From: Mara Kiggins
Sent: Monday, March 16, 2026 9:01 PM
To: City Council <[email protected]>
Subject: Grocery Outlet Public Comment
Dear City Council,
I am writing to express my concern regarding the proposed development of another grocery store in our town, specifically located on Main St (formerly rite aid). As an active member of this community, I do not believe our town needs another grocery store, especially when we are severely underserved in other critical retail sectors.
Our community is thriving with young families, yet we do not have a single local clothing store that offers practical options for children and parents. Currently, families must drive 20+ minutes to Santa Rosa or Rhonert Park to purchase basic items like school clothes, children's shoes, or everyday apparel.
We have adequate access to groceries through Fircrest, Whole Foods, Community Market, Pacific Market, Lucky’s and Andy’s Market but we have a complete gap in clothing retail.
Rather than dedicating limited commercial space to a redundant business, I strongly urge the council to prioritize attracting retail that encourages families to keep their tax dollars within our town. Encouraging a family-friendly and affordable clothing store, a general goods retailer, or even a low cost home goods store would better serve the growing and changing demographics of our community.
Thank you for your consideration and thought.
Sincerely,
Em