From: Jay Farris
Sent: Monday, June 1, 2026 2:27 PM
To: John Jay <[email protected]>; Victoria Henkel <[email protected]>; City Council <[email protected]>
Subject: Please Deny the Grocery Outlet Conditional Use Permit Application
Greetings,
I am writing to formally oppose the proposed Grocery Outlet project in downtown Sebastopol and respectfully urge the Planning Commission to deny the Conditional Use Permit application.
Sebastopol’s independent businesses, locally rooted economy, and distinct downtown environment are an important part of what gives the community its unique identity and long-term economic vitality. I believe the City should continue protecting those qualities by upholding the goals and policies outlined in Sebastopol’s General Plan.
Sebastopol already has multiple grocery stores serving the community, including independent local markets and existing national retailers. I am concerned that introducing another national chain grocery retailer into an already saturated market could negatively impact the local businesses that contribute directly to the city’s economic resilience and community character.
The long-term strength of Sebastopol depends on preserving a vibrant local business ecosystem that supports independent businesses, community investment, and the unique atmosphere residents and visitors value so deeply.
For these reasons, I respectfully ask the Planning Commission and City Council to deny the proposed Conditional Use Permit application for Grocery Outlet.
Thank you for your time and consideration.
Sincerely,
Jay Farris