The Waterfront Cafe Pulling Into Suisun City Train Station

SUISUN CITY — A new café will open in the Suisun City Train Station to provide convenient food service and a unique atmosphere for commuters, transit users and nearby office workers.

The City signed a lease with The Waterfront Café, LLC., in December, concluding a search for a new operator for the historic Train Station location, a key regional transportation hub.

“We are very excited about the strong potential for The Waterfront Café to be a terrific ambassador welcoming people to Suisun City while providing commuters the services they deserve,” said Marketing Manager Scott Corey.

Local entrepreneurs Tina Montez and Kevin Smith are working to launch The Waterfront Café by early February, featuring as many local, healthy and sustainable products as possible.

“We’re looking forward to servicing the commuters as well as the community who live, work and visit the Waterfront District,” Smith said.

The café will complement the station’s key transportation services, including the Amtrak/Capitol Corridor, Fairfield-Suisun Transit (FAST), and Greyhound and other local connections provided at the station by the City of Rio Vista Delta Breeze transit service.

Terms of the lease require the station to be open by 6 a.m. weekdays to serve commuters using the increasingly popular Amtrak/Capitol Corridor train service, which operates 32 trains daily connecting Solano County’s only commuter rail stop with Sacramento and the entire Bay Area.

Supreme Court Delivers Worst-Case Scenario for Suisun City Redevelopment

SUISUN CITY — When the California Supreme Court upheld on Thursday the dissolution of Redevelopment Agencies and struck down a voluntary program to keep them alive, it delivered the worst-case scenario for the Suisun City Redevelopment Agency.

The elimination of the Redevelopment Agency will require cutting the current City budget by $1.4 million, which the City Council has discussed in theory for several months. Because the option to pay annually to retain the Redevelopment Agency was eliminated, Suisun City stands to lose approximately $13 million in additional cash and assets.

“We’re still digesting the court’s decision,” said City Manager Suzanne Bragdon. “But from reading the basic background provided by the court, it’s clear that those not at the local level – people not on the ground – miss the whole concept that redevelopment provides tools to make new development and new projects happen that wouldn’t happen by private investment alone.
 
"Instead, they describe redevelopment as a big shell game that allows cities to grab property taxes from other entities, rather than a tool to grow the overall property tax pool – not to mention the creation of other tax revenues and jobs – which benefits everyone, including schools and the State," Bragdon said. "This decision has severely limited future business development in a community like Suisun City.”

>> Read about more local impacts and link to the court opinion

$4.7 million Suisun City Affordable Housing Renovation Complete

Public-Private Partnership Extends Life of Housing Complex

 
SUISUN CITY — A $4.7 million renovation of the Village II apartment complex in Suisun City has been completed providing residents of the 106-unit affordable housing complex modern kitchens, bathrooms and other amenities.

The modernization project of the 40-year-old complex was undertaken by the Solano Affordable Housing Foundation (SAHF), with support from the City of Suisun City and numerous other federal, state and local public programs.

“The renovation of the Village II is a textbook example of how the community benefits when public and private entities work together,” said Suzanne Bragdon, Suisun City Manager. “Creating partnerships is how we get things done in Suisun City.”

Veronica Champine

With new affordable housing projects difficult to complete, it was important for the community to extend the lifespan of existing complexes such as the Village II, located at 506 Civic Center Blvd., in Suisun City.

Coordinating the strengths of government programs, a non-profit developer, and for-profit construction and management companies resulted in upgrades averaging $44,000 per unit. Many units received all new kitchens and bathrooms, washer/dryer, and upgraded electrical systems. The complex exterior and grounds also were upgraded.

The work pumped several million dollars into the local economy during a period when many construction projects are frozen. Local subcontractors performed $2.2 million of the construction work, with the balance awarded to companies in neighboring counties. Contractor Tricorp Hearn has offices in Vacaville, and the key on-site personnel are Solano County residents.

“SAHF strives to utilize as many local contractors as reasonably possible when building or renovating a complex,” said Michael Rice, President of Suisun City-based builder Main Street West Partners and a member of SAHF’s Board of Directors.

Financing the project was complex and involved federal, state, and local government agencies. The starting point was the City of Suisun City, which approved the use of tax-exempt bonds for the debt structure of the project. Though the City took on no obligation for repayment, it had to approve the bonds as meeting a public purpose. The U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD) provided the mortgage insurance needed to secure the financing, and two departments of the California Treasurer’s Office issued the bond and tax-credit allocations.

Several private sector entities also participated, including the transaction lender PNC Financial of San Francisco. Equity for the transaction was provided by Oakland’s Merritt Community Capital Corporation (MCCC), a non-profit affordable housing investor that has provided several million dollars for Solano County affordable housing.

The project developer and general partner for the ownership group is SAHF, a non-profit corporation located in Fairfield, charged with increasing and improving the supply of affordable housing in Solano County. In its 20-year history, SAHF has constructed or renovated more than 1,000 dwelling units, and brought more than $80 million in affordable financing for housing to the County.

“Affordable housing transactions are very complex requiring the teamwork of a number of both public and private entities,” said Dennis McCray, Executive Director for SAHF. “The result for Village II was particularly positive: in 9 ½ months the team temporarily relocated 106 families and their belongings, and performed more than $40,000 per unit in improvements. The relocation tab alone was just shy of $1 million. The success of the project is largely due to the expertise of Tricorp Hearn, the contractor, the supervising architect, Construction Services Division of John Stewart Company, and the relocation firm of David Richman.”

Because affordable housing is increasingly difficult to build due to ever-increasing costs and complex regulations, upgrading 106 existing affordable units to current standards is a substantial benefit for both the community and building residents.

Marvin Leaks

Tenants at the Village II were very pleased with the results.

“I had all original fixtures in my apartment, now I feel like I have a brand new home!” said Veronica Champine, a 12-year resident of the Village. “I love my new kitchen with so much more cabinet space, the new bathroom is wonderful, and I got brand new carpet, which was a surprise. We now have air conditioning too! I love coming home. It’s the closest thing I have to owning my own home. I love it!”

“It’s just lovely!” said 14-year resident Marvin Leaks, fondly referred to as “Mr. Marv.” “We are so excited about our new kitchen cabinets, countertops, the new flooring, beautiful new closet doors, and air conditioning. We love our new home so much we bought a few new decorations for it. Property management did an excellent job preparing us for the construction process and temporary relocation. I love the whole deal.”

Salvation Army Needs Turkeys to Help Local Families in Need

The Salvation Army is known for helping those in need during the holidays. But that support is only possible when the community supports the Salvation Army.  Right now, they need turkeys.  Here's a press release the Salvation Army, Solano County issued today:
 

SUISUN CITY, Calif. – The Salvation Army serving Solano County is in the midst of the 2^nd Annual 12 Days of Turkey campaign with a goal of obtaining 900 turkeys for Christmas food boxes.  The first week of the drive has produced a couple hundred turkeys but over 700 are still needed to ensure all registered families in need receive a turkey for their Christmas dinner.  The drive runs through December 18^th.
 
Donations are still very much needed and can be dropped off Monday –Friday from 9:00 AM-12:00 PM and 1:00 PM-4:00 PM at assorted Salvation Army locations across Solano County.

Monetary donations are also accepted and often area a more efficient way to go.

“The Salvation Army is fortunate enough to receive a non-profit discount for the purchase of turkeys,” said Captain Jonathan Harvey, Suisun City Kroc Center Administrator.  “We will be able to purchase turkeys for less than what the public would pay.  We are urging monetary donations because we will be able to make the public’s dollar really stretch.”

Monetary and turkey donations can be dropped off at the following locations:  

Fairfield: 1216 Missouri Street   (707) 426-6244
Suisun City: 278 A Sunset Ave  (707) 439-7880
Vacaville: 630 Orange Drive # M   (707) 455-8191      
Vallejo: 630 Tuolumne Street (707) 643-8621

Police Department Launches Sergeant Recruitment

SUISUN CITY, CA. - The Suisun City Police Department is now recruiting for a police sergeant. Applications are due no later than Dec. 8, 2011.

The department offers a variety of specialty assignments including: Patrol, Traffic, Investigations, Canine, School Resource Officer, Marine Patrol, Major Crimes Unit / CSI, and regional SWAT Team.  The department is staffed by 24 sworn officers including Chief of Police Ed Dadisho, a Police Commander and 4 Police Sergeants. The department has its own dispatch center, code enforcement officers, and youth services bureau.  The department has the latest in law enforcement technology and equipment.

Under direction of a Police Commander, supervises, assigns, reviews, and participates in the work of law enforcement staff involved in the protection of public health, safety, and welfare and the enforcement of applicable federal, state, and local laws; assumes responsibility for assigned collateral services, special programs, projects, or department-wide functions or activities; coordinates activities with other divisions, units, watches, City departments, outside agencies, organizations and the public; and performs a variety of administrative and technical tasks relative to assigned area of responsibility.

For a full description of the position, please see the Police Department careers site.

Workshops to help homeowners save energy & money

New Energy Upgrade California Program offers cash rebates and healthier homes, creates jobs

SUISUN CITY, Calif. - Homeowners in Solano County are invited to attend free workshops for Energy Upgrade California (www.EnergyUpgradeCA.org), the new statewide program that reduces energy use, saves homeowners money and creates local jobs.

Sponsored by Energy Upgrade California and the Solano Center for Business Innovation, the series of workshops will provide homeowners valuable information about Energy Upgrade California’s “whole house approach” to energy efficiency, as well as how to access rebates up to $6,000 and 3% fixed-interest financing for home energy upgrades. Homeowners will also learn about additional resources available for Solano County residents only through the “Solano +” program.


FREE WORKSHOPS

Wednesday, November 9, 6:30pm
Ulatis Community Center
1000 Ulatis Drive, Vacaville >> map
Info & RSVP: http://vacaville-euc.eventbrite.com

Thursday, November 10, 6:30pm
Nelson Community Center
611 Village Drive, Suisun City >> map
Info & RSVP: http://suisuncity-euc.eventbrite.com

Monday, November 14, 6:30pm
Dixon Fire Department
205 Ford Way, Dixon >> map
Info & RSVP:  http://dixon-euc.eventbrite.com

MORE INFO ABOUT “SOLANO +” PROGRAM

Charles Rieger, Solano Center for Business Innovation
707-861-0724 or charles.rieger@solanoinnovation.org

ABOUT ENERGY UPGRADE CALIFORNIAEnergy Upgrade California is a collaborative program between the California Energy Commission, the California Public Utilities Commission, utilities and local governments that provides tools to accomplish and promote a “whole house” approach to home efficiency improvements. Based on “building science” principles, the program emphasizes an integrated approach to energy efficiency, starting with an assessment of current systems to identify solutions that will improve the comfort and energy performance of a home. For more information, visit www.EnergyUpgradeCA.org 
.

Pintail Drive Rehabilitation Paving Work Set for Thursday through Saturday

SUISUN CITY, Calif. - Road surface grinding and paving on Pintail Drive from Sunset Avenue to Blackspur Drive is scheduled for Thursday Oct. 20 through Saturday Oct. 22 from about 7 a.m. to 6 p.m. daily.

After conducting informal traffic surveys, Ghilotti Construction set the schedule to include a Saturday to minimize impacts on Suisun Elementary School, users of other nearby public facilities and residents. 

Residents can expect traffic delays and temporary detours during the construction period. Drivers are urged to be alert for construction zone signage and road workers. If possible, plan to avoid the area during construction hours.

For more information regarding this project, please go to www.Suisun.com/Pintail.html.
  

2011 Wreath Project Remembers Fallen Veterans at the Holidays

SUISUN CITY, Calif - Every December since 2006, holiday wreaths are placed on grave sites at the Sacramento Valley National Cemetery in Dixon.  The wreaths are purchased and placed by The Wreath Project.

The community group has been able to place wreaths on every grave site, one of the few veterans cemeteries in the nation to achieve that goal.  To continue the tradition, the group will need to purchase 9,000 wreaths.

Wreaths will be placed during a ceremony at 9 a.m. Saturday, December 10, 2011.   The cemetery is located at 5810 Midway Road in Dixon.  >> Map

To donate or get more information about the project, go to www.wreathproject.org, call 707-761-3343 or e-mail wreathproject@yahoo.com

Hearing on New Water Rates Set for Nov. 22, 2011

The Suisun-Solano Water Authority (SSWA) will consider adopting a new rate structure for all Suisun City users to provide more funding for current and future operations, repairs and replacements at 6 p.m. Tuesday, November 22, 2011, at City Hall.

Based on the Financial Plan and Water Rate Update Study, the proposed rates redistribute the cost of service between residential and non-residential customers to improve proportionality.

Increases in the past have ensured the water service is in good financial shape. Recognizing the tough economic conditions, a general rate increase was delayed for two and a half years. The SSWA Board spent considerable time and effort to keep the rates as low as possible, including budget reductions and use of one-time reserves.

In accordance with the Financial Plan, SSWA is considering two rate adjustments:

• 4% effective January 2012
• 4% effective January 2013

The proposed rate structure includes a new emergency rate schedule to be imposed in the event of a declared water shortage or drought. Rate surcharges, intended to address the financial impacts of a water shortage, would only apply as long as a water shortage or drought condition exists.

The proposed emergency surcharges, which are based on water usage, are

• 8% during a Stage II drought
• 20% during a Stage III drought
• 40% during a Stage IV drought 

 >> For more information, including the meeting notice, rate study and proposed rate structure

Suspect in Early Morning Residential Burglaries Arrested

SUISUN CITY – The Suisun City Police Department arrested a 27-year-old Suisun City man on Tuesday on suspicion of numerous hot prowl residential break-ins dating back to mid-August.

After intensive targeted patrols and an extensive investigation, police collected enough evidence to arrest Jason Lee Harris for entering 11 homes on the east side of Suisun City during late night or early morning hours while the residents slept. Upon entering the home through unlocked doors, the suspect would take any accessible items of value that could be easily concealed then flee.

“This series of hot prowl burglaries was extremely unsettling for Suisun City residents, and very uncharacteristic of local criminal activity,” said police Commander Tim Mattos. “Thanks to the focused efforts of all our officers and civilian personnel on both day and night shifts, we were able to make this arrest and restore peace and safety to neighborhoods east of Emperor Drive.”

Since the burglary spree started in mid-August, the Suisun City Police Department increased enforcement in the areas of the break-ins, and assigned extra officers to special details to identify and apprehend the suspect.

The Police Department also notified all Suisun City residents asking them to be extra vigilant in securing their homes and report any suspicious activity or people to police.

Jason Lee Harris became a person of interest after officers spotted him several times during early morning hours in the area of the reported burglaries. He also lived nearby.

But police investigators were able to secure an arrest warrant for Harris on Tuesday after finding a key piece of evidence at the site of a recent break-in that linked him to the crime.

Harris was arrested and booked into Solano County Jail on multiple burglary charges, and is awaiting arraignment.

The Police Department investigation into this series of break-ins continues.  Anyone with information regarding these incidents should call Sgt. Dave Kasid or Commander Tim Mattos at 707-421-7373.

This announcement was released today by the U.S. Department of Defense.  We are distributing it as a service to Suisun City area veterans and eligible service members. This is not a program of the City of Suisun City.   

 The Oct. 21, 2011, deadline for eligible service members, veterans and their beneficiaries to apply for Retroactive Stop Loss Special Pay (RSLSP) is one month away. The deadline was previously extended to allow those eligible more time to apply for the benefits they have earned under the program guidelines.

     "The nation has rallied behind this effort -- the military services have been joined by the White House, Congress, the VA, veteran and military service organizations, and friends and family members around the world," said Lernes Hebert, director of Officer and Enlisted Personnel Management. "Despite these remarkable outreach efforts, some people may still not yet have applied. If you think you are eligible, and have not yet applied, now is the time to do so."

     Retroactive Stop Loss Special Pay was established to compensate for the hardships military members encountered when their service was involuntarily extended under Stop Loss authority between Sept. 11, 2001, and Sept. 30, 2009. Eligible members or their beneficiaries may submit a claim to their respective military service in order to receive the benefit of $500 for each full or partial month served in a Stop Loss status.

     When RSLSP began on Oct. 21, 2009, the services estimated 145,000 service members, veterans and beneficiaries were eligible for this benefit. Because the majority of those eligible had separated from the military, the services have engaged in extensive and persistent outreach efforts, to include multiple direct mailings, public service announcements, and continuous engagements with military and veteran service organizations, social networks and media outlets.

     To apply, or for more information on RSLSP, including submission requirements and service-specific links, go to http://www.defense.gov/stoploss .

Suisun City Seeks Train Station Cafe Operator

SUISUN CITY, Calif. - Suisun City is seeking an experienced and entrepreneurial-minded operator who can provide cafe (or similar) services at the Suisun City Train Station.

This unique location has a number of advantages over the typical café / food service location. It is easily accessible from the Central County Bikeway, which connects the City from end to end; it is positioned at the only Capitol Corridor commuter rail service stop in Solano County; serves as a multi-modal transit hub for Solano County with regular Greyhound stops; it is within a 10-minute walk from the Solano County Administrative Building and within walking distance of the scenic Suisun City Promenade. Additionally, the Train Station is adjacent to a popular park-n-ride lot and is visible to passing cars on Main Street which offers a vast pool of potential customers.

Suisun City envisions the Train Station as a transit center; as such it is an important gateway to our community and more specifically the revitalized Waterfront District. When a traveler passes through the Suisun City Train Station, the first and sometimes only impression they have of Suisun City is the one they receive while visiting the Train Station.

As a result, the City is keenly interested in creating a lasting positive impression that entices people to return and further explore the Waterfront District. This directly relates to the overall Waterfront District goals and objectives that are geared towards building local economic activity through destination tourism. It is important to ensure the Train Station is open and welcoming for travelers and visitors alike while offering convenient services to enhance their travels and experience in Suisun City.

Submittals are due Oct. 20, 2011.

>> Click here for detailed information on this opportunity

City Council to Hold Budget Workshop Focused on Service Priorities

SUISUN CITY, Calif. – Faced with making $1.4 million in additional budget reductions on the heels of 35% budget cuts in recent years, the Suisun City Council will hold a public budget workshop at 6 p.m. Tuesday, September 20, at City Hall. >> map >>

While Suisun City has avoided significant service reductions, layoffs and furloughs during the national economic downturn, the additional 13% reduction in the City’s budget forced by recent State action will undoubtedly impact future service levels, City officials said.

In June, the State enacted two laws that changed the way redevelopment functions in California. Whether the Suisun City Redevelopment Agency is eliminated entirely or modified as required by the State, the City will face an approximate $1.4 million budget shortfall starting in July 2012.

Though a lawsuit is pending in the California Supreme Court challenging the constitutionality of those laws, the City Council wants to begin discussing budget cuts that will be necessary if legal challenges fail.

Among the issues to be discussed during the Tuesday night workshop are

• The basic structure of the City’s budget.
• The strategy of selling select fixed assets and reducing spending that preserved public services thus far during a significant economic downturn, which has forced other cities to slash budgets and programs.
• The State’s decision to end Redevelopment as it previously existed during a prolonged economic slide that has forced the City to face very difficult decisions, and its impact on Suisun City.
• An array of budget changes that could reach $1.4 million.
• Service level priorities that will help guide future decision-making.

Given the severity of the challenges that lie ahead, the City Council wants the public to provide input to help prioritize services that are most important to Suisun City residents.  The City Council may set additional workshops in the future.

The workshop agenda and supporting information will be posted online by Thursday evening to www.Suisun.com.

World Trade Center Artifacts Arrive in Suisun City

SUISUN CITY - "We are now the custodians of a piece of American history," Suisun City Fire Chief Mike O'Brien declared Thursday as two steel beams recovered from the World Trade Center were delivered to the Suisun City Fire Department.

The 10-foot-long beams were donated to the Suisun City Fire Department ,and delivered for free across the country from the New York Port Authority by L&A Transport of Union, New Jersey.

The 9/11 artifacts will be a centerpiece of a 10th Anniversary Memorial Ceremony to be held on Sunday, Sept. 11, 2011, at Harbor Plaza. More information on this event.

The beams were immediately loaded onto a trailer so they could be moved around the City for various temporary displays. Their first stop within hours of arriving in Suisun City was Suisun Elementary School, where the entire student body waited with flags and banners.

The beams will be integrated into a permanent 9/11 memorial to be erected in front of the Fire Station at 621 Pintail Drive. The Suisun City Firefighters Association is raising $20,000 to construct the memorial. More information on how to help or call the Fire Station at 707-429-1297.

The Firefighters Association launched a Facebook page to help gather support for the Memorial at www.Facebook.com/Suisun911Memorial.

Supplies Dwindle for Salvation Army's Effort to Feed Solano County Families

ORGANIZATION ASKS FOR THE PUBLIC'S HELP TO 'FEED THE NEED'

The Salvation Army issued the following information this week regarding it's need for the public's help:

SUISUN CITY, Calif. - With recent reports of longer periods of unemployment after job losses and the unemployment rate still high, The Salvation Army serving Solano County is seeing heavy demand for food relief.  More and more, neighbors are telling The Salvation Army they’ve finally reached the end of their savings.  These people desperately need help.

"We don’t feed statistics, we feed people," said Captain Jonathan Harvey, Solano County Coordinator, explaining his assessment of increased need.  "In this community, we are seeing a whole new population coming to us for food.  Our regulars are now being joined by the formerly middle-class, a group that's just begun to embrace a nightmare they probably thought they'd never see; no money for food.  With foreclosures, gasoline and utility costs rising, not to mention the effects of recession, times are hard for many in our community."

Unfortunately, this phenomenon coincides with a seasonal low in Salvation Army food pantry supplies.  "We've used up our holiday donations feeding people through the holidays and beyond," Captain Harvey said. "We need a new influx of support."  

The Salvation Army is asking for donations of non-perishable food items.  There are certain “staples” provided in every box, including:

Soup                                Stew                        Jelly                        Pancake Mix        
Baby food                        Cereal                        Boxed Dinners        Spaghetti noodles        
Canned fruit                        Rice                        Spaghetti sauce        Canned Meat                
Beans                                Mac & Cheese        Peanut butter                Canned Veggies                

Individuals who would like to donate food for the food pantry can drop it off at Solano County’s Service Offices located in Fairfield and Vacaville at: 630 Orange Drive, Suite M in Vacaville >> map >> or 1216 Missouri Street in Fairfield. >> map >>

Monetary donations are always needed and can be sent to:
The Salvation Army of Fairfield        The Salvation Army of Vacaville:          Or, visit: www.GoSalArmy.org
P.O. Box 3157                                P.O. Box 5664                                to make a secure donation
Fairfield, CA 94533                        Vacaville, CA 95688                        

For more information, please contact:
Captain Jonathan Harvey-Solano County Coordinator
(707) 439-7881 Office   Jonathan.Harvey@usw.salvationarmy.org

World Trade Center Steel to Arrive in Suisun City

Steel beams reclaimed from the World Trade Center

SUISUN CITY, Calif. - Two 10-foot-long sections of steel reclaimed from the World Trade Center are scheduled to arrive at the Suisun City Fire Station at 11:30 a.m. tomorrow (Thursday, Sept. 8, 2011).

The artifacts of the 9/11 attacks in New York City were donated to the Suisun City Fire Department so they could be used for a permanent display in front of the Fire Station, at 621 Pintail Drive.

The steel pieces are being transported to Suisun City free of charge by New Jersey trucking company L&A Transport.  The company also is bringing a smaller section for the Rio Vista Fire Department.

The steel will be featured at a public memorial ceremony on Sunday, Sept. 11, 2011, commemorating the 10th anniversary of the terrorist attacks.  The Suisun City Firefighters Association is sponsoring the ceremony, which will officially begin at 12:30 p.m. at Harbor Plaza on Main Street at Solano Street. The public will be able to view the World Trade Center steel starting at Noon on Sunday.  For more information on the ceremony, go to www.visitsuisuncity.com/event/9-11-ceremony

The truck bringing the steel to the Fire Station is expected to travel westbound on Pintail Drive from Walters Road to the Fire Station.  The community is invited to watch the arrival, and encouraged to bring American flags and wear patriotic clothing.

In the near future, the Suisun City Fire Department will develop a program to bring the steel artifacts to local schools are part of a 9/11 education program.

The Suisun City Firefighters Association also raising approximately $20,000 to design and erect the permanent memorial using the 9/11 steel pieces.  For more information, go to http://suisun9-11.blogspot.com/; https://www.facebook.com/Suisun911Memorial; or call 707-429-1297.

Stay posted on what's happening in and around Suisun City on www.facebook.com/SuisunCity or www.twitter.com/SuisunCity

Pintail Drive Rehabilitation Project Construction Begins Tuesday

SUISUN CITY, Calif. - Construction work on the $500,000 Pintail Drive Rehabilitation Project is scheduled to begin on Tuesday, Sept. 6, 2011, and continue through about mid-November, depending on weather conditions.

The work will include significant sidewalk and curb work, isolated road base repair, and complete roadway resurfacing of Pintail Drive from Sunset Avenue to Emperor Drive. Road base repair and crack sealing on Pintail Drive will extend from Emperor Drive to Walters Road.

To limit the impact to nearby residents, all work is to be conducted between 7 a.m. and 6 p.m. Monday through Friday. Work hours or times may be extended for construction conflicts or emergencies.

During the entire construction period, the contractor - Ghilotti Construction Co. - is required to maintain through traffic controls to allow traffic flow and bus service through the construction zone. However, some unavoidable traffic delays and detours are to be expected during the construction period.

Construction and Public Works officials are coordinating all work to minimize impact upon the Suisun City Library, Suisun Elementary School, the Suisun City Fire Department, and ongoing construction of the Salvation Army Kroc Center.

For more details on this project, go to www.suisun.com/pintail.html

Coast and Creek Cleanup Coming Soon! Together We Make a Difference

SUISUN CITY, Calif. - On Saturday, September 17, 2011, Suisun City residents will come out to clean trash and debris from local urban creeks, marshes, and bays, as part of the statewide California Coastal Cleanup Day.

Last year, the three-hour citizen event coordinated by Fairfield-Suisun Sewer District collected nearly 4000 pounds of trash and recyclables from just the Suisun Waterfront and Estuary, the Rush Ranch area, and Belden’s Landing.

Throughout the cities of Suisun City and Fairfield, the 2010 Coast & Creek Cleanup volunteers covered 23 miles of waterways. The event was a huge success, due to the growing number of volunteers each year. Thank you to the tremendous turnout of our community members, like Trish Abbatiello of Sunset Bay Kayaks. For several years, she has provided kayaks to volunteers to help remove trash that is otherwise difficult to reach from the shore.

Would you like to make a difference?

Groups and individuals are invited to participate at any of the cleanup sites. No experience is required, but each volunteer (or parent/guardian if a minor) must sign a liability waiver to participate.

For more information about the Cleanup, visit the Fairfield-Suisun Sewer District website at www.fssd.com, call the Don’t Pollute hotline at (707) 428-9191 or see the event listing at www.VisitSuisunCity.com.

Pre-registration is not required, and drop-ins are welcome!

Air Force Thunderbirds Arrive for Travis Air Expo this Weekend

The information below was provided by the Travis AFB Public Affairs Office regarding the arrival of the Thunderbirds, the elite air demonstration team of the U.S. Air Force.

TRAVIS AFB -- The Air Force Thunderbirds aerial demonstration team has arrived at Travis AFB.

The Thunderbirds fly F-16 jets, which are faster and louder than the cargo and tanker aircraft normally seen in and around Solano County.

The Thunderbirds will practice intermittently until about 6:30 p.m. tonight. They will hold practice flights again Friday beginning at about 1 p.m.

Other aircraft also will be arriving at Travis today and Friday, including more fighters, bombers and vintage aircraft.

Travis will open its gates Saturday and Sunday at 8:30 a.m. for the airshow. Opening ceremonies begin at 10 a.m. each day. The event is free to the public.

The Thunderbirds will close the airshow each day with a performance that begins at about 3 p.m.

For more on the Air Expo, see www.visitsuisuncity.com/event/travis-air-expo

Live Summer Shakespeare Both Outdoors and In in Suisun City Waterfront

SUISUN CITY, Calif. - The Solano College Theatre presents Shakepeare's "Love's Labour's Lost," directed by Carla Spindt as a modern-day version of a classic comedy complete with a "Glee" moment. Produced outdoors in the Harbor Square Courtyard (700 Main Street) and in the Harbor Theater (720 Main Street).

Love’s Labour’s Lost is one of the bard's earliest comedies, in which four bachelors who have dedicated themselves to chastity and scholarly pursuits soon encounter the women of their dreams.

In the University of Navarre live a King and his three fellows, who make a 3-year vow to fast to study and to see no women. Soon after this vow has been made a Princess from French Canada arrives with three of her ladies in hopes to see the King to speak of “serious business”. When the eyes of the King and Princess meet, will it be love at first sight? And, will the others want to break their vows? Join us in unraveling the mystery of this comedic performance brought to you by students of Solano Community College of the modern day, Loves Labour’s Lost.

DETAILS

• Harbor Theater (720 Main Street) performances: 7:30 p.m. Friday August 5 & Aug. 12
  
• Harbor Square Courtyard (700 Main Street) performances:
  2 p.m. Aug. 6, 7, & 13
  7:30 p.m. Aug. 10, 11 & 12
• Tenbrink Winery Performance: 2 p.m. Aug. 14
  
• Admission is FREE
• Please bring chairs or blankets for Harbor Square Courtyard performances. Seating not provided in the paved courtyard.

Loves Labour’s Lost features some of the following fresh faces:

• Aris-Allen Roberson of Vacaville is the King of Navarre.
• Rebecca Lewis and Robin Murray of Solano County as the Princess of France.
• Mikkel Simons of Solano County is Boyet.
• Michael Reardon of Vacaville is Don Adriano De Armado.
• Conner Watson, Levi Duncan and Chris Raymond of Solano County and Esparto as Berowne, Longaville, and Dumain.
• Jaina Frank, Janessa Mosqueda and Meghan Pence as Rosaline, Maria and Katherine.
• Aaron Flores and Amanda Widick of Vacaville and Solano County as Moth.
• Brianna Hester and DeShae Thorton of Vacaville and Suisun as Jaquenetta.
• Jim Jones of Napa is Holoferenes.
• David Shuster of Solano County as Sir Nathaniel.
• Beth Choy of Benicia as Dull.

For more, go to www.VisitSuisunCity.com

Live Summer Theater Outdoors in Suisun City with "The Visit"

SUISUN CITY, Calif. - Solano College Theatre proudly presents The Visit, a timeless tale of justice and redemption at the Suisun City Waterfront District at 7:30 p.m. on July 25^th – 28^th, August 3^rd &4^th .

Under the direction of SCT Artistic Director George Maguire, the cast brings to life this classic tale by Friedrich Dürrenmatt.

The town of Gullen is in a state of disrepair, and the residents are suffering considerable hardship and poverty while preparing for the arrival of famed billionairess Claire Zachanassian. They hope that Claire, a native of the small town, will provide them with much-needed funds. Claire takes the opportunity to announce that she will make a donation of one billion dollars, half for the town and half to be shared among the families - under one horrifying condition.

The Visit features both veteran actors and fresh faces to the SCT stage;

• Carla Spindt of Suisun City is Claire Zachanassian
• Jon Hale of Walnut Creek is Anton Schill
• Terry Rucker of Vallejo is the Mayor.
• Barbara McFadden of Fairfield is the Teacher.
• Jim Jones of Napa is the Pastor
• Bobby Ellison of Vacaville is Bobby
• Faustino Cadiz of Vallejo & Princess Washington of Suisun City are The Two Blind Men

The Visit plays at the Waterfront in Downtown Suisun City, opening 25^th and running through July 28^th, and August 3^rd and 4^th at 7:30 p.m.

Admission is free. Chairs, warm coats, and blankets are highly recommended.

For more information, go to www.VisitSuisunCity.com

Homeowners Sought to Pilot Energy Efficiency Program

SUISUN CITY, Calif. - Would you like to save 15% to 40% off your PG&E electric bill and have solar installed on your home at no additional out-of-pocket cost?

The Solano Center for Business Innovation is looking for two Suisun City homeowners to pilot Solano County's implementation of the Energy Upgrade California Program. The purpose of the two-step program is to make homes more energy efficient and to provide renewable energy and energy management for the home.

For more information on the pilot program, contact

Charles Rieger
Executive Director
Solano Center for Business Innovation

707-861-0724
or
763-458-7377

Suisun City is working with the Solano Center For Business Innovation and the Association of Bay Area Governments to bring the Energy Upgrade California Program to Solano County. The program promotes energy efficiency and green building upgrades for existing residential properties.

Chyrl Way Rehabilitation Project Now Open for Bidding

SUISUN CITY, Calif. - During the current construction season, Chryl Way will see major improvement work ranging from new sewer mains and water service lines to an entirely new street surface, according to a project announcement released by the Suisun City Public Works Department.

The Chyrl Way Rehabilitation Project is another collaboration between Suisun City Public Works and Suisun-Solano Water Authority. The two agencies have coordinated major water service and street repair work for several years to minimize disruption to residents, and reduce costs of the work.

The project will remove the entire street surface on Chryl Way from Blossom Avenue to Humphrey Drive to allow the sewer mains and water service lines to be replaced. Once the underground work is complete, the roadway, including curbs, gutters and curb ramps, will be rebuilt.

Construction firms interested in the work have until July 28, 2011, to submit their bids. Officials expect the construction work to be underway by late summer.

For information on bidding for the project, please click here.

Draft FY 2011-12 City Budget Now Available

SUISUN CITY, Calif. - The Administrative Services Department has released the draft FY 2011-12 city budget for review ahead of the City Council's consideration of the spending plan on Tuesday, June 21.

The budget can be located at the City web site ( www.suisun.com ) by following the City Hall tab and navigating down to Financial Reports under the Administrative Services Department header.
>> Click here to go straight there >>

As City Manager Suzanne Bragdon notes in her budget message, there are a number of important themes taken into consideration while developing the balanced budget:

We continue to live through historic economic times that cause both tremendous challenges and unique opportunities.

The County Assessor has indicated an "expectation" that average, county-wide assessed values will decline by 3%; the fourth straight year of property value declines.

The City's short- and long-term priority continues to be fiscal stability, which means the City needs to:

• Be prudent in the use of one-time monies that have been used to "bridge" operations until known economic development efforts come on-line (e.g., the Wal-Mart Supercenter).
• Continue to trim operating budgets while utilizing alternative approaches to filling vacancies (e.g., cross-management, cross-training and contracting out). The budget assumes eight vacant positions remain unfilled, which is roughly 10% of the City workforce.
• Position the City for new development opportunities when the economy does turn around.
• Maintain a strong eye on reserves; for FY 2011-12 General Fund reserves are at roughly 25%.
• Continue to provide City's business community and residents with the highest level and quality of services possible.

City service focus in on all segments of the community - services and programs that support long-term economic vitality, strong and safe neighborhoods, and a community that is a desirable place to visit, live, work and raise a family.

>> Click here for the complete budget message >>

Pintail Drive Rehabilitation Project Opened for Bids

SUISUN CITY, Calif. - Pintail Drive will be completely resurfaced from Sunset Avenue to Walters Road under a notice to contractors issued by the Public Works Department.

Using a federal transportation grant, Suisun City officials plan to repave the one of the main arterial streets lacing together most of the city's neighborhoods, replace curbs and sidewalks, and install new access ramps at corners.

Any contractors interested in bidding on the work have until July 12, 2011, to submit bids.

The work is expected to take place later this summer.

>> Click here to see the bid documents or for more information >>

Grizzly Island Trail Project Environmental Documents Released for Comment

SUISUN CITY, Calif. - The Suisun City Community Development Department has released the environmental documents for the Grizzly Island Trail project for public review and comment.

Written comments will be accepted through July 14, 2011.

The Grizzly Island Trail project would create a .9-mile concrete recreational trail for pedestrians and bicyclists along the south side of state Highway 12 from Grizzly Island Road to Marina Boulevard.

The project would create a safe route for students from Lawler Ranch to reach Crystal Middle School without having to cross Highway 12, and provide the public with new access to the Hill Slough Wildlife Area, which is owned and managed by the state Department of Fish and Game.

The initial environmental study indicates that the project would not result in any significant impacts to environmental resources. As a result, a proposed negative declaration of environmental impact also was prepared and circulated for public comment.

For more information on the project or to review the documents, go to www.suisun.com/Grizzly-Island-Trail.html.

Youth Business Boot Camp

The Solano College Small Business Development Center will conduct a free week-long Youth Business Boot Camp on June 20-24, 9 am – 3 pm, as part the Young Entrepreneur Program (YEP) for for youth ages 14-27.

This free program is designed to teach young people how to start a business or simply explore the world of business. The Boot Camp will be held at the Solano College Main Campus, Room 706.

“We had 42 very motivated youth participate in our pilot program in Vacaville and Vallejo," said Charles Eason, Director of the SBDC, "Entrepreneurship is an important element for increasing the self-confidence levels of students. Many students have a desire to achieve their dreams and goals of developing a business. However they need guidance, a clear plan, and encouragement."

During the week long business boot camp, participants will work individually or in teams to develop a business plan for starting and growing a business of their choice. The 30-hour program is structured to offer practical and hands-on learning from Solano College Certified Business Advisors and Local Business Leaders.

The YEP program is funded by a grant through the California Community College Chancellor’s Office Economic Workforce Development Program to promote entrepreneurship as a career pathway.

The program focuses on practical interpersonal and technical skills needed to own and operate a business. The goal of YEP is to provide information, knowledge, and “real world” experience to help students master business related skills. “We are teaching youth how they can turn their passion and talents into a business,” Eason said.

For more information regarding the YEP program or to register for the Youth Business Boot Camp, contact the SBDC at (707) 864-3382 or visit www.solanosbdc.org.

Suisun City Police Officers Serve Lunch & Dinner to Benefit Special Olympics

SUISUN CITY, Calif. - The Suisun City Police Department presents "Tip-A-Cop Day" today at La Cabana Restaurant to raise money for the Special Olympics.

Come to La Cabana for lunch or dinner today and be served by “celebrity officers.” The event will run 11:30 am to 1:30 pm and 6:00 pm to 8:30 pm today only at La Cabana, located at 325 Main Street, Suisun City.

“Tip-A-Cop” events are designed to invite the public to a dining experience filled with fun, entertainment, and a chance to meet local law enforcement officers.

Today's lunch “celebrity servers” are Police Chief Ed Dadisho, Sergeant Kasid, Detective Arroyo and Officer Vera

Dinner “celebrity servers” are Commander Tim Mattos, Officer Rubio & Officer Sousa

Special Olympics provides FREE year-round sports training and competition opportunities for children and adults with intellectual disabilities. In Northern California, about 14,000 Special Olympics athletes’ lives are enriched every day because of their participation.

Later this summer, the Suisun City Police Department will take part in the Special Olympics Torch Run, which will bring the olympic torch through the city on its way to the main event location.

Suisun City Police Department and Special Olympics Northern California would like to thank the Solis family and staff at La Cabana for supporting this special event.

Solano Land Trust Seeks Rush Ranch Docents

SUISUN CITY - Solano Land Trust is recruiting docents to teach about the ecology of Rush Ranch and Suisun Marsh. This is a brand new docent program that will complement the existing education and recreation programs at Rush Ranch.

do·cent, noun, \ˈdō-s^ənt, dō(t)-ˈsent\: a person who leads guided tours
ecol·o·gy, noun \i-ˈkä-lə-jē, e-\: a branch of science concerned with the interrelationship of organisms and their environments

No prior experience is necessary. New docents will receive four days of training, each covering a different topic about the marsh. The training dates are

• Thursday, June 9th from 6:30pm to 8pm
• Wednesday, June 15th from 6:30pm to 8pm
• Saturday, June 18th from 2pm to 5pm, and
• Thursday, June 23rd from 6:30pm to 8pm.

All trainings will be on-site at Rush Ranch: 3521 Grizzly Island Road, off Highway 12, about 2 miles south of Suisun City.

Rush Ranch is recognized as one of the best remaining brackish tidal marsh habitats in the United States, and therefore it's protected as part of the San Francisco Bay National Estuarine Research Reserve (San Francisco Bay NERR). Sarah Ferner of NERR will be the expert trainer for new docents. She'll share what makes Rush Ranch so special – how it’s exceptionally rich in plants and animals; why these plants and animals depend on Rush Ranch for survival; how the marsh provides essential habitat for commercially important fish and crabs; how it filters mud from the Bay's murky waters; and how it protects the shoreline from flooding. Docents-in-training will reflect on the ways the marsh was important for Native American food and travel, and how Rush Ranch continues to serve as a living laboratory for scientific research.

Docents in this new program will share insights about the marsh, guide and inspire children and adults, and join the Solano Land Trust community.

Solano Land Trust is a public benefit organization dedicated to protecting working farms and natural areas in Solano County. 2011 is Solano Land Trust’s 25^th Anniversary. Since 1986, it has permanently protected over 20,000 acres of land for the current and future residents of Solano County.

RSVP on or before Thursday, June 9th by contacting Natalie DuMont, Solano Land Trust Volunteer and Outreach Coordinator, at 707-432-0150 x200 or volunteer@SolanoLandTrust.org.

Bidding Opens for Firms to Repair Lawler Falls Park Ponds

SUISUN CITY — The Public Works Department has issued a notice to contractors seeking bids the repair and reconstruction of the Lawler Falls Park Ponds.

The public bidding process follows City Council authorization to repair and rehabilitate the ponds, which had been inoperable due to an undetermined leakage problem.

Lawler Falls Park is located in Lawler Ranch and was built in the late 1980’s. The Park has a waterfall and a two- tier lower pond basin with a circulation system. >> map >>

Last summer, KASL Consulting Engineers inspected the ponds and concluded that a new geomembrane liner be installed to prevent water seepage through the bottom of the ponds.

Qualified firms are invited to review the project plans and specifications to submit a bid by June 16. Construction work is expected to begin shortly thereafter.

The work plan requires the removal of the existing ponds and reconstructing them with a new liner to prevent leaking issues that kept the ponds from functioning properly.

>> Click here for the Notice to Contractor information >>

>> Read related staff report to the City Council >>