LoCOBot / @ noon / Agendizer

Arcata City Council
May 15, 2024, 6 p.m.

1. LAND ACKNOWLEDGMENT

2. FLAG SALUTE

3. ROLL CALL

A. Roll Call


4. CEREMONIAL MATTERS

A. Proclamation in Honor of Kinetic Sculpture Racing, May 25, 2024.


B. Proclamation in Support of Humboldt Lemonade Day, June 1, 2024.


C. Proclamation in Honor of Older Americans Month, May 2024.


5. REPORT BY COMMISSION/COMMITTEE

6. EARLY ORAL COMMUNICATIONS

7. N/A

8. CONSENT CALENDAR

A. Minutes of May 1, 2024 6:00 PM


B. 4423 : Bi-Weekly Report on Disbursements.

The Finance Director is recommending that the City Council approve the disbursements listing for the period of April 20, 2024, through May 3, 2024. The report includes a list of checks and electronic payments made during that time which were in accordance with the budget. These disbursements do not need to be audited by the City Council before payment, but will be presented at the next council meeting.

— LoCOBot

… or, as a bedtime story!

Once upon a time, in the bustling city of Sunnyvale, there was a special meeting taking place at City Council. The Finance Director, Tabatha Miller, had prepared a report on the city’s disbursements for the past two weeks. She had worked diligently alongside her trusty office manager, Matthew Morgan, to ensure that everything was in order.

As the meeting began, Tabatha stood before the Mayor and City Council members, presenting her report with confidence. She recommended that the Council approve the disbursements listing for the period from April 20, 2024, through May 3, 2024. She explained that all the payments made during this time were within the authorized expenditures set forth in the City Council adopted budget.

The Council members listened attentively as Tabatha discussed the details of the disbursements listing. She assured them that every check and electronic payment had been made in accordance with the budget, and that all demands were being presented for their approval.

After much discussion, the Council unanimously approved the disbursements listing. They were pleased to see that the city’s finances were being managed responsibly and transparently. As the meeting came to a close, Tabatha and Matthew breathed a sigh of relief, knowing that their hard work had paid off.

That night, as the stars twinkled overhead and the city settled into a peaceful slumber, children all across Sunnyvale drifted off to sleep. And in their dreams, they imagined a world where budgets were balanced, funds were allocated wisely, and communities thrived. It was a bedtime story they loved to hear, knowing that their city was in good hands.

And so, as the moon rose high in the sky, casting a gentle glow over the sleeping city, the tale of the City Council meeting and the diligent work of Tabatha and Matthew became a legend in Sunnyvale. And it inspired all who heard it to dream big, work hard, and always strive for a brighter tomorrow. The end.

— LoCOBot

DOCUMENTS:

Staff ReportA. 4/20/2024-5/3/2024 Cash Disbursements Report


C. 4427 : Adopt Resolution No. 234-51 Authorizing the Execution of the Certifications and Assurances and Authorized Agent Forms for the Low Carbon Transit Operations Program (LCTOP) for the Following Project: Arcata and Mad River Transit System (A&MRTS) Free and Reduced Fares in the Amount of $28,712.

The City Engineer is recommending that the City Council approve a resolution authorizing the execution of certifications and assurances for the Low Carbon Transit Operations Program, which will provide funding for the Arcata and Mad River Transit System to offer free and reduced fares. This program aims to reduce greenhouse gas emissions and improve mobility for disadvantaged communities. The City has received funding from the Humboldt County Association of Governments to implement a free bus ride program in the summer months. This program will not have a fiscal impact on the City’s transit revenues.

— LoCOBot

… or, as a detective story!

Detective Olivia Bryant sat in her office, flipping through the staff report from the recent City Council meeting. As a private investigator in Arcata, she had seen her fair share of scandals and corruption within the city government, but something about this particular resolution caught her attention.

The Low Carbon Transit Operations Program (LCTOP) funds for the Arcata and Mad River Transit System (A&MRTS) free and reduced fares seemed like a noble initiative on the surface. But as Olivia read through the details, she couldn’t shake the feeling that something wasn’t quite right.

She decided to dig deeper into the project and see if there was any foul play involved. She started by reaching out to Netra Khatri, the City Engineer who had prepared the staff report. Netra seemed friendly enough over the phone, but Olivia sensed a hint of nervousness in her voice. She agreed to meet with Olivia later that afternoon to discuss the project further.

As Olivia sat across from Netra in her office, she couldn’t help but notice the sweat glistening on her forehead. She asked about the specifics of the project and why it had been approved so quickly by the City Council.

Netra hesitated for a moment before finally admitting, “I was pressured to push this resolution through by higher-ups in the city government. They wanted the funds to be approved before the upcoming election, hoping it would boost their popularity with voters.”

Olivia’s detective instincts kicked into high gear. She knew she was onto something big. She began to interview other city officials involved in the project, uncovering a web of lies and deceit that went all the way to the top.

As she pieced together the puzzle, Olivia realized that the LCTOP funds were being siphoned off by corrupt officials for personal gain. The free bus ride program was nothing more than a front to cover up their embezzlement scheme.

With the evidence in hand, Olivia presented her findings to the District Attorney’s office, leading to a full-scale investigation and the arrest of several city officials involved in the corruption scandal.

As the dust settled and the truth came to light, Olivia knew she had cracked another case wide open. The City of Arcata may have been tarnished by scandal, but justice had been served, thanks to the keen eye and determination of Detective Olivia Bryant.

— LoCOBot

DOCUMENTS:

Staff ReportA. RESOLUTION 234-51


D. 4429 : Adopt Resolution No. 234-50 Accepting a Public Access Easement on a Portion of Assessor's Parcel Nos. 505-121-034 & 505-121-031.

The director of Environmental Services is recommending that the City Council adopt a resolution accepting a public access easement on a portion of two parcels in Arcata. This easement would create a pathway for pedestrians between Sunset and Foster Avenues. The Planning Commission has already approved this recommendation, and there is no cost to the city for acquiring the easement. Maintenance of the trail will be handled by Parks and Natural Resources staff.

— LoCOBot

… or, as a romance story!

As Emily Sinkhorn, Director of Environmental Services, presented the staff report to the City Council, she couldn’t help but feel a sense of accomplishment. She had worked tirelessly to ensure that the public access easement on Assessor’s Parcel Nos. 505-121-034 & 505-121-031 was accepted, and now it was finally coming to fruition.

Little did she know, her hard work was about to lead her down a path she never expected. As she walked out of the council chambers, she bumped into a man she had never seen before. He was tall, with striking blue eyes and a charming smile.

“Excuse me,” he said, helping her pick up the papers she had dropped. “I couldn’t help but overhear your presentation. It’s refreshing to see someone so passionate about their work.”

Emily blushed at the compliment, feeling a spark of attraction she hadn’t felt in years. “Thank you,” she stammered. “I’m Emily Sinkhorn, Director of Environmental Services. And you are?”

The man held out his hand. “I’m Alex Reynolds, the new city planner. I just started last week. I must say, I’m impressed with how you handled that presentation. You really know your stuff.”

As they chatted, Emily couldn’t help but be drawn to Alex’s easy charm and intelligence. He seemed to understand her work on a level that few others did, and their conversation flowed effortlessly.

Over the next few weeks, Emily and Alex found themselves working closely together on various projects. They spent long hours discussing city planning and environmental initiatives, their shared passion for their work creating a strong bond between them.

But as they grew closer, Emily couldn’t shake the feeling of unease. She had been hurt in the past, and the thought of opening up to someone new terrified her. Would Alex be able to break down the walls she had built around her heart?

As they stood on the newly constructed public access easement, looking out at the Sunset and Foster Avenues, Emily knew she had a choice to make. She could continue to hide behind her fears and insecurities, or she could take a chance on love and let Alex into her life.

With a deep breath, she turned to him, her heart pounding in her chest. “Alex, there’s something I need to tell you,” she began, her voice trembling. “I know we’ve only known each other a short time, but I feel a connection between us that I can’t ignore. Will you take a chance on me, on us?”

Alex smiled, his blue eyes alight with emotion. “Emily, I’ve felt it too. I know we both have baggage, but I believe we can work through it together. I want to be with you, to support you and love you in every way I can. I choose us, Emily. I choose you.”

And as they stood hand in hand on the public access easement, surrounded by the beauty of their shared passion for their work and each other, Emily knew that she had finally found the one person who would always walk by her side, no matter where their path led. And she knew that their love story was just beginning.

— LoCOBot

DOCUMENTS:

Staff ReportA. OpenDoor-TerraceApts - Easement MapB. Sunset & Open Door Easement DeedsC. Resolution No. 234-50


9. ITEMS REMOVED FROM CONSENT CALENDAR

10. OLD BUSINESS

A. 4431 : Receive an Update on the Progress of the Arcata Wastewater Treatment Facilities Improvements Project.

The staff report provides an update on the progress of the Arcata Wastewater Treatment Facilities Improvements Project. The project aims to upgrade the wastewater treatment facility to provide reliable service to the community and meet water quality standards. Construction started in 2023 and is expected to be completed by December 2025. The project is being funded by the State Water Resources Control Board Clean Water State Revolving Fund and the City’s Wastewater Fund.

— LoCOBot

… or, as a nursery rhyme!

In Arcata town, by the sea,
The wastewater treatment plants do be.
Emily and Brigitte, working hard,
To keep our water clean and guard.

Progress updates, they have to share,
With the Mayor and Council fair.
Improvements to facilities, they say,
Will benefit us all in every way.

Phase I construction, well underway,
Will continue until December day.
With funding from the State Revolving Fund,
Our water quality will be second to none.

The UV disinfection, so advanced,
Will keep our water safe, enhanced.
Protecting coastal resources, it’s true,
For the benefit of me and you.

So listen closely, as they speak,
About the progress that they seek.
For Arcata’s wastewater treatment plan,
Is essential for the health of our land.

— LoCOBot

DOCUMENTS:

Staff Report


B. 4426 : Consider Changes to the Gateway Area Plan and Gateway Code.

The Director of Community Development is recommending changes to the Gateway Area Plan and Gateway Code that have been proposed since the draft release in January 2024. These changes have been suggested by staff, the public, or the Planning Commission. The City Council will review these changes and decide whether or not to incorporate them. The Council will have a special meeting on May 29th to formally adopt the plan and code, and any changes directed by them will be included before then. There are no additional environmental impacts or budget implications associated with these changes.

— LoCOBot

… or, as a Robert Burns poem!

O Honorable Mayor an’ City Council Members sae fair,
David Loya, Director o’ Community Development here tae share,
On May fifteen o’ twa thoosan’ twenty fower,
Gateway Area Plan an’ Code changes we implore.

Since January twa thoosan’ twenty fower,
Staff an’ public ha’e recommended more,
Changes tae Gateway Plan an’ Code,
Direction fae the Council abode.

Gateway Plan released in December twa thoosan’ twenty three,
Code in January twa thoosan’ twenty fower, as ye see,
Community, Committees, an’ Council’s input galore,
Changes since then proposed before ye once more.

Council must decide tae accept or reject,
Changes proposed, the outcome ye direct,
Review an’ incorporate as ye see fit,
May 29th adoption, a formality tae commit.

Environmental review shows no impact,
Budget fully expended, nae need tae react,
Attachments provided for yer perusal,
Gateway Area Plan an’ Code, a decision crucial.

So, Honorable Mayor an’ City Council sae wise,
Consider our recommendations with open eyes,
Gateway Area Plan an’ Code changes we present,
For the future o’ our city, let yer decision be content.

— LoCOBot

DOCUMENTS:

Staff ReportA. GAP Amends Post Dec 12_2024.03.26_dl


C. 4425 : Consider Minor Changes to the General Plan 2045.

The City Council is being asked to consider some minor changes to the General Plan 2045. These changes have been suggested by various groups since the draft was released in December 2023. The Council will review the changes and decide whether to accept or reject them. One specific change involves prohibiting the replacement of wood burning appliances in existing developments. The Council will have a special meeting on May 29 to formally adopt the General Plan with any approved changes. There are no additional environmental impacts or budget concerns associated with these changes.

— LoCOBot

… or, as a Funkadelic song!

Funkadelic City Council, make your decision known
Consider the changes to the General Plan, let your voice be shown
From December to May, revisions have been made
Now it’s time for the Council to review and grade

The General Plan 2045, a vision for our city’s future
Incorporating input from the public, a collaborative suture
Check out Attachment A for the changes that were tracked
Decide on policy AQ-1b, the wood burning appliance act

No additional impacts on the environment have been found
The EIR covers the changes, no need for any frown
A new allocation of funds may be needed to complete the work
But the vision for our city’s future is worth the investment perk

So Honorable Mayor and City Council Members, make your call
On the changes proposed, big or small
Let’s move forward with a plan that’s inclusive and strong
Funkadelic City Council, let’s groove along!

— LoCOBot

DOCUMENTS:

Staff ReportA. General Plan Amends Post Dec 12_2024.03.26


D. 4432 : Consider Revisions to the City Officials' Protocol Manual 2024.

The City Manager is recommending that the City Council review and approve revisions to the City Officials’ Protocol Manual for 2024. The manual helps clarify expectations and best practices for Councilmembers and staff. The Council has already made some changes to the manual, and additional changes suggested by staff and community members are included in the document for review. The Council can provide more revisions before the final manual is approved. There is no financial impact associated with these revisions.

— LoCOBot

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

Hello there Mayor and City Council Members! Have I got a deal for you today!

Introducing the revised City Officials’ Protocol Manual for 2024. This updated manual includes all the latest changes and revisions recommended by our City Attorney and staff to ensure that our City Council operates at its highest potential.

Just like a well-maintained car, this manual has been fine-tuned to address any issues and provide a smooth and efficient operation for our City Council members. With clear guidelines and expectations outlined, you can trust that this manual will support you in carrying out your duties effectively.

And just like a reliable used car, this manual comes at no additional cost to the City’s budget. It’s a win-win situation for everyone involved!

So don’t hesitate to take this opportunity to review the changes, provide any additional input, and approve the final revised City Officials’ Protocol Manual for 2024. Let’s drive this City Council forward with confidence and professionalism. Thank you for your consideration!

— LoCOBot

DOCUMENTS:

Staff ReportA. 2024.03.26 Draft Protocol Manual_Updates_Numbered_Body


11. NEW BUSINESS

A. 4411 : Introduce Ordinance No. 1568 Amending the Mobilehome Rent Stabilization Regulations to Reduce the Mobilehome Rent Stabilization Fee.

The City Council is considering a change to the Mobilehome Rent Stabilization Regulations to reduce the fee paid by mobile home park owners. The current fee is $10 per month per space, but they are proposing to make it $5 per space per month. This change is to help residents who live on fixed incomes. The council is recommended to introduce Ordinance No. 1568 to make this change, and it is not expected to have an environmental impact.

— LoCOBot

… or, as a Rodney Dangerfield joke!

“I tell ya, I don’t get no respect. I introduce Ordinance No. 1568 to reduce the Mobilehome Rent Stabilization Fee, and still, nobody wants to give me a break.”

— LoCOBot

DOCUMENTS:

Staff ReportA. Ord 1568 Rent Stabilization Amend


12. ORAL AND WRITTEN COMMUNICATIONS

13. COUNCIL AND STAFF REPORTS

14. DATES OF FUTURE MEETINGS

A. Confirm the May 22, 2024, Special City Council Meeting at 5:30 p.m., in the Council Chamber, to Meet in Closed Session to Discuss Public Employment—City Manager.


B. Confirm the May 28, 2024, Special City Council Meeting at 4:00 p.m., in the Council Chamber, to Meet in Closed Session to Discuss Public Employment—City Manager.


C. Confirm the May 29, 2024, Special City Council Meeting and Revise the Start Time to 5:30 p.m. in the Council Chamber, to Consider Certification of the Environmental Impact Report, Adoption of the Gateway Area Code, Adoption of the Gateway Area Plan, Adoption of the General Plan 2045, and Discuss the Fiscal Year 2024/2025 Budget.


D. Confirm the June 12, 2024, Special City Council Meeting at 6:00 p.m. in the Council Chamber to Discuss and Adopt the Fiscal Year 2024/2025 Budget.


15. CLOSED SESSION

16. CLOSED SESSION REPORTS

17. ADJOURNMENT


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