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VALLEJO WEEKLY VOL 13 ISSUE 51

DECEMBER 18, 2025

ANDREW’S ANNOUNCEMENTS A MESSAGE FROM THE CITY MANAGER

Hello Vallejo The City of Vallejo joyfully welcomed Chanukkah with the ceremonial lighting of the menorah beside the City’s holiday tree near MLK Park. A spirited crowd gathered to enjoy live music, delicious food, and festive entertainment in celebration of the season. As we enter the final full shopping week before Christmas, there’s still plenty of time to find the perfect gift from one of Vallejo’s many local shops and talented artists. Supporting local businesses is a great way to spread holiday cheer and invest in our community.

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Community Engagement: New appointments were made to the Code Enforcement Appeals Board and the Commission on Culture + the Arts, strengthening civic participation.

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Federal Shutdown Preparedness: Council discussed a potential program that would provide financial support to food pantries in the event of another federal government shutdown, with the goal of launching such a program early next year. The Council also requested additional information from staff regarding steps the City could take to respond to a future reduction in federal funding to the City’s Housing Authority.

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Affordable Housing Progress: Tenants have begun moving into the Broadway Project, an affordable housing development, which marks a significant milestone in the City’s commitment to housing access.

At its final meeting of 2025, the City Council tackled a full agenda. Highlights include: •

Infrastructure Investment: Council approved a $5 million contract for the Streets Overlay/Pavement Maintenance & Rehabilitation Project, which will be completed in Spring 2026.

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Public Safety Enhancements: Council approved the City’s continued use of Flock Raven, a gunshot detection technology system, which will be paid for with a previously approved grant. They also reviewed potential updates to the City’s burglar alarm ordinance and requested further information for consideration in 2026.

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Emergency Status Update: Council voted not to extend the State of Local Emergency Relating to Public Safety Staffing that had been in place since July 2023. Vallejo Weekly

As we head into the holiday week, please be safe, kind, and compassionate. Whether you’re celebrating with family, shopping locally, or simply enjoying the season, we wish you peace and joy. With Appreciation Andrew Murray City Manager

In this issue

VPD Reform Spotlight - 9 The Menorah Lighting - 12 New Solar Street Lights - 16 Understand Your Water Bill - 18 New Express Lanes - 23 Vallejo Boat Ramp Update - 26

16 9 18 23 12

Cover Photo: The lighting of the City’s Menorah Photo Credit: Robert Briseño

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Notice of Holiday Closure for Vallejo City Hall City Hall will be closed for the holidays, as it traditionally is, from Wednesday, December 24th, through Thursday, January 1st. City Hall will reopen on Friday, January 2nd. During the holidays: • Staff will be available by phone or email, except for the observed holidays of Christmas (December 25th) and New Year’s (January 1st), and scheduled vacations. • There will be a temporary pause on water service shutoffs during this period. • Water payments will be accepted again in person starting January 2nd when City Hall reopens. Thank you, and we wish you a safe and peaceful holiday season and a happy New Year.

NOTE: this publication can be enlarged on your screen using the slider at the center bottom of the page OR you can download it and then enlarge it by using your PDF reader Translate much of this publication into any language by downloading the file, then uploading it to Google Translate then pick your preferred language. Visit VallejoWeekly.com for versions in Spanish & Tagalog.

Reach your city council Mayor Andrea Sorce (Term Expires Jan 2029) Andrea.Sorce@cityofvallejo.net 707-648-4377 Vice Mayor Peter Bregenzer (District 5 -Term Expires Jan 2027) Peter.Bregenzer@cityofvallejo.net 707-648-4131 Council Member Alexander Matias (District 1 - Term Expires Jan 2029) Alexander.Matias@cityofvallejo.net 707-648-4134 Council Member Diosdado “JR” Matulac (District 2 - Term Expires Jan 2027) JR.Matulac@cityofvallejo.net 707-648-4132 Council Member Tonia Lediju, Phd (District 3 - Term Expires Jan 2029) Tonia.Lediju@cityofvallejo.net 707-649-7716 Council Member Charles Palmares (District 4 - Term Expires Jan 2027) Charles.Palmares@cityofvallejo.net 707-648-4133 Council Member Helen-Marie Gordon (District 6 - Term Expires Jan 2029) Helen-Marie.Gordon@cityofvallejo.net 707-649-7711

Traduzca gran parte de esta publicación a cualquier idioma descargando el archivo y luego subiéndolo a Google Translate y luego seleccione su idioma preferido. Visita VallejoWeekly.com para versiones en español y tagalo.

Isalin ang karamihan sa publikasyong ito sa anumang wika sa pamamagitan ng pag-download ng file, pagkatapos ay i-upload ito sa Google Translate pagkatapos ay piliin ang iyong gustong wika Bisitahin ang VallejoWeekly.com para sa mga bersyon sa Espanyol at Tagalog. Vallejo Weekly

UPCOMING EVENTS

Mare

Island

DEC

Music at the Chapel: Vallejo Choral Society Holiday Concert

More information at

www.mihpf.org/events

Vallejo Weekly

Vallejo Police Reform Spotlight In January 2023, Vallejo PD implemented a new use-of-force (UOF) protocol and process. The department’s expanded reporting software utilizes a standardized process and a supervisor template with specific categories for consistency while capturing additional data points regarding the incident. Vallejo PD policies were revised, and progressive levels of supervisory review were further extended to this new enhanced UOF review. When an officer is involved in a physical UOF incident or points a firearm at an individual, officers are required to report the incident to a supervisor and document this in a tracking software that is managed by our police reform compliance staff. A comprehensive review of the UOF incident is then completed by not only the officer’s supervisors (usually a sergeant), but also a manager (generally a lieutenant), and finally by a supervisor with the Compliance, Integrity, and Accountability Division (CIAD). This high level of review allows us to ensure our officers are operating within their lawful authority with professionalism and continue to improve if a deficiency is found. Our Professional Standard Division analyzes the use of force data monthly and completes a use of force monthly analysis report that we share with the community on an ongoing basis via our website: (https://www. vallejopd.net/public_information/crime_data/use_of_force_reports). Vallejo PD continues to strive to look for ways to improve and modernize our department and its practices. Vallejo PD has been committed to our police reform efforts since starting in June of 2020. As part of the new Settlement Agreement, our evaluator team, Jensen Hughes (https://www.vallejomonitor. com/) and representatives from the California Department of Justice (CalDOJ) came to the City of Vallejo for a site in January 2025 and June 2025. VPD had the privilege to meet and collaborate in person and work together on strategies to move forward the reform progress in Year One. Meeting in person is always more beneficial to promote transparency and understanding, and the site visit was very productive for all involved. While on-site the Evaluator observed and participated in our Use of Review meeting in which the VPD team reviews all use of force reports and vehicle pursuits to assess whether they align with our policies and expectations. This enhanced review is an important component of the department’s strategies for management of vehicle pursuits, which are making a difference in the community. For more detailed information on the Vallejo PD’s progress on police reform, please go to our website at: Transparency Progress Report - City of Vallejo Police Department Community Safety First. Service with Integrity. Partnership for a Stronger Vallejo.

Vallejo Weekly

Your gift to the Earth...Recycle Christmas trees for mulch & compost!

To arrange for a $7 pick-up call or email the non-proﬁt organization collecting in your area on the following Saturdays: December 27 th, January 3 rd & 10 th. Flocked Trees Accepted for $10. HIDDENBROOKE

Girl Scout Troop 20067 707-563-1728

christmastreerecycle67@gmail.com

Wotha Dabora 707-655-5472

RED

WOO

STRE ET

Venture Crew 222 707-653-0738

silveradoventurecrew222@gmail.com

Wotha Dabora 707-655-5472

FLORIDA STREET

2025

Angels with Heart

707-653-6045 angelswithhearts@yahoo.com

Drop-Off Site:

VALCORE RECYCLING, 38 Sheridan Street, (707) 645-8258. (FREE OF CHARGE) No flocked trees, no tree stands. Friday, December 26th through Thursday, January 22nd. Mon. - Fri. from 8-11AM, 12-3PM; closed 11AM-12PM daily for lunch; closed Saturdays and Sundays.

Curbside Collection: 10

Cut trees to fit inside your curbside green organics cart. Recology will only pick up trees that fit inside your green cart on your scheduled collection day. Whole trees will NOT be picked up. No flocked trees, no tree stands. Vallejo residents contact Recology Vallejo at (707) 552-3110.

Vallejo Weekly

PETS of the week Visit HSNB.org for these and other animals looking for their forever family. Conrad Tabitha Domestic Short Hair, grey, M, 6 Pit bull Terrier/Lab mix, black, F, mo, 4 lbs, $150 adoption fee Open daily by 1.5 yo, 55 lbs, $300 adoption fee This shy gray kitten arrived with This joyful, energetic pup loves appointment, from siblings and has blossomed into water, toys, and learning new a playful, curious companion. tricks. She’s playful, strong, and 10:30 am to 4:30 pm He enjoys active play, gets along thrives with confident guidance. other cats, and seeks a With continued training and 1121 Sonoma Blvd, Vallejo with patient home to share his sweet patience, she’ll be a loyal, personality at his own pace. fun companion who brings 707-645-7905 excitement and smiles every day. MAKE EACH PERSON COUNT

NATIONAL DPP LIFESTYLE CHANGE PROGRAM

The National DPP (Diabetes Prevention Program) Lifestyle Change Program is proven to reduce your risk of getting type 2 diabetes.

Fall 2025 Session!

STARTING NOV 5TH| 1PM Three in-person meetings at the Florence Douglas Center in Vallejo (including the first, at 6 months, and last)

The rest of the session will happen via Zoom! --Information sessions available, contact us for details--

Click the link to find the registration form: https://linktr.ee/diabetestuca Or scan the QR code with your phone! To know more about this hybrid session please contact:

Phone: 707.638.5970 or Email: alee26@touro.edu

Are you at RISK for Diabetes? Do you have Pre-Diabetes? Did you have Gestational Diabetes? If YES - this program is for YOU!

PIT COUNT 2026

PIT COUNT 2026 Make sure that every person is counted. Participate in the 2026 PIT Count today!

✓This group program focuses on healthy eating, weight loss, increasing physical activity, stress management, problem solving and achieving the vision of health you have for yourself! ✓A health coach works with you for a year to reduce your risk of type 2 diabetes, heart disease and stroke! ✓Health insurance information will be requested to cover the cost of the program. No additional cost will apply to you.

WE’RE LOOKING FOR VOLUNTEERS The PIT count empowers our community to identify housing needs and collaboratively track our progress toward the shared goal of eradicating homelessness. Point-in-Time Count Date:

JANUARY 29, 2026 All Cities in Solano County

Brought to you by:

More information can be found at:

www.solano.pointintime.info

(707) 784-6687

Vallejo Weekly

Vallejo Celebrates Chanukkah with Community Spirit

The City of Vallejo kicked off the holiday season with a joyful Chanukkah celebration at MLK Park, where the menorah was lit beside the City’s Christmas tree. Despite the chilly weather, a lively crowd gathered to enjoy live music, tasty treats, and festive entertainment. The event brought warmth, unity, and holiday cheer to all who attended.

Vallejo Weekly

Thinking About Building an ADU? Start Here! The City of Vallejo has released a brand-new ADU Mini-Guide for Homeowners to help you plan, design, and build an Accessory Dwelling Unit (ADU) or Junior ADU (JADU) on your property. Whether you’re looking to create space for family, generate rental income, or boost your property value, this guide walks you through the entire process. What’s Inside? Step-by-step breakdown of the ADU process Key design and permitting tips Overview of local rules, fees, and timelines Links to helpful tools and financing resources View or download the guide: Vallejo ADU Mini-Guide for Homeowners (PDF) If you’ve been wondering whether an ADU is right for you - this is the place to start! For questions, contact the City of Vallejo Planning Division at (707) 648-4326 or planning@cityofvallejo.net.

Made possible by funding from the City of Vallejo

VALLEJO HOUSING AUTHORITY OPEN BY APPOINTMENT ONLY

ON TUESDAYS AND THURSDAYS 8:00 AM - 12:00 PM

VALLEJO BIZ-GROW Small Business Loan Program Loan Amount: $25,000 to $125,000 Interest Rate: 6%, Fixed Rate

Loan Term: 5 Years

Participants can request appointments by scanning the QR code with your smartphone or tablet or by clicking on this link.

Minimum Credit Score: 630 No Prepayment Penalty Loan Application Fee: $250 (Borrowers who complete an assessment and counseling with the Solano-Napa Small Business Development Center shall receive a $250 rebate) Eligibility: Small Business must meet Covid-19 impact eligibility requirements and be located in the City of Vallejo.

Must be in business prior to 2/28/23

cityofvallejo.co/47gz8Dy

Thank you for your patience and understanding. For general inquiries: (707) 648-4507

STEP 1 STEP 1

707-864-1855 x21 & 707-631-3891

Wendi@SolanoEDC.org

Vallejo Weekly

Solar Streetlights Shine Again on Curtola Parkway

Vallejo’s Public Works Department has successfully completed the installation and retrofit of solar-powered streetlights along Curtola Parkway, stretching from Lemon Street to Monterey Street. This vital corridor, previously impacted by wire theft and vandalism, has now been fully restored with sustainable lighting solutions. The new solar streetlights not only enhance public safety and visibility but also reflect the City’s commitment to energy efficiency and environmental stewardship. This project was made possible through funding from the Energy Efficiency and Conservation Block Grant (EECBG), recently secured by City staff. With this upgrade, Vallejo continues to invest in resilient infrastructure that benefits both residents and the environment.

Vallejo Weekly

Help Shape the Future of the Vallejo Ferry Terminal!

San Francisco Bay Ferry and the City of Vallejo want your input to make ferry access safer and more convenient—whether you walk, bike, drive, or take transit. Share your experience and ideas today: fp.mysocialpinpoint.com/vallejoferry-terminal-access-study Questions? Contact Gabe Chan at gabriel.chan@sfbayferry.com

Interested in Joining Our Team? You might be a great fit! Police Clerk - Closing Date 12/22/2025 Communications Operator I - Closing Date 12/25/2025 Police Cadet - Closing Date 12/31/2025 Police Officer (Recruit) - Closing Date 12/31/2025 Police Officer (Entry Level - Academy Grad) - Closing Date 12/31/2025 Police Officer (Lateral) - Closing Date 12/31/2025 Finance Director - Closing Date 1/11/2026

Click HERE to see all of our current job listings

Vallejo Weekly

NEED FOOD NOW? More info at

cityofvallejo.co/SNAP

EMERGENCY FOOD ASSISTANCE

Vallejo Weekly

getcalfresh.org

cdss.ca.gov

foodbankccs.org/find-food/ foodbycity

about.doordash.com/en-us/news/ snap-shutdown-announcement

Get Home in Time for What Matters with the I-80 Express Lanes

I-80 Express Lanes in Solano County are open and ready to help you arrive on time when it matters most. Express Lanes provide drivers with the choice for a faster, more reliable trip. All drivers must have FasTrak to use the lanes. The lanes will operate 7 days a week, from 5 AM to 8 PM. Tolls are shown on overhead signs along the highway and increase as traffic increases and decrease as traffic decreases. Carpools with 3 or more people and motorcycles can use the lanes for free. 2-person carpools can use the lanes for half-toll. Solo drivers pay full tolls. Carpools and motorcycles must have a FasTrak Flex Toll Tag mounted in the vehicle and set properly to receive free or discounted tolls. Income-eligible drivers can also apply to receive discounts to use the I-80 express lanes. To learn more about express lanes visit expresslanes.511.org To get FasTrak Flex, visit bayareafastrak.org To apply for income-based toll discounts, visit expresslanesstart.org

Vallejo Weekly

Vallejo Property Owners — Let’s Keep Our Neighborhoods Thriving!

Do you own a vacant property in Vallejo? Help us protect our community by taking proactive steps to maintain your property and prevent blight. The Vacant & Foreclosed Real Property Registration Program is here to help! Register your property Submit required documents Get your questions answered Contact Code Enforcement at 707-648-4469 Or visit: https://cityofvallejo.co/VacantRealPropertyRegistration Together, we can keep Vallejo vibrant and safe!

No contracts & fees.

Just fast internet. VIP Fiber is Vallejo’s local internet.

Vallejo Weekly

We are more than just books! Discover all the library has to offer at: https://solanolibrary.com/ To see our upcoming events visit: https://solanolibrary.libnet.info/ events?

Planning an Event in Vallejo?

You may need a permit for that, especially if it’s more than 75 people. Let our team help you with that. Please visit the City of Vallejo’s website for more information: https://www.cityofvallejo.net/cms/one.

aspx?portalId=16925451&pageId=17554100

If you are ready to submit your application you can do that here: https://cityofvallejo.formstack.com/forms/special_event_ application

If you have questions you can email specialevents@cityofvallejo.net or call us at 707-648-8616

Vallejo Weekly

Pacific Gas and Electric Company Former Vallejo MGP Boat Launch Parking Lot Restoration Project Weekly Report 12/12/25 PG&E provides this update on restoration work occurring in the boat launch parking lot that is part of a larger 26acre City of Vallejo-owned property at the corner of Curtola Parkway and Sonoma Boulevard (site). This is the final phase of the restoration work associated with PG&E’s former Vallejo Manufactured Gas Plant (MGP) environmental cleanup project. In December 2023, PG&E completed cleanup work under the oversight of the California Department of Toxic Substances Control (DTSC) to address impacts from a gas plant that operated at the site from 1872 to 1930. To learn more about this project, or if you have questions, please contact us at the email address or phone number listed below.

Work Completed 12/8/25 to 12/12/25 Continued constructing the aboveground structure of the restroom building and establishing electric and water utility connections.

Upcoming Work • • •

Continue constructing the aboveground structure of the restroom building and establishing electrical and water utility connections. Plant additional landscaping. Begin removing construction equipment no longer needed and clean up of work areas.

Work Hours • •

6:30 a.m. to 5:00 p.m., Monday through Friday. There will be work on-site this Saturday, December 13 during the hours of 7:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m.

Anticipated Impacts • •

To allow for restoration work to occur safely, Mono Street and the boat launch parking lot will be closed to public traffic until after restoration activities are complete in late December 2025 or January 2026. Upon completion of restoration activities, PG&E will return control of the site to the City of Vallejo. Safety signage will be in place to direct construction-related traffic.

Site Security •

Access gates are closed to the public, and the site is under surveillance.

Photo Log

Workers install metal sheeting on the restroom roof.

A worker paints the inside of the restroom.

If you need additional information, please contact the PG&E toll-free response line at (866) 247-0581 or remediation@pge.com. Se habla español. 26

Vallejo Weekly

•

The Integrated Health & Resource Team (IHART) About IHART The Integrated Health and Resource Team (IHART) is a civilian-led crisis response program dedicated to providing compassionate, community-based support in Vallejo. We handle low-level 911 calls without police assistance, co-respond with officers, and offer follow-up case management to ensure long-term stability for individuals in crisis. IHART bridges the gap between emergency services and community resources, fostering trust, safety, and well-being.

Who We Serve Individuals in Crisis Supporting those experiencing behavioral health challenges, housing instability, or urgent needs

Youth & Schools Engaging students through in-school wellness programs, after-school initiatives, and restorative justice

Victims & Families Providing emotional and logistical assistance following traumatic events

Underserved Communities Meeting people where they are, addressing barriers to care, & promoting equitable access to services

Our Services Contact Us Rayvon Williamson, Program Manager 911 Crisis Response Tel: (707) 648-4502 Handling non-violent, low-level Cell: (323) 761-4071 emergency calls without police presence

Co-Response Support Assisting officers & providing follow-up support for unresolved cases

Katie Burns, Admin Data Analyst Impact Team Response Tel: (707) 917-411 Providing post-crisis community Cell: (415) 286-3590 engagement after incidents like homicides and drive-by shootings

Faith-Based Crisis Support Partnering with VPD chaplains to assist in faith-sensitive crisis situations

The Neighborhood Watch Program offers our community members a chance to stay informed, build connections, and enhance communication with one another and our police department. It’s about neighbors working together to create a safer community. If you’re interested in how the Neighborhood Watch Program can improve your area, contact Sgt. Hollis at Rashad.Hollis@cityofvallejo.net for more information. By taking proactive steps today, we can help create a safer tomorrow for our communities.

FREE NEIGHBORHOOD DUMPSTER PROGRAM*

DUMPSTER SIZE 18 ft long × 7.5 ft wide × 5 ft tall (25 cubic yards)

DUMPSTER SCHEDULE  Delivery Monday or

Soft Case Management & Navigation Ensuring individuals receive continued care until they’re stable

Homicide Victim & Family Support Offering resources, communication, & case management for affected families

Neighborhood Watch & Community Engagement Strengthening relationships between residents & law enforcement School-Based Programs Implementing wellness support, restorative justice, & after-school initiative

Program Components

To qualify, five residents from the same block must sign up, and all participants must have current garbage service. Main applicant must own and occupy residence. The dumpsters are for outdoor use only and are issued on a first-come, firstserved basis.

Key Requirements

Crisis Intervention Rapid response and de-escalation for community emergencies

Education & Training Offering mental health awareness, first aid, & wellness programs for reside

Case Management Comprehensive follow-ups & warm handoffs to ensure stability & connection to long-term support

Community Partnerships Collaborating with CBOs, faith organizations, & local agencies for holistic care

The City of Vallejo is offering a Free Neighborhood Dumpster to help residents with exterior clean-up projects. This program is available once a year per block and gives neighbors a chance to work together to clean up their street.

Katie Burns, Admin Data Analyst Tel: (707) 917-411 Cell: (415) 286-3590

Friday  Stays for 3–4 days  Early pick-up possible with 24-hr notice by contacting Recology @ (707)552-3110

FOR MORE INFORMATION AND APPLICATION FORM SCAN BELOW

 Must have 1 main applicant and 4 additional neighbors (5 total) from the same block.  Current Recology Vallejo garbage service  Owner-occupied single-family home  Exterior clean-up only – no garage or interior junk allowed.

QUESTIONS? CODE ENFORCEMENT 555 Santa Clara St Vallejo CA 94590 (707)648-4469 Code.enforcement@cityofvallejo.net

*Not available for unincorporated Vallejo, commercial properties, apartment buildings, or mobile home parks.

Vallejo Weekly

Contact 555 Santa Clara Street, Vallejo, CA 94590 Facebook.com/cityofvallejo Instagram.com/cityofvallejo cityofvallejo.net For maintenance emergencies, please call: (707) 648-5235