On the agenda: Vallejo Economic Development Commission Regular Meeting — data center (Sep 9)

ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT
COMMISSION (EDC)
REGULAR MEETING AT 6:00 PM
SEPTEMBER 9, 2026
HYBRID MEETING
www.Cityofvallejo.net

BOARD MEMBERS
Mai-Ling Garcia (Vice Chair)
Calvin Harrell
Keira Williams
Ta Lynn Mitchell
Tinisch Hollins
Yessica Martinez
Tiffany Tatum

Vallejo Room (Lower Level JFK Library)
505 Santa Clara Street
Vallejo, CA 94590

NOTICE: Members of the Public will be able to
participate in-person or remotely via Zoom

The Vallejo Room will be open to members of the
public 30 minutes prior to the start of the meeting.

PUBLIC COMMENT: Members of the Public may
provide public comments during the Meeting in
person or via ZOOM
Https://ZoomVallejoRoom.Cityofvallejo.net, or
via phone, by dialing (669) 900-6833.

For additional instructions on how to speak
remotely during public comment, please
visit, www.cityofvallejo.net/publiccomment

VIEW THE MEETING:
There are four different ways you can view this public
meeting:
• In Person
• Stream from the City
website: www.cityofvallejo.net/Streaming
• Join the Zoom webinar:
https://zoomvallejoroom.cityofvallejo.net/

Scan QR code for live captions and translation in
Spanish and Tagalog.

Hybrid Options are available for members of the public to participate. To participate remotely
Option to Join by Computer
From your browser go to
Https://ZoomVallejoRoom.CityofVallejo.net to launch
and join the zoom application.
Meeting ID: 814 4681 4741#
Meeting Password: 131313

Option to Join by Phone
Dial (669) 900-6833
Enter Meeting ID: 814 4681 4741#
Meeting Password: 131313
Press *9 to digitally raise your hand from the phone.
Press *6 to unmute/mute

Any supplemental writing related to an agenda item for an open session of a regular meeting that is distributed to all or a
majority of all members of the Board less than 72 hours before the meeting will be posted concurrently on the City’s
website at www.cityofvallejo.net/agendas Written material distributed during the meeting, will be available at the
meeting if prepared by the City or after the meeting if prepared by someone else. Such materials may be obtained from
the Board Secretary
Vallejo Room is ADA compliant. Devices for the hearing impaired are available from the Staff Secretary.
Requests for disability related modifications or accommodations, aids or services may be made by a person
with a disability to the Staff Secretary’s office no less than 72 hours prior to the meeting by contacting via
email [email protected] or via phone at (707) 648-5200 as required by Section 202 of the
Americans with Disabilities Act of 1990 and the federal rules and regulations adopted in implementation
thereof

Page 1 of 28

AGENDA

1

CALL TO ORDER

2

PLEDGE OF ALLEGIANCE

3

ADMINISTRATION OF OATH OF OFFICE
A

ADMINISTRATION OF OATH OF OFFICE FOR NEWLY APPOINTED
COMMISSIONER TINISCH HOLLINS
Recommendation: Administer Oath of Office

B

ADMINISTRATION OF OATH OF OFFICE FOR NEWLY APPOINTED
COMMISSIONER YESSICA MARTINEZ
Recommendation: Administer Oath of Office

C

ADMINISTRATION OF OATH OF OFFICE FOR NEWLY APPOINTED
COMMISSIONER TIFFANY TATUM
Recommendation: Administer Oath of Office

D

ADMINISTRATION OF OACH OF OFFICE FOR REAPPOINTMENT
COMMISSIONER KEIRA WILLIAMS
Recommendation: Administer Oath of Office

4

ROLL CALL

5

FIRST COMMUNITY FORUM
Anyone wishing to address the Commission on any matter for which another opportunity to speak is not
provided on the agenda, and which is within the jurisdiction of the Commission to resolve, is requested to
submit a completed speaker card to the Commission Secretary. When called upon, each speaker should
step to the podium, state his /her name, and address for the record. The conduct of the community forum
shall be limited to a maximum of fifteen (15) minutes, with each speaker limited to three minutes.

6

APPROVAL OF AGENDA AND MEETING MINUTES
A

7

APPROVAL OF SEPTEMBER 9, 2026 MEETING AGENDA AND MEETING
MINUTES FOR JUNE 10, 2026 AND JULY 8, 2026
Recommendation: Approval of the September 9, 2026 meeting agenda and
approval of meeting minutes for June 10, 2026 and July 8, 2026.
Contact: Ivette Iraheta, Economic Development Commission Secretary (707)
645-2622
[email protected]

PRESENTATIONS AND COMMENDATIONS
A

ATTENDANCE TO THE CREATIVE BUREAUCRACY FESTIVAL
CONFERENCE PRESENTATION, VICE CHAIR GARCIA

Page 2 of 28

8

B

ATTENDANCE TO CALED 2026 ADVANCED INSTITUTE FOR ECONOMIC
DEVELOPMENT PRESENTATION, ED PROGRAM MANAGER IVETTE
IRAHETA

C

UPDATE ON NEW/UPCOMING AND LOST BUSINESSES, ALL

REPORT OF THE COMMITTEE/BOARD SECRETARY/INTERIM ED DIRECTOR
A

9

i. Farewell and expression of gratitude to Commissioners with term
expirations: Chair Monroe and Comm. Gonzalez and discussion of onboarding
of new Commissioners.
ii. Update on ad hoc subcommittee terms and subcommittee project updates
(Lighting and Banners projects)
iii. Report on discussions with downtown business owners and Opportunity
Zone 2.0 program (Interim ED Director)

ACTION CALENDAR
NOTICE: Members of the public wishing to address the Commission on Action Calendar Items are requested
to submit a completed speaker card to the Commission Secretary. Each speaker is limited to five minutes.

A

ACTION TO SELECT A COMMISSION CHAIR AND POSSIBLY A VICE
CHAIR.
Recommendation: Select a Chair and possibly a Vice Chair.
Contact: Ivette Iraheta, Economic Development Commission Secretary (707)
645-2622
[email protected]

B

PRIORITIZATION OF WORK PLAN ITEMS AND UPDATE ON PROGRESS,
VICE CHAIR GARCIA
Recommendation: Prioritize work plan items and provide an update on
progress of 2025 EDC Work Plan.
Contact: Ivette Iraheta, Economic Development Commission Secretary (707)
645-2622
[email protected]

C

DISCUSS AND TAKE ACTION TO RECOMMEND BANNER LOCATIONS
FOR THE BANNERS PROGRAM PHASE III
Recommendation: Discuss and take action to recommend banner locations for
banner program Phase III
Contact: Ivette Iraheta, Economic Development Commission Secretary (707)
645-2622
[email protected]

D

DISCUSS AND FINALIZE EDC FEEDBACK ON PLANNING COMMISSION'S
POLICY RECOMMENDATIONS RELATED TO EXISTING BUSINESS
CORRIDORS
Recommendation: Discuss and finalize EDC feedback to City Council on
Planning Commission Policy Recommendation related to existing business
corridors

Page 3 of 28

Contact: Ivette Iraheta, Economic Development Commission Secretary (707)
645-2622
[email protected]

10

E

DISCUSS AND DEVELOP A SET OF RECOMMENDATIONS THAT WOULD
ATTRACT CONSTRUCTION, ADVANCE MANUFACTURING,
SOFTWARE/FILM AND WHOLESALE BUSINESS TO THE VALLEJO CITY
COUNCIL (CITY COUNCIL REFERAL)
Recommendation: Discuss and develop a set of recommendations that would
attract construction, advanced manufacturing, sofrware/filming and wholesale
business ot the City of Vallejo City Council.
Contact: Ivette Iraheta, Economic Development Commission Secretary (707)
645-2622
[email protected]

F

ADOPT A RECOMMENDATION ON AI AND CIVIC TECHNOLOGY TO
FORWARD TO THE CITY COUNCIL
Recommendation: Adopt a recommendation on AI and Civic Technology to
forward to the City Council
Contact: Ivette Iraheta, Economic Development Commission Secretary (707)
645-2622
[email protected]

SECOND COMMUNITY FORUM
Anyone wishing to address the Commission on any matter for which another opportunity to speak is not
provided on the agenda, and which is within the jurisdiction of the Commission to resolve, is requested to
submit a completed speaker card to the Commission Secretary. When called upon, each speaker should
step to the podium, state his /her name, and address for the record. Each speaker is limited to three minutes.

11

REPORT OF THE CITY COUNCIL LIAISON

12

FUTURE AGENDA ITEMS

13

ANNOUNCEMENTS

14

ADJOURNMENT

Page 4 of 28

ADDITIONAL CITY INFORMATION
Members of the public can:
•
Like us on Facebook and Instagram (@cityofvallejo)
•
Sign up to receive City Communications via e-mail (www.cityofvallejo.net/subscribe)
•
Sign up for emergency alerts at: alertsolano.com
I, Ivette Iraheta, EDC Secretary do hereby certify that I have caused a true copy of the above notice and agenda to be delivered to

Mai-Ling Garcia (Vice Chair)
Calvin Harrell
Keira Williams
Ta Lynn Mitchell
Tinisch Hollins
Yessica Martinez
Tiffany Tatum,
at the time and in the manner prescribed by law and that this agenda was posted at City Hall, 555 Santa Clara Street, CA at
3:00 PM, September 3, 2026.

Dated: September 3, 2026
Ivette Iraheta, EDC Secretary

Page 5 of 28

ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT
COMMISSION (EDC)
REGULAR MEETING
JUNE 10, 2026

COMMISSIONERS
Dwight Monroe Jr. (Chair)
Mai-Ling Garcia (Vice Chair)
Calvin Harrell
Jessica Gonzalez
Keira Williams
Ta Lynn Mitchell
VACANT

MINUTES
HYBRID MEETING
www.Cityofvallejo.net

6:00 PM
Council Chambers
555 Santa Clara Street
Vallejo, CA 94590

NOTICE: Members of the Public will be able to
participate in-person or remotely via Zoom

City Hall and the Council Chambers will be open to
members of the public 30 minutes prior to the start of
the meeting.

PUBLIC COMMENT: Members of the Public
may provide public comments during the
Meeting in person or via ZOOM
(https://ZoomRegular.Cityofvallejo.net), or
via phone, by dialing (669) 900-6833.

For additional instructions on how to speak remotely
during public comment, please
visit, www.cityofvallejo.net/publiccomment

VIEW THE MEETING:
There are four different ways you can view this public
meeting:
• In Person
• Watch Vallejo local channel 28
• Stream from the City
website: www.cityofvallejo.net/Streaming
Join the Zoom webinar:
https://ZoomRegular.Cityofvallejo.net

Scan QR code for live captions and translation in Spanish
and Tagalog.

Hybrid Options are available for members of the public to participate. To participate remotely
Option to Join by Computer
From your browser go to
https://ZoomRegular.CityofVallejo.net to launch and join
the zoom application.
Meeting ID: 914 0075 0676#
Meeting Password: 131313

Option to Join by Phone
Dial (669) 900-6833
Enter Meeting ID: 914 0075 0676#
Meeting Password: 131313
Press *9 to digitally raise your hand from the phone.
Press *6 to unmute/mute

Any supplemental writing related to an agenda item for an open session of a regular meeting that is distributed to all or a
majority of all members of the Commission less than 72 hours before the meeting will be posted concurrently on the City’s
website at www.cityofvallejo.net/agendas Written material distributed during the meeting, will be available at the
meeting if prepared by the City or after the meeting if prepared by someone else. Such materials may be obtained from the
Commission Secretary.

Page 6 of 28

Vallejo City Council Chambers ADA compliant. Devices for the hearing impaired are available from the City
Clerk. Requests for disability related modifications or accommodations, aids or services may be made by a person with a
disability to the City Clerk's office no less than 72 hours prior to the meeting as required by Section 202 of the Americans
with Disabilities Act of 1990 and the federal rules and regulations adopted in implementation thereof

AGENDA

1

CALL TO ORDER

The meeting was called to order at 6:07 PM by Chair Monroe.
2

PLEDGE OF ALLEGIANCE

Pledge led by Chair Monroe.
3

ROLL CALL

Dwight Monroe Jr. (Chair)
Mai-Ling Garcia (Vice Chair) - Absent
Calvin Harrell
Jessica Gonzalez - Absent
Keira Williams
Ta Lynn Mitchell
Quorum with 4 in attendance.
4

FIRST COMMUNITY FORUM
Anyone wishing to address the Commission on any matter for which another opportunity to speak is not
provided on the agenda, and which is within the jurisdiction of the Commission to resolve, is requested to
submit a completed speaker card to the Commission Secretary. When called upon, each speaker should
step to the podium, state his /her name, and address for the record. The conduct of the community forum
shall be limited to a maximum of fifteen (15) minutes, with each speaker limited to three minutes.

No speakers during this community forum.
5

APPROVAL OF AGENDA AND MEETING MIINUTES
A

APPROVAL OF JUNE 10, 2026 MEETING AGENDA
Recommendation: By motion, approve the June 10, 2026 meeting agenda.
Contact: Ivette Iraheta, Economic Development Commission Secretary (707)
645-2622
[email protected]

Consensus to approve the agenda.
B

APPROVAL OF MEETING MINUTES FOR MAY 13, 2026 REGULAR
MEETING
Recommendation: By motion, approve the meeting minutes for the May 13,
2026 regular meeting.
Contact: Ivette Iraheta, Economic Development Commission Secretary (707)
645-2622
[email protected]

Page 7 of 28

Motion to approve the agenda and the minutes by Comm. Williams and
Seconded by Comm. Harrell.
Dwight Monroe Jr. (Chair) - Aye
Mai-Ling Garcia (Vice Chair) - Absent
Calvin Harrell - Aye
Jessica Gonzalez - Absent
Keira Williams - Aye
Ta Lynn Mitchell – Aye
Motion carries.
6

PRESENTATIONS AND COMMENDATIONS

No presentation during this meeting.
7

REPORT OF THE COMMISSION SECRETARY/INTERIM ED DIRECTOR/AD HOC
SUBCOMMITTEES

Secretary provided the following update re: Memos forwarded to the CM that
EDC requested be forwarded during prior mtg. and update on vacant EDC seat.
Interim ED Director provided update Re: ED Dept. coordination with Planning
Dept., including Code enforcement.
Ad Hoc Subcommittees to provide discussion during Action items.
8

ACTION CALENDAR
NOTICE: Members of the public wishing to address the Commission on Action Calendar Items are requested
to submit a completed speaker card to the Commission Secretary. Each speaker is limited to five minutes.

A

REPORT FROM THE CIVIC INNOVATION AND TECHNOLOGY
SUBCOMMITTEE ON STATUS OF THE POLE BANNER PROJECT.
PROVIDE A RECOMMENDATION TO THE CITY COUNCIL ON SAME,
INCLUDING TEXT/IMAGES AND NUMBER OF BANNERS REQUESTED TO
BE PURCHASED UTILIZING EDC BUDGET FUNDS PREVIOUSLY
APPROPRIATED AND REQUESTING A BUDGET AMENDMENT OF FUNDS
WITHIN THE COMMISSION’S OVERALL BUDGET. PROVIDE DIRECTION
TO STAFF ON CITY COUNCIL AGENDA ITEM TO AUTHORIZE SAID
BANNERS, AMEND COMMISSION BUDGET AND REQUEST THE CITY
MANAGER AUTHORIZE STAFF TO IMPLEMENT THE PROJECT.
Recommendation: Provide a recommendation to the City Council on pole
banner project, including text/images and number of banners requested to be
purchased utilizing EDC budget funds previously appropriated and requesting a
budget amendment of funds within the commission’s overall budget and
provide direction to staff on City Council agenda item to authorize said banners,
amend commission budget and request the City Manager authorize staff to
implement the project.
Contact: Ivette Iraheta, Economic Development Commission Secretary (707)
645-2622
[email protected]

Page 8 of 28

Motion by Chair Mitchell to create a new total of funds for the Pole
Banner program, take the item to City Council for approval of design and
installation, and new budget allocation. Seconded by Comm. Harrell.
Dwight Monroe Jr. (Chair) - Aye
Mai-Ling Garcia (Vice Chair) - Absent
Calvin Harrell - Aye
Jessica Gonzalez - Absent
Keira Williams - Aye
Ta Lynn Mitchell – Aye
Motion carries.
B

REPORT FROM EDC COMMISSIONER HARRELL RELATING TO USING
BUSINESS COMMUNICATIONS AND DESIGN EDC BUDGETED FUNDS IN
THE AMOUNT OF $7,000 AS PROPOSED. DIRECTION TO STAFF ON
PROVIDING MEMORANDUM TO THE CITY MANAGER REQUESTING THE
PURCHASE OF SAID PRODUCTS UTILIZING EDC BUDGETED FUNDS
APPROPRIATED FOR SAME AND AUTHORIZATION OF STAFF TIME TO
COMPLETE PURCHASE.
Recommendation: Receive report from the EDC commissioner Harrell relating
to the use of business communication and design EDC budgeted funds in the
amount of $7,000 as proposed. Direction to staff on providing a memorandum
to the City Manager requesting purchase of products as agreed to and request
authorization of staff time allocated to implement such project.
Contact: Ivette Iraheta, Economic Development Commission Secretary (707)
645-2622
[email protected]

Motion by Chair Monroe to move these funds to the Pole Banner
program and seconded by Comm. Harrell.
Dwight Monroe Jr. (Chair) - Aye
Mai-Ling Garcia (Vice Chair) - Absent
Calvin Harrell - Aye
Jessica Gonzalez - Absent
Keira Williams - Aye
Ta Lynn Mitchell – Aye
Motion carries.
C

REPORT FROM THE BUSINESS RETENTION AND EXPANSION
SUBCOMMITTEE RELATING TO USING BUSINESS ROUNDTABLES &
RECRUITMENT EVENTS & COMMUNITY ENGAGEMENT & SENTIMENT
ANALYSIS FUNDS IN THE AMOUNT OF $5,500 AS PROPOSED OR TO
REQUEST REASSIGNMENT OF SUCH FUNDS TO ANOTHER

Page 9 of 28

COMMISSION PROJECT WITH COUNCIL APPROVAL AND DIRECTION TO
STAFF ON PROVIDING MEMORANDUM TO THE CITY MANAGER
REQUESTING THE PURCHASE OF SAID PRODUCTS UTILIZING EDC
BUDGETED FUNDS APPROPRIATED FOR SAME AND AUTHORIZATION
OF STAFF TIME TO COMPLETE PURCHASE.
Recommendation: Receive report from the Business Retention and Expansion
on Sonoma Blvd. subcommittee relating to the use of business roundtables and
recruitment events and community engagement & sentiment analysis funds as
proposed or to request reassignment of such funds to another commission
project with Council approval and direction to staff on providing memorandum
to the City Manager requesting the purchase of said products utilizing EDC
budgeted funds appropriated for same and authorization of staff time to
complete purchase.
Contact: Ivette Iraheta, Economic Development Commission Secretary (707)
645-2622
[email protected]

Motion by Comm. Harrell to move these funds to the Pole Banner
program and seconded by Comm. Mitchell.
Dwight Monroe Jr. (Chair) - Aye
Mai-Ling Garcia (Vice Chair) - Absent
Calvin Harrell - Aye
Jessica Gonzalez - Absent
Keira Williams - Aye
Ta Lynn Mitchell – Aye
Motion carries.
9

SECOND COMMUNITY FORUM
Anyone wishing to address the Commission on any matter for which another opportunity to speak is not
provided on the agenda, and which is within the jurisdiction of the Commission to resolve, is requested to
submit a completed speaker card to the Commission Secretary. When called upon, each speaker should
step to the podium, state his /her name, and address for the record. The conduct of the community forum
shall be limited to a maximum of fifteen (15) minutes, with each speaker limited to three minutes.

10

REPORT OF THE CITY COUNCIL LIAISON

No report during this meeting.
11

FUTURE AGENDA ITEMS

No additional items requested during this meeting.
12

ANNOUNCEMENTS

Boards/Commissions go dark in August, so anticipating no mtg. for EDC that
month.
Juneteenth – Chair Monroe announced that this event is anticipated again for
the year. Also on Father’s Day 100 Men March to take place 9:00-12:00 PM
start at City Hall to Washington park.

Page 10 of 28

Comm. Harrell announced that City has a new City Manager that is a champion
of Economic Development. Requests that he be invited to a future EDC mtg.
13

ADJOURNMENT

Meeting adjourned at 7:51 PM.

__________________________
Mai-Ling Garcia, Vice Chair
ATTESTED:
__________________________
Ivette Iraheta, EDC Secretary

Page 11 of 28

ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT
COMMISSION (EDC)
REGULAR MEETING
JULY 8, 2026

COMMISSIONERS
Dwight Monroe Jr. (Chair)
Mai-Ling Garcia (Vice Chair)
Calvin Harrell
Jessica Gonzalez
Keira Williams
Ta Lynn Mitchell
VACANT

MINUTES
HYBRID MEETING
www.Cityofvallejo.net

6:00 PM
Council Chambers
555 Santa Clara Street
Vallejo, CA 94590

NOTICE: Members of the Public will be able to
participate in-person or remotely via Zoom

City Hall and the Council Chambers will be open to
members of the public 30 minutes prior to the start of
the meeting.

PUBLIC COMMENT: Members of the Public
may provide public comments during the
Meeting in person or via ZOOM
(https://ZoomRegular.Cityofvallejo.net), or
via phone, by dialing (669) 900-6833.

For additional instructions on how to speak remotely
during public comment, please
visit, www.cityofvallejo.net/publiccomment

VIEW THE MEETING:
There are four different ways you can view this public
meeting:
• In Person
• Watch Vallejo local channel 28
• Stream from the City
website: www.cityofvallejo.net/Streaming
Join the Zoom webinar:
https://ZoomRegular.Cityofvallejo.net

Scan QR code for live captions and translation in Spanish
and Tagalog.

Hybrid Options are available for members of the public to participate. To participate remotely
Option to Join by Computer
From your browser go to
https://ZoomRegular.CityofVallejo.net to launch and join
the zoom application.
Meeting ID: 914 0075 0676#
Meeting Password: 131313

Option to Join by Phone
Dial (669) 900-6833
Enter Meeting ID: 914 0075 0676#
Meeting Password: 131313
Press *9 to digitally raise your hand from the phone.
Press *6 to unmute/mute

Any supplemental writing related to an agenda item for an open session of a regular meeting that is distributed to all or a
majority of all members of the Commission less than 72 hours before the meeting will be posted concurrently on the City’s
website at www.cityofvallejo.net/agendas Written material distributed during the meeting, will be available at the
meeting if prepared by the City or after the meeting if prepared by someone else. Such materials may be obtained from the
Commission Secretary.

Page 12 of 28

Vallejo City Council Chambers ADA compliant. Devices for the hearing impaired are available from the City
Clerk. Requests for disability related modifications or accommodations, aids or services may be made by a person with a
disability to the City Clerk's office no less than 72 hours prior to the meeting as required by Section 202 of the Americans
with Disabilities Act of 1990 and the federal rules and regulations adopted in implementation thereof

AGENDA

1

CALL TO ORDER

Meeting called to order at 6:09 PM by Chair Monroe
2

PLEDGE OF ALLEGIANCE

The pledge led by Chair Monroe
3

ROLL CALL

Dwight Monroe Jr. (Chair) - Present
Mai-Ling Garcia (Vice Chair) - Present
Calvin Harrell - Present
Jessica Gonzalez - Absent
Keira Williams - Present
Ta Lynn Mitchell - Absent
Quorum with 4 in attendance.
4

FIRST COMMUNITY FORUM
Anyone wishing to address the Commission on any matter for which another opportunity to speak is not
provided on the agenda, and which is within the jurisdiction of the Commission to resolve, is requested to
submit a completed speaker card to the Secretary of the Commission. When called upon, each speaker
should step to the podium, state his /her name, and address for the record. The conduct of the community
forum shall be limited to a maximum of fifteen (15) minutes, with each speaker limited to three minutes.

No speakers during this community forum.
5

APPROVAL OF AGENDA
A

APPROVAL OF JULY 8, 2026 MEETING AGENDA
Recommendation:
Contact: Ivette Iraheta, Economic Development Commission Secretary (707)
645-2622
[email protected]

Motion to approve agenda by Comm. Harrell and seconded by Comm.
Williams.
6

PRESENTATIONS AND COMMENDATIONS
A

PRESENTATION OF PLANNING COMMISSION POLICY
RECOMMENDATIONS RELATED TO EXISTING BUSINESS CORRIDORS

Page 13 of 28

(CITY COUNCIL REFERRAL TO SHARE WITH THE EDC AND RECEIVE
FEEDBACK ON PLANNING COMMISSION MEMO)

Presentation by Planning Commission secretary Kristin Pollot was made
followed by discussion and Q&A.
7

REPORT OF THE COMMITTEE/BOARD SECRETARY
A

i. Update on vacancies (Secretary update)
ii. Update on ad hoc subcommittees (Secretary update)
iii. Status of Downtown Lighting project (Subcommittee update)
iv. Update on new businesses and storefronts downtown (Interim ED
Director)
v. Report on discussions with downtown business owners (Interim ED
Director)
Secretary Iraheta provided an update on: EDC vacancies, and ad hoc
subcommittees and the downtown streetlight project.
The Interim ED Director provided updates on: Downtown storefront updates.

8

ACTION CALENDAR
NOTICE: Members of the public wishing to address the Commission on Action Calendar Items are requested
to submit a completed speaker card to the Secretary of the Commission. Each speaker is limited to five
minutes.

A

REPORT FROM THE CIVIC INNOVATION AND TECHNOLOGY
SUBCOMMITTEE ON STATUS OF THE POLE BANNER PROJECT (PHASE
I) AND PROVIDE RECOMMENDATION(S) ON LOCATION AND DESIGN
FOR ADDITIONAL BANNERS BEYOND THE ONES TO BE INSTALLED ON
GEORGIA STREET (PHASE II)
Recommendation: Provide recommendations on location and design for (Phase
II) additional banners beyond the ones to be installed on Georgia Street.
Contact: Ivette Iraheta, Economic Development Commission Secretary (707)
645-2622
[email protected]

Motion to approve the simplified banner designs with Vallejo enlarged
and request that Public Works and ED staff do a walk through to decide
appropriate strip of promenade on the waterfront for placing of banners,
seconded by Vice Chair Garcia and seconded by Comm. Williams.
Dwight Monroe Jr. (Chair) - Aye
Mai-Ling Garcia (Vice Chair) - Aye
Calvin Harrell - Aye
Jessica Gonzalez -Absent
Keira Williams - Aye

Page 14 of 28

Ta Lynn Mitchell - Absent
Motion carries.
B

DISCUSS AND DEVELOP A SET OF RECOMMENDATIONS THAT WOULD
ATTRACT CONSTRUCTION, ADVANCE MANUFACTURING,
SOFTWARE/FILM AND WHOLESALE BUSINESS TO THE VALLEJO CITY
COUNCIL (CITY COUNCIL REFERAL)
Recommendation: Discuss and develop a set of recommendations that would
attract construction, advanced manufacturing, software/filming and wholesale
business to the City of Vallejo City Council.
Contact: Ivette Iraheta, Economic Development Commission Secretary (707)
645-2622
[email protected]

No action was taken on this item.
9

SECOND COMMUNITY FORUM
Anyone wishing to address the Commission on any matter for which another opportunity to speak is not
provided on the agenda, and which is within the jurisdiction of the Commission to resolve, is requested to
submit a completed speaker card to the Secretary of the Commission. When called upon, each speaker
should step to the podium, state his /her name, and address for the record. Each speaker is limited to three
minutes.

No speaker during this community forum.
10

REPORT OF THE CITY COUNCIL LIAISON

No report from council liaison.
11

FUTURE AGENDA ITEMS

No additional items requested.
12

ANNOUNCEMENTS

Vice Chair reported on her participation of the Creative Bureaucracy conference
she attended.
13

ADJOURNMENT

Meeting adjourned at 8:46 PM

__________________________
Mai-Ling Garcia, Vice Chair
ATTESTED:
__________________________
Ivette Iraheta, EDC Secretary

Page 15 of 28

Page 16 of 28

ACTION ITEM 9.A.

DATE:
TO:
FROM:
SUBJECT:

September 9, 2026
Economic Development Commission Chair and Members of the Commission
Ivette Iraheta, Economic Development Commission Secretary
ACTION TO SELECT A COMMISSION CHAIR AND POSSIBLY A VICE CHAIR.

RECOMMENDATION
Select a Chair and possibly a Vice Chair.
BACKGROUND AND DISCUSSION
Given that the term of former EDC chair Dwight Monroe expired on June 30, 2026, the EDC does not currently
have a char; thus, the selection of a new chair for the Commission is necessary.
ATTACHMENTS
None
CONTACT
Ivette Iraheta, Economic Development Commission Secretary (707) 645-2622
[email protected]

Page 17 of 28

ACTION ITEM 9.B.

DATE:
TO:
FROM:
SUBJECT:

September 9, 2026
Economic Development Commission Chair and Members of the Commission
Ivette Iraheta, Economic Development Commission Secretary
PRIORITIZATION OF WORK PLAN ITEMS AND UPDATE ON PROGRESS, VICE CHAIR
GARCIA

RECOMMENDATION
Prioritize work plan items and provide an update on progress of 2025 EDC Work Plan.
BACKGROUND AND DISCUSSION
The Economic Development Commission (EDC) began to work on a new work plan during its January 8, 2025
regular meeting. The item was introduced by Commissioner Garcia. During that meeting the commissioners
discussed what ongoing priorities of the 2022 EDC Work Plan should be considered for incorporation into the
new Work Plan including the business highlights and partnerships with organizations such as Vallejo Main
Street and Solano EDC. The EDC also discussed which new goals and initiatives should be prioritized under a
new Work Plan.
During the EDC February 12, 2025 regular meeting the Work Plan item returned to the agenda as an Action
item. The item was again introduced by Commissioner Garcia for deliberation. A draft EDC workplan was
presented which included the following five key focus areas for consideration:
1.
2.
3.
4.
5.

Strategy and Advisement
Business Recruitment (New Business)
Business Retention (Existing Businesses)
Public Safety and Economic Viability and
Civic Innovation & Technology.

It is important to note that the above proposed focus areas are directly linked to the recently adopted City of
Vallejo Economic Development Strategic Plan (2024) and support ways in which EDC could aid in the
implementation of the strategic plan.
During the April 9, 2025 regular meeting, the EDC further deliberated on the proposed EDC 2025 Work Plan
and took action to adopt a resolution to recommend approval of the EDC 2025 Work Plan by the City Council
during an upcoming meeting. On July 22, 2025 the City Council received a presentation from EDC staff and
approved the proposed EDC 2025 Work Plan.
The EDC anticipates collaborating with the Economic Development staff, other Commissions and Business
Owners on these activities. Successful metrics will include offering clear recommendations to the city council
on opportunities for investment, offering relevant up to date information to the business community through
reports and briefings and effectively using the EDC’s budget on an annual basis.
As part of a strategy to implement work plan goals, the EDC decided to use two ad hoc subcommittees to
advance the strategic plan initiatives. As such they used the established Business Retention and Expansion
subcommittee and the newly formed Civic Innovation and Technology subcommittee.
Page 18 of 28

Date: September 9, 2026
Subject: PRIORITIZATION OF WORK PLAN ITEMS AND UPDATE ON PROGRESS, VICE

CHAIR GARCIA
Page 2

During the September 9, 2026 EDC regular meeting, the Commission seeks to evaluate the progress of the
work plan, set priorities and discuss strategies for implementation of ongoing work plan goals.

ATTACHMENTS
None
CONTACT
Ivette Iraheta, Economic Development Commission Secretary (707) 645-2622
[email protected]

Page 19 of 28

ACTION ITEM 9.C.

DATE:
TO:
FROM:
SUBJECT:

September 9, 2026
Economic Development Commission Chair and Members of the Commission
Ivette Iraheta, Economic Development Commission Secretary
DISCUSS AND TAKE ACTION TO RECOMMEND BANNER LOCATIONS FOR THE
BANNERS PROGRAM PHASE III

RECOMMENDATION
Discuss and take action to recommend banner locations for banner program Phase III
BACKGROUND AND DISCUSSION
The Economic Development Commission has been planning a Streetlight Pole Banner Program since the
FY2023-24 timeframe. The Commissioners, during that timeframe, considered the Pole Banner project a
priority to be incorporated into their FY2023-24 Work Plan. They conducted research about how other cities
mount pole banners and inquired with city staff as to what the current pole banner policies were in place in the
City of Vallejo.
During the FY2023-24, the EDC identified the following objectives of the Streetlight Pole Banners Program:
• Preserve community and cultural identity.
• Promote community vibrancy.
• High-visibility opportunity for a partnering non-profit to promote events or
• Installation of exhibits that positively impact districts.
During FY2023-24 meetings, the EDC continued to discuss the topic, although direct action to implement a
program wasn’t taken. During the EDC 2025 Work Plan this initiative was re-incorporated into the work plan
and a budget from the FY2024-25 of $1,500 was reallocated into FY2025-26 budget.
During the February 11, 2026 meeting City Attorney provided an update as to what the City of Vallejo has
done to adopt a pole banner policy. She informed the EDC that the City of Vallejo, through administrative
policy adoption, has developed a policy to establish the framework for banners within the jurisdiction of the
City of Vallejo. The administrative policy provides guidelines on the entities that can install banners, the
purposes and the content allowed on banners. As such, the EDC can move forward with a proposal for pole
banners within the city’s jurisdiction.
During that meeting on February 11, 2026, EDC took action to allocate $7,967 for its first phase of a pole
banner program. The proposal is to install pole banners on Georgia Street from Santa Clara St. to Sonoma
Blvd. The commission agreed to return during their next meeting to make final decisions about the content of
the banners and the process for purchasing and installation of such.
On March 11, 2026 the EDC deliberated on the next steps for the banner program; such as beginning to
design samples for consideration by the entire Commission. The task was given to the Civic Innovation and
Technology subcommittee.
During the following months the EDC took action to determine the text/images of the banners, the number of
banners to be purchased and direction on the location of the banners. The EDC ultimately agreed on the
design of the banners and requested that the item be taken to City Council to approve the images.
On June 10, 2026 the EDC agreed to allocate funds from other intended projects to the Banners Program,
Page 20 of 28

Date: September 9, 2026
Subject: DISCUSS AND TAKE ACTION TO RECOMMEND BANNER LOCATIONS FOR THE

BANNERS PROGRAM PHASE III
Page 2

which included $7,000 proposed for communications and design and $5,500 proposed for community
engagement activities. This brought the Banner Program budget up to $18,918.23.
The EDC requested from city staff that the banners be purchased from Minute Men Press, for the entire
amount appropriated for the banners, and to install the Phase I banners on Georgia Street.
On July 8, 2026 the EDC approved a motion for the Banner Phase II location to be on the promenade of the
waterfront.
During the September 9, 2026 the EDC will receive an update on the banners and make
a Phase III project, including the location for the remaining banners.

determinations on

ATTACHMENTS
None
CONTACT
Ivette Iraheta, Economic Development Commission Secretary (707) 645-2622
[email protected]

Page 21 of 28

ACTION ITEM 9.D.

DATE:
TO:
FROM:
SUBJECT:

September 9, 2026
Economic Development Commission Chair and Members of the Commission
Ivette Iraheta, Economic Development Commission Secretary
DISCUSS AND FINALIZE EDC FEEDBACK ON PLANNING COMMISSION'S POLICY
RECOMMENDATIONS RELATED TO EXISTING BUSINESS CORRIDORS

RECOMMENDATION
Discuss and finalize EDC feedback to City Council on Planning Commission Policy Recommendation related
to existing business corridors
BACKGROUND AND DISCUSSION
The City Council requested that the City’s Planning Department obtain feedback from the EDC regarding the
Planning Commission’s recommendations to the City Council on existing business corridors.
During the EDC July 8, 2026 meeting, the Planning Director made a presentation to the EDC about the
process the Planning Commission took to provide input to City Council on the existing business corridors. The
director shared the memos prepared by the Planning Commissioners and solicited additional input from the
EDC Commissioners.
During the meeting the EDC had an opportunity to ask questions and provide some feedback. The Planning
Director collected the feedback and advanced the feedback to the City Council (See Attachement and
Supplemental Documents on Website for full report).
During the September 9, 2026 meeting, the EDC expects to decide if there is any additional and final input it
wishes to provide the City Council beyond what the Planning Director forwarded.

ATTACHMENTS
1.
Top 5 PC Policy Recommendations_Final 8.5.26

CONTACT
Ivette Iraheta, Economic Development Commission Secretary (707) 645-2622
[email protected]

Page 22 of 28

Planning Commission Policy Recommendations Related to Existing
Business Corridors
City Council Special Referral Date: February 24, 2026
In response to the special City Council referral request made on February 24, 2026, the
Planning Commission recommends the following key themes/priorities be considered with
regard to future development along major business corridors and within mixed use areas.
1. Expand Use of Existing State Streamlining Tools
Vallejo must make far greater use of existing state laws intended to streamline
development—such as AB 2011, SB 35, AB 130/SB 131, AB 1490, Density Bonus Law—
to reduce project review timelines.
2. Modernize Permitting Through a Better Digital Portal
Implementation of a better comprehensive digital permitting system with real-time
tracking, published KPIs, and guaranteed decision timelines can help increase
transparency and decrease review times. A modernized digital system is essential for
reducing delays, increasing clarity, and strengthening developer confidence.
3. Activate Existing Economic Development Financing Tools
Commissioners are supportive of implementing a CRIA district along with EIFDs,
leaning further into historic tax credits, Opportunity Zone investment, and vacancy
fees. These tools could help to fund long term economic development strategies, such
as streetscape upgrades, infrastructure, adaptive reuse, and business revitalization on
key corridors. The EDC also suggest looking for financing opportunities to address
immediate and mid-term strategy needs as well.
4. Beautify Major Transportation Corridors
There is a major need to improve the city’s image through I-80, SR-29/Sonoma Blvd,
Tennessee Street, Springs Road, and Downtown/Waterfront aesthetic enhancements.
Recommendations include Clean California partnerships, gateway monuments,
coordinated wayfinding, and urban greening funded by Proposition 4 programs. The
EDC stressed the need for improved maintenance, signage, and marketing to change
perceptions of Vallejo, encourage reinvestment, and generate more foot traffic for local
businesses.
5. Remove Parking Minimums

Page 23 of 28

There is strong support for full implementation of AB 2097, eliminating parking
minimums within a half-mile of transit—especially in Downtown/Waterfront near the
Ferry Terminal. Reducing or eliminating minimums lowers development costs and
improves feasibility for mixed-use and multifamily housing.

Attachments:
1. March 15, 2026, Planning Commission Staff Report (with City Council Referral
request details provided)
2. Memo - Commissioner Blind, dated April 15, 2026
3. Memo - Commissioner Taylor, dated May 1, 2026
4. Memo – Commissioner Douglass, dated May 3, 2026
5. Memo – Commissioner Beasley-Stansberry, dated May 4, 2026
6. Memo – Commissioner White, dated May 22, 2026
7. Draft Executive Summary of Recommendations, presented to the EDC on July 8,
2026
8. Summary of EDC Comments, provided on July 8, 2026.

Page 24 of 28

ACTION ITEM 9.E.

DATE:
TO:
FROM:
SUBJECT:

September 9, 2026
Economic Development Commission Chair and Members of the Commission
Ivette Iraheta, Economic Development Commission Secretary
DISCUSS AND DEVELOP A SET OF RECOMMENDATIONS THAT WOULD ATTRACT
CONSTRUCTION, ADVANCE MANUFACTURING, SOFTWARE/FILM AND WHOLESALE
BUSINESS TO THE VALLEJO CITY COUNCIL (CITY COUNCIL REFERAL)

RECOMMENDATION
Discuss and develop a set of recommendations that would attract construction, advanced manufacturing,
sofrware/filming and wholesale business ot the City of Vallejo City Council.
BACKGROUND AND DISCUSSION
The City Council, during their February 24, 2026 regular meeting discussed the state of economic
development in the City of Vallejo and reached consensus on making a request to the Economic Development
Commission (EDC). The City Council would like to direct the EDC to review and analyze the Economic
Development Strategic Plan approved by City Council in December 2024. Specifically, the request is to review
the business and enterprise industries that the City of Vallejo can attract to the city, including but not limited to
construction, advanced manufacturing, software/film and wholesale business.
The City Council is requesting that the EDC put together a report on what changes the City of Vallejo must
implement to be successful to attract such industries. The request is to look at short-term and long-term
strategies that the City of Vallejo can and should implement to strengthen its economic viability. This charge
lines up with the EDC’s 2025 Work Plan key strategy of Business Recruitment and Strategy and Advisement.
During the EDC March 11, 2026 meeting, the EDC City Council liaison, Councilmember Matias discussed this
request with the EDC and explained that during City Council’s February 24, 2026 meeting City Council
established the timeline of 75 days for receiving this report from the EDC. During this same meeting the EDC
began to deliberate on a strategy for developing the report. One strategy is to establish a future subcommittee,
its Strategy and Advisement Subcommittee during the next EDC meeting on April 8, 2026 that can be charged
with piecing together the report to ensure that the deadline is met. Seventy-five days following the February
24, 2026 City Council meeting is May 10, 2026.
During their April 8, 2024 meeting, the EDC did not take action on the formation of this subcommittee. During
the April 8, 2026 meeting the EDC discussed the upcoming presentation from the Workforce Development
Board of Solano County, which will cover the opportunities that may lay ahead for the county and the City of
Vallejo to develop its construction, advanced manufacturing, software/film and wholesale businesses. As such,
this is a presentation that will assist in the development of the report. The EDC discussed that the remaining
time following the presentation is not sufficient to complete a report by May 10, 2026. The EDC agreed to
request an extension to City Council for submittal of the report. The EDC discussed this request with Council
member Matias during the meeting, and Council member Matias was receptive to taking the request to City
Council.
On May 13, 2026 the EDC received a presentation from the Workforce Development Board of Solano County
on current environment of Solano/Vallejo business industries. The EDC returned the item during their July 8,
Page 25 of 28

Date: September 9, 2026
Subject: DISCUSS AND DEVELOP A SET OF RECOMMENDATIONS THAT WOULD ATTRACT

CONSTRUCTION, ADVANCE MANUFACTURING, SOFTWARE/FILM AND
WHOLESALE BUSINESS TO THE VALLEJO CITY COUNCIL (CITY COUNCIL
REFERAL)
Page 2

2026 meeting as a working item to discuss and draft the set of recommendations that would go to City
Council.
The EDC did not have a meeting in August, and intends to bring this item back during the September 9, 2026
to finalize the set of recommendations and determine the method of forwarding them to the City Council.

ATTACHMENTS
None
CONTACT
Ivette Iraheta, Economic Development Commission Secretary (707) 645-2622
[email protected]

Page 26 of 28

ACTION ITEM 9.F.

DATE:
TO:
FROM:
SUBJECT:

September 9, 2026
Economic Development Commission Chair and Members of the Commission
Ivette Iraheta, Economic Development Commission Secretary
ADOPT A RECOMMENDATION ON AI AND CIVIC TECHNOLOGY TO FORWARD TO
THE CITY COUNCIL

RECOMMENDATION
Adopt a recommendation on AI and Civic Technology to forward to the City Council
BACKGROUND AND DISCUSSION
The Economic Development Commission as part of its City Council approved Work Plan created a Civic
Innovation and Technology focus. In order to address priorities for this focus area it formed a Civic Innovation
and Technology Subcommittee.
The EDC has been discussing topics related to AI, how it can be used to improve dissemination of information
that will not impact confidentiality, how it may enhance the efficiency of processes conducted in various
departments of the City, particularly processing impacting customer service, and economic development.
The objective of discussing this item more thoroughly is to bring expertise, research and recommendations
about the use of AI and technology to enhance processes and services with a particular focus on economic
development impacts.
Preliminary findings on the subject include:
• AI is already changing city services and economic development at the same time. It affects how residents
and businesses experience permitting, licensing, customer service, procurement,
workforce training,
business support, and public feedback.
• This matters now because Vallejo is already under pressure to do more with limited capacity. AI tools will
not solve staffing or budget challenges on their own, but they can help reduce friction, identify service
bottlenecks, and make City processes easier to use.
• Solano County is already being pulled into the AI economy. Rio Vista officials have indicated that California
Forever’s nearby proposal could include one of the nation’s largest data centers, showing that AI-related
development is no longer abstract or far away.
• Vallejo needs stronger tools before major opportunities or risks arrive. Recent experience with projects
such as the casino and Vista Cove shows the City needs better mechanisms to negotiate public benefits, track
impacts, recover public costs, and protect long-term public interests.
The memo’s recommendations to City Council would be focusing on a specific goal: Readiness. Faster
permitting, better small-business support, stronger Cal Maritime and Touro partnerships, data-center policy,
and AI-assisted public feedback all help Vallejo improve City services, support local jobs, and negotiate from a
stronger position.
During the September 9, 2026 EDC meeting the Commission seeks to reach consensus on what
recommendations it will forward to City Council.

Page 27 of 28

Date: September 9, 2026
Subject: ADOPT A RECOMMENDATION ON AI AND CIVIC TECHNOLOGY TO FORWARD TO

THE CITY COUNCIL
Page 2

ATTACHMENTS
None
CONTACT
Ivette Iraheta, Economic Development Commission Secretary (707) 645-2622
[email protected]

Page 28 of 28