The Natomas Community Association (NCA) has, for over 25 years, been an influential partner in the planning and development of the Natomas community. The NCA was established circa 1980 as a nonprofit organization interested in educating and involving resident and business interests in the buildout of the newly adopted South Natomas Community Plan area. The association was specifically interested in issues and concerns of community-wide significance: land use, transportation, air quality, neighborhood stability, schools, parks and development proposals.

By the late 80's, the association became involved in the writing and sheparding of the soon-to-be-adopted North Natomas Community Plan. At that time, the City had no mechanism for considering community input in its planning processes. The NCA earned the right to "early " review and won a place in the City's planning process. The NCA's actions not only benefited Natomas residents, but resulted in changes in the City's planning process to include, as an integral component, community involvement and input. The NCA and neighborhood and community associations Citywide have since enjoyed very productive working relationships with the City.