Russian River Flood Recovery Community Meeting March 3 in Forestville

The County of Sonoma will host a community meeting on Sunday, March 3, to discuss the impacts of recent storms and share information on how to get started with the recovery process.

The meeting will be 2 to 4 p.m. at El Molino High School, 7050 Covey Road, Forestville.

Community meeting speakers will include David Rabbitt, Chair of the Board of Supervisors, 5th District Supervisor Lynda Hopkins, representatives from the Governor’s Office of Emergency Services, and key County Department staff. Resource tables will be available, including Legal Aid of Sonoma County, AT&T, Recology, California HOPE (to provide counseling services), and others to provide helpful information.

“We will offer as much information as possible regarding next steps in our recovery,” said Board of Supervisors Chair David Rabbitt. “We want residents and business owners to know there are immediate and long-term services available to them.”

The County will provide updates on damage assessments and building inspections.

Officials also will provide an overview on debris removal, health and safety services, business and agriculture resources, and public assistance services.

Community members can learn about the overall recovery process and ask questions of the officials and agencies attending. ASL and Spanish translation will be provided, and the meeting will be live-streamed on the County of Sonoma Facebook page.

“Keeping our community safe and supported are our priorities as we move forward,” said Supervisor Lynda Hopkins, whose 5th District was the hardest hit by the storms. “Please attend this meeting and learn more about the resources available to you.”

Guerneville Assistance Center open until March 9

In addition, a Local Assistance Center (LAC) will open Sunday at noon to serve as a one-stop location for the community to access government, nonprofit, and private resource providers. The LAC will be in the former Bank of America building at 16390 Main St. in Guerneville and will be open from noon to 6 p.m. March 3 and 9 a.m. to 6 p.m. March 4 through at least March 9.

The LAC is a resource for residents and business owners to discuss specific needs with agencies, learn about eligibility for resources and get applications for assistance. All Sonoma County residents can access services regardless of immigration status.

For additional recovery information, please visit socoemergency.org.