Board Chambers Meetings

Sacramento County

Providing and distributing programming of interest to residents that will inform, educate, and enlighten, as well as encourage participation in government services, activities, and decision-making. Expanding citizen awareness of government and its decision-making processes by exposing citizens to live and tape delayed government meetings. Enhancing existing public information materials and use cable television as a public information tool. Providing information about programs and services offered by government departments, agencies, boards, commissions, and government-supported agencies.

  1. 2d ago

    Board of Supervisors - 7/15/26

    The Sacramento County Board of Supervisors meeting on July 14, 2026, was highlighted by a controversial budget reconsideration for public safety, a significant land-use decision in Rio Linda, and various community presentations and administrative approvals.   Budget Reconsideration: Sheriff’s POP Team The most contentious item involved the reconsideration of the Fiscal Year 2026-27 Recommended Budget specifically to address the Sheriff’s Problem Oriented Policing (POP) team. Restoration of Funding: Following a 3-2 vote (with Supervisors Serna and Kennedy dissenting), the Board moved to restore approximately $3 million for the POP team by reducing the county’s General Fund contingency. Public Debate: Business owners and community members strongly supported the restoration, arguing the POP team provides vital proactive crime prevention and addresses quality-of-life issues like illegal fireworks and encampments. Conversely, social service advocates and community organizers opposed the move, arguing that the budget should prioritize the "social safety net"—including foster youth services and mental health—rather than "bloated" law enforcement budgets. Procedural Context: The Board emphasized that a broader discussion on the final budget, including the potential restoration of other cut programs like Birth and BEYOND, will occur during the September budget revision.
 Planning and Land Use: Chandra Commons The Board held a public hearing regarding the Chandra Commons Apartments in Rio Linda, focusing on a request to remove 2007 zoning conditions that required the site to be developed as "for-sale" units (condominiums). Developer’s Argument: The applicant argued that for-sale units are no longer financially feasible due to high construction costs and a lack of market comparables in the area. Community Opposition: Numerous residents opposed the shift to rental apartments, citing concerns over high density, increased traffic on Dry Creek Road, potential property value decreases, and environmental contaminants from the site's former use as a wrecking yard. Decision: Despite Supervisor Rodriguez’s motion to deny the request to protect homeownership opportunities, the Board voted 3-1 to support the staff recommendation, effectively removing the "for-sale" requirement and allowing the developer to proceed with market-rate rentals. Consent Calendar and Administrative Highlights Election Certification: During public comments on the consent calendar, several residents questioned election integrity and non-citizen voting. The Registrar of Voters clarified that all registrations are vetted through a statewide database that confirms citizenship via DMV and Social Security records before information ever reaches the county level.
 Impact Fee Offset Program: A proposal to expand this program for affordable housing was continued to July 28 to allow for the participation of the full Board, as Supervisors Rodriguez and Hume expressed concerns about using General Fund dollars to subsidize private developers during a deficit. Airport Improvements: The Board approved architectural amendments for the Sacramento International Airport, leading to a discussion on finding "efficiencies of scale" by seeking volume discounts for major equipment maintenance, such as chillers, across all county facilities. Mental Health: The Board approved the expansion of school-based mental health programs to 35 additional school sites. Public Hearings and Departmental Reports One-Year Action Plan (HUD): Staff presented the 2027 plan for federal entitlement funding (CDBG/HOME), which estimates $6.55 million for projects focusing on ADA park improvements, pedestrian safety (e.g., safe routes to schools), and senior services like Meals on Wheels. Sacramento Welcome Home: The Department of Child, Family and Adult Services (DCFAS) provided its quarterly report on temporary foster youth stays, noting a stabilization in operations and zero staff injuries this quarter due to enhanced training and a proactive partnership with the Sheriff’s Department. Service Assessments: The Board approved annual service charges for Zone 3 mobility programs and Landscape Maintenance District Zone 4, despite a "no" vote from Supervisor Rodriguez regarding the use of road funds to supplement the landscape district's budget gap. Community Recognitions The meeting included a presentation for Parks and Recreation Month, highlighting a new $25 summer annual pass for families. The Board also recognized Probation Supervision Week, with staff and supervisors sharing stories of the department's positive impact on rehabilitation and community safety.   The meeting was adjourned at 6:14 p.m.

  2. 3d ago

    Planning Commission - 7/13/26

    The Sacramento County Planning Commission meeting held on July 13, 2026, focused primarily on a zoning appeal for 6548 Sutter Avenue, alongside discussions regarding a deck legalization at Kikub Court and improvements to the county's design review process. 6548 Sutter Avenue Zoning Appeal The central item was a continued hearing from May 11, 2026, regarding a parcel map request and an appeal by neighbors. Staff addressed three specific concerns raised at the previous meeting: Road Maintenance Agreement (RMA): Staff clarified that if neighbors cannot agree on a new RMA, California Civil Code section 845 provides a framework where maintenance costs are shared proportionally. The Sacramento Metro Fire District (SFMD) will enforce road access but not cost-sharing, which remains a civil matter. Construction Staging: While a special condition for on-site construction staging was drafted to prevent blocking the private road, the Commission ultimately decided not to include it, noting that blocking emergency access is already prohibited by existing law. Semi-Rural Character: Staff determined the project is consistent with the Carmichael Action Plan’s semi-rural residential definition, as the resulting parcels exceed minimum lot area requirements and allow for open space. Public Testimony and Deliberation: Appellants expressed concerns over increased traffic, the validity of existing private agreements, and unresolved code violations, specifically a recently erected six-foot solid fence. The applicant, Mr. Wong, testified that he has worked to remedy weed abatement issues and applied for a permit for the fence after neighbor complaints. The Commission also discussed a requirement that the applicant either construct an ADU to establish a primary use for the existing pool or remove the pool entirely to comply with zoning codes. Outcome: The Commission voted to deny the appeal and uphold the project approval. The motion included a new condition requiring the applicant to fix the fence violation and amended language for the fire access agreement. Other Meeting Items 3610 Kikub Court Deck: The Commission reviewed a request to legalize an existing deck and gazebo located within a 20-foot erosion zone setback. Staff noted that removing the structure would be a significant financial and structural burden and that similar encroachments exist on neighboring lots. Design Review Streamlining: Staff proposed changes to the Design Review Administrator (DRA) process to reduce duplicative efforts and increase efficiency. The Commission supported these changes, viewing them as a way to reduce bureaucracy and help meet "shot clock" requirements for housing projects. The item passed with a 4-0 vote. Announcements: The Planning Director announced that the next scheduled meeting would be cancelled.

  3. Jun 24

    Planning Commission - 6/22/26

    The Sacramento County Planning Commission meeting on June 22, 2026, primarily focused on an appeal regarding a temporary use permit for an equestrian facility and updates on significant countywide planning projects. Planning Director’s Report Director Smith provided several key updates regarding recent Board of Supervisors actions and upcoming agendas: Major Project Approvals: The Board of Supervisors unanimously approved the Upper West Side Specific Plan and the Crowing Fowl Ordinance on June 16, 2026. The county is now working with Code Enforcement and Animal Care on an enforcement plan for problematic properties under the new rooster regulations. New Public Participation Rules: Starting July 13, the commission will begin accepting public speakers via Zoom in compliance with new legislative requirements. El Frenito Horse Training Facility Appeal The central item of the meeting was an appeal by the El Frenito horse training facility located on Renke Road. The owners sought to overturn the denial of a Temporary Use Permit (TUP) to host events in 2026. Staff Recommendation for Denial: Planning staff and the Zoning Administrator recommended upholding the denial based on a significant history of non-compliance during the previous two years of permitted events. Key violations cited included: Unpermitted Events: Evidence from Facebook advertisements and alcohol license records showed events occurring on dates not authorized by the TUP. Lack of Licensing: The business failed to obtain a required business license for its primary operations. Safety and Community Impacts: Neighbors reported issues with noise, trash, speeding, and public intoxication. Additionally, the owners failed to provide mandatory prior notifications to the Sheriff’s Department before events. Lack of Engagement: The property owners failed to attend a follow-up meeting with the District Attorney's office to address these ongoing public nuisance concerns. Applicant’s Argument: The property owners and their new representative (a real estate agent) argued that the previous non-compliance was due to language barriers and the actions of a former associate who had been "taking advantage" of them. They testified that: They are experienced business owners who run a successful restaurant franchise and were now committed to following all laws. The facility is intended for traditional horse training and cultural rodeo events rather than large-scale commercial concerts. They were unaware of some meetings and specific licensing requirements due to poor communication from their previous representative. Commission Deliberation and Decision: Commissioners expressed sympathy regarding the language barriers but emphasized that the ultimate responsibility for compliance rests with the property owners. While some members initially considered granting the permit with strict conditions—such as a reduced number of events, a mandatory parking plan, and security requirements—the majority felt the history of violations was too significant to ignore. The Commission voted to deny the appeal, upholding the denial of the 2026 TUP. However, they modified the final written findings to include "non-prejudicial" language. This ensures that the denial does not automatically jeopardize future applications, such as a Conditional Use Permit (CUP) for a permanent event center, provided the owners can demonstrate a record of compliance moving forward. The meeting adjourned at 7:45 p.m.

  4. Jun 23

    STA - 6/18/26

    The Sacramento Transportation Authority (STA) meeting on June 18, 2026, focused on the adoption of the annual budget, a significant performance audit of Measure A funds, and the advancement of a major toll lane project on Interstate 5. Measure A Smart Growth Funds and Oversight A major point of discussion involved Item 5, the strategy for allocating Measure A Smart Growth Funds. Allocation Strategy: The Board debated a formulaic approach that provides each agency with a set-aside for projects, compared to a competitive "first come-first serve" pot. Executive Director Kevin Bewsey noted that 22.5% of these funds are specifically set aside for transit, with the remaining 77.5% going to cities and counties. Procedural Delay: An initial motion to approve this approach failed. However, after a motion to reconsider was passed to ensure agencies did not miss July grant deadlines, the item was ultimately approved. Budget and Performance Audit FY 2026-27 Final Budget: The Board unanimously adopted a balanced final budget for the upcoming fiscal year . CFO Dustin Purinton stated there were no material changes since the preliminary budget was seen in May . Compliance Audit: The Independent Taxpayer Oversight Committee (ITOC) presented a two-year performance and compliance audit. While no "significant findings" were identified overall, there were specific exceptions: City of Isleton: Could not provide support for testing due to total staff turnover; their funds may be escrowed if they do not come into compliance by June 2027. Cities of Folsom and Sacramento: Noted for "reporting mismatches" between their records and STA data. I-5 Managed Lanes Project The Board authorized several actions to advance the I-5 Managed Lanes Project, which aims to add a High-Occupancy Toll (HOT) lane from downtown Sacramento to the International Airport. Project Function: Under the "HOT 3+" model, vehicles with three or more occupants can use the lane for free, while others have the option to pay a variable toll based on miles traveled. Regional Coordination: The project is a partnership between Caltrans, SACOG, STA, and CARTA (Capital Area Regional Tolling Authority), which will operate the tolling component. Board Concerns: Directors discussed the importance of equity studies and the need to coordinate this project with studies regarding the potential "covering" of I-5 near the Crocker Art Museum. Executive Director’s Report Executive Director Kevin Bewsey highlighted ongoing efforts to engage the community and secure regional funding: Community Listening Sessions: STA is conducting sessions in areas like Arden Arcade, Folsom, and Rancho Cordova to identify local transportation priorities and educate the public on declining gas tax revenues and high construction costs . Grant Applications: STA is coordinating regional applications for Senate Bill 1 (SB 1) programs due in November, including a multimodal project for the US-50 corridor and a $115 million application for the Placer-Sacramento Gateway . The meeting adjourned at 2:24 PM .

  5. Jun 23

    SAFCA - 6/18/26

    The Sacramento Area Flood Control Agency (SAFCA) Board of Directors meeting on June 18, 2026, focused on the adoption of the annual budget, a report on staff vacancies, and the approval of resolutions for property acquisitions related to levee improvements. Staff Vacancies and Recruitment The Board reviewed the annual report on staff vacancies, recruitment, and retention as required under AB-2561. Executive Director Jason Campbell reported an overall vacancy rate of 11% for the period of June 2025 through May 2026. Because the vacancy rate did not exceed the 20% threshold in any bargaining unit, no changes to existing policies or recruitment goals were triggered. The Board unanimously approved the report. FY 2026-27 Recommended Budget The Board held a public hearing and adopted Resolution 2026-059 for the $104 million recommended budget for Fiscal Year 2026-27. Key financial highlights include: Capital Program: A large portion of the budget, approximately $70.6 million, is dedicated to capital projects, including real estate and utility relocations. Reserves and Contingencies: The agency maintains $11.45 million in general reserves (roughly 11% of the budget) and a 5% contingency built into the funds. Funding Sources: Revenue includes anticipated bond proceeds of over $50 million and $16 million in state reimbursements. Project Focus: Approximately 80% of project spending is associated with the American River Common Features and Natomas projects. Resolutions of Necessity (Eminent Domain) The Board considered two Resolutions of Necessity for properties required for the Natomas Levee Improvements project. These resolutions are required to initiate eminent domain proceedings if a voluntary agreement cannot be reached by June 30, 2026. 5625 East Levee Road: This acquisition involves fee interest and easements for the West Levee component of the project. An initial vote failed to meet the required two-thirds (nine-member) threshold because the Board was one vote short of the necessary quorum for such an action. 5311 East Levee Road: Similar to the first property, this acquisition is for levee widening and seepage berm construction. To resolve the quorum issue for these high-threshold votes, the Board took a 15-minute recess to wait for the arrival of Director Pluckebaum. Upon his arrival, the Board reconsidered and approved both resolutions with nine votes, while Director Muñoz abstained from both items. Staff emphasized that negotiations with the property owners would continue even as the legal proceedings were initiated. Administrative Matters Consent Calendar: Items 1 through 16 were approved unanimously without being pulled for separate discussion. Closed Session: The Board chose to forego a scheduled closed session as the items had been heard previously on multiple occasions. Next Meeting: The next SAFCA Board meeting is scheduled for July 16, 2026.

  6. Jun 23

    SacSewer - 6/17/26

    The Sacramento Area Sewer District (SacSewer) Board of Directors meeting on June 17, 2026, focused on the adoption of the annual budget, significant ordinance changes, and a long-term strategy to address ongoing board quorum issues. Fiscal Year 2026-27 Final Budget The Board unanimously approved (12-0) a $372 million operating budget and a  $486 million capital budget. Funding and Reserves: District Engineer Christoph Dobson clarified that new positions are funded through operating revenues rather than reserves. Bond Adjustment: Bond revenues on the treatment side were reduced from $150 million to $100 million because the district received over $50 million in state grant funding for the Harvest Water project. Salinity Concerns: In response to inquiries about generating chlorine on-site to save costs, staff explained that this would create waste salt streams that would increase salinity in the Delta, potentially violating the district’s permits and environmental values. Ordinance and Contract Approvals Consolidated Ordinance: The Board adopted amendments to combine the previous treatment and collections ordinances into one unified SacSewer ordinance. The new rules update industrial impact fees for consistency and lower liquid waste haul rates to incentivize haulers to bring waste directly to the treatment plant. Sedimentation Tank Project: A $3.448 million contract was awarded for the rehabilitation of secondary sedimentation tanks 10 and 16. Bid Protest: The Board overruled a formal protest from Euro Style Management, which argued the low bidder lacked specific experience in municipal wastewater facilities. Staff and County Counsel maintained that the low bidder’s experience with other public agencies was equivalent in magnitude and character, making the bid responsive. Board Quorum and Governance Challenges The Board held an extensive discussion regarding frequent difficulties in reaching a quorum for its 17-member body. Structural Issues: Because the five Sacramento County Supervisors are members by default and have no alternates, their absence—combined with current vacancies in the City of Sacramento—frequently puts the board at risk of being unable to conduct business. Potential Solutions: Suggestions included moving to a different time slot or location, though Director Dickinson cautioned that moving meetings away from the City Council Chambers would increase costs due to declining cable television revenues. Ad Hoc Committee: The Board signaled support for forming an ad hoc committee to study governance changes, such as creating a tiered membership system or allowing high-level staff to serve as alternates, which would require state legislation. Harvest Water Project Update Staff provided a quarterly report on the Harvest Water program, which is now 80% grant-funded ($417 million in total awards). Construction Progress: Pipeline construction is largely complete, including street surfacing in Elk Grove and the south county area. Pump Delay: The main pumping station faces a schedule slip; delivery of large, complicated pumps is now expected in November 2026 due to fabrication challenges. Commissioning is targeted for early 2027 with water delivery beginning in May 2027. Ecological Benefits: The district is conducting "crane forage field trials" to study how inundating fields for bird habitats affects water seepage and mineral levels. Administrative and Personnel District Engineer Dobson introduced two new section managers: Pat Flaherty (Risk Manager), who previously served the City of Sacramento for 20 years, and Chris Borders (Human Resources Manager), a 15-year public sector veteran. The meeting was adjourned at the conclusion of these matters.

  7. Jun 23

    Board of Supervisors - 6/16/26

    The Sacramento County Board of Supervisors meeting on June 16, 2026, was highlighted by the unanimous approval of a massive new development in Natomas, a move to reconsider recent budget cuts to public safety, and the adoption of new urban water management plans. The Upper West Side Specific Plan The most significant item was the approval of the Upper West Side Specific Plan, a decade-long planning effort for a ~2,066-acre site in the Natomas Basin. Project Scope: The plan envisions 9,356 residential units across a full range of densities, including a "missing middle" incentive program for duplexes and fourplexes. Design & Amenities: Features include a vertically integrated Town Center (compared to "Santana Row"), the linear Westside Canal for recreation, and a mobility hub to support transit and multi-modal travel. The project scored a record 24 out of 24 points on the region's "Blueprint" smart growth principles. Sustainability: It is designed as an all-electric, carbon-neutral community. The Board added a requirement for a $500,000 public art endowment. Key Controversies & Amendments: Traffic: To address resident concerns about the Garden Highway, the Board adopted "Alternative 5," which eliminates the Radio Road extension except for emergency vehicle access (EVA) and mandates a roadway safety audit and traffic-calming measures. Habitat: While the county is not a signatory to the Natomas Basin Habitat Conservation Plan (HCP), the project will provide mitigation at ratios of 1.5 to 2 times higher than those required by the HCP. Water: Because the City of Sacramento declined to provide water, the project will use an alternative supply through the Natomas Central Mutual Water Company, contingent on state approval to convert agricultural water rights to municipal use. Schools: A funding gap for school construction remains; the project is conditioned to continue negotiations with the Natomas Unified School District to bridge this gap. Public Safety and Budget Reconsideration During public comments, numerous residents and business owners expressed strong opposition to proposed $5.2 million in budget cuts for the Sheriff's Office and District Attorney. They argued that losing "Problem Oriented Policing" (POP) and "Homeless Outreach" (HOT) teams would devastate small businesses and public safety. In response, the Board voted 4-1 (with Supervisor Serna dissenting) to reconsider aspects of the budget previously decided on June 10, citing a potentially "rosier" outcome for state funding. Consent and Administrative Actions Crowing Fowl Ordinance: The Board formally adopted the ordinance regulating the keeping of roosters in residential areas. Transient Occupancy Tax (TOT) Grants: The Board approved 101 grants totaling $1 million for local non-profits, including youth leadership programs like "Classy Inc." and the "Manna Food Bank". Water Management: Acting as the Sacramento Water Agency, the Board adopted the 2025 Urban Water Management Plan and a revised Water Shortage Contingency Plan, which includes six levels of shortage response. Development Fees: The Board approved expanding the Impact Fee Deferral Program (implementing SB 937) to all residential projects to encourage housing production. The meeting concluded with a recognition of Juneteenth and adjourned at 6:34 PM.

  8. Jun 15

    Board of Supervisors Budget Meeting - 6/10/26

    The Sacramento County Board of Supervisors meeting on June 10, 2026, was primarily focused on the revision and approval of the Fiscal Year 2026-27 Recommended Budget and the five-year Capital Improvement Plan. The meeting featured a detailed presentation by the County Executive and Chief Fiscal Officer, followed by reports from seven key departments and extensive public testimony. Fiscal Overview and Challenges Chief Fiscal Officer Amanda Thomas presented an $8.9 Billion all-funds spending plan, which represented a $101 million operating deficit driven by two primary factors: Structural Deficit: The ongoing reliance on one-time funding to pay for continuing costs. Federal HR 1 Impacts: Changes at the federal level that shifted approximately $50 million in costs to the county, particularly regarding Med-Cal eligibility, indigent care, and CalFresh administrative costs. To address the shortfall, the Board had previously directed departments to implement a 2.5% initial allocation reduction. Departmental Budget Presentations District Attorney (Tan Ho): Ho opposed a proposed $4.1 million reduction (14 positions), arguing his office was already "running on fumes". He emphasized that "vacant" positions were actually committed to law students slated to pass the bar and that cuts would force him to scale back misdemeanor prosecutions and the Community Prosecution unit. Sheriff’s Office (Jim Cooper): The Sheriff contested a $13.7 million reduction (48 positions), asserting that while "core functions" like jails and contracts were mandated, the cuts would decimate "non-core" but vital public safety units such as POP (Problem Oriented Policing), HOT (Homeless Outreach Team), and Marine Enforcement. He highlighted that the county already has the fewest officers per capita in the region and response times are double the national average. Public Defender (Amanda Benson): Benson reported a 20% increase in criminal filings and a 300% increase in City Attorney cases. She warned that cutting mental health diversion and post-conviction representation units would lead to caseload overloads and increased county liability. Regional Parks (Liz Bellis): Bellis noted that while the park system has grown 70% in acreage since 1991, permanent staff has decreased by 15%. Proposed cuts included three park rangers (a 17% reduction to the Parkway patrol) and a 46% reduction in extra-help seasonal staff. Human Assistance (Ethan Dye): Dye focused on the impacts of HR 1 on CalFresh, noting that every dollar spent by the county now only draws down $3.44 in state/federal funds, compared to $5.67 previously. Health Services (Tim Letts): This department accounts for 70% of health spending via Behavioral Health. Letts highlighted growth for a new youth facility but noted intense pressure from the Mays Consent Decree, which requires significant staffing and infrastructure investments in correctional health. Public Comment and Deliberations Over 120 residents and officials provided testimony. Business leaders and community members strongly advocated for restoring the Sheriff’s HOT and POP teams and the DA’s Community Prosecutors, citing their effectiveness in addressing retail theft and homelessness. Conversely, many community advocates urged the Board to maintain the DA and Sheriff cuts, suggesting the DA could save millions by ending the pursuit of the death penalty. Others pleaded for the restoration of foster youth transportation (Hop Skip Drive) and prevention programs like Birth and BEYOND. Final Board Actions After extensive debate regarding the use of the 9.9 million in funding: Sheriff’s Office: Restored funding for the Marine and HOT teams ($7,894,989), but notably did not include the POP team. District Attorney: Restored four Community Prosecutor positions (~$1.37 million) contingent on an MOU to ensure the funds are used for that specific purpose. Public Defender: Restored funding for critical caseload support ($649,076). The Board agreed to revisit other high-priority "prevention" programs—including foster youth transportation, Birth and BEYOND, and public health initiatives—during the September budget revision when final state funding numbers are clearer. The final action left the county with a remaining contingency of $6,330,683.

See All (100)

Ratings & Reviews

5
out of 5
3 Ratings

About

Providing and distributing programming of interest to residents that will inform, educate, and enlighten, as well as encourage participation in government services, activities, and decision-making. Expanding citizen awareness of government and its decision-making processes by exposing citizens to live and tape delayed government meetings. Enhancing existing public information materials and use cable television as a public information tool. Providing information about programs and services offered by government departments, agencies, boards, commissions, and government-supported agencies.

Information

  • Creator
    Sacramento County
  • Years Active
    2017 - 2026
  • Episodes
    100
  • Rating
    Clean
  • Copyright
    © Copyright 2024 All rights reserved.
  • Show Website
    Board Chambers Meetings