VALLEJO WEEKLY
Hello Vallejo,
Welcome to July and to the start of the second half of 2026! This weekend, our community will join the nation in celebrating America’s 250th birthday, and Vallejo has a full day of festivities planned.
The celebration begins Saturday morning with the 171st Annual Vallejo July 4th Parade stepping off at 10 a.m. At 11 a.m., the Mad Hatter’s Waterfront Festival opens along the Barbara Kondylis Waterfront Green, offering activities and entertainment throughout the day. Then at 5:30 p.m., the Mare Island Co. kicks off its own waterfront festival across the strait.
Both evening events will feature spectacular displays. The Mad Hatter with a lighted sky show and Mare Island with a drone show, providing a family friendly alternative to fireworks. As a reminder, all fireworks are illegal in Vallejo, and we appreciate everyone’s cooperation in keeping our neighborhoods safe.
City Hall will be closed tomorrow, Friday, July 3, in observance of the holiday. However, Late Night Basketball will still take place from 6 p.m.
HELLO FROM HARRY A MESSAGE FROM
THE CITY MANAGER
to midnight, and we encourage youth ages 12–25 and their families to come out and participate.
Earlier this week, on Tuesday, June 30, the City Council reconvened its adjourned meeting to finalize the budget process. Council also received updates from the Greater Vallejo Recreation District (GVRD) and the Vallejo Police Department (VPD) on two key community programs. GVRD outlined its plan to use a proposed $300,000 City grant to expand low or no cost activities for residents. VPD presented the annual report for the Integrated Health and Resource Team (IHART), highlighting the essential services IHART provides and recommending continued support for the program. Both items were approved.
I look forward to seeing many of you at the parade as I make my inaugural trip down the route. Come out, enjoy the holiday, and celebrate this historic milestone together.
With Appreciation
Harry Black Vallejo’s Interim City Manager
July 4th Events - 6
707 Week - 8
Bands & Brews Starts Up - 10
Join A City Board - 13
Ribbon Cutting - 14
Small Business Survey - 16
Police Reform Spotlight - 21
Cover
Connect to
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Reach your city council
Mayor Andrea Sorce (Term Expires Jan 2029)
Andrea.Sorce@cityofvallejo.net 707-648-4377
Vice Mayor Diosdado “JR” Matulac (District 2 - Term Expires Jan 2027) JR.Matulac@cityofvallejo.net 707-648-4132
Council Member Alexander Matias (District 1 - Term Expires Jan 2029) Alexander.Matias@cityofvallejo.net 707-648-4134
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 Peter Bregenzer (District 5 -Term Expires Jan 2027) Peter.Bregenzer@cityofvallejo.net 707-648-4131
Council Member Helen-Marie Gordon (District 6 - Term Expires Jan 2029) Helen-Marie.Gordon@cityofvallejo.net 707-649-7711
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July 9, 2026, 6:00pm District 4
September 10, 2026, 6:00pm District 5
November 4, 2026, 6:00pm District 6 Vallejo Art Walk
Every 2nd Friday Month from 5 to 9 PM In downtown Vallejo
VALLEJO 2nd FRIDAY ARTWALK ~July 10 th 5:00-9:00pm~ An exciting new exhibit @ The McCune: A Journey into
Textiles and Tools
Based in the Napa Valley, the Silverado Handweavers and Spinners Guild brings together people who share a love for fiber arts and creative expression. This exhibit celebrates the art and craft of spinning, dyeing, weaving and tapestry to transform fiber into something beautiful, useful and entirely handmade. Guild members who contributed to this exhibit include: Sharon Crary, Kim Farmer, Anne Gomes, Peggy Gorbach, Joan Harris, Justyn Hegreberg, Jody Lane, Kate McBride, Linda Nellet, Mary Ann Parker, Christy Redford, and Susan Robinson.
GVRD’s free Bands and Brews summer concert series at Blue Rock Springs Park kicked off on Friday, June 26. Join us again next Friday, July 10, for the next concert in the series! Let’s keep the summer vibes going.
Mare Island Historic Park Foundation
Seeking Community Voices: Apply for Vallejo’s
Boards & Committees
Ready to make a real difference in Vallejo? Now’s your chance! The City of Vallejo is looking for committed, community minded residents to join its boards, commissions, and committees. These groups help guide local decisions, shape policy, and bring new ideas to life—so your voice truly matters. Whether you’re passionate about arts, planning, economic development, or community services, there’s a place for you to contribute. If you’re ready to step up and get involved, submit your application and supplemental questionnaire today. Vallejo’s future is being built now—let’s shape it together!
NOTE: Most positions require applicants to be residents of the City of Vallejo. Each application includes a description of the board or commission’s responsibilities, along with any specific eligibility requirements. Unless otherwise noted, appointments typically last for a four-year term. The application period is open now through 5 p.m. on Monday, July 6, 2026. To be considered, applicants must participate in an interview. Interview dates will be announced soon.
Learn more at: www.myvallejo.com/vallejo-seeks-applicants-for-its-boardscommissions-and-committees
Traffic Alert:
State Route 37 (SR 37)/Fairgrounds Drive Interchange in Vallejo:
Watch for Temporary Closure and Detour on Northbound Fairgrounds On Tuesday, July 7
The Solano Transportation Authority (STA), in close coordination with its transportation partner, the California Department of Transportation (Caltrans), is in the process of completing construction work on the new State Route 37 (SR 37)/Fairgrounds Drive Diverging Diamond Interchange (DDI) project in Vallejo. This is the first-ever DDI constructed in the Bay Area and only the second constructed on a major highway in California. The DDI was implemented to enhance safety and improve bicycle and pedestrian access in the area.
What to Expect:
The new DDI opened to traffic on Saturday, May 16, and final construction is slated to for completion soon. A temporary roadway closure and detour are planned, as follows:
• A temporary traffic closure of northbound Fairgrounds Drive is scheduled for Tuesday, July 7, from 5 a.m. to 1 p.m. Southbound Fairgrounds Drive and all other SR 37 ramps will remain open.
• Northbound Fairgrounds Drive will be closed between Sage Street and SR 37. Northbound traffic will be detoured right onto Sage Street, left onto Gateway Drive, and back to Fairgrounds Drive.
• Drivers traveling northbound on Fairgrounds Drive who wish to access either direction of SR 37 should follow the posted detour signs to reach the freeway on ramps from southbound Fairgrounds Drive.
Please follow on-site signage for detours and see the map for additional closure information. We appreciate the public’s cooperation and patience as important work on this important project continues! Motorists should drive with caution in construction zones, slow down for worker safety and expect travel delays. All work is weather dependent.
To learn about how to use the DDI, please watch our informational YouTube video at: https://youtu.be/L7QOoovsVuU?si=AOsSTF2hREcpQwhA
For general questions, please email our project team at: SR37-FairgroundsPIO@portal3.pbid.com
For more information about the project, please visit: https://sta.ca.gov/project/redwood-parkway-fairgrounds-dr-improvement-project/
Visit the Ships
The National Park Service is now welcoming visitors aboard one or more historic ships at Mare Island in Vallejo every Saturday and Sunday from 12:00pm to 4:00pm, depending on staff availability.
You’ll find the ships docked at the iconic Mare Island Coal Sheds, located at 860 Nimitz Avenue, Vallejo, CA 94592.
Come explore these remarkable vessels, chat with park rangers, and discover how these ships helped shape America’s maritime heritage along the Pacific Coast.
Learn more at: nps.gov/safr
Heavy Equipment Operator - Closing On 7/6/2026
Chief Building Official - Closing On 7/6/2026
Communications Operator I - Closing On 11/24/2026
The City of Vallejo is submitting a grant proposal to fund improvements at Wilson Park. Your input in advance of the application is needed to guide the proposal based on your feedback.
Please help by completing the WILSON PARK IMPROVEMENTS SURVEY and tell us what you’d like to see at Wilson Park! Stay tuned for upcoming in-person meeting dates!
FREE NEIGHBORHOOD DUMPSTER PROGRAM*
County Honoring Centenarians
The Solano County Board of Supervisors is inviting the community to help identify local centenarians for recognition by the Board of Supervisors later this fall as part of the 20th annual Centenarian Commemoration Celebration.
Requirements
Now in its 20th year, the program has become one of the County’s most cherished traditions, celebrating the lives, legacies and wisdom of residents who have reached the extraordinary milestone of 100 years or more. To date, the Board has honored 347 centenarians, representing more than 35,000 combined years of life experience.
CONTACTING THE COUNTY ABOUT CENTENARIANS
If you know of a centenarian, or someone who is currently 99 years old and will be turning 100 by year’s end. Please email Centenarian@SolanoCounty.gov and/or call (707) 784-6129 by or before August 1, 2026. Please relay the following information over the phone or in an email to the Supervisor, including (1) name, (2) address, (3) phone number, (4) and best contact email address.
PERSONNEL COMPLAINTS POLICY TOWN HALL
Police Reform Spotlight
Questions and Responses
Thank you to everyone who attended the Vallejo Police Department Town Hall regarding the Drafted Personnel Complaints Policy. We appreciate the community members who took the time to attend, ask questions, share concerns, and provide thoughtful feedback during the public comment period.
Community input remains an important part of strengthening transparency, accountability, and communication between the Vallejo Police Department and the community we serve. All questions submitted during the Drafted Personnel Complaints Policy Town Hall and public comment period, along with responses from the Vallejo Police Department, have been compiled in the new “Community Questions and Responses” section located within the “File a Complaint or Compliment” page on VallejoPD.net.
Community members are encouraged to review the questions and responses by visiting: Vallejopd.net. For media inquiries, please contact Public Information Officer Sgt. Rashad Hollis by email at VallejoPolicePIO@cityofvallejo.net or by phone at (707) 567-4233.
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.
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 Vallejo’s Planning Division at (707) 648-4326 or planning@cityofvallejo.net
OPEN BY APPOINTMENT ONLY
ON TUESDAYS AND THURSDAYS
8:00 AM - 12:00 PM
Participants can request appointments by scanning the QR code with your smartphone or tablet or by clicking on this link.
cityofvallejo.co/47gz8Dy
Thank you for your patience and understanding.
For general inquiries: (707) 648-4507
Enjoy powerful, efficient air conditioning now and warm, reliable heating in the winter—all in one easy-to-use system. If you use a wood or pellet stove, fireplace insert, or fireplace for heat, you could qualify for up to $10,500 to replace your existing wood-burning device.
Need Help with Your Electrical Bill?
Affordable energy is an important component of housing stability. High utility costs can strain household budgets and reduce resources available for other essential needs, including housing, education, childcare, and healthcare. Fair Housing Advocates of Northern California (FHANC) is pleased to share information about energy assistance programs offered by Pacific Gas and Electric Company (PG&E) that may help reduce monthly utility expenses.
Eligible households may qualify for a monthly discount of 20% or more through PG&E’s California Alternate Rates for Energy (CARE) program. Participation in public assistance programs such as WIC, CalFresh/SNAP, or MediCal may meet eligibility requirements. Learn more and apply at pge.com/care.
Households that do not qualify for CARE may be eligible for the Family Electric Rate Assistance (FERA) program, which offers an 18% discount on electricity bills. Applications are available at pge.com/fera.
Additional programs may also be available to assist with essential services, including medical device support and phone or internet services.
For more information, visit pge.com/billhelp. Applications may be submitted online or by mail.
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
New Website Connects Solano Residents to Aging & Disability Support
A new online resource, www.aaans.org, makes it easier for Solano County’s older and disabled adults and those who care for them to connect to vital support. The site offers user-friendly directories of free local services, from healthcare counseling and transportation to caregiver respite and legal advice. It also features downloadable resource guides in English and Spanish, plus direct connections to staff for personalized support. With Solano’s older adult population growing rapidly, access to trusted, easy-to-use information is more important than ever. Visit www.aaans.org to explore the full range of services available.
Water-Safe Beginners Ages 4+
Learn to Compete!
S U M M E R M O N - TH U R S
JUN 8 - JUL 2, 6-7PM
JUL 6 - JUL 30, 6-7PM
$132 for one session
$231 for both sessions
FALL M O N - TH U R S
AUG 31 - NOV 5, 6-7PM
$340 for the 10 week session
Prac�ce Dura�on: 60 - 120 min*
Costs: $130 - $170*
*depending on skill level
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!
