New Sacramento Councilmembers Roger Dickinson and Phil Pluckebaum | Former Councilmember Katie Valenzuela | Benjy Egel’s Best Eats of 2024

Insight With Vicki Gonzalez

New Sacramento City Councilmembers Roger Dickinson and Phil Pluckebaum talk about a major vote. Former Councilmember Katie Valenzuela reflects on her time in office. Finally, The Sac Bee’s Benjy Egel looks at his memorable eats of 2024.

New Sacramento Councilmembers Roger Dickinson and Phil Pluckebaum

The Sacramento City Council has several new faces, and has already made a major decision about the future of city leadership. Last night, the council voted 6-3 against extending City Manager Howard Chan’s contract for another year, after receiving criticism from dozens of residents over his high salary and a desire for change. New Sacramento City Councilmembers Roger Dickinson (District 2) and Phil Pluckebaum (District 4) join Insight to discuss the implications of the vote, and to talk about their priorities and goals as new members of the governing body.
Editor's note: During the live broadcast of this segment, we incorrectly described the city council’s decision as “effectively firing” City Manager Howard Chan. The council voted against extending Chan’s contract beyond its Dec. 31 end date.

Former Councilmember Katie Valenzuela

During the past four years, Katie Valenzuela has brought a distinctly progressive voice to Sacramento’s City Council. As a self-described democratic socialist, she entered office in 2020 with a clear mandate to challenge the status quo on housing affordability, homelessness, and funding for police. Valenzuela lost her District 4 seat following a contentious election cycle. She joins Insight today to reflect on her time in office, her plans for the future and thoughts on the council’s recent vote to replace the city manager.

Benjy Egel’s Best Eats of 2024

The Sacramento region’s food and beverage scene has seen a lot of change throughout 2024, and the holiday season is a time to explore new restaurants or crack open a new cookbook. Benjy Egel, Food and Drink Writer for The Sacramento Bee walks us through some of his memorable visits and experiences this year.