|
|
Dedicated Leader | Champion of Education | Committed to Positive Change
 November 1st 2023
|
|
Welcome to November!
As we step into the holiday season, I want to express my gratitude to all the residents who reached out in October. Your engagement is pivotal to our district's success.
During the past month, we achieved some significant milestones. We successfully cleaned up an unauthorized corporation yard, located just off Douglas Blvd. on the way to the lake. On the other side of Douglas, between CVS and Oak Knoll, there are planned improvements to address the lack of sidewalks in the area. This enhancement is essential for residents who enjoy walking or cycling to the lake on the oldest part of Douglas Blvd., providing a safer route over the hill in the coming year.
We also appreciate the patience of residents who travel on Eureka Rd. between Granite Bay High School and Auburn Folsom. The recent repaving, although momentarily inconvenient, extended the road's lifespan and widened it to ensure safer passage, especially for cyclists using the shoulder.
In Loomis, Penryn, and Newcastle, tree limbing projects have been happening to safeguard power lines in preparation for the upcoming rainy season. We understand the frequent power outages during windy months not only pose a public safety concern but also inconvenience those with older all-electric homes.
Our office acknowledges the importance of infrastructure improvements such as enhanced internet connectivity. While these initiatives are owned and operated by private companies, I've been actively involved in discussions about the costs and possibilities of expanding the fiber optic network.
Lastly, I had the honor of returning from an advocacy trip to Washington, D.C., where I lobbied for funding alongside several Placer County officials. This productive trip, organized by the Placer Business Alliance, featured insightful discussions on infrastructure, commerce, local business support, and education in Placer County. Throughout the week, we toured and met with members of Congress. What makes this trip particularly enjoyable is not just the opportunity to be your voice in the nation's capital but also the chance to network and converse with fellow elected representatives. These connections not only help me better understand my counterparts in other districts but also enable us to work collaboratively for the greater good of our entire region.
Reminder that our monthly MAC meeting is coming up this Thursday 11/2 at 6:00 PM. You can join us in person at the Granite Bay Library or stream it online. The link is conveniently located blow the flyer in this newsletter.
Thank you for your continued support and involvement. Together, we're making positive changes in our district.
Warm regards,
Suzanne Jones - District 4 Supervisor
|
|
|
Placer County’s (Em)Power + Resilience Project Partners with Roseville and Rocklin Cities to Launch "This is a Sign" Campaign
Placer County’s (Em)Power + Resilience Project is proud to join hands with the City of Roseville and the City of Rocklin to unveil the "This is a Sign" campaign, aiming to raise awareness about domestic violence and the resources available to survivors in Placer County.
This impactful campaign harnesses the power of public billboards in both cities to convey a profound message. It presents a thought-provoking play on the word "sign." While these billboards are indeed substantial signs, they are also symbolic signals. They serve as a moment of reflection for those trapped in abusive relationships, prompting them to reconsider their situation. The campaign employs a deliberate black-and-white color scheme to underscore the stark reality of domestic abuse.
“Those who have experienced or witnessed abusive relationships understand that it often takes a profound 'ah-hah' moment to motivate someone to take action – it comes precisely when they are ready," said Anabel Velasquez, a domestic violence survivor and a member of the (Em)Power + Resilience Project. "Trauma is complex, and individuals experiencing abuse frequently linger in a gray area, tolerating the intolerable. We hope that when someone gazes up and encounters this campaign, it will serve as both a literal and metaphorical 'ah-hah' moment. We aim to encourage them to explore the perils of living in the gray and inspire them to utilize the available resources to break free."
The "This is a Sign" campaign will kick off as Domestic Violence Awareness Month concludes and will run through the start of the holiday season. Data often demonstrates an upswing in domestic violence cases during the holidays due to financial stress, increased alcohol consumption, and more time spent at home.
“Domestic violence is a deeply complex issue that affects our society profoundly," explained Tamara Musolino, Supervisor of Victim Services at the Placer County District Attorney’s Office. "We understand that leaving an abusive relationship is a deeply personal journey, determined solely by the survivor's timing. Unfortunately, domestic violence can escalate swiftly and dangerously, underscoring the need for education and resources. 'This is a Sign' serves the purpose of capturing attention on multiple levels and, hopefully, encourages individuals to learn about the possibilities that lie ahead. If it saves just one life, the campaign will have achieved its goal."
Billboards bearing this poignant message are strategically placed by the City of Roseville near Highway 65, adjacent to the Westfield Galleria at Roseville, and on the western side of I-80 near Douglas Blvd. The City of Rocklin has positioned its billboards off Highway 65 and along I-80 near Sunsplash.
"The first call is often the most challenging, yet it's the most crucial," affirmed Jenna Gelbuda, Placer County District Attorney and Stand-Up Placer Liaison. "If this campaign feels like a sign to you, it most likely is. We urge anyone who finds inspiration in these billboards to take that critical first step and make the call."
The (Em)Power + Resilience Project, an initiative within the Placer County District Attorney’s Office, collaborates with victims and survivors of crime alongside the office’s Victim Services Unit. It amplifies survivor stories to aid others and incite change. Learn more at www.placer.ca.gov/ERProject.
|
|
 PLACER COUNTY ACCEPTS $2 MILLION STATE GRANT FOR NEW RETAIL THEFT PROGRAM
Roseville, Calif. – The Placer County Board of Supervisors has taken a significant step this week by accepting a $2 million state grant to fortify the Placer County District Attorney’s Office’s new Retail Theft Vertical Prosecution Program.
This program, under the jurisdiction of the California Board of State and Community Corrections (“BSCC”), embodies California’s dedication to combat the escalating problem of retail theft, a pressing issue that adversely affects tax revenue, community security, and retailers throughout the state.
“Placer County is an extraordinary place to live, conduct business, shop, and indulge in recreational activities,” emphasized Placer County District Attorney Morgan Gire. “This is why our county stands as a hub for substantial retail centers, including the Roseville Galleria Mall and its anchor stores, the Rocklin Commons Shopping Center, alongside the vibrant small business districts within our cities and towns. It is critical that we ensure the continued safety and economic vitality of our growing business community through proactive measures to combat retail theft.”
The grant allocation will be channeled to extend the personnel resources of the Placer County District Attorney’s Office, introducing one full-time Deputy District Attorney, a District Attorney Investigator, and a Crime Analyst who will collaborate on the investigation and prosecution of retail theft offenses. The vertical prosecution framework made possible by this grant will empower a single investigator and prosecutor to handle cases from their initiation to resolution. This approach facilitates enhanced cooperation and communication with allied agencies, ensures uniform and appropriate sentencing, and fosters vital relationships with investigators and affected community members. The addition of a Crime Analyst bolsters the program's capacity to deploy data-driven tactics and measure effectiveness.
The grant also encompasses funding for the acquisition of cutting-edge technology that will bolster the investigation and prosecution of retail thieves. The Placer County District Attorney’s Office is committed to making this resource accessible to all local law enforcement agencies, thus benefiting the entire Placer region. Retail theft has cast a chilling shadow across communities in California, with reports of audacious attacks on business owners within stores, permanent closures of enterprises, and an increase in incidents of "swarming" or "smash and grab." While all communities boasting thriving retail centers have witnessed an upsurge in retail theft, Placer County remains resolute in its commitment to hold perpetrators of retail theft accountable.
Staff members assigned to the vertical prosecution model will continue to facilitate cooperation between local law enforcement, retailers, and regional stakeholders across different jurisdictions to ensure efficiency and synergy among agencies.
“Placer County serves as a prime exemplar of cooperation, innovation, and accomplishment in addressing paramount issues that affect our community,” emphasized Board Chair and District 3 Supervisor Jim Holmes. “This grant equips us to institute a retail theft initiative that not only addresses this issue locally but, hopefully, gives rise to a program that can be replicated statewide.”
|
|
After fentanyl kills Rocklin father, task force arrests suspect in Sacramento.
A Sacramento man has been taken into custody on Tuesday under suspicion of supplying a lethal dose of fentanyl to a Rocklin father, as confirmed by the California Attorney General's Office in a recent news release.
The individual, Brandon Garner, was apprehended following the discovery of evidence indicating that he was cognizant of the deadly nature of the fentanyl that led to the individual's demise in July.
This arrest occurred in Sacramento, carried out by the Placer Special Investigations Unit, under the direction of the California Department of Justice.
Law enforcement officers located the suspect in his vehicle the following day and conducted a traffic stop. During a search of the vehicle, authorities reportedly found one ounce of fentanyl powder, along with a quarter-ounce of cocaine and methamphetamine in his possession at the time of the arrest, as detailed in the statement from Attorney General Rob Bonta's office.
He has been booked into the South Placer County Jail on charges of homicide, possession of opioids with intent to sell, and the sale of opiates, according to the press release.
The Placer County District Attorney's Office is responsible for prosecuting this case.
It is noteworthy that Placer County has previously succeeded in prosecuting homicide cases associated with fentanyl sales. In 2022, Nathaniel Cabacungan was apprehended by the same task force for providing a fatal dose of fentanyl to Jewel Wolf, a teenager from Roseville. He was subsequently prosecuted for homicide and received a conviction earlier this year. District Attorney Morgan Gire disclosed that Cabacungan had been sentenced to 15 years in prison.
|
|
Our historically wet winter and mild summer fire season has allowed Placer County fire officials to direct resources on prescribed burns and fuel reduction efforts in high-risk areas this fall. The county’s burn suspension has also been lifted as well, allowing property owners to engage in fuel reduction efforts on scheduled burn days.
Watch how crews conduct a prescribed burn and hear more details from CAL FIRE/Placer County Fire Chief Brian Estes: Video
For more information click to the Greater Auburn Area Firesafe Council's Facebook Page
|
Notice of preparation for Rezone Program environmental report available for public review
|
|
AUBURN, Calif. -- A notice of preparation for a draft environmental impact report for Placer County’s proposed Housing Element Sites Rezone project is now available for public review and comment through Nov. 20.
A public EIR scoping meeting is scheduled Nov. 3 to receive public input.
Board of Supervisors - November 27, 2023
Rezone Program Implementation – No later than May 15, 2024
The Housing Needs Rezone Program is part of the county’s 2021-2029 Housing Element, a comprehensive plan aimed at addressing and accommodating Placer County’s housing needs while ensuring equitable access to housing options. State law requires the county implement a rezone program by May 2024 to identify opportunities for multifamily residential development.
The project currently comprises 74 properties dispersed throughout unincorporated Placer County and totaling approximately 250.1 acres. The sites are generally located in established communities such as the North Auburn, Dry Creek, Bowman, Penryn, Newcastle, Granite Bay, Sheridan and Applegate communities, as well as south of Truckee within the Lake Tahoe region.
The notice of preparation is available for review at the following locations:
Any member of the public seeking more information regarding the project can contact senior planner Kally Kedinger-Cecil at 530-745-3034 or kkedinge@placer.ca.gov.
|
 The Placer County Board of Supervisors unanimously ratified a proclamation in support of Israel and to honor the lives lost in the Oct. 7 attacks by Hamas, a Palestinian militant group.
The proclamation states that Placer County joins cities, counties and states across the nation in declaring there is no place for terroristic violence and condemns the acts of Hamas, which resulted in 1,200 deaths, thousands of injuries and 150 hostages as of Oct. 11.
“This proclamation signifies our board’s unwavering support for Israel and our Israeli citizens in Placer County as the horrific realities of terrorism and war affect them and their families each day this conflict continues,” said Board Chair and District 3 Supervisor Jim Holmes. “Our prayers go out to Israel and our Jewish community.”
Last month, the county lit the colonnade of the historic courthouse in Auburn blue and white, the colors of the Israeli flag.
Watch a video of the Board's action to ratify the proclamation here.
|
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
|
|
Discover the fantastic new Athletic Fields at Bayside Granite Bay!
Last Thursday, the 19th, I had the privilege of joining the grand opening of this incredible addition to our District. These picturesque fields are sure to bring joy to countless generations of children and families in the years ahead.
Know someone seeking a Career change? Check out these Postings!
|
Reminder: Parking restrictions take effect Nov. 1 east of Emigrant Gap
|
|
TAHOE CITY, Calif. -- Placer County officials are reminding residents and visitors that annual winter parking restrictions in the county’s higher elevations will take effect Nov. 1 until May 1, 2024. Parking along county maintained roadways east of Emigrant Gap (i.e. North Lake Tahoe, Serene Lakes, Olympic Valley, and Alpine Meadows) will be prohibited during this time, due to snowplow operations. Compliance will help avoid damage to parked vehicles as well as snow removal equipment and, most importantly, will prevent delays to snow removal operations. County officials stress the importance of adhering to these restrictions even during mild weather as snow maintenance operations may still be taking place. When parking in downtown areas, visitors should only use designated public parking lots. County officials are advising owners of vacation homes to alert their tenants of seasonal parking restrictions. Illegally parked vehicles may be ticketed and fined or towed, if necessary. The Board of Supervisors recently adopted an updated schedule of parking fines that goes into effect on November 30, 2023. The fine amounts for violating the snow parking restriction will increase from $98.50 to $150 for the first offense, from $198.50 to $250 for the second offense and from $298.50 to $450 for the third and subsequent offenses.
More information can be found here for winter parking restrictions and snow removal zones.
The updated parking fine schedule is located here.
|
For some the holiday season is a difficult time. Here are a list of Resources
Placer 211
Placer Food Bank
Counseling, Education, and Community Resources.
www.GetHelpPlacer.com
Insurance Affordability and Availability.
|
|
|
"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
District Representative FUdvarhely@Placer.ca.gov ♦ (530) 906 - 3120
|
|
|
|
|
