From: Daniel B
Sent: Thursday, June 25, 2026 10:53 AM
To: City Council <[email protected]>; John Jay <[email protected]>; Victoria Henkel <[email protected]> Subject: Former Rite Aid site citizen perspective
Dear Planning Commissioners and City Council Members,
As a 15-year resident of Sebastopol, I value the local character and unique sense of place that makes our city core so attractive. I believe converting one of downtown's most prominent properties into a Grocery Outlet would be a mistake and inconsistent with the vision established in the General Plan.
At the same time, I do not believe leaving the building vacant serves the community either.
The former Rite Aid site represents an important opportunity, and I hope the City will encourage uses that contribute to a vibrant and diverse downtown while complementing the businesses and institutions that already exist.
The question is not whether the property should be occupied, but whether this particular use represents the best long-term outcome for Sebastopol. I encourage the City to uphold the General Plan and preserve flexibility for uses that better support the character and economic diversity of the downtown core.
Thank you for your consideration.
Sincerely,
Daniel Braunschweig