Planning Commission OKs one-year extension for Sebastiani Theatre renovation permit

The Sonoma City Planning Commission on July 17 unanimously approved a one-year time extension for the Sebastiani Theatre’s previously authorized use permit, variance and design review, extending the project’s permit expiration to Nov. 30, 2026.

Staff said the Sebastiani Theatre Foundation has continued design work and fundraising and that the extension is warranted under Sonoma Municipal Code section 19.56.040 because the applicant has acted in good faith.

Jennifer Gates, the city’s community involvement director, told commissioners the 89-year-old theater requires Americans with Disabilities Act upgrades, fire-and-life-safety improvements and other building system and performing-arts support spaces. The approved project would add about 4,967 square feet to the north and east sides of the building to provide a screening room, an accessible restroom, a food-prep kitchen and an accessible egress corridor.

“Staff believes the permit is acting in good faith and has had multiple meetings with the applicant team,” Gates said, noting staff and the applicant have discussed a phased approach and continued fundraising efforts.

Jocelyn Vick, president of the Sebastiani Theatre Foundation, said the project is about “50% ready with working drawings” and that the extension would give the foundation “a little peace of mind.” Vick told the commission the foundation had received “some really nice gifts” and is optimistic about reaching fundraising goals.

Commissioners asked about prior ex parte contacts; one commissioner disclosed attending a theater-hosted dinner before appointment to the planning panel. Commissioners said they believed the foundation had progressed in good faith and that findings could be made to approve the extension.

Chair Donbach called for a motion; the commission voted by roll call with all present members in favor. The resolution establishes a new permit expiration of Nov. 30, 2026 and carries the limitation noted in city code that extensions are restricted to one year if the permittee has demonstrated due diligence.

The commission’s action is procedural only and does not authorize construction work; the building permit remains required and must be submitted and approved before the project can proceed to construction.

Commissioners cited continued staff contact with the applicant and the applicant’s fundraising progress in explaining their unanimous vote. The record shows no formal amendments or conditions beyond the time extension were adopted at the July 17 meeting.

The Sebastiani Theatre Foundation and staff may return with further permit amendments or phased plans as design and funding are finalized.