VALLEJO WEEKLY
VOL 14 ISSUE 8
FEBRUARY 19, 2026
Hello Vallejo
ANDREW’S ANNOUNCEMENTS
A MESSAGE FROM THE CITY MANAGER
This week brought a rare and festive alignment: Lunar New Year and Fat Tuesday both fell on Tuesday, February 17! We hope you had the chance to enjoy these celebrations with family, friends, and neighbors. These moments of cultural and community connection remind us of the diversity and vibrancy that make Vallejo such a special place.
As we enter the final month of winter, the rain has returned with vigor and is expected to continue into next week. Please take extra care on the roads and allow for additional travel time. Wet and cold weather brings challenges, and we want to highlight two important areas of concern:
1. Support for Our Unhoused Neighbors
The warming center at the Vallejo Navigation Center remains open nightly to provide shelter and relief from the cold. If you know someone in need, please share this resource. Community support during these harsh conditions can make a real difference.
Looking ahead, we’re thrilled to announce that applications are now open for the 2026 Citizens’ Academy! This program is designed to give residents an inside look at how the City operates and introduce you to the dedicated people who make it all happen. Participants will have the opportunity to engage directly with senior leadership from every department, ask questions, and gain a deeper understanding of local government. Space is limited, so don’t wait—sign up today at www.myvallejo.com/citizensacademy.
We’re also excited to share information on how to organize community clean-up events. These gatherings are more than just a way to keep Vallejo beautiful— they’re an opportunity to meet neighbors, build connections, and strengthen the sense of pride we all share in our city. While picking up litter isn’t glamorous, the impact is powerful. Look for details in this issue of the Weekly and learn more about how you can schedule one in your neighborhood.
2.
Flooding and Road Safety
Heavy rain can lead to localized flooding. If you encounter flooding on roadways, report it immediately to the Vallejo Flood and Wastewater District’s emergency line at 707-644-8949, option 3. This line is staffed 24/7 to ensure quick response.
Thank you for your continued engagement and commitment to Vallejo. Together, we can make a difference—whether it’s through lending a hand, sharing resources, or simply staying informed.
With Appreciation
Andrew Murray City Manager
Black History Spotlight - 8
New RIPA Dashboard - 10
Vallejo Issues A New RFP - 13
Watch Out For Scams! - 14
Complete The Housing Survey - 15
Sign Up For Citizens Academy - 17
Stay Alert For Flooding - 18
Vallejo Boat Ramp Update - 23
Hwy29/Sonoma Blvd Update - 24
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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 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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Vallejo Chamber of Commerce
Economic Development Committee Presents:
Good Morning Vallejo! Economic Impact of Changes in Healthcare
Join us for breakfast and a panel discussion lead by Healthcare Leaders with topics relevant to all!
Darryl Curry, Senior Vice President & CEO at Kaiser Permanente
Mark Behl, President & CEO at NorthBay Health
Kelley Jaeger-Jackson, CEO at Sutter Solano Medical Center
Mindful Movement
Preschool Yoga • Mindfulness • Emotional Literacy Move. Breathe. Feel. Grow.
Join our joyful preschool yoga class designed especially for young children to explore movement, mindfulness, and emotions in a safe, playful way
What to Expect
Through age-appropriate yoga poses, stories, music, dancing and games, children learn to:
• Stretch and move their bodies with confidence
• Practice calm breathing and relaxation
• Recognize and name feelings like happy, sad, excited, or frustrated
• Build empathy, self-regulation, and kindness
���� Why Mindfulness & Emotional Literacy?
���� Class Details
• Saturday 9:30 am
• March 7, 14, 21, and 28 (come to all or one, drop-ins welcome)
• Ages: 3–6 years
• Length: 45 minutes
• Setting: Playful, energetic and inclusive
• Where: Solano Family and Children s Services (Fairfield Conference Room)
• Experience needed: None at all!
Dr. Tami Hendriksz, Provost & Chief Academic Officer at Touro University California
Anita Addison, Chief of Planning & Strategic Advancement at La Clinica
Moderated by: Andrea Sorce, Mayor for City of Vallejo
Friday, February 20 , 2026 th Touro University, Farragut Inn 1310 Club Dr., Mare Island, Vallejo 7:30am Registration & Breakfast 8am Panel Discussion
Tickets $45 per person Includes Breakfast https://square.link/u/6G RcCznR
Early childhood is the perfect time to help children:
• Develop emotional awareness
• Learn healthy ways to manage big feelings
• Build focus, resilience, and self-confidence
These skills support learning, friendships, and overall well-being on and off the mat.
Questions?
CARE4EM707 Instagram
CARE4EM FB
Address: Solano Family and Children’s Services Conference Room
N Fairfield, CA 94534
Children and adults wear comfortable clothes and bring their energy Yoga mats are provided.
Brought to you through a partnership
Celebrating Black History Month: Spotlight on Sidney Wilson
Sidney Wilson’s journey to the City of Vallejo is one of resilience, purpose, and public service. Since joining the City in early 2022, he has overseen programs funded by the American Rescue Plan Act (ARPA)—initially managing 32 projects, now expanded to 44—ensuring every dollar is spent responsibly and on time before the December 2026 deadline. His work spans compliance reporting to the U.S. Department of the Treasury and guiding departments through complex funding requirements. Recognizing a gap in Vallejo’s grant strategy, Sidney built a robust system for securing outside funding, making him the City’s go-to resource for grants. He has helped Vallejo win millions for projects including urban forestry, public safety improvements, broadband access, and infrastructure upgrades. He describes his role as a “one-stop shop,” handling everything from identifying opportunities to writing competitive applications and managing post-award compliance. In addition to leading grant strategy, Sidney also oversees Intergovernmental Affairs for the City, coordinating with state and federal partners to secure resources and ensure Vallejo’s interests are represented at all levels of government. Sidney’s commitment to service is deeply rooted in his family history. Raised in Jackson, Tennessee, he grew up hearing stories of perseverance. His parents were the first in their families to attend college, overcoming poverty and segregation in rural Mississippi. His mother marched with Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. during the Poor People’s Campaign and later wrote a book about her experiences. “Their journey shaped who I am,” Sidney reflects. “It drives me to help others overcome barriers.”
After earning degrees in business and communications, Sidney attended Vermont Law School, focusing on environmental and civil rights law. His legal training sharpened his skills in compliance and advocacy—tools he uses daily in grant administration. Before Vallejo, he worked in Oakland, helping craft groundbreaking cannabis equity legislation that prioritized permits for individuals affected by the war on drugs—policy that became a model nationwide.
Outside of work, Sidney is a devoted father to a 16-year-old daughter and 10-year-old son. A sports fan (Go Niners!) and self-proclaimed foodie, he enjoys exploring new restaurants across the Bay Area. “I’ll try anything once,” he laughs. When he’s not chasing grant deadlines, you’ll find him cheering on his kids or discovering his next favorite dining spot.
Sidney sums up his mission simply: “I’m here to help Vallejo thrive—by finding resources, securing funding, and making sure every dollar counts.”
Vallejo Police Department Launches RIPA Stop Data Dashboard
The Vallejo Police Department is proud to announce the launch of an interactive RIPA Stop Data Dashboard, now available on our official website at VallejoPD.net. This new tool reflects our ongoing commitment to transparency, accountability, and community engagement.
The dashboard provides detailed information about officer-conducted stops, as required by California’s Racial and Identity Profiling Act of 2015 (RIPA). Under this law, law enforcement agencies must collect and report data on vehicle and pedestrian stops, including:
• Date, time, and general location of the stop
• Reason for the stop
• Perceived race, ethnicity, gender, and age range of the individual
• Whether a search was conducted
• Actions taken and the outcome of the encounter
This data helps communities, policymakers, and agencies analyze patterns, identify disparities, and address concerns based on objective information.
Why
an Interactive Dashboard Matters
Making this data accessible and interactive allows residents to see how often stops occur, who is being stopped, and what outcomes result from these encounters. It also provides the Vallejo Police Department with a structured way to review practices, identify areas for improvement, and guide future training and policy decisions. Transparency builds trust—and trust starts with what the community can see for themselves.
“As a police department committed to meaningful and sustainable reform, we recognize the importance of RIPA data in building transparency, accountability, and community confidence,” said Deputy Chief Bob Knight. “We are exploring benchmarking methods beyond population comparisons, such as crime offender benchmarking, exposure/location benchmarking, and peeragency comparisons, to ensure evaluations are accurate and fair. Our goal is to communicate these findings clearly and reinforce our commitment to bias-free policing.”
Each year, Vallejo PD publishes an annual RIPA report analyzing stop data to identify potential disparities and guide improvements in training and policy. Moving forward, we will share key findings, summaries, and updates through our website and social media channels. We encourage community members to review the dashboard, ask questions, and participate in upcoming discussions and town halls.
Access
the Dashboard
Visit VallejoPD.net to explore the RIPA Stop Data Dashboard and learn more about our efforts to create a safer, more equitable Vallejo.
2026 Solano County Science & Engineering Fair
Thursday, March 12, 2026
Exhibit: 4:00 p m -5:45 p m
Awards: 6:00 p m -7:00 p m
February 20, 2026
Entry form submission deadline by 3:00 p m
March 9, 2026
Project submission deadline from 2:00 p m to 6:00 p m
All entrants must bring their projects to McCormack Hall
March 12, 2026
Awards ceremony from 6:00 p m to 7:00 p m
Steph Morgado
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
ULATIS COMMUNITY CENTER, VACAVILLE, CA
Economic Development Department Request for Proposal to Provide:
Environmental Assessment and Reuse Planning Activities in the City of Vallejo on Two Target Areas: Mare Island and Downtown Waterfront, Focusing on Brownfield Sites
RFP released: February 18, 2026
Proposals Due 3 PM March 30, 2026 – Learn more at HERE
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. For general inquiries: (707) 648-4507
Your Input Matters! Help Shape Vallejo’s Housing Future
The Housing and Community Development Department is seeking feedback from the community to better understand housing and community needs and determine how federal grants should be allocated to best serve Vallejo.
We are also assessing broader community development needs, including public services and infrastructure. Through our Community Development Block Grant (CDBG) and HOME Investment Partnerships (HOME) programs, we can support a variety of community projects beyond housing—as long as the project is an eligible activity that benefits low- to moderate-income residents
How to Participate
Online Surveys: Available from February 5 – February 22, 2026 (Comment Period)
Use the QR code below or visit the Housing and Community Development Department website. https://www.cityofvallejo.net/cms/One. aspx?portalId=16925451&pageId=18103387
By Mail: Housing and Community Development Department, 200 Georgia St, Vallejo, CA 94590
Drop Box: Located at the same address.
Email: Brianna.Todaro-Ellsworth@cityofvallejo.net
Who Should Participate? We welcome feedback from ALL community members—individuals, businesses, nonprofits—and community stakeholders, including local providers, developers, and partners.
Your voice helps shape the future of housing in Vallejo. Don’t miss this opportunity to make a difference!
Dina
Domestic Short Hair, black, F 9 mo, 9 lbs, $150 adoption fee
A shy but sweet kitty with quiet curiosity and unique charm. She loves other cats and seeks a patient forever home. Adoption fees are reduced for black and blackand-white cats—now’s the perfect time to adopt!
Eggo
Doberman mix, black, M, 1 yo, 52 lbs, $350 adoption fee
This sleek pup with a curly tail and spotted tongue is smart, energetic, and loves having a job to do. Pottytrained, playful, and great with dogs, he needs an active home and a doggy friend to share adventures!
p Explore City Departments
p Gain insider knowledge of local government
p Connect with fellow residents
Spots are limited—sign
Cost: $25
Program starts on March 18, 2026
Register at: https://cityofvallejo.co/4rQGtCl or
Registration is due by March 6, 2026 - space is limited to 24 people — on a first come first serve basis. All participants will be contacted by the City to confirm their acceptance.
For More Information Contact: Robert Briseño, Public Information Officer, 707-648-4362 or Robert.Briseno@cityofvallejo.net or visit: www.myvallejo.com/citizensacademy
FLOOD
PREVENTION
Keep Vallejo safe from flooding.
CLOGGED
Clogged drains can lead to serious flooding during heav y rains. Keep them clear to protect your home.
SWEEP
Regularly sweeping leaves & debris away from gutters helps prevent blockages and keeps water flowing freely to drains.
REPORT
If you see a clogged drain, repor t it right away to Vallejo Flood & Wastewater District at 707-644-8949, option 3 (available 24/7). Quick repor ting helps crews respond promptly to prevent localized flooding.
TAKE ACTION
Free sand & bags available at the selfser vice station on the west end of Ryder St. Open 24/7, October 15 to April 15.
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.
Housing Specialist II - Closing Date 2/23/2026
Accountant - Closing Date 2/23/2026
Associate Civil Engineer - Closing Date 3/2/2026
Water Treatment Plant Operator - Closing Date 3/2/2026
Communications Operator I - Closing Date 3/26/2026
Communications Operator II (Extra Help) - Closing Date 5/4/2026
Firefighter / Paramedic - Closing Date 5/18/2026
Police Officer (Entry Level - Academy Graduate)Closing Date 6/30/2026
Police Officer (Lateral) - Closing Date 6/30/2026
Police Cadet - Closing Date 6/30/2026
Police Officer (Recruit) - Closing Date 6/30/2026
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
Rayvon Williamson, Program Manager
911 Crisis Response
Tel: (707) 648-4502
Cell: (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
Solano County Mobility Programs
■
Countywide Programs:
Solano
Volunteer Driver & Non-Profit Programs
Travel Training
■
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
Senior Clipper Card
■
Impact Team Response
Katie Burns, Admin Data Analyst
Tel: (707) 917-411
Cell: (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
School-Based Programs
Implementing wellness support, restorative justice, & after-school initiative
first aid, & wellness programs for reside
NEIGHBORHOOD DUMPSTER PROGRAM*
Pacific Gas and Electric Company
Former Vallejo MGP
Boat Launch Parking Lot Restoration Project Weekly Report 2/13/26
PG&E provides this update on restoration work occurring in the boat launch parking lot that is part of a larger 26acre 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 2/9/26 to 2/13/26
• Completed finish details related to sidewalks and curbs, hand railings and electrical wiring.
• Removed remaining miscellaneous construction equipment and temporary facilities no longer needed and cleaned up work areas.
Upcoming Work
• Planned construction activities have largely been completed. A small crew will continue to be present onsite for site maintenance and inspections, as needed, until the larger crew returns to install the electrical transformer. We anticipate transformer installation will occur in the coming months, and weekly reports will resume at that time.
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 Upon completion of restoration activities, PG&E will return control of the site to the City of Vallejo.
Site Security
• Access gates are closed to the public, and the site is under surveillance.
Photo Log
Worker completes remaining finish details on the handrailing at the front of the boat launch restroom building.
If you need additional information, please contact the PG&E toll-free response line at (866) 247-0581 or remediation@pge.com. Se habla español.
Workers paint a curb red to mark one of the fire lanes.
WState Route 29 (SR-29) Pavement Rehabilitation & Complete Street Project Update
elcome to this installment of
The State Route 29 (SR-29) Pavement Rehabilitation and Complete Streets Project Newsletter.
The Caltrans maintenance team was on site and filled in some of the larger potholes along SR-29. This is for the interim until our construction team reaches the full repaving portion of the rehabilitation project later this year.
If you are driving between Curtola Parkway to Valle Vista Avenue, you may have encountered some of the prep work being done before the repaving. Alleyways that need repair are being dug up, rehabilitated and prepped to be ADAcompliant.
Progress also continues with a secondary project on SR-29. Four–way intersections are being getting updated with ADAcompliant pedestrian signals and curb ramps.
For additional information State Route 29 Website
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.
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!
Caltrans Traffic Advisory
Caltrans is continuing to work on the installation of new electrical equipment to improve pedestrian safety at unsignalized crosswalks around Solano County in February. This includes new Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) curb ramps and restriping the crosswalks around the intersections.
A new ADA-compliant curb ramp will be constructed in several locations from Tuesday, Feb. 3rd, through Friday, Feb. 27th. A single lane will be closed with one city street open in the direction of travel during the day from 9 AM until about 3 PM.
All work is dependent on the weather.
Pedestrians are directed to utilize the crosswalk on the other side of the road via signage and barricades on the sidewalk.
Work will continue in the following locations in Vallejo:
• SR-29 – at Ryder Street and at Arkansas Street.
• SR-37 – at Eastbound off-ramp to Wilson Avenue
• I-80 – Westbound on-ramp from Springs Road/Solano Avenue (SR-29)
Ramp Detour: Drivers trying to get on WB I-80 from Springs Road/Solano Avenue should take Mariposa Street toward Tennessee Street; take a right on Tennessee Street and then take the on-ramp to Westbound I-80.
• I-80 – WB On/Off-Ramp from/to Tennessee Rd.
Ramp Detour: Drivers trying to get onto WB I-80 on-ramp from Eastbound Tennessee Street: take a right on Mariposa Street; continue on Mariposa Street and take the on-ramp to Westbound I-80.
• I-780 – Eastbound off-ramp to Glen Cove Road
Ramp Detour: Motorists trying to get on I-780 from Glen Cove Road need to continue on Glen Cove Parkway toward Benicia Road and take a right on Benicia Road; then a right on Columbus Parkway; take a right on Rose Drive/State Park Road and onto the on-ramp to Eastbound I-780.
