City Manager's Message, September 24, 2026

Hello Vallejo,

Fall has officially arrived, even if this week’s sunshine feels more like summer, which is perfectly typical for our area. Last weekend’s annual Coastal Cleanup was a tremendous success. Nearly 12,000 pounds of trash were collected across the county. Thank you to every volunteer who showed up and took part. Your efforts make a real difference, and it’s a reminder that keeping Vallejo clean is a daily commitment. Let’s all continue to help trash, compostables, and recyclables find their proper place, so our coastlines, streams, roadways, and sidewalks stay beautiful.

This week, the City Council held its regular meeting on Tuesday, September 22, and tackled a full agenda. The Council approved a plan that will equip the City with vital tools to build a long‑range financial plan. They also voted to advance Measure P funding for police body cameras and to extend work with consultants who support the grant‑seeking efforts—both essential to the Vallejo Police Department. Funding was also approved to help stabilize the Vallejo Housing Department.

Looking ahead, we have several important events happening this week:

• Gun Buyback Event – Hosted by the Vallejo Police Department this Saturday, September 26, from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. in the Vallejo Room beneath the JFK Library next to City Hall.
• Maker’s Faire at Mare Island – Also this weekend, welcoming more than 25,000 attendees. It’s an incredible chance to experience cutting‑edge ideas, creativity, and innovation from around the world—and right here at home.
• Vallejo Sports Hall of Fame Induction – New members will be honored this Saturday.
• Annual Greek Festival – Taking place Friday and Saturday at Constantine & Helen Greek Orthodox Church on Alabama Street.

There are many other events happening across the city, and I encourage everyone to get out and enjoy them.

On the infrastructure front, Caltrans began grinding work on Sonoma Blvd/Hwy 29 this week as part of their complete street rehabilitation program. Paving is anticipated to begin the week of October 5 and wrap up by mid‑November, weather permitting.

Meanwhile, Vallejo’s Public Works Department will begin its own grinding work in early October, with paving to follow shortly after. Both Caltrans and Public Works are racing the seasonal clock. Paving can’t be done during wet weather, which means any delays could push work as far as April 2027. Once complete, these freshly paved roads will be a welcome improvement for all of us.

Stay connected, stay engaged, Vallejo.

With Appreciation
Harry Black
Vallejo’s City Manager