A major development debate is heating up in Petaluma. At the center is a proposed six-story hotel, the Appellation Petaluma, backed by celebrity chef Charlie Palmer. The project has sparked a fierce argument over a proposed zoning change that could reshape the city’s historic downtown skyline.
Supporters say the hotel and the new zoning, called the Downtown Housing and Economic Opportunity Overlay, will revitalize the area, bringing jobs and tax revenue. Opponents argue the project is too large, out of character, and that the zoning change is a dangerous overreach.
The Petaluma City Council is set to vote on the overlay’s environmental impact report on February 24th. A likely 5-2 vote in favor would pave the way for the hotel and other potential developments, while a no vote would halt the project.
