Local news before breakfast Your Local News

Grass Valley, CA · Daily edition

Grass Valley news for Friday, October 23, 2026

6 stories from Grass Valley and Nevada County, in about three minutes.

Local Politics · Nevada County

Nevada County Voters Must Return Ballots by Nov. 3

Registered voters in Nevada County, California, must return their ballots by November 3 for the midterm elections. Ballots were mailed to registered voters during the week of October 5. Early in-person voting is available through October 23 at the Ballot Processing Center in Grass Valley, while additional vote centers open on October 24. Voters can track mailed ballots via the California Secretary of State's website.

Source: The Union Read the full story ↗

Public Safety · Nevada County

Nevada County Officials Urge El Niño Storm Preparedness for Winter 2026-2027

Nevada County officials are urging residents to prepare for potential severe weather during the upcoming winter season, citing forecasts of a strong El Niño event. Fire Chief Mike Stewart and other local leaders emphasize the importance of having emergency plans, including food supplies, generator fuel, and vehicle safety kits. The county is actively maintaining roads and drainage systems, while agencies like CAL FIRE and Public Works coordinate responses for flooding, snowpack, and power outages. Residents are encouraged to report hazards to Nevada County Public Works or PG&E and review preparedness resources online.

Source: The Union Read the full story ↗

Local Politics · Nevada County

Nevada County Raises Minimum Score for Cannabis Dispensary Applications

The Nevada County Board of Supervisors unanimously voted to increase the minimum overall average score required for cannabis dispensary applicants in rural centers from 70% to 85%. Applicants must also achieve a minimum score of 70% in each of seven evaluation categories. The new criteria apply to potential dispensaries in North San Juan and Soda Springs, aiming to ensure competent operators are selected through a stricter evaluation process.

Source: The Union Read the full story ↗

Community News · Nevada County

Nevada County Recognizes Military Appreciation Week Nov. 7-15, 2026

The Nevada County Board of Supervisors officially recognized November 7 through November 15, 2026, as Military Appreciation Week during a recent meeting. Veterans Service Officer David West highlighted local initiatives including Operation Green Light, where public buildings will be illuminated to raise awareness for veterans. The county also announced plans to convert the Stagecoach Motel into permanent supportive housing for homeless veterans using $5.3 million in grant funding. A Veterans Day ceremony is scheduled for November 11 at the Grass Valley Veterans Memorial Building.

Source: The Union Read the full story ↗

Want tomorrow's Grass Valley edition in your inbox? It's free.

Subscribe free

Community brief · Grass Valley, CA

Repair Café Returns to Nevada County Oct. 24

Repair Café Nevada County will host a free event on Saturday, Oct. 24, at Banner Grange in Grass Valley. Residents can bring items for repair between 2 and 5 p.m., including jewelry, clothing, knives, and garden tools. Volunteers known as "fixers" will assist with repairs while attendees wait.

Source: The Union Read the full story ↗

Community brief · Grass Valley, CA

Moose Lodge Open House Saturday, Oct. 24, 2–6 p.m.

The Moose Lodge #2217 in Grass Valley is hosting a Community Open House on Saturday, October 24, from 2 p.m. to 6 p.m. at 15694 Allison Ranch Road. The event includes tours of the grounds and building, bocce ball and horseshoe games, music, and a raffle with two gift baskets valued at over $500 each. A complimentary dessert and coffee bar will be offered, while sliders and loaded tots available for purchase benefit Interfaith Food Ministry.…

Source: The Union Read the full story ↗