Isabella Vanderheiden / @ 7:46 a.m. / Agendizer

Eureka to Reform Weird Old Law About ‘Going out of Business’ Sales at Tuesday Council Meeting

Photo: Andrew Goff

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Did you know you need a permit to have a proper “going out of business sale” in the City of Eureka? 

There’s a decades-old law on the city’s books that requires business owners to obtain a permit before formally declaring “EVERYTHING MUST GO!” Why? Staff aren’t quite sure, but the current city council is looking to repeal the ordinance at its upcoming meeting.

Back in 1959, the Eureka City Council adopted Ordinance No. 2798 “Going out of Business Sales” to regulate how businesses conduct such sales within the city. It is unclear what prompted the council’s decision as the historical record “does not reflect why the Council adopted the ordinance or if there had been concerns regarding false advertising by businesses,” the staff report states. And, because most business owners are unaware of the ordinance, it has proved to be very difficult to actually enforce.

“The Federal Trade Commission now in effect prohibits deceptive advertising and would not allow a business to use the title of ‘Going out of Business’ in its advertising unless the business was ceasing to operate,” the staff report continues. “The State of California Business and Profession Code section 17500 also prohibits untrue or misleading advertising. … Additionally, the added burden of paying for a permit by a business can be a hardship when liquidating merchandise.”

The city hasn’t received any complaints of false advertising in recent years, the report states, and there is no documentation of similar complaints from residents.

Staff contacted Nancy Olson, the CEO/President of the Greater Eureka Chamber of Commerce, to get her perspective on the matter. She told staff that the chamber is “all for reducing regulations” and said she would support repealing the ordinance. 

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What else is going on at Tuesday’s Eureka City Council meeting, you ask?

The council will consider a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) with the Rural Communities Housing Development Corporation concerning the development of affordable housing on four City-owned lots – collectively referred to as “Sunset Heights” – located near Winco. The city is required to develop a minimum of 60 very-low-income and 20 low-income units on the four parcels.

The council will also receive a crime statistics report and an update on the city’s security camera policy from the Eureka Police Department.

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All that and much more — including further analysis and hot takes from Gennie the LoCOBot — can be found below! The Eureka City Council meets tonight at 6 p.m. in Eureka City Hall- 531 K Street, Eureka. Remote viewing instructions can be found at this link.


Eureka City Council
Sept. 5, 2023, 6 p.m.

A. MAYOR’S ANNOUNCEMENTS

1. Proclamation- Coastal Clean Up

2. Proclamation- Suicide Prevention Week

3. Proclamation- Week Without Driving

B. PRESENTATIONS

C. BOARD/COMMISSION REPORTS

D. PUBLIC COMMENT PERIOD

E. PUBLIC HEARINGS

F. CONSENT CALENDAR

1. Council Minutes

2. Coast Guard Building Improvements – Change Order #1

The Eureka City Council is discussing a change order for the Coast Guard Building improvements project. They are considering approving a contract change order for $154,059.57 to remodel the back half of the building, and an additional $150,000 for the construction. The total budget for the project would be $450,000. This change is being made because they want to relocate some staff to the building, and the bid for the project was below the allocated funding. The recommendation is to approve the change order and provide the additional funds.

— LoCOBot

… or, as smack talk from a professional wrestler!

Listen up, Eureka City Council, because I’ve got an agenda item that’s gonna knock you off your high horse! We’re talkin’ about the Coast Guard Building Improvements and a mighty change order. The department of Public Works is pushin’ for some remodelin’, and they want you to approve a whopping $154,059.57 for the back half of the building. But wait, there’s more! They also want an additional $150,000 for the construction. Can you believe it?

Now, they claim there’s no fiscal impact, and it’s all included in the budget. But let me tell ya, this is just another one of their tricks. They want you to think they’re all about being a financially sound city, but we all know they’re just wasting our hard-earned tax dollars.

They’re tryin’ to justify this change order by sayin’ they need to relocate some of the CARE staff into the Coast Guard Building. Oh, how noble of them! But let’s not forget that they already awarded the construction to Adams Commercial General Contracting, Inc for nearly $300,000. And now, with this change order and the additional funds, the total budget for this project skyrockets to $450,000. Can you believe the audacity of these people?

But don’t you worry, Council, because I’m here to say enough is enough! You need to see through their devious plans and put a stop to this madness. Say no to their change order and their sneaky attempts to drain our wallets. It’s time to stand up for what’s right and show ‘em who’s really in charge!

So, Council, I dare ya to reject this change order and put an end to their wasteful spending. Let’s show ‘em that Eureka won’t be fooled by their tricks any longer. It’s time to fight back and protect the hardworking people of this city. Are you ready to step up and be the heroes we need? I sure hope so.

— LoCOBot

DOCUMENTS:

Staff ReportContract Change Order #1


3. Council Meeting Cancelation


4. Policy No. 5.41 Abandoned Vehicles

5. Water Meter Lid Purchase

The Eureka City Council is considering purchasing water meter lids for the Public Works department. The recommendation is to approve the purchase of 3650 lids from Badger Meter for a total cost of $353,478.38. This purchase is necessary because the city’s current water metering system is being upgraded to a cellular-based solution, which requires different lids to accommodate the new technology. The purchase is allowed under the city’s procurement regulations and is in line with the council’s goals of effective governance and fiscal responsibility.

— LoCOBot

… or, as a romance story!

Title: Whispering Waters

Chapter 1: Unexpected Encounters

Emily Collins, a passionate and determined woman, walked into the Eureka City Council meeting with one thing on her mind - to fight for clean and accessible water for her community. Little did she know that her visit would lead to an unforeseen encounter that would change her life forever.

As the meeting began, Brian Issa, the Deputy Public Works Director, presented his agenda for the day - the purchase of 3650 water meter lids. Emily couldn’t help but be captivated by his confidence and expertise as he explained the technical aspects of the project. She couldn’t resist the urge to learn more about the man behind those intelligent eyes.

Unbeknownst to Emily, Brian couldn’t take his eyes off her either. Her fiery determination and genuine concern for the community caught his attention in a way he hadn’t experienced before. He found himself intrigued by her passion and couldn’t shake the feeling that their paths were destined to cross.

Chapter 2: Shared Concerns

After the meeting, Emily mustered up the courage to approach Brian. She introduced herself, expressing her admiration for his work and shared concerns about the water meter lid purchase. Brian was pleasantly surprised by her boldness and welcomed the opportunity to delve deeper into the subject.

Their conversation flowed effortlessly as they discussed the importance of efficient water systems and the need for sustainable solutions. Their shared vision for effective governance and fiscal responsibility only fueled their connection further. They realized they were on the same wavelength, not just in their professional lives but on a personal level as well.

Chapter 3: Brewing Feelings

As days turned into weeks, Emily and Brian found themselves spending more and more time together, both inside and outside of work. Their discussions about the water meter project gradually transitioned into light-hearted banter and personal anecdotes. They discovered mutual interests, dreams, and aspirations, creating a foundation of friendship mixed with undeniable chemistry.

Their romantic feelings began to blossom like a fresh water lily in a hidden pond. Emily was drawn to Brian’s unwavering dedication to his work and his gentle nature. Brian, on the other hand, admired Emily’s strength, intelligence, and ability to make a difference in her community. They both found solace in each other’s company and became each other’s biggest source of support.

Chapter 4: Turbulent Waters

Despite their growing love for each other, Emily and Brian faced numerous challenges along the way. The pressure of their demanding jobs often left little time for their relationship to flourish. Their conflicting schedules and the constant demands of the water meter project tested the strength of their bond.

However, just as they fought for clean water in their community, Emily and Brian fought with equal determination for their love. They realized that love, just like water, needed nurturing and continuous effort to flow smoothly. They learned the importance of communication, compromise, and finding a balance between work and personal life.

Chapter 5: The Ripple Effect

As Emily and Brian’s love grew stronger, the impact of their relationship rippled through the Eureka City Council and the entire community. Witnessing their devotion to both their work and each other, their colleagues and friends became inspired to prioritize love in their own lives. The romance that flourished amidst the purchase of water meter lids became a symbol of hope, showing that love could thrive even in the most unexpected circumstances.

Whispering Waters, the place where Emily and Brian’s love story began, would forever remain a reminder of the power of love, determination, and partnership. Their journey not only brought them together but also transformed the way they viewed their jobs and the world around them. Through their love, they realized that true happiness and success came from finding a balance between their responsibilities and their desires.

As the purchase of the water meter lids was approved, Emily and Brian stood side by side, ready to face any obstacle together. Their love story became a legend in the Eureka City Council, reminding everyone that sometimes the most unexpected encounters could lead to the most beautiful and fulfilling love stories.

— LoCOBot

DOCUMENTS:

Staff Report


6. 2022 Edward Byrne Memorial Justice Assistance Grant

The Eureka City Council is discussing a grant called the Edward Byrne Memorial Justice Assistance Grant (JAG) for the Eureka Police Department. They have been awarded $14,672. The funds will be used to purchase a drug detection K9, which will help the police department in their mission to promote service and safety in the community. Police K9s are known to be effective in deterring crime and making communities safer. The grant money does not have any negative financial impact on the city and aligns with their goal of being financially sound by leveraging resources through grants.

— LoCOBot

… or, as a conversation between two very stoned people named Starfish and Noodles!

Starfish: Dude, have you seen this agenda for the City Council meeting?

Noodles: Nah man, what’s up?

Starfish: They’re talking about this grant for the police department. It’s called the Edward Byrne Memorial Justice Assistance Grant or something.

Noodles: Woah, that sounds intense. What’s it for?

Starfish: It says they got awarded $14,672 and they wanna use it for drug detection K9s.

Noodles: Dude, that’s wild! They wanna use dogs to find drugs?

Starfish: Yeah, man. They say it’s gonna help promote service and safety in the community. Like, they’ll have these dogs going around sniffing out drugs and stuff.

Noodles: That’s kinda cool, I guess. I mean, it could help catch the bad guys, right?

Starfish: Yeah, I guess so. They say these K9s are a visible deterrent for crime. Like, just the presence of a dog can make people think twice about doing something illegal.

Noodles: Woah, I never thought about it like that. Dogs can be pretty intimidating, especially if they’re trained to find drugs.

Starfish: Totally, man. It’s like having a furry little police officer with a super nose.

Noodles: Haha, that’s one way to put it. But dude, where are they gonna get the dogs? Are they gonna train them or something?

Starfish: I have no idea, man. Maybe they’re gonna buy trained dogs from somewhere? It doesn’t really say in this agenda.

Noodles: Ah, gotcha. Well, it sounds like a good use of the grant money, at least. Gotta keep the community safe, right?

Starfish: Yeah, exactly. And they say it meets the goal of a financially sound city by leveraging resources through grants. So, it’s like they’re being smart with the money.

Noodles: That’s awesome, man. It’s always good to hear when the city is being responsible with funds.

Starfish: Yeah, for sure. I’m glad they’re thinking about stuff like this. It shows they’re looking out for us.

Noodles: Definitely. Hey, speaking of looking out for us, you got any more of that, uh, herbal medicine?

Starfish: Haha, you read my mind, man. Let’s light up and keep pondering the mysteries of the City Council agenda.

— LoCOBot

DOCUMENTS:

Staff Report


7. Facility Improvement Loan Guarantee Program

The Eureka City Council is considering a program to provide a loan guarantee for facility improvements at Little Saplings Preschool. The program aims to support childcare providers in improving their facilities. The preschool plans to upgrade their play yard, adding climbing arches, gardens, art easels, and a mud pie kitchen. The estimated budget for these improvements is $9,803. If approved, the preschool will be able to apply for a loan of up to $10,000 and repay it using funds from the American Rescue Plan Act. The City Council also needs to approve an additional $10,000 in the Community Services budget for the next fiscal year.

— LoCOBot

… or, as a fantasy story!

Once upon a time in the enchanting city of Eureka, the Eureka City Council had gathered for their regular agenda meeting. Among the topics on the agenda was the Facility Improvement Loan Guarantee Program, presented by Lane Millar from the Finance department. The recommendation put forth by Millar was to authorize Little Saplings Preschool to apply for the program and approve an additional appropriation of $10,000 to the Community Services budget for the upcoming fiscal year.

The Little Saplings Preschool, nestled in the heart of Eureka, was a beloved institution. It was part of the Community Services Youth Division and licensed by California’s Community Care Licensing Division. The preschool catered to 24 children between the ages of 2.5 and 6, providing a play-based and nature-inspired learning environment.

The Facility Improvement Loan Guarantee Program, a part of the Humboldt Child Care Stabilization Fund, aimed to support childcare providers in enhancing the efficiency, safety, and learning environment of their facilities. This program offered SBA loans up to $10,000, which would be repaid using ARPA funds upon the completion of approved projects.

Little Saplings Preschool had a vision to create a natural play yard, enriching the learning and play experiences for their young charges. Their proposed upgrades included two large wooden climbing arches to develop motor skills, upper body strength, and encourage adventurous play. In addition, they planned to install two in-ground wood and clear-panel root gardens and worm farms to introduce elements of science. To nurture outdoor creativity, two large in-ground wooden art easels with clear panels would be added. The existing upcycled mud pie kitchen was to be replaced with a new three-piece unit that included a picnic table. And to ensure a safe surface, they were keen on purchasing the necessary bark and border materials.

The estimated budget for these improvements was $9,803, and the preschool had prepared a detailed loan application for the program.

As the council members reviewed and discussed the proposal, there was unanimous agreement about the importance of providing a holistic development opportunity for the children at Little Saplings Preschool. They recognized the crucial role of play in the lives of young ones and how these enhancements would contribute to their growth and learning experiences.

The council members applauded the efforts of Little Saplings Preschool and their commitment to providing a high-quality learning environment. They passed a motion to authorize the preschool to apply for the Facility Improvement Loan Guarantee Program. Furthermore, they unanimously approved the additional appropriation of $10,000 to the Community Services budget for the upcoming fiscal year.

With this decision, the enchanting city of Eureka set in motion a magical transformation for the Little Saplings Preschool. The children would soon enjoy a natural play yard filled with opportunities for adventure, creativity, and learning. The love and dedication of the council members ensured that the children of Eureka would thrive and flourish in a nurturing environment. And so, the story of Little Saplings Preschool continued, fueled by the support of the city and the dreams of its young inhabitants.

— LoCOBot

DOCUMENTS:

Staff ReportAEDC Loan Application Child Care


8. New Classification: Junior Accountant

The Eureka City Council is considering creating a new job position called Junior Accountant. This position would be an entry-level job that supports the city’s accounting functions. It would be a stepping stone for people interested in a career in accounting and could lead to higher positions in the future. The council will be discussing and possibly adopting this new position. There is no additional funding needed for this position, as it would be filled by repurposing an existing vacancy.

— LoCOBot

… or, as a Bruce Springsteen song!

(Verse 1)
In the city halls of Eureka, where decisions are made
There’s a discussion on the table, a new role to create
Human Resources has proposed, a Junior Accountant’s task
To bridge the gap between, technician and accountant’s path

(Chorus)
Oh, we’re adding a new classification
To the City’s plan, with a resolution
No fiscal impact, just a chance to grow
Junior Accountant, ready to show

(Verse 2)
Working closely with the accounting teams in place
Ensuring financial operations run at a steady pace
Collaboration is key, for this entry-level role
Supporting the city’s books, taking on the accounting toll

(Chorus)
Oh, we’re adding a new classification
To the City’s plan, with a resolution
No fiscal impact, just a chance to grow
Junior Accountant, ready to show

(Bridge)
A stepping stone for those, with dreams to pursue
A career in accounting, with skills shining through
As experience grows, and qualifications met
Higher positions await, a path they can’t forget

(Chorus)
Oh, we’re adding a new classification
To the City’s plan, with a resolution
No fiscal impact, just a chance to grow
Junior Accountant, ready to show

(Outro)
With the Junior Accountant, the finance department soars
A bridge that brings success, to accounting’s open doors
Eureka City Council, making choices wise and sound
A new classification, springing dreams off the ground

— LoCOBot

DOCUMENTS:

Staff ReportResolution_Junior AccountantJunior Accountant 8-2023


9. Assembly Constitutional Amendment 13 Letter of Support

The Eureka City Council is considering supporting a proposal called Assembly Constitutional Amendment 13 (ACA 13). This amendment aims to improve the ballot initiative process in California. Currently, citizens can propose and pass laws or constitutional amendments directly, without involving the government. ACA 13 aims to protect local government revenue and ensure that future ballot measures adhere to the same voter threshold they impose. For example, if a measure proposes a two-thirds vote requirement, it would also need to pass with a two-thirds majority. This amendment aims to prevent initiatives passed by a simple majority from requiring future measures to pass with a super-majority. The Council is being asked to authorize the Mayor to sign a letter in support of ACA 13.

— LoCOBot

… or, as a high-energy radio advertisement!

[Upbeat music playing]

Announcer: Ladies and gentlemen, are you ready for some ACTION? Get ready to take a stand and make your voice heard!

Sound effects: Crowd cheering

Announcer: The Eureka City Council is calling on all citizens to support Assembly Constitutional Amendment 13, ACA 13!

Sound effects: Drumroll

Announcer: This powerful amendment aims to improve California’s ballot initiative process, ensuring that our local government revenue streams are protected and our cities can continue to provide critical services to residents!

Sound effects: Heroic music playing

Announcer: With ACA 13, any initiative constitutional amendment will have to conform to any increased voter threshold it seeks to impose on future ballot measures. This means that if a two-thirds vote is required for a specific item, the initiative seeking that threshold must also pass with a two-thirds vote!

Sound effects: Applause

Announcer: Say goodbye to initiatives that sneak by with a simple majority and then demand super-majority for future measures! ACA 13 is here to bring fairness and accountability to our state’s direct democracy!

Sound effects: Fireworks

Announcer: But we can’t do it alone! We need YOU, the citizens of Eureka, to rally behind the City Council and support this crucial amendment!

Sound effects: Crowd chanting “ACA 13!”

Announcer: Stand up for effective governance! Stand up for fiscal responsibility! Support Assembly Constitutional Amendment 13 and let your voice be heard!

Sound effects: Roaring applause

Announcer: Contact your City Council members today and let them know that you demand their support for ACA 13!

Sound effects: Phone ringing

Announcer: Together, we can make a difference and shape the future of our great city!

Sound effects: Inspiring music playing

Announcer: This message is approved by the Eureka City Council and sponsored by citizens who believe in a better future for all!

Sound effects: Fade out

Disclaimer: Paid for by concerned citizens and not authorized by any campaign committee or candidate.

— LoCOBot

DOCUMENTS:

Staff ReportLetter


G. LEGISLATIVE ACTION CORRESPONDENCE

H. ORDINANCES/RESOLUTIONS

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

This agenda is for a city council meeting in the city of Eureka. The city attorney, Autumn E. Luna, has prepared a recommendation for an amendment to a section of the Eureka Municipal Code. It is suggested that the council waive reading the entire document and instead just read the title before adopting the amendment. The discussion is about changing the rule for how many members need to be present for a vote to pass. Currently, a majority of all members is required, but the proposed amendment would only require a majority of the members who are actually at the meeting. This change would not affect the number of members needed for a quorum, and it would not apply to the City Council specifically. There is no expected financial impact from this amendment. The agenda has been reviewed and approved by the city attorney, city manager, and city clerk/information technology department.

— LoCOBot

… or, as an Elizabethan sonnet!

Upon the agenda I now place my sight,
An amendment to Eureka’s noble code,
In Council chambers, where ideas take flight,
Where minds debate, and laws are then bestowed.

The City Attorney, skilled in her trade,
Has prepared this measure with utmost care,
A proposition that may change the grade,
Of meetings and their business we now share.

No longer shall a majority vast,
Be required for each business’s decree,
Instead, attendance is the die thus cast,
For final transactions made with such glee.

The fiscal impact, none it shall impose,
A simple change, that all may now propose.

— LoCOBot

DOCUMENTS:

Staff ReportBil No. 1031 Meetings_Rules_Quorum


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

The Eureka City Council is discussing a proposed bill called “Personnel Policies.” The bill aims to update and change certain sections of the city’s personnel policies, particularly regarding retirement benefits for public safety employees. The council is recommending waiving a full reading of the bill and adopting it with the proposed changes. This update is necessary to align with modern practices in personnel administration and bring the code up to date with current policies and procedures.

— LoCOBot

… or, as a Pokemon duel!

In the Pokemon duel, two trainers, Ash and Misty, face off against each other. Each trainer has a team of three Pokemon. Ash’s team consists of Pikachu, Charizard, and Bulbasaur, while Misty’s team includes Starmie, Gyarados, and Vaporeon.

The battlefield is set in Eureka City, with the city council building as the backdrop. The trainers stand on opposite sides of the council chambers, ready to begin the battle.

As the battle starts, Misty takes the first move. She sends out her Starmie, a Water/Psychic type Pokemon. Ash counters by sending out Pikachu, his Electric type Pokemon.

Misty commands Starmie to use Water Pulse, launching a powerful water attack towards Pikachu. Pikachu dodges the attack with agility, showcasing its speed and evasiveness. Ash then orders Pikachu to use Thunderbolt, an electric attack that shocks Starmie with a surge of electricity. Starmie takes significant damage and is pushed back.

Not willing to back down, Misty recalls Starmie and brings out her Gyarados, a powerful Water/Flying type Pokemon. It enters the battlefield with a thunderous roar. Ash decides to switch Pikachu with Charizard, his Fire/Flying type Pokemon, to take advantage of the type matchup.

Gyarados tries to overpower Charizard with a Hyper Beam attack, but Charizard dodges and counters with a Flamethrower. The fire attack engulfs Gyarados, causing it to take massive damage. Misty recalls Gyarados, and in a last-ditch effort, sends out Vaporeon, a Water type Pokemon.

Knowing that Charizard has a disadvantage, Ash commands Charizard to use Dragon Claw, a powerful physical attack. Vaporeon tries to defend itself with a Hydro Pump, but Charizard’s Dragon Claw breaks through and deals significant damage. Vaporeon is on the verge of defeat.

Misty realizes she must make a strategic move. She quickly recalls Vaporeon and sends out her final Pokemon, Starmie, back into battle. With both trainers’ final Pokemon standing before them, the battle reaches its climax.

Starmie uses its Psychic abilities to try and confuse Charizard. Charizard fights through the confusion, but it’s clear that it’s struggling. Ash commands Charizard to unleash its signature move, Fire Blast. Despite the confusion, Charizard manages to launch a powerful fire attack, hitting the Starmie directly. Starmie is unable to withstand the attack and faints, giving Ash the victory.

With the battle concluded, both trainers commend each other on their skills. They shake hands and leave the council chambers with a newfound respect for each other’s Pokemon. As they exit the building, Misty vows to train harder to face Ash again in the future.

— LoCOBot

DOCUMENTS:

Staff ReportPersonnel Section Revision


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

Title: Going Out of Business Sales - Discussion and Recommendation

Summary: The Eureka City Council is discussing a recommendation to repeal an old ordinance that regulates how businesses can conduct “Going Out of Business Sales.” The ordinance was adopted in 1959 when there were no state or federal regulations on these sales. However, now there are laws that prohibit false or misleading advertising. The council has found it difficult to enforce the local regulation, and businesses are often unaware of it. There have been no recent complaints about false advertising, and the Greater Eureka Chamber of Commerce and Eureka Main Street Board support repealing the ordinance. This would allow state and federal guidelines to regulate advertising of sales.

— LoCOBot

… or, as a Brazilian carnival song!

LETRA:

Vamos celebrar o carnaval
Com muita alegria e animação
Na cidade de Eureka, sem igual
Vamos cantar essa canção

REFRÃO:
Eureka vai sambar
No carnaval sem igual
Alegria no ar
Em cada passo, um vendaval

No passado, uma lei foi criada
Regulando as vendas de liquidação
Mas hoje, essa lei é ultrapassada
Não precisa mais de regulamentação

A Comissão de Comércio Federal
Proíbe a publicidade enganosa
Nenhum negócio pode usar de mal
A expressão de “vai fechar as portas”

A lei local era difícil de cumprir
Muitos não tinham conhecimento
Além disso, a taxa a se pagar é um pedir
Dificultando a venda em momento

Consultamos a Câmara do Comércio
Eles apoiam a revogação da lei
Pois as leis federais servem de roteiro
Para proteger os consumidores, eu direi

REFRÃO:
Eureka vai sambar
No carnaval sem igual
Alegria no ar
Em cada passo, um vendaval

Então, Eureka, vamos festejar
Essa revogação merece comemoração
No carnaval, vamos todos dançar
E celebrar a modernização

REFRÃO:
Eureka vai sambar
No carnaval sem igual
Alegria no ar
Em cada passo, um vendaval

— LoCOBot

DOCUMENTS:

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


I. REPORTS/ACTION ITEMS

1. Eureka Crime Statistics and Security Camera Policy Update


2. City Investment Policy

Summary:

This document is about the City Council’s investment policy in Eureka. The policy aims to manage the city’s finances by ensuring the safety of funds and achieving a good return on investments. The policy applies to all the city’s financial assets, and there are specific objectives listed, including effective investment of funds, maintaining liquidity, and focusing on yield or return. The Finance Director oversees authorized broker/dealers and provides regular investment reports. A Portfolio Line of Credit (PLOC) is also introduced as a flexible financial tool to access cash when needed. The document includes an attachment of the investment policy.

— LoCOBot

… or, as an episode of Seinfeld!

INT. JERRY’S APARTMENT - DAY

Jerry and George are sitting at the table, eating cereal.

JERRY: You know, George, I was reading the city council agenda today.

GEORGE: (raising an eyebrow) The city council agenda? What, you’re into local politics now?

JERRY: No, no, hear me out. They’re talking about the city investment policy.

GEORGE: (disinterested) Investment policy? That sounds boring.

JERRY: Oh, it gets better. They’re considering adopting a portfolio line of credit.

GEORGE: (leaning in) A line of credit? That’s money, Jerry! That’s what we need!

JERRY: Exactly my point! We could use that line of credit for some quick cash when we need it.

GEORGE: (excited) We could finally invest in our own ideas! This could be our big break!

JERRY: I don’t know, George. Investing can be risky. Have you forgotten about your stock market debacle?

GEORGE: (defensive) That was a fluke! I just happened to invest in a company that went bankrupt.

JERRY: (sarcastic) Oh, just a coincidence then?

GEORGE: (brushing it off) Look, this city investment policy thing could be our shot at financial stability. We just need to figure out how to get involved.

JERRY: Well, I did notice that the policy is presented for action at the city council meeting.

GEORGE: So?

JERRY: So, maybe we could attend the meeting and try to persuade them to approve the policy.

GEORGE: (excited) Jerry, that’s brilliant! We could be the voice of reason advocating for the line of credit.

JERRY: (smiling) I knew you’d see the potential.

INT. CITY COUNCIL CHAMBERS - DAY

Jerry and George are sitting in the audience as the meeting is about to begin.

JERRY: (whispering) Remember, George, we need to sound knowledgeable and trustworthy.

GEORGE: (nodding) Got it. We’ll be the financial saviors they never knew they needed.

The meeting starts and various agenda items are discussed. Finally, the city investment policy is brought up for discussion.

MAYOR: (addressing the council) Ladies and gentlemen, we are now discussing the city investment policy. Do we have any comments from the public?

Jerry raises his hand and is called upon by the mayor.

JERRY: (confidently) Thank you, Mr. Mayor. I just wanted to express my support for the adoption of the portfolio line of credit. It’s a smart financial move that would benefit the city greatly.

GEORGE: (standing up) And I couldn’t agree more! As citizens, we have a responsibility to ensure the city’s financial stability, and this policy would do just that.

The council members look surprised at Jerry and George’s passionate speech.

COUNCIL MEMBER 1: (intrigued) You gentlemen seem to know a lot about this. Are you financial experts?

JERRY: (smiling) Let’s just say we know a thing or two.

COUNCIL MEMBER 2: (nodding) Well, your input is highly appreciated. We will certainly consider your suggestion.

Jerry and George exchange triumphant glances.

INT. JERRY’S APARTMENT - NIGHT

Jerry and George are back in Jerry’s apartment, celebrating their successful advocacy.

GEORGE: (toasting) To our potential financial success!

JERRY: (raising his glass) And to never being broke again!

They clink their glasses together and laugh.

FADE OUT.

— LoCOBot

DOCUMENTS:

Staff Report2.70 Investment Policy


3. Rural Communities Housing Development Corporation Memorandum of Understanding

The Eureka City Council is considering approving a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) with the Rural Communities Housing Development Corporation (RCHDC) to build affordable housing on city-owned property. This MOU will establish terms and understandings between the city and RCHDC regarding the development, construction, and operation of the housing. The city is required to develop a minimum of 60 very low-income and 20 low-income units on the four parcels of land known as Sunset Heights. The city staff has been working with RCHDC to develop this agreement, and they recommend its approval to address the need for affordable housing in Eureka. This decision does not have a financial impact on the city.

— LoCOBot

… or, as Star Trek fan fiction!

STAR TREK: SUNSET HEIGHTS

Captain’s Log, Stardate 43128.6: The USS Enterprise has arrived at Eureka, a city on the planet of Orion III, to assist in a unique housing development project. The Eureka City Council has been grappling with a solution for their affordable housing shortage, and they have turned to an unlikely ally - the Rural Communities Housing Development Corporation.

As our away team beams down to the city council chambers, we are greeted by Miles Slattery, the city manager and lead negotiator for this project. He explains to us that Eureka owns four parcels of land collectively known as Sunset Heights. The city is obligated to develop a minimum of 60 very low income and 20 low income units on these parcels in accordance with their Housing Element. However, they lack the resources and expertise to undertake such a massive endeavor.

That is where the Rural Communities Housing Development Corporation, or RCHDC, comes in. RCHDC specializes in affordable housing development, and they have been working closely with the city over the past few months to develop a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) that will outline the terms and understanding between the City and RCHDC.

The Enterprise crew, led by Commander Data, is tasked with aiding in the negotiation and implementation of this MOU. As we sit down with the city council members and RCHDC representatives, it becomes clear that there are many concerns and challenges to overcome.

The first concern raised by the council is the fiscal impact of this project. They are worried about the strain it will place on the city’s budget and whether additional appropriations will be necessary. Commander Data assures them that the Federation is prepared to provide financial assistance, ensuring that there will be no fiscal impact on the city.

Another concern is the potential disruption to the surrounding community during the construction phase. Lieutenant Commander Geordi La Forge suggests innovative construction techniques that will minimize disruption and ensure efficient completion of the project.

Throughout the negotiations, it becomes evident that this housing development project aligns with the council’s goals for economic development. By providing affordable housing, the council hopes to attract new businesses and stimulate the local economy. Captain Picard emphasizes the importance of maintaining a balance between economic growth and preserving the natural beauty of Sunset Heights.

After hours of discussion, compromise, and drafting, the MOU is finally approved by the Eureka City Council. The Enterprise crew celebrates this milestone achievement with the council members and RCHDC representatives, knowing that their joint efforts will make a significant impact on the lives of the residents in Eureka.

Months later, as we orbit Orion III once again, we receive an update from Miles Slattery. Construction on Sunset Heights is well underway, and the first families are preparing to move into their new affordable homes. The city council expresses their gratitude to the Enterprise crew and RCHDC for their instrumental role in making this project a reality.

As we leave Eureka behind, the Enterprise continues its mission of exploring new worlds and seeking out opportunities to make a difference. The story of Sunset Heights serves as a reminder that even in the far reaches of the galaxy, the value of affordable and sustainable housing remains a universal concern.

— LoCOBot

DOCUMENTS:

Staff ReportMemorandum of Understanding- MOU City and RCHCD Sunset Heights (Eureka-Final)


J. FUTURE AGENDA ITEMS

K. CITY MANAGER REPORTS

L. PUBLIC COMMENT CONTINUED

M. COUNCIL REPORTS / CITY-RELATED TRAVEL REPORTS


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