Isabella Vanderheiden / @ 7:30 a.m. / Agendizer

Eureka City Council to Discuss Jacobs Campus Options, Long-Range Capital Improvement Plans and More at Tonight’s Meeting

Photo: Andrew Goff.

PREVIOUSLY:

###

At this week’s regular meeting, the Eureka City Council will consider a proposal to create a “Mixed Neighborhood” overlay zone at the former Jacobs Middle School campus that could limit what is built on the site in the years to come.

As many of our readers know, the Eureka City Unified School District board of trustees recently voted to exchange the long-blighted Jacobs Campus to a mysterious private developer, known only as “AMG Communities-Jacobs, LLC,” for another piece of property. The developer has not revealed its plans for the property but states on its website that it would be suitable for residential and commercial uses.

Some have speculated that proponents of the “Eureka Housing for All and Downtown Vitality” initiative or Security National President and CEO Rob Arkley, the initiative’s financial backer, are behind the land exchange. However, both parties have denied any involvement.

At its last meeting on March 19, the city council looked at two options to change the zoning designation of the former school site to guide future development on the property. The council asked staff to bring back more information about creating an overlay zone on the property that would impose specific design standards for future development on the site.

If you’re not familiar with planning jargon, an “overlay” is a regulatory tool that modifies the existing zoning designation to create hyperlocal design standards for development in a given area. Overlays can be used to restrict or expand development to protect the character of a specific neighborhood or area.

“There is fear, especially among existing homeowners, that new infill development will detract from rather than contribute positively to neighborhood character,” according to the staff report. “The Mixed Neighborhood overlay is a potential tool to help address this concern.”

If the new owner of the Jacobs Campus decides to change the base zoning designation, the Mixed Neighborhood overlay would “ensure new residential and/or commercial development allowed by the base zone is sited and designed to fit with the existing neighborhood’s scale and character,” the staff report states. The overlay zone could be applied to other areas of the city as well.

If the city council approves the proposal at Tuesday’s meeting, staff will hire a consultant to help develop the overlay for an estimated cost of $40,000.

###

The Eureka City Council will meet at 6 p.m. on Tuesday at Eureka City Hall — 531 K Street. Keep scrolling for a full rundown of the agenda, featuring analytical and creative interpretations from Gennie, LoCO’s beloved AgendaBot.

The city council will also have a special meeting at 4:30 p.m. on Wednesday to discuss the city’s strategic visioning goals. That agenda can be found here.


Eureka City Council
April 2, 2024, 6 p.m.

A. MAYOR’S ANNOUNCEMENTS

1. Proclamation-Sexual Assault Awareness Month

B. PRESENTATIONS

C. BOARD/COMMISSION REPORTS

D. PUBLIC COMMENT PERIOD

E. PUBLIC HEARINGS

F. CONSENT CALENDAR

1. Council Minutes

2. Fee Waiver for 2024 Humboldt Math Festival

The Eureka City Council is being asked to approve a fee waiver for the 2024 Humboldt Math Festival, which is a free event that promotes math education through hands-on activities and demonstrations. The event has been successful in the past and has drawn attendees of all ages from local schools. The fee waiver is being requested because the usual sponsor, Eureka City Schools, is not able to cover the rental fees this year. The council is being asked to approve the waiver to ensure the event can still take place.

— LoCOBot

… or, as a Twitter thread!

🧮📚 Exciting news for math enthusiasts in Eureka! The city council will be considering a request for a fee waiver for the 2024 Humboldt Math Festival at the Adorni Center.

🌟 The Humboldt Math Festival is a community-wide celebration of mathematics through hands-on activities, demonstrations, and more. Last year, over 700 attendees from toddlers to seniors enjoyed 47 unique presentations.

🏫 The festival has been a tradition for over 14 years, with half of the events taking place in Eureka. This year, due to changes in sponsorship, a fee waiver is being requested to cover rental costs for the Adorni Center on April 27, 2024.

💰 While a fee waiver is being requested this year, discussions are ongoing with the City of Eureka and Eureka City Schools to establish a facility reciprocity agreement for future events.

👩‍🏫 Let’s support the community pride and enthusiasm for mathematics by approving this fee waiver for the Humboldt Math Festival! Stay tuned for updates on the council’s decision. #EurekaMathFest #CommunityPride #MathIsFun 🎉✨

#EurekaCityCouncil #FeeWaiver #MathFestival #AdorniCenter #CommunityEvent #SupportMathEducation 🧮🎉

— LoCOBot

DOCUMENTS:

Staff Report


3. Systemwide Sewer Evaluation Project 2024 - Award

The Eureka City Council is recommending that Pipe and Plant Solutions, Inc. be awarded a contract for the Systemwide Sewer Evaluation Project 2024 for $1,500,000. This project involves inspecting and evaluating the city’s sewer system to determine areas that need rehabilitation. The council believes that outsourcing this project is necessary due to the size of the project and current staffing levels. The recommendation is based on a thorough evaluation process that included reviewing proposals from multiple service providers. The council aims to ensure the city remains financially sound while providing effective services.

— LoCOBot

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

Are you looking for a reliable and experienced service provider for your sewer evaluation project? Look no further! Pipe and Plant Solutions, Inc. has been declared the preferred service provider for the Systemwide Sewer Evaluation Project 2024 by the Eureka City Council. With a proven track record of excellence and a competitive bid of $1,500,000, you can trust that your project will be completed efficiently and effectively.

Don’t let the size of this project overwhelm you, let Pipe and Plant Solutions, Inc. handle all aspects of the inspection and evaluation process. With their expertise in CCTV inspection, sewer manhole inspection, and smoke testing, you can rest assured that they will provide accurate and detailed reports to inform your rehabilitation efforts.

Make the financially sound choice for your city by choosing Pipe and Plant Solutions, Inc. for your Systemwide Sewer Evaluation Project 2024. Contact us today to get started on improving your sanitary sewer system!

— LoCOBot

DOCUMENTS:

Staff Report


4. First Slough Fish Passage Project - Award

The Eureka City Council is recommending awarding a construction project to Figas Construction for the First Slough Fish Passage Project. The project aims to remove barriers in a stream to improve access for salmonids to their habitat. Funding for the project has been approved, and the lowest bid was determined to be from Figas Construction. The project is exempt from CEQA due to its restoration purposes. The City Council is advised to approve the construction project to Figas Construction.

— LoCOBot

… or, as a Socratic dialogue!

Socrates: Greetings, my fellow citizens. Today we gather to discuss the First Slough Fish Passage Project and the recommendation to award Bid No. 2024-4 to Figas Construction in the amount of $3,536,131. I am curious to hear your thoughts on this matter.

Brittany Powell: Thank you, Socrates. As the Project Manager for this initiative, I would like to highlight the importance of this project in enhancing habitat quality and connectivity for salmonids in the area. The construction of fish passage barriers removal will provide access to an additional one mile of upstream habitat, ultimately benefiting the local ecosystem and wildlife.

Socrates: It seems that this project aligns with the Council’s goals of being a financially sound city providing effective services. However, I am curious about the process of selecting Figas Construction as the preferred bidder. Can you elaborate on the evaluation criteria used and the reasoning behind this decision?

Brittany Powell: Certainly, Socrates. The bid selection process involved reviewing and evaluating four bids received for the project. Figas Construction was determined to be the lowest responsible and responsive bid, meeting all project requirements and specifications. Their bid of $3,536,131 was deemed to be in conformance with the project’s fiscal considerations and scope of work.

Socrates: I see. It appears that the City has also taken into account the statutory exemption under Section 21080.56 of the Public Resources Code for this restoration project. I commend the City’s commitment to environmental preservation and compliance with regulatory requirements.

Brittany Powell: Indeed, Socrates. The SERP process has been followed diligently, including outreach to tribal officials and stakeholders to ensure awareness and cooperation in the project. The City’s planning department has worked closely with all parties involved to address any cultural or environmental concerns.

Socrates: It is encouraging to see such thoroughness in the planning and execution of this project. Before we proceed with a decision, is there any further discussion or clarification needed on the recommendation to award the construction bid to Figas Construction and allocate the necessary funds for the project?

Brittany Powell: I believe we have covered all relevant information and considerations for the Council’s decision. I am prepared to address any additional questions or concerns that may arise during our discussion.

Socrates: Very well. It appears that we have reached a comprehensive understanding of the First Slough Fish Passage Project and the proposed actions to be taken. I suggest we proceed with a vote on the recommendation as presented. Is there any objection or alternative perspective that should be considered before we move forward?

Brittany Powell: I see no objections or further discussion needed at this time. I am confident in the merits of the project and the proposed award to Figas Construction.

Socrates: In that case, I motion to approve the recommendation to declare Figas Construction as the preferred bidder for the First Slough Fish Passage Project and to award Bid No. 2024-4 accordingly. All in favor, please signify by saying “Aye.”

Council Members: Aye.

Socrates: The motion is carried. The recommendation is approved. Thank you, Brittany Powell, for your diligence and expertise in presenting this project to the Council. Let us continue to work towards the betterment of our city and its environment through such initiatives.

— LoCOBot

DOCUMENTS:

Staff Report


5. FY2024-25 CIP Budget Appropriations

This agenda is about approving funds for construction projects in Eureka for the fiscal year 2024-25. The funds will be used for Public Works projects and any leftover funds from the previous fiscal year will also be used. The City Council needs to authorize this budget allocation for the upcoming construction season.

— LoCOBot

… or, as a fantasy story!

In the mystical city of Eureka, where magic flowed through the streets and dragons soared through the skies, the City Council met to discuss the allocation of funds for the Fiscal Year 2024-25 capital projects. The meeting was held in the grand council chamber, where ornate tapestries depicting ancient battles hung from the walls and shimmering crystals adorned the ceiling.

Lane Millar, the Finance Department representative, stood before the council members, his robes shimmering with threads of gold and silver. He presented the agenda for the meeting, detailing the recommendations for additional appropriations and the carryover of unspent budget allocations from the previous fiscal year.

The council members listened intently, their eyes gleaming with interest. It was crucial to allocate funds early for the upcoming construction season, especially for the Public Works Department. The procurement requirements for significant projects needed to be met in advance, to ensure the smooth execution of the city’s infrastructure improvements.

As Lane Millar spoke of the proposed allocations and the adjustment of budgets for the coming years, the room hummed with energy. The council members discussed the implications of the fiscal impact, weighing the options of including the budget in the current appropriations or authorizing additional funds.

In the midst of the discussion, a sudden gust of wind swept through the chamber, causing the tapestries to ripple and the crystals to chime like bells. A magical presence filled the room, and the council members turned in surprise to see a figure materialize in their midst.

It was the Council of Ancients, the mystical beings who guided the city of Eureka from the shadows. They had been observing the council meeting from the realms beyond, and now they had deemed it necessary to intervene.

“We have heard your deliberations, mortal council members,” a voice echoed through the chamber, resonating with power and wisdom. “But know this – the fate of Eureka is in peril, and the allocation of funds is but a small part of the challenges that lie ahead.”

The council members gasped in awe and fear, for the Council of Ancients rarely appeared in the mortal realm. They spoke of a great darkness that threatened to engulf the city, a malevolent force that sought to destroy all that they held dear.

“Allocate your funds wisely, mortals,” the voice intoned. “But remember that true power lies in unity and courage. Only by standing together against the darkness can you hope to prevail.”

With those words, the Council of Ancients vanished, leaving the council members in stunned silence. They knew that the decisions they made that day would shape the future of Eureka, and that they must be prepared to face whatever challenges lay ahead.

And so, with renewed determination and a sense of purpose, the council members continued their deliberations, knowing that their actions would not only determine the fate of the city but would also test their strength, their unity, and their resolve in the face of adversity. For Eureka was a city of magic and wonder, but also a city of courage and resilience, where even the darkest of shadows could be vanquished by the light of hope.

— LoCOBot

DOCUMENTS:

Staff ReportFY2024-25 CIP Project Budget Alocations Detail with Prior-Year Budget Rollovers


G. LEGISLATIVE ACTION CORRESPONDENCE

H. ORDINANCES/RESOLUTIONS

1. Tirsbeck Local Coastal Program Amendment

The Eureka City Council is considering a request to change the zoning of a property from industrial to commercial in order to allow for redevelopment. The goal is to revitalize and beautify the Broadway Corridor. The council has already reviewed and approved several resolutions related to the project. The public has been notified and no objections have been raised. The council is being asked to adopt an ordinance and resolution to move the process forward.

— LoCOBot

… or, as a megachurch sermon!

Good morning, brothers and sisters in Christ. It is a blessing to be here with you today in the house of the Lord. As your pastor, it is my duty to not only guide you in matters of faith but also to bring light to the important issues that affect our community. Today, I want to talk to you about a matter that may seem mundane at first glance, but has significant implications for our city’s future.

The Eureka City Council is considering a Local Coastal Program Amendment that would change the zoning designation at 936 W Hawthorne Street from General Industrial to Service Commercial. This change would align the land use and zoning designations of this property with the neighboring parcel at 2000 Broadway, allowing for potential redevelopment that could bring new retail and service commercial uses to our community.

At first glance, it may seem like a simple change in zoning, but it is important for us to recognize the potential impact that this amendment could have on our city. This amendment aligns with the 2040 General Plan goal of creating active, attractive, and prosperous corridors and centers that boost Eureka’s role as a regional hub for retail, professional/business services, and tourism.

As followers of Christ, we are called to be stewards of God’s creation and to work for the well-being of our community. This amendment presents an opportunity for us to support efforts to reinvest in and revitalize our commercial areas, improve aesthetic appearance, elevate our community image, increase economic competitiveness, and integrate mixed uses.

I urge you, my dear brothers and sisters, to support this amendment and to pray for our City Council members as they make this decision. Let us lift our voices in prayer for wisdom and discernment, so that they may make decisions that will benefit the entire community and align with God’s will for our city.

Let us remember that as members of this community, we have a responsibility to be active participants in shaping its future. Let us support initiatives that promote growth, prosperity, and well-being for all. And let us continue to be the light of Christ in our community, shining brightly for all to see.

May God bless you all, and may He guide us in all our endeavors. Thank you.

— LoCOBot

DOCUMENTS:

Staff ReportAttachment 1 - Bil No. 1034-C.S for IPAttachment 2 - Resolution to Transmit


2. Bil No. 1035 Open Space, Parks, and Recreation Commission

The Eureka City Council is considering changing the Open Space, Parks and Recreation Commission to have fewer members for more efficient operations. The recommendation is to adopt this change through Bill No. 1035-C.S. which will amend the current rules for the commission. This change does not have a financial impact and aligns with standard practices for other city boards and commissions.

— LoCOBot

… or, as a bildungsroman!

As Pam Powell sat in the City Clerk’s office, preparing the agenda for the upcoming City Council meeting, she couldn’t help but feel a sense of nostalgia wash over her. She had been working for the City of Eureka for over twenty years and had seen many changes come and go. But there was something about this particular agenda item that struck a chord with her.

Bill No. 1035-C.S. Boards, Commissions & Committees. It may have seemed like just another piece of legislation to some, but to Pam, it represented a turning point in the history of the Open Space, Parks and Recreation Commission. For years, this commission had been a cornerstone of the city’s efforts to preserve and maintain its green spaces. But now, with two long-serving members retiring, it was time for a change.

As the City Council meeting began, Pam watched with bated breath as the council members discussed the proposed ordinance. The recommendation was clear - to reduce the commission from nine members to seven in order to streamline operations and make the board more efficient. It was a simple change on paper, but Pam knew it would have a profound impact on the commission and its future.

As the council voted to waive the full reading and adopt the ordinance, Pam couldn’t help but feel a sense of pride. She had played a small but crucial role in this moment of transformation. The passing of Bill No. 1035-C.S. marked the beginning of a new chapter for the Open Space, Parks and Recreation Commission, and Pam couldn’t wait to see how it would unfold.

Over the following months, as the newly appointed seven-member commission began its work, Pam watched as they took on new challenges and embraced fresh perspectives. The commission was invigorated, and their passion for preserving Eureka’s green spaces shone through in everything they did. It was a joy to witness their growth and evolution, and Pam felt a sense of fulfillment knowing that she had played a part in their journey.

As the years passed, Pam continued to work for the City of Eureka, but the memory of Bill No. 1035-C.S. always remained close to her heart. It was a reminder of the power of change and the importance of adaptability in the face of new challenges. And as she watched the commission flourish and thrive, she knew that the future of Eureka’s open spaces was in good hands.

— LoCOBot

DOCUMENTS:

Staff ReportBil No. 1035-C.S. OSPR


I. REPORTS/ACTION ITEMS

1. Eureka Cultural Arts District Memorandum of Understanding

The Eureka City Council is reviewing and approving a Memorandum of Understanding for the Eureka Cultural Arts District. This district was established in 2017 and has received funding for the next five years. The MOU outlines guidelines for collaboration between the city, the Ink People, Eureka Main Street, and the Wiyot Tribe in supporting and implementing the arts district. The MOU has been approved by various organizations and is recommended for approval by the City Council.

— LoCOBot

… or, as a Brazilian carnival song!

No coração de Eureka
A cultura vai florescer
Com o MOU assinado
O Carnaval vai acontecer

Entre a cidade e a tribo Wiyot
A Ink People e Main Street
Vamos celebrar juntos
Neste belo cortejo de alegria e festa no pé

Com o apoio do California Arts Council
E os $671,429 disponíveis
Vamos colorir as ruas
Com arte e cultura inesquecíveis

Através da parceria e colaboração
Vamos fortalecer a ECAD
E mostrar ao mundo inteiro
O brilho da nossa cidade tão especial

Vamos dançar, cantar e celebrar
Com alegria e emoção
E mostrar que em Eureka
A cultura é nossa paixão!

— LoCOBot

DOCUMENTS:

Staff ReportECAD MOU Final


2. Mixed Neighborhood Overlay Development

The Eureka City Council is considering creating a Mixed Neighborhood Overlay Zone to add special requirements and flexibility to zoning regulations. This would allow for increased residential density and limited commercial use in single-family neighborhoods while maintaining the neighborhood’s character. The development of this overlay would involve hiring a consultant and conducting community outreach. The council would need to hold public hearings before deciding on the overlay. This project is not expected to have a significant impact on the environment.

— LoCOBot

… or, as a horror story!

The Eureka City Council had a daunting task ahead of them as they discussed the potential development of a Mixed Neighborhood Overlay Zone. Cristin Kenyon, the Director of Development Services, stood at the front of the council chambers, presenting the agenda item to the members. As she spoke about the benefits of the overlay development and the potential impact it could have on the city, a sense of unease settled over the room.

The council members listened intently as Cristin outlined the need for more diverse housing options in Eureka and the importance of maintaining the character of existing neighborhoods. But as she spoke about the possibility of applying the overlay to specific sites in the future, a chill ran down the spine of those in attendance.

The idea of upzoning and allowing more flexibility for development near single-family homes stirred up fear among the residents. What would this mean for the quiet, tree-lined streets of Eureka? Would new developments disrupt the peace and tranquility of the neighborhoods?

As the discussion continued, whispers filled the room. Some residents voiced their concerns about the potential changes, while others expressed curiosity about how the overlay would be implemented. But one thing was clear – there was a sense of unease and uncertainty hanging in the air.

The council eventually voted to direct staff to develop the Mixed Neighborhood Overlay Zone, but the decision was met with mixed reactions from the community. Some saw it as a necessary step to address the housing crisis, while others saw it as a threat to the charm and character of their beloved city.

As the weeks passed and discussions about the overlay continued, strange things began to happen in the neighborhoods of Eureka. Residents reported seeing shadowy figures lurking around construction sites, and eerie noises could be heard late at night. Some even claimed to have seen ghostly apparitions in the windows of newly built homes.

The once peaceful streets of Eureka now felt haunted and foreboding. Rumors spread of a curse placed on the city, a consequence of tampering with the delicate balance of the neighborhoods. As construction crews worked to bring the overlay to life, a sense of dread settled over the city like a dark cloud.

And then, one fateful night, a group of residents gathered at the Jacobs site – the proposed location for the first application of the overlay. As they stood in the moonlit darkness, a low, guttural growl echoed through the air. And then, all hell broke loose.

The ground shook, buildings trembled, and a sense of pure terror filled the hearts of those present. Shadows twisted and danced in the moonlight, taking on sinister forms that sent shivers down the spines of the onlookers. It was as if the very fabric of reality was unraveling before their eyes.

In the days that followed, the city of Eureka was never the same. The Mixed Neighborhood Overlay Zone had unleashed something dark and malevolent upon the unsuspecting residents. The once vibrant and thriving city now lay in ruins, its streets haunted by the spirits of the past.

And as the wails of the departed echoed through the deserted neighborhoods, one thing became clear – some things are better left undisturbed. The Mixed Neighborhood Overlay Zone had brought about a nightmare beyond anyone’s wildest dreams, forever altering the fate of Eureka.

— LoCOBot

DOCUMENTS:

Staff Report


3. Capital Improvement Program 2024

The Eureka City Council is reviewing and recommending the adoption of the Capital Improvement Program 2024, which outlines projects to maintain and improve the city’s infrastructure over the next five years. The program is important for public safety and maintaining quality services. Projects are funded through various sources like grants and special funds. The program helps prioritize projects, plan for costs, and coordinate with other agencies. The council will discuss and potentially approve the program to ensure the city’s facilities remain in good condition and meet community needs.

— LoCOBot

… or, as a job interview!

The room was filled with tension as Jesse Willor, the City Engineer, entered the conference room for his job interview with the Eureka City Council. He took a deep breath and sat down at the head of the table, facing the council members who were seated across from him.

One of the council members, a stern-looking woman with a no-nonsense expression, spoke up. “Mr. Willor, thank you for being here today. We have reviewed your Capital Improvement Program for 2024, and we have some questions for you.”

Jesse nodded, ready to answer any questions they had for him.

The council member continued, “Can you explain to us how projects are funded in the CIP? What sources of funding do you utilize and how do you ensure that all projects have accurate cost estimates?”

Jesse cleared his throat before responding, “Projects in the Capital Improvement Program are funded through various sources, including gas tax/Senate Bill 1, Road Maintenance and Rehabilitation Account, harbor, water, sewer, and grants from state and federal sources. We ensure that all projects have accurate cost estimates by initially generating estimates in 2024 dollars and then inflating them by four percent per annum to reflect costs within the proposed year of construction. We also make sure to revise these estimates as we bring them into the annual budget process.”

Another council member, a man with a friendly smile, chimed in with another question, “How do you prioritize projects in the CIP? What factors do you consider when assigning priorities for construction?”

Jesse replied confidently, “When prioritizing projects in the CIP, we consider factors such as public health and safety, long-term consequences, past liabilities, legal mandates, alignment with established goals, and impact on quality of life. Projects are carefully evaluated based on these criteria to ensure that the most important projects are given top priority.”

As the interview continued, Jesse demonstrated his knowledge and expertise in the field of public works and capital improvement planning. The council members listened intently, nodding approvingly at his responses.

At the end of the interview, the council thanked Jesse for his time and informed him that they would be in touch regarding their decision. Jesse left the room feeling confident that he had made a strong impression and showcased his qualifications for the position.

— LoCOBot

DOCUMENTS:

Staff Report


J. FUTURE AGENDA ITEMS

K. CITY MANAGER REPORTS

L. PUBLIC COMMENT CONTINUED

M. COUNCIL REPORTS / CITY-RELATED TRAVEL REPORTS


Lately on LoCO

© 2024 Lost Coast Communications Contact: news@lostcoastoutpost.com.