Vallejo Weekly | Vol 12 | Issue 7

Vol 12 | Issue 7 | Feb 15, 2024

VA LLEJO W EEK LY

Cover Photo Credit: J. Daughtry

message from mike Hello, Vallejo!

I am happy to present to you updates on recent staffing improvements and recruitment efforts for the City of Vallejo. Please see the video links that display the employment opportunities in our wonderful City https://vimeo.com/cityofvallejo/mareislandbridge and the new staff that have joined our team in the past several months https://vimeo.com/cityofvallejo/newemployees-feb2024.

You will find that many Staff members are local and are proud to work and live in Vallejo!

Also, this past week, Staff presented to the City Council the Fiscal Year 2023-2024 Budget, Mid-Year which includes funding $1.3 Million worth of programs that will provide additional needs in the Community such as a new Cybersecurity Information Systems Officer and a Traffic Analysis and Design. The Council will take action on this Mid-Year 2023-2024 Budget on 2/27/24. It is our sincere hope that the Community has seen positive changes within the past year and we look forward to improving service to you with new Staff and projects.

Respectfully,

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Mike Malone Vallejo City Manager

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CITY OF VALLEJO HOLIDAY CLOSURE MONDAY, FEBRUARY 19, 2024 City offices will be closed in observance of Presidents Day

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City Hall will reopen on Tuesday, February 20, 2024, at 9:00 am

CITY OF VALLEJO 555 SANTA CLARA STREET

3VALLEJO CA, 94590

FIRE/LIFE SAFETY EMERGENCIES: 911 MAINTENANCE EMERGENCIES: (707) 648-5235

CITYOFVALLEJO.NET FACEBOOK.COM/CITYOFVALLEJO INSTAGRAM.COM/CITYOFVALLEJO

COV Finance Team awarded Operating Budget Excellence Award

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The City of Vallejo is proud to have received the California Society of Municipal Finance Officers (CSMFO) “Operating Budget Excellence Award” for the City’s Fiscal Year (FY) 2023-24 Adopted Budget. This is the eighth consecutive year the City of Vallejo has earned this honor.

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The CSMFO Budget Awards Program is designed to recognize those agencies that have prepared a budget that not only meets standard requirements but also goes ‘above and beyond’ to include additional information, graphics, and ease-of-use features to create a more engaging and informative financial document.

CSMFO is California’s premier statewide association for government finance professionals, with Chapters located throughout the State. CSMFO seeks to improve the knowledge, skills, and performance of individuals responsible for local government fiscal policy and management. Through an impartial review, the City’s FY 2023-24 Budget was judged to meet the high standards of the CSMFO program.

The City is very proud of this achievement, which is an acknowledgment of the City’s continued improvements in transparency, financial reporting, and progress toward creating more accessible, engaging, and readable financial reports.

Executive Secretary (Confidential) CLOSES 2/19/24 - 5:00 PM SALARY: $70,362.03 - $85,525.23

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BRIEF DESCRIPTION / IDEAL CANDIDATE This recruitment is being conducted to fill one full-time vacancy with the Finance Department.

The list established by this recruitment may be used to fill future full-time, part-time, and temporary vacancies for up to one year.

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The ideal Executive Secretary (Confidential) candidate will possess at least three years of increasingly responsible secretarial experience, can manage multiple projects and tasks on tight timeframes, and coordinate schedules with discretion. They take initiative and have the ability to handle complex and highly sensitive matters with tact and diplomacy, and is able to prioritize and manage multiple tasks in a fastpaced setting. The successful candidate will be

detailed-oriented, highly organized, a creative thinker and problem solver, and demonstrates exceptional communication and interpersonal skills.

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

G E T C O N N E C T E D VA L L E J O

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UPCOMING ELECTION INFORMATION As of Monday February 5, voters can drop off their completed vote-by-mail (VBM) ballots at City Hall for the Statewide Presidential Primary Election. The ballot box is located on the 1st floor of City Hall. The ballot box is available to voters during normal City business Hours, Monday-Thursday from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m.

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(This is NOT a Vallejo primary election.)

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KEY DATES • February 3: VBM ballots were mailed out to all Vallejo registered voters • February 20: 15-day close of voter registration • February 27: Last day Vote By Mail applications can be accepted for mailing of ballots • February 28: Vote by Mail – late conditions (pick up ballots in the Solano County ROV’s Office) • March 5: Election Day. Polls are open 7 a.m. to 8 p.m.

• March 12: Last day ROV can receive Vote By Mail Ballots postmarked no later than March 5, 2024

HOW DO I REGISTER TO VOTE? https://www.solanocounty.com/depts/ rov/voter_registration/voter_registration_ information.asp HOW DO I FIND THE POLLING PLACE MAP FOR VALLEJO? https://www.solanocounty.com/civicax/ filebank/blobdload.aspx?blobid=42039 HOW DO I FIND MY POLLING PRECINCT? https://www.solanocounty.com/depts/rov/ sample_ballot_polling_place_lookup.asp HOW DO I FIND MY CITY, COUNTY AND STATE DISTRICT? https://www.solanocounty.com/depts/rov/ district_maps_and_lookup/districtlookup.asp HAVE MORE QUESTIONS? Solano County Registrar of Voters Office: (707) 784-6675 elections@solanocounty.com

MONEY, CREDIT & CAPITAL SUMMIT A financial resource event for businesses large and small

DoDo you need money forfor your new you need money your new or or exisiting existing business? business? Are Areyou youinterested in the local loan opportunities? interested in local loan opportunities?

THIS IS A NO COST EVENT FOR YOU

THIS NO-COST EVENT IS FOR YOU

Start off the afternoon with free business social Start off the trainings afternoonfocused with freeon business media focused marketing and finance. trainings on social media marketing and finance.

Then hear from both traditional and non-traditional lenders and learn Then, hear fromSolano both traditional and nonmore about Biz-Grow, a new local revolving fund!more about traditional lenders loan and learn Solano Biz-Grow, a new local revolving FREE BUSINESS TRAININGS loan fund!

Maximizing your social media FREE BUSINESS TRAININGS strategy Led by Solano-Napa SBDCStrategy Advisor Maximizing Your Social Media LedEd byTroxell Solano-Napa SBDC Advisor Ed Troxell 3:00 - 4:00 3:00 pm to 4:00 pm pm Val l ej o W ee kl y

Explore your Funding Options Led by Solano-Napa SBDC Advisor Explore Your Funding Options Abee LedBlair

by Solano-Napa SBDC Advisor Blair Abee 4:00 5:00 pm 4:00 pm to 5:00 pm 8

March 20, 2024 National SBDC Day

Solano Community College, Vallejo Campus 545 Columbus Parkway Business Trainings 3:00 - 5:00 pm Lender Event Registration: 5:00 pm Panel: 5:30 - 7:00 pm Networking & Refreshments Included

PRE-REGISTRATION ENCOURAGED! solanonapasbdc.org/events

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a habitat assessment. Students Solano Resource Conservation completing will be assessing the condition of the creek District (RCD) is looking for and learning about stewardship practices that protect our water resources. volunteers Solano Resource Conservation District (RCD) is looking for volunteers to help with their high school Biomonitoring Program this spring!

Volunteers will spend time with high school students outside and learn more about our local creeks.

WHEN: 8:45am – 1:30pm on select weekdays during April & May – join us for at least five field trips and we welcome you to join more!

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WHERE: Creek locations in Vallejo

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HOW: Volunteers will assist Solano RCD staff in providing field trips for high school science classes. The volunteer will support in supervising students and ensuring everyone stays safe and on task. Student activities at the creek will include identifying macroinvertebrates and

If you’re interested, Shea Kinser, Program Manager, will provide you with the field trip curriculum and walk you through your role for each day you’re volunteering.

You will also need to be fingerprinted; Solano RCD will cover the cost of that service (which can be done at your local UPS Store!) Please email or call Shea Kinser at shea.kinser@solanorcd.org or 817.675.3604 for more information.

ABOUT SOLANO RCD: Solano RCD is a non-regulatory special district to the State of California. Solano Resource Conservation District (RCD) was originally formed in 1956 to provide flood protection in the Ulatis watershed. Today they work closely with the Natural Resources Conservation Service (NRCS) and wide variety of other partners throughout the County on a watershed scale. In 2000 they changed our name to reflect this broader mission. You can learn more about Solano RCD, www.solanorcd.org

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Inspiring youth at Vallejo High School’s College and Career Day

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Vallejo Fire Department, City Manager’s Office, Water Department, Information & Technology Department, Human Resources Department, Public Works Department, and the Mayor’s Office. Mayor McConnell attended the event and spoke to many youth who were interested On Friday, February 9th, 2024, the gymnasium in meeting and speaking to the Mayor of Vallejo. of Vallejo High School (VHS) was filled with The IT Department, including members from students eager to learn about careers and the Smart Fiber team, discussed their roles pathways from professionals from a variety of and the interesting things they do while on different fields. The College and Career Day was the job. Several members were graduates of organized by the VHS Engineering Academy with Vallejo Schools themselves, taking much pride the hopes of connecting students to possible in returning to speak with students. The City career paths and colleges in the area. Over Manager’s Office was represented by the Youth 300 students were in attendance to speak to Coordinator and Participatory Budget Program professionals such as entrepreneurs, school Manager who discussed the impact their roles staff, non- profit leaders, government staff, make on the community and transferrable police officers, fire fighters, and more. skills that youth can highlight to help find work in different fields The Vallejo Fire Department The City of Vallejo showed up in numbers brough a fire engine for the students to see as with around 20 different staff members well as several staff members to meet and greet representing the Vallejo Police Department, with students. Vallejo Police Department had

are proud of our Vallejoans who work with the Vallejo Water Department - they help us reflect the community we serve. Adding more Vallejoans, like some of the students we met at the Vallejo High School Career Fair, will further cement our commitment to our community.”

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With youth development being a Vallejo City Council priority, it is essential for City departments to continue to get involved in events like Career Days to engage with youth.

Students can get to know the different career options available, and the City can start to create pipelines for youth to work in positions that help contribute to the overall health and vitality of the Vallejo community. When asked about how he felt about the event and if he connected with any professionals, Rey Martin

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representatives from their recruitment team, uniformed officers, and CSI department. They were able to discuss their journeys as well as the Cadet program and potentially revamping the Explorers Program. Many students who were interested in Sports or Medicine/Science were surprised at the option of using their athleticism and science pursuits in law enforcement.

Public Works Engineering Department was present as well as several engineers from the Water Department, all of which are Vallejo natives. Also from the Water Department was our Water Conservation Coordinator and the Water Communications Manager. The team displayed our Vallejo water system as well as tools they used on the job. They also handed out information about different courses and certifications available at local schools and agencies that would qualify them for jobs in the water industry, highlighting attainable steps for youth to take towards a career in water. Valerie Walston, the new Communications Manager for the Water Department, stated,” No one knows Vallejo like the people who grow up here. We

Talbot, an 11th grader at VHS, stated “ I thought the event was amazing and well planned out. I really connected with one of the Media Specialist, Manny, and the advisor from Saint Mary’s College. Also, the VPD people were really

nice and cool. I think it’s really important for these types of events to happen so we can see more options for the future.” The City of Vallejo will continue to invest in opportunities to engage with youth and create pathways to careers within the City of Vallejo.

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United Nations. (n.d.). International Day of Women and Girls in Science | United Nations. https://www.un.org/en/observances/womenand-girls-in-science-day

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The Housing Authority of the City of Vallejo (HACV) will start accepting preliminary applications for its 2024 Housing Choice (Section 8) Voucher Interest List

of electronic applications and email creation at the Vallejo Room, lower level of the JFK Library, located at 505 Santa Clara St., Vallejo, CA 94590, from Tuesday, February 20, 2024, through Friday, February 23, 2024, 8:00 a.m. – 4:30 p.m. (PST).

A self-help kiosk is also available located at 200 Georgia St., Vallejo, CA 94590, from Tuesday, February 20, 2024, through Tuesday, March 5, 2024, 8:00 a.m. – 4:30 p.m. to submit electronic applications.

BEGINNING FEBRUARY 20, 2024 AT 8:00 AM

Paper applications are available by request.

Vallejo, CA - For the first time since 2015, the Housing Authority of the City of Vallejo (HACV) is excited to announce that it will be accepting preliminary applications for its Housing Choice Voucher (Section 8) Interest List beginning on Tuesday, February 20, 2024, at 8:00 a.m.

After the interest list closes, an electronic lottery will be conducted by the HACV to select preliminary applications to be placed on the waitlist list to be considered for a Housing Choice Voucher.

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The application period will continue through Tuesday, March 5, 2024, at 5:00 p.m.

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To apply, please visit https://waitlistcheck.com/ CA1004 using a computer or smart device.

AN EMAIL ADDRESS IS REQUIRED As an accommodation, the HACV will provide technical support to assist with the submission

To read the full public notice in English, Spanish, and Tagalog, visit cityofvallejo.co/ HousingApplication For more information, visit the Housing Authority's Frequently Asked Questions page by CLICKING HERE.

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."

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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.

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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 Community-owned ISPs are driven by the needs and affordable internet! and interests of the local residents rather than Stay updated with the latest news, updates, profit-driven motives. The profits generated events, and more on our social media accounts stay within the community, promoting local on Instagram and Facebook! growth, job creation, and economic development. VIP is committed to upholding Check your availability today at net neutrality principles, ensuring everyone www.vipfiber.com enjoys a level playing field on the internet.

Empower Your Creativity with the Vallejonomics: Hustle Art Program Discover your voice through art! Explore identity, process trauma, and foster personal growth through creative expression. This transformative initiative is designed to empower the youth of Vallejo through creative expression. This program, generously funded by the Vallejo Arts Fund, aims to create a nurturing environment for BIPOC high school students to explore their identities, heal, and grow using the arts.

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Starting in March 2024, workshops will be offered that not only foster creativity and personal growth, but also provide a platform for students to process communal trauma and promote wellness. Their curriculum is carefully crafted to include mindfulness meditation, technical skill presentations, experiential learning, and group discussions, all supported by personal mentorship from local artist.

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The Vallejonomics: HUSTLE ARTS Program is a commitment to the well-being and development of Vallejo students, encouraging them to express themselves, explore concepts like financial literacy and social justice, plus build resilience towards daily life stressors. The program aims to equip youth with confidence and skills beneficial

for their future educational, employment, and entrepreneurial endeavors. Classes are scheduled based on student availability and are held both via Zoom and in-person in Downtown Vallejo, ensuring accessibility for all interested participants. All participants will receive a stipend at the start and finish of the program. This program is supported by The Vallejo Arts Fund, Josh Icban, and LaDell’s Shoes.

APPLY HERE: Tinyurl.com/vallejonomicsapp APPLICATIONS DUE: March 1st, 2024 QUESTIONS? CONTACT: vallejonomics@gmail. com WHO CAN PARTICIPATE? • High School Students ( BIPOC Encouraged) • No Previous Art Experience Required PROGRAM HIGHLIGHTS • Mindfulness Meditation • Songwriting and Music Production Workshops • Experiential Learning • Group Discussions • Personal Mentorship from Local Artist WHY JOIN? • Build Resilience & Confidence • Explore Cultural Heritage and Local History • Support for Educational and Career Aspirations • Classes via Zoom & In-Person in Downtown Vallejo

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Pet of the week

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DRAKO Pit Bull Terrier, male, young

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Meet Drako! This handsome boy is quickly becoming the talk of the shelter with his winsome face, tall lanky limbs, and super duper sweetness! At 66 lbs. and an estimated age of 2 years old, Drako is like an overgrown puppy.

After a proper intro, he interacted nicely with our resident dog-testing canine. He’s a bit leash

reactive (it’s more excitement than anything), which includes getting distracted easily by passing cars, sunbathing kitties, and other dogs passing by on leash. With daily exercise and positive leash-manners training, he will be walking like a champ in no time! Drako is relatively new to our shelter and we are still getting to know about him. One thing's for sure, he would love to have a home of his own! To set up a meet and greet with Drako, go to HSNB.org and fill out a dog adoption interest application.

Pet of the week

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RYAN Domestic Shorthair, male, young

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Meet Ryan, the adorable 4-month-old kitten who is ready to bring boundless joy, endless cuddles, and an abundance of love into your life!

Ryan is a delightful ball of fur, brimming with curiosity and charm. This little feline friend is currently seeking a loving forever home, and his sweet nature is sure to steal your heart. Ryan is a tiny, mischievous explorer with a heart full

of love. From his soft, velvety fur to his bright, inquisitive eyes, he embodies the essence of youthful innocence. Whether he's chasing after a feather toy, pouncing on a ball, or simply curling up in a warm spot, Ryan's playful antics are sure to bring smiles to your face. One of Ryan's most endearing qualities is his affectionate nature. He loves to snuggle up close, purring contentedly as he nestles in your lap. Ryan gets along well with other pets, making him an excellent addition to any fur-loving family. If you think this little sweetheart would be the purr-fect addition to your family, visit HSNB.org and fill out a cat adoption interest application.

UPCOMING GVRD COMMUNITY EVENTS

The Greater Vallejo Recreation District Presents: BLACK HISTORY MONTH "HOMECOMING" BLOCK PARTY! Saturday, February 24th - 12-5 PM FREE EVENT! Children's Wonderland Park Join us in the celebration of Black History Month.

Enjoy entertainment, food, vendors, and more!

Join in the fun with a variety of other events for youth and families brought to you by the Greater Vallejo Recreation District (GVRD).

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., Sat 9:00 a.m.– 12:00 p.m. All GVRD Board & Committee Meetings are held at 401 Amador St (administration, finance, & human resources).

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

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View these events and more at www.gvrd.org or scan the QR code

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Virtual Financial Literacy Workshops

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America’s Job Center of California is offering Zoom Financial Workshops that will teach participants how to: make money work better for you, find and save more money, understand investments and build wealth, and protect and preserve your money.

Workshops are held on Mondays from 7:00pm – 8:30pm or Fridays from 10:00am – 11:30am.

To RSVP, click here.

JFK Library Upcoming Events LIBRARY HOURS MONDAY - THURSDAY 9:00 AM – 8:00 PM FRIDAY - SATURDAY 9:00 AM – 5:00 PM SUNDAY 12:00 PM - 5:00 PM FRIDAY, FEB 16 • Makery: Open Use - 2:00-4:45 PM

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MONDAY, FEB 19 • LIBRARY CLOSED WASHINGTON’S BIRTHDAY

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TUESDAY, FEB 20 • Baby Bounce - 9:30 AM • Family Storytime - 10:30 AM • Homework Help - 3:30-5:30 PM • ESL Conversation - 5:30 PM WEDNESDAY, FEB 21 • Computer Basics: Internet Searching - 11:15 AM • Tech Help - 12 - 2 PM

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Read to a Dog - 4 - 5 PM Teen Workshop - 4 - 5 PM Lawyers in the Library - 5:30 PM

THURSDAY, FEB 22 • Makery: Make it Thurs.! Black History Month Inspired Invention Workshop 3 - 7 PM • Homework Help - 3:30-5:30 PM • ESL Conversation - 5:30 PM • Poetry Slam – Black History Month 6:00-7:30 PM FRIDAY, FEB 23 • Makery: Open Use - 2:00-4:45 PM • ESL Conversation - 5:30 PM • Comedy Show – Starring OG Vicc 6:00-7:30 PM For more information about the JFK Library, Click Here!

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