Volunteer urges Santa Rosa subcommittee to publicize climate work; staff announces Earth Day event

During public comment at the Climate Action Subcommittee meeting, a volunteer identified as Michael said many young people avoid public meetings because they do not see visible follow-up or action and urged the committee to share short updates in the city newsletter or news outlets.

"Community doesn't hear about it, so they don't want to come," Michael said, adding that small actions and brief publicity would encourage volunteers. He recommended inviting community groups such as Daily Acts and local permaculture practitioners to present on nature-based climate solutions and described recent volunteer work at Lot 7 where volunteers removed invasive plants, added compost and planted native species.

Chair Fleming offered to take a sidebar with Michael after the meeting to discuss next steps. City staff also reported that committee members received seed packets and announced the annual Earth Day event will be held April 25, 2026, from noon to 4 p.m., and that presentation materials for that event will be provided April 7. Staff directed residents to srcity.org/earthday for sign-ups and more information.

The meeting proceeded to a planner's presentation on Transit Oriented Communities policy; the committee did not take formal action on the outreach suggestions at this session but Chair Fleming and members indicated interest in having community groups present at a future subcommittee meeting.