Public Safety · Elk Grove, CA
Elk Grove police officers placed 37-year-old Scott Saetern in a WRAP restraint device and spit hood inside a patrol car for 10 minutes during an apparent mental health crisis at a gas station on June 28, 2025; he lost consciousness and later died. Despite the availability of Sacramento County's HOPE line and Community Wellness Response Team (CWRT), neither the first officer nor seven additional responders called for mental health professionals. The county confirmed no HOPE Line calls were received from EGPD that day. Mental health advocates and a disability rights attorney are calling on California Attorney General Rob Bonta to investigate, while Assemblymember Nick Schultz is considering legislation requiring release of footage and disciplinary records in suspected asphyxia deaths. EGPD declined further comment citing pending litigation; the coroner listed cocaine toxicity as the cause of death.
Housing & Development · Elk Grove, CA
The Elk Grove City Council will consider a proposed Local Preference Program on Wednesday, Oct. 14, that would give priority in city-supported affordable housing applications to people who live or work at least 20 hours per week in the city. The proposal applies to affordable rental and ownership developments receiving city financial assistance such as subsidies, fee waivers, or density bonuses. City staff cited extreme demand, noting the 2025 lotteries for the Lyla and MOSA complexes drew over 12,000 applications for 675 units, while Gardens at Quail Run received more than 28,000 applications for 202 units. The program would not alter income eligibility or tenant screening standards, and staff recommends approval using existing personnel and funding.
Community News · Elk Grove, CA
Elk Grove's free Compost Corner at Elk Grove Park (parking lot at Elk Grove-Florin Road and East Stockton Boulevard) has reopened for fall through December 11, with supplies replenished weekly; residents must bring their own shovel and containers. The city warns against piling leaves in the street due to flooding risk, directing residents to use organic waste carts or drop green waste free at the Special Waste Collection Center (9255 Disposal Lane). The City Youth Commission will debut an anti-bullying campaign at its Path to Positivity event on Saturday, Oct. 31, 10 a.m.–2 p.m., at District56, limited to 100 Elk Grove students ages 13–18. Residents can also complete the Creative Spark arts-and-culture strategic plan survey before Oct. 30, and a tire collection event runs Oct. 10–14 at the Special Waste Collection Center.
