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February 1st 2024

Top News Stories

Placer County Rank #4 of 58 ranked counties in California: A Balance of Well-Being and Vibrancy

Nestled in the embrace of the Sierra Nevada mountains and adorned with breathtaking landscapes, Placer County stands as a testament to California living at its finest. Renowned for a myriad of reasons, this county encapsulates the essence of an ideal residential haven.

The Lure of Placer County: A Haven of Natural Beauty and Safety

1. Natural Beauty: Placer County's allure lies in its diverse natural landscapes, from the majestic Sierra Nevada mountains to tranquil lakes and inviting foothills. It's a haven for outdoor enthusiasts seeking scenic beauty and recreational opportunities.
2. Safe Communities: Safety is paramount, and many areas within Placer County boast low crime rates, fostering a sense of security among residents.
3. Educational Excellence: Home to esteemed school districts and educational institutions, Placer County ensures a high-quality education for its residents.
4. Economic Opportunities: Proximity to major economic hubs like Sacramento and the San Francisco Bay Area opens doors to job opportunities while allowing residents to relish a relaxed and scenic environment.
5. Recreational Paradise: Placer County caters to outdoor enthusiasts with a spectrum of recreational activities, from hiking and skiing to water sports, enhancing the quality of life.
6. Community Engagement: Vibrant communities define Placer County, where strong community bonds are nurtured through events, farmers' markets, and local festivals.
7. Healthcare Hub: Access to quality healthcare is paramount, and Placer County provides residents with top-notch hospitals and medical centers.
8. Cultural and Arts Scene: Some areas within Placer County boast a thriving cultural and arts scene, adding entertainment and cultural enrichment to residents' lives.

In the grand narrative of California's counties, Placer County has recently composed a crescendo of well-being, clinching the second spot for health and quality of life. Marin County, a perennial victor, gracefully reclaimed its crown as the epitome of quality living in the Golden State.

These accolades were unveiled through the annual report from the esteemed Robert Wood Johnson Foundation and the University of Wisconsin, unveiling a portrait of Placer County's commendable strengths and avenues for growth.

Placer County's health profile gleams in various metrics, showcasing an active community, a commendably vaccinated population, low incidence of sexually transmitted diseases, high educational attainment, and stellar healthcare accessibility. An outstanding feat includes sharing the distinction with select Bay Area counties, claiming the lowest childhood poverty rate at an enviable 7 percent.

Yet, amid the accolades, the report sounds a call to action. Challenges in mental health, excessive alcohol consumption, and alcohol-related fatalities persist at rates higher than both California and national averages. This signals a need for focused initiatives and community-wide endeavors to surmount these health barriers.

The rankings, meticulously curated by evaluating numerous health determinants, reveal a complex but illuminating tapestry of health factors. Placer County takes the statewide lead, securing the first position in quality of life, second in health factors, health behaviors, and social and economic factors, and an impressive third in clinical care. Additional categories, such as length of life and physical environment, contribute to this comprehensive health portrait.

The health prosperity of Placer County residents radiates economic benefits, creating an appealing landscape for employers seeking an ideal location. As businesses weigh options, a high County Health Ranking becomes a competitive advantage, aligning with a broader trend where companies seek locales that promise a healthier workforce, potentially reducing healthcare costs.

The Health Ranking, extending its reach to almost every county in the nation, underscores a fundamental truth: where one resides significantly influences their health. Placer County's high standing in these rankings is a testament to its rich tapestry of forested landscapes, internationally acclaimed outdoor recreation, and a thriving local industry in agriculture and produce. These attributes converge to paint a canvas of health and well-being, making Placer County a jewel in the regional health landscape.

For a detailed exploration of the rankings and a deeper understanding, visit the website: Placer, California | County Health Rankings & Roadmaps

Empowering Placer County's Future: A Glimpse into Long-Range Planning

In a recent session, the Placer County Board of Supervisors delved into the intricacies of the county's long-range planning work program, shedding light on its initiatives and accomplishments.

Over the past year, the Planning Division underwent a strategic reorganization, resulting in the establishment of dedicated sections for long-range planning and current planning. According to Planning Director Chris Pahule, this restructuring aimed to cultivate a long-range team exclusively focused on vital endeavors like the general plan update and other progressive initiatives. This separation ensures a dedicated focus, unencumbered by private party development applications.

The long-range planning division's ambit is expansive, encompassing public sector projects such as the general plan update, community plans, and natural resource programs. They also spearhead public participation and engagement, facilitate amendments to the zoning ordinance, and represent planning services and the county on committees and working groups. Initiatives undertaken by the team stem from state mandates, general plan requirements, board directives, or staff recommendations based on identified program needs.

Chris Schmidt, principal planner for Placer County, highlighted completed long-range projects, including amendments to beekeeping codes and housing zoning texts. The ongoing agenda boasts crucial projects like the Auburn Bowman Community Plan update, housing rezone program, group homes code amendment, general plan update, and winery ordinance update. The team's dedication is evident, managing projects amidst resource constraints, prioritizing based on schedules, deadlines, and annual staff availability.

The board received five comments expressing support for updating the Winery and Farm Brewery Ordinance to outline a long-term vision for agriculture in Placer. Recommendations included soliciting public input on prioritizing projects and assessing the feasibility of meeting housing needs.

While the board took no action during this informational presentation, Pahule expressed the intent to make it an annual tradition—a comprehensive report on the past year's achievements, the status of multi-year planning initiatives, and a renewed commitment to priority projects. The session signifies a transparent and collaborative approach to shaping the future of Placer County.

To learn more about why it's so important we plan ahead, visit: 2050 General Plan Update | Placer County, CA

Placer County Pursues Comprehensive Wildfire Protection Plan with CAL FIRE Grant

During its January 9 meeting, the Placer County Board of Supervisors took a unanimous step toward fortifying the community against wildfires. Approving a grant application to CAL FIRE, the board aims to secure funding under the CAL FIRE Climate Investments Wildfire Prevention Grants Program.

Designed to support activities enhancing the safeguarding of people, structures, and communities threatened by wildfires, the grant, if awarded, would bring $500,000 to Placer County. The approved grant application outlines eligible activities, ranging from wildfire prevention planning to hazardous fuels reduction and wildfire prevention education.

Dave Atkinson, assistant director of Emergency Services for Placer County, highlighted the pivotal role of this funding. The proposed use is the development of a countywide Community Wildfire Protection Plan, designed to create a comprehensive framework for risk mitigation and community protection.

Although efforts to update the plan were temporarily halted due to COVID, Atkinson stressed the need for a renewed and comprehensive approach. The last protection plan in 2012, focused on specific areas with fire-safe councils, revealed the necessity for a countywide strategy that aligns various plans under one umbrella.

The envisaged plan would span the entire county and incorporate projects eligible for grants as opportunities arise. Importantly, Atkinson emphasized the alignment of existing plans such as local hazard mitigation, sustainability, and safety elements under the overarching countywide plan.

Addressing Supervisor Shanti Landon's query, Atkinson clarified that this grant comes with no matching requirement, making it a rare and valuable resource.

The board received valuable input, including a suggestion to address the wildland-urban interface to reduce wildfire threats and considerations about the costs of fire prevention and patrols. These inputs underscore the community's active engagement in enhancing Placer County's resilience against the growing threat of wildfires.

Features & Happenings

Notice of Public Hearing

The Placer County Board of Supervisors will host a community workshop on the proposed Housing Element Sites Rezone project at 2 p.m. on Feb. 13 at the Community Development Resource Agency building, 3091 County Center Drive in North Auburn.

The workshop has been moved up to Feb. 13 from a preliminarily discussed Feb. 20 date to allow the public more time to provide input and to allow staff time to make any potential adjustments, while also meeting the state-imposed program deadlines. The workshop was previously added to the board’s calendar due to public interest at a Nov. 27 public hearing on the rezone program

The 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. The county’s Housing Element requires completion of a rezone program by May 2024 to accommodate a shortfall of land identified for multifamily residential development. 

The project comprises properties dispersed throughout unincorporated Placer County. The sites include locations in North Auburn, Dry Creek, Bowman, Penryn, Granite Bay, and Sheridan, as well as south of Truckee within the Lake Tahoe region.

The Feb. 13 workshop will include a presentation from the Planning Services Division on the status of the Housing Element Sites Rezone program, and to receive board direction to finalize the list of potential properties to be rezoned within the program.

Following staff’s presentation, community members will have an opportunity to provide comments both in person and via Zoom. Interested persons can also sign up to receive notifications on the county’s rezone program here: Housing needs rezone program | Placer County, CA

Written comments may also be submitted in advance to the Clerk of the Board of Supervisors, 175 Fulweiler Ave., Auburn CA 95603 and via email at BoardClerk@placer.ca.gov.

Information on the Housing Element Sites Rezone program is available for review by contacting Senior planner Kally Kedinger-Cecil at 530-745-3034 or by email at kkedinge@placer.ca.gov.

Empowering our water future: PCWA's role in supporting growing communities

Recent polls sparked a revelation about the perceptions of Placer County residents concerning water scarcity. It's time to set the record straight: Placer County has an ample water supply to cater to both current and future needs, dispelling any notions of a shortage. This assurance is grounded in PCWA's robust water rights on the American River and our meticulous management of this invaluable resource.

While our water reserves are abundant, we acknowledge the pressing need for increased treatment capacity and expanded pipelines to efficiently deliver water to the evolving landscape of our communities—marked by ongoing construction and future developments.

Crucially, PCWA is actively addressing these concerns through strategic infrastructure projects. Our experts are consistently evaluating the anticipated growth in the county, ensuring that our infrastructure plans align with the budget, materials, and workforce required to meet the demands.

Here's a glimpse into some significant projects on the horizon:

1. New Water Treatment Plant: The Ophir Project
PCWA is progressing on a groundbreaking initiative known as the Ophir Project, which includes a new water treatment plant situated on the western outskirts of Auburn. This strategic location, close to our existing American River canyon infrastructure, is a pivotal step in bringing water to homes. The plant, slated to commence construction in 2025, will initially treat 10 million gallons of water per day, with expansion plans to reach 30 MGD.

2. Pipeline Expansion: Delivering Water Where It's Needed
A treatment plant alone is insufficient without the necessary pipelines. To complement the Ophir Project, a cornerstone pipeline linking the new Ophir plant with the existing Foothill plant has been completed. Additional pipelines are in the pipeline (pun intended) to supply treated water to burgeoning communities like Bickford Ranch near Lincoln and the Placer One community near Roseville. The plan includes strategically placed water storage tanks for optimal pressure and supply along these routes.

As stewards of water resources, PCWA plays a pivotal role in supporting the dynamic growth and opportunities within West Placer County. The ongoing projects are part of our comprehensive infrastructure strategy, laying the foundation for reliability today while anticipating the needs of tomorrow.

In conclusion: Yes, Placer County has the water capacity to meet the demands of growth. Our commitment is unwavering as we diligently navigate the complexities of water management, ensuring a quality of life that resonates with the present and future generations.

PCWA General Manager, Andy Fecko

Heartfelt Tribute: Sgt. Nicole Gee Memorial Highway Proposed on I-80

Assemblyman Joe Patterson of Rocklin, alongside Senator Roger Niello, introduced a moving resolution proposing the naming of a portion of Interstate 80 after the late Roseville Marine Sgt. Nicole Gee. The resolution aims to honor her selfless service and sacrifice, turning a section of I-80 between Douglas Blvd. and State Route 65 into the “Nicole Gee Memorial Highway.”

Patterson expressed the deep impact of Gee's story, highlighting her dedication as a member of the Female Engagement team in Afghanistan, providing evacuation support for Afghan women and children. Gee's tragic loss in a suicide bombing at Kabul International Airport in August 2021 deeply affected the community.

Gee's remarkable service earned her numerous honors, including the Purple Heart, Combat Action Ribbon, Good Conduct Medal, National Defense Medal, Afghan Campaign Medal, and the Global War on Terrorism Medal. Her photo holding an Afghan baby, captioned "I love my job," resonated widely, reflecting her genuine care for others.

Assemblyman Patterson, moved by Gee's compassion, stated, “I couldn’t shake that image, and I knew I had to do something to honor her life.” If the resolution passes, the proposed highway dedication will further immortalize her legacy.

The city of Roseville had previously memorialized Gee by naming a street after her in August. The emotional ceremony witnessed the family's first ride through Nicole Gee Drive, attended by notable community members, city council representatives, Placer County Supervisors, and Congressman Kevin Kiley.

Despite the profound loss, Gee's sister, Misty Fuoco, expressed gratitude for the community's overwhelming support. The street dedication and proposed highway memorialization serve as powerful ways to honor and remember Nicole Gee's life and sacrifice.

Fuoco, reflecting on the ceremony, shared the comforting words of her 4-year-old son: "We'll see her one day." The enduring legacy of Sgt. Nicole Gee continues to touch the hearts of the Roseville community and beyond.

In Loving Memory of Sgt. Nicole Gee: A True Hometown Hero.

Health & Safety

Placer County DA Launches New Retail Theft Initiative

The Placer County District Attorney’s Office launches a targeted campaign against retail theft, introducing new window posters for businesses. District Attorney Morgan Gire unveiled the signage, emphasizing their role in the county's retail theft initiative. The posters send a clear message: "This business is protected by Placer County’s retail theft initiative."

Designed to deter potential thieves, the signs are part of the Retail Theft Vertical Prosecution Program, initiated in October 2023 with a $2 million state grant. The program, comprising a deputy district attorney, a district attorney investigator, and a crime analyst, focuses on investigating and prosecuting retail theft crimes.

Gire highlights the program's efficiency and comprehensive approach, aiming not only to prosecute individual thieves but also to uncover and dismantle larger theft rings. Substantial progress has been made in just a few months, revealing significant organized retail networks operating within and beyond the county.

New posters with QR codes linking to the county’s retail theft initiative information page will be distributed to businesses through local chambers of commerce. While businesses, such as The Cave in Roseville, express hope that the signs act as deterrents, there are calls for increased law enforcement action during theft incidents.

This campaign involves collaboration with various agencies and organizations, including the Placer County Sheriff’s Office, Roseville Police Department, Rocklin Police Department, Auburn Police Department, local chambers of commerce, and more.

For more details, visit the county’s new retail theft initiative information page at: Placer Retail Theft Initiative | Placer County, CA

and the California Governor Page | California to Make Largest-ever Investment to Combat Organized Retail Crime

At SVP housing hearing Placer officials call for increased communication from the state on the placement process

On January 26th the Placer County District Attorney’s Office and the Placer County Sheriff’s Office joined the community in Auburn for the Department of State Hospitals’ Sexually Violent Predator Housing meeting. 

Both the District Attorney’s Office and the Sheriff’s Office expressed concern with the lack of information from DSH leading into the meeting despite multiple requests from housing committee members. Without adequate information in advance of the meeting, committee members are unable to prepare or provide meaningful feedback during the closed session. 

 The intent of the new statute regulating this process was to increase participation of local officials. Yet committee members, and the public, remain largely in the dark. 

At the meeting, the Placer County Sheriff Wayne Woo and District Attorney Morgan Gire expressed their frustration with the lack of communication and collaboration with the housing committee leading into these meetings. They emphasized the need for appropriate time to evaluate the proposed location by law enforcement and community partners to ensure decisions are being made in the best interest of local residents.  

The Placer County District Attorney also asked the state multiple times to share with the community the rate at which individuals who have previously violated the terms of their conditional release reoffend and revictimize; in light of Mr. Stephenson failing his conditional release in 2017.  

Despite the District Attorney’s and Sheriff’s objections, the Department has insisted that any new information about the housing search only be disclosed during a part of the meeting that is closed to the public. This interpretation forbids Housing Committee members from disclosing what happened in the closed session. Any information provided by housing members would be a violation of law and restricts information from the community.  

Once the Department of State Hospitals discloses an address indicating where the Sexually Violent Predator will reside, state law requires a minimum of 30 days to disseminate a public notification. Both the District Attorney’s Office and the Sheriff’s Office insist that more time is needed to properly evaluate any location chosen by the Department.    

While the District Attorney’s Office and the Sheriff’s Office oppose the release of William Stephenson, they will continue to fulfill their obligations of participating in the Housing Committee process as required by state law.  

The next hearing will be another status conference on Feb. 5 at 11 a.m. in Department 32.  To ensure you are receiving updates leading into this hearing, please sign up for our case portal at www.placer.ca.gov/SVP  

The state shared that residents can contact them directly at OfficeofCommunications@DSH.ca.gov or call 916-654-2419. 

Comics

Business & Community

Placer County Adopts Voter’s Choice Act Election Model

Exciting changes are coming to Placer County as we head into 2024!

Approved by the Board of Supervisors in the summer of 2023, the Placer County Elections Office has adopted the California Voter’s Choice Act election model to provide our eligible voters with more choice and control over their vote.

Moving to VCA means Placer County will have fewer machines in fewer locations, the ability to verify a voter’s eligibility and vote history in real time, and the capability to provide a paper ballot to every voter at their request. The Placer County Elections Office believes this will not only increase voters’ access to in-person voting and ballot drop-off, but their overall confidence and trust in Placer County elections.

This decision to transition to the new election model was primarily due to the increasing difficulty of recruiting 1,500+ volunteers and securing 200+ sites willing to host a polling place during an election. Moreover, polling places are quite restrictive in both voting time and location—voters can only cast their ballots in person at their assigned polling place on Election Day.

A move to VCA addresses both these issues, as this election model employs regional vote centers that are open for several days preceding an election and unrestricted to voters of a particular precinct. All voters can vote in person at any vote center. Placer County will have 29 vote centers for the March 5, 2024 Presidential Primary Election. Depending on the location, each vote center will be open for either four or 11 days, and all locations will be open from 8 a.m. to 4 p.m. every day, except for Election Day, when hours will be 7 a.m. to 8 p.m.

VCA also requires participating counties to provide at least one vote-by-mail ballot drop box for every 15,000 registered voters. As a convenience, Placer County has already met and exceeded this requirement each election since 2020.

In the past, vote-by-mail ballots dropped off at polling places or drop boxes on Election Day could not be processed until rosters had been verified, meaning they may not have been counted for weeks following the election. However, recently passed legislation now permits voters to bring their vote-by-mail ballot to any vote center and use the ballot scanner to have it counted on site, ensuring it will be included in the preliminary results released on Election Night. 

A list of vote center and drop box locations will be included in your Placer County Voter Information Guide (look for it in the mail the last week of January), your vote-by-mail ballot packet (mailed Feb. 5) or on the Placer County Elections website:

www.placercountyelections.gov

For more information about the Voter’s Choice Act, visit www.placercountyelections.gov/voters-choice-act/.

Meet the 2024 Roseville Chamber Board of Directors

The Roseville Area Chamber of Commerce hosted another successful Installation Dinner on January 18. Congratulations to those honored by the Chamber for their service to our community!

Ambassador of the Year Vincent Gonzales

Ryan Haney Referral Partner of the Year Award Vincent Gonzales

Volunteer of the Year Anne Carpenter

President’s Award Justin Curry

ATHENA Award Jamie Hazen

Edward M. Friedman Community Service Award Kevin Hernandez

Milestone Awards: Placer SPCA for their 50th anniversary & Style Media Group for their 20th anniversary

Keep in touch with the Roseville chamber at: RosevilleChamber.com

Manufacturing is moving back to the U.S. and into Placer County | The Reshoring Revolution: Seven Reasons Why Manufacturing is Returning to the USA

An increasing number of American manufacturers are making a significant move back to the U.S. from lower-cost countries, marking a trend known as reshoring. This strategic shift is driven by a recognition that the diminishing cost advantages of foreign manufacturing come with increasing risks, such as unstable supply chains, poor product quality, shipping delays, and potential long-term global trade conflicts.

The following are seven key factors propelling American companies to bring their manufacturing operations back to the U.S.

1. Shorter Lead Times
Maintaining operations in the U.S. provides companies with the advantage of shorter supply chains, enabling quicker material sourcing. This results in improved communication, efficient decision-making, faster response to customer needs, and a more streamlined delivery process, bypassing the delays associated with international shipping.

2. Higher Product Quality and Consistency
Offshore manufacturing often involves negative factors such as slow delivery, supply chain interruptions, ineffective communication, and poor training. These issues can lead to inferior quality, delays, recalls, and waste. Producing locally reduces these risks, enhancing product quality and allowing for greater flexibility in customer responsiveness.

3. Skilled Workforce
The U.S. boasts a highly skilled workforce that contributes to enhanced quality, efficiency, and faster time-to-market. The country's rigorous labor standards, safety regulations, workforce development initiatives, and technological investments make U.S. workers among the most productive globally.

4. "Made in USA" Advantage
Surveys indicate that consumers place importance on goods labeled "Made in USA" due to perceptions of quality and a desire to support the U.S. economy. The majority of U.S. consumers prefer domestically produced items, with a significant percentage willing to pay more for products bearing the "Made in USA" label.

5. Improved Responsiveness to Changing Customer Demands
Manufacturing locally enables quick responses to evolving market demands. Manufacturers can adapt to new trends, incorporate enhanced features, and accelerate production and shipping, including the provision of same-day delivery services.

6. Minimal Intellectual Property and Regulatory Compliance Risks
The U.S. boasts stringent intellectual property laws that aggressively protect ownership rights. This reduces risks related to intellectual property and regulatory compliance, making it a favorable environment compared to some low-cost countries.

7. Total Cost of Ownership (TCO)
While many companies make sourcing decisions based solely on price, the total cost of ownership (TCO) accounts for all relevant factors, providing a more accurate assessment of actual costs. Reshoring is often more attractive when considering overhead, balance sheet, risks, corporate strategy, and other internal and external business considerations.

Technology Leads the Way
Reshoring not only benefits companies but also supports the U.S. economy by creating jobs and encouraging capital investment. To stay competitive, a commitment to long-term strategies, creative thinking, and investments in Industry 4.0 and Internet-of-Things technologies is crucial. Reducing regulations and improving skilled workforce programs are additional success factors.

The rate of reshoring, along with foreign direct investment (FDI) job announcements, has seen a remarkable increase, showcasing a significant macro-economic impact. This trend is likely to continue, especially amid ongoing turbulence in global trade. Policymakers can use these successes as evidence that bringing millions of jobs back is feasible, guiding local and national strategies for improved competitiveness.

7 Reasons Manufacturers Are Returning to the US - ASME | Mark Crawford

Sustainable Agricultural Land Conservation Program (SALC)

Placer County has been awarded a planning grant of $500,000 from the Department of Conservation through the Sustainable Agricultural Land Conservation Program (SALC). This initiative is a crucial step in safeguarding our region's agricultural heritage and conserving our prime farmland.

To learn more about the SALC grant, please visit the California Department of Conservation's website by clicking here and signup below for future SALC newsletters.

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

Placer County Sheriff's Office (PCSO) Loomis Office 6140 Horseshoe Bar Road, Suite D Loomis, CA 95650 916-652-2400 (Non-Emergency)

South Placer Fire District 6900 Eureka Rd, Granite Bay, CA 95746 (916) 791-7059 southplacerfire.org

CAL Fire Nevada-Yuba Placer 13760 Lincoln Way, Auburn 95603 530-889-0111

California Highway Patrol - Auburn Area Office (220) 9440 Indian Hill Road Newcastle, CA 95658 (916) 633-3344 (Non-Emergency)

Placer County District Attorney’s Office 10810 Justice Center Drive Roseville, CA 95678

"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