El Dorado County: 2024 in Review
What happened in El Dorado County, California In 2024? Here are a few of the year’s significant events:
Homeowners Insurance and the FAIR Plan: Residents in El Dorado County grappled with difficulties in securing homeowners insurance due to increased wildfire risks. Major insurance companies announced non-renewals of policies in the area, leaving homeowners to seek alternative coverage options, often at significantly higher premiums. This situation prompted concerns about the affordability and availability of insurance for properties in wildfire-prone regions. Reports highlighted issues faced by El Dorado County homeowners relying on the California FAIR Plan, the state's insurer of last resort. Additionally, delays in payment processing led to temporary lapses in coverage for some policyholders.
Arrest of Former Firefighter and Convicted Arsonist: In January 2024, Benjamin Cunha was arrested for placing explosives along roads and highways in El Dorado and Sacramento counties. Cunha, a former firefighter and convicted arsonist, had previously been sentenced to five years in prison in 2016 for starting at least several wildland fires in the early 2000s.
State Lawsuit Over Needle Exchange Ban: In March, California Attorney General Rob Bonta filed a lawsuit against El Dorado County and the City of Placerville over their bans on needle exchange programs, citing public health concerns.
Mountain Lion Attack Near Georgetown: On March 23, a tragic incident occurred near Georgetown, where a 21-year-old man was fatally attacked by a mountain lion while antler shed hunting with his 18-year-old brother. The younger brother sustained injuries but survived. The California Department of Fish and Wildlife responded, locating and euthanizing the mountain lion, with DNA analysis confirming it as the attacking animal.
U.S. Supreme Court Ruling on Impact Fees: In April, the U.S. Supreme Court ruled in favor of El Dorado County resident George Sheetz, allowing homeowners and developers to challenge impact fees in court. This decision could affect how local governments in California impose fees on development projects. Sheetz had contested a $23,420 traffic impact fee imposed by the county for placing a manufactured home on his property. The Court's decision emphasized that such fees could be subject to constitutional scrutiny under the Fifth Amendment's Takings Clause (also known as the Just Compensation Clause, stating that private property cannot be taken for public use without just compensation).
Crozier Fire: On August 6, the Crozier Fire ignited in El Dorado County, burning approximately 1,938 acres. The wildfire prompted evacuations and required substantial firefighting efforts before being contained. Authorities arrested Jason Robinette on suspicion of arson in connection with the Crozier Fire. Investigators determined that the fire had been intentionally set, leading to Robinette's arrest and subsequent charges.
Placerville Woman Sentenced for Manslaughter: In October, Erica Lynn Chambers was sentenced to ten years in state prison for the death of her boyfriend. She had pleaded guilty to voluntary manslaughter charges earlier in the year.
El Dorado County Supervisor's Passing: In early November, El Dorado County Supervisor John Hidahl suddenly passed away at his home. His unexpected death was a significant loss for the community.
Seizure of Illegal Fireworks: In early November, authorities seized several tons of illegal fireworks stored at a public storage facility in El Dorado Hills, highlighting ongoing efforts to curb illegal fireworks in the region.
Board of Supervisors Adopts Tobacco Ordinances: In November, the El Dorado County Board of Supervisors formally adopted two ordinances establishing Tobacco Retail Land Use and Tobacco Retail License regulations. These ordinances require tobacco retailers in unincorporated areas of the county to obtain an annual county-issued license, aiming to regulate the sale of tobacco products more effectively.
Correctional Officer Arrested: In late November, an El Dorado County correctional officer was arrested on accusations of having sexual relations with an inmate, raising concerns about conduct within the county's correctional facilities.
Horse Rescue from Grain Silo: On December 17, El Dorado Search and Rescue, in collaboration with Yolo County Animal Services and other agencies, rescued a horse named Matsie that had fallen through an opening into the basement of an abandoned grain silo. A pulley system was used to hoist Matsie out safely, and she was reunited with her family. The El Dorado County Sheriff’s Office posted on Facebook, “Life is truly an adventure, and you never know what you will encounter. Outstanding work by our Search and Rescue Team and their regional response groups.”