In November of 2020, in response to the Covid pandemic which shut down many downtown businesses, temporary outdoor seating areas were created.  These spaces, called parklets, created outdoor public spaces by occupying parking spots. These are considered public space but also benefit local businesses by providing space that, when supplied with outdoor seating, can allow customers of those business to enjoy the parklet while patronizing the shops.

Currently,  these are temporary, causing  businesses to be  reluctant to invest improvements of the parklets. If the City of Sebastopol were to make these spaces permanent, it would allow the local businesses to fully adopt the spaces and work with the city to create more inviting, permanent  parklets.  

We believe the parklets enhance the downtown core area and provide the town with enjoyable, inviting recreational space for locals & tourists alike. We also feel that the parklets are a signal to passersby that our town is 'alive' with foot traffic and our town  has thriving  businesses worth visiting. Surrounding areas around town have inviting spaces available for public enjoyment and we believe downtown needs the same. With these stated benefits and  in lieu of the pandemic not being over, we feel that permanent parklets will only help downtown businesses and help our core downtown thrive.

By signing this petition, you are letting the Sebastopol City Council know that you love parklets and want to keep them permanent in downtown  Sebastopol.