Civic Issues
Topics getting the most attention in El Dorado County public meetings, ranked by how frequently they are discussed.
9 issues in public safety
Wildfire Evacuation Readiness and Training
The county's wildfire office reported on its year and laid out its 2026 work plan, and the Board signed the Western El Dorado County Community Wildfire Protection Plan — a voluntary roadmap, not a binding rulebook.
Local Hazard Mitigation Plan and 2027 Emergency Operations Plan
The committee formed a new working group on emergency safety and high water in the Coloma Valley, chaired by Natalie Haber with Courtney Laird — a direct follow-up to the flood-prep briefing.
Veoci Emergency Management Software Implementation
The county continues rolling out Veoci, the software platform used to coordinate emergency response. Better technology means faster, better-organized disaster coordination.
Winter Storm 2026/27 Preparedness
SMUD and the County Office of Emergency Services briefed the committee on how dams and emergency response will handle a potentially wet winter. Residents and river users in the Coloma Valley have a stake in how high-water events are managed.
District V commissioner seat turnover in 2027
Chair Leona Allen is stepping down when her term ends January 1, 2027, taking a volunteer role with the state wildlife department. Supervisor Laine will appoint her replacement — a chance for local residents to seek the seat.
Automatic License Plate Readers in El Dorado County
Residents packed public comment to oppose the Sheriff's Flock/Vigilant camera network, calling it mass surveillance that violates the Fourth Amendment. The Sheriff defended the program, citing crimes solved and monthly audits, and no board action was taken.
El Dorado Hills Fire Department funding
The fire district will receive $452,717 in developer-paid impact fees for new and replacement apparatus, vehicles, equipment and facilities tied to growth.
New sheriff appointment
Eric Palmberg will take over as Sheriff/Coroner/Public Administrator when the office opens up December 26, 2026, serving the rest of the term through January 2029.
Veteran services through The Code 9 Project
The Code 9 Project was scheduled to present on how it serves veterans in the county. It's a chance for the Commission and the public to learn about available veteran support resources.