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Dedicated Leader | Champion of Education | Committed to our Heritage
 April 1st 2024
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Dear Residents and Friends of District 4,
I hope you're all having a wonderful start to April! Last month, you may have noticed a radar trailer with extra patrol cars parked on Douglas near the Library. At our upcoming MAC meeting this week, we'll hear a report on this matter. I also want to express my gratitude to everyone who has reached out to my office regarding the housing rezone. My staff has been diligently responding to over 500 emails, calls, and a few text messages. Remember, while I have a county Facebook page, contacting my office directly is the quickest way to get a response from us.
Now, why is the housing rezone such a complex process? Many of you have asked why we can't simply add or remove properties from the list. Well, housing is a multifaceted issue influenced by various economic, social, and policy factors. Here are some key dynamics at play:
- Government Policies: Affordable housing policies are shaped by actions at the local, state, and federal levels, including zoning regulations, tax incentives, and funding allocations. This new Mandate is what we are being forced to adopt. The county plan can be stricter than the state requirements, but we cannot be more lax than state or federal requirements, that’s why this process is so controversial.
- Land Use and Zoning: Zoning laws dictate how land can be used and developed, often leading to debates over affordable housing projects' impacts on property values and neighborhood character. This is defined by our general and community plans.
- Community Resistance: Affordable housing projects may face opposition from residents concerned about property values, traffic, and neighborhood aesthetics. Private property owners are opting-in or choosing not to opt-in for their own personal reasons. I have spoken with many of them to understand what is influencing their decisions and balancing supporting their rights along with the rights of their neighbors.
- Public-Private Partnerships: Affordable housing projects often rely on partnerships between government entities, nonprofits, and private developers. At the moment no developer has come forward nor are there any specific plans. Unfortunately, there was misinformation circulating about the height and number of units planned to be built on one specific parcel, that’s just not true. The developers have to wait until the zoning is complete before they could know what type of project proposal to bring forward and at that time, public input would be taken into account directly with that architect to shape said project.
As a long-time resident of our community, my family and I are also affected by these issues, including traffic patterns, land use decisions, and inflation. My family and I feel the impact of rising costs, which is why I support local businesses whenever possible. I've heard workers' calls for higher wages, and while some larger businesses can adapt more easily, smaller ones may struggle. I have been approached recently by owners of food establishments that will be raising their pay today. The unfortunate byproduct of providing needed relief to workers will be higher prices, possible lay-offs and in one case the eventual closure of a business. Large franchises that have the revenue streams to offset the higher labor costs, insurance costs, rent increases and high employee turnover and are able pivot quicker than small franchises who see a fraction of the traffic at a Starbucks or Chick-fil-a.
In recent discussions with Walmart about their decision to close the store we have in Granite Bay. The explanation is that the location is not performing in line with their business models, which surprises me because I shop there frequently and it’s always busy. It just goes to show ya' how many factors are considered when making a business decision.
The world is evolving, and we're working hard to keep up. When I started my first term the world quickly shut down due to the pandemic mandates and we were thrown off course for many years as a result. Lessons were learned and changes were made, and now we are a better community as a result. I empathize with your concerns as they directly impact my life as well. As your elected supervisor, I am committed to improving as many aspects of our community as possible, including land use, public safety, and even myself. Every day presents an opportunity to learn and grow. This April, I encourage you to extend grace to yourself and spread joy to your neighbors. Let's come together as a unified front to address challenges, engage in meaningful discussions, and collaborate on difficult decisions.
Warm regards,
Supervisor Suzanne Jones
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Placer County adds one-story, one-bedroom ADU unit to pre-reviewed plans suite
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AUBURN, Calif. -- Placer County has added a new pre-reviewed plan for a one-bedroom accessory dwelling unit that meets California’s current building standards and will help property owners bypass lengthy review processes prior to construction.
In May 2023, the county’s Community Development Resource Agency released a suite of pre-reviewed plan options for one-, two- and three-bedroom ADUs. The two- and three-bedroom options are one-story units available with and without a garage. The one-bedroom plan is for a two-story unit with living space above a garage.
The new one-bedroom plan released this month has been developed to meet customer demand for a one story, one-bedroom unit that does not have a garage.
The one-bedroom unit plan is 661 square feet, and has one bathroom and an open floor plan for living, dining and kitchen space.
Plans allow for the owner or builder to select heating, roofing and siding. Each plan includes snow load engineering, foundation plans and the capability for solar panels and battery-power backup batteries.
“Providing pre-reviewed ADU plans is an efficient, affordable opportunity for Placer County to support our community’s high demand for housing,” said principal planner Nikki Streegan.
An ADU can be used for many purposes, such as independent space for a family member or college student, or to provide the property owner with rental income. ADUs increase property value and can help meet the county’s need to offer more affordable and workforce housing in the community.
Plans can be purchased for $1,200, a vast reduction from standard fees for unreviewed ADU plans that can add up to $9,000 or more. Property owners can preview renderings, floor plans, elevations and additional information at https://www.placer.ca.gov/accessoryhomes prior to purchase.
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Youth Commission seeks new members wanting to make a difference
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AUBURN, Calif. -- The Placer County Youth Commission is now accepting applications from local youth who wish to serve as one of 21 formally appointed members for the 2024-25 term.
PCYC is a group of motivated youth from all over Placer County who identify and advocate for issues important to and affecting Placer County youth. They are an advisory board to the Placer County Board of Supervisors, consisting of at least two youth representatives from each of the five supervisory districts. PCYC strives to appoint youth that represent diverse backgrounds, experiences and skill sets.
PCYC advises decision-makers on youth-related issues, serves as a community forum to discuss youth concerns and ideas, raises the profile of Placer County youth, initiates and maintains positive change in the community, encourages youth engagement and prepares youth to be active citizens. The PCYC experience has helped numerous youth attain opportunities, awards and scholarships.
Youth members facilitate bi-monthly meetings, set priorities, conduct research and create action plans. PCYC may sponsor special activities and host open forums or events, such as their annual 5K this coming April 27. The commission also presents an annual report at the Board of Supervisors meeting in June.
Applicants must be Placer County residents between the ages of 14 (or ninth grade) and 18 (or twelfth grade) years. Applications are due by 11:59 p.m. on Tuesday, April 30. Commissioner appointment is a competitive process consisting of both a written application and an interview.
To apply and learn more visit www.placeryouth.com.
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Man caught in the act during burglary of Granite Bay church, sheriff's office say
A man was caught in the act of robbing a Granite Bay church last week, thanks to a burglary alarm, the Placer County Sheriff's Office said.
The sheriff's office said they had been investigating a series of burglaries at Bayside Church for a few weeks.
But just over a week ago, deputies responded to a burglary alarm at the church and found a man there in possession of burglary tools and keys, the sheriff's office said.
Officials said 41-year-old Spencer Bron of Citrus Heights was arrested.
The church said Bron previously worked for Bayside on the construction team for less than a year. He has not worked for the church for around nine months.
Detectives uncovered a storage unit linked to Bron and searched it, finding over $50,000 worth of property that belonged to Bayside Church, the sheriff's office said.
Officials said the case exemplifies the collaboration between patrol and investigations units.
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Sexually violent predator could be housed near tribal land
 A Placer County Superior Court held a check-in for the release of state-designated Sexually Violent Predator William Stephenson. The District Attorney’s Office’s assigned prosecutor was present at the hearing alongside county counsel and joined by county representatives, members of Crime Victims United, media and the community to monitor the update given to the court.
William Stephenson appeared virtually with the Department of State Hospitals and their contractor, Liberty Healthcare. The judge reiterated that it has been two years since the court authorized the SVP release but does not want to release Stephenson to a place that is not secure.
The Department of State Hospitals asked for a 30-day extension to submit new updates to the court. DSH told the court they are currently assessing a property that is very close to tribal lands and they are working to contact the tribal community regarding the area.
The Placer County District Attorney’s Office agrees that every stakeholder should be at the table during housing placement discussions. DSH did not indicate that they are looking to host another housing meeting in the near future.
The judge tentatively set another court check-in hearing for April 22 at 11 a.m. in Department 32.
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Wildfire Mitigation Gets an A.I. Boost
With the persistent threat of wildfires and three-quarters of its land covered by forests, Placer County is taking a novel approach to wildfire mitigation by focusing on risk detection and management through a new threat assessment tool. Land Tender, a wildfire risk modeling and geospatial data platform, was recently chosen by the county to identify priority areas for wildfire mitigation efforts. The platform was created by Vibrant Planet, which delivers fire prevention and forest health projects using cloud-based technology.
With wildfire season on the horizon, Placer County foothill communities are taking action to protect their homes and neighborhoods.
Throughout April and May, a series of events will equip residents with the knowledge and resources they need to reduce wildfire risks.
Planned activities include defensible space work, hazardous vegetation removal, wildfire mitigation forums, a wildfire-related resource event and more.
The Placer County Office of Emergency Services urges residents to attend events in their local area and participate in their local Firewise community district, which could result in receiving a fire insurance discount from the California Department of Insurance.
Residents can search and find their local Firewise community online, here.
For more information or assistance forming a neighborhood Firewise community, residents can contact the Placer County Firewise Program coordinator at 530-886-3473 or fireready@placer.ca.gov.
The following events have been confirmed and new events will be publicized as they’re scheduled.
Land Tender Virtual Community Forum
Tuesday, April 2, 6 - 8 p.m.
Online via Zoom (*Open to all participants from all zones)
https://placer-ca-gov.zoom.us/j/92559592689
*Please note that the virtual session and in-person meetings will have the same information.
Organized by the Placer County Regional Forest Health Division, residents are invited to participate in this virtual-only community forum focusing on mitigating wildfire risk to communities, improving water quality, protecting recreational opportunities and other critical assets. Learn more
Christian Valley Wildfire Preparedness Day
Saturday, April 13, 10 a.m. - 2 p.m.
California Conservation Corps Placer Center; 3710 Christian Valley Road, Auburn
Organized by the North Auburn/Ophir Fire Safe Council with support from CAL FIRE NEU/Placer County Fire and California Conservation Corps, the event will educate attendees about the risks and responsibilities associated with living in a high wildfire-risk area by providing demonstrations and distributing information that can be put into action to reduce the risk of loss of life and personal property due to wildfire. Attendees will also learn about the California Conservation Corps's role in responding to natural and manmade disasters, including fire. Learn more
Foresthill Firewise Communities Open House
Thursday, April 25, 5 - 7 p.m.
Brew Master’s Deli; 24340 Foresthill Road, Foresthill
Organized by the Foresthill/Iowa Hill Fire Safe Council, participants will learn the basics, benefits and work involved with joining or creating a Firewise Community. The Placer County Firewise Community coordinator will be available to answer any questions. Learn more
Land Tender Summit - West Community Forum
Monday, April 29, 6 - 8 p.m.
Leroy E. Botts Memorial Park; 24601 Harrison Street, Foresthill
Organized by the Placer County Regional Forest Health Division, residents are invited to participate in this in-person-only community forum focusing on mitigating wildfire risk to communities, improving water quality and protecting recreational opportunities and other critical assets. Learn more
Foresthill Wildfire Community Preparedness Day
Saturday, May 4, 9 a.m. - noon
Leroy E. Botts Memorial Park; 24601 Harrison Street, Foresthill
Organized by the Foresthill Fire Safe Council with support from the Foresthill Fire Protection District, residents are invited to learn about wildfire preparedness, Firewise communities and what they can do to provide additional wildfire safety around their residences. Learn more
Stop the Embers
Friday-Sunday, May 17-19
Gold Country Fairgrounds; 209 Fairgate Road, Auburn
Hosted by the Auburn City Fire Department, this year’s Stop the Embers event is now part of the Auburn Spring Home Show. Stop the Embers celebrates Auburn’s community effort to reduce the risk of catastrophic wildfire. Community members will be able to learn from firefighters and prevention specialists, ask questions and get resources, and more. Admission to the Auburn Spring Home Show is required. Learn more
Free Green Waste Day
Saturday, May 18, 9 a.m. - 3 p.m.
Foresthill Fire Safe Council and Foresthill Fire Protection District are cp\o-hosting a community green waste day. The Fire Safe Council and Firewise Communities collaborate and hold this annual event to ensure all residents have the opportunity to reduce fuels on their property prior to fire season. This event will be held at the old mill site behind the Dollar General store in Foresthill. This event is open to Foresthill-area residents only. Please bring green waste only (including log rounds up to 12 inches). No food, pet or construction waste and no dirt, sod or rocks. Customers must bring proof of residency, tarp over and under the load and empty their own load. For questions email fireready@placer.ca.gov. Learn more
Developmental Disabilities Day March 21st
 Assemblyman Patterson and Assemblymember Nguyen held a press conference outside the Capitol to discuss AB 3156, a bill authored by Patterson. The bill aims to prevent individuals with developmental disabilities from losing access to their healthcare teams. Last year, families in Placer County shared concerns that their children with disabilities were being required by the state to enroll in Medi-Cal managed care plans, resulting in the loss of access to their current doctors. AB 3156 seeks to exempt these families from mandatory managed care enrollment, allowing them to maintain continuity of care with their preferred medical teams. Patterson emphasized the importance of ensuring laws support families and constituents. He invited affected families to the State Assembly to recognize and celebrate their advocacy.
A night of laughter from our recent "Comedy for a Cause" benefitting AllegiantVets
It was heartwarming to see both familiar faces and new friends come together to share in the joy of laughter, enjoy Josh Novey's incredible performance, and stand in solidarity with those who have served our country. Your contributions, whether through laughter, donations, or both, have made a lasting impact on the lives of our veterans.
This event exemplified the power of community and the strength that comes from joining forces for a common cause. Thanks to our support, they are now one step closer to providing the vital support and resources our veterans need to thrive in civilian life.
Best Bagger Competition Winner!
A few weekends ago Good Day Sacramento segment with Coby Estrada. Coby, a proud Roseville native and employee at the West Roseville Nugget, is gearing up for a thrilling weekend in Vegas. He's set to represent both Roseville and California in the highly anticipated 2023 Best Bagger Championships. After clinching victory at the state level, Coby is now vying for top honors on the national stage.
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In the bustling landscape of Placer County, where "Boomburbs" thrive and young professionals flourish, health is more than just a visit to the doctor—it's intertwined with our relationships, connections, and quality of life.
Recent data from ESRI sheds light on the demographic and socioeconomic makeup of Placer County's Booming suburbs. These emerging suburban hubs boast well-educated young professionals, high labor force participation, and a strong inclination towards financial planning. Yet, alongside the perks of spacious living and job opportunities comes the challenge of longer commute times and an influx of technology, leading to concerns about work-life balance.
So, why does this information matter? Understanding the dynamics of our community can help businesses tailor their strategies to meet the needs of residents. By recognizing the preferences and challenges of suburb dwellers, businesses can make informed decisions, foster meaningful connections, and contribute to the overall well-being of our vibrant community.
In essence, health transcends the boundaries of healthcare—it encompasses the entirety of our lives, from our work to our relationships to our environment. By embracing a holistic approach to health, we can create a thriving community where every individual can flourish.
Click here to see the full ESRI report
Click here for county region reports
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 Sports
 In a thrilling Boras Classic semifinal showdown, Granite Bay seized an early lead with a powerful offensive surge, ultimately clinching an 8-4 victory against Serra. The Grizzlies wasted no time, loading the bases in the first inning and capitalizing with five runs. Jace Bystrowski and Will Dunnigan delivered clutch hits, setting the tone for Granite Bay's strong start. Despite a comeback attempt by Serra, Granite Bay maintained its composure, adding three insurance runs to secure the win.
Amidst the action on the field, Mother Nature also made her presence felt, with rain forcing an early end to the game in the sixth inning. Nevertheless, Granite Bay's stellar performance propelled them to the championship game, where they will face off against Cardinal Newman.
Granite Bay's journey to the finals has been marked by impressive victories, including a dominant 12-2 win over Bellarmine Prep and a hard-fought 11-9 triumph against Franklin of Elk Grove. Junior Chase Bentley showcased his pitching prowess, striking out eight in the victory over Bellarmine Prep, while Tim Reed and Jimmy Radler delivered clutch hits to propel the Grizzlies to victory in extra innings against Franklin.
With momentum on their side and a display of resilience throughout the tournament, Granite Bay is poised for an exciting championship clash against Cardinal Newman. The Grizzlies' depth and determination have been key factors in their success, and they are eager to seize the Boras Classic title in Thursday's highly anticipated showdown.
 Del Oro High School's baseball team faced yet another close call in Monday's game against West Park, ending in a 3-2 loss during their spring break tournament at Del Campo. This marks the fourth one-run loss for the Golden Eagles this season, a trend that Coach Jordan Whitmore remains unfazed by.
While acknowledging the frustration, Whitmore remains optimistic about his team's progress, seeing each close game as an opportunity for growth and preparation for the upcoming Sierra Foothill League challenges.
Despite a strong start, with a lead from Ben Brown's RBI single in the fifth inning and a game-tying solo home run by Robert Garcia in the sixth, the Golden Eagles couldn't secure the win. Christopher Fisher of West Park sealed the game with a sacrifice fly in the bottom of the sixth.
Whitmore acknowledges the disappointment but maintains a positive outlook, urging his team to keep pressing on and emphasizing the valuable lessons learned from each game. With Del Oro's record at 4-6, Whitmore sees potential for a turnaround, especially as they face Del Campo and Monterey Trail in the tournament.
Reflecting on the team's character-building journey through these one-run losses, Whitmore believes that these challenges will pay off as they head into Sierra Foothill League play. With the playoffs in sight and league season on the horizon, Del Oro remains focused on overcoming obstacles and making strides towards their goals.
As they gear up to open SFL play against Granite Bay on April 2, Whitmore and his team remain determined to turn the tide in their favor, knowing that the resilience forged through adversity will ultimately lead to success on the diamond.
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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 People are the Key to Placer's Greatness!"
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.
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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