An unsuspecting room is filled with anything but unsuspecting power players. Healthcare systems and hospital CEO’s, key mental health providers, doctors, key directors and leaders from every social services department in Sacramento County, County CEO, in addition to representatives from the City of Sacramento’s housing and homeless team – with the meeting lead by District Two County Supervisor Patrick Kennedy, who convened this special meeting.

Kennedy delivers an impassioned introduction about the devastating impact of H.R. 1 on the most vulnerable populations in Sacramento County and how the people in the room have the influence to lessen the impacts of such a cruel piece of legislation. Getting all these heavy hitters in the same room is just the first hard fought battle – identifying the gaps in the system where people will fall through, the weaknesses in communication that are currently being lost in translation, the confusion of a system that was never designed to be navigated by a single individual – these are the problems to solve.

This meeting is just another example of the County leading change and the conversation into regional collaboration, systemwide changes and improvements and the importance of open dialogue toward meaningful and lasting service provision to the residents of Sacramento County. Not surprisingly, the air is filled with compassion and determination to protect our most vulnerable residents.

The crisis of how H.R.1 impacts residents of Sacramento County is bigger than just Cash and Food assistance. It’s bigger than homeless response or mental health response or Medi-Cal. It is each of these, but it is also all these programs and services and how they work together, and independently to improve the lives of people who utilize them to get them through very difficult personal times.

When people have the most basic of needs cared for, it allows them to focus on more complex needs such as building income, job training, childcare, reliable transportation – stabilizing the elements of their life that they can build on. What happens when people lose government support that keeps them fed, housed or covered by medical and dental care? Higher rates of homelessness, deep generational poverty, illness, childhood hunger, greater socioeconomic disparity widening the gap generation over generation.

The complexity of the system, of the people that need the most help, is not lost on anyone. But the determination to create a safety net as legislation out of local control leaves people in a free fall is fueled by the compassion of a social service heart – braced by the collaboration of County, City, health and private sector partners working to better our communities. 

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Emergency Preparedness

The Sacramento County Office of Emergency Services is proud to recognize National Emergency Management Awareness Month throughout August. The campaign is designed to increase public awareness of the emergency management profession and recognize the dedicated professionals who work every day to help communities, businesses, schools, healthcare organizations and government agencies across Sacramento County prepare for emergencies and disasters.

“Emergency management is often misunderstood as a profession that only responds to disasters,” said Mary Jo Flynn-Nevins, Sacramento County Chief of Emergency Services. “Emergency management isn’t just about reacting; it’s also about planning in advance, coordinating under pressure, and developing lasting resilience.”

Emergency management is the backbone of Sacramento County’s readiness and resilience. Response is only one part of our work, and our role continues long after a crisis ends. We create strong plans that perform under pressure, develop trainings and exercises that reveal gaps, coordinate efforts across agencies, and lead after-action reviews so lessons become improvements. Before, during and after emergencies, we guide recovery, restore essential functions and strengthen preparedness to help Sacramento County grow safer, stronger and more resilient.

Much of this work happens behind the scenes, but it plays an important role in helping Sacramento County prepare for the emergencies that can affect our region — from extreme heat and wildfires to flooding, severe storms and other hazards.

The public is encouraged to learn more about emergency management and the professionals working year-round to keep Sacramento County communities safe.

To learn more about Sacramento County’s Office of Emergency Services, visit their website.

To learn more about disaster preparedness steps you and your family can take, visit SacramentoReady.saccounty.gov.

Make sure to listen to County Conversations, which features Mary Jo as she discusses the role of the County Office of Emergency Services, how the team prepares for disasters and how they coordinate with state, local and federal partners. You can check out the podcast here. 

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Parks and Recreation

As students gear up for back-to-school season, Sacramento County expects to see an increase in kids and teens riding bicycles and e-bikes. Whether they’re commuting to school, meeting up with friends or enjoying the American River Parkway, now is a great time for young riders and their parents to review the rules of the road and the trails.

The message is simple: Ride Smart. Ride Safe. Ride Free. Know your ride, know your classification, know the rules, and make smart choices that help you enjoy the freedom of riding.

First, know what you’re riding

Not every electric two-wheeler is an e-bike. California recognizes three classes of electric bicycles, and knowing the difference is especially important when riding on trails.

Class 1 e-bikes provide electric assistance only when the rider is pedaling, and have a maximum assisted speed of 20 mph.

Class 2 e-bikes have a throttle that can propel the bike without pedaling, and have a maximum assisted speed of 20 mph.

Class 3 e-bikes provide electric assistance only while the rider is pedaling and can assist up to 28 mph. Class 3 e-bikes are not permitted in Regional Parks facilities, including the American River Parkway and Dry Creek Parkway trails. Riders must be at least 16 years old to operate a Class 3 e-bike.

State law requires anyone under 18 to wear a properly fitted and fastened bicycle helmet when riding on public roads, bikeways or public bicycle paths and trails.

E-motorcycles, sometimes called e-Motos, are different from e-bikes altogether. A qualifying e-Moto is an electric motorcycle, with two wheels, handlebars, a straddle seat and no pedals. These vehicles are subject to additional licensing and registration requirements and are not permitted on the Parkway trail.

A simple rule of thumb: If it doesn’t have fully operable pedals, it’s not an e-bike.

Parents can help by looking at their child’s bike before they head out and making sure they know what type of e-bike they are riding, how fast it can go and where it can legally be ridden.

Ride Smart: Know your ride. Know the rules.

The Jedediah Smith Memorial Multi-use Trail along the American River Parkway is a popular destination for cyclists, pedestrians, runners, skaters and equestrians. With many different types of users sharing the trail, knowing and following the rules helps keep everyone safe.

For cyclists riding on the Parkway:

• Follow the 15 mph speed limit. The trail is designed to accommodate many types of users, so riders should slow down and be prepared for changing conditions and other trail users.
• Pass on the left. Give a verbal warning, such as “On your left,” before passing another cyclist or trail user.
• Ride single file. Leave space between riders and allow others to pass safely.
• Stay alert. Keep your eyes on the trail and watch for pedestrians, other cyclists, animals and vehicles crossing the trail.
• Pull completely off the trail when stopping. Stopping in the middle of the trail can create a hazard for others.
• Stay on permitted trails. Outside of the designated off-paved cycling areas, bicycles are not permitted on non-paved trails on the Parkway.
• Wear a helmet. California law requires riders under 18 to wear a properly fitted helmet when riding on public roads, bikeways and public bicycle paths and trails. Helmets are recommended for riders of all ages.
• Use lights when riding after dark. Riders should make sure their bicycles are properly equipped and visible to others.

The Parkway’s 15 mph speed limit applies to all riders, regardless of how quickly their bike is capable of traveling. For example, a Class 1 or Class 2 e-bike may be capable of reaching 20 mph, but riders must not exceed the Parkway’s 15 mph trail speed limit – the same goes for traditional bicycles.

Class 3 e-bikes and other motorized vehicles, including e-motorcycles, are prohibited in all Sacramento County Regional Parks trails and park facilities.

Ride Safe: Wear a helmet. Stay alert. Ride the speed limit.

A safe ride starts before you ever get on the bike. Riders should wear a properly fitted helmet, stay aware of their surroundings and follow the posted speed limit. On a busy multi-use trail, a few extra seconds of caution can make a big difference.

Parents can help by taking a few minutes before the school year begins to review their child’s bike, make sure it is properly equipped and talk about where and how they can safely ride.

“E-bikes can be a great way for young people to get around and enjoy the outdoors, but with that freedom comes responsibility,” said Liz Bellas, Sacramento County Regional Parks Director. “We want young riders and their families to enjoy our trails while making smart choices that keep themselves and everyone around them safe.”

Ride Free: Enjoy the ride.

For many young people, riding a bike or e-bike is about more than getting from one place to another. It’s a way to spend time with friends, get outside, explore the Parkway and enjoy a little independence.

Smart and safe riding helps make that freedom possible. When riders know their bikes, understand where they can ride and follow the rules, they can ride with confidence and enjoy the freedom to keep exploring.

So before you head out this school year, remember: Ride Smart. Ride Safe. Ride Free. Know your ride, know the rules, make safe choices and have fun.

For more information about multi-use trail rules and regulations, visit Sacramento County Regional Parks’ Multi-use Trail Rules and Regulations. For tips on safely riding bicycles on roads, bike lanes and sidewalks, visit Sacramento County’s Active Transportation webpage.

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The Martin Luther King Jr. Library reopened this week following an 18-month, $8.3 million renovation delivering a modernized community space while preserving one of Meadowview’s most recognizable public buildings.

The project was the first comprehensive renovation of the library since it opened in 1970. City crews and project partners transformed the facility with expanded spaces for children and teens, a larger community room, two new study rooms, a dedicated makerspace and upgraded building systems designed to better serve residents.

“This renovation reflects the City’s commitment to investing in the public spaces that strengthen our neighborhoods and bring people together,” said Public Works Facilities Manager James Christensen. “By preserving and modernizing the Martin Luther King Jr. Library, we are creating a more accessible, welcoming, and resilient space that will support learning, opportunity, and community for generations to come.”

The renovation was shaped by community input gathered through a series of public meetings hosted by the City of Sacramento and Sacramento Public Library. Residents identified priorities that included creating a more welcoming and accessible building, expanding spaces for children and teens, improving technology access, increasing meeting space and making the historic Samuel C. Pannell Collection more accessible.

“Growing up in South Sacramento, the MLK Jr. Library was a place for families to come together, for kids to learn and imagine, for community to feel whole,” said Councilmember Mai Vang, who represents the district. “That’s why revitalizing and reopening the library was one of the top priorities when I first took office.”

“Turning that vision into reality took years of work. From the beginning, I was committed to helping move this project across the finish line – from advocating for state grant funding and identifying our local resources needed to close the funding gap, to listening to residents throughout the planning process. This renovation represents years of advocacy, partnership, and ensuring Meadowview receives the investment it deserves.”

The redesigned library preserves the building’s ceilings and brick walls while introducing modern amenities, including:

• Expanded community meeting space
• Two new study rooms
• A dedicated makerspace
• Updated children’s and teen spaces
• Universal, multi-access restrooms
• New HVAC and automated materials handling systems
• Improved signage, landscaping and parking lot improvements

The universal restroom design supports accessibility for families, caregivers, people with disabilities and visitors of all gender identities while increasing the number of restroom stalls available to the public.

The $8.3 million project was funded through a $5.6 million grant from the California State Library’s Building Forward Library Facilities Improvement Program, along with local funding sources.

The Martin Luther King Jr. Library is one of Sacramento’s most historically significant public libraries. Named by the Sacramento City Council shortly after Dr. Martin Luther King Jr.’s assassination in 1968, it is recognized as the first library in the nation to bear his name.

The library, located at 7340 24th St., reopened to the public on Aug. 4. A community grand opening celebration is scheduled for Aug. 15.

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The Sacramento City Council this week recognized July as Parks and Recreation Month, celebrating Sacramento’s parks, recreation programs and the employees who help make them possible.

Sacramento is home to 243 parks spanning more than 4,000 acres, 17 aquatic facilities and 15 community centers, all maintained and operated by the City’s Youth, Parks, & Community Enrichment (YPCE) Department.

During a special presentation this week, Councilmember Lisa Kaplan highlighted the important role parks play in bringing communities together, supporting health and well-being, and creating spaces where residents of all ages can connect.

“Parks are really the heartbeat of our neighbors and our families,” Kaplan said. “They are the places where children potentially take their first bike ride, where families gather for weekends, picnics, where neighbors connect, laugh and build lasting memories.”

Kaplan also recognized the employees who keep Sacramento’s parks and recreation system running year-round.

“This month, we also want to honor our parks rangers, our maintenance crew, our recreational professionals, our young adults that work in the summer to keep our aquatic centers open, and everyone that works tirelessly to keep these spaces clean, safe and beautiful for all of us,” she said.

National Park and Recreation Month, led by the National Recreation and Park Association (NRPA), has been celebrated each July since 1985. This year’s theme, “The Power Of,” recognizes the many ways parks and recreation strengthen communities through play, nature, connection, belonging and well-being, while also celebrating the professionals who make those experiences possible.

YPCE Director Jackie Beecham said the national theme is reflected every day across Sacramento’s parks and recreation system.

“Parks and Recreation Month is an opportunity to celebrate not only our parks and recreation system, but also the people who make it all possible,” Beecham said. “Much of their work happens behind the scenes—early mornings, evenings and weekends—but their dedication is what keeps our parks, programs and facilities welcoming, safe and thriving for our community.”

Residents are encouraged to celebrate Parks and Recreation Month by visiting a neighborhood park, exploring a trail, cooling off at a City pool or participating in one of the many recreation programs offered throughout Sacramento.

Learn more about parks, programs and facilities at cityofsacramento.gov/YPCE.

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As temperatures continue to climb this summer, the City of Sacramento is inviting residents to stay cool, stay active, and enjoy everything the City’s parks and aquatic facilities have to offer. 

To help families beat the heat, Mayor Kevin McCarty is sponsoring free Family Nights at neighborhood pools across Sacramento in partnership with the City’s Department of Youth, Parks, and Community Enrichment (YPCE).

Throughout this week, residents can enjoy free admission at participating pools from 3-7 p.m., making it easy for families to cool off, spend quality time together, and experience some of Sacramento’s best community amenities. 

Free Family Night Schedule 

All events take place from 3-7 p.m.

Tuesday, July 14 

• Johnston Pool
• McClatchy Pool 

Wednesday, July 15 

• Doyle Pool 

Thursday, July 16 

• Mangan Pool 

Friday, July 17 

• Sim Pool
• Cabrillo Pool 
• Southside Pool 

Free Family Nights are just one of the many ways Sacramento residents can beat the summer heat. Families can also enjoy the City’s spray parks, splash pads, and free wading pools, offering fun and accessible ways for children to cool off throughout the season.

Aquatics programming includes swim lessons, recreational swimming, lap swimming, swim teams and water fitness classes. Youth Program Scholarship Funds are available to help qualifying families participate in aquatics programs at no cost.

Residents can also cool off at City spray parks and splash pads, which operate until Oct. 1.

For pool schedules, swim lesson registration and additional aquatics information, visit cityofsacramento.gov/Aquatics.

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July is Parks and Recreation Month, and Sacramento County Regional Parks is inviting residents to experience a summer staycation close to home!

From scenic trails and river access to family picnic areas, wildlife viewing and outdoor recreation, Sacramento County Regional Parks offers countless opportunities to explore, experience and enjoy nature without leaving the region.

Whether you’re biking along the American River Parkway, paddling local waterways, fishing, hiking or simply relaxing under the shade of a tree, Regional Parks provides affordable outdoor adventures for visitors of all ages.

Introducing the Staycation Parks Pass

To celebrate Parks and Recreation Month, Sacramento County Regional Parks is launching a Staycation Parks Pass for $25.

The pass is valid now through Sept. 30 and provides a convenient way to enjoy Sacramento County Regional Parks all summer long. Visitors who purchase a Staycation Parks Pass will also receive complimentary swag items while supplies last.

Swag items may include a cooling towel, drawstring backpack, beach ball, flying disc, reusable cup and other giveaways that support the County’s ongoing Life Looks Good on You river safety campaign.

Staycation Parks Passes can be purchased at the Sacramento County Regional Parks administrative office:

10361 Rockingham Drive, Suite 100
Sacramento, CA 95827

Office hours are:

• Monday, Tuesday, Thursday and Friday: 9 a.m. to 1 p.m.
• Wednesday: Noon to 4 p.m.

Parks Improve Quality of Life

Research consistently shows that parks support healthier communities by encouraging physical activity, reducing stress and providing spaces where families and neighbors can connect. Parks also contribute to local economies, improve air quality and help people experience the natural beauty of Sacramento County.

This July, Regional Parks encourages everyone to discover a new favorite park, revisit a familiar trail or spend time outdoors with family and friends.

Explore. Experience. Enjoy.

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Sacramento County Public Health (SCPH) and the Sacramento-Yolo Mosquito & Vector Control District have recorded the first human case of West Nile virus in Sacramento County this year. The California Department of Public Health, as of June 26, has only reported one other human case, making this the second human case statewide.  

The resident is a female in her 60s and is recovering. West Nile virus is transmitted to people through the bite of an infected mosquito. While approximately 80 percent of people infected with West Nile virus do not develop symptoms, about one in five may experience a mild illness that can include fever, headache, body aches, joint pain, vomiting, diarrhea or rash. In rare cases, the virus can affect the nervous system and lead to serious neurological disease.

“This first human case this season is an important reminder that West Nile virus is actively circulating in our community,” said Sacramento County Public Health Officer Dr. Phuong Luu. “While most people who become infected will not develop serious illness, some people, especially older adults and those with a compromised immune system can experience severe complications. The best protection is to prevent mosquito bites by always wearing an effective mosquito repellent, wearing long sleeves and pants and eliminating standing water around your home.”

West Nile virus activity has increased significantly in recent weeks, with positive mosquito samples and infected dead birds found in multiple areas throughout Sacramento County.

“This human case confirms that West Nile virus is active and the risk to residents is increasing,” said Gary Goodman, Sacramento-Yolo Mosquito & Vector Control District Manager. “This comes at a time when residents will be enjoying the outdoor activities for the 4th of July holiday and it’s important for residents to stay protected because all it takes is one bite from an infected mosquito to get the virus.”

The Sacramento-Yolo Mosquito & Vector Control District will continue intensive surveillance throughout Sacramento County by trapping and testing mosquitoes, monitoring reports of dead birds, treating mosquito breeding sources, and conducting targeted adult mosquito control treatments when surveillance indicates an elevated risk of disease transmission.

2026 West Nile virus activity update for Sacramento County: 1 human, 31 dead birds and 20 mosquito samples have tested positive for West Nile virus to date.

Practice the District D’s of Mosquito Prevention:

• DRAIN standing water that may produce mosquitoes.
• DAWN and DUSK are times to avoid being outdoors.
• DRESS appropriately by wearing long sleeves and pants when outside.
• DEFEND yourself by using an effective insect repellent. Make sure to follow label directions!
• DOOR and window screens should be in good working condition.
• DISTRICT personnel are also available to address any mosquito problems. Call them at 1-800-429-1022 or visit www.FIGHTtheBITE.net

Media contacts:

• Sacramento County Public Health:
  • Casey Camacho, camachoc@saccounty.gov, (916) 862-2319
• Sacramento-Yolo Mosquito & Vector Control District:
  • Luz Maria Robles, lrobles@fightthebite.net, (916) 416-6337

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County Governance, Operations, Policy

As temperatures rise and families look for ways to stay cool, Sacramento County reminds parents and caregivers that water safety should be a top priority throughout the summer months. Drowning is one of the leading causes of injury-related death for children, but many incidents can be prevented through awareness, preparation and active supervision.

Whether spending time at a swimming pool, lake, river, water park or even at home, it’s important to take steps to stay safe. Drowning can happen quickly and quietly. An adult should always be supervising children when they are in or near water.

Parents and caregivers are encouraged to talk with children and teens about water safety this summer. These conversations should include the importance of following safety rules, swimming with a buddy and listening to lifeguards or supervising adults.

What you can do before spending a day on the water:

Parents should take a few minutes to make sure they are prepared. Children under 13 in Sacramento County must wear properly fitted life jackets when boating or spending time in lakes, rivers or other open water. While floatation devices and water toys can be fun, they should never replace close adult supervision or a Coast Guard-approved life jacket.

How you can start the conversation with your kids:

It’s also important to talk with children about what to do around water. Remind them to stay where adults can see them, avoid rough play near pools or waterways, and never enter the water without permission. Having these conversations before a family outing can help children make safer choices when they are excited and distracted by summer activities.

Drownings can happen in unexpected places:

Water safety discussions should not be limited to pools, lake rivers and oceans. Drownings can happen inside the home as well. Bathtubs, buckets, large containers and other sources of standing water can pose serious risks to young children. Babies can drown in as little as one inch of water. Parents and caregivers should never leave infants or young children unattended around water, even for a moment.

To help keep children safe, parents and caregivers should:

• Always provide close, undistracted supervision when children are in or near water.
• Designate a responsible adult as a “water watcher” during gatherings and swimming activities.
• Ensure pools and spas are secured with proper fencing and self-latching gates.
• Use properly fitted life jackets when boating or recreating near open water.
• Enroll children in age-appropriate swim lessons when possible.
• Learn CPR and know how to respond in a water emergency.
• Talk with children regularly about water safety rules and expectations.
• Empty buckets, kiddie pools and other containers after use and store them safely.

When visiting Sacramento County Parks:

Sacramento County Regional Parks reminds residents to use extra caution when visiting local waterways. Rivers can have strong currents, cold water temperatures and hidden hazards that make them dangerous, even for experienced swimmers. Parents should talk with children about these risks and make sure they stay in approved recreation areas. Remember: County ordinance requires that all children under 13 wear an approved life jacket before entering lakes and rivers. Life jackets are also stationed in several areas along the river.

As families enjoy the summer season, a few simple precautions and conversations can go a long way toward preventing accidents and keeping children safe while they have fun in and around the water.

Check out these additional water safety resources:

• Regional Parks river safety tips
• Regional Parks Kids Don’t Float water safety tips
• American Red Cross swim lessons and water safety classes

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Sacramento County Public Health (SCPH) and the Sacramento County Environmental Management Department (EMD) are urging residents to follow safe food handling practices as summer temperatures, activities and subsequent foodborne illnesses are on the rise.

Food Safety Best Practices:

• Thoroughly cook all meats, especially poultry. Poultry should be cooked to reach a minimum internal temperature of 165°F. If you are served undercooked poultry in a restaurant, send it back for further cooking.
• Wash hands before preparing food and immediately after handling any raw poultry or meat.
• Avoid cross-contamination by carefully cleaning all cutting boards, countertops and utensils with soap and hot water after preparing raw poultry or meat and prevent juices from raw meats from dripping on other foods.
• Make sure that other foods, such as fruits or vegetables, do not come into contact with cutting boards or knives that have been used with raw poultry or meat.
• Always refrigerate meat products. Never leave raw meat at room temperature.
• Avoid unpasteurized milk and soft cheeses and untreated (not chlorinated or boiled) surface or stream water.
• Wash hands well with soap and water after using the bathroom, changing diapers or handling pets, including animals at petting zoos. Make sure children wash their hands well after going to the bathroom or handling pets.

This reminder follows a recent increase in Campylobacter infections in Sacramento County. Campylobacter is one of the most common bacterial causes of foodborne illness in the United States. Recent monitoring data shows Campylobacter cases were 1.3 times higher than the previous month and 1.2 times higher than the three-year average.

Campylobacter infections can result from eating undercooked poultry, consuming unpasteurized dairy products, drinking contaminated water or allowing raw meat and poultry juices to contaminate ready-to-eat foods. Symptoms often include diarrhea, stomach cramps, fever, nausea and vomiting.

“Summer is a time for gathering with family and friends, whether that’s around a backyard grill, at a picnic in the park or on a camping trip,” said Sacramento County Public Health Officer Dr. Phuong Luu. “Recent increases in Campylobacter infections serve as a reminder that food safety matters. No one wants a celebration to end with a trip to the doctor. A few simple food safety steps can help prevent illness and keep summer memories focused on the people and moments that matter most.”

SCPH monitors disease trends, investigates outbreaks and works to prevent the spread of communicable diseases. EMD protects public health through food safety inspections, environmental health programs and education for food facilities and residents. Both departments work together to identify emerging public health concerns and provide residents with information to prevent illness before it occurs.

“Food safety starts long before the first bite,” said Jennea Monasterio, Director of the Sacramento County Environmental Management Department. “Keeping food at safe temperatures and preventing cross-contamination are small steps that can prevent illness and help people enjoy their summer season.”

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