From: Vanessa Bodeen
Sent: Tuesday, June 2, 2026 12:22 PM
To: City Council <[email protected]>
Subject: Letter of Support for A&M BBQ
Letter of Support for A&M BBQ
To Whom It May Concern,
I am writing to express my wholehearted support for A&M Barbecue and the Austin family.
I first would like to recognize and highlight the wonderful people behind this small business. Kris Austin and his family are some of the most genuine, hardworking, honest, and kind individuals you could hope to meet. They are not a large corporation or absentee business owners—they are a local family who have invested their hearts, time, and resources into building a business that supports their family and contributes to our community.
Kris and his family are raising young children and, like many small business owners, have sacrificed countless hours to create something meaningful. A&M Barbecue is more than a restaurant; it is the livelihood that helps provide for their family and creates jobs for others in our community. Anyone who has spent time around Kris knows that he approaches both business and life with integrity, generosity, and a strong work ethic.
Beyond the restaurant, the Austin family is deeply involved in our local community, particularly in youth sports. They regularly support local athletes, families, and organizations, giving back their time and energy to help create positive opportunities for young people. Their commitment to the West County community extends far beyond serving great food. They show up, volunteer, encourage, and invest in the success of others.
A&M Barbecue has become a destination that brings people together. It attracts visitors to Sebastopol, supports the local economy, and has earned a loyal following because of the quality of both the food and the people behind it. The success of the restaurant reflects the character and dedication of the Kris Austin and everyone at A&M.
As the City considers how to move forward, I hope decision-makers will remember that this issue aƯects real people—a hardworking local family who care deeply about this community and who have contributed so much to it, as well as the dedicated employees of A&M whose livelihoods depend on the success of A&M. My hope is that a solution can be found that allows A&M Barbecue to continue serving the community they love.
Kris Austin and his family represent the kind of small-business owners that communities should be proud to support. I respectfully encourage the City to work toward a path that allows this valued local business and family to continue to thrive in Sebastopol.
Thank you for your time and consideration.
Sincerely,
Vanessa Bodeen-Tognozzi