Fox affiliate The Press Democrat reports that earlier this week, Sonoma Vice Mayor Kelso Barnett was arrested on suspicion of driving under the influence of alcohol.
According to statements released by the Sonoma County Sheriff’s Department and Barnett himself, the incident happened late Tuesday, February 15.
Barnett was booked into Sonoma County Jail just after 11:00 p.m. A Sonoma County judge set Barnett’s bond at $10,000. After paying the bail, Barnett was released from jail.
In a City Council meeting on Wednesday, Barnett addressed the membership. “Last night, I made a serious mistake, which led to uncharacteristic behavior that I deeply regret,” Barnett said. “This serious lapse in judgment put our community at risk. I’m sorry to have let you down, and I will not make this mistake again. I can assure you that no one is more disappointed than myself.”
Barnett went on to say he understood his conduct carried several serious consequences. He asked the community for forgiveness and vowed to work tirelessly to win back the public’s trust.
Kelso Barnett grew up in Sonoma and attended school at St. Francis Solano. Barnett served on Sonoma’s Planning Commission. In March of 2021, he was appointed to fill the position of Vice Mayor after the resignation of Rachel Hundley in January.
City Councilman Robert Felder said that he accepted Barnett’s heartfelt apology. Other Council members, including Mayor Jack Ding, told the body that they looked forward to working with Barnett in addressing the difficult challenges he faces together.
