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Adopt a resolution recognizing November 4-11, 2026, as Operation Green Light for Veterans in Solano County, honoring the service, sacrifices, and contributions of veterans, active-duty military personnel, and transitioning service members
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Published Notice Required? Yes _____ No __X__
Public Hearing Required? Yes _____ No __X__
DEPARTMENTAL RECOMMENDATION:
The Solano County Department of Veteran Services recommends that the Board of Supervisors adopt a resolution recognizing November 4-11, 2026, as Operation Green Light for Veterans in Solano County, honoring the service, sacrifices, and contributions of veterans, active-duty military personnel, and transitioning service members.
SUMMARY / DISCUSSION:
In recognition of Veterans Day, Solano County will join counties across the nation in participating in Operation Green Light for Veterans, a national initiative led by the National Association of Counties (NACo) and the National Association of County Veterans Service Officers (NACVSO). From November 4-11, 2026, the County will illuminate the County Administration Center, located at 675 Texas Street in Fairfield, with green lights to demonstrate support for veterans, recognize their service and sacrifices, and raise awareness of the resources available to assist veterans and their families.
Originally launched in 2021, Operation Green Light has grown into a nationwide effort involving hundreds of counties and local governments. The initiative highlights the unique challenges veterans may face when transitioning to civilian life and emphasizes the important role county governments play in connecting veterans and their families with federal, State, and local benefits and services.
County Veterans Service Officers play a critical role in this effort, helping veterans navigate available programs and access earned benefits, including healthcare, disability compensation, education, and other support services. Nationally, County Veterans Service Officers assist veterans in accessing billions of dollars in federal benefits each year, reinforcing the importance of maintaining strong local support systems for those who have served.
Solano County has a longstanding connection to the United States Armed Forces, particularly through Travis Air Force Base and the thousands of active-duty personnel, veterans, military families, and support networks who call the region home. Many veterans continue to contribute to the community through public service, volunteerism, civic organizations, and veterans service organizations, including the American Legion and Veterans of Foreign Wars. Operation Green Light provides an opportunity to recognize not only their military service but also their continued contributions to the strength and well-being of Solano County.
In addition to illuminating the County Administration Center, residents, businesses, and community organizations are encouraged to participate by replacing one exterior or interior light bulb with a green bulb as a visible demonstration of appreciation and support. Participants are also encouraged to share their involvement on social media using the hashtag #OperationGreenLight.
While the annual recognition takes place November 4-11, the initiative serves as a reminder that supporting veterans and their families is a year-round responsibility. Through its participation, Solano County joins communities nationwide in demonstrating that veterans are recognized, appreciated, and supported, while reaffirming its commitment to connecting those who have served with the resources and assistance they have earned.
FINANCIAL IMPACT:
The costs associated with preparing the agenda item are nominal and absorbed by the Department of Veteran Services FY2026/27 Working Budget. The costs associated with preparation and purchase of the resolution materials are included in the Board’s FY2026/27 Working Budget. The costs associated with the purchase and installation of green lighting to illuminate the exterior of the County Administration Center for the week of November 4 - 11, 2026, is nominal and absorbed by the Department of General Services.
ALTERNATIVES:
The Board may choose not to adopt a resolution recognizing November 4-11, 2026, as Operation Green Light for Veterans in Solano County; however, this is not recommended, as the event, coordinated by NACo and NACVSO, publicly recognizes the importance of honoring all those who made immeasurable sacrifices to preserve our nations freedom.
OTHER AGENCY INVOLVEMENT:
The Solano County Department of General Services is involved in the coordination, purchase, and installation of the green lights for the County Administration Center.
CAO RECOMMENDATION:
APPROVE DEPARTMENTAL RECOMMENDATION