Development News for Sacramento, California

Public Member Selection Process Update and Fire District Consolidation Discussed

The commission received an update on the public member selection process for the LAFCO commission. The current public member and alternate public member terms end at the end of the year. The circulation process has begun, with notifications sent to local agencies and media, and the information posted online. Applications have been sent to the two incumbents. The deadline for applications is July 3rd. The process emphasizes passive recruitment, with notifications sent to public agencies who can then spread the word to interested individuals who meet the criteria (not being an elected or appointed official, city manager, or county CEO). The commission also discussed the MSR (Municipal Service Review) process, highlighting the extensive number of MSRs required for cities and special districts. A five-year plan is in place, with a second category of MSRs to be addressed starting in 2030. Commissioner Hume raised concerns about three fire districts in the South Delta (Delta Fire, River Delta Fire, Isleton Fire Department) regarding their last MSR in 2014, potential legality of contracting with districts outside the county, and the struggles of Isleton Fire Department. Commissioner Hume requested that the commission examine the economy of scale and/or consolidation of these fire districts, and this request was agreed to be agendized for the August meeting. The commission can direct staff to prioritize the review of these Delta districts as the Sacramento review process winds down. The exploration of consolidation and economies of scale can be included in the scope of the fire district RFP.