Fire service in many areas of Placer County is becoming increasingly unmanageable financially. The Placer County Board of Supervisors on Tuesday called for an evaluation of the system and a comprehensive effort to develop sustainable service throughout the county in the future. Read more

The Placer County Board of Supervisors on Tuesday voted unanimously to move forward in negotiating a contract with The Gathering Inn to run the county’s temporary homeless shelter in North Auburn. Board members cited The Gathering Inn’s record of success in Placer County and strong community support as deciding factors in their choice to change shelter operators. Learn more

Beat the election day day rush! The Placer County Elections Office will offer early voting for the June 5 statewide primary election during the next two weekends and Memorial Day (in addition to normal business hours, weekdays through June 4). Read more

This short film created by students from Whitney High School was recognized in a film contest and is a poignant reminder during Mental Health Month that we can all be there for a friend or loved one when it matters most. Check out more student films at directingchangeca.org and find resources at eachmindmatters.org.

If you’ll be enjoying your Memorial Day weekend waterside, please be careful. Due to the snow melt our rivers are faster and colder than usual and also may be full of debris. Water flows can be swift and dangerous. And with summer just around the corner, snakes of many species are emerging to enjoy the warmer weather, including venomous rattlesnakes. Here are some tips for avoiding their bite.