Solano Economic Update: August 2024

AUGUST 24' UPDATE

SOLANO EDC NEWS - CHRIS' LETTER

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CHRIS RICO President & CEO

Dear Members, Partners, and Friends of the EDC, Last month we produced a really terrific event in partnership with the Farm Bureau and RCRC (Rural Counties Representatives of California) called the Rural Communities Economic Development Forum. First Northern Bank was gracious enough to host and provide breakfast for 50 guests. We assembled a formidable group of civil servants who represented 9 different sources of potential funding and support for our rural communities. USDA, USEDA, CAL OSBA, SBDC, GOBiz, RCRC, the Mainstreet Program of CAL HCD, and the IBANK were all represented. They each shared all of the resources that are available to help our smaller, more rural cities to thrive and prosper. We then explored all of the various ways you can combine resources from these agencies to bring projects to fruition. It is often the braiding of these resources, or capital stacking that gets you across the finish line. The folks in the audience asked great questions, and more importantly, made in person connections with these folks who have resources to help. We got such great feedback that we will surely do this again. You can read all about the event here and here.

SOLANO EDC NEWS - CHRIS’ LETTER

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I’ve written previously about Emiliano Hurtado who came to us from Solano Community College through a fellowship we created with sponsorship from the Kaiser Foundation. He became such an asset to our organization that he was eventually elevated to an assistant project manager position helping out with Bayren programs and essentially becoming our internal IT consultant. Friday was a very proud and sad day for us all as he embarked on his next chapter as a student at UC Santa Barbara studying business accounting and finance. The joke around the office is that we’re all going to be working for him someday.

We’re really going to miss him.

Wishing you all good health and continued prosperity.

Enjoy the dog days of Summer!

Chris Rico President/CEO

SOLANO EDC NEWS - SOLANO EDC

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JULY 16TH, 2024 • FIRST NORTHERN BANK • DIXON, CA PRESENTED BY:

WITH GENEROUS SUPPORT FROM:

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SOLANO EDC NEWS - SOLANO EDC

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A GATHERING OF VISIONARIES On July 16th, 2024, the Rural Communities Economic Development Forum brought together a diverse group of stakeholders at the First Northern Bank in Dixon. Hosted

by Solano EDC, in partnership with the Rural County Representatives of California and the Solano County Farm Bureau, the event was more than just a meeting—it was a convergence of ideas and visions for the future of our rural communities. The energy in the room was palpable as attendees shared their passion for fostering economic growth and sustainability.

INSPIRING DISCUSSIONS AND INSIGHTS The day was filled with insightful presentations from experts who shed light on the unique challenges and opportunities facing rural areas. From innovative strategies for attracting businesses to discussions on sustainable development, the forum offered a wealth of knowledge.

The open forum session afterward allowed participants to engage directly with speakers, sparking meaningful conversations that will continue to resonate long after the event.

CAPTURING MOMENTS OF CONNECTION As the event unfolded, our team was on hand to capture the many moments of connection and collaboration that defined the day. The photos tell a story of engagement— attendees deeply immersed in discussions, exchanging ideas, and building networks. Each snapshot reflects the commitment and enthusiasm of everyone involved, showing that together, we are laying the groundwork for a prosperous future in our rural communities.

VIEW MORE PHOTOS HERE

SOLANO EDC NEWS - SOLANO EDC

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SPEAKER SERIES:

FUTURE OF TRANSIT IN SOLANO COUNTY September 5th, 2024 | 12:00PM - 1:30PM

SPONSORED BY:

Seamus Murphy Executive Director Water Emergency Transportation

Phil Pierce Senior Public Policy Manager Zoox

PRE-REGISTER HERE

Matt Schrap CEO Harbor Trucking Association

SOLANO EDC NEWS - SOLANO EDC

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Solano Biz-Grow A SMALL BUSINESS RESILIENCY FUND

SOLANO BIZ-GROW SUCCESS STORY SPOTLIGHT! Dr. Joel De Vera Moncada, the owner of Ritual Acupuncture Inc. in Vallejo, California, shares a heartfelt testimonial about the impact of the Solano Biz-Grow Revolving Loan Program. He credits the loan with saving his practice and supporting his employees during challenging times. With this crucial financial assistance, Dr. Moncada is confident that his business will continue to grow and thrive, enabling him to better serve his community. His story is a testament to the program’s ability to empower small businesses and ensure their success in the wake of the pandemic.

CLICK THE VIDEO BELOW TO VIEW TESTIMONIAL

(CLICK HERE)

(CLICK HERE)

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SOLANO EDC NEWS

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FAIRFIELD BREWERY WILL GET $7 MILLION IN UPGRADES Anheuser-Busch will invest $7 million in the Fairfield brewery for capital infrastructure projects to support ongoing improvements at the facility, including updates to the brewery's roofing, equipment overhauls, new lighting, and other structural repairs.

READ THE FULL ARTICLE IN THE DAILY REPUBLIC

SOLANO EDC NEWS - CITY OF VACAVILLE

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VACAVILLE COUNCIL APPROVES $6.7 MILLION TO BROWN STREET PARK

The Vacaville City Council voted 5-2 in favor of the Brown Street Park and Community Center project, approving $6.775 million in Measure M funds.

The project will cost $18.1 million, but a $6.7 million grant and other potential funds still leave a gap. Despite concerns about spending, the council stressed the importance of starting the project to revitalize the Markham neighborhood. This initiative aims to bring much-needed improvements and show the city’s commitment to all its residents.

READ FULL ARTICLE IN THE REPORTER

SOLANO EDC NEWS - SOLANO COUNTY

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SOLANO COUNTY CAN EXPECT MEASURED ECONOMIC GROWTH

Solano County is poised for exciting growth, with a projected increase of over 13,000 new residents and 14,000 additional jobs by 2030. The county is set to thrive as it leans into economic diversity, particularly by expanding its manufacturing sector, which promises to create robust opportunities. With its strong connection to local higher education and strategic development plans, Solano is well-positioned for a vibrant and prosperous future.

READ FULL ARTICLE IN THE DAILY REPUBLIC

SOLANO EDC NEWS - CITY OF VACAVILLE

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The new Beam EV ARC's are already in high demand. This service is offered to residents, businesses and visitors FREE of charge CLICK THE IMAGE TO VIEW VIDEO

The City of Vacaville is excited to announce the high demand for our new Beam EV ARC units, offering free top-off charging for residents, businesses, and visitors. Each unit provides up to 265 e-miles per day and stores 40 kWh of electricity, ensuring convenient access to sustainable energy. You can easily locate our EV chargers using the ChargePoint app.

SOLANO EDC NEWS

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The Workforce Development Board of Solano County is proud to announce the release of the new 'Bioeconomy in Solano County' report. This 26-page roadmap capitalizes on the economic and workforce opportunities that exist in Solano County as the potential hub for regional bioeconomy activities.

CLICK HERE TO VIEW THE FULL REPORT

SOLANO EDC NEWS - CITY OF FAIRFIELD

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The public review period for the Fairfield Forward 2050 Draft General Plan Update, Climate Action Plan, and Draft Environmental Impact Report is now open! From July 26 to September 9, 2024, you can review these crucial documents at various locations in Fairfield and provide your feedback. This is your opportunity to shape the future of our city, ensuring sustainable growth and environmental responsibility for the next 25 years.

Submit your comments by the deadline to make your voice heard!

CLICK HERE FOR MORE INFORMATION

SOLANO EDC NEWS - NORTHBAY HEALTH

CLICK HERE FOR MORE INFORMATION

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SOLANO EDC NEWS - TOURO UNIVERSITY

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LEADING THE WAY IN PRIMARY CARE: TOURO UNIVERSITY SHINES NATIONWIDE

CLICK HERE FOR MORE INFORMATION

SOLANO EDC NEWS - SOLANO MOBILITY

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SOLANO EDC NEWS - SOLANO TRANSPORTATION AUTHORITY

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The July 2024 STATUS is now available! The STATUS Newsletter is published every month after the STA Board meeting to inform the public and our stakeholders of what’s happening with transportation in Solano County.

VIEW THE JULY STATUS NEWSLETTER HERE

SOLANO EDC NEWS - SOLANO ADU

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SIMPLIFY THE ADU DEVELOPMENT PROCESS with our comprehensive guides.

Discover how to unlock the potential of your outdoor space.

VISIT OUR NEW WEBSITE TODAY

SOLANO EDC NEWS - BAYREN

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UPCOMING FREE ENERGY CODE TRAININGS ALL TRAININGS ARE FROM 9-10:30AM CLICK DATES TO PRE-REGISTER AUGUST 7TH ACCESSORY DWELLING UNITS (ADUS)

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SOLANO EDC NEWS - BAYREN

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Northern Solano National Association of REALTORS Shine at Selling Solano, a National Homeownership Luncheon

SOLANO EDC NEWS - BAYREN

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We were thrilled to participate in the Selling Solano Season 2 event, co-hosted by the Solano Association of REALTORS® and the Northern Solano Association of REALTORS. The luncheon, held at Rancho Solano in Fairfield, took place right by the picturesque golf course, providing a beautiful backdrop for the event.

At this luncheon, we promoted our BayREN Green Labeling program, which offers no-cost trainings for Real Estate Agents and Mortgage Brokers on selling and financing Green Homes. Our booth was bustling with activity, and we had the pleasure of making many new connections, distributing our bags and swag, and reconnecting with some of our past participants.

A special thank you to Pippin Dew for the invite (visit pippindew.com) and congratulations to the Northern Solano Association of REALTORS for hosting such a successful event. The luncheon was produced in partnership with the Solano Association of REALTORS and the Northern Solano Association of REALTORS in celebration of National Homeownership Month. It was a fantastic opportunity for all 2,000 realtors and affiliates to network and hear from a panel of city managers from each city in the county. The panel highlighted the best aspects of each city, shared fun historical facts, and discussed exciting developments in the works.

We are excited to continue our collaboration and look forward to participating in more events throughout Solano County.

SOLANO EDC NEWS - BAYREN

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Green Real Estate Training with John Shipman of Franklin Energy

SOLANO EDC NEWS - BAYREN

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In July, we hosted a green real estate training session led by John Shipman. This twoday event was packed with valuable insights and practical knowledge.

On the first day, real estate agents delved into the building science of green homes and participated in a green home tour courtesy of Larry Waters, the owner of Electrify My Home (visit electrifymyhome.com). This tour provided agents with a firsthand look at what a green home entails, including upgrades like heat pump water heaters, efficient solar with battery storage, and the impressive capabilities of induction stoves. These enhancements not only add value to properties but also save money and make homes more environmentally friendly.

The second day focused on comprehensive training and learning, with John Shipman from Franklin Energy providing in-depth instruction. This included understanding Building Science principles, identifying and creating High-Performance homes, and conveying the benefits of these homes to a wide variety of stakeholders. Unique to the Solano class was an emphasis on California programs, federal and state rebate programs that help customers make significant energy efficiency improvements, reducing the true cost of homeownership. Additionally, the class focused on programs that assist traditionally neglected communities, low-income clients, and first-time buyers, contributing to stronger and more resilient communities through decarbonization strategies.

The most unique aspect of the Solano class was the field trip to visit a high-performing home owned by Mr. Waters. This allowed participants to connect theory with practice in a real-world setting. Real estate professionals also learned strategies to improve their business opportunities and add more value to their clients' real estate experiences, particularly in a time when the real estate industry is facing significant challenges.

We are thrilled with the success of this training session and can't wait to facilitate the next one. For more information about BayREN and our programs, visit Bay Area Regional Energy Network.

Stay tuned for more updates on our BayREN programs!

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SOLANO EDC NEWS

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The Solano WDB is now accepting nominations for our 2024 Workforce Hero awards! Our annual Celebrating Solano's Workforce awards night Sept. 18 will recognize the businesses, job seekers and employees, and community partners who support and exemplify workforce efforts in Solano County.

Nomination deadline is Aug. 9.

CLICK HERE FOR MORE INFORMATION

SOLANO EDC NEWS

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The L.E.A.D. Supervisor Certification Course returns to Solano County in August. This training will provide new supervisors and seasoned managers with the tools they need to be successful and impactful leaders.

CLICK HERE TO PRE-REGISTER

SOLANO EDC NEWS - VALLEY STRONG

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SOLANO EDC NEWS - EVENTS

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AUGUST EVENTS SOLANO COUNTY Click on city logos for more information

BENICIA DIXON FAIRFIELD

RIO VISTA SUISUN CITY VACAVILLE VALLEJO

Thank you Solano EDC Major Investors! $25,000 INVESTORS

$15,000 INVESTOR

$10,000 INVESTORS

$7,500 INVESTORS

PUBLIC INVESTORS

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