City seeks input on old fire station

Mark your calendars: The city of Sonoma will hold a meeting on the future of the old fire station on Patten Street on Thursday, May 17 at 7 p.m. at Bulingame Hall.
The fire station is currently serving as a temporary home for the Sonoma Police Department while the police station on First Street West undergoes rehabilitation. The police will occupy the old fire station for about a year, after which it will be available for reuse.
The property is owned by the City of Sonoma Community Development Agency, which is planning to redevelop the old fire station as a “gateway to the Plaza.”
The city council came up with concepts in June for the property’s use, including keeping it in public ownership while leasing it to a developer who would allow commercial uses. Such a lease agreement would give the city more control over the types and the mix of businesses allowed, as well as provide the city a revenue stream, said a city statement.
At the meeting, officials will provide information on such things as the site’s history, its characteristics, and the current policy direction for commercial reuse.
The meeting will include “breakout discussion session” to generate input and explore what types of business the community would like to see at the location.
Burlingame Hall is located at the First Congregational Church at 252 W. Spain St. Refreshments will be served. For more information, call Laurie Decker at 327.7338.

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