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Dedicated Leader | Champion of Education | Committed to Positive Change
 October 15th 2023
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I had the pleasure of speaking at the Newcastle Community Association last Tuesday. Of the nearly 50 residents in attendance, we were joined by Fire Chief Gow and Marshall D'Ambrogi, as well as OES. Aside from a discussion about how our rural fire departments are funded and staffed, it is necessary for my office to plan a larger community event to educate the public on the mandated housing needs. This will happen in early November as to not conflict with the Holiday season.
I, too, am making an effort to bring the government to you, where you are. This initiative isn't merely about physical presence, but it's driven by the belief that open communication is the lifeblood of a thriving community.
Why is Communication So Important?
In our ever-evolving world, communication is the glue that holds our community together. You might have seen my recent postcard that was mailed to your home. I did this because even in today's world of information overload, I still find people are not getting the right information, or any communications at all, which affects them the most. I am adamant about connecting with you because It's not just about posting updates online or sending out newsletters and giving speeches; it's about listening and engaging with the people I represent so I can work with them to solve issues and make life easier. That's why meetings like the one in Newcastle are invaluable.
I live in my district, I shop in my district, and I have deep roots here. Yet, every day, my community teaches me something new because each of you brings a different experience to our shared space. It's the diversity of perspectives, concerns, and ideas that makes our community resilient and adaptable.
For example, in many areas, we're grappling with various challenges that affect the daily lives of our residents. These discussions have become a fundamental part of my week, and I value your input immensely.
Here is a glimpse into my office’s current discussions:
- Septic to Sewer Hookup Expenses: The transition from septic to sewer systems can be costly and complex. Your experiences and concerns are invaluable as we navigate this change.
- Fire Insurance Rate Hikes: For residents dealing with higher fire insurance rates, we need to explore options and advocate for fair insurance policies.
- Land Management: As land use continues to evolve, ensuring a balance between development and conservation is vital.
- Internet Connectivity and Reliability: The digital age requires reliable internet access. Understanding the issues our community faces helps me advocate for better connectivity.
- PG&E Reliability and Safety: Power reliability and safety are paramount, and your experiences guide our efforts in these areas.
- Public Safety (Traffic and Trails): We're working to create roads that are safe for both daily commuters and weekend cyclists. Your input guides these improvements such as Traffic patterns during Pickup/Dropoff times at schools.
- Business community support: It is not easy to start or run a business in California, however small businesses (and Non-Profits) make up the majority of service and retail establishments in our district. We must find ways to work with these organizations to, for example, get through a permitting process in a timely manner.
All of these aspects of our region are discussions I have each week with residents where I then communicate with staff. Taking the concerns of my citizens to legislators and department heads, ensures you concerns and ideas are that driving force behind our initiatives to make our community safer, more accessible, and ultimately a better place to live, work, and play.
Thank you for your active engagement and for being a vital part of the progress we're achieving together.
Warmly,
Suzanne Jones
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 Fentanyl Dealer Receives 15 Years to Life for First California Murder Conviction
Roseville, CA - On October 10, 2023, Nathaniel Cabacungan, aged 22, was sentenced to 15 years to life in the California Department of Corrections and Rehabilitation, marking the first murder conviction in the state. This verdict came in the wake of Cabacungan's guilty plea on July 12, 2022, for murder and selling a controlled substance to a minor, which led to the tragic fentanyl-related death of J. Wolf, a local Roseville teen.
The Placer Special Investigations Unit (PSIU), a collaborative effort involving the California Department of Justice, Placer County Sheriff’s Office, Placer County District Attorney's Office, Roseville Police Department, Rocklin Police Department, Auburn Police Department, and the Placer County Probation Department, played a pivotal role in the defendant's arrest.
Nathaniel Cabacungan faced sentencing in the Placer County Superior Court on Tuesday, a proceeding where Supervising Deputy District Attorney Daniel Wesp, the head of the Placer County District Attorney’s Office Special Prosecutions Unit, represented the People of Placer County. The support of the Placer County Sheriff's Office’s dedicated detective within PSIU was crucial in presenting the case. The victim's family was present, and they bravely shared their impact statements with the guidance of a Victim Advocate from the Placer County District Attorney’s Office Victim Services Unit. This event drew attendees from the community, including family members, friends, and local officials, all of whom rallied behind the victim's family.
Placer County District Attorney Morgan Gire stressed the county's dedication to holding fentanyl dealers accountable. This historical sentence reinforces their commitment to ensuring the safety and well-being of the community, emphasizing education, enforcement, and empowering the people.
The post-hearing press conference revealed collaborative county efforts to combat the fentanyl epidemic, including a new partnership with Song for Charlie and their educational portal. Regina Chavez, Jewel’s mother, expressed her gratitude and acknowledged the significance of her daughter's story in setting a precedent that individuals can be charged with murder for selling fentanyl-containing products in Placer County.
Jewel’s father, Jake Wolf, acknowledged today's sentencing as a semblance of justice but underlined the irreplaceable void left by his beloved daughter. He reaffirmed their commitment to fighting the opioid epidemic and ensuring no parent endures a similar loss.
Placer County Sheriff Wayne Woo stated their unwavering commitment to safeguarding the community from the fentanyl epidemic, with a pledge to pursue those who sell this deadly poison relentlessly. They aim to ensure the safety of their citizens by holding fentanyl dealers accountable to the fullest extent of the law.
State Assemblyman Joe Patterson commended the hard work of the Placer County DA and Placer Sheriff’s Office, emphasizing that today’s murder conviction sends a clear message that the peddling of dangerous drugs like fentanyl will not be tolerated in Placer County.
Attorney General Bonta acknowledged the devastating impact of the opioid crisis and the marked increase in fentanyl use and associated deaths nationwide. He expressed his hope for the sentencing to bring some closure to J. Wolf's family while issuing a stern warning to those who distribute such drugs.
Placer County Board of Supervisor Chairman Jim Holmes supported the efforts of the District Attorney and law enforcement, stating that the county stands united in the fight against this deadly poison to protect the youth in the community.
Rob Oldham, Health and Human Services Director, highlighted the importance of prevention and education to prevent tragic outcomes and turn the tide in the ongoing fentanyl crisis.
For further information on countywide efforts, please visit 1PillCanKillPlacer and Placer County's Fentanyl Response.
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 Placer County and Deputy Sheriffs’ Association Reach Landmark Labor Agreement
The Placer County Sheriff’s Office is celebrating a significant step forward in its dedication to law enforcement employees. Under a new memorandum of understanding, recently approved by the Placer County Board of Supervisors, Placer County Sheriff’s Office deputies will receive a substantial wage increase.
The agreement involves an immediate 10% raise, followed by an additional 11% over the subsequent three years. This four-year contract represents a $29 million investment in law enforcement personnel, ultimately aiming to enhance recruitment and retention.
The Deputy Sheriffs’ Association members gave their unanimous approval for this agreement on September 6th. This achievement is particularly significant because it follows a previous labor agreement that lapsed in 2018. The years that followed saw prolonged negotiations and a lawsuit concerning the discontinuation of the ‘Measure F’ salary-setting formula, which had been a component of DSA labor agreements since 1976.
In May, the Placer County Superior Court concluded that Measure F was in violation of the state constitution, marking a pivotal moment in these labor negotiations.
The last increase in deputy sheriffs' wages occurred in October 2021 when the board implemented a raise of approximately 1%. This was in addition to the Measure F formula raise of around 3% received in February 2021.
Sheriff Wayne Woo expressed his gratitude, saying, “As your Placer County Sheriff, I thank the Board of Supervisors, Deputy Sheriffs’ Association, County CEO’s Office, and County HR for their support in approving a well-deserved pay increase for our deputy sheriffs. This decision not only recognizes the dedication and sacrifice of our deputies but also reinforces our commitment to ensuring the safety and security of our community. Together, we stand stronger in our mission to protect and serve. Thank you for your trust and support.”
In addition to the substantial wage increase, the agreement includes a 6% wage boost for specific represented employees in exchange for reduced peace officer standards and training certificate incentive pays. The deal also increases the county’s contribution to employee health care premiums and adds another paid floating holiday, aligning with recent labor agreements with other county bargaining units. The agreement further provides all active DSA members with a $3,000 retention bonus.
Earlier this month, the board also approved a separate agreement that offers a one-time 15.5% wage increase for correctional officers to maintain hiring competitiveness.
With the board’s endorsement, this agreement will remain in effect from October 7th through June 30, 2027. This marks a significant milestone in supporting law enforcement within Placer County.
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 The Town of Loomis recently shared the draft Environmental Impact Report (EIR) for the 2024 General Plan after gathering input from the community for two years.
This Draft EIR examines the possible environmental impacts linked to the 2040 General Plan Update, as required by CEQA. The 2040 General Plan is a set of policies that will shape how Loomis develops and conserves its resources, which includes making necessary improvements to public infrastructure and facilities to accommodate future growth.
The changes foreseen for Loomis until 2040, such as development projects, population growth, economic development, and public facility upgrades, might have environmental effects. These effects are assessed in the Draft EIR.
According to CEQA rules, the Town has issued a Notice of Availability to inform relevant agencies and interested parties that the Draft EIR is open for examination. They are inviting comments and concerns regarding the environmental aspects of the proposed 2040 General Plan until November 6. You can send your comments to the following address: GPUpdate@loomis.ca.gov
Additionally, a public meeting will be held during a joint session of the Planning Commission and Town Council on October 17 at 7 p.m. at the Loomis Train Depot, located at 5775 Horseshoe Bar Road.
This meeting's purpose is to receive both spoken and written input concerning the technical adequacy of the Draft EIR and alternative solutions. All comments, whether written or oral, will be taken into account when preparing the Final EIR, expected to be completed by late 2023.
You can find documents related to the 2040 General Plan Update and Draft EIR on the Town’s website: loomis.ca.gov/2020-general-plan-update
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 2nd community meeting regarding predator release scheduled for Oct. 17
The Placer County District Attorney’s and Sheriff’s offices have officially announced that the Department of State Hospitals (DSH) and Liberty Healthcare will be hosting the next community meeting concerning the release of William Robert Stephenson.
The meeting is scheduled for Tuesday, October 17, at 9 a.m. It will take place at the Placer County Community Development Agency building, located at 3091 County Center Drive in Auburn. The Placer community is strongly encouraged to attend and provide input regarding the placement of Stephenson. He is a 66-year-old sexually violent predator who was granted conditional transient release into Placer County on July 17.
For the convenience of residents, it's worth noting that the meeting can be viewed remotely through the Placer County District Attorney's Office Facebook page and the Placer County Sheriff's Office’s page. However, it's essential to understand that public comments will only be accepted in-person by the state during the meeting.
As per the Placer County District Attorney's Office, Judge Garen Horst has requested DSH and Liberty to conduct a check-in for their search before the scheduled October 25 hearing.
Both offices have confirmed that there is no information available at this time regarding any updates on the housing search. As of Friday morning, the meeting's agenda had not been posted on the DSH website.
Residents in Placer County who wish to receive updates related to the Stephenson case can register at www.placer.ca.gov/9207/SVP
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Placer County Library launching redesigned website to enhance access to digital materials, early literacy programs and more
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AUBURN, Calif. -- The Placer County Library is launching a modernized website at 6 p.m. with streamlined navigation, enhanced search capabilities, and improved access to digital resources and materials.
The newly designed website boasts a more modern look with greater visibility of key resources and highlights the Library Services Department’s calendar of events, as well as new pages dedicated to educators, early literacy, and recommendations for “what to read next.”
“Modernizing our website is a significant step forward in the library’s mission to best serve Placer County’s information needs in the digital age,” said Library Services Director Mary George. “It’s a reflection of our commitment to making library resources accessible to everyone, anywhere and at any time.”
Navigating the site is simple and mobile-friendly, with searchable catalogs and easy-to-find buttons that click to the library’s online applications like Libby, Kanopy, LinkedIn Learning and more. Website upgrades also address findings from the 2020-21 Grand Jury report that recommended the library update services via user friendly and accessible technology.
A feedback button allows library customers to suggest new features, report technical issues, or let staff know if customers are having difficulty finding materials.
Check out the new library website at its familiar URL: http://www.placer.ca.gov/library.
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 To understand how public transit can be best served throughout the county, Placer County Transportation Planning Agency (PCTPA) is seeking community input.
Your input will help understand current ridership trends, reasons for riding transit, and how PCPTA can make the overall experience more convenient for residents and workers.
As part of the planning agency’s federal Annual Unmet Transit Needs analysis, PCTPA is conducting surveys and soliciting feedback through Oct. 31 to plan for transit improvements in the coming years.
Take the online survey.
Additional opportunities to voice your concerns include:
Attend the Public Hearing: Oct. 18 at 9 a.m.
Placer County Board of Supervisors Chambers
175 Fulweiler Avenue
Auburn, CA 95603
Email: mcosta@pctpa.net
Call: (530) 823-4029 (leave your name, number, and unmet transit need)
Visit pctpa.net/unmet-transit-needs for more information and updates.
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PLACER COUNTY BOARD OF SUPERVISORS
Learn more about the Board of Supervisors, including information on upcoming Board of Supervisors meetings.
Learn more about Supervisor Jones
Municipal Advisory Council (MAC)
Placer County Resources
Support Your Chamber of Commerce
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Placer County’s historic courthouse lights turn blue and white in support of Israel
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AUBURN, Calif. -- The colonnade of Placer County’s historic courthouse in Auburn was illuminated in blue and white on Tuesday night in a show of support for Israeli citizens.
The show of support comes in the wake of terrorist attacks committed in Israel this past weekend and the declaration of war by Israel against Hamas, a Palestinian militant group.
The lights will remain on all hours of the day and night through Oct. 20.
“Our prayers go out to all those in Israel facing the violence and terror of warfare,” said Board Chair and District 3 Supervisor Jim Homes. “Placer County is home to many people with Israeli heritage and we want them to know our county is proud to stand and show united support for Israel during this horrific time.”
Many of the nation’s landmarks and national buildings, including the White House, are being illuminated blue and white, the colors of the Israeli flag.
Learn more about the historic courthouse at https://www.placer.ca.gov/Facilities/Facility/Details/Placer-County-Museum-84
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Placer County Drug Take Back Day
October 28 @ 10:00 am – 2:00 pm
Free medication take back event across Placer County
Roseville, Calif. – A free medication take-back event will take place at locations across Placer County on Saturday, October 28 from 10 a.m. – 2 p.m.
Local law enforcement in collaboration with youth organizations, utilities, public health entities and local schools, will hold drop-offs from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. to accept prescription and over-the-counter drugs, veterinary medications and more.
During last spring’s take-back event, 4,595 pounds of medication were dropped off, with over 100,000 pounds collected within Placer County at these events since 2010 – helping keep our kids and environment safer.
Did you know that you don’t have to wait for an event? You can keep unwanted and expired medications out of your cupboard and out of the wrong hands all year – click here to find a location near you.
Roseville
Roseville High School
1 Tiger Way
Sun City – Roseville
7050 Del Web Blvd. (by tennis courts)
Loomis
Del Oro High School
3301 Taylor Road
Lincoln
Lincoln Police Dept.
770 7th Street
Rocklin
Rocklin Police Dept.
4080 Rocklin Road
Rocklin Fire Station #3
2001 Wildcat Blvd.
Auburn
City Hall
1225 Lincoln Way
Justice Center, Placer County Government Center campus
2929 Richardson Drive
Truckee
Safeway Parking Lot
11290 Donner Pass Road
Do not remove pills from prescription bottles. Liquids can also be dropped off in original bottles. Personal information can be removed or crossed out with a permanent marker, but this is not mandatory. All bottles will be incinerated.
Unacceptable items include sharps, lancets, medical waste, illicit drugs, cannabis products, aerosols and hydrogen peroxide.
“Everyone can help keep potentially dangerous prescription drugs out of the hands of teens, young children and even seniors who might misuse them or make mistakes,” said Christina Ivazes, a Health and Human Services program coordinator. “Even if you can’t make it in October, there are now year-round drop-off locations to support our community.”
For questions about the event, residents are encouraged to call 916-258-2302. There are also a growing number of year-round medication drop-off sites at local pharmacies and other sites across the county. For more resources and to find a year-round drop-off site near you, visit PNCMS.org/RxDrugSafety.
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"The People are the Key to Placer's Greatness!"
Board of Supervisors Mission Statement:
To act as the legislative arm of county government and provide responsive leadership, governance, effective oversight of county services, and involve citizens and communities in processes that determine and enhance Placer County's future.
What Questions, Comments, Suggestions do you have...
Contact: District 4 Chief of Staff MichaelSpelis@placer.ca.gov ♦ (916) 719 -2955
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