Midday Matters Recap: A Conversation with Supervisor Patrick Kennedy

Last week, the Sacramento Asian Pacific Chamber of Commerce (SacAsian Chamber) and CalAsian Foundation welcomed Sacramento County Supervisor Patrick Kennedy for a Midday Matters Roundtable, bringing together South Sacramento’s small business owners, community advocates, and local leaders for a meaningful dialogue on neighborhood challenges, development, and public safety.

The roundtable, hosted in partnership with the SacAsian Chamber and CalAsian Foundation—was attended by Chamber President & CEO Pat Fong Kushida, members of the policy team, and staff who work closely with businesses across the region.

Supervisor Kennedy opened the discussion with a candid overview of his current priorities and initiatives—most notably, efforts to enhance security and improve coordination around the Tiny Homes project on Stockton Boulevard, a three-year initiative launched earlier this year to provide transitional housing for the unhoused community.

Strengthening Safety Around the Tiny Homes Project

As business owners shared their concerns, it became clear that safety around the Stockton Boulevard corridor remains top of mind. Supervisor Kennedy acknowledged these issues and announced that, starting July 1st, Sacramento County will increase security presence around the Tiny Home site, which is owned and operated by WellSpace Health. He also committed to improving coordination between city police and county sheriffs, ensuring more cohesive support for local businesses impacted by jurisdictional overlaps.

Concerns from attendees included:

• A rise in drug activity, prostitution, and vandalism in nearby parking lots, which deter customer foot traffic.
• Individuals removed from the Tiny Homes community due to policy violations returning to occupy local business lots.
• Reduced property values in the area since the project’s inception.
• Ongoing traffic hazards near the Stockton Blvd and 65th Ave intersection.

In response, Supervisor Kennedy encouraged community members to report these issues directly to his office rather than through 311, which routes calls to Environmental Management. 

A Vision for Revitalization

Looking ahead, Supervisor Kennedy shared that he is actively working to acquire vacant lots in the district to revitalize public spaces and activate them for community events and local business use. These plans are part of a broader, long-term vision to establish Little Saigon as a regional destination, highlighting the rich cultural and economic contributions of Sacramento’s Vietnamese and broader AAPI communities.

The Chamber also looks forward to collaborating with Supervisor Kennedy’s office on a fall initiative, further reinforcing our shared commitment to inclusive economic development and community-driven growth.

Thank you to all who attended and engaged in thoughtful dialogue. Events like Midday Matters highlight the importance of bringing policymakers and small businesses to the same table—bridging transparency, trust, and action for a stronger Sacramento.

Stay tuned for future roundtables and advocacy events from the SacAsian Chamber and CalAsian Foundation. Together, we’re shaping a better future for our communities.