What is Studios at Montero (SAM)?
Studios at Montero (SAM) is the conversion of a 50 year old motel into 60-units of permanent supportive housing for chronically homeless individuals. We are thrilled by the opportunity to partner with Burbank Housing and the City of Petaluma on this project. This project is made possible by the support of the State of California Homekey program, Providence Health, the City of Petaluma, the County of Sonoma, and the Wells Fargo Foundation.
Learn more about the Studios at Montero from residents and staff.
Hear first hand from SAM residents about what moving into SAM means to them.
Read Mary and Chance’s Story in our 2023 Summer Newsletter
Yes! To learn more about volunteer opportunities please email [email protected].
Sobriety is not a requirement to live at SAM. Permanent Supportive Housing (PSH) in general does not require sobriety as a condition of tenancy. PSH follows the harm reduction model, which understands that it may take time for people to be ready to consider recovery from substance abuse. Meanwhile, SAM case managers will encourage healthy living and connect tenants to recovery resources, should the tenant choose that path.
The first tenants began moving in in May 2023.
SAM tenants must be referred by the Coordinated Entry System, which assesses Sonoma County’s unsheltered individuals and families to match them with the appropriate housing programs. More information about enrolling into Coordinated Entry can be found here. After referral, SAM staff will assist with the application process and gathering supporting documentation (ID, social security card, proof of income, etc.)
Rent at SAM is 30% of the tenant’s income. This is made possible with a subsidy from the Sonoma County Housing Authority. Tenants must notify SAM property management if their income changes at any time during their tenancy. If a tenant does not have an income upon move-in, their minimum rent will be $50.00/month. The tenant will work with case management on obtaining an income during their tenancy.
Yes, tenants sign a one-year lease agreement and are expected to adhere to the terms, just like any other renter.
Yes. Security deposits will be $700.00. During the application process, tenants will be connected to various resources that offer deposit assistance.
Yes, tenants will be assigned an onsite case manager with whom they will have the option to work on housing, income, and personal goals. Case managers also connect tenants to community resources, including healthcare. If needed, case managers will work with the tenant to correct behaviors that lead to lease violations. The goal is to keep tenants safely and stably housed.
Yes. Each SAM unit will come with a full-size bed, nightstand, dresser, and kitchenette. Bedding, towels, and basic dining ware will be provided upon move-in as well.
Yes, overnight guests are permissible, but just like any other apartment rental, there are time limitations. Tenants may have a service animal or an emotional support animal, as defined by California's Fair Employment and Housing Act, with a written statement of medical need by their healthcare provider.
Criminal convictions do not necessarily a barrier to being accepted to SAM, although some violent, drug-related and sexual offenses may disqualify applicants. The Sonoma County Housing Authority will perform its own Criminal Background check on each applicant to determine if they are eligible for the Project-Based Housing Voucher required to live at SAM. Clients referred to SAM by Coordinated Entry who have criminal histories should still fill out the application for SAM and see what happens.
No. SAM is a residential community, not a shelter or a sanctioned encampment site. Nobody in tents, cars, or RVs will be allowed to sleep outside on SAM property. There will be staff and security onsite 24/7 to uphold this rule.
Should an eviction occur, SAM supportive services will work with the tenant to find them safe and appropriate placement elsewhere. Eviction is an absolute last resort, however.