Dodd, Frazier Bolster Solano Economic Development

SACRAMENTO – Assemblymember Bill Dodd (D-Napa) and Assemblymember Jim Frazier (D-Oakley) have teamed up to introduce new legislation that would strengthen the economic development powers of Solano County and its seven incorporated cities. The bill enables the county and its cities to create economic opportunities through the acquisition, sale or lease of properties and to boost rehabilitation of commercial buildings by offering loans to owners or tenants.

“I’m happy to work with Assemblymember Frazier to ensure the economic vitality of Solano County for generations to come,” said Assemblymember Dodd. “As a former county supervisor and business owner for over 25 years, I know how critical it is to empower our local governments to promote jobs in our communities. This bill will help our cities and counties support and create local jobs.”

“It is important that the residents in Solano County know they can count on their State Assembly representatives to work together on legislation benefitting our community,” stated Assemblymember Frazier. “I am pleased to be joint authoring this legislation with Assemblymember Dodd and look forward to our continued partnership in the future.”

In 2012 redevelopment agencies in California were eliminated as the state coped with massive budget deficits. Many of the tools previously used by redevelopment agencies were transferred to local governments to assist with economic development. With this authority, counties and cities are able to enter into agreements that can help create job opportunities and promote affordable housing projects. Dodd and Frazier’s legislation, Assembly Bill 806, will simplify the process by which local governments can assist with economic development.

“AB 806 clarifies that cities have the power to create and provide vital economic development opportunities in their communities,” said Fairfield May Harry Price. “The City of Fairfield greatly appreciates Assemblymembers Dodd and Frazier for joint authoring the legislation and for their efforts to strengthen our local economy.”

In a related effort to assist Solano County, Assemblymembers Dodd and Frazier have also introduced new legislation with Senator Lois Wolk to help the Jimmy Doolittle Museum in Vacaville. The legislation, Assembly Bill 724, would provide a state sales tax exemption for the Jimmy Doolittle Museum. This would allow the museum to expand its collection of historic aircraft and further preserve California’s rich aviation history for future generations.

Assemblymember Bill Dodd represents the 4th Assembly District, which includes all or portions of Yolo, Napa, Sonoma, Lake, Solano, and Colusa Counties.

CONTACT: Ezrah Chaaban, (916) 319-2004