Our community is deeply saddened by the passing of Cindy Saucerman, former Mayor of the Town of Yountville and former President & CEO of the Yountville Chamber of Commerce. Cindy served as Mayor from 2006 to 2010, and before that as a council member in the early 2000s. Her leadership and unwavering dedication to Yountville left a lasting impact throughout her years of service. Reflecting on Cindy's influence, Mayor Mohler shared, “As a new council member, Cindy helped me learn how to navigate the role and understand what it means to serve this community. I am forever thankful for her guidance and mentorship."

Beyond her service as Mayor, Cindy championed Yountville’s business community during her 10-year tenure as President & CEO of the Yountville Chamber of Commerce. Under her leadership, the Chamber hosted beloved community events like the Festival of Lights and Taste of Yountville. She was also instrumental in advancing Yountville's Sister City relationship with Todos Santos, Mexico, fostering cultural connections and collaboration. Cindy's contributions have helped shape Yountville into the vibrant town it is today.

We extend our heartfelt condolences to her family and loved ones. Cindy’s legacy will continue through her enduring impact on our community.

Blue Zones Project: Benefits of Fall Gardening

Why Preparing a Fall Garden in Northern California Can Benefit Your Health

As summer fades and fall begins in Northern California, it's the perfect time to plan your cool-season garden or even start thinking ahead to spring. Thanks to our mild climate, the planting season can extend well into October, giving you plenty of time to get your garden in shape. The current heatwave makes it hard to believe, but cooler weather is right around the corner!

A big benefit of growing a fall garden in this region is the wide range of nutrient-rich vegetables that thrive in cooler weather. Popular fall crops include cruciferous vegetables like broccoli and brussels sprouts, along with nutrient-dense leafy greens such as spinach, kale, and collards. Root vegetables like beets, carrots, and parsnips are also perfect for fall planting, packed with vitamins, minerals, and fiber.

In addition to these, Northern California’s fall weather is ideal for growing cauliflower, lettuce, arugula, Swiss chard, English peas, cabbage, and bok choy. Some summer favorites like radishes and zucchini can also be planted again in the fall for an extended harvest.

If you planted a summer garden, now’s the time to harvest the last of your summer veggies and prepare your garden for the fall season.

Plant Flower Bulbs for Spring and Summer Blooms

If you prefer flowers to vegetables, fall is the perfect time to plant spring and summer bulbs in Northern California. Our mild winters allow bulbs to establish themselves for a strong bloom next year, requiring minimal upkeep once planted.

To enjoy a garden full of continuous color, plant early-blooming flowers like daffodils, crocuses, and hyacinths, followed by mid-season favorites like tulips, lilies, and gladiolus that will carry your garden’s beauty into summer.

Bulbs often come back year after year and will even multiply over time. In a few years, you might want to thin them out and plant some in other areas or share them with friends.

Grow a Winter Herb Garden Indoors

For those with limited outdoor space or who live in apartments, an indoor winter herb garden is an excellent way to enjoy fresh herbs all season long. Northern California’s mild climate makes it easier to grow a variety of herbs like parsley, cilantro, oregano, and dill. These herbs can enhance your meals, and you can dry and share them with friends or family.

To start your herb garden, you’ll need seeds, potting soil, pots with drainage, a tray to catch excess water, and a sunny windowsill. If you want to grow light-sensitive herbs like basil, thyme, rosemary, and sage, you may want to supplement with artificial grow lights during the winter to ensure your herbs thrive.

Planning & Building 

The Town’s new Community Development Director Aaron Hecock will start on Monday, October 7^th. Aaron comes to us from St. Helena, where he’s served as a Senior Planner for the past decade.   A community Meet & Greet event will be held for Aaron will be held at 4 p.m., Tuesday, October 8^th at Town Hall.

Land Use Applications/Projects and/or Related Information - On September 16, 2024, revised plans were submitted for the Humboldt Mixed-Use project located at the corner of Humboldt & Jefferson Street.  Department staff is currently reviewing the revised plans and anticipates public hearings on the project will be held before the end of the year.

ZDRB - On October 8^th, the ZDRB will consider design modifications to a residential home being reconstructed at 6630 Jefferson Street.

Town Council - At the regular meeting held October 1^st, the Town Council approved a Use Permit for relocation of hope and grace Wines to the Washington Square shopping center.