Citrus Heights Chamber of Commerce Executive Director Shery Merrick stands alongside Bill Van Duker, Police Chief Alex Turcotte and Citrus Heights Chamber Chairman Dr. Gabrielle Rasi at the Citrus Heights Luncheon.

 

CITRUS HEIGHTS, CA (MPG) - The Citrus Heights Community Center buzzed with excitement on Sept. 17, as the Citrus Heights Chamber hosted its monthly luncheon, drawing a record number of attendees. Sponsored by the City of Citrus Heights and catered by Folsom Palace, the luncheon featured Police Chief Alex Turcotte.

“What do a snake, a brick wall, a tree, and a rope have in common? How can the answer be an elephant?” With this intriguing question, Turcotte opened his presentation at the Citrus Heights Luncheon.

He shared the parable of the blind men and the elephant, where a group of blind men, unfamiliar with the animal, learns about it by touching different parts of its body. Each man describes the elephant based on their limited experience resulting in different interpretations of the same animal.

Turcotte used this story to illustrate how Citrus Heights approaches community issues.

“Just like the blind men, we each see different facets of our challenges,” he explained. “Collaboration is essential to understanding the bigger picture and finding effective solutions.”

Turcotte, who began his law enforcement career in Ventura in 2001 and became Citrus Heights’ third police chief in 2006, emphasized the importance of collaboration among residents, business owners and city services.

One of the chief’s main concerns is school safety and traffic management, especially around drop-off and pick-up times for students in schools.

“Unfortunately, traffic is where a lot of folks lose their lives,” said Turcotte. “Our motor team and our patrol officers really strive to make a difference out there. We’ve established a new traffic liaison program with schools this year to improve safety especially at drop off and pick up.”

Turcotte also addressed the growing issue of organized retail theft.

“We are fortunate to have a grant to combat retail theft and we are currently in the implementation phase,” he said. “It's vital to have a combination of prevention and proactive enforcement to reduce crime.”

Turcotte shared updates on the department’s initiatives, including the deployment of crime prevention trailers and a city-wide camera system that will eventually include 90 cameras for active surveillance.

Narcotic enforcement was another issue brought up by Turcotte.

“We have some serious problems with addiction in our society. We try to get them the resources to break that cycle but for the police department, at some point, we have to have accountability measures,” said the chief. “We are taking a renewed vigor on narcotic enforcement to increase accountability. Without a consequence it’s hard to gather the motivation to get better.”

The event also celebrated local icon Bill Van Duker, a longtime business owner recognized for his contributions to the community.

“Bill has been a founding father of Citrus Heights, and his impact is immeasurable,” said Citrus Heights Chamber Chairman Dr. Gabrielle Rasi, acknowledging Van Duker’s 46 years of service.

Van Duker, who opened All-Star Printing in 1977, reflected on the city’s growth since its incorporation in 1997.

“Incorporation of the city took us 12 years, it was a long and arduous task,” said Van Duker. “We are so proud of our city and all the progress we have made. The city far exceeded my expectations and continues to do so.”

Representatives from local government offices expressed gratitude for Van Duker’s dedication.

“You have always been a remarkable individual; the passion and dedication you brought to this city has been top tier,” said City Councilmember Porsche Middleton. “It inspired me to continue to be in community service and be the person I am today. Thank you for your mentorship and support.”

The next Citrus Heights Luncheon is scheduled for Oct. 15 and will feature Hilary Straus, general manager of the Citrus Heights Water District. The event will take place at the Citrus Heights Community Center, located at 6300 Fountain Square Drive.