Civic Issues
Topics getting the most attention in Yolo County, California public meetings, ranked by how frequently they are discussed.
9 issues with high priority
Invasive golden mussels approaching the region
The board affirmed for another cycle that the invasive Golden Mussel infestation in the Delta remains a local emergency — keeping the county eligible for response resources.
How to spend $1.1 million in behavioral health housing funds
Only $1.1 million is actually available for behavioral health housing capital projects — not the $3.3 million previously reported. Community input favored fixing up existing facilities over building new, and the board agreed, with bridge housing for 55 people needing to be sustained.
Kratom public health risk and enforcement
Kratom has been linked to seven fatal overdoses in Yolo County since 2017 and is sold as a "health product" at smoke shops and gas stations. The board picked amending the tobacco retail license over a standalone ordinance — a 4-1 call with worries about adding work to stretched staff.
Leinberger jail facility and state compliance risk
The Probation Department wants to add two custody programs at the county's Juvenile Detention Facility, including a Secure Track treatment track. A resolution would authorize the Chief of Probation to create them. Residents may want to know how this changes options for young people in the justice system.
Local juvenile Secure Track and Camp programs
Yolo County currently pays El Dorado County $475 per day to house two youth in secure track — up to $350,000–$400,000 a year leaving the county. Opening local programs keeps youth close to family and keeps state realignment funds ($910,000/year) working in Yolo.
Groundwater Management and Ag Well Moratorium
The Board approved a groundwater work plan covering well separation rules, meter-ready requirements, drought resiliency and more through the August 2027 moratorium. They also mandated an independent peer review of every hydrogeologist report to guard against developer-friendly findings.
Freeport Bridge Closure Impacts Clarksburg
The Freeport Bridge, the main east-west link for Clarksburg, closes November 2 from 6 a.m. to 6 p.m. daily for a month — a big headache for three schools, commuters and local businesses. Supervisor Villegas explained Sacramento County runs the project and the Coast Guard ruled out night work; the county is pushing better notification and traffic management.
Yolo County homelessness response and 2026-2029 plan
The latest count found 912 people experiencing homelessness in Yolo County, up sharply in chronic homelessness, with a new 2026-2029 regional plan now in place. The Board asked for a full update at a future meeting.
Measure X transient occupancy tax increase on November ballot
The county wants to raise the hotel/short-term rental tax in unincorporated areas from 8% to 12%, matching nearby cities — worth about $250,000 a year, mostly from the UC Davis hotel. Ordinance language comes back May 26; voters would decide in November.