Nevada County Economic Resource Council - NCERC

10/15/2026

RSVP now and join us for a panel discussion moderated by Nevada County Supervisor Hardy Bullock, gain valuable insights into rural economic development from CALED Executive Director Gurbax Sahota, and connect with business, government, and community leaders as we celebrate the ERC’s 30 years of supporting Nevada County’s economic vitality.

10/15/2026

Community Spotlight: Penn Valley Community Center

The ERC is proud to support the Penn Valley Community Center, a project that will bring new gathering spaces, business resources, and community programs to western Nevada County. The Center will include areas for events, meetings, workforce development, and community activities, creating a place for residents and local organizations to connect and grow.

Business and workforce development will be a key part of the Center. Sierra Commons will provide business support for entrepreneurs, small businesses, and remote workers, and the Alliance for Workforce Development will offer training focused on emerging job sectors and remote work skills.

The Penn Valley Community Foundation is inviting community members to help bring this project to life by purchasing a custom engraved brick. Each brick becomes a permanent part of the Center and is a meaningful way to honor a family, celebrate someone special, or show support for Penn Valley’s future.

This is a chance to contribute to a space that will serve the community for generations. Support the effort and buy a brick to help build the Donald W. Young Community Center. Learn more at: https://www.pennvalleycf.org/

10/13/2026

The ERC is proud to announce the appointment of our first Youth Representative, Nevada County student Elena Miller.

This new advisory role marks an important step in expanding youth engagement within regional economic development. Earlier this year, the ERC invited several exceptional local students to apply for the inaugural seat, and after a thoughtful review process, Elena was selected for her strong communication skills and commitment to community service.

In this position, Elena will sit in on ERC Board meetings, offering insight on issues affecting young people in Nevada County and helping strengthen the connection between emerging talent and local opportunity. Her experience in youth programs, volunteer work, and creative pursuits brings a grounded perspective that aligns with the ERC’s mission.

We are honored to welcome Elena and look forward to the perspective and energy she brings to this historic new role.

10/08/2026

The Economic Resource Council was pleased to join Nevada Irrigation District and Congressman Ami Bera for a discussion on critical water infrastructure needs in our region. Reliable water systems are foundational to community resilience and long‑term economic vitality, and we appreciate the partnership and forward‑looking work happening across agencies.

Thank you to NID and all local leaders committed to strengthening Nevada County’s future.

We thank Congressman Ami Bera for visiting the Nevada Irrigation District (NID) offices to learn more about the critical water infrastructure challenges facing the District and our foothill communities. A key focus of the discussion was the urgent need to prioritize federal funding for the costly reconstruction of the Scotts Flat spillway, a critical component of NID’s water system and an important investment in the region’s long-term water reliability and resilience.

The discussion also covered a range of other issues important to the region, including the South Yuba Canal, the Lake Wildwood Treated Water Pipeline, wildfire and emergency preparedness, and economic resiliency.

Joining Congressman Bera were NID Board Directors Ricki Heck and Chris Bierwagen; Nevada County Supervisor Sue Hoek; Nevada County Consolidated Fire Chief Jason Robataille; Nevada County Economic Resource Council President Gil Mathews; and NID staff.

10/08/2026

The NJUHSD District Ranch continues to grow as an incredible hands‑on learning space for local students, and we’re excited to share their upcoming Fall Festival and Open House with our community.

Join NJUHSD students, families, and partners on November 14 for an evening of showcases, demonstrations, live animals, tours, and music prepared by student programs. This is a great opportunity to see the progress happening at the Ranch and learn more about the educational pathways it supports.

📅 November 14, 4–8 PM
📍 NJUHSD District Ranch, Grass Valley

The ERC is proud to highlight programs that strengthen workforce pathways, agriculture education, and community engagement across Nevada County.

10/06/2026

Join us at the 2026 Nevada County Economic Summit

The Economic Resource Council is excited to bring together business leaders, community partners, elected officials, and local changemakers for an engaging afternoon focused on the future of Nevada County’s economy. This year’s Summit will explore regional collaboration, innovation, and new opportunities shaping our community.

📅 Thursday, October 29
⏰ 3:30–6:00 PM
📍 Grass Valley Veterans Hall

🎟️ Tickets:
$75 Individual
$500 Table of Eight
Register today at ncerc.org.

This year’s program features a panel discussion moderated by Hardy Bullock, District 5 County Supervisor, followed by a presentation on rural economic development from Gurbax Sahota, Executive Director of CALED.

We look forward to an inspiring afternoon of connection, insight, and forward‑thinking conversation.

10/01/2026

The City of Grass Valley is growing its team, and we love seeing new opportunities open up for our local workforce. If you or someone you know is looking to make an impact in our community, these roles are a great way to get involved.

At the ERC, we’re committed to supporting a strong regional economy and helping connect residents with meaningful career pathways.

09/29/2026

Congratulations to Robin Garcia, Ph.D., on being named the new Executive Director of Nevada County Arts & Culture. Garcia brings two decades of experience in arts policy, community engagement, and public leadership, stepping into the role as the county’s Culture Forward plan moves into implementation.

We also extend appreciation to Eliza Tudor for her ten years of service and continued support during the transition.

The ERC looks forward to continued partnership as arts, culture, and economic development grow together in Nevada County.

09/24/2026

Celebrating Thirty Years of Economic Leadership

The Nevada County Economic Summit is approaching, and this year carries special meaning as the ERC celebrates thirty years of supporting local business, workforce development, and community prosperity.

The Summit brings together leaders, partners, and community voices to look ahead at the opportunities shaping our future. Workforce, housing, innovation, investment, and quality of life will all be part of the conversation as we explore what a thriving Nevada County can look like in the years ahead.

We are also welcoming keynote speaker Gurbax Sahota, President and CEO of CALED, whose statewide perspective on rural economic development will offer valuable insight as we plan for the next chapter.

The event takes place Thursday October 29 from 3:30 to 6:00 p.m. at the Grass Valley Veterans Memorial Building.

Tickets are now available. Secure your spot today: https://ncerc.org/2026-nevada-county-economic-summit/

The Nevada County Economic Resource Council (ERC) invites you to join us for the 2026 Nevada County Economic Summit on Thursday, October 29, 2026, from 3:30

09/22/2026

Congratulations to Grass Valley’s New City Manager, Alex Gammelgard

The Nevada County Economic Resource Council congratulates Alex Gammelgard on being selected as the next City Manager for the City of Grass Valley. After an extensive recruitment process that included community stakeholders from across the region, the City Council unanimously chose Alex to lead Grass Valley into its next chapter.

Alex’s deep roots in Nevada County, his decade of service as Grass Valley’s Police Chief, and his broad experience in municipal operations and budgeting make him uniquely prepared for this role. His commitment to transparent partnerships, community engagement, and thoughtful leadership reflects exactly the kind of collaboration that strengthens our local economy and supports the work of organizations like the ERC

As Grass Valley looks ahead, Alex’s understanding of the city’s history, people, and priorities positions him to guide the community with both continuity and vision. We look forward to continued partnership with the City as we work together to support business growth, workforce development, and a thriving regional economy.

Congratulations, Alex. Your dedication to this community is clear, and we’re excited to see the positive impact your leadership will bring.

Learn more: https://yubanet.com/regional/city-of-grass-valley-selects-alex-gammelgard-as-city-manager/

Grass Valley's City Council unanimously selects longtime Police Chief Alex Gammelgard as City Manager.