The City of Sonoma held its final City Council meeting of 2024 last night, marking the end of a productive year with celebrations and leadership transitions.
Celebrating Community Achievements
The council recognized the Dragons football team for their outstanding achievements this year, commending their dedication and hard work. A photo was taken to honor the team’s success.
The council also celebrated the Chambolle-Musigny Sister City Committee for their ongoing contributions to the city’s longest-standing Sister City relationship, established in 1959.
Leadership Transitions
Outgoing Mayor John Gurney was honored for his year of service with a crystal gavel presentation, and Vice Mayor Patricia Farrar Rivas was voted in by her colleagues to serve as mayor in 2025. Mayor Farrar Rivas announced her intention to dedicate 2025 as the “Year of Climate Smart Sonoma,” promoting people, planet and community.”
Councilmember Ron Wellander was elected as vice mayor, and re-elected councilmembers Jack Ding and Sandra Lowe were sworn in for their new terms.
Measure T and City Services
The council also accepted the certified election results, including the successful passage of Measure T, a ½-cent sales tax designed to generate approximately $3 million annually to support essential city services.
Save the Date: 2025 Council Goal Setting Session
Looking forward to 2025, the City of Sonoma invites the community to participate in the 2025 Council Goal Setting Session:
📅 Date: Thursday, January 30, 2025
⏰ Time: 9:00 a.m. – 5:00 p.m. (or until the meeting concludes)
📍 Location: Blue Oak Room, Lodge at Sonoma, 1325 Broadway, Sonoma
This annual session is an opportunity for residents to engage with the City Council to help shape goals and priorities for the coming year.
Public Comment Period:
Residents are encouraged to share their thoughts during the public comment period, beginning at or near 10:20 a.m., or submit written comments in advance to cityhall@sonomacity.org if unable to attend in person.
Your participation is vital to ensuring that the city’s plans reflect the needs and aspirations of the Sonoma community. We hope to see you there!
For those interested in last night’s meeting, a recording is available on the City’s CivicWeb portal: Sonoma City CivicWeb Portal.