Cities Index.
Agenda

Sonoma City Council
December 17, 2025

Document
Agenda
Meeting
December 17, 2025
Body
Sonoma City Council
Pages
275
Original file
30.8 MB
Text extracted from the city's file for reading and search. Open the original on sonomacity.civicweb.net. That file is the official record.

The recitals above are each incorporated by reference and adopted as findings by the City Council.

SECTION 2. MUNICIPAL CODE AMENDMENTS
The Sonoma Municipal Code is hereby amended as shown in Exhibit A.

SECTION 3. FINDINGS FOR DEVELOPMENT CODE AMENDMENTS
Pursuant to Section 19.86.070(B) of the Sonoma Municipal Code, the City Council finds proposed amendments of the development code under this ordinance are as follows:

A. The proposed amendment is consistent with the goal, policies, and actions of the General Plan;
The City of Sonoma Development Code carries out the policies and implementation measures of the General Plan and State Law. Consistency between Sections of the Development Code and State Law ensure accuracy of the Development Code review process and therefore the amendments are consistent with the goals, policies, and actions of the General Plan. The proposed amendment implement Program 15 of the Housing Element of the General Plan and are therefore consistent with the goals, policies and actions thereof.

B. The proposed amendment would not be detrimental to the public interest, health, safety, convenience, or welfare of the city;
The proposed amendments are required to be compliant with State Law and clarify standards and permit requirements to accommodate low barrier navigation centers, supportive housing, transitional housing, residential care facilities, qualified employee housing, single-room occupancy, and emergency shelters consistent with state law.

Therefore, the proposed amendment would not be detrimental to the public interest, health, safety, convenience, or welfare of the city.

C. Comply with the provisions of the California Environmental Quality Act (CEQA) as described in Section 4 below; and
The amendments fall under CEQA Guidelines Section 15061 (b)(3) General Rule.

The General Rule, also known as the “Common Sense Exemption” applies to projects in which it is clear and definitive that the project will not have any significant impacts on the environment.

D. The proposed amendment is internally consistent with other applicable provisions of this development code.

The proposed amendments provide clarity and consistency throughout the zoning code with state law to implement the City of Sonoma Housing Element.

SECTION 4. CALIFORNIA ENVIRONMENTAL QUALITY ACT
This ordinance has been assessed in accordance with the authority and criteria contained in CEQA, the State CEQA Guidelines, and the environmental regulations of the city. City Planning Agenda Item #8.1:

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Staff has determined that the adoption and implementation of the ordinance is exempt from further environmental review under the general rule in California Environmental Quality Act (CEQA) Guidelines Section 15061(b)(3) that CEQA only applies to projects that have the potential for causing a significant effect on the environment. As a series of text amendments and additions without any physical project being approved and not involving a commitment to any specific project that may result in a potentially significant physical impact on the environment, it can be seen with certainty that there is no possibility that the ordinance will have a significant effect on the environment. The City Council concurs in these findings and adopts them as its own. The City Council, therefore, directs that a Notice of Exemption be filed with the County Clerk of the County of Sonoma in accordance with CEQA Guidelines.

SECTION 5. SEVERABILITY
If any section, subsection, subdivision, sentence, clause, phrase, or portion of this ordinance for any reason is held to be invalid or unconstitutional by the decision of any court of competent jurisdiction, such decision shall not affect the validity of the remaining portions of this ordinance.

The City Council hereby declares that it would have adopted this ordinance, and each section, subsection, subdivision, sentence, clause, phrase, or portion thereof, irrespective of the fact that any one or more sections, subsections, subdivisions, sentences, clauses, phrases, or portions thereof be declared invalid or unconstitutional.

SECTION 6. EFFECTIVE DATE
This ordinance shall take effect thirty (30) days after passage thereof.

SECTION 7. PUBLICATION
This ordinance shall be published in accordance with the provisions of Government Code section 36933, subdivision (c)(1).

SECTION 8. THIS ORDINANCE PREVAILS WHERE THERE IS CONFLICT To the extent that this ordinance conflicts with any other provision in the Sonoma Municipal Code or city ordinance (urgency or otherwise), policy or regulation, this ordinance will control.

PASSED AND ADOPTED at a regular Council Meeting of the City Council of the City of Sonoma held on the __ day of _________, 2025 by the following vote:

AYES:

NOES:

ABSTAIN:

ABSENT:
_________________________
Patricia Farrar-Rivas, Mayor
ATTEST:

Rebekah Barr, MMC, City Clerk
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I HEREBY CERTIFY that the foregoing ordinance was duly and regularly adopted by the City Council of the City of Sonoma, Sonoma County, California, at a meeting thereof, held on the _____________, by the following vote, to wit:

AYES:

NOES:

ABSTAIN:

ABSENT:

Rebekah Barr, MMC, City Clerk
Agenda Item #8.1:

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EXHIBIT A
SECTION ONE: Chapter 19.92 Definitions Amended
Chapter 19.92, Definitions of Title 19 of the Sonoma Municipal Code is hereby amended by adding or amending the following definitions, and shall be integrated into the existing Section in alphabetical order, to read as follows (strikeout is used to denote existing text being deleted; underline is used to denote new text being added):
“Agricultural employee housing” means housing as described in California Health and Safety Code Sections 17021.5 and 17021.6, and employee housing as defined in California Health and Safety Code Section 17008.
“Community care facility” means a residential care facility serving six or fewer persons as provided for under Section 1566.3 of the California Health and Safety Code. “Emergency shelters” means temporary lodging for homeless persons with minimal on-site supportive services that may be is limited to occupancy of six months or less. "Employee housing" means both of the following:

A. Qualified employee housing providing accommodations for six (6) or fewer employees, pursuant to California Health and Safety Code section 17021.5(b).

B. Qualified employee housing providing accommodations for seven (7) or more employees and consisting of no more than thirty six (36) beds in group quarters or twelve (12) units or spaces designed for use by a single family or household, pursuant to Health and Safety Code Section 17021.6(b).

Employee housing is not included within the definition of a boarding house, rooming house, single room occupancy residence, hotel, dormitory, or other similar term that implies that the employee housing is a business run for profit or differs in any other way from a family dwelling.

Employee housing does not include housing that is provided by someone other than an agricultural employer or an agent thereof if such housing is offered and rented to nonagricultural employees on the same terms that it is offered to agricultural employees, none of the occupants of the housing are employed by the owner or property manager of the housing, none of the occupants of the housing have rent deducted from their wages, negotiation of the terms of occupancy of the housing is conducted between each occupant and the owner or manager of the property, the occupants of the housing are not required to live in the housing as a condition of employment, and the occupants of the housing are not referred to live in the housing by the employer of the occupants or the employer's agent, or an agricultural employer.
"Employee" as used in this definition does not include a person engaged in household domestic service or a person employed under circumstances in which his or her wages are incidental to professional training or training for a religious vocation and where the employer is exempt from taxation under the California Constitution. In addition to the requirements of this definition, employee housing shall comply with the requirements of the Employee Housing Act (Calif. Health & Safety Code, section 17000 et seq.).

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"Family" means an individual or group of two (2) or more persons living together in a dwelling unit, with common access to, and common use of all living, kitchen, and eating areas within the dwelling unit on a continuous non-transient basis. Each member of the family has access to all parts of the dwelling; interact with each other; share meals; and/or share household activities. If the dwelling unit is rented, all adult residents have chosen to jointly occupy the entire premises of the dwelling unit, under a single written lease with joint use and responsibility for the premises. Further, the makeup of the household occupying the rental is determined by the residents of the dwelling unit rather than the landlord, property manager, or agency. The term "family" shall not include institutional group living situations such as dormitories, fraternities, sororities, monasteries, convents, or similar group living arrangements whose association is temporary or of limited duration (i.e., school term, completion of a program, rehabilitation, etc.); nor does it include group living arrangements such as boarding houses, single-room occupancy residences, hotels, or motels. Indications that a household may not be operating as a "family" may include but are not limited to: members of the household have separate, private entrances; each member of the household has locks or deadbolts on their bedroom door; members of the household have separate food storage facilities; members have restricted access to certain portions of the dwelling; and/or lease a specific room or portion of the dwelling. “Low barrier navigation center” has the same meaning as Government Code Section 65660. They are a housing first facility that provides temporary housing, low-barrier, service-enriched shelter focused on moving people into permanent housing while case managers connect individuals experiencing homelessness to income, public benefits, health services, shelter, and housing.
“Residential care homes” has the same meaning as in California Health and Safety Code section 1502. means intermediate care They are facilities that serve as a residence for individuals in need of assistance with daily living activities providing and provides residential, social, habilitative, and personal care for children, the elderly, the developmentally disabled, and persons with limited ability for self-care, but where medical care is not a major element. Includes: children’s homes; transitional houses; orphanages; rehabilitation centers; self-help group homes. A residential care facility serving six or fewer clients (excluding members of the resident family or persons employed as facility staff) is considered a single family dwelling and shall be a self-contained entity located and operated within a single parcel of record and shall not be operated or managed in conjunction with the same or similar use on any adjoining parcel. A residential care home is subject only to those restrictions that apply to other dwellings of the same type within the same zone. Convalescent homes and similar facilities providing medical care are included under the definition of “Medical services – Extended care.” "Single room occupancy housing" means a facility providing six or more guest rooms or efficiency units in a "residential hotel" as defined by California Health and Safety Code Section 50519(b)(1), as may be amended from time to time, and shall be offered on a monthly basis or longer.
“Supportive housing” means permanent affordable housing with no limit on length of stay that is occupied by the target population as defined in Health and Safety Code Section 53260(d), and that is linked to on- or off-site services that assist the supportive housing resident in retaining the housing, improving his or her health status, and maximizing his Agenda Item #8.1:

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or her ability to live and, when possible, work in the community (Health and Safety Code Section 50675.14(b)). Supportive housing shall be subject to those restrictions that apply to other residential dwellings of the same type in the same zone. For example, such housing structured as single-family is permitted in the RL and RS residential zones, whereas supportive housing structured as multifamily is limited to the RM and RH residential zones and the Mixed Use zone.
"Supportive housing" means either:

A. Supportive housing occupied by the target population, as those terms are defined in California Government Code section 65582; or
B. Supportive housing occupied by the target population, as those terms are defined in California Government Code section 65650.

Supportive housing is a "dwelling" in the individual zone chapters. Supportive housing occupied by the target population (as defined in Calif. Gov. Code section 65582) is subject only to those restrictions that apply to other dwellings of the same type within the same zone.

Supportive housing occupied by the target population (as defined in Calif. Gov. Code section 65650) is eligible for streamlined ministerial review, in zones where multifamily and mixed uses are permitted if the proposed housing development satisfies the requirements of California Government Code section 65651, subdivision (a). "Transitional housing" has the same meaning as in California Government Code section 65582. Transitional housing is a "dwelling" and is subject only to those restrictions that apply to other dwellings of the same type within the same zone. “Transitional housing” means buildings configured as rental housing developments, but operated under program requirements that call for the termination of assistance and recirculation of the assisted unit to another eligible program recipient at some predetermined future point in time, which shall be no less than six months (Health and Safety Code Section 50675.2(h)). The housing may take several forms such as group housing and multifamily units and may include supportive services to allow individuals to gain necessary life skills in support of independent living. Transitional housing shall be subject to those restrictions that apply to other residential dwellings of the same type in the same zone. For example, such housing structured as single-family is permitted in the RL and RS residential zones, whereas transitional housing structured as multifamily is limited to the RM and RH residential zones and the Mixed Use zone.

SECTION TWO: Section 19.10.050 Allowable land uses and permit requirements Amended
Section 19.10.050 Allowable land uses and permit requirements of Chapter 19.10, of Title 19 of the Sonoma Municipal Code is hereby amended by adding the following to Table 2-1, Table 2-2, Table 2-3 and Table 2-4, including the corresponding footnotes, and shall be integrated into the existing Tables in alphabetical and chronological (footnotes) order, to read as follows (underline is used to denote new text being added):

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Table 2-1. Residential Uses and Permit Requirements
Allowed Uses and Permit
Requirements for Residential
Districts (1)
Permit Required by
District (2)
P Use permitted
UP Use permit required
L License required
– Use not allowed
Land Use (1) R-HS R-R R-L R-S R-M R-H R-O R-P
Specific Use
Regulations
RESIDENTIAL USES (2)
Employee Housing – Six or
Fewer Employees (5)
UP P P P – – – – SMC 19.50.075
Employee Housing - Seven
or More Employees (6)
P P UP – – – – – SMC 19.50.075
Residential Care Homes, Six
or Fewer Clients (7)
UP P P P P – – –
Residential Care Homes,
Seven or More Clients
– – – UP P/UPP/UP– –
Single Room Occupancy
Housing (8)
– – – UP UP UP P– – SMC 19.50.090
Supportive Housing (3) UP P P/UP P/UPP/UPP/UPP –
Transitional Housing (3) UP P P/UP P/UPP/UPP/UPP –
Notes:

3. Supportive and transitional housing shall be subject to those restrictions that apply to other residential dwellings of the same type in the same zone. For example, such housing structured as singlefamily is permitted in the R-HS, R-R, R-L and R-S residential zones, whereas supportive and transitional housing structured as multifamily is limited to the R-S, R-M, and R-H and R-O residential zones and the mixed use zone.
…

5. Employee Housing of six or fewer shall be deemed a single-family residence and subject to all municipal codes, regulations and other standards generally applicable to other residential dwellings of the same type in the same zone.

6. Employee Housing of seven or more employees is permitted as an accessory use in conjunction with approved agricultural use per Section 19.50.075 and is subject to all municipal codes, regulations and other standards generally applicable to other agricultural activity in the same zone.

7. For Residential Care Homes requiring use permits, the conditions of approval shall be objective and shall not create barriers for housing for seniors, persons with disabilities, or other special needs populations.

8. Single room occupancy housing is subject to all municipal codes, regulations and other standards generally applicable to multiple-family residential buildings in the same zone and specific standards as set forth in Section 19.50.090.

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Table 2-2. Commercial Uses and Permit Requirements
Allowed Uses and Permit Requirements for
Commercial Zoning Districts (1)
Permit Required by
District (2)
P Use permitted
UP Use permit
required
L License required
– Use not allowed
WTUP Wine tasting use
permit
Land Use C CG Specific Use
Regulations
RESIDENTIAL USES (32)
Residential Care Homes, Seven or More Clients (9) UP UP Single-Room Occupancy Housing (10) UP – SMC 19.50.090
Supportive Housing (3) UP UP
Transitional Housing (3) UP UP

SERVICES
Low Barrier Navigation Center P P SMC 19.50.034

3. Supportive and transitional housing shall be subject to those restrictions that apply to other residential dwellings of the same type in the same zone. Single family and duplexes are not permitted in the Commercial and Commercial Gateway Zones. For example, such housing structured as single-family is permitted in the R-HS, R-R, R-L and R-S residential zones, whereas supportive and transitional housing structured as multifamily is limited to the R-M and R-H residential zones and the mixed use zone.

9. For Residential Care Homes requiring use permits, the conditions of approval shall be objective and shall not create barriers for housing for seniors, persons with disabilities, or other special needs populations.

10. Single room occupancy housing is subject to all municipal codes, regulations and other standards generally applicable to multiple-family residential buildings in the same zone and specific standards as set forth in Section 19.50.090.

Table 2-3. Mixed Uses and Permit Requirements
Allowed Uses and Permit Requirements for
Commercial Zoning Districts (1)
Permit Required by
District (2)
P Use permitted
UP Use permit
required
L
License
required
– Use not allowed
WTUP Wine tasting
use permit
Land Use MX Specific Use
Regulations
RESIDENTIAL USES (4)
Single-Room Occupancy Housing (9) UP SMC 19.50.090
Supportive Housing, Four or Fewer Units (10) P
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Supportive Housing, Five or More Units (10) UP
Transitional Housing, Four or Fewer Units (10) P
Transitional Housing, Five or More Units (10) UP

SERVICES
Low Barrier Navigation Center P SMC 19.50.034

9. Single room occupancy housing is subject to all municipal codes, regulations and other standards generally applicable to multiple-family residential buildings in the same zone and specific standards as set forth in Section 19.50.090.

10. Supportive and transitional housing shall be subject to those restrictions that apply to other residential dwellings of the same type in the same zone. Single family and duplexes are not permitted in the Mixed Use Zone.

Table 2-4. Special Purpose Uses and Permit Requirements Allowed Uses and Permit Requirements for Special
Purpose Zoning Districts
Permit Required by
District
P Use permitted
UP Use permit
required
L License required
– Use not allowed
Land Use (1) A Pk P W
Specific Use
Regulations
RESIDENTIAL USES (2)
Agricultural Employee Housing P – – –
Emergency Shelters, 15 30 or Fewer Beds – – P – SMC 19.50.033 Emergency Shelters, 16 31 or More Beds – – UP – SMC 19.50.033 Employee Housing – 6 or Fewer Employees (5) P – P SMC 19.50.075 Employee Housing - 7 or More Employees (6) P – P SMC 19.50.075

5. Employee Housing of six or fewer shall be deemed a single-family residence and subject to all municipal codes, regulations and other standards generally applicable to other residential dwellings of the same type in the same zone...

6. Employee Housing of seven or more employees is permitted as an accessory use in conjunction with approved agricultural use per Section 19.50.075 and is subject to all municipal codes, regulations and other standards generally applicable to other agricultural activity in the same zone.

SECTION THREE: Section 19.50.033 Emergency shelters Amended Subsection 19.50.033(A) Site Development Standards of Section 19.55.033 Emergency shelters) of Chapter 19.50 Special Use Standards of Title 19 of the Sonoma Municipal Code is hereby amended to read as follows (strikeout is used to denote existing text being deleted; underline is used to denote new text being added):

19.50.033 Emergency shelters.

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A. Site Development Standards. In addition to any other applicable requirements of the development code and any other applicable statutes and regulations, all emergency shelter facilities shall be subject to the following development standards:

1. Client Intake and Waiting Area. Each emergency shelter facility shall provide an indoor client intake and waiting area.

2. Exterior Lighting. Exterior lighting shall be provided throughout the facility to ensure the safety of all persons on site. The placement, illumination, and shielding of such lighting shall be subject to the applicable provisions of the municipal code.

3. Proximity to Other Emergency Shelters. No emergency shelter facility shall be less than 300 feet from any other emergency shelter facility. In determining the distance between two emergency shelter facilities, the distance shall be measured from the property line of one facility to the nearest property line of another facility.

4. Parking. Off-street parking requirements shall comply with Sonoma Municipal Code Chapter 19.48 Parking and Loading Standards. In accordance with Government Code Section 65583(a)(4) sufficient parking shall be provided to accommodate all staff working in the emergency shelter; provided, that the standards do not require more parking for emergency shelters than other residential or commercial uses within the same zone.
…
SECTION FOUR: Section 19.50.034 Low barrier navigation centers Added Section 19.50.034 (Low barrier navigation centers) of Chapter 19.50 Special Use Standards of Title 19 of the Sonoma Municipal Code is hereby added to read as follows:

19.50.034 Low Barrier Navigation Centers
A. Purpose. The purpose of this section is to implement the provisions of Government Code Section 65660 et seq. relating to low barrier navigation centers.

B. Definitions. For purposes of this section, the terms listed below of the following meaning. “Low barrier” means best practices to reduce barriers to entry, and may include, but is not limited to:

1. The presence of partners or co-habitants if it is not a population-specific site (such as limited to survivors of domestic violence, crimes, women, or youth).

2. Allowing personal pets.

3. Allowing the storage of personal possessions.

4. Providing privacy, such as partitions around beds in a dormitory setting or in larger rooms containing more than two beds, or private rooms.
“Low-barrier navigation centers” has the meaning provided in Chapter 19.92 SMC (Definitions).
“Use by right” has the same meaning as defined in subdivision (i) of California Agenda Item #8.1:

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Government Code Section 65583.2. Division 13 (commencing with Section 21000) of the California Public Resources Code shall not apply to actions taken by a public agency to lease, convey, or encumber land owned by a public agency, or to facilitate the lease, conveyance, or encumbrance of land owned by a public agency, or to provide financial assistance to, or otherwise approve, a low-barrier navigation center constructed or allowed by this section.

C. Applicability. The provisions of this chapter shall apply to all low-barrier navigation center projects.

D. Allowed Zones. Low barrier navigation centers shall be allowed as a permitted use in areas zoned for mixed uses, and nonresidential zones that permit multifamily residential developments, provided they meet the requirements of this section SMC 19.50.034.

E. Permit Required. A building permit, certificate of occupancy, and/or zoning clearance review is required prior to establishment of any low-barrier navigation center project. The permit or zone clearance shall be a ministerial action without discretionary review or a hearing. If site development or new construction is proposed that meets the criteria of this Title 19 then a public hearing shall not be required unless a related permit or other entitlement requires a public hearing in accordance with the zoning regulations. The city shall notify a developer whether the developer's application is complete within thirty (30) days, pursuant to California Government Code Section 65943. Action shall be taken within sixty (60) days from the date an application has been deemed complete.

F. Development and Operational Standards. A low-barrier navigation center project is a use by-right in areas zoned for mixed-use and nonresidential zones permitting multifamily uses, if it meets the following requirements:

1. Connected Services: It offers services to connect people to permanent housing through a services plan that identifies services staffing.

2. Coordinated Entry System: It is linked to a coordinated entry system, so that staff in the interim facility or staff who co-locate in the facility may conduct assessments and provide services to connect people to permanent housing. "Coordinated entry system" means a centralized or coordinated assessment system developed pursuant to Section 576.400(d) or Section 578.7(a)(8), as applicable, of Title 24 of the Code of Federal Regulations, as those sections read on January 1, 2020, and any related requirements, designed to coordinate program participant intake, assessment, and referrals.

3. Interagency Council on Homelessness Compliance: It complies with Chapter 6.5 (commencing with Section 8255) of Division 8 of the Welfare and Institutions Code.

4. Homeless Management Information System: It has a system for entering information regarding client stays, client demographics, client income, and exit destination through the local Homeless Management Information System, as defined by Section 578.3 of Title 24 of the Code of Federal Regulations.

SECTION FIVE: Section 19.50.075 Employee Housing Added
Section 19.50.075 Employee Housing of Chapter 19.50 Special Use Standards of Title 19 of the Sonoma Municipal Code is hereby added toread as follows.

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19.50.075 Employee Housing
A. Employee Housing Defined. The Employee Housing Act allows for flexibility in housing types for employee housing, including conventional and nonconventional structures, such as: living quarters, boardinghouse, tent, bunkhouse, mobile home, manufactured home, recreational vehicle and travel trailers. The laws and regulations governing these structures depends on the housing type; however, all qualified employee housing must comply with: the Employee Housing Act (Health and Safety Code Section 17000 et seq.) and the Employee Housing Regulations (Title 25—Housing and Community Development), which outline specific requirements for the construction of housing, maintenance of grounds, buildings, sleeping space and facilities, sanitation and heating; and the provisions of this section.

Employee housing providing accommodations for six or fewer employees, pursuant to Health and Safety Code Section 17021.5(b), shall be deemed a single-family dwelling and is allowed in residential zones subject to all municipal codes, regulations and other standards generally applicable to other residential dwellings of the same type in the same zone. Employee housing of seven or more employees is permitted as an accessory use in conjunction with approved agricultural use as described below.

B. Accessory Use. Qualified employee housing for seven or more employees is a permitted accessory use in conjunction with an approved permitted agricultural use provided that:

1. The number of living units or beds is reasonably related to the number of agricultural employees required for agricultural operations on the parcel on which the qualified employee housing is located, provided it does not consist of more than 36 beds in a group quarters or 12 units or spaces designed for use by a single family or household.

2. Qualified employee housing shall be occupied only by agricultural employees (and the members of the employee's household as permitted by HCD) engaged in agricultural labor and shall not be otherwise occupied or rented.

3. All temporary or permanent structures that contain qualified employee housing shall meet the setback, lot coverage, height, and other development standards applicable to the zone in which it is located.

4. Pre-manufactured or mobile home dwelling units intended as permanent housing shall be installed on a permanent foundation and shall provide permanent utility connections (potable water, sewer line, electricity, etc.) including permanent heating and cooling facilities.

5. Parking shall be provided in accordance with Chapter 19.48, unless the applicant provides substantial evidence demonstrating that the actual parking need is lower, subject to the approval of the Community Development Director.

6. Employee housing shall be reviewed and approved subject to the same requirements as other permitted agricultural uses within the same zone.

7. If an existing agriculture use does not have a required permit, a permit for both the agricultural use and qualified employee housing must be obtained.

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8. Qualified employee housing shall be removed or converted to another permitted use at such time as the agricultural activity to which it relates ceases operation for more than 12 consecutive months.

C. Standards for Temporary Trailers. A maximum of one (1) temporary trailer may be used to provide housing for seasonal or temporary farmworkersagricultural employees or animal caretakers, and their families, on a limited term basis. The trailer must be located on the same lot where the farmworkersagricultural employees or animal caretakers are employed that meets the following requirements:

1. A qualifying temporary trailer shall be permitted with a building permit and zoning clearance, which will serve as a ministerial limited term trailer permit, permitted for a maximum of one hundred eighty (180) consecutive calendar days or fewer in any twelve (12) month period pursuant to the following:
a. The permit application shall include a description of the number of seasonal or temporary farmworkersagricultural employees or animal caretakers to occupy the temporary trailer, the area of cultivation and crops requiring these workers, and the time period for which seasonal or temporary farmworkersagricultural employees or animal caretakers are required.
b. The permit application shall clearly identify the location of sewer connections, dump stations, or otherwise demonstrate adequate sewage disposal by, for example, including a plan or contract for regular service through registered or permitted septage pumping vehicles, or a combination thereof, which will serve the trailer.
c. In addition to meeting all ministerial and zoning clearance application requirements, the applicant shall submit an affidavit in a separate signed statement affirming that the temporary trailer will only be used to house seasonal or temporary farmworkersagricultural employees or animal caretakers solely employed on the site for agricultural production or animal keeping. d. After the issuance of a zoning clearance authorizing use of the temporary trailer as housing for seasonal or temporary farmworkersagricultural employees or animal caretakers, all electrical and plumbing connections to the trailer(s) must be approved and inspected (and obtain a building permit, if required) by the Building Division prior to occupancy of the trailer.

2. The Community Development Director may extend a limited term trailer permit by an additional ninety (90) days, on a one-time basis, provided that the applicant submits documentation to justify the additional seasonal employment necessary for the agricultural activity.

3. General Requirements:
a. A maximum of one temporary trailer will be allowed on any lot. b. The temporary trailer must be a motor home, travel trailer, truck camper, recreational vehicle, or camping trailer, that is self-contained and habitable, and that is either self-propelled, truck-mounted, or permanently towable on roadways without a permit under the California Vehicle Code.
c. A temporary trailer used to house seasonal or temporary farmworkersagricultural employees or animal caretakers shall be occupied for no more than one hundred eighty (180) consecutive calendar days in any twelve (12) month period, unless the permit is extended.

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d. The maximum size of a temporary trailer occupying a space on the lot shall be three hundred (300) square feet of living area. Living area does not include built-in equipment such as wardrobes, closets, cabinets, kitchen units or fixtures, or bath and toilet rooms.
e. The temporary trailer is "habitable" if it meets all the following criteria:
i. The temporary trailer must contain sleeping, cooking, bathing, and sanitary facilities;
ii. The temporary trailer must either contain an adequate source of potable water through an internal tank or be connected to a permanent source of potable water;
iii. Composting toilets are not allowed. The temporary trailer's wastewater must be disposed of by one of the following means:
(a) Through a connection to an existing sewer utility connection; or (b) Through the use of an incorporated wastewater tank that is located within or outside the vehicle, provided that such tank is regularly serviced, for the duration of the vehicle's use as temporary housing, by a wastewater disposal provider, or a septage pumping vehicle. The permittee shall provide proof of such regular wastewater disposal service, in the form of a contract or receipts, to the Planning Division or Building Division upon request.
iv. The temporary trailer must be connected to an approved electrical source.

Acceptable electrical connections include the use of an existing electrical source on the lot or a temporary power pole. Generators are not considered an approved electrical source; and
v. Heating and cooling facilities shall be in accordance with those associated with trailers, or equipment initially installed or designed for trailers. No temporary heating facilities will be allowed.
f. Utility conduits shall be installed underground in conformance with applicable state and local regulations.
g. When the temporary trailer is not in use, utilities shall be disconnected, and such housing shall be removed from the site or stored during the remainder of the year. The temporary trailer shall be removed from the site within five (5) days of the expiration of the permitted period. It may be stored on-site for the remaining days of the calendar year if screened from public view and stored in a rear yard. A temporary trailer stored on-site shall be covered when not in use. h. Site Design Criteria:
i. Building height and setbacks shall be as prescribed in the applicable zone, except where Title 25 of the California Administrative Code is more restrictive. ii. The temporary trailer shall be located a minimum of six feet (6') from any other structure on the lot.
iii. Roadways and vehicle pads shall not be permitted in areas of natural slope inclinations greater than fifteen percent (15%) or where grading would result in slope heights greater than ten feet and steeper than two to one (2:1).

D. Occupancy Restrictions For Agricultural Worker Employee Housing:

1. FarmworkerAgricultural employee housing shall only be occupied by farmworkersagricultural employees and members of their household (however, group living quarters shall only be occupied exclusively by farmworkersagricultural employees).

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2. The applicant shall demonstrate that the farmworkeragricultural employee housing shall only be used for farmworkersagricultural employees (on a permanent or seasonal basis) who meet the employment criteria in subsection E. This requirement shall not apply to housing occupied by farmworkersagricultural employees who subsequently retire or become disabled and continue to reside in the unit pursuant to subsection E3. This requirement shall not apply to a surviving spouse or domestic partner who continues to reside in the unit pursuant to subsection E4.

3. A deed restriction in a form approved by the city that runs with the land shall be recorded with the county recorder, prior to the issuance of a building permit for construction for all farmworkeragricultural employee housing except for temporary trailers, limiting the use of such housing to farmworkeragricultural employee housing and setting forth the conditions and requirements applicable to such use. The property owner shall also be required to provide written disclosure of all such conditions and requirements before any sale, lease, or financing of the subject lot(s) and dwelling units. This use restriction shall not be amended, released, terminated, or removed from the property without the prior written consent of the city. In the event the farmworkeragricultural employee housing use is terminated and/or structures are removed in accordance with this municipal code and other applicable law as confirmed in writing by the Community Development Director, the deed restriction that accompanies the development shall be released and removed from the property.

E. Employment Criteria For Agricultural Workers Employees:

1. FarmworkerAgricultural employee dwelling units shall only be rented or provided under the terms of employment to farmworkersagricultural employees who are employed on a full-time (minimum of thirty two (32) hours per week), full-time seasonal, or temporary basis by the property owner or lessee of the lot upon which the dwelling unit is located to work onsite or on other land in Sonoma County that is under the same ownership or lease. FarmworkersAgricultural employees may retain their employment status during periods of nonagricultural employment, as long as they meet the full-time requirement for at least nine (9) months of the calendar year.

2. Units in a farmworkeragricultural employee housing complex shall only be rented or provided to persons who are principally employed within Sonoma County for activities directly associated with agriculture. This includes farmworkersagricultural employees who work on a full-time, full-time seasonal, temporary or part-time basis.

3. A qualified farmworkeragricultural employee who has been renting or occupying a farmworkeragricultural employee dwelling unit, or a unit in a farmworkeragricultural employee housing complex, and who subsequently retires or becomes disabled, may continue to reside in the unit along with members of their household.

4. After the death of a qualified farmworkeragricultural employee who has been renting or occupying a farmworkeragricultural employee dwelling unit, or a unit in a farmworkeragricultural employee housing complex, their surviving spouse or domestic partner may continue to reside in the unit.

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5. Temporary trailers shall only be rented or provided to farmworkersagricultural employees who are employed on a full-time, full-time seasonal, or temporary basis by the property owner or lessee of the lot to work on the land upon which the temporary trailer is located.

6. Proof of qualifying employment for occupants of farmworkeragricultural employee housing shall be provided at the time of permit approval, which can be satisfied by providing a combination of at least two (2) of the following documents, as applicable:
a. Employee's income tax return;
b. Employee's pay receipts;
c. Employee's W-2 form;
d. Employer's DE-34 form;
e. Employer's ETA 790 form;
f. Employer's DLSE-NTE form;
g. A document signed by both the employer and the employee, which states that the occupant of the agricultural worker employee housing is employed in agriculture, and includes a description of the employee's job duties; or
h. Other proof approved in writing by the Community Development Director.

F. Annual Verification of Employment of Agricultural Workers Employees:

1. The owner or lessee of the property, property management company, and/or designated agent of the owner or lessee, shall submit an annual employment verification declaration, and any applicable city-required verification fees as established by resolution of the city council, no later than May 15 of each year to the Community Development Director or designee to verify that all the dwelling units or sleeping quarters in the farmworkeragricultural employee housing are occupied by persons who meet the employment criteria established above. For purposes of this section, permanent farmworkeragricultural employee housing includes all agricultural worker employee housing except for temporary trailers. The completed verification declaration and supporting documentation shall require the property owner to meet all the following requirements:
a. Verify and provide evidence that any permanent agricultural worker employee housing was occupied by farmworkersagricultural employees during the preceding calendar year;
b. Declare that any permanent agricultural worker housing will be occupied by farmworkersagricultural employees during the current calendar year; and,
c. Provide proof of qualifying employment for occupants of agricultural worker employee housing, upon request by the city, by using a combination of at least two of the documents as listed in subsection E6.

G. Enforcement:

1. The provisions of subsections E and F of this Chapter shall be referenced or set forth in deed restrictions and/or conditions of approval that shall be recorded in the subject property's chain of title. Violations of subsections E and F may be enforced through any other available legal means, including but not limited to Chapter 1.12 SMC (General penalty).

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2. Within thirty (30) days after receiving approval for permanent or seasonal employee housing from the Community Development Department, and before issuance of any building permit(s), the applicant shall record with the county recorder, a deed restriction in a form approved by the city that runs with the land on which the agricultural employee housing is located declaring that:
a. The agricultural employee housing will continuously be maintained in compliance with this Section 19.50.75 and all other applicable sections of this municipal code; and
b. If required for pre-manufactured housing and/or mobile home units used for farmworkeragricultural employee housing, the property owner shall obtain the appropriate permit(s) from the City of Sonoma and/or California Department of Housing and Community Development. c. The deed restriction shall not be amended, released, terminated, or removed from the property without the prior written consent of the city. In the event the agricultural employee housing use is terminated and/or structures are removed in accordance with this Chapter and other applicable law as confirmed in writing by the Community Development Director, the deed restriction that accompanies the development shall be released and removed from the property.

3. In addition to all other available enforcement and legal remedies, the city may require the removal of a housing unit and restoration of the site (including any affected agricultural soils) based on the unpermitted or unverified use of the farmworkeragricultural employee housing units or based on other violations of this Title 19.

SECTION SIX: Section 19.50.090 Single room occupancy housing Added Section 19.50.090 Single Room Occupancy Housing of Chapter 19.50 Special Use Standards of Title 19 of the Sonoma Municipal Code is hereby added to read as follows:

19.50.090 Single room occupancy housing.

A. Purpose. The purpose of these provisions is to allow the development of reduced-size dwelling units, defined as single room occupancy (SRO) housing units, with limited parking requirements to provide additional options for affordable housing opportunities.

These SRO regulations are considered to be in addition to the regulations of the underlying zoning districts where SRO development is permitted.

B. General Provisions

1. Any single room occupancy facility shall conform to the standards of the zoning or specific plan district in which it is located. In case of districts where mixed uses are permitted, single room occupancy facilities shall be subject to the standards applying to non-residential development. Where any provision of this section conflicts with another provision of this title or any adopted specific plan, the more restrictive shall apply.

2. For purposes of this section only, a “single room occupancy housing unit”, regardless of existence of a kitchen or kitchenette, shall be considered a “dwelling unit” for purposes of density. {TBD: Density standards (i.e., lot area per dwelling unit) shall not apply to single room occupancy housing. However, in Agenda Item #8.1:

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no case may the number of units exceed three times the maximum density that is applicable within the subject zoning district.}

3. Tenancy shall not be less than thirty (30) days.

4. All units shall comply with the requirements of the current edition of the California Building Code.

5. The proposed conversion or retrofit of an existing structure into a single room occupancy facility shall conform to all applicable development standards unless a physical constraint or characteristic of the subject property makes such conformance infeasible. The Community Development Director (or Planning Commission if a use permit is required) is authorized to modify, reduce, or waive one or more development standard(s) of this section if determined that strict adherence to the standard(s) is infeasible due to physical conditions or constraints of the subject property. The applicant shall bear the burden of proof that imposing the development standard(s) in question would make the project physically or financially infeasible.

6. All facilities and units shall not be subdivided or individually sold.

7. This section shall not be applicable to short-term rentals in the city and shall not be construed to permit or authorize short-term rental facilities in the city.

8. Other provisions or permit requirements of the municipal code may be applicable, including for properties located within local historic districts and/or designated as a local historic resource.

C. Standards.

1. Single Room Occupancy Housing Units. The following standards shall apply to single room occupancy units. In the event of conflict between these standards and the underlying zoning district regulations, the provisions of this section shall apply.
a. Unit Size. The minimum size of a unit shall be one hundred fifty (150) square feet and the maximum size shall be fivetwo hundred (500fifty (250) square feet.
b. Bathroom Facilities. An SRO unit is not required to but may contain partial or full bathroom facilities. A partial bathroom facility shall have at least a toilet and sink; a full bathroom facility shall have a toilet, sink, and bathtub, shower, or bathtub/shower combination. If a full bathroom facility is not provided, common bathroom facilities shall be provided in accordance with California Building Code for congregate residences with at least one full bathroom per every three units on a floor. The shared shower or bathtub facility shall be accessible from a common area or hallway. Each shared shower or bathtub facility shall be provided with an interior lockable door.

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c. Kitchen. An SRO unit is not required to but may contain partial or full kitchen facilities. A full kitchen includes a sink, a refrigerator, and a stove, range top, or oven. A partial kitchen is missing at least one of these appliances. If a full kitchen is not provided, common kitchen facilities shall be provided within the project for every 10 units or portion there of or have at least one full kitchen per floor.
d.c. Closet. Each SRO shall have a separate closet.

2. Single Room Occupancy Housing Facility. In addition to the development standards in the underlying zoning district, the following standards shall apply to single room occupancy housing. In the event of conflict between these standards and the underlying zoning district regulations, the provisions of this section shall apply.
a. Common Area. Ten (10) square feet of interior common space per unit shall be provided, with at least two hundred (200) square feet in area of interior common space, and shall exclude shared bathrooms and kitchens, maintenance areas, laundry facilities, storage areas, and hallways. All common areas shall comply with all applicable Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) accessibility and adaptability requirements. b. Kitchen. A full kitchen includes a sink, a refrigerator, and a stove, range top, or oven. Common kitchen facilities shall be provided within the project for every ten (10) units.
b.c. Laundry Facilities. Laundry facilities shall be provided in a separate room at the ratio of one washer and dryer for every ten (10) units, with at least one washer and dryer per floor.
c.d. Cleaning Supply Room. A cleaning supply room or utility closet with a wash tub with hot and cold running water shall be provided on each floor of the SRO facility.
d.e. Trash. Refuse disposal service and receptacles shall be provided by the property owner. Garbage receptacles must be located on the lot or property in a manner that does not hinder access to any required offstreet parking spaces, driveways, or any means of emergency ingress or egress.
e.f. Mailboxes. A mailbox shall be provided for each unit in a commonly accessible location within the single room occupancy facility. f.g. Facility Management. AnSRO facility with ten (10) or more units shall have an on-site manager and shall include a dwelling unit designated for the manager. An SRO facility with less than ten (10) units shall provide a management office on-site.
g.h. Facility Management Plan. A management plan shall be submitted with the development application for an SRO housing facility and shall be approved by the Community Development Director. The management Agenda Item #8.1:

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plan shall contain management policies, maintenance plans, rental procedures and rates, information for residents to contact management twenty four (24) hours daily, residency and guest rules and procedures, security procedures, and staffing needs including job descriptions. h.i. Parking. Parking shall be provided in accordance with Chapter 19.48, unless the applicant provides substantial evidence demonstrating that the actual parking need is lower, subject to the approval of the Community Development Director. If rent or a separate charge is assessed for use of on-site parking spaces, the owner or management shall be required to rent or charge a separate fee for use of the space by an individual tenant (i.e., unbundled parking).
i.j. Accessibility. All SRO facilities shall comply with all applicable ADA accessibility and adaptability requirements.

SECTION SEVEN: Section 19.48.040 Number of parking spaces required is Amended Section 19.48.040 Number of parking spaces required of Chapter 19.48, of Title 19 of the Sonoma Municipal Code is hereby amended by adding the following to Table 4.4 and shall be integrated in alphabetical order, to read as follows (underline is used to denote new text being added):

Land Use Type:

Residential Uses
Vehicle Spaces Required
Employee housing – seven or more
employees
1 space per unit or 1 space for every
3 beds. If a unit is provided for an onsite manager, one (1) space for the resident manager.

Emergency Shelters and Low Barrier
Navigation Centers
Staff parking equal to the highest
number of staff working in the
emergency shelter at any time or the
number of parking spaces required
for other residential or commercial
uses within the same zoning district,
whichever is lower. The community
development director shall reduce
the parking requirements if the
shelter/center can demonstrate a
lower need.

Group quarters (including boarding houses,
rooming houses, Single room occupancy
housing, and dormitories)
One-half space for each bed. If a unit
is provided for an on-site manager,
one (1) space for the resident
manager.

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City of Sonoma
ORDINANCE #_____ - 2025

AN ORDINANCE OF THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF SONOMA ADOPTING AMENDMENTS TO TITLE 19 (INTEGRATED DEVELOPMENT REGULATIONS AND

GUIDELINES) OF THE SONOMA MUNICIPAL CODE TO ALLOW DEVELOPMENTS

BY RIGHT ON NONVACANT AND VACANT SITES PREVIOUSLY IDENTIFIED TO

ACCOMMODATE THE LOWER INCOME REGIONAL HOUSING NEEDS

ALLOCATION IN COMPLIANCE WITH STATE LAW
WHEREAS, the 2023-2031 Housing Element approved by the City Council on January 31, 2023 contains Housing Element Program 20, which provides that the City will rezone to allow developments by right under Government Code Section 65583.2(i) when 20 percent or more of the units are affordable to lower income households on sites identified in Appendix A to accommodate the lower income RHNA that were previously identified in past housing elements;
WHEREAS, the Planning Commission conducted a public hearing on ___________ for the purpose of considering amendments to Title 19 of the Sonoma Municipal Code to implement House Element Program 20 and considered public testimony and made a recommendation to the City Council to adopt the proposed amendments; and
WHEREAS, the Planning Commission adopted a resolution recommending approval of an ordinance making such amendments; and
WHEREAS, the City Council conducted a public hearing on __________ for the purpose of considering amendments to Title 19 of the Sonoma Municipal Code to implement Housing Element Program 20; and
WHEREAS, the City Council has duly considered the totality of the record and all evidence submitted into the record, including public testimony and the evaluation and recommendations by staff, presented at such public hearing; and WHEREAS, public hearing notices were made at the time and in the manner required by law.

NOW THEREFORE, THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF SONOMA DOES HEREBY ORDAIN AS FOLLOWS:

SECTION 1. RECITALS
The recitals above are each incorporated by reference and adopted as findings by the City Council.

SECTION 2. MUNICIPAL CODE AMENDMENTS

EXHIBIT B
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The Sonoma Municipal Code is hereby amended as shown in Exhibit A.

SECTION 3. FINDINGS FOR DEVELOPMENT CODE AMENDMENTS
Pursuant to Section 19.86.070(B) of the Sonoma Municipal Code, the City Council finds proposed amendments of the development code under this ordinance are as follows:

A. The proposed amendment is consistent with the goal, policies, and actions of the General Plan;
The City of Sonoma Development Code carries out the policies and implementation measures of the General Plan and State Law. Consistency between Sections of the Development Code and State Law ensure accuracy of the Development Code review process and therefore the amendments are consistent with the goals, policies, and actions of the General Plan. The proposed amendment implements Program 20 of the Housing Element of the General Plan and are therefore consistent with the goals, policies and actions thereof.

B. The proposed amendment would not be detrimental to the public interest, health, safety, convenience, or welfare of the city;
The proposed amendments are required to be compliant with State Law and the City’s Housing Element, which has been certified by the California Department of Housing and Community Development. The proposed amendments further development of housing affordable to lower income households on sites previously identified by past housing elements and therefore further the City’s housing policies and those of the region to advance the public interest, and contribute to public welfare and convenience.

C. Comply with the provisions of the California Environmental Quality Act (CEQA) as described in Section 4 below; and
The amendments fall under CEQA Guidelines Section 15061 (b)(3) General Rule. The General Rule, also known as the “Common Sense Exemption” applies to projects in which it is clear and definitive that the project will not have any significant impacts on the environments.

D. The proposed amendment is internally consistent with other applicable provisions of this development code; and
The proposed amendments provide clarity and consistency throughout the Sonoma development code with state law to implement the City of Sonoma Housing Element.

SECTION 4. CALIFORNIA ENVIRONMENTAL QUALITY ACT
This ordinance has been assessed in accordance with the authority and criteria contained in CEQA, the State CEQA Guidelines, and the environmental regulations of the city. City Planning Staff has determined that the adoption and implementation of the ordinance is exempt from further environmental review under the general rule in California Environmental Quality Act (CEQA) Guidelines Section 15061(b)(3) that CEQA only applies to projects that have the potential for causing a significant effect on the environment. As a series of text amendments Agenda Item #8.1:

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and additions without any physical project being approved and not involving a commitment to any specific project that may result in a potentially significant physical impact on the environment, it can be seen with certainty that there is no possibility that the ordinance will have a significant effect on the environment. The City Council concurs in these findings and adopts them as its own. The City Council, therefore, directs that a Notice of Exemption be filed with the County Clerk of the County of Sonoma in accordance with CEQA Guidelines.

SECTION 5. SEVERABILITY
If any section, subsection, subdivision, sentence, clause, phrase, or portion of this ordinance for any reason is held to be invalid or unconstitutional by the decision of any court of competent jurisdiction, such decision shall not affect the validity of the remaining portions of this ordinance.

The City Council hereby declares that it would have adopted this ordinance, and each section, subsection, subdivision, sentence, clause, phrase, or portion thereof, irrespective of the fact that any one or more sections, subsections, subdivisions, sentences, clauses, phrases, or portions thereof be declared invalid or unconstitutional.

SECTION 6. EFFECTIVE DATE
This ordinance shall take effect thirty (30) days after passage thereof.

SECTION 7. PUBLICATION
This ordinance shall be published in accordance with the provisions of Government Code Section 36933, subdivision (c)(1).

SECTION 8. THIS ORDINANCE PREVAILS WHERE THERE IS CONFLICT To the extent that this ordinance conflicts with any other provision in the Sonoma Municipal Code or city ordinance (urgency or otherwise), policy or regulation, this ordinance will control.

PASSED AND ADOPTED at a regular Council Meeting of the City Council of the City of Sonoma held on the __ day of _________, 2025 by the following vote:

AYES:

NOES:

ABSTAIN:

ABSENT:
_________________________
Patricia Farrar-Rivas, Mayor
ATTEST:

Rebekah Barr, MMC, City Clerk
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I HEREBY CERTIFY that the foregoing ordinance was duly and regularly adopted by the City Council of the City of Sonoma, Sonoma County, California, at a meeting thereof, held on the _____________, by the following vote, to wit:

AYES:

NOES:

ABSTAIN:

ABSENT:

Rebekah Barr, MMC, City Clerk
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EXHIBIT A
SECTION ONE: Chapter 19.92 Definitions Amended
Chapter 19.92, Definitions of Title 19 of the Sonoma Municipal Code is hereby amended by adding or amending the following definitions, and shall be integrated into the existing Section in alphabetical order, to read as follows (underline is used to denote new text being added):
“Affordable rent” means the maximum allowable rent for a unit affordable to lower income households, equal to one-twelfth (1/12th) of 30 percent of 60 percent of area median income adjusted for affordability level and assumed household size of one person in a studio affordable unit, two persons in a one-bedroom affordable unit, and one additional person for every additional bedroom; or as determined by the financing for the project, such as rents established for projects receiving tax credits. “Affordable sales price” means the maximum purchase price that will be affordable to a lower income household. The purchase price shall be considered affordable only if it is based on a reasonable down payment, and monthly housing payments (including interest, principal, mortgage insurance, property taxes, homeowners insurance, homeowners association dues, property maintenance and repairs, and a reasonable allowance for utilities), all as determined by the city, that total no more than one-twelfth (1/12th) of 30 percent of 70 percent of area median income adjusted for affordability level and assumed household size of one person in a studio affordable unit, two persons in a one-bedroom affordable unit, and one additional person for every additional bedroom; or as determined by the financing for the project.
“Area median income” means the area median income applicable to Sonoma County, adjusted for household size, as published and periodically updated in the California Code of Regulations, Title 25, Section 6932.
“By right review” is as defined in Government Code Section 65583.2(i). By right review does not exempt the use from design review. By right review that includes design review approval is exempt from the California Environmental Quality Act. Review of these projects shall be limited to conformance with objective standards established by the general plan, development code, and design guidelines.
“Lower income household” means a household whose household income does not exceed the low income limits applicable to Sonoma County, adjusted for household size, as published and periodically updated in the California Code of Regulations, Title 25, Section 6932.

SECTION TWO: Section 19.10.050 Allowable land uses and permit requirements Amended
Section 19.10.050 Allowable land uses and permit requirements of Chapter 19.10, of Title 19 of the Sonoma Municipal Code is hereby amended by adding the following footnotes to Table 2-2 and Table 2-3, and shall be integrated into the existing Tables in chronological (footnotes) order, to read as follows (underline is used to denote new text being added):

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Table 2-2. Commercial Uses and Permit Requirements
Allowed Uses and Permit
Requirements for
Commercial Zoning
Districts (1)
Permit Required
by District (2)
P
Use
permitted
UP Use permit
required
L
License
required
–
Use not
allowed
WTUP Wine tasting
use permit
Land Use C CG Specific Use Regulations
RESIDENTIAL USES (32)
Multifamily Dwelling (Five or More Units)
(11)
UP UP

11. As required by Government Code Section 65583.2, residential development projects proposed to include at least 20 percent of the total number of housing units to be available to lower income households at an affordable rent or affordable sales price, and not including an application for a subdivision map, shall be subject only to by right review. This only applies to sites identified in Appendix A of the Housing Element to accommodate the lower income Regional Housing Needs Allocation that that were previously identified in past housing elements including Site 11 (APN 127-221-033), Site 28 (APN 018-241-054), and Site 70 (APNs 128-321-032 and 128-321-034).

Table 2-3. Mixed Uses and Permit Requirements
Allowed Uses and Permit
Requirements for Commercial
Zoning Districts (1)
Permit
Required by
District (2)
P
Use
permitted
UP
Use
permit
required
L
License
required
–
Use not
allowed
WTUP
Wine
tasting
use
permit
Land Use MX Specific Use
Regulations
RESIDENTIAL USES (4)
Multifamily Dwelling (Five or More Units) (11) UP

11. As required by Government Code Section 65583.2, residential development projects proposed to include at least 20 percent of the total number of housing units to be available to lower income households at an affordable rent or affordable sales price, and not including an Agenda Item #8.1:

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application for a subdivision map, shall be subject only to by right review. This only applies to sites identified in Appendix A of the Housing Element to accommodate the lower income Regional Housing Needs Allocation that that were previously identified in past housing elements including Site 11 (APN 127-221-033), Site 28 (APN 018-241-054), and Site 70 (APNs 128-321-032 and 128-321-034).

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City of Sonoma
Agenda Item Summary
Meeting: City Council - 17 Dec 2025
Department
Parks & Recreation Department
Staff Contact
Lisa Janson, Senior Management Analyst
Agenda Item Title
A Resolution Approving the Conditions for Operations, Vendor Stall Fee Pricing and Authorizing the City Manager to Execute All Agreements for the Operation of Sonoma's Tuesday Night Market 2026 Season in Accordance With the Adopted Budget Summary
I. BACKGROUND
In December 2019, the City Council approved a resolution establishing the Market Operator Partnership for the Sonoma Tuesday Night Market (STNM), involving the City of Sonoma, the Sonoma Valley Chamber of Commerce, and a Market Operations Manager. The action authorized a cooperative operating framework, budget adjustments, and future policy updates.

During the COVID-19 pandemic in 2020, the market transitioned to a scaled-down certified farmers market format. By 2021, entertainment, community booths, and prepared food vendors were reintroduced as conditions allowed. The 2022 season marked the full restoration of the traditional community event model.

From 2023 through 2025, the market continued to evolve into a highly attended community gathering focused on local agriculture, small business support, cultural programming, and family-friendly recreation. In 2025, the newly established City of Sonoma Parks and Recreation Department assumed oversight responsibility for the market.

II. SUMMARY OF 2025 MARKET SEASON
The 2025 season featured continued program growth, increased community participation, and operational streamlining while maintaining fiscal responsibility. Key accomplishments included:

A. Community Partnerships and Programming
 Community Partner Area: Increased participation with consistent weekly demand at or near capacity. Additional growth opportunities are planned for 2026.  Youth & Family Programming:
• Continued partnership with the Sonoma Community Center for the Zucchini Racer workshop, enhancing pre-race engagement.
• Collaboration with Music in Place to program the Grinstead Amphitheater on the third Tuesday of each month, featuring youth bands and building on the success of the 2025 Battle of the Bands.
 Zucchini Races: Achieved the highest participation levels to date.  Sponsorship Growth: Successfully expanded sponsorship categories such as “Greening Sponsor” and “Powering the Stage Sponsor,” which supported key programs like the Free Bike Valet and waste-reduction initiatives.

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 Partnered with the Sonoma Valley Education Foundation to coordinate their showcase event, which aligned with four weeks of onsite programming highlighting their financial support of youth programs within the school district.

B. Operational Improvements
 Migrated nonprofit and sponsorship applications to the OpenGov platform, reducing staff time and improving payment processing.
 Onsite security through the Sonoma Police Department enhanced safety, ordinance compliance, and overall event calm.
 Waste management services were significantly improved through the City’s renegotiated franchise agreement with Sonoma Garbage Collectors (SGC), resulting in substantial cost savings.

C. Issues Identified for Further Improvement
 Overlapping Performances: Will be addressed through improved coordination with sound technicians and performance scheduling.
 Low Attendance in September: Staff recommends shortening the season to improve overall turnout and efficiency.
 Onsite Signage: Requires redesign to better align with new Plaza signage and wayfinding needs.
 Barricading on Napa Street: Will be addressed through an upcoming CIP project.  ADA Parking Needs: Staff will explore options to increase ADA access when buses are relocated to Napa Street during events.

D. Community & Economic Benefits
The Tuesday Night Market continued to provide broad community value, including:
 Strengthening neighborhood and multigenerational connections.  Supporting local farmers, artisans, and small businesses.  Providing free, accessible arts and cultural programming.  Creating low-cost recreational opportunities for families.  Increasing foot traffic to local brick-and-mortar businesses.  Offering a welcoming platform for nonprofits to engage residents.  Promoting sustainable transportation, food access, and healthy living.

E. Financial Recap
The financial close of the 2025 Market Season exceeded projections. Increased booth revenue—supported in part by the addition of two food trucks located on Napa Street— combined with reduced expenditures, including savings realized through the contractual partnership with the Sonoma Valley Chamber of Commerce for event insurance, contributed to the positive outcome. Overall, the market concluded the season approximately $4,400 better than projected.

III. 2026 PROPOSED MARKET PROGRAM
A. Market Schedule
 Season Duration: May 5 – September 8, 2026 (including June 30 to accommodate the 4th of July holiday). A total of 19 markets. This reduction in the number of markets will address the lower crowd turnouts in the month of September and the wanning daylight hours.
 Operating Hours: 5:00 PM–8:00 PM (no changes from 2025).

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 City Party: Recommended move to Friday, August 7, allowing for an August 4 market when produce is at its peak.

B. Community Engagement & Sponsorships
 Continue weekly nonprofit spotlights, including speaking opportunities and wine booth proceeds.
 Expanded sponsorship program to allow local businesses and nonprofits to host fundraising and promotional activities in designated areas, consistent with ABC regulations.
 Marketing materials will be issued earlier to enhance participation and alignment with City policies.

C. Special Programs & Events
 Additional funding to support musical programming.
 Music Partnerships: Continue to build on the partnership with Music in Place and will enhance youth music programming at the Grinstead Amphitheater, further enriching the community experience. Notable changes in 2026 steps will be taken to ensure that their isn’t musical/programming overlap between the two stages.  Zucchini Races: Scheduled for August 18, in partnership with Sonoma Community Center and Sonoma Raceway.
 Jazz & Acoustic Programming: Monthly jazz events hosted by the Sonoma Valley Jazz Society; acoustic sets on the historic front lawn.

D. Operational Enhancements
 Additional directional/Wayfair signs onsite to help the community engage with all of the market offerings, encourage use of the Bike Valet and the EBT program. The new signs will also include the market schedule so that individuals who are visiting the area will have an understanding of the nights events.
 Continued refinement of onsite operations and community partnership coordination.

IV. ROLE OF THE NEW PARKS & RECREATION DEPARTMENT
Under the new leadership of the Parks and Recreation Department, the team’s role remains essential in ensuring the operational success, safety, and community-building goals of Sonoma’s Tuesday Night Market. Core responsibilities include:

A. Operational Benefits
 Providing contractual oversight and coordination of all market service providers, including bike valet, market operations management, the Chamber of Commerce, A/V and sound contractors, public safety partners, janitorial services, garbage collection and sorting, musical coordination teams, and more.
 Managing and overseeing key partnerships with community nonprofits to ensure strong collaboration and successful co-programming.
 Developing, coordinating, and implementing Sonoma’s Tuesday Night Market Sponsorship Program, including program creation, outreach, recruitment, and sales.  Leading messaging and communications efforts regarding new programming, sponsorship opportunities, community engagement initiatives, and reminders about park rules, the single-use plastics ban, and waste-reduction strategies for both vendors and participants.

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 Designing and installing new wayfinding signs for onsite use during the market, including directions to free Bike Valet, EBT Services, Manager’s Desk, First Aid, and other essential services.
 Setting up the market each week, including traffic-control measures such as barricades and no-parking signage to ensure emergency access.
 Built-in staffing redundancies for setup, breakdown, signage, safety oversight, waste management coordination, and vendor support.
 Improved integration between parks operations, recreational programming, and special event management.

B. Community Benefits of the New Department
The creation of the Parks & Recreation Department enhances:
 Community-building: Strengthens civic identity through events, recreation, and cultural activities.
 Youth and family engagement: Provides new avenues for activities, volunteerism, and skill development.
 Event expansion: Allows for a more coordinated calendar of public events and programs.
 Quality of life: Enhances access to recreation, wellness spaces, and inclusive community programming.
 Volunteer development: Creates structured opportunities to support market operations and other events.
 Equity and inclusion: Builds programs that address food access, mobility, and ADA needs.

V. MARKET MANAGER
Staff recommends retaining the part-time contract Market Manager, Jerry Wheeler, who provides:
 Vendor application and layout coordination.
 Onsite vendor support.
 EBT program oversight.
 Event scheduling and program integration.

VI. WASTE MANAGEMENT
Under the new SGC franchise agreement:
 SGC will provide trash, recycling, composting, sorting, and education services.  The market will continue to realize significant cost savings.  Full compliance with organics recovery and waste-sorting mandates will be maintained.

VII. FIRE AND SAFETY SERVICES
A. Security
 Contracted Sonoma Police Officer and City-provided CSO.  Proven deterrent and essential for safety and ordinance compliance.

B. Public Safety
 New County requirement for onsite ALS ambulance service—valued at $10,000—is being provided at no cost by Sonoma Valley Fire District.

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VIII. 2026 BUDGET, FEES & REVENUES
A. Budget Overview
 The draft budget for 2026 is provided in Exhibit B. The fiscal direction is to ensure the market covers all of the expenses and staff time associated with the production of the market.
 Staff recommends maintaining current stall fees (see Exhibit C).

B. Revenue Strategy
 Revenue neutrality is expected if vendor composition remains similar to 2025.  Staff requests authorization for the City Manager to set sponsorship and merchandising fees in alignment with budget goals.

C. EBT Match Program
 Sponsorships will be sought to continue the 100% EBT match.  Program benefits low-income families and supports farmers.

IX. FOOD ACCESS PROGRAMS
 Discussions are underway with Sonoma Valley Food Weaver to explore additional food programs aimed at addressing food insecurity within the community. While progress on these initiatives did not advance as hoped during the 2025 season, staff intend to reengage and further develop these conversations for the 2026 market season. These potential programs would complement ongoing efforts such as the 100% EBT Market Match Program, which remains a key strategy for providing direct food support to residents in need by doubling their purchasing power for fresh, healthy produce.  Collectively, these initiatives align with the market’s mission of fostering community support and expanding access to nutritious, affordable food options for all residents.

These combined efforts—paired with continued exploration of new partnerships—will help sustain the market’s financial health while strengthening its overall community impact in 2026.

X. GREEN POLICIES FOR 2026
A. Bike Valet Program
 The market team will seek sponsorship to maintain the free bike valet program in partnership with Operation Bicycle. For 2026, the focus will remain on encouraging alternative transportation through:
 Onsite Promotion: Improved wayfinding signage and increased promotional outreach.  Website and Social Media: Highlighting Plaza bike rack locations, safe cycling routes, and Sonoma County Transit options.

B. Waste Reduction Initiatives
 Reusable service ware encouraged.
 Waste sorting signage and containers expanded.
 “Pack it in, Pack it out” messaging increased.

C. Single-Use Plastics Ban Enforcement
 Stronger onsite enforcement with added staff oversight.  Clear guidance included in vendor packets.
 Farmers required to use compostable or paper bags.

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XI. POLICY UPDATES
A. Exhibit A includes updated 2026 Conditions for Operations, with revisions to:
 Updated operational language as it pertains to programming around the 4th of July .

B. Vendor Selection Timeline
 Applications open late December 2025 and close late-February 2026.  Selection conducted by the Market Advisory Team:
• Three community members
• One Chamber representative
• One City representative
XII. FISCAL IMPACTS
The proposed 2026 market is projected to operate at or near net-neutral cost, with savings derived primarily from:
 Stable vendor revenues.
 Potential sponsorship and merchandising revenue enhancements.

Recommended Council Action
Adopt a Resolution approving the proposed changes to the Conditions for Operation for the Tuesday Night Market, approve the 2026 stall fees for Sonoma’s Tuesday Night Market as the maximum to be charged, and authorize the City Manager to execute all agreements for the operation of Sonoma's Tuesday Night Market 2026 Season in accordance with the adopted budget.

Alternative Actions
City Council discretion.

Financial Impact
The proposed 2026 market is projected to operate at or near net-neutral cost.

Environmental Review Status
Environmental Impact Report
Negative Declaration
Exempt
Not Applicable
Approved/Certified
No Action Required
Action Requested
Attachments
Resolution
EXHIBIT A - Conditions For Operations of the Tuesday Night Market 2026_Redline EXHIBIT B -_2026 Budget
EXHIBIT C - 2026 Stall Fees
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City of Sonoma
RESOLUTION # ________- 2025

A RESOLUTION APPROVING THE CONDITIONS FOR OPERATIONS, VENDOR STALL FEE PRICING,

AND AUTHORIZING THE CITY MANAGER TO EXECUTE ALL AGREEMENTS FOR THE OPERATION OF SONOMA’S TUESDAY NIGHT MARKET 2026 SEASON IN

ACCORDANCE WITH THE ADOPTED BUDGET
WHEREAS, on December 16, 2019, City Council adopted a resolution authorizing a 2020 Market Operator Partnership with the City, Sonoma Valley Chamber of Commerce and at that time Chris Welch (independent contractor) (herein referenced as “Market Operators”); and WHEREAS, City staff, the Sonoma Valley Chamber of Commerce and Jerry Wheeler (Market Operators) have been working diligently to create the framework and processes for the successful operations of Sonoma’s Tuesday Night 2026 Market Season; and
WHEREAS, the Market Operators have updated the City Council’s Policy Goals and Conditions for the 2026 Market in Exhibit A; and,
WHEREAS, the Market Operator has created a draft 2026 Budget which is full cost recovery for the 2026 Market Season. The proposed stall fees are in line with the proposed budget Exhibit B; and WHEREAS, the Market Operators are seeking approval of the 2026 Stall Fees which were originally adopted for the 2024 market season as presented in Exhibit C; and WHEREAS, the successful operation of the Market is dependent on contracting with a qualified third-party partner to perform day-to-day coordination of all market functions, including vendor coordination and layout, vendor correspondence, oversight of the EBT program, event scheduling and program integration, and all on-site setup and operational management.

NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED, that the City Council of the City of Sonoma hereby approves the 2026 Market Policy Goals and Conditions as outlined in Exhibit A; adopts the 2026 Market Budget and associated stall fees as presented in Exhibits B and C; and authorizes the continuation of contracting with a qualified third-party partner to carry out the day-to-day coordination and operations of the Market for the 2026 season.

PASSED, RESOLVED, AND ADOPTED, at a Regular meeting of the City Council of the City of Sonoma on this 17th day of December 2025, by the following vote:

AYES:

NOES:

ABSENT:

ABSTAIN:
____________________________
Patricia Farrar-Rivas, Mayor
ATTEST:
____________________________
Rebekah Barr, MMC, City Clerk
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Adopted 12/16/19; Updated on 02/03/20; 11/22/21; 12/14/22; 12/20/23 12/18/2024

EXHIBIT A

CONDITIONS FOR OPERATION OF THE TUESDAY NIGHT

MARKET SEASON
Market Operators are defined as the contractual partnership between the City of Sonoma, Sonoma Valley Chamber of Commerce and Market Operations Manager, Jerry Wheeler. It is important to note the Vendor Rules and Regulations were created to administer the Conditions of Operations and the Policy as outlined below. They are available on the Tuesday Night Market website and prior to the acceptance into the market all vendors will need to acknowledge an understanding of the Rules and Regulations.

Policy Goal 1: Create Social Gathering Place and Festive Community Event Sonoma’s Tuesday Night Market event is an important community event that fosters community building and socializing that is a keystone to Sonoma culture and must be maintained.

Conditions

1. Community Gathering Place -- Strive to retain the culture of the Market as a community gathering place while preserving its small-town atmosphere and striving to minimize negative impacts to the Plaza and surrounding business community.

2. 4th of July –On an annual basis, the City will determine whether to hold the The Market Operators will not conduct a Tuesday Night Market the week of July 1 due to the conflict with the 4th of July celebration.

3. Sonoma City Party – On annual basis, the City will determine whether to hold the Sonoma City Party in conjunction with a regular Tuesday Night Market or if on a separate date and potentially cancel a Tuesday Night Market during that week in order to reduce impacts to the Plaza and associated businesses.

Policy Goal 2: Focus on Local Vendors & Businesses / Local Produce and Farmers Offer community members an opportunity to purchase fresh, locally grown produce and other artisan goods and provide vendors an opportunity to sell their products locally. Conditions

1. Farmer Vendors -- The Market Operators will work to continue to support farmer vendors by retaining lower booth rates, by taking all farmer vendors, and seek ways to encourage and support the farmer vendors. Market Operators will use vendor criteria to ensure that all Agricultural vendors are included in the market and will create pricing strategies that encourage Agricultural vendor inclusion into the market.

2. The Market Operators will promote the farmer vendors by creating a series of farm specific events i.e. produce tasting competitions, best recipes, and zucchini races.

3. Total Stalls -- the Market Operators will follow the SVFD Outdoor Special Events Standards in determining the number of stalls that the market can accommodate.

4. Vendor Booth Price -- The Market Operators will determine the structure and price for the vendor stalls, in accordance with budgetary needs and competitive event analysis. Any revision to the fees will be brought forward to City Council for adoption as part of the annual event review. a) The Market Operators will have a tiered stall cost structure to recognize “local” businesses. For example, the Market Operators will consider differentiated rates based on how “local” a vendor is with the lowest rate for businesses located within the City limits (and paying City taxes) and an increasing tiered rate structure for businesses located within the Sonoma Valley, located within Sonoma County (higher rate) or located outside of Sonoma County (highest rate). Since the City is Agenda Item #9.1:

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Adopted 12/16/19; Updated on 02/03/20; 11/22/21; 12/14/22; 12/20/23 12/18/2024 substantially underwriting the costs for the market a structured fee schedule offers some fairness and equity. As represented in Exhibit C.

5. Locational Conditions -- The Market Operators will program the Plaza as they desire based on the above parameters. The Market Operators will keep food trucks off of the front of the horseshoe except for the night of the City Party.

6. Plaza Businesses -- Recognize that the Tuesday Night Market is located within the City’s central business district and creates direct competition with Plaza brick and mortar businesses. Seek to partner, promote and support opportunities for the local Plaza businesses to participate in the Market or support use of the Grinstead Theater of other parts of the Plaza by local Plaza businesses.

Policy Goal 3: Support Local Musicians Provide a location and an opportunity for local musicians to perform. The Market Operators will continue to work closely with the Sarafini Family who has been responsible for the organization of the music on the front Horseshoe for several years.

Conditions

1. Local Musicians -- The Market Operators will continue to deliberately and carefully favor local musicians as much as is practicable while still maintaining quality and variety of entertainment.

2. Music in the Horseshoe -- Retain music in the horseshoe on all evenings switching to acoustical sets when the Jazz Society is performing on the 2nd Tuesday of June, July, August and September.

3. Activity and Music in the Grinstead Amphitheater – the Market Operators will work in conjunction with local non-profits and other entities to alternative programming in the amphitheater when the Sonoma Valley Jazz Society is not contracted for usage.

Policy Goal 4: Commitment to Transparency / Fairness Transparency in operations and openness and fairness in selection process for all vendors. The new Vendor Rules and Regulations will clearly address the selection criteria process and outline the appeals process.

Conditions

1. Appeal Communication – The Market Operators will provide an email to unsuccessful applicants after the Advisory Committee vendor review process, the email will note the reasons for unfavorable decision on vendor selection. Each unsuccessful applicant will be provided an opportunity to appeal to the Sonoma Valley Chamber of Commerce Board for further review.

2. Web Site Information – The Market Operators will proactively maintain a website for the Tuesday Night Market to encourage transparency of information. The www.SonomaTuesdayNightMarket.com website will be the central place where all Rules and Regulations will be posted.

Policy Goal 5: Ensure Accountability to the Community Accountability of Market management to the community that it serves.

1. Ensuring overall impacts to the Plaza are minimized and over time that funding to improve and invest in the Plaza could come from the Tuesday Night Market event. This is reflected in the Exhibit C the new pricing strategy.

Conditions
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Adopted 12/16/19; Updated on 02/03/20; 11/22/21; 12/14/22; 12/20/23 12/18/2024 A. City Fees – There are a variety of City fees and costs associated with the Tuesday Night Market being held in the Plaza.

B. The Market Operator is required to reserve the entire Plaza (except for the Grinstead Amphitheater on the second Tuesday of each month June-Sept) The Market Operators are responsible for clean-up, litter and impacts to the entire Plaza due to the number of attendees, however the Market Operators will not be charged the rental fee for the entire Plaza. a) Plaza application fee for Tuesday Night Markets will be waived due to the City overseeing the management of the event.
b) The Market Operator will work with a third party to handle the liter pick up, garbage sorting and recycling, cleaning and monitoring the restrooms. c) A third-party Security firm will be hired to monitor the event between 6:00 pm – 9:00 pm. d) The Chamber of Commerce will be responsible for completing the Consumption of Alcoholic Beverages on City Property permit for the calendar year. e) The Market Operators will work closely with the Fire Marshal to ensure compliance of the Rules and Regulations.

2. The Market Operators will institute new criteria and controls to ensure that every vendor informs the California Board of Equalization that they have a Sonoma Plaza sub- location, to encourage accurate reporting of sales figures for the City of Sonoma. The specifics of this item is included in the vendor rules and regulations.

3. The Market Operators will maintain criteria and controls to ensure annual business licenses are collected and paid for all vendors that participate in the market. All Vendors will be required to have an annual business license on file prior to the Market season.

4. The Market Operators will communicate to all vendors the City and Fire Department Rules and Regulations in an effort to make vendors compliant with the rules on the opening day of the season.

These will be included and cited in the Rules and Regulations that will be posted on the www.sonomatuesdaynightmarket.com site.

Policy Goal 6: Integrate Environmental / Green Practice into Event Create a Farmers' Market that incorporates sustainable environmental green practices.

Conditions

1. The Market Operators will continue efforts to ensure proper waste and recycling from the event.

The Market Operators will hire a professional recycling company to assist with trash sorting and recycling for the market season or perform the same level of work through their own volunteers or staff.

2. The Market Operators working closely with local non-profits will consider creating an awareness/education program for customers, attendees and vendors around recycling and trash.

Additional vendor requirements could include the vendors responsibility to remove all trash generated by their operation from the Plaza. Encouraging Vendors to develop a reuse program for patrons, where patrons can bring containers from their home to be use for serving instead of utilizing disposable containers.

3. The Market Operators will educate and enforce the City’s Single Use Plastics policy for Special Events. This will be included in the vendor rules and regulations.

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Adopted 12/16/19; Updated on 02/03/20; 11/22/21; 12/14/22; 12/20/23 12/18/2024 Policy Goal 7: Administration & Finance / Budget Ensure Sonoma’s Tuesday Night Market has clear rules and processes. Provide operational authority and flexibility to City staff and the Market Operators to deliver a successful event.

Conditions

1. City Council approves Exhibit B as a Program Budget to be included in the City’s Budget. City Manager is authorized to make modifications within line items of the Draft Budget Exhibit B as long as the budget stays neutral and no impact to the General Fund.

2. The City Council shall approve stall fees as the maximum to be charged for the vendor categories of agricultural, artisan, packaged food vendors, food trucks, beer and wine vendors but provide flexibility to the City Manager to adjust lower if needed within the budget parameters. The prepared food vendors stall fees will be calculated with a proposed minimum stall fee not to exceed what is being proposed in Exhibit C.

3. In addition to stall fees, the Market Operators are requesting City Council to allow the City Manager to direct staff to create pricing strategies for other items like sponsorship pricing, merchandising and beer and wine sales that align with the revenue goals as outlined in the proposed annual budget.

4. The Market Operators have developed clear vendor rules and regulations to administer the conditions of operations and the policies as outlined above. The vendor rules & regulations are available on the Tuesday Night Market website and prior to the acceptance into the market all vendors will need to acknowledge an understanding of the Rules and Regulations. The City Council authorizes the City Manager to create, edit and amend these vendor rules & regulations as the operational parameters of Sonoma’s Tuesday Night Market.

5. The City Manager is authorized to make any and all decisions within the overall policy guidance of this document to ensure the successful delivery of the Tuesday Night Markets.

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EXHIBIT C
2026 STALL FEES
(No Changes from previous year)
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City of Sonoma
Agenda Item Summary
Meeting: City Council - 17 Dec 2025
Department
Administration
Staff Contact
Rebekah Barr, MMC, City Clerk
Agenda Item Title
City Council Reorganization

1. Recognition of Outgoing Mayor

2. Selection of Mayor and Vice Mayor for 2026
Summary
Each year the City Council conducts a reorganization by selecting from among its members a Mayor and Vice Mayor to serve for the upcoming year. The Mayor presides at City Council meetings and serves as the official head of the City for ceremonial purposes. The Vice Mayor performs the duties of the Mayor during the Mayor’s absence or disability. This reorganization takes place at a regular meeting in December.

RECOGNITION - SUGGESTED PROCESS:

1. Presentation to outgoing Mayor by Vice Mayor

2. Outgoing Mayor comments

3. Comments by Other Council Members

4. Public comment
MAYOR / VICE MAYOR - SUGGESTED PROCESS:

1. Nominations for Mayor, public comment, vote, comments by Council

2. Gavel is transferred to the new Mayor

3. Nominations for Vice Mayor, public comment, vote, comments by Council Based on past practice, the suggested selection process proceeds as follows:

The Mayor will ask for nominations for the position of Mayor. To make a nomination, Council members need only state “I nominate ________”. Nominations do not require seconds; however, other members may express support of a nomination by making a seconding speech.

When there are no more nominations, the Mayor will declare nominations for the position of Mayor closed and will allow public comments, if any. A roll call vote will then be taken beginning with the first nominee. If that nominee receives a majority vote they are declared the winner and no additional votes are taken on the remaining nominees. If a majority vote is not achieved for any of the nominees, the nomination and voting process will be repeated, voting on the nominees in the order of their nomination, until a candidate has received a majority vote.

The gavel is then turned over to the new Mayor who takes his/her place at the dais and call for nominations for Vice Mayor using the same process described above.

Recommended Council Action
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Council discretion.

Alternative Actions
Council discretion.

Financial Impact
There is no financial impact from this action.

Environmental Review Status
Environmental Impact Report
Negative Declaration
Exempt
Not Applicable
Approved/Certified
No Action Required
Action Requested
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