From: Kerrily Beaton
Sent: Saturday, June 27, 2026 8:36 AM
To: City Council <[email protected]>
Subject: Opposition to Grocery Outlet
Dear Members of the Planning Commission and City Council,
I am writing to express my opposition to the proposed Grocery Outlet project at the former Rite Aid site in downtown Sebastopol.
I grew up in Sebastopol, first on DuFranc Avenue and later on Niva Street. Although I moved away as a young adult, I always knew I wanted to return. In 2018, that dream became reality, and this September I will be moving into one of the new Habitat for Humanity townhomes directly across from Safeway and the former Rite Aid site.
Part of what has always made Sebastopol feel like home to me is its small-town character, walkable downtown, locally owned businesses, and quirky charm that makes it unlike anywhere else. Over the years, I have seen businesses come and go, but I have always appreciated that they were often replaced by businesses that contributed to the community's identity.
When Rite Aid closed, I was hopeful that the property would be reimagined with a dynamic use that would complement downtown and reflect Sebastopol's unique character. I do not believe another grocery store is needed in a market that is already well served. More importantly, I hope the City will consider whether there are alternative uses that would better serve the community and strengthen downtown.
With the recent closure of the Sebastopol Regional Library due to environmental concerns, this highly visible and accessible site presents an opportunity to think creatively about community-serving uses. As a future downtown resident, I would welcome a vision for this property that brings people together and contributes to the vibrancy of the area rather than simply adding another grocery store.
I respectfully urge you to uphold the principles of the General Plan and deny the Conditional Use Permit application for the proposed Grocery Outlet.
Thank you for your consideration and for your service to the community.
Sincerely,
Kerry Beaton