Isabella Vanderheiden / @ 8:50 a.m. / Agendizer

Eureka City Council to Discuss Next Steps with Jacobs Campus at This Week’s Meeting

The vacant Jacobs Campus in Eureka. File photo: Andrew Goff.

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It’s been about three months since the Eureka City Schools District board of trustees unanimously voted to exchange the lower 8.3 acres of the Jacobs Middle School site with a mysterious private developer for another small property – along with $5.35 million – yet many questions remain.

The controversial move has drawn criticism from some community members who felt the board should have been more transparent in its decision-making process. Others have raised concerns about the identity of the developer, known only as “AMG Communities-Jacobs, LLC,” and its plans for the former school site, located in Eureka’s Highland Park neighborhood.

Some have speculated that proponents of the “Eureka Housing for All and Downtown Vitality” initiative or Security National President and CEO Rob Arkley, the initiative’s financial backer, could be behind the property exchange. However, both parties have denied any involvement. The FAQ section of the developer’s website specifically addresses the question: “Is Rob Arkley an owner or investor in AMG Communities?” The website states that he is not.

AMG Communities has yet to reveal any specific plans for the site, but states on its website that the property “is large enough to support a mix of housing and some neighborhood-serving commercial uses,” noting that the site “will not be developed entirely into affordable housing.”

The Eureka City Council will receive an update on the status of the land exchange, which still has yet to go through, during this week’s regular meeting and discuss next steps for the Jacobs site. The staff report notes that the property “is of great interest because the City of Eureka is largely built out,” with relatively few vacant sites available for new development. “Unlike other remaining vacant land in the City, the site is relatively large and unconstrained – it is outside of the Coastal Zone, relatively flat, and not located in an ecologically sensitive or hazardous area.”

However, the city has little control over what kind of development can occur on the property. Any proposed residential or commercial development at the site would require a zoning change, “as the current Public Facilities Zoning and Public Quasi-Public Land Use Designation only allow for government facilities, schools, and similar land uses as described in Eureka Municipal Code,” according to the report.

The city council will consider three options:

  1. Rezone the site. This option could be completed in a few months and would cost the city an estimated $75,000 for environmental review and an economic feasibility analysis. However, if the Housing for All Initiative is passed by voters during the next election the city would be required to rezone the site a second time to be consistent with the initiative.
  2. Develop a new “Mixed Neighborhood” overlay zone that could potentially be applied to the Jacobs site and other sites within the City in the future. Overlay zones can be applied to specific areas on the city’s Zoning Map “to add special requirements, limitations, or enhanced flexibility on top of the base zoning district standards,” according to the staff report. This option would ensure – regardless of what zone base is adopted for the Jacobs site – that new uses fit the existing neighborhood’s scale and character. The cost is estimated at $40,000.
  3. Take no action. The staff report notes that the city council could wait until after the election to take action or wait for the current or future property owner to initiate a rezone of the site. If the property owner were to initiate a rezone, they would have to cover the full cost of the CEQA environmental document.

Staff did not provide a recommendation in the report, but suggested that the city council host a public outreach meeting next month if it chooses Option 1 or Option 2. 

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The city council will also receive a report from the Planning Commission on potential changes to the city’s Vacation Rental Ordinance, a progress report on the 2040 General Plan, an update on the city’s neighborhood naming effort, and much more!

The Eureka City Council will meet at 6 p.m. on Tuesday, March 19, at Eureka City Hall — 531 K Street. Keep scrolling for a full rundown of the agenda, featuring analytical and creative interpretations from Gennie, LoCO’s beloved AgendaBot.


Eureka City Council
March 19, 2024, 6 p.m.

A. MAYOR’S ANNOUNCEMENTS

1. Proclamation - Two-Spirit Day of Appreciation and Celebration

B. PRESENTATIONS

1. Bike Plan Update


C. BOARD/COMMISSION REPORTS

D. PUBLIC COMMENT PERIOD

E. PUBLIC HEARINGS

1. Tirsbeck Surplus Property and Right-of-Way Vacation and Local Coastal Program Amendment

The Eureka City Council is discussing a proposal to surplus a small City-owned parcel and vacate an alley easement, as well as amend the Local Coastal Program to allow for commercial development on two adjoining parcels. The goal is to create a more attractive and prosperous area in Eureka. The proposal includes changing the land use and zoning designations to allow for new commercial and residential uses. The City Council will hold a public hearing and vote on resolutions to move the project forward.

— LoCOBot

… or, as a job interview!

The job interview for the position in the Development Services - Planning Department of the Eureka City Council was about to begin. The candidate, Sarah, sat nervously in the conference room, waiting for the panel of interviewers to arrive.

Caitlin Castellano, the Senior Planner, entered the room followed by two other members of the panel. She greeted Sarah warmly and introduced herself and her colleagues. Caitlin began by outlining the agenda for the interview, focusing on the Tirsbeck Surplus Property and Right-of-Way Vacation and Local Coastal Program Amendment project.

Caitlin explained the details of the project, including the request to surplus a 20-foot by 30-foot City-owned parcel and vacate an alley easement in the Notch area. She highlighted the proposed changes to the Land Use Plan map designation and zoning district at 936 W Hawthorne Street, emphasizing the goal of creating a more cohesive and commercially viable area.

As Caitlin delved into the background and previous actions taken on the project, Sarah listened attentively, making mental notes and preparing her questions. She was impressed by the comprehensive approach taken by the City Council and the Planning Commission in considering the environmental impacts and community benefits of the proposed amendments.

The discussion moved on to the fiscal impact of the project and its alignment with the Council’s goals and strategic vision for the city. Sarah noted the emphasis on reinvestment in existing commercial areas and the potential for economic growth and revitalization in the designated corridor.

As the interview drew to a close, Caitlin invited Sarah to ask any questions she had about the project or the role she was applying for. Sarah seized the opportunity to inquire about the next steps in the process and how the Development Services - Planning Department would be involved in implementing the proposed changes.

The panel members were impressed by Sarah’s engagement and thoughtful questions. They thanked her for her interest in the position and assured her that they would carefully consider her application. Sarah left the interview feeling optimistic about the possibility of joining the team at the Eureka City Council and contributing to the exciting developments ahead.

— LoCOBot

DOCUMENTS:

Staff ReportAttachment 1 - Resolution for ISMND and MMRPAttachment 2 - Resolution for SP and SVAttachment 2 - Resolution Exhibits A and BAttachment 3 - Resolution for LUPAttachment 4 - Bil No. 1034-C.S for IPAttachment 5 - Planning Commission Report


F. CONSENT CALENDAR

1. Council Minutes

2. Eureka Rhododendron Parade

The Eureka City Council is considering a bill to amend the Open Space Parks and Recreation Commission by reducing the number of members from nine to seven. This change is recommended to make the commission more efficient. There is no financial impact associated with this change. The bill will be introduced and read by title only at the council meeting.

— LoCOBot

… or, as a bedtime story!

Once upon a time in the bustling city of Eureka, there was a City Council meeting taking place. The City Clerk, Pam Powell, was presenting a new bill to the council members. The bill, known as Bill No. 1035-C.S. Boards, Commissions & Committees, aimed to amend the Open Space Parks and Recreation Commission.

As the council members listened attentively to the presentation, it was clear that the main recommendation was to reduce the commission from nine members to seven. Two long-serving members had retired, and this change would allow for more efficient operations within the commission.

The council members discussed the proposal, considering the fiscal impact and the strategic vision for the city. They all agreed that this change would benefit the commission and ultimately the citizens of Eureka.

After much discussion, the council decided to waive the full reading of the bill and introduce it by title only. The bill was officially introduced as an ordinance of the City Council, amending Title III, Chapter 33, Boards, Commissions & Committees, Section 33.045 Open Space Parks and Recreation Commission.

With the bill successfully introduced, the council members bid farewell to each other and headed home for the night. As they drifted off to sleep, they dreamed of a city where parks and recreation thrived, thanks to the hard work and dedication of the Open Space, Parks and Recreation Commission.

And so, the city of Eureka continued to grow and prosper, with its dedicated council members working tirelessly to ensure a bright future for all who called it home. The End.

— LoCOBot

DOCUMENTS:

Staff Report


3. Senate Bil 1119 Letter of Support

The Eureka City Council will discuss and possibly take action to support Senate Bill 1119, which is about seismic compliance at local hospitals. The City Attorney recommends authorizing the Mayor to sign a letter in support of the bill. There is no financial impact associated with this action. The bill is currently in the California Senate and the City Council will review a draft letter of support. The City Attorney and City Manager have reviewed and approved the agenda item.

— LoCOBot

… or, as an episode of Seinfeld!

The episode would start with Jerry and Elaine having lunch at a popular diner in Eureka City. They are discussing the upcoming city council meeting and Elaine mentions the agenda item about supporting Senate Bill 1119 for seismic compliance at local hospitals.

Jerry, always one to poke fun at government bureaucracy, jokes about how they should all just get trampolines for safety instead. Elaine laughs and agrees that sometimes the city council’s priorities seem a bit out of touch with reality.

Meanwhile, George is at his job at the Parks and Recreation department, where he is trying to come up with excuses to get out of attending the city council meeting. He’s not interested in politics and would much rather spend his evening watching TV.

Kramer bursts into Jerry’s apartment, excitedly waving a piece of paper. He announces that he’s found a loophole in the city’s zoning laws that could allow him to open a trampoline park in an abandoned warehouse. Jerry, Elaine, and George all look at him skeptically, but Kramer is convinced he’s onto something big.

At the city council meeting, the discussion about Senate Bill 1119 gets heated as different council members voice their opinions on the matter. Jerry, Elaine, George, and Kramer all find themselves caught up in the drama, with Kramer even trying to pitch his trampoline park idea to the council members.

In the end, the council votes to authorize Mayor Bergel to sign the letter in support of SB 1119. Kramer sulks off, disappointed that his trampoline dreams have been dashed. George is relieved he didn’t have to speak in front of the council, and Jerry and Elaine reflect on the absurdity of local politics.

As they leave the meeting, Elaine suggests they all go out for a drink to decompress from the evening’s events. Jerry agrees, but as they walk out into the night, they can’t help but wonder what other wacky adventures await them in Eureka City.

— LoCOBot

DOCUMENTS:

Staff ReportLOS- SB 1119


4. Coast Guard Building Improvements - Acceptance

A project to improve the Coast Guard Building was completed with some additional costs. The city council is being asked to accept the project, allocate more funds, and complete the necessary paperwork. The project included various upgrades to the building for safety and accessibility.

— LoCOBot

… or, as an insane conspiracy theory!

Conspiracy Theory: The Eureka City Council’s acceptance of the Coast Guard Building Improvements is a cover-up for a secret underground bunker being built beneath the building. The construction process included secretive enhancements such as hidden tunnels, surveillance technology, and advanced security measures to house government officials in the event of a catastrophic event. The additional construction costs were actually used to fund the hidden project, and the “Notice of Completion” filing at the Office of the County Recorder is just a facade to mislead the public. The Council’s strategic vision of “Quality of Life” and “Health and Safety” actually refers to their own safety and well-being in their secret underground hideout. Stay vigilant, the truth is beneath the surface.

— LoCOBot

DOCUMENTS:

Staff Report


5. Crowley Property Electrical Instalation Project - Award

The Eureka City Council is looking to award a contract to Spencer Electric, Inc. for the Crowley Property Electrical Installation Project. The project is part of a larger effort to provide sustainable housing and reduce homelessness in the community. The council has secured grant funding and received support from local contractors and community partners to lower costs. The city is now preparing to approve the construction contract and budget for the project.

— LoCOBot

… or, as a stage play!

(Scene opens in a bustling City Council meeting room. Various council members are seated around a large table, with Gabriel Adame standing at a podium, ready to present his recommendation.)

GABRIEL ADAME: (clearing his throat) Thank you, esteemed council members, for allowing me the opportunity to present the recommendation for the Crowley Property Electrical Installation Project. As you can see from the agenda summary, Spencer Electric, Inc. has been declared the low bidder for this project, and we are proposing to award them the bid for the amount of $207,036.

COUNCIL MEMBER 1: Gabriel, can you provide some background on the funding for this project? It seems like there has been a significant amount of support from various community partners.

GABRIEL ADAME: Of course. The City of Eureka has partnered with CAPE to provide sustainable community development to reduce homelessness. Grant funding from Cal ICH, in conjunction with support from the County of Humboldt and local contractors, has helped offset the costs of this project. The final step is the electrical infrastructure construction, which is where Spencer Electric comes in.

COUNCIL MEMBER 2: (nodding) It’s impressive to see the collaboration involved in this project. It truly embodies our goal of being a financially sound city while providing effective services to our community.

COUNCIL MEMBER 3: I move to approve Gabriel’s recommendation to award the bid to Spencer Electric, Inc. for the proposed amount of $207,036 and approve the additional funding of $230,000 for construction.

COUNCIL MEMBER 4: Second.

(The council members vote and the motion is passed unanimously. Applause and congratulations are shared around the room.)

GABRIEL ADAME: Thank you, council members, for your support. With this approval, we can move forward with the Crowley Property Electrical Installation Project and continue to make a positive impact on our community.

(The scene fades out as the council members continue to discuss the next agenda item.)

— LoCOBot

DOCUMENTS:

Staff Report


6. Crowley Property Electrical Equipment Purchase - Award

The Eureka City Council will be discussing and potentially approving the purchase of electrical equipment for the Crowley Property. The recommendation is to award the purchase to Platt Electric for $127,042.83. This purchase is part of a larger community development project to reduce homelessness, with funding secured through grants and partnerships with local contractors. The equipment is needed to complete the electrical infrastructure construction for modular housing units. Staff recommends approving the purchase to move forward with the project.

— LoCOBot

… or, as an Elizabethan sonnet!

Upon the Eureka City Council’s stage,
A decision of great import must be made,
To purchase electrical equipment, sage,
For Crowley Property, bid has been laid.

Platt Electric, the low bidder declared,
Shall provide components for the task at hand,
Funds allocated, approval not impaired,
For financial soundness, we take a stand.

Community partners, grants in abundance,
To aid in reducing homeless plight,
Modular units, with great expedience,
Now require electrical tools in sight.

With Council’s nod, let Platt Electric shine,
And bring forth light to Crowley’s design.

— LoCOBot

DOCUMENTS:

Staff Report


7. Amend the Permanent Local Housing Alocation Program (PLHA) plan.

The City Council of Eureka is considering amending an application for funding from the State Permanent Local Housing Allocation Program. The proposed change would shift funding from an Accessory Dwelling Units program to a street outreach program for the homeless population. The council is recommended to approve this amendment to provide funding for programs helping the homeless population. The funding is part of a larger allocation for affordable housing initiatives in the city.

— LoCOBot

… or, as a Funkadelic song!

Verse 1:
We’re here to talk about a Resolution
For the 2019 State Public Local Housing Allocation
Gotta amend the application, make a change
To help those in need, it’s time to rearrange

Predevelopment, development, and acquisition
Of affordable housing for our population
But we’re shifting funds to a new direction
Assisting the homeless, that’s our new mission

Chorus:
City Council’s got a plan in place
To allocate funds to those in need of space
From ADUs to street outreach programs
We’re helping the vulnerable, giving them new options

Verse 2:
The Permanent Local Housing Allocation
Gives us the chance to make a transformation
We’ve got a formula, a plan in motion
To support our community, it’s our devotion

Rapid re-housing, rental assistance too
Supportive services to help them through
Emergency shelters, transitional homes
We’re here to support, we’re not alone

Chorus:
City Council’s got a plan in place
To allocate funds to those in need of space
From ADUs to street outreach programs
We’re helping the vulnerable, giving them new options

Bridge:
It’s time for action, time to approve
Let’s make a difference, it’s what we must do
Economic development, housing in mind
Let’s come together, it’s our time to shine

Chorus:
City Council’s got a plan in place
To allocate funds to those in need of space
From ADUs to street outreach programs
We’re helping the vulnerable, giving them new options

Outro:
So let’s adopt this Resolution today
And pave the way for a brighter day
With secure funding for those in need
We’re Funkadelic City Council, taking the lead!

— LoCOBot

DOCUMENTS:

Staff ReportApplication_ResolutionPLHA17207-Budget Revision


8. Salary Schedule Update - April 2024

The Eureka City Council is discussing and voting on salary adjustments for different positions in the city. The changes are being made to stay competitive with other job markets and retain employees. The council is considering increasing salaries for certain positions, such as City Engineer and Utility Worker, as well as for Sworn and Dispatch personnel. The goal is to reduce employee turnover and maintain institutional knowledge. These changes will take effect on April 1st, 2024.

— LoCOBot

… or, as a conversation between Beavis and Butt-head!

Beavis: Uh, hey Butt-head, what’s a salary schedule?

Butt-head: Uh, I think it’s like a list of how much money you get paid for different jobs.

Beavis: Oh yeah, like how much we get paid for watching TV all day?

Butt-head: Uh, yeah, I wish. This one is for the people who work for the city.

Beavis: Oh cool, so like the mayor and stuff?

Butt-head: Uh, no dumbass. It’s for all the regular full-time, part-time, and temporary jobs in the city.

Beavis: Oh, so like the people who pick up trash and stuff?

Butt-head: Yeah, and the city engineer, and utility workers. They’re getting raises and stuff.

Beavis: Woah, that’s cool. Maybe we should get a job for the city.

Butt-head: Uh, yeah right. We’re too busy scoring with chicks and stuff.

Beavis: Yeah, you’re right. Let’s just keep watching TV. Uh huh huh huh.

— LoCOBot

DOCUMENTS:

Staff ReportResolution_Salary Schedule April 2024Salary Schedule 04.01.24


G. LEGISLATIVE ACTION CORRESPONDENCE

H. ORDINANCES/RESOLUTIONS

1. Memorandum of Understanding - Eureka Police Officer's Association/City of Eureka

The Eureka City Council has agreed on a new contract with the Eureka Police Officers’ Association that will be in effect until June 30, 2027. The contract includes changes that have been negotiated and agreed upon by both parties. This agreement is made possible by tax revenues from Measure H. The City Council recommends adopting a resolution to authorize the Mayor to sign the new contract. The agreement represents an investment in the city’s law enforcement and public safety personnel.

— LoCOBot

… or, as a scene from a thriller!

The City Council meeting was in full swing as Will Folger, the Director of Human Resources, stood at the podium presenting the Memorandum of Understanding between the City of Eureka and the Eureka Police Officers’ Association.

As he went through the details of the agreement, tension filled the room. The representatives from the Eureka Police Officers’ Association sat stoically, while members of the community shifted uncomfortably in their seats. It was clear that not everyone was in agreement with the terms laid out in the MOU.

Suddenly, the doors to the council chambers burst open, and a masked figure entered, gun in hand. Panic erupted as people screamed and ducked for cover. The masked figure made his way towards the podium, where Will Folger stood frozen in fear.

“Everyone stay calm!” the masked figure shouted, his voice muffled behind the mask. “This meeting is now in recess until further notice.”

Chaos ensued as the masked figure grabbed the documents related to the MOU and made a run for the exit. The sound of sirens blared in the distance, signaling the arrival of law enforcement.

The Eureka Police Officers’ Association sprang into action, working together with the responding officers to ensure the safety of everyone in the council chambers. As the situation unfolded, it became clear that this was not a random act of violence, but a carefully orchestrated plan to disrupt the signing of the MOU.

In the end, the masked figure was apprehended, and order was restored to the council chambers. But the incident had lasting implications, leaving the city on edge and raising questions about the future of the agreement between the City of Eureka and the Eureka Police Officers’ Association.

— LoCOBot

DOCUMENTS:

Staff Report2024 EPOA MOU. Summary of RevisionsResolution_EPOA MOU 2024EPOA MOU 2024-2027 FINAL


2. Bil No. 1035 Open Space, Parks and Recreation Commission

The Eureka City Council is considering reducing the number of members on the Open Space, Parks, and Recreation Commission from nine to seven. This change will help make the board more efficient. The council is being asked to introduce a new ordinance to make this change official.

— LoCOBot

… or, as Star Trek fan fiction!

As the USS Enterprise approached the planet Eureka, Captain James T. Kirk reviewed the agenda summary for the Eureka City Council meeting. His curiosity was piqued by the mention of Bill No. 1035-C.S., which proposed changes to the Open Space Parks and Recreation Commission.

“Spock, what do you make of this?” Kirk asked his first officer.

Spock raised an eyebrow as he reviewed the summary. “It appears that the City Council is seeking to streamline the operations of the commission by reducing its membership from nine to seven members. This decision was influenced by the retirement of two long-serving members.”

Kirk nodded thoughtfully. “It seems like a logical move to improve efficiency. Let’s monitor the situation and offer our assistance if needed.”

As the Enterprise beamed down to Eureka, Kirk and his crew attended the City Council meeting to observe the discussions surrounding Bill No. 1035-C.S. The council members discussed the proposal at length, weighing the pros and cons of reducing the commission’s size.

Councilwoman Pam Powell, who had prepared the agenda summary, passionately argued for the change, citing the need for fresh perspectives and streamlined decision-making processes. Her arguments swayed the majority of the council, and the decision to introduce the ordinance was made.

Impressed by the democratic process on display, Kirk approached Councilwoman Powell after the meeting to offer his support.

“Your dedication to improving your city’s governance is truly commendable,” Kirk said with a smile. “If there’s anything the USS Enterprise can do to assist Eureka, don’t hesitate to ask.”

Powell looked up at Kirk with gratitude in her eyes. “Thank you, Captain. Your offer means a lot to us. Perhaps we can collaborate on future projects that benefit both our worlds.”

And so, a partnership between the Eureka City Council and the crew of the USS Enterprise was born, with both parties working together to create a better future for all. As the Enterprise soared back into space, Kirk couldn’t help but feel optimistic about the potential for cooperation between different worlds. After all, the spirit of exploration and progress knew no boundaries, whether on Earth or in the far reaches of space.

— LoCOBot

DOCUMENTS:

Staff ReportBil No. 1035-C.S. OSPR


I. REPORTS/ACTION ITEMS

1. Planning Commission Vacation Rental Report

The Eureka City Council will be discussing a report from the Planning Commission about vacation rentals in the city. The report discusses the regulations and permits required for vacation rentals, and the concerns raised by Commissioners about the current regulatory framework. The City has different regulations for vacation rentals in the inland and coastal areas. The Planning Commission formed a subcommittee to gather information and present policy recommendations to City Council. The report will be presented by Planning Commissioner Michael Kraft. The goal is to balance the need for housing with the demand for vacation rentals. The Council will review the report and public comments received on the matter.

— LoCOBot

… or, as a Twitter thread!

🏠🌴 Exciting news for residents of Eureka! The Planning Commission has submitted a report on vacation rentals in the city for review by the City Council. Let’s dive into the details of this important discussion. #EurekaCityCouncil

🔍 The subcommittee formed by the Planning Commission has worked diligently to gather information and develop policy recommendations on regulating vacation rentals. Now, it’s time for the City Council to review their report and make informed decisions. #VacationRentals #Eureka

📑 The report includes valuable insights on the impact of vacation rentals on residential availability and recommendations for establishing and maintaining a cap on the number of full-unit vacation rentals in residential zone districts. It’s crucial to strike a balance between housing needs and lodging market demands. #HousingElementPolicy

🗓️ On February 14, 2024, the Planning Commission unanimously voted to bring the report to City Council for review. Planning Commissioner Michael Kraft will be presenting the report, along with public comments received on the matter. Stay tuned for updates on this important discussion! #CityCouncilMeeting

🏡 Did you know that Eureka has different vacation rental regulations for the inland and coastal areas of the city? With 77 legally authorized vacation rentals currently in the city, it’s essential to carefully consider any proposed changes to the regulations. #EurekaVacationRentals

📊 Stay informed about the latest developments in the regulation of vacation rentals in Eureka by following the City Council’s discussions on this important topic. Let your voice be heard and participate in shaping the future of vacation rentals in our community. #CommunityEngagement

🔗 For more information on the Planning Commission’s report and the current vacation rental regulations in Eureka, visit the City’s website or attend the upcoming City Council meeting where the report will be discussed. Let’s work together to ensure a vibrant and sustainable community for all residents. #EurekaCommunity #CityCouncilDiscussion

✨ Let’s continue to engage in constructive dialogue and collaborative decision-making to create a positive impact on the housing market and residential availability in Eureka. Your input is valuable, and together, we can build a stronger and more inclusive community for everyone. #EurekaCityCouncil #CommunityUnity

— LoCOBot

DOCUMENTS:

Staff ReportAttachment 1 Planning Commission Report and Public Comments Received


2. Jacobs Campus Town Hal Debrief and Next Steps

This agenda summary is about the future development of the Jacobs Campus site in Eureka. The City Council is considering different options, such as rezoning the site to allow for housing and commercial uses, or creating a new overlay zone. The community has expressed a desire for transparency and public involvement in planning for the site’s future. The City is also considering doing nothing for now due to uncertainty surrounding the site’s ownership and a potential ballot initiative. Public input will be sought before any decisions are made.

— LoCOBot

… or, as a sea shanty!

(Chorus)
Oh come gather ‘round, Eureka’s town,
Where the Jacobs site lays bare,
We’ll talk of land and future plans,
And the community’s voice to share.

(Verse 1)
‘Twas on the sixth of February,
The council did decree,
To review the Jacobs Campus,
And find a path they’d see.

(Chorus)
Oh come gather ‘round, Eureka’s town,
Where the Jacobs site lays bare,
We’ll talk of land and future plans,
And the community’s voice to share.

(Verse 2)
Director Cristin Kenyon,
Presented their report,
With recommendations clear,
To guide the City’s port.

(Chorus)
Oh come gather ‘round, Eureka’s town,
Where the Jacobs site lays bare,
We’ll talk of land and future plans,
And the community’s voice to share.

(Verse 3)
From the General Plan they drew,
Goals and vision in sight,
To engage the community,
And make their voices bright.

(Chorus)
Oh come gather ‘round, Eureka’s town,
Where the Jacobs site lays bare,
We’ll talk of land and future plans,
And the community’s voice to share.

(Verse 4)
The Jacobs Campus, once a school,
Now ripe for new design,
The District seeks to sell the land,
To a developer in kind.

(Chorus)
Oh come gather ‘round, Eureka’s town,
Where the Jacobs site lays bare,
We’ll talk of land and future plans,
And the community’s voice to share.

(Verse 5)
At the town hall meeting held,
The community did speak,
Of housing and commercial use,
And paths for all to seek.

(Chorus)
Oh come gather ‘round, Eureka’s town,
Where the Jacobs site lays bare,
We’ll talk of land and future plans,
And the community’s voice to share.

(Verse 6)
Three options for the City’s next steps,
To rezone or overlay,
Or to wait and see what fate may bring,
In the light of a new day.

(Chorus)
Oh come gather ‘round, Eureka’s town,
Where the Jacobs site lays bare,
We’ll talk of land and future plans,
And the community’s voice to share.

(Outro)
So come all ye residents,
And lend your voices strong,
For the future of the Jacobs site,
In Eureka shall belong.

— LoCOBot

DOCUMENTS:

Staff Report


3. Eureka Cultural Arts District Memorandum of Understanding

The Eureka City Council is being asked to approve and sign a Memorandum of Understanding for the Eureka Cultural Arts District. This district was designated by the California Arts Council in 2017 and has received funding for a five-year period. The MOU will establish guidelines for collaboration between the City of Eureka, the Ink People, Eureka Main Street, and the Wiyot Tribe. It has already been approved by the Eureka Arts and Culture Commission and is supported by the other members of the district.

— LoCOBot

… or, as a nursery rhyme!

In the city of Eureka, by the sea so blue,
The council met to discuss what’s new.
A cultural arts district, they did agree,
To bring more creativity for all to see.

Autumn E. Luna and Swan Asbury too,
Prepared a recommendation for the crew.
Review and approve, the MOU they say,
To support the arts in a big, bold way.

No fiscal impact, included in budget,
The council agreed, no need to fudge it.
Eureka Cultural Arts District, a gem so rare,
With the Ink People, Wiyot Tribe, and Main Street to share.

California Arts Council gave their decree,
ECAD is one of the places to be.
The MOU was approved by the commission,
To enhance the arts is their mission.

City Attorney and Manager gave their nod,
To support the arts, oh so broad.
So let’s all join in, let’s cheer and applaud,
For the Eureka Cultural Arts District, we are all awed.

— LoCOBot

DOCUMENTS:

Staff ReportECAD MOU Final


4. Housing Element Annual Progress Report

The Eureka City Council is receiving a report on the progress of their housing plans. They are required by state law to update their housing plan every eight years and report on their progress annually. They have been allocated a goal of constructing 952 new housing units by 2028, divided into different income levels. The report discusses the progress made towards meeting this goal, including building permits issued for new housing units. The City also has implementation programs in place to make sites available for affordable housing. One specific program involves selling or leasing city-owned properties for affordable housing development. The report also includes a summary of progress made on these programs in 2023.

— LoCOBot

… or, as a movie trailer!

Get ready for the most informative and eye-opening movie of the year!

In a city where housing is a critical issue, the Eureka City Council is faced with their annual progress report on the Housing Element. With the pressure on to accommodate a Regional Housing Needs Allocation of 952 units by 2028, the Council must come up with a plan to meet the needs of all income levels in the community.

Join Development Services Director, Cristin Kenyon, as she presents the Council with the latest updates on housing development in the city. With changes to implementation programs and new affordable housing projects on the horizon, the Council must make tough decisions to ensure the needs of all residents are met.

Will the Council be able to meet the requirements set forth by the state law? Will they be able to come together and find solutions to the housing crisis in Eureka?

Find out in “Housing Element Annual Progress Report” - coming soon to a city council meeting near you!

— LoCOBot

DOCUMENTS:

Staff ReportAttachment 1 2023 Housing Element APR


5. General Plan Annual Progress Report

The Eureka City Council is reviewing the progress made in implementing the city’s 2040 General Plan. The report, prepared by Senior Planner Caitlin Castellano, outlines key accomplishments in meeting the city’s goals. The council is asked to receive the report and there is no fiscal impact. The report must be submitted to state authorities by April 1st.

In simpler terms, the city council is looking at how well they are doing at following their long-term plan for the city and must report on their progress to state authorities.

— LoCOBot

… or, as a romance story!

As Senior Planner for the Development Services - Planning Department in Eureka City, Caitlin Castellano was accustomed to presenting reports to the City Council. She was diligent, detail-oriented, and passionate about urban planning. But when she was tasked with preparing the 2040 General Plan Annual Progress Report, little did she know that this report would change her life in ways she never imagined.

As Caitlin stood before the City Council, presenting the progress report that highlighted the accomplishments in implementing the city’s 2040 General Plan, she couldn’t help but feel a sense of pride. The Big Unifying Goal of Eureka City was to become a historic city embracing the future while honoring its natural ancestral heritage. It was a vision that Caitlin believed in wholeheartedly, and she was dedicated to making it a reality.

But as she spoke about the city’s goals of safety, inclusivity, sustainability, and innovation, her gaze met with a pair of intense blue eyes in the audience. The man sitting in the front row was impeccably dressed, with a confident demeanor that caught Caitlin off guard. She stumbled over her words, momentarily losing her train of thought.

The man, whose name was Luke Reynolds, was a successful architect who had been hired to work on a new development project in Eureka City. He had attended the City Council meeting to learn more about the city’s plans for the future. But as he listened to Caitlin speak, he found himself captivated by her passion and intelligence.

After the meeting, Luke approached Caitlin and struck up a conversation. They talked about urban planning, architecture, and their shared love for Eureka City. As they walked through the streets of the historic downtown area, their connection deepened. Caitlin was drawn to Luke’s creativity and vision, while Luke was enchanted by Caitlin’s dedication and spirit.

As they worked together on the development project, Caitlin and Luke found themselves falling for each other. Their romance blossomed amidst the backdrop of the city they both loved, with its historic charm and vibrant community. They shared late nights at the office, brainstorming ideas and dreaming of a future where they could make a difference together.

But their relationship was not without its challenges. As they navigated the complexities of city planning and development, they faced opposition from those who were resistant to change. And when Caitlin’s ex-boyfriend, a rival planner, resurfaced and tried to sabotage their project, their love was put to the test.

But Caitlin and Luke refused to give up. They fought against all odds to make their dreams a reality, standing side by side as they proved that love and passion could conquer any obstacle. And as they stood before the City Council once again, presenting their final plans for the new development, they knew that their love story was just beginning.

The 2040 General Plan Annual Progress Report may have been the reason they met, but it was their love for each other and for Eureka City that would be their lasting legacy. And as they walked hand in hand through the streets of their beloved city, they knew that their future together was as bright and beautiful as the sunrise over the Pacific Ocean.

— LoCOBot

DOCUMENTS:

Staff ReportAttachment 1 - 2040 General Plan Annual Progress Report


J. FUTURE AGENDA ITEMS

K. CITY MANAGER REPORTS

1. Update on Neighborhood Naming Effort


L. PUBLIC COMMENT CONTINUED

M. COUNCIL REPORTS / CITY-RELATED TRAVEL REPORTS


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