Vacaville · issues
Civic issues
Topics getting the most attention in Vacaville public meetings, ranked by how frequently they come up.
Public Safety and Crime
Vacaville's police are upgrading with drones to boost public safety, but they're also tackling issues like vandalism at memorials and a recent hit-and-run. Meanwhile, a local supervisor is under fire for alleged ethics violations.
Economic Development Hiring
Vacaville's got a new hire to supercharge the local economy! Amanda Portier is stepping in as the Economic Development Manager, tasked with bringing in new business and making Vacaville an even more attractive spot for companies.
Wildfire Preparedness
Wildfire season is coming, and Vacaville's fire department is getting proactive! They joined forces with other agencies for a county event to help residents prep for the worst, showing off gear and reminding everyone to pack a go-bag and have an evacuation plan.
Drone Security Partnership
Your kids' schools are getting a tech upgrade! Vacaville PD is partnering with Kairos schools to use drones for faster emergency response, thanks to a state grant. This means quicker help is on the way if something happens.
Lagoon Valley development progress
Longtime opponent Roberto Valdez voiced 30-plus years of opposition to Lagoon Valley development, citing burial sites at Peña Adobe. Staff said the developer met all subdivision map act conditions and the local tribe has been involved at every step regarding cultural remains.
General liability self-insured retention for 2026/27
Council raised the deductible the city pays per liability claim from $750,000 to $1 million, saving about $208,000 a year in risk-pool premiums. Stockton dissented, and members directed the savings into a dedicated reserve fund.
School-zone speed signage concerns
Wylie and Fremouw flagged possibly outdated or confusing school speed signs — a 15-mph sign near a vacant Alamo Drive site, four-lane roads that can't legally post 15 mph, and conflicting 15/25 signs near Vacaville High. Staff will investigate.
Trower Park Alebrije public art
The commission reviewed draft designs for a colorful Alebrije sculpture planned for Trower Park. The artwork adds to the city's public art collection and brings vibrant cultural representation to local park spaces.
Tulare Drive water line replacement
A $553,140 contract with Koios Engineering will replace the aging water line on Tulare Drive.
City Land Strategy and Combined RFP
Staff announced plans to package multiple vacant city-owned sites into one comprehensive RFP, asking developers to deliver a set number of units at specified affordability levels—possibly the city's biggest lever to spur affordable housing given limited funds.
Community Center Expansion
Vacaville's Islamic Center wants to expand, but some neighbors are worried. Supporters say it's about being a normal part of the community.
Keaton Park lighting safety
Councilmember Chapman relayed resident letters about lighting safety at Keaton Park and asked how soon the city can fix it; staff will investigate and report back.
Land Development Opposition
Residents are pushing back against a massive new development project, and it's causing a stir. This could seriously shake up how the city plans for the future and divvies up its resources.
Credit Card Processing Fee
Starting no earlier than May 1, the city will pass credit card processing costs (up to 3%) to customers to save roughly $400,000 a year. Bank transfers, cash, and checks stay free, with a phased rollout and public education.
Human Trafficking Awareness and Prevention
The mayor proclaimed January 2026 as Human Trafficking Awareness and Prevention Month, honoring local anti-trafficking coalitions, and the police chief described arrests, federal partnerships, and survivor support work.
ADU and Land Use Code Updates
First readings advanced to bring Vacaville's ADU rules in line with 2025 state law and to update the annual land use code, including halving parking requirements for studios and one-bedrooms and allowing offices downtown with a lighter permit.
Commission Appointment Policy Overhaul
The council created an applicant review committee — two councilmembers, staff directors, and two community members — to vet, interview, and rank commission applicants for the mayor, who still makes appointments. Councilmembers not on the committee agreed not to contact applicants until a nomination is made.
Energy Storage Facilities
Big battery storage sites are coming to Vacaville, and some residents are nervous about how they'll affect their neighborhoods. It's all about ensuring these new facilities don't cause problems for the community.
Youth Engagement Program
Vacaville's 'Summer at City Hall' program is getting props for getting young people involved in local government. It's a great way to teach them how things work and hopefully inspire some future leaders.
Homeless Encampment Cleanup
Vacaville spent a hefty $22,000 to clear out a homeless encampment. Now the city's looking at whether this is a one-time fix or a recurring bill they'll have to keep paying.
Electric Vehicle Charging Infrastructure
Vacaville is leveling up its EV game with new solar-powered charging stations that work off-grid. This means more convenient charging for electric car owners and a greener way to power up.
Official Conduct
Vacaville's Vice Mayor Greg Ritchie is facing some tough questions about his conduct. This could shake up city leadership and how things are run.
Solar Permitting
Tired of waiting for solar permits? Vacaville just launched an instant online system, slashing approval times. Now it's way quicker and easier to get your solar projects up and running.
Wildfire Evacuation
Wildfires are raging near Vacaville, forcing a massive evacuation of over 15,000 residents. If you're in the area, you need to check the latest evacuation map ASAP to see if your home is in danger.