In a recent meeting of the Ross Valley Sanitary District, community leaders and advocates gathered to discuss the potential sale of a district property located at 2960 Kerner to Elm, a music program dedicated to serving children in the Canal neighborhood. The meeting highlighted the significant impact Elm has had on local youth, emphasizing the urgent need for a permanent home to support its growing programs.

Jane Kramer, founder and executive director of Enriching Lives Through Music (Elm), presented a compelling case for the property, detailing how Elm has become a vital resource for hundreds of Canal youth over the past 15 years. She noted that the program not only offers orchestral music opportunities but also provides academic and emotional support, helping students excel in their studies and fostering a sense of community. With the current lease expiring soon, Kramer expressed concern about the future of Elm, stating that the organization has outgrown its existing spaces and is at risk of losing its current location.

Kramer outlined the transformative potential of acquiring the Kerner property, which would allow Elm to expand its student capacity from 70 to 250, introduce new programs, and enhance community engagement. She highlighted the strong support Elm has received from local officials and community members, presenting letters of endorsement from various stakeholders, including Marin County leaders and parents of current students.

David Donnery, a supporter of Elm and a representative from the town of San Anselmo, echoed Kramer’s sentiments, urging the board to consider the broader benefits of the sale. He emphasized the program's role in fostering commitment and discipline among students, which extends beyond music education. Donnery acknowledged the financial implications of the decision but encouraged the board to weigh the potential positive impact on the Canal community and Marin County as a whole.

The discussions at the meeting underscored the importance of community-driven initiatives and the need for sustainable support systems for local youth. As the board deliberates the sale of the property, the future of Elm and its mission to enrich the lives of Canal children hangs in the balance, highlighting the critical intersection of education, community development, and local governance. The outcome of this decision could significantly shape the landscape of cultural and educational opportunities available to the youth in the Canal neighborhood.