Santa Rosa · issues
Civic issues
Topics getting the most attention in Santa Rosa public meetings, ranked by how frequently they come up.
Settlements and active litigation
The city paid $250,000 to settle claims with former City Manager Maraskeshia Smith and $205,000 to settle the Clare Hartman wrongful termination case. The city denies liability in Hartman; 32 lawsuits remain active.
Municipal Debt Strategy for Infrastructure
Staff made the case that the city has been too shy about borrowing, letting deferred maintenance on streets, city hall, and the wastewater plant pile up. A $35 million wastewater revenue bond is coming soon, and a broader debt strategy for roads and facilities will come to council in coming months.
Moody's credit rating upgrade to Aa1
Santa Rosa's credit rating was upgraded to Aa1, the second-highest rating — a sign the city's finances are on solid ground, which helps when borrowing for projects like the 520 3rd Street purchase.
Property Tax Disparity Under Proposition 13
Council members pressed staff on why Santa Rosa keeps only 11.7 cents of every property tax dollar — far less than some other agencies. Staff said fixing it would take state-level action, but the county partnership conversation is heating up.
2026 Federal and State Legislative Platforms
The council adopted its priority lists for lobbying Washington and Sacramento — covering wildfire/FEMA reform, water infrastructure, housing, public safety, and flood risk. Federal lobbyists reported about $38.6 million secured so far this cycle. Council Member Bañuelos pushed for stronger immigration-related language, which the council agreed to pursue further.