VALLEJO WEEKLY
ANDREW'S ANNOUNCEMENTS
A MESSAGE FROM THE CITY MANAGER
Hello Vallejo,
What a week it’s been in our city!
National Night Out was a fantastic success, thanks to the leadership of the Vallejo Police Department. I was honored to participate and connect with so many of you. The weather was perfect, and the energy in our neighborhoods was inspiring. The Police Department is also revitalizing its Neighborhood Watch Program. If your neighborhood is interested in participating, reach out to Sgt. Rashad Hollis. You can find more information at VallejoPD.net under the “Community” section. Last weekend, I had the pleasure of joining Vallejo Fest as part of Leadership Vallejo’s Splash Chair. Thank you to everyone who stopped by and participated, especially those who splashed me! Your support helps local nonprofits thrive, and the turnout was one of the best we’ve seen.
On October 2nd, the City took home first-place recognition at the California Association of Public Information Officials (CAPIO) annual STAR awards for a video covering the Vallejo Fire Department Multi-Agency Training from earlier this year. You can read more about it in the following pages.
Looking ahead, Monday, October 13th, marks Indigenous Peoples’ Day. I hope you enjoy the long
weekend with your loved ones. Please note that City Hall will be closed in observance.
Also beginning Monday, Caltrans will launch the first phase of the State Route 29 Rehabilitation and Complete Street Project. Expect overnight lane closures from 8 p.m. to 6 a.m. between Mini Drive and Missouri Street through November 21st. While the work may be disruptive, the improvements will enhance safety and accessibility for all.
Just a quick reminder that City Hall’s new hours are now 8:30 a.m. to 5:00 p.m., Monday through Thursday, and on alternating Fridays—starting this Friday, October 10. We’re excited to roll out this new schedule and would love to hear your thoughts on how it’s working for you.
Finally, don’t miss the Downtown Vallejo Art Walk tomorrow, which will feature a special Indigenous Peoples’ celebration. And on Saturday, the NAACP will host a community block party—more details are in the pages ahead.
Thank you for staying engaged and being part of Vallejo’s story.
With appreciation, Andrew Murray Vallejo City Manager
In this issue
NAACP Holds Community Block Party Page 6
FY 2025-2026 Approved Budget
Construction Begins On SR 29 Page 8
Spotlight on Excellence Page 11
Vallejo’s Annual Budget Is Out Page 13
Vallejo Honors Its Water Team Page 16
Scenes From Vallejo Fest Page 20
EJ4Vallejo Page 23
Vallejo Gets Out Page 24
Cover Photo: Vallejo’s Community gather for National Night Out Credit: Robert Briseño
Vallejo Weekly 3
Connect to
Vallejo City Hall will be closed on Monday October 13th
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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
Vallejo Weekly
Traffic Alert!
Caltrans is scheduled to start construction on the Rehabilitation and Complete Street Project on State Route 29 (Sonoma Boulevard) next week.
This work is scheduled to begin Monday, Oct. 13, from the Napa/Solano County line at Mini Drive and span the 6 miles to Cal Poly Maritime Academy. From Oct. 13 to Nov. 21, work is scheduled from 8 p.m. until 6 a.m. each night. During this time initial work will begin between Napa/Solano County line at Mini Drive to Missouri Street.
All work depends on the weather. The project is estimated to be completed in the Fall of 2026. This project will consist of the deconstruction of the current medians and curbs.
The construction activities may be noisy and create dust at times, as work will be done by jackhammering and other construction equipment.
This project will require a lane closure with one lane open for motorists and traffic control in place. Daytime access is expected to be available for motorists. While construction is occurring, there will be a CHP presence in place. More updates will be provided and the project continues. You can follow the project here: https://dot.ca.gov/caltrans-near-me/district-4/ d4-projects/d4-sr29-vallejo
October 18 - Help Restore Habitat at Benicia State Park!
Details:
Join the Vallejo Watershed Alliance on Saturday, October 18, 2025, from 9:00 to 11:30 AM for a special habitat enhancement workday at Glen Cove! We're teaming up with the Solano RCD and the Yocha Dehe Wintun Nation to plant acorns and spread mulch in the Vallejo side of Benicia State Park and we need your help!
What to Bring:
Wear layered, comfortable clothing, sturdy closed-toe shoes, a hat, sunscreen, and gloves We’ll provide water, refreshments, and tools
Where to Meet:
Look for our registration desk across from 980/988 S Regatta Dr (just find the big purple house!) �� Click here for map coordinates
Important Parking Information:
Park only on the housing side of S Regatta no parking allowed on the water side
RSVP Today!
Email info@VallejoWatershedAlliance org or call 707-652-7812 with questions
All volunteers are required to have a waiver on file Volunteers under 18 years of age will need a waiver signed by a parent or guardian
Let’s make a difference together we hope to see you there!
Vallejo
Chia
American Pit bull Terrier mix, Black with white, 4.5 yo, 53 pounds, $250 adoption fee
A total heart-stealer with a nose for adventure and a love for the simple things in life. Happiest when she’s out exploring the world - she LOVES to sniff everything in
Dewey
Short Hair, Grey tabby, 5 mo, 4.5 pounds, $225 adoption fee
Striking yellow eyes, charming, confident, calm, affectionate, and completely unbothered by new people. Happy to be carried, cuddled, or simply admired. Loves the company of other kittens (including his brother Louie!) and is always curious about whatever you’re doing.
Spotlight on Excellence: City of Vallejo Wins Statewide Video Award
We’re proud to share that the City of Vallejo was recently honored for exceptional video work at the California Association of Public Information Officials (CAPIO) STAR Awards, held on October 2 in Long Beach.
Vallejo took home 1st place in the Social Media Short Form – Over 60 Seconds category for a powerful video capturing the Vallejo Fire Department’s Multi-Agency Training earlier this year. This award recognizes excellence in government video production across more than 40 categories statewide.
Manny Angel was the director, videographer, and editor for the video. While many of you know Manny from his work at City Council and other public meetings, much of his creative work happens quietly behind the scenes. His talent, dedication, and storytelling skills help bring the City’s work to life and connect our community in meaningful ways.
We’re incredibly fortunate to have Manny on the team. Congratulations on this welldeserved recognition!
To see this award-winning video, please the City of Vallejo’s YouTube Channel. https:// www.youtube.com/watch?v=2JGk3G5zfyE
Vallejo Weekly
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!
Review the full list of current openings here: https://www. myvallejo.com/vallejo-seeksapplicants-for-its-boardscommissions-and-committees
The application period will remain open until 5 p.m., Monday, October 20, 2025.
MONDAY, OCT. 20
WEDNESDAY, OCT. 29
Vallejo’s 2025–2026 Budget Is Here — Let’s Talk About
The City of Vallejo has officially released its final adopted budget for 2025–2026, and now it’s your turn to dive in, explore the details, and make your voice heard.
This budget isn’t just numbers on a page — it’s a roadmap for how Vallejo will invest in public safety, infrastructure, community programs, economic development, and more over the next year. Whether you’re passionate about the roads, public services, or neighborhood improvements, this is your opportunity to see how the city plans to prioritize and spend.
View the full budget here: https://www. cityofvallejo.net/common/pages/GetFile. ashx?key=bpJAAdFs
Got thoughts? The City wants to hear from YOU. Share your feedback, ask questions, and be part of the conversation that shapes Vallejo’s future. Let’s build a stronger, more transparent, and more connected Vallejo — together.
Communications
Police
Police
Police
Police
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.
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!!! COMMUNITY! 10,000. 9,000. 8,000. 7,000. 6,000. 5,000. 4,000. 3,000. 2,000. 1,000. To Help
Vallejo Honors the People Who Keep Water Flowing
Long before Vallejoans wake up each morning, the City’s water professionals are already at work. Lights glow in the treatment plant control rooms where highly trained and certified treatment plant operators check their instrumentation screens and adjust flows. In the field, crews roll out before dawn to repair leaks, and pump stations, and keep the city’s 600 miles of pipe humming quietly beneath our streets. Their work is rarely seen, but it’s felt every time someone turns on the tap or opens a hydrant.
During California Water Professionals Appreciation Week (October 4 - 12), the City of Vallejo is proud to recognize the nearly 100 employees whose dedication ensures safe, clean drinking water reaches every home, school, and business, every hour of every day. They are the distribution crews repairing leaks in the rain, laboratory staff who test samples seven days a week, the treatment operators who never let the system sleep.
Vallejo’s water system is one of the most complex in the region. Water travels the hundreds of miles of the Sacramento River, over forty miles from Lake Berryessa and through large transmission lines, into water treatment plants and a network of 26 tanks and reservoirs, 17 pump stations, seven dams, and 19 pressure zones before arriving at your faucet and at the fire hydrant in the street. Along the way, it undergoes rigorous treatment, monitoring, and testing to meet some of the highest water quality standards in the nation.
The City’s recognition highlights the essential role these professionals play in protecting public health, supporting local businesses, and sustaining the infrastructure that makes daily life possible. Behind every glass of water is a team of engineers, treatment operators, water distribution technicians, laboratory staff, instrumentation and mechanical specialists, water resources and financial experts, warehouse staff, and administrative and management professionals. As a team, their skill and commitment keep Vallejo’s drinking water system running 24/7/365.
Just imagine a day without water. From the first moment we wake up to the last light at night, water quietly sustains our lives. Vallejo’s water professionals are the heart of this service: people with deep technical expertise, steady hands, and a profound sense of responsibility to the community we serve. We honor them this week, but their work matters every single day.
As Water Professionals Appreciation Week continues, the City invites residents to take a moment to think about the people behind the scenes: those who make sure Vallejo’s clean, safe, and tasty water is always there when you need it.
A Special Appreciation for Your Community Efforts
Together, we removed over 4,100 pounds of garbage. We are grateful for your hard work and dedication during the annual clean-up. Together, we can protect our beautiful coastlines. Thank You for Making Our Coastline Cleaner!
Vallejo
Vallejo Fest Brings the Waterfront to Life
This year’s Vallejo Fest, the latest evolution of Waterfront Weekend, was a vibrant celebration of community spirit, and it did not disappoint. With perfect weather and a near-record crowd on Saturday, the waterfront came alive with energy and excitement.
Festivalgoers enjoyed a full lineup of activities, including live music, dynamic performances, whale boat races, and both dog and car shows. One of the biggest crowd-pleasers? The nowlegendary Splash Chair, where local officials and city staff took turns getting splashed. Proving they can keep their cool under Vallejo’s October sun and help raise money for the community. From start to finish, Vallejo Fest was a powerful reminder of what makes our city special: community, creativity, and a whole lot of heart. You can learn more about the event, if you missed it, here: https://www. vallejowaterfrontweekend.com/
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.
Learn about MEHKOs!
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
Introducing EJ4Vallejo: A New Chapter in Environmental Justice
A powerful new community-driven initiative — EJ4Vallejo — was officially launched Wednesday evening, October 1, at the Norman C. King South Vallejo Community Center in District 6. The event, hosted by Fresh Air Vallejo, brought together residents, advocates, and city leaders to kick off a movement centered on environmental justice and community empowerment.
District 6 Councilwoman Helen-Marie Gordon was in attendance to show her strong support for the initiative, which represents a growing partnership between the City of Vallejo and Fresh Air Vallejo.
So, what is EJ4Vallejo all about?
This initiative is designed to amplify community voices by hosting local meetings, gathering personal stories, and collecting data that reflects the lived experiences of Vallejo residents. The goal? To ensure that future land use decisions and climate resiliency strategies are shaped by the people who call Vallejo home.
By putting residents at the center of the conversation, EJ4Vallejo is paving the way for more inclusive, equitable, and sustainable solutions to the environmental challenges facing our city.
Stay tuned for upcoming community meetings and opportunities to get involved — because your voice matters in building a healthier, more resilient Vallejo.
Vallejo Weekly
Vallejo Shines Bright on National Night Out!
Vallejo showed up for this year’s National Night Out, and what a great night it was!
A heartfelt THANK YOU goes out to the Vallejo Police Department for organizing such a vibrant and meaningful event. We also extend our deepest appreciation to all the groups and people that helped: the Vallejo Fire Department, Code Enforcement, IHart, Medic Ambulance, dedicated City of Vallejo staff, and most importantly the amazing community members who came together to make the night unforgettable.
From building stronger neighborhood connections to promoting safety and awareness, the evening was filled with unity, pride, and purpose. It was a powerful reminder of what we can accomplish when we come together.
Let’s keep that momentum going!
Want to be part of the movement? Join the Vallejo Police Department’s Neighborhood Watch Program and help build a stronger, safer Vallejo, one block at a time.
Get involved today
https://www.vallejopd.net/community/boards_ programs/neighborhood_watch
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
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
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