Dezmond Remington / Wednesday, Dec. 17 @ 1:50 p.m. / Agendizer
Tonight’s Arcata City Council Meeting: More Parking Somewhere, Less Parking Elsewhere
The council at work. By Dezmond Remington.
Lots of parking and Valley West-related items on tonight’s Arcata City Council agenda — perhaps fitting for Valley West resident Kimberley White’s first meeting as mayor.
Various Presentations and Updates
If you’re curious about Cal Poly Humboldt’s Foster Connectivity Project (the large commuter parking lot they’re building in the Arcata Bottoms), someone from CPH will update the council about its progress.
In June of 2023, the city of Arcata received a $250,000 grant from California’s Department of Housing and Community Development to research building a community center in the Valley West neighborhood. The city (and some affiliates) did some outreach to find out what changes Valley West residents wanted, and some consistent themes emerged: more emphasis on public safety; a stronger bond to the rest of Arcata; public beautification and “placemaking”; and more programming and services for residences. The council will hear tonight more results of the study and some ideas for the yet-to-be-constructed community center’s purpose and services, and float a few locations.
Parking
The semester-long traffic jam on Eye Street is soon coming to an end, as the city council will almost certainly accept the resolution on tonight’s agenda to extend Zone B parking down to the end of the street and on Todd Court. No more unpermitted cars will be allowed to park down those streets. The Arcata Police Department plans to hand out warnings rather than issue fines for the first month after the update.
Carlson Park, the new-ish park in Valley West known for its river access and pickleball courts, has had some parking woes of its own. If approved, there’s a resolution on the agenda that’ll restrict parking in the lot there to four hours maximum. There’s also a resolution on the consent calendar to add some street parking next to the park.
The Arcata City Council meeting will be held tonight at 6 p.m. in the council chambers at 736 F Street in Arcata. It’ll also be livestreamed on YouTube and Zoom.
Arcata City Council
Dec. 17, 2025, 6 p.m.
1. LAND ACKNOWLEDGMENT
2. FLAG SALUTE
3. ROLL CALL
4. CEREMONIAL MATTERS
a. Certificate of Appreciation for Joseph Mateer for His 26 1/2 Years of Service to the City of Arcata.
DOCUMENTS:
a. Proclamation in Recognition of Human Rights Awareness Month, December 2025.
DOCUMENTS:
5. REPORT BY COMMISSION/COMMITTEE
6. STAFF REPORTS
a. Receive an Update from Cal Poly Humboldt Staff on the University's Foster Campus Connectivity Project.
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 Meeting of November 19, 2025.
a. Bi-Weekly Report on Disbursements.
The report is recommending that the City Council approves the disbursements listing for a specific period of time. The report includes a list of payments made during that time, and the Finance Director has verified that the payments were in line with the approved budget. The Council is being asked to approve the report as part of the Consent Calendar.
— LoCOBot
Verse 1:
Oh, the city council met on a winter’s night,
To discuss the disbursements, the money in sight.
Tabatha Miller, the Finance Director,
Presented the report for all to consider.
Chorus:
Haul away, city council, haul away,
Approve the report on this fine day.
Haul away, with a hearty cheer,
For the budget’s in order, with nothing to fear.
Verse 2:
Checks and payments, all in order and true,
Certified by Tabatha, for the council’s review.
From November to December, the funds were dispersed,
But within the budget, the city was reimbursed.
Chorus:
Haul away, city council, haul away,
Approve the report on this fine day.
Haul away, with a hearty cheer,
For the budget’s in order, with nothing to fear.
Verse 3:
Now, it’s time for the council to take action,
To approve the report, with satisfaction.
The Consent Calendar awaits their decision,
To keep the city’s finances in precision.
Chorus:
Haul away, city council, haul away,
Approve the report on this fine day.
Haul away, with a hearty cheer,
For the budget’s in order, with nothing to fear.
Outro:
So, sing with me, all ye council members bold,
The city’s finances, we shall uphold.
With Tabatha’s guidance and the council’s might,
We’ll keep the city’s budget ship sailing right.
— LoCOBot
a. Adopt Resolution No. 256-03 to Authorize Establishing a Public Agency Retirement Services (PARS) 115 Trust to Prefund City Pension Obligations; and Authorize the City Manager to Execute All Applicable Documents.
Tabatha Miller, the Assistant City Manager/Finance Director, is recommending that the City Council adopts Resolution No. 256-03 to authorize the City Manager to establish a Public Agency Retirement Services (PARS) 115 Trust Account to prefund City pension obligations. This would provide the City with more investment options and potentially higher returns to pay down the Unfunded Accrued Liability (UAL), which is the City’s largest debt. The recommended action aligns with the City’s Pension Funding Policy and could have long-term budgetary benefits. The City currently has a CEPPT account with a balance of $3,953,752, and additional funding from a General Fund surplus is expected. The Council is asked to approve the resolution and authorize the City Manager to execute all applicable documents.
— LoCOBot
As the City Council meeting comes to a close, the council members are preparing to vote on the resolution to establish a Public Agency Retirement Services (PARS) 115 Trust Account. The mood in the room is tense, as the decision will have a significant impact on the city’s pension obligations and financial future.
Suddenly, a loud cry echoes through the chamber as two Pokémon burst into the room, ready to duel in support of their respective sides. On one side, a powerful Charizard stands tall, representing the council members in favor of adopting the resolution. Charizard’s flames flicker brightly, ready for battle.
On the other side, a majestic Blastoise emerges, representing the council members who are hesitant about authorizing the establishment of the PARS 115 Trust Account. Blastoise’s cannons are primed and ready, water swirling within them in anticipation.
The two Pokémon face off, their trainers calling out commands. Charizard lets out a mighty Flamethrower, while Blastoise counters with a powerful Hydro Pump. The attacks collide, creating a spectacular display of fire and water in the council chamber.
The room is filled with excitement as the Pokémon duel rages on, each side fighting fiercely for their cause. The council members watch in awe as Charizard and Blastoise continue to battle, each determined to emerge victorious.
As the duel reaches its climax, both Pokémon begin to tire, their attacks becoming slower and weaker. In one final, dramatic clash, Charizard manages to land a critical blow, knocking Blastoise out and securing victory for the council members in favor of the resolution.
With the duel over and the room silent once more, the council members take a moment to catch their breath before casting their votes. In the end, the resolution to establish the PARS 115 Trust Account is adopted, thanks in part to the valiant efforts of Charizard in the Pokémon duel. The city’s financial future looks promising as the council moves forward with their decision.
— LoCOBot
DOCUMENTS:
Staff Report • Attachment A - Resolution No. 256-03 .pdf • Attachment B - Draft Contract for Services with PARS.pdf
a. Approve the Plans for Parking Along Mad River Parkway for Carlson Park.
The director of Environmental Services is recommending that the City Council approve plans to add more parking spaces along Mad River Parkway for Carlson Park. The park has become very popular since it was updated two years ago, and the current parking lot often gets full. By adding more parking spaces, it will make it easier for people to access the park without affecting the design of the street. The project has been funded through state allocations and the recommendation is to proceed with the plan to enhance access to the park.
— LoCOBot
… or, as a conversation between Beavis and Butt-head!
Beavis: Uh, hey Butt-head, have you ever been to Carlson Park?
Butt-head: Uh, I don’t know, Beavis. What’s so special about Carlson Park?
Beavis: Well, the Director of Environmental Services, Emily Sinkhorn, wants the City Council to approve plans for parking along Mad River Parkway for Carlson Park.
Butt-head: Whoa, cool. So they’re gonna add more parking spaces for all the people who go to Carlson Park?
Beavis: Yeah, dude. Apparently, the park is super popular and the parking lot is always full. So they wanna make it easier for people to park there.
Butt-head: Heh heh, more parking spaces means more people, Beavis. This could be like, the coolest park ever.
Beavis: Yeah, I bet they have like, a million things to do there. I heard they have pickleball courts and an EV charging station.
Butt-head: Heh heh, EV charging station? What’s that for?
Beavis: I don’t know, dude. But it sounds badass. We should totally check out Carlson Park when they add those new parking spaces.
Butt-head: Yeah, let’s go there and, like, charge our phones or whatever. And maybe play some pickleball.
Beavis: Heh heh, yeah. And we can, like, hang out by the river and check out the interpretive signage with the Wiyot Tribe.
Butt-head: Cool, Beavis. Let’s go to Carlson Park and be, like, the park masters or something.
Beavis: Heh heh, yeah. Park masters. That’s us.
— LoCOBot
DOCUMENTS:
a. Adopt Resolution No. 256-26 Declaring Approximately Eight Acres of the City Owned Property at Happy Valley (Assessor’s Parcel No. 507-081-038) Surplus Land – Not a Project Pursuant to the California Environmental Quality Act.
The community development director recommends that the City Council adopt Resolution No. 256-26 to declare approximately eight acres of city-owned property at Happy Valley as surplus land. This will allow the city to begin the process of selling the land for development. The process is required by state law and involves notifying specific entities, including affordable housing sponsors, and entering into negotiations if there is interest in developing the property for affordable housing. This action aligns with the city’s long-term goal of developing the property for economic growth and job opportunities.
— LoCOBot
(Verse 1)
In the city council meeting, decisions are made
To declare eight acres surplus, a new path to pave
Bringing economic growth, a new chapter to start
For the City of Arcata, a fresh piece of heart
(Chorus)
Resolution No. 256-26, a step towards progress
Happy Valley property, a land to impress
Surplus land declared, a chance to build anew
For affordable housing, a dream coming true
(Verse 2)
Assembly Bill 1486, guiding the way
Connect developers for homes where people can stay
Surplus land must be declared, a step that is key
To open doors for housing, for all to be free
(Chorus)
Resolution No. 256-26, a step towards progress
Happy Valley property, a land to impress
Surplus land declared, a chance to build anew
For affordable housing, a dream coming true
(Bridge)
From an idea to reality, a journey to take
Building homes for the community’s sake
Negotiations and agreements, a process in motion
For a brighter future, a new devotion
(Chorus)
Resolution No. 256-26, a step towards progress
Happy Valley property, a land to impress
Surplus land declared, a chance to build anew
For affordable housing, a dream coming true
(Outro)
So let’s sing this song of hope and change
For Happy Valley’s future, let’s rearrange
With Resolution No. 256-26 in sight
A new beginning, shining bright.
— LoCOBot
DOCUMENTS:
a. Adopt Resolution No. 256-19, A Resolution of the City Council of the City of Arcata Adopting the Primary Loan Program Guidelines to Work in Conjunction with the CalHome Mobilehome Ownership Program Guidelines.
The City of Arcata received a grant to help low-income first-time homebuyers purchase manufactured homes. To address issues with lending, staff created guidelines for a Primary Loan Program. The City Council is recommended to adopt these guidelines to work with the CalHome Mobilehome Ownership Program. This will help more people buy homes in Arcata.
— LoCOBot
Detective Anna Garcia sat in the back of the City Council meeting, listening intently as David Loya, the Community Development Director, presented the resolution to adopt the Primary Loan Program Guidelines to work in conjunction with the CalHome Mobilehome Ownership Program Guidelines. As Sara Channell, the Community Development Specialist II, passed out copies of the resolution to the council members, Anna couldn’t help but feel that something was off.
As the meeting progressed, Anna’s detective instincts kicked in. The details of the programs seemed straightforward enough, but there was an underlying sense of tension in the room. The council members were all nodding in agreement, but Anna noticed a few subtle glances exchanged between some of them.
After the meeting adjourned, Anna approached David Loya and Sara Channell to ask a few questions. She had a hunch that there was more to this resolution than met the eye.
As Anna dug deeper into the details of the programs, she discovered that there had been some irregularities in the allocation of funds for the Primary Loan Program. It seemed that the $192,000 approved by the City Council had mysteriously disappeared, and no one could account for where it had gone.
Determined to get to the bottom of the mystery, Anna started interviewing the council members and city officials involved in the approval of the resolution. As she delved deeper into the investigation, she uncovered a web of deceit and corruption that went all the way to the top.
It turned out that one of the council members had been embezzling funds from the Primary Loan Program to line their own pockets. The resolution to adopt the guidelines had been a cover-up for their illegal activities, and they had been manipulating the system for personal gain.
With the evidence in hand, Anna confronted the council member in question during a dramatic showdown at City Hall. The culprit was arrested, and justice was served.
As the sun set on the City of Arcata, Anna Garcia walked away from the case feeling satisfied that she had uncovered the truth and brought the guilty party to justice. And as she drove off into the night, she knew that no matter how complex the case, she would always be there to unravel the web of lies and deceit in the name of justice.
— LoCOBot
DOCUMENTS:
a. Adopt Resolution No. 256-24, A Resolution of the City Council of the City of Arcata Approving the City of Arcata New Employee Onboarding Administrative Policy; and Authorize the City Manager to Execute All Applicable Documents.
The City of Arcata is implementing a new administrative policy for onboarding new employees. The policy ensures that employees are compensated for certain tasks they complete before their start date. The City Council is being asked to adopt this policy to ensure consistent practices and application. The policy will not increase the cost of wages for full-time employees, as compensation will be in the form of leave time off. The recommendation is for the Council to adopt the resolution approving the policy and authorize the City Manager to execute all necessary documents.
— LoCOBot
… or, as a high-energy radio advertisement!
Are you ready to welcome new employees to the City of Arcata with open arms? Well, get excited because we have a new Employee Onboarding Administrative Policy that is going to take our welcoming process to the next level!
Our Human Resources Department has been hard at work creating a policy that will ensure all new employees are properly onboarded and welcomed into our City’s culture, values, and structure. And guess what? It’s time for the City Council to adopt Resolution No. 256-24 to make it official!
But wait, there’s more! This policy not only guarantees a warm welcome for new employees, but it also ensures fair and consistent practices when compensating employees for their onboarding tasks. No more confusion or guessing games - we’ve got it all laid out in black and white.
So get ready to show our new employees some love and support by adopting Resolution No. 256-24 and authorizing the City Manager to execute all applicable documents. Let’s make sure our new team members feel valued and appreciated right from the start.
City of Arcata, let’s welcome our new employees with open arms and show them what it means to be a part of our amazing team! Vote to adopt Resolution No. 256-24 and let’s make this onboarding process one to remember. Thank you!
— LoCOBot
DOCUMENTS:
Staff Report • Attachment A - Resolution 256-24 Approving City of Arcata New Employee Onboarding Administrative Policy.pdf
a. Adopt Resolution No. 256-22 Adopting the Amended Permanent Local Housing Program (PLHA) Owner-Occupied Rehabilitation Program Guidelines – California Environmental Quality Act (CEQA) Exempt Per the Commonsense Exemption.
The City Council is being asked to approve a resolution to modify guidelines for a program that helps low-income homeowners make essential repairs to their homes. The changes include using a lottery system to select beneficiaries instead of a first-come-first-served basis. This is because the program has limited funding and can only help a few households. The program will be funded through allocations totaling $183,976. The modifications are necessary to ensure a fair and equitable process for selecting participants.
— LoCOBot
… or, as a town crier's speech!
Hear ye, hear ye!
I bring news from the recent City Council meeting held on December 17, 2025. The Honorable Mayor and City Council Members have been presented with a recommendation from David Loya, the Community Development Director, and Sara Channell, the Community Development Specialist II.
They have proposed the adoption of Resolution No. 256-22, which will approve the Amended PLHA Owner-Occupied Rehabilitation Program Guidelines. This program aims to provide financial assistance to low-income homeowners in the City of Arcata for essential repairs to their properties.
The City of Arcata has applied for funding from the Permanent Local Housing Program (PLHA) administered by the California Department of Housing and Community Development (HCD) to support this initiative. The funding will be allocated through a combination of amortized loans and deferred payment loans, with the City acting as the Program Operator.
In order to ensure a fair and equitable process for selecting beneficiaries, the City has decided to implement a lottery system for eligible applicants, rather than a first-come-first-served basis. This modification to the program guidelines is necessary due to the limited number of loans available and the high demand for assistance.
It is important to note that this program is designed to help qualified homeowners make critical repairs to their properties, including code violations, substandard conditions, and health and safety upgrades. The City has worked closely with HCD to finalize the guidelines and ensure that the program benefits those in need.
Furthermore, it has been determined that this program qualifies for exemption under the California Environmental Quality Act (CEQA) as a ministerial project, with no significant impact on the environment. The funding for this program will come from the 2022 and 2023 PLHA allocations, with a portion allocated for administrative costs.
Therefore, I call upon the City Council to take action and adopt Resolution No. 256-22 to formally approve the Amended PLHA Owner-Occupied Rehabilitation Program Guidelines. Let us work together to support our community and provide assistance to those in need. Thank you, and may the City of Arcata prosper and thrive!
— LoCOBot
DOCUMENTS:
a. Approve Amendment No. 3 to the Professional Services Agreement with AP Triton, LLC for Providing a Community Risk Assessment and Standards of Cover Study Analysis for the Arcata Fire Protection District, Increasing the Contract Price by $1,300.
The city council is being asked to approve an increase in the contract price for a study on fire protection in the Arcata area. The study is needed to address the challenges of providing service to larger buildings and a growing population. The cost of the study will be shared by the city, the fire district, and the university. It is recommended that the council approve the increase in the contract price.
— LoCOBot
Socrates: Greetings, my esteemed fellow citizens. Today we gather to discuss an important matter concerning our community’s safety and well-being. The recommendation before us is to approve Amendment No. 3 to the Professional Services Agreement with AP Triton, LLC for Providing a Community Risk Assessment and Standards of Cover Study Analysis for the Arcata Fire Protection District, increasing the contract price by $1,300. What are your thoughts on this recommendation?
Citizen #1: It seems like a necessary step to ensure that our fire protection district is adequately prepared to handle the future challenges brought about by the city’s development plans and the university’s growth. Collaboration between the City, the District, and Cal Poly Humboldt is vital in addressing these challenges.
Citizen #2: I agree. With the State experiencing a housing crisis and our city allowing for higher-density development, it’s crucial for the Fire Protection District to plan for increased call volume and potential mid-rise buildings. The Standards of Coverage Report funded by all parties will help identify funding sources and determine the level of service needed.
Socrates: It appears that there is a consensus among us that this amendment is necessary to support the Fire Protection District in preparing for future challenges. The Contract Amendment is needed due to the disruption of the scheduled meeting, which prevented the consultant from delivering the final presentation. Therefore, increasing the contract price is justified to reimburse the consultant for attending a second meeting.
Citizen #1: Yes, it’s important to ensure that the consultant is compensated for their work and that the community has access to the necessary information to make informed decisions about fire protection services.
Citizen #2: Absolutely. Investing in proper risk assessment and standards of cover analysis is essential for the safety and well-being of our community. I fully support the recommendation to approve Amendment No. 3 and increase the contract price by $1,300.
Socrates: It seems that we have reached a consensus on the matter. I will now call for a motion to approve Amendment No. 3 and increase the AP Triton contract price by a total of $1,300, from $109,123 to $110,423. Let us proceed with a vote on the consent calendar. Thank you for your insightful contributions to this discussion.
— LoCOBot
DOCUMENTS:
a. Adopt Resolution No. 256-23, Authorizing the Adoption of the Humboldt Operational Area Hazard Mitigation Plan 2025 Update; and Approve Necessary and Associated Related Actions. Not a Project Per CEQA.
The city council is being asked to approve a plan called the Humboldt Operational Area Hazard Mitigation Plan 2025 Update. This plan aims to reduce risks from natural disasters and comply with federal requirements. The city may receive grants to implement projects identified in the plan. The plan involves assessing natural hazards, developing strategies to reduce risks, and protecting community lifelines. Adoption of the plan will not directly impact the budget, but may have a positive financial impact in the future. The council is recommended to adopt the plan, authorize staff to make changes as needed, and submit applications for funding.
— LoCOBot
… or, as an episode of Scooby Doo!
Episode Title: “The Hazardous Haunting”
In this episode of Scooby Doo, the gang finds themselves in the City of Arcata, where they learn about the adoption of the Humboldt Operational Area Hazard Mitigation Plan 2025 Update. As they arrive in the city, they notice signs promoting emergency preparedness and hazard mitigation efforts.
While exploring the city, the gang stumbles upon a spooky old building that is rumored to be haunted. The building is said to have a history of being affected by natural disasters, and locals believe it is cursed. Intrigued by the mystery, the gang decides to investigate.
As they explore the building, they encounter strange occurrences, such as doors slamming shut on their own and unexplained noises coming from empty rooms. Shaggy and Scooby are particularly spooked, but with Velma’s investigative skills, they soon uncover clues that point to a hidden agenda behind the haunting.
With the help of the city’s Hazard Mitigation Plan, the gang discovers that the building’s supposed curse is actually a cover-up for a group of criminals who are using the building as a secret hideout for their illegal activities. By implementing the strategies outlined in the plan, they are able to secure funds to implement projects that will prevent future disasters and ensure the safety of the community.
In the end, the gang successfully solves the mystery, captures the criminals, and helps the city improve its emergency preparedness efforts. The City of Arcata is grateful for their assistance and invites them to stay and enjoy a well-deserved break by the beach.
As the sun sets over Arcata, the gang reflects on their adventure and the importance of being prepared for any situation. With a full stomach and a sense of accomplishment, they bid farewell to the city and head off to their next mystery, knowing that they have made a difference in the lives of the residents of Arcata.
— LoCOBot
DOCUMENTS:
Staff Report • Attachment A - Reso No. 256-23 Adopting 2025 HMP Update.pdf • Arcata Annex_Humboldt_County_HMP_Volume 2_2025-10-08.pdf
10. OLD BUSINESS
a. Hold a Public Hearing to Adopt Ordinance No. 1583, An Ordinance of the City Council of the City of Arcata Amending Title VIII of the Arcata Municipal Code and Adopting by Reference the 2025 California Building Standards Code, the Uniform Housing Code,
City Engineer Netra Khatri and Building Official Joe Bishop recommend that the City Council hold a public hearing to adopt Ordinance No. 1583, which would update the city’s building codes to align with the 2025 California Building Standards Code and other relevant codes. The ordinance was introduced at a previous meeting and will become effective if adopted on December 17, 2025. There is no immediate financial impact from this ordinance, and it is exempt from the California Environmental Quality Act. The recommended council action includes opening the public hearing, receiving a staff report, and adopting the ordinance.
— LoCOBot
As the City Council meeting droned on, discussing the adoption of Ordinance No. 1583, the residents of Arcata couldn’t help but feel a sense of unease. The new building codes and regulations seemed innocuous enough on the surface, but something about the whole situation felt off.
As the public hearing began, a chill filled the room, causing shivers to run down the spines of those in attendance. One by one, residents came forward to voice their concerns about the ordinance, but their voices seemed to be muffled and distorted, as if being tampered with by some unseen force.
Suddenly, the lights in the council chambers flickered and went out, plunging the room into darkness. Panic ensued as the residents scrambled to find their way out of the room, but the doors were locked tight, trapping them inside.
Whispers echoed through the darkness, sinister voices taunting the trapped residents. Shadows moved and danced along the walls, taking on grotesque forms that twisted and contorted in the dim light of emergency exits signs.
As the residents huddled together in terror, a figure emerged from the shadows. It was a spectral form, clad in tattered robes and with a face that seemed to shift and warp with every passing moment. It spoke in a voice that chilled the very marrow of their bones, proclaiming itself to be the spirit of the old building codes, discarded and forgotten in the wake of the new ordinance.
The spirit raged against the council members for abandoning it, cursing them with a terrible fate for their ignorance and arrogance. It vowed to bring destruction upon the city, unleashing supernatural forces to punish those who dared to disregard it.
The residents watched in horror as the spirit unleashed its wrath, causing the very walls of the council chambers to crumble and decay before their eyes. In a final act of vengeance, the spirit disappeared into the darkness, leaving behind a city devastated by its fury.
And so, the residents of Arcata learned a valuable lesson that fateful night - sometimes, the past should not be so easily discarded, for the consequences of doing so can be truly terrifying.
— LoCOBot
11. NEW BUSINESS
a. Receive a Presentation; and Adopt the Valley West Neighborhood Center Assessment Report.
The City of Arcata received a grant to assess the development of a community center in the Valley West neighborhood. The report outlines community input and possible amenities for the center, as well as potential sites. The goal is to guide future steps and secure funding for detailed planning and design. The City Council is recommended to adopt the Valley West Neighborhood Assessment Report.
— LoCOBot
… or, as an insane conspiracy theory!
Conspiracy Theory: The Valley West Neighborhood Center Assessment Report is actually a cover-up for a secret government project to surveil and control the residents of Arcata. The “community engagement” and “feasibility assessment” are just a facade to gather data on the population and implement a system of mass surveillance under the guise of a community center. The true purpose of the project is to monitor and manipulate the behavior of the residents, all while appearing to be a harmless neighborhood improvement initiative. The City Council members are unknowingly part of this sinister plan, and the community is being deceived into giving up their privacy and freedom in exchange for the illusion of a community center. This report is just the first step in a larger conspiracy to control the entire population of Arcata.
— LoCOBot
a. Adopt Resolution No. 256-15, A Resolution of the City Council of the City of Arcata Amending Resolution No. 201-08 Designating Streets Subject to Preferential Parking.
The Chief of Police is recommending that the City Council adopt Resolution No. 256-15 to update the list of streets designated as Preferential Parking Zones due to parking issues caused by a new student housing complex. Residents have complained about lack of parking availability and spillover parking from the complex. The Council previously established Preferential Parking Zones in areas experiencing non-resident parking impacts, and designating these streets would help preserve residential parking while still allowing limited access for visitors and service providers. The recommendation aligns with City goals related to traffic management and neighborhood livability. The fiscal impact is expected to be minimal as the costs can be absorbed within the Public Works Department’s existing budget. The Council is advised to open a public hearing, receive a staff report, open public comment, and then adopt Resolution No. 256-15.
— LoCOBot
INT. CITY COUNCIL CHAMBERS - DAY
The HONORABLE MAYOR and CITY COUNCIL MEMBERS sit at the front of the room, reviewing the staff report from Chief of Police CHRIS ORTEGA. LEAH BRAZIL, the Police Business Manager, stands before them.
LEAH: (clears throat) Good afternoon, Mayor and Council Members. I am here to recommend the adoption of Resolution No. 256-15, amending Resolution No. 201-08 to update the list of streets designated as Preferential Parking Zones.
MAYOR: Thank you, Leah. Could you please provide some background information on why these changes are being recommended?
LEAH: Certainly. In August of this year, Cal Poly Humboldt opened the Hinarr Hu Moulik student housing complex, which has led to an increase in non-resident parking in the surrounding residential areas. Residents on Eye Street and Todd Court have been experiencing difficulty finding parking near their homes due to the influx of university students parking to avoid on-campus restrictions.
COUNCIL MEMBER 1: And how has this impacted the neighborhood?
LEAH: The increased parking has caused frustrations among residents and has resulted in reduced availability for homeowners and tenants. Additionally, the fire lane connection between the Hinarr Hu Moulik parking lot and Eye Street has only exacerbated the issue.
COUNCIL MEMBER 2: What does designating these streets as Preferential Parking Zones entail?
LEAH: By designating Eye Street and Todd Court as Preferential Parking Zones, residents within these areas would have access to parking permits while non-residents would be restricted from parking during certain hours. This would help alleviate the parking pressures and maintain residential parking availability.
MAYOR: Thank you, Leah. Are there any further questions from the Council?
After a brief pause, the Council members shake their heads.
MAYOR: Alright then. Is there anyone in the audience who would like to comment on this proposed resolution?
Several residents from Eye Street and Todd Court stand up and express their support for the resolution, citing their struggles with finding parking near their homes.
MAYOR: Thank you for sharing your perspectives. If there are no further comments, I will now close the public hearing on this matter.
The Mayor closes the public hearing and turns to the Council members.
MAYOR: Council Members, do I have a motion to adopt Resolution No. 256-15, updating the designated Preferential Parking Zones?
COUNCIL MEMBER 1: I motion to adopt Resolution No. 256-15.
COUNCIL MEMBER 2: Second.
The Council members vote unanimously in favor of the resolution, and Chief Ortega and Leah Brazil exchange smiles of accomplishment.
MAYOR: Resolution No. 256-15 is adopted. Thank you, Chief Ortega and Leah Brazil, for your presentation.
The meeting concludes with the sound of applause from the audience, pleased with the decision to address the parking issues in their neighborhood.
— LoCOBot
DOCUMENTS:
Staff Report • Attachment A - 256-15 Preferential Parking.pdf • Attachment B - Preferential Parking Petition 11122025_Redacted.pdf • Attachment C - Parking_Map-12-8-25.pdf
a. Adopt Resolution No. 256-25 Designating Off-Street Parking Lots Subject to Four (4) Hour Time Limits.
The Director of Environmental Services is recommending that the City Council adopt Resolution No. 256-25, which would designate off-street parking lots subject to four-hour time limits. This is in response to limited parking availability at popular City parks. The City Manager has the authority to establish rules for public parks, and previous resolutions have already designated off-street parking lots with time limits. If approved, City staff will install appropriate signage at City parks. The project has been determined to have no significant environmental impact and will be funded through the Traffic Safety Fund. The Council is asked to vote on this during the Consent Calendar.
— LoCOBot
Once upon a time in the city of Arcata, there was a beautiful park called Carlson Park. This park was a favorite spot for families to gather and enjoy picnics, play games, and explore the lush greenery. However, there was one issue that kept coming up – parking.
One day, Emily Sinkhorn, the Director of Environmental Services, brought a recommendation to the Honorable Mayor and City Council Members. She had noticed that the parking lot at Carlson Park was always full, making it difficult for visitors to find a spot.
After much discussion, it was decided that a resolution would be adopted to designate off-street parking lots, including the one at Carlson Park, subject to four-hour time limits. This decision was made to help alleviate parking limitations and ensure that everyone had a chance to enjoy the park.
As the resolution was passed and the necessary signage was put up at the parking lot, families visiting Carlson Park noticed a positive change. They were now able to find parking more easily and spend more time enjoying the park without worrying about their cars.
The animals that lived in Carlson Park, such as the squirrels, birds, and rabbits, were also pleased with the new parking rules. They noticed that there were fewer cars parked for long periods of time, allowing them to scamper and play without any obstacles in their way.
And so, Carlson Park became an even more popular and enjoyable spot for everyone in the city of Arcata. The park was now a place where families could create happy memories, children could run and play freely, and the wildlife could thrive in peace.
The Mayor and City Council Members were delighted to see the positive impact of their decision. And as the sun set over Carlson Park, casting a warm glow over the trees and flowers, everyone in the city drifted off to sleep knowing that their favorite park was now more accessible and enjoyable for all. And so, another day in Arcata came to a peaceful end. Goodnight, dear city residents. Goodnight.
— LoCOBot
DOCUMENTS:
12. ORAL AND WRITTEN COMMUNICATIONS [CONTINUED]
13. CITY MANAGER'S REPORT
14. COUNCIL REPORTS
15. DATES OF FUTURE MEETINGS AND FUTURE AGENDA ITEMS
16. CLOSED SESSION
17. CLOSED SESSION REPORTS
18. ADJOURNMENT
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