GALT, CA (MPG) - On Aug. 26, Rep. Doris Matsui visited the city of Galt to discuss upcoming community improvements, shop at the Galt Market and join the community to honor the memory of Officer Harminder Grewal.

Mayor Shawn Farmer and Councilmember Bonnie Rodriguez first welcomed Matsui, representing District 7 which covers the area of Galt, in the morning at Walker Park to discuss its planned improvements. In 2024, the congresswoman secured $13.5 million in funding for community projects, including the park’s Phase 2 expansion.

The project will include new youth baseball/softball fields, new restroom and concession facilities, batting cages and expanded parking.

“The congresswoman expressed her understanding of the importance of parks and recreation programs in a small town like Galt. The funding she has secured for us for the next phase of Walker Park will be monumental,” said Farmer.

The city’s Aug. 29. newsletter stated that “this investment showcases the power of collaboration across all levels of government to deliver meaningful quality-of-life improvements for Galt residents.”

The mayor, Rodriguez and Parks and Recreation Director Armando Solis then joined Matsui at the Galt Market where they shopped, connected with local vendors and talked about the history and significance of the market, according to Farmer.

 

Rep. Doris Matsui, center, discussed local business and tourism with Velvet Grill & Creamery’s Kirk Smith, left; Galt Chamber of Commerce’s Kat Seabolt and Papas & Wings’ Maria and Heriberto Mosqueda. Photo courtesy of Galt Chamber of Commerce 

Farmer noted that the congresswoman grew up in a small town in central California and said that the market’s culture was something she seemed to relate to.

“I think overall it was good visit and I think she left with a better understanding of Galt and what a special place it is in the Sacramento Valley. We thank her and her staff for their time here and her gracious support and funding she was able to secure for Galt,” said Farmer.

Matsui also met with the Galt Chamber of Commerce, where community relations director Kat Seabolt said discussions focused on local business and tourism.

Seabolt highlighted the positive impact of tournaments on hotels and restaurants, noting the importance of facilities that both serve residents and draw visitors.

Plans to revitalize Old Town were also discussed, including an initiative to build a multifunctional gazebo on the Fourth Street Promenade to honor veterans. Seabolt said approval from the railroad is needed, as the parcel of land is located near the tracks.

 

Galt Chamber of Commerce community relations director Kat Seabolt said that during a meeting with Rep. Doris Matsui, the positive impact of tournaments on hotels and restaurants were highlighted, noting the importance of facilities that both serve residents and draw visitors. Photo courtesy of Galt Chamber of Commerce

Seabolt added that the conversation also touched on “the significance of local businesses connecting with the community and the unique charm of our Great American Little Town.”

At noon, Matsui joined the community for the fourth annual wreath-laying ceremony honoring fallen Galt Police Officer Harminder Grewal.