Backwell Opera House Owner Advocates for Better Event Coordination and Communication

As the sun dipped below the horizon, casting a warm glow over downtown Vacaville, the City Council meeting buzzed with the voices of local business owners, each sharing their experiences and concerns. Among them was Sandra Over, the owner of the Backwell Opera House and property manager for the Town Square, who passionately addressed the impact of recent street closures on local businesses.

Over echoed sentiments previously expressed by fellow business owners, emphasizing the challenges faced when events shut down streets on busy Saturdays. "When we find out there is something happening, we simply cannot book an event that day," she stated, highlighting the ripple effect such closures have on sales. She noted that three of her tenants, all restaurants, reported significantly lower sales during these events, urging the council to engage with other businesses to better understand the financial impact.

In her remarks, Over also touched on the permit process for events in the town square, sharing her firsthand experience. She advocated for a more collaborative approach, suggesting that the Business Improvement District (BID) should have a voice in event planning. "Let's move a food truck away from a restaurant," she proposed, emphasizing the need for better placement of vendors to minimize disruption to existing businesses.

Communication, or the lack thereof, was another critical point in Over's address. She expressed frustration over the late notifications regarding street closures, recalling instances where she learned of closures only days in advance. "There’s no communication on letting us know that the street's being closed," she lamented, urging the council to improve notification processes for future events.

As the meeting continued, it became clear that the voices of local business owners like Over are vital in shaping the future of downtown Vacaville. Their insights not only reflect the immediate challenges they face but also highlight the importance of collaboration and communication in fostering a thriving community. The council's response to these concerns could pave the way for a more inclusive approach to event planning, ensuring that the vibrancy of downtown does not come at the expense of its local businesses.