The Battle Over A Healdsburg B&B Takes A New Turn

HEALDSBURG, CA — The proposal to convert a bed and breakfast on Grove Street into a luxury rehabilitation center moved forward on Tuesday with a 5-1 vote by the Healdsburg Planning Commission.

The vote Tuesday night marked a contentious journey for the owners, Patrick and Jonathan Wilhelm, who have spent at least $20 million buying and then trying to repurpose the sprawling property just south of the skate park.

The owners originally planned to convert a one-time doctor’s office at 891 Grove St. into a recreation day resort with a putting green, pickleball court, and swim club that would serve beer, wine, and spirits on-site.

City officials rejected the proposal to the relief of neighbors, who launched a “No Greed On Grove“ petition at the time to stop the luxury club plans.

Jonathan Wilhelm said the “firestorm” began after applying for a liquor license to serve hard alcohol in addition to the wine and beer already allowed under existing regulations.

The liquor licence put the project into a new permit category, and the objections began, culminating in violations issued by the city, lawsuits filed against the city, and a no-vote.

Neighbors contended that the scope of the project, including a pavilion, went beyond what they expected when plans were announced to renovate the 19th century Honor Mansion.

Healdsburg City Councilmember Ariel Kelley is one such neighbor who opposed the original plans.

Tuesday’s reception and debate over the proposed substance abuse treatment program were less contentious than the previous round.

However, the recent reception did not lack friction.

Treatment centers are valuable to a community, Planning Commissioner Tom Gerlach said during the meeting.

And, while Planning Commissioner Jonathan Pearlman cast a "no" vote, most concerns voiced focused on odors and noise — from food, smoking, events, and cars using the driveway.

The operators agreed to several “good neighbor” efforts.

They agreed to minimize noise from fans used during meal preparation and cooking (three times daily). Events outside will conclude by 8 p.m. Smoking will be at least 50 feet from the properties of neighbors.

The next step involves finalizing the state license necessary for operating a treatment center.

Opponents have 10 days from Tuesday to appeal the planning commission’s decision.