Solano Economic Update: February 25' by solanoedc

FEBRUARY 25' UPDATE

CHRIS RICO

President & CEO

Dear Members, Partners, and Friends of the EDC,

I hope it’s apparent that I really love what I do. We have a great team, an awesome board, amazing partner organizations, and we’re doing so much great work. If there’s one thing I wish I could change, it’s the pace of some of the projects we’re working on. This month we started seeing some traction on two ambitious projects that have a lot of stakeholders.

The philanthropic funding disparity in Solano is something that has been known in the donor world for over a decade. A lot of lip service has been paid, but there hasn’t been much real progress. In the last year we built a task force of leaders who are committed to finally breaking down this barrier and ending the philanthropy desert. We were fortunate enough to get two hours in San Francisco with the leaders of Northern California GrantMakers, who are a conduit to Billions of dollars of Philanthropy. It’s a step in the right direction and we’re going to keep building momentum.

The second project is our goal of bringing affordable ADUs to Solano Residents to serve as senior, Airmen, student, and workforce housing. We’re working with a great many partners across the region, as well as several foundations, to leverage workforce dollars to train folks in advanced manufacturing while they build these affordable units. We recently convened 20 people at our offices to share knowledge and begin to combine our efforts to raise the kind of capital this will require. We know we’ll be stronger together, and we can create something where the whole is greater than the sum of its parts.

Lastly, thank you to Touro for, once again, inviting me to sit at their table for the Vallejo Chamber Gala. Shawna Gilroy does a terrific job with the Vallejo chamber and it was a really fun event. It’s nice to see people be honored for the hard work and dedication they put into building the businesses that fuel our economy.

Wishing you all good health and continued prosperity.

Chris Rico President/CEO

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Dixon Secures $25 Million Grant for Critical Rail Overcrossing

Dixon has been awarded a $25 million federal grant to construct a longawaited railroad overcrossing at Parkway Boulevard, improving safety, emergency response times, and citywide connectivity. With over 40 highspeed trains passing daily, this project is vital as Dixon continues to grow. Construction is set to begin soon, with completion targeted for 2027-28.

Solano-Area Agencies

Awarded Treasury Grants to Boost Small Businesses

The California Treasury Department has allocated $15 million in grants to support small businesses, community development, affordable housing, and financial accessibility statewide. Several recipients, including Valley Strong Credit Union, Main Street Launch, and California FarmLink, operate in Solano County, though specific local funding details remain unclear. These grants aim to empower economic growth and financial inclusion across the region.

Vallejo Waterfront Weekend Grants $40,000 to Local Nonprofits

Twelve community organizations received $40,000 in grants from Vallejo Waterfront Weekend, recognizing their impact on the city. Despite weather challenges, the event continues to grow, supporting causes from youth leadership to animal welfare. Organizers are already planning fresh ideas for next year’s milestone celebration, ensuring even greater community engagement.

Empowering Future Educators: Solano County Teaching Scholarships Available Now!

Solano County’s aspiring teachers have an incredible opportunity as the California Retired Teachers Association (CalRTA), Division 24, is offering scholarships to local residents working toward their California teaching credential. With a rich 38-year history, these scholarships support future educators who plan to teach in Solano County. In 2024, five recipients received $4,000 each to help complete their credential programs. Applications are due by March 22, making this a vital opportunity for those dedicated to shaping the next generation.

Suisun City Launches New Business License and TOT Portal

Suisun City has introduced a new online portal for business licenses and transient occupancy tax (TOT) services, available 24/7. Powered by HdL Companies, this platform simplifies business license applications, renewals, payments, and tax filings, making local government services more accessible. City officials emphasize this as a key step in supporting businesses and streamlining operations.

BRUCE MULDER CONGRATULATIONS

CITY OF VACAVILLE

PARKS AND RECREATION DIRECTOR

Bruce Mulder joins Vacaville as its new Parks and Recreation Director, bringing 30 years of experience in local government. Previously in Brentwood, he enhanced parks and recreation services. Mulder’s leadership will help shape Vacaville’s master plans and community programs, ensuring a vibrant future for parks and public spaces.

Vacaville Chamber Kicks Off 2025 Business Issues Forum

The Vacaville Chamber of Commerce hosted its first Business Issues Forum of 2025, featuring real estate experts discussing local and national market trends. While housing inventory remains tight, Solano County’s strategic location and infrastructure investments could drive growth. Mortgage rates, inflation, and government policies remain key factors shaping the market in 2025.

Sarah Chapman Named Vacaville’s First Black Woman Vice Mayor

City Councilmember and former school trustee Sarah Chapman has made history as Vacaville’s new Vice Mayor. Her appointment follows council discussions on leadership rotations and representation. As she steps into this role, Chapman will help shape city policies and priorities. Leaders emphasized collaboration and community engagement moving forward.

MICHAEL BASAYNE CONGRATULATIONS

SOLANO-NAPA SMALL BUSINESS DEVELOPMENT CENTER

NEW DIRECTOR

Michael Basayne has been named the new director of the Solano-Napa Small Business Development Center (SBDC), bringing expertise in banking, consulting, agriculture, and real estate. With experience advising businesses and leading Solano Success programs, he is committed to helping local entrepreneurs thrive. Basayne officially steps into the role Monday, succeeding recently retired Tim Merrill.

NorthBay Medical Center has been recognized as a Center of Excellence in Robotic Surgery by the Surgical Review Corporation. This honor reflects our commitment to the safety and quality care of our patients during our innovative robotic-assisted procedures.

Are you having trouble getting to your medical appointments?

Solano Mobility’s Medical Trip Concierge Service Program provides subsidized Uber & Lyft rides through GoGo Grandparent, for Solano County residents, aged 60 & older, to get to & from medical appointments within Solano County. To see how this program works, visit:

Made possible by funding from the County of Solano.

SOLANO BIZ-GROW

Small Business Loan Program

Funds Remaining

Loan Amount: $25,000 to $125,000

Interest Rate: 6%, Fixed Rate

LoanTerm:5Years

MinimumCreditScore:630

No Prepayment Penalty

Loan Application Fee: $250 (Borrowers who complete an assessment and counseling with the Solano-Napa Small Business Development Center shall receive a $250 rebate)

Eligibility: Small Business must meet Covid-19 impact eligibility requirements and be located in Solano County.

Must be in business prior to 12/31/21

SIMPLIFY

THE ADU SIMPLIFY THE

ADU DEVELOPMENT PROCESS DEVELOPMENT PROCESS

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