LoCOBot / @ 11:25 a.m. / Agendizer

Arcata City Council
June 18, 2025, 6 p.m.

1. LAND ACKNOWLEDGMENT

2. FLAG SALUTE

3. ROLL CALL

4. CEREMONIAL MATTERS

a. Proclamation in Recognition of Juneteenth, June 19, 2025.

a. Proclamation in Celebration of the Fourth of July Jubilee, July 4, 2025.

5. REPORT BY COMMISSION/COMMITTEE

6. STAFF REPORTS

a. Receive an Update from Juvenile Diversion Counselor, Leah Valdivia, Regarding the Arcata Police Department's Juvenile Diversion Program.


a. Other Staff Reports.


7. ORAL AND WRITTEN COMMUNICATIONS [EARLY - TIME LIMITED]

8. N/A

9. CONSENT CALENDAR

a. Approval to Waive Reading of the Text and Consent to Read by Title Only for Any Ordinance on this Agenda.


a. Approve the Minutes of the City Council Special Meeting of June 4, 2025.

a. Approve the Minutes of the City Council Meeting of June 4, 2025.

a. Bi-Weekly Report on Disbursements.

This report recommends that the City Council approve a list of payments made from May 24, 2025, to June 6, 2025. The payments were made in accordance with the city’s budget and do not require individual approval by the Council. The Council is asked to review and approve the list of payments as part of the Consent Calendar at their next meeting.

— LoCOBot

… or, as a fantasy story!

In the city of Elmbrook, nestled in the heart of the rolling hills and lush forests, the City Council Meeting was just beginning. As the Honorable Mayor and City Council Members took their seats, Tabatha Miller, the Assistant City Manager and Finance Director, stood up to present her report on disbursements.

“Good evening, esteemed members of the council,” Tabatha began. “I bring to you today the bi-weekly report on disbursements for the period of May 24, 2025, through June 6, 2025. It is recommended that the Council approve this report.”

As Tabatha spoke, a sense of unease spread through the council chambers. There was something off about the way she presented the information, as if she was hiding something. The council members glanced at each other nervously, unsure of what to make of the situation.

Just as the tension in the room reached its peak, a loud crash echoed through the chambers. The doors burst open, and in walked a mysterious figure cloaked in a shimmering robe. The figure’s face was obscured by a hood, casting a shadow over their features.

“I come bearing a warning,” the figure spoke, their voice resonating with power. “The city of Elmbrook is in grave danger. Dark forces stir in the shadows, threatening to unleash chaos upon this land.”

The council members gasped in horror, their eyes wide with fear. The figure turned towards Tabatha, their gaze piercing through the darkness of their hood.

“You, Assistant City Manager,” the figure said, “are not who you claim to be. You have been corrupted by the darkness, using your position to siphon funds for nefarious purposes.”

Tabatha’s eyes widened in shock, unable to speak as the truth was laid bare before the council. The figure raised a hand, and a burst of light emanated from their palm, revealing the dark tendrils of magic that had ensnared Tabatha’s soul.

“We must act swiftly,” the figure declared. “The city’s fate hangs in the balance. Together, we must purge the darkness from within and restore balance to Elmbrook.”

And so, with the guidance of the mysterious figure, the council members banded together to uncover the truth behind Tabatha’s deception. Through their brave efforts, they were able to root out the corruption and restore peace to the city.

As the figure faded into the shadows once more, the council members stood united, their spirits renewed by the triumph over evil. And so, the city of Elmbrook continued to thrive under their watchful gaze, safeguarded against the darkness that lurked just beyond the veil.

— LoCOBot

DOCUMENTS:

Staff ReportAttachment A - Cash Disbursements 5.24.25 to 6.6.25.pdf


a. Approve a Revised Hiring and Recruitment Incentive Program Administrative Policy to Include Out of State Lateral Police Officers and the Classifications of Sergeant, Lieutenant, and Police Chief.

The City Council is being asked to approve a new policy that would offer hiring incentives to out-of-state police officers who want to work in Arcata. The city is facing a shortage of police officers, so they want to expand their recruitment efforts. This program has already helped recruit six officers in the past. The city believes that offering hiring incentives will save money and bring experienced officers to the department faster. If approved, the new policy would also apply to sergeant, lieutenant, and police chief positions. The city plans to use salary savings from vacant positions to fund the bonuses for these new hires.

— LoCOBot

… or, as a nursery rhyme!

In Arcata City, where the streets are neat,
The Council meets with Mayor to greet.
Keira Vink, with services grand,
Shares the news across the land.

Police officers, we need more,
To patrol the streets, Forests and shore.
So let’s approve this revised plan,
To bring in officers from out of state land.

Sergeants, Lieutenants, even Chiefs,
Will now be eligible for big relief.
With a hiring bonus to save some dough,
We’ll fill our ranks and watch them grow.

So let’s all vote, without delay,
And make this policy official today.
For the safety of our community wide,
Let’s support our officers with pride.

— LoCOBot

DOCUMENTS:

Staff ReportAttachment A - Hiring and Recruitment Incentive Administrative Policy.pdf


a. Reassign Planning Commission Chair, Scott Davies, to a Resident Member; and Reappoint Commissioner Amanda Hickey to the Planning Commission as an At Large Member for a Term Expiring March 31, 2027, Pursuant to Arcata Municipal Code Sec. 2202.B.

The city council is being asked to reassign someone named Scott Davies as the Planning Commission Chair to a resident member, and to reappoint Amanda Hickey to the Planning Commission as an At Large Member. This is in accordance with the city’s Municipal Code. Davies will become an Arcata resident, creating an opening for an at large member, and Hickey, who recently moved out of the city but still works there, is being recommended for the position. The decision is not subject to environmental review and has no budget impact. The council is recommended to approve this action.

— LoCOBot

… or, as a science-fiction story!

In the year 2025, the city of Arcata was undergoing a major shift in its Planning Commission leadership. Chair Scott Davies, who had previously been living and working in the planning area, was set to become a resident member starting July 1st. This change opened up an at large member position on the Commission, which was soon to be filled by Commissioner Amanda Hickey.

However, what the council members didn’t realize was that the reassignment of Chair Davies and the reappointment of Commissioner Hickey would unknowingly set off a chain of events that would have far-reaching consequences for the future of the city.

As the new members took their positions on the Planning Commission, strange things began to happen in Arcata. Mysterious buildings began to appear overnight, seemingly out of thin air. Residents reported seeing strange lights and hearing unusual noises coming from these structures, but when investigated, the buildings appeared to be completely empty.

At first, the council members dismissed these reports as mere hallucinations or pranks, but as more and more bizarre incidents occurred, it became clear that something otherworldly was at play. It wasn’t long before rumors began to swirl among the citizens of Arcata that the new Planning Commission members were somehow involved in these strange occurrences.

As tensions rose and the city descended into chaos, Chair Davies and Commissioner Hickey found themselves at the center of a conspiracy that was beyond their wildest dreams. It soon became apparent that they had unwittingly stumbled upon a portal to another dimension, and the buildings that had mysteriously appeared were actually gateways to this strange and unknown world.

In a race against time, Chair Davies and Commissioner Hickey had to work together with the rest of the Planning Commission to close the portals and prevent the otherworldly beings from entering Arcata and wreaking havoc on their city. It was a battle unlike anything they had ever faced, but with bravery and determination, they were able to save their home and ensure the safety of its inhabitants.

In the end, Chair Davies and Commissioner Hickey were hailed as heroes, their names forever remembered in the annals of Arcata’s history. And as they looked out over their city, now safe and secure once more, they couldn’t help but marvel at the incredible journey they had been on, and the unbelievable power that resided within the walls of the Planning Commission.

— LoCOBot

DOCUMENTS:

Staff Report


a. Approve Purchase of Water Meter Boxes from PACE Supply Corp. in the Amount of $143,907.12; and Approve Necessary and Associated Related Actions.

The city is recommending that the City Council approve the purchase of water meter boxes from PACE Supply Corp. for $143,907.12. This purchase is part of a project to replace old water lines and meters in order to save costs and improve efficiency. The city has pre-purchased other equipment for this project to save time and money. The purchase is within the project budget and will not be paid for until after July 1, 2025. The Council is being asked to vote on approving this purchase.

— LoCOBot

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

Are you looking to upgrade your water distribution system? Look no further! Our pre-approved purchase of water meter boxes from PACE Supply Corp. is the perfect solution for your city’s needs. With a reliable and efficient system in place, you can decrease annual costs, minimize water loss, and extend the life of your water distribution system.

Our remote-read water meters require polymer water meter boxes, which we have pre-purchased to expedite the project and reduce overall costs. By standardizing our water meter infrastructure with the trusted Badger brand, we ensure operating equipment that saves time and operational costs. These meter boxes and lids are compatible with the Badger remote read water meters we are installing throughout the city.

This purchase is well within the budget for the Steel Waterline Replacement Project and has been allocated in the draft 2025/26 Fiscal Year budget. With a CEQA categorical exemption in place, you can rest assured that this purchase is environmentally sound and sustainable.

Don’t miss out on this opportunity to enhance efficiency, decrease costs, and modernize your water distribution system. Vote to approve the purchase of water meter boxes from PACE Supply Corp. and watch your city’s water infrastructure thrive.

— LoCOBot

DOCUMENTS:

Staff ReportAttachment A - Combined Pace quotes meter boxes.pdf


10. OLD BUSINESS

a. Public Hearing to Receive Public Comment on the Roger’s Garage Affordable Housing Project.

The City Council is having a meeting to discuss the Roger’s Garage Affordable Housing Project. Staff recommends receiving a report, opening a public hearing, and taking public comments, then closing the hearing. The project is for a 45-unit affordable housing development, targeting lower-income households. There are concerns from neighbors about contamination and other issues, but the project is actively working to address these. The project requires funding from various sources, including the City’s PI funds. The Council’s decision will also be contingent on environmental and grant funding approval. The public is encouraged to participate in the decision-making process.

— LoCOBot

… or, as Schoolhouse Rock!

(Verse 1)
Hey there, City Council, it’s time to gather ‘round
For a public hearing in our fair town
We’ve got a project on the table, affordable housing it’s true
Let’s listen to the folks and hear what they have to say too

(Chorus)
Public comment, public forum, let’s all have our say
Open up the dialogue, let’s do it the right way
Affordable housing, it’s a need in every city
Let’s work together, make it happen, what a pity
If we don’t take action, we could miss out on opportunity
To help those in need, it’s our community!

(Verse 2)
The Roger’s Garage project, it’s a sight to see
Multi-family housing, for those in need, you see
The funding is in place, with CPLHA on board
But we need your support to move this project forward

(Chorus)
Public comment, public forum, let’s all have our say
Open up the dialogue, let’s do it the right way
Affordable housing, it’s a need in every city
Let’s work together, make it happen, what a pity
If we don’t take action, we could miss out on opportunity
To help those in need, it’s our community!

(Bridge)
The concerns have been raised, about contamination and more
But we’re working on solutions, to address and restore
Community involvement is key, in projects like these
Let’s listen, let’s learn, let’s do it with ease

(Chorus)
Public comment, public forum, let’s all have our say
Open up the dialogue, let’s do it the right way
Affordable housing, it’s a need in every city
Let’s work together, make it happen, what a pity
If we don’t take action, we could miss out on opportunity
To help those in need, it’s our community!

(Outro)
So City Council, let’s make the right choice
To support this project, and let all voices have a voice
Affordable housing, it’s a need in our town
Let’s work together, and bring this project down!

— LoCOBot

DOCUMENTS:

Staff ReportAttachment A. Public Comment 5.21-6.8.2025_Redacted.pdf


11. NEW BUSINESS

a. Public Hearing to Consider Adopting Resolution No. 245-56 Confirming the Report of 2024 Lien Letter Recipients of Delinquent Garbage Account Fees.

The city council is having a meeting to discuss and confirm reports of property owners who have not paid their garbage fees. The city is considering placing liens on properties with outstanding fees. The goal is to collect the overdue payments efficiently and effectively. Property owners will have the opportunity to object or protest before any action is taken. The total amount of overdue fees is $54,417.01. The council will need to adopt a resolution to move forward with placing liens on delinquent accounts.

— LoCOBot

… or, as Star Trek fan fiction!

Captain Kirk paced back and forth in the meeting room aboard the USS Enterprise, a perplexed look on his face as he read through the staff report from the City Council meeting on Arcata. As Director of Environmental Services, Emily Sinkhorn’s report detailed the process for collecting delinquent garbage account fees, he couldn’t help but wonder how such a seemingly mundane task would be relevant to the crew of a starship.

“Spock, any insights on this report?” Kirk turned to his ever-logical first officer.

Spock raised an eyebrow as he scanned the document. “It appears to be a routine procedure for a planetary government, Captain. It is necessary for maintaining their infrastructure and ensuring proper waste management.”

Kirk nodded, still not entirely convinced. “But how does this concern the Enterprise? We’re lightyears away from Arcata.”

Just then, a red alert sounded throughout the ship, interrupting their conversation. As the crew scrambled to their stations, Lieutenant Uhura’s voice crackled over the intercom.

“Captain, we’re receiving a distress signal from the planet Arcata. They’re reporting a massive spike in environmental toxins and their waste management systems are failing.”

Kirk’s eyes widened as he connected the dots. “It’s the delinquent garbage accounts. If they’re not paid, the waste isn’t properly disposed of, leading to environmental disaster.”

Without hesitation, Kirk gave the order to set a course for Arcata at maximum warp. As the Enterprise arrived in orbit around the planet, Kirk and his crew sprang into action, beaming down to assist the beleaguered city.

With Spock’s keen analysis and Scotty’s engineering expertise, they were able to quickly devise a plan to contain the toxic waste and repair the damaged waste management systems. Meanwhile, McCoy provided medical aid to those affected by the environmental crisis.

Thanks to the quick thinking and teamwork of the Enterprise crew, Arcata was saved from disaster. As they prepared to depart, Captain Kirk met with Director Emily Sinkhorn to discuss a more efficient and sustainable waste management plan for the future.

And so, the crew of the USS Enterprise departed Arcata, leaving behind a cleaner, healthier planet and a grateful city council. Captain Kirk couldn’t help but smile, knowing that even the smallest tasks could have a galactic impact.

— LoCOBot

DOCUMENTS:

Staff ReportAttachment A - Resolution 245-56 Delinquent Garbage Account Fees 2024.pdfAttachment B - AIC lien letter_2025_Redacted.pdf


a. Public Hearing to Consider Adopting Resolution No. 245-55 Authorizing Application for Community Development Block Grant Program Income for Business Assistance and Microenterprise Programs (Not Subject to the California Environmental Quality Act [CEQA]).

The City Council is considering applying for a grant to fund programs that support small businesses and entrepreneurs. The grant would provide up to $200,000 to help businesses that may not qualify for traditional financing. The programs aim to create jobs, promote business growth, and support economic development in the community. The Council is recommended to approve the resolution to apply for the grant funding.

— LoCOBot

… or, as a corrido!

En la reunión del Consejo se presentó un informe,
David Loya, Director de Desarrollo Comunitario, lo preparó,
Se trató de una propuesta para aplicar a un fondo,
Con el fin de ayudar a emprendedores en el mundo.

La Resolución No. 245-55 se planteó para autorizar,
La solicitud de fondos para apoyo empresarial,
Hasta $200,000 podrían ser asignados,
Para expandir programas y hacer el negocio más genial.

El Programa de Asistencia Empresarial brinda préstamos,
A pequeñas empresas que buscan crecer y crear empleos,
Mientras que el Programa de Microempresas ofrece apoyo,
A negocios nuevos y existentes, haciendo crecer sus deseos.

Con este financiamiento adicional,
La ciudad puede ayudar a más negocios a florecer,
Generando empleo, crecimiento económico y resistencia,
Y así alcanzar metas de desarrollo que quieran crecer.

Se realizó una audiencia sobre el uso de fondos,
Y se decidió priorizar apoyo a negocios locales,
Con $200,000 en fondos de Programa de Ingresos,
Que serán de gran ayuda para todos los locales.

Este paso apoyará los objetivos de desarrollo económico,
Y permitirá la expansión de programas vitales,
Así que se recomienda la adopción de la Resolución,
Que autoriza la solicitud de fondos con total determinación.

¡Bienvenidos sean los fondos para crecer y avanzar,
En el hermoso camino del progreso local,
Apoyemos juntos estos programas de gran valía,
Que impulsan nuestra economía y bienestar general!

— LoCOBot

DOCUMENTS:

Staff ReportAttachment A. Res. No 245-55.pdf


a. Public Hearing to Consider Establishing the Fiscal Year (FY) 2025/2026 Appropriations Limit (“Gann Limit”) and Revising the FY 2024/2025 Appropriations Limit.

Summary: The city council is holding a public hearing to discuss setting the financial limits for the upcoming fiscal year and revising the limits for the current fiscal year. The limits are set based on inflation and population changes. The council will review a staff report, invite public comments, and adopt resolutions to establish and revise the limits. The city’s budgets are expected to be well below the limits.

— LoCOBot

… or, as a chanson!

Dans la ville aujourd’hui, le conseil se réunit
Pour discuter de nos finances, de nos comptes et de nos limites
Tabatha, notre directrice, présente ses recommandations
Pour établir les limites de l’exercice fiscal, sans hésitation

Nous ouvrons la séance publique, écoutons les rapports
Sur l’établissement des limites de cette année et leur mise à jour
Les taxes et les revenus, soumis à la limite de Gann
Nous devons les examiner et en discuter, tout cela maintenant

Pas d’impact financier direct, nos budgets bien maîtrisés
Les limites fixées ne devraient pas nous affecter, rien n’est dépassé
Alors conseil, prenez votre décision, adoptez les résolutions
Et fermons cette séance, en toute conclusion

Ainsi se termine notre chanson, sur la gestion municipale
Espérons que nos décisions seront sages et accompliront notre idéal
Pour un avenir prospère et stable, dans notre belle cité
Merci à tous, pour votre attention et votre complicité

— LoCOBot

DOCUMENTS:

Staff ReportAttachment A. Resolution No 245-52 FY 2025-26 Gann Limit.pdfAttachment B. FY 2025-26 Calculation Documentation.pdfAttachment C. Resolution No. 245-54 Revised FY 2024-25 Gann Limit.pdfAttachment D. FY 2024-25 Calculation and Documentation.pdf


a. Public Hearing to Adopt Resolution No. 245-53 Adopting the Fiscal Year 2025/2026 Proposed Budget.

The City Council is holding a meeting to discuss and approve the budget for the upcoming fiscal year. The budget includes funding for city services like police, public works, parks, and recreation. It is important for the Council to review and approve the budget to ensure that all necessary expenses are covered. They will also allow for public input before making a decision.

— LoCOBot

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

My Dearest Jane,

I write to you now from the trenches, where the enemy’s artillery shells rain down upon us like a never-ending storm. The constant roar of explosions fills my ears, and the ground beneath me shakes with each blast. In this moment of chaos and destruction, my thoughts are consumed by you and the love we share.

Despite the danger that surrounds me, I find solace in the memory of your smile and the warmth of your embrace. Your love is my strength, my reason to keep fighting for another day. It is the hope that sustains me in the darkest of times.

I long for the day when I can hold you in my arms again, when the war is nothing but a distant memory. Until then, know that you are always in my heart, guiding me through the chaos of battle.

Forever yours,
Charles

— LoCOBot

DOCUMENTS:

Staff ReportAttachment A. RESOLUTION NO 245-53 FY 2025 Budget.pdfAttachment B. FY 2025-26 Budget Account Listing.pdf


a. Introduce Ordinance No. 1580, An Ordinance of the City Council of the City of Arcata Adding Section 3200 to Designate Fire Hazard Severity Zones to Chapter 1, Fire Prevention and Fire Protection, of Title III, Public Safety, of the Arcata Municipal Code.

The city of Arcata is introducing a new ordinance to designate Fire Hazard Severity Zones in the city based on maps created by CalFire. This ordinance is meant to inform residents of potential fire hazards in their area and encourage property owners to take precautions to protect their homes and properties. The adoption of this ordinance will bring the city into compliance with state regulations. The ordinance will have minimal impact on the city’s budget and is not considered a project under the California Environmental Quality Act. Public comment on the ordinance is encouraged before it is adopted.

— LoCOBot

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

Beavis: Uh, hey Butt-head. What’s all this stuff about fire hazard zones and maps and ordinances?

Butt-head: I don’t know, Beavis. It sounds like they’re trying to make sure that people know where it’s really hot or something. Like, if you want to start a fire, you should do it in the “Very High” zone.

Beavis: Hehehe, yeah. Fire is cool. Remember that time we tried to light that stick on fire and nearly burned down the neighbor’s fence?

Butt-head: Yeah, that was cool. Maybe we should check out this map thing and see if our house is like, in a danger zone or something.

Beavis: Yeah, like, maybe our house is in the “Extreme Danger” zone. That would be awesome.

Butt-head: Yeah. And then we could like, build a big fire pit in the backyard and roast marshmallows every night.

Beavis: Hehehe, yeah. And maybe we could like, invite those chicks over and they could see how dangerous and cool we are.

Butt-head: Yeah. Let’s go check out this map thing and see if we’re living on the edge, Beavis.

Beavis: Cool. Let’s do it. Fire! Fire! Fire! Hehehehehehe.

— LoCOBot

DOCUMENTS:

Staff ReportAttachment A - Ordinance No. 1580.pdfAttachment B - Local Responsibility Area, Fire Severity Zones Map.pdf


12. ORAL AND WRITTEN COMMUNICATIONS [CONTINUED]

13. COUNCIL REPORTS

14. DATES OF FUTURE MEETINGS AND FUTURE AGENDA ITEMS

a. Cancel the July 2, 2025, City Council Meeting.


a. Confirm a Joint Study Session with the Planning Commission for June 30, 2025, at 5:30 p.m. in the Council Chamber.


a. Confirm a Joint Study Session with the Board of Directors for the Arcata Fire District for July 30, 2025, at 3:30 p.m. in the Council Chamber.


15. CLOSED SESSION

16. CLOSED SESSION REPORTS

17. ADJOURNMENT


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