Sonoma County at Crossroads

Sonoma County at a Crossroads

Water, Wineries, Cannabis, Climate Change and Greenbelts at Risk

Saturday, March 30, 1 to 3 pm, Trinity Episcopal Church, 275 East Spain Street, Sonoma

Sonoma County advocates and policy experts on protecting water, land and communities will put the spotlight on important upcoming land use plans and policies at a free public forum from 1 to 3 pm, Saturday, March 30, at the Trinity Episcopal Church, 275 East Spain Street, Sonoma.

Sonoma County at a Crossroads speakers will focus on water resources, cannabis regulations, winery event centers, climate change action and greenbelts at risk.

Speakers and topics include:

–        Ernie Carpenter, Former Sonoma County Supervisor, Importance of the Sonoma County General Plan and update

–        Rue Furch, Former County Planning Commissioner, Water Resources and the General Plan Water Element

–        Laura Waldbaum, County Cannabis Advisory Committee, County cannabis regulations

–        Tom Conlon, Wine and Water Watch, Climate measures and actions

–        Teri Shore, Greenbelt Alliance, Greenbelts at risk

The public forum is presented by Wine and Water Watch, Greenbelt Alliance, Sierra Club and Sonoma County Conservation Action. A similar event hosted by Wine and Water Watch on Feb. 16 in Graton drew more than 70 people, so the public is advised to come early and get a seat. Space is limited.

The goal is to inform and engage allies and the public on these environmental issues and the upcoming planning processes that will determine the future of Sonoma County as development pressure mounts. These include the upcoming Sonoma County General Plan update and pending renewal of the City of Sonoma’s Urban Growth Boundary.

Information stations featuring local groups will provide opportunities to sign petitions and postcards on above issues as well as protecting Sonoma Developmental Center and removing gas tankers from the wetlands in Schellville.

Light snacks and coffee. Free parking behind church. Donations welcome.

Contact: Teri Shore, Greenbelt Alliance, 707 934 7081

Tom Conlon, Wine and Water Watch,  707 280 1529