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July 2026
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IN THIS ISSUE: |
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4TH OF JULY EVENTS & ACTIVITIES |
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There are plenty of events across District 3 this 4th of July weekend. Wishing everyone a safe and happy 4th of July as we celebrate freedom, unity and joy! |
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Arden Park 4th of July Bike Parade and Festival Arden Park is ready to celebrate America and the 4th of July Parade and Festival! Join the parade and enjoy live music in the park by Funk Shui, a kid zone with inflatables, raffles, hamburgers and hot dogs! The parade is open to walkers, bikers, registered cars and golf carts! Would you like to register your vehicle for the parade? Sign up at the Arden Park Registration website. Date: Saturday, July 4 Time: 10:00 AM Location: Arden Park, 1000 La Sierra Drive, Sacramento |
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Carmichael Elks Fourth of July Parade & Open House Celebrate the 4th after the parade with free swimming, children’s games, a BBQ, live music and dancing at the Carmichael Elks Lodge. Date: Saturday, July 4 Time: Parade Kick Off: 10:30 AM Location: Fair Oaks Blvd. from Marconi to the Elks Lodge at 5631 Cypress Ave. |
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Cottage Pool 4th of July Celebration Join the Fulton-El Camino Recreation and Park District for a Community Celebration at Cottage Park! Bring the whole family to wave the red, white, and blue! Cottage Pool will be open from 2:00 PM -6:00 PM with discounted pool admission for the public! FREE food and drinks will be provided by the Fulton Avenue Business Association while supplies last.
Location: Cottage Park, 3097 Cottage Way, Sacramento |
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Kiwanis Club of Carmichael 4th of July Pancake Breakfast Come out to the annual 4th of July Pancake Breakfast, hosted by the Kiwanis Club of Carmichael. Tickets are $5 per person for pancakes, sausage, fruit, orange juice, milk, and coffee. Come start the holiday with us! Date: Saturday, July 4 Time: 8:00 AM – 11:00 AM Location: Carmichael Park Clubhouse, 5750 Grant Ave, Carmichael |
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41st Annual Rancho Cordova Fourth of July Celebration Rancho Cordova Fourth of July is a two-day festival and parade celebrating the local community and our American heritage. It is the signature event for the community. For more information, please visit the Rancho Cordova website. Date: July 3-4 Location: Hagan Community Park, 2197 Chase Drive, Rancho Cordova, Ca |
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ILLEGAL FIREWORKS ENFORCEMENT |
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As temperatures rise and fire danger increases across the region, Sacramento County, the Sacramento Sheriff’s Office, and Sac Metro Fire are reminding residents that dangerous fireworks pose a serious threat to neighborhoods, schools, parks, open spaces and the American River Parkway. I share their concerns and the concerns of many of you about the increase in illegal fireworks and its impact on our communities.
To help protect our communities from illegal fireworks, enforcement efforts will be increased throughout the Fourth of July holiday period. "Illegal fireworks are not a harmless tradition,” said Sacramento County Sheriff Jim Cooper. “They are dangerous and can have devastating consequences for our community. Increased enforcement efforts will be underway throughout the Fourth of July holiday, and those who choose to ignore the law will face the consequences."
Reporting is Confidential
County officials emphasize that confidential reports from residents play a critical role in helping enforcement personnel identify and address dangerous fireworks activity before it leads to injuries, property damage or wildfires.
To improve the likelihood of successful enforcement action, Sacramento County Code Enforcement recommends providing:
Reporting Numbers by Area
Increased Enforcement and Penalties
In the unincorporated area of Sacramento County, individuals who use illegal fireworks may face substantial administrative fines:
Fine Schedule
Know the Law: Safe and Sane Fireworks In California, legal consumer fireworks are known as Safe and Sane Fireworks and must display the California State Fire Marshal's seal. Safe and Sane Fireworks may only be sold from:
Legal Use Dates and Times Safe and Sane Fireworks may only be used:
Use of fireworks outside these dates and times may result in enforcement action and penalties listed above.
Fireworks Safety Tips "Every year, firefighters respond to fires and injuries caused by illegal fireworks,” said Diana Freeman, Deputy Fire Marshal, Sacramento Metropolitan Fire. “These incidents are entirely preventable. Our goal is simple: keep families safe, protect property and prevent fires from threatening our community. We are asking residents to celebrate responsibly, follow the law and help us prevent fires before they start.”
Even when using legal Safe and Sane Fireworks, residents should take precautions to prevent injuries and fires:
Help Keep Sacramento County Safe With dry conditions and elevated fire risk throughout the region, residents are encouraged to celebrate responsibly and report dangerous fireworks activity when they see it. |
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IN CASE YOU MISSED IT: E-BIKE SAFETY COMMUNITY CONVERSATION |
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As e-bikes become increasingly popular throughout our community, it's more important than ever that riders and families understand the laws, safety requirements, and shared responsibility of using them safely. To help answer questions from residents, I recently hosted an E-Bike Safety Community Conversation with representatives from the California Highway Patrol, Sacramento Regional Parks, and the Sacramento County Park Rangers. Together, we discussed California's e-bike laws, rider responsibilities, safety tips, enforcement, and how we can all work together to keep our roads, parks, and trails safe.
If you weren't able to join us, I encourage you to watch the recording of the discussion:
Watch the Community Conversation:
The California Highway Patrol also provided an excellent resource that answers many of the questions parents and riders have about e-bikes, e-scooters, and e-motorcycles. The guide includes information on vehicle classifications, helmet and age requirements, safe riding practices, and where each type of vehicle may legally operate.
Download the CHP E-Bike Laws & Safety Guide:
Thank you to everyone who attended and helped make this an informative discussion. By staying informed and following the rules of the road, we can all do our part to make Sacramento County a safer place for riders, pedestrians, and motorists alike. |
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BRINGING RETAIL INVESTMENT OPPORTUNITIES TO SACRAMENTO COUNTY |
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The Sacramento County Office of Economic Development recently attended the International Council of Shopping Centers (ICSC) Convention, the world's largest retail real estate conference, bringing together more than 25,000 retailers, developers, brokers, and site selection professionals. The conference serves as the primary venue where many retailers and developers evaluate expansion opportunities and establish relationships with communities across the country. Participation in ICSC allows Sacramento County to directly market available commercial sites, promote redevelopment opportunities, and engage with the decision-makers responsible for opening new stores, investing in commercial properties, and revitalizing aging shopping centers. These conversations help position unincorporated Sacramento County for future retail investment that expands access to neighborhood-serving businesses, reduces commercial vacancies, creates jobs, generates local tax revenue, and improves the quality of life for residents. These efforts support the County's Economic Development Strategic Plan by advancing commercial corridor revitalization, reducing vacancies, expanding neighborhood-serving businesses, and encouraging private investment throughout Sacramento County. |
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DISTRICT 3 CELEBRATES MILOU & OLIN PHOTOGRAPHY'S NEW STUDIO |
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Sacramento County recently celebrated the grand opening of Milou & Olin Photography's new studio in District 3 with a ribbon-cutting ceremony, recognizing another locally owned small business investing in the community. Milou & Olin Photography specializes in branding photography, professional headshots, family portraits, milestone celebrations, and other photography services that help clients capture life's important moments. The new studio also serves as a collaborative creative hub, bringing together Milou & Olin Photography, Giggle & Riot, Shroomhouse, and other local entrepreneurs in a shared space that encourages creativity, collaboration, and small business growth. Supporting businesses like Milou & Olin Photography reflects Sacramento County's commitment to fostering entrepreneurship and strengthening the creative economy. Creative businesses and collaborative workspaces help activate commercial corridors, attract visitors, support neighboring businesses, and contribute to the vibrant communities that make Sacramento County a great place to live, work, and do business. |
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CELEBRATING 50 YEARS OF WONDER AT THE EFFIE YEAW NATURE CENTER |
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For fifty years, the Effie Yeaw Nature Center has been inspiring curiosity, fostering environmental stewardship, and connecting generations of Sacramento County residents with the beauty of the American River Parkway.
This year, the Nature Center proudly celebrates "50 Years of Wonder," marking a half-century as the only interpretive nature center on the Lower American River Parkway. Since opening its doors in 1976, the Nature Center has welcomed countless children, families, students, and visitors to discover the region's unique wildlife, native habitats, and rich cultural history through hands-on exhibits, educational programs, and guided experiences.
Named in honor of teacher, conservationist, and community leader Effie Yeaw, the Nature Center continues her vision of preserving the natural beauty of the American River Parkway while inspiring future generations to appreciate and care for the environment.
Located in the heart of Carmichael, the Nature Center is much more than a destination—it's a place where families create memories, students discover a love of science and nature, and visitors of all ages can slow down, explore, and reconnect with the outdoors. It also serves as an important resource for sharing the natural and cultural history of the Parkway, including the enduring relationship Indigenous peoples have with this landscape.
The Nature Center's success over the past five decades is a testament to the dedication of its staff, volunteers, educators, donors, community partners, and the American River Natural History Association, whose commitment has ensured this treasured community resource continues to thrive.
I was proud to join the Sacramento County Board of Supervisors in recognizing the Effie Yeaw Nature Center's 50th Anniversary and celebrating its lasting contributions to environmental education, conservation, and our community's quality of life.
Congratulations to the Effie Yeaw Nature Center on 50 Years of Wonder—and here's to many more years of inspiring curiosity, discovery, and stewardship along the American River Parkway.
Enjoy the articles below highlighting Effie Yeaw’s 50th Anniversary: Legislators Honor Nature Center Trail Time at Effie Yeaw Shapes a Lifelong Connection to Nature for Rich Desmond |
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IN CASE YOU MISSED IT: ASSEMBLYMEMBER JOSH HOOVER'S "POINT OF ORDER" PODCAST |
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If you missed it, I recently joined Assemblymember Josh Hoover on his Point of Order podcast for a wide-ranging conversation about some of the biggest issues facing Sacramento County.
We discussed the changes needed to address homelessness, the challenges of governing at the county level, how the State budget is affecting county budgets, recent legislative activity at the Capitol, Sacramento's Major League Baseball expansion efforts, and other issues impacting our community.
Whether you're interested in local government, public policy, or what's happening in Sacramento County, I invite you to take a listen.
Watch the full conversation here: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=FVhMj2XW_08 |
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BUDGET RECAP |
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It was a marathon session on Wednesday, June 10, while the Board heard presentations from the Sheriff, District Attorney, County Department Directors, and our CFO about the proposed County budget. We also heard public comment for several hours before deliberating and approving a $9 billion 2026/2027 spending plan. The public hearing on Wednesday followed months of briefings by County staff and meetings with stakeholders about funding needs and proposed cuts to departments and programs. The County has been making progress for the last two years to address a large structural deficit, but this year, we were forced to divert tens of millions of discretionary dollars to backfill healthcare resources because of federal changes to Medicaid (Medi-Cal) eligibility. This forced us to make especially difficult funding decisions that balance public safety with the need to preserve our social safety net. I joined three of my colleagues on the Board to reduce most of the proposed funding cuts to the Sheriff’s Office and a significant amount of proposed cuts to the District Attorney’s office. This includes the Sheriff’s Gang Task Forces and Homeless Outreach Team, as well as the DA’s Community Prosecutions Unit. We also preserved crucial contingency funds and kept the County’s reserves intact. I made it clear during our deliberations that my priority will be to restore funding for the Sheriff’s Problem Oriented Policing Team once we learn more about whether we will be receiving any relief from the State budget. The Board has decided to specifically address POP Team funding at our meeting on July 14. The County follows a set budget process in which the Board is required to pass the budget by June 30, before the State budget is passed. The Board votes on a final budget in September after the impacts of the state budget and legislative changes are known. It is likely that Sacramento County will receive some funding from the State to help offset the impacts of Medicaid changes and to meet State-imposed mandates to provide indigent health coverage. This will free up some of the discretionary dollars the County has allocated for healthcare coverage The actions by a majority of the Board, combined with the high likelihood of further funding restorations on July 14 and during our final budget hearings in September, will ensure our unincorporated communities have the resources they need to keep them safe while we meet our obligations to those most vulnerable throughout our County. I encourage you to watch the recorded budget hearings to see presentations from our elected officials and department directors as well as deliberations among all five board members. Please also see the County's press release for more information about this year’s approved budget. |
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LONG-TERM FESTIVAL AGREEMENT DELIVERS LASTING BENEFITS FOR SACRAMENTO COUNTY |
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On June 9, 2026, the Sacramento County Board of Supervisors approved a 10-year agreement with Danny Wimmer Presents to host major music festivals at Discovery Park through 2035, securing one of the region's most significant tourism and economic development assets. The agreement ensures the continued presence of festivals like Aftershock and GoldenSky, which collectively generate tens of millions of dollars in annual economic activity, attract visitors from across the country, and support local hotels, restaurants, retailers, vendors, and service providers. The festivals also create opportunities for Sacramento County-based businesses and workers while generating new revenue that will be reinvested into Discovery Park and the American River Parkway. The impact is especially significant for District 3, where Discovery Park serves as a gateway to the American River Parkway and a major regional destination. The agreement includes investments in park infrastructure, enhancements to visitor amenities, support for community programs, charitable contributions, and expanded promotion of Sacramento County to national and international audiences. By securing these events for the next decade, Sacramento County is strengthening tourism, supporting local businesses, investing in public spaces, and creating long-term economic and community benefits for businesses and residents throughout the unincorporated county. |
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NO DRINKING ON THE PARKWAY |
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Visitors to the American River Parkway who wish to consume or possess alcohol along the river may do so in certain areas, but alcohol is permanently banned at the following locations:
During the 4th of July weekend, alcohol is temporarily banned along the American River Parkway between Hazel and Howe Avenue, and at Sherman Island. Glass beverage containers of any kind are illegal along the Parkway year-round.
Alcohol and water sports don't mix: The use of alcohol can impair your judgment and increase the likelihood of poor and unsafe decisions. Read more about staying safe on the water.
Learn how to get an alcohol permit for a special event.
If you have any questions about alcohol, contact the Ranger Dispatch Office at 916-875-7275. For information about Sacramento County Park District’s, please visit the Regional Parks website. |
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MISSION OAKS RECREATION AND PARK DISTRICTS SUMMER ACTIVITY GUIDE |
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The Mission Oaks Recreation and Park District (MORPD) has released its new Summer Activity Guide. The Guide features activities like preschool, sports, summer camps, facility rentals, and more.
The MORPD is hard at work adding programs to benefit you and your entire family. For more information about the Park District and for available activities, please visit the Mission Oaks Recreation and Park District website. |
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CONTACT MY OFFICE:
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Supervisor Rich Desmond
Third District Sacramento County Board of Supervisors 700 H Street, Suite 2450 Sacramento, CA 95814 richdesmond@saccounty.gov PHONE: (916) 874-5471
FAX: (916) 874-7593 |
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