Vallejo Weekly | Vol 14 | Issue 1

VALLEJO WEEKLY VOL 14 ISSUE 1

JANUARY 1 2026

ANDREW’S ANNOUNCEMENTS A MESSAGE FROM THE CITY MANAGER

Hello Vallejo As we welcome the New Year, I’m excited about the progress our community is making and the direction we’re heading together.

Two long-awaited supportive housing projects are now online and already making a positive impact. Combined with recent encampment cleanups, these efforts are addressing a critical area of concern for many residents.

Public safety remains a top priority.

Initiatives such as portable security camera towers, private security patrols, sideshow deterrents at key intersections, and our new speed table program are helping to create safer streets. Recruitment programs for both fire and police have strengthened staffing levels, and our new partnership with the Solano County Sheriff’s Department will further improve response times citywide.

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On the infrastructure front, Public Works has made significant strides in improving road conditions. Preparations for major repair projects are underway, and residents will see more of these improvements in the months ahead. Thanks to Measure P, we can continue addressing road repairs proactively. In addition, Caltrans is leading a full rehabilitation of Sonoma Blvd/Hwy 29, which will include repaving, upgraded sidewalks and medians, enhanced safety features, and new landscaping.

The staff and I look forward to building on this momentum in 2026 and continuing our work to enhance the quality of life for everyone in Vallejo.

With Appreciation Andrew Murray City Manager

In this issue

Vallejo Celebrates Kwanzaa- 8 Need to Recycle your Christmas Tree- 11 Vallejo Invests in their Roads- 12 SolTrans Service Changes- 13 Reading your Water Bill - 18

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MY Vallejo Subscribe Vallejo Weekly Vallejo

Every 2nd Friday Month from 5 to 9 PM In downtown Vallejo 4

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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 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

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.

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saturday, JANUARY 31 and sunday, FEBRUARY 1, 2026 10am til 4pm ~ bldg 69, mare island

ADVENTURE AND INSPIRATION AWAIT! scan for up-to-date info on hikes and the event on our site

wingedmigrationexpo.com FOLLOW US ON SOCIAL @TheEverWonderVallejo @wingedmigrationexpo 6

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JANUARY 22, 2026 6:30-7:30PM VIA MICROSOFT TEAMS REGISTER WITH THIS LINK: http://bit.ly/4rUZBA5

Join neighbors and local leaders for a Solano Bayshore Resiliency Project community meeting!

STUDENT STEAM CHALLENGE Build, design, code, draw, sculpt, model, or craft ideas into any format!

Students can explore the incredible journeys of local migratory birds and create a fun STEAM project… with a chance to win prizes!

Learn more in the Winged Migration STEAM Challenge Guide.

Project Due Date: Friday, January 30, 2026, anytime between 2:00pm - 5:00pm.

Projects will be displayed at the Winged Migration Expo Date: January 31, 2026 and February 1, 2026.

Location: Mare Island, Building 69 Award Announcement: February 1, 2026

Students and families are all welcome to join all the Winged Migration Expo activities!

Steph Morgado: (707) 399-4439 or SMorgado@solanocoe.net

Wondering how you can help make a more resilient Suisun City, Benicia, Fairfield, and Vallejo? We want to hear from you! By sharing your ideas, visions, and comments we can work together to help protect our shoreline!

TOGETHER, WE CAN MAKE A DIFFERENCE Click or scan

Learn more: www.bayshoreresiliency.org

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Vallejo Community Celebrates 25 Years of Kwanzaa Tradition

This week, the Vallejo community came together at the Vallejo Naval Museum to celebrate Kwanzaa, marking the 25th anniversary of this cherished event in our city. The celebration was filled with vibrant music, delicious food, and a strong sense of unity.

A special tribute was given in honor of Clinton “Socks” Sockwell, a beloved figure who played a vital role in Vallejo’s Kwanzaa celebrations for many years.

Though he has sadly passed, his contributions and spirit continue to inspire our community.

The evening also recognized several outstanding honorees for their dedication and impact: Mr. Joe Jones, Ms. Narcissa Wilson, Mrs. Ora Clay, Myla J, and Mr. Willie Mitchell.

The event was a beautiful reminder of the values of Kwanzaa, Family, culture, and community, and the importance of keeping traditions alive.

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MAKE EACH PERSON COUNT

PIT COUNT 2026

PIT COUNT 2026

Poetry by the bay

Join us live at the Mira Theatre every 4th Wednesday of the month.

FREE

Make sure that every person is counted.

Participate in the 2026 PIT Count today!

Vallejo Jazz Jam Session

Every 3rd Saturday of the month. A non-competitive environment to explore our jazz standards. $10

The Mira is available to rent. Plan your next event or show at the Mira today!

51 Daniels Ave. Vallejo, California 94590 707.552.0400 https://www.miratheatreguild.org/ 10

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WE’RE LOOKING FOR VOLUNTEERS The PIT count empowers our community to identify housing needs and collaboratively track our progress toward the shared goal of eradicating homelessness.

Point-in-Time Count Date:

JANUARY 29, 2026 All Cities in Solano County

More information can be found at:

www.solano.pointintime.info

(707) 784-6687

Your gift to the Earth...Recycle Christmas trees for mulch & compost!

To arrange for a $7 pick-up call or email the non-profit organization collecting in your area on the following Saturdays: December 27 th, January 3 rd & 10 th. Flocked Trees Accepted for $10.

HIDDENBROOKE

Girl Scout Troop 20067 707-563-1728

christmastreerecycle67@gmail.com

Wotha Dabora 707-655-5472

RED

WOO

D

STRE ET

Venture Crew 222 707-653-0738

silveradoventurecrew222@gmail.com

Wotha Dabora 707-655-5472

FLORIDA STREET

2025

Angels with Heart

707-653-6045 angelswithhearts@yahoo.com

Drop-Off Site:

VALCORE RECYCLING, 38 Sheridan Street, (707) 645-8258. (FREE OF CHARGE) No flocked trees, no tree stands. Friday, December 26th through Thursday, January 22nd. Mon. - Fri. from 8-11AM, 12-3PM; closed 11AM-12PM daily for lunch; closed Saturdays and Sundays.

Curbside Collection:

Cut trees to fit inside your curbside green organics cart. Recology will only pick up trees that fit inside your green cart on your scheduled collection day. Whole trees will NOT be picked up. No flocked trees, no tree stands. Vallejo residents contact Recology Vallejo at (707) 552-3110.

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Vallejo’s Investment to Better Roads

A recent article in the San Francisco Chronicle highlighted road conditions across the Bay Area, naming Vallejo among the cities facing significant challenges. While we recognize these concerns, it’s important to note that the article did not reflect the substantial investment Vallejo has made in roads since the passage of Measure P in 2022.

Thanks to the support of Vallejo residents, Measure P has enabled the City to launch a comprehensive, long-term road improvement strategy. City staff have been working diligently behind the scenes—securing funding, developing project plans, issuing Requests for Proposals (RFPs), and initiating construction efforts.

Two key projects currently underway are a Cape Seal initiative and a Grind and Overlay initiative, both of which will be completed in Spring 2026. The City Council will also consider, in January 2026, a proposal for an additional investment of $11 million for street projects to be implemented in Summer 2026.

Below is a breakdown of Vallejo’s road improvement investments over the past and current fiscal year.

Category

FY 22-23

FY 23-24

FY 24-25

FY25-26

Totals

Capital Outlay

$

298,000

$

536,219

$ 1,039,263

$

988,800

$ 2,862,282

Gas Tax

$

1,836,260

$

1,800,000

$ 3,096,097

$ 2,447,937

$ 9,180,294

Grants

$

2,286,915

$

1,140,010

$

$

350,000

$ 3,776,925

Measure P

$

-

$

5,000,000

$ 10,000,000

Totals

$

4,421,175

$

8,476,229

$ 14,135,360

$ 1,000,000 ( $12,000,000*) $ 4,786,737 ($15,786,737*)

$ 16,000,000 ($27,000,000) $ 31,819,501 ( $42,819,501*)

-

*Total funding amount, including the $11 million City Council will consider in January 2026

These investments will provide visible improvements to our streets.

Vallejo is building a better future. Thank you for your continued support and commitment to our community.

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SERVICE CHANGE Effective Sunday, January 4, 2026: Minor schedule adjustments Improvements to on-time performance on Local and Solano Express

Paper transfers discontinued Use Clipper for discounted transfers to other agencies For updated schedules visit:

SolTrans.org FREE NEIGHBORHOOD DUMPSTER PROGRAM*

DUMPSTER SIZE 18 ft long × 7.5 ft wide × 5 ft tall (25 cubic yards)

DUMPSTER SCHEDULE  Delivery Monday or

The City of Vallejo is offering a Free Neighborhood Dumpster to help residents with exterior clean-up projects. This program is available once a year per block and gives neighbors a chance to work together to clean up their street.

To qualify, five residents from the same block must sign up, and all participants must have current garbage service. Main applicant must own and occupy residence. The dumpsters are for outdoor use only and are issued on a first-come, firstserved basis.

Key Requirements

Friday  Stays for 3–4 days  Early pick-up possible with 24-hr notice by contacting Recology @ (707)552-3110

FOR MORE INFORMATION AND APPLICATION FORM SCAN BELOW

 Must have 1 main applicant and 4 additional neighbors (5 total) from the same block.  Current Recology Vallejo garbage service  Owner-occupied single-family home  Exterior clean-up only – no garage or interior junk allowed.

QUESTIONS? CODE ENFORCEMENT 555 Santa Clara St Vallejo CA 94590 (707)648-4469 Code.enforcement@cityofvallejo.net

*Not available for unincorporated Vallejo, commercial properties, apartment buildings, or mobile home parks.

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Planning an Event in Vallejo?

vallejo’s To music

film

comedy

theatre & more 330 Virginia St, Vallejo, CA 94590 707-552-2400 https://empresstheatre.org/events/ 14

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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

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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

Interested in Joining Our Team?

You might be a great fit!

Assistant Public Works Director - City Engineer - Closing Date 1/5/2026 Public Works Director - Closing Date 1/5/2026 Finance Director - Closing Date 1/11/2026

Click HERE to see all of our current job listings

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PETS of the week Visit HSNB.org for these and other animals looking for their forever family. CRUZ NAMI Domestic Short Hair, grey, M, 8 Mastiff/Rhodesian Ridgeback mo, 6 lbs, $150 adoption fee Open daily by mix, brown brindle, F, 2.5 yo, 82 This playful kitten arrived with lbs, $350 adoption fee appointment, from siblings and loves toys and Once shy, this sweet dog other cats. Curious and sweet, has blossomed into a loving 10:30 am to 4:30 pm he needs a patient forever companion. She enjoys calm where he’ll feel safe, leash walks, observes her 1121 Sonoma Blvd, Vallejo home loved, and gradually reveal his surroundings with a gentle affectionate personality. demeanor, and is open to 707-645-7905 making new dog friends.

VALLEJO HOUSING AUTHORITY OPEN BY APPOINTMENT ONLY

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.

cityofvallejo.co/47gz8Dy

Thank you for your patience and understanding.

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.

For general inquiries: (707) 648-4507 Vallejo Weekly

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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.

Made possible by funding from the City of Vallejo

VALLEJO BIZ-GROW Small Business Loan Program Loan Amount: $25,000 to $125,000 Interest Rate: 6%, Fixed Rate

Loan Term: 5 Years Minimum Credit Score: 630 No Prepayment Penalty Loan Application Fee: $250 (Borrowers who complete an assessment and counseling with the Solano-Napa Small Business Development Center shall receive a $250 rebate) Eligibility: Small Business must meet Covid-19 impact eligibility requirements and be located in the City of Vallejo.

Must be in business prior to 2/28/23

STEP 1 STEP 1

707-864-1855 x21 & 707-631-3891

Wendi@SolanoEDC.org

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NEED FOOD NOW? More info at

cityofvallejo.co/SNAP

EMERGENCY FOOD ASSISTANCE getcalfresh.org

cdss.ca.gov

foodbankccs.org/find-food/ foodbycity

about.doordash.com/en-us/news/ snap-shutdown-announcement

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Vallejo Property Owners — Let’s Keep Our Neighborhoods Thriving!

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!

No contracts & fees.

Just fast internet.

VIP Fiber is Vallejo’s local internet.

SIGN UP NOW www.vipfiber.com

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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

SOLANO GLEANING INITIATIVE

Available Harvests Looking for trees to harvest and harvesters! https://bit.ly/48NfEJc

Individuals in Crisis Supporting those experiencing behavioral health challenges, housing instability, or urgent needs

Youth & Schools Engaging students through in-school wellness programs, after-school initiatives, and restorative justice

Victims & Families Providing emotional and logistical assistance following traumatic events

Underserved Communities Meeting people where they are, addressing barriers to care, & promoting equitable access to services

Our Services Contact Us Rayvon Williamson, Program Manager 911 Crisis Response Tel: (707) 648-4502 Handling non-violent, low-level Cell: (323) 761-4071 emergency calls without police presence

Katie Burns, Admin Data Analyst Impact Team Response Tel: (707) 917-411 Providing post-crisis community Cell: (415) 286-3590 engagement after incidents like homicides and drive-by shootings

Co-Response Support Assisting officers & providing follow-up support for unresolved cases

Faith-Based Crisis Support Partnering with VPD chaplains to assist in faith-sensitive crisis situations

Soft Case Management & Navigation Ensuring individuals receive continued care until they’re stable

Neighborhood Watch & Community Engagement Strengthening relationships between residents & law enforcement

Homicide Victim & Family Support Offering resources, communication, & case management for affected families

School-Based Programs Implementing wellness support, restorative justice, & after-school initiative

Program Components Crisis Intervention Rapid response and de-escalation for community emergencies

Education & Training Offering mental health awareness, first aid, & wellness programs for reside

Case Management Comprehensive follow-ups & warm handoffs to ensure stability & connection to long-term support

Community Partnerships Collaborating with CBOs, faith organizations, & local agencies for holistic care

Contact Us Rayvon Williamson, Program Manager Tel: (707) 648-4502 Cell: (323) 761-4071

Katie Burns, Admin Data Analyst Tel: (707) 917-411 Cell: (415) 286-3590

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Get Home in Time for What Matters with the I-80 Express Lanes

I-80 Express Lanes in Solano County are open and ready to help you arrive on time when it matters most. Express Lanes provide drivers with the choice for a faster, more reliable trip. All drivers must have FasTrak to use the lanes.

The lanes will operate 7 days a week, from 5 AM to 8 PM. Tolls are shown on overhead signs along the highway and increase as traffic increases and decrease as traffic decreases.

Carpools with 3 or more people and motorcycles can use the lanes for free. 2-person carpools can use the lanes for half-toll. Solo drivers pay full tolls. Carpools and motorcycles must have a FasTrak Flex Toll Tag mounted in the vehicle and set properly to receive free or discounted tolls.

Income-eligible drivers can also apply to receive discounts to use the I-80 express lanes.

To learn more about express lanes visit expresslanes.511.org To get FasTrak Flex, visit bayareafastrak.org To apply for income-based toll discounts, visit expresslanesstart.org

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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.

We are more than just books!

Discover all the library has to offer at: https://solanolibrary.com/ To see our upcoming events visit: https://solanolibrary.libnet.info/ events?

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J A N U A RY 1 , 2 0 2 6

HAPPY New Year Contact 555 Santa Clara Street, Vallejo, CA 94590 Facebook.com/cityofvallejo Instagram.com/cityofvallejo cityofvallejo.net For maintenance emergencies, please call: (707) 648-5235