Dear Community,
 
The Tree Lighting event on Friday was fantastic! Despite the cold, we had a great turnout. I have heard from many people about how much they love this special Benicia event, and how much it brings out the best of what is Benicia. I couldn’t agree more. I do want to take a moment to thank Ann Dunleavy and the entire Parks and Community Services team for the amazing behind the scenes work they do. Also, I would like to thank Public Works and the Police Department. The Police Department had about half of the entire department working due to the size of the event. The safety that they provide at these events is greatly appreciated by all. Also, I would like to thank Benicia Main Street and Nancy Martinez for everything they do as well. 
 
December 6th is an important City Council meeting as it is our transition meeting between the outgoing City Council and the newly elected City Council. It actually consists of two separate meetings. The first with the outgoing Council and the second with the incoming Council. We generally try to keep the business very light as the focus is mostly on the ceremonial aspects of our government in transition. There is one item on the consent calendar of note: the agreement with Bay Area Ship Services for the property (and dock) located at the bottom of East 5th Street. We are very fortunate to have such a great tenant there in Bay Area Ship Services. In addition to their great partnership with the City, they provide a really important service that has been vital to the community and region. Bay Area Ship Services is an agency that provides emergency water response to spills around the Bay Area. They always have a boat on standby ready to go at a moment’s notice. This is important to the City of Benicia as we required their services when we had the port fire. It’s really a win-win for the City. See more information about Bay Area Ship Services capabilities here:  https://www.msrc.org/equipment-capabilities/equipment/site/97.

Erik Upson
City Manager