Ryan Burns / Thursday, Nov. 2, 2023 @ 4:53 p.m. / Agendizer
EUREKA COUNCIL PREVIEW: Report Finds Pro-Parking ‘Housing for All’ Initiative Would Hinder Affordable Housing Development and Cost the City Millions of Dollars
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If Eureka voters were to approve the so-called “Housing for All and Downtown Vitality Initiative” when it appears on ballots next November, it would likely trigger a cascade of negative impacts, including the loss of nearly $170 million in construction activity and $7.2 million per year in retail spending. It could prompt the California Office of the Attorney General to sue the city for violating state housing element law, and contrary to the implied promise of its title, the measure would hamstring plans to develop affordable housing.
Those are among the conclusions of an informational report on the initiative’s potential impacts, prepared by city staff, as well as an economic impact study conducted by outside firm Pro Forma Advisors LLC.
Both reports were prepared per the request of the Eureka City Council, which will receive them and decide whether to take any further action at its regular meeting Tuesday evening.
The controversial initiative, which is being advanced by a litigious cohort of parking lot enthusiasts affiliated with Rob Arkley’s Security National family of corporations, would, if passed, amend Eureka’s General Plan and Housing Element. Those are the comprehensive planning documents, required by state law, that outline the city’s development plans through a series of policy statements.
The amendments spelled out in the Housing for All initiative would directly impact Eureka’s ability to develop 21 city-owned public parking lots, six of which are currently slated for housing projects in various stages of development. The other 15 sites would remain public parking lots for the foreseeable future.
Below is a map of the 21 city-owned parking lots, with numbers one through six (outlined in red) slated for development. Affordable housing projects at two of the six lots (numbers 3 and 4) have been awarded to the Wiyot Tribe’s Dishgamu Humboldt Community Land Trust, and backers of the initiative say those developments would be allowed to proceed as long as the Wiyot Tribe remains the developer.
The initiative would also amend the General Plan to create something called a “Housing for All Overlay Designation” specifically for the currently vacant property at 674 Allard Avenue, formerly home to the Jacobs Middle School campus. This overlay would authorize what the report calls a “sweeping” array of new uses “by right,” including not only residential housing developments but everything from bars and restaurants to medical offices, emergency shelters, general cannabis use, day care facilities, commercial lodging, vehicle sales, offices, parking lots and more.
The “Housing for All” proponents have argued that the former Jacobs site is a much preferable location for affordable housing development, a site that’s close to services and shopping and would not require the elimination of any downtown parking.
Their initiative would “upzone” the 14.1-acre Jacobs site, significantly increasing the types of uses allowed on 60 percent of it while dedicating the other 40 percent to high-density residential uses, theoretically making that land available for a diverse array of housing, consistent with the General Plan’s housing policies.
However, there’s a significant wrinkle: The city doesn’t actually own the property at 674 Allard, and according to the report, the zoning overlay would only go into effect if and when the property were transferred to a new private property owner. That’s because the current owner, Eureka City Schools, is not subject to municipal zoning regulations. For that matter, neither is any agency of the state, including the California Department of General Services, which is in negotiations with Eureka City Schools (on behalf of the California Highway Patrol) to purchase the property. (The CHP wants to build a new headquarters/operations center there.)
“It is important to note that the changes to the General Plan proposed by the initiative would not, as the initiative’s name suggests, guarantee that housing is built on the [Jacobs] site,” the staff report notes.
As for all the city-owned lots shown in the map above, the initiative would amend the city’s General Plan to create an “Off-Street Public Parking (OSPP) Overlay Designation,” which would severely limit the allowable uses on those parcels. Among other things, it would allow high-density residential development only if it were built above ground-floor parking that has at least as many spaces as what’s currently there. (Again, with the exception of the Wiyot projects.)
“These limitations could make affordable housing projects financially infeasible,” the staff report says. Pro Forma’s economic analysis came to the same conclusion.
“Based on our analysis,” their report says, “the proposed downtown parking overlay zone would potentially increase the cost of the [planned] affordable housing development by 30 percent. This would effectively block affordable housing production on City-owned parking lots based on the underlying economics of affordable housing development.”
The increased per-unit cost of installing parking could also render the city’s planned affordable housing developments so expensive that they’d no longer be eligible for state lending, the report says. The property restrictions would also decrease competitiveness for grants based on sustainable/smart growth principles, such as the $30 million Affordable Housing and Sustainable Communities (AHSC) grant recently awarded to Linc Housing.
“On the six parking lots currently planned for affordable housing development, this means no mixed-use components would be allowed, such as corner stores, ground level or rooftop bars/restaurants, or child care facilities,” the report says.
Worse yet, the report concludes that the “Housing for All” initiative could render the city’s existing Housing Element non-compliant with state law, which would make future affordable housing projects “extremely difficult or infeasible” to develop.
State law requires that local jurisdictions accommodate a share of their region’s projected housing needs, called the Regional Housing Needs Allocation (RHNA, pronounced “REE-nuh”). Eureka’s allocation for the current Housing Element cycle (2019-2027) is 952 housing units, broken down as follows:
Eureka’s median household income is just $46,926, according to the U.S. Census, but the California Department of Housing and Community Development (HCD) uses a higher figure for its calculations, namely, the state’s non-metropolitan median income of $83,800 for a family of four.
As a result, Humboldt County households qualify as very-low income, low income and moderate income as follows:
The city’s plans for meeting its state-mandated RHNA allotment hinges in large part on developing housing on the six designated public parking lot sites. Those plans are, at this point, well under way, with identified developers, conceptual drawings and funding sources and completed environmental review.
The city has identified a number of other city-owned parcels to be put up for sale or lease to affordable housing developers with the goal of constructing at least 327 deed-restricted affordable housing units by 2028.
If the initiative were to pass, all of these plans would be rendered difficult if not impossible, the report says. Instead, the city would be required to adopt the initiative’s amendments to its Housing Element and then re-submit that document to the state, hoping that the Department of Housing and Community Development could somehow find that it satisfies the city’s RHNA requirements and certify it.
City staff is skeptical about that.
“By deleting six of the City-owned sites from the residential site inventory, the City would no longer be demonstrating adequate available land for the City’s very-low income RHNA, with a deficit of 66 units,” the staff report says. In fact, staff has already asked state representatives if the Jacobs site could be an adequate replacement for those six parking lots and were told no, according to the report.
Noncompliance with state housing element law would also result in ineligibility or delays in receiving state funding from a variety of programs, including the Community Development Block Grant (CDBG) Program, Caltrans’s Sustainable Transportation Planning Grant and the Affordable Housing and Sustainable Communities (AHSC) Program.
One more wrinkle noted in the report: If the city’s Housing Element became out of compliance with state law, the city would be unable to deny qualifying housing projects, such as those with at least two-thirds of the square footage designated for residential use and 20 percent of dwelling units designated for low-income households.
“This is known as ‘the builder’s remedy,’” the report says, “and [it] would allow housing development projects to not only ignore the parking requirement set by the initiative, but other City code standards as well.”
As its currently written, the city’s General Plan includes policies to remove regulatory barriers to development, and it has some built-in flexibility that allows for changes in response to evolving market opportunities, the staff report says.
“In contrast, the initiative would create inflexibility by significantly reducing the uses allowed on 21 City-owned parcels, imposing a large and inflexible parking requirement and requiring another ballot initiative to amend or remove these restrictions.”
Suffice it to say, the informational report paints a dire picture of the initiative’s potential impacts to the Eureka’s housing development plans, fiscal stability and compliance with state law.
The Outpost reached out to Gail Rymer, a spokesperson for both Security National and the Citizens for a Better Eureka, to see if she has any responses to the city’s report. She did not reply by publication time, but we will update you if and when she does respond.
In the meantime, you can access the report and its various appendices via the links below.
In other business, the council will hear a presentation from PETA (People for the Ethical Treatment of Animals), hold a public hearing on acquisition of land from Ocean View Cemetery for a new corp yard and operations center and discuss an update to the Humboldt Regional Climate Action Plan.
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PREVIOUSLY:
- Local Group Announces Intent to Stop the City of Eureka’s Conversion of Downtown Parking Lots Into Housing With New Ballot Measure
- Group Circulating Eureka Housing Petition Says the Wiyot Tribe’s Projects Are OK, Clarifies That Parking Lot Conversions Will Be Allowed So Long as Developers Build Even More Parking Than Before
- Open Letter Urging Eureka Voters Not to Sign the ‘Housing For All’ Petition Endorsed by 100+ Humboldt County Residents, Including Local Leaders in Politics, Business and Culture
- GUEST OPINION: Like Eureka, McKinleyville Also Has an Excess of Parking Spaces That Could Be Housing
- Former Eureka Mayors Come Out in Support of Pro-Parking Initiative
- Eureka Council Requests Informational Report on ‘Housing for All’ Initiative to Clear Up Confusion for Voters, Discusses Guidelines for ADUs, and More
- Backers of Eureka’s Pro-Parking ‘Housing for All’ Initiative Say They’ve Gathered and Submitted Enough Signatures to Get It On the Ballot
- (UPDATE) Eureka Gets $30 Million Grant for Housing Projects That the ‘Housing For All’ Initiative Hopes to Block
- New Coalition — ‘I Like Eureka Housing!’ — Formed to Oppose Arkley-Backed Pro-Parking Lot Initiative
- (UPDATE) Arkley-Affiliated ‘Citizens for a Better Eureka’ Files Two More Lawsuits Against the City, Aiming to Block Linc Housing Developments
- Backers of Pro-Parking Lot ‘Housing for All’ Initiative Say They’ve Filed a Lawsuit Against the City of Eureka Because They Believe They Should be on the Spring Ballot Rather Than the Fall Ballot
- Eureka Council Sends Pro-Parking ‘Housing for All’ Initiative to November 2024 Election Ballots
Eureka City Council
Nov. 7, 2023, 6 p.m.
A. MAYOR’S ANNOUNCEMENTS
1. Proclamation- National Hunger and Homelessness Awareness Week
DOCUMENTS:
2. Proclamation - Great American Smokeout
DOCUMENTS:
B. PRESENTATIONS
1. PETA Presentation
C. BOARD/COMMISSION REPORTS
D. PUBLIC COMMENT PERIOD
E. PUBLIC HEARINGS
1. Ocean View Acquisition and Operations Complex Development CEQA
F. CONSENT CALENDAR
DOCUMENTS:
2. Eureka Housing Authority Repositioning Grant Funding Support Letters
DOCUMENTS:
LsOS-Housing Authority • Housing Authority (IIG Program). • Housing Authority (IIG Program-2)
3. 2023 Edward Byrne Memorial Justice Assistance Grant
The Eureka City Council has received a grant of $15,803 from the Edward Byrne Memorial Justice Assistance Grant (JAG) Program. This money will be used by the Eureka Police Department to hire an organizational development consultant. The consultant’s job will be to analyze the department and improve teamwork, morale, and employee well-being. This will ultimately lead to better service for the community. The grant is part of the city’s efforts to leverage resources through grants and achieve financial stability.
— LoCOBot
… or, as a heartbreaking country/western song!
(Verse 1)
In a small town called Eureka, where dreams are born and die
There’s a police department, tryin’ to reach the sky
They applied for a grant, to make things right within
But little did they know, it would bring pain from within
(Chorus)
Oh, the Edward Byrne Memorial Justice Assistance Grant
Brought a bitter taste, to this hardworking band
With $15,803.00, they thought they had it made
But it tore them apart, like a hurricane’s relentless raid
(Verse 2)
The funds were meant for a consultant, to improve their team
But instead, it unleashed a storm, a nightmare unforeseen
They hired an organizational expert, to increase morale
But it only brought them heartache, like a dagger to their core
(Chorus)
Oh, the Edward Byrne Memorial Justice Assistance Grant
Brought a bitter taste, to this hardworking band
With $15,803.00, they thought they had it made
But it tore them apart, like a hurricane’s relentless raid
(Bridge)
Now they’re left broken, shattered like glass
A once tight-knit family, now lost in the past
The consultant’s analysis, it highlighted their flaws
But instead of bringing them together, it tore apart their cause
(Verse 3)
The goal was to improve, to serve their community right
But now they’re left with empty hearts, and sleepless nights
They wanted to be a beacon, a shining light in the dark
But this grant tore them apart, left a permanent mark
(Chorus)
Oh, the Edward Byrne Memorial Justice Assistance Grant
Brought a bitter taste, to this hardworking band
With $15,803.00, they thought they had it made
But it tore them apart, like a hurricane’s relentless raid
(Outro)
Now they’re left to pick up the pieces, and try to rebuild
But the damage is done, and their spirits have been killed
Oh, the Edward Byrne Grant, it brought them to their knees
A heartbreaking tale of a department, shattered by the breeze
— LoCOBot
DOCUMENTS:
4. CalRecycle Authorizing Grant Resolution
The Eureka City Council is discussing a resolution about applying for grants from CalRecycle (California’s Department of Resources Recycling and Recovery). CalRecycle offers funding for recycling and waste management programs. The resolution would allow the Community Services Department to apply for any grants the city is eligible for within the next five years. This resolution needs to be approved by the council, and it would not have any immediate financial impact.
— LoCOBot
… or, as a Rodney Dangerfield joke!
“I tell you, the Eureka City Council is so desperate for funding, they’re applying for grants from CalRecycle. They’ll take any grant they can get, even if it’s for recycling old jokes!”
— LoCOBot
DOCUMENTS:
5. 2023 Officer Welness and Mental Health Grant Award
The Eureka City Council is discussing a grant for the Police Department called the 2023 Officer Wellness and Mental Health Grant. The grant is for $28,000 and will be used to assess the health and fitness of the police officers, provide personalized health consultations, expand the department’s peer support team, and work with a licensed mental health clinician. The grant has no fiscal impact and aligns with the goal of having a financially sound city. The grant was awarded based on the number of police officers employed by the department. The recommendation is to accept the grant and use the funds as mentioned.
— LoCOBot
… or, as an episode of Scooby Doo!
INT. EUREKA CITY COUNCIL MEETING ROOM - DAY
The Eureka City Council is gathered around a large table, with various documents and reports in front of them. The room is filled with city officials and concerned citizens. At the head of the table is KATIE HILL, the Police Analyst, who is presenting the agenda item.
KATIE HILL
Good morning, everyone. Today, we have an important agenda item regarding the 2023 Officer Wellness and Mental Health Grant Award.
COUNCIL MEMBER 1
(leaning forward)
This sounds interesting. What does the grant entail, Ms. Hill?
KATIE HILL
(nods)
The Eureka Police Department has been awarded a grant of $28,000. The funds will be used for comprehensive on-site health and fitness assessments, personalized health consultations, expanding the department’s peer support team, and utilizing the services provided by a licensed mental health clinician that works with law enforcement.
COUNCIL MEMBER 2
That’s fantastic! It’s crucial that our officers have access to the support they need.
COUNCIL MEMBER 3
Absolutely. Ensuring the well-being and mental health of our police force is a top priority. I fully support using this grant to provide them with the necessary resources.
KATIE HILL
(nods)
Thank you for your support. The grant aligns with the council’s goal of a financially sound city by leveraging resources through grants. There will be no fiscal impact as the funds are already accounted for in the budget.
COUNCIL MEMBER 4
I’m glad to hear that. It’s always a relief when we can find external resources for such important initiatives.
COUNCIL MEMBER 5
Is there any further discussion on this matter?
The council members look at each other, but no one raises any objections or concerns.
COUNCIL MEMBER 2
I move to accept the 2023 Officer Wellness and Mental Health Grant Award and approve the use of funds as outlined by Ms. Hill.
COUNCIL MEMBER 3
I second the motion.
The council members vote unanimously in favor, and the motion is passed.
INT. EUREKA POLICE DEPARTMENT - DAY
Scooby-Doo and the gang, including SHAGGY, VELMA, DAPHNE, and FRED, are visiting the Eureka Police Department to learn more about the grant and its impact on the officers.
VELMA
This grant will make a tremendous difference in the lives of the officers. It’s great to see the city council prioritizing their well-being.
DAPHNE
Absolutely. It’s important to recognize that our law enforcement professionals face unique challenges and can benefit from specialized support.
They walk into a room where they see OFFICER JENKINS, an officer they’ve encountered on previous cases, talking to a new recruiter, LIEUTENANT CARTER.
OFFICER JENKINS
(excitedly)
Can you believe it, Lieutenant? We’ve been awarded the Officer Wellness and Mental Health Grant!
LIEUTENANT CARTER
(smirks)
It’s excellent news, Jenkins. This grant will help us take better care of our officers and ensure they have the support they need.
FRED
(approaches them)
Officer Jenkins! Lieutenant Carter! We heard about the grant. We’re thrilled for you.
OFFICER JENKINS
(smiles)
Thanks, gang! We’re excited too. This grant will allow us to provide comprehensive health assessments, personalized consultations, and expand our peer support team. It’s a significant step forward for our department.
SHAGGY
(nods)
Like, it’s great to see the city investing in your well-being. You guys do an awesome job protecting Eureka.
VELMA
(offering)
If you need any assistance or support during the implementation of the grant, don’t hesitate to reach out to us, Officer Jenkins.
OFFICER JENKINS
(grateful)
Thanks, Velma. We appreciate it. We’re all in this together.
They exchange appreciative nods, knowing that this grant will have a positive impact on the Eureka Police Department and the well-being of the officers.
FADE OUT.
— LoCOBot
DOCUMENTS:
6. 2023 Office of Traffic Safety (OTS) Grant
The Eureka City Council is considering accepting a grant from the Office of Traffic Safety. The grant is for $55,000 and would be used to fund extra traffic enforcement patrols. This includes patrols to catch people who are driving under the influence, patrols to enforce safety for motorcycles, bicycles, and pedestrians, and patrols to enforce speed limits and seatbelt usage. The grant would also provide funding for devices to measure speed and alcohol levels, as well as travel expenses for training.
— LoCOBot
… or, as a science-fiction story!
Once upon a time in the futuristic city of Eureka, the City Council gathered for a meeting to discuss an important matter. Katie Hill, the Police Analyst, had prepared a recommendation to accept the Office of Traffic Safety (OTS) Grant worth $55,000. The grant was specifically targeted towards the Police Department and aimed to enhance traffic enforcement measures in the city.
The Council’s goal and strategic vision focused on empowering and engaging the community to ensure a healthy environment. They believed that by conducting traffic enforcement, particularly in areas that contributed to the cause of injury traffic collisions, they would be able to achieve this goal.
During the discussion, Katie explained that the grant funding would primarily cover personnel overtime costs for various traffic enforcement patrols. These patrols included DUI Saturation Patrols, Special Motorcycle Safety Enforcement Patrols, Distracted Driving Patrols targeting cell phone and texting violations, as well as Traffic Enforcement Patrols focusing on primary collision factor violations. Additionally, the grant would support Bicycle and Pedestrian Enforcement Operations, Speed Enforcement Operations, Seatbelt Enforcement, and other Primary Collision Factor Violation Enforcement. It would also allocate funds for Warrant Service operations to apprehend individuals with outstanding DUI warrants, as well as for conducting DUI/Driver’s License Checkpoints.
In addition to personnel costs, the grant would provide funding for Radar/LiDAR speed measuring devices and PAS (Preliminary Alcohol Screen) devices. These devices would enhance the police department’s ability to accurately measure and identify traffic violations. Furthermore, the grant would cover travel expenses for officers attending Office of Traffic Safety approved training programs, ensuring that they were equipped with the necessary skills and knowledge to effectively enforce traffic laws.
After a robust discussion, the City Council reviewed and approved the grant proposal. They understood that these targeted traffic enforcement measures would contribute to a safer and healthier community by preventing accidents and reducing injuries caused by irresponsible driving behaviors.
In the months that followed, the Police Department implemented the grant initiatives with great success. The community witnessed a significant decrease in accidents related to DUI incidents, speeding, distracted driving, and other traffic violations. The use of advanced technology and well-trained officers ensured effective implementation of the enforcement patrols. This success further empowered and engaged the community, creating a sense of safety and trust between the residents and the police force.
The City of Eureka became a shining example of how proactive and well-funded traffic enforcement measures could create a healthier and safer community. Other cities started looking to Eureka as a model for their own traffic safety programs, and the Office of Traffic Safety Grant became a blueprint for similar initiatives throughout the region.
As time went on, the futuristic city of Eureka continued to evolve, always striving for excellence in creating a harmonious and prosperous society. The City Council’s decision to accept the OTS Grant was a pivotal moment in achieving this vision, and it forever changed the future of traffic safety in the city.
— LoCOBot
DOCUMENTS:
7. Letter of Support for California Welcome Center Designation
G. LEGISLATIVE ACTION CORRESPONDENCE
H. ORDINANCES/RESOLUTIONS
I. REPORTS/ACTION ITEMS
1. Operation Light Up Eureka Program
This document discusses a program called ‘Operation Light Up Eureka’ that aims to improve the lighting in Eureka’s commercial areas. The city wants to make these areas safer, more connected, and enjoyable for residents and visitors. The program will be carried out in phases, with the initial focus on Old Town and Downtown. The document also mentions the city’s goals for economic development and beautification. The City Council is being asked to approve this program.
— LoCOBot
… or, as a scene from a thriller!
INT. EUREKA CITY COUNCIL CHAMBERS - DAY
The Eureka City Council sits at a long table, facing the audience. The room is filled with concerned residents and city officials. The council members are flipping through the agenda, preparing for the presentation on the ‘Operation Light Up Eureka Program.’ SARAH WEST, a confident and composed woman in her 30s, steps up to the podium. She adjusts the microphone and begins.
SARAH WEST
(looking at the council)
Good morning, esteemed members of the Eureka City Council and valued citizens. Today, I am here to present the ‘Operation Light Up Eureka Program,’ a strategic initiative aimed at improving the lighting in our commercial areas.
The council members lean forward, attentive and intrigued.
SARAH WEST (CONT’D)
(smiling)
This program will not only enhance the safety and accessibility of our city, but it will also elevate the overall experience for our residents and visitors.
Sarah clicks a button, and the room darkens. A PROJECTION appears on a large screen behind her, showcasing a beautiful image of illuminated streets in a vibrant city.
SARAH WEST (CONT’D)
(points to the projection)
Imagine walking down our streets, feeling the warmth of properly lit pathways, and reveling in the vibrant ambiance that surrounds you. That’s the vision we have for Eureka.
The audience murmurs with excitement.
SARAH WEST (CONT’D)
(attentive)
‘Operation Light Up Eureka’ will focus on illuminating key areas, starting with Old Town and Downtown. We have meticulously planned the projects, detailing the roles of the City’s investments and partnering with private entities.
Sarah advances the slide, revealing a map with highlighted areas.
SARAH WEST (CONT’D)
(nods)
As you can see, each project falls under four phases. We have prioritized projects that are easier to execute and have identified funding sources for earlier phases. The more complex projects, requiring additional funding, will be undertaken in later years.
COUNCIL MEMBER 1
(raised eyebrow)
What’s the estimated timeline for completing all the phases?
SARAH WEST
(confidently)
Based on our projections, we anticipate completing the entire ‘Operation Light Up Eureka’ program within five years. This timeline allows for proper implementation and ensures the least disruption to our daily lives.
COUNCIL MEMBER 2
(impressed)
And what is the estimated cost of this program?
Sarah clicks another button on her remote, revealing a pie chart illustrating the projected budget.
SARAH WEST
The estimated cost is approximately $4 million, which includes both the City’s investments and private partnerships. However, it’s crucial to note that there will be no fiscal impact, as the program is included in our existing budget.
The council members exchange glances, visibly relieved.
SARAH WEST (CONT’D)
But, I must stress that ‘Operation Light Up Eureka’ is not just about better lighting. It aligns with our strategic goals, from our Economic Development plan to our Beautification Master Plan. It will strengthen our revenue base, attract more tourism, and make our city a safer, more vibrant place to live.
The room buzzes with anticipation and support from the audience.
SARAH WEST (CONT’D)
(smiling)
Together, we can make Eureka shine brighter, and I hope today, you will approve the ‘Operation Light Up Eureka Program’ and bring this vision to life.
The council members exchange nods, impressed by Sarah’s presentation. They turn to the council president, awaiting his decision.
COUNCIL PRESIDENT
(nods)
Thank you, Ms. West, for your detailed presentation. This program aligns perfectly with our goals and vision for Eureka. I move to approve the ‘Operation Light Up Eureka Program.’
The audience erupts in applause as the council members raise their hands, unanimously approving the program.
FADE OUT.
— LoCOBot
2. Elections Code 9212 Report on Citizen’s Initiative Amending the City’s General Plan for 21
This report is about a citizen’s initiative that could change the City’s General Plan and have an impact on public parking lots and a middle school site. The initiative would limit the use of certain parking lots to public parking and high-density residential development. It would also create new zoning regulations for the middle school site, allowing for different types of residential and commercial uses. The report discusses the potential effects of the initiative, including the economic impact on affordable housing development and the impact on traffic congestion and existing businesses. The City Council is being asked to receive the report and decide on further action.
— LoCOBot
… or, as an insane conspiracy theory!
Insane Conspiracy Theory: The “Housing for All” Initiative is a Plot to Destroy the City’s Economy and Control the Population
According to this staff report, there is an initiative on the ballot that aims to amend the City of Eureka’s General Plan and Housing Element. The proposed changes would impact the development of 21 City-owned parking lots and designate the Jacobs Middle School Site for various residential and commercial uses. However, this seemingly innocuous initiative may actually be part of a larger conspiracy to destroy the city’s economy and control the population.
First, let’s consider the impact on the 21 City-owned parking lots. The initiative proposes an “Off-Street Public Parking (OSPP) Overlay Designation,” which would limit the use of these lots to public parking, high-density residential development, and bike parking. While this may seem like a reasonable attempt to address housing and transportation needs, there is a hidden agenda at play. By restricting the use of these lots, the initiative effectively removes the potential for future economic growth and development.
The report mentions that affordable housing could be developed on just six of the lots, but the remaining 15 lots would remain as public parking. However, this division is a clever ploy to deceive the public. The conspiracy theory suggests that these 15 lots are being deliberately left undeveloped to create congestion and drive people away from the city. With limited parking options, residents and visitors will be discouraged from coming to Eureka, resulting in a decline in tourism, business, and overall economic activity.
Now, let’s turn our attention to the proposed changes for the Jacobs Middle School Site. The initiative seeks to create a “Housing for All (HFA) Overlay Designation” for this site, which would allow for a wide range of residential and commercial uses. On the surface, this may appear to be a positive step towards affordable housing and community development. However, the conspiracy theory suggests that there is a hidden motive behind this designation.
By designating the Jacobs Site as a “Housing for All” area, the conspirators aim to control the population and implement a social engineering experiment. The unrestricted development allowed on this site would attract people from various backgrounds and income levels, ultimately leading to demographic manipulation. The conspirators would have the power to dictate who can live in Eureka and shape the city’s social fabric to fit their own agenda.
Furthermore, the initiative includes a provision that states any changes to the amendments created by the initiative would require another vote of the people. This provision, while seemingly democratic, actually serves to cement the conspirators’ control over the city. By creating this additional hurdle for future changes, they effectively limit the ability of the citizens to challenge or alter the impact of the initiative.
In conclusion, the “Housing for All” initiative is not what it appears to be. Behind the seemingly benign proposals lies a sinister plan to destroy the city’s economy, control the population, and manipulate the social fabric of Eureka. It is up to the vigilant citizens to see through the facade and uncover the truth behind this insane conspiracy.
— LoCOBot
DOCUMENTS:
Staff Report • Appendix A - Parking Lots • Appendix B - Initiative • Appendix C - Economic and Fiscal Impact Analysis • Appendix D - General Plan Consistency Analysis • Appendix E - Affordable Housing on City-Owned Properties • Appendix F - Zoning Districts
3. Regional Climate Action Plan Update
The Eureka City Council is discussing an update to the Humboldt Regional Climate Action Plan. The plan aims to reduce greenhouse gas emissions in the county. The county is working with various organizations to develop the plan and has released a draft for public review. However, there are concerns that the draft does not meet the requirements to be considered a “qualified” plan. A qualified plan allows for streamlined review of future projects and has more authority over new development projects. The council is considering proposed revisions to the plan to make it qualified, which would require additional funding and time. The council is being recommended to support the county’s actions and establish a timeline for adopting the plan.
— LoCOBot
… or, as an Elizabethan sonnet!
In Eureka City Council, a report is due
On the Humboldt Regional Climate Plan
The Director of Development Services knew
To present and seek comment, she began
No fiscal impact, no budget inclusion
But goals and visions lie within their sight
Reduce greenhouse gas with a bold conviction
And update the inventory, day and night
The County and its cities work as one
To develop strategies to cut emissions
To make progress towards the goal begun
Of zero net emissions with ambitions
Qualified status they must now attain
And seek revisions to their climate plan.
— LoCOBot
DOCUMENTS:
Staff Report • Attachment 1 - Rincon Proposal • Attachment 2 - Excerpt of Rincon Analysis of Existing Draft CAP
J. FUTURE AGENDA ITEMS
K. CITY MANAGER REPORTS
1. Winter Shelter
L. PUBLIC COMMENT CONTINUED
M. COUNCIL REPORTS / CITY-RELATED TRAVEL REPORTS