ROHNERT PARK — At dawn Tuesday, crews lowered a decommissioned F-16 onto a hydraulic pedestal beside City Hall, completing phase one of the Neighborhood Shield initiative—a $40 million package that includes landscaping, a commemorative plaque, and “optional engine noises” on federal holidays.

Mayor Toni Delgado told a crowd of roughly 200 that suburban communities deserve the same sense of security as airports, military bases, and “places that already have jets.” The aircraft, sourced from a surplus yard in Arizona, will remain permanently mounted. FAA representatives confirmed it is not airworthy and, more importantly, not going anywhere.

“This is deterrence in the psychological sense,” said project consultant Hal Merritt, who previously designed mall security kiosks. “Adversaries—whether foreign or merely littering—will think twice.”

Residents along Snyder Lane were divided. “I sleep better,” said retiree Phil Ortega. “Something loud is watching the outlet malls.” Others cited property values, bird noise, and the fact that the jet’s nose points directly at a yoga studio.

The city council approved the program 4–1 last fall after a presentation that included a dramatic video and the phrase “peace through curb appeal.” Dissenting member Lana Cho called it “the most expensive lawn ornament in Sonoma County history,” then added, “I say that with respect for lawn ornaments.”

Phase two, scheduled for 2027, would add a retractable canopy and a gift shop. Until then, visitors may photograph the jet, read interpretive signage, and sign a waiver acknowledging that “startup sounds are for ambiance only.”