Sonoma County · issues
Civic issues
Topics getting the most attention in Sonoma County public meetings, ranked by how frequently they come up.
2027 Legislative Platform and state advocacy
The county's annual wishlist for Sacramento: flexibility to reuse the fairgrounds racetrack property, safeguards against abusive remote public comment, and state funding to fix aging veterans memorial buildings. The platform also adds a new principle opposing state mandates without reimbursement and responds to federal HR 1 changes to Medi-Cal and CalFresh.
Surveillance technology and Flock cameras
Supervisor Coursey flagged that a Homeland Security grant funds a video wall for Santa Rosa PD's real-time crime center, and Flock camera images could appear on it during active cases. The County Executive agreed to flag future surveillance-tech items.
Mosquito district cuts rural representation
The Marin/Sonoma Mosquito & Vector Control District unilaterally cut Sonoma County's unincorporated at-large seats from two to one — one seat has sat vacant since 2015. Supervisors, especially Hopkins, were angry the district never reached out, and the board continued the item and ordered a letter demanding reconsideration.
Osprey Hill Ranch conservation acquisition
The county and Sonoma Land Trust locked in a conservation easement on a scenic Sonoma Coast ranch between Jenner and Bodega Bay. It protects habitat and agriculture, keeps grazing in place, and sets up possible future Coastal Trail connections.
Employee engagement and workplace culture
The county's second employee survey is underway at 40% response; results come back in 2027. Departments reported wins like Walktober wellness walks and a revamped, shorter survey.
Retiree cost-of-living under AB 1601
A new state law lets the county explore a targeted cost-of-living boost for the lowest-benefit retirees. The retirement system is 94% funded with $4.3 billion in assets, and staff will bring cost scenarios back around February or March.
Racial Equity Action Plan implementation
The Office of Equity's first required progress report shows 9 of 10 strategies moving, 120 department-led equity initiatives, and three new programs — mentorship, inclusive hiring, and equity competencies for managers — rolling out to pilot departments in spring 2027.