October 25, 2002
By PAUL PAYNE
THE PRESS DEMOCRAT

Crumbling adobe bricks and a weather-beaten tile roof at Sonoma's 179-year-old mission could be restored under legislation introduced Thursday in Congress.

The bill, co-sponsored by Democratic Reps. Mike Thompson of St. Helena and Lynn Woolsey of Petaluma, would direct $10 million to rehabilitate California's 21 missions over a five-year period.

A chunk would go to Mission San Francisco Solano, on the edge of the trendy Sonoma Plaza, Woolsey said. The Mission San Rafael Archangel in San Rafael would also get an infusion, she said.

"The missions are a vital link to California's Spanish heritage and must be preserved for future generations," said Woolsey, whose district includes both missions.

Spotty maintenance has left many of the missions in disrepair. Money from the bill would flow through the Department of the Interior.

If the bill passes, it would add to state and private repair money given to the missions in recent years.

It is earmarked for restoration of mission art and structures.

Supervising State Parks Ranger Scott Pace said the Sonoma mission is planning the $500,000 replacement of its aging roof and has been battling water absorption problems that damage adobe bricks.

The padre's quarters and other outbuildings endured fires and American Indian uprisings over the years. Roof tiles were replaced in the early 1900s, but many walls and ceiling timbers are original materials from 1823, Pace said.

Just how the money would be spent is unknown at this point. But Pace welcomed the effort.

"It's good news," Pace said. "The adobe structures take a lot of maintenance."

Each year about 70,000 people visit the Sonoma mission, a popular Wine Country stop. Statewide, the missions draw 5.5 million tourists a year.

The Sonoma mission was the last of the chain and the only one built by Mexico.

Across the street are the Mexican army barracks where General Vallejo housed his troops.

Both are part of the state parks system.

"With all the wineries and history, the mission is key here," Pace said.

Thompson said the bill has widespread support among California representatives.

After lawmakers return to Washington next session, the bill is likely to pass, he said.

"This is the first time the delegation has come together on anything," Thompson said. "The fact that there's this much support will enhance its chances."

You can reach Staff Writer Paul Payne at 521-5250 or ppayne@pressdemocrat.com.