The Elk Grove Planning Commission held a regular meeting on Thursday, April 4, 2024, at 6:00 PM in the City Council Chambers. The primary agenda item was a public hearing on the proposed New Zoo at Elk Grove, a major project that would replace the existing Sacramento Zoo. After a detailed staff presentation, extensive public comment, and commission deliberation, the commission voted unanimously to recommend approval of the project to the City Council. The meeting also included a farewell tribute to outgoing Commissioner George Murphy, who served for 17 years.
Good evening. I will call to order the Elk Grove Planning Commission regular meeting of Thursday, April 4th, 2024 at 6 p.m. Let me start by reading the land acknowledgement. We honor, respect, and acknowledge Elk Grove's first inhabitants, the Plains Mewalk, who lived as sovereign caretakers of this land and these waterways since time immemorial. We commemorate and advocate for the descendants, the Wilton Rancheria tribe, the only federally recognized tribe in Sacramento County, who endured because of their bravery, resilience, and determination of their ancestors, tribal members, and leaders. Would you all please silence your electronics, cell phones and other devices? Thank you. And will the clerk please read our customary greeting? The Elk Grove Planning Commission welcomes, appreciates and encourages participation in the meetings. The Commission reserves the right reasonably limit the total time for public comment on any particular notice agenda item, as it may deem necessary. If you wish to address the commission during the meeting, please complete a speaker card. They're located in the back of the room and give it to the clerk prior to consideration of the agenda item. Thank you, Sandy. Uh, would you please call the role? Planning Commissioner is George Murphy. George Murphy. Thank you. I'll try that again here. Oscar O'Khan. Here. Sandra Poole, present, Vice Chair Warren Fernandes, present. And Chair Suman Singer. Present. Please rise. Hand over heart. Pledge. And to the republic for which stands one nation under liberty and justice for all this. At this time, would you please join us in a moment of silence? Thank you. Do I have a motion to approve the agenda? So moved. Seconded. It's been moved and seconded. All those in favor, please signify by saying aye. Aye. I hear no oppositions. The agenda is approved as presented. We will now move to the public comment. Members of the audience may comment on any item not on the on the agenda that is of interest to the public and within the jurisdiction of the planning commission. The planning commission cannot take action on non-agendized items raised under public comment until the matter has been specifically included on an agenda as an action item. At this point, I open the general public comment opportunity. First and foremost, apprenticeships are the cornerstones of our trade. They represent the passing down of knowledge from one generation to the next, ensuring that the artistry and expertise of carpentry endured though endured through time. Apprenticeships instill discipline, dedication, and a deep respect for the work we do. They provide aspiring carpenters with hands-on experience and mentorship, molding them into skilled professional professionals who take pride in their craftsmanship. Furthermore, healthcare benefits are not just a luxury, but a fundamental necessity for every carpenter and individual in general. Our line of work is physical, demanding, often subjecting us to the risk of hazards on the job. Access to health care ensures that we can tend to injuries, protect our well-being, and continue to provide for our families without a fear of financial ruin. It is not just a matter of convenience, it is a matter of dignity and security for every member of our community. Finally, um fair wages are not merely a bargaining chip, but a reflection of our value we bring to our society.