California Forever Withdraws 2024 Ballot Measure

California Forever, backed by Silicon Valley billionaires, has withdrawn its ballot measure to construct a new city in Solano County following intense local opposition and environmental concerns. The plan, which aimed to rezone farmland for a city of 400,000 people, faced criticism for being rushed and lacking a full Environmental Impact Report (EIR). State Sen. Bill Dodd and environmentalists were among the prominent critics, with Dodd labeling the project 'fundamentally flawed.' California Forever will now focus on preparing an EIR and development agreement, with hopes of gaining approval by 2026. Solano County Board of Supervisors Chair Mitch Mashburn acknowledged the withdrawal as a step toward collaboration rather than conflict. The delay aims to create a more inclusive and thoroughly vetted proposal.