Amador County · issues
Civic issues
Topics getting the most attention in Amador County public meetings, ranked by how frequently they come up.
Fire district lease at Pine Grove Park
With the Pine Grove Community Services District dissolving, the county took the park, office, and fire station by deed. A cell tower lease and bulk water rates were preserved so the park can largely fund itself.
Rabies Risk and Animal Exposure Response
Public Health reported 8 rabies-positive specimens out of 52 tested this year — more than the previous two years combined — and walked residents through what to do after a bite or a bat in the bedroom. Supervisors asked that messaging include watching for animals acting strangely in daylight.
Jail expansion financing sublease
The Board approved the legal paperwork locking in the state's $17.2 million share of the $28 million jail expansion via lease revenue bonds. The county keeps ownership but must operate the facility to BSCC standards.
SB 1162 support letter (hazard priority mapping)
The board backed a bill by Senator Alvarado-Gil that would have CalFire prioritize high-hazard areas for fuel reduction — relevant after fires like the Calder fire burned with unexpected intensity near Kirkwood.
Veteran pet license fee waiver
Supervisors want veterans over 60 to get free pet licenses for one dog and one cat — staff will bring back a resolution.
Tree mortality mitigation program
The county continues removing dead and dying hazard trees along roads, with 82.5% cost reimbursement from the state and Forest Service. The program has removed 11,000+ trees since 2017 but only about 40-50% of notified property owners return right-of-entry forms.
Fire Protection District Annexation (CFD 2006-1, Annexation #16)
The Board took the first step to annex territory into the fire protection services district, with a public hearing set for March 10, 2026.