The Sonoma League for Historic Preservation is turning its sights on the Springs and is in the process of establishing a Springs Advocacy Committee. About a year ago I was recruited to join the League’s Board of Directors, as board members thought the League needed... Continue
Sonoma Sun
The old saying, “there is no time like the present” may not have been conceived because of estate planning, but it does apply. In fact, the full quote is, “No time like the present, a thousand unforeseen circumstances may interrupt you at a future time”... Continue
For many clients, estate planning decisions are easy. These clients are your typical “nuclear family” -- a married couple (no previous marriages) with one or more children of the current marriage. As I said, typically, these folks have pretty easy estate planning decisions. The estate... Continue
My family’s Boyes Hot Springs home is now sandwiched between two vacation rentals. We’ve had one across the street for a few years, and we recently received a letter from the owners of a house behind us that they have received a permit to rent their “vacation home.” Who among... Continue
A Sebastopol designer’s approach to façade improvements along Highway 12 in the Springs has created controversy among local residents who have seen his designs. At the June Springs Community Alliance meeting, Rico Martin presented designs for eight commercial properties along the Highway 12 corridor. I’m now writing about that meeting, because of... Continue
One of the first questions I get when meeting with clients is, “How much is this going to cost?” I am never upset at someone asking this because it is a very valid question. Furthermore, knowing up front what an estate plan will cost is... Continue
Numerous neighborhood roads in the Springs will benefit if a quarter-cent sales tax measure, slated for a special election on March 3, passes. I reviewed the initial maps in the draft of the long-term roads plan. While the specifics could change, I believe we can expect to see on the... Continue
Got minors? If you have minor children there are a few things you must do and a few things that you should seriously consider when preparing your estate plan. Topping the “must” list: naming a guardian for your minor child. There is nothing more important... Continue
By definition, if an estate plan is triggered, it is because of the death or serious disability of a family member or close friend. Therefore, most estate plans are administered during periods of great grief and mourning. Those who survive the deceased are charged not... Continue
The work of the county’s Community and Local Law Enforcement Task Force seems to be even more critical now that Sonoma County District Attorney Jill Ravitch has announced her office won’t file criminal charges against the Sheriff’s deputy who shot and killed 13-year-old Andy Lopez outside Santa Rosa city limits. Ravitch... Continue