VALLEJO WEEKLY
Hello Vallejo,
What an incredible Fourth of July celebration! It was a true privilege to take part in the 171st annual parade. Seeing our community, both those marching and those cheering from the sidewalks, was inspiring. From the Mad Hatter Festival at the Barbara Kondylis Waterfront Green to the Mare Island waterfront festival and the stunning drone shows, Vallejo offered so many wonderful ways to enjoy the day together.
This week, I also had the honor of attending the ribbon cutting for the new Diverging Diamond Interchange at Fairgrounds Drive and State Route 37. This innovative design is the first of its kind in the Bay Area and only the second in California, even though more than 150 are in use nationwide. Led by the Solano Transportation Authority and Caltrans, the project is already delivering results, reducing congestion and improving safety for pedestrians and bicyclists. It also marks the beginning of a much larger, long term multi-agency initiative, led by Caltrans, to widen and elevate State Route 37, easing traffic along this important North Bay corridor and creating opportunities for future public transit.
HELLO FROM HARRY A MESSAGE FROM
THE CITY MANAGER
The ribbon cutting also served as the kickoff to Solano 707 Week, now in its second year and celebrating everything that makes Solano County special. With music, food, and events happening across the county, community members can explore the full lineup at 707week.com.
Looking ahead, Vallejo Late Night Basketball continues tomorrow, Friday, July 10, with Civic Night. City staff and volunteers will be on hand to connect community members with several City initiatives. I hope you will stop by and say hello. GVRD’s free Summer Music Concert Series at Blue Rock Springs also continues, adding even more to enjoy this weekend. More details on both can be found in this edition of the Vallejo Weekly.
Next week, the City Council meets on Tuesday, with several important items on the agenda, including the City’s master fee schedule. Your voice matters, and we encourage you to participate.
With Appreciation
Harry Black Vallejo’s Interim City Manager
4 of July Parade Highlights - 10
Water Quality Report - 14
Event Sponsorship - 17
Above and Beyond - 18
Police Reform Spotlight - 21
Mare Island Bridge - 22
Ribbon Cutting - 24
Connect to
Vallejo Art Walk
Every 2nd Friday Month from 5 to 9 PM In downtown Vallejo
MY Vallejo Vallejo Weekly Subscribe Vallejo VALLEJO 2nd FRIDAY ARTWALK ~July 10 th 5:00-9:00pm~ An exciting new exhibit @ The McCune: A Journey into Fiber Arts
Textiles and Tools
Based in the Napa Valley, the Silverado Handweavers and Spinners Guild brings together people who share a love for fiber arts and creative expression. This exhibit celebrates the art and craft of spinning, dyeing, weaving and tapestry to transform fiber into something beautiful, useful and entirely handmade. Guild members who contributed to this exhibit include: Sharon Crary, Kim Farmer, Anne Gomes, Peggy Gorbach, Joan Harris, Justyn Hegreberg, Jody Lane, Kate McBride, Linda Nellet, Mary Ann Parker, Christy Redford, and Susan Robinson.
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Reach your city council
Mayor Andrea Sorce (Term Expires Jan 2029)
Andrea.Sorce@cityofvallejo.net 707-648-4377
Vice Mayor Diosdado “JR” Matulac (District 2 - Term Expires Jan 2027) JR.Matulac@cityofvallejo.net 707-648-4132
Council Member Alexander Matias (District 1 - Term Expires Jan 2029) Alexander.Matias@cityofvallejo.net 707-648-4134
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 Peter Bregenzer (District 5 -Term Expires Jan 2027) Peter.Bregenzer@cityofvallejo.net 707-648-4131
Council Member Helen-Marie Gordon (District 6 - Term Expires Jan 2029) Helen-Marie.Gordon@cityofvallejo.net 707-649-7711
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July 9, 2026, 6:00pm District 4
September 10, 2026, 6:00pm District 5
November 4, 2026, 6:00pm District 6
Vallejo Wastewater presents...
BEHIND THE FLUSH!
Join us for a behind‐the‐scenes look at how our wastewater treatment plant keeps things flowing in Vallejo!
Come join us and learn what goes on Behind the Flush!
Follow @VallejoWastewater on FB and IG for updates!
*Free parking is available at 450 Ryder Street.
EVENT HIGHLIGHTS
Guided tours of the treatment plant
See our maintenance trucks up close
Fun activities for kids
REGISTER FOR THE EVENT HERE:
11 11AM - 2PM
Scenes from Vallejo’s 171st annual July 4th Parade
Water-Safe Beginners Ages 4+
Learn to Compete!
S U M M E R M O N - TH U R S
JUN 8 - JUL 2, 6-7PM
JUL 6 - JUL 30, 6-7PM
$132 for one session
$231 for both sessions
FALL M O N - TH U R S
AUG 31 - NOV 5, 6-7PM
$340 for the 10 week session
Prac�ce Dura�on: 60 - 120 min*
Costs: $130 - $170*
*depending on skill level
What’s in Vallejo’s Annual Water Quality Report?
Each year, the City of Vallejo publishes its Annual Water Quality Report, also known as a Consumer Confidence Report. This report gives customers an inside look at Vallejo’s drinking water: where it comes from, how it is treated, what it is tested for, and how the results compare with state and federal drinking water standards.
The report is designed to make water quality information clear and accessible. It includes information about Vallejo’s water sources, the treatment processes used at our water treatment plants, and the extensive testing completed throughout the year to help ensure drinking water quality and safety. It also explains common water quality terms and includes easyto-read tables showing the results of water quality monitoring.
One of the most important takeaways from this year’s report is that, as in previous years, the City of Vallejo remained in full compliance with all state and federal drinking water standards in 2025. Water quality professionals collected and analyzed thousands of samples throughout the year to verify compliance, monitor water quality, and ensure Vallejo’s drinking water met all health and safety requirements before reaching customers’ taps.
The report also includes information about lead and copper monitoring, source water assessments for Lake Berryessa and the Sacramento-San Joaquin Delta, treatment processes, and ongoing corrosion control programs that help protect water quality throughout the distribution system. Customers can learn how water is tested, what the results mean, and the steps the Water Department takes every day to provide safe, reliable drinking water.
This year’s report also includes especially good news regarding PFAS, often referred to as “forever chemicals.” As part of federally required monitoring, Vallejo tested for 29 different PFAS compounds. None were detected in samples from either the Vallejo Water System or the Lakes Water System. In addition, none of the six specific PFAS compounds now subject to new federal drinking water standards were detected.
Annual water quality reports are required by state and federal drinking water regulations and are an important part of public transparency. By making this information available, customers can see how carefully Vallejo’s drinking water is monitored, tested, treated, and protected throughout the year.
Vallejo’s Annual Water Quality Report is available online at cityofvallejo.net/ waterquality
Customers who would like a printed copy, have questions about the report, or would like additional information about drinking water quality may contact Vidia Gillula, Water Quality Manager, at (707) 649-3472 or vidia. gillula@cityofvallejo.net.
County Honoring Centenarians
The Solano County Board of Supervisors is inviting the community to help identify local centenarians for recognition by the Board of Supervisors later this fall as part of the 20th annual Centenarian Commemoration Celebration.
Now in its 20th year, the program has become one of the County’s most cherished traditions, celebrating the lives, legacies and wisdom of residents who have reached the extraordinary milestone of 100 years or more. To date, the Board has honored 347 centenarians, representing more than 35,000 combined years of life experience.
CONTACTING THE COUNTY ABOUT CENTENARIANS
If you know of a centenarian, or someone who is currently 99 years old and will be turning 100 by year’s end. Please email Centenarian@SolanoCounty.gov and/or call (707) 784-6129 by or before August 1, 2026. Please relay the following information over the phone or in an email to the Supervisor, including (1) name, (2) address, (3) phone number, (4) and best contact email address.
The City of Vallejo is submitting a grant proposal to fund improvements at Wilson Park. Your input in advance of the application is needed to guide the proposal based on your feedback. Please help by completing the WILSON PARK IMPROVEMENTS SURVEY and tell us what you’d like to see at Wilson Park! Stay tuned for upcoming in-person meeting dates!
The City of Vallejo is excited to announce
applications are now open for the FY 2026–27
Special Event Sponsorship Program (SESP)!
The SESP helps bring vibrant, community-building events to life—celebrations that highlight Vallejo’s diverse culture, boost local businesses, spark community pride, and welcome visitors from across the region. If your organization is planning a special event for the coming year, this is your opportunity to receive financial support and partner with the City to make it extraordinary.
Application Window
• Opens: Monday, July 13, 2026
• Closes: Friday, August 14, 2026 at 12:00 p.m. (Noon)
Interested organizations are encouraged to review the program guidelines and submit applications early to ensure all required documents are included. Please note that late or incomplete applications may not be considered.
Apply Online: https://cityofvallejo.formstack.com/forms/2026_27_sesp_grant_application
The City looks forward to supporting events that energize our neighborhoods, celebrate our shared identity, and contribute to a vibrant and inclusive Vallejo. If you have questions or would like to schedule an appointment, please contact specialevents@cityofvallejo.net.
Public Works Employee Acts Quickly to Help During House Fire
What started as a routine morning on Spring Road quickly turned into a moment of real-life heroism for Vallejo Public Works employee Brian White.
Brian and his coworker Eric Alexander were out repainting a crosswalk last week when Brian noticed a thick column of black smoke rising from homes just a few doors down. Realizing how close the smoke was, the two didn’t hesitate. They moved toward the source to see what was happening. They discovered a rapidly growing fire between two homes just a few hundred feet down from their job site.
Brian immediately dialed 911 to alert the Vallejo Fire Department. As neighbors rushed outside, they told Brian and Eric that at least one of the homes might still have an elderly resident inside. Without hesitation, Brian began knocking on doors to make sure anyone inside was alerted and had a chance to get out safely.
Vallejo firefighters arrived within moments and went straight to work containing the flames. Brian and Eric assisted by helping direct traffic, giving firefighters the space they needed to focus on the blaze.
Thanks to the swift action of everyone involved—the firefighters, Brian, Eric, and alert neighbors—no one was injured, and damage to property was kept to a minimum. In recognition of his quick thinking, leadership, and dedication to the community, Vallejo Public Works is proud to name Brian White as the Employee of the Month for July. Brian has been with the City since 2019, after previously working in maintenance for the Vallejo City Unified School District. Born and raised in Vallejo, he continues to call the city home. He takes pride in knowing his work directly supports the community that shaped him, and he looks forward to many more years of serving, and eventually retiring from, the city he loves.
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.
The City of Vallejo Supports Your Efforts to Keep Our Community Clean and Beautiful. To ensure your event meets City requirements and to help us coordinate support, please reach out early in your planning process and review these guidelines for a safe and successful event. Get all the details here:
https://www.vallejo.gov/residents/volunteer_ resources/planning_a_community_clean-_up_
Need more Help? Call 707-648-8616 or Email: Volunteers@cityofvallejo.net
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 Vallejo’s Planning Division at (707) 648-4326 or planning@cityofvallejo.net
PERSONNEL COMPLAINTS POLICY TOWN HALL
Police Reform Spotlight
Questions and Responses
Thank you to everyone who attended the Vallejo Police Department Town Hall regarding the Drafted Personnel Complaints Policy. We appreciate the community members who took the time to attend, ask questions, share concerns, and provide thoughtful feedback during the public comment period.
Community input remains an important part of strengthening transparency, accountability, and communication between the Vallejo Police Department and the community we serve. All questions submitted during the Drafted Personnel Complaints Policy Town Hall and public comment period, along with responses from the Vallejo Police Department, have been compiled in the new “Community Questions and Responses” section located within the “File a Complaint or Compliment” page on VallejoPD.net.
Community members are encouraged to review the questions and responses by visiting: Vallejopd.net. For media inquiries, please contact Public Information Officer Sgt. Rashad Hollis by email at VallejoPolicePIO@cityofvallejo.net or by phone at (707) 567-4233.
Mare Island Causeway Bridge Update
Repair work on the Mare Island Causeway Bridge has slowed temporarily due to nearby nesting activity from the California Black Rail, a threatened native species. The birds are currently nesting in the adjacent wetlands, and environmental requirements limit the construction activities that can take place during this period. In coordination with the California Department of Fish and Wildlife, the City has retained a biologist to monitor the nesting of the birds who will determine when the birds have cleared the area so full operations can resume.
Below is a detailed update on project tasks and overall progress.
• Painting of the lift towers is now fully complete. Beginning July 1, 2026, the lift span is operating on its normal schedule with no time restrictions, as directed by the U.S. Coast Guard.
• Sidewalk installation is moving slowly due to nesting season limitations established by the California Department of Fish and Wildlife. Additional delays have resulted from issues such as Island Energy cable conflicts, weather, and materials.
• Installation of light posts and light poles on the south side of the bridge is complete.
• Installation of the bridge logo is rescheduled for September 2026.
• Guardrail post installation and handrail painting on the south side are approximately 70 percent complete.
• Work beneath the bridge deck and on the deck surface remains ongoing. At this time, the overall project is approximately 65 percent complete. The projected completion date has shifted from mid February 2027 to March 2027. The City will continue providing updates as work progresses.
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
Ribbon Cutting for the Diamond
The City of Vallejo joined Caltrans, the Solano Transportation Authority, Solano County, project partners, and community members in celebrating the near completion of the State Route 37/Fairgrounds Drive Diverging Diamond Interchange in Vallejo. As the first Diverging Diamond Interchange in the Bay Area and only the second on a major highway in California, this innovative project is designed to improve traffic flow, enhance safety, and make travel easier for motorists, pedestrians, and cyclists alike. This milestone represents the strong partnership and collaboration that helped bring this transformative project to the Bay Area and one step closer to completion.
Visit the Ships
The National Park Service is now welcoming visitors aboard one or more historic ships at Mare Island in Vallejo every Saturday and Sunday from 12:00pm to 4:00pm, depending on staff availability.
You’ll find the ships docked at the iconic Mare Island Coal Sheds, located at 860 Nimitz Avenue, Vallejo, CA 94592.
Come explore these remarkable vessels, chat with park rangers, and discover how these ships helped shape America’s maritime heritage along the Pacific Coast.
Learn more at: nps.gov/safr
fireplace
Need Help with Your Electrical Bill?
Affordable energy is an important component of housing stability. High utility costs can strain household budgets and reduce resources available for other essential needs, including housing, education, childcare, and healthcare. Fair Housing Advocates of Northern California (FHANC) is pleased to share information about energy assistance programs offered by Pacific Gas and Electric Company (PG&E) that may help reduce monthly utility expenses.
Eligible households may qualify for a monthly discount of 20% or more through PG&E’s California Alternate Rates for Energy (CARE) program. Participation in public assistance programs such as WIC, CalFresh/SNAP, or MediCal may meet eligibility requirements. Learn more and apply at pge.com/care.
Households that do not qualify for CARE may be eligible for the Family Electric Rate Assistance (FERA) program, which offers an 18% discount on electricity bills. Applications are available at pge.com/fera.
Additional programs may also be available to assist with essential services, including medical device support and phone or internet services. For more information, visit pge.com/billhelp. Applications may be submitted online or by mail.
FREE NEIGHBORHOOD DUMPSTER PROGRAM*
Cover Photo: Condor Puppet