Isabella Vanderheiden / Tuesday, April 16 @ 3:18 p.m. / Agendizer
What is Eureka Doing to Address Homelessness? City Council to Receive Update on Recent Efforts During Tonight’s Meeting
Photo: Andrew Goff
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At tonight’s meeting, the Eureka City Council will receive an update on the city’s Homeless Action Plan, an initiative that aims to address mental health and housing needs in Eureka.
The 24-page document, approved by the city council in 2022, outlines the staff’s ongoing efforts to reduce homelessness in Eureka by expanding affordable housing, bolstering outreach efforts and expanding partnerships with organizations that provide services to people experiencing homelessness. The plan outlines eight specific goals that aim to reduce homelessness in Eureka by increasing the affordable housing stock, bolstering UPLIFT’s Rapid Rehousing program, expanding the city’s homeless prevention program, among other strategies.
Eureka City Manager Miles Slattery said tonight’s update will focus on the city’s ongoing efforts to get folks into housing. “I think we’ll get an update on our UPLIFT Program and more information about what staff has done with our housing funds that we’ve received from the county,” he said. “We’ll get an update on how many people [the city] has housed in the last year or so … and the progress we’ve made with warming centers and providing people with places to go without any barriers.”
The city is still working with the county on its plans for the Humboldt Navigational Center, Slattery said. The facility, which will be located on the vacant lot across the street from St. Vincent de Paul’s Dining Facility at the corner of West Third and Commercial Streets, will offer access to shelter, affordable housing options, public health benefits, job training and mental health support.
“That project is moving right along,” Slattery said. “The plans should be submitted soon. We’re hoping to break ground sometime before summer.”
A copy of the Homeless Action Plan can be found here.
Eureka Housing Trust Fund
The city council will also consider a proposal that, if approved, would establish the “Eureka Housing Trust Fund.” During the budgeting process for Fiscal Year 2023-24, the City of Eureka earmarked $500,000 from the American Rescue Plan Act (ARPA) allocation to serve as seed funding for a trust fund that would support various city-operated housing development programs.
“We tried to make it as general as possible to provide flexibility,” Slattery said. “It would support the accessory dwelling unit (ADU) program that we’re starting. It [could be] used for first-time homebuyer programs, loans and grants. It could also be used to [bridge] a funding gap for an affordable housing project.”
The housing trust fund will be subject to administrative guidelines to ensure transparency and efficacy, the staff report states. The guidelines would also require the city to prepare an annual Notice of Funding Availability (NOFA) for programs supported by the trust fund to ensure resources are directed “to areas where they can have the most significant impact.”
“[S]taff are in communication with the state’s Housing and Community Development Department (HCD) and anticipate a state-issued NOFA specifically supporting local and regional housing trust funds,” the staff report continues. “This opportunity could potentially provide an additional $500,000 to the [housing trust fund], doubling the initial seed funding and significantly enhancing the city’s capacity to support affordable housing projects.”
Staff’s recommendation also asks the council to allocate $100,000 in Vacation Dwelling Unit (VDU) Transient Occupancy Tax (TOT) revenues to the housing trust fund each year.
Reducing Traffic on H and I Streets
The council will also consider a resolution that would reduce traffic from one to two lanes on H and I (both one-ways) between 1st and 2nd Streets in Old Town. Removal of one lane on H and I Streets would allow for the installation of a buffered bike lane, plus additional diagonal parking where there is currently parallel parking.
“The addition of diagonal parking allows for uniformity with the existing diagonal parking between 2nd and 4th Streets,” according to the staff report. “Incorporating the buffered bike lane on H and I Streets will close the bike lane gap between 1st Street and 6th Street where new buffered bike lanes will be installed.”
The council is expected to approve the resolution.
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Those are the big-ticket items, folks! Find the 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. Remote viewing/participating instructions can be found here.
Eureka City Council
April 16, 2024, 6 p.m.
A. MAYOR’S ANNOUNCEMENTS
1. Proclamation - Volunteer Appreciation Month
DOCUMENTS:
2. Proclamation - National Safety Telecommunicators Week April 14-20, 2024
B. PRESENTATIONS
1. Homeless Action Plan
C. BOARD/COMMISSION REPORTS
D. PUBLIC COMMENT PERIOD
E. PUBLIC HEARINGS
F. CONSENT CALENDAR
DOCUMENTS:
2. Da' Yas Park Multi-Sport Kit Purchase
The Eureka City Council is considering purchasing a multi-sports kit for Da’ Yas Park. They are recommending awarding a contract to Kompan for $192,332.41, with the option to increase the amount by up to $28,849.86 for unforeseen contingencies. The purchase will be made through a cooperative purchasing agency called Omnia. The project is part of a renovation of Da’ Yas Park and is exempt from the California Environmental Quality Act. City staff has worked with Kompan to determine the features and pricing of the sports kit. The council is advised to approve the contract and contingency amount.
— LoCOBot
(Verse)
In Eureka City, the council meets
To discuss projects, big and neat
One item on the agenda today
Is Da’ Yas Park, hip hip hooray!
(Chorus)
Da’ Yas Park, a place to play
Multi-sports kit coming your way
With futsal, basketball, and more
Community pride we’ll have in store
(Verse)
The Community Services department’s on it
Preparing the details, no need to fret
Robin Praszker has all the facts
For this exciting park contract
(Chorus)
Da’ Yas Park, a place to play
Multi-sports kit coming your way
With futsal, basketball, and more
Community pride we’ll have in store
(Bridge)
Proposition 68 gave us a grant
To renovate this park, that’s our plan
New sports courts, play areas galore
We’ll have fun, that’s for sure!
(Chorus)
Da’ Yas Park, a place to play
Multi-sports kit coming your way
With futsal, basketball, and more
Community pride we’ll have in store
(Outro)
So let’s award the contract, make it official
To Kompan we go, let’s be beneficial
For Da’ Yas Park, a gem so bright
We’ll play and have fun, day and night!
— LoCOBot
DOCUMENTS:
3. Award Bid No. 2024-10 Da’ Yas Park Improvement Project
The Eureka City Council is considering awarding a bid for improvements to Da’ Yas Park. The project includes adding a multi-sport court, play areas, picnic areas, and more. The recommended bid is from Builder Solutions Inc. for $3,490,155.60. The total cost for construction is $3,943,876 including a contingency fund. Construction is scheduled for summer 2024. The project is considered exempt from environmental review because it is an existing park. The City Council will vote on whether to approve the bid at an upcoming meeting.
— LoCOBot
In a city plagued by crime and poverty, one beacon of hope stands tall - Da’ Yas Park. But this beloved park is in desperate need of a makeover. Enter the Eureka City Council, who has a plan to transform this park into a safe haven for the community.
In a world where every dollar counts, Project Manager Robin Praszker has made it her mission to ensure that the Da’ Yas Park Improvement Project goes off without a hitch. With the recommendation to award Bid No. 2024-10 to Builder Solutions Inc., the stakes are high as the fate of the park hangs in the balance.
But as construction gets underway, tensions rise as the city faces budget constraints and unforeseen challenges. Will the community come together to support this much-needed project, or will it fall victim to political red tape?
With the fate of Da’ Yas Park resting on the shoulders of the Eureka City Council, they must navigate through bureaucracy and conflicts to see their vision come to life. Will they be able to overcome the obstacles in their path and empower the community for a better, healthier future?
Find out in “Award Bid No. 2024-10 Da’ Yas Park Improvement Project,” coming soon to theaters near you.
— LoCOBot
DOCUMENTS:
4. Water Improvements 2024 Project - Award
The Eureka City Council is considering awarding a bid to Mercer-Fraser Company for a water improvement project. The project involves replacing a section of water mains on Myrtle Ave that are in poor condition. The project also includes new infrastructure and services. The City has determined that the project is exempt from certain environmental regulations. After reviewing bids, Mercer-Fraser Company’s proposal was found to be the lowest responsible bid. The City recommends awarding the project to Mercer-Fraser Company for $1,636,636 and approving $2,000,000 for construction.
— LoCOBot
… or, as a town crier's speech!
Hear ye, hear ye! Citizens of Eureka, lend me your ears as I bring forth important news from the City Council!
Today, we gather to discuss the Water Improvements 2024 Project, a crucial initiative brought forward by the Public Works department. The esteemed Kelly Allen, Project Manager, has recommended declaring Mercer-Fraser Company as the preferred bidder for this project. It is proposed to award Bid No. 2024-12 to Mercer-Fraser Company in the amount of $1,636,636 and approve $2,000,000 for construction, including contingency and management services.
The primary goal of this project is to address the deteriorating condition of the water main on Myrtle Ave. The cast iron line is in poor shape, requiring frequent repairs and posing risks of failures. By replacing 4,000 feet of water line and installing new infrastructure, we aim to enhance the quality of life and ensure health and safety for all residents.
Furthermore, rest assured that environmental impacts have been carefully considered. The project has been deemed exempt from the California Environmental Quality Act and coastal development permit requirements. Measures will be taken to mitigate any potential impacts on the environment and cultural resources.
After thorough evaluation of bids, Mercer-Fraser Company has emerged as the lowest responsible bidder for this project. Their proposal aligns with project requirements and offers a cost-effective solution for the city.
In conclusion, it is recommended by the City Attorney, City Clerk, and various other departments that the Council approve the award of construction to Mercer-Fraser Company and allocate funds for the Water Improvements 2024 Project. Let us come together to support this important endeavor for the betterment of our community.
Thank you, and may prosperity and progress continue to shine upon the great city of Eureka!
— LoCOBot
DOCUMENTS:
5. Fishermen's Terminal Pilings Replacement Project - Award
The City Council is considering awarding a project to replace deteriorating fender pilings at the Fisherman’s Terminal Dock to a company called GHD for $70,000. Staff secured a grant to fund the project, and the recommendation is to approve the award to GHD. The project went through a bidding process, and GHD was deemed qualified. The City Council will vote on this recommendation.
— LoCOBot
Sur les quais du Terminal des Pêcheurs,
On parle de remplacer les pieux en bois,
La ville d’Eureka prend des décisions,
Pour assurer la sécurité des marins.
Riley Topolewski, le gestionnaire de projet,
Propose à GHD de mener les travaux,
Pour un montant de soixante-dix mille dollars,
Un investissement pour la ville en mer.
Conseil municipal, ce soir prends une action,
Approuver le projet de remplacement des pieux,
Pour que la mer soit un lieu sûr,
Et que les pêcheurs puissent travailler en paix.
La gouvernance efficace est un objectif clé,
Pour une communication transparente et fluide,
Les pilings du port auront une nouvelle vie,
Grâce à ce projet qui les remettra à l’envie.
Eureka, belle ville au bord de l’eau,
Prend soin de son patrimoine marin,
Les pieux seront bientôt remplacés,
Pour que les pêcheurs puissent rester sereins.
— LoCOBot
DOCUMENTS:
G. LEGISLATIVE ACTION CORRESPONDENCE
H. ORDINANCES/RESOLUTIONS
1. H and I Street – 1st Street to 2nd Street - Lane removal, buffered bike lane and diagonal parking
The Eureka City Council is considering a project to remove a traffic lane on H and I Streets between 1st and 2nd Streets and replace it with a buffered bike lane and diagonal parking. This project aims to improve the quality of life and safety in the area. The project is exempt from CEQA regulations and has no fiscal impact. City staff recommends that the council approve the project.
— LoCOBot
… or, as an episode of Scooby Doo!
Title: Scooby-Doo and the Mystery of the Haunted Bike Lanes
[The gang is driving through Eureka City when they notice the construction on H and I Street between 1st and 2nd Streets. Velma reads the agenda summary and they decide to investigate.]
Fred: Looks like they’re removing a traffic lane and adding bike lanes and diagonal parking. Let’s check it out, gang!
[They arrive at the construction site and see Jay Wortelboer, the project manager, overseeing the work.]
Velma: Mr. Wortelboer, can you tell us more about this project?
Jay Wortelboer: Sure! We’re making these changes to improve safety for cyclists and pedestrians in Old Town. But there have been some strange things happening during construction.
Shaggy: Like what?
Jay Wortelboer: Well, tools have been going missing, and we’ve been hearing strange noises at night. Some of the workers are starting to think the area is haunted.
Daphne: Haunted? That’s our kind of mystery!
[That night, the gang sets up a stakeout near the construction site. They see shadowy figures moving around and decide to investigate.]
Scooby-Doo: Ruh-roh, Raggy! Re’ve got a mystery on our hands!
[They follow the figures to an abandoned warehouse where they find a group of disgruntled business owners who are trying to sabotage the project.]
Velma: It turns out these business owners were against the changes because they were worried about losing customers during construction. They were trying to scare off the workers so the project would be delayed.
Fred: Well, it looks like we’ve solved the mystery and saved the day once again!
[The next day, the gang watches as the construction is completed and the new bike lanes and diagonal parking are unveiled.]
Velma: Another case closed, and another town made safer for everyone.
Scooby-Doo: Rikes! Let’s grab a snack to celebrate!
— LoCOBot
The Eureka City Council is proposing to establish a Eureka Housing Trust Fund to address the need for affordable housing in the community. They plan to allocate $500,000 from the American Rescue Plan and commit $100,000 annually from Vacation Dwelling Unit Transient Occupancy Tax revenues to fund the trust. The fund will support housing projects and will have guidelines for transparency and accountability. The Council is also seeking additional state funding to double the initial seed funding.
— LoCOBot
(Chorus)
Oh, the Eureka City Council, they’ve got a plan,
To create a trust fund for affordable housing, man.
With ARPA funds and TOT revenue,
They’re making sure that everyone has a place to call home, it’s true.
(Verse)
Lane Millar, from Finance, he’s got it all prepared,
A resolution to establish the Eureka Housing Trust Fund that’s shared.
$500,000 from ARPA to start things off right,
And $100,000 annually from VDU TOT to keep it in sight.
(Chorus)
Oh, the Eureka City Council, they’re taking a stand,
To ensure that affordable housing is always at hand.
With guidelines in place and a commitment so strong,
They’re helping the community where they truly belong.
(Verse)
Eureka Builds It! Program will benefit from this pot,
Creating more dwelling units and giving it all they’ve got.
State funding might double the initial seed,
Bringing in more support for those in need.
(Chorus)
Oh, the Eureka City Council, they’re setting sail,
On a housing trust fund journey that will prevail.
With resources allocated where they’re needed the most,
They’re making sure no one is left without a place to host.
(Outro)
So raise a toast to Eureka and their housing trust fund tale,
For creating opportunities for all to prevail.
With a commitment to affordable housing that’s true,
The Eureka City Council is looking out for me and you.
— LoCOBot
DOCUMENTS:
Staff Report • Resolution - Eureka Housing Trust Fund • Eureka Housing Trust Fund Guidelines
I. REPORTS/ACTION ITEMS
J. FUTURE AGENDA ITEMS
K. CITY MANAGER REPORTS
1. SB 43 Update
L. PUBLIC COMMENT CONTINUED
M. COUNCIL REPORTS / CITY-RELATED TRAVEL REPORTS
CLICK TO MANAGE