Solano County Board proposes vehicle registration fee increase to fund fingerprint program

The Solano County Board of Supervisors convened on April 17, 2025, to address several key agenda items, including a proposed increase in motor vehicle registration fees and discussions surrounding a potential shipyard project in Collinsville.

The meeting began with a proposal from the sheriff's office to increase motor vehicle registration fees from $1 to $2 and commercial registration fees from $2 to $4. This increase aims to fund the fingerprint identification program, which is crucial for public safety. The sheriff noted that the current contract for this program expires in 2027, necessitating action to secure funding. The anticipated annual increase to the fund is projected at $420,000. The board was informed that ten other counties have already approved similar fee increases, with one more pending.

Following a brief public hearing, during which no members of the public spoke, the board unanimously approved the resolution to impose the fee increase, allowing the county to begin collecting funds by October 2025 after a six-month processing period with the Department of Motor Vehicles.

In a separate discussion, Supervisor Williams Snell addressed concerns regarding a proposed shipyard project in Collinsville. She clarified that she had not participated in any committee reviewing the project and emphasized the importance of public transparency. Snell requested that a presentation be made to the board on April 22, detailing what is permissible under the county's general plan regarding maritime industry development in Collinsville. She stressed the need for public input on the proposal, ensuring that the community is informed and can engage in the decision-making process.

The meeting concluded with board member comments, including a tribute to Adolfo Manuel, a notable figure in the Vallejo arts community who recently passed away. The board expressed its condolences and acknowledged his contributions to the local culture.

Overall, the meeting highlighted the board's commitment to public safety funding and community engagement in significant development projects, setting the stage for further discussions in upcoming sessions.