Vallejo Weekly
Vol 11 | Issue 46 november 9, 2023
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message from mike Hello, Vallejo,
Vallejo Weekly
I have great news to share-The City of Vallejo and the Vallejo Police Officers Association have a new contract in place, thanks to the City Council’s approval last night in special session. I commend all parties involved for achieving what has been much needed in the community. This should help move forward the conversation with law enforcement agencies to assist the Vallejo Police Department since many have expressed the desire to first see a new contract in place and support for the officers. Also, as promised in my earlier Weekly Message, Staff has officially released the Council Goals to the public! On September 26, 2023 Vallejo City Council officially adopted their Fiscal Year 2023-2024 and Multi-Year Goals. Their Multi-Year priority areas include: Public Safety; Efficient, Effective and Responsive Government; Economic Development Strategy; Housing / Unhoused Response; and Youth Development. City Council’s goals are the City organization’s guide to help shape the direction of the City and provide a framework from which plans and projects are created. For more information on Council Goals you can follow the MYVallejo.com/CouncilGoals website. Next week, we will have a Wednesday edition of the Weekly due to the holiday! Enjoy the time with your family and loved ones. Respectfully, Mike Malone Vallejo City Manager 1
SOROPTIMIST INTL OF VALLEJO CELEBRATES 84 YEARS OF SERVICE Making a difference in the Lives of Women and Girls Meeting With A Purpose Our Vision – Women and Girls have the opportunities to reach their full potential and live their dreams
Vallejo Weekly
Our Mission – Soroptimist is a global volunteer organization that provides women and girls with access to the education and training they need to achieve economic empowerment.
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Service is our reason for being. We are committed to a world where women and girls achieve their individual and collective potential, realize aspirations, and have an equal voice in creating strong, peaceful communities worldwide. Through our three-pronged approach of Awareness, Advocacy and Action we work for a better world for all by making it a better world for women. Throughout history—in every country in the world— women and girls face additional obstacles and discrimination solely because of their gender.
By initiating club projects that benefit women and girls and by honoring women who help women and girls, we improve their status. Soroptimist projects and programs aid and empower them to make positive changes in their lives and their communities. We approach our service with four goals: Ensuring women and girls enjoy equity and equality. Ensuring women and girls live in safe and healthy environments. Ensuring women and girls have access to education. Ensuring women and girls have leadership and practical skills Meeting With A Purpose – We meet Mondays at 12 noon in a variety of ways. Some are Zoom only. Some are a hybrid of Zoom and in person. We may have guest speakers from the community, plan events and actions, or just take time to be together. For those interested in joining the Soroptimist Intl of Vallejo Club please email SIOVJO@hotmail.com
The City of Vallejo this week officially transferred the Mare Island Naval Cemetery to the Veteran Affairs Association. City Leaders and Staff are elated to see this come to fruition to Honor our Veterans.
UPCOMING GVRD COMMUNITY EVENTS
Join in the fun with a variety of events for youth and families brought to you by the Greater Vallejo Recreation District (GVRD). GVRD Main Office (registrations & reservations) is temporarily relocated to Cunningham Aquatic Complex (801 Heartwood Ave) open M-F 8:00 a.m.–5:00 p.m., Sat 9:00 a.m.–12:00 p.m. All GVRD Board & Committee Meetings are held at 401 Amador St (administration, finance, & human resources). To pre-register for events or for more information on programs, events, classes and activities visit www.gvrd.org, call (707) 648-4600, or email recreation@gvrd.org. View the GVRD Fall 2023 Activity Guide for more programs, events, classes and activities!
GOBBLE GOBBLE GIVEAWAY! Tuesday, November 21, 2023 3:00 p.m. to 5:00 p.m. GVRD seeks to provide Thanksgiving dinners to those in need so that no family in our city is left unable to celebrate with friends and family. With the support of different organizations, this event seeks to bring hope and joy to our families. Registration is required. To register, click here - Gobble Gobble Giveaway! (Once you are redirected, please use the Community Events Tab)
View these events and more at www.gvrd.org or scan the QR code
WE’RE HIRING JOIN THE CITY OF VALLEJO!
For a full list of job opportunities, visit the Government Jobs website.
PUBLIC WORKS DEPARTMENT NOW HIRING FOR: EQUIPMENT MECHANIC I/II CLOSES: Continuous
Vallejo Weekly
SALARY: $29.49 - $35.84 Hourly $2,358.97 - $2,867.35 Biweekly $5,111.10 - $6,212.60 Monthly $61,333.17 - $74,551.15 Annually BRIEF DESCRIPTION / IDEAL CANDIDATE: The City of Vallejo's Fleet Division is seeking Equipment Mechanic II candidates, to help with minor and major mechanical repairs to gasoline and diesel powered automotive, heavy and light construction, and other power driven equipment as a collaborative member of the City's Public Works Department. This recruitment is open until filled. Interested candidates are encouraged to apply online on the Government Jobs website.
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WATER AND PLANNING DEPARTMENT NOW HIRING FOR: ACCOUNTING CLERK I/II BRIEF DESCRIPTION / IDEAL CANDIDATE: The Accounting Clerk I/II classifications are used in various departments throughout the City to assist with payroll processing, accounts payable/receivable, purchase orders, and to provide support to staff. Apply here.
WATER - PUBLIC WORKS NOW HIRING FOR: UTILITY SUPERVISOR BRIEF DESCRIPTION / IDEAL CANDIDATE: The ideal Utility Supervisor will have at least four years of experience in the maintenance, repair, and alteration of water distribution facilities and be able to supervise, assign, review and participate in the work of the Distribution and Maintenance Division staff responsible for providing water distribution system maintenance and repair services. Apply here.
Vallejo Weekly
WE’RE HIRING
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PLANNING AND DEVELOPMENT SVCS
PLANNING AND DEVELOPMENT SVCS
NOW HIRING FOR: ASSISTANT PLANNER/ASSOCIATE PLANNER
NOW HIRING FOR: CODE ENFORCEMENT OFFICER
BRIEF DESCRIPTION / IDEAL CANDIDATE: The successful Assistant/Associate Planner candidate will be a team player and possess the ability to think outside the box. They will be solutions oriented with excellent communication skills, both written and verbal, with the ability to communicate concisely and effectively, including public speaking and presentation skills. Transparent and frequent communication with community members is essential.
BRIEF DESCRIPTION / IDEAL CANDIDATE: The ideal candidate will have working knowledge of City codes, ordinances, and regulations, proper investigation methods, and techniques for code compliance enforcement, rules, and procedures. They will possess superior communications skills and will be able to work closely with and build rapport with the City's homeowners, businesses, and community groups to enhance and preserve the quality of neighborhoods through public engagement, education, and other activities.
More info here.
More info here.
PLANNING AND DEVELOPMENT SVCS
COMMUNITY DEVELOPMENT
NOW HIRING FOR: SENIOR CODE ENFORCEMENT OFFICER
NOW HIRING FOR: HOUSING SPECIALIST I/II
BRIEF DESCRIPTION / IDEAL CANDIDATE: To perform a variety of duties involved in the investigation of potential violations and the enforcement of municipal codes, ordinances and regulations including business licenses, zoning, building, property maintenance ordinance and related codes and regulations; and to coordinate through staff of other departments the City's overall code enforcement program.
BRIEF DESCRIPTION / IDEAL CANDIDATE: This is the entry level class in the Housing Specialist series. This class is a training class; employees may have only limited relevant work experience. This class is distinguished from the Housing Specialist II in that the latter is the journey level class, able to perform the more difficult and complex tasks. It is further differentiated from the Senior Housing Specialist in that the latter is the advanced journey level class, performing the most complex tasks.
More info here.
More info here.
COMMUNITY MEETING FOR DISTRICTS 4 AND 5
Vallejo Weekly
A big thank you to the Community for attending the Community Meeting last Monday at the Filipino Community Center, sponsored by the City Manager’s Office! About 35 residents attended along with City Council members Peter Bregenzer, Charles Palmares and JR Matulac (had to leave due to quorum rules) and Mayor Robert McConnell. The Community engaged with City Staff in robust conversation over topics such as Public Safety, Homelessness, Youth, and Economic Development. Hope to see you at the next Community Meeting on December 13, 6-8 PM for Districts 1 and 2 (location and details will be announced soon in Weekly and City Social Media posts)!
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SOLANO TRANSPORTATION AUTHORITY AWARDS
Vallejo Weekly
Congrats to the City of Vallejo Public Works Department! The Bay Trail/Vine Trail project has received the prestigious award for “Transportation for Sustainable Communities” from the Solano Transportation Authority! Vallejo City Unified School District also received the award for the “Safe Routes to School” project.
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Thank you and keep up the great work!
Vallejo Heights Neighborhood Hosting a Community Clean Up Join us for a Community Clean Up in Vallejo Heights Neighborhood on Sunday, December 3rd, from 12 pm to 3 pm! Ready to make a positive impact? Meet us at the MIRA Parking Lot, 51 Daniels Way, and be part of the team! Let's come together to beautify our neighborhood. See you there!
When:
Where:
December 3rd 12:00 PM - 3:00 PM
MIRA Parking Lot 51 Daniels Way
THE CITY OF VALLEJO IS ACCEPTING APPLICATIONS FOR BOARDS, COMMITTEES, AND COMMISSIONS VALLEJO, CA – The City of Vallejo is requesting applications to serve on a number of the City’s boards and commissions. Vallejo residents who are interested in serving on an advisory body are invited to submit an application and supplemental questionnaire for consideration. There are currently openings on the following boards, commissions, and committees: (click links to access applications) Commission on Culture & the Arts (2) terms expire 12/31/27 Housing Authority (1) tenant commissioner) term to expire 12/31/24 McCune Collection Commission – (1) term to expire 6/30/24 Measure P Oversight Committee – District 1 Member Only – (1) term to expire 10/10/24 Participatory Budget Steering Committee (3 alternates) terms expire 6/30/25 Surveillance Advisory Board – District 3 Member Only – (1) term to expire 1/2/25 Solano County Mosquito Abatement District (SCMA) Board - (1) Vallejo representative. Term to expire 4 years from date of appointment For City Boards and Commissions, except for the Commission on Culture & the Arts, McCune Collection, Surveillance Advisory Board, and the Participatory Budgeting Steering Committee, all appointed members must complete and file a Statement of Economic Interests, Form 700, within 30 days of appointment. All City Board and Commission members must complete AB 1234 Ethics training and file a Certificate of Completion within 30 days of appointment. In most instances, to be eligible for appointment, applicants must be residents of the City of Vallejo. Information regarding the duties of each board and commission and specific criteria for appointment may be found within each application. With some exceptions, appointments are typically for a term of 4 years.
The application period will remain open until a sufficient number have been received in the City Clerk’s Office Interviews with the City Council will be held after January 1, 2024. Specific dates will be announced at a later date. Applicants must attend the interview to be considered for appointment on a board or commission. Application forms and supplemental questionnaires are accessible in several ways: The City’s website, located on the Boards and Commissions page At City Hall, Office of the City Clerk, 555 Santa Clara Street, 3rd Floor, Vallejo, CA By Email at dawn.abrahamson@cityofvallejo.net, or by phone at (707) 648-4527 By UP Postal Mail: City of Vallejo, C/O City Clerk, PO Box 3068, Vallejo, CA 94590
HUMANE SOCIETY PETs OF THE WEEK AJAX
Vallejo Weekly
Domestic Shorthair, Male, Young
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Introducing Ajax! This enchanting 7-month-old neutered male kitten has an aura of wisdom far beyond his tender age. This feline wonder captures hearts with his mesmerizing blue-grey fur, a hallmark feature that hints at lineage of the Russian Blue breed. From the moment he entered the world, Ajax exhibited an extraordinary blend of charm and composure. His serene demeanor and poised disposition set him apart, even among his playful kitten companions. Despite his youthful exuberance, he possesses a quiet wisdom that seems to speak of ancient feline traditions. As Ajax continues to grow, his captivating presence and soulful eyes serve as a reminder of the beauty that exists within the feline world. He stands as a living testament to the extraordinary capacity for love and companionship that our animal friends offer, reminding us all of the profound connections that can be forged between humans and their beloved pets. If you would like to meet Ajax, go to HSNB.org and fill out a cat adoption interest application. For a list of our available cats and dogs, go to HSNB.org and click on the Adoptions tab. We welcome potential adopters to browse available animals on our website and if interested, download an application. Email cat applications to catadoptions@hsnb.org and dog applications to adoptions@hsnb.org. Pets are available at time of article submission. We cannot guarantee they will be available upon publication. Humane Society of the North Bay is a 501(c)3 nonprofit organization. We are located at 1121 Sonoma Blvd., Vallejo. We are open by appointment, from 10:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. daily, with up to two Open Shelter Saturdays per month. We are actively seeking fosters for our pets in need, and we are always seeking donations to help us do the life-saving work we do.
HUMANE SOCIETY PETs OF THE WEEK ELSA Siberian Husky, Female, Adult
Vallejo Weekly
Elsa is a stunning 4-year-old Siberian Husky with a personality as captivating as her beautiful white and tan coat. She is an independent, strong-willed, and intelligent dog who is ready to find a loving forever home. On the flip side, she is a soft and cuddly girl, just waiting for your love. She is also good with other dogs! This wonderful Husky girl is searching for a family that will provide her with the love and care she deserves. She'll appreciate an active owner who can keep up with her high energy level and who is willing to engage her in mental challenges and activities. Elsa will thrive when given the opportunity to explore and engage in activities that stimulate her mind and body. A secure, fenced yard is ideal for her to run and play safely. Daily exercise and mental stimulation are key to keeping Elsa happy and content. To meet Elsa, go to HSNB.org, and fill out a dog interest application.
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For a list of our available cats and dogs, go to HSNB.org and click on the Adoptions tab. We welcome potential adopters to browse available animals on our website and if interested, download an application. Email cat applications to catadoptions@hsnb.org and dog applications to adoptions@hsnb.org. Pets are available at time of article submission. We cannot guarantee they will be available upon publication. Humane Society of the North Bay is a 501(c)3 nonprofit organization. We are located at 1121 Sonoma Blvd., Vallejo. We are open by appointment, from 10:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. daily, with up to two Open Shelter Saturdays per month. We are actively seeking fosters for our pets in need, and we are always seeking donations to help us do the life-saving work we do.
People experiencing homelessness need empathy, not judgment. National Hunger and Homelessness Awareness Week November 13-21, 2023
1 Job lost is the number one cause of being unhoused.
2-4 More than 25% of former foster children become homeless within two to four years of leaving the system.
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The Bay Area has the third largest population of people experiencing homelessness in the US behind New York City and Los Angeles.
www.vallejotogether.org/
VOLUNTEER. DONATE. EDUCATE. http://www.bayareaeconomy.org/report/bay-area-homelessness/ https://asu.digication.com/tinyhomesforbayareayouth/data-and-statistics
MYTHS & FACTS ABOUT THE UNHOUSED
Most unhoused people have a mental illness or substance use disorder. Many people who experience homelessness do not struggle with substance abuse problems or addictions. Just like in the general population, only a percentage of those who are experiencing homelessness deal with addictions. People experiencing homelessness may deal with other issues related to their experiences of homelessness, including trauma and mental illness, for example.
People choose to be unhoused, and most decline services when offered.
This myth is dangerous and allows us to ignore the trauma of homelessness and neurobiological effects trauma has on humans. Being homeless is stressful, humiliating, exhausting, and dangerous. It is a hard day-to-day existence for men, women, and children. People who are unhoused are dangerous, violent, and/or criminals. A person who is homeless is no more likely to be a criminal than a person who is housed, with one legal exception: camping ordinances. People who are homeless break that law merely by being unhoused. The reality is that most spend their time and resources trying to survive and improve their situation. One study found that half of the homeless people surveyed reported experiencing violence, and the risks were higher for people who were older, women, or those who were homeless for more than two years. Stable housing is key to safety.
Veterans are not unhoused. Historically, national policy failures have meant that veterans are more likely to experience homelessness. In 2019, 21 out of every 10,000 veterans were homeless. This number is only slightly higher than the overall homeless rate of 17 out of every 10,000 Americans. Veterans of color have the highest likelihood of being homeless.
Homelessness is not my problem. Effectively reducing homelessness will take the entire community working together around this common goal. I will never become unhoused. According a UCSF study published in June 2023, losing income is the number one reason Californians end up homeless. And though survey participants listed a myriad of reasons why they lost their homes, more people cited a loss of, or reduction in, income than anything else.
https://www.councilforthehomeless.org/myths-facts-about-homelessness https://www.coalitionforthehomeless.org/myths-and-facts/ https://homelessness.ucsf.edu/our-impact/our-studies/california-statewide-study-people-experiencing-homelessness
https://www.vallejotogether.org/
Bike Plan Update Caltrans Bay Area (District 4) is excited to announce that Caltrans has initiated an update to the District 4 Bike Plan, first adopted in 2018. The 2018 Bike Plan analyzed conditions for biking along and across the State Transportation Network in the nine-county Bay Area, and identified priority improvements to provide a more connected, lower-stress bicycle transportation network in our region. The current Bike Plan Update is now being initiated to continue this process, and aims to accomplish the following: • Asses our progress on implementing the bicycle improvements identified in the 2018 Bike Plan • Identify new locations for bicycle improvements along and across the State Transportation Network • Develop strategies for implementing more/higher priority bicycle projects over the next 5+ years
Caltrans Wants to Hear From You! Between now and December 1st, we encourage you to take and share the public survey that will inform our Bike Plan Update, which you can access through the below link:
www.dot.ca.gov/d4bikesurvey Caltrans has developed a webpage that will provide basic information about the project and updates on our progress:
www.dot.ca.gov/d4bikeplanupdate For any questions, comments or suggestions, please reach out to us at D4BikePlan@dot.ca.gov, where either Greg Currey (Branch Chief) or Jasmine Stitt (Project Manager) can collect and respond to your feedback
The Basics of Personal Finance Women Empowering Women: Breaking the Barrier on the ABCs of Women and Money Empowered Through Home Ownership: Expert Insights, From Credit to Closing We Spend More Time Preparing for a One Week Vacation than for 30 Years of Retirement: Let’s Start Planning An Educational Workshop for Women; Planning for the Future
Register to Volunteer Today! Solano
POINT IN TIME Count What is a Point-in-Time Count? The Point In Time (PIT) Count is a count of unsheltered people experiencing homelessness on a single night in January. This is a requirement by HUD to be conducted every other year.
When: January 31, 2024 Time: 5:30AM – 10:00AM For more information or to sign up to volunteer: Visit https://solano24.pointintime.info/ or scan the QR Code from your mobile device
The PIT Count provides data that is used to determine funding from the State and Federal Government to help provide better programs and services to people experiencing or at risk of homelessness.
For any additional questions, please reach out to: Natalie Peterson homelessness@cityofvallejo.net
or
Becky Farris PIT Coordinator rlfarris@solanocounty.com
THE CITY OF VALLEJO BROADBAND SERVICE VALLEJONET IS NOW VIP FIBER
Vallejo Weekly
The City of Vallejo is excited to announce that its municipal broadband service, formerly known as "VallejoNet," has been rebranded as "VIP Fiber."
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This rebranding initiative is part of the City's ongoing efforts to position Vallejo as a hub for technological innovation and to reflect its commitment to providing high-quality, reliable internet service to its residents and businesses. Community-owned ISPs are driven by the needs and interests of the local residents rather than profitdriven motives. The profits generated stay within the community, promoting local growth, job creation, and economic development. VIP is committed to upholding net neutrality principles, ensuring everyone enjoys a level playing field on the internet.
Local businesses currently using VIP are Brooks & Co. Real Estate, Kindred Motorworks, Aardvarks Adventureland, Suite Treatments Inc., and many more! You, too, can be a part of VIP. Learn more about your local ISP and request a quote today to experience the premium internet service offered by VIP Fiber and join Vallejo in its mission to lead technological advancements in the region while enjoying fast and affordable internet! Stay updated with the latest news, updates, events, and more on our social media accounts on Instagram and Facebook!
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CONTACT 555 Santa Clara Street, Vallejo, CA 94590 Facebook.com/cityofvallejo Instagram.com/cityofvallejo cityofvallejo.net For maintenance emergencies, please call: (707) 648-5235