Sonoma Valley has earned the first Cittaslow designation in the United States.
Translated as “slow city,” Cittaslow embodies the philosophy of thoughtful attention to economy, lifestyle, and sustainable methods. The requirements are rigorous, and application is by invitation from the international headquarters in Italy.
Sonoma Valley joins the Cittaslow International Network of 129 towns in 29 nations around the world accredited since 1999.
“It’s the perfect community to become the first Cittaslow in the United States,” said Virginia Hubbell, the longtime Sonoma resident who coordinated the application effort. “We’re an excellent example of Cittaslow’s emphasis on connecting all members of the community for local action following shared vision, and for preserving our town’s quality of life and culture.”
Prospective Cittaslow members have populations of less than 50,000 residents and are evaluated in six topic groupings and 54 areas of excellence. These include sustainable agricultural practices, land use, environmental policy, support for local food cultivation and preparation, conservation of traditional artisan products, available hospitality programs, historic preservation, and educational programs for all ages.
“We are committed to the slow philosophy and goals for the long term,” Hubbell said.
With its nearly perfect climate, progressive point of view, growth limits, viticulture, and a robust arts community, Hubbell said, Sonoma Valley retains its village personality and pastoral roots while integrating new technology into its infrastructure.
“It is a wonderful honor,” said Sonoma Mayor Ken Brown. “It will be a boon to tourism and local business.” Schools, through a commitment to school gardens, will also benefit. “It’s a recognition of all the hard work to make Sonoma a city that’s really committed to providing its citizens, in my opinion, the best place to live in 21st-century America.”
The announcement was announced Saturdau by Cittaslow International’s President Gian Luca Marconi in Abbiategrasso, Italy, near Orvieto. Sonoma Valley is Cittaslow number 128; Izmir, Turkey was named as 129.
“The preservation of local identity is the very heart of our aims,” Marconi wrote, “to improve livability without shortcuts and without selling out to the ‘fast’ way of life.”
A delegation from Cittaslow International will visit Sonoma in January.
