From: Matthieu Pelpel
Sent: Tuesday, May 26, 2026 3:20 PM
To: City Council <[email protected]>
Subject: A&M BQQ
To Whom It May Concern,
I am writing in support of A&M BBQ and to express my strong opposition to the complaints being raised regarding alleged smoke and traƯic impacts associated with this amazing local business.
I have lived approximately one block away from A&M BBQ, and at no point has smoke, odor, traƯic, or congestion from the restaurant ever been a meaningful concern to me or my household. In fact, A&M BBQ is one of the businesses that contributes positively to the character, culture, and local economy of Sebastopol. It is exactly the type of small, locally supported business that makes this community unique.
I also operate as a vacation rental, and guests consistently speak positively about the area’s local restaurants and walkability, including A&M BBQ. Many visitors specifically appreciate being able to support independent local businesses rather than chain restaurants. Businesses like A&M BBQ contribute directly to tourism, local spending, and the vibrancy of downtown Sebastopol.
Frankly, it is disappointing to see a small local business targeted by what appears to be a small number of NIMBY-style complaints that do not reflect the experience of many nearby residents. If public health and environmental impacts were truly being prioritized consistently, there are far more serious issues within the area that deserve attention.
For example, the ongoing conditions surrounding the Joe Rodota Trail have resulted in repeated concerns involving fires, trash pollution, pests, needles, and human waste — all of which create legitimate health and environmental concerns for residents and surrounding neighborhoods. Similarly, the heavy semitruck traƯic routed through Petaluma Avenue and Main Street generates significant diesel emissions, traƯic congestion, noise, and pollutants that are widely recognized as harmful to public health.
Compared to these issues, occasional barbecue smoke from a beloved local restaurant is negligible and well within the realities of living in a mixed-use, small-town commercial area.
I strongly encourage the City to support A&M BBQ and other small local businesses that contribute positively to the community, local employment, and the identity of Sebastopol.
Sincerely,
Matthieu Pelpel
Resident & Small Business Owner