Rancho Cordova City Council delays vote on housing development along American River

On Monday, Rancho Cordova’s City Council decided to delay a decision to consider building housing along the American River Parkway. 

The council discussed a settlement agreement with developer Trumark for a 245-unit project on 41-acres at the Kassis site located between Folsom Boulevard and the Parkway. The agreement is to pause legal action between the city and the developer and allow Trumark to submit a new application for the homes.

“This is not approving any particular project,” city manager Micah Runner said. “This is really buying time for additional conversation to have for the future, potential alternative project that will be submitted, or potentially will be submitted in the near future.”

Many members of the public attended the meeting and spoke out against the proposed development citing concerns about flood risks in the area and its historical significance. 

Sacramento resident Michael Dak attended the city council meeting and spoke out against the development.

“If we allow acres of river floodplain in this area to be buried under 10 feet or more of landfill, a major part of this invaluable treasure will be lost forever,” he said. “Don't let that happen.”

Cathy Birch also attended the meeting and emphasized the potential risks the development can have on its residents. 

“Those of us who have lived here know that this area does flood, and the American River is a mighty force,” she said. “The Central Valley Flood board has ruled several times that no building should be allowed in the flood plain.”

The council decided to agendize the item for their forthcoming December 15 city council meeting when all members will be in attendance.