Vallejo Weekly | Vol 14 | Issue 5

VALLEJO WEEKLY

VOL 14 ISSUE 5 JANUARY

Hello Vallejo

ANDREW’S ANNOUNCEMENTS

A MESSAGE FROM THE CITY MANAGER

This morning, I had the privilege of participating in the Point In Time (PIT) Count with many dedicated community volunteers. The PIT Count, mandated every two years by the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD), provides a snapshot of the unhoused population in our community. This data helps the federal government understand the scope of homelessness, track trends, and allocate critical funding.

In addition, earlier this week I attended the monthly Solano County City Managers’ Meeting, where City Managers from across the county gather to share perspectives and collaborate on solutions to common challenges. These conversations are invaluable as we work collectively to embrace opportunities and address complex issues that impact our communities.

This weekend, January 31 – February 1, Vallejo will host the annual Winged Migration event on Mare Island. It’s a spectacular chance to witness nature’s beauty right here at home. It is a reminder

of the vibrant environment and community that surrounds us every day. I encourage everyone to take part in this wonderful experience.

At this week’s City Council meeting, we had presentations focused on funding for essential capital improvements and an update on the Blue Rock Springs Golf Course project. I also announced that City staff are creating a dedicated webpage offering tools and information on community members’ rights regarding immigration.

Lastly, City staff are working to update the Police Oversight and Accountability Commission (POAC) webpages to ensure they include all relevant and requested information, reinforcing our commitment to transparency and accountability.

Thank you for staying engaged and informed. Together, we continue to build a stronger Vallejo.

With Appreciation

Andrew Murray City Manager

Calling All Event Creators - 8

RIPA Dashboard Launches - 10

Winter Water Main Breaks - 12

Join A Board or Commission - 15

Chamber Installation Dinner - 16

Sister City Membership Meeting - 21

Sonoma Blvd Update - 23

Fairgrounds Dr Update - 25

10 12 23 8 21 15 16

Boat Launch Update - 26 25

Connect to

SESSION #1: TUESDAY, JANUARY 27, 2026, IN-PERSON OR

SESSION #2: TUESDAY, FEBRUARY 3, 2026, VIA ZOOM

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 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

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.

The City of Vallejo is seeking proposals from qualified individuals or firms to plan and execute 2–3 pop-up events at the Ferry Building and in Downtown Vallejo.

This is an exciting opportunity to bring vibrant, creative experiences to our community!

Learn more and submit your proposal here: https://vendors.planetbids.com/portal/42510/bo/bo-detail/136989#bidDocs

VALLEJO 2nd FRIDAY ARTWALK

February 13th 5-9 pm

Début exhibit by 8 artists at The McCune Threads That Tie Us A Fiber Art Community Experience!

Discover the intersection of everyday objects and artistic expression through fiber and textile art. Challenging the boundaries between Craft and Art, this exhibition celebrates the creativity and skill behind works that transform raw or recycled materials into pieces of beauty and authenticity. Featured artists—Britt-Marie Alm, Stephanie Brown, Risa Iwasaki Culbertson, Amanda Farrell, Jennifer Laursen, Youngmi Angela Pak, Leigh Ann Parente, and Vida Vazquez—each bring a unique vision to this vibrant and diverse collection.

The McCune Collection is located in the lower level of the JFK library building. Enter via the newly refurbished lower plaza at the corner of Georgia & Santa Clara Streets.

Coffee, tea and refreshments to be served Details & map: mccunecollection.org/about

Interested in Joining Our Team? You might

be a great fit!

Water Treatment Plant Operator - Closing Date

2/9/2026

Senior Landscape Inspector - Closing Date 2/9/2026

Senior Public Works Maintenance Worker - Closing Date 2/16/2026

Communications Operator I - Closing Date 3/26/2026

Police Officer (Entry Level - Academy Graduate)Closing Date 6/30/2026

Police Officer (Lateral) - Closing Date 6/30/2026

Police Cadet - Closing Date 6/30/2026

Police Officer (Recruit) - Closing Date 6/30/2026 Click HERE to see all of our current job listings

Vallejo Police Department Launches RIPA Stop Data Dashboard

The Vallejo Police Department is proud to announce the launch of an interactive RIPA Stop Data Dashboard, now available on our official website at VallejoPD.net. This new tool reflects our ongoing commitment to transparency, accountability, and community engagement.

The dashboard provides detailed information about officer-conducted stops, as required by California’s Racial and Identity Profiling Act of 2015 (RIPA). Under this law, law enforcement agencies must collect and report data on vehicle and pedestrian stops, including:

• Date, time, and general location of the stop

• Reason for the stop

• Perceived race, ethnicity, gender, and age range of the individual

• Whether a search was conducted

• Actions taken and the outcome of the encounter

This data helps communities, policymakers, and agencies analyze patterns, identify disparities, and address concerns based on objective information.

Why

an Interactive Dashboard Matters

Making this data accessible and interactive allows residents to see how often stops occur, who is being stopped, and what outcomes result from these encounters. It also provides the Vallejo Police Department with a structured way to review practices, identify areas for improvement, and guide future training and policy decisions. Transparency builds trust—and trust starts with what the community can see for themselves.

“As a police department committed to meaningful and sustainable reform, we recognize the importance of RIPA data in building transparency, accountability, and community confidence,” said Deputy Chief Bob Knight. “We are exploring benchmarking methods beyond population comparisons, such as crime offender benchmarking, exposure/location benchmarking, and peeragency comparisons, to ensure evaluations are accurate and fair. Our goal is to communicate these findings clearly and reinforce our commitment to bias-free policing.”

Each year, Vallejo PD publishes an annual RIPA report analyzing stop data to identify potential disparities and guide improvements in training and policy. Moving forward, we will share key findings, summaries, and updates through our website and social media channels. We encourage community members to review the dashboard, ask questions, and participate in upcoming discussions and town halls.

Access

the Dashboard

Visit VallejoPD.net to explore the RIPA Stop Data Dashboard and learn more about our efforts to create a safer, more equitable Vallejo.

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

Winter Water Main Breaks: The Path to Repair

When a water main breaks, it can look deceptively simple from the outside. Water appears in the street, cones go up, crews arrive, water service is temporarily interrupted and then restored. In reality, repairing a water main is a deliberate, multi-step process that requires careful coordination, technical expertise, and strict standards for safety and water quality.

There is no single switch to flip and no safe shortcut. Here is what actually happens from the moment a break is discovered to the point when water service is fully restored.

Step 1: The break is reported or discovered

Water main breaks are identified in several ways. City crews may notice unusual water flow while working in the field, Vallejo Water operators may receive alerts through the City’s SCADA system indicating pressure loss or potential leaks, or residents may report visible signs such as water pooling in the street or reduced water pressure at home.

All customer reports are promptly routed to Water Department staff for evaluation.

Step 2: Supervisor notification, triage, and mobilization

Once a break is confirmed, a supervisor is notified and the response process begins. Crews and support staff are assigned, and equipment is mobilized regardless of the time of day.

Not all water main breaks are the same. Each incident is evaluated and triaged based on several factors, including the severity of the break, the number of customers affected, impacts to critical facilities such as hospitals or schools, traffic and safety concerns, and overall system demands and operational needs.

During winter storms, freezing temperatures, or after-hours incidents, this work often begins late at night or in the early morning hours.

Step 3: Isolate the break and mark utilities

Crews work to isolate the damaged section of pipe by closing nearby valves. This limits water loss, protects the overall system, and allows crews to work safely. Depending on valve locations and condition, this step can take time and careful coordination.

When multiple breaks occur at the same time, temporary isolation measures may be used to stabilize the system while crews are reassigned to higher priority incidents elsewhere in the City. Before excavation begins, an “Underground Service Alert” is requested so other utilities such as gas, electric, sewer, and communications can be located and marked. This critical safety step ensures crews avoid damaging other infrastructure.

Step 4: Locate the break

Finding the exact location of a water main break is not always straightforward. Water can travel underground before surfacing, meaning visible pooling may not be directly above the damaged pipe.

Crews use system maps, valve locations, pressure readings, and field investigation to pinpoint the break. In some cases, specialized acoustic listening equipment is used to detect the sound of leaking water underground. Experience and familiarity with Vallejo’s water system are essential at this stage.

Once the break is located, excavation can begin.

Step 5: Expose, diagnose, and repair

Crews carefully excavate, often using heavy equipment such as excavators and backhoes, to reach the damaged pipe. Working around other underground utilities and within confined street spaces requires precision and constant attention to safety.

Once exposed, crews assess the pipe material, the cause and extent of the failure, and determine the safest repair method. The damaged section is then isolated, cut, and repaired or replaced. This work is physically demanding and frequently performed in cold, wet, and muddy conditions, often over many hours.

Step 6: System checks and restoration

After repairs are completed, water is slowly restored to the system while crews monitor for additional leaks. Hydrants may be flushed to remove air and restore normal flow, and listening equipment may be used again to confirm the integrity of the repair.

The excavation site is then backfilled and stabilized, temporary surface restoration is completed, and required water quality testing is conducted to ensure all federal and state safety standards are met. Only after these checks are complete is water service fully restored to affected homes and businesses.

More than just turning the water back on

Repairing a water main break is not a single action. It is a coordinated process designed to protect public safety, system reliability, and water quality.

Scheduling, prioritization, and system wide coordination are critical parts of this effort, especially during winter storms or periods of high system demand.

From the first report to the final test, many steps take place behind the scenes, often outside normal business hours. This is the work that keeps Vallejo’s water system operating, even during the toughest winter conditions.

Boris

Belgian Malinois mix, brown and black, M, 1.5 yo, 50 lbs, $275 adoption fee

Shy pup with a rough start, learning trust. Startles easily and cautious with touch, but shows love through gentle closeness and soft kisses. Food-motivated, crateand potty-trained, knows commands, enjoys dogs, gaining strength daily, needs a calm, patient home.

Ellie

Domestic Short Hair, black, F, 4 mo, 4 lbs, $225 adoption fee

Cuddly, curious, and vocal, always ready for fun. Loves toys, snuggles, and dramatic conversations. Social with cats and adults, tolerant, house-trained, independent, and sweet-tempered— basically the life of the party in adorable kitten form.

Serve Your Community – Join a City Board or Commission!

The City of Vallejo is seeking passionate residents to serve on boards, commissions, and committees. This is your chance to shape local policies, share ideas, and represent your neighbors. Current Openings Include:

• Architectural Heritage & Landmarks Commission – 5 vacancies

• Code Enforcement Appeals Board – 1 vacancy

• Design Review Board – 1 vacancy

• Housing & Community Development Commission – 1 vacancy

• Housing Authority – 2 tenant commissioners

• Human Relations Commission – 1 vacancy

• Marina Advisory Committee – 5 vacancies

• McCune Collection Commission – 1 vacancy

• Measure P Oversight Committee – District 1 & 2 vacancies

• Participatory Budgeting Steering Committee – 7 member & 3 alternate vacancies

Deadline to apply: Tuesday, February 17, 2026, at 5 p.m. Applicants must attend an interview to be considered. How to Apply:

Visit the Boards and Commissions page: https://www.vallejo.gov/cms/one.aspx?pageId=17871653 OR www.myvallejo.com/vallejo-seeks-applicants-for-its-boards-commissions-and-committees City Hall, Office of the City Clerk, 555 Santa Clara Street, 3rd Floor Email: dawn.abrahamson@cityofvallejo.net | Phone: (707) 648-4527

Vallejo Chamber of Commerce Celebrates 151st Installation & Business Awards Dinner

On Friday, January 23, the Vallejo Chamber of Commerce hosted its 151st Installation & Business Awards Dinner at the Vallejo Veterans Memorial Building. The evening honored outstanding businesses and nonprofit organizations for their positive impact on the community. In addition, the Chamber recognized two exceptional individuals with its highest honors: the Bud Butler Award for Man of the Year and the Athenia Award for Woman of the Year. It was a night of celebration, connection, and recognition of those who make Vallejo thrive. Enjoy these photos capturing the highlights of the evening!

The Housing and Community Development (HCD) Commission will hold a public hearing to discuss housing and community development needs in Vallejo.

When: Thursday, February 5, 2026, after 7:00 p.m. Where: Vallejo City Council Chambers 555 Santa Clara Street, Vallejo, CA 94590 Everyone is welcome to attend and share their input. Learn all the details at: https://cityofvallejo.co/4jTUc8W

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.

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

Vallejo Sister City Association Elects New Officers

On Saturday, January 24, the Vallejo Sister City Association held its annual membership meeting and elected new officers. The Association plays a vital role in fostering international friendships and cultural exchange by maintaining relationships with Vallejo’s sister cities:

• Jincheon, South Korea

• Akashi, Japan

• La Spezia, Italy

• Trondheim, Norway

• Baguio City, Philippines

• Bagamoyo, Tanzania

Looking ahead, the Association will host its Annual Gala on February 28, a celebration of global connections and community engagement.

To learn more about the Vallejo Sister City Association or to get involved, visit: VallejoSisterCity.com

NEIGHBORHOOD DUMPSTER PROGRAM*

State Route 29 (SR-29) Pavement Rehabilitation & Complete Street Project Update

Welcome to this installment of the State Route 29 (SR-29) Pavement Rehabilitation and Complete Street Project update

Fifteen different alleys have been rehabilitated in recent weeks along SR-29 The alleys will offer a smoother transition on and off the main route and an easier path of travel for pedestrians. If we have clear weather ahead, completion of this portion of work is projected to finish at the end of January, or early February.

In addition, Caltrans’ Maintenance will be filling some of the large potholes along SR29.This is for the interim until our team reaches the full repaving portion of the rehabilitation project.

SR-29 is also seeing an additional project at work. Caltrans is continuing construction on the installation of new electrical equipment to improve pedestrian safety at un-signalized crosswalks around Solano County. This includes new ADA curb ramps and restriping the crosswalks around the intersections along SR-29. Additional lane closures will be utilized along the route.

This Caltrans Update for Solano County will be distributed on a bi-weekly schedule

CONTACT:

Caltrans Public Information Officers for Solano County

Sabrina Martinez Victor Gauthier General Information (510) 286-4444

CleanCA.com

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!

State Route 37/SR-37- Fairgrounds Drive Interchange-

Solano Transportation Authority and Caltrans Begin the Next Phase of Construction, Expect Delays on Fairgrounds Drive; See Map with Alternate Routes!

The Solano Transportation Authority (STA), in close coordination with its transportation partner, the California Department of Transportation (Caltrans), is continuing construction work on the new State Route 37 (SR 37)/ Fairgrounds Drive Interchange Project in Vallejo. The interchange improvement project will enhance motorist safety and improve bicycle and pedestrian access with the construction of a new divergent diamond interchange. This is the first-ever divergent diamond interchange (DDI) constructed in the Bay Area and only the second-ever constructed on a major highway in California.

What to Expect During Initial Construction Work

Construction at SR37 and Fairgrounds Drive started construction in April 2025. The site is near the Six Flags Discovery Kingdom Theme Park and the Solano County Fairgrounds. In May, traffic in both directions was shifted to the west side of SR 37, and a temporary pedestrian walkway was constructed. Now, STA and Caltrans are moving forward with work to reconstruct the existing Fairgrounds Dr and widen the roadway to accommodate the upcoming Diverging Diamond Interchange.

The following construction-related activities are slated for Monday - Friday during the weeks of January 26, 2026, and February 2, 2026.

Community members and motorists are advised to expect delays and are encouraged to use alternate routes during this time. (Please see the map)

• Contractor to reduce northbound Fairgrounds Dr. from SR37 to Gateway Dr. down to one lane, day and night

• During this period, weather-permitting, Fairgrounds Drive will be restriped utilizing single lane closures during daytime hours, 7:00 am to 4:00 pm.

Motorists should drive with caution in construction zones and expect travel delays. All work is weather dependent. We appreciate the community’s and motorists’ cooperation and patience as important work to improve the safety and accessibility of this important project continues!

For general questions, please email our project team at: SR37-FairgroundsPIO@portal3.pbid.com

For more information about the project and to view a video explaining the DDI design, please visit: https://sta.ca.gov/project/redwood-parkway-fairgroundsdr-improvement-project/#

Pacific Gas and Electric Company

Former Vallejo MGP

Boat Launch Parking Lot Restoration Project Weekly Report 1/23/26

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 1/19/26 to 1/23/26

• Continued removing construction equipment no longer needed and cleanup of work areas.

• Removed weeds within and along the site boundary

Upcoming Work

• Continue installing electrical infrastructure components.

• Install handrails along access walkway.

• Continue removing construction equipment no longer needed and cleanup of work areas.

Work Hours

• 6:30 a.m. to 5:00 p.m., Monday through Friday.

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 early February 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.

Log

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.

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.