• INVESTING IN OUR COMMERCIAL CORRIDORS
• TRANSPORTATION COMMUNITY MEETINGS
• IN CASE YOU MISSED IT: PROP 36 AND COUNTY FUNDING
• CSAC CHALLENGE AWARD FOR JUVENILE PRE-TRIAL PROGRAM
• JOIN ME AT SAILOR BAR
• COMMUNITY CONVERSATION ON FENTANYL AND METHAMPHETAMINE
• FREE TAX HELP FOR LOW INCOME FAMILIES
• AN INVITATION TO SLOW DOWN, STEP OUTSIDE, BREATHE AND PLAY
• CARMICHAEL FREE TREE & SHRUB BEAUTIFICATION PROGRAM
• SACRAMENTO COUNTY HONORED WITH NORTH STATE BIA "FRIEND OF HOUSING" AWARD
• BOOK SALE: FRIENDS OF THE ARDEN-DIMICK LIBRARY
• CELEBRATING STRENGTH, RESOURCES, AND OPPORTUNITY AT THE WOMEN & GIRLS FESTIVAL

In District Three, we have several struggling commercial corridors.  Our main thoroughfares - Fair Oaks, Greenback, Manzanita, Auburn, Watt, Fulton, Howe, and others- were once thriving with businesses as surrounding neighborhoods were built out.  Today, they are tired, filled with empty storefronts and often owned by absentee landlords.  I have been working closely with County staff, local business leaders, and infill developers to bring attention to these corridors and transform them with new housing, retail, and services.  In 2024, I hosted a series of community meetings with our Planning Director, Code Enforcement Chief, and Economic Development Director about our efforts.

Improving and bringing investment into our commercial corridors is a multi-faceted effort that requires action and coordination among many different County departments to update infrastructure, streamline development processes, remove blight, engage with infill developers, and support small businesses.  These are a few of the countywide initiatives my colleagues and I on the Board of Supervisors are supporting: 

• Development Review Process Initiative – top-to-bottom structure, process, and culture changes to make it easier to build and do business in the County.
• Office of Economic Development Strategic Plan – includes investments in small business engagement and support to attract new businesses in the unincorporated areas while ensuring existing businesses have the tools they need to thrive.
• Complete Streets and other Transportation projects – strategic infrastructure  improvements on large commercial corridors to transform them with re-paving, enhanced bike and pedestrian facilities, and new landscaping features.
• General Plan update with Commercial Corridor priorities – identifying County code and zoning provisions that require changes to attract investment and infill opportunities.
• County Code changes – revisions to local ordinances relating to mobile food vendors, massage parlors, homeless encampments, and vacant properties that provide Code Enforcement and Business Licensing to address issues that negatively affect small businesses and our community.

In addition to these countywide efforts, I work closely with and actively support the Property and Business Improvement Districts (PBIDs) and Chambers of Commerce in District Three to make sure they have the assistance they need from my office and the County.  Four out of the seven PBIDs in unincorporated Sacramento County are in District Three, and they help create thriving commercial corridors that are clean and safe.  With dedicated District Three and Economic Development representation on the PBID Boards, as well as funding allocations using ARPA and TOT funds from my office, I am a steadfast supporter of our PBIDS.  I am also hopeful we will create another PBID along Fair Oaks Blvd. between Fulton and Howe in 2026!  Our Chambers of Commerce are also powerful champions of small businesses in District Three, and I am honored to work closely with them and bring resources to support their sustainability and efficiency. 

Please join me at one of my upcoming community meetings to discuss transportation and our roadways. The condition of our roadways in unincorporated Sacramento County is a constant source of frustration for many residents, including me!  Come join the discussion to provide feedback about roads in your neighborhood, learn about the maintenance backlog we face, how we prioritize repairs, and what we are doing to address the budget shortfall for transportation projects.  I have invited Ron Vicari, Director of the Sacramento County Department of Transportation, and Lupe Rodriguez, Chief of Transportation, Division of Operations and Maintenance, to join me. Please see below for dates and locations.

Fair Oaks Community Meeting 

DATE: Monday, March 16, 2026

TIME: 8:30 am – 9:30 am 

LOCATION: Fair Oaks VFW, 8990 Kruitof Way, Fair Oaks, CA 95628 

Carmichael Community Meeting 

DATE: Thursday, March 26, 2026

TIME: 5:30 pm - 6:30 pm 

LOCATION: Gibbons Community Center, 4701 Gibbons Dr, Carmichael, CA 95608

Arden Arcade Community Meeting

DATE: Thursday, April 2, 2026

TIME: 5:30 pm - 6:30 pm

LOCATION: Sacramento Suburban Water District, 3701 Marconi Ave, Sacramento, CA 95821

I recently spoke with CapRadio about the impact of Proposition 36 on Sacramento County. While voters approved Prop 36 to strengthen accountability and expand access to treatment, the measure did not include funding to support the additional responsibilities placed on counties. With Sacramento County already facing a projected $101 million deficit, the added costs for courts, jail capacity, and treatment services will place further strain on our local budget.

I will continue advocating for state partnership and sustainable funding to ensure Prop 36 can be implemented effectively.

To read the full article visit Cap Radio’s website.

Sacramento County has received a Challenge Award from the California State Association of Counties (CSAC) for its Juvenile Pre-Trial Program, an initiative focused on improving outcomes for youth entering the justice system.

The program addresses high youth incarceration and recidivism by shifting the focus from punishment to early, needs-based support. Upon system entry, social workers assess each child's trauma, mental health, education, and family needs to quickly connect them to services. By initiating voluntary, trauma-informed care before adjudication, the program supports earlier release, reduces repeat involvement, and improves outcomes for youth and families.

This recognition reflects Sacramento County’s commitment to smart, effective strategies that strengthen families, improve public safety, and give young people a better path forward.

Join the Friends of Sailor Bar and me on March 21, 2026, for a special dedication and chance to enjoy nature.  Refreshments and games start at 9:45 am with the dedication beginning at 10 am at Sailor Bar Park’s Olive Avenue Entrance (8266 Olive Avenue, Fair Oaks). 

Celebrate the arrival of spring and the National Day of Play with the Friends of Sailor Bar! Enjoy a dedication of nine benches and seven tables, followed by interactive walking tours led by local docents. Learn about the incredible wildlife in our area!

This is the perfect chance to unplug and enjoy the beauty of the American River Parkway with family and friends. Sailor Bar is one of many parks operated by the Sacramento County Regional Parks with more than 15,000 acres of trails, open spaces, and nature areas.

A big thank you to the Friends of Sailor Bar for their wonderful contributions and to Liz Bellas, Director of Sacramento Regional Parks, for her commitment to keeping our parks clean and accessible for everyone.

We can’t wait to see you there!

The impact of fentanyl and methamphetamine is being felt across Sacramento County. I hear from families, business owners, and residents who are concerned about the safety and health of our community. This is a complex issue, and addressing it requires honest conversations, shared information, and strong partnerships.

I invite you to join me for a Community Conversation where we will talk about how we can respond together.

Community Conversation
March 19, 2026 | 6:00 PM
Arcade Library

At this meeting, you will learn about Sacramento County’s efforts to address the fentanyl and methamphetamine crisis and the resources available to support individuals and families. Attendees will also have the opportunity to receive naloxone (Narcan) and overdose prevention supplies.

We will discuss:

• Local treatment, prevention, and recovery resources
• What the County is doing to respond to the crisis
• Real experiences from community members who have been impacted
• Practical information to help recognize and respond to overdoses

These conversations matter. They give us a chance to learn from one another, ask questions, and work toward solutions that make our neighborhoods safer and healthier.

I hope you will join me and be part of this important discussion.

The IRS's Volunteer Income Tax Assistance (VITA) and Tax Counseling for the Elderly (TCE) programs offer free basic tax return preparation to qualified individuals.

The VITA program has operated for over 50 years. VITA sites offer free tax help to people who need assistance in preparing their own tax returns, including:

• People who generally make $69,000 or less
• Persons with disabilities; and
• Limited English-speaking taxpayers

In addition to VITA, the TCE program offers free tax help, particularly for those who are 60 years of age and older, specializing in questions about pensions and retirement-related issues unique to seniors.

While the IRS manages the VITA and TCE programs, the VITA/TCE sites are operated by IRS partners and staffed by volunteers who want to make a difference in their communities. The IRS-certified volunteers who provide tax counseling are often retired individuals associated with non-profit organizations that receive grants from the IRS.

VITA/TCE services are not only free, but they are also a reliable and trusted source for preparing tax returns. All VITA/TCE volunteers who prepare returns must take and pass tax law training that meets or exceeds IRS standards. They also assist taxpayers with the preparation of thousands of Facilitated Self-Assistance returns.

Before going to a VITA or TCE site, please check out this link Publication 3676-B for services provided and check out what to bring to ensure you have all the required documents and information our volunteers will need to help you.

Note: Available services can vary at each site due to the availability of volunteers certified with the tax law expertise required for your return.

VITA and TCE sites are generally located at community and neighborhood centers, libraries, schools, shopping malls, and other convenient locations across the country. To locate the nearest VITA or TCE site near you, use the VITA Locator Tool or call 800-906-9887.

At select tax sites, taxpayers also have an option to prepare their own basic federal and state tax return for free using web-based tax preparation software with an IRS-certified volunteer to help guide you through the process. This option is only available at locations that list "Self-Prep" in the site listing.

I recently wrote an article for the Messenger Publishing Group that was published in February for the American River Messenger and Carmichael Times regarding the National Day of Play and the Sacramento County Regional Parks.  The article can be found on the Messenger Publishing Group’s website or below.

Lately, it can feel like there is a lot weighing on all of us. Busy schedules. Information overload. A pace of life that rarely slows down. These are some of the reasons I was proud to bring forward a resolution recognizing Saturday, March 21, 2026, as National Day of Play in Sacramento County.

National Day of Play is simple. It is an invitation to put the phones down, step outside, and spend time together. No screens. No packed agenda. Just fresh air, movement, and time with the people around us.

The truth is, even though we are more connected digitally than ever, many people feel more disconnected. Kids and adults alike are spending more time indoors and on devices. Taking time to get outside, be active, and connect face to face is good for our physical health, our mental well-being, and our sense of community.

Play looks different for everyone. It might be a walk along the river, riding bikes with your kids, meeting a friend at the park, or simply getting outside for some fresh air. The goal is not to plan something big or complicated. It is about being present and enjoying the moment.

Throughout District 3, we are fortunate to have incredible outdoor spaces right in our own backyard for a day of play.

Sacramento County Regional Parks includes more than 15,000 acres of parks, trails, open space, and natural areas. The American River Parkway offers miles of scenic paths for walking, biking, and exploring. Dozens or neighborhood parks provide places for families to gather, kids to play, and neighbors to connect.

I encourage families, schools, community groups, and neighbors to use March 21 as a reason to get outside together. If you are looking for ideas or places to visit, you can explore Sacramento County Regional Parks at regionalparks.saccounty.gov.

At a time when so much pulls our attention in different directions, something as simple as play can bring us back together. Strong communities are built through everyday moments, shared spaces, and time spent outdoors.

I hope to see our parks and open spaces full of life on March 21 and throughout the year.

Sometimes the best thing we can do for ourselves, our families, and our community is the simplest thing of all.

Step outside. Take a breath. And go play.

Help us green up the Fair Oaks Boulevard corridor—at no cost to participating businesses and property owners. In partnership with Kiwanis Club of Carmichael and local community sponsors, this project will provide free trees/shrubs, planting labor, and coordination to approved locations.

If you own or manage property along Fair Oaks Blvd and have a potential planting spot, complete the interest form on the Carmichael Chamber website. The beautification team will review submissions and follow up to schedule a site visit if your location qualifies.

Sacramento County has been recognized by the North State Building Industry Association (BIA) with its prestigious Friend of Housing Award, honoring the County’s ongoing efforts to improve housing development processes and make Sacramento County the best place to build in the region.

The award was presented on Friday, Jan. 30, during the North State BIA Installation of Officers Dinner, marking a rare distinction for the organization. Traditionally awarded to an individual, this year’s honor was presented to the entire Sacramento County team in recognition of broad, organization-wide improvements that support housing development.

The recognition reflects Sacramento County’s commitment to improving customer service, modernizing internal processes, and updating County codes, fees and programs to create a more efficient, transparent and responsive development experience for applicants and partners. These changes are designed to reduce barriers, improve predictability and foster stronger collaboration with the development community.

In recent years, Sacramento County has implemented a series of improvements aimed at streamlining development review, enhancing the customer experience and creating a more business-friendly environment, all while maintaining the County’s commitment to public health, safety and community standards.

I am proud of the changes to culture and process by the County departments and staff.  They all should be honored that their hard work is being recognized, and I look forward to future improvements to ensure Sacramento County remains the best place to build in the region.

Spring is coming – the ideal time to read about faraway places, plan a garden, meet famous (and infamous) people, and read to children. This sale is an excellent opportunity to stock up on gently used books for both adults and children at low prices.

The Friends of Arden-Dimick Library are holding a two-day Community Book Sale on Friday, March 13, 2026, from 10:00 am to 5:30 pm, and Saturday, March 14, 2026, from 10:00 am to 5:30 pm.  Saturday will be a BAG SALE ONLY, and $6 gets you a standard-sized grocery bag of books.  You’re encouraged to bring your own grocery bags, and cash, credit, or debit cards are accepted. All sales will be held in the Community Room at the Arden-Dimick Library, 891 Watt Avenue. Funds from this sale will be used to support library programs and services.

On Thursday, March 12, there will be a preview sale for members of any affiliate branch of the Friends of the Sacramento Public Library.  The sale will take place from 2:00 pm – 5:30 pm and members receive a 20% discount at this sale (except during the Bag Sale).  Membership will be checked before purchase, and membership information will be available at the sale for those who wish to join the Friends or renew their membership. 

The Friends of the Arden-Dimick Library is a volunteer community-based organization. Its dual mission is to advocate for the library and to provide funding for books, materials, programs, and library activities primarily through selling donated books.

Sacramento County residents are invited to attend the upcoming Sacramento County Women & Girls Festival, a free, family-friendly event that celebrates the strength, resilience, and potential of women and girls in our community.

Saturday, March 7, 2026
10:00 AM – 2:00 PM
Sacramento City College
3835 Freeport Boulevard

This annual event brings together community organizations, service providers, and local partners to connect families with valuable resources while creating a welcoming space for learning, fun, and community connection.

The festival will feature:

• Family-friendly activities for all ages
• Resource booths with information on health, education, career development, and community services
• Food vendors and live music
• Opportunities to connect with organizations that support women, girls, and families throughout Sacramento County

Hosted by the Sacramento County Commission on the Status of Women and Girls and community partners, the event is designed to empower women and girls while strengthening support networks across our region.

Admission is free. To learn more, visit: bit.ly/2026SacFestival

Events like this reflect the power of collaboration and the importance of ensuring that women and girls have access to the resources and opportunities they need to thrive.

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