Good morning, Santa Rosa.

A controversial plan to start a wine improvement district known as WID was put on hold after local winemakers and visitors voiced strong opposition—sparking a creative effort to develop new marketing methods.

Industry leaders are planning social media campaigns and free sauvignon blanc tastings to boost sales.

A state study found that much of Proctor Terrace Elementary sits on the Rodgers Creek Fault—state law now restricts major upgrades like a new roof even though officials say the campus is safe; the district faces a budget gap that could lead to a state takeover.

The Sonoma County Board of Supervisors appointed Gigi Mertle as the new Director of the Department of Child Support Services today—Mertle served nearly 13 years with DCSS and will manage over $30 million in child support funds to aid county families.

The Santa Rosa City Council selected LH Housing to redevelop the former White House site parking lot on E Street with plans for a mixed-use project that includes over 300 workforce housing apartments—this out-of-town developer, backed by South Korean investors, now enters a five-month exclusive negotiation with the city. Mayor Mark Stapp praised the secured funding that will help meet the goal of adding 7,000 new downtown homes.

Local officials in Sonoma County, Santa Rosa and Petaluma joined a lawsuit against federal agencies over new emergency and disaster grant rules that allegedly tie crucial funds to unrelated policies—putting tens of millions at risk for fire services and flood control projects.

Sonoma County voters will receive Vote-by-Mail ballots and Voter Information Guides starting Monday, October 6, and the Registrar advises mailing them early so they are postmarked by Election Day, November 4.

Voters may also use one of 22 Official Ballot Drop Boxes starting October 7 or drop off ballots at a Vote Center later this month.

Windsor Town Council passed a 45-day emergency moratorium to stop closures and major changes at mobile home parks after nearly 550 residents testified about displacement fears.

The measure gives the town time to update old park rules at Evergreen Mobile Estates—while owner Nick Ubaldi protested the action.

Sonoma Valley and Schell-Vista fire districts approved new health insurance plans—using broker Keenan Associates—as Fire and Risk Management Services ended its coverage in June.

Sonoma Valley Fire District covers over 70 active firefighters and nearly 20 retirees will receive lifetime benefits.