News & Updates

Access to accurate and timely information is critical to helping you understand the issues and decisions facing our City Council and Commissions and engage in the policy making process.  Stay informed by reading the latest news and updates below, sign up to receive "News & Updates," the Sonoma City e-newsletter and subscribe to meeting agendas and minutes for the City Council and Commissions.

Category

Latest News Posts

“Bonjour Spring” Named Winner of 2025 Earth Day Photo Contest

Posted on April 22, 2025

Celebrating Earth Day with a Hidden Gem! This Earth Day, the City of Sonoma and Sonoma Community Center are delighted to announce the winner of the 5th Annual Earth Day Photo Contest, themed “Hidden Gems.” The contest invited photographers of all ages to showcase the lesser-known, quietly stunning corners of Sonoma Valley—and the entries did...
A grid of nature photos submitted into the Hidden Gems Earth Day Contest.

Earth Day “Hidden Gems” Photo Contest – Online Exhibition & Voting Open Through April 18

Posted on April 11, 2025

The City of Sonoma’s 5th Annual Earth Day Photo Contest is now live — and this year, it’s all about uncovering Sonoma Valley’s “Hidden Gems”! Thank you to the many talented photographers who submitted images that highlight the beauty of lesser-known natural spots throughout our region. Now it’s your turn to get involved — view...
A photo of water from a rein storm draining into a street drain with leaf debris accumulating.

What do you know about storm water? Take our eleven (11) question storm water program effectiveness survey today!

Posted on March 21, 2025

The City of Sonoma is conducting a survey to learn what our residents know about storm water. Surveying our residents about their storm water knowledge and behaviors helps us understand which topics could use more community education and outreach. Please take this 11-question survey to help us improve our public outreach and communication regarding storm water...
Photos of various items that can help reduce home energy use.

Free Energy-Saving Kits, Cooking Demos & Climate Survey – Get Involved!

Posted on March 12, 2025

BayREN (Bay Area Regional Energy Network) is a local government coalition helping residents save energy and lower utility bills. This March, take advantage of free energy-saving kits, live cooking demos, and homeowner webinars—plus, share your input on regional climate action!  North Bay Induction Cooking Expo – March 15 Experience the future of cooking with live...
Photo of members of the Climate Action Commission.

Spotlight on Commissions: Meet the Climate Action Commission

Posted on February 10, 2025

The City of Sonoma’s Climate Action Commission (CAC) advises the City Council on matters related to environmental sustainability, reducing greenhouse gas emissions, and adapting to climate change within the city’s jurisdiction. The commission provides recommendations and explores strategies to help Sonoma address climate-related challenges. Meet Your Climate Action Commissioners Left to right: Amber Ward, Leo...
A photo of a roadway with a bike lane.

Final Draft Active Transportation Plan Available for Public Review

Posted on January 8, 2025

The Final Draft Active Transportation Plan is now available for public review! This comprehensive plan incorporates feedback received during the October 24, 2024, Planning Commission meeting, as well as online comments submitted through November 30, 2024. Over the past 18 months, the City of Sonoma has collaborated with the Sonoma County Transportation Authority (SCTA) to...
A photo of a pile burn operation in a field.

Pile Burning Scheduled for December 3rd at Montini Open Space Preserve

Posted on December 2, 2024

The Sonoma Ecology Center has confirmed that controlled pile burning will take place at Montini Open Space Preserve on Tuesday, December 3rd, as part of wildfire risk reduction efforts funded by the State Coastal Conservancy. What to Expect: Smoke Visibility: Residents and visitors may see smoke rising from north of Sonoma Plaza during the burn....
a photo of a white ford f150 lightening.

City of Sonoma Adds Two All-Electric Ford F-150s to Public Works Fleet

Posted on October 9, 2024

The City of Sonoma has taken another important step toward achieving its Zero Emissions goals by adding two all-electric Ford F-150 Lightning trucks to the Public Works fleet. These vehicles will support essential city services while contributing to the City’s commitment to sustainability and a cleaner environment. This fleet upgrade is in line with the...
A toolbox sitting on mulch with the words Reduce Water Waste.

Be Climate Ready: Efficient Water-Saving Strategies for Your Landscape

Posted on July 12, 2024

As climate change impacts water availability, it is more important than ever to use water efficiently. Here are several methods to help you save water, reduce waste, and contribute to a more sustainable future. Find and Fix Leaks with DIY Toolkit Become a water-saving champion by using the DIY Toolkit, which includes tools to detect...
A photo of a sunset with the words GeoZone Townhall.

Sonoma Clean Power to Host GeoZone Town Hall Event on July 25th

Posted on July 12, 2024

Sonoma Clean Power is inviting the community to a Town Hall event on Thursday, July 25th, to discuss its ambitious new initiative, the Geothermal Opportunity Zone (GeoZone). The event will be held at the Sonoma Clean Power Customer Center in downtown Santa Rosa from 6-8 PM. The GeoZone project aims to develop 600 megawatts of...
A photo of a plant with purple flowers.

Transform Your Garden: Embrace Climate Ready Landscaping This Summer

Posted on June 14, 2024

It's the perfect season to be out in the garden, enjoying the sunshine and fresh air. As you plan your outdoor space, consider creating a climate-ready landscape designed with the future in mind. By selecting low-water use plants, implementing rainwater harvesting, and following fire-wise principles, your yard will be better equipped to withstand drought, floods,...
A flock of sheep grazing on dry grass on a hillside.

Sheep return to the Montini Preserve this week

Posted on May 31, 2024

A flock of sheep from Perennial Grazing arrived this week to begin fuel reduction grazing on the Montini Open Space Preserve. They will plan to be on-site for approximately 10 days. It is expected to reduce fuel loads by more than 80% in grazed areas. The Preserve is owned by the City of Sonoma and managed...
Two photos of a couple picnicking at a park with fresh strawberries, wine and prepared foods

Celebrate the first Tuesday Night Market of the Season – May 7th, 5 – 8 PM

Posted on May 2, 2024

Join us as we kick off Sonoma’s Tuesday Night Market season on May 7th at Sonoma Plaza. The opening program starts at 5:00 p.m. with welcoming remarks, a preview of this season's offerings, and recognition of the 2024 Earth Day Photography Contest winner. Live entertainment, including a Celebration Dance Night for KSVY’s 20th anniversary, begins...
Vineyards on a hill with sheep grazing between the rows and a large mirrored sculpture of a heart at the top of the hill.

Announcing the 2024 Sustainable Business Honoree: Donum Estate!

Posted on April 23, 2024

After careful consideration and collaboration with environmental and community leaders, including esteemed members of the City of Sonoma’s Climate Action Committee,  The Sonoma Valley Chamber of Commerce and City of Sonoma are delighted to unveil the recipient of this year’s prestigious Green Business Award: Donum Estate. Sustainable Practices: Donum Estate has exemplified a profound commitment...
A cropped version of the 2024 Earth Day Photo Contest Winning Photograph of the sun setting and emitting rays of light through clouds onto a vineyard and tree in the foreground.

Announcing the Winner of 4th Annual Earth Day “Celebration of Trees” Photo Contest!

Posted on April 22, 2024

We are excited to unveil the winner of the City of Sonoma's 4th Annual Earth Day "Celebration of Trees" Photo Contest! After receiving an incredible 45 entries from talented photographers and nature enthusiasts, we're excited to honor Denise Webster for her breathtaking image, "Epilogue of A Lone Tree." Denise's stunning photograph, captured in the picturesque...
Close window