Cloverdale Municipal Airport:

Infrastructure Improvements to Support Growth

As part of our ongoing commitment to enhancing Cloverdale’s infrastructure, the Public Works Department is leading a series of critical upgrades at Cloverdale Municipal Airport. These projects, funded primarily through FAA entitlement grants, will improve safety, operational efficiency, and prepare the airport for future expansion. To ensure top-quality design and execution, the City has selected C&S Companies—a comprehensive engineering, design, and construction firm trusted by clients nationwide—to perform engineering services for these improvements.

Key Projects (FY2026-2030):
Infield Area Drainage Improvements (2025-2027) – Addressing drainage issues to enhance safety and long-term maintenance.
Precision Approach Path Indicator (PAPI) & Runway End Identifier Lights (2026) – Upgrading navigation aids to improve visibility and pilot safety.

Wildlife Hazard Assessment (2027) – Identifying and mitigating risks from local wildlife to ensure safe airport operations.

Apron Pavement Reconstruction & Lighting (2028-2030) – Enhancing aircraft parking areas and lighting to accommodate more traffic and improve security.

Perimeter Fencing & Security Upgrades (2028) – Strengthening airport security with new fencing and access controls.

Investing in Future Growth

These upgrades are not just about maintaining current operations – they are about preparing for future expansion. By improving infrastructure, we will have the capability to increase the number of hangars, allowing us to accommodate more aircraft and generate additional revenue for the city. This investment in our airport’s future will support economic growth, attract aviation-related businesses, and reinforce Cloverdale as a hub for general aviation.

With FAA funding, local matching contributions, and the expertise of C&S Companies, these projects are a strategic investment in both safety and economic development. Construction timelines vary, with completion expected by 2031.

A Message from the Mayor:

Todd Lands, Mayor

“Recently I was sworn in for my second term on the Cloverdale City Council and chosen to represent our city as Mayor. Serving as the mayor for the past three years has been one of the greatest honors of my life. It has also been one of the most challenging roles I’ve ever held. While Cloverdale may be small in size, it’s incredibly diverse. Our community is made up of people with a wide spectrum of socioeconomic levels, beliefs, backgrounds, and perspectives. What unites us, though, is the deep, undeniable love of our community.

Like so many places across the country, our small town has not been immune to the divisiveness and tension that have dominated the national stage.

I’ve heard from constituents about their fear for the future. I’ve seen friends and neighbors turn against one another or stop speaking because of their lawn signs or political differences.

This isn’t who we are, and it cannot stand.

When I took my oath of office, I explicitly swore to uphold and protect the Constitution of the United States. In that oath is a promise to protect and encourage the expression of the freedoms, rights, and opportunities enshrined in that great document. These liberties are not reserved for some of us—they belong to all of us. While I’m honored to lead the charge, this is a responsibility that falls on all of our shoulders. It is all of our responsibilities to foster a space where everyone feels heard, respected, and valued, no matter their views or where they come from. Unity does not mean uniformity. It does not mean we will always agree. What it does mean is that we commit to treating one another with respect, empathy, and a belief in the common good.

Cloverdale, like the rest of Sonoma County, faces very serious issues in the coming years, homelessness, water security, economic strain, and wildfire threat, to name a few. These are nonpartisan, local issues that need all of our attention. We can’t face these issues divided. So, put down your device, log out of your social media, turn off your cable news, and go say hello to your neighbor.

I’ve seen my fellow Cloverdale residents come together in times of crisis and celebration. That’s who we are. We come together around our common values of liberty, patriotism, community, and prosperity, for everyone. I’m making the commitment, as I hope everyone else will, to build community despite our differences and face the unified future.” Todd Lands, Mayor of Cloverdale

The City Council bids a heartfelt farewell to City Manager David Kelley, who concluded his dedicated service to the City of Cloverdale on December 11th.

David began his tenure with Cloverdale in February 2016 as Assistant City Manager/Community Development Director and was appointed City Manager in March 2018. Throughout his time with the City, he made a lasting impact, particularly in the development and preservation of parks and open spaces. His leadership was instrumental in the grand opening of the Cloverdale Dog Park and the Porterfield Creek Open Space, as well as the acquisition of Soda Springs Ranch and significant improvements to existing city parks.

My name is Trevor Ambrosini and I am running for City Council! I have been fortunate to call Cloverdale my home for the last 10 years. In 2019, I was able to open a coffee shop here in town and the response from the Community was incredible. I am excited for this opportunity to further serve and support this Community in the way it has always served and supported me. Thank you for your consideration!

My name is Hannah Gart and here are a few things I would like to accomplish as part of your city council. Strengthen the infrastructure and energy of our downtown to build a more vibrant community. This includes filling vacant commercial properties with businesses to support our economic growth. Support children and families by providing healthy recreational activities and events. Continue to promote and support local small businesses through monthly highlights and effective marketing strategies. Seek grants and/or fundraise for specific projects that will enhance Cloverdale. Collaborate more closely with the County to ensure we are included in large
projects such as the SMART Train and securing our water supply. And much more. Thank you for your consideration.

My name is Todd Lands. I am running for re-election to the Cloverdale City Council. It has been an honor to serve the community where I was born and raised and where I’ve raised my children. I’ve had the good fortune of successfully working with the community and staff to make progress on critical issues such as homelessness, public safety, infrastructure, and parks and open spaces. For the last three years, my colleagues on the City Council have appointed me as Mayor because of their faith in my ability to deliver results. There’s still a lot of work to be done. Issues such as water security, economic stability, fire resilience, and environmental integrity hang in the balance. I’m ready to keep working for my community. I humbly ask for your vote for a second term so that I can continue to serve this wonderful city I call home.

My name is Mark Laskey. I’d like my one voice to be your voice at the table of our government. Having called Cloverdale my home for the past 7 years, and with 35 years in Sonoma County, I am deeply committed to our community and its future. With a background in Project Management, I bring a wealth of skills, experience, and passion for this role. My career spans over 40 years, encompassing a diverse range of experiences that have equipped me with a comprehensive skill set. My service in the US Navy instilled in me a keen attention to detail. My work in the trades fostered a strong sense of responsibility. My experience as a business owner taught me the importance of exceptional customer service. These traits will guide my efforts and approach as a member of the City Council. I respectfully ask for your vote this November.

My name is Andrés Marquez. I was born in the Bay Area and I’m the owner of Symphonic Finishing, a painting and general contracting business. Since moving to Cloverdale my wife and I have been actively involved in the community. This will play a key role in how I understand what issues matter the most. Today, based on many conversations with members of our community these are some of the issues I’d like to focus on as a City Council Member. 1) Increase communication with our schools; 2) Identify additional ways to maximize our spending dollars; 3) Get involved with the current work being done to support local businesses. I am a registered No Party Preference candidate that genuinely wants to focus on strengthening Cloverdale. Thank you for this
opportunity to put my ideas and energy into Cloverdale. I’m excited to see what we can accomplish together.

Cloverdale City Council Opposes Measure J

The Cloverdale City Council has unanimously adopted a resolution opposing Measure J, a pivotal measure on the
upcoming November ballot. Measure J, known as the “Sonoma County Prohibition on Concentrated Animal
Feeding Operations (CAFO),” seeks to phase out existing CAFOs and prohibit new ones across unincorporated
Sonoma County, which could have significant repercussions for the region’s agricultural industry.

The Council’s resolution, based on a comprehensive agenda report, highlights several concerns regarding Measure J’s potential impacts on the local economy, agricultural heritage, and community well-being. Measure J would
enforce stringent regulations on farms categorized as CAFOs, affecting operations involving cattle, dairy, poultry,
and other livestock. Under the measure, existing CAFOs would be required to cease operations within three years, imposing severe financial penalties for non-compliance.

Additionally, various County departments, including the Sonoma County Department of Agriculture and the
Economic Development Board, have expressed concerns about the economic fallout if Measure J passes.

Given the importance of agriculture to Cloverdale’s history and economy, the City Council’s resolution emphasizes the need to protect local farms and ranches. The resolution urges all Sonoma County voters to consider the far-reaching consequences of Measure J and to vote “no” in the upcoming election.

September is here, and that means it’s CREEK WEEK in the Russian River Watershed! We’re excited to join international, national, and local efforts to highlight the importance of clean water and to promote community cleanups of our local waterways. This year, Creek Week, National Pollution Prevention Week, and California’s Coastal Cleanup Day all take place between September 16th and 29th. These events aim to educate the public and encourage active participation in keeping our waterways free from trash and pollutants.

Participate in Creek Week with the City of Cloverdale
Every September, the Cloverdale community comes together to learn about the Russian River Watershed and actively contribute by removing trash from our creeks, rivers, and beaches. Last year, dedicated volunteers from Cloverdale filled three 30-yard dumpsters—nearly 20,000 pounds of waste removed from our local waterways! Without these efforts, that trash could have been swept downstream during the wet winter, impacting not just our river but also downstream communities and the Pacific Ocean.

This year, the City of Cloverdale will host two Russian River cleanup events on Saturday, September 21st, from 9-11 am. We need your help! Volunteers can choose to clean up the River at Asti Bridge (meeting at the Russian River bridge on Washington School Road) or at First Street Bridge (meeting near the cemetery on Crocker Road/E. First St.). All necessary supplies—gloves, trash grabbers, bags, and more—will be provided, and volunteers will receive a special gift as a token of our appreciation.

We hope to see you by the river! Your participation is key to making our annual Creek Week Cleanup a success. To join us in protecting our local environment, sign up for the cleanup event of your choice at:
• Asti Bridge Cleanup Signup: https://www.russianriverkeeper.org/asti-bridge-cleanup-signup/
• Cloverdale Near the Cemetery Cleanup Signup: https://russianriverkeeper.org/rrwcu-cloverdale-near-the-cemetery-cleanup-signup-9-21-24/

Groundwater Projects Connected to River Health
The City of Cloverdale is committed to sustaining and improving the health of the Russian River Watershed year-round, not just in September. The Russian River is a vital ecosystem and the source of Cloverdale’s freshwater supply. Beneath our river lies an intricate aquifer of gravels, sand, and clay, from which our City draws its drinking water. This water is pumped from a wellfield near Cloverdale River Park, treated, and then delivered via an extensive distribution network to our residents and businesses.

However, during droughts and dry periods, our pumping system can encounter challenges. As groundwater levels drop and river flow slows, our ability to pump water through existing wells is threatened. When this happens, air can get entrained in the wells which can clog the filters at the treatment plant. Clearing these clogs requires flushing the filters multiple times a day, requiring additional water and electricity.

The City makes great strides to keep you informed about the various departments and initiatives that contribute to our shared progress in Cloverdale. In this edition, we bring you updates on the proposed November 2024 sales tax measure, staffing updates from the Police Department, and recent Parks improvements by our Community Development Department Parks Division. Read on to stay connected and engaged with the City of Cloverdale!

Update on the November 2024 Sales Tax Measure

As we approach the November 2024 elections, Cloverdale’s City Council has been actively working to address the city’s critical financial needs. Following the recent council meetings and community feedback, we have an important update regarding the proposed 3/4 cent sales tax measure that will be on the ballot. This measure aims to generate additional revenue for essential services and infrastructure improvements in Cloverdale.

Background and Need for the Measure

Cloverdale faces significant financial challenges, including a $1,000,000 annual structural operational budget deficit, $17,000,000 needed for a new police station, and $30,000,000 required for road repairs and maintenance. These critical needs cannot be met with the city’s current financial resources alone. To address these challenges, the City Council has proposed a 3/4 cent sales tax measure to be voted on in the upcoming November election.

Key Elements of the Proposed Measure

Financial Context: The city has limited financial capacity to fund critical capital projects and service priorities. Often, budget reserves are used to close expenditure and revenue gaps, but this is not a sustainable solution. The proposed 3/4 cent sales tax increase is expected to generate approximately $1.6 million annually, providing a crucial revenue stream to support Cloverdale’s essential services.

Allocation of Funds: The funds generated from the sales tax increase will be used for:
• Road Repairs and Maintenance: One-third of the city’s roads are rated in poor or very poor condition. It will cost an estimated $5 million over the next five years to maintain their current condition and almost $31 million to bring all roads up to fair or good condition.
• Pedestrian and Safety Improvements: Over $1 million is needed for unfunded pedestrian and safety improvement projects, such as sidewalks along Asti Road and restriping Cloverdale Blvd.
• Park Improvements: The city has identified over $2.5 million for planned improvements at city parks, in addition to ongoing maintenance and repair costs.
• Public Safety: The police station is in poor condition and requires over $10 million for replacement, including at least $250,000 for design and planning. The Police Department also needs regular vehicle and equipment replacements.

Community Feedback and Support: The City Council has gathered valuable feedback from the community through town hall meetings and surveys. Although the Isom Advisors’ study indicated that only 43.1% of respondents supported a 0.75% sales tax increase, the council believes that the proposed measure, with clear communication and accountability, can gain the necessary support.

Comparison with Other Sonoma County Cities: Many cities in Sonoma County have higher sales tax rates to support their infrastructure and services. For instance, Petaluma and Cotati charge a 1% sales tax, while Sonoma charges 0.75%. Healdsburg, with a 0.50% rate, collects significantly more revenue due to higher transaction volumes, generating $1,288,376 quarterly compared to Cloverdale’s $247,460. Additionally, both the City of Sonoma and City of Sebastopol are placing local sales tax measures on the ballot. The proposed 3/4 cent increase in Cloverdale is necessary to ensure adequate funding for essential services.

Oversight and Accountability

To ensure transparency and proper use of funds, the proposed measure includes:
• Annual Audits: The ordinance requires an annual audit of the revenue collected and its expenditures.
• Citizen Oversight Committee: A three-person independent citizens oversight committee will be appointed to review and

We’re excited to bring you an update on the upcoming November 5, 2024 Election. Two significant local measures will likely be presented to Cloverdale voters. The first measure involves the amendment and extension of the City Urban Growth Boundary (UGB), while the second measure will likely propose a 3/4 cent sales tax increase to generate additional revenue for essential city services. This article provides an in-depth overview of these measures to inform and educate voters.
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Proposed Sales Tax Measure
The City Council is considering placing measure on the ballot to generate additional revenue to address Cloverdale’s critical financial needs. This measure is pivotal for maintaining and enhancing the city’s infrastructure and services, particularly in parks, streets, and public safety.

Financial Context:
Like many cities, Cloverdale has been facing budget deficits and significant funding needs for essential services and infrastructure maintenance, in part due to significant inflation in recent years. The city’s General Fund, which supports a wide range of services, has been stretched thin, often relying on budget reserves to bridge gaps. The Long-Term Financial Forecast and 5-Year Capital Infrastructure Plan have highlighted these challenges, underscoring the necessity for additional revenue sources. The City’s financial needs include, but are not limited to:
• Road Repairs. 1/3 of the City’s roads are rated in poor or very poor condition. Over the next five years it will cost an estimated $5 million to maintain the current condition of the City roads, and almost $31 million to bring all City roads up to fair or good condition.

• Pedestrian & Safety Improvements. The City currently has over $1 million dollars in unfunded pedestrian and safety improvements projects for the next two years, such as sidewalks along Asti Road and restriping of Cloverdale Blvd.

• Park Improvements. The City has identified over $2.5 million of planned improvements at City Parks, in addition to ongoing maintenance and repair costs for existing park facilities and equipment.

• Public Safety. The City’s Police Station is in very poor condition and needs to be replaced. The cost of replacement is over $10 million, including at least $250,000 for design and planning. The Police Department also has ongoing needs for vehicles and equipment to be replaced regularly.

Proposed Sales Tax Increase:
The City Council has considered different potential revenue measures to help fund these critical needs, including a potential increase in the sales tax. Cities may enact sales tax increases, the revenue from which remains completely with the City. Cloverdale is one of only two cities in Sonoma County which has not enacted a local sales tax measure. Seven cities in Sonoma County have enacted local sales tax measures ranging from ½ cent to 1 cent. A ¾ cent ($.0075) sales tax increase would generate approximately $1.66 million annually for the City. This entire amount would stay within Cloverdale, and no portion would be shared with the County or State.

Council Consideration:
At the regularly scheduled City Council meeting on July 24, 2024, the City Council will vote on whether or not to place a ¾ cent sales tax increase on the November to fund infrastructure repairs and critical services. Members of the public are invited to attend the meeting to hear more information on the City’s financial condition, and provide their feedback on the measure. The potential sales tax measure would require simple majority (50%+1) support to pass.
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Urban Growth Boundary Amendment and Extension
The Urban Growth Boundary (UGB) is a component of Cloverdale’s land-use planning strategy. Established by Measure G in 2010, the UGB delineates the area within which urban development can occur, thereby preserving the surrounding rural and agricultural lands.

The Cloverdale Police Department in partnership with the Cloverdale Chamber of Commerce developed the Cloverdale Wildfire Community Evacuation Plan also known as CloveReady to enable our community to have a strong understanding of the steps you can take before and during a mandatory evacuation to protect the health and wellbeing of your family and neighbors. With the onset of summer and warmer drier temperatures the City of Cloverdale wants you to be prepared for fire emergencies that have the potential to impact our community.

Resilient Cloverdale, a group of Cloverdale residents, businesses, and civic organizations, has developed for you CloveReady – how to be prepared in case of emergency. There are four easy steps you can learn to ensure that every resident understands the actions they can take before, during, and after an emergency to protect the health and well-being of their household and immediate neighbors.

1. Know Your Evacuation Zone
2. Get Alerted via Nixle or SoCo Alerts
3. Pack a Little Bag
4. Have a Plan to Reunite

Visit our website https://cloveready.org/ to learn more about the initiative and ways you can get involved. Let’s walk through the four steps below.

Know your zone:  The City of Cloverdale Police Department has established standardized evacuation zones for the incorporated area. The city encourages its residents to be familiar with their zone in case of an evacuation. The city map containing each boundary and zone can be found on the City of Cloverdale’s website. Learn your zone for home and work and be ready to go when an evacuation order or warning for your area is issued. Share your zone with out-of-town friends and family for their situational awareness. To learn more about evacuation zones, visit:

https://www.cloverdale.net/457/Emergency-Operation-Plan-and-Evacuation-

Plan: When it’s time to evacuate and action is required, the City encourages residents to have a plan in place. Planning will give you the confidence to act and provide you with the necessary tools to stay safe. Below are some tips that you can use to help build your plan:

• Remember, our Police and Fire Departments will be overloaded in a disaster; help yourself by planning in advance.
• The Safety of you, your family and pets are your priority.
• If you need help to evacuate, quickly reach out, in advance, to neighbors, family, or friends and discuss how they can assist you, what you will need, and a backup plan in case the immediate help is not able to assist.
• Be sure to have an extra supply of life-saving medications and copies of prescriptions.
• Complete a Personal Emergency Plan and have it ready to go.

For more information on the Personal Emergency Plan, visit:

https://socoemergency.org/wp-content/uploads/2020/02/Emergency-Plan-Trifold-v6-English.pdf

https://s43263.pcdn.co/wp-content/uploads/2020/02/Emergency-Plan-Trifold-v6-Spanish.pdf

Alerts: The City of Cloverdale has experienced disasters over the past several years, including floods, power shutoffs, a pandemic, and wildfires that have threatened the incorporated population. The City’s alert and warning system is vital in early alert notifications, and residents are encouraged to sign up to receive life-saving alerts. Below are the apps to sign-up and receive critical information from different warning systems within Sonoma County.

Nixle – Receive email and text messages from local fire and law enforcement agencies that include public safety messages and emergency information. Text your zip code to 888777 to opt-in or sign up online to receive email or text messages with alerts and advisories.

SoCoAlert – Upon signing up for SoCoAlert, select to receive alerts through landline calls, cell phone text messages, or pre-recorded verbal messages and email. The system also works with telephone devices for the deaf.

National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) Weather Radio – This alert system is available at a relatively low cost. When properly programmed, the National Weather Service can remotely turn on these radios and send basic alerts, including for wildfires. The message may be accompanied by a warning tone, depending on the model of radio you purchase.

Sonoma County residents may tune their NOAA radio to:

County of Sonoma Frequency 162.475
Northwest Sonoma County Frequency 162.550
Southwest Sonoma County Frequency 162.475