Sent: Thursday, August 13, 2026 11:57 AM
-----Original Message-----
From: Kathy Burrows
To: John Jay <[email protected]>
Cc: Victoria Henkel <[email protected]>; City Council <[email protected]> Subject: Public Comment: Proposed Grocery Outlet at the Former Rite Aid Site I have lived in Sebastopol for 50 years. I owned Rays Trading Company which aŌer 39 years is sƟll in existence.
As a longƟme resident of our community, I am wriƟng to express my strong opposiƟon to the proposal for a grocery outlet to be established in the heart of our town.
Our quaint community is characterized by a unique charm, local businesses and a strong sense of idenƟty. The introducƟon of a large box store threatens to undermine the very essence of what makes our town special. Such an establishment would not only clash with our local aestheƟcs, but also dilute the individuality that our residence and visitors cherish.
In addiƟon to the detrimental impact on our town character, I am deeply concerned about the potenƟal traffic nightmare that grocery outlet would bring. The increase in vehicle, congesƟon, parƟcularly in are already busy downtown area poses significant safety risk for our pedestrians and cyclists. It could lead to frustraƟng delays for residence and detour visitors who come to enjoy our local shops and restaurants.
We must consider the economic implicaƟons of inviƟng a large corporate enƟty into our community.
SupporƟng local businesses is vital for maintaining our towns, economic health, and ensuring that our neighbors thrive. A grocery outlet may offer convenience, but it will inevitably take away from the unique shopping experiences that our local merchants provide.
I urge the council to reconsider this proposal and prioriƟze the vision of our town that has been culƟvated over many years. Let us protect our communiƟes character and support the local businesses that contribute to our vibrant atmosphere.
Thank you for considering my concerns. I hope we can work together to preserve the integrity and charm of our town for generaƟons to come.
Sincerely,
Katherine Burrows