California Forever released a statement Friday evening accusing its opponents of spreading misinformation about the signature gathering process for its plans to create a new city on Solano County farmland near Travis Air Force Base.
The company said its signature gatherers are professionals who have worked on other statewide campaigns. Signature gatherers are provided a “fact sheet” from the company that outlines the Homes, Jobs, and Clean Energy Initiative’s jobs guarantee, Travis protection measures and promises for water, transit and community investment.
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“Anyone who signs the petition is not voting for or against the measure,” the release reads. “They are giving Solano County voters a chance to decide on the measure should it qualify for the November 2024 General Election ballot.”
The title and summary of the project, provided by the Solano County Registrar of Voters office, are printed in each page of the signature sheet, according to the release.
“A small but vocal group of opponents are attempting to create confusion and prevent Solano County voters from deciding what future they want for themselves and their children, said Matthew Rodriguez, Campaign Manager for the initiative. “They will not succeed. We encourage everyone considering whether or not to sign our petition to read the fine print, ask questions, and keep an open mind — and let the voters decide.”
Daniella Aides, a spokesperson for Solano Together, responded to California Forever on Saturday, accusing the group of “empty promises.”
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“In the title and summary, county counsel made abundantly clear what voters will be voting for in November—a change to the General Plan to allow for a new city on nearly 18,000 acres of agricultural land,” said Aides. “They also clarified that voters will not be deciding on California Forever’s 10 guarantees that are legally unenforceable. These 10 guarantees (including downpayment assistance, job guarantees, and more) are certainly attractive selling points, but sadly, these are just empty promises.”