From: Wes Harris
Sent: Wednesday, May 20, 2026 9:38 AM
To: City Council <[email protected]>
Subject: Letter of Support for A&M BBQ – Long-Term Solutions and Relocation Dear Sebastopol City Council Members,
I am writing to express my strong support for A&M BBQ as they work with the City to find a long-term solution to continue operating.
While I am not a resident of Sebastopol, I am a dedicated visitor. I live in Richmond, and my family and I regularly make the hour-long drive up to West County specifically to eat at A&M BBQ. They have truly brought vibrant life and energy to what would otherwise be a dead strip mall, turning it into a regional destination.
My situation highlights a much larger economic benefit for Sebastopol. There are massive knock-on effects for the local economy generated by people like me who travel from all over the Bay Area just to visit this restaurant. Because a drive from the East Bay or other parts of the region is substantial, visitors do not just eat and leave. We make a full day out of our trips. While we are in town, we consistently spend money at other local businesses, shops, and nearby spots to make the drive worth it. If A&M BBQ weren't there to draw a regional crowd in, those retail dollars would be spent in other cities.
We need to be proactive about supporting small businesses that bring genuine vitality to our communities rather than complaining about the challenges that come with growth.
A&M BBQ is exactly the kind of establishment that makes Sebastopol a place people want to visit and invest time in.
I urge the City Council to grant the A&M BBQ team the reasonable time and flexibility they need to relocate, transition responsibly, and find a permanent home in the area. Keeping their staff employed and their business running is a win for everyone involved.
Thank you for your time, consideration, and dedication to supporting local businesses.
Sincerely,
Wes Harris
Richmond, CA