LoCOBot / @ 11:45 a.m. / Agendizer

Arcata City Council
May 6, 2026, 6 p.m.

1. LAND ACKNOWLEDGMENT

2. FLAG SALUTE

3. ROLL CALL

4. CEREMONIAL MATTERS

a. Proclamation in Honor of Older Americans Month, May 2026.

a. Proclamation Recognizing May 2026 as National Historic Preservation Month.

5. REPORT BY COMMISSION/COMMITTEE

6. STAFF REPORTS

a. Receive a Staff Report Regarding Measure G from Assistant City Manager and Finance Director Tabatha Miller.


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 April 6, 2026.

a. Approve the Minutes of the City Council Special Meeting Study Session of April 8, 2026.

a. Approve the Minutes of the City Council Special Meeting of April 15, 2026.

a. Approve the Minutes of the City Council Meeting of April 15, 2026.

a. Approve the Minutes of the City Council Special Meeting of April 22, 2026.

a. Bi-Weekly Report on Disbursements.

The City Council is being asked to approve a report on the money that was spent between April 4, 2026, and April 24, 2026. The Finance Director has reviewed the payments and confirmed that they were in line with the budget. The Council is asked to approve the report at the next meeting without further auditing.

— LoCOBot

… or, as a bedtime story!

Once upon a time, in a bustling city, there was a dedicated Assistant City Manager/Finance Director named Tabatha Miller. Tabatha worked tirelessly to ensure that the city’s finances were managed efficiently and transparently. Every two weeks, she would present a report on disbursements to the Honorable Mayor and City Council Members.

One day, as the sun began to set over the city, Tabatha prepared her bi-weekly report on disbursements. The report detailed all the checks and electronic payments that had been made from April 4, 2026, through April 24, 2026. It was important for the City Council to approve the report to ensure that all expenditures were in line with the adopted budget.

Tabatha gathered all the necessary documents and made her way to the City Council meeting. As she presented the report, she explained how each disbursement was carefully reviewed to ensure it aligned with the city’s financial goals. The Mayor and City Council Members listened attentively, knowing that Tabatha’s dedication and attention to detail were crucial to the city’s financial health.

After a thorough discussion, the City Council unanimously approved the report on disbursements. Tabatha breathed a sigh of relief, knowing that her hard work had paid off. She returned to her office, feeling proud of the important role she played in keeping the city running smoothly.

As the night fell and the stars twinkled above, Tabatha drifted off to sleep, knowing that tomorrow she would continue her important work for the city she loved. And so, the city rested peacefully, knowing that its finances were in good hands thanks to the diligent efforts of Tabatha Miller. The end.

— LoCOBot

DOCUMENTS:

Staff ReportAttachment A - Cash Disbursements 4.4.2026-4.24.2026.pdf


a. Adopt Ordinance No. 1586, An Ordinance of the City Council of the City of Arcata Amending the Arcata Municipal Code Relating to Cannabis Consumption Lounge Permits, Standards, and Restrictions – Negative Declaration (State Clearinghouse No. 2016012039).

The City Council of Arcata is considering adopting an ordinance that would amend the Municipal Code to allow cannabis consumption lounges in certain zoning districts. This ordinance is based on state law that permits local jurisdictions to authorize cannabis consumption on the premises of licensed establishments. The proposed changes do not have a significant impact on the environment and there is no cost associated with this decision. The Council is recommended to adopt the ordinance without the need for further review by committees or commissions.

— LoCOBot

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

Are you looking to take advantage of the growing cannabis industry in Arcata? Look no further than our used car lot! With the adoption of Ordinance No. 1586 allowing for cannabis consumption lounges, there is sure to be increased demand for cars to transport customers to and from these establishments.

Our lot has a variety of vehicles perfect for any cannabis entrepreneur or enthusiast. From fuel-efficient hybrids for those looking to save on gas costs, to spacious SUVs for larger groups, we have something for everyone. And with no fiscal impact associated with this ordinance, now is the perfect time to invest in a reliable vehicle.

Don’t miss out on this opportunity to capitalize on the cannabis market in Arcata. Stop by our lot today and let us help you find the perfect car to meet your needs!

— LoCOBot

DOCUMENTS:

Staff ReportAttachment A - Ordinance 1586 Cannabis Consumption.pdf


a. Adopt Resolution No. 256-54, Authorizing the City Manager or City Engineer to Accept Deeds and Grants to the City on Behalf of the City Council.

The City Engineer is recommending that the City Council adopt a resolution to give the City Manager or City Engineer the authority to accept deeds and grants on behalf of the City for public purposes. This will streamline administrative processes and improve efficiency in accepting property interests. The action does not have a direct fiscal impact and is not subject to environmental review. The Council is recommended to vote in favor of adopting the resolution.

— LoCOBot

… or, as a horror story!

As the City Council meeting progressed, the room grew colder and darker. Netra Khatri, the City Engineer, stood before the council members, her voice trembling as she presented the recommendation to adopt Resolution No. 256-54. No one seemed to notice the change in the atmosphere, all focused on the paperwork in front of them.

But Mara Grow, the Administrative Specialist, could sense something was wrong. She glanced around the room, feeling a sense of unease creeping up her spine. Shadows seemed to flicker in the corners, and a faint, eerie whispering echoed in her ears. She tried to shake off the feeling, chalking it up to her imagination running wild.

As the council members began to discuss the resolution, Mara’s unease grew. The whispers grew louder, more insistent, as if urging her to pay attention. She looked up to see Netra Khatri staring directly at her, a look of urgency in her eyes. Without speaking, Netra gestured towards the paperwork in Mara’s hands.

Mara’s heart raced as she scanned the pages, her eyes falling on a passage she hadn’t noticed before. It read:

“By accepting the deeds and grants on behalf of the City, you are inviting something far more sinister into our midst. Beware the consequences of your actions.”

Terror gripped Mara as she realized the gravity of the situation. She tried to speak up, to warn the others, but her voice caught in her throat. The whispers grew deafening, drowning out all other sound. Shadows began to swirl around the room, taking on a life of their own.

Netra Khatri’s face twisted in fear as she too realized the truth. The resolution they were about to adopt was not just a bureaucratic formality - it was a gateway to something dark and malevolent. As the council members signed their approval, a chill swept through the room, and a figure materialized in the center of the chamber.

A being of pure darkness, with eyes that seemed to pierce the soul, loomed before them. The council members recoiled in terror, realizing too late the grave mistake they had made. The entity spoke, its voice a chilling whisper that echoed in their minds.

“You have welcomed me into your world, and now you shall face the consequences. I am the price you must pay for your greed and ambition.”

And with that, the room was plunged into darkness, the screams of the council members echoing through the night. The City of Arcata would never be the same again, haunted by the spectral presence they had unwittingly unleashed. And Mara Grow, the only one who had seen the warning, was left to ponder the true cost of power and authority.

— LoCOBot

DOCUMENTS:

Staff ReportAttachment A - Resolution No. 256-54 .pdf


a. Adopt Resolution No. 256-62 to Amend Management and Confidential Supplemental Compensation and Benefits; and Authorize the City Manager to Execute All Applicable Documents.

The city council will vote on changing the benefits and compensation for certain employees who are not part of a union. They are switching to a new medical insurance plan starting July 1, 2026. This change will be included in each department’s budget. The council is recommended to adopt the resolution to make these changes.

— LoCOBot

… or, as a job interview!

The interview room was quiet as the candidate, Sarah, sat across from the panel of city officials. The Mayor, City Manager, and Human Resources Director were all present to conduct the interview.

Mayor: Good afternoon, Sarah. Thank you for coming in today. We appreciate your interest in the management position here at the City of Arcata.

Sarah: Thank you for having me. I’m excited about the opportunity to potentially join your team.

City Manager: Let’s jump right in. Can you tell us about your experience with managing and implementing compensation and benefits policies for unrepresented employees?

Sarah: Of course. In my previous role, I was responsible for overseeing the administration of compensation and benefits for both union and non-union employees. I worked closely with HR to ensure that our employees were receiving competitive benefits packages that aligned with industry standards.

Human Resources Director: How familiar are you with the process of amending compensation and benefits resolutions, like the one we have on our agenda for the upcoming City Council meeting?

Sarah: I have experience with drafting and presenting proposals for changes to compensation and benefits packages to senior leadership and governing bodies. I understand the importance of ensuring that these changes are fair and consistent across all employee classifications.

Mayor: It sounds like you have a good understanding of the role. Can you provide an example of a challenging situation you faced in a previous role related to compensation and benefits, and how you handled it?

Sarah: Certainly. At my previous organization, we had to make significant changes to our retirement benefits due to budget constraints. It was a delicate situation, as we had to balance the financial needs of the organization with the expectations and needs of our employees. I worked closely with our finance team and HR to come up with a solution that was fair and sustainable in the long term.

City Manager: Thank you for sharing that. We appreciate your insight. Before we wrap up, do you have any questions for us about the position or the City of Arcata in general?

Sarah: Yes, I was curious about the City’s approach to employee development and training opportunities. How does the City support employee growth and professional development?

Mayor: That’s a great question. We place a strong emphasis on continuous learning and development for our employees. We offer a variety of training programs and opportunities for advancement within the organization.

Human Resources Director: Well, Sarah, thank you for your time today. We will be in touch with you soon regarding the next steps in the interview process. Have a great day.

Sarah: Thank you all for the opportunity. I look forward to hearing from you.

— LoCOBot

DOCUMENTS:

Staff ReportAttachment A - Resolution 256-62_2024-2027 Mgmt Conf Comp and Benefits.pdf


a. Adopt Resolution No. 256-56, A Resolution of the City Council of the City of Arcata Approving the City of Arcata’s Administrative Policy Regarding Ethics and Financial Training; and Authorize the City Manager to Execute All Applicable Documents.

The City Council is being asked to approve a policy regarding ethics and financial training for employees and officials in the City of Arcata. This training is required by law and the policy outlines who needs to take it, when it must be completed, and what the content will be. The policy has no financial impact on the city. The Council is recommended to adopt the policy through a motion.

— LoCOBot

… or, as a recipe!

Ethics and Financial Training Policy

Ingredients:
- Resolution No. 256-56
- City Council members
- City Manager
- Department Directors
- Local agency officials and employees
- Training materials

Instructions:

1. In a City Council Meeting, present Resolution No. 256-56 to approve the City of Arcata’s Administrative Policy regarding Ethics and Financial Training.
2. Have City Council members vote to adopt the resolution.
3. Authorize the City Manager to execute all applicable documents.
4. Ensure all Department Directors are aware of the policy and their responsibilities in enforcing it.
5. Identify which local agency officials and employees are required to complete the ethics and financial training.
6. Allow Department Directors to make decisions on additional employees needing training.
7. Define when the training must be completed and how often it should be repeated.
8. Provide clear guidance on the content of the training.
9. Establish recordkeeping practices for the completion of the training.
10. Ensure consistent assignment of training for identified employees and officials.
11. Verify that the policy has no financial impact on the City of Arcata.

Serve the completed policy to Council for a Consent Calendar vote.

Enjoy the benefits of a well-informed and ethically sound city administration.

— LoCOBot

DOCUMENTS:

Staff ReportAttachment A - Administrative Policies and Procedures Ethics and Financial Awareness Final.pdf


a. Adopt Resolution No. 256-63 Approving A Letter of Agreement Between the City of Arcata and Arcata Police Association to Amend the 2024–2027 Memorandum of Understanding in Regard to Medical Benefits; and Authorize the City Manager to Execute All Documents.

The city of Arcata is making changes to the medical benefits for its employees and annuitants because their current insurance plan is ending. They have chosen new insurance plans through CalPERS and have negotiated with the Arcata Police Association on how the costs will be divided between the city and the employees. The city council is being asked to approve this agreement by adopting Resolution No. 256-63. The city manager will then be authorized to sign all necessary documents.

— LoCOBot

… or, as an episode of 'The Moe Hogan Experience'!

Moe Hogan: Welcome back to “The Moe Hogan Experience,” your one-stop shop for all the conspiracy theories you never knew you needed to hear. Today, we have a special guest, Keira A. Vink, the author of this City Council document. Welcome to the show, Keira.

Keira A. Vink: Thanks for having me, Moe.

Moe Hogan: So, this document you wrote about the City of Arcata and the Arcata Police Association seems pretty official. But you know how it goes, sometimes the government isn’t always telling us the full story. Can you tell us more about what’s really going on behind the scenes with this agreement?

Keira A. Vink: Well, Moe, this document outlines a standard process for negotiating and approving changes to medical benefits for city employees. It’s all part of the required labor relations protocols set forth by the state of California.

Moe Hogan: Interesting, interesting. But I can’t help but wonder, why is the insurance plan changing after fifteen years? What’s really going on here, Keira?

Keira A. Vink: The insurance market is constantly evolving, Moe. With rising medical costs and market volatility, it’s not uncommon for municipalities to reassess their insurance plans and make changes accordingly.

Moe Hogan: I see, I see. And what about these CalPERS medical insurance plans? Are they really the best option for the employees of Arcata, or is there something more sinister at play here?

Keira A. Vink: CalPERS is a reputable provider of medical insurance plans, and the City of Arcata went through a thorough selection process to ensure the best options for its employees. There’s no conspiracy here, just a standard procedure to provide quality benefits to city workers.

Moe Hogan: Well, Keira, I appreciate you shedding some light on this document. But you know me, always questioning the official story. Now, let’s take a quick break for a word from our sponsor, and when we come back, we’ll dive deeper into this City Council agreement.

[Commercial Break]

Moe Hogan: Alright, Keira, before we continue, I just had my producer look up this MMBA you mentioned earlier. And it turns out, it stands for the Meyers-Milias-Brown Act, not the Medical Malevolent Bullshit Act like I thought. My bad. Just goes to show, you can’t always trust what you hear, folks. Alright, let’s get back to it.

— LoCOBot

DOCUMENTS:

Staff ReportAttachment A - Resolution 256-63 Approve Letter of Agreement Between City of Arcata and Arcata Police Association.pdf2026-05-06 City of Arcata and Arcata Police Association Letter of Agreement.pdf


10. OLD BUSINESS

11. NEW BUSINESS

a. Receive a Report and Make a Finding that Emergency Procurement to Repair Failed Culverts at 4700 West End Road is Necessary; Find the Project Exempt from the California Environmental Quality Act (CEQA); and Approve Necessary and Associated Related Actions

The City Engineer is recommending that the City Council approve emergency repairs to failed culverts at 4700 West End Road, which are causing sinkholes and posing risks to public safety. The project is exempt from environmental review and will be funded through reserve funds. The Council is asked to make a finding that the repairs are necessary, approve the procurement process, and authorize the City Manager to execute all necessary documents.

— LoCOBot

… or, as a corrido!

En un reporte de la ciudad se ha encontrado,
Que dos alcantarillas en la calle West End han fallado.
Netra Khatri, ingeniero de la ciudad,
Recomienda una acción sin demora y de urgencia.

Dos hundimientos han sido creados,
Poniendo en peligro la seguridad de los ciudadanos y más.
Es necesario reparar las alcantarillas sin demora,
Para evitar daños mayores y mantener la seguridad ahora.

Se propone al concejo de la ciudad,
Proceder con la reparación de esta propiedad municipal.
Se deben utilizar fondos de reserva para estos arreglos,
Y el proyecto se considera exento de CEQA, sin embargo.

Debido a la urgencia de la situación,
Se busca contrato con contratistas para la reparación.
Se busca aprobar la acción de manera rápida,
Para prevenir daños mayores en esta urgencia.

Se pide autorización para utilizar fondos de reserva,
En el presupuesto para cubrir los costos sin reservas.
Es justificado por la falla inesperada,
Y la necesidad de acción inmediata para evitar nada más.

Se pide al concejo que tome acción en este asunto,
Para evitar mayores problemas en todo momento.
Esperamos que esta acción urgente,
Sea aprobada para evitar el peligro inminente.

— LoCOBot

DOCUMENTS:

Staff ReportAttachment A - Failed Culvert 1.pdfAttachment B - Failed Culvert 2.pdf


a. Adopt Resolution No. 256-51 Adopting the Humboldt County Regional Climate Action Plan as the City of Arcata’s Climate Action Plan and Making California Environmental Quality Act (CEQA) Findings as a Responsible Agency.

The city council is being asked to adopt the Humboldt County Regional Climate Action Plan as the City of Arcata’s Climate Action Plan. This plan aims to reduce greenhouse gas emissions and align with California’s climate targets. The plan includes strategies for reducing emissions in sectors like building energy, transportation, and solid waste. Adoption of the plan aligns with the city’s goals and long-term plans, and while there is no immediate fiscal impact, implementation will require staff time and potential funding for a regional Climate Program Manager. The council is recommended to adopt Resolution No. 256-51 to approve the plan.

— LoCOBot

… or, as a movie trailer!

IN A WORLD where climate change threatens the very existence of our planet, one city stands up to make a difference.

Arcata, a small town with big dreams, must now take a stand and adopt Resolution No. 256-51 to combat the growing environmental crisis.

Join Emily Benvie, Director of Environmental Services, as she leads the charge to adopt the Humboldt County Regional Climate Action Plan as the City of Arcata’s own Climate Action Plan. With the fate of the city in their hands, the Mayor and City Council Members must make a decision that will impact generations to come.

But as they navigate the complexities of bureaucracy and public opinion, will they find the courage to do what is right for the planet and its people? Or will politics and personal agendas stand in the way of progress?

Find out in this gripping tale of environmental activism, political intrigue, and the fight for a sustainable future. Don’t miss “The Climate Crusade,” coming soon to a theater near you.

— LoCOBot

DOCUMENTS:

Staff ReportAttachment A - Resolution 256-51.pdfAttachment B - Final Regional Climate Action Plan.pdf


12. ORAL AND WRITTEN COMMUNICATIONS [CONTINUED]

13. CITY MANAGER'S REPORT

14. COUNCIL REPORTS

15. DATES OF FUTURE MEETINGS AND FUTURE AGENDA ITEMS

a. Schedule a Special Meeting Study Session with the Planning Commission Regarding a Land Use Code Update for June 8, 2026, at 5:00 p.m. in the Council Chambers.


a. Schedule a Special Meeting Budget Study Session for May 13, 2026, at 3:30 p.m. in the Council Chambers.


16. CLOSED SESSION

17. CLOSED SESSION REPORTS

18. ADJOURNMENT


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