Isabella Vanderheiden / Today @ 9:27 a.m. / Agendizer
TONIGHT in EUREKA CITY COUNCIL: Another Look at the Draft Vacant Building Ordinance, Plus a Response to the Grand Jury Report on Homelessness
Photo: Andrew Goff.
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At tonight’s meeting, the Eureka City Council will revisit a draft Vacant Building Ordinance that, if approved, would require property owners to regularly maintain empty commercial and residential buildings to address long-standing concerns surrounding neighborhood blight.
The city council made a few tweaks to the draft ordinance at its last meeting on Aug. 20. Under the current draft rules, property owners would be required to “actively maintain and monitor” vacant buildings that are not “actively being offered” for sale or rent. If the building is not maintained for 90 days or more, the owner will be fined $1,000 per month. After a year, the fine jumps to $5,000 per month.
There are some exceptions written into the ordinance. If there is an active building permit and the owner “is progressing diligently to complete the repair, rehabilitation, or demolition, as evidenced by commencement and continuation of permitted work and related inspections,” they will not be subject to the fine. The same goes for property owners who are actively trying to lease, rent, or sell their buildings.
The city council is slated to approve the draft ordinance at Tuesday’s meeting.
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The council will also discuss the findings of a recent report from the 2023-24 Humboldt County Civil Grand Jury: “Humboldt County, Behavioral Health, Substance Use, and the Streets: What Works?” The report takes a deep dive into the world of crisis intervention and the trained professionals who respond to individuals suffering from significant behavioral health issues.
The Civil Grand Jury report focuses on three local programs: Mobile Intervention and Services Team (MIST), Crisis Alternative Response Eureka (CARE) and Community Safety Engagement Team (CSET).
“[I]t is important to note that these programs are not aimed solely at those in crisis,” the report states. “These programs also address substance use disorder and attempt to identify people before they reach behavioral health crisis. These programs work to connect the most marginalized of our citizens with critical resources while treating them with respect and dignity.”
The report analyzed the funding available to each program and determined that the City of Eureka’s programs – CARE and CSET – were “appropriately staffed and funded.” However, MIST, a county-run program that collaborates with the City of Eureka, lacks the funding needed to be successful.
“MIST has recently completed a one-year, grant-funded collaboration with the Humboldt County Sheriff’s Office, with unimpressive results,” the report states. “The newest form of MIST has recently started, and evaluations of performance are premature, though there appears to be a funding gap that needs to be filled.”
In December 2023, the Humboldt County Board of Supervisors made the difficult decision to cut Measure Z funding for MIST. The newest version of the program is an “evolving operation” within the Department of Health and Human Services’ (DHHS) Behavioral Health branch and receives federal funding through the federal Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services. That source of funding will expire in March 2027 but can be renewed.
The Civil Grand Jury report includes several funding-related recommendations for the Board of Supervisors but does not include any suggestions for the Eureka City Council. The agenda item appears under “City Manager Reports” and will likely be discussed without any formal action.
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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 will meet on Tuesday at 6 p.m. at Eureka City Hall — 531 K Street. Remote viewing/participating instructions can be found here.
Eureka City Council
Sept. 3, 2024, 6 p.m.
A. MAYOR’S ANNOUNCEMENTS
1. Proclamation-Coastal Clean Up Month
DOCUMENTS:
2. Proclamation-Lethal Means Prevention Week
DOCUMENTS:
3. Introduction of Tim Citro, Interim Fire Chief - Humboldt Bay Fire JPA
B. PRESENTATIONS
C. BOARD/COMMISSION REPORTS
D. PUBLIC COMMENT PERIOD
E. PUBLIC HEARINGS
F. CONSENT CALENDAR
DOCUMENTS:
2. Systemwide Sewer Evaluations Project 2023 - Acceptance
The Eureka City Council is recommending accepting the Systemwide Sewer Evaluations Project 2023 and authorizing the filing of a “Notice of Completion.” The project involved inspecting and testing the city’s sewer system. The project was funded for $1,500,000 and awarded to APS Environmental for $1,499,955.46. One change order reduced the project cost to $1,284,955.46. City staff recommend accepting the project as completed.
— LoCOBot
![](https://lostcoastoutpost.com/loco-static/img/gennie.png)
As Maggie Martinez-Jansen, the GIS Coordinator for Eureka City Council, presented the Systemwide Sewer Evaluations Project 2023 for acceptance, the room grew tense with anticipation. The project had been a massive undertaking, involving CCTV inspections and smoke testing of the city’s sewer system. But what had been uncovered during these evaluations was something beyond comprehension.
As the council members listened intently to Maggie’s presentation, a chill ran down their spines. The footage from the CCTV inspections revealed something sinister lurking within the depths of the sewer system. Strange, shadowy figures could be seen darting in and out of view, their movements quick and unnatural. The smoke testing had uncovered hidden passageways and tunnels that seemed to lead to nowhere, twisting and turning in a maze-like fashion.
Maggie’s voice wavered as she spoke, her hands trembling as she clicked through the presentation slides. She recounted how during one inspection, the camera had captured a fleeting glimpse of a faceless entity staring back at it from the darkness of a sewer tunnel. The footage had sent chills down the spines of the workers reviewing it, and rumors had begun to circulate amongst the team that something malevolent was residing within the city’s sewer system.
As the council members deliberated over whether to accept the project and authorize the filing of a “Notice of Completion,” a sense of unease settled over the room. Whispers of unease floated through the air, accompanied by a feeling of dread that seemed to seep into the very walls of the council chambers.
Despite the fiscal impact being minimal and the project meeting the city’s goals of providing effective services, a sense of foreboding hung over the decision to accept the Systemwide Sewer Evaluations Project 2023. As the vote was taken and the decision was made to move forward with the project, a sudden chill swept through the room, causing the lights to flicker ominously.
And as the council members filed out of the chambers, a faint, echoing laughter could be heard, reverberating through the empty halls of City Hall, a chilling reminder of the darkness that lurked within the city’s sewer system. The Systemwide Sewer Evaluations Project 2023 had uncovered something far more sinister than anyone could have imagined, and Eureka City Council had unknowingly unleashed a horror that would haunt them for years to come.
— LoCOBot
DOCUMENTS:
3. Fishermen's Terminal Pilings Replacement Project Award
The Eureka City Council is considering awarding a contract for a project to replace pilings at the Fishermen’s Terminal to West Coast Contractors for $499,748. The total cost of the project, including a contingency fund, is $524,735. The project was advertised for bids and four were received, with West Coast Contractors being the lowest bidder. The Council’s goals for this project include effective governance and communication, as well as community pride.
— LoCOBot
… or, as an Elizabethan sonnet!
![](https://lostcoastoutpost.com/loco-static/img/gennie.png)
Upon the pier by Eureka’s proud sea’s embrace,
A project bids for council’s firm regard,
To replace aging pilings with steadfast grace,
By West Coast Contractors, the low bid card.
Declare them victor, award in hand,
For fisherfolk and vessels safe at rest,
With funds approved and contingency grand,
Their work shall be of highest quality blessed.
In governance and pride, this task is met,
To strengthen ties and uphold the town’s name,
Community spirit, never to forget,
In every structure, our love shall proclaim.
With diligence and care, let work commence,
For Eureka’s heart, the fishermen’s defense.
— LoCOBot
DOCUMENTS:
4. Water Improvements 2023 Project - Acceptance
The Eureka City Council is being asked to accept a water improvements project for 2023. The project involves replacing aging water valve clusters to improve the distribution system and prevent disruptions to paved surfaces. The project was approved for funding and awarded to a construction company. The project costs increased due to changes in the scope of work, but were covered by contingency funds. The project has been completed in accordance with the plans and specifications, and staff recommends accepting it.
— LoCOBot
![](https://lostcoastoutpost.com/loco-static/img/gennie.png)
Eau si précieuse, source de vie
Dans notre ville, on en prend soin
Le Conseil est fier de vous dire
Que les améliorations sont enfin loin
Kelly Allen, gestionnaire de projet
Nous a tout préparé avec soin
Le projet accepté à l’unanimité
Pour assurer notre bien-être demain
Les valves d’eau vieillissantes remplacées
Avant le pavage, pour ne pas déranger
Un contrôle accru en cas de problème
Notre sécurité est ainsi assurée
Les rues I, H et California
Ont été améliorées avec grand zèle
Mercer-Fraser Company, le constructeur
A tout fait avec talent et fidélité
Le coût du projet a augmenté
Mais couvert par notre réserve
Pour garantir une fin réussie
L’eau, notre bien le plus cher
Le Conseil recommande avec fierté
D’accepter ce projet tant attendu
Et d’autoriser l’enregistrement au comté
Pour que chacun soit informé et ému
Eau si précieuse, source de vie
Dans notre ville, on en prend soin
Grâce à ce projet, notre avenir
Avec l’eau, sera toujours serein.
— LoCOBot
DOCUMENTS:
5. Local Housing Trust Fund (LHTF) 2024 Notice of Funding Availability (NOFA)
The Eureka City Council is discussing the 2024 Local Housing Trust Fund (LHTF) and the Notice of Funding Availability (NOFA). They are recommending adopting resolutions, authorizing the City Manager to execute the LHTF Program Application, and setting guidelines for loans funded through the LHTF. The purpose is to provide funding for housing projects, including Additional Dwelling Units (ADUs) and Junior Accessory Dwelling Units (JADUs). The council also plans to secure ongoing revenue for the Trust from transient occupancy taxes. The overall goal is to support affordable housing initiatives in the city.
— LoCOBot
![](https://lostcoastoutpost.com/loco-static/img/gennie.png)
Oh Eureka, our city so grand
Building homes with a helping hand
Local Housing Trust Fund, we stand
To support our community’s demand
Authorizing resolution, we embrace
Funding homes with love and grace
City Manager leading the chase
For a brighter future, we race
Uniform Multifamily Regulations we uphold
Guiding standards for homes untold
California Tax Credit Allocation, bold
Ensuring housing for young and old
Loans at 3 percent simple interest
Affordable housing, we insist
$100,000 annually, we enlist
To provide homes for all, our wish
Eureka Builds It, our program’s name
For ADUs and JADUs, we aim
Bringing hope, erasing shame
In our city, we will reclaim
So let’s sing, dance, and play
Housing for all, come what may
Eureka City Council, leading the way
Building homes, day by day.
— LoCOBot
DOCUMENTS:
Staff Report • LHTF_Authorizing_Resolution • Uniform Multifamily Regulations • California Tax Credit Alocation Committee Operating Cost per Unit Minimums
G. LEGISLATIVE ACTION CORRESPONDENCE
H. ORDINANCES/RESOLUTIONS
1. City of Eureka’s Corporation Yard Property Surplus
The City of Eureka’s Corporation Yard property, located at 945 W 14th Street, is being declared surplus land. This is because the city has acquired a new site for the Corporation Yard and the current site is at risk of natural disasters and is not suitable for expansion or renovation. The Planning Commission has reviewed and recommended the declaration of surplus property. The City Council will now review the recommendation and approve the declaration. This process does not have a significant impact on the environment and the site may be sold or leased for future development.
— LoCOBot
![](https://lostcoastoutpost.com/loco-static/img/gennie.png)
(Scene from an Arthur Miller play, set in the Eureka City Council meeting)
(At the Eureka City Council meeting, the room is filled with council members, city staff, and concerned citizens. Development Services Director, Cristin Kenyon, stands at the podium, presenting the agenda item on the surplus declaration of the Corporation Yard property.)
Cristin Kenyon: (addressing the council) Ladies and gentlemen, we are here today to discuss the surplus declaration of the Corporation Yard property located at 945 W 14th Street. As you all know, this property is no longer needed by the city due to the acquisition of a new site for the Corp Yard. The existing site poses significant safety risks and is no longer suitable for our needs.
Council Member Johnson: (interrupting) Ms. Kenyon, can you elaborate on the potential uses of this surplus property once it is declared as such?
Cristin Kenyon: (nodding) Certainly, Council Member Johnson. Once the property is declared surplus, it opens up the possibility for affordable housing and open space development. However, it is important to note that the site is not ideal for housing due to its location in an industrial district. Any future development would require rezoning and a comprehensive plan amendment.
Council Member Thompson: (leaning forward) What steps will the city take to ensure that the property is utilized in a way that benefits the community?
Cristin Kenyon: (adjusting her glasses) Our primary goal is to negotiate in good faith with any entity interested in using the property for open-space or affordable housing purposes. If no suitable offers are made during the negotiation period, the city will have the discretion to sell or lease the property to an entity of our choosing. Ultimately, the City Council will determine the best course of action for the community.
Mayor Wilson: (raising her hand) Thank you, Ms. Kenyon. Are there any further questions or comments from the council or the public?
(Several council members and citizens raise their hands, eager to voice their opinions on the surplus declaration.)
(As the discussion continues, tensions rise among the council members, with some advocating for affordable housing development on the property and others expressing concerns about the potential impact on the surrounding community. The mayor struggles to maintain order as the debate heats up.)
Mayor Wilson: (banging the gavel) Order, order! Let’s keep the discussion focused on the issue at hand. We must consider all viewpoints and come to a decision that benefits the city as a whole.
(The council members eventually reach a decision on the surplus declaration, with compromises made to address the concerns raised during the meeting. The scene ends with a sense of resolution and a commitment to move forward with the development of the Corporation Yard property for the betterment of the community.)
— LoCOBot
DOCUMENTS:
Staff Report • Attachment 1 - City Council Resolution • Attachment 2 - 2.01 Sale of City-owned Property • Attachment 3 - Planning Commission Reso • Attachment 4 - Planning Commission Staff Report
The Eureka City Council is considering a Vacant Building Ordinance to address concerns about empty buildings. The ordinance aims to encourage building owners to make their properties tenantable to address blight and housing shortages. The draft ordinance has been reviewed and modified by various city departments and commissions before being brought to the City Council for adoption. The Council will discuss and possibly adopt the ordinance at an upcoming meeting.
— LoCOBot
![](https://lostcoastoutpost.com/loco-static/img/gennie.png)
DETECTIVE NOVEL: SHADOWS OF THE CITY
It was a quiet evening in Eureka City, but Autumn E. Luna, the sharp and observant City Attorney, couldn’t shake the feeling that something sinister was lurking in the shadows. As she prepared for the upcoming City Council meeting to discuss the Adoption of the Vacant Building Ordinance, she found herself drawn into a mystery that would test her skills as a detective.
As the meeting began, Autumn noticed a sense of unease among the council members. There were whispers of corruption and foul play surrounding the ordinance, and she knew that she had to uncover the truth before it was too late.
With her keen eye for detail and sharp wit, Autumn delved deep into the inner workings of the city government. She interviewed the Public Works Department, Code Enforcement, and even the Development Services Department to gather information about the vacant buildings and their owners.
But the more she dug, the more secrets she uncovered. It seemed that some powerful figures in the city were using the ordinance for their own gain, manipulating the system to benefit themselves financially while leaving the community in disarray.
As Autumn pieced together the puzzle, she found herself in the crosshairs of those who would do anything to keep their dark deeds hidden. Threats were made, and dangers lurked around every corner as she raced against time to bring the truth to light.
In a gripping showdown at the City Council meeting, Autumn revealed the corruption and manipulation that had plagued the ordinance. With the support of the Economic Development Commission and the brave whistleblowers who had come forward, she was able to sway the council members to see the truth and vote to adopt a revised version of the ordinance, putting an end to the shadowy dealings once and for all.
And as the sun rose over Eureka City, Autumn E. Luna stood victorious, a beacon of justice in a city consumed by darkness. The Vacant Building Ordinance was passed, but the real victory was in exposing the corruption that had threatened to tear the city apart. And Autumn knew that she would always be there, ready to fight for the truth and justice in the shadows of the city.
— LoCOBot
DOCUMENTS:
I. REPORTS/ACTION ITEMS
J. FUTURE AGENDA ITEMS
K. CITY MANAGER REPORTS
1. Grand Jury Report - Humboldt County, Behavioral Health, Substance Use, and the Streets: What
L. PUBLIC COMMENT CONTINUED
M. COUNCIL REPORTS / CITY-RELATED TRAVEL REPORTS