2026 State of the City

FEBRUARY 2026

MESSAGE FROM THE CITY MANAGER

DEAR AMERICAN CANYON COMMUNITY,

On behalf of the Mayor and City Council, it is my privilege to share this State of the City. This document highlights the investments, projects, and programs that help make American Canyon a safe and welcoming place to live, work, and play.

This past year, we strengthened the systems and services residents rely on every day. Improvements to streets and sidewalks enhanced safety and accessibility, upgrades to utilities increased reliability, and maintenance of parks and public facilities ensured neighborhoods and shared spaces remained welcoming and vibrant. Alongside this work, we partnered with residents, businesses, and local organizations to coordinate community events, volunteer efforts, and sustainability initiatives to enrich daily life and build lasting connections.

Our accomplishments are the result of collaboration. The City Council and staff worked together to direct resources to preserve and improve community assets; while also supporting programs and activities that bring people together, encourage civic participation, and promote a sense of belonging. Just as importantly, your feedback and participation helped guide priorities, ensuring our efforts reflect the community's aspirations.

Throughout the report you will find highlights and accomplishments showcasing life in American Canyon. From infrastructure and essential services to community programs and events — these investments contribute to a high quality of life for everyone who calls American Canyon home.

I am proud of what we achieved together in 2025 and grateful for the continued support and involvement of our residents, businesses, and community partners. Together, we make American Canyon a truly special community.

Thank you and take care,

Jason B. Holley

Live

A SUSTAINABLE PATH FORWARD

In American Canyon, building a sustainable future is a collective effort, driven by the actions of our community and strong regional partnerships. This past year, the City made meaningful progress in several areas, especially through our collaboration with the American Canyon Fire Protection District, Napa County Fire, Napa County Firewise Foundation, and Napa Pasture Protein as part of our vegetation management program. You may have noticed the quietest members of our new environmental team, a local flock of sheep grazing across our open spaces and waterways. To date, these sheep have grazed more than 1,000 acres, including 212 acres in 2025, providing an environmentally responsible way to manage vegetation and reduce wildfire risk without the use of heavy machinery and harsh chemicals. Unlike machine mowing, these sheep can safely work in steep landscapes where traditional methods are difficult or disruptive, like creeks and waterways where machinery cannot go. By thinning out overgrown vegetation in these hard to reach, and environmental protected spaces, the sheep help restore the natural biodiversity of these delicate ecological environments. This innovative approach supports the long-term ecological health of our land by promoting native plant balance and improving soil conditions, while also freeing up our City maintenance crews to focus on enhancing public parks and spaces.

The same spirit of stewardship defines the future Napa River Ecology Center. Through a partnership with the American Canyon Community and Parks Foundation (ACCPF) — along with $850,000 in federal funding and a $1 million investment from the City — we are transforming our former Corporation Yard into a vibrant three-acre site for a nature-based community space. Designed for classes and programs, this center will allow our community to connect with the Napa River through art, education, and hands-on environmental experiences, and it will also serve as the future home of a kayak launch, expanding public access to the river. The Napa River Ecology Center is set to open in 2026.

Our investment in the Ecology Center is further strengthened by a landmark shared agreement between the City, ACCPF, and Point Blue

EVENT HIGHLIGHT COASTAL CLEAN UP DAY

72 VOLUNTEERS

203 POUNDS OF TRASH REMOVED

LEARN MORE

CULTIVATING COMMUNITY

Community development in American Canyon goes beyond the construction of new buildings; it consists of careful planning and thoughtful investments in streets, parks, public spaces, utilities, and services that make the City work better for everyone. These efforts ensure that projects like new housing or commercial developments contribute to safer streets and improved amenities.

This work is guided in large part by our General Plan. In May of this year, American Canyon celebrated a fundamental milestone in community development — the approval of the 2040 General Plan Update. This initiative is the result of five years of community-driven planning, technical analysis, and thoughtful discussions on the future of American Canyon.

The General Plan is a long-term document that establishes the framework for how the City will grow over the next 15 years. It outlines priorities in areas like land use, housing, parks and recreation, mobility, transportation, community safety and environmental justice. By investing in education, affordable housing, and community gathering spaces, the City is creating a thriving community for all.

To view the General Plan, scan the QR code or visit AmericanCanyon.gov/GeneralPlan

Oat Hill Multifamily Project

NEW DEVELOPMENT

There are several active new developments that made significant progress in 2025. The Oat Hill Multifamily project is well underway, with construction permits issued for 189 units out of 291. Active construction is ongoing for 18 units, a recreation center/leasing offices, a community pool, parking and site infrastructure. General offsite improvements will also continue into 2026.

Home2Suites Hotel is set to open in early 2026, supporting local tourism. This new local stay provides an affordable option for visitors interested in exploring Napa Valley and will contribute occupancy tax revenue to support local community services. Construction is also underway for Watson Ranch Town Center & Homes, which will have just over 1,250 residential units throughout the property.

Alongside the additional housing units at Watson Ranch, this project opens the door for unique community and private gatherings at the Napa Valley Ruins & Gardens (NVRG) — a setting unlike anything else in our region. In October, American Canyon welcomed several thousand guests for a “proof of concept” concert at the Ruins by the musician Kaskade. The high level of attendance and success of the concert series activated the space and sparked new opportunities for future investments.

Stay up to date on all things construction and development in American Canyon at AmericanCanyon.gov/ConstructionUpdates.

A FOUNDATION BUILT ON COLLABORATION

Safety in American Canyon is more than just a badge or a siren; it’s the quiet peace of mind that comes when neighbors look out for one another and first responders become familiar faces. In our community centric approach to policing, we don’t just respond to calls, we build relationships. We take the time to connect with residents on a personal level, listen with empathy, and work side-by-side with our community to create a City where people feel seen, supported, and protected. This past year, that community spirit was on full display during National Night Out on August 5, where neighborhood block parties served as the foundation for lasting partnerships between residents and our safety teams.

The City is grateful for strong relationships with the American Canyon Police Department (ACPD) and the American Canyon Fire Protection District (ACFPD) — a collaboration that allows for coordinated decision-making while maintaining specialized fire and law enforcement services. Together, these teams strengthened emergency response, community outreach and regional collaboration throughout 2025, earning the City recognition as a finalist for the Public Safety Award from POLCO. This recognition, which ranks us among the top five performers in the country for transformational improvements in public safety, is a direct result of the confidence residents expressed through the National Community Survey.

To preserve the character and safety of our neighborhoods, we have implemented new overnight parking restrictions on Broadway Street and in City-owned lots. These restrictions run from 10 p.m. to 6 a.m. and are designed to improve access, reduce long-term vehicle storage and support public safety. To ensure a smooth transition, the City coordinated new signage and enforcement while providing community outreach through social media and webpage updates.

We also deepened our commitment to community-centered policing through the launch of the Bicycle Patrol Team in early 2025 and our “Chill with the Cops” summer series, which allowed for residents to connect with officers in a relaxed setting. Our Police Department continues to keep residents informed and engaged with regular updates on social media, online newsletters and detailed reports. Lobo’s Pack Report offers essential monthly updates and insights in local public safety. Our investment in these relationships and resources help create a secure community that’s built on a foundation of trust and a shared dedication to keeping American Canyon safe.

LEARN MORE

Scan the QR code or visit AmericanCanyon.gov/Live/Public-Safety to learn more about Public Safety in American Canyon

These achievements showcase the overall growth and improvement at ACHS. NVUSD remains committed to creating a future-ready culture where students are empowered to succeed in college, careers, or wherever life takes them.

CULTIVATING TOMORROW’S LEADERS TODAY

Supporting education and youth engagement is a key priority for American Canyon, demonstrated through a shared investment in the curiosity and leadership of our youngest community members. Napa Valley Unified School District (NVUSD) proudly serves more than 16,250 students, with 4,600 students enrolled in American Canyon’s schools.

These outcomes are strengthened through meaningful partnerships that connect learning beyond the classroom and into the hearts of our community. Each year the second graders at Donaldson Way Elementary visit City Hall, giving young residents a hands-on look at how local government works and helping build early civic awareness. By meeting with the Mayor, City Manager and City staff from various departments including Environmental Services, Parks and Recreation and Public Works, these young residents see how their own voices and actions can influence a community.

This journey of leadership continues into high school through our Citizens Academy, a sixsession program integrated into the 12th grade government and economics curriculum. Through this interactive course, students gain a front-row seat into City operations, learning how the City serves them and their families while building connections with local leadership. Each session is led by American Canyon staff and gives students insight into how decisions are made, both at City Hall and out in the community.

Together with the work of our partners at NVUSD, the American Canyon Chamber of Commerce, and the American Canyon Arts Foundation, we recently earned the 2025 Polco Best in Governance Award for Transformation in Education, Arts, and Culture, recognizing the strength of these partnerships and their positive community impact.

A SPECIAL THANK YOU TO OUR 2025 YOUTH COMMISSIONERS

Calix Joel Delos

Santos Mintalar

Open Space, Active Transportation, and Sustainability Commission

Heather Mora Parks and Community Services Commission

Ramandeep Kaur Planning Commission

In addition, American Canyon is proud to elevate youth voice through our Youth Commissioner program, designed specifically for American Canyon High School seniors. Youth Commissioners are appointed by the City Council to serve alongside community leaders on one of the City’s commissions, including the Open Space, Active Transportation, and Sustainability (OSATS) Commission, the Planning Commission, and the Parks and Community Services (PCS) Commission. The term of this appointment is from September through May, meeting once a month and providing a meaningful platform for students to represent their peers, build civic leadership skills, and advocate for issues that matter most to the youth in our community.

While civic education builds future leaders, our work doesn’t stop at City Hall. Equipping our youth to flourish also means supporting their growth beyond traditional academics. Our partners at the Napa County Office of Education (NCOE) and the Napa Valley Education Foundation (NVEF) provide essential enrichment, from career pathways to wellness programs like SHINE, which provide mental health resources and services. For those looking toward higher education, Napa Valley College (NVC) plays a vital role, currently serving our residents and offering enrollment for our high school students. These collaborations help set American Canyon apart regionally by investing in youth, creativity, and lifelong learning — building a stronger, more connected community.

HOME TO AN ENGAGED COMMUNITY

Throughout the year, American Canyon expanded opportunities for residents to connect, learn, and engage through a combination of well-established and new community programs.

One such program is American Canyon’s Citizens Academy, an eight-week, hands-on experience designed to give adult residents a deeper understanding of how our city operates. The program offers participants insight into key services, behind-the-scenes tours of City facilities, and interactive discussions about how policies and decisions shape our community.

CONGRATULATIONS TO OUR 2025 CITIZENS ACADEMY GRADUATES

Congratulations to our 2025 Citizens Academy Graduates, our 10th academy to complete the program! Each academy concludes the program with a collaborative community service project intended to leave a lasting benefit for the community. This year’s graduates partnered to beautify the Mikolajcik Community Center, named after “Mickey” (John J.) and Wilma (Dollie) Mikolajcik, with native plantings generously donated by Mid City Nursery.

Volunteer service is a cornerstone of the community, and American Canyon celebrates residents’ contributions each year at the Community Recognition Dinner. One individual is selected from community nominations to receive the Gateway Award, which honors volunteer service that benefits local programs, nonprofits and community initiatives.

In 2025, American Canyon presented the Gateway Award to Toni Jo Payne in recognition of her decade of service to local organizations and causes, including the American Canyon Community Church, Soroptimists, fundraising for cancer research and her well-known cupcakes that have become a beloved part of community events. Volunteers like Toni Jo make American Canyon the special community we’re proud to call home.

In addition to the strong culture of volunteerism in American Canyon, the City was proud to host the largest community event of the year, The Wall That Heals. American Canyon was the sole Northern California stop for this traveling scale replica of the Vietnam Veterans Memorial. To ensure a successful five-day exhibit, the City recruited over 200 volunteers to assist with the setup and teardown, welcome visitors, help operate the Mobile Education Center, and ensure overall positive guest experience for all, reflecting our community’s strong commitment to service. To support a successful installation of The Wall That Heals, City Hall closed for a half day and more than 45 City employees participated in an in-service workday to help build and set up the exhibit, reflecting our commitment to serving our community and veterans.

SPECIAL THANKS

to the ACHS Football team for assisting with the exhibit's takedown on Oct. 19! This effort, led by Karina Servente and Head Coach Marcellus Holmes, reflects our students' and local leaders' spirit of service and community pride.

Quality of life in American Canyon is constantly enhanced by volunteers and nonprofit partners, and the City seeks to empower local organizations to continue their important work. In October 2025, the City opened a Community Grant Program to provide funding to American Canyon 501(c) nonprofit organizations that contribute to the well-being and vibrancy of the community. In December, the City Council approved the Community Grant Program award allocations for Fiscal Year 2025/26 to 12 local organizations:

• ACHS Wolfpack Music, Inc. – $2,000

• Ahi Swim Team – $2,000

• American Canyon High School Alliance – $3,000

• American Canyon Little League – $4,000

• Boys & Girls Club of Napa Valley – $4,000

• Friendors Inc. – $4,000

• MimiWrites Literacy Foundation – $1,000

• Napa-Solano Audubon Society – $1,000

• Napa NEWS – $1,500

• Soroptimist International of American Canyon – $1,500

• SpiritHorse Therapeutic Riding Center – $5,000

• Warrior Spirit Training Initiative – $1,000

Residents can also engage directly with the City and decision making processes by volunteering on a local commission.

THANK YOU TO OUR 2025 COMMISSIONERS

OPEN SPACE, ACTIVE TRANSPORTATION, AND SUSTAINABILITY COMMISSION

Debbie Chavarria, Barry Christian, Sean Hughes, Nance Matson, Tara McClinton-Horner

PARKS & COMMUNITY SERVICES COMMISSION

Gina Griggs, Shirley Koot, Elston James Mallory, Jr., Scott Myer, Iain Smith

PLANNING COMMISSION

Davet Mohammed, Charles Plummer, Eric Altman, Marilyn Abelon, Shelby Goss

Work

CREATING TRANSPARENT AND ACCESSIBLE OPERATIONS

American Canyon promotes transparency of City operations and procedures. This year, the City sought to simplify the high-level financial data from the annual 300 page Annual Budget into a shorter, more user-friendly report. This first-of-its kind “Budget in Brief” helps residents better understand the Fiscal Year 2025-26 budget and funding priorities. The document demonstrates that the City Council adopted a balanced budget of $154.2 million for the fiscal year, with significant investments in roads, parks, infrastructure projects and police services.

As a testament to the City’s dedication to financial literacy and reporting, American Canyon received the Certificate of Achievement for Excellence in Financial Reporting from the Government Finance Officers Association (GFOA) for the 10th consecutive year for the 2024 fiscal year budget report.

In January 2025, the City launched the OpenGov platform as part of our continued investment in our Virtual City Hall at AmericanCanyon.gov, focused on improving our

customer experience for residents, businesses, and vendors. By modernizing processes like permits, contract bidding, and procurement, OpenGov makes it easier to submit requests, track progress, and receive updates in real time. These upgrades help create a faster, more user-friendly, and transparent experience for everyone who interacts with the City online.

Beyond enhancing processes and investing in technology, the City expanded leadership and expertise. In July 2025, the American Canyon City Council approved a legal services agreement with Colantuono, Highsmith & Whatley, PC (CHW) and designated Teresa Highsmith as the City Attorney through the contract. Highsmith is a shareholder with CHW and has specialized in municipal law since 1991. She brings extensive expertise in areas critical to local government operations, including zoning and land use regulation, legislation drafting, water and utility issues, labor and employment matters, housing authority law, public works, open meetings law, Public Records Act requests, and conflicts of interest.

Learn more about the City's budget and finances at AmericanCanyon.gov/Work/Local-Government/City-Hall/Finance/Financial-Reports.

PAVING THE WAY

In 2025, American Canyon made major investments in the everyday quality of life of our residents, focusing on the improvements people feel and rely on every single day. From smoother, safer streets to essential utility upgrades that strengthen long-term service reliability, this past year marked one of the City's most active periods of infrastructure improvements in recent history. These projects represent our commitment to keeping American Canyon safe, connected, and moving forward. By coordinating roadway rehabilitation with utility improvements, we prioritized smart planning that delivers lasting benefits, reduces future disruptions, and supports how our community lives, works, and travels on a day-to-day basis.

Napa Junction Road was the focus of several coordinated improvements associated with the Oat Hill Multifamily Project. Work to date includes construction of a new connecting roadway from a former cul-de-sac within the development area, replacement of sewer main and laterals, upgrades to sewer manholes, and resurfacing roadway segments. In addition, sidewalk improvements were also completed to support pedestrian safety and connectivity.

Nearby, Melvin Road received additional infrastructure upgrades, including curb, gutter, sidewalk improvements, traffic calming measures, and underground storm drain enhancements designed to better capture stormwater and prevent roadway flooding. These improvements also included work along portions of James Road, addressing drainage patterns and improving overall travel conditions in the area.

Beyond capital construction projects, the City continued essential water system maintenance throughout the community. Service line repairs were completed at Alder Court, World Marine Estates, and elsewhere to ensure the integrity of the water distribution system. The City also conducted its annual hydrant flushing program citywide to maintain water quality and system performance.

In addition to neighborhood-focused improvements, American Canyon advanced several major roadway projects serving key economic and transportation corridors. The Green Island Road Reconstruction and Widening Project continued to move forward in 2025, delivering much-needed infrastructure improvements to the Green Island Industrial District, a vital component of the City’s economy. Earlier phases of the project included the relocation of overhead utility lines and poles into a new underground joint trench system, completed in 2024, along with utility relocations by PG&E, AT&T, and Comcast, completed in March 2025.

Green Island Road Reconstruction and Widening Project

To support this effort, the City was awarded a $5.5 million construction grant from the U.S. Department of Commerce’s Economic Development Administration. This funding helped advance significant roadway reconstruction and widening on Green Island Road (including from Paoli Loop to Mezzetta Court), Commerce Boulevard, Hanna Drive, Mezzetta Court, and Jim Oswalt Way. All told, 1.9 miles of roadway were rehabilitated using Full-Depth Reclamation with cement (FDR-C). The project will also deliver new sidewalks and bike facilities to improve safety for all users. Construction began in summer 2025 and is expected to be completed in 2026.

Following roadway construction, a new Class I multi-use trail will be built along the north side of Green Island Road between Paoli Loop and Commerce Boulevard. Portions of this trail will connect to the Napa Valley Vine Trail, expanding regional bicycle and pedestrian access.

American Canyon also invested in water main replacement and roadway improvements on Knightsbridge Way to maintain water quality and infrastructure reliability. This project includes water mains within: Arden Court, Park Lane, Linwood Lane, Regent Court, and Landsford Court. In addition, the City reconstructed pavement on Knightsbridge Way, applied pavement treatments to the courts, upgraded all curb ramps to ADA standards, and completed new striping and pavement markings.

The Rancho Del Mar Paving and Utility Improvements Project delivered one of the most comprehensive neighborhood infrastructure upgrades completed in the City in 2025. This effort included full pavement rehabilitation and utility improvements across multiple residential streets, including Del Ray Court, Los Altos Place, Alta Loma Drive, Joan Drive, Rio Del Mar, Flamingo Way, Cassayre Drive, and Carolyn Drive. The contractor used Full Depth Reclamation with Cement (FDR-C), recycling 100% of the existing pavement and subbase in place. In total, 2.3 miles of neighborhood roadways were rehabilitated. The project also installed new water mains, rehabilitated sewer mains using secured-in-place lining, upgraded striping and pavement markings, and brought 24 curb ramps into ADA compliance. Together, these improvements enhanced mobility, accessibility, and travel quality while modernizing critical underground infrastructure. The use of FDR-C reduced greenhouse gas emissions, supporting long-term sustainability and construction efficiency.

AWARD WINNING

Rancho Del Mar Pavement and Utility Improvement Project

Received honorable mention from CalCities' Outstanding Local Streets and Roads Awards in the Sustainable Road Maintenance, Construction and Reconstruction Projects category!

Rancho Del Mar Paving and

Utilities

Improvements Project

Play

FUTURE OF COMMUNITY SPACES

American Canyon’s parks are designed to reflect the needs, values, and spirit of our community. In 2025, the City laid important groundwork for a series of projects that will shape the future of local parks, amenities, and recreational spaces for years to come.

Last year, the Council tasked the PCS Commission with renaming Community Park I, Community Park II, and the former Napa Junction Elementary School to better reflect the community they serve. Following extensive outreach and community feedback, the City Council formally adopted the new park and facility names in June 2025.

Community Park I was renamed Rio Grande Park, honoring its connection to the surrounding Rio Grande neighborhood. Community Park II is now Independence Park, a fitting name for the longtime home of the City’s Fourth of July celebrations and deep patriot roots. The former Napa Junction Elementary School facility now serves as the City’s community center and will be known as the Mikolajcik Center, recognizing the late Napa County Supervisor and one of American Canyon’s founders, “Mickey” (John J.) and his wife Wilma (Dollie) Mikolajcik.

The City also focused on improving comfort and usability within existing park spaces. At Northampton Park, a new shade canopy was installed over the picnic area to provide relief during hot summer months. Engineered to block harmful UV rays, the structure helps keep the space cool, safe, and welcoming year-round.

In 2025, the City completed the Wetlands Edge Enhancement Project, a large-scale initiative aimed at creating a welcoming destination for outdoor learning, recreation, and environmental stewardship. The project introduces native plantings, an outdoor classroom, an ADA-compliant nature trails, new restrooms, and interpretive signage. The project was officially celebrated with a ribbon cutting ceremony in January 2026, marking a major milestone for outdoor education and environmental access in the City.

Veterans Park is slated for a full reimagining in 2026 with a Neverlandinspired redesign. Created to spark creativity and adventure, this allaccess play space will bring Peter Pan’s timeless story to life through a playful “land and sea” experience. The design features a blended play

surface of pour-in-place rubber and artificial turf, an iconic ship with accessible ramping, an ADA glider, and a variety of swings, climbers, and interactive elements. Every feature is designed to encourage movement and inclusive play.

In addition to the Veterans Park redesign, several smaller but essential park improvements are planned for 2026. These include the installation of permanent restrooms at Northampton Park and Silver Oak Park, as well as a full resurfacing of the tennis courts at Melvin Park.

To ensure these investments continue to align with community priorities, the City continues to update its Parks & Community Services Master Plan with extensive public input. This document identifies what residents want to see from parks, facilities, and recreation programs and serves as a roadmap for the future. A draft is currently underway, with the first public review expected in early spring 2026 and potential City Council adoption in June 2026. The projects already in progress across American Canyon’s parks reflect the feedback and vision shaping the future of “play” in the community.

SERVICE ABOVE SELF: A LASTING LEGACY

In American Canyon, service is more than a tradition, it’s a part of who we are. Our community has strong military roots, and many of our residents continue to lead with the same values of duty, sacrifice, and commitment to others. By honoring those who have served and supporting our veteran community, we strengthen the connections that define the American Canyon way. This year, we are proud to recognize three residents whose ongoing dedication to our city reflects a lifelong commitment of service.

Beth Marcus: A U.S. Navy Vietnam Veteran, Beth Marcus has been a pillar of American Canyon since before its official beginning, helping to name the City and support its incorporation in 1992. Today, she continues to serve with the same pride and dedication she showed in uniform, providing the vision and support needed to bring The Wall That Heals, along with the City’s Memorial Day and Veterans Day ceremonies, to life. Her time, heart, and commitment make a lasting difference to our community.

Hugh Marquez: A retired firefighter and U.S. Marine Veteran, Hugh Marquez is a force of nature. This year, his leadership was instrumental to The Wall That Heals memorial event, helping the City secure over 200 volunteers and assisting with event setup and takedown, along with the Welcome Home Parade escort from Clovis, CA to American Canyon. He also volunteered his time and talents to support our Veterans Day and Memorial Day ceremonies. His “spirit of service” is contagious, inspiring everyone around him to give back.

Sindy Biederman: As the founder of American Canyon Troop Support (ACTS), Sindy Biederman is a constant advocate for those who served. Her work ensures that our veterans are connected to the resources they need everyday. She was the guiding hand that made our Memorial Day and Veterans Day ceremonies feel deeply personal and heartfelt.

MILITARY EVENTS: A YEAR OF REMEMBRANCE AND HONOR

American Canyon is a community deeply rooted in military customs, a reflection of the many veterans and active-duty service members who call our City home. We believe it is essential to highlight our military events, as a sincere expression of our gratitude. These gatherings allow us to honor the bravery and sacrifice of those who have served and continue to serve.

Memorial Day: Each May, we gather at 11 a.m. at the Veterans Memorial Park to honor those who served our country and gave the ultimate sacrifice. This community-led event is made possible through partnerships with the Lions Club, American Canyon Troop Support, American Canyon - Vallejo VFW, Mark and Julie Foster, Community Church, Pastor Lawrence Exum from Family Worship Center (FWC), American Canyon Daisy Troop, and dedicated volunteers like Fran Lemos, Beth Marcus, Hugh Marquez, Jeremy Proffit, Jessie Martinez, and Sindy Biederman. From the stirring performances by American Canyon High School Public Display of Acapella to the presence of the American Canyon Recruiting Station, the ceremony provides a space for our community to stand together in gratitude.

The Wall That Heals: In October 2025, American Canyon was honored to serve as the only Northern California stop for this 375-foot scale replica of the Vietnam Veterans Memorial in Washington, D.C. Over 6,000 visitors joined us for three days of reflection and healing. The event was a massive community undertaking, supported by over 200 volunteers.

The weekend included special remarks from Congressman Mike Thompson, a Vietnam Veteran, along with a moving tribute to PTSD awareness as the Wall was illuminated in teal. This unforgettable memorial experience created space for reflection and gratitude as we honored Vietnam Veterans, all who served, and those who continue to serve our nation.

Veterans Day: Every November 11 at 11 a.m., the American Canyon Middle School Gymnasium transforms into a hall of honor for our Veterans. This celebration brings together generations, featuring the voice of the American Canyon Middle School Choir and the participation of local Daisy Troops and elementary schools. It is a collaboration with partners like NVUSD, the Lions Club, American Canyon Troop Support, American Canyon - Vallejo VFW, Mark and Julie Foster, Community Church, Pastor Lawrence Exum from FWC, and community volunteers: Fran Lemos, Beth Marcus, Hugh Marquez, and Sindy Biederman. The City uses this day to connect our 800-plus local veterans with vital resources, ensuring that they are supported and celebrated.

THE HEART OF A SHARED HOME

Life in American Canyon is enriched by the spaces we share and the partnerships that bring us together. These distinctions reflect our deep investment in our people and community. The City proudly collaborates with over 44 nonprofit organizations to deliver programs that promote wellness, education, and environmental stewardship.

We are committed to supporting residents at every stage of life, including our older adult community. From the programming at the Adult Activity Center to our partnership with Community Action of Napa Valley (CANV), which provides nutritionally balanced hot meals daily, the City works to keep older adults healthy and connected. A door-to-door transit partnership with NVTA further supports independence by offering affordable rides for as little as $0.50 — making the journey to a social outing or a medical appointment affordable and accessible.

The Mikolajcik Center is more than a place for City programs, it’s a space where our community comes together. From popular programs like “Tiny Tot Turn Up” to celebrations like birthday parties, dances, and family gatherings, it offers our community a place to create lasting memories. Residents can reserve City facilities like the Mikolajcik Center, the Adult Activity Center, and the Recreation Center up to 12-months in advance. We also offer reservable covered picnic locations at our parks, giving families and neighbors more opportunities to enjoy our outdoor spaces to celebrate together right here in American Canyon.

Our investment in community begins early, through programs that build essential life skills and lasting confidence. One of the programs we are most proud of is our swim lesson program, which teaches more than 1,200 participants each year. Our program focuses on building water confidence and strong fundamentals to support drowning prevention and water safety.

“Best in Governance" for transformation in education, arts and culture. (POLCO)

#1

Best place to retire affordably in the u.s. (Fortune.com)

The City’s commitment to youth development also includes meaningful, place-based learning experiences. Through our partnership with the American Canyon Community and Parks Foundation (ACCPF), our Environmental Team participated in the Watershed Explorer program, connecting students to the natural environment right here in our own community. These handon, STEAM-based field trips to the Wetlands explore watershed habitats, study water systems, and teach students how to evaluate water quality and ecosystem health. These experiences spark curiosity and help show the real-world impact people can have on the environment.

Our youth programming continues to evolve through reimagined summer experiences. Launched in 2025, the Wonders of the Wetlands (W.O.W.) Summer Camp connects campers directly to the landscapes that surround them. Participants spend their mornings exploring the Wetlands as young scientists, observing wildlife, studying aquatic ecosystems, and learning how watersheds function. In the afternoons, campers transition to Newell Open Space to explore the flora and fauna of the

hills. This program blends education, exploration, and environmental awareness to create meaningful experiences for our youth.

This spirit of exploration continues as our youth grow. For ages 10-14, our Teen Camps are designed to build independence through multiday adventures that introduce real-world skills in a supportive setting. Through an innovative partnership with NVTA, campers learn how to safely navigate public transportation under the guidance of trained City staff, building independence and skills they can use for life.

Across all ages and activities, our youth programming is designed to help young people build skills and connection. Our basketball program exemplifies this by offering a year-round opportunity for players ages 5-13 to learn the love of the game and build team work. What makes this program truly unique is the quality of instruction, led by skilled City staff who bring both expertise and a genuine passion for mentoring youth. Their energy and commitment help ensure every player, no matter their starting skill level, has a place to learn, compete, and have fun.

This past year, we also expanded recreation opportunities for adults by bringing back programs that many residents have been asking for. In response to the increasing age of our community, we reintroduced our Adult Softball League and Volleyball League, creating new ways to stay active and reconnect through friendly competition. In addition to league play, our open gym nights for basketball, volleyball, and badminton continue to help adults build community and support their health.

Recreation and wellness in American Canyon doesn’t stop at City-led programs, it extends across to organized sports that bring families together. The City partners with the American Canyon Jr. Wolves, AC Atletico, and the American Canyon Little League to ensure these programs continue to thrive and meet the needs of our community. These organizations provide more than practices and games, they create structure, teamwork, mentorship, and a sense of belonging for youth and families across American Canyon.

STATE OF THE CITY OPEN HOUSE

The City Council hosted the State of the City Open House, inviting community members to connect, ask questions, and share ideas. The event offered a welcoming space for residents to meet and engage with council and learn about the future of the City.

JUNETEENTH

In recognition of the federal holiday, the City raised the Juneteenth flag at City Hall to honor Juneteenth and reflected on the continued importance of freedom, history, and unity. In partnership with the American Canyon Arts Foundation, the Juneteenth celebration was held at Main Street Park with live entertainment, local vendors, and cultural programming, ensuring the journey toward equality is a story we continue to tell together.

HOLI FESTIVAL

Helping Hands Indo-American

In April at Shenandoah Park, color filled the air as American Canyon celebrated Holi, the Hindu “Festival of Colors.” This joyful event represents renewal, unity, and the triumph of good over evil, marked by the vibrant tradition of throwing color. This festival brought the community together in a shared moment of joy.

PRIDE

We stand together at City Hall for our Pride flag raising. This ceremony is a public declaration of our values: that we love everyone in American Canyon, and we are a community where everyone is seen, valued, and supported.

MEET ME IN THE STREETS

American Canyon Chamber of Commerce

One of American Canyon’s most anticipated summer traditions and the largest public food truck rally in Napa County, Meet Me In The Streets brings our community together for an unforgettable evening of food, fun, and local connection. Held right in the middle of American Canyon Road, this three part summer series features food trucks, live entertainment, and supports local and small businesses.

MANILA MUNCHIES GLOBAL PINOY NIGHT MARKET Friendors, Inc.

In honor of Filipino American History month, Shenandoah Park transformed into a vibrant experience of food and culture, showcasing the rich traditions and contributions of Filipino Americans.

REINDEER RUN

American Canyon Community & Parks Foundation

Over 1,000 participants braved the crisp air at the Wetlands this year, a tradition hosted by the American Canyon Community and Parks Foundation, that fostered health and wellness, and embraced our stunning natural landscape with a 5k and 10k course.

JULY 4

Our longest-standing tradition continues to thrive at Independence Park. With over 10,000 attendees, a vibrant parade, a lively festival featuring live music and local food vendors, and the undisputed best fireworks show in Napa County, this day reflects our deep patriotic roots.

MAGIC OF THE SEASON

At the end of the year, we partner with the American Canyon Chamber of Commerce for a holiday celebration that glows with community spirit. Between the Tree Lighting and the Holiday Marketplace that supports small and local businesses, we celebrate our community’s diverse holiday traditions and spirit.