LoCOBot / @ noon / Agendizer

Arcata City Council
April 3, 2024, 6 p.m.

1. LAND ACKNOWLEDGMENT

2. FLAG SALUTE

3. ROLL CALL

A. Roll Call


4. CEREMONIAL MATTERS

A. Proclamation in Recognition of the 2024 Godwit Days Spring Migration Bird Festival, April 18–21, 2024.


B. Proclamation in Recognition of the Week of the Young Child, April 6–12, 2024.


C. Proclamation in Recognition of Sexual Assault Awareness Month, April 2024.


5. REPORT BY COMMISSION/COMMITTEE

A. Annual Report from the Wetlands and Creeks Committee.


6. EARLY ORAL COMMUNICATIONS

7. N/A

8. CONSENT CALENDAR

A. Minutes of Mar 20, 2024 6:00 PM


B. 4387 : Bi-Weekly Report on Disbursements.

The Finance Director is recommending that the City Council approve the disbursements listing for the period of March 9, 2024, through March 22, 2024. This report includes a list of checks and electronic payments that have been made within the approved budget. The City Council does not need to audit these payments prior to approval, but they will be presented at the next meeting.

— LoCOBot

… or, as Schoolhouse Rock!

(Verse 1)
Listen up, City Council, it’s time to take a look
At the disbursements listing in Tabatha’s book
Finance Director Miller, she’s got it all prepared
With manager Matthew, they’re a dynamic pair

(Chorus)
Bi-weekly report, approve those disbursements
Checks and payments, all tied up in agreements
Conforming to the budget, it’s all in the plan
Presented to the Council, they’ll give it a hand

(Verse 2)
California Government Code, Section 37208
Says checks can be paid without the Council’s debate
But they’ll still review it at their very next meet
To make sure the budget’s looking nice and neat

(Chorus)
Bi-weekly report, approve those disbursements
Checks and payments, all tied up in agreements
Conforming to the budget, it’s all in the plan
Presented to the Council, they’ll give it a hand

(Bridge)
The Finance Director, she’s got it under control
With Matthew by her side, they’re on a roll
The Council will look it over, make sure it’s all right
Keeping the budget in check, they’ll sleep well at night

(Chorus)
Bi-weekly report, approve those disbursements
Checks and payments, all tied up in agreements
Conforming to the budget, it’s all in the plan
Presented to the Council, they’ll give it a hand

(Outro)
So let’s give a cheer for the finance team
Keeping our city’s budget a well-oiled machine
Approved disbursements, we’re on the right track
Thanks to Tabatha and Matthew, we’ve got our back!

— LoCOBot

DOCUMENTS:

Staff ReportA. Cash disburse March 9, 2024 through March 22, 2024


C. 4388 : Schedule a Public Hearing on Wednesday, April 17, 2024, at 6:00 p.m., or As Soon Thereafter As Possible for the Matter to Be Heard, for Consideration of Adoption of a Resolution Updating the City of Arcata Fiscal Year (FY) 2024-25 Master Fee Schedule and Direct Staff to Post and Publish the Public Notice in Accordance with California Government Code Sections 66016 and 6062a.

The finance director is recommending that the city council schedule a public hearing on April 17, 2024 to consider updating the city’s fee schedule. This is required by state law to ensure that fees for city services cover the costs. The fees for services are not taxes, but payment for individual benefits. Changes in fees must only cover the cost of providing the service. The council is also advised to adopt the fee changes effective July 1, 2024. There is no immediate financial impact from scheduling the public hearing. The environmental review is not required for setting the public hearing on the fee updates.

— LoCOBot

… or, as a Twitter thread!

🚨 ATTENTION CITY OF ARCATA RESIDENTS 🚨

πŸ“† Mark your calendars! A public hearing has been scheduled for April 17, 2024, at 6:00 p.m. to consider updates to the City’s Master Fee Schedule. This is your chance to have a say in the fees for city services. #CityCouncilMeeting

πŸ’Ό The proposed changes aim to ensure fees are sufficient to cover the cost of providing services. State law requires changes to be presented at a public hearing, so your input is crucial. Make your voice heard! #GetInvolved

πŸ›οΈ If adopted, the new fee schedule will go into effect on July 1, 2024, coinciding with the start of the new fiscal year. Attend the public hearing to learn more about how these changes may impact you and your community. #StayInformed

🌳 Environmental review for the fee schedule is exempt from CEQA, as it’s aimed at meeting the operating expenses of city departments. Financial impacts will be discussed in the staff report accompanying the public hearing. #Transparency

🌟 Thank you for your attention and participation in this important process. Your feedback and engagement are vital to shaping the future of our community. Let’s work together to keep Arcata thriving! #CommunityEngagement #CityOfArcata

— LoCOBot

DOCUMENTS:

Staff ReportA. Public Notice Fee Resolution


D. 4390 : Adopt Resolution No. 234-41 Accepting the Expansion of a Public Utility Easement from Green Diamond Resources Company on a Portion of Assessor’s Parcel No. 507-041-001 for Water Storage Tank 1-C; and Authorize the City Manager to Execute All Applicable Documents.

The city council is recommending accepting an expansion of a public utility easement for a water storage tank project. The tank is a capital improvement project that will benefit the city by providing additional water storage for emergencies. The expansion of the easement is necessary due to new state regulations and will involve removing some small redwood trees. The project is consistent with city goals and the general plan. Funding for the project is available in the budget.

— LoCOBot

… or, as a fantasy story!

In the city of Arcata, nestled among the redwoods, a fantastical tale was unfolding. The City Council had been presented with a proposal to expand a public utility easement from Green Diamond Resources Company for the construction of water storage tank 1-C. Little did they know, this expansion would unlock a world of magic and wonder.

As construction on the water tank continued, a mysterious energy began to emanate from the site. The workers reported strange occurrences, such as tools moving on their own and whispers in the wind. Emily Sinkhorn, the Director of Environmental Services, became intrigued by these reports and decided to investigate.

One night, under the light of a full moon, Emily ventured to the construction site. As she approached the tank, she felt a surge of power unlike anything she had ever experienced. Suddenly, a portal appeared before her, shimmering with otherworldly light.

Curiosity getting the better of her, Emily stepped through the portal and found herself in a realm unlike anything she had ever seen. The air was thick with magic, and creatures of myth and legend roamed the land. Dragons soared through the sky, their scales glinting in the sunlight, while unicorns pranced through fields of wildflowers.

As Emily explored this enchanting realm, she discovered that the expansion of the easement had inadvertently opened a gateway between the human world and the realm of magic. The water tank was not just a storage facility for potable water, but a conduit for the flow of mystical energies.

Realizing the potential dangers of leaving this portal open, Emily knew she had to act quickly. She called upon the city council to gather their strength and wisdom to help her close the portal before it unleashed chaos upon both worlds.

With the council’s support, Emily embarked on a quest to find the source of the magical energy and seal the portal for good. Along the way, she encountered challenges and obstacles, but with courage and determination, she pressed on.

Finally, after a fierce battle with a powerful sorcerer who sought to harness the magic for his own purposes, Emily emerged victorious. Using the knowledge she had gained from the council, she closed the portal and restored balance to both realms.

The city of Arcata was safe once more, and the tale of the enchanted water tank would be passed down through generations. Emily Sinkhorn and the city council were hailed as heroes, their bravery and teamwork ensuring that the magic of the realm remained a secret, forever hidden behind the guise of a simple water storage tank.

— LoCOBot

DOCUMENTS:

Staff ReportA. Site Plan of Easement ExpansionB. Original Tank 1C easementC. First Amendment to Reciprocal Easement AgreementD. Resolution No. 234-41 Tank 1C Easement Amendment


E. 4391 : Approve the Arcata Corporation Yard Fence Replacement and Trail Enhancement Plans.

The city council is being asked to approve plans to replace the fence and enhance a trail in the Arcata Corporation Yard. The project aims to improve public access to the Ox Pond Trail while increasing security for the Corporation Yard. The new fence will be more secure and visually appealing, and a small wooden footbridge will be added to improve trail access. The project is exempt from design review and is funded in the current fiscal year budget.

— LoCOBot

… or, as Star Trek fan fiction!

Captain Picard sat in his ready room, reading through the staff report from the Arcata City Council meeting. The recommendation to approve the Arcata Corporation Yard Fence Replacement and Trail Enhancement Plans intrigued him. As a lover of nature and environmental conservation, he found himself drawn to the idea of enhancing public access to the Arcata Marsh and Wildlife Sanctuary.

“Number One, please assemble a team. We’re going to Arcata,” Picard said, calling his first officer into the room.

Commander Riker looked up from his datapad, a curious expression on his face. “Arcata, Captain? Isn’t that just a small city on Earth?”

“Yes, but they are doing something commendable. They are enhancing public access to their marsh and wildlife sanctuary, all while ensuring the security of their essential facilities with a new fence,” Picard explained.

Riker nodded, understanding the importance of both preservation and security. “I’ll gather a team and prepare the Enterprise for departure, Captain. When do you want to leave?”

“As soon as possible, Number One. Let’s show our support for their efforts,” Picard said with a determined look in his eyes.

Soon, the USS Enterprise was on its way to Arcata, with a team of officers ready to assist with the fence replacement and trail enhancement project. As they arrived, they were greeted by Emily Sinkhorn, the Director of Environmental Services, who explained the details of the project to Captain Picard.

“We appreciate the support of the Federation in our efforts to enhance public access to the Arcata Marsh and Wildlife Sanctuary,” Sinkhorn said gratefully.

“It’s our pleasure to assist in any way we can,” Picard replied with a smile. “Let’s get to work.”

The crew of the Enterprise worked alongside the Arcata city officials, helping to install the new Beta fence around the Corporation Yard and connecting the Ox Pond Trail with a wider section of trail. The project was completed successfully, and the citizens of Arcata were thrilled with the improvements to their beloved sanctuary.

As the Enterprise prepared to depart, Captain Picard stood on the bridge, looking out at the newly enhanced trail and fence. He couldn’t help but feel a sense of fulfillment in knowing that they had made a positive impact on the community of Arcata.

“Engage,” Picard said, and the Enterprise warped away, leaving behind a city grateful for their help in preserving and protecting their natural wonders.

— LoCOBot

DOCUMENTS:

Staff ReportA. Fence Relocation Site MapB. Beta Fence Example PhotoC. Beta Fence Plans


F. 4392 : Adopt Resolution No. 234-40, A Resolution of the City Council of the City of Arcata Accepting the 2023 General Plan Annual Progress Report.

The city council is being asked to accept a report on the progress of the city’s General Plan from the previous year. This report provides information on how the General Plan goals were implemented and how the city is meeting its housing needs. The report does not recommend any changes to existing policies but may suggest adjustments to improve implementation. The Planning Commission has reviewed the report and recommended its adoption. There is no financial impact associated with accepting the report.

— LoCOBot

… or, as a right-wing radio talk show hosted by Merv "The Beast" Tarkington!

Merv “The Beast” Tarkington: Good morning, folks! This is Merv “The Beast” Tarkington coming at you live from our studio here in Arcata. Now, I’ve got a bone to pick with our City Council and their latest shenanigans.

According to a recent staff report from the City Council meeting, they’re recommending the adoption of Resolution No. 234-40, which is essentially just accepting the 2023 General Plan Annual Progress Report. Now, why do we care about this? Well, let me break it down for you.

This report is mandated by the government and is supposed to give us, the people, a look at how our city is progressing in implementing the General Plan. It’s supposed to show us how well the Council is meeting our community’s goals, including our Regional Housing Needs Allocation numbers. But let me tell you, folks, this report is just a bunch of bureaucratic nonsense meant to make it seem like they’re doing something productive.

Now, I don’t know about you, but I don’t trust a bunch of pencil pushers to tell me how well my city is doing. We need real action, not just reports and resolutions. We need leaders who are going to roll up their sleeves and get things done, not just sit around in meetings patting themselves on the back.

So, I say we need to hold our City Council accountable for their lack of real progress and demand that they start making real changes for our community. Let’s stop settling for empty resolutions and start demanding real results. That’s what I’m talking about, folks. Let’s make Arcata great again! Thank you for tuning in, and stay tuned for more hard-hitting conservative talk here on “The Beast” radio show.

— LoCOBot

DOCUMENTS:

Staff ReportA. Resolution No. 234-40


9. ITEMS REMOVED FROM CONSENT CALENDAR

10. OLD BUSINESS

11. NEW BUSINESS

A. Appoint One New Member to the Wetlands and Creeks Committee for a Term Expiring March 31, 2025.


B. 4393 : Review and Approve Revised City Officials' Protocol Manual.

The City Council is recommending reviewing and approving changes to the City Officials’ Protocol Manual. The manual outlines procedures for the City Council and staff to follow in conducting city business. The changes are recommended by the City Attorney and staff to update the manual to current practices. The Council will review the changes and provide any additional revisions before approving the final revised manual in a future meeting. There is no budget impact associated with these changes.

— LoCOBot

… or, as a romance story!

As the City Council gathered to review and approve the revised City Officials’ Protocol Manual, there was a sense of anticipation in the air. The meeting room buzzed with the energy of public officials and city staff, all eager to ensure that their procedures and practices were up to date and in line with the city’s best interests.

Among the attendees was Emily Brooks, a dedicated city clerk who had meticulously prepared the documents for the meeting. She was known for her attention to detail and unwavering commitment to ensuring that everything ran smoothly within the city government. As she sat at her desk, organizing the final details of the presentation, her eyes met those of Ryan Mitchell, the city’s handsome and charismatic mayor.

Ryan had always admired Emily from afar, drawn to her intelligence and professionalism. He couldn’t help but be captivated by the way she carried herself with grace and confidence, even in the midst of chaotic city council meetings. As he watched her work diligently on the protocol manual, he felt a sense of admiration and respect for her dedication to her job.

As the meeting began, Ryan and Emily found themselves seated next to each other, exchanging brief glances and subtle smiles. The tension between them was palpable, sparking a connection that neither could ignore. As they discussed the recommended changes and revisions to the manual, their eyes met in silent understanding, forming a bond that transcended their professional relationship.

As the meeting drew to a close, Ryan took a bold step and asked Emily to join him for dinner to celebrate the successful approval of the manual. To his delight, she accepted with a smile, a glimmer of excitement in her eyes.

That evening, as they sat across from each other in a cozy restaurant, Ryan and Emily delved into personal conversations, sharing their hopes, dreams, and aspirations. They discovered a deep connection that went beyond their shared professional responsibilities, igniting a spark of undeniable attraction between them.

In the days that followed, Ryan and Emily’s relationship blossomed into a passionate romance, filled with shared laughter, tender moments, and unwavering support for each other. They navigated the challenges of balancing their personal and professional lives, finding solace in each other’s presence and unwavering love.

As they continued to work together to serve their city with integrity and dedication, Ryan and Emily knew that they had found something truly special in each other. Their love story was a testament to the power of connection, trust, and mutual respect, proving that sometimes, the most unexpected meetings can lead to the most beautiful relationships.

— LoCOBot

DOCUMENTS:

Staff ReportA. 2024.03.26 Draft Protocol Manual Redline VersionB. 2024.03.26 Draft Protocol Manual Cleaned Up Version


12. ORAL AND WRITTEN COMMUNICATIONS

13. COUNCIL AND STAFF REPORTS

A. Receive an Activity Report for the 1st Quarter of 2024 from Chief of Police Bart Silvers.


B. Other Council and Staff Reports


14. DATES OF FUTURE MEETINGS

A. Set a Date for a Study Session with City Committee/Commission Chairpersons.


B. Confirm the Fiscal Year 2024/2025 Budget Study Session, Tuesday, April 16, 2024, at 5:30 p.m., in the Council Chamber.


15. CLOSED SESSION

16. CLOSED SESSION REPORTS

17. ADJOURNMENT


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