VALLEJO WEEKLY
Hello Vallejo
As October wraps up, Halloween is this Friday, bringing with it plenty of fun for families across the city. From neighborhood trick-or-treating to community events, there’s something for everyone to enjoy. One highlight is GVRD’s annual “Nightmare on Glenn Street” at Children’s Wonderland, a festive and safe celebration for kids of all ages. Several trunk-or-treat events are also happening throughout Vallejo, offering even more opportunities to get into the Halloween spirit. As always, please be mindful of little ones out and about on Friday evening. Let’s all help ensure a safe and enjoyable night for everyone.
Looking ahead, Vallejo’s Festival Día de Muertos returns to the downtown on Saturday, November 1, from 2 to 8 p.m. This beloved event brings together families and neighbors to honor tradition with music, food, art, and community. It’s a wonderful way to celebrate culture and family, and we encourage everyone to come out and take part.
MESSAGE FROM THE CITY MANAGER
ANDREW’S ANNOUNCEMENTS A
Saturday night also marks the end of DaylightSaving Time. Don’t forget to set your clocks back one hour, and enjoy the extra hour of sleep! Please also use extra caution on the roads, as studies show an increase in traffic accidents during the first week following the time change.
November also brings a special election here in California. Polls open on Tuesday, November 4, and we encourage all eligible residents to make their voices heard.
As we enter the final stretch of the year, we have just eight more editions of The Weekly left in 2025. It’s been a full and eventful year, and the holiday season promises even more to look forward to. Thank you for staying connected, and we hope to see you out enjoying all that Vallejo has to offer.
With Appreciation
Andrew Murray City Manager
Cover Photo: A spooky spider web on the Mare Island Bridge Credit: Robert Briseño
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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
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Mare Island Bridge Upgrade Project – Traffic Update
The Mare Island bridge will undergo a temporary full closure for two days as part of this upgrade project. THESE ARE NEW DATES DUE TO THE RECENT RAIN
Wednesday, Nov 5th, and Thursday, Nov 6th, 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 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
GET READY TO VOTE!
C a l i f o r n i a S t a t e w i d e S p e c i a l E l e c t i o n
N o v e m b e r 4 , 2 0 2 5
K e y V o t e r R e s o u r c e s
R e g i s t e r t o V o t e
r e g i s t e r t o v o t e . c a . g o v
T r a c k Y o u r B a l l o t
c a l i f o r n i a . b a l l o t t r a x . n e t / v o t e r
V o t e r I n f o r m a t i o n G u i d e
v o t e r g u i d e . s o s . c a . g o v
K e y D a t e s
V i e w t h e E l e c t i o n C a l e n d a r
K n o w Y o u r R i g h t s
V o t e r B i l l o f R i g h t s
G u i d e t o V o t i n g i n C A
D o w n l o a d t h e G u i d e
D o n ’ t M i s s I t !
Y o u r v o t e m a t t e r s . M a k e i t c o u n t .
N o v e m b e r 4 , 2 0 2 5
R e q u e s t a V o t e r E d u c a t i o n T o o l k i t :
UPCOMING EVENTS
EXPERIENCE EXPERIENCE
E x p e r i e n c e t h i s 6 - m o n t h p r o g r a m
L e a r n a b o u t V a l l e j o ’ s P a s t , P r e s e n t , a n d f u t u r e
F o o d a n d F u n A c t i v i t i e s
The Vallejo Police Department (VPD) has released a publicly available Transparency Progress Report, covering the first year of reform implementation under the Settlement Agreement with the California Department of Justice (DOJ). This report seeks to provide the community with a snapshot of the progress the department is making in its reform efforts and the commitment to future work in the coming years. The progress tracker will be updated regularly or when there are significant developments in substantial compliance being granted. The Transparency Progress Report can be accessed at Vallejopd.net.
City of Vallejo’s Settlement Agreement Evaluator recently released a Year-1 Status Report. The report covered the period from April 8, 2024, to June 30, 2025, and provides a comprehensive assessment of progress, accomplishments, and areas requiring additional focus as Year1 reform works comes to a conclusion. The Evaluator’s Status Report can be accessed at www.Vallejomonitor.com.
Chief Jason Ta reaffirmed the department’s commitment:
“The Vallejo Police Department continues to recognize the importance of this reform work. We are dedicated to meeting the requirements of the Settlement Agreement and enhancing accountability and trust within our community. While challenges remain, this first year reflects progress and our commitment to seeing the reforms through to completion.”
Vallejo Seniors Celebrate Wellness at Florence Douglas Health Fair
On October 18th, the Florence Douglas Senior Center buzzed with energy as local seniors gathered for a vibrant Health Fair. The event offered free health screenings, wellness resources, and plenty of community connection. With smiles, laughter, and a shared focus on healthy living, Vallejo’s seniors turned out in full force—proving that taking care of yourself never goes out of style.
Working Safely in Challenging Environments
A Peek into Vallejo Water’s Facility Training
Every day, the Vallejo Water Department’s Facilities crews step into some of the most hazardous environments in public service, all to ensure the community has safe, clean drinking water on demand. From confined spaces and electrical hazards to chemical handling and emergency repairs, these jobs require constant vigilance and specialized training.
Training for the Unexpected
Facilities staff recently participated in confinedspace entry and rescue training, which spanned several days and included complex rope system setups, high-angle rope exercises, and practice to be prepared for realistic scenarios.
“The training is vital for our crews to be safe when making entry into confined spaces such as sedimentation basins, underground structures, and utility vaults,” said Terry Duncan, Vallejo Water Facilities Superintendent. “The crew also practiced rescue operations in case there is ever a situation where a fellow staff member enters a hazardous environment and is unable to selfrescue and exit.”
Hazards in the Field
The training reflects the real dangers Facilities staff face on a near-daily basis. Common risks include both oxygen-deficient and oxygenrich atmospheres inside confined spaces, high-voltage electrical equipment, chemical exposure, and heavy machinery.
“Facilities staff encounter these hazardous conditions when responding to power outages and equipment faults. We also maintain and troubleshoot chemical-handling equipment and all other water distribution and treatment processes,” Duncan explained.
A Culture of Safety
Despite the hazards, the Vallejo Water
Department emphasizes a culture where safety always comes first. Crews are trained to take a team-based approach, with everyone empowered to speak up if something doesn’t look safe. “In our line of work, safety is paramount,” said Duncan. “Safety is everybody’s responsibility and number one priority.”
That mindset, mixed with frequent training, helps prevent accidents before they happen. “We haven’t had any major accidents or incidents involving staff,” Duncan noted. “I feel this is in part due to a high level of training. Recurring training and situational awareness are key factors to ensure we all do our jobs safely and efficiently.”
Protecting the Public
Ultimately, the Water Department’s safety practices are not just about protecting staff; they’re about ensuring reliable water service to Vallejo residents.
“I don’t believe the average citizen knows all the hazards associated with the treatment and distribution of water,” Duncan said. “I would just like our community to know our crews work hard every day to make sure when the taps turn on, water is available 24/7/365. We serve our community with great pride, and it is our pleasure to serve.”
Why They Do It
For Duncan, the risks of the job are outweighed by the mission. “In my humble opinion, the rewards of being a public servant far outweigh the hazards,” he said. “It’s a great feeling to provide a necessary service to the public, and when we complete our daily jobs safely, it is that much more rewarding.”
Water Director Beth Schoenberger echoed that sentiment. “Our crews face tough conditions that most people never see, and they do it with professionalism and pride. Trainings like these help keep everyone safe and ensure we can keep providing the clean water Vallejo depends on. I’m incredibly proud of the care and skill our staff bring to this essential public service.”
Clean water may seem effortless as it flows from the faucet, but it depends on trained crews who face dangerous conditions every day with skill, vigilance, and care.
PETS of the week
Dude
Domestic Short Hair, gray and white, M, 5 mo, 4 lbs, $225 adoption fee
A playful, confident kitten who loves toys, wrestling with his brothers, and being around people. Affectionate and catfriendly, he’s seeking a patient forever home to share his energy, charm, and sweet, cuddly nature.
Nonna
Pit bull mix, gray and white, F, 3 yo, 63 lbs, $275 adoption fee
Nonna lives for love, not toys. She adores cuddles, walks beautifully on leash, and thrives on companionship. Loyal and affectionate, she prefers to be your one-and-only princess, offering all the love and devotion you’ll ever need.
The Metropolitan Transportation Commission (MTC) and the Association of Bay Area Governments (ABAG) have released the Draft Plan Bay Area 2050+ a long-range plan to guide growth, housing, transportation, and sustainability across the region’s nine counties
What’s Inside the Plan:
35 strategies for a more affordable, connected, and resilient Bay Area
A bold new vision for the region’s public transit through Transit 2050+
Policies to support housing, climate resilience, and vibrant communities
Learn more and share your input! Visit planbayarea.org/draftplan for full event details, Zoom links, and meeting times.
Planning an Event in Vallejo?
a permit for that, especially
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
Philippine Consulate Joins Vallejo
Sister Cities Celebration
The Philippine Consulate General in San Francisco supported the Vallejo Sister City Association’s 19th Annual International Dinner and Auction on September 27, 2025, at the Filipino Community Center. The event highlighted the 57th anniversary of Vallejo’s sister city relationship with Akashi, Japan.
Deputy Consul General Maria Paz G. Cortes, Consul Marc Benigno, and Cultural Officer Anne Maris Estoya represented the Consulate, commending the Association’s efforts in promoting global friendship with its seven sister cities and three friendship cities.
Other dignitaries included Consul Kuroiwa Takumi of Japan, Sister City Commissioner Elissa Shanks Stewart, and Vallejo Councilmember Helen-Marie Gordon. Proceeds will support cultural exchanges and humanitarian projects.
CalTrans Traffic Alerts
Night Lane Closure, One-Way Traffic Control for Eastbound State Route 37 (SR-37) Paving Project in Sonoma County
Work scheduled to start Monday, Oct. 27 from 9 p.m. to 5 a.m. each night.
Caltrans has scheduled paving work that will require a lane reduction and one-way traffic control on Eastbound State Route 37 (SR-37) just west of the Sonoma Creek Bridge.
One-way traffic control, with a pilot vehicle, will be using the eastbound lane of travel to lead traffic. Work is scheduled to begin the night of Monday, Oct. 27. Working hours are between 9 p.m. and 5 a.m. the next mornings. There is tentative work scheduled the week of Monday, Nov. 3 during the same hours.
Work is expected to last about five days. All construction is limited to overnight hours in the area.
Construction includes grinding and paving the existing area near between Nobel Road and Skaggs Island Road. No on- or off-ramps on SR-37 are expected to be closed during construction.
A separate paving project on Westbound SR-37 began on Wednesday, Oct. 15 and will continue into the week of Monday, Oct. 20. Hours also are 9 p.m. to 5 a.m. the next mornings for that work.
Please drive with caution. Slow for the Cone Zone and Be Work Zone Alert. Caltrans thanks motorists for their patience while we work to maintain our state›s highways, bridges, and tunnels.
Caltrans has started construction on the Rehabilitation and Complete Street Project on State Route 29 (Sonoma Boulevard).
This work began on Thursday, Oct 16, 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-sr29vallejo
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!
FREE NEIGHBORHOOD DUMPSTER PROGRAM*
Celebrating Art and Advocacy in Vallejo
Fighting Back Partnership extends heartfelt thanks to Mayor Sorce for attending the Vallejo Alumnae Chapter of Delta Sigma Theta’s Artists Showcase, joined by youth from Elevate Youth Solano and the Willie B. Adkins Program. Special appreciation also goes to Jesse Bethel Principal Rasheena Bell-Fesseha and Kaiser’s Ellsa Flores for their support. The event honored local artists who use their creativity to inspire, empower, and drive positive change in Vallejo. Thank you to all who continue to champion our youth, our artists, and the transformative power of art in community advocacy.
Ages 18 and under ride free on all Local & Express Buses.
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.
San Francisco Bay Regional Water Quality Control Board
Notice of Intent to Issue a No Further Action Letter La Clinica, Vallejo, Vallejo County GeoTracker ID: T10000021378
The subject Source Property is under the regulatory oversight of the San Francisco Bay Regional Water Quality Control Board (Regional Water Board) for the investigation and cleanup of a petroleum release from an underground storage tank (UST). Based on the site-specific information and data available in GeoTracker, we conclude that this case meets all the criteria of the State Water Board’s August 17, 2012, Low-Threat Underground Storage Tank Case Closure Policy which can be found at the following web address: https://www.waterboards.ca.gov/board_decisions/adopted_orders/resolutions/2012/rs20 12_0016atta.pdf
This notice is sent to the current property owner and interested parties, in compliance with Health and Safety Code Section 25296.20. Please contact the case manager listed below if you have comments or questions on the proposed case closure. The Regional Water Board staff will respond to all comments received by January 9, 2026. Please be aware that comments received after this date will not be considered.
Reports and other information about the case can be found on the State Water Board’s GeoTracker website, under the Site Maps/Documents tab, at: https://geotracker.waterboards.ca.gov/profile_report.asp?global_id=T10000021378
If you have any comments or questions, please contact Demir Worthington at (510) 622-2437 or Demir.Worthington@waterboards.ca.gov
Copy sent via U.S. Mail: Addresses located within a 200-foot radius of Source Property
VALLEJO HOUSING AUTHORITY
ON TUESDAYS AND THURSDAYS 8:00 AM - 12:00 PM
Starting October 28, 2025, 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
Healthy Vallejo: Advancing Community
Wellness Through Collaboration
Over the past month, Healthy Vallejo has continued its vital work to improve community wellness and neighborhood environments as a key partner in the City of Vallejo’s Prop 64 Resilience Network.
This month’s efforts included ongoing community cleanups and beautification projects at key sites, including Redwood and Valle Vista, transforming spaces into cleaner, safer, and more welcoming environments. These cleanups were supported through collaboration with City of Vallejo Public Works and a growing network of community volunteers.
Vallejo resident Jan Hogue had this to say about Healthy Vallejo; “from the bottom of my heart I thank you for understanding my plight by helping me; you’ll never know how very much I appreciate all this.”
Healthy Vallejo also played an active role in strengthening partnerships across the Resilience Network by coordinating cleanup logistics, providing outreach support, and connecting residents to local wellness resources. Through its commitment to collaboration, prevention, and community care, Healthy Vallejo continues to demonstrate how collective action can create lasting, visible change across Vallejo.
For more information about the Resilience Network and partner initiatives, visit https://www.clubstride.org/resilience
S I G N U P N
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
911 Crisis Response
von Williamson, Program Manager (707) 648-4502 : (323) 761-4071
Handling non-violent, low-level emergency calls 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
(707) 917-411
(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
support, restorative justice, & after-school initiative
