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Agricultural commissioner wins board approval to raise several fees, citing cost recovery
Summary
Following a public hearing, the Board adopted a new Agriculture, Weights & Measures fee schedule effective July 1, 2025, raising fees on pest-control business licenses, certified farmer markets, small farm certificates and other services to recover inspection and program costs.
The El Dorado County Board of Supervisors on Tuesday adopted a resolution replacing two prior fee resolutions and approving a revised Agriculture, Weights & Measures fee schedule effective July 1, 2025.
Leanne Milo, the county agricultural commissioner, told the board some fees have not been raised since 2013 and that the department now faces unfunded, state-mandated inspection responsibilities. Milo proposed higher fees for pest-control business licenses (from $45 to $75, comparable to neighboring counties), increases to certified farmers market and produce inspection fees, and higher charges for meter or submeter inspections.
Why it matters: Department leaders said the changes are intended to recover a larger share of program costs now borne by the county general fund. Milo showed a redlined fee schedule and described efforts to align fees with surrounding jurisdictions. Public commenters praised the clarity of the materials and supported updated charges to ensure the department can deliver required inspections.
Outcome: The board voted to adopt the updated fee schedule by vote, and staff said the new fees become effective July 1, 2025. Supervisors and commenters thanked Milo and department staff for providing redline documents and narrative to explain the changes.
What to expect: The department said some fees still do not cover full cost; the adopted increases are intended as an interim step toward fuller cost recovery. Farmers, market operators and businesses should review the new schedule and contact the Agricultural Commissioner's office with questions.
