June 2, 2023, Edition

Weed Abatement Ordinance Starts
June 5, 2023, for Property Owners

The City of Santa Rosa Fire Department officially declares Monday, June 5, 2023, as the start of this year’s wildfire season in the City of Santa Rosa. The declaration initiates compliance with local weed abatement requirements. Despite late-season rains, the declaration is necessary to help ensure the community is better prepared for an active wildfire season. Many residents have taken proactive measures this season, including cutting seasonal grasses. Regrowth is likely, given recent rains, so we are encouraging the community to address any regrowth which will create a fire hazard later this season. READ MORE

City Manager Addresses Vegetation Management and City’s Action Plan 

I have heard your concerns and know vegetation management around the City needs attention. Weeds are a fire and health hazard, especially following the uncharacteristically heavy rains we have experienced this past year. I want you to know vegetation management is a top priority, and city crews are actively working to protect the health and safety of our community. In April, the City's Transportation and Public Works Department began weed abatement mitigation in the most fire-prone areas and then moved into other parts of the City focusing on roadway safety issues. However, the late-season rains and recent heavy fogs have caused vegetation to grow at a constant and rapid pace making it necessary to revisit areas previously serviced. We made adjustments to address open spaces, roadway medians and public rights-of-way. I am asking you, our community members, to help us address vegetation growth issues by reporting them on the City’s Mobile app, MySantaRosa.

What to Read

The Waitlist for Section 8 Housing Choice Vouchers is Now Open; Apply by June 30

Point-in-Time Count Shows Significant Drop in Homelessness Countywide

Live at Juilliard 2023 Lineup Announced; Summer Concert Series Starts July 16

City Expanding Bicycle Parking Racks in Downtown Business District and City Parks

Summer Camp Spots Available for Underserved Youth; Camp Begins June 12

Visit SRCity.org/News for more news.

What to Do

• Grab your shovel and bucket and head to Zero Waste Sonoma's Free Compost Giveaway this Saturday, June 3. LEARN MORE

• Cruise down to the Lowrider Lifestyle photography exhibit reception on June 4 at 3 p.m. at Finley Community Center. LEARN MORE

• Are your kids into LEGOS®? Register them for the STEM Explorations with Legos Camp that begins June 5. SIGN UP

• Improve your mobility with this Pole Walking class for veterans and their family members (age 50+) on June 7, at Person Senior Wing. SIGN UP

• Recycle old residential solar panels at Zero Waste Sonoma’s collection event on Friday, June 16; an appointment is required. SCHEDULE APPOINTMENT

• Join us on Wednesday, June 21, from 6 to 7 p.m. at Person Senior Wing for a community meeting regarding Santa Rosa’s Independent Police Auditor. LEARN MORE

Did You Know?

The Spray Ground at Prince Gateway Park is Now Open for Summer

The spray ground at Prince Gateway Park in Downtown Santa Rosa welcomes residents from 11 a.m. to 7 p.m. daily. When the temperatures heat up, the cool water spraying in this recreational play area is an excellent way for kids and adults to cool down. The spray ground, which some folks call a “splash pad,” uses treated and recirculated water and has little to no standing water. It’s free to use and an excellent destination to cool off, especially for those who do not know how to swim – providing a fun, safe, and inclusive resource for everyone in the community to enjoy. SEE SCHEDULE