VALLEJO WEEKLY
Hello Vallejo,
ANDREW'S ANNOUNCEMENTS
October is officially here — and can you believe we’re just 90 days away from 2026? This year is flying by! Right now, the news is filled with updates about the federal government shutdown. While it’s certainly a major national issue, I want to reassure you that the City of Vallejo is not immediately impacted. Our team is continuing to operate as usual, and we’ll be monitoring the situation closely. If anything changes that affects our community, we’ll keep you informed.
Starting next week, on Monday, October 6, City Hall will be shifting to new hours. We’ll be open from 8:30 AM to 5:00 PM, Monday through Thursday, and on alternating Fridays. We hope this change makes it easier for you to access City services.
We’re also looking for community members who want to make a difference. If you’ve ever thought about getting involved in local government, now’s your chance! There are several open positions on City boards and committees, and we’d love to have your voice at the table. You can find all the details and apply by clicking HERE.
On October 7, there will be a major change to traffic flow on the Mare Island Bridge as part of the long-term upgrade project. For the next 15 months, the bridge will be dedicated to Westbound traffic. Eastbound traffic returning to Vallejo will be rerouted via Highway 37. Additionally, the bridge will be closed to all traffic on Wednesday, Oct 22nd and Thursday, Oct 23rd from 6 am to 5 pm. More detailed information is available in the Weekly or on the City’s website HERE.
A MESSAGE FROM THE CITY MANAGER
I am pleased to announce the arrival of the new modular building for dispatch functions at the Vallejo Police Department. The addition of the modular building will enhance public safety for the City and is a positive step in the City’s larger plans for a new Vallejo Police Department headquarters. The City’s contractor will be connecting and installing the modular building this month, and staff will coordinate with our partners to set up the necessary equipment. We are looking forward to having this new space fully operational in the near future.
In more exciting news, the Vallejo City Council directed staff to submit a proposal to the Federal Government on how Vallejo can support the rejuvenation of the US maritime industry. There is a lot of momentum at the federal level to make a large investment in the US shipbuilding and repair, including proposed legislation (SHIPS ACT) and an executive order. This could be a major opportunity for Vallejo and the Bay Area, and I’ll be sure to keep you updated as this initiative moves forward.
And finally, don’t miss Vallejo Fest this weekend at the waterfront! It’s the latest version of the beloved Waterfront Weekend — now packed into one exciting day. I’ll be in the splash chair at 2 PM on Saturday, so come out, enjoy the festivities, and help raise money for our community while taking in the beauty of our waterfront.
With appreciation,
Andrew Murray Vallejo City Manager
In this issue
New City Hall Hours Page 8
Vallejo Fest Page 6
Mare Island Bridge Upgrade Page 11
Applicants Needed Page 16
Meet Jose De La O Page 20
Scenes From Maker Fair 2025 Page 24
Cover Photo: A Rainbow brought to Vallejo by this week’s rain Credit: Robert Briseño
Vallejo
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
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.
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 pagdownload 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
V A L L E J O F E S T
Saturday, October 4, 2025
10:00 AM – 6:00 PM
Waterfront · 301 Mare Island Way
Join us for Vallejo Fest!
A full day of community, culture, and fun featuring:
Whaleboat Races & Regatta
Splash Chair
Paint the Waterfront Run
Disc Golf
Bully Dog Show
Car Show
Hoop Bus
Ducky Derby
Live Music and more!
Ride free with SolTrans! Show the Vallejo Waterfront Weekend flyer to enjoy free rides on all local SolTrans routes throughout the festival.
City of Vallejo Announces Expanded City Hall Hours to Better Serve the Community
The City of Vallejo is pleased to announce expanded public hours for City Hall, effective next week, Monday, October 6, 2025. This change reflects the City’s ongoing commitment to improving access to services and enhancing community engagement. Beginning October 6 , City Hall will be open to the public Monday through Thursday from 8:30 a.m. to 5:00 p.m., and every other Friday during the same hours .
To ensure continued service quality amid staffing constraints, the Planning and Development Services Department will observe a daily lunch closure from 12:00 p.m. to 1:00 p.m., and will close at 4:30 p.m. each day.
“We’re excited to offer expanded hours that provide greater flexibility for residents and businesses to access City services,” said City Manager Andrew Murray. “This change is part of our broader effort to make City Hall more accessible and responsive to the needs of our community.”
Visit vallejo.gov for detailed information on City Hall services and department-specific hours. Just head to the homepage and navigate to the department you’re looking for. Everything you need is just a few clicks away!
Vallejo Weekly
Lil Man
Chihuahua-Terrier mix, tri color, M, 2 yo, 22
A
Happy, energetic with lots of love! His previous owner passed away, so now he’s looking for new forever home. He loves toys, fetch, and walks! Generally not reactive towards other dogs. Need someone to take the time to make him comfortable and confident. Adult-only home mat be best. Fur
Mare Island Bridge Upgrade Project – Traffic Update
Big changes are coming to help improve your commute! Starting Tuesday, October 7, 2025, a new traffic circulation pattern will go into effect as part of the Mare Island Bridge Upgrade Project. To keep things moving smoothly:
• The one open lane of the bridge will be used for Westbound traffic at all times.
• Eastbound traffic from the island to the mainland will need to use Highway 37 at all times.
This temporary change is expected to remain in place through December 31, 2026, as crews work hard to modernize the bridge and enhance long-term traffic flow.
Additionally, the Mare Island bridge will undergo a temporary full closure for two days as part of this upgrade project.
Wednesday, Oct 22, and Thursday, Oct 23, from 6 am to 5 pm.
Pedestrians and bicyclists will not be allowed onto the bridge during this closure. Following the daytime closures, the bridge will resume one-way traffic Westbound. This closure is necessary to facilitate essential work in the water as part of the bridge’s long-term upgrade project.
Public Works staff will be actively monitoring traffic and making adjustments as needed to minimize disruptions.
The Mare Island Causeway Bridge upgrade is a critical infrastructure initiative aimed at enhancing safety, reliability, and long-term connectivity between Vallejo and Mare Island. The project is expected to continue for approximately 18 months, with completion anticipated by January 5, 2027.
The City of Vallejo appreciates the public’s patience and cooperation during this period of construction. While the short-term inconvenience may pose challenges, the long-term benefits will significantly improve transportation and safety for residents, workers, and visitors.
Let’s build a better bridge—and a better future—together! If you have questions, contact: Sam Kumar, Project Manager (707) 648-4432
Sam.Kumar@cityofvallejo.net
Vallejo Weekly
OCTOBER 2025
Vallejo JFK Library
9,000. 8,000. 7,000. 6,000. 5,000. 4,000. 3,000. 2,000. 1,000.
SolTrans is partnering with Catholic Charities to support those in need in our community prior to the holiday season. $10 provides a shelf stable food bag –won’t you help? Our goal is to provide 500 bags!!!
Communications
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
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
■
■
Volunteer
■
Travel
■
■
The City of Vallejo Seeks Qualified Applicants for its Boards,
Committees, and Commissions
Looking to make a real impact in your community? The City of Vallejo is inviting passionate residents to step up and serve on its boards, commissions, and committees! This is your chance to help shape local policies, contribute fresh ideas, and be a voice for your neighbors. If you’re ready to get involved, submit an application and supplemental questionnaire to be considered. Your city needs you – let’s build Vallejo’s future together! There are currently openings on the following City boards, commissions, and committees:
• Architectural Heritage & Landmarks Commission: 4 vacancies (3 terms to expire 12/31/29 and 1 term to expire 12/31/26)
• Code Enforcement Appeals Board: 4 vacancies (terms to expire 12/31/29)
• Commission on Culture & the Arts: 2 vacancies (term to expire 12/31/29)
• Design Review Board: 1 vacancy (term to expire 6/30/28)
• McCune Collection Commission: 1 vacancy (term to expire 6/30/28)
• Housing Authority – 2 tenant commissioners (terms to expire 12/31/26)
Both tenant commissioners must be in the Housing Choice Voucher Program, and 1 must be 62 years of age or older
• Marina Advisory Committee – 4 berther vacancies (1 term to expire 6/30/26 and 3 terms to expire 6/30/29) and 1 at-large vacancy (term to expire 6/30/29)
• Participatory Budgeting Steering Committee – 7 members & 3 alternate vacancies (terms to expire 6/30/27)
• Measure P Oversight Committee: applicants must reside in the district as noted below:
District 1 vacancy (term to expire 10/10/26)
District 2 vacancy (term to expire 10/10/27)
District 4 vacancy (term to expire 10/10/27)
District 5 vacancy (term to expire 10/10/27)
• Greater Vallejo Recreation District (GVRD) Board Member – 1 vacancy. Directors shall take office at noon on the first Friday in December following their election of their appointment to a fixed term.
The District is governed by a 5-member board of directors, 3 of whom are appointed by the Vallejo City Council, with the other 2 appointed to serve by the Solano County Board of Supervisors. Board members serve 4-year terms. There will be a vacancy due to a term expiring early in December 2025. Interested Vallejo residents are encouraged to submit an application and supplemental questionnaire. Newly appointed members to City Boards, Commissions, and Committees must submit a Statement of Economic Interests, Form 700, within 30 days of their appointment. The following advisory bodies are exempt:
• Marina Advisory Committee
• Participatory Budgeting Steering Committee
• McCune Collection Commission
All new appointees must also complete AB 1235 Ethics training and file a Certificate of Completion within 30 days of appointment.
In most instances, to be eligible for appointment, applicants must be residents of the City of Vallejo. Information regarding the duties of each board and commission, and specific criteria for appointment, may be found within each application. With some exceptions, appointments are typically for a term of 4 years.
The application period will remain open until 5 p.m., Monday, October 20, 2025. Applicants must attend the interview to be considered for appointment on a board or commission. Applicant interview dates to be determined.
Application forms and supplemental questionnaires are accessible in several ways:
• The City’s website, located on the Boards and Commissions page
• At City Hall, Office of the City Clerk, 555 Santa Clara Street, 3rd Floor, Vallejo, CA
• By Email at dawn.abrahamson@cityofvallejo.net or by phone at (707) 648-4527
• By UP Postal Mail: City of Vallejo, C/O City Clerk, PO Box 3068, Vallejo, CA 94590
Vallejo
Thinking About Building an ADU? Start
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.
Celebrating Hispanic Heritage Month: Jose De La O’s Journey from El Salvador to Vallejo
In honor of National Hispanic Heritage Month, we’re proud to spotlight Jose De La O, a Permit Technician in the City of Vallejo’s Planning and Development Services Department. His story is one of resilience, cultural pride, and a deep commitment to community.
Jose’s journey began in El Salvador, where he was born during a time of civil unrest. At just six years old, his family made the difficult decision to leave their homeland and seek safety and opportunity in the United States. They settled in San Francisco, drawn by the city’s vibrant Latino community. It was there that Jose’s love for soccer, community, and culture took root. Though he once dreamed of a professional soccer career—having even been invited to play for El Salvador’s U-18 semi-pro national team— life had other plans. After returning to the U.S., Jose pursued a career in IT, only to be impacted by the 2008 recession. That setback led him to the hospitality industry, where he discovered a passion for working with people. It was also where he met his wife, who shares his Hispanic heritage, and together they began building a family.
As his family grew, Jose sought a more stable career path. He transitioned into the building trades, gaining hands-on experience in commercial construction and robotics. In 2024, he found his calling with the City of Vallejo,
where he now serves as a Permit Technician. The role is a perfect blend of his technical background, customer service skills, and construction knowledge.
But what truly sets Jose apart is how he brings his Hispanic heritage into his work every day. Fluent in Spanish, he serves as a bridge between the City and its large Hispanic community. He takes pride in helping Spanish-speaking homeowners navigate the often-complex permitting process, ensuring they feel heard, respected, and supported. “I see myself in many of the people I help,” Jose shares. “They remind me of my own family’s journey—working hard, building a life, and contributing to the community.”
Whether he’s guiding a homeowner through a small renovation or assisting developers with large-scale projects, Jose finds meaning in every interaction. His favorite part? Building relationships and educating residents about the importance of the permitting process—something he believes empowers the community.
Outside of work, Jose continues to honor his roots by coaching his daughters in soccer, passing on the love of the game that shaped his youth. His role with the City allows him the work-life balance to be present for his family while making a lasting impact in Vallejo.
Jose De La O’s story is a powerful reminder of the strength, perseverance, and cultural richness that Hispanic Americans bring to our communities. We’re proud to have him on our team—and even prouder to celebrate his heritage this month and every month.
Vallejo Weekly
DESCRIPTION
PROJECT SCOPE
Learn about MEHKOs!
City of Vallejo Road Repair Project is Underway!
“Your Measure P Tax Dollars at Work”
Big improvements are coming to Vallejo streets, and it’s all thanks to your support of Measure P! The City of Vallejo has kicked off its 2025 Road Repair Project to make our streets smoother, safer, and longer-lasting. We’re using a smart, cost-effective method called Cape Seal to refresh and protect our roads for years to come.
In addition to this Cape Seal project, several other road repair projects are picking up speed. The first of these, featuring both ADA-compliant ramp installations and asphalt rehabilitation, officially went out to bid on September 3 and will close on September 25. The Public Works team anticipates breaking ground on the concrete work by late November, with asphalt paving scheduled to begin in early 2026.
The second major road rehabilitation project is currently in the design and costing phase. Once finalized, the team will present the plan to the Measure P Committee to secure construction funding and move the project forward.
We will share more on these projects as the details become available.
Learn more about this project, the list of roads being worked on and what Cape Seal process is at: https://www.myvallejo.com/public-works-projects/news_feed/2025-cape-seal-project
Vallejo Weekly
Over 30,000 makers, dreamers, and doers converged on Mare Island last weekend for the unforgettable 17th Annual Maker Faire Bay Area! For three days, the island buzzed with creativity as innovators from over 20 countries showcased their boundary-pushing projects— from cutting-edge tech to massive, mind-blowing immersive art installations. It was a global celebration of imagination, invention, and inspiration. Missed it? Don’t worry—Maker Faire Bay Area 2026 is already shaping up to be even bigger. Mark your calendars now—you won’t want to miss the magic next year!
Maker Fair 2025
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.
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
Victims & Families
Providing emotional and logistical assistance following traumatic events
Contact Us
Rayvon Williamson, Program Manager
Tel: (707) 648-4502
Cell: (323) 761-4071
without police presence
Co-Response Support
Assisting officers & providing follow-up support for unresolved cases
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
Youth & Schools
Engaging students through in-school wellness programs, after-school initiatives, and restorative justice
Underserved Communities
Meeting people where they are, addressing barriers to care, & promoting equitable access to services
Impact Team Response
Katie Burns, Admin Data Analyst
Tel: (707) 917-411
Cell: (415) 286-3590
Providing post-crisis community engagement after incidents like homicides and drive-by shootings
Faith-Based Crisis Support
Partnering with VPD chaplains to assist in faith-sensitive crisis situations
Neighborhood Watch & Community Engagement
Strengthening relationships between residents & law enforcement
