Rural Roots Sunday – GSREHA History
Over the years, many members have contributed to this mission, most notably, Shirley Peters
…The Rural Area is valued in our community for its aesthetic and cultural significance, as well as the economic and educational opportunities that agriculture provides. Our commitment to maintaining the Rural Area is clear and codified in core planning documents…” Elk Grove General Plan, December 2023
The Greater Sheldon Road Estates HOA (GSREHA) is one of two advocacy groups in Elk Grove’s rural area. This history provides context behind GSREHA’s ongoing commitment to protecting the rural community.
In the early 1970s, a 2-acre subdivision called Sheldon Road Estates began developing along Sheldon Road between Elk Grove Florin and Waterman. Families moved in seeking a rural lifestyle.
By 1989, before Elk Grove was incorporated, Sacramento County proposed an urban plan for the area. Residents quickly recognized the threat of urban encroachment and began organizing to protect their land use and way of life. What started as kitchen table discussions led to the formation of GSREHA.
At the same time, nearby agricultural land north of the community was purchased and rezoned for higher-density housing, later developed as Perry Ranch. This included plans for 5 to 10 homes per acre and proposals to connect new roads through Sheldon Road Estates.
GSREHA organized, pooled resources, and hired a land-use attorney. Their efforts resulted in:
• Closing all north-facing roads into the Sheldon Road Estates development.
• Securing 38 acres of wetlands and open space as a permanent buffer between rural and urban areas. This established a lasting precedent for protecting rural boundaries.
Following this effort, GSREHA made a long-term commitment to preserving Elk Grove’s rural character. That work continues today.
Over the years, many members have contributed to this mission. Notably, Shirley Peters led GSREHA for 34 years until her passing in April 2023. Today, GSREHA works alongside the Sheldon Community Association (SCA) on issues such as rural road policies, domestic well monitoring, and opposing developments like the proposed Summer Villas project.
Please join us.
Eileen Conwell, GSREHA President
