Solano Economic Update: June 25'

JUNE 25'

KEVIN MILLER

Board Chair Solano Economic Development Corporation

President & CEO of Travis Credit Union

The Solano Economic Development Corporation (SEDC) continues to play an active role in bringing together public and private organizations and leaders to enhance the economic vibrancy of the county while improving the lives of its residents. During the March SEDC Annual Breakfast, I shared my observations and areas of focus since assuming the role of Board Chair. These three priorities build upon the solid foundation already established by the organization: Advancing the outcome of Moving Solano Forward Phase III, including clearly defined focus areas, timelines, and expected results

Finding new ways to tap into the experience and leadership of our board

Continue to convene and engage stakeholders around the most pressing economic issues facing Solano County

I am pleased to say that Chris Rico and the team, in partnership with the Board of Directors, are making great strides in each of these areas. One example is our upcoming breakfast event focused on “Tariffs, Headwinds, and Opportunities. ” I encourage you to attend this event and bring your voice to the table as we continue shaping Solano’s economic future.

I would also like to thank our Board of Directors who put in countless hours of their time to support the SEDC’s mission. Please feel free to reach out to Chris or me if you have any ideas, questions, or feedback.

Kevin Miller Board Chair Solano Economic Development

Corporation

President & CEO Travis Credit Union

Kmiller@Traviscu.org

Meet Bijan Owner of Fairfield I Love You and a Solano Biz-Grow Success Story.Through the Solano Biz-Grow Revolving Loan Fund, Bijan received the support he needed to grow his brand, invest in new opportunities, and continue giving back to the Fairfield community. From business upgrades to expansion plans, his journey is a reminder of how local support can fuel powerful impact. We’re proud to highlight Fairfield I Love You as a shining example of what Solano BizGrow is all about growth, vision, and community commitment.

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WEDNESDAY - JUNE 4

WEDNESDAY – JUNE

WEDNESDAY – JULY 2

Vallejo’s

Broadway

Project Nears Completion, Eyes June Move-In for Residents

Vallejo’s Broadway Project Nears Completion, Eyes June Move-In for Residents

Vallejo’s long-awaited Broadway Project is 97% complete and preparing to welcome its first residents by mid-June. The $27 million, four-story housing facility will offer 47 permanent supportive units for individuals experiencing chronic homelessness. With modern amenities, dedicated case managers, and 24/7 staff, the project promises a fresh start for many in need.

MCE Marks 15 Years of Clean Energy Leadership

Marin Clean Energy (MCE) is celebrating 15 years of providing renewable power and local energy solutions across the Bay Area— including Fairfield, Benicia, Vallejo, and unincorporated Solano County. Since 2010, MCE has grown from serving 8,000 customers to over 585,000 in 38 communities, championing clean, communitydriven energy for 1.5 million Californians.

Solano County Celebrates 2025 Outstanding Educators

Solano CountyCelebrates 2025 Outstanding Educators

Solano County honored its top educators during the 2025 Educators of the Year celebration in Vacaville. Maricela Schrunk, a special education teacher, and Anthony Fazzare, a maintenance foreman, were named Teacher and Classified School Employee of the Year for their extraordinary dedication to students, schools, and the community.

Fairfield Explores 2026 Sales Tax Increase to Address Fiscal Challenges

Fairfield City Council has unanimously approved up to $250,000 for public outreach on a proposed sales tax increase, potentially headed to voters in June 2026. With pension obligations growing and staffing already cut, the city is exploring a ¾ cent sales tax that could generate up to $24 million annually for the general fund.

Vacaville Tourism Sees Major Growth in Visitor Spending Vacaville Tourism Sees Major Growth in Visitor Spending

Justina Salinas, owner of Araceli Farm in Dixon, was honored by Congressman Mike Thompson as Solano County’s 2025 Climate Crisis Champion. Recognized for her regenerative farming practices and commitment to environmental stewardship, Salinas has transformed her lavender farm into a thriving, sustainable native grassland and a beacon of climate resilience.

Cabaldon’s $10B Affordable Housing Bond

Gains Governor’s Backing

Solano’s own Sen. Christopher

Cabaldon is moving the needle on affordable housing. With Governor Newsom’s support for Senate Bill 417, a $10 billion housing bond could be headed to the 2026 ballot. While local funding for emergency housing is drying up, Cabaldon is pushing for long-term solutions to California’s housing crisis— reminding us that accountability must be paired with real investment.

Solano County Gets $131M in State Highway Investment Solano County Gets $131M in State Highway Investment

California is investing $1.7 billion in highways, including $131 million for Solano County. Projects in Vallejo, Fairfield, and Vacaville will enhance I-80 access, repair infrastructure, and improve road safety—part of the state’s “Build More, Faster – For All” initiative to strengthen mobility and climate resilience.

Five Fairfield-Suisun Schools Receive $7M for Community Services Five Fairfield-Suisun Schools Receive $7M for Community Services

Five Fairfield-Suisun schools will share $7 million over five years through California’s Community Schools initiative, enhancing access to academic, health, and social resources.

Funded campuses include

Anna Kyle, Cleo Gordon, David Weir, Sheldon Academy, and Grange Middle School.

Solano County Adds 700 Jobs

in

Solano County Adds 700 Jobs in April as Bay Area Job

April

as

Market Rebounds

Bay Area Job Market Rebounds

Solano County added 700 jobs in April, lowering its unemployment rate to 4.8%. This mirrors a Bay Area-wide rebound, with 4,200 new positions added regionally. Retail and healthcare sectors led Solano’s growth, as California slowly recovers from early 2025 job losses.

Cal Poly Appoints New Leaders for Solano Campus and Maritime Academy Ahead of 2025 Integration

Dr. Corey Cook and Rear Admiral (Ret.)

Eric C. Jones have been named to lead Cal Poly, Solano Campus and Cal Poly Maritime Academy, respectively, starting July 1, 2025. Their appointments mark a major milestone in Cal Poly’s integration efforts, advancing regional impact and student success across both institutions.

Touro University California Celebrates 25th COM Graduation Milestone

Touro University California Celebrates 25th COM

Graduation Milestone

Touro University California marked its 25th College of Osteopathic Medicine commencement on May 19, graduating over 130 new Doctors of Osteopathic Medicine. Held at Sacramento Memorial Auditorium, the event honored student achievements, family support, and the university’s legacy of excellence in osteopathic medical education since its founding in 1997.

Solano-Napa SBDC Launches Summer Training Series on AI, Branding, and Marketing

Solano-Napa SBDC Launches Summer Training Series on AI, Branding,

and Marketing

Solano-Napa SBDC is offering summer training on AI, digital marketing, and branding, including the weekly AI Lunchbreak series, a June 11 marketing workshop at Napa Valley College, and a free two-part virtual series on mastering images for marketing.

Recruiting talent is one of the most significant issues facing business owners today across almost every industry. The Solano WDB's Business Services team offers no-cost customized resources to support businesses in their recruitment efforts