URGENT UPDATE: A major controversy is unfolding within the Solano County Board of Supervisors as accusations of bullying surface against Supervisor Monica Brown. The allegations were made during the board’s meeting on October 28, 2023, following claims that Brown mistreated fellow supervisors, particularly Cassandra James and Wanda Williams, the board’s two Black members.
During the contentious meeting, multiple public comments accused Brown of creating a hostile environment. Brown had previously expressed dissatisfaction regarding communication about a recent tour conducted by the California State Association of Counties, stating, “I have no idea what was discussed, and sometimes as the board we need to look like we are a unit.” This comment raised eyebrows and ignited further tensions among the supervisors.
Wanda Williams defended herself, highlighting that the meeting was public and essential for her district. “We were not advised that we needed to give updates to the board,” she stated, emphasizing that transparency should be a priority for all board members.
Chair of the Board Mitch Mashburn acknowledged the need for better communication about outside meetings, suggesting that all supervisors should be informed when staff resources are utilized for district-specific events. His remarks were echoed by John Vasquez, who stressed that any use of staff time should be disclosed to the full board.
Despite these discussions, Williams expressed frustration, declaring, “I have been attacked in front of the public and on live stream.” She called for attention from California Attorney General Rob Bonta, urging him to recognize the challenges faced by her and James. “Our communities are hurting right now with the government shutdown and the cuts that will be going forward,” she added, highlighting the immediate impact of the board’s internal strife on local constituents.
The Vallejo NAACP, represented by Liat Meitzenheimer, voiced concerns about the treatment of James and Williams in a letter presented at the meeting. The letter condemned the use of public forums to discredit officials and criticized Mashburn’s inaction during the confrontation.
Marla Matime, executive director of the Black Elected Officials of California, also criticized the board’s dynamics, stating that Brown’s comments reflect a troubling pattern targeting certain members. “This reflects a troubling double standard in how certain members of the board engage with colleagues,” she asserted.
As the controversy escalates, the board plans to address the issue at its next meeting. Williams has requested that the matter be put on the agenda to ensure accountability. However, Mashburn initially relegated the issue to a subcommittee on rules, which has sparked frustration among community advocates.
Local resident Michelle Chavez defended the supervisors, arguing that they should not be penalized for exceeding time limits while serving their communities through town halls and meetings. Community leaders, including Apostle Anthony Summers of Impact Church, rallied behind James and Williams, praising their commitment to serving underserved populations in Vallejo.
This controversy is poised to affect the board’s operations and community trust, as tensions rise and public scrutiny increases. Watch for updates as the situation develops and the board reconvenes to address these critical issues.
