Local Politics · Yountville, CA
Yountville Commons Housing Project Central to Town Council Election
The Yountville Commons workforce-housing project, approved then reversed via resident petition, remains in limbo and has become the defining issue in the town's council election. Estate Yountville owner Gary Jabara hosted at least five invitation-only gatherings over summer and fall for residents who signed the reversal petition, introducing candidates including Councilmember Hillery Bolt Trippe and Navy veteran Joe Tagliaboschi, who is running for mayor. Four of eight town council candidates have expressed opposition to the Commons plan as proposed. French Laundry chef-owner Thomas Keller also opposes the project but did not respond to four requests for comment from the Napa Valley Register. The dispute has divided residents, elected officials, and influential business owners in the small Napa Valley town.