Hank Sims / Tuesday, Jan. 16 @ 11:04 a.m. / Agendizer
Will the City of Eureka Officially Oppose Measure A, the ‘Cannabis Reform Initiative’?
File photo: Andrew Goff.
Tonight at Eureka City Council: Will councilmembers vote to take an official stand on Measure A, the “Cannabis Reform Initiative?”
Councilmembers will be presented with a draft letter in opposition the initiative penned by Mayor Kim Bergel, which states, in part, that “dozens of Eureka-based manufacturing, distribution and retail businesses depend on the sun-grown and high-quality craft cannabis produced by Humboldt cultivators,” and that the initiative would undermine those Eureka business’ supply.
There’ll presumably be plenty of public comment and questions from the dais on the item, given the considerable amount of discourse over the controversial initiative, and that’s probably the biggest item on a somewhat staid agenda. Elsewhere: A lot line adjustment on the south end of town that some neighbors don’t care for, another round a police purchasing policy for military equipment and a new salary schedule for city employees.
Full agenda, with our Agendabot’s item summaries, below. The Eureka City Council meets at 6 p.m. at Eureka City Hall — 531 K Street, Eureka. Remove viewing/participating instructions can be found here.
Eureka City Council
Jan. 16, 2024, 6 p.m.
A. MAYOR’S ANNOUNCEMENTS
1. Proclamation - Appreciation of Service for Charles Petty
DOCUMENTS:
DOCUMENTS:
3. Proclamation - National Mentoring Month
DOCUMENTS:
B. PRESENTATIONS
1. 2023 "Home for the Holidays" Recognition
C. BOARD/COMMISSION REPORTS
D. PUBLIC COMMENT PERIOD
E. PUBLIC HEARINGS
1. Carrington Company Lot Line Adjustment Coastal Development Permit (CDP-23-0001) Appeal
The Eureka City Council is discussing an appeal for a lot line adjustment in a coastal development project. The proposal is to adjust the boundaries of three parcels of land. The purpose of the adjustment is to separate different areas of the property, one being used for farming and day care, another for grazing, and the third for potential future sale. No new development is proposed at this time. The planning commission has already approved the project, but there have been some appeals filed by community members. The city council will review these appeals and make a decision on whether to approve or modify the project.
— LoCOBot
… or, as a conversation between Beavis and Butt-head!
Beavis: Uh, hey Butt-head, check it out. There’s some kind of lot line thingy happening at 4775 Broadway.
Butt-head: Yeah, whatever, Beavis. Who cares about lot lines? They’re like lines on a piece of paper or something.
Beavis: Yeah, but like, this thing is about some parcels and stuff. It’s got something to do with agriculture and wetlands and… uh… development.
Butt-head: Heh heh, you said wetlands.
Beavis: Shut up, dumbass. Anyways, there’s a public hearing and they gotta adopt a resolution and stuff.
Butt-head: Resolution? Is that like when you make a firm decision or something?
Beavis: Uh… yeah, I think so. And there’s some fiscal impact thing, but I don’t really get it. It’s like, no fiscal impact or something.
Butt-head: Cool, so it doesn’t cost anything. That’s good, I guess.
Beavis: Yeah, and they gotta protect and conserve the agricultural lands and stuff. It’s like in their strategic vision or something.
Butt-head: Strategic vision? That sounds important. Like, they’re planning stuff or whatever.
Beavis: Yeah, yeah, exactly. So this lot line adjustment thingy is gonna separate like, three different areas on the property.
Butt-head: Uh huh, like which areas?
Beavis: Well, there’s this farm place with structures and some lowland area for grazing, and then there’s this upper terrace area.
Butt-head: Whoa, upper terrace. Sounds fancy.
Beavis: Yeah, but they’re not gonna do anything new on these parcels. It’s just like changing the boundaries or whatever.
Butt-head: Boring. I thought there would be some cool development or something.
Beavis: Yeah, me too. But it says they gotta follow all these rules and get permits if they wanna develop later on.
Butt-head: So, no cool stuff for now. Lame.
Beavis: Yeah, but there are some people who aren’t happy about this lot line thingy.
Butt-head: Are they like, protesting or something?
Beavis: Yeah, they’re appealing it. They’re talking about watershed concerns and traffic concerns and all that stuff.
Butt-head: Who cares about traffic? I just wanna see some cool development.
Beavis: I know, right? But they’re saying it’s not following the planning principles and it should’ve had more environmental review.
Butt-head: Ugh, environmental review sounds so boring. Can’t we just get to the cool stuff already?
Beavis: Yeah, I’m tired of all this technical stuff. Let’s just skip to the part where they decide if they’re gonna approve it or not.
Butt-head: Yeah, that’s the only part I care about. The rest is just a bunch of blah blah blah.
Beavis: Uh huh, and then maybe we can see some actual development. That would be cool.
Butt-head: Yeah, like a theme park or a skate park or something. That would be awesome.
Beavis: Heh heh, yeah. We should totally tell them that. They need our input, Butt-head.
Butt-head: Yeah, they definitely need our brilliant ideas. They should listen to us, Beavis. We’re like, experts in cool stuff.
Beavis: Definitely. Let’s go make some suggestions. We’ll tell them to build a giant TV or something.
Butt-head: Heh heh, yeah. And then we can watch music videos on it all day.
Beavis: Yeah, that would rule. Let’s go, Butt-head. We’ve got some important ideas to share.
Butt-head: Yeah, let’s do it. We’re gonna change the world, Beavis.
— LoCOBot
DOCUMENTS:
Staff Report • Attachment 1 - City Council Resolution • Attachment 2 - LLA Map • Attachment 3 - Appeals • Attachment 4 - Planning Commission Report
F. CONSENT CALENDAR
DOCUMENTS:
2. Outdoor Equity Grants Program Fund Authorizing Grant Resolution for D.Y.N.A.M.I.C.
The Eureka City Council is considering a resolution to apply for a grant called the Outdoor Equity Grants Program for a program called D.Y.N.A.M.I.C. The program aims to provide free outdoor recreational activities for youth and community members. The grant would fund the program for three years and the amount of the grant request is $699,707. The goal of the program is to increase access to outdoor experiences for residents in underserved communities. The grant award announcement is expected in the summer of 2024.
— LoCOBot
In a city where outdoor adventures are scarce, a ray of hope emerges. From the Community Services Department comes a groundbreaking proposal, D.Y.N.A.M.I.C. (Discovering Your Nature Adventure and Making Impactful Connections), a program that will change lives.
But the path to success is paved with challenges. The Eureka City Council must come together to authorize the resolution for an application to the prestigious Outdoor Equity Grants Program. With tensions high and differing opinions swirling, the fate of D.Y.N.A.M.I.C. rests in their hands.
As the council members debate, a vision begins to form. The Outdoor Equity Grants Program aims to improve the health and wellness of Californians, particularly those in underserved communities. D.Y.N.A.M.I.C. is the perfect fit, offering a free outdoor recreation program that will bring the community closer to nature.
If granted the funds, the Eureka Community Services Department will spearhead a revolution. Kayaking, hiking, biking, birdwatching, and so much more will become accessible to all ages and backgrounds. In this adventure-packed program, lives will be enriched, a healthy lifestyle promoted, and connections with the great outdoors formed.
But this is no easy task. The grant application must compete with countless others for a coveted $50 million grant. With the clock ticking, the Eureka Community Services Department submitted an application for $699,707, enough to fund three calendar years of programming. The announcement of the grant award is anticipated for the upcoming summer.
As the tension rises, the fate of D.Y.N.A.M.I.C. hangs in the balance. Will the Eureka City Council come together and authorize the resolution? Will this program become a reality, or merely another dream lost to bureaucracy?
Get ready for a heart-pounding journey filled with passion, determination, and the power of nature. Discover the extraordinary potential within a community as they fight for a better tomorrow. Brace yourself for the most thrilling decision of their lives.
“Discovering Your Nature Adventure and Making Impactful Connections” - coming soon to a city near you.
— LoCOBot
DOCUMENTS:
3. Mayor's Appointments to Boards and Commissions
4. Humboldt Asians and Pacific Islanders Letter of Support
5. Biosolids Disposal Project 2024/26 Award
The Eureka City Council is discussing a project about disposing of biosolids, which are leftover materials from wastewater treatment. They are considering awarding the contract to a company called Synagro-WWT, Inc. The contract would last for two years, with the possibility of extending it for one more year. The cost of the contract would not exceed $314,000 per year.
The discussion is focused on how to properly dispose of the sludge from the wastewater treatment plant. The plan is to haul and dispose of the sludge that has been dewatered and stored in a covered facility. This contract is similar to previous successful contracts for hauling biosolids.
The decision to award the contract will be based on the company’s proposal and their ability to handle the hauling of the biosolids. This project aligns with the council’s goals of maintaining the quality of life and ensuring health and safety in the city.
— LoCOBot
INT. EUREKA CITY COUNCIL MEETING ROOM - DAY
The EUREKA CITY COUNCIL sits at a long, wooden table with microphones in front of them. The room is filled with concerned citizens silently observing the proceedings. KELLY ALLEN, the PROJECT MANAGER, stands up and approaches the podium.
KELLY
Good morning, members of the Eureka City Council. Today, I would like to discuss the Biosolids Disposal Project for 2024/26.
COUNCIL MEMBER 1
(scrutinizing the agenda)
Kelly, can you please explain the qualifications of the preferred bidder, Synagro-WWT, Inc.?
KELLY
Certainly, Council Member 1. Synagro-WWT, Inc. is a highly reputable company specializing in waste water treatment. They have proven themselves in previous service contracts and have demonstrated their ability to efficiently and effectively dispose of the dewatered sludge from the Elk River Waste Water Treatment Plant.
COUNCIL MEMBER 2
(nodding)
And how does this project align with our council goals and strategic vision?
KELLY
This project directly contributes to two of our council goals: Quality of Life and Health and Safety. By properly disposing of the biosolids, we ensure the cleanliness and health of our community, protecting our citizens and environment.
COUNCIL MEMBER 3
(frowning)
What is the fiscal impact of awarding the bid to Synagro-WWT, Inc.?
KELLY
There is no fiscal impact as the cost is already included in the budget. The contract with Synagro-WWT, Inc. is for two years with a potential to extend for one year. The annual not to exceed amount is $314,000.
COUNCIL MEMBER 4
(raising an eyebrow)
Will there be any additional appropriation required for this project?
KELLY
No, Council Member 4. All costs associated with this project have been carefully considered and accounted for in the budget. There will be no need for additional appropriation.
COUNCIL MEMBER 1
(glancing at the citizens in the room)
Are there any concerns or objections from the public regarding this project?
KELLY
(studying her notes)
I have not received any objections or concerns from the public regarding the Biosolids Disposal Project 2024/26.
COUNCIL PRESIDENT
Thank you, Kelly. Now, I open the floor for the council members to discuss and potentially take action on this matter.
The council members engage in a lively discussion, voicing their opinions and asking further questions. At the end of the discussion, a vote is taken.
COUNCIL PRESIDENT
The council has concluded the discussion. All in favor of declaring Synagro-WWT, Inc. as the preferred bidder and awarding the bid to them, please signify by saying “aye.”
COUNCIL MEMBERS
(in unison)
Aye.
COUNCIL PRESIDENT
Any opposed? Abstentions? The motion passes unanimously. The bid is awarded to Synagro-WWT, Inc.
The citizens in the room quietly observe the decision, some nodding in approval, while others remain expressionless. The council members gather their belongings, preparing to adjourn the meeting.
FADE OUT.
— LoCOBot
DOCUMENTS:
G. LEGISLATIVE ACTION CORRESPONDENCE
H. ORDINANCES/RESOLUTIONS
This document is about the 2024 Salary Schedule for the city of Eureka. It explains that the city council needs to approve the salary/pay rates for different positions. The schedule includes all full-time, part-time, and temporary positions in the city. The changes in salary are due to wage increases, organizational adjustments, and new positions. The city is also working towards setting a minimum wage of $17 per hour for regular positions. The document states that this salary schedule is updated annually and can be viewed by the public.
— LoCOBot
… or, as a Rodney Dangerfield joke!
“I’ll tell ya, I was reading through the City Council agenda and saw something about a salary schedule. I could use a new schedule, ya know? My salary schedule right now is just me getting paid less and less every year!”
— LoCOBot
DOCUMENTS:
Staff Report • Resolution_Salary Schedule 2024 • Salary Schedule 01.01.24
2. Eureka Police Department Equipment Ordinance
Summary:
This agenda summary is about a proposed policy regarding the use of military equipment by the Eureka Police Department. The recommendation is for the City Council to adopt an ordinance that adds a new chapter to the city’s municipal code, outlining regulations for the use of military equipment. The policy must be approved by the City Council before the police department can request, acquire, or use any military equipment. The purpose of this policy is to increase transparency and accountability in law enforcement. The definition of “military equipment” includes items like drones, armored vehicles, and tear gas. The City Council must consider the proposed policy in an open session and make findings that the equipment is necessary for officer and civilian safety, and that it will safeguard the public’s welfare and civil rights. There is no fiscal impact mentioned in this summary. The suggested motion is for the City Council to adopt the proposed ordinance.
— LoCOBot
… or, as an episode of Seinfeld!
INT. JERRY’S APARTMENT - DAY
Jerry and Elaine are sitting on the couch, flipping through channels on the television.
JERRY: (flipping channels) There’s nothing good on TV anymore. It’s all reruns and reality shows.
ELAINE: Tell me about it. I miss the good old days when there were actually funny sitcoms to watch.
JERRY: Yeah, like Seinfeld.
ELAINE: Oh, that show was a classic. Remember the episode where they bought military equipment?
JERRY: (laughs) Oh yeah, that was a good one. But I never understood why they needed all that stuff.
ELAINE: I think it was for officer and civilian safety or something like that.
JERRY: (sarcastically) Because nothing says safety like a tank driving down the street.
ELAINE: (laughs) Exactly.
KRAMER enters the apartment, carrying a newspaper.
KRAMER: Hey guys, have you seen the latest news?
JERRY: What’s going on?
KRAMER: The city council is proposing a new ordinance about the Eureka Police Department’s use of military equipment.
ELAINE: (interested) Really? What kind of equipment?
KRAMER: They’re talking about drones, armored vehicles, even tear gas.
JERRY: (curious) I wonder why they need all that stuff.
KRAMER: Well, according to the article, it’s for officer and civilian safety.
ELAINE: (rolling her eyes) That’s what they always say.
JERRY: (pondering) You know, this might be a good idea for my stand-up routine. The police driving around in tanks, protecting us from jaywalkers.
ELAINE: (laughs) I can just imagine the headlines now: “Eureka Police Department Unleashes Tear Gas on Jaywalking Suspect.”
KRAMER: (excitedly) Hey, maybe I should join the police force. I could drive one of those armored vehicles.
JERRY: (teasingly) Yeah, and you could wear a uniform too. I can see it now, Officer Kramer, the protector of Eureka.
KRAMER: (grinning) I like the sound of that.
ELAINE: (playfully) Just promise me you won’t use tear gas on me if I jaywalk.
KRAMER: (laughs) Deal.
They all laugh and continue discussing the absurdity of the proposed ordinance.
FADE OUT.
— LoCOBot
DOCUMENTS:
Staff Report • Bil_No. 1033_Military_Equipment_Use_Ordinance • AB 481 EPD Military Equipment
I. REPORTS/ACTION ITEMS
1. Measure A Opposition Letter
The Eureka City Council is considering writing a letter to oppose Measure A, an initiative that would change the rules for growing marijuana. This measure will be voted on in March 2024. There is no financial impact associated with this decision. The council’s goal is to effectively govern and communicate with the community.
— LoCOBot
En la Ciudad de Eureka
Un Consejo se reunió
Para discutir el futuro
De nuestro querido lugar.
El título del asunto
Es en contra del Medida A
Una iniciativa peligrosa
Que debemos rechazar.
El Departamento del Gerente
Miles Slattery, el autor
Nos presenta la propuesta
Para tomar una decisión.
La recomendación es clara
Considerar una carta
En oposición a la medida
Que en marzo se votará.
No hay impacto fiscal
No está incluido en el presupuesto
Pero es importante recordar
Que su aprobación no es lo correcto.
Nuestra visión estratégica
Y objetivo prioritario
Es una gobernanza eficaz
Y una comunicación necesaria.
El tema en discusión
Es modificar el Plan General
Del Condado de Humboldt
Para restringir la planta del cáñamo.
Esta medida nos afecta
Y a nuestra comunidad
Nos quitaría oportunidades
De crecimiento y prosperidad.
Revisado y aprobado
Por el Secretario de la Ciudad
Información Tecnológica
Y el Abogado que representa.
Servicios a la Comunidad
Desarrollo y Finanzas
Bomberos y Recursos Humanos
Policía y Obras Públicas.
En conclusión, ciudadanos,
Nos corresponde decidir
Rechazar esta medida
Es lo que debemos insistir.
Porque juntos somos fuertes
Y sabemos lo que queremos
Un futuro prometedor
Para nuestra amada Eureka.
— LoCOBot
DOCUMENTS:
2. Mayor Pro-Tem
J. FUTURE AGENDA ITEMS
K. CITY MANAGER REPORTS
1. Development Services Customer Service Survey
L. PUBLIC COMMENT CONTINUED
M. COUNCIL REPORTS / CITY-RELATED TRAVEL REPORTS
CLICK TO MANAGE