Marie Jachino Executive Director Elk Grove Food Bank
Military Street Banner Program Honors Elk Grove Vets
Elk Grove proudly displays banners along Elk Grove Boulevard and Civic Center Drive honoring retired or honorably discharged members of the United States Armed Forces from Elk Grove. To include a veteran you know in the next round of installations, submit an application before September 20. For more information, visit elkgrovecity.org/banners
Food Bank Game Changer: New California law aims to feed the hungry while reducing waste
One of the goals of the state’s organic waste recycling law is to recover 20 percent of edible food. This effort is already benefiting the Elk Grove Food Bank and other food pantries in Sacramento County, which have been struggling to meet the public’s growing need for food assistance.
Scan code to learn more about the effort to reduce food waste and increase organics recycling throughout the region.
How Diverse Are We?
Founded in 1974 by the Elk Grove Ministerial Association as an act of kindness, Elk Grove Food Bank Services has evolved into a lifeline and critical resource for Elk Grove residents in need. The organization will mark their 50th anniversary at a Golden Celebration on September 14. Learn more, make a donation, or purchase tickets for the event at elkgrovefoodbank.org
Elk Grove has been recognized as one of the most diverse cities in the country, but just how diverse are we? September is Diversity Awareness Month in Elk Grove. Let’s take a moment to understand the vibrant cultures and communities that make up our city.
Join us in celebrating our diversity at one of these cultural events at District56:
Elk Grove Multicultural Festival – September 14
Cultural Connections: Honoring Filipino Americans
History Month – October 22
Visit elkgrovecity.org/allevents for details.
Getting Back to School Safely
SCHOOL ZONE
With the school year starting, the City’s Traffic Engineering Team wants to remind you to prioritize safety:
While Driving:
• Be aware of your surroundings throughout school zones. There are children present.
• Slow down in school zones. Speed limits are reduced to ensure pedestrian safety.
While Walking/Biking:
• Utilize designated crosswalks and remember to look both ways before crossing.
• Stay vigilant and be aware that drivers may not always be paying attention.
• Electric vehicles are extremely quiet. Keep your head up and headphones to an acceptable level.
Let’s work together to get every student to and from school safely this school year.
Scan code to learn how to use Rectangular Rapid Flashing Beacons to cross the streets safely.
Discover Elk Grove’s New Drone as First Responder Program
With funding from Measure E, police and fire personnel are leveling up their ability to respond to emergencies with the Drone as First Responder (DFR) program. Drone technology has been integrated into the Police Department’s Real-Time Information Center (RTIC) to offer real-time “eyes in the sky” video intelligence anywhere in the city within three minutes on average.
Drones are being used exclusively in response to calls for service to guide ground resources and aid in efficiently locating, reporting, and tracking suspects and vehicles involved in active crimes.
The Drone as First Responder program is taking advantage of today’s technology to enhance safety and efficiency in Elk Grove. View an informational video and learn more about the program at elkgrovepd.org/divisions/uas-program
More than 100,000 Ways We’re Supporting Small Business
Scan code to read the full story and meet more of the businesses that have benefited from the PASS program.
It wasn’t the Publishers Clearinghouse crew, but to 2G Autobody, one of the 38 businesses to receive support through the City’s Permit Assistance Smart Start (PASS) Program, it might have felt like it! The City’s Economic Development team recently joined the Mayor in presenting a check to the owners of this Elk Grove automotive business. The check marked a $100,000 milestone in grant support for local small businesses.
The PASS program, launched in 2021, offers grants up to $10,000 to help small businesses with city permits and fees, making growth possible for businesses with fewer than 20 full-time workers and projected annual revenues under $3 million.
“I really appreciate the City of Elk Grove—everyone from planning, permitting, building, and economic development— for giving us a second opportunity to have a shop.”
-Chris Gurule Sr., 2G Autobody
The Presidential General Election is November 5
Make your voice heard this election and vote! Choose how, when, and where you want to vote:
• Ballot Drop Box: During the first week in October, all registered voters will receive their official ballot in the mail. Place the voted ballot inside the postage paid envelope provided, sign the envelope, and drop it off in any of the 58 secured Ballot Drop Box locations throughout Sacramento County, including City Hall and District56!
• By Mail: Voted ballots may also be returned by mail. Simply place the voted ballot inside the postage paid envelope provided, sign the envelope, and drop it in the mail.
• Vote Center: Some Vote Centers are open up to 11 days prior to and including Election Day, and all Vote Centers are open three days prior to and including Election Day. There is even weekend voting starting October 26! Check hours of operation at myvoterportal. saccounty.gov/LookupVoter. Voters can visit ANY Vote Center in the County to drop off completed ballots OR they can vote in person. Vote Centers provide accessible voting devices, language assistance, and on-site voter registration for eligible residents.
You can register to vote, track when your ballot is mailed to you and when it is received by the County, and even when it’s been counted at myvoterportal.saccounty.gov/LookupVoter
For more information about the November 5, 2024, General Election, voter registration, and a full list of Vote Center and Ballot Drop Box hours and locations, visit myvoterportal.saccounty.gov/ LookupVoter or call toll free (800) 762-8019.
Sip & Savor Sangria this Fall!
What will you discover when Elk Grove’s wineries, restaurants, and bars are tasked with creating a drink recipe to fuel a friendly community competition? Explore Elk Grove is excited to host the 2nd annual Sangria Showdown on Friday, September 13 and the 4th annual Uncorked & Uncapped on Friday, September 20. Scan the QR code to learn more about the winning sangria from McConnell Estates in 2023 and purchase tickets for the upcoming events this fall at CorksandCaps.org
Scan code for blog post: The Story Behind McConnell Estates Winery’s Award-Winning Sangria
In 2023, Elk Grove’s Public Works Department upgraded nearly 200 curb ramps, replaced more than 500 lineal feet of sidewalk, and installed 10 new crosswalks to make it safer and more accessible for everyone to travel through the city. The domes on these curb ramps provide a warning to walkers with visual impairments to pause or stop before venturing into traffic.
In October, we’re recognizing the many contributions of individuals with disabilities in our community as part of National Disability Awareness Month. The City is committed to working with the Disability Advisory Committee and other community partners to implement design elements in city infrastructure, programs, and services that advance access and equity for everyone.
Learn more about the City’s accessibility resources at elkgrovecity.org/ada
687-3042
Licensing & Microchipping) Building Permits (916) 478-2235 City Maintenance (916) 687-3005
Scan code to watch the Road Maintenance: Curb Ramps video.
ELK GROVE IS
TRY ALTERNATIVE TRANSPORTATION
The road to a sustainable future starts with you. Drive change for a better tomorrow. Reduce emissions, embrace sustainability, and invest in a resilient future. Our city is worth it and so are you!
It’s Electric! Introducing New e-Bike Lending and Voucher Programs
Curious about electric bikes but not sure where to start? The City is launching two innovative programs that make it easier than ever to experience the many benefits of electric bikes. Grant funding has made it possible to launch a new lending library and e-bike voucher program.
Try Before You Buy
Residents age 18 and older can borrow an electric bike or trike for free for up to three weeks. Imagine zipping around town effortlessly, saving on gas, and reducing your carbon footprint—all while having a blast! Visit elkgrovecity.org/ebikelibrary to learn more and reserve your ride.
Ready to Make the Switch to Electric?
Elk Grove’s E-Bike Voucher Program offers fantastic financial incentives to help you purchase your very own e-bike. Whether you’re eyeing a standard e-bike, a cargo bike for extra carrying capacity, or an adaptive e-bike, there’s a voucher for you. Applications will be open for one week and vouchers will be distributed through a lottery system after eligibility verification, with 50% of funds reserved for low-income households. Plus, you can combine these vouchers with the upcoming State of California incentives for even greater savings! Learn more about voucher amounts and application details, visit elkgrovecity.org/ebikevoucher
Embrace a greener, healthier way to get around Elk Grove. Try an e-bike, take advantage of the vouchers, and join us in making our city more sustainable and fun!
Celebrate Safe Cycling at Cycle Quest Trail Event September 21 10am - 2pm
Jack Hill Park, 9380 Porta Rosa Drive Free for all ages! Skill Stations, Activities, Fun Giveaways
ELK GROVE IS
KEEP IT CLEAN
Every street, park, and corner is a reflection of our shared pride. Together, we can maintain the charm that makes our city special.
Elk Grove’s Waste Warriors
During the height of the pandemic, a remarkable group of Elk Grove residents came together to tackle an unexpected challenge: trash. The Elk Grove AntiTrash Volunteers, born out of a desire to maintain community pride and cleanliness, have since blossomed into a robust force for good.
Meeting almost every weekend, and even weekdays on occasion, this dedicated group has grown to over 1500 volunteers of all ages and backgrounds. Their mission? To make Elk Grove a cleaner, more beautiful place to live.
Scan code to join the community’s anti-trash efforts and help maintain the charm that makes our city special.
What started as a small effort has grown into a movement, recognized and applauded by both state and local officials. The Elk Grove Anti-Trash Volunteers have become an integral part of many civic beautification projects, working hand-inhand with the City, Cosumnes CSD, and Republic Services. Their efforts have not only improved the aesthetic appeal of the community but fostered a sense of shared responsibility among residents. Each clean-up event is more than just an opportunity to pick up litter; it’s a chance to connect with neighbors, teach children about environmental stewardship, and take tangible action to improve the local environment. The group’s success has inspired many to get involved, proving that collective effort can lead to significant positive change.
For those interested in joining this impactful initiative, the Elk Grove Anti-Trash Volunteers can be found on Facebook. Simply search for Elk Grove Anti-Trash Volunteers or scan code.
Reduce Food Waste
Be a waste warrior with mindful sorting. Scan code to learn more or visit elkgrovecity.org/organics
ORGANICS
Not acceptable
Shiny or waxy paper products such as plates, cups, and to-go containers.
Let’s rock this Anti-Litter Campaign together show love to our city.
City of Elk Grove
8401 Laguna Palms Way
Elk Grove, CA 95758
PRESORT STD ECRWSS U.S. POSTAGE PAID
ELK GROVE, CA PERMIT # 173
8401 Laguna Palms Way Elk Grove, CA 95758 (916) 478-2206 elkgrovecity.org
Kristyn Laurence Public Affairs Manager klaurence@elkgrovecity.org
Lupe Murrietta Graphics & Multimedia Program Manager lmurrietta@elkgrovecity.org
SCAN ME with your smart phone for up-to-date information about the City of Elk Grove.
The City does not discriminate on the basis of disability in admission to, access to, or operations of its programs, services, or activities. Questions, concerns, or complaints may be forwarded to the City’s ADA Coordinator.
calendar
City Council
September 11, 25; October 9, 23 | 6 p.m.
Arts Commission
September 26; October 24 | 6:30 p.m.
Disability Advisory Committee
September 18; October 16 | 6 p.m.
Historic Preservation Committee
September 9; October 14 | 6:00 p.m.
Diversity and Inclusion Commission
September 17; October 15 | 6 p.m.
Planning Commission
September 5, 19; October 3, 17 | 6 p.m.
Trails Committee
September 16; October 21 | 6 p.m.
Youth Commission
September 10; October 8 | 6 p.m.
holidays
Labor Day
September 2 – City Hall Closed
City Council and Planning Commission meetings are livestreamed online and archived on the City’s website at elkgrovecity.org/watchlive
Elk Grove Animal Shelter
The Elk Grove Animal Shelter will mark its five-year anniversary in October. Since its opening, the shelter has made a significant impact in the lives of animals and Elk Grove families thanks to its dedicated staff and volunteers. While the numbers are impressive (see infographic), they reflect only a fraction of the good done through this amazing facility.
Barney’s Story
Barney arrived at the shelter in late December 2023. Estimated around 1 year old and not neutered, Barney had bounced around a few different homes and none of his previous owners were able to provide him with a loving, stable home.
his truly amazing personality. Just a few days after sharing new information online about how great Barney was, a potential adopter walked in asking for him. Barney’s foster family brought him to the shelter, talked with the potential adopters, and the rest is history!
Are you ready to change a shelter pet’s life today? Email foster4egas@elkgrovepd.org for details. Or visit the shelter to adopt a new friend. View adoptable pets and other information by visiting the shelter at elkgrovecity.org/adopt
city council city meetings
Barney struggled at the shelter. He was scared of new people and acted “scary” in his kennel, which made it hard for potential adopters to imagine him joining their family. Then Barney was introduced to the Cranshaws! They took Barney on Doggy Day Outs and after a few walks, they took him home to relax for a few hours where they discovered that he was good with their cat! They welcomed Barney into their home as a long-term foster where he showed
Recordings of City Council meeting broadcasts are also available on Metro Cable Channel 14. Links to all meeting agendas are available at elkgrovecity.org/councilmeeting
Mayor Bobbie Singh-Allen bsinghallen@elkgrovecity.org
Vice Mayor Rod Brewer | District 2 rbrewer@elkgrovecity.org
Councilmember Darren Suen | District 1 dsuen@elkgrovecity.org
Councilmember Kevin Spease | District 3 kspease@elkgrovecity.org
Councilmember Sergio Robles | District 4 srobles@elkgrovecity.org
