From: James Zimmerman
Sent: Saturday, May 30, 2026 7:38 AM
To: City Council <[email protected]>
Subject: Support of A&M BBQ and request for additional time
Dear Mayor and Members of the Sebastopol City Council,
I am writing in support of A&M BBQ and to respectfully request that the City grant the business additional time to find a workable solution to the ongoing air quality dispute.
I am a relatively new Sebastopol resident and have lived near Willard Libby Park for nearly a year. Moving here has been one of the best decisions I've made. Sebastopol is beautiful, welcoming, and filled with a strong sense of community. Businesses like A&M BBQ help create that community.
As the son of a small business owner, I have seen firsthand the role that local businesses play in bringing people together. Places like A&M are more than restaurants—they are gathering places where neighbors meet, families celebrate, and friendships are formed.
They contribute to the character and vitality that make Sebastopol special.
I understand that environmental and air quality concerns must be taken seriously. At the same time, I hope the City can work collaboratively with A&M to find a reasonable path forward. If additional time would allow the owners to relocate within Sebastopol or implement a solution that addresses concerns while preserving the business, I strongly encourage the City to provide that opportunity.
Small, locally owned businesses face enough challenges without being forced to close before all reasonable alternatives have been explored. I believe Sebastopol is at its best when it supports both the quality of life of its residents and the entrepreneurs who invest their time, energy, and resources into serving the community.
Thank you for your consideration and for your service to our town.
Sincerely,
James Zimmerman
Sebastopol Resident