Get to know candidates in El Dorado County special district races
Cameron Park CSD
Two seats open among six candidates
KATIE GILCHREST
Residence: Cameron Park
Title/occupation: Quality Assurance Manager
Education: Bachelor’s degree, graphic communications, Cal Poly San Luis Obispo, 1988
While a student, I worked at the entirely student-run University Graphic Systems business that printed all the university’s needs, starting as a prepress technician, then advancing to press operator, supervisor, publishing division manager, and eventually general manager
in my senior year. This experience provided me with a strong foundation in communication, project management, and technical skills, which have supported me throughout my career in managing complex budgets and leading teams.
Work experience:
After obtaining my degree, I spent 11 years in various roles at R.R. Donnelley & Sons (1988-1999) before holding management positions at Standard Register Corp. (2007-2012). In 2013, I became Supplier Quality Manager and now serve as Quality Assurance Manager for North American Operations at Taylor Corp., which acquired Standard Register. I earned my Quality Management Systems Auditor/Lead Auditor Certification in 2000. From 2000 to 2009, I was an active Realtor with Coldwell Banker and Re/Max Gold, and I continue to hold an active California salesperson license. My focus is now on quality management and community service leadership.
Civic engagement:
Since moving to Cameron Park in 1999, I volunteered for the Make-A-Wish Foundation (2000-2009) and served as Ambassador, Director, Secretary, and Vice President of the Shingle Springs/Cameron Park Chamber of Commerce (2000-2009). I was also a member, Director, Secretary, and Vice President of the Folsom Lake Kiwanis Club (2004-2009). Due to commuting to West Sacramento, I had to pause commitments to boards. Now, as a home-based employee, I can focus on community service and serving on boards, including increased participation with the Cameron Park Community Services District, while continuing to support local non-profits and volunteering at events and fundraisers.
What do you believe is the most important issue facing your constituents today, and what will you do to address it?
The most important issue facing Cameron Park today is ensuring the safety and security of our community, particularly in light of the current Community Services District deficit budget and the potential closure of one of Cameron Park’s two fire stations. Additionally, Cameron Park is without a dedicated ambulance service after the CSD Board canceled the Advanced Life Support ambulance agreement last year. Public safety must be a top priority, as the loss of these vital services compromises the well-being of our residents and property protection while raising safety risks and increasing insurance premiums for homeowners and businesses.
To address this, I will advocate for keeping Station 88 open and restoring ambulance services, ensuring rapid response times for emergencies. I will also push for greater transparency and accountability from the CSD, including the immediate release of the AP Triton Fire Services feasibility study, which was funded with public resources but remains inaccessible. Enhancing emergency preparedness and improving public safety infrastructure, particularly in light of growing natural disaster risks such as wildfires and flooding, must be prioritized. Key initiatives I will advocate for include emergency preparedness programs, infrastructure improvements, and upgrading safety systems.
In addition to addressing safety concerns, I will advocate that new developments pay their equitable share for the community services they will be utilizing. This may involve advocating for the annexation of new communities into the Cameron Park CSD, ensuring that the financial burden of growth is fairly distributed and that new revenue is directed to the services most impacted by population increases.
With 35 years of private sector business experience, much of which involved managing multimillion dollar budgets, I will bring fiscal responsibility, transparency, and a results-driven approach to ensure the CSD is responsive and accountable to our community.
LIZ GATES
Age: 60
Residence: Cameron Park
Title/occupation: Parent/Substitute Teacher
Education:
- Bachelor’s degree, business administration, Chico State, 1987
- 30-Day Substitute Teaching Permit
Work experience:
I am a substitute teacher and I have managed household budgets and construction/remodel plans and budgets. I have prior work experience in sales account management, interior design and space planning.
Civic engagement:
I have valuable experience in researching an issue and communicating with neighbors, CPCSD board directors and staff, as well as county planning staff, the county supervisor, and the planning commission. In an effort to protect property values and quality of life in my neighborhood, I wrote and presented an appeal to the EDC planning commission that was unanimously upheld. I have served as a preschool ministry leader and as an interim on church vestry, have been a volunteer at the Upper Room and volunteer in an elementary classroom. Our family has enjoyed being part of this community since 2001.
What do you believe is the most important issue facing your constituents today, and what will you do to address it?
The CPCSD should be reorganized so that fire/safety is a separate entity with its own
budget and board representation. Due to the critical priority of fire and safety, it should
be distinct and separately managed. This will enable the general manager and staff to focus on value-adding parks and recreation projects and programs. Parks maintenance and projects have been stalled because of the primary concerns of fire and budget.
A realistic balanced budget is the top priority. District revenues are well below the level required to cover expenses. Since property tax revenues have not kept pace with the rising costs of fire and safety and parks/facility maintenance, I support educating voters to pass a special assessment or accept a reduction in services. Since the 2005 community center bond is set to run through 2030, consider an extension of the similar amount that property owners are already paying.
BARBARA ROGERS
Age: 76
Residence: Cameron Park
Title/occupation: Retired Fire Administration
Education: High school, some college
Work experience: Retired Fire Admin. Asst. 26 plus years
Civic involvement: I have been attending Cameron Park CSD board meetings for 20-plus years.
OTHER CANDIDATES
Candidates who did not respond: Sidney Bazett, Tracy Doyle, J.R. Hichborn
El Dorado Hills CSD
Two seats open among three candidates
CHUCK KING
Age: 63
Residence: El Dorado Hills
Title/occupation: Retired Law Enforcement
Education:
I attended college locally at American River College and at Rio Honda College in San Diego, focused on the Administration of Justice.
Work experience:
Retired law enforcement officer. I retired in 2020 after a 26-year career working for the California Department of Corrections, Office of Internal Affairs, at the rank of special agent, investigating crimes related to prison corruption, use of deadly force, use of force, and off-duty misconduct by departmental employees. I also was assigned as a task force officer for the FBI, concentrating on government corruption. I am a staunch proponent of ethics, integrity and accountability as a result thereof.
Civic engagement:
Coached youth sports to high school athletics. Served as campus security at high school athletic events and during school hours. Currently, the president of 1460+ home, HOA with a multimillion dollar budget. President of “Citizens in Support of El Dorado Hills,” a citizens advocacy group where specialized retired professional consultants work together to represent/inform El Dorado Hills residents about issues that will affect their daily life and convinced Amazon to drop their plan to place a 1+ million square foot warehouse in the EDH Business Park. Convinced Parker Development to sell the old EDH golf course to the CSD.
What do you believe is the most important issue facing your constituents today, and what will you do to address it?
There are many: The lack of board transparency and accountability. numerous causes for citizen complaints requiring internal investigations. Unjust taxation of residents through landscape, lighting assessment districts, frivolous lawsuits due to poor communication between the CSD, their community partners and constituents that have cost the county in excess of an estimated $10 million just this year, with other lawsuits pending that are certain to be losses incurred by the CSD. Development of the old golf course property and the pending option on the other 41 acres next to it.
STEVEN GUTIERREZ
Age: 64
Residence: El Dorado Hills
Title/occupation: Retired Army Colonel
Education:
I hold undergraduate and graduate degrees in criminal justice, public administration, emergency management, psychology and from the U.S. Air Force Command General Staff College. Universities and colleges attended from 1985 to 2011.
Work experience:
Over a span of more than 40 years, I served in the United States Marines and Army, both on active duty and in the reserves, within the Special Operations Command and criminal investigation division. My military service included multiple overseas deployments during Operations Desert Storm to Enduring Freedom/Iraqi Freedom, and I had been awarded the Bronze Star, among other distinguished medals. I am a retired supervising law enforcement official with experience in local, state and federal agencies.
Civic engagement:
I played a key role in the development of the Mountain House Community Service District (MHCSD), serving as president, vice president and director at large. As the principal director, I worked tirelessly with consultants and staff to establish Mountain House’s in-house fire department. Known as a fierce negotiator, I fought for Mountain House entitlements with developers, merchant builders, and the county. My civic involvement also extended to founding Mountain House Pack 511 Cub Scouts, coaching flag football for over five years, and leading the MH Military Veterans Group as president.
What do you believe is the most important issue facing your constituents today, and what will you do to address it?
The El Dorado Hills Community Services District (CSD) is mired in scandal secret deals, blatant incompetence and the staggering loss of millions of your hard-earned dollars. The grand jury’s report was a scathing indictment of some of the leadership. El Dorado Hills deserves so much better. We deserve transparency, honesty and accountability.
That’s why I’m stepping up to run for the CSD board. As a resident and a proud veteran, I’m fed up with the mismanagement and secrecy that’s tarnished our community’s reputation. El Dorado Hills is a vibrant, growing community and it’s our home. We deserve better.
With 35 years of proven leadership experience as a lieutenant colonel in the U.S. Army, a law enforcement supervisor and former president of the Mountain House CSD, I have the grit and expertise to fix the CSD’s financial mismanagement and put our community first. My pledge to you, is to restore fiscal accountability by prioritizing transparency in financial management, so we can trust that our money is being wisely spent. I’ll strengthen our recreational programs through long-term planning that meets our evolving needs, so our families have the amenities they deserve. Rebuild community trust through open and inclusive engagement.
NOELLE MATTOCK
Age: 55
Residence: El Dorado Hills
Title/occupation: Incumbent
Education:
- Master’s degree, public policy and administration, 2004
- Bachelor’s degree, liberal studies-early childhood education, 2000
Work experience:
- City of Roseville, Utility Government Relations Administrator, since 2019
- City of Sacramento, Government Affairs Specialist, 2015-2019
- CH2M Hill, Government Affairs Representative, 2001-2015
- State of California, 1999-2001
Civic engagement:
I have been honored to serve our community for the past 16 years on the EDH CSD board.
In addition, I have served El Dorado County on the Early Care and Education Planning Council since about 2006.
And, I have enjoyed volunteering my time to support various nonprofits and was the co-lead in establishing the Promise Foundation, a nonprofit that was created to support the mission of the EDH CSD and help to deliver major park amenities.
What do you believe is the most important issue facing your constituents today, and what will you do to address it?
The CSD just delivered a historic win for our community by preserving the former golf course property that serves as a gateway into El Dorado Hills and preventing it from being turned into a sea of houses. We were able to pay cash to purchase over half of the former golf course through the focus and dedication of the board and staff. We also secured the current zoning of the remaining acres; however, the community has made it clear that they want the CSD to obtain the remaining land.
The CSD has until about April 2025 to determine how to purchase and begin delivering the future Central EDH Park. In order for the CSD to purchase the remaining property, it will need to be financed.
We are currently working with the community to share financing options such as a public-private partnership that would mean no additional funding from taxpayers or bond financing where the community would need to come together and vote to finance it. A second community survey will be out soon that will share several concepts for that property to illustrate the costs to develop and potential financing options.
While this is a historic opportunity for the community and one that we have fought for over a decade, the actions of the former general manager have caused turmoil, leading to a decline in trust within the community. This has the potential to derail the CSD from being able to deliver on the community’s No. 1 priority.
This board has made every effort to be open and transparent as we navigate this challenging situation. I remain optimistic that, through our continued collaboration with the community, we can restore any trust that may have been compromised and deliver a beautiful new Central EDH Park that future generations can enjoy.
South Tahoe PUD
Two seats open among four candidates
SETH DALLOB
Age: 46
Residence: South Lake Tahoe
Title/occupation: Workforce Housing Developer
Education:
- Bachelor’s degree; radio/tv/film; California State University, Northridge
- Master’s degree, business administration, Claremont University
Work experience:
I have extensive experience in property development, most recently as COO of NexGen Housing Partners, a builder and manager of workforce housing apartments in metro Seattle. In addition, I’ve been a successful private equity investor and business consultant.
Civic engagement:
While this is my first public candidacy, I get involved in local government by attending most city council and TRPA meetings related to development standards and planning. I also write op-ed columns to local news outlets, which are linked on my campaign website.
What do you believe is the most important issue facing your constituents today, and what will you do to address it?
The majority of STPUD’s water and wastewater systems are nearing 65 years old, and system leaks and failures are increasing in number and severity. We simply must replace our aging infrastructure to ensure clean water reaches your faucet and wastewater is efficiently treated and removed from the Tahoe Basin. STPUD is a government agency, but I believe running it a little more like a business and focusing on critical tasks instead of “nice-to-haves” is the best use of ratepayer money. Decarbonization is important, but a lower priority than making sure your water main doesn’t burst in the middle of winter. Much like our road system, we’re not on track to repair and replace our pipes in a reasonable timeframe. I’ll ensure that STPUD operates on a “back to basics” approach; getting the best from our employees and management, ensuring your water and sewer bills are used efficiently, and cutting bloat.
OTHER CANDIDATES
Candidates who did not respond: Christopher Cefalu, Joel Henderson, Kelly Sheehan
El Dorado Hills County Water
Two seats open among four candidates
ESTHER BECKMAN
Age: 57
Residence: El Dorado Hills
Title/occupation: Retired Public Safety
Education:
I have 29 years of experience working as a law enforcement officer. I am a fluent Spanish speaker. My experience related to the position I seek comes from my knowledge of budget management and emergency management, and I possess a bachelor’s degree in criminal justice administration. After retiring, I have continued to serve my community by volunteering with the American Red Cross during the pandemic for six months, and since 2021, I have been volunteering with El Dorado Hills Fire Department through their CERT program.
Work experience:
I have experience working with local government after serving 29 years with the Santa Cruz Sheriff’s Office. I have an understanding of budgeting and emergency management. I have completed several emergency management-related trainings, and I have completed an eight-week leadership academy. I have experience with training personnel and volunteers. During my career, I helped to manage our mutual aid during several large-scale fires in Santa Cruz County. I have more than six years of experience working on complex criminal investigations.
Civic engagement:
During the pandemic, I volunteered at the American Red Cross in their HR division screening new volunteers for 6 months. I have been an active volunteer with the El Dorado Hills Fire Department CERT (Community Emergency Response Team) program since 2021. Through CERT, I have volunteered in my community during large community and emergency-related events.
What do you believe is the most important issue facing your constituents today, and what will you do to address it?
The most important issue the El Dorado Hills County Water District is the risk of facing budget shortfalls with an increasing number of calls for service with only a 5.86% increase in their budget per state statute. My priority will be to work with fellow board members to determine where more cost-effective decisions could be made to adequately provide emergency services to the community without reaching budget shortfalls.
KEVIN GOTRO
Age: 54
Residence: El Dorado Hills
Title/occupation: Retired
Civic engagement:
My wife and I have raised our three children in El Dorado Hills and have been actively involved in their lives through Lake Forest Elementary, Marina Middle School, Oak Ridge High School and the CSD. We have embraced the community, its education system, and a multitude of athletic opportunities that this community has provided for our children. We are so grateful for all that this community has given us. Now, after 30 years as a public servant, and over 22 years living in El Dorado Hills, it’s now my time to give back to the community that has provided so much for me and my family.
What do you believe is the most important issue facing your constituents today, and what will you do to address it?
Over the past two decades, I have become intimately familiar with the evolving landscape and growth of El Dorado Hills. My deep connection to our community gives me a unique perspective on the challenges and opportunities that lie ahead. My extensive experience in the fire service, particularly at the leadership level, equips me with the insight and skills necessary to navigate these changes effectively.
I would like to fully understand the current spending trends and make sure the department has a plan in place to be fiscally responsible. Accountability and transparency need to be at the forefront of all decisions that are being made because this is what is owed to the residents of El Dorado Hills.
My commitment to the long-term success of our fire department is unwavering. My background as a chief officer has given me a deep appreciation for the importance of careful planning and strategic decision-making. I am dedicated to ensuring that our fire department remains strong, capable, and well-prepared to meet the needs of El Dorado Hills now and in the future.
I understand that fiscal responsibility is paramount and that it must be balanced with the core mission of the fire department protecting and serving our community. I believe in supporting our department’s growth, but only at a pace that makes financial and operational sense, ensuring that our fire department can continue to deliver the high standard of service that our community expects and deserves.
OTHER CANDIDATES
Candidates who did not respond: Bobbi Bennett, John Hidahl
El Dorado Irrigation, Division 1
Three candidates
PAUL J. PENN
Age: 71
Residence: Diamond Springs
Title/occupation: Retired Emergency Management Consultant
Education:
- Master’s degree, environmental management, University of San Francisco, 1985
- Bachelor’s degree; sociology, specializing in community health services; SUNY New Paltz; 1974
- Extensive training in emergency, environmental, and health and safety management
Work experience:
After a decade in the High Sierra as a professional ski patroller, I ran emergency/disaster services, emergency medical services, hazardous materials/waste in San Benito County. Relocating to El Dorado County in 1988, I worked at the Governor’s Office of Emergency Services, the California Conservation Corps and Kaiser Permanente. In 2003, I formed EnMagine, a consulting firm providing emergency management planning, training, and exercising services. From 2014-2018, I managed the Emergency Management and Refinery Safety program at the CalEPA, tasked with the water, air, hazardous waste, and environmental response and recovery during and following disasters (e.g., wildland fires, floods, earthquakes).
Civic engagement:
- I am often requested to serve on boards, committees, and councils.
- Led my Scout troop
- Founder of the New Paltz Rescue Squad (EMT/Board of Directors)
- Donner Summit Fire Department
- Nevada County Planning Commissioner
- Elected vice president of the Donner Summit Public Utility District.
- Executive board member, El Dorado County Fire Safe Council.
- Former board member, Snowline Hospice
- Former board member, Buddy Werner Youth Ski League
- Former board member, HAZE
What do you believe is the most important issue facing your constituents today, and what will you do to address it?
Fire is our greatest hazard. Water is our most precious commodity.
The El Dorado Irrigation District faces a critical challenge: aging infrastructure and the associated costs for existing and new customers. Our water system, built in part following the Gold Rush, transports water from high elevations to near the Sacramento Valley floor. It requires constant monitoring and repair. Our water treatment plants are outdated and need replacement. The small number of existing ratepayers bear high costs, and the “buy-in” fees for new customers are substantial. Wildfires have damaged our system and construction costs have soared.
EID has made commendable efforts to extend the life of its treatment plants and distribution system, secure grants, generate hydropower revenue, sell unallocated water, acquire water rights, and improve its bond rating.
I intend to continue this approach. By securing substantial external funding, we may minimize future rate increases.
Failure to address these issues will lead to a “pay me now or pay me later” scenario. Delaying repairs and upgrades will result in astronomical costs. Emergency repairs, lower bond ratings, and infrastructure neglect will burden all ratepayers with higher fees.
I am the most qualified candidate for this position. With over 15 years of attendance at EID Board of Directors meetings, I have a deep understanding of the district’s needs and potential improvements. I am ready to serve on the Board and address these critical challenges.
Safe and reliable, affordable and sustainable are my priorities!
Given the incumbent’s retirement, I respectfully request your vote and support.
OTHER CANDIDATES
Candidates who did not respond: Noel Russell, Tiffany Casey-Moore
Tahoe City PUD
Three seats open among five candidates
ELLIE BEALS
Age: 59
Residence: Tahoma
Title/occupation: Incumbent, Small Business Founder/Owner, Bookkeeper
Education:
I take the role of board member seriously and have taken dozens of classes and have earned numerous certificates, including special district leadership and emergency preparedness. Other education includes Sierra College and State University of New York
Work experience:
Dental assistant and office manager for Drs. Dickson and Morgan in Tahoe City
Bookkeeper, owner and partner, Ellie Beals Bookkeeping
Civic engagement:
I previously served on the boards of Meeks Bay Fire Protection District and my property owners association. I volunteer my services to my property owners association, and love contributing to our unique community.
What do you believe is the most important issue facing your constituents today, and what will you do to address it?
Our community needs improved water capacity infrastructure to provide adequate water and flow capacity for firefighting needs. I have been in support of numerous projects to address this, such as replacing aged and undersized water mains, installing additional fire hydrants, and constructing a new water treatment plant (using Lake Tahoe surface water as its source) which produces up to 650 gallons per minute a permanent and drought-resistant water source. Any fire in the basin is a threat to all communities and having adequate water capacity to quickly extinguish a fire is essential to our safety and economy.
OTHER CANDIDATES
Candidates who did not respond: Judy Friedman, Dan Wilkins, Blake Herrschaft, Greg Mickiewicz
Cameron Park Airport
Two seats open among four candidates
Tina Robertson, John Cook, Anthony Kurywchak, Dennie Salzman
El Dorado Hills County Water, short-term
Dan Donelli, Michael Hillhouse
El Dorado Irrigation, Division 3
Two candidates
Charles Mansfield, Bradley Popejoy
This story was originally published October 6, 2024 at 4:55 AM.