Vallejo businessman takes back real estate seized by state

July 3, 2026 - 21:00

A Vallejo businessman has successfully reclaimed a portfolio of real estate that was seized by California regulators last year. The properties, which include several commercial lots and a former funeral home, were taken over by the California Cemetery and Funeral Bureau following a protracted legal dispute.

The state agency had assumed control of the assets in 2023 after a court ruled against the businessman in a case involving alleged mismanagement of pre-need funeral contracts. The businessman, who has operated in the funeral industry for decades, maintained that the state overstepped its authority and that all customer funds were properly handled.

After months of appeals and negotiations, a judge recently ordered the return of the properties, citing procedural errors in the original seizure. The businessman now plans to reopen the funeral home and lease out the other commercial spaces. He told reporters that the ordeal cost him over $200,000 in legal fees and lost revenue, but he feels vindicated by the outcome.

Local officials have expressed cautious optimism about the return of the properties, noting that the vacant buildings had become an eyesore. The businessman expects to have the funeral home operational within 60 days, pending necessary inspections and licensing renewals.