Sacramento County Board approves dual projects for Grand Park specific plans

The Sacramento County Board of Supervisors convened on February 25, 2025, to address several key agenda items, including community concerns regarding a large campus project and the initiation of specific planning processes for two new developments.

The meeting began with discussions surrounding the conditions imposed on a proposed campus expansion by Synergy. Supervisor Desmond expressed confidence that the board would maintain oversight through an annual reporting mechanism, allowing for the reopening of the use permit if issues arise. Planning Director Todd Smith confirmed that the board retains authority to impose additional conditions or revoke the permit if necessary. This assurance was deemed crucial for community members concerned about the project's impact.

Supervisor Desmond emphasized the importance of prioritizing Sacramento County residents in the services provided by Synergy, referencing a RAND study that identified local needs. He received confirmation from staff that the project would primarily serve county residents.

Following this discussion, the board moved on to item number 62, which involved the initiation of the Grand Park Brookfield and Grand Park Southwest specific plan processes. Planning Director Todd Smith outlined the straightforward nature of the request, noting that landowners had agreed to pursue separate applications for these projects. The board approved the proposed outreach strategies and directed the planning director to convene a technical advisory committee to provide input on the projects.

The Grand Park Southwest plan encompasses approximately 1,800 acres, with a significant portion designated for residential use, while the Grand Park Brookfield plan includes around 3,485 acres, also primarily for residential development. Smith assured the board that ongoing coordination with city and county stakeholders would continue to address habitat conservation and other environmental concerns.

The board unanimously approved the initiation of both specific plans, marking a significant step forward in the development process. The meeting concluded with a motion to move forward with the staff's recommendations, which passed with a vote of 4 to 0 among the members present. The board's commitment to community engagement and oversight in these developments was a central theme throughout the discussions.