SACRAMENTO COUNTY, CA (MPG) - After a 44-year career with Sacramento County, District 5 Supervisor and Board Chair Don Nottoli has banged the gavel for the last time as a County elected official, upon his retirement.

Nottoli closed the Dec. 14 Board meeting–the last meeting of the year–with thanks to colleagues, constituents, County residents and friends for their support over his long and storied career.

Nottoli was first elected to the Sacramento County Board of Supervisors in November 1994. Prior to the election, he served as chief assistant to former Fifth District County Supervisor Toby Johnson for 16 years. 

The Supervisor represented the County’s Fifth District, which encompasses 650 square miles and includes the cities of Elk Grove, Galt, Isleton and Rancho Cordova, as well as rural farming areas and communities in the southern portion of Sacramento County and the Delta. 

Nottoli is the longest-serving supervisor in the County’s history.

The Board Chambers was packed with well-wishers for the Dec. 14 meeting, in which the Board presented a resolution honoring Nottoli on the occasion of his retirement.

Comments from Nottoli’s colleagues on the Board, County staff and the public noted his kind and caring nature, his tireless work and dedication to public service, his compassion and advocacy for animals and vulnerable residents and his service on many boards and commissions.

“You are a very caring, compassionate human being,” said County Executive Ann Edwards. “You really listen and you are always respectful. We will miss you.”

Some notable accomplishments for Nottoli include the development of Mather Veterans Village; establishment of a senior safe house for elderly residents; investments in the Bradshaw Animal Shelter to improve care for the animals and achieve a greater than 90% live release rate; and his advocacy for the Sacramento Delta. 

Sacramento County Supervisors spoke at the meeting, bidding a fond farewell to their respected colleague.

“You and I are more than just colleagues; we’re close friends,” said District 1 Supervisor Phil Serna. “You have proved to be an invaluable mentor. I think County governance is a special call to service. You really have taught me a great deal about the import of public service.”

“One of the joys of my public life, in 30 years of service, has been the eight years I spent serving with you,” said District 2 Supervisor Patrick Kennedy. “Thank you for your service, friend.”

“You epitomize what it means to be an elected official,” said District 3 Supervisor and Vice Chair Rich Desmond. “It’s not only your direct service to the public, but your devotion to good government.”

“I want to thank you for your consistent inspirational leadership and your help along the way,” said District 4 Supervisor Sue Frost. “I know you’ll enjoy [retirement], and I wish you every happiness.”

Nottoli closed the meeting with thanks to all whom he worked with over the years, and with appreciation for the support and love of his wife and family. “This [career] has exceeded my wildest expectations,” said Nottoli. “I will treasure the comments and reflections…that are emblematic of a life shared with all of you and many others." 

“It’s been a tremendous honor, it’s been a tremendous privilege, to serve the people of this County. Thank you all so very much.”

With that, after a standing ovation from all in chambers and the bang of a gavel, concludes the extraordinary service of a dedicated Sacramento County public servant.