Dixon, Calif. — The City of Dixon has successfully wrapped up its series of “Dixon Grown” community workshops, bringing nearly 200 residents together over the past month to learn about the development process and share input on the city’s future.

“Dixon Grown” is a city-led community education and engagement initiative that provides clear, accessible information on local issues and invites meaningful input. The current series focuses on potential growth and development, helping residents understand how decisions are made while creating space for early input as Dixon begins to navigate upcoming housing and development considerations.

“We know our residents have important questions about growth, infrastructure and what the future looks like for Dixon,” said Mayor Steve Bird. “This effort is an opportunity to bring people into the conversation early and make sure everyone is working from the same information as we look ahead.”

The series included a virtual kickoff session followed by several in-person roundtable discussions hosted across the city in every city council district. Each workshop began with an overview of the development process, including key milestones, trade-offs and the City’s role in evaluating proposals.

Along the way, staff responded to many of the questions residents brought into the room, ranging from how new development contributes to infrastructure and services to how early current proposals are in the review process — with no immediate considerations anticipated — to how planning within Dixon’s Sphere of Influence keeps decisions at the local level.

Following the presentations, residents engaged in small-group discussions to share perspectives and identify priorities. Across the sessions, several consistent themes emerged:

• Reflecting Dixon’s identity in future considerations: Residents value Dixon’s identity, including its agricultural heritage, walkable neighborhoods, close-knit community feel and downtown. Growth should complement and strengthen these characteristics.
• Prioritizing Infrastructure & Public Safety: Participants highlighted the need for essential services and infrastructure to scale appropriately to meet the demands of any new development.
• Understanding Community Benefit: Residents expressed interest in how potential development could create local jobs, retail options, park amenities, activities for youth and housing options for those who already live in Dixon. 

“The turnout at these workshops speaks for itself,” said Vice Mayor Jim Ernest. “Our residents care deeply about this town. Including all voices in this conversation is how we make sure we get it right.”

While the workshop series has concluded, the “Dixon Grown” conversation is just getting started. Additional engagement activities are planned throughout the summer, including upcoming “Popsicles in the Park” and “Coffee with a Councilmember” gatherings.

Residents are encouraged to visit DixonGrown.com to view the virtual workshop recording, learn more about the development process and track current project proposals, read the FAQs and stay in the loop about upcoming events.