Solano supervisors allocate $1.5M to ready Dixon site for proposed 18‑unit workforce housing project

Solano County supervisors authorized up to $1.5 million from the county housing trust fund to advance environmental and site‑preparation work for a conceptual workforce housing project on a 1.3‑acre county parcel at 580 North First Street in Dixon.

County staff presented a conceptual plan for up to 18 rental units (a mix of 1‑, 2‑ and 3‑bedroom modular units) clustered around a central parking area, with on‑site open space and proximity to grocery and library services. Staff said the project is designed to deliver housing targeted at households earning up to 80% of area median income and estimated annual rental income of about $475,000 to support long‑term operation.

Presenters emphasized that the plan is conceptual and that the county will pursue phased environmental review and cleanup as needed. Staff said previous underground storage tanks and a groundwater plume in the broader area require further investigation; initial testing on the county parcel showed nondetects for soil contamination, but groundwater monitoring continues and nearby properties remain in active cleanup.

Board members and staff discussed unit mix and the needs of farmworkers and multigenerational households; supervisors asked staff to study the right balance of unit sizes and to consider accessibility and universal‑design elements. Staff said the county will pursue additional grants and other funding sources for the construction phase and that the $1.5 million request is intended to complete preconstruction environmental tasks so the site can be offered for development.

The motion to allocate up to $1,500,000 from the housing trust fund — primarily ARPA funds that must be obligated by the end of the year — passed by unanimous vote (5‑0). Staff will continue coordination with the City of Dixon and proceed with phase 2 environmental work before returning to the board with a more detailed project plan.