SEIU 1021 North Coast Regional Vice President Travis Balzarini released the following statement regarding the Sonoma County Board of Supervisors’ decision to move forward with the proposed purchase of buildings at 3850 and 3880 Brickway Boulevard, Santa Rosa: 

“Our union — representing Sonoma County children’s social workers, street maintenance crews, veteran services staff, airport operation specialists, and more — is disappointed in the Sonoma County Board of Supervisors’ decision to move forward with the purchase of the Brickway buildings. These proposed purchases have been mired with controversy from the start, as part of an overpriced three-building strategy to move 800 county employees from central Santa Rosa to the airport area.  

“First, the board attempted to rush the deal without input from the community. That’s why more than 360 community members contacted the board, raising concerns about fiscal responsibility. A community coalition including Sonoma County Conservation Action, North Bay Organizing Project, and local city councilmembers in Santa Rosa and Rohnert Park have raised additional concerns regarding county service equity, transparency, and environmental stewardship.  

“Second, the board postponed their original vote on these building purchases due to the ongoing campaign contribution conflict-of-interest issue regarding Supervisor David Rabbitt.  

“Last, the County attempted to overpay for the building on 400 Aviation Boulevard by as much as $19 million, which is currently the subject of an ongoing County whistleblower and state ethics complaint. The Brickway buildings will also need at least $15 million in major renovations before use, putting the total cost significantly above market value. 

“The County received multiple offers and outreach from commercial real estate brokers to provide high-quality and accessible office space in Santa Rosa, but arbitrarily rejected all alternative proposals. As public servants currently feeling the impacts from the instability caused by decisions in Washington, D.C., we will continue to fight against imprudent spending locally that could instead be used to make our airport safer, care for our children & families in crisis, repair our roads, serve our veterans, and so much more.”