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SHOWING 1–10 ENTRIES
01
OCT 28, 2026 · ELKGROVE, CALIFORNIA · OTHER
Elk Grove City Council Regular Meeting - October 28, 2026

The Elk Grove City Council convened on Wednesday, October 28, 2026, at 6:00 PM at City Hall. Mayor Bobbie Singh-Allen presided. Present were Vice Mayor Darren Suen, Councilmember Sergio Robles, and Councilmember Kevin Spease. Councilmember Rod Brewer was absent. The meeting adjourned at 7:45 PM. Proclamations and New Hire Introductions - Council issued proclamations recognizing October 2026 as Hindu Heritage Month (accepted by Dr. Parik and community members) and Filipino American History Month (accepted by Edna de los Reyes). - The City Manager and department heads introduced new hires and recognized promotions across the Police, Finance, Public Works, Economic Development, and Information Technology departments. Public Comments & Testimony - Margie Jones and Beth Headland (Strauss Festival of Elk Grove): Thanked the council for financial and in-kind support for the festival, noting the upcoming 40th anniversary. - Cynthia Gaus: Appealed to the council to reject the funding for Kelsey Drive speed humps, arguing the survey was skewed by non-resident business owners and suggesting alternative solutions like fog line striping. - Lynn Wheat: Corrected her previous statement on the zoo project cost to nearly $14 million and urged the council to engage residents on the future of the zoo site. She also requested the library lease guarantee free meeting room access for residents and non-profits; staff clarified the Sacramento Public Library policy already provides this free of charge. - Margaret Mello: Expressed frustration over unaddressed parking violations at Cowington Family Park and a lack of response from the traffic department. - Justin: Strongly opposed the adoption of Flock and Axon ALPR technology, citing predatory contracts, cybersecurity vulnerabilities, misuse risks, and a lack of independent audits, formally warning the council against proceeding. Consent Calendar - Council unanimously approved the Consent Calendar (Items 7.1–7.19) by voice vote, including routine approvals, budget amendments, and the contract award for the Old Town Streetscape Phase 2 construction project. Discussion Items - Item 9.1: Future Use of Former Library (8900 Elk Grove Blvd) and Former Teen Center (8978 Elk Grove Blvd) - Assistant City Manager Jaqui Guzmán and Senior Management Analyst Aishwarya Kumar presented findings from extensive community engagement (April–September 2026), which generated 700 contributions and 3,478 written ideas. - The top six preferred uses identified by staff in priority order were: a Teen and Youth Center; a Creative Arts, Music, and Digital Media Center; a Community Learning Hub; a Community Resource Hub; a Community Meeting and Co-working Space for Nonprofits; and a Community Kitchen and Cafe. - Council reached a consensus to remove the Community Kitchen and Cafe from the feasibility study scope, citing high operational costs, health code complexity, and the availability of other facilities. Members expressed strong support for the Teen and Youth Center as the highest priority, followed by the Creative Arts and Digital Media Center, and the Nonprofit Co-working Space. There was agreement that the Community Learning and Resource Hub functions could be integrated into the top priority spaces. - Staff was directed to initiate a feasibility study evaluating operational models, space plans, and costs for the prioritized uses. Council also directed staff to begin the process of repaying the Community Development Block Grant (CDBG) funds for the former Teen Center property to increase flexibility for its future use. Key Outcomes - Consent Calendar: Approved unanimously. - Community Kitchen/Cafe: Removed from the list of preferred uses for the feasibility study. - Future Use Priorities: Council affirmed the top three priorities for the feasibility study as a Teen and Youth Center, a Creative Arts/Music/Digital Media Center, and a Nonprofit Meeting/Co-working Space, with Learning and Resource Hub functions integrated. - Feasibility Study: Staff directed to proceed with a feasibility study for the prioritized uses at 8900 Elk Grove Boulevard. - CDBG Repayment: Staff directed to initiate the public process for repaying CDBG funds for the property at 8978 Elk Grove Boulevard to remove use restrictions. - Memorial Adjournment: The meeting was adjourned in memory of Dolores Huerta and community member Ori.

COMMUNITY ENGAGEMENT 16% · PUBLIC COMMENT 15% · PERSONNEL MATTERS 14% · YOUTH DEVELOPMENT 13%
02
OCT 15, 2026 · ELKGROVE, CALIFORNIA · OTHER
Elk Grove Planning Commission Meeting: Summer Flats Project - October 15, 2026

The Elk Grove Planning Commission held a regular meeting on Thursday, October 15, 2026, at 6:00 PM in the City Council Chambers. The primary agenda item was the continued public hearing for the Summer Flats Project (PLNG23-006), a 120-unit residential development proposed for Waterman Road. After detailed staff presentations on traffic safety, extensive public testimony, and commission deliberation, the commission voted 3-1 to recommend approval of the project and certification of its Environmental Impact Report (EIR) to the City Council. Consent Calendar - The Commission unanimously approved the Regular Meeting Minutes of September 17, 2026. Chair O'Con noted he was absent from that meeting but had reviewed the video and materials. Public Comments & Testimony - Opposition: Several residents living near the project site in the Waterman Meadows neighborhood testified against the project in its current form. Key concerns included: - Traffic safety at the Rancho Drive/Waterman Road intersection, which residents described as dangerous and congested, particularly during funeral services at the adjacent Hilltop Cemetery. - Criticism of the traffic study methodology, with speakers arguing it was outdated, did not adequately consider the bottleneck where Waterman Road narrows, and omitted collision data from nearby intersections (e.g., Waterman & Elk Grove Boulevard, Waterman & Bond Road). - The proposed density increase (from RD-4 to RD-12) was deemed incompatible with the established low-density neighborhood. - Lack of sidewalks connecting the development to surrounding retail areas and concerns about pedestrian safety. - Support: Ashley Bergen spoke in favor, arguing that the project provides a necessary opportunity for workforce housing and includes vital infrastructure improvements, such as widening Waterman Road and adding multi-use trails. - Applicant: Tim Denham (Wood Rogers) presented the project as a well-buffered development that meets a critical need for workforce housing. He emphasized the project's $1.5 to 1.8 million contribution to the city's roadway fee program and agreed to enhanced conditions for traffic calming measures. Discussion Items - Summer Flats Project (PLNG23-006) - Staff (Antonia O'Blog, Traffic Engineering Manager Jose, and Community Development Director CJ) presented updates from the continued hearing. A new condition of approval (Condition 27) was added requiring the installation of radar feedback signs on Waterman Road to address speeding concerns. - A detailed discussion ensued regarding the traffic signal warrant analysis for the Rancho Drive/Waterman Road intersection. Public Works confirmed that neither existing conditions nor existing-plus-project conditions met the nine MUTCD warrant criteria for a traffic signal. Staff noted that the intersection is not in the current 5-year Capital Improvement Program (CIP) but could be prioritized in future cycles. - Commissioners questioned the traffic data collection timing, the frequency of warrant analyses, and the mechanism for getting the intersection into the CIP. Public Works explained the rolling annual CIP update process and the legal necessity of a nexus for requiring a developer to fund a traffic signal. - Commissioner Singha expressed being torn between the clear community need for workforce housing and the unresolved safety concerns at the intersection. Commissioner Fernandez (absent) did not participate. Commissioners O'Con and Poole noted their own observations of traffic congestion at the intersection. Key Outcomes - Vote: Commissioner Singh made a motion to adopt a resolution recommending that the City Council certify the EIR, adopt the Mitigation Monitoring and Reporting Program, and approve the requested General Plan/Community Plan Amendment, Rezone, Tentative Subdivision Map, and Subdivision Design Review. The motion carried 3-1 (Commissioners O'Con, Singh, and Poole in favor; Commissioner Singha opposed). - Director's Report: Upcoming items were noted, including the Summerville's Project, Project Coldwater (warehouse), revisions to the Suza Dairy project, and a new phase of the Mendez subdivision. The November 11, 2026, meeting was canceled due to Veterans Day.

TRAFFIC MANAGEMENT 34% · LAND USE PLANNING 19% · AFFORDABLE HOUSING 12% · PUBLIC COMMENT 12%
03
OCT 14, 2026 · ELKGROVE, CALIFORNIA · OTHER
Elk Grove City Council Regular Meeting - October 14, 2026

The Elk Grove City Council held its regular meeting on October 14, 2026, at City Hall. The agenda included a groundwater update from the Sacramento Central Groundwater Authority, recognition of Disability Awareness Month, a public hearing on a storm water drainage fee zone annexation (Grant Line Village), and the establishment of a Local Preference Program for affordable housing. The meeting featured extensive public comment on the Flock Automated License Plate Reader (ALPR) system and concluded with council member reports. Presentations & Announcements - Sacramento Central Groundwater Authority (SCGA) Update: Executive Director Pirat Harmon provided an overview of the South American Subbasin. The basin has a sustainable yield of 235,000 acre-feet per year, with 188,000 acre-feet pumped in the last water year, indicating a healthy surplus. All six sustainability indicators were in good standing (green/yellow), though some monitoring points near a superfund site (Aerojet) showed lower groundwater levels. Major projects include the Harvest Water project (operational in 2027, adding 50,000 acre-feet) and the Sacramento Regional Water Bank. The SCGA is undertaking a five-year reassessment, Joint Powers Authority (JPA) review, and fee study. - Disability Awareness Month Proclamation: Councilmember Brewer read a proclamation declaring October 2026 as Disability Awareness Month, recognizing the contributions of individuals with disabilities and the work of the Disability Advisory Committee. - Above and Beyond Program Accessibility Award: The Disability Advisory Committee presented the 20th Annual Above and Beyond Accessibility Award to Yadera Badera, the RAD and Enrichment Coordinator for the Cosumnes Community Services District, for her work creating inclusive recreation programs for individuals with disabilities. Consent Calendar - The City Council unanimously approved the Consent Calendar (Items 7.1-7.10). This included approval of meeting minutes, various contracts and reports, adoption of Ordinance No. 09-2026 amending the Affordable Housing Fee, authorization for the Annual Striping and Legend Project ($279,890), the Franklin Boulevard Cycle Track Project ($296,269), the purchase of BMW motorcycle parts, and the acquisition of property at 9392 West Stockton Boulevard for $959,000. Public Comments & Testimony - Lynn Wheat (General Comments & Item 7.10): Ms. Wheat commented on the city's former zoo project, stating that nearly $16 million in taxpayer funds were spent and asking the council to ensure a sale of the property recoups that amount. During the Consent Calendar item 7.10, she questioned the acquisition price for 9392 West Stockton Boulevard, requesting information on whether an independent appraisal was obtained. - Justin, Yev, Ellen (General Public Comment on ALPRs): Three speakers voiced strong opposition to the city's use of the Flock ALPR system. Justin argued that the system allows vendor access to data, permits federal backdoors, and poses a fiscal risk under Senate Bill 34. Yev stated the cameras capture full-frame photos capable of classifying individuals, raised concerns about surveillance infrastructure, and requested the item be placed on a future agenda. Ellen pointed to ICE use of ALPR data in other jurisdictions and questioned the council's oversight of the system, citing a campaign contribution from the District Attorney. All urged the council to cancel the Flock contract. Public Hearings - Grant Line Village Storm Water Drainage Fee Zone 2 Annexation (Item 8.1): The council held a public hearing for Annexation No. 78 for the Grant Line Village commercial project (14.15 acres). The Clerk reported no majority protest, with all 15 weighted votes in favor. The council unanimously adopted the resolution levying the assessments. Discussion Items - Establishment of a Local Preference Program for Affordable Housing (Item 9.1): Management Analyst II Joshua Tovar presented a proposal for a Local Preference Program for city-supported affordable rental and ownership units. The program prioritizes households that either live or work in Elk Grove, aiming to combat displacement and support housing stability. Staff highlighted strong demand (30 applicants per unit in the PARDIS II lottery) and high cost burdens on residents, particularly seniors on fixed incomes. The program applies to newly deed-restricted units and does not overrule other funding-specific requirements. - Councilmember Spease questioned the application to permanent supportive housing (Coral Blossom), where other funding requirements (Project Homekey, SHRA) necessitate a coordinated entry system. Staff noted efforts are being made to incorporate geographic preference and that the program will apply to new projects like Old Town Senior Apartments and Sheldon Farms North. - Councilmember Robles, Councilmember Brewer, and Vice Mayor Suen expressed strong support for the policy, emphasizing its role in providing stability for the local workforce and existing residents. The resolution was adopted unanimously. Key Outcomes - Votes: - Closed Session (5-0): Authorized the city attorney to initiate litigation (details not subject to disclosure at that time). - Consent Calendar (Items 7.1-7.10): Approved unanimously. - Public Hearing 8.1 (Grant Line Annexation): Resolution adopted unanimously. - Regular Agenda 9.1 (Local Preference Program): Resolution establishing the program adopted unanimously. - Directives and Clarifications: - Councilmember Spease directed staff to follow up with Lynn Wheat regarding the appraisal process for 9392 West Stockton Boulevard. - Vice Mayor Suen requested outreach to residents regarding an upcoming Proposition 218 process for the sewer district. - City Manager Jason Barman corrected the public record on zoo project costs, stating the total was approximately $13 million, not the nearly $16 million figure cited by a speaker, and offered to review a General Ledger expenditure report with the resident.

WATER MANAGEMENT 29% · AFFORDABLE HOUSING 17% · PUBLIC COMMENT 15% · DISABILITY ACCESS 11%
04
OCT 14, 2026 · ELKGROVE, CALIFORNIA · OTHER
Elk Grove City Council Special Meeting Summary – October 14, 2026

The Elk Grove City Council held a special meeting on Wednesday, October 14, 2026, beginning at 5:00 p.m. at Elk Grove City Hall, 8400 Laguna Palms Way, Elk Grove, CA. The council convened in closed session to discuss real property negotiations and litigation matters, then reconvened in open session to report action taken. The meeting was adjourned at 6:08 p.m. Closed Session - The council met in closed session under the Brown Act for the following noticed items: - Conference with real property negotiators regarding a portion of 3206 Hood Franklin Road, Elk Grove (APN 132-0262-003), with negotiating parties Salendar Singh and Surinda K. Singh; price and terms under negotiation. - Conference with real property negotiators regarding a portion of an ±84.09-acre parcel located south of Hood Franklin Road and west of Franklin Boulevard (APN 132-0262-007), with negotiating party George Popescu, Hood-Franklin Partners, a California general partnership; price and terms under negotiation. - Conference with real property negotiators regarding a portion of an ±14.92-acre parcel located east of Franklin Boulevard south of Hood Franklin Road (APN 132-0132-044), with negotiating party Blandon Granger, SMUD Supervisor Real Estate Service; price and terms under negotiation. - Conference with legal counsel regarding existing litigation: Maria Rogers v. City of Elk Grove, et al., Sacramento County Superior Court Case No. 23CV011353. - Conference with legal counsel regarding one anticipated litigation matter. Key Outcomes - By a 5-0 vote, the City Council authorized the City Attorney’s office to initiate litigation in one matter. - The names of the defendants and case details were not disclosed at that time because they were not subject to disclosure; once litigation is filed, the information will be disclosed to any person upon inquiry. - No public comment was reported in the available transcript. - Meeting minutes were not available for this summary; it is based on the agenda and the oral report made after closed session. - The special meeting was adjourned at 6:08 p.m.

PROCEDURAL 50% · PENDING LITIGATION 50%
05
OCT 1, 2026 · ELKGROVE, CALIFORNIA · OTHER
Elk Grove Planning Commission Approves Laguna Incubator Space Project on October 1, 2026

The Elk Grove Planning Commission met on Thursday, October 1, 2026, at 6:00 PM in the Elk Grove City Council Chambers. All five commissioners were present. The commission approved the agenda, approved the September 3, 2026 meeting minutes with one abstention, and held a public hearing for the Laguna Incubator Space Project (PLNG24-012). After staff and applicant presentations and no public testimony, the commission approved the project, including a no-further-CEQA-review finding. The meeting was adjourned at 6:18 PM. Call to Order and Agenda - Roll call showed all five commissioners present: Chair Oscar O'Con, Vice Chair Varinder Singh, and Commissioners Juan Fernandez, Sandra Poole, and Suman Singha. - A motion to approve the agenda as presented passed 5-0. Consent Calendar - The Regular Meeting Minutes of September 3, 2026 were approved. One commissioner abstained, stating that they were not present at that meeting. Public Comments & Testimony - No speakers came forward during the general public comment portion. - During the Laguna Incubator Space Project hearing, applicant representative Craig Myers of George Scott Architects introduced himself as the owner's representative and offered to answer questions. No members of the public testified. Discussion Item: Laguna Incubator Space Project (PLNG24-012) - Senior Planner Sarah Kirchgessner presented the staff report. The project is a Major Design Review for three office/incubator buildings with associated parking, lighting, landscaping, and site improvements, plus a Determination of Consistency with the General Plan for abandonment of several existing easements. - The site is on the north side of Laguna Boulevard, east of High Tech Court. A portion contains the Elk Grove Sports Center complex, and the eastern portion is vacant. Surrounding uses include Laguna Boulevard and single-unit residential to the south, Laguna West Business Park to the east, the Apple campus parking lot to the west, and the Echo Water Resource Recovery Facility and vacant property to the north. - The Sports Center complex was originally developed with an approximately 188,000-square-foot industrial building before Elk Grove's incorporation. In 2007, the city council approved a General Plan amendment from light industrial to commercial and a rezoning from light industrial to general commercial. In 2009, the planning commission approved design review for six future buildings, but all six pads remained undeveloped. A major design review was previously approved for Pad 5, and this project covers Buildings 1 and 2 in the previously approved locations. The southeastern Venture Commerce Center portion was approved in 2006, its final map was recorded in 2007, and its entitlements have since expired. - The site has two General Plan designations (community commercial and light industrial) and two zoning designations (general commercial and industrial office park). No tenants are identified; future uses must be consistent with permitted uses in each zoning district, potentially including business and professional offices, specialized education and training studios, business support services, building trade contractor offices, personal services, and research and development. - The project proposes approximately 83,000 square feet of total building area across three buildings, with parking between the buildings and the rear portion of the site, several small bioretention drainage facilities, and a contemporary design using exterior metal siding, plaster walls, steel canopies, and matte black, rosewood, and white colors. - Staff stated that the existing water line, emergency vehicle, and public utility easements contain no facilities and are not needed for present or foreseeable future use. Emergency access would be provided between existing and proposed drive aisles, and future utilities would be located within new easements or public rights-of-way. Staff found the abandonments consistent with General Plan goals and policies. - Staff recommended a finding that no further environmental review is required under State CEQA Guidelines Sections 15162 and 15183. Director's Report - The Community Development Director noted that the City Council meeting on September 23 received the Historic Preservation Committee's annual update and a proclamation for History Week. - The Summer Flats project will return to the Planning Commission on October 15; the packet is expected to be available by Monday. - The Summer Villas project is targeted for November 5, with the final EIR being completed and the hearing notice due to the newspaper next week. Staff will arrange security for heavier agendas. - The Zoning Administrator has nothing scheduled in October and is targeting November 9 for three items: the El Poyo Local Restaurant repaint, the Cornerstone Village map extension, and the Beta Road map extension. - No council agenda items are currently scheduled for October 14 or October 28. Planning Commission Matters - Commissioners discussed planning commissioner training. The next League of Cities Commissioners conference is scheduled around March 10, with more details expected in December, and local training may be held in February once new commission terms begin. - A commissioner suggested using challenging scenarios from recent meetings, such as the Summer Flats session, as case studies for training. Staff noted that a proposed conference session titled 'Planning Commission 101' may address challenging meetings, and internal training is also being considered. Key Outcomes - The commission approved the Laguna Incubator Space Project (PLNG24-012) by a voice vote with no opposition, adopting the resolution with the CEQA no-further-review finding, Major Design Review approval, General Plan consistency determination for easement abandonments, and conditions of approval contained in the draft resolution. - The meeting adjourned at 6:18 PM.

LAND USE PLANNING 52% · PUBLIC ENGAGEMENT 31% · PROCEDURAL 17%
06
SEP 23, 2026 · ELKGROVE, CALIFORNIA · OTHER
Elk Grove City Council Special Meeting – September 23, 2026

The Elk Grove City Council held a special meeting on September 23, 2026, at 5:30 p.m. The meeting included a closed session to discuss two matters: existing litigation and real property negotiations. Following the closed session, the council reconvened in open session and made an announcement regarding the litigation item, then adjourned. Closed Session - The council convened in closed session to discuss: - Conference with Legal Counsel – Existing Litigation: Two cases: Joel Castro Dacorro v. Young’s Transportation Services, LLC, et al. (Sacramento County Superior Court Case No. 25CV021148) and Joaquin Farinha v. City of Elk Grove (Workers Compensation Appeals Board Case No. ADJ21662596). - Conference with Real Property Negotiators: Negotiations regarding property at 9260 Elk Grove Boulevard (APN 134-0050-001) with the Sacramento Public Library Authority. Key Outcomes - Litigation Authorization: By a vote of 4–0 (Vice Mayor Darren Suen absent), the City Council authorized and directed the City Attorney’s office to defend the case Joel Castro Dacorro v. Young’s Transportation Services, LLC, et al. (identified on the agenda). No other reportable actions were announced from the closed session. - The special meeting was adjourned at 6:05 p.m.

PROCEDURAL 100%
07
SEP 23, 2026 · ELKGROVE, CALIFORNIA · OTHER
Elk Grove City Council Regular Meeting – September 23, 2026

The Elk Grove City Council held its regular meeting on Wednesday, September 23, 2026, at City Hall (8400 Laguna Palms Way). Vice Mayor Darren Suen was absent. The council presented proclamations, heard public testimony on police license plate reader technology and the city's affordable housing fee, approved the consent calendar, and voted to introduce an ordinance and adopt a resolution on the Affordable Housing Impact Fee program. Proclamations and Presentations - Presented a proclamation recognizing September 15 – October 15, 2026 as Hispanic Heritage Month in Elk Grove. - Presented a proclamation recognizing October 12, 2026 as Indigenous Peoples Day. - Presented a proclamation recognizing September 20–26, 2026 as Elk Grove History Week, highlighting the city's incorporation on July 1, 2000, and encouraging residents, schools, businesses, and community organizations to participate in educational programs, tours, exhibits, and community events. - Received a presentation from the Historic Preservation Committee on community education to protect historic resources, including outreach to property owners and residents in the historic district. Consent Calendar - Approved the City Council meeting minutes of September 9, 2026 and September 15, 2026. - Received the report on Requests for Proposals, Qualifications, and related contracts. - Public comment was opened and closed with no speakers; the consent calendar was approved by unanimous motion (Vice Mayor Suen absent). Public Comments & Testimony - A resident raised concerns about Flock automated license plate readers (ALPRs) and data privacy, asserting that police had made contradictory statements about whether the cameras track vehicle movement. The resident argued it is more important to protect residents from abuse than to shield police misconduct, and expressed concern that ICE could use such data to arrest parents after school drop-off. - The same or another speaker criticized the ALPR administration committee for being internal-only, stated that no mayor or council member had researched alternatives to ALPR systems, and said community members who requested a meeting three times on community audit findings were refused. The speaker also remarked that no one can live on $20 per hour without additional income. - One speaker during the item 8.1 public hearing opposed the proposed affordable housing impact fee, stating it would be 20–30% higher than other jurisdictions and that Elk Grove competes for home buyers with the county, Rancho Cordova, and Folsom. - No written public comments were received before the meeting for item 8.1, and none were submitted online. Discussion Items - Affordable Housing Impact Fee (Item 8.1): Staff reported that a public notice was published on September 4, 2026, and the 15-day public comment period ran from September 8 through the September 23 public hearing. Staff noted that stakeholder engagement was incorporated at each stage. The consultant's nexus study measures the total affordable housing gap rather than who pays for it, and the proposed options represent different percentages of the maximum justifiable fee: Option 1 would make no change to the current fee, while Option 2 aligns with prior council actions. - Council discussion highlighted a $2 million homeownership assistance program. Staff stated they do not anticipate using the full $2 million for this program alone, and that staff evaluates household income, assets, and investment earnings to verify need and adjust assistance levels. The program grew out of a council retreat discussion on affordable housing. - Councilmember Robles moved to introduce the ordinance and adopt the resolution; Councilmember Brewer seconded. Vice Mayor Suen's emailed statement, read into the record, commended staff for developing program safeguards to ensure qualifying residents benefit while preventing fraudulent behavior. Key Outcomes - Presented proclamations for Hispanic Heritage Month, Indigenous Peoples Day, and Elk Grove History Week, and received the Historic Preservation Committee presentation. - Approved the consent calendar unanimously. - Voted to introduce the ordinance and adopt the resolution for the Elk Grove Affordable Housing Impact Fee program; the motion carried (Vice Mayor Suen absent). - Councilmembers promoted a community meeting on Wednesday, September 30, 2026, at 10 a.m. at M Coffee House (7440 Laguna Boulevard) and encouraged residents to complete the Creative Spark survey at elkgrove.gov/creativespark.

AFFORDABLE HOUSING 30% · PUBLIC COMMENT 19% · HISTORIC PRESERVATION 17% · PROCEDURAL 8%
08
SEP 17, 2026 · ELKGROVE, CALIFORNIA · OTHER
Elk Grove Planning Commission Meeting Summary – September 17, 2026

The Elk Grove Planning Commission met on Thursday, September 17, 2026, at 6:00 PM in the City Council Chambers. Chair Oscar O'Con was absent, and Commissioner Sandra Poole recused herself from the Summer Flats item due to proximity to her residence. Vice Chair Varinder Singh presided, joined by Commissioners Juan Fernandez and Suman Singha. The meeting adjourned at 7:18 PM. Consent Calendar - 4.1 – Regular Meeting Minutes of August 20, 2026: Approved unanimously. - 4.2 – Regular Meeting Minutes of May 21, 2026: Approved with one abstention (Commissioner Singh indicated he was not present at that meeting). Public Comments & Testimony General public comment on non-agendized items: None. Public hearing on Summer Flats Project (PLNG23‑006): - Mark Claymore (retired geologist, 35‑year Waterman Meadows resident): Opposed. Cited dangerous traffic at Waterman/Rancho, cumulative impacts from other developments (e.g., Elliott Springs), and questioned whether the EIR accounted for those. Stated RD‑12 density far exceeds what was contemplated in the Eastern Elk Grove overlay. - Chris Duggan (14‑year Waterman Meadows resident): Not opposed to the project but requested a traffic signal at Waterman/Rancho; considered the intersection dangerous. - Brooke Chappelle (lifetime resident, attorney/heavy civil contractor): Opposed. Said the 27.6‑acre site is too small for the density; infrastructure (schools, roads) cannot handle it. - Ken Chappell (resident since 1977): Opposed. Argued density is too high (quadrupling from RD‑4 to RD‑12); worried about parking, rental conversion, and traffic safety. - Jordi Osborne (resident on San Paulo Circle): Opposed. Described dangerous left turns from Rancho onto Waterman; said T‑court designs cause parking issues; cited speed problems. - Matt Stefan (10‑year resident): Opposed. Noted 240+ additional cars; parking already a problem in similar developments; traffic signal may not help; no parking plan for residents. - Randy O’Rourke (resident): Opposed. Contended effective density is closer to RD‑15 due to net acreage after open space; fire truck access concerns; profits driving density. - John Warda (property owner in area): Asked clarifying question about extent of Waterman widening (staff noted project only covers its frontage). - Morgan Montoya (family law attorney, 2‑year resident): Opposed. Purchase relied on existing zoning; density out of character; dangerous intersection; asked for updated accident data. - Ashley Bergen (fourth‑generation Elk Grovian): Supported. Emphasized need for missing‑middle housing, affordability, and allowing young professionals to stay in Elk Grove. - Lu Zhang (new resident): Opposed. Moved to escape density; traffic already bad near schools; wants to preserve community feel. - Chad McClemons (resident): Asked that sound walls be included for homes on Waterman (project includes sound wall on project side). - Late speaker (opposed, no name provided): Claimed the land was previously deemed undevelopable; alleged impropriety. Discussion Items 5.1 – Summer Flats Project (PLNG23‑006) Staff Presentation (Sarah Kirchgessner, Senior Planner): - Proposed General Plan/Community Plan Amendment: redesignate 27.6 acres from Low Density Residential and Resource Management/Conservation to Medium Density Residential and RMC. - Rezone from RD‑4 and Open Space (O) to RD‑12 and O. - Tentative Subdivision Map: subdivide three parcels into 120 residential lots (T‑court homes), one detention basin lot, one open space lot, and landscape lots. - Text amendment to increase maximum residential buildout in East Elk Grove Sub‑Area by 91 units (baseline 29 units → 120). - Environmental Impact Report (EIR) certified; significant unavoidable impacts for GHG and VMT; Statement of Overriding Considerations. - Staff recommended approval, subject to findings and conditions. Green sheet corrections: delete condition of approval 52, remove erroneous plot plan detail, provide errata to draft EIR. - Clarified that speed limit transition (45→35 mph south of Rancho) does not affect traffic analysis. - Addressed increased‑density alternative: found economically infeasible due to lack of builder interest and product type concerns. Applicant Presentation (Tim Denham, Wood Rogers; Brian Wilson, developer): - Project aimed at entry‑level/missing‑middle housing; for‑sale (not rental). - Site buffered by open space, power line easements, Waterman Road widening. - Pedestrian paseo and multi‑use trail connections; street design provides guest parking. - Noted cooperation with city staff; market demand supports density. Commission Questions: - Commissioner Fernandez asked about parking; applicant said each unit has two‑car garage plus one on‑street guest space per unit. - Commissioner Fernandez asked about sound wall; applicant confirmed wall along Waterman on project side. - Commissioner Singha asked about traffic signal at Waterman/Rancho; staff said no current CIP project, signal not warranted by traffic study, but could inquire with public works about alternatives. - Commissioner Fernandez noted similar traffic issues on White Rock resolved by signals over time. Commission Deliberation: - Commissioner Singha expressed discomfort with traffic concerns and was not ready to support approval. - Staff noted options: motion to recommend approval (needs 3 votes), recommend denial, or continue to a date certain. - Commissioner Singh moved to continue the item to October 15, 2026, to allow staff to gather additional information on potential traffic mitigation (signal, other alternatives) at Waterman/Rancho. Seconded by Commissioner Fernandez. All in favor (3–0). The motion carried. Key Outcomes - Consent Calendar items approved as noted (August minutes unanimous; May minutes with one abstention). - Summer Flats Project (PLNG23‑006) continued to the October 15, 2026 Planning Commission meeting. Staff directed to consult with Traffic Division and Capital Improvement teams on possible near‑term improvements at the Waterman Road/Rancho Drive intersection and report back. - No other actions taken.

LAND USE PLANNING 32% · PUBLIC COMMENT 23% · PROCEDURAL 18% · TRAFFIC MANAGEMENT 12%
09
SEP 9, 2026 · ELKGROVE, CALIFORNIA · OTHER
Elk Grove City Council Special Meeting - September 9, 2026

The Elk Grove City Council held a special meeting on Wednesday, September 9, 2026, at 5:00 p.m. The meeting included a closed session for real property negotiations and legal matters, followed by an open session reconvening at approximately 6:28 p.m. The council reported one action from closed session and then adjourned. Closed Session Actions - The council convened closed session to discuss items listed on the agenda: (A) Conference with Real Property Negotiators regarding a portion of 8675 Kammerer Road (APN 132-0320-010) with Wilton Rancheria; (B) Conference with Legal Counsel – Anticipated Litigation (one matter); and (C) Conference with Legal Counsel – Existing Litigation (two matters: Ahmad Nassar v. Colby Hanna, et al., Case No. 2:25-cv-03326 DJC CKD, and Kubra Bahadury, et al., v. City of Elk Grove, et al., Case No. 23CV011156). Key Outcomes - By a unanimous vote of 5-0, the council authorized and directed the City Attorney's office to defend the case of Nassar v. Hanna (and all related matters as identified by the case number on the agenda). - The special meeting was adjourned at 6:28 p.m.

PROCEDURAL 50% · PENDING LITIGATION 50%
10
SEP 9, 2026 · ELKGROVE, CALIFORNIA · OTHER
Elk Grove City Council Discusses ALPR Technology at September 9, 2026 Regular Meeting

The Elk Grove City Council held a regular meeting on Wednesday, September 9, 2026, beginning at 6:29 p.m. after a brief closed session (not listed on the agenda). The meeting included a presentation on Automated License Plate Reader (ALPR) technology, extensive public comment on the topic and on rural preservation, and routine consent calendar approvals. Consent Calendar - Approved 5-0: Minutes of August 26, 2026; City Manager purchases report; RFP report; Monthly Investment Report; Ordinance No. 08-2026 imposing a two-year moratorium on new Personal Storage Facility entitlements (second reading); resolution for a Historic Preservation Fund Grant ($10,500); resolution to amend contract with Changing Environments, Inc. (adding up to $286,200); resolution authorizing City Manager to execute contracts for citywide technology services. Public Comments & Testimony - Non‑agenda public comment (prior to ALPR item): - Multiple residents spoke in opposition to ALPRs, citing privacy concerns, state law violations, and Flock’s track record. Speakers included Lindsay Halsell (DFLOC Elk Grove), Sappy, and others. They called for an independent audit and town hall. - Several residents spoke in favor of preserving rural Elk Grove, opposing the Summer Villas development. Speakers (Constance Conley, Eileen Conwell, George Murphy, Carlos Zamaripa, Amelia Van Carrea) presented a “Rural Roots” booklet and urged the Council to uphold the General Plan. - Public comment on Item 9.1 (ALPR presentation): - In‑person speakers: Many opposed continued use of Flock/ALPRs, including Lindsay Halsell (reiterated concerns about data retention discrepancies and Flock’s business practices), Ellen (cited 8.3 million outside searches, requested an end to the contract), Sophia Singh, Justin Gee, Allison Randall (questioned effectiveness), and others. Some speakers noted they want crimes solved but oppose mass surveillance. A Parkgate neighborhood watch coordinator (Ricky Paul) expressed support for privately funded ALPRs in his community. - Online speakers: Dan, Brian Hofer (Secure Justice), and others raised concerns about Fourth Amendment violations, Flock’s data practices, and 180 officer misuse cases nationwide. Several urged cancellation of the Flock contract. Discussion Items - 9.1 – ALPR Technology Presentation: Police Chief Bobby Davis and RTIC Manager Andrea Cortez gave a comprehensive overview of the ALPR program. They defined ALPR functionality, reviewed program history (2008–2026), outlined safeguards and audit procedures, and addressed data‑sharing concerns. They emphasized that Elk Grove PD does not use facial recognition, continuously track vehicles, or share data with out‑of‑state/federal entities after 2024. Sheriff Jim Cooper and District Attorney Tien Ho spoke in support, emphasizing the technology’s role in solving homicides, human trafficking, and other crimes. The presentation included case studies and noted that Flock data is retained for 30 days per contract, though a city policy (Section 462.4) states a minimum one‑year retention for downloaded data – a discrepancy noted by speakers. Key Outcomes - No formal action taken: The item was informational only. - Council comments: Councilmembers expressed general support for continued ALPR use with robust safeguards. Councilmember Spees asked for more explicit audit timelines (suggesting no longer than 90 days) and a public dashboard showing search requests vs. returns. He also requested the vendor disable the “people search” radio button. Councilmember Robles and Brewer highlighted the technology’s benefits for public safety and victim justice. Vice Mayor Suen and Mayor Singh‑Allen stressed the need to balance public safety with privacy, noting that state legislation (SB 1013) attempt to impose similar safeguards failed. The Mayor noted that Elk Grove’s current practices already align with many proposed protections. - Next steps: The Police Department will continue to refine policies, formalize audit procedures through an internal ALPR committee, and evaluate other vendors (Axon trial underway). A more detailed report on audit frequency, access controls, and data sharing is expected.

PUBLIC SAFETY 42% · TECHNOLOGY AND INNOVATION 30% · PUBLIC COMMENT 8% · PROCEDURAL 6%
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