Linda Civitello, MA, CFRE
Sebastopol, CA 95472
June 18, 2026
Mayor, City Council, City Manager
7120 Bodega Ave
Sebastopol, CA 95472
Dear Mayor McLewis, Council Members and Mary Gourley:
It is unbelievable that you would endanger public health and ignore zoning law to permit an industrial wood smoker in a residential area.
Perhaps I should consult with my attorney regarding this. Woodsmoke is a danger to public health and exacerbates asthma.
It is unfortunate that a small business is impacted, however we cannot endanger public health.
Please see the content of my email of June 5 below:
As the former CEO of the American Lung Association in San Francisco I can tell you there is nothing favorable about smoke from barbecue.
Small Particulate Matter, PM10 is a very dangerous public health hazard. PM10 refers to inhalable particulate matter with a diameter of 10 micrometers or smaller. Exposure to these coarse dust and pollutant particles can easily irritate your airways, eyes, and nose. It also increases the risk of respiratory issues, asthma attacks, and cardiovascular problems.
I live a block and a half from A & M BBQ and have been woken in the night with my house full of smoke. I can't live this way as I have asthma, but even if I didn't I can tell you this type of exposure can cause asthma and other health problems in unsuspecting residents.
I know this is a terrible situation for A & M but feel you must protect the health of Sebastopol residents, even those who do not realize that exposure is harmful.
I moved to Sebastopol to be away from the bad air in the bay area. When A & M brought in industrial smokers, they violated local laws.
Please do not allow them to continue polluting our neighborhood.
Thank you for your attention to this matter. I expect a response regarding this issue. i tu Received
amda Civitello, MA, CFRE
JUN 23 2026
City of Sebastopol
Admin Services - Finance