Vallejo Weekly | Vol 12 | Issue 20

VALLEJO WEEKLY

INTERIM CITY MANAGER'S MESSAGE

HELLO, VALLEJO,

It has been a pleasure serving you as interim City Manager for a little over a month. As I’m sure you are aware by now, the City Council has appointed Andrew Murray as the new City Manager.  His first day with the City of Vallejo will be this Monday, May 20. He brings a wealth of experience to the position and I wish him all the best in his future while working with the Community, City Council and Staff.

I have enjoyed my time here in this beautiful City with many opportunities.  Time has flown by and clearly there was not enough time to provide long-term solutions but I have jump-started them and I believe City Manager Murray will take the lead and continue the momentum.  Last Tuesday’s City Council meeting was a clear indicator that improvements must be made in the area of Strategic Planning with projects and plans directed by Council and Staff.  It is understood that we are short-staffed in many Departments but the Council would like more involvement and updates on critical and timely issues.  As for the Broadway Project, I can say Council has a solution and is moving forward with plans that would enable the City to recover costs should the property be sold.  This will help support Council’s goals of providing housing to the Homeless.  The number of units may seem small but it is a large opportunity to break the cycle for those who find housing with the Broadway Project.  I hope the Council will continue this direction of completing projects in a fiscally responsible way.

Respectfully,

Beverli Marshall Interim City Manager

Vallejo Welcomes Andrew Murray as New City Manager

VALLEJO, CA – The City of Vallejo is pleased to announce the appointment of Andrew Murray as the new City Manager. Andrew's appointment follows a unanimous vote by the City Council on Tuesday, May 14, 2024, to approve his contract. His first day with the City of Vallejo will be Monday, May 20, 2024.

Andrew brings a wealth of experience in local government management, having served in various capacities in municipalities such as San Francisco, Oakland, and Pleasant Hill. His previous position as City Manager of Pinole and recent role as Interim Public Works Director of Berkeley reflect his deep leadership experience and expertise in various municipal issues.

Andrew holds bachelor's and master's degrees from UC Davis in environmental policy, business administration, and applied economics. Beyond his academic achievements, he has been an active member of the East Bay community for over two decades, engaging in activities with his family, such as supporting youth sports, exploring parks, and playing Ultimate Frisbee.

"I am honored to have been appointed by the City Council as Vallejo's new City Manager. It is

a unique community with an amazing history, cultural diversity, engaged residents, and natural beauty," said Mr. Murray. "I look forward to working with the City Council to achieve its key goals for the city and working with city staff, residents, businesses, and other stakeholders to increase communication, collaboration, and transparency while providing efficient, equitable, and quality municipal services."

Mayor Robert McConnell remarked, “It is with the utmost anticipation and hope that the selection of our new City Manager will bring much-needed improvements to the citizens of Vallejo. I join with all of those citizens in wishing our new City Manager the best of all fortune. The City Council pledges our best ability to assist him in all of these endeavors.”

Please join the City of Vallejo in welcoming Andrew Murray as our new City Manager. His experienced leadership will help Vallejo continue to develop as a safe, healthy, prosperous community.

EASTBOUND SR-37 WEEKEND FULL HIGHWAY CLOSURE - THIS WEEKEND

The last scheduled Eastbound SR-37 weekend full highway closure between SR-121 and SR-29 is scheduled the weekend of May 17. EB SR-37 will be closed and traffic detoured beginning at EB SR-37 connector off-ramp to SR-121 in Sonoma.

Closures will start Friday, May 17 at 10:00 P.M. and conclude on the following Monday, May 20 at 5:00 A.M. The closure is weather dependent.

EB SR-37 DETOUR:

Motorists traveling eastbound on SR-37 will need to exit left onto northbound SR-121 in Sonoma; Make a

right on SR-12/SR-121(Carneros Hwy) and continue; Right on SR-12/SR-29; Enter left for the connector loop Off-ramp back to EB SR-37.

You can learn and get more updated information about the SR-37 Paving Project on our Caltrans Bay Area project webpage at; www.37pave.com

For 24/7 traffic updates, please visit 511.org: https:// twitter.com/511SFBay

For real-time information, please visit Caltrans QuickMap: http://quickmap.dot.ca.gov

Or follow Caltrans on Instagram at: https://www. instagram.com/caltransdistrict4/Twitter at: https:// twitter.com/CaltransD4

Mare Island historic park foundation's annual garage sale

WHEN: May 17 and 18th - 9 AM to 3 PM

WHERE: 1100 Railroad Ave. Vallejo

TICKETS:

• members – $10

• advanced tickets $15

SPEAKERS SERIES: THE HISTORY OF MOFFETT FIELD

SUNDAY MAY 19 @ 3:00 PM

• at the door $20 BUY TICKETS HERE:

mihpf.org/store/speakers-series-moffett-field

Vallejo Housing Authority landlord symposium

THURSDAY, JUNE 6, 2024 - 3:00 PM TO 5:00 PM

JOHN F. KENNEDY LIBRARY - JOSEPH ROOM

505 SANTA CLARA STREET, VALLEJO, CA

JOIN US AND LEARN ABOUT:

Landlord incentives

Expedited inspection processes of new units.

Dedicated email for landlord concerns.

Loss Mitigation Fund

Timely monthly payments

Competitive contract rents

Assistant and Associate Planner

CLOSES 5/27/24 - 5:00 PM

SALARY:

Assistant Planner: $69,489.06 - $84,464.43 Annual

Associate Planner: $76,787.78 - $93,335.84 Annual

BRIEF DESCRIPTION / IDEAL CANDIDATE

The City of Vallejo is seeking candidates for one Assistant Planner/Associate Planner position, as collaborative members of the City's Planning and Development Services department. The department can choose to fill this vacancy at either the Assistant or Associate level, depending on the qualifications of the candidate pool.

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.

MINIMUM REQUIREMENTS

ASSISTANT PLANNER

Experience:

Some urban planning experience is desirable.

Training:

Equivalent to a Bachelor’s degree from an accredited college or university with major course work in urban planning, public or business administration, or a related field.

ASSOCIATE PLANNER

Experience:

Two years of responsible urban planning experience.

Training:

Equivalent to a Bachelor’s degree from an accredited college or university with major course work in urban planning, public or business administration, or a related field

To read the full job description, review benefits and apply, CLICK HERE.

Equipment Mechanic

Closes: June 7, 2024

DEPARTMENT: Public Works

SALARY: $56,906.93 - $76,245.52 Annually

BRIEF DESCRIPTION / IDEAL CANDIDATE

The City of Vallejo's Fleet Division is seeking one Equipment Mechanic 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.

The ideal candidate for Equipment Mechanic I will possess basic knowledge of preventative maintenance, suspension work, minor repairs of equipment and some formal training. While not required, experience with repair work on heavy equipment and possession of certificate of completion for relevant automotive services is highly desirable.

The ideal candidate for Equipment Mechanic II will possess at least two years of experience performing minor and major equipment repairs to both diesel and gas powered equipment, specialized training in maintenance and repair of gas and diesel powered equipment, a Smog Inspection license and Automotive Service Excellence (ASE) Certifications in Master Automobile Technician and Master Medium Heavy Truck. While not required, experience repairing public safety vehicles is highly desirable.

MINIMUM REQUIREMENTS

Experience and Training Guidelines

Any combination of experience and training that would likely provide the required knowledge and abilities is qualifying. A typical way to obtain the knowledge and abilities would be:

EQUIPMENT MECHANIC I

• Experience: Two years of increasingly responsible experience performing automotive servicing and maintenance work.

• Training: Formal or informal education or training which ensures the ability to read and write at a level necessary for successful job performance supplemented by specialized training in automotive servicing and repair

• License or Certificate: Possession of, or ability to obtain, an appropriate, valid driver's license.

EQUIPMENT MECHANIC II

• Experience: Three years of journey level experience performing minor and major equipment repair duties including experience in the maintenance of both diesel and gas powered equipment.

• Employees in this position must meet the posted requirements of the Equipment Mechanic I prior to being considered for the Equipment Mechanic II classification.

• Experience repairing public safety vehicles highly desirable (i.e. Fire/Police vehicles).

• Training: Formal or informal education or training which ensures the ability to read and write at a level necessary for successful job performance including specialized training in maintenance and repair of gas and diesel powered equipment.

• License or Certificate: Possession of, or ability to obtain, an appropriate, valid driver's license.

Within 1 year of employment, candidate is required to obtain and maintain ASE Certification in Automobile & Light Truck: A4 Suspension & Steering, A5 Brakes. In Medium-Heavy Truck: T4 Brakes, T5 Suspension & Steering, T8 Preventative Maintenance Inspections

ASE Master Certification In Automobile / Light Truck highly desirable (to obtain)

ASE Master Certification In Medium Heavy Truck, highly desirable (to obtain)

ASE Certifications are valid for 5 years, the Equipment Mechanic II’s are required to recertify every five years. ASE Testing is available to the employee eight (8) months of the year.

Smog Inspection License Highly Desirable.

Encampment Cleanups in Vallejo

Over the past three months, the City of Vallejo has undertaken a concerted effort to address blight at encampments in our community. This initiative has been a testament to the power of collaboration among various agencies, including the City of Vallejo's Public Works Department, the City Attorney's Office, the Vallejo Police Department (VPD), the Solano County Sheriff's Department, Solano County Social Services Office, and the IHart team, alongside the cooperation of the unhoused population themselves. This joint effort has resulted in significant progress toward enhancing the safety and cleanliness of these areas.

The effort began by identifying three priority locations: Sereno and Sonoma, 5th Street, and Lemon and Derr. At Sereno and Sonoma, with the support of the VPD, five truckloads of debris were removed. Similarly, at 5th Street, the collaboration yielded the removal of five truckloads of debris. The cleanup efforts extended to Lemon and Derr, where an additional seven truckloads of debris were successfully removed.

Moreover, the removal of abandoned vehicles and vessels from these locations not only improves the area's aesthetics but also addresses safety concerns and environmental hazards. VPD was able to successfully tag and tow a number of abandoned and inoperative vehicles from public streets. Vehicles used as primary shelter or for the storage of personal belongings were not targeted. In total, 34 vehicles, a camper, a boat, and a boat trailer were towed. Thirteen of the towed vehicles

had previously been reported as stolen.

Residents were provided three weeks' notice of the clean-ups at every location that trash, debris, and abandoned property would be the focus of our cleanups. The unhoused population at these priority locations assisted City staff by identifying and piling their debris in identifiable piles. Public Works heavy machine operators brought in tractors, shovels, rakes, etc., to assist with the collection of trash.

Equally noteworthy is the cooperation and support demonstrated by the campers themselves. Recognizing the importance of maintaining a clean and safe environment for all residents, their willingness to work alongside city officials and service providers has been invaluable.

Moving forward, the City of Vallejo remains dedicated to addressing homelessness and encampments with compassion, efficiency, and collaboration. These recent cleanups serve as a testament to what can be achieved when we come together as a community to tackle shared challenges.

As we continue to work towards long-term solutions, we extend our gratitude to all those involved in these efforts and reaffirm our commitment to building a healthier, safer, and more inclusive Vallejo for all. Together, we can make a difference.

To learn more about Homeless Resources, click here and subscribe to the MyVallejo page to receive updates.

The Vallejo Fire Department Encourages Citizens To Proactively Prepare For Fire Season

As the weather warms and the days grow longer, we’re reminded that this brings heightened wildfire risk along with it. A community fire safety approach calls for proactive measures to be taken by all stakeholders. You can help protect your home and neighborhood by following basic defensible space guidelines.

By removing excess and/or dead vegetation and clutter from around your home, you improve the home’s defensibility, but ensure you’re taking these preventative steps in a safe manor! One small spark from a mower blade hitting a rock can result in a large fire. All mowing should be completed as early in the morning as possible, while temperatures are low, humidity is high, and grasses are still damp with dew. When mowing, always have a water fire extinguisher, a garden hose or other water source and pointed shovel handy. Mow early and often.

If you are unclear on the appropriate method to abate, contact the Weed Abatement Officer at 707648-4049 for guidance.

Additional information on fire safety and weed abatement ordinances can be found on our Fire

Prevention page

WHAT IS “DEFENSIBLE SPACE?”

Defensible space is the buffer between your structure and the surrounding area.

HOW MUCH DEFENSIBLE SPACE IS NECESSARY?

Think you your property broken down into zones. Cal Fire and the State Fire Marshal outline these zones as follows:

Zone “0”: The area closest to your home. Remove ALL dead or dry plants and flammable materials from this zone. This zone is identified as the first 5 feet around a structure.

Zone “1”: Regularly clear dead or dry vegetation and create space between trees. During times of drought when watering is limited, pay special attention to clearing dead or dying material. This zone is identified as the area that is between 5 ft and 30 ft of a structure.

Zone “2”: Ensure grasses in this zone are mowed to a height no greater than 4 inches. Periodically groom this zone by removing downed tree branches, rake leaves, and ensure trees and shrubs do not grow wildly. This zone is identified as the area that is between 30 ft and 100 ft of a structure.

Cal Fire provides additional resources to determine how to ensure your home remains fire safe HERE.

Copper Wire Theft in Vallejo: A Call for Community Vigilance and City Action

The City of Vallejo is currently facing a surge in copper wire thefts across various neighborhoods. These thefts are causing significant problems, including streetlight outages that leave streets dangerously dark. We understand the community's concern and are working urgently to address these issues.

The safety of our residents is our top priority. We urge everyone to exercise extra caution when driving or walking in areas without street lighting. If you notice any suspicious activity, especially anyone working in the public right-of-way at

night, please report it immediately. Legitimate city operations will always have proper permits, and the work will be carried out by city employees or authorized contractors.

The theft of copper wire is not only expensive to replace but also poses a serious risk to public safety. The city's traffic division within the Public Works Department is working tirelessly to restore power to affected streetlights as quickly as possible.

We need your help to combat this issue. If you see or suspect any wire theft, please report it to the Vallejo Police Department. You can call (707) 5523285 or FILE A REPORT ONLINE.

Thank you for your cooperation and vigilance as we work together to keep Vallejo safe.

Aedes aegypti mosquito detected in Solano County; help prevent the transmission of vector-borne diseases

SOLANO COUNTY – The Solano County Department of Health and Social Services, Public Health division, in coordination with the Solano County Mosquito Abatement District (SCMAD), has confirmed the first detection of Aedes aegypti mosquito in Solano County in 2024. The mosquito was collected in April 2024 in Dixon. This invasive mosquito was first detected in Solano County over a year ago, also in Dixon.

The Aedes aegypti mosquito is not native to California and typically lives in tropical, subtropical and in some temperate climates. This mosquito can spread diseases such as Zika, yellow fever, dengue, chikungunya, and other viruses. They are small, dark mosquitoes with white markings and banded legs. Because these mosquitos live near and prefer to feed on people, they are more likely to spread these viruses than other types of mosquitos. The mosquitoes are most active during the day, and they often bite indoors, but it is also active around dusk and dawn.

“We plan to do everything possible to eliminate this invasive mosquito in order to protect residents from the potential risks that come with it,” says Miguel Cardenas, SCMAD Manager. “We will continue surveillance throughout the area.”

STEPS TO HELP REDUCE THE RISK

Early detection provides the best chance of eradication. Residents should eliminate all sources of standing water on their property to control the species, including turning over flowerpots, eliminating spare tires, treating swimming pools and drainage ditches, which are common breeding sources of the Aedes aegypti mosquito. For additional tips visit https://www.SolanoMosquito. com/Prevention. Any unmaintained swimming pools and stagnant water should be reported by calling the SCMAD at (707) 437-1116.

NEWS CONTACTS:

Jayleen Richards, Public Health Administrator (707) 784-8616 | JMRichards@SolanoCounty.com or SolanoPIO@SolanoCounty.com (AND)

Miguel Cardenas, Mosquito Abatement District Manager (AND) (707) 437-1116 | solmad@solanomosquito.com

Matthew A. Davis, Principal Management Analyst, PIO and Legislative Affairs (707) 784-6111 | MADavis@SolanoCounty.com

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National EMS Week Is May 19-25, 2024

From May 19-25, first responders and emergency medical workers across the country will recognize National EMS Week.

Locally, the Vallejo Fire Department and the City of Vallejo, would like to honor the importance of EMS Week by sharing a simple yet life saving message: To save a life, push hard and fast in the center of the chest!

CPR, or cardiopulmonary resuscitation, is that simple. If someone you know experiences cardiac arrest, ensure the 9-1-1 system is

activated, then begin chest compressions. These simple steps improve the patient’s chances of surviving drastically!

Starting chest compressions within the first few minutes someone is in cardiac arrest helps push remaining oxygen through body to keep vital organs alive. This buys time until medically trained personnel arrive to help.

More than 325,000 cardiac arrests occur outside of hospitals each year in the United States, American Heart Association statistics show. Immediate CPR can double or triple the chances of survival, according to AHA studies. Keeping the blood flow active – even partially – extends the opportunity for a successful resuscitation.

THE CITY OF VALLEJO BROADBAND SERVICE VALLEJONET IS NOW VIP FIBER

The City of Vallejo is excited to announce that its municipal broadband service, formerly "VallejoNet," has been rebranded as "VIP Fiber."

The City of Vallejo is excited to announce that its municipal broadband service, formerly "VallejoNet," has been rebranded as "VIP Fiber."

Local businesses currently using VIP include Brooks & Co. Real Estate, Kindred Motorworks, Aardvarks Adventureland, Better Chew Kitchen, Suite Treatments Inc., and many more! You, too, can be a part of VIP.

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.

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 profit-driven 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.

Community-owned ISPs are driven by the needs and interests of the local residents rather than profit-driven 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 include Brooks & Co. Real Estate, Kindred Motorworks, Aardvarks Adventureland, Better Chew Kitchen, 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!

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!

Stay updated with the latest news, updates, events, and more on our social media accounts on Instagram and Facebook!

Check your availability today at www.vipfiber.com

Check your availability today at www.vipfiber.com

RORSCHACH

Pets of the week

RORSCHACH

Domestic Mediumhair, male, young

Meet Rorschach, the mischievous and enchanting gray and black Tabby kitten with a heart of gold! This little guy, along with his siblings, was discovered under the reception building of our shelter, and now he's ready to embark on his journey to find a forever home. At barely 3 months old, Rorschach is the epitome of charm and curiosity bundled into a furry package. With his striking tabby markings and bright, curious eyes, he's bound to steal your heart the moment you meet him. From exploring every nook and cranny of the HSNB cat playroom to pouncing on string toys with unmatched enthusiasm, Rorschach's zest for life is truly contagious. To meet Rorschach, go to our Adoption Page at HSNB.org and fill out a Cat Adoption Interest Application.

Nugget

NUGGET

French Bulldog/Corgi, male, young

Nugget is a fun-loving 1-year-old pup with an adorable nubbin of a tail that never stops wagging. He's bursting with energy and would love an active family that will keep him busy. He loves to play! Nugget enjoys the company of other dogs, especially his playful pal, Kovu. He will happily climb on your lap for pets and snuggles. Nugget is looking for a patient family that will dedicate time to positive reinforcement training. If you're looking for a happy, friendly, precious little dog, Nugget is waiting for you! To set up an appointment to meet Nugget, head to our Adoption Page at HSNB.org and fill out a Dog Adoption Interest Application.

UPCOMING GVRD COMMUNITY EVENTS

THE GREATER VALLEJO RECREATION DISTRICT PRESENTS:

The Flavor Town Tuesday’s

WHEN:

Tuesday, May 28th 4:30-8 PM. Tuesday, June 11 4:30-8 PM.

Tuesday, June 25th 4:30 -8 PM.

Tuesday, July 9th 4:30 -8 PM. Tuesday, July 23rd 4:30 -8 PM.

Tuesday, August 6th 4:30 -8 PM.

WHERE:

GVRD - 395 Amador St, Vallejo, CA 94590

FREE EVENT!

Flavor Town is back for season two! If you missed out last year, come support local owned businesses. We'll feature some of Vallejo's most popular and hidden gem eateries. Enjoy food, desserts, cocktails, and more.

Join in the fun with a variety of events for youth and families brought to you by the Greater Vallejo Recreation District (GVRD). GVRD is a separate government agency from the City of Vallejo that provides parks and recreation programs for children, families, and seniors in Vallejo. GVRD operates primarily by means of locally controlled funding and receives revenue from fees for services, park entrances, programs, and facility rentals. Grants and park dedication permit fees assist in the provision for new park development projects and ongoing maintenance.

The 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. All GVRD Board & Committee Meetings are held at 401 Amador St (administration, finance, & human resources). The playground at Terrace Park will be closed through April for renovations.

View the GVRD Spring 2024 Activity Guide for more programs, events, classes and activities.

To pre-register for events or for more information, visit www.gvrd.org, call (707) 648-4600, or email recreation@gvrd.org.