2 weeks Ago By Daily Republic Staff
VACAVILLE — Councilwoman Jeanette Wylie was the lone "no" Tuesday as the City Council approved, on a 5-1-1 vote, a resolution supporting investment in Solano County shipbuilding. Councilman Mike Silva abstained. The item reached the council about 11 p.
m. Prior to the general meeting at 6 p.m.
, council members met in closed session at 5. Assistant City Manager Georgeanne Meggers-Smith led the presentation, which included the county's history of shipbuilding and its miles of deep water access. “All of the cities in Solano County would likely benefit form the shipbuilding industry in the region,” she told the council.
She noted the plan was in the early stages, but the resolution showed Solano County cities were together to support a coordinated regional effort. "It would be a once-in-a-lifetime economic benefit," she said. Councilman Ted Fremouw offered his support for the resolution, saying the country is so far behind on shipbuilding, it's time to dust off the cobwebs on the maritime industry.
“To tell you the truth, I don’t care if Elvis owns the property,” he said. “I don’t care who owns the property.” California Forever owns the property.
"The opportunity is much bigger than those who own the land," said Mayor John Carli. Carli has toured the site near Collinsville and referenced the Solano County study that created the Water Dependent Infrastructure zoning there. “What does this have to do with Vacaville?” he asked.
“Jobs. Industry. Manufacturing.
” Fremouw said he also toured the site. Vice Mayor Sarah Chapman voiced her support, but was hoping to see investment in Mare Island. The whole Bay Area, the whole Northern California region, will benefit, Councilman Greg Ritchie added.
Silva asked the council to ensure that they are making decisions in their purview and the community does need good jobs. “For me, it’s hard to say I support or don’t support with a vote tonight,” he said. The issue doesn't fall within the city's purview, Wylie said.
Carli said the city has no authority on this issue in the end. “Land use and zoning, we have no authority on it. All of those decisions come to the county,” he said.
Councilman Roy Stockton found humor in the fact that President Donald Trump and Congressman John Garamendi agree on the issue. Stockton said the council owed it to the community to try and bring in jobs, calling it a great place to start. "It has the potential to serve America and protect America,” he said.
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