History is being made in Cotati as the city prepares to welcome its first-ever Latina mayor.
According to the Press Democrat, the City Council has selected Sylvia Lemus to lead the city starting next year. Lemus, a 18-year Cotati resident and retired Sonoma County employee, joined the council in 2022. She says the appointment is a proud milestone for representation, but also a reminder of how long it has taken to reach this point.
Lemus brings decades of experience in community organizing and local government to the role. As mayor, she plans to focus on housing availability, noting that while many projects are approved, the city needs to see them through to construction. She also aims to strengthen regional partnerships with Rohnert Park and Sonoma State University.
