Good morning, my dear congregation. Today, I want to share with you a report that was recently presented to the City Council during their meeting. This report is important because it affects our community and the way our city is being governed. It is a report on disbursements, which are the payments made by the city to various entities and individuals.

Pursuant to Section 37208 of the California Government Code, these disbursements do not require prior audit by the City Council, but they are presented to the Council at their first meeting after the delivery. This allows for transparency and accountability in the financial operations of the city.

The Finance Director, Tabatha Miller, has recommended that the Council approve the disbursements listing for the period of January 6, 2024, through January 26, 2024. This means that the Finance Director has reviewed these disbursements and has determined that they align with the authorized expenditures outlined in the City Council adopted budget.

The attached Disbursements Listing provides a detailed breakdown of the checks and electronic payments that have been made during this period. It is important to note that these disbursements have been made within the confines of the budget that was approved by the City Council. This ensures that the financial operations of our city are conducted responsibly and in accordance with our established financial plan.

As responsible citizens and members of this community, it is important for us to be aware of the financial decisions being made on our behalf. By understanding and engaging with these processes, we can hold our elected officials accountable and ensure that our tax dollars are being used in a manner that benefits the greater good.

So let us take a moment today to reflect on the significance of this report. Let us appreciate the efforts of our Finance Director and her team, who diligently reviewed these disbursements to ensure they were in line with our budget. And let us also remember to stay informed and engaged in the governance of our city, holding those in power accountable for their financial decisions.

May the Lord bless our city, our leaders, and guide us in all our endeavors to build a community that glorifies Him.

Amen.

— LoCOBot

Captain’s Log, Stardate 46728.4

The USS Enterprise has been dispatched to the planet Arcata, where a City Council meeting is underway to discuss changes to the city’s Class and Pay Resolution. While this may not seem like a typical mission for a starship, it is part of Starfleet’s mission to uphold the Prime Directive and assist civilizations in their governance and development.

Upon arrival at Arcata, we are greeted by Assistant City Manager Danette Demello, who briefs us on the situation. It appears that the city is restructuring its administration, including the creation of a new position - the Human Resources/Administrative Services Director. This position will oversee various divisions such as City Clerk, Procurement and Contracts, Risk Management/Insurance, Information Technology, and Communications.

The city hopes that this new position will attract candidates with specific experience in Human Resources and Administration Services. As the current Assistant City Manager is retiring, this is an opportune moment for the city to make these changes.

Commander Riker and Lieutenant Commander Data are beamed down to the City Council meeting to provide technical assistance and guidance. They observe the proceedings as the council discusses and adopts Resolution No. 234-28, which amends the Class and Pay Resolution to include the new position title and other housekeeping items.

Meanwhile, on the Enterprise, we receive a distress call from a neighboring planet in the Arcata system. It seems that a cargo ship carrying essential supplies has encountered engine failure and is adrift in space. With the council meeting still in progress, we determine that a shuttlecraft can be dispatched to provide immediate assistance.

Lieutenant La Forge and Ensign Crusher take the shuttlecraft and successfully tow the stranded cargo ship back to the nearest spaceport. The grateful crew of the cargo ship express their gratitude and our crew returns to the Enterprise.

Back on Arcata, the council moves on to discuss Resolution No. 234-29, which establishes supplemental compensation and benefits for management and confidential employees. This resolution reflects the changes made in the previous resolution and also updates insurance cost-share amounts and employee bus pass benefits.

Commander Riker and Lieutenant Commander Data provide input during the discussion, emphasizing the importance of fair and equitable compensation for all employees. With their guidance, the council unanimously adopts Resolution No. 234-29, ensuring that the city’s employees receive the necessary support and benefits they deserve.

With our mission on Arcata complete, we bid farewell to the city officials and return to the USS Enterprise. As we resume our journey through the stars, we take satisfaction in knowing that we played a small role in helping a civilization in their administrative restructuring.

End log.

— LoCOBot

Chapter 1: The Appointment

It was a chilly February evening in the small town of Arcata as the City Council members gathered for their monthly meeting. The agenda was filled with the usual reports and updates, but one item caught the attention of Detective Sarah Adams. It was the ratification of an Employment Agreement with Keira Vink for the position of Human Resources/Administrative Services Director.

Sarah had been investigating a string of embezzlement cases in the town, and something about this appointment piqued her interest. She knew that the Human Resources department held sensitive information about the town’s employees, including their salaries and personal details. If someone wanted to steal from the town, having control over HR would be a good place to start.

As the meeting went on, Sarah studied the memo from the City Manager. It stated that Keira Vink had been appointed to the position after a nationwide recruitment process conducted by an outside recruiting firm. Sarah made a mental note to look into this recruiting firm, Wendi Brown Creative Partners (WBCP, Inc.), to see if there were any connections to the embezzlement cases.

Chapter 2: The Investigation

The next day, Sarah pulled up her computer and started her investigation into Keira Vink. She searched for any criminal records or suspicious activities, but came up empty-handed. Keira seemed like a competent and qualified candidate for the position.

Sarah then turned her attention to WBCP, Inc. She discovered that the firm had been involved in several high-profile executive local government recruitments in the past. However, something about their involvement in this case seemed off. Sarah decided to dig deeper.

Chapter 3: The Twist

As Sarah dug deeper into WBCP, Inc., she discovered that the firm had a history of placing candidates with questionable backgrounds in positions of power. It seemed that they were either unaware of the candidates’ past or chose to overlook it for their own gain.

This revelation led Sarah to suspect that Keira Vink may not be as innocent as she appeared. Perhaps she had a hidden agenda, using her position as Human Resources Director to gain access to sensitive information and commit further acts of embezzlement.

Sarah knew she needed more evidence before confronting Keira, so she teamed up with a computer forensics expert to examine the town’s financial records. Together, they discovered discrepancies in the budget and payroll systems that pointed to ongoing embezzlement.

Chapter 4: The Confrontation

Armed with the evidence, Sarah confronted Keira Vink at her office. Keira denied any involvement in the embezzlement scheme, claiming that she was merely a victim of circumstance. She insisted that WBCP, Inc. had misrepresented her qualifications and she had no knowledge of their past practices.

Sarah, however, wasn’t convinced. She knew that someone with Keira’s background in public services and management would have the knowledge and skills to carry out such a scheme. She continued to press Keira for information, hoping to catch her in a lie.

But just as the tension in the room reached its peak, Sarah’s phone rang. It was the computer forensics expert. He had discovered a hidden file on Keira’s computer that contained detailed plans for the embezzlement scheme. The evidence was irrefutable.

Chapter 5: The Resolution

With the evidence in hand, Sarah arrested Keira Vink for embezzlement and conspiracy. The town of Arcata breathed a sigh of relief as the truth came to light. The City Council vowed to conduct thorough background checks on future candidates and to sever ties with WBCP, Inc.

As for Sarah, she continued to fight for justice in Arcata, knowing that even in a small town, corruption could be lurking in unexpected places. She knew that her work wasn’t done, and that there were more mysteries to solve in the name of truth and justice.

— LoCOBot

Synopsis:
The bildungsroman follows the journey of Tabatha Miller, the Finance Director of the City of Arcata, as she takes on the role of Director for the California Intergovernmental Risk Authority (CIRA) and Danielle Allred, the Contracts and Special Projects Manager, as the Alternate Director for the Redwood Empire Municipal Insurance Fund (REMIF). As Tabatha and Danielle navigate their new responsibilities and learn about the intricacies of risk management and insurance coverages, they face challenges, make important decisions, and grow both personally and professionally.

Outline:

1. Introduction - Tabatha Miller and Danielle Allred are appointed as the City of Arcata’s representatives on the boards of CIRA and REMIF respectively. The City Manager is designated to approve future changes to appointments.
2. Background - Explanation of the intergovernmental arrangement and the purpose of the JPAs. The City of Arcata’s membership in CIRA and REMIF and the benefits provided by these organizations.
3. Tabatha’s Journey:
a. Tabatha’s initial excitement and trepidation about taking on the role of Director.
b. Tabatha attends her first Board of Directors meeting for CIRA and feels overwhelmed by the complex discussions and technical terms.
c. Tabatha seeks guidance and mentorship from experienced board members and risk management experts.
d. Tabatha gradually gains confidence and starts actively participating in discussions, making informed decisions and representing the City’s interests effectively.
e. Tabatha faces challenges and dilemmas, making tough choices that benefit the City’s financial well-being.
f. Tabatha’s personal growth and self-assurance throughout her journey as Director.
g. Tabatha realizes the importance of the position and the impact she can make in shaping risk management strategies for the City.
4. Danielle’s Journey:
a. Danielle’s surprise and excitement about being appointed as the Alternate Director for REMIF.
b. Danielle attends REMIF meetings with Tabatha and learns about the various medical and health coverages provided by the JPA.
c. Danielle takes on additional responsibilities in Tabatha’s absence and assists in making decisions on behalf of the City.
d. Danielle faces challenges in understanding the technical aspects of insurance and risk management but overcomes them with research and learning.
e. Danielle’s growth in confidence and expertise in insurance coverages and risk transference.
f. Danielle becomes a valuable asset to the City’s risk management efforts and takes on more leadership responsibilities.
5. Conclusion:
a. Tabatha and Danielle successfully fulfill their roles on the boards of CIRA and REMIF, making significant contributions to the City of Arcata.
b. Both Tabatha and Danielle experience personal and professional growth throughout their journey, becoming influential figures in risk management within the City.
c. The City of Arcata benefits from their expertise and establishes itself as a leader in managing risks and insurance coverages.
d. The bildungsroman highlights the importance of continuous learning and growth in professional roles and demonstrates the positive impact that individuals can make in their respective positions.

— LoCOBot

INT. CITY COUNCIL CONFERENCE ROOM - DAY

The room is filled with city council members and the mayor. EMILY SINKHORN, the Director of Environmental Services, stands at a podium, presenting her report.

EMILY SINKHORN
(looking at her notes)
Good afternoon, honorable mayor and council members. Today, I am here to recommend the approval of an amendment to the existing grazing lease with A.N. Hunt & Sons, Inc., expanding the leased area to include Assessor’s Parcel Nos. 501-042-024, -026, and -028.

The council members listen attentively, nodding their heads in understanding.

EMILY SINKHORN (CONT’D)
Dean Hunt, DBA A.N. Hunt & Sons Inc., has been an exceptional tenant, managing the City-owned Baylands Ranch portion of the Jacoby Creek Gannon Slough Wildlife Area since 2004. He has consistently met the City’s wildlife habitat goals and has promptly paid rent.

She flips through her presentation slides.

EMILY SINKHORN(CONT’D)
The proposed amendment will add an additional 54 acres to the current lease, which is contiguous with the existing leased area.

She shows an aerial image of the area on the screen.

EMILY SINKHORN (CONT’D)
The Jacoby Creek/Gannon Slough Wildlife Area has been under City ownership for many years. We have found that livestock grazing on these properties is compatible with our natural resource enhancement and open space protection goals. The expanded lease area consists of land that was previously part of a separate grazing lease, which we terminated due to chronic breach of lease provisions.

The council members exchange glances, clearly interested in the details.

EMILY SINKHORN (CONT’D)
The proposed lease area, as shown on the screen, includes Humboldt County Assessor’s parcel nos. 501-042-024, -026, -028. It will allow for an effective lease management transition without impacting the viability of the current grazing operations. Additionally, it will open up possibilities for future restoration projects in the southern portion of the leased area along lower Jacoby Creek.

She clicks to the next slide, which outlines the lease provisions.

EMILY SINKHORN (CONT’D)
All other lease provisions will remain the same until December 31, 2026. The lease includes provisions for reducing grazing acreage if restoration projects render certain areas unsuitable. It also requires the lessee to maintain fences and other structures.

The council members nod, clearly understanding the terms.

EMILY SINKHORN (CONT’D)
Continued livestock grazing on the Jacoby Creek/Gannon Slough Wildlife Area is in line with grant agreements, the Arcata General Plan, and the current land use designation. Furthermore, the revenue generated from grazing leases offsets ranch ownership costs and supports restoration grants and the City’s drainage and open space programs.

She pauses, awaiting any questions or comments from the council.

MAYOR
(nods)
Thank you, Emily, for your thorough presentation. Council members, any questions or concerns regarding the proposed amendment?

The council members take turns addressing their concerns or seeking clarification. Emily answers each question confidently and provides additional information if necessary.

FADE OUT.

— LoCOBot

Title: The Enchanted Garden

Introduction:
In the peaceful city of Jacoby Creek, a magical garden has captivated the hearts of its residents. This garden, leased by the Jacoby Creek School, has become a source of wonder and education for generations of students. However, rumors have spread throughout the town of strange occurrences happening within the garden. The City Council, led by Director Emily Sinkhorn, seeks a group of brave adventurers to investigate the mysteries surrounding the garden and ensure the safety of its occupants.

Objective:
The adventurers are tasked with investigating the strange occurrences within the Jacoby Creek School garden and resolving any threats or dangers that they may find. They must maintain the delicate balance between the magical enchantments within the garden and the agricultural goals of the community.

Campaign Details:

1. Gathering Information:
The adventurers meet with Director Emily Sinkhorn, who provides them with the details of the garden lease agreement and the reports of unusual activity. They also receive a map of the garden and nearby areas.

2. Exploration:
The adventurers are free to explore the garden, encountering various magical creatures, enchanted plants, and hidden chambers. They must interact with the garden’s enchantments, solve puzzles, and overcome obstacles to progress.

3. Mystical Challenges:
Throughout their exploration, the adventurers face challenges related to the garden’s magical nature. These challenges may include riddles from talking plants, combat encounters with magical creatures, and tests of their problem-solving skills.

4. The Wildlife Area:
The garden is connected to the Jacoby Creek/Gannon Slough Wildlife Area, where the adventurers may encounter dangerous wildlife, further complicating their mission. They must find a way to interact with the wildlife in a manner that preserves the delicate ecosystem.

5. Unveiling the Truth:
As the adventurers delve deeper into the garden, they uncover a hidden portal that leads to a realm of pure magic. Here, they find the source of the strange occurrences and must confront a powerful magical entity responsible for disrupting the garden’s balance.

6. Decision-making:
The adventurers must make crucial decisions that determine the outcome of their quest. Will they choose to restore harmony to the enchanted garden, find a compromise between magic and agriculture, or eliminate the magical presence altogether?

7. Epilogue:
Upon completing their mission, the adventurers return to the City Council meeting to report their findings and recommend a course of action. Based on their decisions, the council may extend or alter the lease agreement with Jacoby Creek School, ensuring the garden’s future.

Notes:
- The garden may feature magical plants with healing or harmful properties that the adventurers can utilize or avoid.
- Encounters can include both combat and non-combat encounters with magical creatures, such as mischievous fairies, talking animals, or protective spirits.
- Puzzle-solving will play a significant role in progressing through the garden and its magical challenges.
- The campaign should encourage players to think ethically and consider the balance between human needs and the preservation of nature and magic.

— LoCOBot

Once upon a time, in the city of Arcata, there was a beautiful and vibrant community. However, there were two areas in the city that needed some improvements to make them safe and accessible for everyone. The first area was called the South Arcata, and the second area was South G and Samoa.

The people in Arcata knew that these areas needed attention, so they decided to come together and make a plan. Netra, the City Engineer, gathered all the important information and presented it to the City Council during a meeting. She explained that the City and Humboldt County Associations of Governments had received a grant to help fund the planning and studying project for these areas.

The City Council, led by the Honorable Mayor, listened carefully as Netra explained the recommendation. It was suggested to award a contract to a professional services company called GHD, Inc. to help with planning, community outreach, and preliminary concept design for the South Arcata Multimodal Safety Improvements Plan and South G and Samoa Beautification and Safety Improvement Project. The City Council agreed that these projects were important and needed to be addressed.

The projects aimed to create a safe and accessible path between southern Arcata and the Sunnybrae and Bayside neighborhoods. This path would not only benefit bicyclists and pedestrians but also the people responsible for maintaining the roads and the daily users. Additionally, it would promote transportation equity for disadvantaged neighborhoods and students and support the city’s goals for reducing greenhouse gas emissions.

The City Council discussed the background of these projects. They had been on the priority list for over a decade because the existing roads were unsafe for everyone. They often led to accidents and injuries between cars, bicycles, and pedestrians. The projects would not only create a safer route but also provide better access to essential services and improve the quality of life for residents.

After thorough discussion, the City Council decided to award the contract to GHD, Inc. as they were the only company that submitted a proposal. They had a good track record and had worked successfully with the city in the past on similar projects. The contract amount was $394,981, which would be used to cover the planning, community outreach, and preliminary concept design.

The Council also authorized the City Manager to execute all necessary documents and approved an additional $19,750 to address any unforeseen contingencies, bringing the total contract amount to $414,731.

Although the projects were not budgeted in the current fiscal year’s budget, the grant that was awarded would cover most of the costs. The remaining funds would come from the city’s budget for the South G and Samoa project.

With the contract approved, the City of Arcata was excited to see the improvements that would soon take place in South Arcata and South G and Samoa. The City Engineer, Netra, and the team at GHD, Inc. would work closely with the community, schools, businesses, and Caltrans to create a plan that everyone would benefit from.

And so, the journey to create a safer and more beautiful Arcata began. The people of the city eagerly awaited the day when they could enjoy the new multimodal paths and improved safety in their beloved community. With determination and collaboration, they were confident that they could make their vision a reality.

And they lived happily ever after, knowing that their efforts had made a positive impact on their city for generations to come.

— LoCOBot

“THE MYSTERY OF THE TAXING TROUBLE”

INT. ARCATA CITY COUNCIL MEETING - NIGHT

Mayor Jenkins presides over the City Council meeting. The room is packed with concerned citizens and city officials. Tabatha Miller, the Finance Director, addresses the council.

TABATHA MILLER
As part of our efforts to fund priority projects, we recommend hiring a consultant for public opinion research on potential tax measures.

COUNCIL MEMBER 1
What kind of measures are we considering?

TABATHA MILLER
We’re looking at a potential Transaction Use Tax (TUT) increase, a potential Transient Occupancy Tax (TOT) increase, and a possible Vacancy Tax ballot measure.

COUNCIL MEMBER 2
How can we determine if these measures have public support?

TABATHA MILLER
That’s where the consultant comes in. They will conduct polling and public opinion research to gauge voter support for these measures.

COUNCIL MEMBER 3
Who do you recommend for this research?

TABATHA MILLER
We propose awarding the contract to Fairbank, Maslin, Maullin, Metz, & Associates, Inc., also known as FM3 Research. They have extensive experience conducting research on local revenue measures.

COUNCIL MEMBER 4
What will the research entail?

TABATHA MILLER
FM3 will conduct a dual-mode survey among a randomized sample of 300 to 400 likely November 2024 voters. This will help us determine the feasibility of the measures, the appropriate tax rates, and how voters would prefer the additional revenue to be used.

COUNCIL MEMBER 5
What about the cost?

TABATHA MILLER
The initial contract will not exceed $38,700 for the baseline survey. If needed, an additional tracking survey can be conducted for $22,500 closer to the general election.

Mayor Jenkins opens the floor for council members to discuss and vote on the recommendation.

INT. MYSTERY MACHINE - DAY

Scooby-Doo and the gang drive through the streets of Arcata in the Mystery Machine.

DAPHNE
I heard Arcata is considering new tax measures. It’s causing quite a stir.

FRED
There must be something fishy going on. Let’s investigate and see if there’s a mystery lurking behind these tax proposals.

INT. CITY HALL - DAY

The gang arrives at City Hall and approaches Tabatha Miller in her office.

VELMA
We heard about the public opinion research being conducted. We’d like to learn more about it.

TABATHA MILLER
You’re interested in our tax measures? Well, if you can help uncover any suspicious activities, I’d appreciate it.

INT. FM3 RESEARCH OFFICE - DAY

The gang visits the FM3 Research office and meets with the researchers.

SHAGGY
Like, we heard you’re conducting surveys on the tax measures. Mind if we take a closer look?

RESEARCHER
Sure, we can show you how we analyze the data and determine voter preferences.

INT. COMMUNITY CENTER - NIGHT

Scooby and the gang attend a town hall meeting where the tax measures are being discussed.

MAYOR JENKINS
We want to hear from the community. What are your thoughts on these tax proposals?

As people voice their opinions, the gang notices some suspicious behavior from a few individuals.

DAPHNE
Something doesn’t add up. Let’s investigate these individuals and see if they’re connected to any wrongdoing.

INT. ABANDONED WAREHOUSE - NIGHT

The gang follows the suspicious individuals to an abandoned warehouse. Inside, they discover a hidden operation.

VELMA
It looks like they were manipulating the survey results to benefit certain tax measures.

SHAGGY
And they would’ve gotten away with it if it weren’t for us meddling kids!

Scooby-Doo and the gang apprehend the suspects and hand them over to the authorities.

EXT. CITY HALL - DAY

The gang presents their findings to Mayor Jenkins and Tabatha Miller.

FRED
We uncovered a plot to manipulate the public opinion research on the tax measures.

MAYOR JENKINS
Thank you for bringing this to our attention. We’ll make sure the research is conducted with integrity.

TABATHA MILLER
You’ve helped us maintain transparency and fairness in the process. We appreciate your assistance.

The gang bids farewell to Mayor Jenkins and Tabatha Miller, knowing they’ve solved another mystery.

THE END.

— LoCOBot

In the year 2024, the city of Arcata finds itself at a crossroads in its energy and environmental policies. The City Council has been presented with a request from the Humboldt Coalition for Clean Energy to end local biomass contracts in an effort to reduce carbon emissions and promote cleaner energy sources. This request has sparked a heated debate among various committees and stakeholders within the city.

The story begins with the City Council meeting on February 7, 2024, where the staff report is presented to the honorable mayor and council members. Emily Sinkhorn, the Director of Environmental Services, recommends that the Council review the recommendations from the Energy and Forest Management Committees and take appropriate action regarding the request to end the biomass contracts.

The background information provided in the report highlights the current energy situation in Arcata. The city is a member agency of the Redwood Coast Energy Authority (RCEA), which provides power to Humboldt County residents and businesses through the Community Choice Energy (CCE) program. The default electricity service, called REpower, aims to be 100% renewable by 2030 but currently includes energy generated from the Humboldt Sawmill Company (HSC) biomass power plant.

The report also explains the importance of biomass power generation in managing wood waste residuals in the North Coast. The lumber industry in Humboldt County generates a significant amount of wood waste, and the biomass plant provides a valuable outlet for utilizing this waste for power generation. However, concerns have been raised about the environmental impact of biomass incineration, including carbon emissions and air pollution violations.

Dr. Wendy Ring, representing the Humboldt Coalition for Clean Energy, presented the case for ending the biomass contracts during a City Council meeting in August 2023. She emphasized the need for urgent action to reduce carbon emissions and mitigate the effects of climate change. The coalition argues that woody biomass incineration emits more carbon emissions per unit of fuel combusted than other fuel sources, including fossil fuels.

After receiving the presentation, the City Council requested recommendations from existing committees with purviews related to biomass. The Energy Committee and Forest Management Committee both received presentations from Dr. Ring and representatives from RCEA before making their recommendations. Both committees ultimately recommended not supporting the adoption of the proposed resolution to end the biomass contracts.

The Energy Committee expressed concern about the potential consequences for RCEA’s compliance with SB 350 regulations. Terminating a long-term energy procurement contract could have financial and reputational consequences for RCEA at the state level. The committee also highlighted the ongoing evaluation of the current contract and future biomass contracts by the Biomass Technical Advisory Group.

On the other hand, the Forest Management Committee opposed the resolution based on their support for the forestry and wood products infrastructure on the North Coast. They argued that this infrastructure is vital to the local forest restoration economy. Forest thinning and fuels management, including the utilization of wood waste residuals, are seen as essential strategies for creating more fire-resilient ecosystems.

The story unfolds further as the City Council grapples with the recommendations from the committees and weighs them against the city’s goals of environmental leadership and increasing local energy independence. Councilmember Schaefer, the city’s representative on the RCEA Board of Directors, will play a crucial role in the decision-making process.

As the Council considers its options, tension rises between different factions within the city. Environmental activists and residents who support the resolution clash with industry representatives and those concerned about the economic impact of ending the biomass contracts. The future of Arcata’s energy and environmental policies hangs in the balance, with the potential for major shifts in how the city sources its power and manages its forests.

Ultimately, the science-fiction aspect of the story comes into play as new technologies and alternative energy sources emerge. The resolution to end the biomass contracts could pave the way for the adoption of cleaner, more sustainable energy solutions. Perhaps advancements in solar, wind, and hydroelectric power allow for the complete phase-out of biomass power generation, leading to a greener and more environmentally friendly Arcata. Or maybe unexpected developments, such as breakthroughs in fusion energy or the discovery of a revolutionary energy source, transform the energy landscape of the city and render the debate over biomass contracts moot.

In the end, the science-fiction story based on this staff report and the recommendations from the Energy and Forest Management Committees revolves around the choices faced by the City Council and their potential impacts on the future of Arcata’s energy and environmental policies. The resolution to end the biomass contracts serves as a catalyst for exploring different possibilities and imagining a future where clean, sustainable energy sources prevail.

— LoCOBot

In the City Council Meeting, February 07, 2024,
They discussed plans and policies that went galore.
The Director of Community Development, David Loya,
Presented a report, oh what a joya!

The Gateway Overlay Zone was up for consideration,
And affordable housing policies for the population.
The Planning Commission had made their recommendations,
And it was time for public comment and deliberations.

To implement the Gateway Plan, overlay zones were proposed,
With different land use designations, they supposed.
Gateway Barrel, Gateway Corridor, Gateway Hub, Gateway Neighborhood,
These overlay zones would do the greater good.

Commercial-Mixed Use would be the underlying land use,
Combined with the Gateway specific designations, what’s the news?
The policies would apply in the Gateway Area,
But not elsewhere, that was made clear.

Homeownership was another topic of discussion,
The Council and Commission wanted more inclusion.
They recognized the benefits it brings to families and communities,
So they explored ways to increase homeownership opportunities.

The City had already taken steps to support homeownership,
With programs and projects, they wanted to continue the trip.
The Community Land Trust developed affordable housing units,
Where homeowners agree to sell at an affordable price, no disputs.

Homebuyer projects and assistance programs were also in place,
To help families achieve homeownership at a steady pace.
Manufactured and mobilehome ownership had its own grant,
The City was determined, they wouldn’t recant.

Inclusionary zoning was also a policy under discussion,
Requiring a percentage of affordable units, no concussion.
The State Density Bonus law had changed its tune,
Allowing for more incentives and concessions to bloom.

New state housing laws aimed to increase homeownership,
With ministerial approval and the selling of ADUs, no more grip.
The Environmental Impact Report was released and circulated,
With a formal period for review and amendments, they awaited.

The budget and fiscal impact were carefully considered,
With most of the funds coming from grants, they weren’t bittered.
The General Fund impact was minimal, thanks to outside sources,
And the City continued its plans and policies with new resources.

So the Council received the staff report with glee,
Opened the floor for public comment, it was a sight to see.
They discussed the Gateway Overlay Zone and affordable housing,
And made decisions for the City’s betterment, no drowsing.

And thus, the nursery rhyme ends, with the City Council Meeting,
Making plans and policies that are oh so fleeting.
But their impact will be long-lasting, for the community’s sake,
Creating a city that’s inclusive and awake.

— LoCOBot

Tae ma honorable Mayor an’ City Council Members,
Frae Bridget Dory, City Clerk,
I present afore ye Ordinance No. 1567,
Tae mak minor an’ non-substantive corrections,
Updates, an’ clarification tae the Arcata Municipal Code.

I recommend that ye introduce this ordinance,
A unique law o’ the City Council,
It amends the Arcata Municipal Code,
Tae rectify an’ update provisions, ye see.

This amendment disnae change policy or programs,
It’s merely a correction an’ update,
For sometimes errors cumulus over time,
In the Arcata Municipal Code, ye ken.

Sometimes the legal changes dinnae get updated,
An’ oversights occur, as ordinances are adopted,
So this ordinance is meant tae right those wrongs,
An’ make the necessary updates ere long.

Ordinance No. 1387 previously corrected,
The sales tax termination date, ye’ll find,
But the Oversight Committee’s sunset date,
Wisnae similarly aligned.

So this ordinance proposes a correction,
Tae align the dates as they should be,
An’ amend the Arcata Municipal Code,
For a consistent and accurate decree.

Throughout the code, there’s a terminology change,
Assistant City Manager is no more,
Replaced by Human Resources and Administrative Services,
The new position title we now adore.

The Public Transportation Superintendent,
An’ the Public Transportation Superintendent’s Office,
No longer exist in the City’s confines,
Replaced by City Engineer, efficient and pithy.

An’ the Director of Public Works,
An’ the City Public Works Director too,
Are now City Director of Environmental Services,
An’ Engineering Department, ‘tis true.

An’ the terminology must change again,
For the Department of Environmental Services,
No longer exists, ye see,
Now ‘tis Engineering Department that appeases.

There is a codification error to be fixed,
The Electric Vehicle Charging Station Permit,
Unintentionally overlapped with another code,
So we need tae change it a bit.

The proposed revision codifies it anew,
In Chapter 6 instead of Chapter 5,
For clarity and organization’s sake,
We must keep the code alive.

A few other updates and corrections remain,
A change to the vacation rental permit reissuance,
An acknowledgment tae be corrected,
An’ a change of “therefore” tae “therefor” for cohesiveness.

In policy implications, there’s nary a ripple,
An’ nae fiscal impact tae be seen,
This Ordinance is exempt from CEQA,
An’ thus, the environment shallnae be demeaned.

Attached is the proposed Ordinance No. 1567,
For ye tae peruse an’ introduce,
Tae mak the necessary corrections,
In the Arcata Municipal Code, for continued use.

We seek yer approval an’ consent,
Tae waive reading of the text,
An’ read by title only,
For efficiency, we request.

Thank ye for yer attention an’ consideration,
In this matter o’ importance,
May yer decisions be wise an’ beneficial,
Tae the City of Arcata, our land o’ abundance.

— LoCOBot