Vacaville Planning Commission discusses affordable housing and community development solutions

The regular Planning Commission meeting for the City of Vacaville was held on August 19, 2025, and commenced with Chair Lightfoot calling the meeting to order. Following the roll call, which confirmed a quorum, the meeting proceeded with the Pledge of Allegiance.

Director Morris reported no supplemental communications or announcements for the evening. The agenda was then approved unanimously after a motion by Commissioner Beaumont and a second by Commissioner Banta.

During the public comment segment, Joan Marquand, a resident of Vacaville for 18 years, raised concerns about affordable housing in the city. She emphasized the need for housing solutions that cater to regular employees, particularly in light of the growing biotech sector. Marquand proposed the idea of mixed-use developments, where residential units could be built above commercial spaces, and urged the city to support more Habitat for Humanity projects. She suggested that creative approaches to housing could help address the high costs of construction.

Tom Filippi, a local engineer, also addressed the commission, announcing his upcoming retirement after 42 years in land development. He expressed support for Marquand's ideas and offered to discuss potential developments, including a 10-lot subdivision project he is working on.

After closing the public comment section, the commission moved to the consent calendar, which included the approval of minutes from the July 15, 2025, meeting. The minutes were approved without any items being pulled for discussion.

The meeting continued with further agenda items, ensuring that all topics were addressed in a structured manner. The discussions highlighted the community's ongoing concerns about housing and development, reflecting a proactive approach by residents to engage with city planning efforts.