El Dorado Hills Community Services District Holds March 2025 Board Meeting
By Cris Alarcon
EL DORADO HILLS, Calif. — The El Dorado Hills Community Services District (EDHCSD) convened for its regular Board of Directors meeting on March 13, 2025, discussing various community concerns and development plans. Directors Mark Ferry, Bill Metick, Dr. Michael Martinelli, and Teri Hanneman were all present.
Opening Ceremony and Public Comment
The meeting began with a pledge of allegiance led by Director Mark Kelly, followed by a moment of silence to honor military personnel, first responders, and emergency personnel. During the public comment period, El Dorado County resident Dean Goetz expressed concerns regarding the legitimacy of repeal measures tied to the three LOA D assessment districts.
“Although I don’t know the specifics, I am concerned about the repeal measures and the legitimacy of those,” Goetz stated.
Closed Session Report
Following the closed session, President Ferry announced that the Board discussed three items: the Austin v. El Dorado County litigation, anticipated litigation, and public employment matters. While no reportable actions were taken, staff provided updates, and the Board gave direction in accordance with the Brown Act.
Director Comments and Community Acknowledgments
Directors praised staff and volunteers for their community contributions.
“A big shout out to all of our volunteers that are out there,” said Director Hanneman. “We can’t do this without your help.”
Director Metick highlighted a visit to Golden Gate Park’s new nine-hole golf course, noting its effective use of natural landscaping and its partnership with the First Tee youth program. He suggested exploring similar initiatives for El Dorado Hills.
He also emphasized the importance of enhancing Bass Lake Park, encouraging the formation of a parks and planning subcommittee to revise its current plans.
President Ferry’s Vision for 2025
President Ferry outlined his agenda for the year, emphasizing community engagement and infrastructure improvements. Key proposals included renaming Latrobe Road to “Latrobe Parkway” with a monument sign, relocating the electronic waste dump, and strengthening ties with local organizations.
“We should become a premier member of the EDH Chamber of Commerce,” Ferry said. “We’re part of the community, and our presence should reflect that.”
He further proposed establishing a public calendar on the district’s website for local service groups and sports clubs to announce events and programs.
Public Concerns and Reactions
During the public comment period, concerns were raised regarding the legitimacy of repeal measures related to the LOA D assessment districts. Additionally, community members voiced frustrations over the proposed relocation of the electronic waste dump, questioning its potential impact on residential neighborhoods. Suggestions were also made to prioritize park improvements at Bass Lake and ensure transparency in the decision-making process. Many attendees encouraged greater collaboration with local organizations to foster community pride and engagement.
Future Considerations
The Board discussed plans to explore partnerships with UC Davis to implement nature-centric park enhancements, inspired by the university’s extensive trail and park system. Additionally, the potential return of the El Dorado Hills Farmers Market to the district parking lot was met with enthusiasm.
The next regular EDHCSD Board of Directors meeting is scheduled for April 10, 2025.
For more information, visit the EDHCSD website.