Isabella Vanderheiden / @ 12:22 p.m. / Agendizer

As Avelo Faces Growing Public Scrutiny for Deportation Flights, Eureka City Council Considers Taking its Business Elsewhere

Photo via Avelo Airlines.


PREVIOUSLY: Avelo Airlines to Launch ICE-Led Deportation Flights Out of Arizona (But Not California, the Company Says)

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As public criticism builds over Avelo Airlines’ controversial decision to operate federal deportation flights, the City of Eureka is reconsidering its use of the low-cost carrier.

Since Avelo launched air service from Humboldt County to the Hollywood Burbank Airport in 2021, the City of Eureka has taken advantage of the airline’s ultra-low-cost fares to fly city staff to Southern California for “various operational, administrative, and intergovernmental purposes.” In recent months, however, the airline has come under fire after it brokered a deal with the U.S. Department of Homeland Security to run U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) deportation flights out of Arizona, prompting numerous protests and a national boycott campaign.

At next week’s meeting, the Eureka City Council will look at the potential drawbacks of switching to a more expensive airline. 

“For Fiscal Year 2024-25, the City estimates approximately $2,500 in total travel expenditures to Southern California using Avelo Airlines,” the staff report states. “However, it is important to note that Avelo Airlines has recently entered into a federal contract to provide deportation flights. While this is not directly related to their commercial passenger service, it has generated some public concern and may warrant additional community awareness or discussion.”

United Airlines also provides air service between Humboldt and Los Angeles, but the tickets are “on average 30 to 40 percent higher than those offered by Avelo.”

“For Fiscal Year (FY) 2024-25, the City estimates approximately $2,500 in total travel expenditures to Southern California using Avelo Airlines,” the staff report continues. “Estimated travel costs using United Airlines would likely exceed approximately $3,500 (~40% increase) for similar travel activity in FY 2025-26.”

The staff report includes two options: 1) Continued use of Avelo Airlines for cost-effective travel or 2) Transition to United Airlines despite higher costs.

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Elsewhere in the meeting, the city council will review the city’s Gulch Greenway Ordinance, which would establish an overlay zone over Cooper Gulch, Second Gulch and the gulches of Martin Slough to preserve the city’s gulches and greenways. The ordinance, if approved, would establish additional development and permitting standards for parcels within the Gulch Greenway Management Area.

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.


Eureka City Council
June 17, 2025, 6 p.m.

A. MAYOR'S ANNOUNCEMENTS

1. Pride Month 2025


2. Golden Rule Peace Boat


3. U.S. Coast Guard Change of Command Recognition of Commander Powers and Family;


4. Zoo Quest Fundraiser Announcement


B. PRESENTATIONS

1. Humboldt Economic Survey Results


2. 2025 Friday Night Market Season and Choose Humboldt Campaign


C. BOARD/COMMISSION REPORTS

D. PUBLIC COMMENT PERIOD

E. PUBLIC HEARINGS

1. Lease Revenue Bonds, Series 2025

The Eureka City Council is considering issuing lease revenue bonds to finance the construction and improvement of public facilities, such as a new corporation yard, upgrades to City Hall, and improvements to the Municipal Auditorium. The bonds would be repaid through lease payments made by the city. The financial implications include an estimated principal amount of $32 million with annual payments of approximately $2.06 million. Various financial advisors and legal counsel are involved in the process. The city is required to disclose certain financial estimates before authorizing the bonds. The council will hold a public hearing and consider adopting resolutions related to the bond issuance.

— LoCOBot

… or, as a bedtime story!

Once upon a time in the city of Eureka, there was a council meeting held to discuss an important matter regarding the future of public capital facilities. The Finance Director, Lane Millar, prepared a detailed agenda for the City Council to consider, which included the issuance of Lease Revenue Bonds, Series 2025.

As the sun began to set over the city, the council gathered in the chamber to discuss the proposed bonds. They talked about funding for a new corporation yard, known as the “Ops Complex,” as well as improvements to City Hall and the Municipal Auditorium. These projects were essential to the growth and development of Eureka, ensuring a better future for all who lived there.

After much discussion and deliberation, the council made a decision. They would hold a public hearing to gather input from the community and then move forward with the issuance of the bonds. The council knew that these investments were necessary to create a financially stable and effectively run city, in line with their strategic vision.

As the meeting came to an end, they adopted resolutions approving the issuance of the Lease Revenue Bonds, Series 2025. The council knew that these bonds would help fund essential infrastructure projects that would benefit the entire city.

With the council’s decision made, the city could look forward to a brighter future with modernized facilities and improved public spaces. As night fell over Eureka, the residents of the city could rest easy knowing that their leaders were working hard to ensure a better tomorrow for all. And so, with the promise of progress in the air, the city of Eureka settled down for a peaceful night’s rest, dreaming of the bright future that lay ahead. The end.

— LoCOBot

DOCUMENTS:

Staff ReportCity Resolution - City of Eureka Lease Revenue Bonds Series 2025 Authority Resolution - City of Eureka Lease Revenue Bonds Series 2025 1 - Ground Lease - Eureka Lease Revenue Bonds Series 2025 2 - Lease Agreement - City of Eureka Lease Revenue Bonds Series 2025 3 - Indenture - City of Eureka Lease Revenue Bonds Series 2025 4 - Memorandum of Lease Assignment - Eureka Lease Revenue Bonds Series 2025 5 - Preliminary Official Statement - City of Eureka 2025 LRBs-4156-4007-1258-v7 6 - Bond Purchase Agreement - Eureka Lease Revenue Bonds Series 2025 7 - Continuing Disclosure Certificate - City of Eureka Lease Revenue Bonds Series 2025


2. Public Hearing and Resolution Confirming and Ordering Special Assessments for Unpaid Garbage and Recycling Collection Fees

The Eureka City Council is holding a public hearing to address unpaid garbage and recycling collection fees. Property owners are responsible for paying these fees, and if they become delinquent, the city can place a lien against their property. The council will discuss and possibly adopt a resolution to collect these fees through property taxes.

— LoCOBot

… or, as a megachurch sermon!

Brothers and sisters, I come before you today with a heavy heart as we discuss the issue of unpaid garbage and recycling collection fees in our beloved city of Eureka. As members of this community, it is our responsibility to maintain cleanliness and order in our surroundings, and part of that responsibility includes paying for the services that help keep our streets clean and our environment healthy.

The Community Services Department has brought to our attention the need to address delinquent accounts for garbage and recycling collection fees. It is important to note that the responsibility for paying these fees lies with the property owner, not the tenant, as mandated by our city ordinance. When these fees go unpaid, it not only affects the financial well-being of our community but also undermines the efforts to keep our city clean and sustainable.

As a church community, we are called to be stewards of the resources that have been entrusted to us by God. This includes taking care of the environment and ensuring that our city remains a safe and healthy place for all its residents. By neglecting to pay these essential fees, we are failing in our duty to be good stewards of the blessings that have been bestowed upon us.

The City Council has recommended holding a public hearing to address any objections or protests regarding the unpaid fees and to make adjustments as deemed just. It is important for us, as members of this community, to participate in this process and ensure that justice is served for all parties involved.

In the book of Proverbs, it is written, “Whoever oppresses the poor shows contempt for their Maker, but whoever is kind to the needy honors God.” Let us remember these words as we consider the impact of unpaid fees on those who are struggling to make ends meet in our community. Let us show compassion and generosity towards our neighbors and work together to find a solution that upholds justice and righteousness.

I urge you, my dear brothers and sisters, to take heed of this issue and to act with wisdom and compassion in addressing the unpaid garbage and recycling collection fees in our city. Let us come together in prayer and solidarity, seeking guidance from the Holy Spirit as we navigate this challenging situation. Together, we can make a difference and ensure that our city remains a shining example of cleanliness, order, and community spirit.

May God bless us with the wisdom and strength we need to overcome this challenge and may His grace guide us towards a resolution that honors the values of justice, compassion, and stewardship. Amen.

— LoCOBot

DOCUMENTS:

Staff Report25-6-17 Special Assessment Resolution Report of 2024 Fees for Garbage and Recycling Collection


3. Annual Rate Review of Service Rate Adjustment for Solid Waste Collection

The Eureka City Council is reviewing a proposal to increase the rates for solid waste collection by 10.64% and a green waste fee by $1.16 starting in July 2025. This increase is necessary to cover rising costs in labor, disposal, processing, and other factors. The increase will affect commercial and residential customers differently, with the average residential customer seeing a monthly increase of $4.11. The council will need to approve the resolution before the changes can take effect.

— LoCOBot

… or, as smack talk from a professional wrestler!

Listen up, Eureka City Council! You think you can just slide in a sneaky 10.64% rate increase for solid waste collection and green waste fees while no one’s looking? Well, I’m looking, and I see right through your shady tactics. You try to justify it with all your fancy numbers and agreements with Recology Humboldt County, but let me break it down for you in a language you’ll understand.

You wanna hit the average commercial customer with a $259.86 per month increase? Or how about the average residential customer with a $42.78 per month increase? And let’s not forget about those green waste customers getting slapped with a $10.21 per month increase.

But hey, don’t worry about the little guys - just keep lining your pockets with that 9% Franchise Fee and that sweet 20% profit margin. Must be nice sipping on that profit while the rest of us are stuck with higher bills to pay.

You may have your fancy resolutions and numbers, Eureka City Council, but mark my words - this rate increase ain’t gonna go down easy. We’ll see who’s left standing in the end. It’s gonna be a showdown you won’t forget.

— LoCOBot

DOCUMENTS:

Staff ReportResolution_Annual Rate Review Annual Rate Review and Adjustment Fiscal Year 2025-2026


4. Gulch Greenway Overlay Zone and Associated Municipal Code Updates

The Eureka City Council is proposing new regulations to protect the city’s gulches and greenways, which are important natural areas. The proposed bills include creating a new Gulch Greenway Overlay Zone and updating the city’s zoning and building codes. These changes aim to preserve wildlife habitat, manage stormwater, and provide public access to nature. Property owners in the affected areas were notified about the proposed changes, and there will be a public hearing to discuss and decide on the regulations. The council believes that these changes will not have a negative impact on property values and are necessary to protect the environment.

— LoCOBot

… or, as a high-energy radio advertisement!

Are you tired of seeing the natural beauty of Eureka disappear before your eyes? Do you want to protect the wildlife, streams, and wetlands that make our city unique? Then listen up!

The Eureka City Council is taking action to preserve our gulches and greenways with the new Gulch Greenway Overlay Zone and updated Municipal Code regulations. This initiative will ensure that development projects in sensitive areas are carefully evaluated and environmental impacts are minimized.

Join us at a public hearing to support Bill No. 1044-C.S. and Bill No. 1045-C.S., and help us protect Eureka’s natural resources for future generations. This is your chance to make a difference and show your commitment to a greener, more sustainable city.

Don’t miss out on this opportunity to be a part of positive change in our community. Together, we can keep Eureka beautiful and thriving for years to come. Let’s make a difference, Eureka! Join us at the next City Council meeting and show your support for the Gulch Greenway Overlay Zone. See you there!

— LoCOBot

DOCUMENTS:

Staff ReportAttachment 1 - Bill No. 1044-C.S. Attachment 2 - Bill No. 1045-C.S. Attachment 3 - Associated EMC Updates in Track Changes Attachment 4 - Planning Commission Staff Report and Reso Attachment 5 - Ordinance Changes Resulting from PC Hearing in Track Changes Attachment 6 - Written Public Comments PC Hearing


5. AB 2561 Annual Position Vacancy Rate Presentation

The City Council will be hearing a presentation on job vacancies and recruitment efforts in the city. It is required by a new law that public agencies present this information annually. The presentation will include data on staffing turnover, vacancy rates, and recruitment efforts. The goal is to improve transparency and recruitment strategies in the city.

— LoCOBot

… or, as an episode of Seinfeld!

INT. MONK’S CAFE - DAY

Jerry, George, Elaine, and Kramer are seated at their usual booth, discussing their week’s happenings.

Jerry: So, what’s new with everyone?

George: Oh, you wouldn’t believe the nonsense I had to deal with at work this week.

Elaine: What happened?

George: Well, the City Council had this presentation about job vacancies and recruitment rates. It was so boring, I almost fell asleep.

Jerry: Ah, the joys of local government bureaucracy.

Kramer: You know, I once had a job vacancy presentation back when I worked at that big corporation. They kept track of every little detail about who was coming and going.

Jerry: And what did you do with all of that information?

Kramer: I made a chart. It was beautiful. Very colorful.

Elaine: (sarcastically) I’m sure it was a real work of art, Kramer.

George: (ignoring Kramer’s story) Anyway, the whole thing got me thinking. What if we had to do a presentation like that for our lives? Vacancy rates, recruitment strategies…

Jerry: (jokingly) I’d hate to see the turnover rate for my relationships. That would be depressing.

Elaine: (laughing) Same here. I’d be in the negatives.

George: (serious) You know, it’s not a bad idea. We could track everything from job changes to dating status. It could be a real eye-opener.

Jerry: (skeptical) I don’t know, George. That sounds like a lot of work. Plus, who would even want to listen to all of that?

Kramer: (excitedly) I would! I’ll bring my colorful chart. It’ll be a hit!

As the group continues to discuss the idea of tracking their own vacancy rates and recruitment efforts, they can’t help but wonder how their lives would measure up to the statistics presented at the City Council meeting. Little do they know, their own personal data may just be more entertaining than they realize.

FADE OUT.

END OF EPISODE.

— LoCOBot

DOCUMENTS:

Staff Report


6. FY2025-26 Budget Adoption

The Eureka City Council is meeting to discuss and adopt the budget for the fiscal year 2025-26. The budget is important for managing the city’s finances and resources to provide services to the community. The proposed budget includes balancing expenditures with revenues, maintaining basic services, and complying with financial policies. The total proposed budget is $121,296,486. The council will conduct a public hearing and adopt resolutions to approve the budget.

— LoCOBot

… or, as a romance story!

Title: Love in the City of Eureka

Lane Millar, the dedicated and hardworking finance manager of Eureka City, had always been passionate about balancing the books and ensuring the financial stability of the city. But little did he know that his focus on numbers and budgets would soon be challenged by the arrival of a new member on the city council.

Evelyn Barnes was a spirited and passionate woman who believed in the power of community engagement and public service. As the newest member of the city council, she brought a fresh perspective and a desire to make a difference in the lives of the citizens of Eureka.

When Lane and Evelyn first crossed paths during a budget meeting, there was an undeniable spark between them. Despite their differing views on certain financial matters, they couldn’t deny the attraction they felt towards each other.

As they worked closely together on the upcoming fiscal year budget, Lane and Evelyn found themselves drawn to each other in ways they couldn’t explain. Their late-night meetings turned into intimate conversations, and their debates turned into moments of shared laughter and understanding.

But as their feelings for each other grew stronger, they both realized that their budding romance was not without its challenges. With the pressure of budget deadlines looming over them and the scrutiny of their colleagues on the city council, Lane and Evelyn had to navigate their personal and professional lives with care.

In the midst of budget discussions and council meetings, Lane and Evelyn found solace in each other’s arms, finding comfort and support in the midst of chaos. And as they worked towards adopting the budget for the fiscal year 2025-26, they also worked towards building a future together in the city they both loved.

With their dedication to their work and their budding romance, Lane and Evelyn proved that love can blossom even in the most unexpected of places. And as they stood together at the podium, presenting the adopted budget to the city council, they knew that their love story was just beginning in the city of Eureka.

— LoCOBot

DOCUMENTS:

Staff ReportResolution FY25-26 Budget Resolution EPFA FY25-26 Budget Attachment 1 - FY2025-26 Line Item Proposed Budget Attachment 2 - FY2025-26 Proposed Budget Book


F. CONSENT CALENDAR

1. Council Minutes

2. On-Call Consulting Services 2025 - Award

The Eureka City Council is recommending to authorize multiple consulting firms for on-call services for one year with the option to extend for two more years. Each firm will have a contract limit based on their services, and task orders will be prepared as needed. This process has been efficient in the past and eliminates duplication in selecting and managing consultants. The council will also consider extending the agreements annually based on the firms’ capacity and city’s needs.

— LoCOBot

… or, as a sea shanty!

(Chorus)
Oh the City Council of Eureka town
Sailors of the land, their wisdom renowned
Seeking on-call consulting services true
To keep the city running, in all that they do

(Verse)
Brittany Powell, the Project Manager bold
Presents her plan, for all to behold
To negotiate and execute, agreements so grand
With firms aplenty, across the land

(Chorus)
Oh the City Council of Eureka town
Sailors of the land, their wisdom renowned
Seeking on-call consulting services true
To keep the city running, in all that they do

(Verse)
Ben Noble, Borrelli, and Crawford too
Dudek, EBA, all up for the crew
GHD and Ghirardelli, Iteris they seek
To work with the city, in times of need

(Chorus)
Oh the City Council of Eureka town
Sailors of the land, their wisdom renowned
Seeking on-call consulting services true
To keep the city running, in all that they do

(Verse)
Task orders prepared, budgets in hand
Professional services, across the land
Efficient governance, health and safety too
With the Council’s goals, they stay true

(Chorus)
Oh the City Council of Eureka town
Sailors of the land, their wisdom renowned
Seeking on-call consulting services true
To keep the city running, in all that they do

(Outro)
So raise a cheer for Eureka City’s crew
For their dedication, unwavering and true
To keep the city thriving, in all that they do
Oh the City Council of Eureka, here’s to you!

— LoCOBot

DOCUMENTS:

Staff Report


3. Debt Management Policy Update

The Eureka City Council is updating its Debt Management Policy to ensure the city’s finances are managed effectively. The policy outlines how the city will handle its debt, ensuring transparency and compliance with legal and financial obligations. Different types of debt, such as short-term and long-term debt, are discussed, with clear guidelines on when they can be used. The policy aims to maintain public trust, support financial sustainability, and be viewed positively by rating agencies and investors.

— LoCOBot

… or, as a chanson!

Dans la belle ville d’Eureka,
Nous parlons de dettes aujourd’hui,
Le conseil se réunit, c’est une belle journée,
Pour discuter de notre politique financière.

Le Directeur des Finances, Lane Millar,
Présente la mise à jour tant attendue,
Un nouveau file numéro deux soixante-deux,
Pour guider notre ville vers un avenir radieux.

Pas d’impact financier, c’est une bonne nouvelle,
Inclus dans le budget, tout est sous contrôle,
Notre objectif : une ville stable et efficace,
Avec des citoyens engagés, c’est la base.

La politique est conforme aux meilleures pratiques,
Pour garantir la durabilité financière de la ville magique,
Elle satisfait les agences de notation et les investisseurs,
Pour assurer notre avenir, c’est un grand bonheur.

Nous définissons les types de dettes appropriés,
Pour assurer la transparence et la confiance, c’est clair,
Nous respectons nos obligations légales et financières,
Pour une gestion financière prudente et claire.

Des dettes à court terme pour nos besoins ponctuels,
Et à long terme pour nos projets exceptionnels,
Mais jamais pour des dépenses opérationnelles,
Nous agissons avec responsabilité et principes essentiels.

Dans la belle ville d’Eureka, nous avançons avec sagesse,
Grâce à notre politique de gestion de dettes, une réussite en finesse,
Approuvée par le Conseil, un pas vers l’avenir,
Une ville financièrement stable, pour toujours rayonner.

— LoCOBot

DOCUMENTS:

Staff Report2.62 Finance - Debt Management Policy


4. Request Fee Waiver for 2025 Juneteenth Festival

G. LEGISLATIVE ACTION CORRESPONDENCE

H. ORDINANCES/RESOLUTIONS

I. REPORTS/ACTION ITEMS

1. Use of Avelo Airlines

The Eureka City Council is discussing using Avelo Airlines for city staff travel to Southern California due to its cost-effective pricing compared to United Airlines. While Avelo has recently entered into a contract for deportation flights, it has raised some concerns within the community. The council will decide whether to continue using Avelo or switch to United Airlines, which is more expensive but offers an alternative option. Using Avelo Airlines saves the city money, and switching to United Airlines would result in a 40% increase in travel costs.

— LoCOBot

… or, as a Dungeons & Dragons campaign!

CAMPAIGN TITLE: Flight of the City’s Destiny

INTRODUCTION:
The city of Eureka is facing a decision regarding the use of Avelo Airlines for their travel needs. As tensions rise due to Avelo’s involvement in deportation flights, the city council must decide if they will continue to prioritize cost-effective travel or switch to United Airlines despite the higher costs. In the midst of this decision, rumors of mysterious happenings on Avelo flights have surfaced, leading to whispers of a possible curse on the airline. The adventurers are called upon to investigate these rumors and uncover the truth behind the curse of Avelo Airlines.

QUEST:

The adventurers are hired by the City Manager, Miles Slattery, to investigate the rumors of a curse on Avelo Airlines. They must travel to Southern California on an Avelo flight to gather information and uncover the source of the curse. Along the way, they will encounter various challenges and obstacles, including supernatural occurrences on the flight, suspicious passengers, and hidden dangers.

COMPETITION:

As the adventurers investigate the curse of Avelo Airlines, they will come into conflict with rival investigators who are also seeking to uncover the truth behind the mysterious happenings. These rival investigators may try to sabotage the adventurers’ efforts, mislead them with false information, or even attempt to capture or eliminate them to claim the reward for themselves.

ULTIMATE GOAL:

The ultimate goal of the campaign is for the adventurers to uncover the source of the curse on Avelo Airlines and put an end to it, restoring peace and safety to the airline and allowing the city of Eureka to continue using it for their travel needs. Along the way, the adventurers may uncover a larger conspiracy or threat that threatens the city and must be dealt with to ensure the safety and well-being of its inhabitants.

— 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

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