Public Meetings - Elkgrove, California

The Elk Grove City Council met Wednesday, December 10, 2025, beginning at 6:00 p.m., following a special meeting/closed session report. The Council reorganized leadership for the coming year, approved General Plan amendments to comply with SB 1425 open-space requirements ahead of the January 1, 2026 deadline, received annual reporting on the City’s 24/7 homeless shelter operations (with extensive program and police activity statistics), previewed a community co-creation process to repurpose the current library building after the new library opens in summer 2026, heard an implementation update on SB 1383 organics/edible food recovery, and confirmed committee/board appointments. The regular meeting adjourned at 7:30 p.m. Closed Session Report (reported prior to the regular meeting) - Litigation (5-0 votes): - Council authorized and directed the City Attorney’s Office to defend Lindman vs. City of Elk Grove et al. (case number referenced on the Council agenda). - Council authorized the City Attorney’s Office to initiate litigation in one matter; defendant names/details were not disclosed (to be disclosed once filed). Public Comments & Testimony - Dr. Suman Sinha (Chair, Elk Grove Food Bank Board of Directors): - Reported the Food Bank served about 8,000 clients/month prior to a federal shutdown, and that the number of people seeking assistance “essentially doubled overnight” during the crisis. - Stated the Food Bank is now running slightly over 1,000 clients higher than pre-shutdown levels. - Expressed gratitude to City leadership and Council members for support and donations. - Bonnie Stensler (Glenbrook HOA liaison): - Offered holiday well-wishes and thanked City leadership/staff and public safety. - Lynn Wheat (resident): - Expressed support for City efforts to expand bike rack planning and safer bicycle parking. - Requested an update regarding the “Slow and Low” property and referenced $450,000 the public was “supposed to receive back” from a default. Vice Mayor Selection / Council Reorganization - Action: Council selected Council Member Suen as Vice Mayor for the upcoming year. - Vote: Approved by voice vote (no dissent noted). - Seating: Council indicated they would wait until January to make any seating changes (“musical chairs”). City Manager’s Report (Jason Berman) - Food Bank donation response: Reported total funds generated through City efforts were over $130,000, including approximately $45,000 directly from the City. - Mayor also cited specific contributions including: IBEW $10,000, Plumbers & Pipefitters $7,500, Wilton Rancheria Tribe $50,000, and Sacramento Republic $10,000 (among others). - Illumination Festival: Estimated 10,000 attendees, with about half from Elk Grove and about half from outside the City, described as a significant increase over prior years. - Holiday Toy Project: Elk Grove Police Department and Cosumnes Fire Department to support over 130 families and approximately 350 children; toy donations accepted through December 18. - Hanukkah event: “Light Up Elk Grove” on Sunday, December 14, 2–5 p.m. at Old Town Plaza; includes a nine-foot LED menorah; City-sponsored. - Scholarship: City offering a $1,000 scholarship (with the Elk Grove Regional Scholarship Foundation) for students pursuing public service. - Holiday closures/recess: Council recess December 24; City facilities closed Dec. 24–25 and Dec. 31–Jan. 1; trash service on delayed schedules. - Next Council meeting: January 14. - Council direction: Mayor requested future Illumination Festival planning include an ADA-accessible/closed-off area for attendees with disabilities. Consent Calendar - Approved as presented by motion and second (no public comment; no dissent noted). Public Hearing — General Plan Amendments (Open Space Element + Implementation Work Program) - Item: Amendments to update the Open Space Element for compliance with SB 1425 (equitable access to open space, climate resilience/co-benefits, and rewilding opportunities) and to update the Implementation Work Program (Table 10-1). - Staff presentation (Carrie Whitlock, Long Range Planning): - Noted SB 1425 required updates by January 1, 2026. - Identified 20+ existing policies supporting SB 1425 requirements; proposed text edits to 7 policies and adoption of 4 new policies. - Added explanatory language on rewilding opportunities (including in the context of any future Habitat Conservation Plan) and climate co-benefits. - Implementation Work Program updates included removing completed actions and updating priorities/roles. - CEQA: Staff recommended finding no further environmental review required (citing CEQA Guidelines sections 15061 and 15183). - Public comment: None. - Action/Vote: Council adopted the resolution approving the amendments (approved by voice vote; no dissent noted). Discussion Item — Annual Report on Elk Grove Homeless Shelter Operations - Staff report (Sarah Bontrager, Housing & Public Services Manager): - Shelter location: Calvary Christian Center site; capacity up to 30 adults/night plus 5 emergency police drop-off beds. - 24/7 operations began November 5, 2024. - Operated by The Gathering Inn (TGI); referral-only entry via Homeless Services Navigator verifying an Elk Grove tie; pets and a reasonable amount of belongings allowed. - Services: three meals/day, showers, laundry, case management, behavioral/mental health connections, housing navigation, and workforce development. - Partnerships highlighted: Elk Grove Food Bank (breakfast/lunch donations), Turning Point (behavioral health/day center), and Elk Grove Heart (move-on deposits/furniture). - Neighborhood impacts: stated relatively few complaints; new shelter manager recruitment underway. - Shelter utilization/outcomes (past year): - 93 people stayed at least one night. - Average 24 people/night enrolled. - Nearly 9,400 bed nights. - Ages 19–74; 27% were 55+. - 64 men, 28 women, 1 non-binary person. - 3 veterans (described as quickly connected to other resources). - More than half had a disability; 23% had a chronic health condition. - A little over half were unhoused more than a year before entry. - Housing moves: 14 moved to permanent housing; 6 left to family/friends (tracked separately as temporary/unknown permanence). - Behavioral health: 54% referred; about 25% successfully linked to a provider and receiving medications. - Employment: 7 arrived with jobs; 12 found new/better employment while sheltered. - Food support: 740 meals donated by the Food Bank; 278 “Serve Partner” dinner meals (approximately 5 per week). - Police report (Lt. Josh Magdaleno, Elk Grove Police Department): - Police used the 5 emergency beds 25 times. - Reported 65% decrease in homeless encampments since the shelter opened. - Reported debris collected during bi-weekly cleanups dropped by over 40,000 pounds. - Calls for service within a 0.3-mile radius: 711 in the year after opening vs 595 in the year prior (+9.1%). - Increase largely attributed to suspicious trespassing calls, which rose 115%, concentrated in nearby commercial areas (Walmart/Elk Village Shopping Center). - Calls directly involving the shelter: 51 public-initiated calls total (6 from the public, 32 from employees, 13 from guests). - Community partner testimony (Elk Grove Heart — Debbie Shanna Safer and Frank Lucia): - Described the shelter as a stabilizing resource (especially during cold weather) and cited Sacramento-area street deaths due to hypothermia. - Shared success stories emphasizing employment and housing transitions (e.g., a parent reunified with children; a couple working toward apartment eligibility). - Council comments: Councilmembers expressed support and emphasized partnerships among the City, nonprofits, and public safety; no formal vote was required for receipt of the report. Discussion Item — Old Library Site Reuse Project (Community Outreach/Engagement Plan) - Presentation (Jackie Guzman, Assistant City Manager; Ash Kumar, Senior Management Analyst): - Purpose: determine future use of the current library building before the library moves to its new location in summer 2026 (building expected available July/August 2026). - Introduced a “co-creation” engagement model where residents generate and help design reuse ideas (rather than staff presenting fixed options). - Building/site facts: purchased in 2006; 13,875 sq. ft., two-story; 0.88-acre parcel; 45 parking spaces. - Key parameters described: maintain existing building footprint, retain parking count, maintain community commercial zoning, preserve façade and height. - Proposed timeline/phases: - Phase 1 (Preparation): develop visuals, initial reuse scenarios, engagement tools. - Phase 2 (Community co-creation): planned for summer 2026 (in-person and online activities). - Phase 3 (Analysis/decision): fall 2026, including preliminary cost estimates and feasibility findings; potential return to community for additional input. - Council direction: General support voiced for the approach and early community input. - Mayor asked whether a community suggestion such as selling the property could be considered; staff stated Council could set parameters and that options could be brought back depending on feedback. Discussion Item — SB 1383 Implementation Update and Edible Food Recovery Working Group Achievements - Presentation (Kim Taylor, Recycling & Waste Division Manager, Public Works): - SB 1383 focus: reduce landfill methane by keeping organics out of trash; includes residential/commercial organics diversion, procurement of recycled organic products (compost/mulch), and edible food recovery. - Elk Grove program milestones: - Organics expansion began 2022, adding food waste to the green cart. - Distributed 13,000+ kitchen-top pails. - Conducted route audits/contamination monitoring with Republic Services. - Commercial/multifamily compliance: site visits, inspections, technical assistance, and recordkeeping/contamination oversight. - Procurement/circular economy actions: - Piloted a community compost giveaway. - Began using SB 1383-compliant compost/mulch at City sites including areas around the homeless shelter, animal shelter, special waste collection center, corp yard, and police facilities. - Regional edible food recovery: - Participation in the Capital Food Access Alliance (seven-jurisdiction collaboration). - In FY 2024–2025, awarded over $2 million in grants. - 29 organizations expanded capacity; 15 serving Elk Grove. - Reported over 3 million pounds of edible food recovered through the grant program in Sacramento County. - Council comments: Supportive comments; no formal action taken. Key Outcomes - Closed session litigation actions approved: both items 5-0. - Vice Mayor selected: Council Member Suen appointed Vice Mayor (voice vote; no dissent noted). - Consent calendar: approved (no dissent noted). - General Plan amendments adopted: Open Space Element updated for SB 1425 compliance; Implementation Work Program updated (voice vote; no dissent noted). - Homeless shelter annual report received: key reported outcomes included 93 guests served, nearly 9,400 bed nights, 14 permanent housing placements, 65% reported encampment decrease, and 40,000+ pounds less debris collected. - Old library reuse outreach plan endorsed conceptually: Council supported co-creation framework; staff to proceed toward engagement in early 2026/summer 2026. - SB 1383 progress reported: continued residential/commercial organics programs, procurement steps (compost/mulch), and regional food recovery collaboration. - Appointments: Council adopted a resolution confirming regional/committee appointments (voice vote; no dissent noted); local appointment list maintained as status quo.

The Elk Grove Planning Commission held a meeting that included approval of prior meeting minutes, two public hearing items (a modified 188-unit townhome condominium subdivision and an amendment to a shopping center’s uniform sign program), and a director’s report covering upcoming meeting dates and pending projects. The meeting adjourned at 6:27 p.m. Consent Calendar - Approved the regular meeting minutes of November 6, 2025 on a 5–0 vote. Public Comments & Testimony - Non-agenda public comment: No speakers were registered; public comment was closed without testimony. Discussion Items - Item 5.1 — Wellington Crossing (PLNG 24-040) - Staff presentation (Kara Killingsworth, Project Planner): - Request for Tentative Subdivision Map (condominiums), Subdivision Design Review, and Major Design Review to construct 188 townhome units plus a clubhouse and site improvements (parking, landscaping, and four driveways) on a 7.49-acre vacant site. - Site context and constraints: Zoned and designated High Density Residential; located in the 200-year floodplain, requiring habitable structures to be built above floodplain levels (garages are not considered habitable space). - Map/configuration: Proposed 3 condominium lots, 29 buildings plus a clubhouse. Staff described this as a modification from an original approval (noting the original had 30 buildings and two common lots), with internal reconfiguration to maintain 188 units. - Unit mix change discussed by staff: staff stated the modification introduces one-bedroom units (and referenced differences from the original approval regarding studios/one-bedrooms). - Noise: Staff stated the project will be constructed to meet General Plan criteria for 45 decibels interior. - Architecture: Santa Barbara style with a mix of stucco/wood/stone/tile and earth-tone colors. - Amenities: Clubhouse includes a pool/patio and barbecue, with pathways/courtyards and landscaping. - Parking: Staff stated parking reductions are tied to code changes since the project’s original approval (referencing changes such as guest parking shifting from 1 space per 4 units to 1 space per 6 units, and changes to per-unit requirements). - CEQA: Staff recommended finding no further environmental review required, citing consistency with the General Plan and referencing CEQA Guidelines sections 15183 and 15162. - Applicant testimony (Vasili Stratton, Developer): - Stated the homes are conceived as for-rent townhomes. - Clubhouse use: stated it is intended for exclusive use of residents, not outside rentals; indicated residents might potentially book it for small events (e.g., a birthday), but not as an outside event venue. - Commission comments/questions: - Questions focused on whether clubhouse use could create parking impacts and the clubhouse location relative to the north parcel. - Commissioner Poole expressed appreciation for the architectural style (a position of support for the design aesthetic). - Item 5.2 — The Village Major Uniform Sign Program Amendment (PLNG 25-025) - Staff presentation (Antonio Ablog): - Amendment to the approved Village Major Uniform Sign Program to allow one additional freestanding monument sign along Weimark Drive (western boundary). - Project location/size: approximately 15 acres at Bighorn Blvd. and Elk Grove Blvd. within the Laguna Ridge Specific Plan; zoned Shopping Center. Staff stated the center is under construction and nearing interior improvements. - Background: The sign program was approved by the Planning Commission on June 19 (year not stated in the transcript). - Previously approved freestanding signs: 7 total (including 3 multi-tenant monument signs and 4 “placemaking” signs that advertise the center only). - This amendment would add one additional “Type B” sign, increasing the total to 8, and resulting in 4 multi-tenant monument signs. - Staff noted the sign program allows up to two freestanding signs per project entry, with six entries (up to 12 signs), so the proposal remains below the program cap. - Sign details: 9-foot monument sign with push-through acrylic and internal illumination designed to reduce glare (described as “halo lighting”). - CEQA: Staff recommended exemption under CEQA Guidelines section 15311 (Accessory Structures) for on-premise signs. - Applicant testimony (Richard Tierling, FAPUS Investments): - Stated the amendment is to add flexibility for tenant signage. - Reported the project is 84% leased at the time of the meeting. - Explained tenant placement: major tenants (examples given: Whole Foods and Barnes & Noble) would be placed on the larger 20-foot sign on Elk Grove Blvd.; smaller tenants would be on the smaller monument signs. Key Outcomes - Consent Calendar: Approved Nov. 6, 2025 minutes (5–0). - Item 5.1 (Wellington Crossing, PLNG 24-040): - Approved on a 5–0 vote. - Motion included: adopting a resolution finding no further CEQA review required (as stated in the motion: CEQA Guidelines sections 15183 and 15162) and approving the Tentative Condominium Map and Major Design Review (with findings and conditions in the draft resolution). - Note on record consistency: Staff’s CEQA recommendation for this item referenced 15183/15162, while the commissioner’s motion also referenced those sections but contained an initial verbal slip before restating them. - Item 5.2 (The Village Sign Program Amendment, PLNG 25-025): - Approved on a 5–0 vote. - Motion included: adopting a resolution finding the project CEQA-exempt under 15311 and approving the Major Uniform Sign Program amendment. Director’s Report / Scheduling - December 18 Planning Commission meeting: 1 confirmed agenda item—re-approval of the Village 4 Tentative Subdivision Map for Sheldon Park Estates; quorum check indicated all commissioners expected to attend. - January 15 meeting (planned items): Trilogy Med Waste Project and Triangle Point Subdivision Project. - January 1 meeting: Recommended cancellation because it falls on the holiday; chair concurred. - Zoning Administrator (upcoming items): - Mary-Hell SpringHill Suites Minor Design Review (repaint project) at Laguna Blvd. and Laguna Springs Dr. (described as “a week from Monday”). - Items being tracked for January 12, including: Skyport restaurant outdoor seating (Stone Lake Landing Shopping Center at Elk Grove Blvd. and Harbor Point), a map extension, and Cattleman’s Steakhouse design review. - City Council (near-term items): Staff mentioned final maps going to Council; also noted General Plan Open Space Element and implementation work plan updates for the next week’s Council meeting. - Future tracking (around January 14): Bartholomew Winery Amendment Project and a Sheldon Meadows map and rezone project (timing described as “around that time”). Adjournment: The meeting was adjourned at 6:27 p.m.

The Elk Grove City Council Regular Meeting scheduled for November 26, 2025, at 6:00 p.m. was cancelled in accordance with Resolution No. 2019-263, which provides for annual recess. No meeting occurred.

The Elk Grove Planning Commission met on Thursday, November 20, 2025, starting at 6:00 p.m. Commissioners approved the agenda (5-0), heard no non-agenda public comments, held a public hearing on the Sheldon Meadows Map and Rezone (a 14.5-acre rural subdivision proposal), and received a brief director’s report including recent City Council and zoning administrator actions and upcoming meeting items. Public Comments & Testimony - Non-agenda public comment: None. - Item 5.1 (Sheldon Meadows Map and Rezone) public testimony: - Rochelle Owen-Rainwald (public speaker): Expressed that the project, as described in the staff report, aligns with the Rural Residential framework (including 2-acre minimum lots, private wells and septic, and rural roadway standards). She urged the Commission to apply the same rural policy standards consistently to future rural-area proposals, and stated that proposals introducing more urban patterns (e.g., smaller lots or urban infrastructure) would diverge from the standards used to justify this approval. Discussion Items - Item 5.1 — Sheldon Meadows Map and Rezone (Project PLNG 23-003; 8690 Bradshaw Road) - Staff presentation (Sarah Kirsch-Gessner, Planning): - Proposed actions included a rezone, tentative subdivision map, subdivision design review, and a General Plan consistency determination for abandonment of a SMUD easement. - Site/context: Approximately 14.5 acres on Bradshaw Road; surrounded by rural residential uses to the east/west/north, with St. Maria Goretti Church immediately south. - Project description (factual): Subdivide into 7 single-unit residential parcels, each at least 2 gross acres, consistent with Rural Residential designation. - Access/improvements: Access via a 22-foot-wide gated private road from Bradshaw Road. - Drainage: A detention basin spanning the southern portion of Lots 1–6, maintained via CC&Rs with each property owner responsible for their portion; Lot 7 would drain to the existing ditch along Bradshaw Road. - Utilities/easement: An existing 10-foot SMUD easement and power pole is within the future Bradshaw Road right-of-way; the project includes relocation of the pole and vacation of the easement, with a new 12.5-foot public utility easement to be dedicated with the final map. - Environmental review: Staff stated no further environmental review was required under CEQA Guidelines §15183 (consistent with the General Plan EIR). - Correction noted: Staff referenced a supplemental “green sheet” making minor changes to Condition of Approval 2, recommended to be incorporated. - Commission questions/discussion: - Chair Juan Fernandez asked about drainage/hydrology analysis and whether detention basins would address downstream impacts. Staff responded a preliminary drainage study was completed and found no upstream or downstream impacts. - Chair expressed some concern about the proximity of the detention basin area to the church but indicated no further questions after staff’s response. - Applicant comments: - Applicant representatives stated they were a group of friends seeking approval to build homes on the lots; Omar Sadehi (JTS Engineering) offered to answer technical questions. Key Outcomes - Agenda approval: Approved 5-0. - Consent Calendar: None. - Item 5.1 — Sheldon Meadows Map and Rezone: - Action/Vote: Planning Commission approved a motion to recommend that the City Council: - Find no further CEQA review is required pursuant to CEQA Guidelines §15183; - Adopt an ordinance approving the rezone (AR-5 to AR-2); - Adopt resolutions approving the tentative subdivision map, subdivision design review, and General Plan consistency determination for abandonment of the SMUD easement; - Include the revisions to Condition 2 from the supplemental green sheet. - Moved by / Seconded by: Commissioner Singa / Commissioner Poole. - Vote tally: The transcript states, “Motion passes by zero,” which is internally inconsistent with the prior roll call and audible “Aye” votes; the exact tally was not clearly captured in the transcription. Director’s Report / Administrative Updates - Recent actions: - City Council (Nov. 12, 2025): Appeal hearing for the Maverik fueling station; appeal denied and the Commission-recommended approval was upheld. - Zoning Administrator (Nov. 17, 2025): Hilton Garden Inn repaint (minor design review) approved. - Upcoming Planning Commission items: - Dec. 4, 2025: “Wellington Crossing” item (described as a tentative subdivision map for condo-ization and minor design review/design review for subdivision layout) and a major sign program amendment for The Village. - Dec. 18, 2025 (tentative): Sheldon Park Estates tentative subdivision map (Commission sought confirmation that this date was still tentative). - Upcoming Zoning Administrator: - Dec. 15, 2025: Marriott SpringHill Suites minor design review. - Upcoming City Council: - Dec. 10, 2025: General Plan Open Space Element and Implementation Work Program updates (noted as the last Council meeting of 2025). Adjournment - The Chair adjourned the meeting after confirming no commissioner absences anticipated for the December 4 meeting; the exact adjournment time was not stated in the transcript.

The Elk Grove City Council held a special meeting on November 12, 2025, convening at 5:00 PM in closed session for several confidential items and reconvening in open session at approximately 6:01 PM to report actions taken. The only open session business was the announcement of votes taken during closed session. Key Outcomes - By a unanimous 5-0 vote, the City Council authorized and directed the City Attorney's office to defend the City in the cases of Lee v. City of Elk Grove (Case No. 2:25-cv-02928-JAM-JDP) and Chock v. City of Elk Grove (Case No. 2:25-cv-03034-SCR), as identified on the agenda. (Note: The raw transcript refers to the second case as "Chalk," but the agenda lists it as "Chock.") - By a separate 5-0 vote, the City Council authorized the City Attorney's office to initiate litigation on eight matters. The names of defendants and specific details are not subject to disclosure at this time; however, once litigation is filed, the information will be disclosed to any person upon inquiry. The meeting adjourned at 6:01 PM.

The Elk Grove City Council met on Wednesday, November 12, 2025, at 6:02 p.m. for a regular meeting following a closed session. The meeting, which adjourned at 9:52 p.m., included presentations, public hearings, and votes on several items. Key actions included denying an appeal for the Maverick fueling station, approving bond financing for an affordable housing project, ratifying the 2025 California Fire Code, and adopting the fiscal year 2024–25 year-end budget report. Consent Calendar - Item 7.15 – Transitional Housing Contractor: Diane Lampy, representing Elk Grove Heart Homeless Assistance Resource Team, spoke in support of the proposed contractor (Volunteers of America) for transitional housing. The consent calendar was approved by unanimous voice vote. Public Comments & Testimony Non‑Agenda Public Comments - Beth Headland (Co‑Chair, Strauss Festival of Elk Grove) thanked the Council for support, reporting that the festival attracted an estimated 12,000 attendees in 2025 and operates entirely through volunteers. - Mary Vogel (Elk Grove resident of 40 years) urged the city to realistically study stormwater runoff calculations, noting that widened driveways and impervious surfaces in new subdivisions increase flood risk. She also asked about a condemned building in Old Town Elk Grove. - Lynn Wheat (Elk Grove resident) reiterated concerns about widespread driveway widening and front-yard paving, which she argued reduce natural flood absorption. She recommended that engineering calculations account for these trends rather than rely on code enforcement. Public Comments on Agenda Items - Diane Lampy (on Consent Calendar 7.15) – supported the transitional housing contractor. - Maverick Fueling Station Appeal (8.1) – Approximately 30 speakers commented. Positions were split: - Appellants and opponents argued the project is a truck stop that will worsen traffic congestion, air quality, and safety, and that the CEQA infill exemption was improperly applied. Many cited concerns about crime, prostitution, and environmental contamination. Several speakers noted existing gridlock at the Grant Line Road/East Stockton Boulevard intersection. - Supporters (including residents who have visited Maverick stations in other states) praised Maverick’s clean facilities, security cameras (50–80 per store), employee benefits, and quality food. They stated the project is a fueling station, not a truck stop, and would serve local residents, RVs, and commuters. - Coral Blossom Apartments (8.2) – No public comments. - Annexations (8.3) – No public comments. - Fire Code Adoption (9.1) – No public comments. - Budget Report (9.2) – No public comments. - Ad Hoc Committees (9.3) – No public comments. Discussion Items Diversity Inclusion Commission Annual Update (Item 4.1) Commission Chair Tina Lee Vote presented the 2025 annual report. Highlights included: - Expanded diversity month to eight events, attracting 5,000 attendees and 40 volunteers. - Celebrated the fifth anniversary of “Cultural Connections,” focusing on the LGBTQIA+ community. - The city achieved a perfect 100 score on the Human Rights Campaign Municipal Equality Index. - Updated the code of ethics from a negative to a positive, aspirational document. - Plans for 2026 include increased community education and outreach, and collaboration with the Creative Arts and Youth Commissions. Councilmembers praised the commission’s work, noting it has grown beyond the original multicultural festival to become a vital ambassador for Elk Grove’s diversity. Appeal of Maverick Fueling Station & Convenience Store (Item 8.1) The appellant, represented by attorney Ed Yates, argued that the Planning Commission’s September 18, 2025 approval violated the Brown Act, that the project is not exempt from CEQA under the infill exemption (Class 32), and that the environmental review was inadequate—particularly regarding groundwater contamination, toxic air contaminants, and traffic congestion. The appellant’s traffic expert claimed that the intersection design would be unsafe for large trucks. City staff and Maverick representatives (including attorney Casey Shorrock, Todd Myers of Maverick, and engineers) defended the approval: - Staff confirmed that the project site is substantially surrounded by urban uses, that the CEQA infill exemption was properly applied after thorough analysis by third-party consultants (Ascent Environmental, Kimley‑Horn), and that all environmental criteria (VMT, air quality, noise, water quality) were met. - Maverick demonstrated that the site is a standard fueling station with 20 passenger‑vehicle pumps and 5 high‑flow diesel/RV pumps, no truck parking, no showers or lounge, and no overnight truck storage. They noted 50–80 security cameras, employee benefits, and a track record of safety awards. - Traffic engineers presented intersection improvements (right‑turn lane extensions, dedicated free‑right lanes) that would mitigate congestion and accommodate turning movements. - City officials (Police Chief Davis, Community Development Director Jordan) addressed public safety concerns, stating that the project is manageable and that the city has adequate resources to respond to any issues. Councilmembers Spees, Brewer, and Vice Mayor Robles spoke in favor of denying the appeal, citing the thorough staff analysis, the lack of evidence for the claimed CEQA violations, and the misleading information disseminated to the public. The Mayor also emphasized the importance of following process and welcoming investment. Coral Blossom Apartments TEFRA Hearing (Item 8.2) Staff presented a public hearing required under the Tax Equity and Fiscal Responsibility Act (TEFRA) for the issuance of bonds by the California Municipal Finance Authority (CMFA) in an amount not to exceed $35 million. The bonds will finance the construction of an 80‑unit affordable housing complex at 8444 Elk Grove Florin Road, serving tenants earning 30–50% of area median income. The city has no financial liability. The Council adopted the resolution approving the bond issuance by unanimous voice vote. Annexations into Special Tax Districts (Item 8.3) Three separate public hearings were held to annex properties into Street Maintenance Districts and the Stormwater Drainage Fee Zone: - Sage Glenn (49 single‑family units) – annexed into SMD Zone 3 and SWDF Zone 2. - Stone Lake Landing Dutch Bros (non‑residential, 0.76 acres) – annexed into SWDF Zone 2. - Tex Tuskin Ridge South (114 single‑family units) – annexed into SMD Zone 1, Zone 5. Staff confirmed that all ballots were returned affirmatively and no majority protest existed. The Council approved all three annexations by unanimous voice votes. 2025 California Fire Code Adoption (Item 9.1) The Council considered a resolution to ratify Cosumnes Community Services District (CCSD) Ordinance No. 23, which adopts the 2025 California Fire Code with local amendments. A key amendment requires a permanent (rather than temporary) water supply during construction, a policy in place since 1992. The North State Building Industry Association (BIA) had requested reverting to the model code, but CCSD staff reported no project delays from the requirement. After discussion, the Council voted unanimously to adopt the resolution. Budget Year‑End Report for FY 2024‑25 (Item 9.2) Budget Manager Nathan Bagwell presented the year‑end financial report. General fund revenues exceeded revised budget by $8 million (driven by sales tax and investment income), and expenditures came in at 96% of budget, saving $4 million. The fund balance remains at 30% of adjusted appropriations, with additional surplus recommended for reserves (capital, economic development, pension trust). Measure E revenues were higher than initial estimates. The Council unanimously adopted the resolution allocating general fund reserves. Ad Hoc Committee Review (Item 9.3) The Council dissolved the Zoo Project Ad Hoc Committee (by unanimous vote) and formed a new ad hoc committee to oversee the request‑for‑proposal process for federal and state government relations services. Councilmembers Brewer and Suen were appointed to the new committee. Key Outcomes - Maverick Appeal (8.1): Motion to deny the appeal and uphold the Planning Commission’s approval carried unanimously (5‑0). - Coral Blossom Apartments (8.2): Resolution approving bond issuance adopted unanimously. - Annexations (8.3): Three resolutions approving annexations adopted unanimously. - Fire Code (9.1): Resolution ratifying CCSD Ordinance No. 23 adopted unanimously. - Budget Report (9.2): Resolution approving allocation of general fund reserves adopted unanimously. - Ad Hoc Committees (9.3): Zoo committee dissolved; new lobbying RFP committee formed with Councilmembers Brewer and Suen.

The Elk Grove Planning Commission met on Thursday, November 6, 2025, at 6:00 PM to consider two main agenda items: a text amendment and conditional use permits for the Bartholomew Winery, and updates to the General Plan Open Space Element and Implementation Work Program. The meeting was called to order at 6:00 PM and adjourned at 8:08 PM. Commissioners present: Chair Juan Fernandez, Vice Chair Oscar O'Khan, Commissioner Sandra Poole, Commissioner Verinder Singh, and Commissioner C. Consent Calendar - Approved the agenda unanimously (5-0). - Approved the regular meeting minutes of October 2, 2025 (4-0-1, Vice Chair O'Khan abstained). - Approved the regular meeting minutes of October 16, 2025 (3-0-2, two abstentions). Public Comments & Testimony - Chandler Bender (24-year resident, collected 44 signatures from neighbors) expressed strong opposition to the proposed amendment, citing noise concerns from amplified music. He stated that a sound study did not reflect actual noise levels experienced by residents and that the number of events (66 total) was excessive. He noted that the winery already uses amplified music in violation of its current permit. - Pam Donnelly (homeowner since 2003, directly behind the winery) testified that music is so loud they must close doors even in summer, and that the bass rumbles through houses. She stated that 60–67 decibels were measured during the meeting and disagreed with the noise study's conclusions. - No other speakers signed up for public comment. Discussion Items Bartholomew Winery Amendment (PLNG 24056) - Staff Presentation: Sarah Kirsch-Gessner explained the project includes a text amendment to allow outdoor event center use in agricultural residential zones (AR10, AR5, AR2, AR1) with parameters: minimum 10 acres, direct access to a major arterial, and ancillary to an approved winery or ag tourism use. The project also requested a conditional use permit for 18 outdoor events per year with amplified music (11 AM–10 PM, up to 125 people), and an amendment to the existing CUP to expand wine tasting hours (11 AM–8 PM seven days a week) and increase winery events from 24 to 48 per year (with amplified music). A noise study by Bollard Acoustical Consultants predicted compliance with the city's 50 dB noise standard (with a 5 dB increase allowed in some cases) and recommended a limit of 85 dB at 50 feet from speakers, with sound monitoring and complaint response protocols. - Public Hearing: 18 opposition letters were submitted, including a request from the Sheldon Community Association to exempt the rural area. The applicant (Darren Wilson, representing the winery, and Christopher Moro, winemaker) acknowledged that amplified music had been used in the past in violation of the current permit but stated they have purchased sound meters and will implement monitoring. They argued that noise tolerance is subjective and that only three complaints have been received since 2020. - Commission Deliberation: Commissioners reached a consensus to carve out the rural area from the text amendment (meaning outdoor event centers would not be conditionally permitted in the rural area). After extensive debate on the number of events and hours, the commission agreed on the following modifications to the proposal: - Wine Tasting: Approved as proposed – Monday through Sunday, 11 AM to 8 PM, no amplified music. - Typical Winery Events: 36 events per calendar year, with acoustic-only music Monday through Thursday (cutoff at 8 PM) and amplified music allowed Friday, Saturday, Sunday, and Monday holidays (no change to hours, 11 AM–9 PM). Maximum 125 people. - Outdoor Event Center: 12 events per calendar year, Friday, Saturday, and Sunday (plus Monday holidays) from 11 AM to 10 PM (Friday/Saturday) and 11 AM to 8 PM on Sunday, with amplified music and up to 125 people. - A motion to adopt the resolution with these modifications passed 4-1 (one commissioner opposed). General Plan Open Space Element and Implementation Work Program Amendments - Staff Presentation: Kirk Jordan presented the proposed amendments to comply with Senate Bill 1425 (equitable access to open space, climate resilience, and rewilding opportunities) and updates to the Implementation Work Program (removing completed actions, updating priorities). No further environmental review was required. - No public speakers. The commission unanimously approved the resolution (5-0). Key Outcomes - Bartholomew Winery Amendment: Approved with modifications: (1) Rural area excluded from the text amendment; (2) Wine tasting hours expanded as requested; (3) Typical winery events limited to 36 per year with restrictions on amplified music days and weekday hours; (4) Outdoor event center limited to 12 events per year with earlier Sunday cutoff. A sound monitoring plan and neighbor complaint protocol are required. The decision is a recommendation to the City Council. - General Plan Amendments: Approved unanimously, recommending City Council approval of the open space element and implementation work program updates.

The Elk Grove City Council convened on October 22, 2025, with Vice Mayor presiding in Mayor Singh Allen's absence. The meeting featured proclamations honoring cultural heritage months, introductions of new city hires and promotions, and extensive public testimony on issues including noise nuisances, immigration enforcement concerns, and housing development. Key agenda items included bond reissuance for affordable housing, adoption of updated building codes, and informational presentations on flood preparedness, homeless shelter siting, tourism marketing, and youth program enhancements. Presentations & Announcements - Hindu Heritage Month Proclamation: Hira Karan Kilkarni accepted a proclamation recognizing October 2025 as Hindu Heritage Month, highlighting the contributions of the Hindu community to Elk Grove and promoting cultural harmony. - Filipino American History Month Proclamation: Joyce and Mario Vitog were honored with a proclamation for Filipino American History Month, acknowledging the community's historical and social contributions to the city. - New Hire Introductions: Multiple city departments introduced new employees and promoted staff, including police dispatchers, officers, engineers, and management analysts, with applause and congratulations from the council. Public Comments & Testimony - Noise Nuisance: Skylar Case Beer expressed opposition to noise from an event center in Old Elk Grove, citing disruption and lack of proper permits, and requested code enforcement action. - ICE Raids and Community Safety: Multiple speakers, including Lynn Tebow, Nancy Miller, Eileen Morales, John Paulskamp, Shelley Miller, and Clara Patterson, voiced strong opposition to ICE raids, emphasizing support for immigrant communities, fear of violence, and calls for non-collaboration by local police. Eileen Morales detailed documented incidents of ICE misconduct and urged proactive city measures. - Graffiti and Maintenance: Zal Lee complained about unresolved graffiti and broken glass at a bus stop on Ruthville and Franklin, seeking city follow-up. - Rural Housing Development: Mark White expressed opposition to a proposed high-density housing project in the rural area, urging the council to honor past commitments to preserve the rural character. Discussion Items - Poppy Grove Bond Reissuance: Staff presented a public hearing on reissuing bonds (up to $170 million) for the Poppy Grove affordable housing projects, citing a technical delay in conversion from construction to permanent financing. Councilmember Suen expressed frustration with project management but supported approval due to risks of foreclosure and tenant displacement. - 2025 California Building Standards Code: A public hearing was held to adopt the 2025 building codes with local amendments. Discussion focused on water supply requirements for fire suppression, with concerns from builders about permanent vs. temporary water sources. Fire Chief Ray advocated for maintaining stricter local standards for safety, and staff recommended proceeding with adoption to meet the January 2026 deadline. - Flood Preparedness Presentation: Andrea Cortez and Shoab Rizvi provided an overview of flood risks, mitigation efforts, and emergency response plans in Elk Grove, highlighting watershed management, monitoring systems, and public resources. - Homeless Shelter Siting Criteria: Sarah Vontrager presented community survey results and proposed criteria for siting a permanent homeless shelter, emphasizing sensitive uses, cost, proximity to services, safety, and transportation. Council feedback supported the criteria, with suggestions to elevate safety and security considerations. - Tourism Marketing District Report: Aaron Vall and Casey Favory from Explore Elk Grove shared the annual report, showcasing economic impact, event successes, and marketing initiatives, with council praise for elevating the city's profile. - Youth Program Enhancements: Femi Omotesho presented recommendations to demystify government engagement and enhance existing youth programs, including a video series, community service hours, and potential scholarships for civic summer interns. Key Outcomes - Consent Calendar: Approved unanimously (4-0) with no public comment. - Bond Reissuance: Council unanimously adopted the resolution approving bond reissuance for Poppy Grove projects. - Building Code Adoption: Council unanimously approved the first reading of the ordinance adopting the 2025 California Building Standards Code with local amendments. - Appointments: John Frazier was appointed as a voting member to the Historic Preservation Committee, and Rachel Lee Perez was appointed as an alternate member. - Direction Provided: Council directed staff to continue developing shelter siting criteria and youth program initiatives, with specific attention to safety and funding options for internships.

The Elk Grove Planning Commission convened a regular meeting on October 16, 2025, at 6:00 PM. Commissioners Varinder Singh and Juan Fernandez were present, with Sandra Poole and Oscar O'Khan absent. The meeting primarily addressed the approval of a major design review for the Elk Grove Subaru dealership, alongside routine consent items and a director's report from Development Services. Consent Calendar - Unanimously approved the regular meeting minutes of September 18, 2025. Public Comments & Testimony - No public comments were received on non-agenda items or on the Elk Grove Subaru project agenda item. Discussion Items - Elk Grove Subaru Project (PLNG 24017): Planning Division staff presented a major design review for a new automobile dealership at the northwest corner of Auto Passage Drive and Laguna Grove Drive. The project includes a 56,000 square foot two-story building with 31 service bays, 864 vehicle storage spaces, and features like a water quality detention basin. Staff recommended approval with revisions to conditions 29 and 33. The applicant's architect, Hugh Hines, expressed full support for the project, highlighting its alignment with electric vehicle trends through a large solar array and extensive charging infrastructure, and positioned it as a showcase for Subaru's new electric vehicles. Commissioner Singer inquired about the crosswalk location at Auto Passage Drive and Auto Center Drive, and building materials, which were clarified. Key Outcomes - Adopted a resolution finding no further environmental review required under state CEQA guidelines and approving the major design review for the Elk Grove Subaru project, subject to revised conditions 29 and 33. The motion passed unanimously with a 3-0 vote.