Sen. Dodd Issues Joint Statement on Sonoma Developmental Center

SONOMA – Sens. Bill Dodd, D-Napa, and Mike McGuire, D-Healdsburg, along with Sonoma County Supervisor Susan Gorin, released the following joint statement regarding the Sonoma Developmental Center property:

“The Sonoma Developmental Center is truly a special place. This is why so many have worked so hard to protect and preserve the cherished open space and wildlands.

In the original agreement between the state and county, over 80% of the 945 total acres will be protected from any future development forever. For the remaining 180 acres that had been previously developed, a first-of-its-kind community planning process has been advancing. We want to be crystal clear – the open space is absolutely not included in the Department of General Service’s request for proposals. 

The land outside the core campus is already legally protected in state law as parkland and open space, and we will ensure it will always remain public land. Public agencies are working together to ensure the best long-term management of this incredible public resource. 

Relative to the developed campus, the local planning process is ongoing and continues to play a critical role. Community input is critical to the future of the SDC and will help inform the outcome of any projects. As always, we continue to encourage public participation.”

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Senator Bill Dodd represents the 3rd Senate District, which includes all or portions of Napa, Solano, Yolo, Sonoma, Contra Costa, and Sacramento counties. You can learn more about the district and Senator Dodd at www.sen.ca.gov/dodd.