Future Bright For Natomas Region

BY EMILY MIBACH, NP3 INTERN
THE NATOMAS BUZZ | @natomasbuzz

A sold-out crowd of 200+ people attended the 8th annual State of Natomas luncheon earlier this week.

The event was opened by Natomas Chamber of Commerce president Ed Koop with news chamber membership has increased 30 percent since the previous year’s luncheon.

Vice Mayor and District 1 councilwoman Angelique Ashby took the place scheduled keynote speaker Mayor Kevin Johnson, who was on a flight back from Florida where he had been negotiating the King’s status in Sacramento.
 
Ashby read a statement from Johnson about the Kings and new arena deal. Ashby added that City Manager John Shirey assured her reuse of land where Power Balance Pavilion currently sits in Natomas is part of the new arena plan.

Ashby went on to speak about the status of District 1. One highlight: plans for a new Little League baseball diamond in the North Natomas Regional Park in time for the 2013-14 season.

Ashby added that safety in Natomas parks is improved since the city council recently revamped a law that now allows armed private security officers to go onto park land. Ashby also discussed legislation needed for the levee improvement funding, plans for an International Baccalaureate program at Inderkum High School, new services added to the Natomas Police & Community Resource Center and realignment of parolees in Sacramento.

District 3 councilman Steve Cohn spoke about the transient population living in and near the Bannon Creek Parkway and re-building of Smythe School’s baseball field and irrigation system. Cohn also discussed plans for Northgate Park and Los Ninos Park, which both needs renovations. Finally, Cohn also announced the return of “Celebrate! Natomas” on Sept. 8.

The Natomas Chamber of Commerce hosts the annual “State of Natomas” event with support from sponsors.