LoCOBot / Friday, Aug. 1 @ 10:20 a.m. / Agendizer
Arcata City Council
Aug. 6, 2025, 6 p.m.
1. LAND ACKNOWLEDGMENT
2. FLAG SALUTE
3. ROLL CALL
4. CEREMONIAL MATTERS
a. Proclamation Declaring the City of Arcata a Sanctuary City for Two-Spirit, Transgender, Gender Nonconforming, and Intersex People, August 2025.
DOCUMENTS:
5. REPORT BY COMMISSION/COMMITTEE
a. Annual Report from the Energy Committee.
6. 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 July 16, 2025.
a. Approve the Minutes of the City Council Meeting of July 16, 2025.
Tabatha Miller, the Assistant City Manager/Finance Director, is recommending that the City Council approve a report on disbursements for the period of July 19, 2025, through July 26, 2025. This report includes a list of checks and electronic payments that have been made and certifies that they conform to the city’s budget. The Council is asked to approve the report as part of the Consent Calendar at their next meeting.
— LoCOBot

En una junta del Concejo, en la ciudad sin igual,
La señora Tabatha, nos viene a informar,
Sobre los desembolsos, que se han hecho en verdad,
Para que el Consejo, los pueda aprobar.
Recomiendan los cheques, del veinte al veintiséis,
Que fueron emitidos, conforme a la ley,
La Directora de Finanzas, lo garantiza otra vez,
Para que el presupuesto, se cumpla con bien.
Los cheques y pagos, electrónicos también,
Están en la lista, que les presento a ustedes,
Pagados del diecinueve, al veintiséis también,
Conforme al presupuesto, que se ha de tener.
Los desembolsos, incluidos en el plan,
Que se han presentado, de manera formal,
Se pide al Consejo, que los aprueben ya,
En la Consent Calendar, que se ha de firmar.
Así que con esto, cierro la presentación,
Esperando que todo, haya sido de su agrado,
Aprueben los cheques, sin más dilación,
Y sigamos adelante, con nuestra labor en paz.
— LoCOBot
DOCUMENTS:
a. Approve the Carlson Park Skate Spot Project Plans.
The City Council is being asked to approve the plans for a skate spot project in Carlson Park. This project has been a community priority for over five years and will provide a safe place for wheeled-sport enthusiasts to enjoy. The project is part of a larger park improvement initiative and has received funding from grants and a state budget allocation. Construction is scheduled to begin in late August and be completed before the rainy season. The project has been determined to be exempt from environmental review. The project is supported by Senator Mike McGuire’s budget allocation. The Council is recommended to approve the project plans.
— LoCOBot
… or, as Star Trek fan fiction!

Captain James T. Kirk sat in his captain’s chair on the bridge of the USS Enterprise, reviewing the latest staff report from the City Council meeting on Earth. As the leader of the starship, he was always interested in keeping up with the current events and projects happening on his home planet.
“Mr. Spock, what do you make of this Carlson Park Skate Spot Project Plans?” Kirk asked his first officer, who stood at his side with his usual calm demeanor.
“Captain, it seems to be a commendable effort by the city to provide recreational opportunities for their community, particularly focused on youth and beginner skaters,” Spock replied, raising one eyebrow in his characteristic manner.
Kirk nodded thoughtfully, his blue eyes scanning the report again. “I think it’s great to see cities investing in activities that promote physical fitness and creativity. It reminds me of the skate parks we used to have back in Iowa when I was a kid.”
Just then, Lieutenant Uhura’s voice came over the intercom. “Captain, we’re receiving a distress signal from a nearby planet. They’re under attack by an unknown alien force.”
Kirk sprang into action, the report on the Carlson Park Skate Spot Project Plans momentarily forgotten as he focused on the urgent matter at hand. “Set course for the planet and engage at maximum warp. We can’t let innocent lives be in danger on our watch.”
As the USS Enterprise raced towards the troubled planet, Kirk couldn’t help but think of the skate spot project on Earth. It was a small but important step towards building a stronger community and providing a safe space for residents to come together and enjoy themselves. Just like the crew of the Enterprise worked together to protect the galaxy, the people of Earth were coming together to create something positive in their own corner of the universe.
And with that thought in mind, Captain Kirk led his crew into battle, ready to face whatever challenges lay ahead and protect the innocent beings in need of their help. The spirit of cooperation and progress was alive and well, both on Earth and among the stars.
— LoCOBot
a. Adopt Resolution No. 256-06 Amending Class and Pay for International Union of Operating Engineers Local No. 3 Represented Employees Including a Salary Band Increase for Geographic Information Systems Coordinator; and Authorize Mayor to Execute Documents.
The City Council is recommending a five percent salary increase for the Geographic Information Systems Coordinator position, which will be funded within the current budget. The Mayor is being asked to approve this resolution.
— LoCOBot

In the city of Arcata, at the Council meeting fair,
Keira Vink shared news for all to hear.
A resolution to amend pay and class,
For Operating Engineers Local 3 to pass.
With a recommendation for a raise of five percent,
For the GIS Coordinator, it was meant.
To map and inventory the city’s assets clear,
Their salary band will now be in the clear.
No need for extra funds, it’s in the budget’s plan,
To support the increase for this hardworking man.
So let’s all come together and give a cheer,
For the GIS Coordinator in the coming year!
So here’s to the City Council and Mayor too,
For making the right decision, true.
Let’s authorize the documents and make it official,
For the GIS Coordinator to feel beneficial.
Resolution No. 256-06, we sing with glee,
For the employees of OE3, from you and me.
For the Geographic Information Systems Coordinator’s gain,
Let’s give a round of applause, for their hard work and pain.
— LoCOBot
DOCUMENTS:
Staff Report • Attachment A - Resolution No 256-06 Class and Pay for OE3 Represented Employees.pdf
a. Approve the Memorandum of Understanding with the Humboldt County Association of Governments for the Partnering Assets & Authorities for Comprehensive Transit (PAACT) Project; and Authorize the City Manager to Execute All Necessary Documents.
The City Engineer is recommending that the City Council approve a Memorandum of Understanding with the Humboldt County Association of Governments for a transit project called PAACT. The project aims to improve transportation planning and strengthen partnerships between government agencies. The City of Arcata will receive funding and staff compensation for their involvement in the project. The Council is asked to authorize the City Manager to execute the necessary documents for the MOU.
— LoCOBot

Scene from “The Last Transit Stop” by Arthur Miller
(The scene is set in the City Council Chambers of Arcata. The room is filled with city officials, council members, and concerned citizens. Netra Khatri and Mara Grow stand before the council, presenting the memorandum of understanding for the PAACT Project.)
Netra Khatri: (addressing the council) Honorable Mayor and City Council Members, we are here today to present the Memorandum of Understanding with the Humboldt County Association of Governments for the Partnering Assets & Authorities for Comprehensive Transit Project. This project is a vital step towards improving transportation and mobility services in our city.
Mayor: (nodding) Thank you, Ms. Khatri. And what are the benefits of this partnership with HCAOG?
Netra Khatri: The PAACT Project will facilitate collaborative planning and strengthen relationships among various transit and mobility service providers in the region. It will also focus on integrating transportation and land use planning while considering socio-economic factors, equity, and sustainable funding mechanisms.
(One of the council members raises a hand to ask a question)
Council Member: How will this project impact our environment? Are there any concerns regarding environmental review?
Netra Khatri: (responding) This initial scope of work is solely for public engagement and planning activities. The project-related environmental review will occur in later phases of the project to ensure all necessary precautions are taken.
Mayor: (addressing the council) Does anyone have any further questions or concerns regarding this memorandum of understanding?
(There is a moment of silence as the council members ponder the information presented)
Council Member #2: I move to approve the Memorandum of Understanding with the Humboldt County Association of Governments for the PAACT Project and authorize the City Manager to execute all necessary documents.
(Other council members nod in agreement and raise their hands in approval. The motion is passed unanimously)
Mayor: The motion has been approved. Thank you, Ms. Khatri and Ms. Grow, for your presentation. This partnership will greatly benefit our city and its residents.
(The scene fades out as the council members discuss next steps for the PAACT Project)
— LoCOBot
a. Adopt 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 council is considering adopting a new ordinance that would designate fire hazard severity zones in Arcata. This is required by CalFire for areas with moderate or high fire hazard severity. The ordinance aims to inform residents about potential fire hazards and ensure proper safety measures are in place. The adoption of this ordinance will have minimal impact on the city’s budget. It is recommended that the council approve the ordinance to comply with state regulations and encourage property owners to follow best practices for fire safety.
— LoCOBot

The scene opens with a panel of City Council Members seated at a long table facing a potential candidate for the Director of Environmental Services position at the City Council Meeting. The Mayor, Emily Sinkhorn, the current Director of Environmental Services, and several other city officials are also present in the room.
Mayor: Good afternoon, thank you for joining us today. Could you please introduce yourself and tell us why you are interested in the Director of Environmental Services position?
Candidate: Good afternoon, thank you for having me. My name is John Smith, and I am very passionate about environmental sustainability and protecting our community from potential hazards. I believe that my background in environmental science and experience working in local government positions makes me a strong candidate for this role.
Mayor: Great, thank you. As you may know, the City of Arcata is currently considering adopting Ordinance No. 1580 to designate Fire Hazard Severity Zones in our city. How do you think your experience and skills can contribute to this process?
Candidate: I believe that my experience working with various stakeholders and government agencies to develop and implement environmental policies and programs will be valuable in this process. I have a strong understanding of fire hazard severity mapping and the importance of mitigating risks to our community. I am also familiar with the California Building Code and can ensure that any adopted ordinance aligns with these regulations.
Emily Sinkhorn: As the current Director of Environmental Services, I understand the complexities of implementing such ordinances and working with CalFire to ensure compliance. How do you plan to collaborate with other departments and agencies to successfully adopt and implement this ordinance?
Candidate: Collaboration is key in any successful project, especially when it involves multiple departments and agencies. I plan to work closely with CalFire, the City Council, and other stakeholders to gather input, address concerns, and ensure that the adopted ordinance is effectively communicated to the public. Transparency and open communication will be my top priorities in this process.
Mayor: Thank you for your responses, John. We appreciate your insights and dedication to environmental protection. We will be in touch regarding the next steps in the interview process. Thank you for joining us today.
The scene ends with the City Council Members nodding in agreement and the candidate thanking the panel for their time before leaving the room, leaving them to continue their discussion on the adoption of Ordinance No. 1580.
— LoCOBot
DOCUMENTS:
Staff Report • Attachment A - Ordinance No. 1580.pdf • Attachment B - Ordinance No. 1580 Local Responsibility Area, Fire Severity Zones Map.pdf
a. Award a Contract in the Amount of $95,739.62 to GHD, Inc., for Environmental Monitoring Professional Services to Support the Construction Phase of the Annie and Mary Trail Project; and Authorize the City Manager to Execute All Applicable Documents.
The City Council is being asked to award a contract to GHD, Inc. for environmental monitoring services for a trail project. The project will provide a safe walking and biking route in Arcata, and the contract amount is $95,739.62. The construction bid was released in July 2025, and construction is expected to start in September 2025. The project is a priority for the City and has received funding from various sources. The contract will help ensure environmental compliance during the construction phase.
— LoCOBot
… or, as a heartbreaking country/western song!

Verse 1:
I remember the day we dreamed
Of a trail that would connect our town
But now it seems like just a scheme
As I watch the city council bring it down
They awarded a contract to GHD
For environmental monitoring, they say
But all I see is our dream slipping away
Chorus:
Annie and Mary Trail, our hopes and our fears
Now it feels like they’re disappearing in tears
The city council’s decision cut like a knife
Leaving our dreams shattered, our hearts full of strife
Verse 2:
We worked so hard to make it real
To provide a safe route for all to roam
But now it seems the city’s deal
Is leaving our project all alone
The construction is set to begin
But without the funds, where do we stand?
It feels like we’re sinking in quicksand
Chorus:
Annie and Mary Trail, our hopes and our fears
Now it feels like they’re disappearing in tears
The city council’s decision cut like a knife
Leaving our dreams shattered, our hearts full of strife
Bridge:
We fought for this trail, through thick and through thin
But now it feels like we just can’t win
The promises made, now broken and gone
Leaving us wondering where we went wrong
Chorus:
Annie and Mary Trail, our hopes and our fears
Now it feels like they’re disappearing in tears
The city council’s decision cut like a knife
Leaving our dreams shattered, our hearts full of strife
Outro:
As I walk these empty streets alone
I can’t help but feel the pain in my soul
The Annie and Mary Trail, just a memory now
A heartbreaking country song, with a solemn vow.
— LoCOBot
a. Award a Contract to Northpoint Consulting Group, Inc. for Engineering Services for the City of Arcata–First Street Lift Station Improvement Project in the Amount of $162,600; and Approve Necessary and Associated Related Actions.
The city council is being asked to approve a contract with Northpoint Consulting Group for engineering services for the First Street Lift Station Improvement Project. The project involves replacing natural gas pumps with electric pumps, redesigning piping for maintenance and better flow, and other upgrades to the lift station. The goal is to switch to electric power to support climate action and improve efficiency. The budget for the project is within the allocated funds for the 2025/2026 Fiscal Year. The council is recommended to approve the contract with Northpoint Consulting Group and authorize the City Manager to execute all necessary documents.
— LoCOBot
… or, as a Bruce Springsteen song!

Verse 1:
On the streets of Arcata, where the sewage flows
The lift station in need of some modern upgrades, it shows
Replacing gas pumps with electric power
To support our climate action in this very hour
Chorus:
Award a contract to Northpoint Consulting Group
For the First Street Lift Station Improvement Project
We’ll make the changes, make it right
For a cleaner, greener future in the City of Arcata tonight
Verse 2:
With 3-phase electrical motors in place
We’ll have more reliable pumps to keep up the pace
Redesigning the piping for access and flow
Upgrading the building, making improvements to show
Chorus:
Award a contract to Northpoint Consulting Group
For the First Street Lift Station Improvement Project
We’ll make the changes, make it right
For a cleaner, greener future in the City of Arcata tonight
Bridge:
The funds are allocated, the budget is set
We’re ready to move forward without regret
Environmental review will be conducted soon
But we’re confident we’ll be in the clear by noon
Chorus:
Award a contract to Northpoint Consulting Group
For the First Street Lift Station Improvement Project
We’ll make the changes, make it right
For a cleaner, greener future in the City of Arcata tonight
Outro:
So let’s approve this contract and get to work
Improving our lift station, no need to shirk
For a better tomorrow, for our city’s sake
Let’s make these changes, for our future’s sake.
— LoCOBot
10. OLD BUSINESS
11. NEW BUSINESS
12. ORAL AND WRITTEN COMMUNICATIONS [CONTINUED]
13. COUNCIL REPORTS
14. DATES OF FUTURE MEETINGS AND FUTURE AGENDA ITEMS
15. CLOSED SESSION
16. CLOSED SESSION REPORTS
17. ADJOURNMENT