City of Benicia This Week
read it - watch it - like it - share it
In this edition: National Night Out; Digital RecGuide and Mobile App; Solano Multi-Jurisdiction Hazard Mitigation Plan; City Job Openings; Online Survey for the Parks, Trails & Open Space Master Plan Update; Water Saved Today is Water Available for Tomorrow; West Nile Virus Activity in Solano County; City Employee Spotlight; Recall Election Information; COVID Assistance
Message from the City Manager
August 9, 2021

Hello Everyone,

This week, I take great pride in pointing out that Benicia was ranked the 44th “Best Beach Towns to Live in” in the country (thank you to Susan Street for forwarding this on to me). While I’m sure most everyone’s reaction to that is “What beach?”, it's really more a ranking of coastal towns. What was interesting to me was looking at the ranking methodology and where we did well. We did best in the ‘weather’ category, coming in third overall. And, who could argue with that? One of the things we’ve been hearing a lot of lately is people coming to Benicia to eat, drink, and shop to get away from the oppressive heat in other areas of the region. We also did very well in the Safety category, and I’d like to pass on my thanks to our public safety staff and our involved community who have helped make that safety a reality. That is something I consistently hear from residents and visitors… just how safe they feel in this amazing town. Now, some of the categories were quite nuanced, such as the Quality of Life category (I’m sure most teenagers would agree with the various weights of this category, such as our low number of water parks, amusement parks, and shopping centers). Anyhow, I enjoyed this ranking and digging into the criteria quite a bit. And bottom line - the only thing wrong with this ranking is that we were not even higher up on the list.
 
An update on a couple important items that continue to move forward... First, the Eastern Gateway project. I believe this has really been a model on how to do a project of this magnitude the right way, with community involvement throughout and time taken to really listen, hear and respond. This last week, the Community Development Department (CDD) took a draft ordinance to a workshop with the Planning Commission for review and feedback. The next step will be the commencement of the environmental review. This environmental review process will also have opportunities for public feedback before moving forward. As always, please feel free to get updates and information about this important project at www.ci.benicia.ca.us/easterngateway or reach out to Danielle Crider in CDD at dcrider@ci.benicia.ca.us.
 
The upcoming August 17th City Council meeting will possibly be the first step to begin utilizing a very similar approach of massive community input, thoughtful and professional work, and coming in with no predetermined outcomes to look at what we are calling the Northwestern Study Area. This would include the very large property owned by the Seeno Construction Company. The very first step would be to create an Ad Hoc City Council Subcommittee to ensure public transparency and community involvement at every step.
 
Finally, our roads work continues full speed. Again, we appreciate everyone’s patience as we push through this massive project of moving our streets farther forward than we have in decades. A reminder: you can submit a service request here if you find an issue that is need of repair or correction. In the near future, we will be rolling out more information on the current state of our streets as well as our path forward, in accordance with Council direction, to lift our street conditions to the 70 Pavement Condition Index level over the next five years (from ‘At Risk’ to ‘Good’).


Thank you for your interest in the City of Benicia This Week! If you enjoy reading this weekly message, please share and encourage your friends, family, and coworkers to subscribe or text jointhisweek to 22828 (messaging and data rates may apply).

Erik Upson
City Manager
City News
National Night Out
National Night Out 2021 was a great success!

After a year hiatus due to the Covid-19 pandemic, the Benicia Police Department was excited to be able to sponsor another National Night Out on August 3. This year, 10 neighborhoods participated by putting together their own events ranging from a small potluck, to BBQs, to ice cream socials, to whatever else brings neighbors together. City staff from the Police and Fire Departments, City Councilmembers and other staff members visited each of the registered neighborhood block parties. Benicia Police Department’s new mascot, Copper the Fox, also made her debut!

This year marks the 38th national anniversary of the Neighborhood Watch - National Night Out event, which brings neighbors together for the purpose of heightening crime prevention and police community partnerships. The event sends a message to criminals that neighborhoods are organized and united in preventing crime. Over 10,000 communities from all 50 states across America celebrate National Night Out each year.

“It was great to again see our community coming together safely during this annual event,” Chief Mike Greene said. “It’s an important reminder to all of us that without our involved community members, Benicia wouldn’t be the wonderful city that it is. Looking forward to the next one already!”
Benicia Parks and Community Services has Launched a Digital RecGuide and Mobile App
Benicia’s Parks and Community Services (Recreation) Department is modernizing ways to keep the community informed of programs and services. In the past, the Department has mailed out a paper guide to every household. This year, they are excited to introduce a digital/virtual version of the RecGuide and the BeniciaRec mobile app.
 
With the launch of new programs for the fall, and the reintroduction of programs that have been on hold, the Department is transitioning to a digital/virtual version of the RecGuide as a flexible way to keep customers up to date on what programs are being offered. The new digital format will be a change in the way that participants and families access information about recreation opportunities in Benicia. However, for the convenience of those that still want a paper copy, there is an option on the virtual site to download and print the guide at home.
 
 “Not only does the new virtual RecGuide allow us to continuously update our activity and class schedule, it also allows our citizens to access the information easily from our mobile app and website, and it includes links for every activity to make registration quicker and more convenient,” explains Ann Dunleavy, Superintendent of Community Services. “Additionally, the new digital version will keep thousands of printed activity guides out of the landfills at the end of each recreation season, thereby expanding our Department’s commitment to sustainable business practices.” 
 
The Department’s website (www.beniciarec.org) is just one place to find information about upcoming programs, special events, park amenities, and facilities. Late last year, the BeniciaRec mobile app was launched, and is available in all app stores. The mobile app has quick links to the website, the registration site, and the new digital RecGuide, as well as some useful tools, like gym calendars for drop-in sports, fitness calendars for exercise classes, sports schedules for youth and adult sports, and great information about all the parks and trails in the City of Benicia. You can stay informed of Department announcements on Facebook and Instagram. Search “BeniciaRec” on any of the social media platforms to locate their pages.
 
Registration for Fall activities and classes, including the popular Youth Basketball Program, will open for registration on August 9th for residents, and August 16th for non-residents.
 
For more information, contact Benicia Parks and Community Services at 707-746-4285, or pcs@ci.benicia.ca.us.
Solano Multi-Jurisdiction Hazard Mitigation Plan
The Solano County Multi-Jurisdictional Hazard Mitigation Plan (MJHMP) is out for public review and comment. The plan focuses on mitigating the effects of natural hazards through proposed actions that protect lives and property across the county. The county, all cities in the county, and several special districts are participating.

Public input will ensure the priorities of the Hazard Mitigation Plan match those of Solano County residents. The public is invited to participate in the upcoming MJHMP Outreach meeting on Wednesday, August 18th at 6 p.m. on the Zoom platform. Visit the Solano County Hazard Mitigation Plan website at http://mitigatehazards.com/solanohmp/public-draft/ for the link to the Zoom virtual meeting, including a dial-in phone number.

The Solano County Hazard Mitigation Plan website includes 3 options for the public to provide input. Comments can be submitted directly via the website on the draft documents, using the comment form or by emailing comments directly to the project team. To comment on the plan, visit the hyperlinks below:


The review PDF is a collaborative environment between all stakeholders – see what to look for and how to comment. Your comments will automatically be sent to the project team for incorporation into the HMP. If you need help navigating these products, please email torie@dynamicplanning.co.
We're Hiring
Looking for a new job or a change in career? The City of Benicia Human Resources Division is accepting applications for the following positions:

  • Accountant I/II
  • Benicia Recreation Positions (Part Time)
  • Department Aide (Library)
  • Facility Attendant II (Part Time - Limited Duration)
  • Information Technology Assistant (Part Time)
  • Management Analyst I/II - Climate Action Coordinator (Limited Duration)
  • Police Officer - Academy/Non-Lateral
  • Police Officer - Lateral (Currently Working)
  • Recreation Specialist II - Kindergym
  • Reserve Officer (Volunteer)
  • Senior Accountant
  • Senior Administrative Clerk
 
To apply for any of these positions, the application and supplemental forms may be found online, then click the job title. Employment applications may also be obtained from, and must be returned to, Human Resources at 250 East L Street, Benicia. Sign up with Job Interest Cards to be notified of future position openings when they occur.
Online Survey for the Parks, Trails & Open Space Master Plan Update
The City is continuing work to update the 1997 Parks, Trails, and Open Space Master Plan to guide the planning, maintenance, development, and rehabilitation of Benicia’s parks, trails, and open space system. Benicia residents are invited to complete an online survey at https://www.surveymonkey.com/r/Q72YJ3T, as the City seeks feedback from all members of the community about the future of Benicia’s parks, trails, and open space system. The survey will also be linked at the project website, www.lovebeniciaparks.com. This online survey will complement the data gathered from a statistically-valid survey that was mailed to 3,000 Benicia households in July, as well as comments received from hundred of residents through the project website and input gathered at two public workshops and several stakeholder focus groups this spring. 

The City appreciates the broad interest in this project and the valuable input received thus far. All of the input received from the community will be used to guide project identification and prioritization in the coming months. For additional details, please contact Vic Randall at vrandall@ci.benicia.ca.us or 746-4278.

Water Saved Today is Water Available for Tomorrow
California is experiencing a severe drought. While local water utilities expect to be able to meet water needs this year, it’s important for everyone to do their part to conserve water to stretch our supplies should drought continue into 2022.
On July 8, the Governor asked all Californians to voluntarily cut their water usage by 15% with simple measures to reduce water use. Tips for conserving water, such as taking shorter showers, fixing indoor leaks and installing drought resistant landscaping can be found on the State’s Save Our Water website. 

Replace thirsty lawn with low-water, climate-appropriate plants and drip irrigation:
 
Water Conservation rebates are available:
  • Rebates include a $100 washer machine rebate, up to $2,000 turf replacement rebate, plus many more are available. Click here to view the rebate flyer.
 
Check your sprinkler system for leaks:
  • Inspect your sprinkler system monthly and repair any leaks. Adjust sprinkler heads so that the water lands on the lawn or garden where it belongs and not on the sidewalk or street.
 
 WaterInsight Program includes free leak alerts:
  • If you haven't already signed up for WaterInsight/WaterSmart, now is a great time.  It's free and you can receive leak alerts and more. Click here to sign up. 

The Solano County Department of Health and Social Services, Public Health division, the Davis Arbovirus Research and Training (DART) laboratory and the Solano County Mosquito Abatement District (SCMAD) have confirmed that two mosquito pools have tested positive for West Nile virus (WNV). The specimen samples were collected July 30, 2021 in southern Davis, Solano County. As of July 30, 2021, although we have not seen human cases in Solano County, the California Department of Public Health (CDPH) reports that 4 human cases from 4 counties across the state have tested positive for West Nile Virus.

"This marks the official start of West Nile virus season in Solano County," said Dr. Christine Wu, M.D., M.P.H., Deputy Health Officer for the County. "This is an important reminder for residents to take the necessary precautions to avoid coming in contact with mosquitoes, such as using insect repellent when outside and eliminating standing water where mosquitos can breed."

West Nile virus is transmitted to humans and animals through the bite of an infected mosquito. Mosquitos become infected when they feed on infected birds. Reduce the risk of contracting mosquito-borne illness by following these guidelines, including:

Dawn and dusk
Mosquitoes are most active in the early morning and evening. Residents should avoid being outside at these times. If you are outdoors, wear a long-sleeved shirt and long pants and use insect repellent

Drain standing water
Mosquitoes lay their eggs on standing water. Residents should eliminate all sources of standing water on their property and drain empty flower pots, buckets, barrels, old car tires, rain gutters and pet bowls. If you have an ornamental pond, contact the Solano County Mosquito Abatement District at (707) 437-1116 for a free mosquito fish.

DEET and other repellents
Insect repellents help keep mosquitoes from biting. Apply an EPA-registered insect repellent containing DEET, picaridin, oil of lemon eucalyptus, IR3535 or para-menthane-diol products per the manufacturer's instructions.

Doors and windows
Residents should ensure that their doors and windows have tight-fitting screens to keep mosquitoes out. Repair or replace screens with tears or holes.

Most people (about 4 in 5) infected with the West Nile virus will not develop any symptoms. About 1 in 5 will develop mild flu-like symptoms, including fever, headache, body aches, nausea, vomiting and swollen lymph glands. However, about 1 percent (about 1 in 150) of persons with WNV infections will develop severe neurological disease. In rare cases, WNV infection can be fatal.

Anyone can be infected with West Nile virus, but people who are 60 years old and older and those with certain medical conditions, like cancer, diabetes, hypertension, kidney disease and people who have received organ transplants, are at greater risk of developing severe illness and complications.

The SCMAD staff is conducting surveillance activities in the affected area to apply appropriate control measures where mosquitoes of the same infected species are present.

“The District is increasing mosquito monitoring throughout the areas with West Nile Virus activity,” says Richard Snyder, Solano County Mosquito Abatement District Manager. “I urge residents to join us in our prevention and control efforts by making sure they don't have any standing water on their property and to report any unmaintained swimming pools and stagnant water by calling us at (707) 437-1116.”

Residents are encouraged to report dead birds and squirrels online at www.WestNile.Ca.Gov or by calling 1-877-WNV-BIRD (1-877-968-2473).
City Employee Spotlight
Danielle Crider is an Associate Planner in the Community Development Department, and has worked for the City for two years. She grew up in central Texas and graduated from the University of Texas in 2016 with degrees in Economics, Government, and Urban Studies. Her passion for local government, community, and the built environment has led a career in planning where she may help communities grapple with issues such as sustainability, housing, and equity.
 
She began her career in Fresno, CA where she specialized in environmental planning. After two years in that position she moved to the Bay Area and joined our team in Benicia. Danielle has stated that she was drawn to Benicia because of its strong sense of community and unique character.
 
Danielle brings a positive and solution-oriented approach to her work. She has helped to improve public information on the City of Benicia’s website including the introduction of a map-based interactive “project pipeline” feature and project-focused YouTube videos. Danielle has also taken a lead role in organizing many of the Community Development Department’s recent public meetings including the walking tour, open house, and virtual public comment opportunities for the Eastern Gateway Study. Those who work with Danielle often comment on her professionalism, receptive listening skills and clear communication style. 

Danielle has taken the lead on a number of important initiatives to support the maintenance and production of housing in Benicia. A recent highlight has been her work to manage the Eastern Gateway Study. This project will result in new mixed use zoning around the intersection of Military East and East Fifth to facilitate a more walkable neighborhood and new opportunities for housing. Danielle’s work on this project began in 2019 with preparation of a grant application used to fund the planning work. Since then, the City has formulated a stakeholder group of community members and has provided a variety of virtual and in-person opportunities for residents and business owners to learn more and provide feedback. Through this process, a vision statement for the area was developed and new zoning regulations were drafted that reflect the community feedback and vision. These regulations are still being refined, so if you’re interested you can visit www.ci.benicia.ca.us/easterngateway to learn more and provide feedback to Danielle directly! Danielle really appreciates it when community members take the time to engage with the City on projects like this one, so don’t be shy if you have questions.
 
In her free time, Danielle enjoys volunteering, taking art classes, and attending local events. On the weekend she can generally be spotted at a farmers market with a coffee in hand.
Recall Election Information
The California Gubernatorial Recall Election will occur on Tuesday, September 14, 2021. Ballot boxes will be available to drop off your ballot in the City Hall lobby, 250 East L Street, from 8:30 a.m. to 5 p.m. beginning August 12. A second ballot box will be available at Raley's, 890 Southampton Road, from 6 a.m. - 11 p.m. (earlier on election day).

In addition, voter's may vote by mail, drop ballots off curbside at polling locations on election day or vote in-person at polling locations.

To find if you're registered to vote, visit the Solano County Registrar of Voters website. Click here for information on the election, where and when to vote, etc.
COVID Assistance
Find resources and information for seniors, local food access, basic needs and rental assistance, mental health, stress and coping, and more courtesy of Solano County Public Health. Benicia residents in need of help during these difficult times may find assistance through these local resources:
Press Releases

Press Release - Benicia Parks and Community Services has Launched a Digital RecGuide and Mobile App

Recent City of Benicia Press Releases are available on the City of Benicia website under Main/Announcements.
Save the Date
Modified service due to COVID-19
City Hall is open from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. If you require entrance to City Hall offices outside of these hours, please make arrangements with staff from the department that you will be visiting.

All visitors shall be required to enter City Hall from East L street through the door located on the left (East) side of the building closest to the Post Office. Please check in with the staff person at the designated Welcome Window.

You will be required to wear a face covering over both your nose and mouth for the duration of your visit to City Hall. Please maintain 6 feet of social distancing between other visitors and staff. Do not visit City Hall if you are experiencing symptoms of COVID-19. Appointments can always be rescheduled.
City of Benicia This Week is published each Monday morning. Previous editions are available here. We also communicate on Nextdoor.com and AlertSolano.com. Sign up now!