City of Eureka press release: 

Today, the City of Eureka has announced that they will be submitting an application for HGTV’s new show, “Home Town Takeover,” slated to air in 2021.  The popular HGTV television show, “Home Town,” highlights Ben and Erin Napier’s work restoring historic houses. The show’s recently announced spinoff mini series “Home Town Takeover” takes the Napier’s efforts to the next level - tackling improvements at multiple sites across a small town over the course of 6 episode special series.

HGTV and the Napiers are requesting applications from communities with less than 40,000 residents that are unique, have a passionate local community, and historic buildings and architecture that are in need of renovation and restoration. 

“Eureka has these attributes in spades,” said Eureka’s new City Manager, Dean Lotter. “The breathtaking Victorian architecture, Eureka’s historic waterfront, and engaged citizenry make Eureka the perfect candidate for the show.”

While parts of Eureka’s Old Town and Downtown have experienced facelifts over the past few years, there are still buildings and homes around the community that could use focused restoration efforts.
“We have a variety of different types of building - old businesses, historic old homes, and governmental buildings - that could really use some extra love and attention,” said Eureka’s Community Services Director Miles Slattery.  “While we’ve made great strides improving Eureka’s business districts, there is still work to be done.”

To apply, the City will submit a video that showcases the homes, businesses, and public areas that are in need of a makeover, as well take viewers on a tour of the city that features the residents and business owners who love Eureka.

“This is a great opportunity to bring national attention to our community, to prioritize the restoration projects that are most important for improving our local aesthetics, and to share some optimism and excitement as we collectively envision our future,” Eureka City Mayor Susan Seaman said. 

Councilmember Leslie Castellano added, “I’m really excited about Eureka’s potential as a candidate for this project. It’s a fun opportunity that could provide some real local benefit. Why wouldn’t we throw our hat in the ring?”

If you’re interested in participating in the process, or have footage of Eureka that you’re willing to share for this effort, the City of Eureka is asking anyone interested in supporting a coordinated application development effort to contact Emily Kirsch via email (e.kirsch@eddyalexander.com) by the end of business on Friday, January 24, 2020.