Issuu

NOVEMBER

2026 ECONOMIC UPDATE

PRESENTED BY

EDC NEWS - NOVEMBER 26'

CHRIS RICO President & CEO Dear Members, Partners, and Friends of the EDC, I have some exciting news to share. I am pleased to welcome Chris Johnson as our new Vice President of Programs and Operations. Chris joins us having spent the last 13 years as a Foreign Service Officer at the U.S. Department of State, or as I like to think of it, one of the staff portrayed in the Netflix series "The Diplomat." As a diplomat, Chris served as a spokesperson and media coach, managed federal grants supporting local economic development and capacity building, and bridged multicultural and multilingual experiences through policy analysis, development, and implementation. Born in San Francisco, California, and raised in both San Francisco and Hayward, Christopher brings a deep personal connection to the Bay Area and a strong understanding of the economic realities facing its communities. Growing up in a family that owned and operated a small business in San Francisco's Mission District, he witnessed firsthand the vital role that entrepreneurship plays in creating opportunity and strengthening local neighborhoods. Like many families across the region, Chris's extended family has experienced the challenges of economic displacement and housing affordability, with relatives relocating to Solano County and other neighboring counties in pursuit of greater stability and opportunity.

EDC NEWS - NOVEMBER 26'

These experiences, combined with his extensive leadership background in public service, have shaped his commitment to fostering inclusive economic growth, supporting businesses, and expanding pathways to prosperity. We are excited to have Chris join the Solano EDC team and help advance our mission of strengthening Solano County's economy and enhancing opportunities for residents, businesses, and communities throughout the region. Happy Daylight Savings Time and Pumpkin Spice Season to all who celebrate. (I am not one of them.) Wishing you all good health and prosperity, Chris Rico President/CEO

EDC NEWS - NOVEMBER 26'

Meet Chris Johnson Solano EDC | Vice President of Programs and Operations Christopher Johnson joins the Solano Economic Development Corporation (Solano EDC) this month as Vice President of Programs and Operations, bringing more than 13 years of experience in diplomacy, public affairs, program management, economic development, and cross-sector partnership building. Prior to joining Solano EDC, he served as a U.S. Department of State Foreign Service Officer, most recently as a Press Officer in the Bureau of African Affairs. Domestically, Chris also worked as the Department's Portuguese language spokesperson based out of Miami and as the Cambodia Desk Officer in the Bureau of East Asian and Pacific Affairs in Washington, DC. His overseas assignments included serving as Spokesperson at U.S. Embassy Port-au-Prince in Haiti, Assistant Public Affairs Officer at U.S. Embassy Asunción in Paraguay, and as a Consular Officer at U.S. Consulate General São Paulo in Brazil. Throughout his career, he has led complex programs, managed grants and budgets, fostered relationships among government, nonprofit, and private-sector stakeholders, and advanced initiatives supporting economic growth and community development. A native of the San Francisco Bay Area, Chris was born in San Francisco and raised in both San Francisco and Hayward. He holds a Master of Public Affairs degree from Princeton University, where he concentrated in economics and public policy. Chris is fluent in Spanish and Portuguese and speaks intermediate French.

Connect with Chris and say hello!

EDC NEWS - NOVEMBER 26'

Solano EDC Hosts Second Manufacturers Roundtable to Strengthen Workforce Development and Industry Collaboration

Workforce development emerged as the number one challenge facing Solano County manufacturers during our inaugural Manufacturers Roundtable. Their feedback shaped the focus of our second roundtable, bringing industry, education, and workforce partners together to discuss solutions.

Solano EDC recently hosted its Second Manufacturers Roundtable, bringing together local manufacturers, educators, and workforce development partners to discuss opportunities to strengthen Solano County’s manufacturing industry. We were pleased to welcome Congressman John Garamendi, who shared his perspective on the importance of manufacturing and workforce development to our region’s economic future. We also thank our speakers for sharing their expertise and valuable resources, including Dr. Francisco J. Herrera Jr. of the LAUNCH Apprenticeship Network; Douglas Green and Andreas Kaiser of Solano Community College; Robert Meyer of the Employment Training Panel; Tiffany Donahue of Vacaville Adult School; Scott Null of Fairfield-Suisun Adult School; Lorene Garrett of Solano Mobility; and Holly Whitworth of Fairfield-Suisun Unified School District CTE. Special thanks to the California Manufacturers & Technology Association (CMTA), the Workforce Development Board of Solano County, and the Solano County Office of Education for their partnership, and to the Employment Training Panel for providing lunch. At Solano EDC, we remain focused on bringing industry, education, and workforce partners together to support local manufacturers, develop talent, and create opportunities for continued economic growth.

Contact Steve Kirnig to Join the Manufacturers Roundtable and Receive Event Updates

EDC NEWS - NOVEMBER 26'

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Scan QR Code to learn about BRRR

EDC NEWS - NOVEMBER 26'

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Scan QR Code to learn about BRRR

EDC NEWS - NOVEMBER 26'

Made possible by funding from the County of Solano.

SOLANO BIZ-GROW

Small Business Loan Program

APPLY TODAY! Loan Amount: $25,000 to $75,000 Interest Rate: 7%, Fixed Rate

Loan Term: 5 Years Minimum Credit Score: 630 No Prepayment Penalty Loan Application Fee: $250 (Borrowers who complete two assessments and counseling with the Solano-Napa Small Business Development Center shall receive a $250 rebate)

Eligibility: Solano County small business or non-profit that has been in business for at least two years as of the date of applying.

Participating Lenders:

Program Partner:

STEP 1

Contact to Determine Eligibility: Wendi Reed - Solano EDC Loan Program Manager

707-864-1855 x21 & 707-631-3891 Wendi@SolanoEDC.org

Scan Here For More Info

EDC NEWS - NOVEMBER 26'

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EDC NEWS - NOVEMBER 26'

First / Last Mile Program The purpose of the First/Last Mile Program is to help commuters who use alternate modes of transportation like transit, carpool, or vanpool to travel to work and have problems connecting with Solano County transit hubs for the first/last leg of their trip.

PROGRAM OVERVIEW Solano Mobility and Lyft have partnered to provide 60% off Lyft rides (up to $20) (80% off Lyft rides low-income subsidy; for more information see below) to all Solano County Transportation Centers, the two Solano County train stations, and all Solano County Solano Express bus stops (12 transit locations total). All participants are eligible for 45 rides in one calendar month. Participants must live or work in Solano County and be over the age of 18. The program shall not be used for pickup or drop off outside of Solano County. Staff reserves the right to remove participants for misuse of the program.

LOW-INCOME SUBSIDY

PROGRAM FUNDING AND CONDITIONS The First/Last Mile Program is subject to termination upon depletion of program funding or by decision of Solano Mobility. Solano Mobility shall be under no obligation to honor requests received after the depletion of program funding or termination of the program.

PROGRAM APPLICATION

CLICK HERE TO FILL OUT FORM

Riders who are on a Solano County program such as CalFresh or Medi-Cal, on SSI, or on the discounted PGE CARE/FERA programs qualify for the low-income subsidy of 80% off the cost of the ride up to $20.

READY TO GET STARTED? Click here to learn more about the First/Last Mile Program.

EDC NEWS - NOVEMBER 26'

NorthBay Health Advances $250.6 Million Revenue Bond Financing for Facility Improvements Solano County supervisors completed a required public hearing for $250.6 million in revenue bonds supporting NorthBay Health facilities in Fairfield and Vacaville. The financing will fund construction, renovations, expansions and equipment upgrades across 10 properties. The bonds will be issued without financial responsibility for the county.

The financing supports healthcare facility improvements and infrastructure investments across Solano County.

Click here to read the full article in the Daily Republic

EDC NEWS - NOVEMBER 26'

Fairfield-Suisun Chamber Honors Local Businesses and Community Leaders The Fairfield-Suisun Chamber of Commerce celebrated local excellence at its annual Buzz Awards, presenting 90 awards to outstanding businesses and community leaders. Honorees included Medic Ambulance, Travis Credit Union, Leaven Kids and Il Fiorello Olive Oil Company, recognizing achievements in business, leadership, sustainability and community service.

The awards highlight the businesses and individuals contributing to the Fairfield-Suisun community.

Click here to read the full article in Daily Republic

EDC NEWS - NOVEMBER 26'

Ball Corporation Celebrates 50 Years of Manufacturing in Fairfield Ball Corporation is celebrating 50 years at its Fairfield manufacturing plant, which produces approximately 2.3 billion aluminum beverage cans annually. Employing 169 people, the facility operates three production lines and a solar farm, highlighting its longstanding contribution to local jobs, manufacturing and economic growth.

Five decades of innovation, sustainability and local employment highlight Ball Corporation’s impact on Fairfield’s manufacturing industry.

Click here to read the full article in the Daily Republic

EDC NEWS - NOVEMBER 26'

Lonza Positions Vacaville Facility as Key Driver of Future Biologics Growth Lonza is investing approximately $500 million to modernize its Vacaville biologics manufacturing facility, expanding production capabilities and operational efficiency. The company expects the site to become a major growth driver, potentially generating $2.4 billion in annual sales by the early 2030s.

The investment strengthens Vacaville’s position in advanced biomanufacturing and pharmaceutical production.

Click here to read the full article in Pharma Manufacturing

EDC NEWS - NOVEMBER 26'

NorthBay Health and Touro University Awarded $5 Million for Vallejo BREATHE Initiative Touro University California and NorthBay Health received $5 million to launch the three-year Vallejo BREATHE Initiative. Funded by the Bay Area Air District, the program will address pollution-related health challenges through workforce development, healthier homes and expanded heart and lung care for vulnerable residents.

The initiative aims to improve environmental health, expand healthcare access and create career opportunities for Vallejo residents.

Click here to read the full article in the Reporter

EDC NEWS - NOVEMBER 26'

Fairfield Announces $850,000 in Annual Community Development Grant Funding The City of Fairfield is inviting organizations serving low-income residents to apply for approximately $850,000 in annual Community Development Block Grant funding. Eligible projects include affordable housing, homelessness prevention, youth services, neighborhood improvements and economic development. An applicant workshop is scheduled for November 10, 2026.

Organizations interested in applying are encouraged to attend the November 10 workshop from 2–4 p.m. Registration is required.

Click here to register for the CDBG Applicant Workshop

EDC NEWS - NOVEMBER 26'

Solano County Advances Zoning Proposal for 1,312 Acres Near Collinsville

Solano County is advancing a proposal to rezone approximately 1,312 acres near Collinsville for water-dependent industrial uses, potentially supporting future shipbuilding and maritime manufacturing. The change would align zoning with the county’s General Plan but would not approve any development. Public hearings begin November 5.

The proposal could shape future maritime development while raising questions about agricultural land preservation and environmental protection.

Click here to read the full article in the Reporter

EDC NEWS - NOVEMBER 26'

Kaiser Permanente’s Medicare Health Plan Earns 4.5-Star Rating in California Kaiser Permanente’s California Medicare Advantage HMO health plan earned 4.5 out of 5 stars in the 2027 Medicare ratings from the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services. Tied for the highest-rated plan in California, Kaiser Permanente has maintained high ratings for 17 consecutive years.

The recognition highlights Kaiser Permanente’s commitment to quality healthcare, patient experience and member services.

Click here to read the full article in the Reporter

EDC NEWS - NOVEMBER 26'

Garamendi Honors 52 Women of the Year, Including 23 from Vallejo and Benicia U.S. Rep. John Garamendi recognized 52 outstanding women from California’s Eighth Congressional District during his annual Women of the Year ceremony. Among the honorees were 23 women from Vallejo and Benicia, including NAACP Vallejo President Patricia Hunter and Solano County Supervisor Cassandra James.

The awards celebrate women whose leadership, volunteerism and community service make a lasting impact across Solano County.

Click here to read the full article in the Times-Herald

EDC NEWS - NOVEMBER 26'

Vacaville Business Expo Connects Local Businesses and Entrepreneurs The Vacaville Chamber of Commerce’s Business Expo attracted a strong turnout at the Ulatis Community Center, featuring 63 vendors and a business financing seminar attended by approximately 85 people. The event provided opportunities for networking, customer engagement and learning about funding options to support business growth.

The successful event highlights Vacaville’s thriving business community and the importance of supporting local entrepreneurs.

Click here to read the full article in the Times-Herald

EDC NEWS - NOVEMBER 26'

Express Employment Professionals Highlights the Benefits of Partnering with a Staffing Company Express Employment Professionals explores how staffing partnerships help businesses overcome hiring challenges, reduce recruitment costs and maintain productivity. The blog highlights flexible staffing solutions, access to qualified candidates, HR support and workforce planning strategies that help employers adapt to changing business needs.

Discover how the right staffing partner can save time, reduce hiring challenges and support business growth.

Click here to read the full blog from Express Employment Professionals

EDC NEWS - NOVEMBER 26'

Vallejo Waterfront to Get New Outdoor Fitness Area at Independence Park Vallejo is adding a free outdoor fitness area at Independence Park along Mare Island Way. The approximately $114,000 project will feature 11 exercise stations, including strength-training equipment. Funded through a federal Community Development Block Grant, the space will promote physical activity and expand recreational access for residents.

The fitness area will be free to use and open daily from dawn to dusk.

Click here to read the full article in the Times-Herald

EDC NEWS - NOVEMBER 26'

Fairfield Celebrates Grand Opening of Robbieburr Berger Recreation Center and Park Fairfield will celebrate the grand opening of Robbieburr Berger Recreation Center and Park on November 19, 2026. The free event features new sports courts, soccer fields, playgrounds and family resources. A ribbon-cutting ceremony begins at 10 a.m., followed by activities from 11 a.m. to 2 p.m.

The new community space brings recreation, family support services and outdoor activities to Fairfield residents.

Click here to learn more on the City of Fairfield website

EDC NEWS - NOVEMBER 26'

Vallejo’s Sacʼs Tasty Hot Dogs Celebrates 50 Years in Business

Sac’s Tasty Hot Dogs is celebrating 50 years of serving Vallejo residents and visitors. Known for its signature all-beef hot dogs, fresh ingredients and friendly service, the Springs Road restaurant continues to attract loyal customers, maintaining its reputation as a beloved local dining destination.

Five decades of delicious food, cherished memories and community connections make Sac’s a Vallejo favorite.

Click here to read the full article in the Times-Herald

EDC NEWS - NOVEMBER 26'

Dumpling House Brings Fresh Flavors to Downtown Fairfield

Downtown Fairfield welcomed Dumpling House this summer at 700 Texas Street. Owner Linda offers a flavorful menu featuring Pork Xiao Long Bao, pork and vegetable dumplings, Beijing Noodles, and refreshing milk teas. The restaurant adds another dining option to downtown while encouraging residents to explore and support local businesses.

Discover Authentic Flavors and Support Local Dining in Downtown Fairfield.

Click here to watch full video

EDC NEWS - NOVEMBER 26'

Solano Community College Hosts Fall Pop-Up Series Supporting Student Entrepreneurs and Small Businesses

Solano Community College’s Entrepreneur Club is hosting a free Fall Pop-Up Series featuring student entrepreneurs, local vendors, food and family-friendly activities. Events run from October through December at the Fairfield and Vallejo campuses, offering opportunities to shop local, discover businesses and support emerging entrepreneurs.

The series encourages entrepreneurship, community engagement and local small business growth.

Click here to read the full article in the Daily Republic

EDC NEWS - NOVEMBER 26'

Join local leaders for meaningful conversations about education, workforce opportunities and the future of Solano County.

EDC NEWS - NOVEMBER 26'

UPCOMING FREE ENERGY CODE TRAININGS ALL TRAININGS ARE FROM 9-10:30AM

CLICK DATES TO PRE-REGISTER

WEDNESDAY – NOVEMBER 4

ECC (FORMERLY HERS) REGISTRY

WEDNESDAY – OCTOBER 21

HEAT PUMP WATER HEATERS FOR FACILITIES STAFF

WEDNESDAY – DECEMBER 9

HEAT PUMP WATER HEATERS FOR BUILDING DEPARTMENTS

EDC NEWS - NOVEMBER 26'

Unlock Your FREE $70 Energy Kit!

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EDC NEWS - NOVEMBER 26'

Here’s What’s in Your FREE Energy Kit: LED light bulbs High-efficiency bathroom and kitchen faucet aerators and high-efficiency showerhead(s) (same pressure, less water) A toilet leak detection test Your choice of: a smart power strip ($70 value), two smart energy plugs, OR a single burner induction cooktop One smart LED light bulb Energy savings tips booklet Foam weather tape

MORE INFORMATION HERE

Connect with Rising Sun to receive a Kit, fill out a survey online or call: (510) 665-1501 EXT. 300 RISINGSUN.TFAFORMS.NET/3 The Bay Area Regional Energy Network (BayREN) is a coalition of the Bay Area’s nine counties partnering to promote resource efficiency at the regional level, focusing on energy, water and greenhouse gas reduction.

EDC NEWS - NOVEMBER 26'

NOVEMBER EVENTS SOLANO COUNTY Click on city logos for more information

BENICIA BENICIA DIXON DIXON FAIRFIELD FAIRFIELD

RIO R RIO IO VISTA VISTA SUISUN S SUISUN UISUN CITY CITY VACAVILLE VACAVILLE VALLEJO V VALLEJO ALLEJO

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