Isabella Vanderheiden / Tuesday, June 18 @ 7:30 a.m. / Agendizer
THIS WEEK IN EUREKA COUNCIL: Ranked-Choice Voting, Final Budget Talks, and More!
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The Eureka City Council will meet for another big agenda this week. At Tuesday’s meeting, the council will finalize some details for the upcoming General Election in November, including a few small amendments to the city’s ranked-choice voting ordinance. The council is also expected to approve the final budget for the upcoming fiscal year.
Let’s take a look at that agenda!
Ranked-Choice Voting
Way back in November 2020, Eureka voters passed Measure C, establishing a ranked-choice voting system for future city council and mayoral elections. The ballot measure, which passed with 61 percent of the vote, amended the city’s charter to institute ranked-choice voting – a system by which voters rank the candidates for an elected office in order of preference (first, second, third, etc.). The city council voted unanimously to implement the voting system in November 2021.
Ranked-choice voting systems all share the same basic premise – ranking candidates from most preferred to least preferred – but depending on which method you use, you may get different results. The City of Eureka opted for “instant runoff voting,” or IRV, the most commonly used method of ranked-choice voting. Here’s a step-by-step explainer on IRV from Ballotpedia:
- Voters rank the candidates for a given office by preference on their ballots.
- If a candidate wins an outright majority of first-preference votes (i.e., 50 percent plus one), he or she will be declared the winner.
- If, on the other hand, no candidates win an outright majority of first-preference votes, the candidate with the fewest first-preference votes is eliminated.
- All first-preference votes for the failed candidate are eliminated, and second-preference choices on these ballots are then counted as first-preference.
- A new tally is conducted to determine whether any candidate has won an outright majority of the ballots.
- The process is repeated until a candidate wins a majority of votes cast.
Make sense? If not, check out the YouTube video below for a more thorough explanation of the voting process. [Ed. note: Or check out the results of one of LoCO’s special Ranked Choice Polls! Like this one!]
Ranked-choice voting will be used for the first time in the upcoming General Election on Nov. 5. At this week’s meeting, the city council will consider a few small amendments to the city’s municipal code to clarify areas of the ranked-choice voting ordinance that were deemed “silent,” or not explicitly described, by the Humboldt County Registrar of Voters, according to the staff report.
The proposed resolution and amended ordinance can be read in full here.
Budget for 2024-25 Fiscal Year
The city council is poised to approve a spending plan for the upcoming fiscal year, which is set to begin on July 1.
The City of Eureka is looking at a $1.1 million budget shortfall in the 2024-25 fiscal year due to relatively “flat” sales tax revenues and rising employee salaries and benefits, as explained by the city’s Finance Director Lane Millar at last week’s meeting. While the deficit is not ideal, Millar reassured the council that it is not unusual for the city’s General Fund to show a deficit due to fluctuating sales tax revenue. The important thing is to keep an eye on it, he said.
Along with the proposed budget, the council is expected to approve a fee schedule for the upcoming fiscal year, which can be found here.
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All that, plus an update on traffic enforcement from the City Manager and Eureka Police Department. 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 in Eureka.
Eureka City Council
June 18, 2024, 6 p.m.
A. MAYOR’S ANNOUNCEMENTS
DOCUMENTS:
2. 2024 Humboldt County Law Enforcement Torch Run Proclamation
DOCUMENTS:
B. PRESENTATIONS
C. BOARD/COMMISSION REPORTS
D. PUBLIC COMMENT PERIOD
E. PUBLIC HEARINGS
The Eureka City Council is meeting to discuss and adopt the budget for the fiscal year 2024-25. They will hold a public hearing and adopt resolutions to approve the budget. The budget is important for managing the city’s finances and ensuring that services are maintained at current levels. The total appropriations for the year are $108,167,026. The council will review the proposed budget and make decisions on how to allocate funds.
— LoCOBot
In a city where decisions can make or break the future, the Eureka City Council faces its toughest challenge yet. Join us as we delve deep into the inner workings of the council, where every dollar counts and every decision shapes the community.
Get ready for the most gripping budget adoption meeting of the year, where Finance Director Lane Millar presents the proposed budget for Fiscal Year 2024-25. As tensions rise and priorities clash, Council members must come together to make the tough choices necessary for a financially stable and effectively run city.
Will they balance recurring expenditures with recurring revenues? Will basic services be maintained at current levels? And most importantly, will the City of Eureka continue its commitment to balanced financial planning?
With total appropriations exceeding $100 million, the stakes are higher than ever. Can the council reach a consensus and adopt the resolutions needed to move the city forward?
Join us for “FY2024-25 Budget Adoption,” where the fate of Eureka hangs in the balance. Don’t miss this thrilling drama that will keep you on the edge of your seat until the very end.
— LoCOBot
DOCUMENTS:
Staff Report • Attachment 1 - Budget Resolution FY24-25 • Attachment 2 - Budget Resolution EPFA FY24-25 • Attachment 3 - FY2024-25 Proposed Budget • Attachment 4 - FY2024-25 Proposed Budget Line-Item • Attachment 5 - FY2024-25 Proposed Budget - FTE Summary by Department
The Eureka City Council is proposing changes to the fees and service charges for various city services for the fiscal year 2024-25. They want to hold a public hearing and adopt a resolution to establish new fees, change existing fees, and remove fees in departments such as Building, Community Services, and Police. The changes are based on the actual cost of providing services and materials. The council aims to assess revenue opportunities and be financially responsible.
— LoCOBot
En la Ciudad de Eureka
El Consejo se reúne un día
Para hablar de una agenda
Que en la ciudad guiaría.
Se trata del presupuesto
Del año veinticuatro a veinticinco
Para establecer tarifas
De distintos servicios vividos.
El Departamento de Finanzas
Preparado por Lane Millar
Propone una audiencia pública
Para aprobación declarar.
La recomendación es clara
Adoptar la resolución
Que establece tarifas y cargos
Para la buena gestión.
Sin impacto fiscal
Pero incluido en el presupuesto
El objetivo del Consejo
Es ser financieramente justo.
Se habla de oportunidades
Para generar ingresos
Y mantener la responsabilidad
En los servicios y presupuestos.
El documento propone cambios
En tarifas de distintos departamentos
Con nuevas tarifas, ajustes
Y eliminación de cargos en el momento.
Enlace la ciudad
Con su propuesta en mano
Para una revisión y aprobación
Con el fin de seguir avanzando.
Así que en Eureka se trabaja
En la eficiencia y transparencia
Para mejorar la calidad de vida
De toda la comunidad que se precia.
Porque en la Ciudad de Eureka
El progreso es prioritario
Y con tarifas bien establecidas
Se avanza en el camino necesario.
— LoCOBot
DOCUMENTS:
Staff Report • Resolution - Fee Schedule 24-25 • Proposed Fee Schedule for July 1, 2024 through June 30, 2025
F. CONSENT CALENDAR
DOCUMENTS:
2. Revegetation Services Elk River Estuary Project- Acceptance
The Eureka City Council is recommending that the Revegetation Services for the Elk River Estuary Enhancement Project, performed by Samara Restoration, be accepted. This project includes creating tidal marsh habitat and public access on 114 acres of land. The work was completed in accordance with plans and specifications, and staff recommends accepting the services and filing a Notice of Completion. The project was funded by state and federal grants, and the total cost of the contract was $461,000.00.
— LoCOBot
… or, as a right-wing radio talk show hosted by Merv "The Beast" Tarkington!
Merv “The Beast” Tarkington: Good afternoon, patriots! This is Merv “The Beast” Tarkington coming to you live from the heart of Eureka. Today, we have the Eureka City Council on our radar, specifically their decision regarding the Revegetation Services Elk River Estuary Project.
Now, the Eureka City Council is recommending the acceptance of the Revegetation Services for the Elk River Estuary Enhancement Project performed by Samara Restoration. Sounds innocent enough, right? Wrong! Let me break this down for you.
First off, this project cost the hard-working taxpayers a whopping $461,000. That’s nearly half a million dollars of your money going towards planting plants! And not just any plants, mind you, but container plants. I don’t know about you, but I find it outrageous that our tax dollars are being spent on something as trivial as planting pretty flowers.
But wait, it gets even better. The project also includes ongoing maintenance services to prevent weed intrusion for 12 months. That’s right, folks, we’re not just talking about planting flowers, but we’re also paying to keep pesky weeds at bay. This is nothing short of government overreach at its finest.
And let’s not forget that this project is funded by state and federal grants. That’s right, folks, your hard-earned tax dollars are being wasted on this so-called “enhancement project.” But never fear, patriots, because I am here to expose this wasteful spending and fight for your rights as taxpayers.
So, I urge you to contact your city council members and demand that they reject this ridiculous project. Let’s put an end to this madness and hold our elected officials accountable for how they spend our money. Together, we can make a difference and ensure that our tax dollars are being used responsibly. This is Merv “The Beast” Tarkington, signing off until next time. Stay strong and stay vigilant, patriots!
— LoCOBot
DOCUMENTS:
3. Accept ABC Grant Funds 2024/2025
The Eureka City Council is considering accepting a grant from the Department of Alcoholic Beverage Control to help enforce liquor laws in the city. The grant amount is $43,362. The goal is to make Eureka a safer and cleaner community by addressing alcohol-related issues. The police department will use the funds for enforcement and education activities, including training for officers and conducting operations at establishments that sell alcohol to minors. The grant will also support spot inspections of local licensees to ensure compliance with laws.
— LoCOBot
… or, as smack talk from a professional wrestler!
Listen up, Eureka City Council! It’s time to face the music and accept the ABC Grant Funds for 2024/2025. The Eureka Police Department is ready to take on the challenge of enforcing liquor laws and cleaning up this city.
With a recommendation to accept a hefty grant of $43,362.00, our goal is to create a safer and more livable community for all. We’re not backing down from the fight against alcohol-related problems in our city.
The Eureka Police Department is gearing up to crack down on those who sell alcohol to minors and ensure that local licensees are following the ABC laws. We’ll be out there, enforcing and educating, to make sure this city is as clean and safe as can be.
So, Eureka City Council, do you have what it takes to accept this challenge and make a difference in our community? Or are you going to sit back and watch as we take matters into our own hands? The choice is yours.
— LoCOBot
DOCUMENTS:
4. Council Meeting Cancelation
5. Letter in Support of SB 1053
The Eureka City Council is recommending that Mayor Bergel sign and staff transmit a letter supporting SB 1053. There is no financial impact and the action aligns with city goals and vision. The City Attorney, City Manager, and City Clerk have reviewed and approved the recommendation.
— LoCOBot
… or, as a town crier's speech!
Hear ye, hear ye! The Eureka City Council has an important agenda item to discuss today. The title of the item is a Letter in Support of SB 1053, which has been prepared by our very own City Attorney, Autumn E. Luna.
The recommendation is to authorize Mayor Bergel to sign and staff to transmit the letter in support of SB 1053. There is no fiscal impact associated with this action, as it is not included in the budget or requiring additional appropriation.
This legislative action item was placed on the agenda per City Council direction, and it aligns with our council goals and strategic vision. The City Attorney, City Manager, and City Clerk/Information Technology have all reviewed and approved this recommendation.
Therefore, I urge all citizens to pay attention to this important decision and support the authorization of Mayor Bergel to sign the letter in support of SB 1053. Let us continue to work together to make Eureka a better place for all. Thank you for your attention.
— LoCOBot
DOCUMENTS:
6. Policy 3.82 - Workplace Violence Prevention Program
The Eureka City Council is proposing a new Workplace Violence Prevention Program to ensure safety and compliance with regulations. The program includes policies, assessments, preventive measures, training, reporting mechanisms, response protocols, and support services. The goal is to create a safe and supportive work environment free from violence. The program will be regularly reviewed and evaluated for effectiveness. The recommendation is to approve and adopt Policy 3.82.
— LoCOBot
Verse 1:
They’re talking ‘bout Policy 3.82
Workplace violence, what we gotta do
Human Resources, they got the plan
To keep us safe, throughout the land
Pre-Chorus:
No more threats, no more harm
Eureka City Council, sound the alarm
We’re on a mission, gotta comply
With SB 533, we’ll reach the sky
Chorus:
Workplace Violence Prevention Program, in effect
CalOSHA regulations, gotta respect
Creating a safe and secure place
Free from violence, in every case
Verse 2:
Assessing the worksite, finding the risks
Mitigating hazards, no one’s taking risks
Training and education, for everyone
Recognize, prevent, and respond, get it done
Pre-Chorus:
Supervisors, managers, specialized too
Handling reports, knowing what to do
SB 533, CalOSHA in mind
Keep it safe, for all mankind
Chorus:
Workplace Violence Prevention Program, in effect
CalOSHA regulations, gotta respect
Creating a safe and secure place
Free from violence, in every case
Bridge:
Reporting mechanisms, clear and confidential
No fear of retaliation, that’s essential
Immediate response, to ensure safety
Counseling and support, for all who may be
Chorus:
Workplace Violence Prevention Program, in effect
CalOSHA regulations, gotta respect
Creating a safe and secure place
Free from violence, in every case
Outro:
Review and evaluate, improving each day
Enhancing safety, in every way
Eureka City Council, leading the pack
Preventing violence, that’s a fact!
— LoCOBot
7. Housing Authority Letter of Support for Demolition
The Eureka City Council is being asked to consider supporting the Housing Authority’s request to demolish some units in order to reposition and increase housing inventory. This will provide new housing units for the community. There is no financial impact and the recommendation is to approve the letter of support.
— LoCOBot
… or, as a conversation between two very stoned people named Starfish and Noodles!
Starfish: Yo, Noodles, have you ever thought about repositioning efforts for housing authorities?
Noodles: Whoa, dude, that’s some deep stuff. Are you talking about like, building new housing units and stuff?
Starfish: Yeah, man, exactly! I was just reading about the Eureka Housing Authority’s plans to demolish some units and build new ones. They need permission from HUD though.
Noodles: That’s wild, man. I wonder what the City Council is gonna do about it. Like, are they gonna support the demolition and disposition applications?
Starfish: I think they’re considering it. The recommendation is to consider a letter of support for the Housing Authority. It’s gonna increase the number of housing units in the community, which is pretty cool.
Noodles: Dude, that sounds like a good idea. More housing means more people have a place to live, right? That’s like, effective governance and communication.
Starfish: Exactly, man! It’s all about helping out the community and making sure everyone has a roof over their heads. I hope the City Council approves the letter of support.
Noodles: Yeah, me too, man. Let’s hope they make the right decision. And hey, do you have any snacks? I’m getting the munchies.
Starfish: Yeah, I think I have some cookies in the kitchen. Let’s go grab them and keep talking about this housing stuff. It’s fascinating, man.
— LoCOBot
DOCUMENTS:
8. Memorandum of Understanding – Teamsters 7/2024 – 6/2027
This document is about an agreement between the City of Eureka and the Teamsters Local 137. The agreement will be in effect from July 1, 2024, to June 30, 2027. The City Council needs to adopt a Resolution authorizing the Mayor to sign the agreement. The agreement follows the rules of the Meyers-Milias-Brown Act and has been negotiated in good faith. It outlines changes and has been ratified by the Teamsters membership. The agreement aims to ensure financially sound city services.
— LoCOBot
… or, as a Dungeons & Dragons campaign!
Title: Eureka City Bargaining – The Negotiation Quest
In the city of Eureka, tensions are rising between the City Council and the Teamsters Local 137. As negotiations for a new Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) have concluded, it is up to a brave group of adventurers to ensure that the terms of the agreement are upheld and that peace is maintained between the two factions.
The party is tasked with acting as intermediaries between the City Council and the Teamsters Local 137, ensuring that the terms of the MOU are upheld and that both parties are satisfied with the agreement. However, it soon becomes apparent that there are forces at play seeking to disrupt the negotiations and sow discord between the two groups.
The party must navigate through political intrigue and navigate the complex landscape of labor relations in order to prevent a potential conflict from erupting. Along the way, they may encounter various obstacles such as disgruntled union members, corrupt officials, and rival factions seeking to take advantage of the situation for their own gain.
As the party delves deeper into the negotiations, they may uncover a sinister plot to undermine the MOU and destabilize the city of Eureka. It is up to them to uncover the truth, thwart the plans of those seeking to disrupt the peace, and ensure that the city remains financially sound and continues to provide effective services to its citizens.
Can the party navigate the treacherous waters of labor relations and political intrigue to uphold the terms of the MOU and prevent a potential conflict from erupting? Only time will tell as they embark on the Negotiation Quest in the city of Eureka.
— LoCOBot
9. Utility Systems Mechanic I/II/Senior and Utility Classifications
The Eureka City Council is proposing wage increases for different positions in the Public Works Department, specifically for those in the Utility Systems Mechanic and Operations categories. The aim is to align pay rates with the local labor market and improve recruitment and retention efforts. The proposal includes creating new classifications and adjusting pay rates for existing positions, with the cost being included in the city’s budget.
— LoCOBot
Here’s a Robert Burns inspired poem in Scottish about the agenda summary for the Eureka City Council:
In Eureka City, where thistles grow,
The Council meets, in high and low,
To discuss the wages, fair and just,
For those who work in sewer and dust.
A new Utility Systems Mechanic class,
To make sure all work will pass,
The standards set by those on high,
For maintenance of treatment, they apply.
Wage adjustments, a necessary chore,
To keep workers happy, always more,
For those who toil in Public Works,
Their efforts recognized, not just smirks.
So let us raise a glass and cheer,
For those who work all through the year,
In Eureka City, we all stand tall,
For the workers who answer the call.
— LoCOBot
DOCUMENTS:
Staff Report • Resolution_Utility Systems Mechanic and Utility Increases • Utility Systems Mechanic I-II • Senior Utility Systems Mechanic
10. Nationwide Opioid Settlements and Appointing the City Attorney or designee as the City’s
The Eureka City Council is discussing participating in nationwide settlements regarding the opioid crisis and appointing the City Attorney as the authorized representative. The settlements involve various pharmaceutical companies and could bring significant funds to the city. The City Attorney’s office has been representing Eureka in these cases and is seeking additional authority to enter into new settlements. Outside litigation counsel has been retained on a contingency-fee basis to handle the legal proceedings. The progress of the litigation towards settlements with various companies is outlined, and potential future settlements are discussed. Further information can be accessed on the National Opioid Settlement website.
— LoCOBot
As the City Council of Eureka gathered to discuss the nationwide opioid settlements, a sense of unease filled the room. The City Attorney, Autumn E. Luna, and her assistant, Robert N. Black, presented their recommendation to appoint Luna or her designee as the City’s Authorized Representative in the ongoing litigation.
The history of the litigation was grim - the opioid crisis had plagued the city, leading to a wave of addiction and death. The lawsuits filed against pharmaceutical companies and distributors were an attempt to hold those responsible for fueling the crisis accountable.
But as Luna spoke of the progress made in the settlements with McKesson, Cardinal Health, Amerisource Bergen, Janssen Pharmaceuticals, Teva, Allergan, CVS, Walgreens, Walmart, and the proposed settlement with Kroger Co., a chill ran down the spine of those in attendance.
The sheer scale of the crisis, the billions of dollars involved, and the ongoing negotiations with multiple defendants painted a bleak picture of the battle ahead. The mention of Purdue Pharma and the Sackler family, who sought to protect their wealth despite their company’s role in the crisis, added a layer of darkness to the proceedings.
As Luna detailed the potential positive fiscal impact of the settlements, the mood in the room shifted. The uncertainty of future payouts, the complexities of the negotiations with the State of California, and the possibility of further settlements with additional defendants cast a shadow over the council chamber.
And then, as Luna invited questions from the council members, a sudden sense of foreboding settled over the room. The lights flickered, casting eerie shadows on the walls. A cold breeze swept through the chamber, sending shivers down the spines of those present.
And then, in the corner of the room, a figure appeared. A ghostly apparition, clad in tattered robes, its eyes filled with malice and despair. The council members gasped in horror as the specter floated towards Luna, reaching out a hand towards her.
A wave of terror swept through the room as Luna’s voice faltered, her eyes wide with fear. The figure whispered a single word, a name long forgotten but etched in the darkest corners of Eureka’s history – “Opioid.”
And as the figure vanished into thin air, leaving behind a chilling silence, the council members knew that the battle against the opioid crisis was far from over. The horrors of the past had returned to haunt them, and the darkness that loomed ahead was beyond their wildest nightmares.
As the meeting adjourned, the council members left the chamber with a sense of dread hanging over them. The nationwide opioid settlements had brought them face to face with a new kind of horror, one that could not be settled with money or negotiations. The true battle was just beginning, and the City of Eureka would have to steel itself for the darkest of days ahead.
— LoCOBot
DOCUMENTS:
G. LEGISLATIVE ACTION CORRESPONDENCE
H. ORDINANCES/RESOLUTIONS
1. November 5, 2024 General Municipal Election
The Eureka City Council is preparing for the General Municipal Election on November 5, 2024. They are recommending that resolutions be adopted regarding the election, including calling for the election, requesting election services from the County of Humboldt, and setting regulations for Candidates for Elective Office. The Council will also prioritize filing written arguments for ballot measures and provide for the filing of rebuttal arguments. The election will involve selecting City Council members and submitting a ballot measure relating to the General Plan.
— LoCOBot
Recipe for November 5, 2024 General Municipal Election Resolutions
Ingredients:
- Resolution of the City Council calling and giving notice of the General Municipal Election
- Resolution of the City Council requesting election services from the Board of Supervisors
- Resolution of the City Council adopting regulations for Candidates for Elective Office
- Resolution setting priorities for filing written arguments regarding city ballot measures
- Resolution providing for the filing of rebuttal arguments for city measures
Instructions:
1. In a large mixing bowl, combine the Resolution of the City Council calling and giving notice of the General Municipal Election.
2. Stir in the Resolution of the City Council requesting election services from the Board of Supervisors.
3. Mix in the Resolution of the City Council adopting regulations for Candidates for Elective Office.
4. Add the Resolution setting priorities for filing written arguments regarding city ballot measures and mix well.
5. Lastly, fold in the Resolution providing for the filing of rebuttal arguments for city measures.
6. Bake at a City Council meeting until resolutions are adopted.
Serve hot for a successful General Municipal Election on November 5, 2024!
— LoCOBot
DOCUMENTS:
Staff Report • Resolution_caling for election municipal officers & balot measure • Resolution_consolidating election w county for municipal officers & balot measure • Resolution_Impartial Attorny Analysis_Balot Measure • Resolution_Submittal of Argument Ward Charter • Resolution setting Candidate Statements
2. Bil No. 1036-C.S. Ranked Choice Voting Ordinance Amendment
The Eureka City Council is considering a new amendment to their Ranked Choice Voting ordinance. This amendment will provide more clarification and direction on how Ranked Choice Voting will be implemented for the offices of Mayor and Council Member. The amendment is being proposed to address some areas that were not covered in the existing ordinance. Ranked Choice Voting will be used for the first time in the upcoming November 5, 2024 General Election.
— LoCOBot
… or, as a science-fiction story!
In the year 2040, the city of Eureka had become a shining beacon of democracy with the implementation of Ranked Choice Voting (RCV) for electing their Mayor and Council Members. The citizens had embraced this new system, believing it to be a fairer way to ensure their voices were heard in the political process.
However, as the 2024 General Election approached, rumors began to circulate about potential interference with the RCV system. City Attorney Autumn E. Luna received a confidential report from a concerned citizen, warning of a shadowy group known as the “Eureka Elite” who were planning to manipulate the RCV process to maintain their grip on power.
Autumn knew she had to act fast to protect the integrity of the upcoming election. She called an emergency meeting of the City Council to introduce Bill No. 1036-C.S., an Ordinance to amend the existing RCV rules to prevent any tampering with the system.
As she presented her recommendations to the Council, Autumn outlined the potential risks of leaving the RCV Ordinance unchanged. She explained how the “Eureka Elite” could exploit the loopholes in the current system to ensure their preferred candidates always came out on top, thwarting the will of the people.
The Council listened intently as Autumn detailed the proposed amendments, which included stronger safeguards to prevent manipulation and ensure a fair and transparent election process. She urged the Council to waive the full reading of the bill and introduce it as soon as possible to protect the democratic rights of the citizens of Eureka.
After a spirited discussion, the Council unanimously approved the amendments, with Mayor Rodriguez declaring it a victory for democracy in Eureka. The citizens of the city breathed a sigh of relief, knowing that their voices would truly be heard in the upcoming election thanks to the vigilance of City Attorney Autumn E. Luna.
As the 2024 General Election drew closer, the “Eureka Elite” watched in frustration as their plans to manipulate the RCV system were thwarted by the new amendments. The people of Eureka turned out in record numbers to cast their votes, confident that their choices would be fairly counted and reflected in the outcome.
And when the results were announced, it was clear that democracy had prevailed in Eureka. The new Mayor and Council Members were elected by the will of the people, not the machinations of the powerful few. As the city celebrated a new era of transparency and fairness in their elections, Autumn E. Luna smiled, knowing that she had played a crucial role in protecting their democracy from those who sought to subvert it.
— LoCOBot
I. REPORTS/ACTION ITEMS
The Eureka City Council will be discussing changes to the Design Review Committee and Design Review process. The committee reviews and approves proposed development projects based on specific criteria outlined in the city’s regulations. Options being considered include having the Planning Commission take over the committee’s role, reducing the committee’s role, exempting housing projects from design review, or eliminating subjective review altogether. The goal is to ensure that the design review process is fair, follows state laws, and promotes economic development while maintaining community character.
— LoCOBot
(Verse 1)
Come gather ‘round, the council’s in town
To talk of design, from sky to the ground
Cristin Kenyon with the agenda in hand
Development Services, they’ve got a plan
(Chorus)
Oh, the Design Review, it’s on the table tonight
City Council’s ready to shed some light
Receive the report and provide direction
In Eureka, we’re aiming for perfection
(Verse 2)
The DRC members, they serve with pride
In a quasi-judicial role on the design tide
From architecture to land development
Their expertise is truly heaven-sent
(Chorus)
Oh, the Design Review, it’s on the table tonight
City Council’s ready to shed some light
Receive the report and provide direction
In Eureka, we’re aiming for perfection
(Verse 3)
Approval criteria, it’s no easy feat
For new buildings, they must be neat
Pedestrian-focused frontages stand tall
In Eureka, we aim to please them all
(Chorus)
Oh, the Design Review, it’s on the table tonight
City Council’s ready to shed some light
Receive the report and provide direction
In Eureka, we’re aiming for perfection
(Outro)
So here’s to the council, their work never ends
In Eureka, we’ll always be friends
Design Review, it’s a sailor’s delight
In Eureka City Council, everything’s done right!
— LoCOBot
DOCUMENTS:
2. Council Membership on Chamber of Commerce 2 x 2 Committee
J. FUTURE AGENDA ITEMS
K. CITY MANAGER REPORTS
1. EPD Traffic Enforcement Update
L. PUBLIC COMMENT CONTINUED
M. COUNCIL REPORTS / CITY-RELATED TRAVEL REPORTS