City Will Help Pay for Rohnert Park's 50th Anniversary Celebration

The City Council this week approved unanimously a $7,850 - $10,000 in-kind donation to Rohnert Park's 50th anniversary celebration, coming Sept. 15, 2012 — which pays for a donation of labor, rental fees and city services. 

City Manager Gabe Gonzalez said it's part of the city's ongoing economic development efforts. The General Fund will be impacted by labor costs to install 50th Anniversary banners thoughout the city, on Rohnert Park Expressway, Redwood Drive and Commerce Boulevard. Public safety, public works and community services will all pitch in to provide services for the event, such as traffic control during a parade and rental of the Community Center.

Organizers estimate total cost for the event is about $53,000, and so far, they've raised $20,000 in sponsor pledges.

"It benefits the entire community," said Rebecca Zito, a management analyst for the city's department of Public Works and Community Services.

The City Council agreed.

"I think it's a great cause — it's what the city's all about," said Councilman Joe Callinan.

Spreading the word and preparing for the event costs money, organizers say. The public art display — a sculpture made by Sonoma County artist Patrick Amiot, commissioned by the 50th Anniversary Planning Committee, costs $25,000 alone. Wonderbread 5 costs $5,000 to play the party, and that's just a start. The 50th Anniversary Committee is also exploring a fireworks display, which would add another $20,000 to the total cost.

The event kicks off with with a parade down Snyder Lane, starting at Lawrence E. Jones Middle School and ending at University Square Shopping Plaza. Following the parade is a community celebration at the Community Center, featuring bands such as the Poyntless Sistars, the Rotten Tomatoes and Wonderbread 5.

Other highlights include local crafts, a historical display, food and beverage vendors and kids activities like face painting. The event is geared towards businesses, families, the university and visitors who want to join in and celebrate.

Organizers are asking for community volunteers, and are offering sponsorship packages — ranging from $100 to $7,500. Sponsor logos would be printed on banners, T-shirts and on other promotional materials leading up to the big day. For more information on sponsorships or floats, visit the 50th Anniversary website.