6 days Ago By Todd R. Hansen
FAIRFIELD — Another elected representative has denied being part of Assemblywoman Lori Wilson's working group to foster "shipbuilding and maritime opportunities" in Solano County. State Sen. Christopher Cabaldon, D-Yolo, said through his staff that he has not even been asked to participate.
But even if he had, the senator indicated he has not taken a position on California Forever's concept of a shipbuilding port near Collinsville. "A recent media report has portrayed me as a supporter of the California Forever concept for a shipyard in Collinsville. I have not taken a position on this idea, and my office is not part of any working group.
There is a long way to go before this idea becomes an actual proposal to evaluate," Cabaldon said in a statement released on Monday. Wilson's office was contacted for comment, but a reply was not immediately returned. Cabaldon's comment follows the denial by Solano County Supervisor Mitch Mashburn during a recent board meeting that he too is involved with the working group.
Wilson sent out a press release on April 1 stating that she had formed the 20-member group. "Solano County is strategically positioned to lead in shipbuilding and maritime innovation. Through this working group, we’re uniting local leaders and industry experts to leverage our strengths, address community concerns and create meaningful economic growth for our region," Wilson said in a statement.
Wilson's announcement came after it was revealed that California Forever is looking to develop 1,400 acres along the Sacramento River near Collinsville, with a focus on creating a shipbuilding industry linked to the U.S. Navy.
"Solano County is strategically positioned to lead in shipbuilding and maritime innovation. Through this working group, we’re uniting local leaders and industry experts to leverage our strengths, address community concerns and create meaningful economic growth for our region," Wilson said in a statement. Wilson indicated that at least some of the 20-member group had already met.
“We had a great turnout at our first meeting and have already begun productive conversations on advancing Solano County’s maritime future. We look forward to continuing this collaboration and engaging with additional local mayors and community leaders in the coming meetings,” Wilson said. Suisun City Mayor Alma Hernandez showed her support for the group.
“Joining the shipbuilding working group offers a chance to champion the revival of this historic industry in Solano County, both on a new site east of Collinsville and on Mare Island. It’s an opportunity to drive local economic development and job creation, while also engaging in discussions that provide an opportunity to raise community questions early in this process," Hernandez said in the statement released by Wilson's office. Rio Vista Mayor Edwin Okamura added, "Bringing shipbuilding back to Solano County would be a game-changing economic boost for the entire region.
Our County, City, and I have many unanswered questions, but I’m eager to be at the table to tackle challenges swiftly and create a win for everyone." Garamendi is also part of an effort to bring more shipbuilding to Mare Island's former Navy yard..
