Bennett Valley Voice

BENNETT VALLEY VOICE

Bennett Valley Homeowners Association

Bennett Valley Day Special Edition

October 1986

Bennett Valley Homeowners Association - How It All Began

In 1970 several residents became concerned about the future and development of Bennett Valley. Could it be saved? A possible mobile home park in Woodside and 1/4 acre home lots near the fire house were threatening the rural atmosphere of the area. Meetings were held at the Grange with Bennett Valley landowners to discuss the future of the valley. As a result the Homeowners Association was formed and by-laws drawn up for the functioning processes by Paul Mowbray, Secretary.

Original Planners: Dr. Brad Lundborg was the first Homeowners President. John MacDonald, a Woodside resident and attorney, helped with legal advice. Lloyd Johnson brought the slope density plan from Carmel area. Past Presidents include Brad Lundborg, Cindy Lyddell, Paul Mowbray, Max Moberly, Tamara Boultbee, Warren Watkins, and Dave Steiner. Bill Jacobs and Paul Mowbray have served on the board since its beginnings and continue today.

Many residents from the Bennett Valley area have served on the board and assisted since its beginnings. It is a real community effort, and input from residents is always appreciated and taken into consideration. Members are encouraged to attend the monthly meetings at the firehouse.

California Non-profit Corporation. The Homeowners became incorporated in June 1971, by the signing of the then Secretary of State, Edmund G Brown, Jr. Tax exempt status came in 1972. A Plan for the Valley, restricting growth, protecting the environment, zoning for valley and slopes, agricultural and residential land use, open space and traffic patterns were considerations in drawing up the first Bennett Valley Plan.

The Homeowners Association's specific and primary purpose is to promote and preserve the rural and residential character and natural environment of Bennett Valley. Ours is one of the first areas in Sonoma County to be studied, and for the most part, has maintained a good relationship with the supervisors of our 1st district. The Association is concerned with upholding those guidelines set down in the Bennett Valley Specific Plan of 1978, a revision of the 1971 plan, by the Sonoma County Planning Department. Over the years the Assoc.

has delt with many issues concerning planning and changes in the area. Road conditions and improvements, commercial improvements and agricultural land use, upholding different zoning districts in the area, to mention a few. Bennett Valley also has a design review committee that oversees improvements here separate from the Homeowners Association. The only other area in Sonoma County as well maintained with a Specific Plan in mind is Alexander Valley.

Bennett Valley, a part of Luther Burbank's "chosen spot on earth", has an ideal climate for agriculture, livestock and planned residences, with a history past, present, and future.

New Members

If you join now you will receive the last issue of the VOICE for 1986 and your membership will run through 1977. New Membership fee is $5.00. Renewal is $3.00. The VOICE will keep you informed of current and upcoming issues along with articles of historical interest. It is published quarterly. If you wish to join please fill out this slip and mail to:

Bennett Valley Homeowners Association

P.O. Box 2666, Santa Rosa, CA 95405 Thank you for your support. •New Membership $5.00 Name. Address Make checks payable to Bennett Valley Homeowners Association

Bennett Valley Day Saturday, October 18, 1986 1 pm to Dusk

Matanzas Creek Winery & Vineyards

6097 Bennett Valley Road Bring your family... Meet your neighbors... Relax and have fun!

Learn What Makes Bennett Valley Precious And Unique.

This day is set aside to HONOR Bennett Valley's rural heritage and RECOGNIZE the farmers and residents who strive to preserve our valley's agricultural traditions and scenic beauty.

Come Join Us And Make This A Great Annual Event

EVENTS

Picnic Barbecue - 1:00 P.M.

Preparations by Bennett Valley Volunteer Firemen with Assistance from Bennett Valley 4-H Club Bennett Valley Farms

Equestrian Events - 2:30-4:30 P.M.

Jumping/Dressage (Foggy Meadow Ranch Hannovarians) Reining Demonstrations Halter Horses Donation: $4.00 Adults - $2.00 Children

Wine Tasting

Special Presentations

H. Coturri & Sons Grape growers Garden Club Laurel Glen Vineyards Cattlemen Cottage Industries Matanzas Creek Winery 4-H Club Grange Sonoma Hills Winery Homeowners Assoc. and others

*** Music By Homemade Jamm ***

Pony Rides And Games For Children

Horse And Buggy Rides Through The Vineyards

Bennett Valley Day is a cooperative effort of all the above groups.

Please Bring This Invitation For Admittance

Due to space limitations, this invitation is limited to residents of unincorporated Bennett Valley.

Rain Or Shine, Be There.