The El Dorado Hills Insider

Gary Kinghorn
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El Dorado Hills Insider is a lively, thoughtful look at the people, stories, and issues shaping life in one of Northern California’s most dynamic communities. Hosted from the heart of the foothills, the podcast brings listeners inside the conversations that matter—from local leadership and business innovation to community events, development debates, and the colorful personalities who call El Dorado Hills home. Each episode features engaging interviews with community leaders, entrepreneurs, public servants, educators, and residents who are helping shape the future of El Dorado Hills. Along the way, you’ll hear thoughtful commentary, behind-the-scenes perspectives, and the occasional whimsical take on the everyday happenings that make this community unique. Whether the topic is a new project on the horizon, a local nonprofit making a difference, the history behind familiar places, or the ideas driving tomorrow’s decisions, El Dorado Hills Insider aims to inform, connect, and spark conversation. If you live here, work here, or simply care about the future of El Dorado Hills and the surrounding foothill communities, this podcast offers a front-row seat to the people and ideas shaping the region. Smart. Local. Engaging. Welcome to the conversation.

Episodes

  1. 3d ago

    One Pill Can Kill: Fentanyl in our Communities

    The conversation delves into the fentanyl epidemic, personal tragedy, community response, understanding fentanyl, and the role of the community in addressing the crisis. It also explores the spread of fentanyl and its sources, shedding light on the impact on families and the need for awareness. The conversation covers the prevalence of fentanyl, dangers of illicit pills, rise of illicit vape pens, online procurement of drugs, hidden drug apps, parental monitoring and intervention, academic pressure and substance use, the importance of sleep and family modeling, the impact of marijuana and alcohol use, recognizing and responding to overdoses, community resources and support, the emotional impact of loss, and the journey of Beans the dog. Takeaways Fentanyl is a growing epidemic affecting families and communities.Community response and awareness are crucial in addressing the fentanyl crisis. The widespread availability of fentanyl in street drugs poses a significant risk to individuals.Parental monitoring and intervention are crucial in addressing the rise of illicit drug use among minors. Chapters 00:00 The Fentanyl Epidemic03:06 Personal Tragedy and Advocacy05:18 The Impact on Families08:41 Community Response and Awareness11:14 Understanding Fentanyl and its Sources17:43 The Role of the Community22:05 The Spread of Fentanyl27:43 The Prevalence of Fentanyl29:07 The Dangers of Illicit Pills30:33 Rise of Illicit Vape Pens31:59 Online Procurement of Drugs33:48 Hidden Drug Apps35:43 Parental Monitoring and Intervention37:43 Academic Pressure and Substance Use39:09 The Importance of Sleep and Family Modeling40:21 The Impact of Marijuana and Alcohol Use45:27 Recognizing and Responding to Overdoses49:15 Community Resources and Support54:45 The Emotional Impact of Loss58:16 The Journey of Beans #fentanylawareness #onepillcankill #fentanyl #opiodcrisis #substanceabuseawareness #EndTheStigma #RecoveryIsPossible #AddictionRecovery #YouAreNotAlone

  2. Jun 11

    Serrano M5 Appeals - Tara Mccann and Dean Getz

    The conversation delves into the controversy surrounding the Serrano Village M5 subdivision, highlighting the outdated specific plan and the impact of density changes on the community. The discussion also covers traffic impact, historical analysis, and the shortcomings in park impact mitigation. The broken planning process and the controversy surrounding park impact fees are also explored. It also highlights the issues with project approval, vehicle code compliance, engineering standards, and safety concerns. Additionally, the importance of public involvement and the community's role in the public process are emphasized. Takeaways Years of park impact shortfalls in El Dorado HillsOutdated Specific Plan Public involvementTraffic engineering issues Chapters 00:00 Introduction to Serrano Village M5 Subdivision06:18 Development History and Density Changes12:19 Deficiency in Planning Process17:20 Park Impact Obligations and Shortcomings23:00 Outdated Specific Plan and Environmental Impacts29:11 Impact of Private Gates on Intersection Control36:23 Engineering Standards and Safety Concerns

  3. Jun 2

    Rafael Martinez - Director of DOT

    The conversation with Rafael Martinez, El Dorado County Director of Transportation, covers the county's road priorities, the capital improvement program, project approval process, and the role of the El Dorado County Transportation Commission. Rafael also discusses the challenges of infrastructure development and the impact of growth on transportation planning. The conversation covers the planning and approval process for the Costco project, the impact of traffic studies, the funding and timeline for infrastructure projects, and the cost and complexity of traffic impact decisions and planning. Rafael Martinez emphasizes the need for public involvement and understanding of government processes. Takeaways Transportation planning involves a comprehensive process of project prioritization and funding allocation.The relationship between development and infrastructure improvement is complex and requires careful planning and coordination. Costco project's planning and approval processComplexity and cost of traffic impact decisions and planningImportance of public involvement and understanding of government processes Chapters 00:00 Introduction to Transportation Planning07:09 Project Approval and Prioritization Process14:52 Balancing Development and Infrastructure24:01 El Dorado County Transportation Commission and EDH Cityhood30:26 Costco Project Planning and Approval Process46:21 Infrastructure Projects and Development Infrastructure53:48 Cost and Complexity of Traffic Impact Decisions and Planning

  4. May 8

    Voices of Our Veterans - William Blaylock

    The podcast episode features an interview with Bill Blaylock, a Vietnam War veteran, as part of the 'Voices of Our Veterans' series. The conversation covers Bill's childhood, military service, experiences in Vietnam, and his reintegration into civilian life. It provides valuable insights into the Vietnam War and its impact on veterans. The conversation covers William Blaylock's realizing his PTSD diagnosis, therapy and recovery, and the impact of his book. Read the book: https://www.amazon.com/Invisible-Stealth-Heart-Wrenching-Post-Traumatic-Disorder/dp/0982601468/ref=sr_1_1 William Blaylock's email: invisibleptsd@gmail.com Chapters 00:00 Introduction to Voices of Our Veterans05:17 Arrival in Vietnam and Early Experiences12:39 Impact of Vietnam Experience18:04 Friendships and Relationships in Vietnam26:25 Transition to Law Enforcement38:29 Therapy and Recovery43:31 Impact of the Book

  5. Apr 24

    Gina Posey - Supervisor Candidate

    Gina Posey, a candidate for the El Dorado County Board of Supervisors from District IV, discusses her campaign motivation, the role of LAFCO and special districts, candidate participation in debates, the building and planning department, civil grand jury experience, fire safety and homeowners insurance, Firewise communities and wildfire risk, and county finances and budgeting. Key takeaways include the importance of LAFCO and special districts in community development and the significance of community engagement and advocacy in local governance. Gina emphasized the importance of smart growth over no growth, the need to balance rural growth with business empowerment, and the significance of community involvement in planning projects. Additionally, she discussed how her private sector experience has shaped her approach to government and the changes she believes are necessary for effective governance. Chapters 00:00 Introduction and Campaign Motivation05:19 Firewise Communities and Wildfire Risk13:45 County Finances and Budgeting19:12 Community Involvement in Planning Projects32:26 Private Sector Experience and Government Approach

  6. Apr 15

    Support Your County Civil Grand Jury

    The conversation provides an in-depth look at the El Dorado County Civil Grand Jury, covering its purpose, impact, application process, investigations, confidentiality, and support. It emphasizes the importance of the grand jury in providing oversight to county government operations and the significance of citizen involvement. Takeaways The El Dorado County Civil Grand Jury plays a crucial role in providing oversight to county government operations, including cities, special districts and joint power authorities.Citizen involvement in the grand jury is essential for ensuring transparency and accountability in local governance. We need good people each year. Civil Grand Jury website: https://www.eldoradocounty.ca.gov/Public-Safety-Justice/Safety-Justice/Grand-Jury Apply to join: https://www.eldoradocounty.ca.gov/Public-Safety-Justice/Safety-Justice/Grand-Jury/Apply-To-Join Published Reports and Responses: https://www.eldoradocounty.ca.gov/Public-Safety-Justice/Safety-Justice/Grand-Jury/Reports-and-Responses

  7. Apr 9

    Greg Clark - Supervisor Candidate

    Greg Clark discusses his campaign for supervisor in El Dorado County District IV, addressing topics such as public safety, land use, budget shortfall, and transparency. He emphasizes his commitment to community and his approach to governance. Takeaways Community-focused governanceBalancing growth and rural preservation Chapters 00:00 Campaign Journey and Motivation05:16 Wildfire Preparedness and Growth10:46 Controversial Projects and Public Opinion18:35 Transparency and Public Comment25:02 Homelessness and Public Safety For more info: greg4supervisor.com

  8. Apr 2

    John Davey on the Costco Project

    I met with John Davey to discuss all things Costco and how it will affect the community. The conversation delves into the proposed Costco development at Silva Valley Parkway and Highway 50, exploring the community impact, environmental concerns, and the role of the El Dorado Hills Area Planning Advisory Committee (APAC) in the approval process. We cover the formation and purpose of APAC, its evolution, specific project reviews, challenges, community growth, engagement with project applicants, review of Costco's environmental impact report, traffic impact analysis, and consideration of adverse impacts to local businesses. The conversation delves into the logistical challenges of managing traffic and road infrastructure. It also addresses public health and air quality concerns, particularly related to asbestos mitigation, blasting, and construction equipment emissions. Want to get involved with APAC on this and other projects? Go to: http://edhapac.org

  9. Mar 31

    Corey Leikauf for Treasurer-Tax Collector

    Corey Leikauf is a candidate for El Dorado County Treasurer-Tax Collector in the June election, currently working in the office of the Auditor/Controller. Corey discusses his background, experience, and priorities as a candidate for the Treasurer Tax Collector office. He emphasizes the importance of trust, fiscal conservatism, and safeguarding public funds. Takeaways Community support and trust are crucial for a successful campaign.The role of Treasurer Tax Collector requires a focus on safeguarding public funds and managing liquidity.

  10. Mar 31

    Sean Coppola - Treasurer/Tax Collector

    Sean Coppola is the Treasurer-Tax Collector for El Dorado County and running for that office in the June election. The conversation covers Sean's career journey, transition to the county role, day-to-day Treasury operations, investment strategy, modernization efforts, and personal commitment to the county. Sean also shares insights into his campaign and the importance of bringing the county into the 21st century. Chapters 00:00 Introduction and Campaign Update06:12 Cash Flow Management and Investment Decisions21:56 Modernization Efforts and Online Payment Portal30:07 Campaign Trail and Personal Commitment to the County

  11. Mar 27

    Robert Deitz - Supervisor Candidate

    Get to know Robert Deitz, a candidate for the El Dorado County Board of Supervisors from District IV. Robert is a long-time county resident and business owner from Shingle Springs. We talk about the need to encourage businesses, and how to balance growth with maintaining the rural nature of the county.

  12. Mar 13

    Bass Lake Nature Center

    Roland Gall shares his vision for a nature center at Bass Lake, emphasizing community engagement and educational activities. The conversation explores the history of the park, the concept of a nature center, and the potential impact on the community. Takeaways Nature Center VisionCommunity Engagement Chapters 00:00 Community Engagement and Activities at the Park

  • 12 Episodes

About

El Dorado Hills Insider is a lively, thoughtful look at the people, stories, and issues shaping life in one of Northern California’s most dynamic communities. Hosted from the heart of the foothills, the podcast brings listeners inside the conversations that matter—from local leadership and business innovation to community events, development debates, and the colorful personalities who call El Dorado Hills home. Each episode features engaging interviews with community leaders, entrepreneurs, public servants, educators, and residents who are helping shape the future of El Dorado Hills. Along the way, you’ll hear thoughtful commentary, behind-the-scenes perspectives, and the occasional whimsical take on the everyday happenings that make this community unique. Whether the topic is a new project on the horizon, a local nonprofit making a difference, the history behind familiar places, or the ideas driving tomorrow’s decisions, El Dorado Hills Insider aims to inform, connect, and spark conversation. If you live here, work here, or simply care about the future of El Dorado Hills and the surrounding foothill communities, this podcast offers a front-row seat to the people and ideas shaping the region. Smart. Local. Engaging. Welcome to the conversation.

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