APPOINTMENT OF GENERAL MANAGER
and the relationships he’s built make him an ideal fit to serve as our next General Manager,” said Board President Gil Albiani.
“I am honored to have the trust of the Board and am excited to help lead this organization into the future as we continue to enhance the quality of life for our residents, partners, and employees within this growing and diverse community,” said Lewis.
The District has announced the appointment of Phil Lewis as its next General Manager. Lewis joined the District in October 2020 as the Parks and Recreation Administrator, bringing over 25 years of experience in public service. As a member of the executive team, he has developed a strong understanding of our special district’s operations and management systems.
As General Manager, Lewis will oversee fire protection, emergency medical, parks, and recreation services that cover 157-squaremiles of south Sacramento County, including nine fire stations in Elk Grove and Galt and 102 parks in Elk Grove.
“Phil’s leadership skills, commitment to delivering high-quality experiences to the residents and employees of the District,
Previously, Lewis served as Director of Parks and Recreation for the City of Rocklin, Community Services Director with the City of Oregon City, Executive Director for the Northern Wasco County Parks and Recreation District, and multiple positions with the City of Portland’s Parks Bureau. He holds a Master’s Degree in Parks, Recreation, and Tourism from North Carolina State University and holds certification as a Parks and Recreation Professional from the National Recreation and Parks Association. Lewis lives in Elk Grove with his wife and four children.
Lewis steps in for departing General Manager Joshua Green, who is headed to the Sky River Casino to serve as Vice President of Government and Community Affairs.
DISTRICT FACILITIES ROOF REPAIRS
Roof repairs are in process at various District facilities. These sites include Fire Station 72, Laguna Town Hall (auditorium roof), Elk Grove Recreation Center Modular, Zehnder Park Restroom, Elk Grove Park Maintenance Offices, Kloss Complex Restrooms at Elk Grove Park, and Womack Park shade structure.
The District is responsible for the long-term viability of its structures, including the repair and maintenance of facility roofs. Repairing roofs will ensure asset longevity, safety, and reduce potential further structural damage from outside elements such as water intrusion.
The District awarded the contract for the roof repairs at selected District facilities to Commercial Waterproofers, Inc. for the amount of $562,606.
STREET NAMING CEREMONY
The Street Naming Ceremony for two veteran fire fighters, Kevin Whiteley and Al Meraz, was held on April 27 in the Madeira Ranch community in Elk Grove. The event was attended by retired fire department personnel, Cosumnes District personnel, and the families of the honorees. Chief Rodriguez presented the families with proclamations highlighting their commitment and dedication to the community and the Fire Department.
ENGINE 71 PUSH-IN CEREMONY
On April 18, the newest engine was welcomed into commission at Station 71 with a push-in ceremony. The event was well attended by District personnel and community members. Dating back to the 17th century, "Push-In" ceremonies originated when early hand-drawn fire engines required hand pushing into the station after every call. The celebration of the arrival of a new apparatus has been a source of pride for fire departments, which includes having the firefighters & community members push the new apparatus into the fire station.
NATIONAL PUBLIC SAFETY TELECOMMUNICATORS WEEK
The Fire Department celebrated National Public Safety Telecommunicators Week that was held in April to honor public safety telecommunicators for their commitment, service, and sacrifice. The Chief officers visited the Sacramento Dispatch center on April 12 to cook dinner for personnel. We want to extend our sincere appreciation to our Sacramento Regional Fire/EMS Communications Center 911 dispatchers who selflessly act as the lifeline for those in need when seconds matter! These unseen heroes never have a shift that’s ordinary or routine. Yet, they always answer each call with a calm, reassuring voice, a compassionate heart and patiently provide instructions until help arrives. The Cosumnes Fire Department is extremely grateful for your professionalism, kindness, and friendship!
SAMMY’S SPRING SPLASH
On April 1st, the District celebrated spring by hosting Sammy’s Spring Splash at the Wackford Aquatic Complex. Over 180 people attended the event and helped
FREE FITNESS IN THE PARK
Over 100 participants took part in Free Fitness in the Park on Tuesdays during the month of April. Participants took part in Yoga, Core Strength & Flex, HIIT, Strength & Conditioning, and Xtreme Hip-Hop.
FITFEST
ARBOR DAY/TREE PLANTING
On April 15th, the Rotary Club of Elk Grove and District personnel took part in a tree planting at Glenn Houde Park in honor of National Arbor Day. At the event members of the Board presented the National Arbor Proclamation to Rotary Club of Elk Grove in appreciation for their continued commitment to the replenishment of trees in the Elk Grove community.
On April 29th, over 2,000 participants took part in joining the movement toward a healthy, active lifestyle by attending Elk Grove FitFest at Laguna Community Park. Attendees were able to take part in the Free Kids Zone, Vendor Booths, Adult Fitness Demos, and visit the pools at the Wackford Community Complex.
CAPRA SITE VISIT
During the week of April 17th, the Cosumnes Community Services District welcomed an independent three-member CAPRA Review Team made up of industry professionals from Medford, Oregon, Bend, Oregon and Kent, Washington. The visit was a part of the CAPRA Accreditation process and served as an opportunity for the review team to verify and clarify our self-assessment report as well as fact-find on behalf of the CAPRA Commission. The review team was able to visit with personnel at various facilities and parks throughout the District and experience the culture of the District.
ALL HANDS-ON DECK WORKDAY
Park and Golf Ops. personnel took part in their “All Hands-on Deck” workday on April 27th . The team planted 30 trees along Whitehouse Creek Trail in under 3 hours!
UPCOMING EVENTS
Story Time in the Park
April 6 – September 29, 10am-11am
Every Thursday in Elk Grove Park
Every Friday in Kunsting Family Park
RAD Games
Saturday, May 20 at Wackford
RECREATION ADVENTURES AWARD
The District's RAD program has been nominated and selected for a community services award by the Kiwanis Club in Sacramento. The Award Ceremony was on Saturday, May 13 starting at 11:30 a.m. at the Ronald McDonald House in Sacramento. Visions in Motion submitted the nomination for the award.
The RAD program is hosting this FREE event to provide an opportunity for kids and adults with disabilities to try a variety of sports and fun activities
Free Water Safety Night
Thursday, May 25 from 6:30pm-8:30pm at Wackford
Regional Safety Day
Saturday, June 17th from 10am – 3pm at Elk Grove Park
PARKS AND RECREATION EMPLOYEES OF THE QUARTER
John Ebner and Mitzi Kies were awarded the Parks & Recreation Employees of the Quarter Award for their work on the CAPRA Accreditation Process.
RISK MANAGEMENT
The District has received full accreditation for the prestigious GSRMA Risk Management Accreditation Program. This program marks a significant milestone in our commitment to ensuring the highest standards of risk management and best practices within our organization. The GSRMA Risk Management Accreditation Program places a strong emphasis on adopting and implementing industryleading practices. Through this program, members can earn accreditation by completing and submitting their RMAP (Risk Management Accreditation Program) application. Accreditation is earned when a member achieves the maximum award of 10%, demonstrating their unwavering commitment to risk management excellence. This recognition highlights dedication to mitigating potential risks and promoting a safe and secure environment for our community. By attaining full accreditation, the District solidifies its position as a leader in risk management practices. Together, we will continue to prioritize safety and elevate our risk management efforts, ensuring the wellbeing of our organization and those we serve.
STAFF SPOTLIGHT
Highlighted today is Patrick Bitcon from Youth Development. Patrick loves to read, write, teach, and play music! He plays mostly guitar and sings but has dabbled with bass, drums, keyboards, and other random instruments. Since 2000, Patrick has been playing in a three piece pop punk band, INFM, with two of his best friends. Although it is just a hobby, Patrick’s band has toured all along the West Coast, recorded 3 albums, and played a ton of shows. He invites others to reach out to him if you want an album and looks forward to rocking a Cosumnes CSD event some day!
