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Dedicated Leader | Champion of Education | Committed to our Heritage
 March 1st 2024
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Dear Residents of District 4,
As we bid farewell to February and welcome the blossoms March, I want to express my sincere appreciation for your continued support of my office. Your engagement is essential in shaping the future of our community, and I want you to know that your concerns are heard, valued, and integrated into my decision-making process.
Did you know the Board of Supervisors travels up the hill each quarter to host our meeting in Lake Tahoe? This way the residents in the eastern part of our county can participate in person without having to drive down to Auburn.
On Tuesday the 27th we discussed several items including updates on the Lake Tahoe Destination Stewardship Plan and the Eastern Placer County Fire Services Ad Hoc Committee. An amendment to the Short-Term Vacation Rentals Ordinance, particularly focusing on Supervisorial District 5, was introduced for discussion and direction. The County Executive Office presented 2024 priorities aligned with the Board’s Critical Success Factors in Eastern Placer County.
Various departmental items were considered for action, covering a range of topics including Granite Bay Parks maintenance, commendations, and agreements related to substance use services and behavioral health. Discussions included an ordinance related to reproductive loss leave, salary adjustments for the Board of Supervisors, and projects such as the Lower Secline Water Quality Improvement Project. The Board approved appropriations for the Lincoln Public Safety Foundation, reaffirming their commitment to promoting the welfare of the County and its inhabitants.
Now, let me discuss the elephant in the room. At this very moment, officials across our state are finalizing discussions on the Mandated Housing Rezone. I am immensely proud of our residents for their active involvement in this critical issue. Your calls and emails have flooded in, highlighting our collective dedication to the well-being of our community. Your insights have been invaluable, prompting us to reconsider certain properties and ensuring that your concerns are at the forefront of our discussions. Remember, I work for all of us, representing Eastern Roseville, Granite Bay, Unincorporated Loomis, Penryn, and Newcastle.
When I attend board meetings, I bring forth the concerns and perspectives of each of our communities. I consult with staff and counsel extensively before every meeting, ensuring that I am well-informed and equipped to make informed decisions.
Let me shed light on how one supervisor can make a significant impact. Our Granite Bay Municipal Advisory Council (MAC) consists of sub-committees that delve into crucial aspects such as the Granite Bay Community Plan, Parks, Open Space & Natural Resources, Trails, and Traffic. These committees serve as additional boots on the ground, providing a comprehensive understanding of how our district operates.
Through dialogues with residents, first responders, business owners, and neighboring officials, we recognize shared concerns such as traffic, public safety, and economic considerations. Everyone deserves the opportunity to live, work, and thrive in Placer County, and we are committed to addressing the challenges that come with progress. While there is no one-size-fits-all solution, my dedicated sub-committee members actively explore viable options to navigate these complex issues.
Beyond my role as your elected county supervisor, I serve on multiple boards that shape regional policies.
- Air Pollution Control District Board: (http://www.placerair.org)
- Area 4 Agency on Aging Advisory Board: (www.agencyonaging4.org) | Phone: (916) 486-1876
- Criminal Justice Policy Committee
- Legislative Committee
- Greater Sacramento Area Economic Council (Alternate)
- National Association of Counties (NACO)
- Pioneer Community Energy: (www.pioneercommunityenergy.org)
- Roseville City Council/Placer County Liaison Committee
- Sacramento Area Council of Governments (SACOG): (www.sacog.org)
- South Placer Regional Transportation Authority (SPRTA): (https://www.pctpa.net/south-placer-regional-transportation-authority-sprta)
- SPRTA Sub-Committee: Policy Advisory Committee
- Tribal County Advisory Committee
- Western Placer Waste Management Authority (Alternate)
Participating in these various forums broadens my understanding of our region's intricate workings, enabling me to advocate more effectively for Granite Bay, District 4, and Placer County as a whole. If you need to contact any of these organizations or would like to learn more, please do not hesitate to reach out to me for guidance.
Your support fuels our progress. Being elected extends beyond a title; it is a commitment to be your voice on multiple fronts. As we move forward, I encourage you to advocate for our shared interests and join us at our next MAC meeting, held on the first Thursday of each month at 6 PM at the Granite Bay Library.
Let's sustain these conversations, explore solutions, and collaboratively work to ensure that Placer County remains a community we are all proud to call home.
Should you need to reach me directly, please email suzannejones@placer.ca.gov or contact my chief of staff at (530) 899-4010. I am eager to hear from you and discuss what matters most to us in Placer County.
Thank you for your unwavering trust.
Warm regards,
Suzanne Jones
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Placer County Faces Hurdles in Meeting Housing Rezone Mandate
 I want to begin by expressing my gratitude for your continued engagement and feedback on the county's rezone program. Your concerns are heard, and I am committed to addressing them as we navigate this complex issue together.
As Placer County grapples with the complexities of its mandated housing rezone program, concerns and deliberations echo through the community. The recent Placer County Planning Commission hearing on February 22nd provided a platform for residents to voice their apprehensions, shedding light on the intricate balance between meeting housing demands and preserving community integrity.
At the heart of the matter lies the Housing Element Implementation Program HE-1, driven by the imperative to bridge the county's housing gap, as mandated by state law. With a looming deadline of May 15th, Placer County faces the daunting task of rezoning adequate sites to meet its Regional Housing Needs Allocation (RHNA), while navigating additional challenges posed by infrastructure deficits, rural character preservation, and traffic concerns.
Acknowledging the gravity of these challenges, I emphasize the importance of community engagement and careful deliberation. Meetings with property owners on this list are underway. I have been working to satisfy our requirements with a commitment to crafting a plan that addresses community concerns, and the respects of property rights for those landowners who volunteered their property to be rezoned.
Despite the complexity of the situation, progress is being made. Placer County Planning Director Chris Pahule confirms that a significant number of property owners have expressed willingness to participate in the program, representing a substantial step towards meeting housing goals.
However, concerns persist among residents, ranging from infrastructure inadequacies to potential strains on community resources. The Board of Supervisors, cognizant of these concerns, has undertaken a thorough review of proposed sites, considering feedback from residents and experts alike.
In a unanimous decision, the Board approved a motion to advance the program, signaling a pivotal step in the process. Yet, the journey ahead remains challenging, with continued public input and scrutiny essential to shaping the program's outcome.
As Placer County navigates this intricate path, residents are encouraged to remain engaged and informed. The draft Environmental Impact Report (EIR) is available for review, with comments accepted until March 18th. By participating in the process, residents can play a pivotal role in shaping the future of housing development in Placer County, ensuring a balanced approach that serves the needs of all stakeholders.
Timeline and Next Steps:
Following recent workshops and meetings, the program is progressing through several stages:
- Draft Environmental Impact Report (EIR) Public Review Period: Open until March 18, 2024.
- Housing Element Amendment Public Review: Anticipated release in the week of March 4th (with a 7-day public review period).
- Final EIR Release: Expected in April.
- Planning Commission Hearing: To provide a recommendation to the Board of Supervisors (targeting April).
- Board of Supervisors Hearing: Final action on the program (targeting May).
Importance and Consequences:
- Failure to implement the Rezone Program by May 15, 2024, could lead to the County losing its land use authority under Government Code Section 67555.
- Losing land use authority would mean that land use decisions would be made at the state level without local control.
- Additionally, the County could lose its recent Pro-Housing Designation and access to grant funding supporting local programs and initiatives.
Consult the Environmental Coordination Services webpage for more details.
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Placer County Prepares for Higher Education Expansion with New Satellite Campus
 Placer County, Calif. - Exciting developments are underway in Placer County as plans for a collaborative satellite campus for Sacramento State and Sierra College take shape. Known as Placer Center, this innovative educational hub is set to bring higher education opportunities closer to home for residents.
Situated within the expansive Placer One development, the 301-acre Placer Center aims to bridge the gap between community college and four-year university education. With a seamless transition from Sierra College to Sacramento State, students can pursue their academic journeys without the need to change campuses.
Recently, the CSU Board of Trustees approved the master plan for Sacramento State's extension, marking a significant milestone for the project. Placer County Board of Supervisors has also pledged $2.5 million towards the construction of a state-of-the-art forensic lab at the Placer Center.
According to Sacramento State's campus architect, Tania Nunez, the next phase involves bringing the master plan to life through the construction of various buildings. The first phase will see the development of a Forensic Science Laboratory in partnership with Placer County, with subsequent phases set to include additional academic buildings and facilities.
Vajra Watson, Senior Associate Vice President for Placer Center, highlighted the educational focus of the project, with faculty working on course pathways for new majors. These include interdisciplinary fields such as Forensic Science, Environmental Health, and Public Safety, catering to the diverse needs of the community.
While there's still much work ahead, the progress made so far has instilled a sense of optimism among project stakeholders. Nunez expressed her excitement for the future, emphasizing the transformative impact the Placer Center will have on the region.
The development will be executed in four phases over the next 25 years, with each phase designed to accommodate increasing student populations. From initial infrastructure installations to the construction of academic buildings and student facilities, Placer County is gearing up to meet the demands of higher education growth.
As the Placer Center takes shape, residents can look forward to a vibrant educational landscape that enhances accessibility, fosters innovation, and supports the academic success of future generations.
https://www.cbsnews.com/sacramento/news/new-bill-would-force-caltrans-to-pay-for-last-years-window-damage-along-i-80-in-roseville/Assembly member Patterson is pushing for accountability from the state transportation department, Caltrans, regarding damage caused to vehicles on Interstate 80 during a four-month period in 2023. Most incidents occurred between Highway 65 and Douglas Boulevard in Placer County, where loose gravel resulting from winter storms led to shattered windshields and other vehicle damage. Assemblyman Joe Patterson introduced Assembly Bill 2848 to hold Caltrans responsible for claims related to loose gravel incidents, which were previously denied due to the current law's classification of such incidents as non-hazardous. Patterson aims to change this classification, emphasizing the safety risks posed by damaged windshields. Despite Caltrans' denial of claims, numerous reports from affected residents and local law enforcement suggest otherwise. Patterson's office plans to investigate further, seeking records and evidence to support the claims.
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Ready to Vote, Placer?
 To expand in-person voting opportunities for their eligible voters, the Placer County Elections Office has recently adopted the Voter’s Choice Act (VCA) election model. LEARN MORE
Starting with the March 5, 2024 Presidential Primary Election, Placer County voters are no longer assigned to a specific voting location to cast their ballot in person. Instead, they can now visit any one of 29 regional vote centers located in the county. Unlike polling places, which are only open to voters on Election Day, these vote centers are open for 4 or 11 days, depending on the location; seven of Placer’s 29 vote centers for the upcoming primary opened Feb. 24, and the remaining 22 locations will be available to voters starting March 2.
A list of vote center locations, as well as their hours of operation, can be found in the Placer County Voter Information Guide or by visiting www.placercountyelections.gov.
Loomis
- Loomis Veterans Hall, 5945 Horseshoe Bar Road - March 2-5
Granite Bay
- Granite Bay Library, 6475 Douglas Boulevard - Feb. 24-March 5
- Granite Bay High School, 1 Grizzly Way - March 2-5
Roseville
- Roseville Veterans Hall, 110 Park Drive - Feb. 24-March 5
- Buljan Middle School, 100 Hallissy Drive - March 2-5
- Barbara Chilton Middle School, 4501 Bob Doyle Drive - March 2-5
- Robert C. Cooley Middle School, 9300 Prairie Woods Way - March 2-5
- Martha Riley Library, 1501 Pleasant Grove Boulevard - Feb. 24-March 5
- Mike Shellito Indoor Pool, 10210 Fairway Drive - March 2-5
- Maidu Community Center, 1550 Maidu Drive - March 2-5
- @the Grounds, 700 Event Center Drive - March 2-5
- Roseville Church of Christ, 1799 Cirby Way - March 2-5
- West Park High School, 401 Panther Place - March 2-5
Eligible voters who choose to vote using their vote-by-mail ballot can return it to the Elections Office in person, by mail or by using one of 30 official drop boxes located throughout Placer County. However, a new law now allows them to have it counted on-site at a vote center! Voters can visit any location, check in with staff, and have their vote-by-mail ballot scanned while they watch, ensuring their votes are included in the early results released on Election Night.
Dedicated to transparency and security, the Elections Office invites anyone who wishes to observe and learn more about election procedures in Placer County to visit the office in person.
Voters can get voting assistance, obtain a replacement ballot or find vote center and drop box locations on the Placer County Elections website (https://www.placercountyelections.gov/), by calling 530-886-5650 (toll-free 1-800-824-8683) or by visiting the office in person at 3715 Atherton Road in Rocklin.
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Placer County Advances Forest Health Initiatives with French Meadows Ecological Restoration Project
 AUBURN, Calif. - In a decisive move to bolster forest health and wildfire resilience, the Placer County Board of Supervisors has greenlit a crucial contract for the French Meadows Ecological Forest Restoration Project. This initiative, aimed at addressing wildfire risks and safeguarding water resources, received a significant boost with the allocation of a contract to Dowling Underground & Networking Inc., valued at $587,584.
The French Meadows project, spanning over 22,000 acres surrounding the French Meadows Reservoir, is a collaborative endeavor involving various stakeholders dedicated to ecologically-driven forest management. By expanding treatment efforts across nearly 400 acres, Placer County reaffirms its commitment to proactive forest health strategies.
"This project underscores our dedication to mitigating wildfire risks and preserving the ecological integrity of our forests," remarked Placer County Regional Forest Health coordinator Kerri Timmer. With the restoration project already 55% complete, Timmer expressed cautious optimism regarding its anticipated completion by the end of the 2025 work season.
The competitive bidding process resulted in Dowling Underground & Networking Inc. emerging as the most cost-effective choice for non-commercial fuels reduction services. The substantial cost savings of $75,666 highlight the fiscal prudence exercised in selecting the contractor.
Scheduled to commence during the 2024 work season, the approved contract signifies a significant step forward in advancing critical forest health initiatives. As Placer County continues to prioritize ecologically-driven forest management, the French Meadows Ecological Restoration Project stands as a beacon of hope for the future of our forests and communities.
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Placer County Prosecutes First-Ever Fentanyl Murder Case
 AUBURN, Calif. — Opening arguments commenced on Monday for Placer County's landmark fentanyl murder case jury trial, marking a significant step in the county's efforts to combat drug-related fatalities.
The Placer County District Attorney’s Office announced that this trial represents the first instance in the county's history where someone is being charged with murder in connection to a fentanyl-related death. Carson David Schewe faces charges stemming from an incident in December 2021, with prosecutors alleging that Schewe sold fentanyl to an individual, resulting in their tragic demise.
District Attorney Morgan Gire emphasized the severity of the situation, stating, “Placer County has been tragically affected by the national fentanyl epidemic. We are committed to combating this crisis with continued education and awareness efforts, extensive prevention campaigns, and aggressive prosecution of those who seek to peddle this deadly drug in our community.”
Since the initial charges were filed, officials have successfully secured multiple convictions related to fentanyl-related offenses. However, this trial marks a pivotal moment as it represents the first jury trial in the region for a case of this nature.
With opening statements delivered on Monday, the trial sets a precedent for Placer County's uncompromising stance on prosecuting individuals involved in the distribution of lethal drugs like fentanyl. As the proceedings unfold, the outcome of this trial will undoubtedly have far-reaching implications in the ongoing fight against the opioid epidemic plaguing communities nationwide.
Annual St. Baldricks Event
 A challenge among friends 25 years ago has become the largest volunteer movement to Conquer Kids’ Cancer. This year, I’m joining thousands of others to shave my head to raise money for childhood cancer research!
Did you know, 1 in 5 kids diagnosed with cancer in the U.S. won’t survive? For those who do, more than 96% have severe or life-threatening conditions by the time they are 50.
Each shaved head, every dollar donated, creates a ripple effect of progress for kids with cancer.
This is the 22nd year of the St. Baldrick’s for our team. Please join us Saturday, March 9 at the Westfield Galleria, Roseville. Event will be from 1 pm to 4 pm.
Your gift will give kids and their families hope, supporting the best research across the country, through the largest charity funder of childhood cancer research grants, the St. Baldrick’s Foundation.
Together, let’s give these kids the lifetime they deserve. Thank you for your support! Learn more at St. Baldrick's Foundation | Childhood Cancer Research Charity (stbaldricks.org)
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Placer County Board of Supervisors Approves Bequest Donation for Library System
 At a recent meeting, the Placer County Board of Supervisors unanimously approved the acceptance of a generous bequest donation from the Friends of the Auburn Library for the county's library system.
Louise Isaacson, president of Friends of the Auburn Library, expressed gratitude for the donation, emphasizing the importance of community support for libraries. She highlighted the legacy left by Marjorie Hope Kaff, a dedicated advocate for the library and former Auburn teacher, who bequeathed $300,000 to support its mission.
Isaacson explained that the donation has been wisely invested, with a portion of the funds earmarked for immediate use by the library in the current and upcoming fiscal years. The first installment of $25,000 was presented to the library, with specific instructions from Kaff to focus on enhancing non-fiction book collections for all ages.
The board expressed its appreciation for the generous donation, acknowledging it as a significant legacy that will benefit library patrons for years to come.
Placer County Library Services Director Mary George affirmed that the donation will have a positive impact on library services countywide, enhancing collections and resources for the community.
The acceptance of this donation exemplifies the vital role of community support in sustaining and enriching public libraries, ensuring they remain valuable resources for education, learning, and community engagement.
How does Code Enforcment work?
 In communities across the nation, issues pertaining to enforcement on private property often pose significant challenges for local authorities. From unkempt yards to unpermitted construction, complaints from neighbors’ prompt investigations that require careful navigation of legal boundaries and due process.
In District 4, we encounter similar challenges as we strive to enforce rules and regulations while respecting property rights. When complaints are received, our team, consisting of authorities from planning and code enforcement, diligently investigates the matter. However, the due process of protecting property rights can sometimes complicate our efforts.
One of the key obstacles we face is when property owners ignore our attempts to address violations. While we understand the importance of proper channels and respecting property rights, it can be frustrating when our attempts to communicate with property owners go unanswered.
Our process involves sending letters to and if possible, visiting the property owner, outlining the complaints and violations observed. We must wait patiently for a response, hoping to resolve the issue amicably. However, if the property owner continues to ignore our attempts to address the violation, we are left with no choice but to escalate the matter.
At this stage, we send a final letter of determination, clearly outlining the code violations and the steps that need to be taken to rectify the situation. Despite our reluctance, if the property owner remains non-compliant, we are compelled to take action to enforce penalties at their expense.
It's important for our community to understand that we do not take these actions lightly. We respect the property rights of all individuals and strive to ensure that due process is followed every step of the way. However, when violations of the law occur, it becomes necessary for us to uphold the regulations that protect the well-being of our community.
We recognize that this process may sometimes take longer than desired, and for that, we extend our sincerest apologies. We ask for your understanding and patience as we work diligently to address these issues while upholding the principles of justice and fairness.
Placer Visits Germany - Advocates for Corporate Investment
 Local leaders recently embarked on an advocacy trip to Germany alongside the Greater Sacramento Economic Council. The aim was to promote Placer County on an international scale and foster collaborations with German companies. The trip, which took place from Feb. 3-10, involved meetings with various companies to attract investment and job opportunities to the Sacramento region.
Rocklin Vice Mayor Gayaldo highlighted the success of the trip, emphasizing the importance of building relationships with companies like SMA Solar and Bosch, which recently acquired TSI Semiconductor. The group also explored opportunities for partnerships with German engineering companies to increase internships and training programs.
Additionally, discussions with Lufthansa explored the possibility of direct flights from Sacramento International Airport. Supervisor Gore stressed the mutual benefit of such ventures, noting that the Roseville Bosch opening creates job opportunities for area residents, leveraging the area's highly educated workforce.
The Greater Sacramento Economic Council plans to present a recap of the Germany trip to the Rocklin City Council in late March, indicating ongoing efforts to strengthen regional economic ties.
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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 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
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The Board of Supervisors is the governing body of the County and certain special districts. The Board enacts ordinances and resolutions, adopts the annual budget, approves contracts, appropriates funds, determines land use zoning for the unincorporated area, and appoints certain County officers, including the CEO and members of various boards and commissions.
Regular Meetings
The Board of Supervisors generally meets on the second and fourth Tuesday of each month at 9 a.m. at the Placer County Administrative Center located at 175 Fulweiler Avenue in Auburn, CA. Please view the meeting calendar to verify meeting dates.
Agendas & Minutes
Agendas are available prior to the meetings. Minutes are available following approval.
View Most Recent Agendas and Minutes
Strategic Plan
Placer County has identified eight Critical Success Factors to help set the county’s priorities. Part of that effort includes an annual work plan that acts as a roadmap toward achieving our goals and is closely monitored by the board. In an effort to provide total transparency, the Placer County Strategic Work Plan is now available for public review and we encourage residents to follow our progress through quarterly updates. Learn more about the critical success factors.
"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
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