Santa Rosa City Council members approved the $439 million budget, and a plan to reorganize the city into a smaller government. Meeting the budget meant using over $7.3 million of the general fund. More than 50 jobs will be cut, mostly vacant positions. (photo courtesy The Press Democrat)
The Russian River Fire District now has a cheif, after going without for 2 years. Sonoma County Fire Chief Mark Heine will add Russian River to his job of overseeing Windsor, Rincon Valley, Bennet Valley, and Mountain Fire agencies. The move creates a cooperation between more agencies, and may become a consolidation. (photo courtesy Sonoma West)
The Medical Board of California is taking a Santa Rosa physician to court in an attempt to get medical records of three children who receieved medical exemptions from vaccinations. According to the San Francisco Chronicle, the board is investigating whether Dr. Ron Kennedy improperly issued blanket exemptions, while the doctor argues submitting the records would violate patient privacy. (photo courtesy The Independent)
The Sonoma Marin Fair gets started today, with gates opening at noon. Today is Kids Day, with discounted ticket prices until 5pm. Tonight on stage, Loverboy plays at 8pm. Thoroughout the day, lots of animal and agriculture exibits and a Lego Building contest at 2. (photo courtesy Marin Mommies)
This week, The Sonoma County Water Agency, or Sonoma Water, began maintenance activities in more than 50 streams throughout Sonoma County. February's heavy rains and flooding along the Russian River caused an estimated $155 million in damage. Sonoma Water maintains 75 miles of flood control channels. (photo courtesy SSU News)
A plan to transform 300 miles of old railroad tracks into hiking and biking trails is on roll. The long unused tracks stretch from San Francisco to Humboldt Bay. Senator Mike McGuire will hold a town hall meeting and discussion this Saturday in Ukiah on the Great Redwood Trail plan
More controlled burns will take place today to clear some of the loose branches and grass that could threaten the county later in the season. Today, Cal Fire will be doing a controlled burn in the Pepperwood preserve, and smoke may be seen in the area of Mark West Springs Road, Porter Creek Road, and Franz Valley Road. (photo courtesy pepperwoodpreserve.org)
