By Cris Alarcon, InEDC Writer. (April 13, 2025) —
EL DORADO HILLS, Calif. — A grassroots campaign has officially launched an effort to recall three members of the El Dorado Hills Community Services District (EDHCSD) Board of Directors, citing concerns over fiscal mismanagement and lack of transparency.
The targeted directors—Stephen Ferry, Michael Martinelli, and Noelle Mattock—are accused by the group Recall EDHCSD of decisions that have allegedly cost taxpayers millions of dollars and undermined public trust.
“The community deserves leadership that is transparent, fiscally responsible, and accountable,” the group stated on its website. “The actions of these directors have demonstrated a disregard for these principles.”
Among the group’s allegations is a 2020 agreement approved by Directors Mattock and Martinelli, which accepted a $3.5 million payment from a developer in lieu of constructing a $13 million community park. This decision, according to Recall EDHCSD, shifted the financial burden of the park’s construction onto taxpayers.
Additionally, the group criticizes the board’s handling of former General Manager Kevin Loewen’s tenure. A 2023–24 El Dorado County Grand Jury report revealed Loewen had a consulting relationship with a major district contractor, raising concerns about a potential conflict of interest. The report noted that the board failed to adequately investigate the matter, leading to questions about its oversight responsibilities.
The recall effort also points to the board’s response to the 2024 general election results, where voters approved Measures Q, R, and S—initiatives aimed at repealing certain special assessments. Despite the measures passing with significant margins, the board has been criticized for not acknowledging the certified results.
In response to the recall initiative, the EDHCSD has not issued an official statement. The board’s next general election is scheduled for November 2026, according to the district’s official website.El Dorado Hills
To move forward with the recall, proponents must gather a requisite number of valid signatures from registered voters within the district. If successful, a special election would be held to determine whether the directors should be removed from office.
Residents seeking more information about the recall effort can visit the group’s website at recalledh.com.
