LoCOBot / @ 12:05 p.m. / Agendizer

Arcata City Council
Sept. 18, 2024, 6 p.m.

1. LAND ACKNOWLEDGMENT

2. FLAG SALUTE

3. ROLL CALL

A. Roll Call


4. CEREMONIAL MATTERS

A. Proclamation in Honor of the North Coast Stand Down, September 26–28, 2024.


5. REPORT BY COMMISSION/COMMITTEE

6. COUNCIL AND STAFF REPORTS

A. Receive an Update from Emily Sinkhorn, Director of Environmental Services, on the 2024 Call for Art.


B. Receive an Update from David Loya, Director of Community Development, on the Climate Action Plan (CAP).


C. Other Council and Staff Reports.


7. EARLY ORAL COMMUNICATIONS

8. N/A

9. CONSENT CALENDAR

A. Minutes of Sep 4, 2024 6:00 PM


B. 4511 : Bi-Weekly Report on Disbursements.

The Finance Director is recommending that the City Council approve a list of payments made between August 24, 2024, and September 6, 2024. These payments were made in accordance with the city’s budget. The Council does not need to audit these payments before they are made, but they are presented to the Council at their next meeting.

— LoCOBot

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

Hey there, Honorable Mayor and City Council Members! I know you’re busy with all these disbursements and budgets, but let me take a moment to offer you a fantastic deal on a used car.

Just like how you carefully review and approve disbursements, I guarantee you’ll find our selection of pre-owned vehicles to be in top condition. From sedans to SUVs, we have a variety of options that will fit your budget and style.

Our finance office manager, Matthew Morgan, has ensured that our prices are competitive and affordable. You can trust that our cars are of high quality and will meet your expectations.

So why not take a break from all the budget discussions and check out our inventory? I promise you won’t be disappointed. Let us help you find the perfect car that fits both your needs and your wallet.

Stop by our lot today and let us make your car buying experience a smooth and enjoyable one. Thank you for considering us, and we look forward to serving you soon.

— LoCOBot

DOCUMENTS:

Staff ReportA. Cash Distribution Report 8/24/2024 to 9/6/2024


C. 4516 : Approve and Award a Construction Contract for the 2024 Arcata Asphalt Grind-Out and Inlay Project to G R Sundberg, Inc. in the Amount of $165,330; Authorize the City Engineer to Increase the Contract Amount by up to $16,533 (10 Percent, for a Total Not to Exceed $181,863) to Allow for Any Unforeseen Contingencies and Additional Paving Work as Necessary; and Authorize the City Manager to Execute All Applicable Documents.

This report recommends that the City Council approve and award a construction contract for the 2024 Arcata Asphalt Grind-Out and Inlay Project to G R Sundberg, Inc. for $165,330. The City Engineer is authorized to increase the contract amount by up to 10%, for a total not to exceed $181,863. The project involves grinding and repaving portions of Giuntoli Lane. Four bids were received, and G R Sundberg, Inc. submitted the lowest bid. The project is expected to start in early October and be completed within 20 working days. The environmental review has determined that the project qualifies for a categorical exemption under CEQA guidelines. The budget for the project is within the allocation for the fiscal year.

— LoCOBot

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

Beavis: Uh, hehehe, did you hear about that grind-out and inlay project thing?

Butt-head: Yeah, they’re gonna grind and pave some streets or something.

Beavis: Yeah, like, with asphalt. Hehehe.

Butt-head: It says here they’re gonna pay G R Sundberg, Inc. $165,330 for it.

Beavis: Whoa, that’s a lot of money just for grinding and paving.

Butt-head: Yeah, and they might have to pay them more if they run into any problems.

Beavis: Hehehe, sounds like a pretty cool job. They get to drive those big trucks and make everything smooth.

Butt-head: Yeah, but they have to deal with traffic and stuff too. That sounds annoying.

Beavis: Hehehe, yeah. I’d rather just watch them do it from a distance.

Butt-head: Yeah, and then we can make fun of people trying to drive on the messed up roads. Hehehe.

— LoCOBot

DOCUMENTS:

Staff ReportA. Bid_Summary_2024 Grind and Inlay


D. 4517 : Award a Contract Not to Exceed $368,340 to SHN Consulting Engineers & Geologists, to Provide a Site Investigation Sampling and Remediation Action Plan for the Butcher Slough Site; and Authorize the City Manager to Negotiate the Final Contract Price and Execute All Applicable Documents.

The City Council meeting on September 18, 2024 discussed awarding a contract to SHN Consulting Engineers & Geologists to investigate and develop a plan for cleaning up contamination at the Butcher Slough site. The site has been found to have various pollutants in the soil, sediment, and water. The City received proposals from three firms and chose SHN due to their experience with remediation projects. The project is funded by a grant and is exempt from the California Environmental Quality Act. The contract amount will be paid from the grant funds.

— LoCOBot

… or, as a corrido!

En un reporte se presentó
una propuesta muy interesante
para remediar y limpiar
el sitio de Butcher Slough.

El Director de Desarrollo Comunitario
recomendó un contrato
con SHN Consulting Engineers &
Geologists, sin contratiempos.

El contrato no excederá
los $368,340,
para investigar y remediar
el sitio que tanto preocupa.

La Ciudad recibió tres propuestas
pero la de SHN destacó,
cumpliendo con el presupuesto
del programa de revitalización.

Butcher Slough, un sitio contaminado,
necesita ser caracterizado
antes de planear
su limpieza adecuada.

SHN tiene 45 años de experiencia
y un equipo capacitado,
para realizar la tarea
de manera adecuada.

Este proyecto está exento
de evaluación ambiental,
y se espera que tenga un impacto
positivo y sustancial.

El presupuesto se cubrirá
con el fondo de revitalización,
para limpiar y remediar
este sitio en situación complicada.

La propuesta de SHN
es la más adecuada,
para limpiar Butcher Slough
y dejarlo como nueva morada.

Así que se recomienda
otorgarles el contrato ya,
y autorizar al Gerente de la Ciudad
a negociar y firmar el final documento final.

— LoCOBot

DOCUMENTS:

Staff ReportA_SHN-Butcher-Slough Scope


E. 4508 : Reappoint Tim Keefe and Ron Perry to the Historic Landmarks Committee for Three-Year Terms Ending September 30, 2027.

The City Council is being asked to reappoint Tim Keefe and Ron Perry to the Historic Landmarks Committee for another three-year term. Both Keefe and Perry have served on the committee before and have provided valuable input. There will be no additional cost to reappoint them.

— LoCOBot

… or, as an episode of Seinfeld!

[Jerry and George are at the coffee shop, discussing the upcoming City Council meeting.]

Jerry: So, George, did you hear about Tim Keefe and Ron Perry getting reappointed to the Historic Landmarks Committee?

George: Oh yeah, those guys. They’ve been on that committee forever. I wonder what makes them so special.

Jerry: Maybe they have a keen eye for historic architecture or a deep appreciation for preservation.

George: Or maybe they just like bossing people around and telling them what to do with their buildings.

Jerry: That’s a possibility. Hey, maybe we should go to the City Council meeting and see what all the fuss is about.

[Cut to City Council meeting]

[Jerry and George are sitting in the audience, watching as the Council discusses the reappointment of Tim Keefe and Ron Perry.]

Council Member: It is my pleasure to recommend the reappointment of Tim Keefe and Ron Perry to the Historic Landmarks Committee for three-year terms.

Jerry: So, what’s the deal with reappointing these guys? What makes them so special?

George: Yeah, I mean, what do they do on this committee anyway? Do they just sit around and talk about old buildings all day?

Council Member: Tim Keefe and Ron Perry have provided invaluable input to the Committee and staff. Their knowledge and expertise have been instrumental in preserving our city’s historic landmarks.

Jerry: I guess there’s more to it than just bossing people around.

George: Maybe we should volunteer for the committee. We could become masters of historic architecture.

Jerry: Or we could just continue being masters of nothing.

[Cut to Jerry’s apartment]

Jerry: So, George, are you still thinking about joining the Historic Landmarks Committee?

George: Nah, I did some research and found out those guys have to attend monthly meetings and go on site visits. I can’t commit to that kind of responsibility.

Jerry: Yeah, it’s probably better to stick to our expertise in sitting on the couch and watching TV.

George: Exactly. We may not be preserving historic landmarks, but we are preserving the art of doing nothing.

[They both high five and sit back on the couch, content with their decision.]

[End scene]

— LoCOBot

DOCUMENTS:

Staff Report


F. 4514 : Reappoint Michael Winkler to the Energy Committee for a Three-Year Term Ending September 30, 2027.

The city council is being asked to reappoint Michael Winkler to the Energy Committee for another three-year term. This is because Michael has experience and knowledge in the committee’s policy areas and has made valuable contributions so far. The recommendation is to approve his reappointment.

— LoCOBot

… or, as a conversation between two very stoned people named Starfish and Noodles!

Starfish: Hey man, did you hear about Michael Winkler getting reappointed to the Energy Committee?

Noodles: Oh yeah, I read about it in the City Council meeting report. Seems like he’s doing a good job if they want him back.

Starfish: Yeah, they mentioned his experience and knowledge in the policy areas. Must be a pretty smart guy.

Noodles: For sure, it’s important to have someone who knows what they’re talking about on those committees. Plus, he’s probably really passionate about environmental issues.

Starfish: Definitely. We should all try to be more conscious of our energy consumption and how it affects the environment. Maybe we can start a campaign or something.

Noodles: That’s a great idea, man. We could raise awareness in the community and encourage people to take small steps to reduce their energy usage.

Starfish: Yeah, like using energy-efficient appliances, carpooling, and turning off lights when you leave a room.

Noodles: Exactly. We can all make a difference, even if it’s just small changes. Let’s do it, Starfish!

Starfish: Yeah, man. Let’s make Michael Winkler proud!

— LoCOBot

DOCUMENTS:

Staff Report


G. 4498 : Reappoint Steve Cole to the Transactions and Use Tax Oversight Committee for a Three-Year Term Ending September 30, 2027.

The finance director is recommending that the City Council reappoint Steve Cole to the Transactions and Use Tax Oversight Committee for another three-year term. Cole has been serving on the committee for 12 years, has a small business perspective, is active in the community, and has made valuable contributions to the committee.

— LoCOBot

… or, as Star Trek fan fiction!

Captain James T. Kirk and the crew of the USS Enterprise were on a routine patrol mission near the planet Arcata when they received a distress signal from the local government. Intrigued by the message, Captain Kirk decided to investigate further.

Upon arriving on Arcata, Captain Kirk and his crew were greeted by the Mayor and City Council members, who explained the situation regarding the reappointment of Steve Cole to the Transactions and Use Tax Oversight Committee. They were in a state of crisis, as the Committee played a crucial role in monitoring the city’s finances and ensuring fair taxation for its residents.

Realizing the importance of the Committee’s work, Captain Kirk offered to assist in any way possible. He proposed using the Enterprise’s advanced technology to streamline the tax oversight process and provide valuable insights into Arcata’s financial management.

With the help of the Enterprise’s advanced computers and expert analysis, Steve Cole’s reappointment to the Committee was swiftly approved by the City Council. His dedication to the community and years of experience were recognized as invaluable assets in ensuring the city’s financial stability.

As a token of gratitude, the Mayor invited Captain Kirk and his crew to a lavish banquet in their honor. The residents of Arcata cheered and thanked the Starfleet officers for their assistance, knowing that their city was in safe hands with Steve Cole leading the charge on the Transactions and Use Tax Oversight Committee.

Before departing, Captain Kirk commended Steve Cole for his commitment to serving the people of Arcata and ensuring transparency in financial matters. As the Enterprise soared back into the stars, the city of Arcata knew they could always count on the brave men and women of Starfleet to lend a helping hand in times of need.

— LoCOBot

DOCUMENTS:

Staff Report


H. 4500 : Reappoint Colin Fiske to the Transactions and Use Tax Oversight Committee for a Three-Year Term Ending September 30, 2027.

The Finance Director recommends that the City Council reappoint Colin Fiske to the Transactions and Use Tax Oversight Committee for another three-year term. Mr. Fiske has experience, expertise in transportation and budgeting, and has been an active member of the committee.

— LoCOBot

… or, as a job interview!

[Interview Room. The panel of interviewers includes Tabatha Miller, Finance Director, and two City Council Members.]

Tabatha: Thank you for joining us today, Mr. Fiske. We appreciate your interest in continuing to serve on the Transactions and Use Tax Oversight Committee.

Colin: Thank you for having me. I’m excited at the opportunity to continue contributing to the Committee.

City Council Member 1: Let’s start by asking you about your experience on the Committee. Can you tell us about a specific project or initiative that you led or contributed to during your time on the TUTOC?

Colin: Absolutely. One project that I was heavily involved in was the review and approval of the transportation infrastructure budget for the upcoming fiscal year. I worked closely with the Committee members to ensure that the budget aligned with our overall goals and priorities for improving transportation in our city.

City Council Member 2: That’s great to hear. How do you envision your role on the Committee evolving over the next three years if you are reappointed?

Colin: I hope to continue leveraging my expertise in transportation infrastructure and planning to guide the Committee in making informed decisions about funding and projects. I also look forward to exploring new opportunities for collaboration with other stakeholders in the Humboldt County transportation community.

Tabatha: It’s clear that you bring a valuable skill set and perspective to the Committee. Can you tell us about a time when you had to navigate a challenging situation or conflict within the Committee?

Colin: There was a disagreement about the allocation of funds for a specific project, and tensions were running high among Committee members. I took the initiative to facilitate a collaborative discussion and helped the group come to a consensus on the best course of action. It was a challenging situation, but ultimately, we were able to reach a resolution that everyone felt good about.

City Council Member 1: Thank you for sharing that example. Based on your experience and contributions to the Committee, we see great value in reappointing you for another term. Is there anything else you’d like to add before we conclude the interview?

Colin: Just that I am committed to continuing to serve the community and work towards our shared goals for improving transportation infrastructure in our city. I appreciate the opportunity to continue serving on the Transactions and Use Tax Oversight Committee.

Tabatha: Thank you, Mr. Fiske. We will be in touch with our decision in the coming weeks. Thank you for your time.

[End of Scene]

— LoCOBot

DOCUMENTS:

Staff Report


I. 4499 : Reappoint Josh Wolf to the Transactions and Use Tax Oversight Committee for a Three-Year Term Ending September 30, 2027.

The city council meeting report recommends reappointing Josh Wolf to the Transactions and Use Tax Oversight Committee for another three-year term. Josh Wolf has been serving on the committee for 12 years and has valuable expertise in transportation planning, funding, design, and construction. It is recommended that the council approve his reappointment.

— LoCOBot

… or, as a high-energy radio advertisement!

Are you ready to keep our city moving in the right direction? Then listen up, because we have some exciting news from the recent City Council meeting!

Finance Director Tabatha Miller is recommending the reappointment of Josh Wolf to the Transactions and Use Tax Oversight Committee for a three-year term ending September 30, 2027. That’s right, Josh Wolf, with his 12 years of experience and expertise in transportation planning, funding, design, and construction, is ready to continue making valuable contributions to our city.

Don’t miss this opportunity to support someone who is dedicated to ensuring our tax dollars are used efficiently and effectively. Contact your City Council members today and urge them to reappoint Josh Wolf to the Transactions and Use Tax Oversight Committee.

Let’s keep our city moving forward with Josh Wolf at the helm! This is one appointment you won’t want to miss. Keep listening for more updates on how you can get involved in shaping the future of our community. Stay tuned for more information and let’s make a difference together.

— LoCOBot

DOCUMENTS:

Staff Report


J. 4513 : Approve the Purchase of Three (3) Cla-Val Pressure Reducing Valve/Vault Systems in the Amount of $181,741.90 (Plus Sales Tax); Authorize the City Engineer to Increase the Purchasing Amount by up to $18,174.19 (10%, for a Total of $199,916.09) to Allow for Any Unforeseen Contingencies and Additional Equipment as Necessary; and Authorize the City Manager to Execute all Applicable Agreements and Documents.

The city council is being asked to approve the purchase of three pressure reducing valve systems for the Waterline Replacement Project. They are also being asked to authorize additional funds for any unforeseen contingencies. The equipment is being pre-purchased to expedite the project. The valves are from a reliable manufacturer that the city has used before. The purchase is within the budget allocation and will be covered by a low-interest loan.

— LoCOBot

… or, as an Elizabethan sonnet!

Oh, City Council, listen to my plea,
Director of Environmental Services speaks,
To purchase valves that shall set us free,
From waterline woes that have made us weak.

Three Cla-Val systems, a hefty cost,
Yet necessary for our city’s health,
To replace old pipes that are now lost,
And bring forth a system of great wealth.

Authorize the funds, increase if need be,
For unforeseen troubles may arise,
But with these valves, our water will flow free,
And our city will reach new highs.

So let us move forward with this plan,
And secure the future of our waterland.

— LoCOBot

DOCUMENTS:

Staff ReportA. City of Arcata Vault_quote with sales tax


K. 4509 : Approve the Arcata Compensation Agreement with Affected Taxing Entities; and Authorize the City Manager to Execute the Agreement.

The City Council is being asked to approve a compensation agreement with affected taxing entities for two properties the City is retaining for redevelopment. The agreement will result in a total valuation of $762,000, with the taxing entities receiving a one-time compensation payout of 33% of their share and the City investing the remaining 67% into redevelopment. The agreement will allow the City to redevelop the properties, which are important economic assets. The agreement is not expected to have an impact on the environment and the funds for compensation and redevelopment will come from the Project Fund.

— LoCOBot

… or, as a World War I infantryman's letter home to his sweetheart!

My Dearest Jane,

As I sit here in the trenches, surrounded by the constant roar of German artillery, my thoughts are consumed by you and the letters we used to exchange before this war began. I pray for your safety and long for the day when I can hold you in my arms once more.

In the chaos of battle, I find solace in the memories of our time together. Your love gives me strength to face each day, knowing that our bond will withstand the trials of war. I long for the day when we can be together again, far away from this brutal conflict.

Please know that you are always in my heart, even in the midst of this terrible war. I will do everything in my power to return to you, safe and sound. Until then, know that I love you more than words can express.

Yours always,
Charles

— LoCOBot

DOCUMENTS:

Staff ReportA. Terms Sheet CompiledB. DOF Approved LRPMP 2015.11.24


L. 4510 : Award a Contract for the Tank 1 A/B Perimeter Fence Project to CR Fence Company DBA Humboldt Fence Co. in the amount of $64,700; Authorize the City Manager to Increase the Contract Amount by up to 5 Percent ($3,235 for a Total Amount Not to Exceed $67,935) to Allow for Unforeseen Contingencies; and Authorize the City Manager to Execute All Applicable Documents.

The city council is being asked to approve a contract with a fence company to install a security fence around a water storage tank. The project will cost $64,700, with a possible increase of $3,235 for unforeseen issues. The fence is necessary to protect the water supply and ensure public safety. The project is exempt from environmental review and is within the budget allocation for the Water Fund.

— LoCOBot

… or, as a movie trailer!

In a world where the safety of our water supply is at risk, one city must take action to protect its critical infrastructure.

From the director of Environmental Services comes a thrilling new project - “Tank 1 A/B Perimeter Fence Project.”

With the city council’s approval, a contract is awarded to CR Fence Company DBA Humboldt Fence Co. in the amount of $64,700. But when unforeseen contingencies arise, will the city manager be able to increase the contract amount by up to 5 percent to ensure the security of Tank 1 A/B?

Join us on a heart-pounding journey as we witness the installation of 800 linear feet of chain link fence around Tank 1 A/B. With the safety of the public at stake, the stakes have never been higher.

Featuring breathtaking action sequences and a race against time, “Tank 1 A/B Perimeter Fence Project” will have you on the edge of your seat until the very end.

Don’t miss this gripping tale of determination, perseverance, and the fight to protect what matters most. Coming soon to a city council meeting near you.

— LoCOBot

DOCUMENTS:

Staff ReportA. CR Fence Co Bid


10. ITEMS REMOVED FROM CONSENT CALENDAR

11. OLD BUSINESS

12. NEW BUSINESS

A. 4495 : Adopt Resolution No. 245-09 Updating the City's Investment Policy.

The City Council is being asked to update the city’s Investment Policy, which outlines how the city’s funds are invested. The current policy is from 2003 and needs to be updated to comply with current laws and best practices. The recommended changes include updating authorized financial institutions, expanding permitted investments, and adding new prohibited practices. The policy does not have a direct financial impact, but may affect the city’s investment earnings. The City also follows socially responsible investing guidelines by avoiding investments in certain industries.

— LoCOBot

… or, as a fantasy story!

In the mystical city of Arcata, nestled amongst ancient forests and sparkling rivers, the Honorable Mayor and City Council Members gathered in the grand Hall of Elders for an important meeting. The Finance Director, Tabatha Miller, stood before them with a proposal to update the City’s Investment Policy, Resolution No. 245-09.

As Tabatha spoke of the need to modernize the city’s financial practices to comply with the ever-changing laws and regulations of the land, a hushed murmuring spread through the council chamber. It was well known that the city’s investments were crucial to the well-being of Arcata and its inhabitants.

But as the council members deliberated on the proposed changes, a strange and foreboding presence crept into the hall. Shadows danced along the walls, and a chill wind whispered through the corridors, causing the torches to flicker and the council members to exchange worried glances.

Suddenly, a figure materialized before them, cloaked in darkness and shimmering with an otherworldly light. It was a being of immense power and ancient wisdom, a spirit of the forest known as Eldron the Enchanter.

“I have come to offer my counsel on this matter,” Eldron intoned, his voice like the rustling of leaves in a sacred grove. “The balance of the elements in Arcata is in peril, and the investments of the city hold the key to restoring harmony.”

The council members gazed in awe at the mystical being, their hearts filled with a mixture of fear and wonder. Eldron spoke of the need to align the city’s investments with the principles of nature, to support industries that honored the earth and its creatures, and to shun those that caused harm and destruction.

As the council members listened, a sense of purpose and determination filled their hearts. They knew that they must heed the wisdom of Eldron and update the Investment Policy to reflect the values of their beloved city and its magical surroundings.

With a unanimous vote, the council adopted Resolution No. 245-09, embracing a new era of responsible investing and sustainable growth. The enchanted forests of Arcata whispered their approval, and the spirit of Eldron smiled upon the council members, knowing that they had taken a crucial step towards a brighter future for their city and all who dwelt within its borders.

And so, guided by the wisdom of Eldron the Enchanter, the city of Arcata embarked on a new journey, where the power of their investments was wielded not just for profit, but for the preservation and protection of the natural world and all its wondrous inhabitants.

— LoCOBot

DOCUMENTS:

Staff ReportA. Arcata IP Redline Version 8.25.2024B. Arcata IP Clean Verison 8.25.2024C. Resolution No. 245-09 Investment Policy


13. ORAL AND WRITTEN COMMUNICATIONS

14. DATES OF FUTURE MEETINGS

A. Study Session with the Planning Commission on Wednesday, October 30, 2024, at 5:30 p.m., in the Council Chamber.


15. CLOSED SESSION

16. CLOSED SESSION REPORTS

17. ADJOURNMENT


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