,436 Community Donations $ 22,074 Total $ 191,567 Total $ 190,718
Community donations have typically been to school affiliated groups that provide some level of volunteering for the Accordion Festival. For example, in 2024, the community donations benefited the following groups:

Community Donations (2024)
Rancho Cotate Music Dept. $ 6,250
Thomas Page Academy $ 5,000
Cotati/RP Education Foundation $ 5,000
Cotati/RP Nursery Co-Op $ 5,418
Karen Tynes Go Fund Me $ 236
Rotary $ 170
Total $ 22,074
Event organizers have expressed interest in donating to the Veronda Falletti Ranch in some capacity or perhaps supporting other events in La Plaza Park. However, these discussions are on-going and what, if anything, the Accordion Festival contributes will ultimately depend on how well the event does, which varies from year to year.

Environmental Issues
This action is exempt from the California Environmental Quality Act (CEQA) because it is not a project which has a potential for resulting in either a direct physical change in the environment, or a reasonably foreseeable indirect physical change in the environment, pursuant to CEQA Guideline section 15378.
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RESOLUTION NO. (XX)

A RESOLUTION OF THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF COTATI
APPROVING THE 2026 ANNUAL COTATI ACCORDION FESTIVAL AND

AUTHORIZING THE TEMPORARY CLOSURE OF CERTAIN STREETS, THE USE

OF AMPLIFIED LIVE ENTERTAINMENT AND THE SALES OF ALCOHOLIC

BEVERAGES IN LA PLAZA PARK
WHEREAS, the Cotati Accordion Festival submitted an application to the City for the Annual Cotati Accordion Festival scheduled for August 15th and 16th of 2026; and WHEREAS, California Vehicle Code Section 21101(e) authorizes temporary street closures if necessary for the safety and protection of persons who are to use that portion of the street during the temporary closing; and
WHEREAS, it will be necessary to temporarily close certain streets to facilitate these events, as described in the Exhibits attached herein, for the safety and protection of persons who are to use that portion or portions of the street(s) during the temporary closing; and WHEREAS, the Chief of Police of the City of Cotati shall arrange for temporary street closure and traffic rerouting, which will minimize the traffic hazard conditions and allow for orderly movement of traffic; and
WHEREAS, the Chief of Police shall contact the Rancho Adobe Fire Protection District, ambulance service providers, bus service providers, and others who may need ingress, egress, or the ability to traverse the affected area and will reasonably provide for their needs; and WHEREAS, the City Council finds that this event is part of a comprehensive community economic development strategy by the City of Cotati in that it increases visitation to the City, promotes the Cotati community and results in increased sales tax revenues; and WHEREAS, the existing Special Event and Park Policy, staff can provide non-profit events that do not charge admissions at 50% waiver of fees; and WHEREAS, the Accordion Festival is a non-profit but charges admission to attend, so is not eligible for the 50% waiver of fees under existing policy; and WHEREAS, in 2025, the City Council elected to provide a 50% waiver of fees for the Accordion Festival; and
WHEREAS, the City Council further finds that the health, safety, and welfare of the citizens of the City of Cotati will not be jeopardized by the approval of these events; and 61 of 120
WHEREAS, the event organizers have been conditioned to provide evidence of their ability to serve alcohol responsibly and in conformance with all rules and regulations of the California Department of Alcoholic Beverage Control and conditioned to return the park and streets to their prior condition of cleanliness and repair as set forth in Exhibit “A” attached hereto; and
WHEREAS, the action of approving an Annual Accordion Festival does not constitute a project as defined by California Environmental Quality Act Guidelines Section 15378; therefore, no further environmental review is required.

NOW THEREFORE BE IT RESOLVED, by the City Council of the City of Cotati as follows:

Section 1. Findings. The above recitals are declared to be true and correct and are incorporated herein as findings of the City Council.

Section 2. Approval of Conditions. The City Council hereby approves the conditions of approval for these events, attached as Exhibit A.

Section 3. Approval of Fee Waivers for Cotati Accordion Festival. The 50% fee waivers, as described in the accompanying Staff Report, is hereby approved to facilitate these events.

Section 4. Effective Date of this Resolution. This Resolution shall become effective immediately.

Section 5. Severability. Each portion of this resolution is severable. Should any portion of this resolution be adjudged to be invalid and unenforceable by a body of competent jurisdiction, then the remaining resolution portions shall be and continue in full force and effect, except as to those resolution portions that have been adjudged invalid. The City Council of the City of Cotati hereby declares that it would have adopted this resolution and each section, subsection, clause, sentence, phrase and other portion thereof, irrespective of the fact that one or more section, subsection, clause, sentence, phrase or other portion may be held invalid or unconstitutional.

IT IS HEREBY CERTIFIED that the foregoing resolution was duly adopted at a regular meeting of the City Council of the City of Cotati held on October 14, 2025, by the following vote, to wit:

Approved:___________________________
Mayor
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Attest:______________________________
Kevin Patterson, Deputy City Clerk
Approved as to form:______________________________
City Attorney
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EXHIBIT A

CONDITIONS OF APPROVAL

1. The applicant is granted exclusive use of La Plaza Park including closing La Plaza Street and West Sierra Avenue adjacent to the park for the event from Friday, August 14th, 2026 at 10:00 a.m. through Monday, August 17th, 2026, at 10:00 a.m. for the event scheduled from 9:30 a.m. to 8:00 p.m. on Saturday and Sunday. This approval includes live amplified entertainment from 9:45 a.m. to 8:00 p.m. on Saturday and Sunday.

2. The applicant shall apply for a permit from the Fire District at least ten (10) days prior to the event for the assembly tents.

3. The applicant shall obtain a Daily License from the Department of Alcoholic Beverage Control (ABC) for each event day. The City authorizes the sale and consumption of beer and wine in accordance with applicable law.

4. The applicant shall require that all vendors correctly pay the 10.25% sales tax. Of this total tax rate, 1% of the sales and use tax shall be allocated to the City of Cotati for any sales within the City of Cotati.

5. The applicant shall obtain the required permits and follow all regulations from the Sonoma County Environmental Health Department, and shall ensure each food vendor complies with Health Department requirements.

6. The applicant shall ensure that all vendors follow Cotati Municipal Code 8.20.030 (Prohibited food service ware and products), which bans the selling or serving of food ware that contains polystyrene foam or PFAS.

7. The applicant shall obtain a limited term permit for all offsite activities, including parking, from the City of Cotati Community Development Department no later than sixty (60) days prior to the start of the event.

8. The applicant shall ensure the public facilities (park, parking spaces, restrooms, and streets) are cleaned completely and returned to pre-event condition prior to reopening the streets. This includes the removal of any chalk or tape used to mark vendor spaces. Spray paint and drilling of holes in any concrete or asphalt roadway or sidewalk area is strictly prohibited.

9. The event shall be carried out as described in the written descriptions submitted by the applicant and in compliance with these Conditions of Approval.

10. The applicant shall be responsible for ensuring trash, recycling, and compost bins, portable toilets, and handwashing stations are delivered and collected.

11. The Police Department shall notify the appropriate agencies of street closures per California Vehicle Code Section 21101(e). This Section authorizes the temporary closing of any street for celebrations, parades, local events, and other purposes when, in the opinion of local authorities having jurisdiction, closing is necessary for the safety and protection of persons who are to use that portion of the street during the temporary closing.

12. Applicant shall provide the City with proof of insurance for all events and vendors, as required, to the satisfaction of the City, no less than thirty (30) days prior to each event.

13. Applicant shall notify all neighboring businesses and residents of the event and street closures, no later than fourteen (14) days prior to the event. 64 of 120

14. The organizer shall prominently feature the City of Cotati as an event sponsor on all advertising and marketing materials.

15. Not later than fifteen (15) days following the event, the permittee shall file a verified statement, on a form prescribed by the city manager, setting forth the total gross receipts from the event, and all expenses incurred and paid in connection with the event.

16. Public Works shall be responsible for street closures, as listed below. The applicant shall be responsible for providing the barricades and delineators:
a. The following streets will be closed Friday, August 14, 2026, 10:00 a.m., through Monday, August 17, 2026, 10:00 a.m.:
• West Sierra Avenue between Old Redwood Highway and La Plaza • West Cotati Avenue from William/Olof Streets to La Plaza • La Plaza – from Old Redwood Highway to West Cotati Avenue • La Plaza – from West Cotati Avenue to West Sierra Avenue b. The following traffic lanes will be closed to through traffic between Friday, August 14, 2026, 10:00 a.m., through Monday, August 17, 2026, 10:00 a.m.:
• No. 2 Westbound Lane of East Cotati Avenue at the intersection of Old Redwood Highway
• No. 1, left turn lane, of Old Redwood Highway onto West Sierra Avenue
• Left turn lane on Old Redwood Highway, Northbound at La Plaza North
c. The following streets may be designated “No Parking” to ease congestion on the detour routes:
• La Plaza – from West Sierra Avenue to Old Redwood Highway (South side of the roadway)
• La Plaza – the first eight parking spaces running north from West Sierra Avenue to be blocked off on Thursday evening
• West Cotati Avenue – from Olof Street to La Plaza (South side of the roadway)
• West Sierra Avenue – from La Plaza to East School Street d. The following street will be designated for ADA accessible parking:
• West Cotati Avenue (midblock) to La Plaza (North side of the roadway)
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Cotati City Council
Agenda Staff Report
Item type: PUBLIC HEARINGS (ACTION)
To: City Council
Subject: CONSIDERATION, INTRODUCTION AND FIRST READING

OF DRAFT ORDINANCE UPDATING THE RULES OF

CONDUCT FOR PARKS AND OTHER PUBLIC AREAS AND

ADDING PERMIT PROCEDURES BY AMENDING CHAPTERS

4.04 (FEES FOR USE OF FACILITIES), 7.12 (LICENSING AND
KEEPING OF DOGS AND CATS), 7.24 (ANIMAL
RESTRICTIONS), 7.28 (DOGS IN PARKS DURING
FESTIVALS), 9.33 (PUBLIC URINATION, DEFECATION AND
EXPOSURE), 9.36 (CONDUCT IN PARKS, PLAZAS, STREETS
AND SIDEWALKS AND OTHER PLACES) AND 9.40
(OBSTRUCTING STREETS AND SIDEWALKS) OF THE

COTATI MUNICIPAL CODE
Date: October 14, 2025
Written by: Damien O'Bid, City Manager
Recommendation
It is recommended that the City Council introduce and conduct the first reading of a draft ordinance adding permit procedures and updating the rules of conduct in the City parks and other public areas by amending Cotati Municipal Code (CMC) Chapters 4.04 (Fees for Use of Facilities), 7.12 (Licensing and Keeping of Dogs and Cats), 7.24 (Animal Restrictions), 7.28 (Dogs in Parks During Festivals), 9.33 (Public Urination, Defecation and Exposure), 9.36 (Conduct in Parks, Plazas, Streets and Sidewalks and Other Places) and 9.40 (Obstructing Streets and Sidewalks).

Background
Like all cities, the City of Cotati (City) has a variety of rules regarding conduct in public spaces, including parks. Generally, these are intended to reduce nuisances and disturbances in public areas, including in urban parks that are shared by the general public.

Today, many of the parks have inconsistent signage, sometimes with references to code sections 74 of 120
that no longer exist. Therefore, the primary goal of this code update is to ensure that the rules are clear and enforceable and function for the benefit of all park users as well as the adjacent neighbors. This will then enable a new set of park signage, using the wayfinding sign standards.

Analysis/Discussion
Most City parks are currently signed with a park rules sign, typically at or near the primary entrance to the park. The park rules on these signs have been updated throughout the years and span a variety of City municipal code chapters. As a result, the park rules signs were only completely accurate at the time of installation. Today, many of these signs have outdated references to code sections and the listed rules are often inconsistent between parks. The net result of this is confusion of the public and the inability of the City to effectively enforce violations of the rules to reduce nuisance issues.

To understand the current state of the park signage, the staff audited all park signs throughout the City. This was then put into a matrix, which is attached to this staff report. Each listed park rule was added as a column and the name of the park on each row. Below the heading on each column is the listed municipal code section and a color code to indicate if the municipal code section still exists (green) or if it no longer exists or was replaced (red). The first column indicates if the park sign was fabricated in accordance with the new wayfinding signage standard (Yes - green) or not (No - red). The ”X” in the matrix indicates which rule was listed at which park.

Using the matrix as a guide, staff pulled all of the referenced municipal code sections to verify the language or propose edits, as needed. The proposed edits for each municipal code chapter are indicated in redline/strikeout and attached to this staff report. The following is a summary of the proposed edits, by Chapter:

Chapter 4.04 (Fees for Use of City Facilities)
The proposed changes in this chapter adds a definition of a City Facility, adds clarity on the process for events in the street and when an encroachment permit is needed and generally removes many details by pointing to the separately adopted Park Policy. This avoids the potential for conflicting requirements and puts most of the functional rules in the more easily updateable Park Policy. Finally, this adds the requirement for budgets for events that request fee elimination or waivers beyond what is allowed under the adopted policy. This adds to the existing requirement to require actuals of revenue and expenses within 15 days following an event with waived or reduced fees.

Chapter 7.12 (Licensing and Keeping of Dogs and Cats)
The proposed changes in this chapter move the leash restraint provisions to consolidate them with similar provisions in Chapter 7.24 (Animal Restrictions). There are also minor cleanup edits related to the recent switch to license dogs in DocuPet.

Chapter 7.16 (Sale of Animals)
No changes are proposed in this Chapter.
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Chapter 7.24 (Animal Restrictions)
The proposed changes in this chapter clarity the leash law in all public spaces, including parks.

All dogs would be required to be on 6-foot leash in any public space, unless that space is specifically signed by the City to allow dogs off leash (i.e. dog parks). Additionally, the proposed edits include a prohibition of dogs in any ”special use sports facility”, such as basketball courts, tennis courts, volleyball courts, baseball fields, etc. that are posted as such by the City. This section also incorporates provisions from Chapter 7.12 regarding control of animals, eliminates the provision that prohibits animals in La Plaza Park and adds a general section for violations.

Chapter 7.28 (Dogs in Parks During Festivals)
The proposal is to eliminate this chapter completely. Dogs are generally at most festivals today, so the current ordinance is not enforceable. Removal of this chapter would allow rules related to dogs to revert to Chapter 7.24 that generally require leashing of dogs on a 6-foot leash, as well as control of the dog by the owner/handler.

Chapter 8.12 (Rubbish and Debris)
No changes are proposed in this Chapter.

Chapter 9.33 (Public Urination, Defecation and Exposure) Currently, this chapter only prohibits urination, defecation and public exposure for people over 10 years old. The proposed changes eliminate the age distinction and removes redundant language in the public exposure section.

Chapter 9.36 (Conduct in Parks, Plazas, Streets and Sidewalks and Other Places) The proposed changes in this chapter would set park open hours from sunrise to sunset, unless permission is granted through a City permit. For noise, it would eliminate the prohibition on drums during certain days and hours, clarify that any amplified sound is not permitted without a permit. The proposed changes also include the addition of a Section 9.36.130, which sets forth the procedures for obtaining such a permit.

Chapter 9.40 (Obstructing Streets and Sidewalks)
The proposed changes in this chapter simply clarify that there are instances, such as events or construction encroachments, when streets or sidewalks may be temporarily closed.

Chapter 9.41 (Curfew)
No changes are proposed in this Chapter.

Financial Considerations
If the recommended edits, or some variation, are adopted by the City Council, the next step will be to fabricate and install new signage at City parks. At this time, staff does not have a construction estimate for the cost of this work, but once the changes are finalized, staff will return to the City Council with an actual cost and installation plan. While there is not an estimate, it is expected to be no more than $50,000.
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Environmental Issues
Where it can be determined with certainty that there is no possibility that the activity in question may have a significant effect on the environment, the activity is not subject to CEQA review.

This general rule can be applied to activities which could be subject to the CEQA process, but which logic dictates should not be subject to CEQA review. Therefore, based on the information provided above, the proposed resolution is exempt from CEQA pursuant to Section 14.03.021 of the CEQA Guidelines in that there is no possibility that the activity may have a significant impact on the environment.
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New Park Sign
(per sign program)?Dogs must be restrained by leashDogs must be restrained by leashDogs must be on leashHelp Keep this area clean by removing your pet's wasteClean Up After DogsHelp keep this area clean by removing your pet's wasteHorses not allowedDogs prohibited (except service dogs)Animals prohibited during festivals (except service dogs)Litter ProhibitedNo LitteringMotorized vehicles prohibitedPermit Required for Group EventsPublic Urination / Exposure ProhibitedOvernight camping prohibitedAlcoholic Beverages Prohibited (Except with City Permit)Drums restricted to 1 pm to 4 pm, Wed, Sat, Sun.Amplifiedsound prohibited without permit from CityLoitering by juveniles prohibited (curfew 11 pm to 6 am)Loitering by juveniles prohibited (curfew 11 pm to daylight)No overnight parking in this lotRestrooms Open Daily Dawn to DuskWayfinding/History KioskInterpretive SignDirectional BollardsDirectional Signage

7.24.080 7.24.020 7.12.060 7.24.060 7.12.070 - 7.16.010 7.24.030 7.24.030 8.12.010 9.36.030[E] CVC 23127 4.04.020 9.33.010 9.36.060 9.36.100 9.36.110 9.36.110 9.41.010[a] 9.40.033 - - - - - - Delano Park Yes X X X X
Draper Park Yes X X
Falletti Park No X X X X X X X X X X X
Kotate Park No X X X X X X X X X X X X X X X
La Plaza Park No X X X X X X X X X X
Pocket Park Yes X X X X X X X
Putnam Park No X X X X X X X X X X X X
Santero Park No X X X X X X X X
Sunflower Park No X X X X
Veterans Park No X X X
Posted Rules by Park
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ORDINANCE NO.

UPDATING THE RULES OF CONDUCT IN PARKS AND OTHER PUBLIC AREAS WHEREAS, the City of Cotati has adopted a variety of rules of conduct for parks and other public areas over many years, as codified in various chapters of the municipal code; and WHEREAS, the rules of conduct for parks are generally posted at the primary entry to the City parks, many of which are outdated and need to be revisited with the updated facilities in the parks; and
WHEREAS, the City has created a uniform signage program, generally known as the wayfinding signage program and the City Council intended to extend this signage type into all public spaces, including City parks; and
WHEREAS, City staff reviewed the existing signage in all City parks and used this existing baseline to develop proposed changes to the municipal code to provide consistency in the rules, allowing the City to better address nuisance issues in City parks; and WHEREAS, where it can be determined with certainty that there is no possibility that the activity in question may have a significant effect on the environment, the activity is not subject to CEQA review. This general rule can be applied to activities which could be subject to the CEQA process, but which logic dictates should not be subject to CEQA review. Therefore, based on the information provided above, the proposed ordinance is exempt from CEQA pursuant to Section 14.03.021 of the CEQA Guidelines in that there is no possibility that the activity may have a significant impact on the environment.

NOW THEREFORE THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF COTATI DOES ORDAIN AS FOLLOWS:

SECTION 1: Recitals.

The foregoing recitals are true and correct and are incorporated into the findings herein.

SECTION 2: Amendment to the Cotati Municipal Code.

1. Chapter 4.04 (Fees for Use of City Facilities) is hereby amended as indicated in Exhibit A, attached to this ordinance.

2. Chapter 7.12 (Licensing and Keeping of Dogs and Cats) is hereby amended as indicated in Exhibit B, attached to this ordinance.

3. Chapter 7.24 (Animal Restrictions) is hereby amended as indicated in Exhibit C, attached to this ordinance.

4. Chapter 7.28 (Dogs in Parks During Festivals) is hereby amended as indicated in Exhibit D, attached to this ordinance.

5. Chapter 9.33 (Public Urination, Defecation and Exposure) is hereby amended as indicated in Exhibit E, attached to this ordinance.

6. Chapter 9.36 (Conduct in Parks, Plazas, Streets and Sidewalks and Other Places) is hereby amended as indicated in Exhibit F, attached to this ordinance. 79 of 120

7. Chapter 9.40 (Obstructing Streets and Sidewalks) is hereby amended as indicated in Exhibit G, attached to this ordinance.

SECTION 3: Compliance with the California Environmental Quality Act.

Where it can be determined with certainty that there is no possibility that the activity in question may have a significant effect on the environment, the activity is not subject to CEQA review.

This general rule can be applied to activities which could be subject to the CEQA process, but which logic dictates should not be subject to CEQA review. Therefore, based on the information provided above, the proposed ordinance is exempt from CEQA pursuant to Section 14.03.021 of the CEQA Guidelines in that there is no possibility that the activity may have a significant impact on the environment.

SECTION 4: Construction and Severability.

It is the intent of the City Council of the City of Cotati to supplement applicable state and federal law and not to duplicate or contradict such law, and this ordinance shall be construed consistently with that intent. If any section, subsection, subdivision, paragraph, sentence, clause or phrase of this ordinance, or its application to any person or circumstance, is for any reason held to be invalid or unenforceable, such invalidity or unenforceability shall not affect the validity or enforceability of the remaining sections, subsections, subdivisions, paragraphs, sentences, clauses or phrases of this ordinance, or its application to any other person or circumstance. The City Council of the City of Cotati hereby declares that it would have adopted each section, subsection, subdivision, paragraph, sentence, clause or phrase hereof, irrespective of the fact that any one or more other sections, subsections, subdivisions, paragraphs, sentences, clauses or phrases hereof be declared invalid or unenforceable.

SECTION 5: Effective Date.

This ordinance shall take effect thirty (30) days after its adoption, pursuant to the California Government Code.

SECTION 6: Publication.

The City Clerk shall cause this ordinance to be published and/or posted as required in Section 36933 of the California Government Code.

IT IS HEREBY CERTIFIED that the foregoing ordinance was introduced at a regular meeting of the City Council of the City of Cotati held on October 14, 2025, by the following vote, to wit:

RESULT:

MOVER:

SECONDER:

AYES:

IT IS HEREBY CERTIFIED that the foregoing ordinance was duly adopted at a regular meeting of the City Council of the City of Cotati held on October 28, 2025, by the following vote, to wit:
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RESULT:

MOVER:

SECONDER:

AYES:

Approved:___________________________
Mayor
Attest:______________________________
Kevin Patterson, Deputy City Clerk
Approved as to form:
______________________________
City Attorney
This document is a true and correct copy of Ordinance Number ### and has been published or posted pursuant to law. California Government Code § 40806
______________________________
Kevin Patterson, Deputy City Clerk
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Cotati Municipal Code
Chapter 4.04 FEES FOR USE OF CITY FACILITIES

The Cotati Municipal Code is current through Ordinance 932, passed January 14, 2025.

Chapter 4.04
FEES FOR USE OF CITY FACILITIES1
Sections:

4.04.010 Definitions.

4.04.020 Permits for parks.

4.04.030 Permits for city hall and other city facilities.

4.04.040 Reduced fee or no-fee use of city facilities.

4.04.050 Special facilities and extra services.

4.04.060 Refund of fees.

4.04.070 Changes in reservation time.

4.04.080 Payment of fees in advance.

4.04.090 Billing for actual costs.

4.04.100 Fees may be waived if percentage of proceeds paid.

4.04.110 Power to revoke permit and cancel contract.

4.04.120 Covenant to indemnify the city.

4.04.130 Workers’ compensation insurance.

4.04.140 Right to enter.

4.04.150 Rules, regulations and forms.

4.04.010 Definitions.

Unless the particular provisions or the context otherwise requires, the definitions and provisions contained in this section shall govern the construction, meaning, and application of words and phrases used in this chapter.

A. “Amplified sound” means music or speech projected or transmitted by artificial means, including but not limited to amplifiers, loudspeakers, or any similar devices.

B. “Billboard” means the billboard located at the Plaza Park of the city.

C. “Bandstand” means the bandstand located at the Plaza Park of the city.

D. “City Facilities” means city buildings or spaces available for rent.

ED. “City hall” means the building, or any portions thereof, located at 201 West Sierra Avenue, Cotati, California, and in which is housed the city’s administrative office.

FE. “Department” means the recreation and parks department of the city.

GF. “Director” means the director of the recreation and parks department, or equivalent.

HG. “Park” means any public park, plaza or recreation or playground area, or building or facility thereon, within the city, owned and maintained by the city as a public park, or recreation or playground area, whether or not such areas have been formally dedicated to such purpose.

IH. “Permit” means the written permission issued to, or contract entered into with an applicant by an official of the city in accordance with the provisions of this chapter, and any amendment or supplement to such permit or contract.

JI. “Permittee” means the person who shall have been granted permission to use a city facility or park.

KJ. “Person” means and includes, except where the context requires a different meaning, an individual, a copartnership, joint adventurers, a firm, an unincorporated association, a syndicate, a club, a society, a trust, and all private or political or charitable or social organizations doing business or existing under and by virtue of any law, as a corporation or otherwise.
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Cotati Municipal Code
Chapter 4.04 FEES FOR USE OF CITY FACILITIES

The Cotati Municipal Code is current through Ordinance 932, passed January 14, 2025.

LK. “Pollution” means the contamination or other alteration of the physical, chemical or biological properties of park waters.

ML. “Vehicle” means and includes any wheeled device or conveyance, whether propelled by motor, animal, or human power. The term shall include any trailer in tow of any kind, size or description. Exception is made for baby carriages and vehicles in the service of the city. (Ord. 338 § 1(part), 1982).

4.04.020 Permits for parks.

A. No person in a park shall conduct, operate, present, manage or take part in any of the following activities unless a permit is obtained prior to the start of the activity:

1. Any picnic, outing or gathering sponsored by any person and composed of more than (20) twenty or more persons;

2. Any exhibit, dramatic performance, play, motion picture, radio or television broadcast, fair, circus, musical event, or any similar event which has been or intends to be announced, promoted or advertised in or by any media source, including but not limited to any newspaper, radio, television, magazine, pamphlets, brochures, posters or handbills;

3. Any public meeting, assembly or parade, including but not limited to drills, maneuvers, ceremonies, addresses, speeches or political meetings at which it is reasonably anticipated that more than (20) twenty or more persons will be present or in attendance;

4. Any use of any park facility by a certain person or group of persons to the exclusion of others.

B. Standards for Issuance of Permit.

1. The city manager, or designee, shall issue a permit unless s/he finds:
a. That the proposed activity or use of the park will unreasonably interfere with or detract from the general public use and enjoyment of the park; or
b. That the proposed activity or use of the park will unreasonably interfere with or detract from the public health, safety or welfare; or
c. That the conduct of the proposed activity or use is reasonably likely to result in violence to persons or property resulting in serious harm to the public; or
d. That the proposed activity or use will entail an extraordinary expense or operation by the city; or e. That the facilities desired have been reserved for another activity or use on the day and hour(s) requested in the application.

2. The city manager, or designee, may impose reasonable conditions or restrictions on the granting of a permit, including, but not limited to, any of the following:
a. A requirement that the applicant furnish or pay for applicable insurance, providing the city a certificate of insurance showing the city as a named insured or paying to the city the amounts necessary for the city to obtain necessary insurance coverage;
b. Restrictions on fires, fireworks, amplified sound, dancing, sports, use of animals, equipment or vehicles, the number of persons to be present, the location of any bandstand or stage, or any other use which appears likely to create a risk of unreasonable harm to the use and enjoyment of the park by others, or of damage to park property;
c. A requirement that the applicant post a reasonable security deposit for the repair of any damage to park property, or the cost of cleanup, or both;
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Cotati Municipal Code
Chapter 4.04 FEES FOR USE OF CITY FACILITIES

The Cotati Municipal Code is current through Ordinance 932, passed January 14, 2025. d. A requirement that the applicant pay a reasonable fee to defray the cost of furnishing adequate security forces by the city at the proposed use or activity;
e. A requirement that the applicant pay any required business license tax or other required fees; f. A requirement that the permittee furnish additional sanitary and refuse facilities that might be reasonably necessary, based on the use or activity for which the permit is being sought. g. Any restrictions, rules or policies adopted by the City Council.

3. Permits shall not be transferable without the written consent of the city manager, or designee.

4. Within ten business days after receipt of an application for a permit, submitted on forms approved by the city manager, the city manager shall apprise the applicant in writing of his/her reasons for refusing a permit, or of any conditions attached to the issuance of a permit, and aIf the City Manager, or designee, refuses to issue a permit, any aggrieved person shall have the right to appeal in writing within five days to the city council, which shall consider the standards set forth herein and sustain or overrule the city manager’s decision at the next available regular city council meeting next following the city clerk’s receipt of the written appeal.

5. A permittee shall be bound by all park rules and regulations, and all applicable ordinances, fully as though the same were inserted in his/her permit.

6. All applications for permits for the use of parks or the facilities located thereon shall also be reviewed and approved by the director. (Ord. 342 § 1, 1982; Ord. 338 § 1(part), 1982).

4.04.030 Permits for city hall and other city facilities.

A. No person may use the city hall, billboard, or city streetscity facilities without first having applied for and obtained a permit therefor from the city manager or designee.

B. Applications for the use of city streets for special events or neighborhood gatherings shall be submitted to the director, and must be approved reviewed by the chief of police and the general services directorDirector of Public Works prior to approval. Any use of city streets that include modifications, construction, or similar changes of a non-temporary nature must apply for an encroachment permit, in accordance with Chapter 11.01 (Encroachments within Public Rights of Way). Any use of the city hall involving the moving of city equipment, attachment to or penetration of any wall, floor or ceiling surface shall require approval by the general services director.

C. The city manager, or designee, may impose reasonable conditions or restrictions on the granting of a permit, including but not limited to any of the following:

1. A requirement that the applicant furnish or pay for applicable insurance, providing the city a certificate of insurance showing the city as a named insured, or paying to the city the amounts necessary for the city to obtain necessary insurance;

2. Restrictions on amplified sound, dancing, sports, use of animals, equipment or vehicles, the number of persons to be present, the location of any bandstand or stage, or any other use which appears likely to create a risk of interference with the normal operations of the facility by city personnel;

3. A requirement that the applicant post a reasonable security deposit for the repair of any damage to city property, or the cost of cleanup, or both;

4. A requirement that the applicant pay a reasonable fee to defray the cost of furnishing adequate security forces by the city at the proposed use or activity;

5. A requirement that the applicant pay any required business license tax or other required fees;

6. A requirement that the permittee furnish additional sanitary and refuse facilities that might be reasonably necessary, based on the use or activity for which the permit is being sought. 84 of 120
Cotati Municipal Code
Chapter 4.04 FEES FOR USE OF CITY FACILITIES

The Cotati Municipal Code is current through Ordinance 932, passed January 14, 2025.

7. Any restrictions, rules or policies adopted by the City Council.

D. Permits shall not be transferable without the written consent of the city manager, or designee.

E. Within ten business days after receipt of an application for a permit, submitted on forms approved by the city manager, the city manager shall apprise the applicant in writing of his/her reasons for refusing a permit, or of any conditions attached to the issuance of a permit, and If the City Manager, or designee, refuses to issue a permit, any aggrieved person shall have the right to appeal in writing within five days to the city council, which shall consider the standards set forth herein and sustain or overrule the city manager’s decision at the regular city council meeting next following the city clerk’s receipt of the written appeal. (Ord. 342 § 2, 1982; Ord. 338 § 1(part), 1982).

4.04.040 Reduced fee or no-fee use of city facilities and parks.

A. The city manager, or designee, may grant permission to use any of the city’s facilities or parks free, or for a fee less than would otherwise apply under the following circumstances, and subject to thein accordance with the restrictions, rules, policies and fee schedules adopted by the City Council.following conditions:

1. Such must be for a purpose which, in the judgment of the city manager, is a charitable, cultural, civic or governmental purpose, is of city-wide interest and scope, and is open to the general public;

2. The applicant must not be organized or operated for profit;

3. If an admission fee is to be charged or a collection is to be taken, the applicant shall state on the application the purposes for which the proceeds for the event will be used.

B. Permittee shall include an event budget with the permit application and request for special fee waivers on a form prescribed by the city manager. Not later than fifteen days following the event, the permittee shall file a verified statement, on a form prescribed by the city manager, setting forth the total gross receipts from the event, and all expenses incurred and paid in connection with the event. Such statement shall be a condition precedent to the granting of any subsequent permits to use city facilities or parks.

C. In no event shall the applicant not be required to provide or obtain:

1. Payment for required insurance; or

2. A certificate to the city manager, or designee, showing such insurance has been obtained. (Ord. 338 § 1(part), 1982).

4.04.050 Special facilities and extra services.

The city manager, or designee, may make such additional charges as s/he deems reasonable:

A. For the use of any city public-address system;
B. For any additional equipment supplied by the city necessary to the permittee’s use of city facilities; C. For supervising any installation required for the purpose of effecting the permittee’s use; D. For changes in the standard arrangement of city facilities, including special seating arrangements; E. For additional gas, electricity, water, steam connections and special mechanical or electrical connections; F. For custodial work beyond the unusual normally scheduled hourscleanings; G. For the erection of platform and stands other than those usually furnished; and H. For any other special facilities and extra services which are furnished by the city or additional staff time beyond the process of permitting the event or standard preparation of the facilities. (Ord. 338 § 1(part), 1982). 85 of 120
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Chapter 4.04 FEES FOR USE OF CITY FACILITIES

The Cotati Municipal Code is current through Ordinance 932, passed January 14, 2025.

4.04.060 Refund of fees.

A. Refunds of fee payments and such other moneys required by this chapter may be made upon written application of the permittee, in accordance with the restrictions, rules, policies and fee schedules adopted by the City Council. where:

1. The permittee gives written notice of cancellation of the approved use to the city manager at least seventy-two hours in advance of such use; or

2. The scheduled use is cancelled by the city manager as authorized by this chapter, or at the request of the city manager and with the consent of the permittee; or

3. The actual cost to the city in providing for the service or work for which the fee was paid was less than the fee paid.

B. In no event shall moneys paid for by the permittee to the city for purposes of purchasing required insurance be required to be refunded if such moneys have been spent for such purpose by the time cancellation occurs.

C. In no event shall any fees paid hereunder be refunded if the permit is revoked or the contract permitting the use is cancelled because the permittee violated the terms of the permit or contract, or other terms of this chapter, or other law pertaining to the use of city facilities. (Ord. 338 § 1(part), 1982).

4.04.070 Changes in reservation time.

A. Change in reservation time for any use may be made in accordance with the restrictions, rules, and policies adopted by the City Council. approved by the city manager; provided, however, that written request for such change is made by the permittee to the city manager at least forty-eight hours in advance of the time stipulated on the agreement between the permittee and the city for the commencement of the agreed-upon use.

B. The city manager, upon seven days’ notice, may change a reserved time or cancel a use if such use or time conflicts with use of a city facility for city business or city purposes. (Ord. 338 § 1(part), 1982).

4.04.080 Payment of fees in advance.

Payment of all fees shall be in accordance with the restrictions, rules, policies and fee schedules adopted by the City Council.required by the city manager and authorized hereunder must be made prior to any permit or contract being granted or executed by the city by which the use applied for by permittee is permitted. (Ord. 338 § 1(part), 1982).

4.04.090 Billing for actual costs.

If the fFees paid by the permittee in connection with (1) executing a contract with the city, or (2) being granted a permit to use a city facilitythat do not pay forcover the actual expenses of the city incurred in connection with the performance of the permitted use shall be recovered by the City in accordance with the restrictions, rules, policies and fee schedules adopted by the City Council., the permittee is liable for such unpaid balance, and will be billed by the city therefor after the conclusion of the permitted use. (Ord. 338 § 1(part), 1982).

4.04.100 Fees may be waived if percentage of proceeds paid.

The city manager, or designee, is authorized to waive certain fees in accordance with the restrictions, rules, policies and fee schedules adopted by the City Council. classify any use of city facilities for the purpose of determining the appropriate fees to be imposed, including, but not limited to requiring certain users to pay to the city a percentage of any proceeds obtained by the user in connection with her/his use of city facilities. In the event such percentage is so collected, other fees may be waived by the city manager; provided, however, appropriate insurance requirements provided in this chapter shall in no case be waived. (Ord. 338 § 1(part), 1982).

4.04.110 Power to revoke permit and cancel contract.

The city manager, or designee, shall have the authority to revoke a permit or cancel any contract entered into hereunder upon finding of violation of any rule or ordinance, or upon the violation of any condition or restriction under which the permit was issued. (Ord. 338 § 1(part), 1982). 86 of 120
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Chapter 4.04 FEES FOR USE OF CITY FACILITIES

The Cotati Municipal Code is current through Ordinance 932, passed January 14, 2025.

4.04.120 Covenant to indemnify the city.

A. By his/her entering into any contract permitting his/her use of any city facility, and/or by accepting the permission granted to use any city facility, every permittee or person shall be deemed to covenant and agree to relieve and discharge the city and the officers and employees of the city from any and all liability for loss and/or injury and/or damages to any person and/or property that may be sustained by reason of the occupancy and/or use of the facilities of the city, and to save them free and harmless therefrom; and every such person or permittee shall be deemed to covenant and agree to pay for any and all damage to such facility, and damage to or loss of any other city property resulting either directly or indirectly from such occupancy and/or use of the facilities by or through the negligence and/or other acts of the permittee, his/her agents and employees, or any person or persons participating in or attending the performance, attraction, event or affair in connection with or during such use and occupancy.

B. Such permittee or person shall indemnify, hold harmless, and defend the city of Cotati, its agents, officials, and its employees and volunteers from any and all actions, claims, damages, costs or expenses, including attorneys’ fees and witness costs, which may be asserted by any person arising out of or in connection with the permittee’s or person’s use or occupancy of any city facility. (Ord. 338 § 1(part), 1982).

4.04.130 Workers’ compensation insurance.

In like manner, whenever in the opinion of the city manager, or designee, the circumstances may warrant same, a permittee shall procure, pay for and keep in force workers’ compensation insurance for and on behalf of, and protecting the agents and/or employees of such permittee; provided, further, however, that whenever under the laws of the state such permittee shall be required to cover his, hers or its agents and/or employees by workers’ compensation insurance, such law or laws shall be complied with, notwithstanding the exercise of or failure to exercise such discretion of the city manager with regard thereto. (Ord. 338 § 1(part), 1982).

4.04.140 Right to enter.

The city manager, or designee, and other authorized representatives of the city, shall have the right to enter the city hall, and all parts thereof, and any other city facility or park, at all times during any and all uses or occupancies of such facilities. (Ord. 338 § 1(part), 1982).

4.04.150 Rules, regulations and forms.

The city manager, or designee, shall issue from time to time, as s/he deems necessary, rules and regulations and forms to implement the provisions of this chapter and to clarify the rules, regulations and policies adopted by the City Council. Such rules and regulations shall have the force of law, and the failure to obey the same shall be deemed a violation of the provisions of this chapter. (Ord. 338 § 1(part), 1982). 1 Editor’s Note: For bandstand use fees and regulations, see Resolution 77-26; for photocopy and other city facility use fees, see Resolution 78-34.
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Chapter 7.12 LICENSING AND KEEPING OF DOGS

AND CATS

The Cotati Municipal Code is current through Ordinance 932, passed January 14, 2025.

Chapter 7.12

LICENSING AND KEEPING OF DOGS AND CATS
Sections:

7.12.020 Maximum number of dogs, cats or litters.

7.12.040 Dogs – Restraint required – Exceptions – Control by responsible person.

7.12.060 Dogs – License required.

7.12.080 License – Vaccination required.

7.12.100 License – Annual fee imposed.

7.12.120 Dog license fee – Exemptions.

7.12.140 License – Application – Issuance of certificate.

7.12.160 License tag – Attachment required – Exceptions.

7.12.180 License tag – Duplicate.

7.12.200 Dog licenses – Record keeping by city.

7.12.020 Maximum number of dogs, cats or litters.

A. No person shall keep or maintain on any premises more dogs or cats than set forth in Section 17.42.040 of the Cotati Municipal Code except: (1) premises maintained by a veterinarian licensed by the state for the practice of veterinary medicine, (2) premises with a kennel license and any required land use permit for a commercial kennel or pet shop, (3) premises upon which a licensed animal shelter is located.

B. No person shall allow the parturition and rearing of more than two litters of dogs or cats in any one calendar year from the total number of females owned by him or her or maintained on his or her premises without a valid kennel license and any required land use permit for a commercial kennel. (Ord. 788 § 1(part), 2006).

7.12.040 Dogs – Restraint required – Exceptions – Control by responsible person.

A. Every owner or person in possession of a dog shall keep such dog or dogs confined to his or her own premises or shall keep such dog or dogs under physical restraint by means of a leash not to exceed six feet in length except:

1. Assistance dogs while performing their duties;

2. Dogs participating in field or obedience trials or exhibitions;

3. Dogs assisting their owner or handler in legal hunting or in the herding of livestock;

4. Dogs assisting a security guard or assisting a peace officer engaged in law enforcement activities;

5. Dogs being trained for any of the purposes set forth in this section on private land with permission of the land owner, so long as such dogs are under direct control of such individuals to assure that they do not violate any other provision of this title or other law.

B. No person shall keep a dog under the physical restraint of a leash unless such person is capable of controlling and directing said dog. Any dog which is not subject to such control and direction may be seized and impounded.

C. Every owner or person in possession, custody or control of a dog shall at all times prevent such dog from biting or physically harassing any person engaged in a lawful act and from interfering with the lawful use of public or private property.

D. Every owner or person in possession, custody or control of a dog shall at all times prevent such dog from causing injury to another animal while such animal is lawfully upon public or private property and which results in veterinarian treatment or death.

E. Every owner or person in possession, custody or control of a dog shall desist from commanding or provoking such dog to attack, sic or threaten a person when such person is peaceably and lawfully upon public or private property. (Ord. 788 § 1(part), 2006).

7.12.060 Dogs – License required.

Every owner of a dog which is four months of age or older, and which is kept in the city, shall obtain a license tag and annual license for such dog from the city and shall pay the annual fee imposed by resolution of the city council.

No person shall maintain or board any dog four months of age or older which has not been licensed, except:

A. A license shall not be required for a dog owned or under the control of a nonresident of the city and which is to be kept in the city for less than thirty days.
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Chapter 7.12 LICENSING AND KEEPING OF DOGS

AND CATS

The Cotati Municipal Code is current through Ordinance 932, passed January 14, 2025.

B. A license shall not be required for dogs temporarily brought into the city for entry into an event, show or exhibition scheduled not more than ten days thereafter.

No person shall refuse to exhibit a dog license when so directed by a police officer or animal control officer. (Ord. 788 § 1(part), 2006).

7.12.080 License – Vaccination required.

No license shall be issued for any dog, which is four months of age or older, pursuant to this chapter unless and until the owner presents to the city a valid certificate of vaccination signed by a veterinarian and certifying that the dog has been vaccinated with an approved rabies vaccine and showing that the period of time from the date of vaccination to the date of expiration of the vaccination does not exceed the time interval prescribed by the State Department of Health. In no case shall a license be issued with an expiration date greater than the rabies vaccination expiration date. Where a certificate of vaccination shows that a dog should not be vaccinated due to infirmity or other disability, the nature of the infirmity and/or other disability and the estimated date of termination thereof shall be shown. (Ord. 788 § 1(part), 2006).

7.12.100 License – Annual fee imposed.

An annual dog license fee set by resolution of the city council is imposed upon every dog four months and older, which is kept in the city by any person. Such license fee shall be reduced as established by resolution for spayed or neutered dogs. The license fee is due and payable thirty days following the day upon which the dog is four months old, or thirty days following the day upon which the dog, if over the age of four months, is first owned by a resident of the city and thereafter on the first day of each year. The fee is an annual fee and shall not in any case be prorated. (Ord. 788 § 1(part), 2006).

7.12.120 Dog license fee – Exemptions.

License fees shall be waived for:

A. Assistance dogs which are used primarily for the purpose of guiding or assisting persons who are blind, deaf or otherwise disabled;
B. Service dogs used in law enforcement by a governmental agency; C. One dog kept in a household where the owner of the dog is over the age of fifty-five years. (Ord. 788 § 1(part), 2006).

7.12.140 License – Application – Issuance of certificate.

Upon each application for a license, the owner shall furnish to the city, in writing, his or her name, the address where the dog is kept, the name, breed, age, sex and color of the dog, and proof of current vaccination. The city shall furnish application forms for such purpose. (Ord. 788 § 1(part), 2006).

7.12.160 License tag – Attachment required – Exceptions.

A. With each dog license issued, the directorCity shall issue a metal tag bearing an identifying number and the words and letters “Cotati Police Dept.” Said dog license tag shall be securely affixed to a collar, harness, or other device and shall be worn by the dog for which the license was issued at all times that said dog is in the city, except when said dog is confined in a commercial kennel, pet shop or veterinary facility, or it is being exhibited at a show, field trial or other competition. The license tag shall be shown by the owner at any time upon demand by the animal control officer or police officer.

B. It is unlawful for any person to attach a metal tag issued pursuant to this section to any dog other than the dog for which it was issued. (Ord. 788 § 1(part), 2006).

7.12.180 License tag – Duplicate.

If a license tag is lost or destroyed, a duplicate or other tag in lieu thereof shall be procured from the city within thirty days after loss or destruction. Upon receiving payment of a replacement fee, the city shall issue a replacement tag to the owner. The replacement fee shall be fixed by resolution duly adopted by the city council which may be amended as necessary. (Ord. 788 § 1(part), 2006).
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Chapter 7.12 LICENSING AND KEEPING OF DOGS

AND CATS

The Cotati Municipal Code is current through Ordinance 932, passed January 14, 2025.

7.12.200 Dog licenses – Record keeping by city.

The directorCity shall keep a record of all licenses issued by him or her, together with a description of the dog for which such license is issued. (Ord. 788 § 1(part), 2006). 90 of 120
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Chapter 7.24 ANIMAL RESTRICTIONS

The Cotati Municipal Code is current through Ordinance 924, passed March 12, 2024.

Chapter 7.24

ANIMAL RESTRICTIONS
Sections:

7.24.020 Public nuisance.

7.24.040 Public nuisances – Abatement.

7.24.060 Animal waste.

7.24.080 Dogs at large in public areas.

7.24.085 Dogs in Special Use Sports Facilities.

7.24.090 Dogs – Control by responsible person.

7.24.100 Dogs at large on certain private lands.

7.24.120 Animals other than dogs at large.

7.24.140 Animals prohibited in La Plaza Park.

7.24.160 Restraint – Proper care required.

7.24.180 Poultry, fowl – Overcrowding, improper feeding prohibited.

7.24.200 Stables and premises kept clean.

7.24.220 Herding in streets prohibited.

7.24.240 Animals kept in vehicles.

7.24.260 Neglect of animals prohibited.

7.24.280 Tethering a dog.

7.24.300 Biting animals – Notification and disposition.

7.24.320 Reporting stray or found animals.

7.24.340 Posting of intention to trap cats.

7.24.360 Teasing or tormenting animals.

7.24.380 Abandoned animals – Prohibited.

7.24.400 Possession of wild or undomesticated animals prohibited.

7.24.420 Definition of wild and/or undomesticated animal.

7.24.440 Remedial measures.

7.24.460 Feeding of certain wild animals.

7.24.480 Disposal of dead animals.

7.24.500 Control and seizure of diseased animals.

7.24.520 Poisoning or abusing animals.

7.24.540 Violations

7.24.020 Public nuisance.

A. No owner or person having possession, custody or control of any animal shall permit such animal to do any of the following:

1. Trespass upon, or damage any private property within the city without the permission of the private property owner;

2. Damage public property in the city;

3. Obstruct the reasonable and comfortable use of property in any neighborhood or community by running at large, chasing vehicles, molesting passers by, barking, howling, baying, screeching or making other loud or continuous noises for a continuous period in excess of thirty minutes.

B. No owner, or person having possession, custody or control of any animal shall:

1. Permit unsanitary conditions to exist on the premises where the animal is kept which would cause odors, attract flies or vermin, or otherwise be injurious to public health and safety, or indecent or offensive to the senses, or an obstruction to the free use of property, so as to interfere with the comfortable enjoyment of life or property by the neighborhood, community or persons;
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Chapter 7.24 ANIMAL RESTRICTIONS

The Cotati Municipal Code is current through Ordinance 924, passed March 12, 2024.

2. Keep or maintain any animal in violation of Title 17 of the municipal code.

C. A violation of this section is declared to be a public nuisance and the causing of a public nuisance in violation hereof.

D. Any private person may maintain an action under Civil Code Section 3493 for enforcement of this chapter declaring certain acts a public nuisance, if such acts are specially injurious to such person. (Ord. 788 § 1(part), 2006).

7.24.040 Public nuisances – Abatement.

A. Whenever an animal control officer has reasonable cause to believe that a public nuisance exists, he or she may conduct an investigation of the alleged nuisance. In addition, whenever an animal control officer receives three or more complaints or affirmations in writing from persons having separate residences in the same neighborhood or from persons employed regularly in the same neighborhood, that any animal is a public nuisance as that term is used in this title and in the municipal code, the animal control officer may investigate to determine if a public nuisance exists. If the animal control officer determines that a public nuisance exists, the nuisance shall be abated in accordance with the municipal code, and the animal control officer may seize and impound the animal causing the public nuisance.

B. Notwithstanding any of the preceding, no animal that is part of an agricultural operation pursuant to California Civil Code Section 3482.5 shall be deemed to be a public nuisance under this section, provided such animal is owned and kept in compliance with this title and state law. (Ord. 788 § 1(part), 2006).

7.24.060 Animal waste.

A. No owner or person otherwise having possession, custody or control of any animal, except a disabled person using an assistance dog, shall permit or allow any animal to do any of the following:

1. Defecate on any public street or other public property without immediately cleaning or removing the excrement to a proper receptacle;

2. Defecate on any private property other than that of its owner without the consent of the owner, lessee or other person in control of the private property.

B. Any person owning or otherwise having an animal in his possession, custody or control on any public street or other public property shall carry a tool or device to be used for cleaning or removing animal excrement. This tool or device shall be presented to the animal control officer upon demand. (Ord. 788 § 1(part), 2006).

7.24.080 Dogs at large in public areas.

No person owning or otherwise having a dog in their care, charge, control, custody or possession shall cause, permit or allow such dog to be in or upon any public property within the City, including streets, parks or playgrounds, unless such dog is under restraint by a leash. The leash shall not exceed six feet in length. Dogs may only be offleash in designated off-leash areas posted as such by the City. It is unlawful for the owner or person otherwise having possession, custody or control of any dog to permit the same, under any circumstances, to be off-leash in, on or about any public property within the city except public property posted with signs permitting dogs to be off-leash.

Every dog found in violation of the provisions of this section may be immediately seized and impounded. Any duly authorized peace officer, or animal control officer shall be entitled to take such other action as may be reasonably necessary for protection of public health or safety. (Ord. 788 § 1(part), 2006).

7.24.085 Dogs in Special Use Sports Facilities.

Dogs are prohibited in special use sports facilities, such as basketball courts, tennis courts, baseball fields, volleyball courts, skateparks or similar that are so designated and posted by the City.

7.24.090 Dogs – Control by responsible person.

A. Persons who keep a dog on leash or under physical restraint must be capable of controlling and directing the dog. 92 of 120
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B. Every owner or person in possession, custody or control of a dog shall at all times prevent such dog from biting or physically harassing any person engaged in a lawful act and from interfering with the lawful use of public or private property.

C. Every owner or person in possession, custody or control of a dog shall at all times prevent such dog from causing injury to another animal while such animal is lawfully upon public or private property.

D. No person shall command or provoke any dog to attack, sic or threaten a person or other animal when such person or animal is peaceably and lawfully upon public or private property and not posing any articulatable or specific threat

7.24.100 Dogs at large on certain private lands.

It is unlawful for the owner or person otherwise having possession, custody or control of any dog to suffer or permit the same to be upon the lands of another without the consent of the owner or person entitled to the use or possession of such lands. (Ord. 788 § 1(part), 2006).

7.24.120 Animals other than dogs at large.

It is unlawful for the owner or person otherwise having possession, custody or control of any animal, other than a dog or cat, to permit the same, under any circumstances, to stray or run at large upon any public street or other public place, or upon any private place or property or common area of any planned development, cluster, townhouse or condominium project without the consent of the owner thereof, or to cause or permit such animal to be pastured, herded, staked or tied in any street or alley or other public place. Every animal other than a dog or cat, found in violation of the provisions of this section may be immediately seized and impounded. Any duly authorized peace officer, or animal control officer shall be entitled to take such other action as may be reasonably necessary for protection of public health or safety. (Ord. 788 § 1(part), 2006).

7.24.140 Animals prohibited in La Plaza Park.

It is unlawful for the owner or person otherwise having possession, custody or control of any dog or other animal to suffer or permit the same, under any circumstances, to enter upon La Plaza Park, except as follows:

A. An owner or person having possession, custody or control of an animal may permit the same to enter upon La Plaza Park for events during which specific animals have been specifically permitted by the city as part of such event and when such permission is posted upon the La Plaza Park bandstand. (Ord. 788 § 1(part), 2006).

7.24.160 Restraint – Proper care required.

No owner or person otherwise in possession, custody or control of any animal, except a cat, shall permit such animal to trespass upon or be kept upon property without the property owner’s consent. The owner or other person in possession, custody or control all animals shall provide them with necessary food, drink and shelter, and at nighttime shall secure them in an appropriate enclosure. (Ord. 788 § 1(part), 2006).

7.24.180 Poultry, fowl – Overcrowding, improper feeding prohibited.

No person shall overcrowd in any crate, box, or other receptacle domestic fowl or poultry or fail to provide proper food, water, shelter or sanitation for same. (Ord. 788 § 1(part), 2006).

7.24.200 Stables and premises kept clean.

Every person who shall stable, keep, pasture or maintain any animal in the city shall at all times keep the stable, enclosure or premises in or on which said animal is kept in a clean and sanitary condition, free from manure, mud and other material which may cause harm to the animal. (Ord. 788 § 1(part), 2006).

7.24.220 Herding in streets prohibited.

No person shall drive or herd any animal on or along any street or alley. Animals may be ridden or driven in harness or by means of rope, halter or similar device, subject to traffic regulation and the orders of any personnel whose duties include the direction of street traffic. (Ord. 788 § 1(part), 2006). 93 of 120
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The Cotati Municipal Code is current through Ordinance 924, passed March 12, 2024.

7.24.240 Animals kept in vehicles.

A. No person shall confine an animal in a vehicle unless there is adequate ventilation and unless the temperature or other conditions do not threaten the health of the animal. If an animal is confined in a vehicle in a manner that threatens its health, any animal control officer or any peace officer may enter the vehicle by whatever force is reasonably necessary to release the animal without liability upon the city or any person for resulting damage.

B. Any animal that has been confined in a vehicle in violation of this section may be impounded pending a hearing to determine if the animal shall be returned to its owner. In the event of any such impoundment, the owner or person in possession, custody or control of the animal shall be liable for all costs and expenses of impounding or keeping the animal.

C. Section 23117 of the Vehicle Code of the state of California is incorporated by reference.

D. Any animal control officer or peace officer may remove an animal that is not properly tethered in accordance with subsection C above without liability upon the city or any person for resulting damage. The driver of the vehicle may be cited for violation of such duty.

E. With the exception of RVs or motor homes that are adequate and serve as the residence of the owner, animals may not be housed in vehicles. (Ord. 788 § 1(part), 2006).

7.24.260 Neglect of animals prohibited.

No owner or person in possession, custody or control of any animal shall cause or permit such animal to be without proper care and attention. (Ord. 788 § 1(part), 2006).

7.24.280 Tethering a dog.

A. It is unlawful for any person to tether any dog on a leash, rope, chain, cable or other device for more than ten hours in a twenty-four hour period.

B. Any tethering device used to control any dog shall comply with all of the following:

1. The tether or chain provided must be at least ten feet in length, with swivels at both ends, and be properly attached to a pulley or trolley mounted on a cable so as not to interfere or become entangled with the dog or other objects on the property.

2. Any tethering system used shall not allow the dog to leave the property of their owner or person in possession, custody or control of the dog.

3. No chain or tether shall weigh more than one-eighth of the dog’s body weight.

4. Any chain or tether shall be attached to a properly fitting flat collar or harness worn by the dog. The use of choke chains or pinch collars attached to any tethering device is prohibited.

5. The chained or tethered dog must have constant access to necessary shelter and water. (Ord. 788 § 1(part), 2006).

7.24.300 Biting animals – Notification and disposition.

A. The owner or other person in possession, or control of any animal that bites a human being shall immediately notify the police department of such bite, giving the name and address of the person bitten, if known to him/her, and shall obey any quarantine instructions given by the police department, county animal regulations department and/or health officer. The animal control officer may, in his or her discretion, order the animal quarantined at the shelter, at a veterinarian’s office, or at the owner’s residence and may impose such reasonable conditions thereon as may be required.

B. If any person fails or refuses to obey any lawful order for the quarantine of an animal for observation of rabies, the animal control officer may impound the animal for such quarantine at the expense of the owner. The animal control officer shall charge the owner in such case for the care and board of the animal. Such rates shall be set by resolution of the city council, or by the animal shelter. The redemption fees provided in this title shall also apply to an animal quarantined for rabies observation. (Ord. 788 § 1(part), 2006). 94 of 120
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The Cotati Municipal Code is current through Ordinance 924, passed March 12, 2024.

7.24.320 Reporting stray or found animals.

Any person who apprehends or picks up a stray or apparently lost animal or who traps an animal shall report the same to the police department within twenty-four hours and shall release such animal to the owner or to the police department upon demand. The person shall provide the police department with a complete description of the animal, its location and a means to contact the person keeping the animal. (Ord. 788 § 1(part), 2006).

7.24.340 Posting of intention to trap cats.

Any person who is intending to trap any cat or cats on their property must post such intentions by notifying neighbors on both sides, behind, and across such property. This can be accomplished by anonymously leaving a written notice of such intent, at least forty-eight hours prior to said trapping, on each doorstep of surrounding dwellings. Said written notice shall state where any trapped cats will be taken. (Ord. 788 § 1(part), 2006).

7.24.360 Teasing or tormenting animals.

No person shall tease or torment any animal. No parent who is present with their minor child shall allow or permit his/her minor child to tease or torment any animal. (Ord. 788 § 1(part), 2006).

7.24.380 Abandoned animals – Prohibited.

It is unlawful to abandon any animal in the city. (Ord. 788 § 1(part), 2006).

7.24.400 Possession of wild or undomesticated animals prohibited.

No person shall board, have, keep, maintain or have in his/her possession or control, for any length of time, in any zoning district in the city, any wild and/or undomesticated animal, as defined in Section 7.24.420. (Ord. 788 § 1(part), 2006).

7.24.420 Definition of wild and/or undomesticated animal.

For purposes of Sections 7.24.400 through 7.24.460, a “wild and/or undomesticated animal” is defined as an animal which is wild by nature and not customarily domesticated in Sonoma County and which, because of its size, disposition or other characteristics could constitute a danger to human life or property. Such wild and/or undomesticated animals shall be deemed to include but are not exclusive of:

A. Class Mammalia.

1. Order Carnivora.
a. Family Felidae (cat) including but not limited to such members as the tiger, the jaguar, the leopard, the lion, the serval, the mountain lion, the bobcat, the ocelot and the cougar, excepting Felis domesticus (domestic cat);
b. Family Hyenidae (hyena);
c. Family Urisideae (bear);
d. Family Candidae (dog) excepting Canis familiaris (domestic dog) and including but not limited to such members as the wolf, coyote and the jackal;

2. Order Probscidea (elephant);

3. Order Primata (primates), including but not limited to the chimpanzee, the baboon, the orangutan, the gibbon, the macaque and the gorilla, excepting the Family Hominidae (man);

4. Order Artiodactyla, even-toed hoofed mammals such as water buffalo, camels, elk, moose, deer and antelope, excluding the domesticated species of the Family Suidae (domestic pig) and Family Bovidae (cattle, sheep, goats, llamas and alpacas);

5. Order Perissodactyla, odd-toed hoofed mammals including the zebra and rhinoceros, excluding the domesticated species of the Family Equidae (horses, donkeys, etc.).

B. Class Reptilia.
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Cotati Municipal Code
Chapter 7.24 ANIMAL RESTRICTIONS

The Cotati Municipal Code is current through Ordinance 924, passed March 12, 2024.

1. Order Squamata.
a. Sub-order Serpentes, all front and rear-fanged venomous snakes, b. Sub-order Lacertilia, both venomous species of the Family Heloder Matidae (gila monster and Mexican beaded lizard);

2. Order Crocodilia (crocodile, alligator and caiman).

C. Class Aves.

1. Sub-order Ratitae, such as, but not limited to, ostriches, rheas, cassowaries and emus, excluding small caged birds such as parakeets, canaries, love birds and finches.

D. Any other species of the animal kingdom (as opposed to vegetable or mineral) which is venomous to human beings whether its venom is transmitted by bite, sting, touch or other means, except the honey-producing bee. (Ord. 788 § 1(part), 2006).

7.24.440 Remedial measures.

A. Impoundment. Any wild and/or undomesticated animal as defined in Section 7.24.440 of this chapter determined to be in the city may be impounded by the animal control officer.

B. Notice of Removal. Whenever the animal control officer causes the impoundment of such wild and/or undomesticated animal as authorized herein, the animal control officer shall immediately give notice of such impoundment, the grounds thereof and the place to which such animal has been impounded.

C. Penalty. Any person who boards, has, keeps, maintains, or has in his/her possession or control, for any length of time, any wild and/or undomesticated animal in violation of any of the provisions of this chapter shall be guilty of a misdemeanor and shall be subject to imprisonment in the county jail for not more than six months or a fine not to exceed one thousand dollars or both. (Ord. 788 § 1(part), 2006).

7.24.460 Feeding of certain wild animals.

No person shall intentionally feed or in any manner knowingly provide food for noncaptive wild and/or undomesticated animals as defined in Section 7.24.420, including, but not limited to, coyotes, mountain lions, foxes, bobcats, raccoons, skunks, opossums and turkeys. This section shall not apply to persons legally engaged in trapping wild animals with devices utilizing food items as bait pursuant to applicable laws. (Ord. 788 § 1(part), 2006).

7.24.480 Disposal of dead animals.

A. Upon the death of any animal, the owner or person in possession thereof shall provide for the burial, incineration or other disposition of the body of such animal.

B. Upon learning that the body of a dead animal has not been disposed of in a safe and sanitary manner, the animal control officer or health officer shall dispose of such body immediately; provided, however, that the animal control officer or health officer shall not be required to remove and dispose of bodies of dead animals on state highways or on state property.

C. The director shall collect a fee in accordance with resolution adopted by the city council which shall be paid by the owner or person in possession, custody or control of the dead animal. (Ord. 788 § 1(part), 2006).

7.24.500 Control and seizure of diseased animals.

A. No person owning or having possession, custody or control of any animal which he or she knows to be infected with any disease transmittable to man shall permit such animal to be or remain within the city other than at an approved veterinary hospital unless the health officer approves an alternate means of confinement.

B. The animal control officer shall seize any animal he or she reasonably believes to be infected with disease transmittable to man. He or she shall keep such animal in a safe place for a period sufficient to observe, examine and determine whether it is diseased so as to be a menace to public health or safety. 96 of 120
Cotati Municipal Code
Chapter 7.24 ANIMAL RESTRICTIONS

The Cotati Municipal Code is current through Ordinance 924, passed March 12, 2024.

C. Diseased animals which are a danger to public health or safety shall be impounded and may be destroyed. (Ord. 788 § 1(part), 2006).

7.24.520 Poisoning or abusing animals.

In addition to Penal Code Sections 596 and 597, it is unlawful for any person to wilfully administer poison to any dog, cat or other animal or to wilfully place, expose or leave poisonous or harmful substances of any kind in any place with intent to injure or kill any dog, cat or other animal. Further, it is unlawful for any person to maliciously kill, maim, wound, mutilate, torment, torture or physically abuse any animal. (Ord. 788 § 1(part), 2006).

7.24.540 Violations
Any animal found in violation of the provisions of this Chapter may be immediately seized and impounded and the owner subject to fines, penalties and/or arrest. Any duly authorized peace officer, or animal control officer shall be entitled to take such other action as may be reasonably necessary for protection of public health or safety. 97 of 120
Cotati Municipal Code
Chapter 7.28 DOGS IN PARKS DURING PUBLIC

FESTIVALS

The Cotati Municipal Code is current through Ordinance 924, passed March 12, 2024.

Chapter 7.28

DOGS IN PARKS DURING PUBLIC FESTIVALS
Sections:

7.28.020 Definitions.

7.28.040 Prohibition of dogs from parks during public festivals – Exceptions.

7.28.060 Public nuisance.

7.28.080 Notice.

7.28.020 Definitions.

As used in this chapter:
“Parks” means and includes any park located within the city and owned by the city. “Public festival” means all events sponsored by or approved by the city that result in the gathering of people in public parks, including, but not limited to, the kids’ day festival, the accordion festival and the Cotati jazz festival. (Ord. 788 § 1(part), 2006).

7.28.040 Prohibition of dogs from parks during public festivals – Exceptions.

Any owner or person in possession, custody or control of any dog is prohibited from either wilfully or negligently permitting said dog, whether leashed or unleashed, to be present in any park during public festivals, and during the setup and removal of festival booths and displays except as follows:

A. Assistance dogs and service dogs in the performance of their duties, may be present during public festivals at all times.

B. An owner or person having possession, custody or control of an animal may permit the same to enter upon a public park during a public festival during which specific animals have been specifically permitted by the city as part of such public festival and when such permission is posted at the main entrance to the park upon which the public festival is being held. (Ord. 788 § 1(part), 2006).

7.28.060 Public nuisance.

Violation of this chapter shall be considered a public nuisance. (Ord. 788 § 1(part), 2006).

7.28.080 Notice.

Organizers of public festivals shall post a reasonable number of notices in conspicuous locations warning of the prohibitions set forth herein and shall cite the ordinance codified in this chapter in said notices. (Ord. 788 § 1(part), 2006).
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Cotati Municipal Code
Chapter 9.33 PUBLIC URINATION, DEFECATION

AND EXPOSURE

The Cotati Municipal Code is current through Ordinance 932, passed January 14, 2025.

Chapter 9.33

PUBLIC URINATION, DEFECATION AND EXPOSURE
Sections:

9.33.010 Public urination or defecation in public places prohibited.

9.33.020 Public exposure in public places prohibited.

9.33.010 Public urination or defication in public places prohibited.

It is unlawful for any persons to over the age of ten years to wilfullywillfully urinate or defecate in a public place or in a place exposed to public view. (Ord. 371 § 1(part), 1984).

9.33.020 Public exposure in public places prohibited.

It is unlawful for any person over the age of ten years to wilfullywillfully expose themselves his person or private parts for the purpose of urination or defecation in a public place or in a place exposed to public view in such a manner that the genitals, vulva, pubis, pubic symphysis, pubic hair, buttocks, natal cleft, perineum, anus, anal region or pubic hair region is exposed to public view. (Ord. 371 § 1(part), 1984). 99 of 120
Cotati Municipal Code
Chapter 9.36 CONDUCT IN PARKS, PLAZAS,

STREETS AND SIDEWALKS AND OTHER PLACES

The Cotati Municipal Code is current through Ordinance 924, passed March 12, 2024.

Chapter 9.36
CONDUCT IN PARKS, PLAZAS, STREETS AND SIDEWALKS AND OTHER PLACES1 Sections:

9.36.010 Park defined.

9.36.020 Vehicles.

9.36.030 Miscellaneous unlawful acts.

9.36.040 Commercial activity.

9.36.050 Business.

9.36.060 Park Open Hours and Camping.

9.36.070 Fires.

9.36.090 Trailers.

9.36.100 Ban on consumption of alcoholic beverages in certain locations.

9.36.110 Drums and aAmplified instruments and sound.

9.36.120 Skateboards, skates and in-line skates.

9.36.130 Permit Procedure

9.36.010 Park defined.

As used in this chapter, the word “park” means any public park, public recreation area or public plaza. (Ord. 639 § 1(part), 1995).

9.36.020 Vehicles.

No person shall, in any park, drive any vehicle, cycle or automobile except on roads or drives provided for such purpose unless explicitly permitted by the City. (Ord. 639 § 1(part), 1995).

9.36.030 Miscellaneous unlawful acts.

It is unlawful for any person in any park to:

A. Damage, deface or destroy, by any means whatsoever, any public property planted, placed, located or otherwise situated in a park;
B. Cut or remove any wood, turf, grass, soil, rock, sand or gravel; C. Drive or ride any motorized vehicle, cycle or scooter, except on a road or in a parking area provided for such purpose unless explicitly permitted by the City, or to drive or ride the same in an erratic or hazardous manner; D. Engage in archery, the flying of motorized model airplanes, the driving of golf balls, the playing of baseball with a hardball, or other activities in which a projectile may pose a threat to safety, except in any such places as may be provided for such purposes;
E. Deposit on or in any park any paper, rubbish, garbage or refuse matter of any kind, except in a receptacle designed for such purpose; provided, however, that in no event shall any person deposit in any park, or in any rubbish or garbage receptacles in any park, rubbish or garbage or refuse matter of any kind generated off the premises of such park. (Ord. 639 § 1(part), 1995).

9.36.040 Commercial activity.

No person shall sell or offer for sale any merchandise, article or thing whatsoever in any park without the prior written consent of the city. (Ord. 639 § 1(part), 1995).

9.36.050 Business.

No person shall practice, carry on, conduct or solicit for any trade, occupation, business or profession in any park without prior written consent of the city. (Ord. 639 § 1(part), 1995). 100 of 120
Cotati Municipal Code
Chapter 9.36 CONDUCT IN PARKS, PLAZAS,

STREETS AND SIDEWALKS AND OTHER PLACES

The Cotati Municipal Code is current through Ordinance 924, passed March 12, 2024.

9.36.060 Park Open Hours and Camping.

Public parks are open from sunrise to sunset each day. Use outside of these hours are prohibited unless otherwise allowed by City issued permit. No person shall camp, set up housekeeping or sleep in any park, or upon any publicly owned property overnight, and specifically between the hours of twelve p.m. and six a.m. (Ord. 639 § 1(part), 1995).

9.36.070 Fires.

No person shall make or kindle a fire for any purpose except in barbecue pits or other places provided for that purpose in any park. Outside barbeques or fires may be allowed under permit by the City. (Ord. 639 § 1(part), 1995).

9.36.090 Trailers.

It is unlawful for any person in any park or elsewhere within the city, to cook in, sleep in, or otherwise inhabit any camp car, camptrailer or camphouse, except in campgrounds, trailer parks or mobile home parks maintained pursuant to valid and subsisting authority granted by the city. (Ord. 639 § 1(part), 1995).

9.36.100 Ban on consumption of alcoholic beverages in certain locations.

A. Definition. As used in this chapter:
“Alcoholic beverage” includes alcohol, spirits, liquor, wine, beer, and every liquid or solid containing alcohol, spirits, wine, or beer, and which contains one-half of one percent or more of alcohol by volume, and which is capable of human consumption either alone, when diluted, mixed, or combined with other substances and sales that requires a State Department of Alcoholic Beverage Control license.

B. Prohibition on Consumption. The purpose of this section is to prohibit the consumption of alcoholic beverages in public.

1. No person shall consume any alcoholic beverage on any public highway, road, street, alley, lane, way, sidewalk, parking lot, park, or other public place. For purposes of this section, possession of any can, bottle, or other receptacle containing any alcoholic beverage which has been opened, or seal broken, and the contents of which have been partially removed, or with any other indicia of consumption, shall be prima facie evidence of a violation of this section;

2. On private property which is intended for public use and open to the public without first having secured the express permission of the owner, the owner’s agent, or the person in lawful possession of the property;

3. On the posted premises of, including the posted parking lot immediately adjacent to, any retail package offsale alcoholic beverage licensee licensed pursuant to Division 9 (commencing with Section 23000) of the Business and Professions Code of California, or on any public sidewalk immediately adjacent to the licensed and posted premises. Visible notices shall be posted on the premises of each retail package off-sale alcoholic beverage licensee and on the parking lot and the public sidewalk immediately adjacent to the licensed premises indicating that the provisions of this subsection are applicable; or

4. In any public park, parkway, playground, any building, recreation center, recreation area, or any parking lot adjacent to any of the foregoing recreation facilities owned, leased or under the control of the city of Cotati, unless such person has obtained a permit for consumption of alcoholic beverages from the city of Cotati pursuant to Section 9.36.130.

C. Penalties. Violation of this section is considered an infraction. (Ord. 834 § 2, 2011).

9.36.110 Drums and aAmplified instruments and sound.

It is unlawful in any park for any person to play or beat on any any amplified musical instrument, or employing amplified sound for any purpose, unless . Notwithstanding anything to the contrary stated above, playing or beating on drums shall be permitted in any park between one p.m. and four p.m. on Wednesday, Saturday and Sunday. This section shall not apply to cultural and recreational events approved by the city in which a permit or written consent has been granted to engage in such activity, pursuant to Section 9.36.130. Such permit or consent may impose safety and welfare. (Ord. 639 § 1(part), 1995). and welfare. (Ord. 639 § 1(part), 1995). 101 of 120
Cotati Municipal Code
Chapter 9.36 CONDUCT IN PARKS, PLAZAS,

STREETS AND SIDEWALKS AND OTHER PLACES

The Cotati Municipal Code is current through Ordinance 924, passed March 12, 2024.

9.36.120 Skateboards, skates and in-line skates.

A. No person shall operate, drive or ride upon any skateboard, skates or in-line skates in any park or park areas except in areas posted and designated for such use.

B. It shall be unlawful for any person riding a skateboard at any city designated public recreation area in which skateboarding is permitted to fail to wear a properly secured helmet, elbow pads and knee pads. (Ord. 729 § 1, 2002).

9.36.130 Permit Procedure
A. Failure to Obtain Permit. No person shall engage in any activity or continue to engage in any activity for which a permit is required without first obtaining a valid permit.

B. Permit Procedures. Whenever any permit is required by this chapter, it shall be issued or denied in accordance with the provisions of this article.

C. Permit Application.

1. Each application for a permit shall be made on forms issued by the City Manager or their designee and shall provide the following information:
a. A description of the proposed use, event or activity. b. The park and the specific area or areas thereof which will be utilized in connection with the proposed use, event or activity.
c. The manner in which the park will be utilized.
d. Name, address and telephone number of the person, entity or organization sponsoring or conducting the proposed use, event or activity.
e. Name and address and telephone number of the person or persons to be contacted regarding the application or permit.
f. The day, date and specific hours and location for which the permit is sought. g. An estimate of the anticipated attendance.
h. Other information which the City Manager or their designee shall determine is necessary in order to provide for fair and orderly processing of each application and for the determination of any necessary conditions of approval.

D. Issuance of Permit. The City Manager or their designee shall review and either issue or deny each permit application within the prescribed timeframe for approval in the applicable adopted City Council policies and satisfaction of all requirements stated herein. Whenever any permit is denied, reasons for its denial shall be explicitly stated in the notice of denial.

E. Grounds for Denial of Permit.

1. The City Manager or their designee shall issue a permit unless it is found that:
a. The proposed activity is illegal or otherwise prohibited in City parks. b. The activity has been determined by the City Manager or their designee to be hazardous or unsafe or likely to cause damage to the park, to property, or to persons pursuant to Section 9.36.030. c. The applicant refuses to comply with conditions of approval attached to the application. d. The park area for which the permit is sought has previously been reserved pursuant to an application received prior to the application in question. e. Due to the anticipated use of adjoining park areas pursuant to prior reservations or agreements, the park cannot accommodate the size or scope of the contemplated use. f. The contemplated use of the park or park area would, due to the use’s noise or activity level, be incompatible with the nature of the park or the park’s surroundings, or the number of persons likely to attend the event exceeds the capacity of the park for which the application has been received.
102 of 120
Cotati Municipal Code
Chapter 9.36 CONDUCT IN PARKS, PLAZAS,

STREETS AND SIDEWALKS AND OTHER PLACES

The Cotati Municipal Code is current through Ordinance 924, passed March 12, 2024.

1. Prior to denying an application for the reasons set forth in Section 9.36.130(E)(1) (d) through (f), the City Manager or their designee shall determine if the activity proposed could be accommodated in any other park or park area and shall notify the applicant if such accommodation is possible.

F. No Discrimination. No permit shall be denied on account of the sex, race, creed, color, religious or political affiliation of the applicant, or on account of the probable or known content of any speech or public address which such applicant is likely to make or allow to be made.

G. Conditions of Permit Issuance. Before issuing any permit, the City Manager or their designee shall require that the applicant agree to comply with any and all conditions of approval deemed necessary for the protection, health and safety of persons or property or both in light of the nature of the activity for which the permit is sought and the number of persons likely to attend said activity. Such conditions of approval shall pertain only to the time, place and manner of the use of the park by the applicant and those likely to attend the activity for which the permit is sought.

H. Revocation of Permit.

1. A permit shall be revoked when it is determined that the permittee or persons attending the activity are not complying with any or all of the conditions of approval.

2. It shall be unlawful for any person to continue to engage in an activity for which a permit is required after the permit has been revoked pursuant to the section.
1 Prior ordinance history: Ords. 73 and 161.

For fees for use of city facilities, see Ch. 4.04 of this code. 103 of 120
Cotati Municipal Code
Chapter 9.40 OBSTRUCTING STREETS AND

SIDEWALKS

The Cotati Municipal Code is current through Ordinance 932, passed January 14, 2025.

OBSTRUCTING STREETS AND SIDEWALKS
Sections:

9.40.010 Blocking public way prohibited.

9.40.020 Loitering prohibited.

9.40.030 Public way – Sitting, lying upon unlawful.

9.40.040 Public place – Blocking entry prohibited.

9.40.050 Encroachments excepted.

9.40.060 Violation – Misdemeanor.

9.40.010 Blocking public way prohibited.

No person shall stand in or upon any street, sidewalk or other public way open for pedestrian travel, or otherwise occupy any portion thereof in such manner as to annoy or molest any person thereon, or so as to obstruct or unreasonably interfere with the free passage of persons and vehicles. In certain circumstances, streets, sidewalks or the public right of way may be closed under written permit from the City, in accordance with Chapter 4.04 (Fees for Use of City Facilities) or Chapter 11.01 (Encroachments within Public Rights of Way), as applicable in the sole judgement of the city. (Ord. 112 § 1, 1969).

9.40.020 Loitering prohibited.

No person shall loiter in any tunnel, pedestrian subway, or on any bridge, overpass, or at or near the entrance thereto or exit therefrom, or at or near any abutment or retaining wall adjacent to such entrance or exit, or any retaining wall or abutment adjacent to any freeway, street or highway open and used for vehicular traffic, or adjacent to that portion thereof used for vehicular traffic, or on any public property in the proximity of such bridge, overpass, or retaining wall or abutment. (Ord. 112 § 2, 1969).

9.40.030 Public way – Sitting, lying upon unlawful.

No person shall sit or lie in or upon any street, sidewalk, or other public way in any manner to unreasonably prevent, delay, hinder, obstruct, or interfere with the free passage of any other persons.

The provisions of this section shall not apply to persons sitting on the curb portion of any sidewalk or street while attending or viewing any lawfully conducted parade; nor shall the provisions of this section apply to persons sitting upon benches or other seating facilities lawfully provided for such purpose. (Ord. 112 § 3, 1969).

9.40.040 Public place – Blocking entry prohibited.

No person shall block, impede or obstruct any entrance, exit or approach to any hall, church, school or other public place or to any place of business in such manner to unreasonably prevent, hinder, delay, obstruct or interfere with the free passage of any other person who is entering, occupying or leaving any of the aforesaid places, or who is performing any service or labor, or who is seeking or obtaining employment, or who is purchasing, selling, using, delivering, transporting, or receiving any goods, wares, merchandise, services, entertainment, accommodation, or articles or who is attempting or seeking to do any of the foregoing; provided that nothing contained herein shall apply to lawful picketing. (Ord. 112 § 4, 1969).

9.40.050 Encroachments excepted.

The provisions of this chapter shall not apply to encroachments under permits issued pursuant to ordinances of this city. (Ord. 112 § 5, 1969).

9.40.060 Violation – Misdemeanor.

Every violation of this chapter is a misdemeanor. Any person, whether principal, agent, employee or otherwise, who violates any of the provisions of this chapter is guilty of a misdemeanor and, upon conviction, shall be punishable by a fine of not more than five hundred dollars or by imprisonment in the county jail of the county of Sonoma for a term not exceeding six months, or by both such fine and imprisonment. Such person is guilty of a separate offense for each and every day during any portion of which any violation of this chapter is committed, continued or permitted by such person, and shall be punishable as herein provided. (Ord. 112 § 6, 1969). 104 of 120
Cotati City Council
Agenda Staff Report
Item type: REGULAR AGENDA (ACTION)
To: City Council
Subject: RESOLUTION IN SUPPORT OF THE POLLUTERS PAY

CLIMATE SUPERFUND LEGISLATION
Date: October 14, 2025
Written by: Damien O'Bid, City Manager
Recommendation
It is recommended that the City Council adopt a resolution supporting the enactment of the proposed Polluters Pay Climate Superfund Act (SB 684/AB 1243).

Background
The City has consistently adopted a variety of greenhouse gas reduction policies, including the Electric Vehicle Reach Code (Ordinance 919), prohibitions on new or expanded gas stations (Ordinance 910), a resolution asking the State to accelerate greenhouse gas reduction timelines (Resolution 2021-41), moving the City to 100% renewable Evergreen electricity (June 2019), opposing expansion of off shore oil exploration (Resolution 2018-57), urging the United States Congress to enact a Revenue-Neutral Carbon Fee and Dividend Program (Resolution 2018-26), adopting the Climate Action 2020 plan (Resolution 2018-15) and a variety of related efforts from urban agriculture to waste reduction to bicycle and pedestrian improvements and policies.

According to Woody Hastings of the Climate Center (as of August 25, 2025), there are about 58 California cities and counties at some level of consideration. The following cities and counties have adopted resolutions:

San Francisco County Passed
Albany City Council Passed
Berkeley City Council Passed
San Diego City Council Passed
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LA City Council Passed
Port Hueneme City Council Passed
Santa Cruz County Passed
Laguna Beach Passed
La Mesa City Council Passed
In Sonoma County, Sebastopol planned to have it on their Council agenda on Oct.7. Sonoma County staff asked to bring it in October, date uncertain. Santa Rosa, Rohnert Park, City of Sonoma, and Petaluma have all been asked and are all looking at it.

Analysis/Discussion
Assembly Bill (AB) 1243 and companion Senate Bill (SB) 684 (Addis) would establish a “Polluters Pay Climate Superfund Program” administered by CalEPA. The bills direct CalEPA to complete a climate-cost study, identify responsible parties (large historical fossil-fuel producers), calculate a proportionate cost-recovery demand based on emissions since 1990 (covered period varies by draft), and deposit collected sums into a State “Polluters Pay Climate Superfund Fund” for appropriation to mitigation, adaptation, disaster response, and programs benefiting disadvantaged communities. Both bills are active in the 2025–2026 session and have been the subject of committee hearings and amendments; they remain “in progress” as two-year bills at the time of this staff report.

Note that AB 1243 and SB 684 lists Dammon Connolly and Chris Rodgers, among others, as coauthors.

Existing Cap and Trade
Under authority from the California Global Warming Solutions Act (AB 32) and its extensions (e.g. AB 398), CARB issues a limited number of annual GHG “allowances” or permits up to a cap; covered emitters must surrender allowances for emissions or purchase/trade them. The cap declines over time, forcing overall emissions reductions from covered sectors. The program covers large point sources and fuel producers/importers, accounting for a significant share of statewide emissions. Revenue from allowance auctions (and other related sources) is directed to various climate, clean energy, and adaptation programs. The program is forward-looking (i.e. regulates current and future emissions) and is not primarily designed to recover past damages. In 2025, the State Legislature extended the cap-and-trade program (renamed “cap and invest”) through 2045.

Proposed Polluters Pay Superfund Act
AB 1243 / SB 684 is designed to operate in addition to existing climate policy tools; it is not a replacement for cap-and-trade. It seeks retrospective cost recovery (i.e. for climate harms and damages caused over time, especially from 1990 through 2024) rather than allowance pricing of future emissions. CalEPA would conduct a “climate cost study” to quantify total damages attributable to fossil fuel emissions over the covered period, project forward damages through 2045, then allocate to “responsible parties” a share of that cost in proportion to their emissions 106 of 120
over that historical period. Collected cost recovery demands would be deposited in a new Polluters Pay Climate Superfund Fund in the State Treasury and, upon appropriation by the Legislature, used to fund adaptation, mitigation, resilience, disaster response, and programs benefiting disadvantaged communities.

Summary Comparison
The superfund approach is a supplemental “polluters pay” surcharge, focused on historic and cumulative responsibility, distinct from permit-based pricing of future emissions under cap and trade. However, the methodology for cost allocation will need to account for already regulated emissions and avoid effectively charging twice for the same emissions under different regimes.

The following table provides a more detailed comparison and relationship between the existing cap and trade program and the proposed Superfund Act.

Category
Polluters Pay Climate
Superfund Act (AB
1243 / SB 684)
California Cap-andTrade Program (AB
32, AB 398, etc.)
Interaction /
Relationship
Core Purpose
Recover the historical
and ongoing costs of
climate damages from
major fossil fuel
producers.

Reduce current and
future emissions by
setting an economywide declining
emissions cap and
allowing trading.

Complementary but
distinct: one is
retrospective
(liability), the other
prospective
(prevention).

Policy
Mechanism
“Cost recovery” demands
(retroactive fees) on
fossil fuel companies
proportional to their
historical greenhouse gas
emissions.

Market-based
allowance trading;
covered entities must
purchase or surrender
allowances for each ton
of emissions.

Different legal bases:

Polluters Pay =
liability/restitution;
Cap-and-Trade =
permit-based
compliance system.

Regulatory
Agency
California Environmental
Protection Agency
(CalEPA).

California Air
Resources Board
(CARB).

Agencies will need
coordination to avoid
conflicting definitions
of emissions and
responsible entities.

Covered
Entities
“Responsible parties” —
mainly large fossil-fuel
producers, extractors,
refiners, and importers.

Large stationary
sources, utilities, fuel
suppliers, and importers
above emissions
thresholds.

Overlap likely in
refinery/fuel sectors
— these entities
would be subject to
both regimes.

Time Frame of
Responsibility
Historical (approx.
1990–2024) and
prospective damages
through 2045.

Ongoing and future
emissions (2021–2045,
extended).

Sequential coverage:

Cap-and-Trade
governs the future,
Polluters Pay covers
the past.

Revenue
Destination
“Polluters Pay Climate
Superfund Fund” — used
for adaptation, resilience,
Greenhouse Gas
Reduction Fund
(GGRF) — used for
Potential
coordination
challenge: ensure
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wildfire recovery, and EJ
programs.
mitigation and cleanenergy investments.
funding priorities
complement rather
than duplicate.

Revenue
Predictability
Uncertain; depends on
outcome of climate-cost
study, assessments, and
litigation.

Moderate; allowance
auctions occur quarterly
with relatively
predictable revenue.

Synergy: Polluters
Pay could supplement
GGRF in years of low
allowance prices.

Economic
Signal
One-time or periodic
lump-sum liability →
limited marginal
incentive effect.

Continuous price signal
→ incentivizes
emission reductions.

Complementary: one
recovers damages, the
other shapes future
behavior.

Legal Basis
State cost-recovery
authority modeled after
environmental superfund
principles (e.g.,
CERCLA).

Emissions regulation
under AB 32 authority.

Distinct legal
frameworks—but
both could face
challenges over
federal preemption or
commerce clause if
applied to out-of-state
actors.

Litigation
Risk
High — retroactive
liability and
extraterritorial reach
likely contested.

Moderate — program
upheld previously in
courts.

Risk of cross-impact:
lawsuits on Polluters
Pay could cite
conflict with cap-andtrade regulation.

Equity &
Justice Focus
Targets historical
polluters to shift cost
burden away from
taxpayers; emphasizes
climate justice and
community recovery.

Funds various
programs, many
benefiting
disadvantaged
communities (e.g., via
SB 535, AB 1550).

Reinforcing equity
emphasis: both target
community benefits,
though with distinct
legal rationales.

Financial Considerations
There are no anticipated direct financial considerations for the City. It is possible, if enacted, there would be new revenue available from the state for mitigation, adaptation and disaster response. However, most of Sonoma County, including Cotati, does not contain what are generally considered disadvantaged communities. The bills, as currently drafted, require no less than 40% of the funding to go to disadvantaged communities.

The actual amounts (and timing) are highly uncertain and depend on the climate-cost study, CalEPA’s determinations, legal outcomes, and legislative appropriation decisions. Any funds would be deposited to a state trust/fund and distributed only upon appropriation.

If enacted, the program would create new charges for certain industries. It is unknown how or if they would pass the costs back through in their products and services. 108 of 120
Environmental Issues
Where it can be determined with certainty that there is no possibility that the activity in question may have a significant effect on the environment, the activity is not subject to CEQA review.

This general rule can be applied to activities which could be subject to the CEQA process, but which logic dictates should not be subject to CEQA review. Therefore, based on the information provided above, the proposed resolution is exempt from CEQA pursuant to Section 14.03.021 of the CEQA Guidelines in that there is no possibility that the activity may have a significant impact on the environment.
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RESOLUTION NO. (XX)

A RESOLUTION OF THE CITY OF COTATI SUPPORTING THE CALIFORNIA

POLLUTERS PAY CLIMATE SUPERFUND ACT
WHEREAS, the climate crisis, resulting primarily from the combustion of fossil fuels, is an immediate, grave threat to the people, communities, biodiversity, environment, and economy of the state and to local communities; and
WHEREAS, California communities, including the City of Cotati (City) are threatened by escalating fires, floods, droughts, and other disasters. From 1980–2024, 46 extreme weather and climate disaster events impacted California, with losses exceeding $1 billion each; and WHEREAS, in January 2025, the nation watched in horror as fatal firestorms raged across Los Angeles and Ventura Counties, killing 30 people, destroying entire communities and forcing tens of thousands of residents to evacuate. Over 12,000 homes, businesses and institutions burned in the fires. The devastation is estimated to cost $250 to $275 billion; and WHEREAS, across the state, local governments and taxpayers are bearing the costs of rebuilding from climate damages, increased insurance premiums, property taxes, and utility bills.

State and local budgets are stretched as climate risks rise, jeopardizing public services, and forcing communities to carry the burden to address climate-related emergencies; and WHEREAS, currently pending before the California state Assembly and Senate are two tandem bills, Assembly Bill 1243 (Addis) and Senate Bill 684 (Menjivar), that seek to create the Polluters Pay Climate Superfund Act (Superfund Act); and WHEREAS, State Representative Connolly, representing the 12rd District, including the City of Cotati, co-authored Assembly Bill 1243; and
WHEREAS, the Superfund Act will require the multinational fossil fuel companies that are responsible for and profiting in the billions from the climate emergency help pay for their damages; and
WHEREAS, the Superfund Act will direct CalEPA to complete a first-of-its-kind comprehensive study of the true cost of climate damage to ensure polluters pay their fair share.

The Superfund Act will hold the largest polluters accountable for the costs to California from climate damage caused by their products with compensatory fee amounts proportional to companies’ self-reported past emissions from 1990-2024; and WHEREAS, the policy advances California’s commitment to equity and environmental justice. At least 40% of funds from the Polluters Pay Climate Fund will go to disadvantaged communities to remedy past climate damages and build a more resilient and equitable California. 110 of 120
The funds will support urgently-needed projects such as implementing wildfire prevention measures like home hardening, upgrading stormwater management systems to prevent flooding, and installing solar panels and energy storage systems to reduce energy costs and increase resilience during power outages. Additionally, these funds could help develop urban green spaces to mitigate heat islands and improve air quality. Importantly, it could fund programs to support first responders and additional workers who provide essential services during climate disasters; and
WHEREAS, the states of New York and Vermont have enacted their versions of a climate superfund similar to this one; and
WHEREAS, the City has consistently adopted a variety of greenhouse gas reduction policies, including the Electric Vehicle Reach Code (Ordinance 919), prohibitions on new or expanded gas stations (Ordinance 910), a resolution asking the State to accelerate greenhouse gas reduction timelines (Resolution 2021-41), moving the City to 100% renewable Evergreen electricity (June 2019), opposing expansion of off shore oil exploration (Resolution 2018-57), urging the United States Congress to enact a Revenue-Neutral Carbon Fee and Dividend Program (Resolution 2018-26), adopting the Climate Action 2020 plan (Resolution 2018-15) and a variety of related efforts from urban agriculture to waste reduction to bicycle and pedestrian improvements and policies; and
WHEREAS, the Superfund Act proposes to shift the burden of paying for the high costs of recovery from climate damage from California taxpayers to the international oil and gas corporations that have been recording year-over-year profits in the many billions of dollars for the past few years.

NOW THEREFORE BE IT RESOLVED, that the City strongly supports the Polluters Pay Climate Superfund Act, and encourages State representatives to enact it. A copy of this resolution will be sent to our State Assembly and Senate representatives, the Attorney General, and the Governor.

IT IS HEREBY CERTIFIED that the foregoing resolution was duly adopted at a regular meeting of the City Council of the City of Cotati held on October 14, 2025, by the following vote, to wit:

Approved:___________________________
Mayor
Attest:____________________________
Kevin Patterson, City Clerk
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Approved as to form:______________________________
City Attorney
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PRESS RELEASE
FEBRUARY 21, 2025
Californians are paying billions, polluters continue to profit.

SACRAMENTO - The devastating January firestorm in
Los Angeles County damaged or destroyed over 7,800
structures in the Palisades Fire, almost 10,500
structures in the Eaton Fire, and claimed the lives of 29 Californians. In the wake of yet another climate
catastrophe, Senator Caroline Menjivar (D- San
Fernando Valley) and Assemblymember Dawn Addis
Senator Menjivar And
Assemblymember
Addis Author SB 684 &
AB 1243 The Polluters
Pay Climate Superfund
Act Of 2025
9/9/25, 3:50 PM Senator Menjivar and Assemblymember Addis Author SB 684 & AB 1243 The Polluters Pay Climate Superfund Act of 2025 | Californi… https://sd20.senate.ca.gov/news/senator-menjivar-and-assemblymember-addis-author-sb-684-ab-1243-polluters-pay-climate 1/7 113 of 120
(D- Morro Bay) have introduced SB 684 and AB 1243 -
The Polluters Pay Climate Superfund Act of 2025.
“At the core of these disasters are the Californians
whose lives and property have been destroyed. Many of
whom were already experiencing financial uncertainty
due to the rising costs of basic needs; food, housing,
utilities, and transportation to work,” said Senator
Menjivar. “We must be relentless and creative in
pursuing all avenues to redirect the financial burden
away from the consumer as we mitigate the
consequences of human-made disasters. Profits for
polluters skyrocket year over year, and California’s
taxpayers simultaneously pinch their pennies for
household expenses while also solely footing the bill
for catastrophic wildfires and other related disasters.

The Polluters Pay Climate Superfund Act is a
commonsense way to tap into a small fraction of
polluters’ profits, and collect their share of the
financial burden.”
“The Central Coast has faced the devastating impacts
of climate change, from floods and wildfires to coastal erosion. This year’s fires in Los Angeles serve as a stark reminder that collective inaction has catastrophic
consequences for all Californians,” said
Assemblymember Dawn Addis “I’m proud to partner
with my colleague, Senator Menjivar, and a diverse
coalition of advocates to establish a climate superfund that will provide critical relief to impacted
9/9/25, 3:50 PM Senator Menjivar and Assemblymember Addis Author SB 684 & AB 1243 The Polluters Pay Climate Superfund Act of 2025 | Californi… https://sd20.senate.ca.gov/news/senator-menjivar-and-assemblymember-addis-author-sb-684-ab-1243-polluters-pay-climate 2/7 114 of 120
communities. We can’t deny that climate change is
real, and we must take action now to prepare and
rebuild after these devastating events.”
California taxpayers are facing an unprecedented and
escalating financial burden from recent wildfires and
atmospheric river storms, creating an affordability
crisis. The recent devastation in Los Angeles alone is
estimated to cost Californians at least $250 billion.

The Polluters Pay Climate Superfund Act addresses the
financial injustices imposed on taxpayers and working
families from climate related disasters by requiring
fossil fuel polluters to offset the costs pushed down on the taxpayer for the damage caused and enhanced by
their products.

The bill identifies and assesses a fee on the small
number of the world’s largest fossil fuel polluters,
proportional to their fossil fuel emissions since 1990, which is decades after their own scientists advised
them of the dire consequences their products would
inflict on humanity.

The Polluters Pay Climate Superfund Act will:

Direct CalEPA to complete a climate cost study to
quantify total damages to the state (through 2045),
caused by past fossil fuel emissions.

Direct CalEPA to identify responsible parties and
assess compensatory fees on the largest fossil fuel
polluters proportional to their fossil fuel emissions
9/9/25, 3:50 PM Senator Menjivar and Assemblymember Addis Author SB 684 & AB 1243 The Polluters Pay Climate Superfund Act of 2025 | Californi… https://sd20.senate.ca.gov/news/senator-menjivar-and-assemblymember-addis-author-sb-684-ab-1243-polluters-pay-climate 3/7 115 of 120
1990 through 2024, to address damages quantified
in the cost study.

Fund California’s future. Fees collected will fund
projects and programs to mitigate disaster related
rate increases for Californians and remedy or
prevent climate-related costs and harms. The bill
prioritizes labor and job standards and dedicates at
least 40% of the funds to benefit disadvantaged
communities.

At a time when working families are struggling to pay
their bills, The Polluters Pay Climate Superfund Act
will ensure polluters pay to remedy at least some
portion of the burdens they have imposed on
Californians, all while amassing exorbitant profits
through products they knew were driving the climate
crisis and climate-related catastrophes.
“The L.A. fires show with heartbreaking clarity how
much we need this bill to make the biggest climate
polluters pay for the astronomical damage they’ve
caused,” said Kassie Siegel, director of the Center for Biological Diversity’s Climate Law Institute. "The
public shouldn’t be shelling out billions of dollars
every year to recover from severe and deadly climate
disasters. By passing this commonsense bill, state
lawmakers can put the financial burden of climate
damage on giant polluting companies, where it
belongs.”
9/9/25, 3:50 PM Senator Menjivar and Assemblymember Addis Author SB 684 & AB 1243 The Polluters Pay Climate Superfund Act of 2025 | Californi… https://sd20.senate.ca.gov/news/senator-menjivar-and-assemblymember-addis-author-sb-684-ab-1243-polluters-pay-climate 4/7 116 of 120
"California is facing billions in costs from ongoing
devastation and climate impacts, while fossil fuel
companies continue profiting from the crisis they
created. Right now, taxpayers are left covering the
damages, driving up costs for working families,” said
Mary Creasman, Chief Executive Officer, California
Environmental Voters. “Holding corporate polluters
accountable is a necessary step to protecting our
economy, strengthening climate resilience, and making
California more affordable for everyone. That’s why
the Polluters Pay Superfund is so critical – we have to ensure that industry pays their fair share, rather than leaving communities to bear the burden alone.”
“Campaign for a Safe and Healthy California is proud
to stand alongside a diverse coalition of community
leaders and environmental justice organizations in
support of the Polluters Pay Climate Superfund Act,”
said Martha Dina Arguello, Executive Director of
Physicians for Social Responsibility-Los Angeles and
CSHC Steering Committee Member. “This bill
represents a unified effort to ensure that Big Oil
polluters, who have reaped billions in profits while
knowingly sacrificing the health and well-being of
frontline environmental justice communities and
fueling the climate crisis, are held accountable for the damage they have done. Together, Physicians for Social
Responsibility-Los Angeles, Communities for a Better
Environment, California Environmental Justice
9/9/25, 3:50 PM Senator Menjivar and Assemblymember Addis Author SB 684 & AB 1243 The Polluters Pay Climate Superfund Act of 2025 | Californi… https://sd20.senate.ca.gov/news/senator-menjivar-and-assemblymember-addis-author-sb-684-ab-1243-polluters-pay-climate 5/7 117 of 120
Alliance, Black Women for Wellness Action Project,
Center on Race, Poverty & the Environment, and Asian
Pacific Environmental Network Action demand justice
for all California communities by making polluters
pay.”
The Polluters Pay Climate Superfund Act is modeled on
the federal Superfund law (CERCLA) and California’s
Childhood Lead Poisoning Prevention Act. The bill is
distinct from, complementary to, and does not affect
ongoing lawsuits to hold Big Oil accountable for their
decades of deception and denial regarding the known,
dire risks their products pose.

With the passage of SB 684 and AB 1243, California
would join Vermont and New York, the first states to
pass climate superfund laws last year.
###
9/9/25, 3:50 PM Senator Menjivar and Assemblymember Addis Author SB 684 & AB 1243 The Polluters Pay Climate Superfund Act of 2025 | Californi… https://sd20.senate.ca.gov/news/senator-menjivar-and-assemblymember-addis-author-sb-684-ab-1243-polluters-pay-climate 6/7 118 of 120
California State Senate | Democratic Caucus © |
Privacy Policy | Accessibility Statement
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Cotati City Council
Agenda Staff Report
Item type: INFORMATION RECEIVED AFTER THE AGENDA WAS POSTED To: City Council
Subject: INFORMATION RECEIVED AFTER THE AGENDA WAS POSTED Date: October 14, 2025
Written by: Kevin Patterson, City Clerk
Recommendation
Information or written comments pertaining to this meeting, and which was received after the agenda was posted, is attached below.

Pursuant to City Council Policy 2025-03: City Council Rules section IV A., written Communications, interested persons or their authorized representative may address the Council by written communication on any matters concerning the City’s business, or any matters over which the Council has control.

1. To be considered for inclusion in the agenda packet, such written communication shall be delivered to the City Clerk no later than 11:00 a.m. of the Wednesday the week preceding the regular Council meeting for which such written communication is intended.

2. If received after the above date and time, but no later than noon the day before the meeting, written communications received by the City Clerk shall be posted on the website by the end of that day and notification provided to the electronic Agenda mailing list by the end of the day. All written communications received by the City Clerk by 5 pm on the City Council meeting day shall be made available to the City Council and public at the City Council meeting.

City Council Policy 2025-03 is available at the online meeting portal at www.cotaticity.gov or by request from the City Clerk at 707-665-3622 or [email protected]. 120 of 120