ERP Project Launch
• FY 2023-24 Audit Results
• CORE Development Update
• SMT Q & A
• McConnell Dog Park Opening
• Groundbreaking Ceremony for the Veterans Memorial Wall
• Honoring Fire Dept. Retirements
• 10-Mile Swim Challenge
• Setting Goals that Stick
• Concern EAP Sessions
• Winter Wonders-Trails & Hikes
Financial Wellness
• Emergency Preparedness 2025
• Staff Highlights
• Newsletter Contributors
As we turn the page to a new year, I’m filled with excitement for what lies ahead. 2025 is a year of new beginnings, and together, we’ll build on our strengths to achieve great things for the community we serve.
This involves continuing to deliver outstanding service while preparing for the future. We’ll begin the Firefighter-Paramedic hiring process soon and launch Fire Academy 25-01 by late summer to address current and anticipated vacancies. Our management team is committed to exploring alternative service delivery models to ensure we’re ready to meet the evolving needs of our community. Additionally, we’re advancing the Fire Department’s accreditation process, which we expect to be complete by the fall.
We’ll focus on improving facilities throughout the District to better support our teams. Updating our workplaces is a priority, and discussions are already underway to create environments that reflect the value of the people who work here.
We’ll celebrate the completion of the CORE Recreation Center at Morse Park. This facility will expand recreation programming, offering fitness, sports, and activities for individuals and groups alike. It’s a milestone we’ll celebrate with the entire community and a step forward in delivering enhanced service levels.
Measure E projects will also take center stage this year as we focus on enhancing safety and quality of life in Elk Grove. At the same time, we’ll continue educating our community about Landscape & Lighting Assessment Districts and their role in maintaining parks, streetscapes, and trails.
This year also brings a significant leadership transition as we begin the recruitment process for the District’s next General Manager. While leadership changes mark new chapters, our commitment to serving the community remains steadfast.
2025 is full of opportunities, and I’m confident we’ll meet them with the same dedication and teamwork that define Cosumnes CSD. Thank you for all you do—I look forward to an exciting year ahead!
Sincerely,
Amanda Chehrezad Interim General Manager
By Nou Vang
The District is excited to announce the launch of its Enterprise Resource Planning (ERP) project in January 2025. This initiative marks a significant step forward in our commitment to enhancing operational efficiency, modernizing our systems, and ensuring that the services we provide continue to meet the needs of our growing community.
The ERP project aims to replace our existing systems with a comprehensive, integrated software solution designed to improve workflows, streamline processes, and provide greater transparency and accountability across all departments. With this upgrade, we seek to enhance data accuracy, reporting capabilities, and cross-departmental collaboration, positioning the District for long-term success.
Your input will be critical throughout this process. As we evaluate potential solutions, your feedback will help us identify the features and functionalities that best meet the District’s needs. Together, we can select a software platform that will serve as a reliable foundation for many years to come.
In the coming months, we will be engaging with staff from various departments to gather insights, understand current challenges, and incorporate your ideas into the project’s development. This collaboration will ensure the chosen ERP solution aligns with our shared goals and priorities.
Thank you in advance for your participation.
By Nou Vang
The District is proud to announce the successful completion of its FY 2023-24 annual fiscal audit, which resulted in a clean opinion with no findings or recommendations. This accomplishment reflects our unwavering commitment to financial transparency, accountability, and sound fiscal management.
As of June 30, 2024, the District achieved an overall increase of $5.3 million in total fund balances across all funds. Revenues for FY 2023-24 grew significantly, increasing by 24%, driven primarily by a full year of Measure E funding, higher service charges, and improved investment earnings. A slight decline in developer fees and contributions provided a modest offset to this growth. On the expense side, costs rose by 15%, reflecting the District’s focus on infrastructure improvements and capital investments.
“FY 2023-24 annual fiscal audit, which resulted in a clean opinion with no findings or recommendations. ”
The District’s long-term liabilities grew by $12 million, primarily due to higher pension liabilities and employee benefits, though this was partially offset by a reduction in retiree healthcare liabilities. These changes demonstrate the District’s commitment to balancing financial responsibilities while planning for the future.
FY 2023-24 was a year of strong financial performance, strategic investments, and fiscal discipline, positioning the District for continued stability and growth.
By Craig Pattenaude | Photos by Rachel Moates
Something exciting is taking shape at the new CORE Recreation Center. In just six months, CORE will open its doors, offering more than just a place to work out—it’s a space where connection, wellness, and play come together.
Imagine stepping into a gym where you can challenge friends to a game of basketball or volleyball, or try your hand at pickleball on one of six new courts.
Upstairs, you’ll find a fitness floor filled with the latest cardio and strength equipment, along with an elevated fitness deck that opens to stunning park views—a perfect spot for outdoor workouts in the fresh air.
Whether you want to walk, jog, or run, the 3-lane indoor track will be ready for you. With a soft surface and protection from the elements, it’s a place to stay active no matter the weather.
CORE isn’t just about physical fitness—it will be a place to refresh your mind and body. The VIBE studio will offer yoga and other movement programs designed to bring balance, energy, and calm. And if building strength is your focus, join one of the many Les Mills group classes, where you’ll find a supportive community and leave feeling stronger, healthier, and inspired.
CORE is more than a fitness center. It’s a place where you’ll connect with others, push your limits, and discover what’s possible. We can’t wait to welcome you. Stay tuned—something truly special is on its way.
Thank you to everyone who attended last month’s Q&A session held by the Strategic Management Team (SMT). We appreciate your time, input, and thoughtful questions. If you missed the session, you can view the Recording Here.
Passcode for Video Access: fTq9&mOH
We want you to know that SMT is actively working through the questions raised and will provide follow-up answers and information. As part of these efforts, SMT has met with the Senior Leadership Team to discuss pay equity and collaborated with the Non-Represented Advisory Committee to address similar concerns.
Your feedback is essential. If you have additional questions or thoughts about the Q&A session, please share them with us using this Form. SUBMIT
We’re excited to celebrate a vibrant new space that has recently opened for our furry friends! The McConnell Dog Park is a wonderful addition to our community, providing a safe, fun, and spacious environment where both dogs and their owners can enjoy the outdoors. The McConnell Dog Park Grand Opening Celebration will be held in February, keep an eye out for more information in the coming weeks. We encourage all staff to bring their own dogs to help kick off the celebrations!
SATURDAY, FEBRUARY 22, 2025 | 9:30AM - 11:00AM McConnell Park, 10081 Hampton Oak Dr, Elk Grove, CA 95624
The Elk Grove Regional Veterans Memorial, located in Elk Grove Park is a place to honor and memorialize veterans who have given their lives defending this country and our freedom and those who are living and are proud of their service and sacrifice. The upcoming groundbreaking ceremony marks the start of construction for the memorial wall, an important addition to the memorial. The ceremony will be held in late February or early March. Notification of the event will be sent to staff in the coming weeks.
LEARN MORE AT CosumnesLegacyFoundation.org
By Pamela Dawson & Amber Anderson
It is often bittersweet when our colleagues retire, and such is the case with Bryan Clark, a recent retiree from Fire Prevention. Bryan retired from the Cosumnes CSD on December 13, 2024, as a Fire Inspector II, after serving the District for over 20 years in various roles, including plan reviewer, field inspector, fire investigator, and trainer. He came to us from Metro Fire and has been a valued member of our team. While his absence will surely be felt, we are excited about the opportunities that lie ahead for him in his next chapter. In fact, Bryan has expressed interest in returning to Cosumnes CSD as a retired annuitant, and we look forward to potentially working with him again in the future.
With his retirement, we also celebrate the growth and development within our District. Congratulations to Brandon Bale, who has been promoted to Fire Inspector II, stepping into Bryan Clark’s vacated position. This promotion has also created an opening for a Fire Inspector I, which is planned to be filled by an internal candidate—an announcement to follow soon.
Best wishes to both Bryan and Brandon as they embark on their new journeys!
We would like to extend our deepest gratitude and heartfelt congratulations to three exceptional Fire Captains who retired from the Cosumnes Fire Department at the end of 2024. Their decades of dedication, leadership, and unwavering commitment to serving these communities leave an inspiring legacy.
Over her 25 years of dedicated service, Captain Rider has been a trailblazer and a role model. Her passion and commitment to excellence have inspired all who had the privilege of working alongside her.
After 28 years of dedicated service, Captain Annear has been a pillar of strength and leadership within our department. His contributions have had a lasting impact on the team and the community.
With an incredible 32 years of service, Captain Henkens has exemplified dedication and professionalism. His leadership and mentorship have profoundly influenced countless firefighters throughout his career.
As they transition to the next chapters of their lives, we celebrate their remarkable careers and thank them for their invaluable service. Their legacies will forever be a part of our department’s history. We are planning to present them with proclamations during the March 19 Board of Directors meeting to honor their decades of service.
MLK Community Breakfast
Saturday, January 18
8:00am | District 56 (Ticketed Event)
March for the Dream
Monday, January 20
Program 8:30am | March 9:15am Sacramento City College
2025 Years of Service and Excellence & Achievement Awards
Wednesday, January 22
9:30am - 11:30am District 56
Elk Grove Chamber’s Gala
Friday, January 24
6:00pm - 9:00pm District 56 (Ticketed Event)
Crab Feed Fundraiser
Cosumnes Firefighters Community Support Foundation
Saturday, February 1
6:00pm | District 56 (Ticketed Event)
2025 Cosumnes Leadership Development Conference
Saturday, February 1
9:00am - 3:00pm Wackford Complex
McConnell Dog Park Grand Opening Celebration
Saturday, February 22
9:00am - 11:00am McConnell Park
By Leah Henson
Looking to kick off the New Year with a splash? If you love lap swimming and don’t mind a little chilly weather, join us for the 10-Mile Swim Challenge at the Elk Grove Aquatics Center (EGAC) from January 2 to February 28!
1. Register now!
2. Pick up your Swim Challenge Log at the front desk.
3. Track your laps each time you swim (laps must be completed at the Elk Grove Aquatics Center).
Please note that pool access isn’t included in the challenge, so you’ll need one of EGAC’s Swim for Fitness memberships or pay as a daily drop-in swimmer. And don’t worry about the water temperature – our pools are heated!
The first 30 swimmers who complete the full 10 miles and submit their log will receive a brand-new pool bag as a reward!
The deadline to submit a completed log is March 7, 2025.
By Liz Rodriguez
The start of a new year is the perfect time to reflect and set resolutions for yourself. Whether you’re looking to boost your physical fitness, improve mental well-being, or make other positive changes, having clear goals can help you stay on track and motivated.
Every great journey begins with a single step, and that step is setting a clear and achievable goal.
Take a moment to reflect: What’s your priority? Is it boosting physical fitness, improving mental well-being, or a mix of both? Whatever it may be, make your goal specific. Here’s a helpful template to guide you:
“I will engage in at least [X] minutes of [TYPE OF EXERCISE] on [SPECIFIC DAYS] at [TIME OF DAY] at/in [LOCATION].”
Check out this SMART Goal Strategy, a quick guide to setting Specific, Measurable, Achievable, Relevant, and Time-bound goals.
It’s not just about ambition—it’s about turning intention into action. By defining when, where, and how you’ll act, you create a plan that’s easier to stick to. Research shows that structured goals increase your chances of success, whether it’s forming a fitness habit, building mindfulness practices, or working on another area of wellness.
Success is about showing up for your goals. Use simple strategies to stay consistent, such as:
• The Paper Clip Strategy: Move a paper clip each time you complete a task.
• Measure Backward, Not Forward: Focus on progress already made instead of what’s left to achieve.
• The Seinfeld Strategy: Keep a visual streak by marking your calendar each day you meet your goal.
Making wellness a priority is a team effort. Define your goals, commit to your plan, and encourage your colleagues along the way. Together, we can support one another in building healthier, happier habits. Let’s get started!
The Human Resources Division is excited to host representatives from Concern, our Employee Assistance Program (EAP) provider, for a series of informational sessions. These free, confidential benefits are available to you and your dependents, offering support for personal and work-life challenges.
This is a great chance to hear directly from Concern representatives about how these resources can help you.
There will be four educational sessions held over two days: 2 on-site sessions at the Wackford Complex, and 2 virtual sessions via Microsoft Teams. Each session is tailored for a specific group. Please review the details below to identify which session is right for you.
Don’t miss this opportunity to learn more about the tools and resources available to help you balance life’s demands.
Monday, January 27
Wackford Community & Aquatic ComplexValley Oak Ballroom
• 10:00am - 11:00am: Managers, supervisors, or leaders with direct reports
• 1:00pm - 2:00pm: All staff other than Fire/Safety
Tuesday, February 4
Virtual Via Microsoft Teams
• 10:00am - 11:00am: Fire/Safety staff only
• 1:00pm - 2:00pm: All staff other than Fire/Safety
Photos by Craig Pattenaude
It’s a beautiful sight to see dry creek beds flowing with water once again. This small waterfall in Elk Grove Creek is a result of rainwater making its way from the foothills to the Sacramento River. Our stormwater system is hard at work, keeping everything moving smoothly!
Enjoy the beauty of winter by exploring Elk Grove’s trails, or try these 10 Cool Winter Hikes near Sacramento.
By Nou Vang
Taking control of your personal finances can feel overwhelming, but with small, consistent steps, you can build a path to financial wellness. The “Launch into Fiscal Health” initiative is here to inspire and guide you on your journey toward achieving your personal financial goals. Whether you’re saving for the future, managing debt, or simply looking to gain confidence in your financial decisions, this approach emphasizes simple and actionable tips.
KEY TIPS FOR FINANCIAL HEALTH
1. TRACK YOUR SPENDING
Start by understanding where your money goes. Use a budgeting app or a simple spreadsheet to monitor expenses and identify areas where you can cut back.
2. BUILD AN EMERGENCY FUND
Set aside a small amount each month to create a safety net for unexpected expenses. Aim for at least three to six months’ worth of essential living expenses.
3. SET CLEAR GOALS
Whether it’s paying off debt, saving for a home, or planning for retirement, define your financial goals. Break them into smaller, achievable milestones to stay motivated.
4. PAY DOWN DEBT STRATEGICALLY
Focus on high-interest debt first while continuing to make minimum payments on others. Consider the snowball or avalanche method to build momentum.
5. AUTOMATE YOUR SAVINGS
Treat savings as a non-negotiable expense. Automate a portion of your paycheck to go directly into a savings or investment account.
6. INVEST IN YOURSELF
Financial health includes professional growth. Consider skills training or education that could increase your earning potential in the long run.
7. REVIEW AND ADJUST REGULARLY
Life changes, and so should your financial plan. Schedule monthly or quarterly reviews of your budget and progress toward your goals.
By Tiffany Piper
1 2 5 3 6 4 7
Workplace Awareness: Familiarize yourself with the District’s Emergency Response Plan, including evacuation routes, assembly points, and key contacts.
Home Readiness: Know about the types of emergencies that are common in your neighborhood and city (e.g., earthquakes, floods, and other weather events)
Workplace Essentials: Know where first aid kits are. Know what to do in case of an emergency.
Home Kit: Include essentials plus blankets, important documents (in waterproof containers), medications, and pet supplies if applicable.
Workplace Plan: Know how to communicate with your supervisor and coworkers during an emergency. Save emergency contact numbers in your work phone.
Home Plan: Establish a family communication plan, including a designated meeting spot and an out-of-area emergency contact.
Workplace Training: Attend all required safety trainings, including first aid, CPR, and specific workplace emergency drills.
Home Preparedness: Teach family members how to use fire extinguishers, shut off utilities, and practice evacuation drills.
At Work: Follow instructions from emergency coordinators. Stay calm, assist others if safe, and evacuate or shelter in place as directed.
At Home: Monitor emergency alerts and updates. Evacuate if necessary, or stay put and seal windows and doors for shelter-in-place scenarios.
Workplace Alerts: Ensure your contact information is updated for receiving alerts.
Home Alerts: Sign up for community alerts and have a battery-powered or hand-crank radio for updates.
Workplace: Review emergency procedures annually and as new staff are hired. Update emergency contacts and kits.
Home: Check expiration dates on supplies and refresh items like food, water, and batteries regularly.
By Kelly Croisdale
Peder Rauen is our Staff Highlight of the Month! Peder has been with the District for 6 months, serving as the West Sector Supervisor for Park and Golf Operations. In his free time, he enjoys spending time with his wife Laurie and young daughter Nora.Peder’s hobbies include hiking, woodworking, fishing and rooting for his favorite teams, the Mariners, Seahawks, and Sonics as well as his alma mater, the WSU Cougars. Peder and his wife recently made Elk Grove their forever home and they look forward to many happy and successful years with Cosumnes CSD.
• Amber Anderson, Deputy Fire Marshal, has been providing her expertise and skills to the Cosumnes Fire Department’s Fire Prevention Division for over 20 years.
• Kelly Croisdale has dedicated 15 years to the Cosumnes CSD, starting as a preschool teacher and now bringing her passion for service and care to her role as an Accounting Assistant in the Finance Division.
• Pamela Dawson is a Management Analyst who has been with the District for 14 years. She began her journey in Park Operations, where she channeled her love for parks and open spaces. Today, she brings her dedication to the community and analytical expertise to the Fire Prevention Division.
• Brita Geiger, the Executive Assistant to the Fire Chief, has been a dedicated member of the District for nearly 10 years. With experience across all departments, she brings exceptional organizational skills, enthusiasm, and a deep passion for supporting her community and its success.
• Leah Henson has been with the District for nearly 10 years and currently serves as an Administrative Assistant for Customer Care at the Elk Grove Aquatics Center. She is passionate about building strong relationships with her coworkers, City partners, and the community she loves.
• Mitzi Kies is the Executive Assistant to the Parks & Recreation Administrator and has been with the District for over 8 years. She cherishes the opportunity to make a difference for families in our community, including her own.
• Rachel Moates, Communications Specialist, utilizes her 10 years of experience in photography and video production to craft engaging visual content that showcases the District’s work and connects with the community.
• Craig Pattenaude, our Marketing & Communications Supervisor, combines his love for photography and video production with expertise in social media and digital marketing to share the District’s story in creative and engaging ways.
• Tiffany Piper, our Risk Manager, has shown dedication to protecting our employees and community since joining the District in 2022. Her expertise and thoughtful approach enable her to skillfully navigate the complexities of risk management.
• Liz Rodriguez is an Assistant Recreation Coordinator with 10 years of fitness instructing experience and 2.5 years at Cosumnes CSD. She is passionate about helping others reach their wellness goals and making fitness fun for all.
• Nou Vang, our Finance Director, has been instrumental in strengthening the District’s financial position since 2021 through her strategic leadership and expertise.