Editor: I wish to acknowledge and deeply thank the Sonoma City Council/Community Development Agency for directing $2M of bond measure funding toward the capital improvement of SCC’s historic landmark building.
SCC will use this money to replace its nearly century-old furnace, upgrade building systems, and complete the earthquake retrofit and structural repair that has been in progress for several years. The council’s action appears prescient following the disaster created by Japan’s tragic earthquake and ensuing tsunami. Their directive ensures that this community treasure, whose doors welcome over 6,000 community residents per month and is home to two schools and host to many community service organizations, will be a secure, safe and inviting community icon for the next 100 years.
The council also granted $100,000 annually for five years to address other building-related needs. A minimum of 20 percent of that total will be set aside to address additional capital improvements, and the remainder will be used to remediate long-deferred building projects and ongoing maintenance of the structure. In exchange, Sonoma Community Center has entered into a 20-year agreement to maintain the building’s historic integrity. No funding from the city will be used for any other purpose than building-related activities.
This action is the result of over two-and-a-half years of work by a committee of City staff, SCC board of directors, and Council liaison Steve Barbose who met countless times in a search for a reasonable conclusion. I believe this long process has proven that thoughtful discussion, research, and civil negotiation can overcome hurdles that initially appear formidable. I am so grateful for the many hours of work that council and all others dedicated to produce this final outcome.
The City’s actions allow SCC to begin a planned community capital campaign in early 2012. The total $3.9M goal will enable completion of all identified improvements to its building. SCC’s Board is gratified to have the city’s $2M support as matching funds when approaching other funding sources.
In the past five years alone, SCC has garnered tremendous underwriting from individuals, families, community organizations, businesses and granting foundations. These contributions have enabled the center to survive during difficult times. Every one of these public/private gestures has led us to this moment.
The City Council/CDA Agency members have created a thoughtful legacy that ties our cultural history to our valley’s future in a profound manner. As the city and community help protect this National Register of Historic Places landmark against the ravages of time, it also allows SCC Board and staff to create ever-expanding community and cultural programs to serve every member of our community.
On behalf of SCC Board President Pam Gibson and Board of Directors, I thank the city and each and every one of you who has contributed to the protection of this community treasure.
Kathy Swett
SCC Executive Director
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