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January 2026 |
IN THIS ISSUE: |
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HAPPY NEW YEAR! |
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| "Wishing you and your families safety, peace, and joy this holiday season. May 2026 be filled with good things for District 3. Enjoy the season and each other!" |
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| COMMUNITY MEETINGS RECAP & SAC ALERT |
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| Thank you to everyone who attended my public safety and emergency preparedness community meetings last month. These meetings provided an opportunity for constituents to hear directly from local agencies about their role in emergencies. Thank you to the representatives from the California Highway Patrol, Sacramento County Sheriff’s Office, Sacramento Metro Fire, Sacramento County Regional Parks, and Sacramento County Office of Emergency Services for their participation and collaboration.
The Sacramento County Office of Emergency Services, in partnership with Yolo and Placer County emergency agencies, cooperatively manages an emergency alert system known as Sacramento Alert. Sacramento Alert is a web-based application that enables authorized County, City, and Special District public safety officials to disseminate public safety information rapidly and efficiently to the residents of Sacramento.
Residents will only receive alerts that are critical and time-sensitive, including: flooding, levee failures, severe weather, disaster events, unexpected road closures, missing persons, and evacuations of buildings or neighborhoods in specific geographic locations. To receive alerts, click the "Sign-up for Emergency Alerts" button below. For more information, visit the Sacramento Alert website. |
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| GET WINTER STORM READY |
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| Winter storms continue to bring heavy rain, strong winds, and the potential for flooding across our region. As we move through this year’s storm season, Sacramento County remains committed to responding quickly and keeping our communities safe.
The Sacramento County Department of Transportation (SACDOT) is fully prepared for winter weather and stands ready to respond to flooded roadways, downed trees, traffic signal issues, and other storm-related hazards. Even during severe weather, crews operate twenty-four hours a day, seven days a week, to clear debris, repair equipment, and keep roads passable. When flooding occurs, SACDOT monitors impacted areas and closes roads when necessary. Current road closures are posted on SACDOT’s website so you can check your route before traveling.
We also rely on the community’s help. If you see a storm-related issue, please report it by calling 311, dialing 875-4311, or submitting a report through the 311 website or mobile app. Your reports help crews respond more efficiently during periods of heavy activity.
Fallen Trees and Branches During major storms, crews first address debris blocking roadways to restore safe access. Full cleanup may take place later, once immediate hazards have been cleared. Please note that trees or branches on private property or private roads are the responsibility of the property owner, and a private tree service will need to be contacted.
Flooded Roads Crews respond immediately to flooding to remove blockages and restore drainage. When water cannot be cleared quickly, SACDOT places signage and closes the roadway until it is safe to reopen.
Plugged Culverts When a culvert becomes clogged, SACDOT crews work to flush and clear it so water can move through properly.
Traffic Signals Out Technicians are dispatched right away to repair malfunctioning or fully dark traffic signals. If you encounter an intersection where the signal is out, remember to treat it as an all-way stop.
Downed Street Signs and Stop Signs Street-name signs are replaced as soon as possible. Downed stop signs are an immediate safety concern, and SACDOT aims to restore them within two hours of being notified.
Street Lights Out When reporting an outage, please provide the pole number or a nearby address. The pole number is located about eight feet up on a small sticker facing the street.
Plugged Storm Drains Clogged storm drains are a major cause of localized street flooding. Call 311 with the location, and the Department of Water Resources (DWR) will dispatch crews to remove leaves and debris.
Potholes Winter storms often lead to an increase in potholes. DOT prioritizes repairs based on safety and traffic impact. You can report potholes year-round through 311.
Sandbag Sites If your property is prone to flooding, you can pick up sandbags in advance at Sacramento County’s self-serve sandbag locations.
Power Outages If you encounter downed power lines, electrical sparking, or any emergency hazard, call 911 immediately. For all other outages or to confirm one is already reported, contact:
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| TOT GRANT PROGRAM AVAILABLE FOR LOCAL NON-PROFITS |
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| The Sacramento County Board of Supervisors is continuing its commitment to supporting local non-profit organizations through the Fiscal Year (FY) 2026-27 Transit Occupancy Tax (TOT) Grant Program. A total of $1 million in grant funding will be available to eligible non-profit organizations operating in Sacramento County.
Since 2017, the Board of Supervisors has allocated TOT grant funds to organizations delivering community-based programs and services in the areas of economic and workforce development, arts and culture, community development, and health and human services. This marks the eighth consecutive year of investment and strengthening local communities through this initiative.
Application Period
Grant Workshop
Evaluation Timeline
February 9 – 20, 2026 County staff will review applications for completeness and compliance with minimum eligibility requirements. Applicants will be notified electronically if proposals do not meet the minimum qualifications and will not continue the evaluation process. February 23 – May 13, 2026 Qualifying applications will be reviewed, evaluated, and ranked. The Board of Supervisors will establish funding allocations for each application according to its ranking. Allocations will be determined in alignment with established evaluation criteria, and the strategic priorities of the Board. This process will help demonstrate the greatest potential impact.
June 2026 Final award decisions will be made by the Board of Supervisors during a public hearing. Applicants will be notified of the hearing schedule and final decisions electronically within five business days of Board approval.
July 2026 County staff will begin drafting and executing grant agreements with selected organizations.
About the TOT Grant Program The TOT Grant Program is funded by revenue generated from the County’s Transient Occupancy Tax, which is collected from guests staying in hotels, motels, and other short-term lodging within unincorporated areas of Sacramento County.
For more information, including eligibility criteria and application instructions, please visit the TOT Grant Program website.
For eligibility and grant program questions, email: SacCountyTOTAdmin@saccounty.gov |
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| METRO FIRE COMMUNITY EMERGENCY RESPONSE TEAM |
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| Metro Fire's Community Emergency Response Team, or "CERT," was established in 2003. The Sacramento Metropolitan Fire District was the first agency in the Sacramento Region to establish a CERT program. Through this program, individuals will receive training in some of the basic skills needed to respond to a disaster in your neighborhood.
The Metro Fire Basic CERT Class is a free class open to those who live or work in Metro Fire's service area. To register you must be at least 15 years of age (there is no upper age limit). The class is offered twice a year, once in the spring and once in the fall.
The Metro Fire CERT Training includes:
After completing the Basic Class, interested participants are eligible to continue n the CERT program. While we encourage those completing the Basic Class to become active volunteers in the program it is not required.
Metro Fire CERT members have become an invaluable affiliated volunteer arm of Metro Fire and have served in numerous capacities. Those volunteers who remain in the program may receive additional training in order to support Metro Fire by:
For more information or to register for an upcoming Basic Class email Metro Fire at cert@metrofire.ca.gov or call the CERT message line (916) 859-3776.
Upcoming Community Classes: STOP THE BLEED®
Spring CERT Basic
Until Help Arrives
Fall CERT Basic
CERT Basic Training will provide you with information on emergency preparedness and teach you how to safely protect yourself, your loved ones, and your community when disaster strikes.
For further details email CERT@metrofire.ca.gov |
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| SACJOBS WINTER CAREER FAIR |
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| Join SacJobs for their upcoming career fair event. The fair will include collaboration with many different companies, including law enforcement, military, restaurant careers, educational careers, childcare, California departments, universities, and many more.
Please watch this video highlighting the Spring Career Fair. |
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| WINTER DRIVING SAFETY: BE PREPARED AND STAY SAFE |
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| Winter weather is here, and drivers should take extra precautions when traveling. Rain, fog, and snow can make roads hazardous, especially for those heading out to visit loved ones. Plan ahead, allow extra travel time, and adjust your driving to changing conditions.
When driving in bad weather, remember to slow down, increase the distance between your vehicle and the one ahead, and avoid sudden braking to reduce the risk of skidding. Staying alert and patient can help prevent accidents. Bad Weather Vehicle Checklist Before traveling, make sure your vehicle is in good working condition:
Items to Carry and Have Prepared Keep these emergency items in your vehicle during winter travel:
Driving in Snow and Chain Requirements If you are traveling in snowy conditions, be prepared and carry tire chains—even if your vehicle has four-wheel drive. This is required by law. Always observe posted speed limits in chain-control areas. When chains are required, speed limits may be reduced to 25, 30, 35, or 40 miles per hour, depending on conditions.
Check your vehicle owner’s manual for guidance on operating your braking system in winter weather. If your vehicle breaks down, stay with it and wait for assistance Important Information About Chain Installation
If you need help installing chains, note that chain installers are not state employees. They are licensed workers and must display a permit on their jacket. Fees must be clearly posted, and you should receive a receipt after payment. Chain installers are not allowed to sell chains.
If you choose to install chains yourself, be sure to move completely out of traffic lanes. Park safely off roadways, freeways, and access ramps to avoid danger. Staying prepared and informed can help ensure a safer winter driving experience for you and your loved ones and make sure everyone gets to their destination. |
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| VOLUNTEER FOR THE 2026 POINT IN TIME COUNT |
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| Every two years, volunteers help Sacramento gather a clearer picture of homelessness through the Point-in-Time Count. This data strengthens planning efforts and preserves access to key federal resources that support crucial shelter beds, housing programs, and services for those in need. Sacramento’s 2026 Point-in-Time Count will take place on January 26–27, 2026 from 5:00–11:00 p.m., with volunteers meeting at the Scottish Rite Masonic Center, 6151 H Street, Sacramento, CA 95819
Click the button below to register to volunteer for the Point-In- Time count. |
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| CHRISTMAS TREE RECYCLING |
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| Give your holiday tree the proper send-off and recycle it into a new life as beneficial mulch or compost – for free!
Requirements:
Saturday, Jan. 3, 2026 - Mulching Residents can bring holiday trees to be mulched for free SMUD Corporation Yard (For details, read the December SMUD Connections newsletter)
Saturday, January 3, 2026: Elder Creek Recovery and Transfer Station
Sacramento Recycling & Transfer Station
Saturday, January 3 and Sunday, January 4, 2026 Kiefer Landfill*
North Area Recovery Station*
*Loads in excess of 5 trees must be issued a voucher for the trees to be accepted at no charge. Nonprofit civic groups and community organizations can obtain vouchers by submitting the Annual Holiday Tree Recycling Program Application Form. For more information, email SacGreenTeam@SacCounty.gov.
Saturday, January 10, 2026, residents can also recycle holiday trees for free at: Folsom - Dan Russell Rodeo Arena Rodeo Park
Curbside Organics Collection of Holiday Trees County residents with Department of Waste Management & Recycling curbside collection service can also recycle their live cut holiday tree (all tinsel, lights, decorations, nails and stands removed) by cutting it up and putting it loosely in the curbside Organics cart. Please make sure the lid will close. The cart will be emptied on your next regularly scheduled Organics collection day.
NOTE: Flocked trees can be cut up and placed loosely in the curbside Garbage cart for collection - ensure lid will close.
Please do not put holiday trees on curbs or roadsides for curbside collection! |
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| CAL AM RATE INCREASE - PUBLIC PARTICIPATION HEARING |
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| California American Water’s (Cal Am) is currently requesting the CA Public Utilities Commission’s (CPUC) approval for rate increases of approximately 17% in 2027, 5% in 2028, and 6% in 2029. Cal Am currently provides services to District 3 in Sacramento County, including the Cordova, Rosemont, and Arden neighborhoods. You have opportunities to share feedback on this proposal at the upcoming Public Participation Hearings:
In-Person Public Participation Hearings
Virtual Public Participation Hearings
To participate: Phone (verbal comments): 800-857-1917, Passcode 1673482#, press *1 to speak
Customers may also submit written comments at any time through the proceeding’s docket card, using the Public Comment button below.
Please note that a quorum of Commissioners may attend, but no decisions will be made at these hearings. Verbal comments must be provided either in person or by phone. |
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| 27TH ANNUAL MLK CELEBRATION SACRAMENTO |
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| The Annual Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. Celebration Sacramento celebrates Dr. King's dream of equality and justice. It features educational programs, an amazing keynote speaker, the awarding of 2026 MLK Essay contest winners, and honoring the Community Service Award honoree. Join us in honoring his legacy and building a more inclusive community.
Guests will enjoy an evening of inspiration, recognition, and community unity. The program includes a keynote address, performances, and the presentation of the Robert T. Matsui Community Service Award.
Please visit the 2026 MLK Celebration website for tickets, sponsorship opportunities, and more information. |
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FAIR OAKS RECREATION AND PARK DISTRICT WINTER/SPRING ACTIVITY GUIDE |
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| The Fair Oaks Recreation and Park District (FORPD) has many programs for families this season.
Check them out in FORPD’s newly released Digital Activity Guide for Winter 2026. The Guide is a terrific resource for Fair Oaks and surrounding communities for upcoming events, classes, and programs like preschool, sports, dance, childcare, and more.
For more information about the Park District or available activities, please visit the Fair Oaks Recreation and Park District website |
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| CONTACT MY OFFICE: |
| 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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