Under the bright lights of the Amador County City Hall, council members gathered for a meeting that touched on pressing issues affecting the community. Among the highlights was a presentation by Jim Rooney, the county assessor, who provided insights into the local real estate market and property assessments.

Rooney reported a 4.1% increase in assessed values across the county, with Ione experiencing a notable rise of 5.58%. This growth, while modest, reflects a stable real estate environment, especially in contrast to the softening market trends seen elsewhere. However, Rooney pointed out a concerning trend: the number of primary residences in the county has been declining for six consecutive years, indicating a potential shift in how residents are utilizing their properties.

The meeting also featured discussions on upcoming community events, including a ribbon-cutting ceremony for the grand reopening of the Castle Oaks Golf Course, scheduled for Friday at 5 PM. City Manager George Lee highlighted ongoing improvements at various parks, including the Perry Oak Park Basketball Court and Train Depot Park, inviting public participation in future planning sessions.

Council members expressed gratitude to the local fire department for their swift action in extinguishing a fire at the golf course maintenance yard, which could have jeopardized equipment and the historic building on site. Additionally, discussions about transparency and accountability emerged, with council members requesting detailed breakdowns of costs related to recent censure actions, emphasizing the need for clarity in city expenditures.

As the meeting wrapped up, members reflected on the importance of community engagement and the need for policies that address social media use within the council, aiming to foster better communication with residents. With a mix of optimism and caution, the council continues to navigate the complexities of local governance, striving to enhance the quality of life for all Amador County residents.