Sacramento International Airport (SMF) is preparing for another busy holiday travel season, with passenger volume expected to exceed last year’s totals. Between Thanksgiving and the New Year, hundreds of thousands of travelers will pass through SMF.

For the winter holidays (Dec. 24–31), 30 percent more seats are available compared to the same week in 2024, which means the potential for even more travelers at SMF.

Tips for a Smooth Holiday Trip:

Arrive early: Plan to arrive at least 2.5 hours before domestic flights and 3 hours for international flights to allow time for parking, check-in, and security.
Check parking availability: The parking garage and daily lot fill quickly during peak mornings; plan to park in an Economy lot and utilize a shuttle to the terminal. Monitor real-time availability on the SMF website.
Use the free waiting lot: Those picking up passengers can avoid curb congestion by using the free cell phone waiting area until their party is ready.
Pack smart: Check TSA guidelines for carry-ons, especially food gifts and liquids.

Here's what you need to know about parking

New Parking Options Coming in 2026: SMF’s brand-new parking garage, Garage 2, is set to open in Fall 2026. Until then, there are many other parking options available, and important information about each is listed below that will better prepare you for your visit.

Garage 1 (the existing garage)- No bus service available. Walkable to/from both terminals.
Daily Lot- Bus service available, but very walkable to/from both terminals.
South Economy- Bus service required to/from both terminals. No walking path.

East Economy- Bus service required to/from both terminals. No walking path.
West Economy- Bus service required to/from both terminals. No walking path. (This lot will open only if the South/East Economy lots fill and close)

Walking Safety: Never walk to/from our Economy lots – use the shuttle for your safety and the safety of our travelers on our busy roadways.

Parking Time: Arrive 2.5 hours before your flight for parking, bussing, and security checks. Economy Lot bus wait times can be 25-30 minutes at busy peak times. It can take 60 minutes from the time you park until the time you arrive at the terminal.

Parking Rates: All lots are $2 every 30 minutes up to their daily max: SMF > Parking

Finding Available Parking:

Live Updates: Before your trip, check real-time parking availability at Sacramento International Airport (SMF). SMF’s parking lots do fill and close rapidly, so check this information frequently.

Clear Signage: Upon entrance to the airport, digital signage will inform you which lots are full/closed, and which are open/available.

Website: SMF’s new website has all this information and more at: Sacramento International Airport (SMF)

IN CASE YOU MISSED IT: ROADWAY FUNDING ARTICLE

I recently wrote an article for the Messenger Publishing Group that was published in October for the American River Messenger and Carmichael Times regarding Roadway Funding: “More Money for our Roads”. The article can be found on the Messenger Publishing Group’s website or below.

It’s no surprise that unincorporated Sacramento County has some of the worst roads in the state. As the Supervisor who represents nearly half of the County’s 600,000 unincorporated residents, I know it impacts all of you much more than residents who live in one of the seven cities in the County.

On September 3, during the Board of Supervisors' final 2025/2026 budget hearing, I proposed using $10 million in County General Fund dollars to supplement our existing road maintenance funds. I’m happy that two of my colleagues supported this allocation, demonstrating a strong, continued investment in our roads in the unincorporated County.

For most people, roads are the primary thing they associate with local government, and it’s unacceptable when taxpayers have to endure crumbling asphalt and potholes. Since taking office, I have made it a top priority to get more funding for our local roads. Although Sacramento County receives some dedicated funding from gas taxes (SB 1) and our existing local transportation sales tax measure (Measure A), it is not nearly enough to decrease or even maintain our $1.4 billion backlog in roadway maintenance. That’s why I’ve been fighting for several years to pull down more state and federal transportation funding and dedicate local discretionary funds to fix our roads.

State and federal funds are typically awarded through the Sacramento Area Council of Governments (SACOG) by competing with all the county and city governments in our region. By working with SACOG and our Sacramento County Department of Transportation (DOT), I have been able to get more of these funds dedicated to Sacramento County instead of having to compete for them regionally. This provides a crucial level of certainty for our transportation funding. I’m also extremely proud of the work I’ve done with my colleagues on the Board of Supervisors to dedicate tens of millions of our local County General Fund dollars over the last several years to supplement other funding sources for road maintenance.

For the first time in decades, Sacramento County has made positive headway toward reducing our massive road repair backlog. The $10 million infusion approved at our final budget meeting will ensure we continue to make progress.

GIFTS FROM THE HEART

This holiday season, give gifts from the heart! The Gifts from the Heart program (GFTH), a 37-year-long tradition, is an annual holiday gift-giving program designed to provide holiday gifts to children, teens, seniors, and disabled adults. Organized by the Department of Child, Family, and Adult Services (DCFAS), this program relies on the generosity of volunteers and donors.

Registries can be found at the links below:

Amazon Registry:

Amazon Gifts from the Heart Registry for Children and Teens

Amazon Gifts from the Heart Registry for Adults

Walmart Registry:

Walmart Gifts from the Heart Registry 2025

Target Registry:

Target Gift from the Heart Registry 2025

You can also buy a gift and ship it to the Gifts from the Heart warehouse at 8520 Younger Creek, Sacramento, CA, 95828. All gifts need to be purchased by Dec. 5, so volunteers have time to wrap and deliver the gifts. If you’re a restaurant owner or run a catering business, you can also help by donating a meal to the volunteers. Reach out to GFTH@saccounty.gov to find out how you can donate food. If you’re interested in donating money, please see the information included in this Gifts from the Heart Brochure.

As Sacramento County grows each year, so does the need for gifts. Whether you are a first-time donor or you've been contributing for decades, please consider helping this longstanding tradition. You can find out more about the program at the Department of Child, Family and Adult Services website.

THE CALIFORNIA INTERNATIONAL MARATHON RETURNS

The 42nd annual California International Marathon is back this year. Thousands of runners are expected to be racing through our neighborhoods in the Third District, Sunday, December 7, during the annual California International Marathon organized by the Sacramento Running Association. The 26.2-mile grueling trek begins at 7:00 am in Folsom and concludes at the State Capitol.

Residents can come out and cheer on the runners. A race day spectator guide can be found online at the Sacramento Running Association website. Please note that spectators are not allowed at the start line.

Fair Oaks Boulevard is a big part of the route, so Fair Oaks, Carmichael, and Arden Arcade residents south of that roadway may find themselves “landlocked” while the race is in progress. Please be cognizant of the closures when planning your morning activities. Residents can view specific street closures on the marathon’s website.

HOLIDAY PET SAFETY

The holidays are full of food, fun, and family, but for our pets, all that excitement can come with a few hidden hazards. Between the table scraps, shiny decorations, and constant activity, it’s easy for curious cats and dogs to get into trouble. The best way to enjoy the holidays with your furry family members is to plan and know what’s safe and what’s not.

Food: The Naughty and Nice List

It’s hard to resist those eyes staring up from under the dinner table, but not everything on your plate should be shared.

Safe (in moderation):

Plain turkey or chicken without skin, bones or seasoning
A scoop of plain sweet potato or pumpkin
Simple fruits and veggies like apple slices, green beans or carrots
A small lick of peanut butter (make sure it’s xylitol-free)

Keep away from pets:

Chocolate
Onions, garlic or chives
Grapes and raisins
Anything sugar-free that contains xylitol
Cooked bones that can splinter
Alcohol or raw dough

If you’re not sure something is safe, stick with pet treats instead. And don’t forget to secure the trash, pets have an incredible sense of smell and no shame in sneaking a snack

Decorations and Holiday Hazards

Your home might look like a winter wonderland, but some of those festive touches can be risky for pets.

Tinsel, ribbon, and string can cause serious intestinal issues if swallowed.
Glass ornaments can break easily and injure paws or mouths.
Holiday lights and cords are tempting for chewers and can cause burns or shocks.
Candles and wagging tails are a dangerous mix—try flameless options instead.

Keeping decorations out of reach helps your pets enjoy the holidays safely (and keeps your décor intact).

Plants to Watch Out For

A few traditional holiday plants are toxic to pets, even in small amounts.

Poinsettias can cause a mild upset stomach.
Mistletoe and holly can lead to vomiting and diarrhea.
Lilies are extremely toxic to cats; avoid them altogether.

If you want the festive look without the risk, go for pet-safe artificial greenery.

Guests, Noise, and New Routines

Between parties and visitors, the holidays can be overwhelming for pets. Make sure they have a quiet, safe spot to retreat to when things get busy. Let guests know not to sneak them treats, and double-check that collars, tags, and microchip info are current, doors tend to open and close a lot this time of year.

A Safe and Happy Holiday Season

With a little preparation, you can make sure everyone in your household enjoys the holidays safely, including the four-legged members.

If you think your pet has eaten something they shouldn’t have, contact your veterinarian right away or call the ASPCA Animal Poison Control Center at (888) 426-4435.

SAC METRO FIRE'S CITIZEN ACADEMY

The Sacramento Metropolitan Fire District holds an annual Citizens Academy that is open to the public to participate. Community members, business owners, public figures, and government officials are invited to participate in the upcoming "Metro Fire Citizens Academy." This ten-week course provides a fantastic opportunity to gain a comprehensive understanding of Metro Fire’s emergency response operations.

Essential topics such as Fire and Rescue Operations, Water Rescue, Hazardous Materials, Emergency Medical Services, and more will be covered by the program. These sessions aim to enlighten and empower participants with valuable insights.

Participants will also learn about Metro Fire's history and hear from our dedicated Administrative and Support Services leaders. The Citizen Academy is held on Wednesdays from 6:00 pm to 8:00 pm, beginning February 4, 2026, and concluding on April 15, 2026. Interested individuals must register by January 15, 2025, to be added to the interest list for this opportunity, and you can show your interest by clicking the button below.

Citizens Academy Interest Form

PREPARING FOR WINTER STORMS IN SACRAMENTO COUNTY

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. Site information is available on the Department of Water Resources website.

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:

SMUD: 1-888-456-7683 or visit the SMUD website
PG&E: 1-800-743-5000 or report online on PG&E’s website

PROPERTY TAX INFORMATION

Sacramento County mailed about 490,265 secured property tax bills which are payable beginning Nov. 1, 2025. These tax bills are mailed only once a year, but property owners may pay their bills in two installment payments:

The first installment payment is due on Nov. 1, 2025. Payments will be accepted without penalty until 5 p.m. on Dec. 10, 2025.
The second installment payment is due on Feb. 1, 2026. Payments will be accepted without penalty until 5 p.m. on April 10, 2026.
Both installments may be paid when the first installment is due. A reminder notice will not be mailed for the second installment.

Taxpayers may sign up for online e-mail notifications for annual secured property tax bills and reminders before delinquent dates. Choose “e-Subscribe for property tax payment notifications” to receive these notifications.

Payments can be made online via credit card or electronic check. Taxpayers may print tax bill installment payment stubs to mail in with their payments. Taxpayers may also pay by credit card or electronic check over the telephone at (844) 430-2823. There is a convenience fee for credit and debit cards. Electronic checks are free.

Payment can be made in person at the Sacramento County Tax Collector’s Office at 700 H Street, Room 1710, between 8am and 5pm Monday through Friday. In person payments can be paid via cash, check, credit card, debit card or money order. A convenience fee will apply for credit card and debit card transactions.

Payments can be sent via mail to P.O. Box 508, Sacramento, CA 95812-0508. The Tax Collector accepts and processes payments based on the postmark date. Payments may not be credited to the tax bill for several business days dependent upon the volume of payments received, whether payments were submitted with the correct payment stubs, and/or whether envelopes were postmarked by the delinquent date.

Property tax law (Prop 8) requires that parcels be assessed at their factored Prop 13 value, or their fair market value (as of the Jan. 1, 2025, property tax lien date), whichever is less.

A rising real estate market can cause higher than expected increases in a parcel’s annual tax bill if that parcel was in Prop 8 status last year. However, the assessed value of any parcel cannot increase beyond that parcel’s factored Prop 13 level. The 2% inflation cap applies only to Prop 13 assessments. It does not apply to Prop 8 assessments, which by law must track the property’s market value until it reaches the Prop 13 factored value.

Find assessed values at assessor.saccounty.gov under “Assessed Value Lookup,” including this year’s value and the factored Prop 13 value for comparison. If a taxpayer has evidence that their assessed value as of Jan. 1, 2025, was less than that shown on this year’s (2025-2026) tax bill, they should:

Visit the Assessor’s Website;
Call the Assessor’s Office at (916) 875-0700; or
Email the Assessor’s Office at Assessor@SacCounty.gov

Taxpayers may obtain current year tax bill information, copies of property tax bills, direct levy information, delinquent prior year tax information and amounts due online via the County’s Property Tax portal, searching by APN or address. Find a QR Code on your tax bill payment stub for use with smartphones to connect to our website.

Sacramento County also has a 24-hour/7-day-a-week Automated Property Tax Information Line that provides information on tax subjects and access to detailed billing and payment information. Tax specialists are available 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. Monday through Friday. Reach the system and tax specialists by calling (916) 874-6622.

If you own property and do not receive a tax bill by Oct. 15, 2025, you may obtain tax bill copies, property tax information, and payment stubs (coupons) through the Property Tax Portal website.

R&TC 2610.5 “Failure to receive a tax bill does not relieve the property owner of the liability to pay taxes in a timely manner or give the Tax Collector reason to cancel penalties imposed for late payment.”

Even if your tax bill is being paid by a lending institution (mortgage company), state law requires that a copy of the tax bill be sent to the property owner; all property owners should receive either the original tax bill or an “Owner’s Information Copy.” It is the responsibility of the property owner to keep their mailing address current with the Assessor’s Office. To update your mailing address, please contact the Assessor’s Office in writing at 3636 American River Drive, Suite 200, Sacramento, CA 95864 or via email at Assessor@saccounty.gov. Please make sure you include a parcel number and phone number with all correspondence.

NEW WASTE FACILITY FEES STARTING JANUARY 1, 2026

Beginning January 1, 2026, the Sacramento County Department of Waste Management and Recycling will implement new tipping fees for weighed loads at Kiefer Landfill and the North Area Recovery Station (NARS).

These fee adjustments, approved by the Board of Supervisors, are necessary to keep up with rising operating costs and to fund important improvement projects, including:

Construction of a new commercial waste transfer building at NARS
Continued development of landfill modules at Kiefer

These upgrades help ensure the County can continue providing safe, reliable, and efficient waste services for the community.

Residents and businesses can review the full list of 2026 Facility Fees on the Department of Waste Management and Recycling website.

GRAND JURY

The Sacramento County Grand Jury service application period is now open for the 2026-2027 term. Nineteen Sacramento County residents and 11 alternates will be selected from among qualified applicants. The one-year term for volunteer jurors runs from July 1, 2026, to June 30, 2027.

The Grand Jury is appointed to provide oversight of county, city, school, and special district agencies and operations within Sacramento County.

The Grand Jury is also authorized to hear criminal indictments and is tasked with visiting regional detention facilities. Grand Jurors receive a small stipend for their volunteer work.

To serve on the Grand Jury, you must be a Sacramento County resident and must meet the following criteria to be considered:

18 or older, a United States citizen, and a resident of Sacramento County for at least one year prior to service;
Interested in investigating the performance of local government agencies;
Possess intelligence, sound judgment, and fair character;
Have not been convicted of a malfeasance in office, a felony, or any other high crime;
Not serving as an elected public officer during the term of office as a grand juror;
Have not served as a grand juror within the last year;
Enthusiastic about the opportunity to work with others and recommend solutions to improve governance and services;
A good listener, with patience, who has skill and experience in fact-finding, investigative techniques, and report writing;
Ready to invest 25 to 35 hours a week, will require attendance of at least four days a week;
Able to communicate in English - both orally and in writing;
Computer literate; and
Willing to ensure your work remains absolutely confidential.

Applications must be received by January 2, 2026, to be considered.

For more information about the Sacramento County Grand Jury, applicant criteria, and how to apply, please visit the Sacramento County Grand Jury website.

UCP HOLIDAY PARTY

UCP of Sacramento and Northern California is hosting a Winter Holiday Party. Everyone is invited to join this festive event for family and friends to come together to celebrate the holiday season. There will be holiday games and crafts, photos with Santa, and delicious snacks.

Date: Friday, December 19, 2025
Time: 5:30 PM – 7:30 PM
Location: 1300 Ethan Way, Suite 500, Sacramento, CA 95825
ADA Accessible Cost: $10 for participants and $5 for the parent or guardian.

For more information or to register for this event, email rec@ucpsacto.org.

December 2025
Volume 5, Issue 12

IN THIS ISSUE:

HOLIDAY EVENTS

Arden Arcade

North Highlands

Carmichael

Fair Oaks

Rancho Cordova

Foothill Farms

HOLIDAY TRAVEL

IN CASE YOU MISSED IT: ROADWAY FUNDING ARTICLE

GIFTS FROM THE HEART

THE CALIFORNIA INTERNATIONAL MARATHON RETURNS

HOLIDAY PET SAFETY

SAC METRO FIRE'S CITIZEN ACADEMY

PREPARING FOR WINTER STORMS IN SACRAMENTO COUNTY

PROPERTY TAX INFORMATION

NEW WASTE FACILITY FEES STARTING JANUARY 1, 2026

GRAND JURY

UCP HOLIDAY PARTY

December 2025Volume 5, Issue 12

IN THIS ISSUE:

HOLIDAY EVENTS

Arden Arcade

North Highlands

Carmichael

Fair Oaks

Rancho Cordova

Foothill Farms

HOLIDAY TRAVEL

IN CASE YOU MISSED IT: ROADWAY FUNDING ARTICLE

GIFTS FROM THE HEART

THE CALIFORNIA INTERNATIONAL MARATHON RETURNS

HOLIDAY PET SAFETY

SAC METRO FIRE'S CITIZEN ACADEMY

PREPARING FOR WINTER STORMS IN SACRAMENTO COUNTY

PROPERTY TAX INFORMATION

NEW WASTE FACILITY FEES STARTING JANUARY 1, 2026

GRAND JURY

UCP HOLIDAY PARTY

December 2025
Volume 5, Issue 12