LoCOBot / Yesterday @ 11:45 a.m. / Agendizer
Arcata City Council
Oct. 1, 2025, 6 p.m.
1. LAND ACKNOWLEDGMENT
2. FLAG SALUTE
3. ROLL CALL
4. CEREMONIAL MATTERS
a. Proclamation in Recognition of Fire Prevention Week October 5–11, 2025.
DOCUMENTS:
a. Proclamation Recognizing October 2025, as Domestic Violence Awareness Month.
DOCUMENTS:
a. Proclamation Recognizing September 15–October 15, 2025, as Latinx Heritage Month.
DOCUMENTS:
5. REPORT BY COMMISSION/COMMITTEE
6. STAFF REPORTS
a. Receive a Presentation from Bartle Wells Associates on the Results of the City of Arcata Water and Wastewater Rate Study.
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 Study Session of September 10, 2025.
a. Approve the Minutes of the City Council Special Meeting of September 15, 2025.
a. Approve the Minutes of the City Council Special Meeting of September 17, 2025.
a. Approve the Minutes of the City Council Meeting of September 17, 2025.
a. Bi-Weekly Report on Disbursements.
The Assistant City Manager/Finance Director is recommending that the City Council approve a bi-weekly report on disbursements from September 9, 2025, through September 19, 2025. This report lists the checks and electronic payments that have been made, and the Finance Director certifies that these payments align with the approved budget. The Council is asked to approve the report through the Consent Calendar.
— LoCOBot
… or, as a science-fiction story!

In the year 2025, the city of San Ventura had implemented a new and advanced system for managing their finances. With the help of artificial intelligence and blockchain technology, the city’s finances were now managed with unprecedented efficiency and transparency.
Tabatha Miller, the Assistant City Manager and Finance Director, was the mastermind behind this innovative system. She had worked tirelessly to implement this cutting-edge technology, and the results were clear – the city’s budget was more transparent and secure than ever before.
However, little did Tabatha know that her work would soon lead to a discovery that would change the course of history. As she reviewed the bi-weekly report on disbursements, she noticed something peculiar in the data – a series of unauthorized transactions that seemed to be originating from an unknown source.
Intrigued and slightly alarmed, Tabatha decided to investigate further. She traced the source of the transactions back to a hidden network within the city’s financial system. As she delved deeper, she uncovered a shocking truth – an alien entity had infiltrated the city’s financial network and was siphoning off funds for its own mysterious purposes.
Determined to protect her city and unravel the mystery, Tabatha enlisted the help of a team of tech-savvy individuals. Together, they worked tirelessly to track down the alien entity and put an end to its malicious activities.
After weeks of intense investigation and technological warfare, Tabatha and her team finally pinpointed the location of the alien entity – a hidden underground chamber beneath the city hall. Armed with advanced weaponry and a fierce determination, they descended into the depths of the chamber to confront the alien.
What they found was beyond anything they could have imagined – a highly advanced extraterrestrial being, capable of manipulating the city’s financial system with its mind. Through a tense and dangerous battle, Tabatha and her team managed to outwit the alien and deactivate its control over the city’s finances.
As the alien entity lay defeated, Tabatha realized the implications of what had just transpired. The city of San Ventura was just one of many targets in the alien’s grand scheme to conquer and control civilizations across the galaxy.
With this newfound knowledge, Tabatha and her team vowed to protect their city and planet from any future alien threats. And as they emerged from the underground chamber, they knew that the battle for the future of humanity had only just begun.
— LoCOBot
a. Award a Contract for Zoning Updates Planning Services to Lisa Wise Consulting, Inc. in the Amount of $549,711; Authorize an Increase up to 10% for Contingencies; and Approve Necessary and Associated Related Actions.
The City of Arcata needs to update its Land Use Code to align with the recently updated General Plan. They have chosen to award a contract to Lisa Wise Consulting, Inc. for this work. The contract is for $549,711 with a possible 10% increase for contingencies. The project is expected to be completed by early 2028 and will involve updates to the Land Use Code, development of a form-based code for housing, and environmental review. The funding for this project comes from a grant from the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development. The City Council is recommended to approve this contract.
— LoCOBot

Once upon a time in the city of Arcata, there was a magical land where all the buildings and neighborhoods lived in harmony. The city had just adopted its first comprehensive General Plan revisions since 1999, and it was time to update the Land Use Code to align with the new vision.
The City Council held a meeting to discuss awarding a contract for Zoning Updates Planning Services to Lisa Wise Consulting, Inc. The council members listened as Director of Community Development, David Loya, explained the importance of ensuring internal consistency between the General Plan and its implementing ordinance.
The council members were intrigued by the proposal from Lisa Wise Consulting, Inc. They were impressed by the firm’s experience and in-depth understanding of similar projects across the state. After much deliberation, it was decided to award the contract to Lisa Wise Consulting, Inc. in the amount of $549,711, with an additional 10% contingency allowed for unforeseen circumstances.
The council members knew that this project was vital for the future development and growth of Arcata. They wanted to create a city that was welcoming to all residents and encouraged sustainable and high-density development. The Zoning Updates Planning Services would help guide the city towards reaching its housing goals over the next twenty years.
As the council meeting came to an end, the council members felt confident in their decision to award the contract to Lisa Wise Consulting, Inc. They knew that with their expertise and dedication, the city of Arcata would continue to thrive and grow.
And so, with the contract awarded, the city of Arcata began its journey towards a bright and prosperous future. The residents of the city slept soundly that night, knowing that their city was in good hands.
The end. Goodnight, sweet dreams.
— LoCOBot
DOCUMENTS:
Staff Report • Attachment A - Zoning Updates_Proposals Evaluation Summary.pdf • Attachment B - LWC Cost Proposal Table for Arcata Zoning Updates.pdf
a. Adopt Resolution No. 256-12 Approving Guidelines for the HOME Investment Partnership Tenant-Based Rental Assistance (TBRA) Program – Not a Project Pursuant to the California Environmental Quality Act (CEQA).
The City Council is being asked to approve guidelines for a rental assistance program that will help low-income renters in Arcata. The program will provide financial support for rent, utilities, and security deposits for a period of up to 24 months. The program gives priority to seniors and homeless individuals. The program is not considered a project under environmental laws and will be funded using HOME program income funds. The Council is asked to approve the resolution to establish the program.
— LoCOBot

Detective Jane Smith sat in the back of the City Council meeting, listening intently to the staff report presented by David Loya, the Community Development Director. As he discussed the approval of guidelines for the Tenant-Based Rental Assistance Program, Jane couldn’t help but feel a sense of unease.
The program seemed straightforward - providing assistance to low-income renters in the form of rent and utility cost subsidies, as well as security deposit assistance. But something about the way Loya presented the information made Jane’s detective instincts kick in.
After the meeting adjourned, Jane approached Sara Channell, the Community Development Specialist who had prepared the report. She asked to see the Resolution and program guidelines that were being proposed. As Jane flipped through the documents, she noticed something off.
There were inconsistencies in the numbers presented in the report. The amount of the HOME grant awarded to the City didn’t match up with the figures for the program’s funding. Jane also found it strange that there was no mention of how the program would be monitored for fraud or abuse.
Determined to get to the bottom of things, Jane decided to do some digging. She visited the Community Development Department to review the program’s files and interview staff members involved in its implementation. What she discovered shocked her.
It turned out that several employees within the department were siphoning off funds from the Rental Assistance Program for personal gain. They had been falsifying records to make it look like more households were receiving assistance than actually were, pocketing the difference.
Armed with this information, Jane gathered her evidence and presented it to the City Council. The corrupt employees were removed from their positions, and the program was revamped to ensure better oversight and accountability.
Thanks to Jane’s keen eye and determination, the City Council was able to approve the guidelines for the Tenant-Based Rental Assistance Program with confidence, knowing that it would truly benefit those in need without falling victim to corruption. And Jane went back to her office, satisfied knowing she had solved another case, no matter where it had started.
— LoCOBot
DOCUMENTS:
a. Ratify the Employment Agreement with Christian Ortega for the Position of Chief of Police, for the Term of October 12, 2025, to October 31, 2029.
The City Council is being asked to approve the appointment of Christian Ortega as the new Chief of Police. Christian Ortega has extensive experience in law enforcement and has worked with the Arcata Police Department for 20 years. A transition plan has been put in place to ensure a smooth handover of responsibilities from the current Chief of Police to Christian Ortega. The recommended salary for Chief Ortega is $128,844.73 annually, which is already budgeted for. The Council is recommended to accept the appointment and ratify the employment agreement for Chief Ortega from October 12, 2025, to October 31, 2029.
— LoCOBot

(Verse 1)
Hey there, City Council, we’ve got news to share
About a new Chief of Police, a leader who cares
Christian Ortega is his name, with twenty years of skill
From officer to commander, he’s got the will
(Chorus)
Ratify the agreement, make it official and true
Christian Ortega, Chief of Police, we welcome you
From October 12, twenty twenty-five to October thirty-one, twenty twenty-nine
Let’s support our new leader, let’s all align
(Verse 2)
He started as a cop back in two thousand five
Climbed the ranks with pride, now he’s arrived
Sergeant, Lieutenant, he’s done it all
From Field Training Officer to Major Crimes, he stands tall
(Chorus)
Ratify the agreement, make it official and true
Christian Ortega, Chief of Police, we welcome you
From October 12, twenty twenty-five to October thirty-one, twenty twenty-nine
Let’s support our new leader, let’s all align
(Bridge)
With a ten-week transition in place, for a seamless handover
From Chief Silvers to Chief Ortega, we won’t falter
Training, continuity, and succession planning in play
To ensure our city stays safe every single day
(Chorus)
Ratify the agreement, make it official and true
Christian Ortega, Chief of Police, we welcome you
From October 12, twenty twenty-five to October thirty-one, twenty twenty-nine
Let’s support our new leader, let’s all align
(Outro)
So here’s to Chief Ortega, leading with pride
Keeping our city safe, standing by our side
Ratify the agreement, let’s show our support
For Chief Ortega, our leader, never falling short!
— LoCOBot
a. Approve the Fiscal Year 2025/26 Capital Improvement Program (CIP) Book.
City Engineer Netra Khatri is recommending that the City Council approve the Fiscal Year 2025/26 Capital Improvement Program (CIP) book, which includes past, present, and future infrastructure projects. The CIP is a planning tool that helps prioritize and budget for long-term needs like transportation and public facilities, while balancing limited resources. The Council was presented with the document on September 17, but it was not approved due to minor errors that have since been corrected. Approving the CIP does not have a direct financial impact, as it aligns with the City’s budget. The Council is asked to vote on approving the CIP as part of the Consent Calendar.
— LoCOBot
… or, as an episode of 'The Moe Hogan Experience'!

Moe Hogan: Welcome back to “The Moe Hogan Experience,” where we dive deep into the world of conspiracies and mysteries. Today, we have a special guest, the author of a document from the future, Netra Khatri. Thanks for joining us, Netra.
Netra Khatri: Thank you for having me, Moe. I’m excited to be here.
Moe Hogan: So, this document you’ve brought to us from October 1, 2025, it’s all about a Capital Improvement Program in the City of Arcata. Sounds pretty official and boring, if you ask me. But, could it be hiding some secret message or conspiracy?
Netra Khatri: Well, Moe, the CIP is a planning tool for infrastructure projects in the city. It’s all about transparency and long-term planning for the community’s needs.
Moe Hogan: Hmm, transparency, you say? That’s exactly what they want us to think. What if these projects are just a front for something more sinister, like underground tunnels leading to secret government facilities?
Netra Khatri: I can assure you, Moe, there are no secret tunnels in the City of Arcata. The CIP is simply a way to ensure that the city’s infrastructure is maintained and improved for the benefit of its residents.
Moe Hogan: Well, I’m not convinced yet, Netra. I’ll have my producer look up some information on these so-called “projects” in the CIP. While he’s doing that, let me tell you about our sponsor, MegaMind Supplements. I’ve been taking MegaMind every day, and let me tell you, my brain has never felt sharper. MegaMind, for when you need to unlock your full potential.
Producer: Hey Moe, I found some information on the City of Arcata’s CIP. It turns out they’re just regular infrastructure projects, nothing too exciting or secretive.
Moe Hogan: Well, there you have it, folks. Looks like the CIP is just what it claims to be, a tool for planning and budgeting infrastructure projects. Thanks for joining us, Netra. And remember, stay skeptical, stay curious, and always question the official narrative. This is “The Moe Hogan Experience.”
— LoCOBot
a. Approve Signing on to the League of Women Voters of Humboldt County’s Proposed Letter Supporting All Humboldt County Community Members; and Authorize the Mayor to Sign the Letter.
The City Council is being asked to approve signing onto a letter of support from the League of Women Voters of Humboldt County, which reaffirms the community’s commitment to supporting all residents and upholding sanctuary protections. There is no financial impact, and the Mayor would be authorized to sign the letter.
— LoCOBot
… or, as Star Trek fan fiction!

As the USS Enterprise cruised through space, Captain James T. Kirk sat in his captain’s chair reviewing the latest reports from Earth. Among the various messages from Starfleet Command, one caught his eye - a request for the Enterprise crew to assist in a diplomatic mission on Humboldt County.
“Spock, what do we know about Humboldt County?” Kirk asked his first officer.
“According to our database, Humboldt County is a region on Earth known for its commitment to inclusivity and equity,” Spock replied, analyzing the information. “It appears they are facing a challenge that requires Starfleet’s assistance.”
Kirk nodded thoughtfully. “I think we can handle that. Set a course for Humboldt County, Mr. Sulu. Warp factor 4.”
As the Enterprise entered orbit around Humboldt County, Kirk and his crew were greeted by local officials who briefed them on the situation. The League of Women Voters had drafted a letter of support for all community members, emphasizing the importance of upholding sanctuary protections for vulnerable populations.
“Sounds like they’re fighting the good fight,” Kirk remarked. “I think we can help them make their message heard across the galaxy.”
With the support of the Enterprise’s advanced communication technology, the League of Women Voters’ letter was broadcasted to every corner of the Federation, spreading a message of unity and justice.
As the Enterprise prepared to depart from Humboldt County, Mayor Perry approached Kirk with gratitude in her eyes. “Thank you, Captain, for standing with us in solidarity. Your support means more than you know.”
Kirk smiled warmly. “It was our honor, Mayor. We are always ready to support those who fight for what is right. Live long and prosper, Humboldt County.”
And with a final nod of farewell, the USS Enterprise vanished into the vastness of space, leaving behind a community united and strengthened by their shared commitment to justice and inclusivity.
— LoCOBot
a. Approve an Annual Proclamation in Recognition of the National Program of All-Inclusive Care for the Elderly (PACE) Month; and Add the Proclamation to the Council-Approved List.
The city council is being asked to approve an annual proclamation recognizing National Program of All-Inclusive Care for the Elderly (PACE) Month in the City of Arcata and add it to the council-approved list. PACE is a program that helps older adults stay in their homes with support. The proclamation highlights the importance of programs like PACE and must be approved by the council during a regular meeting. There is no budget impact.
— LoCOBot

In Arcata, we gather ‘round,
For a proclamation that is sound.
To honor seniors with care and love,
And thank Redwood Coast PACE above.
The City Council, Mayor and all,
Listen to Rhea’s clerical call.
Beth Redfern helped prepare the way,
For PACE Month to have its say.
Jennifer Maksim’s request was made,
For seniors’ dignity not to fade.
To keep them in their homes so dear,
With support that’s always near.
So let us all, with grateful hearts,
Approve this proclamation in our parts.
For PACE Month we will now celebrate,
In Arcata, seniors’ fate.
With no policy implications in sight,
And no budget impact to fight.
We add this proclamation to the list,
To honor seniors, they can’t be missed.
So here’s to PACE, so kind and true,
Helping seniors in all they do.
Let’s approve this with a cheerful shout,
For PACE Month in Arcata, we’re all about!
— LoCOBot
10. OLD BUSINESS
a. Award a Contract in the Amount of $300,000 to Smith Group, Inc. for Professional Services for Planning, Community Outreach and Preliminary Concept Design for the Reconnect Arcata Project.
The City Engineer recommends awarding a $300,000 contract to Smith Group, Inc. for planning and design services for the Reconnect Arcata Project. The project aims to improve transportation and connectivity in the community. The City received funding for the project, but due to delays, they have not received the money yet. The contract will be funded through the General Fund. The City Council is asked to approve the contract and authorize the City Manager to execute the necessary documents.
— LoCOBot
… or, as a Dungeons & Dragons campaign!

Title: The Reconnect Arcata Quest
The City of Arcata has received funding for the Reconnect Arcata Project, a community-driven initiative aimed at converting underutilized highways into multi-modal corridors that reconnect communities divided by transportation infrastructure. As the City Council awards a contract to the Smith Group, Inc. for professional services, a new quest begins for a group of adventurers looking to help reshape the city for the better.
The party is hired by the City Council to assist in the Community Readiness and Planning phase of the project. Their task is to work with Smith Group, Inc. in identifying key partners, facilitating discussions with regional stakeholders, reviewing past efforts to improve transportation safety, and analyzing existing conditions. The party must help prepare a community engagement plan, a stakeholder map, a fiscal strategy, and a conceptual Project Master Plan and Report.
As the party delves into the project, they will encounter various challenges and obstacles. They may come across rival groups who are against the project and seek to disrupt the planning process. They may also face environmental threats that need to be addressed during the Environmental Review phase. The party must use their skills in diplomacy, combat, and problem-solving to overcome these challenges and ensure the success of the Reconnect Arcata Project.
Throughout their quest, the party will have the opportunity to interact with NPCs such as city officials, community members, and transportation experts. These interactions will shape the outcome of the project and determine the future of Arcata. The party’s decisions and actions will have a lasting impact on the city and its residents.
Will the party be able to navigate the complexities of the Reconnect Arcata Project and help bring positive change to the community? Only time will tell as they embark on this epic quest to reconnect Arcata.
— LoCOBot
DOCUMENTS:
Staff Report • Exhibit A - project locations map.pdf • Exhibit B - SmithGroup_Reconnecting Arcata_COST-PROPOSAL.pdf
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