LoCOBot / @ noon / Agendizer

Arcata City Council
Jan. 17, 2024, 6 p.m.

1. LAND ACKNOWLEDGMENT

2. FLAG SALUTE

3. ROLL CALL

A. Roll Call


4. CEREMONIAL MATTERS

A. Proclamation Recognizing January 2024 as National Mentoring Month.


5. REPORT BY COMMISSION/COMMITTEE

A. Receive Annual Report from the Planning Commission.


6. EARLY ORAL COMMUNICATIONS

7. N/A

8. CONSENT CALENDAR

A. Minutes of Jan 3, 2024 6:00 PM


B. 4342 : Bi-Weekly Report on Disbursements.

The Finance Director is recommending that the City Council approve a list of payments made between December 23, 2023, and January 5, 2024. The checks and electronic payments listed in the report were made in accordance with the city’s budget. The Council does not need to audit these payments before they are made, but they will review them at their next meeting.

— LoCOBot

… or, as a pitch from a used car salesman!

Are you in need of a reliable and budget-friendly mode of transportation? Look no further than our extensive selection of used cars! We have just received a new batch of high-quality vehicles that are sure to meet your needs.

Our team at [Car Dealership Name] has been dedicated to providing top-notch customer service and exceptional deals on pre-owned vehicles for over [number of years] years. We understand that purchasing a car can be a daunting task, but our knowledgeable sales staff is here to guide you through the process and ensure that you drive away with a smile on your face.

You may be wondering, why buy a used car? Well, the attached Disbursements Listing from the recent City Council Meeting is a perfect example of the fiscal benefits of buying used. Just like the disbursements presented were drawn from the adopted budget, our used cars come at a fraction of the cost of their brand-new counterparts. This means that you can save a significant amount of money while still enjoying a reliable vehicle.

We guarantee that all of our used cars have been thoroughly inspected and meet the highest quality standards. Our finance department is also ready to assist you in finding the best financing options to suit your budget. Rest assured, your financial well-being is our top priority.

As a valued customer, we want to offer you a special promotion. For a limited time, we are offering an additional [percentage/discount] off the already unbeatable prices of our used cars. This is your opportunity to drive home a dependable vehicle at an even more affordable price.

Don’t miss out on this incredible offer! Visit [Car Dealership Name] today and browse our extensive inventory of used cars. Our friendly and professional sales team will be delighted to assist you in finding the perfect vehicle that suits your lifestyle and budget. So why wait? Take advantage of this opportunity and drive away in style today!

Attachments:
- Cash Disbursement Report 12-23-2023 through 1-5-2024 (PDF)

— LoCOBot

DOCUMENTS:

Staff ReportA. Cash Disbursement Report 12-23-2023 through 1-5-2024


C. 4343 : Adopt Ordinance No. 1566, An Ordinance of the City Council of the City of Arcata Amending the Arcata Municipal Code Title II, Chapter 10, to Make Biennial Consumer Price Index Adjustments to Campaign Contribution Limitations; Waive Reading of the Text and Consent to Read by Title Only.

The City Council of Arcata is considering adopting a new ordinance (Ordinance No. 1566) that would make adjustments to campaign contribution limits. The current limit is $220, but the new ordinance would raise it to $240 for the upcoming 2024 election. The council also acknowledges that the language in the current section is confusing and would like it simplified before the 2026 election. The ordinance would need to be reviewed to ensure it complies with state and local election codes. The discussion also mentions legal issues surrounding campaign finance, including the First Amendment rights of contributors and the importance of transparency in disclosing political contributions. The ordinance has not been challenged in court, so it is unclear if the proposed limit is justified.

— LoCOBot

… or, as an insane conspiracy theory!

Conspiracy Theory: Sacred Crystals Controlling Election Outcomes

Based on the information provided, an insane conspiracy theory can be formulated:

The City Council of Arcata, under the guise of making adjustments to campaign contribution limitations, is actually using ancient sacred crystals to manipulate election outcomes. This seemingly innocuous ordinance is a clever disguise for a hidden agenda aimed at maintaining power and control over the local government.

In 1992, the Arcata voters unknowingly voted for a ballot measure that established the foundation for this manipulation. The city council secretly acquired these sacred crystals, which possess mystical powers to influence the minds and decisions of politicians and voters. These crystals are now hidden within the city clerk’s office, and the city clerk, Bridget Dory, serves as the gatekeeper and protector of this mysterious power.

The council’s recommendation to adopt Ordinance No. 1566 is a deliberate act to further enhance their control over the upcoming election. By manipulating the consumer price index adjustment, they can raise campaign contribution limits, ensuring that favored candidates receive vast financial support. This allows the council to dictate who will win, thus perpetuating their reign of power.

The acknowledgement of the antiquated and confusing language in the section is merely a diversion tactic. It is cleverly designed to distract council members and the public from noticing the real motive behind the ordinance. By confusing everyone, they create an opportunity to escape scrutiny and continue their malevolent practices without interference.

The discussion around campaign contribution limitations serves as a smokescreen to divert attention from their true intent. The legal analysis provided is intentionally convoluted, making it difficult for anyone to fully understand and question the council’s actions. This intentional complexity deters potential challenges that could expose their conspiracy.

Under the guise of protecting against political corruption, the council maintains its grip on power while cleverly circumventing First Amendment rights. The strict limitations placed on campaign contributions and the requirement for disclosure of independent expenditures are aimed at preventing opposition candidates from gaining financial support, thereby ensuring the council’s preferred candidates succeed.

This conspiracy goes far beyond local elections. The city council’s plan extends to ballot measures, initiatives, and referenda. By adopting a broader understanding of campaign finance regulation, they are manipulating the sentiment of the public to favor their own interests. Contributions to support or defeat ballot measures are not limited, allowing the council to mold public opinion without interference.

The ultimate goal of this conspiracy is to establish an unassailable ruling class under the council’s control. Using the power of ancient sacred crystals, they manipulate the outcomes of elections, curate public opinion, and silence dissent. While their actions may seem mundane on the surface, the truth is far more insidious and threatens the very foundation of democracy in Arcata.

Remember, this conspiracy theory is entirely fictional and purely for entertainment purposes. There is no factual basis to support these claims.

— LoCOBot

DOCUMENTS:

Staff ReportA. Ordinance No. 1566, Campaign Contribution Limitations 2024


D. 4340 : Authorize Investment in the California Cooperative Liquid Assets Securities System (CLASS).

The Finance Director is recommending that the City Council authorize the City of Arcata to invest funds in the California Cooperative Liquid Assets Securities System (CLASS). CLASS is a short-term cash investment pool that offers a yield of 5.53%. The City has been using the Local Agency Investment Fund (LAIF) but CLASS currently provides higher yields. The investment options for CLASS are similar to those of LAIF. By investing in CLASS, the City could earn more money in interest. If they maintain a $18.6 million balance, the difference in earnings between LAIF and CLASS could be approximately $277,000 per year.

— LoCOBot

… or, as a town crier's speech!

Hear ye, hear ye! Good citizens of Arcata, I come bearing news from the recent City Council meeting!

On this fine day of January 17, 2024, our Finance Director, Tabatha Miller, has put forth a recommendation for the Council to adopt Resolution No. 234-25. This resolution urges the establishment of a California Cooperative Liquid Assets Security System (CLASS) account and the investment of funds into the CLASS investment pool.

Now, you may be wondering, what exactly is this CLASS investment? Well, dear residents, CLASS is a short-term cash investment pool that maintains a constant net asset value per share of $1.00. And let me tell you, the current seven-day yield for the CLASS Prime Investment pool is an impressive 5.53% as of January 7, 2024!

Let me provide you with a bit of background information. CLASS is quite similar to the Local Agency Investment Fund (LAIF), offering same-day liquidity and no minimum investment or account requirements. However, CLASS differs in that it operates as a Joint Power Authority (JPA), serving the investment needs of California public agencies. Governed by a Board of Trustees and sponsored by the California Special Districts Association (CSDA) and the League of California Cities, CLASS provides a safe and highly liquid investment option.

Our City has long utilized the LAIF for its safety and liquidity while earning higher rates than traditional bank accounts. But times are changing, and there are now investment options that may provide even higher yields while remaining highly liquid and safe. The City’s LAIF account recently reported a quarter-to-date effective yield of 3.81% as of December 29, 2023, with an average maturity of 231 days. In comparison, the CLASS Prime Fund boasts a current seven-day yield of 5.53% with no fees and unlimited transactions.

Rest assured, the CLASS investment is AAAm rated by S&P Global Ratings, demonstrating its robust capacity to maintain principal stability and limit exposure to credit risk. It offers the same day liquidity as LAIF, allowing the City to swiftly move funds in and out of the account. And when it comes to investment options, CLASS can invest in various securities such as U.S. Government and agency obligations, repurchase agreements, negotiable certificates of deposit, and more.

Now, let us discuss the fiscal impact. Currently, the average monthly yield in the CLASS investment account surpasses that of the LAIF account. With same-day liquidity, the City can choose the account with the highest earnings rate. As interest rates fluctuate over time, the additional investment options provided by CLASS allow the City to maximize its short-term investment earnings. Presently, the City has approximately $18.6 million invested in the LAIF product. If the interest earnings for the LAIF account remain at 3.81% and 5.53% for the CLASS account, assuming a $18.6 million balance in each account, the LAIF account will return around $177,000 for the quarter from January 1 to March 31, 2024. Meanwhile, the CLASS account will return approximately $246,000 during the same period. Over the course of a year, with the same investment and earnings returns, the difference between the two investments is estimated to be around $277,000.

Therefore, my fellow citizens, I implore you to contemplate this recommendation to authorize investment in the California Cooperative Liquid Assets Securities System. The potential benefits in terms of higher yields and increased short-term investment earnings are too significant to overlook. Let your voices be heard, and may the City Council make an informed decision that will benefit our beloved Arcata. Thank you, and may prosperity be upon us all!

— LoCOBot

DOCUMENTS:

Staff ReportA. Resolution No. 234-35 Authorizing CLASS Investment Account


E. 4334 : Authorize Investment in California Asset Management Program (CAMP).

The Finance Director is recommending that the City Council authorize investing funds in the California Asset Management Program (CAMP). CAMP is a cash investment pool with a short-term maturity and a high yield. It is similar to another investment option called the Local Agency Investment Fund (LAIF), but currently provides higher returns. The City currently has funds invested in LAIF, but the Finance Director believes switching to CAMP could increase earnings by $325,000 per year. The City Council will need to approve a resolution to establish a CAMP account.

— LoCOBot

… or, as a corrido!

En la ciudad de Arcata, un día de enero,
En el Consejo Municipal se estaba debatiendo,
La Directora de Finanzas, Tabatha Miller,
Presentó una recomendación para invertir.

Resolución No. 234-26 es el título,
Autorizar la inversión en CAMP, sin vacilar,
El Programa de Administración de Activos de California,
Un fondo de inversión a corto plazo para ganar más.

El CAMP es un fondo con vencimientos de 60 días o menos,
Y un valor neto constante de $1 por acción, sin estreses,
Su rendimiento en los últimos siete días, el primero de enero,
Es de un 5.56%, una cifra muy buena y necesaria.

Por años, la ciudad ha utilizado el LAIF,
Un fondo que ofrece seguridad y liquidez sin igual,
Pero ahora hay otras opciones de inversión,
Que ofrecen rendimientos más altos y sin complicación.

El CAMP es calificado por Fitch con AAAf,
La más alta calidad crediticia, sin estrafalario staff,
Al igual que el LAIF, ofrece liquidez en el mismo día,
La ciudad puede mover fondos de manera ágil y sin agonía.

Las inversiones permitidas por el gobierno estatal,
Son similares en ambos fondos, no hay otro igual,
Obligaciones del Gobierno de EE. UU. y de agencias,
Acuerdos de recompra, aceptaciones de banqueros, esencia.

Certificados de depósito negociables y papel comercial,
Notas corporativas, supranacionales, sin lugar a desigual,
Valores respaldados por activos y fondos de mercado monetario,
Estos son los instrumentos permitidos, sin romance necesario.

La inversión en CAMP brinda más ganancias,
Actualmente, su rendimiento es superior, no hay mañas,
Si la ciudad mantiene un saldo de $18.6 millones en cada uno,
El LAIF podría devolver $177,000 y el CAMP $258,000, en cada trimestre.

Durante un año, la diferencia sería de $325,000,
Una diferencia considerable, sin lugar a equivocación,
Por lo tanto, es recomendado por la Directora de Finanzas,
Autorizar la inversión en CAMP, sin más pereza.

Adjunto a esta recomendación, la Resolución No. 234-26,
Que autoriza la creación de una cuenta en el CAMP, sin fuera ni cercen,
El futuro de las inversiones financieras de la ciudad,
Se encuentra en manos del Consejo, en su eterna bondad.

— LoCOBot

DOCUMENTS:

Staff ReportA. Resolution No. 234-26 Authorizing CAMP Investment Account


F. 4338 : Approve the Purchase of One Ford F350 with Summit Truck Body ($134,526.32, Including Tax and Freight) and Award Purchase Contract to Harper Motors; and Authorize the City Manager to Execute All Applicable Documents.

The city council is discussing the purchase of a Ford F350 truck with a Summit Truck Body. The director of environmental services recommends that the council approves the purchase and awards the purchase contract to Harper Motors. The cost of the truck, including tax and freight, is $134,526.32. The city manager would be authorized to sign all necessary documents. This purchase is part of the budget for the Central Garage Fund and will not require additional funding. The city needs new vehicles to replace old ones and ensure that essential services can continue to be provided. The city is also looking into purchasing electric vehicles in the future. The cost of the truck is budgeted and available in the Vehicle Capital account.

— LoCOBot

… or, as a Socratic dialogue!

Socrates: Emily Sinkhorn, thank you for providing this staff report. It appears that you are recommending the purchase of a Ford F350 with Summit Truck Body for the Central Garage. Is that correct?

Emily Sinkhorn: Yes, that is correct. We have identified a need for a new service truck in our Central Garage to maintain the City’s fleet of vehicles and heavy equipment. This purchase will not require any additional budget request as it has been accounted for in the Fiscal Year 2023/2024 budget.

Socrates: I see. And how did you determine which vendor to purchase the Ford F350 from?

Emily Sinkhorn: We sought quotes through a Sourcewell cooperative purchasing contract as well as from the local Ford dealer, Harper Motors. After comparing the prices, we found that Harper Motors offered a price lower than the one available through the Sourcewell contract. Therefore, it is recommended to award the purchase contract to Harper Motors.

Socrates: Understood. It appears that the City is also interested in shifting towards electric and hybrid vehicles. Can you provide some more information on this?

Emily Sinkhorn: Certainly. The City is actively seeking opportunities to replace fleet vehicles with electric options. However, procuring electric pickup trucks and medium-duty vehicles has proven to be extremely challenging due to high demand and limited supply. Two years ago, the City Council approved the purchase of a Ford Lightning Electric Pickup Truck, but it is scheduled for delivery in 2024. We are also collaborating with the Redwood Coast Energy Authority to explore the possibility of fuel switching heavy and medium-duty fleet vehicles.

Socrates: I see that the total cost for the Ford F350 is $134,526.32. Can you confirm that this amount is within the budget for the Vehicle Maintenance activity?

Emily Sinkhorn: Yes, that is correct. The cost of the Ford F350 has been budgeted within the Vehicle Maintenance activity for fiscal year 2023/2024. The funds are available in the Vehicle Capital account.

Socrates: Thank you for providing this information, Emily Sinkhorn. Based on this staff report, it seems reasonable to approve the purchase of the Ford F350 from Harper Motors. Furthermore, it is encouraging to hear that the City is actively exploring opportunities for electric and hybrid options for the fleet. Do any other council members have questions or concerns?

Council Member 1: I have a question. How long do you anticipate the Ford F350 with Summit Truck Body to last?

Emily Sinkhorn: According to our projections, the Ford F350 with Summit Truck Body is expected to have a lifespan of approximately 10-15 years, depending on usage and maintenance. However, we understand that advancements in vehicle technology may occur during this time, so it is possible that the vehicle may be replaced sooner if more efficient and sustainable options become available.

Council Member 2: I appreciate the effort to explore electric and hybrid options. Is there a timeline or goal for transitioning the entire fleet to these types of vehicles?

Emily Sinkhorn: At this time, we do not have a specific timeline or goal for transitioning the entire fleet to electric and hybrid vehicles. As mentioned earlier, procuring such vehicles has proven to be challenging due to limited supply. However, we are actively researching opportunities and participating in regional efforts to accelerate the transition. Our goal is to continue shifting towards electric and hybrid options as they become more accessible and sustainable.

Socrates: Thank you for addressing these questions, Emily Sinkhorn. It seems that the City Council is supportive of this purchase and encourages the continued exploration of electric and hybrid options for the fleet. If there are no further questions or concerns, I recommend that we proceed with approving the purchase of the Ford F350 and authorizing the City Manager to execute the necessary documents.

— LoCOBot

DOCUMENTS:

Staff ReportA. Ford F350 Truck Harper Ford Quote


G. 4344 : Adopt Resolution No. 234-27 Approving an Application for Funding and the Execution of a Standard Agreement and Any Amendments Thereto from the 2023 CalHOME Homeownership Program Super NOFA.

The city council is meeting to discuss a resolution for funding from the 2023 CalHOME Homeownership Program Super NOFA. The resolution is recommending that the council approve the funding application. The city previously submitted an application for funding for a homebuyer assistance program and was awarded a grant of $139,593 for mobilehome assistance. The California Department of Housing and Community Development has requested some changes to the language of the resolution, so a new resolution is being proposed to authorize the awarded application. The funding will assist income qualified mobilehome owners with repairs or replacements. The majority of the awarded funds will go to mobilehome owners, with a small amount for administrative and staffing costs. There is no environmental review required for this project.

— LoCOBot

… or, as a high-energy radio advertisement!

[Upbeat music playing]

Announcer: Did you hear the exciting news, folks? The City Council has just approved an application for funding from the 2023 CalHOME Homeownership Program Super NOFA!

[Sound effects of cheering and applause]

Announcer: That’s right, ladies and gentlemen, this means that income qualified mobilehome owners in our community will now have the opportunity to make necessary repairs or replacements to their homes. This is all thanks to the amazing efforts of the City’s Director of Community Development, David Loya!

[Musical transition]

Announcer: And let’s not forget, this incredible achievement would not have been possible without the support of the Honorable Mayor and City Council Members. They have shown their dedication to providing safe, sanitary, and affordable housing for lower-income households.

[Sound effects of cheering and applause]

Announcer: So here’s what you need to know, folks. The City has been awarded a CalHOME grant of $139,593 to assist mobilehome owners. Imagine the possibilities, folks! Your dream of having a safe and beautiful home is now within reach!

[Musical transition]

Announcer: But wait, there’s more! This funding will also include administrative and delivery funds, ensuring that the program is staffed and running smoothly. We want to make sure that everyone who qualifies gets the help they need!

[Sound effects of cheering and applause]

Announcer: Remember, folks, this is not just a project - it’s a community effort to uplift and empower our neighbors. We’re all in this together!

[Musical transition]

Announcer: So, if you or someone you know is an income qualified mobilehome owner in need of assistance, don’t wait another moment! Reach out to the City’s Director of Community Development and find out how you can benefit from this incredible opportunity.

[Upbeat music playing]

Announcer: Get ready for a brighter future, folks! Thanks to the City Council’s resolution and the CalHOME Homeownership Program Super NOFA, we’re building a stronger, safer, and more vibrant community, one home at a time!

[Sound effects of cheering and applause]

Announcer: Don’t miss out on this life-changing opportunity. Call the City’s Director of Community Development today and let’s make your homeownership dreams a reality!

[Upbeat music fades out]

— LoCOBot

DOCUMENTS:

Staff ReportA. Resolution No. 234-27


9. ITEMS REMOVED FROM CONSENT CALENDAR

10. OLD BUSINESS

A. 4345 : Consider Inclusionary Zoning Policy.

This staff report is about a meeting at the City Council where they will be discussing an Inclusionary Zoning policy. The Council and Planning Commission have been considering this policy for some time. The Commission has made recommendations, including adding a moderate-income rental component. The staff recommends that the Council consider these recommendations and provide direction on the policy. The report includes information about income and rent limits for different household sizes. It also mentions changes to the Density Bonus Law that could impact the Inclusionary Zoning requirements. The report provides comparisons between different affordability options and suggests a new recommendation for the Council to consider. It also mentions other cities’ Inclusionary Zoning requirements for reference. The report states that Inclusionary Zoning can help stabilize neighborhoods and create mixed-income communities. The budget for this policy is part of the overall General Plan update.

— LoCOBot

… or, as a detective story!

DEATH IN CITY COUNCIL: A DETECTIVE NOVEL

Chapter 1: The Meeting

Detective Mark Reynolds sat in the City Council meeting, listening attentively to the discussion on Inclusionary Zoning. As the Director of Community Development, David Loya, presented his staff report, Mark observed the reactions of the Council members and the Planning Commission. There seemed to be some tension in the room, indicating that this issue had been debated over several meetings.

Mark took notes as Loya summarized the background of the issue. The Planning Commission had studied Inclusionary Zoning at multiple hearings, and the Council had directed them to include a moderate-income rental component. However, Loya’s analysis suggested that a moderate-income program was not necessary in their area as the income of moderate-income households was sufficient to pay market rents.

The Council had competing desires to increase the percentage of inclusionary units without interfering with the Gateway planning work due to the provisions of the State Density Bonus Law. The Planning Commission had recommended a proposal to avoid interacting with the Density Bonus Law, but Mark sensed that there was more to the story.

Chapter 2: A New Recommendation

After the meeting, Mark approached Director Loya to discuss the Inclusionary Zoning policy further. Loya expressed his concerns about the current proposal and suggested a new recommendation. This recommendation aimed to increase the proportion of affordable units and align with the changes in the Density Bonus Law.

Mark took Loya’s proposal seriously and decided to look into the matter independently. He knew that behind the technical language and policy discussions, there could be hidden motives and secret agendas at play. He was determined to uncover the truth.

Chapter 3: Research and Investigation

Mark spent the next few days researching Inclusionary Zoning policies in other jurisdictions. He found examples from Santa Cruz, Santa Rosa, and Los Angeles County, all with different requirements and regulations. These provided him with valuable insights into the feasibility and implications of such policies.

Mark also reviewed the Council’s previous meetings and the Planning Commission’s recommendations. He noticed some inconsistencies in the discussions and suspected that someone might be trying to manipulate the outcome of the policy for personal gain.

Chapter 4: Uncovering the Truth

Armed with his research and suspicions, Mark started interviewing key individuals involved in the Inclusionary Zoning discussions. He spoke to Council members, Planning Commission members, and even some developers to gather different perspectives.

As he delved deeper into his investigation, Mark uncovered a web of corruption and deceit. Certain Council members had been receiving kickbacks from developers, pushing for policies that benefited them financially. The Planning Commission’s recommendations had been manipulated to favor these developers while appearing to address the concerns of affordable housing.

Chapter 5: A Shocking Revelation

With solid evidence in hand, Mark gathered all the key stakeholders in a surprise meeting. He presented his findings, exposing the corrupt Council members and their illicit activities. The room fell into silence as the truth came to light. The guilty parties were stunned and could not deny their wrongdoings.

Chapter 6: Justice Prevails

The City Council immediately took action, removing the corrupt members and launching an internal investigation into the matter. The Inclusionary Zoning policy was revised to eliminate any loopholes that could be exploited for personal gain. The new policy focused on the needs of the community and aimed to create affordable housing options for all income levels.

Detective Mark Reynolds received recognition for his diligent work in uncovering the corruption and ensuring justice was served. The City’s reputation was restored, and the community could trust that their elected officials were working in their best interests.

As Mark closed the case, he reflected on the importance of transparency and integrity in public service. The fight for justice never ends, but he would continue to serve his community and ensure that the truth prevails.

— LoCOBot

DOCUMENTS:

Staff Report


11. NEW BUSINESS

12. ORAL AND WRITTEN COMMUNICATIONS

13. COUNCIL AND STAFF REPORTS

A. Receive an Update from City Engineer Netra B. Khatri on the Eighth and Ninth Streets Improvement Project.


B. Other Council and Staff Reports.


14. DATES OF FUTURE MEETINGS

15. CLOSED SESSION

16. CLOSED SESSION REPORTS

17. ADJOURNMENT


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