The Voices Behind The Movement

Renaissance Petaluma is powered by business owners, community leaders, and residents who believe in Petaluma's potential.

Meet the people building a new chapter for our historic downtown.

Our Founding Members

This coalition didn't emerge from a boardroom or City Hall—it grew organically from conversations among people who love Petaluma and want to see it thrive.

We're restaurant owners who see potential in our culinary scene, retailers who've invested in downtown's future, hospitality professionals who welcome visitors daily, and residents who care deeply about our community's character.

What unites us? A belief that Petaluma can grow thoughtfully, prosper economically, and preserve authentically—all at once.

A woman standing behind a table with various snacks, desserts, and a large bouquet of flowers, smiling at the camera.

Elisa Weber, Proprietor, Della Fattoria

“Quality tourism businesses can showcase the things we produce, farm, cook, make and sell in Petaluma. When done right, these are collaborative ventures between visitors and our community—an approach that excites me. Projects led by people who love our area and live here bring authenticity. Downtown Petaluma has been asking for more foot traffic for decades, and thoughtful hospitality investments can deliver that. I look forward to welcoming visitors who want to see what we're up to in Petaluma and showing them how incredible our area is, while bringing new vitality to a downtown that deserves to thrive.”

A smiling woman with long, wavy gray hair and glasses, wearing a scarf, sitting indoors.

Elizabeth Howland, Principal, Elizabeth Howland Consulting

“I am passionate about having a vibrant and thriving downtown in Petaluma, and I believe thoughtful hospitality projects contribute to that goal. Both our community members and visitors will benefit from well-executed tourism businesses. The increase to our local tax revenues that hotels, restaurants and bars bring to the City is important for funding local services and infrastructure, benefitting all our community members.”

A man with gray hair and glasses, wearing a suit and tie, standing outdoors with trees in the background.

Willie McDevitt, General Partner, McDevitt Enterprises & Inn Above Tide

“High-quality tourism development benefits all Petalumans by invigorating downtown. When developers have a proven track record of creating hospitality projects that enhance their communities, we all win.”

A woman standing indoors next to a Bernese Mountain Dog in a home decor or boutique store.

Robindira Unsworth, Proprietor & Jewelry Designer, Robindira Unsworth

“I am grateful to call Petaluma home to my family and business. Our goal has always been to create and bring beauty into our community through our handcrafted jewelry and the incredible community we've built through our store, Robindira Unsworth. We welcome tourism businesses with an exquisite eye and bountiful offerings that focus on highlighting and supporting what is unique and special about our town. The prospect of visitors enjoying beautiful meals with ingredients from Petaluma farms, wine from our region, and artwork from local artists is exciting. Meaningful hospitality creates gathering places that showcase Petaluma for people visiting from near and far, while our historic downtown and its vibrant local businesses and restaurants thrive alongside them. I am grateful to be part of this sweet town and thrilled to support this exciting chapter of growth.”

A smiling older woman with shoulder-length gray hair, wearing earrings and a light-colored top.

Nancy Leoni, Owner, i Leoni

“Being a Downtown Petaluma business owner for over 20 years has put us in the position give a realistic perspective on what Petaluma is lacking and the opportunity to step up our economy and culture, not only for the growth of our business but to reinvent a positive vibrancy for the citizens and visitors of Petaluma.”

A smiling man with glasses standing in front of a large decorative flower at an outdoor event.

Daniel Castor, Owner, Hall of the Above

“We love Petaluma - the friendly people, the amazing food, the beautiful downtown, and the public energy / sense of community involvement. It seems like the City currently has a unique opportunity to evolve into a contemporary version of its best self. We want to do everything we can to help the City realize its potential as a vibrant, prosperous place for people to live and work.”

Two older men smiling and wearing glasses taking a selfie in front of a tall, intricate black sculpture outdoors.

Daniel Bleakney Formby, Owner, Jupiter Foods

“I am excited at the potential of supporting businesses that move our town into a more robust destination for visitors and a vibrant place to live.”

Growing Support

Beyond our founding members, Renaissance Petaluma is supported by dozens of local business owners, community leaders, and residents who share our vision. From restaurant owners to retail proprietors, from arts advocates to downtown property owners, our coalition represents diverse perspectives united by commitment to Petaluma's prosperity.

Add Your Voice

Renaissance Petaluma welcomes business owners, community leaders, and engaged residents who want to shape Petaluma's future. If you believe in smart growth, economic vitality, and preserving what makes our city special, we want to hear from you.

Get Involved