City News

Public Invited to Key Presentation on Homelessness and Public Health Services in Sebastopol

July 19, 2025, City News

The Sebastopol City Council is inviting members of the public to attend an important presentation from new Sonoma County Department of Health Services (DHS) Director Nolan Sullivan at its August 5 City Council meeting. The presentation will provide an overview of DHS’s current priorities and collaborative efforts with local cities, particularly as Sebastopol faces increased public safety concerns related to unsheltered individuals and uncertain future funding for support services.

Director Sullivan, appointed in April 2025, leads the County’s homeless services and public health programs and serves as the lead liaison to the Sonoma County Homeless Coalition Board. His presentation will cover major DHS initiatives including:

·       Behavioral health system improvements and coordination with public safety

·       Updates on housing-focused programs and funding strategies

·       Public health preparedness and response efforts

·       Regional collaboration with local governments to improve data sharing, integration, and planning

The update is especially timely as Sebastopol prepares for the opening of Gravenstein Commons, a new 22-unit supportive housing development, and continues to monitor community impacts from Project Homekey’s Elderberry Commons.

Community members are encouraged to attend and learn how local and county leaders are working together to address complex public health and homelessness issues—particularly in light of anticipated changes to state and federal funding.

The presentation will take place during the August 5 Sebastopol City Council meeting at the Youth Annex and virtually. The meeting begins at 6pm.

The complete agenda item with additional details will be posted to the City Council Meetings page on the City website on July 31.