VALLEJO WEEKLY
Hello Vallejo
ANDREW’S ANNOUNCEMENTS
A MESSAGE FROM THE CITY MANAGER
November has arrived, bringing with it shorter days, cooler weather, and the unmistakable feeling that the year is winding down. While the rain has dampened the ground, it hasn’t dampened the spirit of our community one bit.
This past weekend, Vallejo was alive with the colors and traditions of Halloween and Día de Muertos. One standout event was the 2nd annual “Treat Yourself” event on November 5th, hosted by Catholic Charities in partnership with SolTrans, the City of Vallejo, and a coalition of local organizations. Despite the rain, volunteers showed up in full force to provide essential services to our unhoused neighbors. Everything from warm meals and groceries to clothing, showers, and support services. It was a powerful reminder of what we can accomplish when we come together. Looking ahead, Veterans Day is Tuesday, November 11th, and community will gather in unity to honor those who have served, and continue to serve, our country. Ceremonies will be held on Mare Island and behind City Hall, and we encourage everyone to attend and show their appreciation.
While the season brings celebration, we also recognize the challenges many are facing. The ongoing federal government shutdown has had a real and painful impact on Vallejo residents. Delays and reductions in CalFresh/SNAP benefits have placed a heavy burden on families, especially the nearly 20,000 Vallejoans who rely on these services, including thousands of children. In response, we’ve created a dedicated resource page on our website to help connect those in need with support and information during this difficult time.
You’ll find more details about Veterans Day events, community resources, and other updates in this week’s edition of The Weekly. As always, City staff will continue to keep you informed as new information becomes available.
Thank you for being part of what makes Vallejo strong.
With Appreciation
Andrew Murray City Manager
Veterans Day Events - 6
VFD Recruit Academy Honors Fallen Hero – 9
Food Resources – 11
Dia de Muertos – 12
Treat Yourself – 16
Youth Delegation Recognized – 19
PG&E Boat Launch Site update – 22
Building Community - 25 6
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Cover Photo: Folklórico dancers from Vallejo Día de Muertos event on Nov 1st Photo 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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VETERANS DAY
167 O’Hara Court
3 Capitol Street 9:00 AM 11:00 AM
For both events, the Vallejo Public Works will provide chairs, Tom Bartee will sing the National Anthem, US Navy Veteran Kari Lacy will play TAPS, and City of Vallejo Mayor Andrea Sorce will give the welcoming remarks. Proxies for US Representative John Garamendi and CA Senator Christopher Cabaldon will also read letters.
MEHKO KITCHEN WORKSHOP
Vallejo Fire Department Recruit Academy Honors Fallen Public Safety Hero
The 25-1 Vallejo Fire Department Recruit Academy began on October 20th with five fresh, aspiring firefighters, eager to serve Vallejo! As part of a newly created tradition, class 25-1 will routinely dedicate morning workouts to public safety personnel who have been lost in the line of duty. On Friday, October 24th, the class performed a “HERO WOD” (Work-Out Of The Day) in honor of Vacaville Police Officer Matthew Bowen, who was tragically killed in the line of duty on July 11, 2024.
The recruits gave their all during this workout to pay tribute to Officer Bowen’s service, dedication, and sacrifice. As first responders, our recruits stand united in honoring the men and women who have made the ultimate sacrifice while protecting and serving their communities.
These Hero WODs will serve as a meaningful reminder of the courage, strength, and commitment shared across all who wear the badge and uniform.
Our thoughts remain with the Bowen family, the Vacaville Police Department, and all who were impacted by this loss.
Rest in peace, Officer Matthew Bowen (M3). Your legacy of courage and commitment will never be forgotten.
COMMUNITY UPDATE MEETING
Día de Muer tos
Vallejo came alive on Saturday, November 1st, as the community gathered to celebrate Día de Muertos in vibrant style! Hundreds of people filled the streets, enjoying an unforgettable afternoon filled with lively music, colorful dancing, delicious food, and heartfelt traditions. The spirit of the day was felt in every smile, every step, and every shared moment of remembrance and joy.
EXPERIENCE EXPERIENCE
Water Engineering Manager - Closing Date 11/10/2025
Senior Water Treatment Plant Operator - Closing Date 11/24/2025
Communications Operator I - Closing Date 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 Click
Community Comes Together for 2nd Annual “Treat Yourself” Event
On November 5, Catholic Charities, in partnership with SolTrans, the City of Vallejo, and over a dozen local organizations, hosted the second annual “Treat Yourself” event—bringing vital resources to Vallejo’s homeless community.
Despite a bit of rain, the event at the Vallejo Transit Station parking lot was a heartwarming success. Attendees received hot meals, groceries, clean clothing, and access to essential services. Thanks to generous support, thousands of dollars were raised to help make a meaningful impact.
CalTrans Traffic Alerts
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-nearme/district-4/d4-projects/d4-sr29-vallejo
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.
Vallejo Youth Delegation Recognized
On Tuesday, November 4th, youth members of the Vallejo Youth Delegation were recognized in front of the Vallejo City Council and the community. The City of Vallejo, in partnership with the Vallejo City Unified School District (VCUSD), is co-sponsoring the Vallejo Youth Delegation trip for students to gain valuable leadership skills and civic education by attending the National League of Cities City Summit Conference in Salt Lake City, Utah on November 18th, 2025, through November 21st, 2025 . Students introduced themselves and shared what they are excited for on the trip. Through the 2x2 Committee, the City and VCUSD have established partnerships on several projects including the Vallejo Youth Delegation. The 8-student delegation was selected from applicants from Vallejo, John Finney, and Jesse Bethel High Schools through an application, evaluation, and scoring panel process involving school staff, City staff, and both City Council and School Board members of the 2x2 Committee. Spots on the delegation are also reserved for the VCUSD Student Trustees. This will be the sixth Vallejo Youth Delegation Trip with a total of 45 students serving as youth delegates and representing Vallejo over the course of the program. Students will provide City Council with a presentation on outcomes and highlights of the trip upon return.
2025 Vallejo Youth Delegation Students
• Zirva Irshad, Vallejo HS
• Renee-Elise Meneses, Jesse Bethel HS
• Kwamé King, John Finney HS
• Hector Tinocoplancarte, Vallejo HS
• Ibrahim Edais, Vallejo HS
• Zanyah Deleon, John Finney HS, Student Trustee
• Beroj Arbab, Jesse Bethel HS, Student Trustee
• Sonia Valdez, Vallejo HS, Student Trustee
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.
Vallejo Flood and Wastewater District is launching a new Five-Year Strategic Plan and we want to hear from you!
https://engageberrydunn mysocialpinpoint com/vallejo-floodand-wastewater-district
�� Get involved:
Take our survey
Post a note on our community ideas board Your input will help guide our priorities and investments for the next five years
HSNB is offering the following adoption fee discounts for black and black-andwhite cats:
6 months or older: $25 off per cat
Less than 6 months: $50 off per cat
We also offer a $50 off pair discount when adopting any pair of cats!
Don’t delay! Fill out an adoption interest application on our HSNB website to schedule your meet-and-greet: https://www.hsnb.org/cat-adoption-application
Didn’t get a confirmation email? Give us a meow at cat-adoptions@hsnb.org
FREE NEIGHBORHOOD DUMPSTER PROGRAM*
Planning an Event in Vallejo?
Pacific Gas and Electric Company
Former Vallejo MGP
Boat Launch Parking Lot Restoration Project Weekly Report 10/31/25
PG&E provides this update on restoration work occurring in the boat launch parking lot that is part of a larger 26-acre 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 10/27/25 to 10/31/25
• Conducted various site preparation/setup activities to support the remaining restoration work
• Prepared for the construction of the new restroom building, including installing below ground utility connections and re-grading and compacting below ground clean soil.
Upcoming Work
• Installing restroom building concrete foundation, including footings and concrete pad.
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 late December 2025 or January 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.
If you need additional information, please contact the
Photo Log
Worker excavates a portion of the restroom foundation pad area.
Workers install wind screening along the site fence
The Mira is available to rent. Plan your next event or show at the Mira today!
VALLEJO HOUSING AUTHORITY
Thank you for your patience and understanding.
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.”
Building Community, Building Prevention: Vallejo Youth Lead the Way
Through the City of Vallejo’s Proposition 64 Resilience Network, Club Stride and partners are uniting youth voice, data, and collaboration to strengthen community health and resilience.
Over the past several months, Club Stride, Inc. has advanced the City of Vallejo’s Proposition 64 Youth Prevention & Opportunity initiative by linking youth engagement to measurable community outcomes. Across Vallejo schools, dozens of students have participated in interactive workshops exploring healthy decision-making, communication, goal setting, and civic leadership. Early results are promising: 88 percent of participants completed feedback surveys, and most reported increased confidence, connection, and readiness to lead within their school and neighborhood. Grounded in a prevention framework that addresses the social determinants of health, Club Stride’s approach aligns with SAMHSA’s Strategic Prevention Framework, emphasizing collaboration, equity, and community capacity. By using community building as a core prevention strategy, Club Stride and its partners—the City of Vallejo, Healthy Vallejo, and the Center for Urban Excellence—strengthen protective factors such as belonging, connection, and opportunity. Together, they are transforming prevention into a shared community movement.
“When youth see themselves as part of the solution, prevention becomes a way of life.” — Dr. Rhonda Renfro, Founder & CEO, Club Stride Inc.
To date, Club Stride has engaged youth primarily through on-campus workshops. This fall, Club Stride is planning to expand participation through planned community and school-based prevention events. In addition, the organization wants to onboard at least two youth interns to support data collection, media, and outreach. These efforts will deepen youth leadership while helping partners capture the broader story of Vallejo’s resilience in action.
In addition to high-school workshops, Club Stride will begin engaging middle school youth and parents in prevention activities this fall, extending its community-building approach across generations and strengthening protective factors at home and school.
In Vallejo, prevention isn’t just a program—it’s a partnership rooted in people, place, and purpose.
For more information about the Resilience Network and partner initiatives, visit https://www.clubstride.org/resilience
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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
