LoCOBot / @ 3:30 p.m. / Agendizer

Eureka City Council
Aug. 15, 2023, 6 p.m.

A. MAYOR’S ANNOUNCEMENTS

B. PRESENTATIONS

1. FORE! The Community Golf Classic Presentation

C. BOARD/COMMISSION REPORTS

D. PUBLIC COMMENT PERIOD

E. PUBLIC HEARINGS

1. Tirsbeck General Plan Amendment Petition

This is a summary of a city council meeting agenda. The petition is for a property on West Hawthorn Street to be changed from a General Industrial designation to a General Service Commercial designation. The property owner wants to develop the land for retail and service commercial uses. The council is being asked to hold a public hearing and adopt a resolution to approve the petition. There is no fiscal impact and the proposed amendment aligns with the city’s goals for economic development. The council will also consider the environmental impact and potential future actions regarding the amendment. The staff recommends that the council approve the petition and authorize the applicant to apply for the amendment.

Overall, this is about a property owner wanting to change the designation of their land to develop it for retail and service commercial uses, and the council is considering whether to approve the request.

— LoCOBot

… or, as a town crier's speech!

Hear ye, hear ye! Citizens of Eureka, gather ‘round and lend your ears! I, the town crier, bring you important news from the Eureka City Council. Today, we discuss a matter of great importance regarding a coastal general plan amendment petition for a property known as APN 003-182-010 on West Hawthorn Street.

The Department of Development Services - Planning, under the guidance of Leanna Smith, Planning Technician, has prepared this agenda for us today. The council has three options regarding this matter: action, information-only, or discussion. The recommendation put forth is to hold a public hearing and adopt a resolution to approve the general plan amendment petition for the aforementioned property.

Now, let us delve into the details. This petition seeks to change the land use and zoning designations for an approximately 1.91-acre parcel on West Hawthorn Street. Currently, the parcel holds two structures, totaling approximately 7,750 square feet, and is utilized for vehicle storage. The adjacent parcel, 2000 Broadway, is also owned by the same property owner and is utilized for used-automobile sales, a second-hand retail store, and a plumbing business.

The property owner wishes to change the land use designation from General Industrial to General Service Commercial and change the zoning from General Industrial District to Service Commercial. This change would align the land use and zoning designations of both parcels, allowing for the redevelopment of both properties with new retail and service commercial uses.

Surrounding the property, we have General Industrial District parcels to the north and west, while Service Commercial parcels are located to the east and south. If approved, this amendment would create a more consistent land use pattern in the area and contribute to the economic vitality of our beloved Eureka.

Now, let us address the environmental aspects of this petition. Approving the general plan amendment petition itself is not subject to the California Environmental Quality Act (CEQA) unless it can be determined that there is a potential significant effect on the environment. However, future actions related to the proposed amendment will be subject to CEQA.

In summary, the proposed general plan amendment has the potential to serve the public interest by allowing for more flexible use of the property, which aligns with the existing service commercial uses along Broadway. Therefore, the staff recommends that the City Council accepts the general plan amendment petition and authorizes the applicant to apply for an LCP amendment.

In conclusion, my fellow citizens of Eureka, it is now time for the City Council to make a decision. Will they adopt a resolution to approve the general plan amendment petition for property APN 003-182-010 on West Hawthorn Street? This decision will shape the future of our community and contribute to our economic development goals.

I now invite the City Council to deliberate and make their decision. May the wisdom and insights of our esteemed council members guide us towards a brighter and more prosperous future for Eureka. Thank you, and long live Eureka!

— LoCOBot

DOCUMENTS:

Staff ReportAttachment 1 - ResolutionAttachment 2 - Project LocationAttachment 3 - Submitted MaterialAttachment 4- Land Use Designation


F. CONSENT CALENDAR

1. Council Minutes

2. Policy No. 3.32 Personnel Files

G. LEGISLATIVE ACTION CORRESPONDENCE

H. ORDINANCES/RESOLUTIONS

1. Bil No. 1029-C.S. "Going Out of Business Sales"

The Eureka City Council is discussing whether to get rid of a law that regulates “Going Out of Business” sales. The law was created in 1959 because there were no state or federal regulations at the time. However, now there are laws that prevent businesses from falsely advertising that they are going out of business. The city ordinance is difficult to enforce and many businesses are not aware of it. The Greater Eureka Chamber of Commerce and the Eureka Main Street Board support getting rid of the ordinance and relying on state and federal guidelines instead.

— LoCOBot

… or, as smack talk from a professional wrestler!

Hey there, Eureka City Council! Listen up, because I’ve got something to say about your so-called “Going Out of Business Sales” agenda. Pam Powell, you prepared this mess? Well, I’ve got news for you.

Your recommendation is to waive the full reading and introduce some fancy-sounding bill, huh? And what about this fiscal impact? No impact? Are you kidding me? That’s the best you could come up with? How about including it in the budget or making an additional appropriation? Maybe then it would actually mean something.

Now let’s get to the heart of the matter. Back in 1959, you fools adopted this ordinance, claiming it was to regulate how businesses conduct these sales. But guess what? There were no state or federal regulations at the time. You just wanted to stick your noses where they didn’t belong.

But now, oh now, things have changed. The Federal Trade Commission is in effect, prohibiting deceptive advertising. They won’t let businesses use the title “Going Out of Business” unless they’re actually shutting down. And the State of California has its own regulations too. Can you believe it? They’re actually protecting consumers and others from all your fraudulent nonsense.

But here’s the kicker. Your precious ordinance, the one you’re so proud of, is basically useless. Businesses don’t even know about it, and I don’t blame them. It’s just an added burden, making them pay for a permit when they’re trying to sell off their stuff. And guess what? We haven’t received any complaints about false advertising, and the residents don’t seem to give a damn either.

So what did you do? You went to Nancy Olson, President/CEO of the Greater Eureka Chamber of Commerce, to get her opinion. And surprise, surprise, she’s all for reducing regulations. She wants you to repeal this old ordinance, just like I do. Let the state and federal laws do their job. It’s time to step aside and let the big boys handle it.

And don’t think you can fool us with your presentation to the Eureka Main Street Board. They’re on our side too. They support repealing your precious ordinance and letting the state and federal guidelines regulate these sales.

So wake up, Eureka City Council! Your little ordinance is a joke. It’s time to admit defeat and let the real power players take over. The WWE heel of regulation is here to taunt you, and there’s no escaping the truth.

— LoCOBot

DOCUMENTS:

Staff ReportBil No. 1029-C.S. Going out of Business Sales


2. Bil No. 1030-C.S. "Personnel Policies"

This is an agenda summary for a meeting discussing a bill called “Personnel Policies”. The bill is being presented to the Eureka City Council for action. The recommendation is to waive the full reading and introduce the bill for discussion. The bill aims to amend certain sections of the City’s personnel policies. There is no fiscal impact mentioned. The discussion is about updating the personnel policies to align with modern practices and make changes to the retirement system previously offered to Public Safety Employees. The staff recommends introducing the bill with the proposed amendments.

— LoCOBot

… or, as a romance story!

Title: Love Among the Policies

Chapter 1: Unexpected Connections

In the picturesque city of Eureka, where the scent of spring flowers filled the air and the sun shone brightly, Pam Powell, a dedicated City Clerk, found herself immersed in a world of paperwork and municipal policies. Life had always been about regulations and ordinances for Pam, until she met a man who would change everything.

Chapter 2: Encounters at City Hall

One fateful day, while presenting Bill No. 1030-C.S. “Personnel Policies” to the City Council, Pam noticed a stranger in the crowd. His piercing blue eyes and charming smile caught her attention, and her heart skipped a beat. Little did she know that he was Ethan Turner, a consultant hired to assist with the city’s personnel system.

Chapter 3: An Unusual Connection

As the City Council discussed the personnel policies, Pam couldn’t help but be drawn to Ethan’s expertise and passion for the subject. They shared lively debates and exchanged ideas, realizing they had more in common than just work. Their conversations blossomed into a genuine connection, breaking the monotony of their bureaucratic lives.

Chapter 4: The Charm of Eureka

Ethan and Pam found solace in the enchanting city of Eureka. They explored its charming streets, discovering hidden cafes and scenic parks, their hearts growing closer with every step. The city became a backdrop for their budding romance, as they discovered the joy in shared laughter and stolen glances.

Chapter 5: Facing Obstacles

Their love story was not without obstacles. The pressures of the City Council and the demands of their respective jobs threatened to pull them apart. Pam, torn between her duties and her newfound love, wondered if it was possible to find a balance between passion and responsibility, between her heart and her professional life.

Chapter 6: The Power of Love

As they navigated the challenges together, Ethan and Pam realized that their love had the power to transform not only their personal lives but the city they served. They united their strengths, using their influence to promote positive changes and modernize the personnel policies. Their shared vision and determination created a ripple effect, inspiring others to embrace love and progress.

Chapter 7: A New Chapter

In the end, Pam and Ethan triumphed over adversity. The City Council approved their amendments to the personnel policies, celebrating the power of love and the potential it held for both individuals and communities. Their love story became a legend, inspiring future generations of government employees to find joy in their work and cherish the connections they made.

Epilogue: Love Among the Policies

Pam and Ethan’s love story became an integral part of Eureka’s history. Every year, on the anniversary of the passing of Bill No. 1030-C.S., the city celebrated “Love Among the Policies” day, a reminder of the transformative power of love and the enduring impact it can have on even the most bureaucratic of institutions. And Pam and Ethan? They continued to thrive, their love radiating through everything they did, forever intertwined with the city they called home.

— LoCOBot

DOCUMENTS:

Staff ReportPersonnel Section Revision


3. Bil No. 1031-C.S. Amending Title III, Chapter 33 of the Eureka Municipal Code: "Boards,

The Eureka City Council is considering changing a part of the Eureka Municipal Code. The change would allow the final decision on city business to be made by the majority of members present at a meeting, rather than the majority of the entire membership. This change would not affect the number of members needed to have a meeting or apply to the City Council. The city attorney has recommended that the council waive the requirement to read the entire amendment and instead introduce a shortened version. This change would not have any financial impact.

— LoCOBot

… or, as a fantasy story!

Once upon a time in the magical city of Eureka, there existed a City Council that governed the realm. Led by the wise and just City Attorney, Autumn E. Luna, the council was responsible for creating laws and making important decisions for the citizens of the city. Little did they know, a great change was about to occur.

In a routine meeting, Autumn E. Luna presented an agenda item that would forever alter the way the council conducted their meetings. The amendment to Section 33.009 of the Eureka Municipal Code proposed a new rule for the final transaction of business. Currently, a majority vote of the entire membership was required, regardless of how many members were present. However, the proposed amendment would only require the vote of a majority of the members in attendance.

As the council members gathered in the grand chamber, whispers and murmurs filled the air. Some were skeptical of the change, fearing it would diminish the importance of their votes. Others believed it would streamline the decision-making process and ensure that meetings were not hindered by absences.

After much debate and contemplation, the council agreed to waive the full reading of the amendment and introduced Bill No. 1031-C.S. The council members were divided in their opinions, with some in favor of the proposed amendment and others vehemently opposing it.

As the days passed, the citizens of Eureka eagerly awaited the outcome of the amendment. News of the proposed change spread throughout the city, sparking passionate discussions amongst the residents. Some feared that important matters would be decided upon by a mere handful of council members, while others believed it would allow decisions to be made more efficiently.

With the final vote approaching, the tension in Eureka was palpable. The council chamber was filled to the brim, with citizens eager to witness the historic decision. Autumn E. Luna, the City Attorney, called for the vote, her voice echoing through the chamber.

One by one, the council members announced their decision, their votes determining the future of Eureka’s governance. As the last vote was cast, an eerily quiet stillness settled over the chamber as the results were tallied.

The amendment to Section 33.009 of the Eureka Municipal Code was passed by a slim majority. The room erupted into chaos as supporters and opponents of the amendment celebrated or mourned their victory or loss.

From that day forward, Eureka’s City Council meetings were conducted under the new rule. Although there were still disagreements and passionate debates, the decision-making process became more streamlined. Meetings were no longer hindered by absent members, and the council could efficiently transact business.

Over time, the citizens of Eureka saw the benefits of the amendment. The city prospered as decisions were made promptly, allowing for timely initiatives and improvements. The council members, once divided, became more unified in their efforts to serve the city and its inhabitants.

And so, the amendment to Section 33.009 of the Eureka Municipal Code became a defining moment in the history of the city. It was a testament to the resilience and adaptability of Eureka, a place where progress and unity prevailed. The citizens of Eureka continued to entrust the City Council with their hopes and dreams, knowing that their government was evolving and embracing change for the better.

— LoCOBot

DOCUMENTS:

Staff ReportBil No. 1031 Meetings_Rules_Quorum.docx


I. REPORTS/ACTION ITEMS

1. Neighbor Privacy Concerns and Accessory Dweling Units

The Eureka City Council is discussing privacy concerns about accessory dwelling units (ADUs) in the area. ADUs are extra living spaces built on existing properties. The city wants to encourage the creation of ADUs to provide more affordable housing options. However, some people are worried about the impact of these units on neighbor privacy. The city has limitations on regulating ADUs because of state laws. They can’t impose strict privacy standards on certain types of ADUs, but they can create objective standards like landscaping or window placement requirements. The city staff recommends creating informational materials about privacy considerations for people interested in building ADUs, rather than adopting new regulations. ADUs are important for meeting the city’s housing goals, and adding more regulations could slow down the development process. Instead, the city wants to provide guidance on how to address privacy concerns when building ADUs.

— LoCOBot

… or, as a Rodney Dangerfield joke!

“I heard that the City Council is discussing privacy concerns with Accessory Dwelling Units. You know, if my neighbor built an ADU, I wouldn’t mind as long as they didn’t become my roommate. I already have enough trouble finding privacy in my own home!”

— LoCOBot

DOCUMENTS:

Staff ReportAttachment 1 - State ADU Law (CGC 65852.2)Attachment 2 - City Inland ADU Regulations


2. Eureka Crime Statistics and Security Camera Policy Update


J. FUTURE AGENDA ITEMS

1. Initiative to Amend the City of Eureka's General Plan

The City of Eureka is considering an initiative called the “Eureka Housing for All and Downtown Vitality” Initiative. The City Council is discussing whether they should request a report on the impact of the initiative on various aspects such as the city’s finances, housing availability, infrastructure, business and employment, vacant land, agricultural lands, and traffic congestion. They are seeking guidance from the City Council on which topics they should include in the report. The report must be presented to the City Council within a specific timeframe.

— LoCOBot

… or, as a Brazilian carnival song!

Título: Uma Iniciativa para Alterar o Plano Geral da Cidade de Eureka (também conhecida como “Iniciativa de Habitação para Todos e Vitalidade do Centro”)

Departamento: Procuradoria da Cidade

Preparado por: Autumn E. Luna, Procurador da Cidade

Apresentado para: ☒Ação ☐Apenas informação Discussão

RECOMENDAÇÃO

Direcionar a Equipe em Relação a um Relatório sobre a Iniciativa Proposta de acordo com a Seção 9212 do Código Eleitoral

IMPACTO FINANCEIRO

Nenhum Impacto Financeiro ☐Incluído no Orçamento ☐Apropriação Adicional

DISCUSSÃO

Uma medida de iniciativa está sendo circulada para coleta de assinaturas na cidade de Eureka. O Código Eleitoral da Califórnia, Seção 9212, estabelece que, durante a circulação da iniciativa, o Conselho Municipal pode encaminhar a proposta de medida de iniciativa a um ou mais departamentos municipais para um relatório sobre qualquer um dos seguintes itens:

(1) Seu impacto financeiro.
(2) Seu efeito na consistência interna dos planos gerais e específicos da cidade, incluindo o
elemento de habitação, a consistência com o planejamento e zoneamento, e as limitações
das ações da cidade nos termos da Seção 65008 do Código Governamental e dos
Capítulos 4.2 e 4.3 da Divisão 1 do Título 7 do Código Governamental.
(3) Seu efeito no uso da terra, no impacto sobre a disponibilidade e localização de habitação, e
na capacidade da cidade de atender às suas necessidades regionais de habitação.
(4) Seu impacto no financiamento de infraestrutura de todos os tipos, incluindo, mas não se
limitando a, transporte, escolas, parques e espaços abertos. O relatório também pode
discutir se a medida provavelmente resultaria em aumento de custos ou economias de
infraestrutura, incluindo os custos de manutenção da infraestrutura, para os residentes e
empresas atuais.
(5) Seu impacto na capacidade da comunidade para atrair e reter negócios e empregos.
(6) Seu impacto no uso de terrenos baldios.
(7) Seu impacto em terras agrícolas, áreas abertas, congestionamento de tráfego, distritos
comerciais existentes e áreas desenvolvidas designadas para revitalização.
(8) Qualquer outro assunto que o corpo legislativo solicite incluir no relatório.
O(s) relatório(s), se solicitado(s), deve(m) ser apresentados ao Conselho Municipal dentro do prazo determinado pelo Conselho Municipal ou, o mais tardar, 30 dias após o oficial eleitoral certificar a suficiência da petição.

A equipe da cidade está solicitando orientação do Conselho Municipal sobre quais, se houver algum, dos tópicos mencionados acima relacionados à iniciativa dos cidadãos o Conselho Municipal gostaria que a equipe preparasse um relatório.

REVISADO E APROVADO POR: ☒Procurador da Cidade
☒Gerente da Cidade
Escritório da Cidade/Tecnologia da Informação
☐Serviços Comunitários
☐Serviços de Desenvolvimento
☐Finanças
☐Bombeiros
☐Recursos Humanos
☐Polícia
☐Obras Públicas

— LoCOBot

DOCUMENTS:

Staff Report


K. CITY MANAGER REPORTS

L. PUBLIC COMMENT CONTINUED

M. COUNCIL REPORTS / CITY-RELATED TRAVEL REPORTS


Lately on LoCO

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