We’re committed to transparent communication and fostering a constructive dialogue with our community.
Will the hotel take away the sidewalk?
No, the hotel will improve and enlarge the sidewalks surrounding the site, significantly improving pedestrian safety at the central location and busy corners.
How will Trash Pickup and Drop off work?
Trash and recycling recovery for the Hotel will be managed with a system designed to maximize efficiency and environmental responsibility, aligning with best practices for urban sustainability. Waste will be sorted to meet recycling requirements and stored in a climate-controlled environment to mitigate odors. Large bins will be used for collection, ensuring proper separation of recyclables and landfill waste. On designated collection days, these receptacles will be placed on B Street for pickup and promptly returned to the dedicated trash storage area. This approach minimizes disruption to the surrounding community while reinforcing our commitment to responsible waste management and recycling.
What is the property used for now?
The property is currently a vacant lot with no active use. Without development, it will remain unused for years to come, rather than contributing to the vitality of downtown Petaluma.
How does the hotel support local Artists and craftsmen?
We are committed to sourcing local art, sculpture and programming to intertwine Petaluma’s character into the atmosphere of the hotel. We are collaborating with multiple local artists on the exterior of the building to craft architectural elements into the structure of the hotel, creating a permanent public art display.
Will your building be the tallest in Petaluma?
No, Appellation Petaluma will not be the tallest building in Petaluma. The tallest structure in the city is the Dairyman’s Feed & Supply Co., which stands at 153 feet. In comparison, Appellation Petaluma reaches a total height of 68 feet, with a 45-foot street wall. For context, other notable buildings include the Mutual Relief Building at 63 feet, the Masonic Building at 52 feet (with its clock tower extending to 72 feet), Hotel Petaluma at 52 feet, and Old Fellows Hall at 50 feet.
How many stories tall is the hotel?
The Appellation Petaluma Hotel is six stories tall, featuring a partially covered rooftop bar and public space, making the roofline less prominent from the ground. The 5th floor design features a strategic 12-foot step back, ensuring that its street-level presence remains consistent with the scale of surrounding contributing structures. This design approach preserves the character of downtown while introducing a refined, contemporary addition to the city’s architectural landscape.
If we refuse this hotel, what will be built on the site instead?
If this hotel is not approved, the site will likely be developed as either a select-service hotel—which would not meet the high standards and community benefits provided by Appellation Petaluma Hotel—the site could also be considered for affordable housing, which is not subject to the same height and design restrictions, allowing an even taller building with fewer limitations on scale, impact and parking.
What is the Overlay?
The Overlay would establish a process so that the City and community could consider development proposals that exceed the current downtown height maximum of 45 feet and that could be as tall as 75 feet, but only in three small subareas of Petaluma’s downtown.
What is the referendum?
The referendum is a community petition opposing the overlay and general plan amendment which allows new downtown developments to be taller than then current historical restrictions of 45 feet, to be as tall as but not to exceed 75 feet.
If passed, it will impede Petaluma’s economic growth and efforts to replace vacant or deteriorating properties with vibrant businesses and residences.
WHAT TYPES OF PROJECTS WOULD BE ABLE TO EXCEED THE 45-FOOT HEIGHT MAXIMUM?
Projects may be eligible for a height increase up to 75 feet with a Conditional Use Permit from the Planning Commission, granted during a public meeting if the project provides community benefits such as public outdoor amenities, publicly accessible open space, or sustainable design. Eligible projects must also demonstrate aesthetic value or use eco-friendly building methods. Additionally, new historic preservation protections ensure compatibility with downtown’s character, and all height increases require environmental review under the California Environmental Quality Act.
What is the Hotel’s association with the Overlay?
Based on economic evaluation, the hotel relies on the overlay to provide Petaluma with a luxury product that brings in new tourism and increases revenue generation for the city.
Without the overlay, the hotel will be unable to provide the necessary amenities, hotel rooms, and revenue opportunities to significantly contribute to the city's priorities, including funding for public services such as education, parks, fire safety, and police departments.
How does the overlay benefit downtown?
The overlay allows new developments on vacant properties while ensuring downtown retains its historic character through structured guidelines. It fosters economic growth, with projects like the Appellation Hotel generating $1 million annually in Transient Occupancy Tax (TOT) revenue to support local services and infrastructure. Since Petaluma retains 100% of TOT revenue, the overlay creates a sustainable path for development that strengthens the city’s financial future.
Why shouldn’t I sign the Referendum?
By signing the referendum, you would be advocating for keeping downtown Petaluma in a stagnant state. Improving underutilized lots and reinvigorating tourism in the downtown area are crucial for helping local businesses thrive in today’s challenging economy. Additionally, the referendum would block the city's opportunity to receive TOT taxes, which fund essential public services and help preserve the historic charm of Petaluma. Don’t let progress be halted—decline to sign the referendum and support a vibrant future for Petaluma.
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