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Sonoma commission agrees to ad‑hoc groups for education and vacant‑storefront activation
Summary
After reviewing duties and a proposed 2026 work plan, the Historic Preservation Commission agreed by consensus to form two ad‑hoc groups — one for historic preservation education and engagement and another to address vacant storefront activation, realtor outreach and web content — and staff will circulate meeting invites.
The commission reviewed its municipal‑code duties, qualifications tied to Sonoma’s certified local government (CLG) status, and a proposed 2026 work plan that includes a citywide historic survey, context statement, general plan cultural resources review and an update to the historic preservation web presence.
Staff described the web map and web pages now live for the historic survey and said the searchable map will show whether an address has been determined eligible for local listing. Commissioners talked about producing shorter, public‑friendly outputs of the large report and using CLG funds to support education events, recorded presentations and marketing materials.
Commissioners discussed possible ad‑hoc groups and staff proposed two near‑term ad‑hocs: (1) historic preservation education and engagement and (2) vacant‑storefront activation combined with realtor outreach and web‑map/web content development. Commissioners expressed interest in participating and noted Brown Act limits (generally two commissioners per ad‑hoc). The group agreed by consensus to the two ad‑hoc topics; staff said she would send emails and doodle polls to set meetings.
Public commenters and commissioners suggested partner outreach, including panels, talks and realtor engagement. Robert Dimler of the Sonoma League for Historic Preservation offered to sponsor lectures or an evening program for realtors and the public. Commission members volunteered to help lead or participate in specific ad‑hoc tasks, such as web‑page content, storefront activation visuals or education events.
Next steps: Staff will circulate invites to form the ad‑hocs, continue work on the citywide survey and context statement, and bring draft materials (including potential printed or condensed summaries) back to the commission for review.
