LoCOBot / @ 5:15 p.m. / Agendizer

Eureka City Council
Aug. 5, 2025, 6 p.m.

A. MAYOR'S ANNOUNCEMENTS

1. Proclamation- Coast Guard Month


B. PRESENTATIONS

C. BOARD/COMMISSION REPORTS

D. PUBLIC COMMENT PERIOD

E. PUBLIC HEARINGS

1. Appeal of the Jara Wooden Door Replacement Historic Preservation Review (HP-25-3)

The Eureka City Council is holding a public hearing to decide whether to allow the replacement of three wooden doors with nine-lite doors on a historic carriage house. The Historic Preservation Commission had initially approved the project with a condition to install different doors, but the property owner is appealing that decision. The owner argues that the new doors are more suitable for the building and will provide better natural light. City staff recommend approving the appeal and allowing the new doors. The project is considered consistent with historical preservation standards and is exempt from environmental review. The council will vote on whether to approve the new doors.

— LoCOBot

… or, as a Dungeons & Dragons campaign!

Title: The Carriage House Conundrum

Background:
The city of Eureka is a place rich in history, with many buildings and structures that are considered to be historically significant. One such building is the detached carriage house located at 904 M Street. This structure, included on the Local Register of Historic Places, has recently come under scrutiny due to proposed modifications to its exterior.

The owner of the carriage house, Colleen Jara, has applied for approval to replace three wooden doors on the eastern-facing facade of the building. The proposed replacement doors are nine-lite design, which the owner believes will better suit the current uses of the carriage house and provide more light for tenants. However, the Historic Preservation Commission has imposed a condition requiring the installation of five-panel doors, citing concerns about maintaining the original character of the building.

As tensions rise between the owner and the Commission, the fate of the carriage house hangs in the balance. It is up to a group of brave adventurers to delve into the city’s political landscape, navigate the complexities of historic preservation, and ultimately decide the fate of the Jara Wooden Door Replacement project.

Objectives:
- Investigate the history of the carriage house and determine the significance of the existing doors
- Explore the potential impact of the proposed modifications on the building and its historical value
- Engage with key stakeholders, including the owner, the Historic Preservation Commission, and city council members
- Advocate for a resolution that balances preservation with practicality and modern utility

Challenges:
- Political maneuvering and conflicting agendas within the city council
- Pressure from preservationists and community members to uphold the original design of the carriage house
- Navigating bureaucratic processes and city regulations
- Uncovering hidden motivations and rivalries among city officials

Resolution:
Ultimately, the fate of the Jara Wooden Door Replacement project rests in the hands of the adventurers. Will they choose to uphold the Commission’s decision and preserve the original character of the carriage house, or will they advocate for the owner’s proposed modifications in the name of practicality and modernization? The city council meeting looms on the horizon, and the adventurers must make their voices heard in order to shape the future of Eureka’s historic preservation efforts.

— LoCOBot

DOCUMENTS:

Staff ReportAttachment 1 - City Council Resolution Attachment 2 - Appeal of Historic Preservation Commission Decision Filed by Appellant Attachment 3 - Historic Preservation Commission Staff Report Attachment 4 - Historic Preservation Resolution


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

The Eureka City Council is reviewing proposed rate increases for solid waste collection by Recology Humboldt County. The council is considering a 9.46% increase in rates for July 2025 and a 4.29% increase for July 2024. The proposed increases are to cover rising costs such as disposal fees, labor costs, and processing expenses. The council must approve the rate adjustments to ensure the company’s expenses are covered while also considering the impact on customers, which includes increases for businesses and residents and a decrease for green waste customers.

— LoCOBot

… or, as a fantasy story!

In the mystical city of Eureka, where magic and technology blended seamlessly, the Eureka City Council gathered for their annual meeting to review the rates for solid waste collection. The council members, each representing a different district of the city, sat around a large circular table in the grand chambers of City Hall.

The meeting was led by Robin Praszker, a wise and experienced council member from the Community Services department. She presented the agenda for the day, which included a recommendation to adopt a resolution approving an increase in rates for solid waste collection by Recology Humboldt County.

As the council members discussed the fiscal impact of the rate adjustment and the potential impact on the residents of Eureka, a magical energy began to fill the room. Unbeknownst to them, the ancient spirits of the city were listening in on their discussions, concerned about the changes that would affect the balance of nature in the city.

Suddenly, a shimmering portal opened in the center of the table, and a group of forest sprites emerged. These small, mischievous creatures were the protectors of the green spaces in Eureka, and they had come to voice their concerns about the proposed rate adjustments.

The sprites spoke in musical voices, pleading with the council to reconsider the rate increase for green waste collection. They explained that the increase would lead to fewer residents recycling their organic waste, which would harm the delicate balance of nature in the city. Without proper composting, the soil would become depleted, and the magical creatures that relied on the green spaces for their homes would suffer.

Moved by the sprites’ plea, the council members listened intently and realized the importance of maintaining a sustainable waste management system for the city. They decided to amend the resolution and approve a smaller increase in the green waste fee, ensuring that residents could continue to compost their organic waste responsibly.

As a token of gratitude, the forest sprites performed a dazzling display of magic, filling the council chambers with sparkling lights and floral scents. The council members were awestruck by the beauty and power of nature that surrounded them, and they made a promise to always consider the impact of their decisions on the natural world.

With the resolution amended and the spirits of the city appeased, the meeting concluded, and the council members left City Hall with a renewed sense of responsibility towards their magical city. And so, the balance of nature in Eureka remained intact, thanks to the wisdom and compassion of those who governed it.

— LoCOBot

DOCUMENTS:

Staff ReportResolution_Annual Rate Review Attachment 1Annual Rate Review and Adjustment Fiscal Year 2024-2025 Attachment 2 Annual Rate Review and Adjustment Fiscal Year 2025-2026


3. Accessory Dwelling Unit (ADU) and SB 9 Inland Zoning Code Update

The Eureka City Council is proposing updates to the zoning code related to accessory dwelling units (ADUs) and SB 9. These updates align local regulations with current State law and include changes such as allowing unpermitted ADUs, exempting parking replacements, and allowing more detached ADUs on multi-family lots. The Planning Commission has recommended that the City Council adopt the proposed ordinance after making modifications to comply with State law. The City Council will hold a public hearing to discuss and vote on the changes.

— LoCOBot

… or, as a sea shanty!

(Chorus)
Oh, the City Council’s gathered ‘round,
To update laws on solid ground,
For ADUs and zoning too,
To make sure all is fair and true.

(Verse 1)
Cristin Kenyon, she leads the way,
With recommendations clear as day,
Hold a public hearing, find exempt,
From CEQA laws, no need to attempt.

(Chorus)
Oh, the City Council’s gathered ‘round,
To update laws on solid ground,
For ADUs and zoning too,
To make sure all is fair and true.

(Verse 2)
No fiscal impact, no need to fret,
Council goals upheld, a vision set,
Housing laws in check, always aligned,
Consistency key, for peace of mind.

(Chorus)
Oh, the City Council’s gathered ‘round,
To update laws on solid ground,
For ADUs and zoning too,
To make sure all is fair and true.

(Verse 3)
State laws evolve, changes to heed,
Amnesty for ADUs, a new deed,
Parking exemptions, detached units,
Condo sales allowed, new pursuit.

(Chorus)
Oh, the City Council’s gathered ‘round,
To update laws on solid ground,
For ADUs and zoning too,
To make sure all is fair and true.

(Verse 4)
Planning Commission, public spoke,
In support of changes, no revoke,
City Council now must take the stand,
Approve with modification, a steady hand.

(Chorus)
Oh, the City Council’s gathered ‘round,
To update laws on solid ground,
For ADUs and zoning too,
To make sure all is fair and true.

(Outro)
So here’s to Eureka, a city grand,
With laws updated, all well planned,
ADUs and zoning, now in sync,
Thanks to Council, in a blink.

— LoCOBot

DOCUMENTS:

Staff ReportAttachment 1 - Bill No. 1049-C.S. Attachment 2 - Redline Edits to EMC Chapter 155 Attachment 3 - Applicable CA Govt. Code Sections Attachment 4 - Planning Commission Packet Attachment 5 - Email Correspondence with HCD Staff


F. CONSENT CALENDAR

1. Council Minutes

2. Hill and McCullens Pump Stations Pump Upgrades Project Acceptance

The Eureka City Council is discussing the completion of a project to upgrade sewer pump stations at Hill and McCullens locations. The project involved purchasing new pumps and hiring a construction company to install them. The total cost of the project was under budget, and the council is recommending that the project be accepted as complete.

— LoCOBot

… or, as a Bruce Springsteen song!

(Verse 1)
In Eureka City, where the streets run wild
The pump stations needed an upgrade in style
Forty years of service, they had seen their day
But now it’s time for a change to come our way

(Chorus)
Hill and McCullens Pump Stations, pumping strong
Keeping our city moving right along
With Xylem pumps and Mercer-Fraser crew
We’re keeping our health and safety in view

(Verse 2)
From Tydd Street to Truesdale Avenue
We’ve got the best in infrastructure to pursue
Xylem pumps, they’re built to last
And Mercer-Fraser, they’re top of the class

(Chorus)
Hill and McCullens Pump Stations, pumping strong
Keeping our city moving right along
With Xylem pumps and Mercer-Fraser crew
We’re keeping our health and safety in view

(Bridge)
The project’s complete, the budget’s in line
We’re proud of the work that’s been done this time
So let’s raise a toast to our city’s success
And keep on striving for excellence

(Chorus)
Hill and McCullens Pump Stations, pumping strong
Keeping our city moving right along
With Xylem pumps and Mercer-Fraser crew
We’re keeping our health and safety in view

(Outro)
Eureka City Council, we’ve done it right
Our infrastructure shining bright
Hill and McCullens Pump Stations, they’re the best
Keeping our city safe, we passed the test

— LoCOBot

DOCUMENTS:

Staff Report


3. Municipal Auditorium West Wing Improvements 2025 - Bid 2025-06 - Award

The Eureka City Council is recommending that ORW Architecture be awarded the contract to design improvements to the Municipal Auditorium’s West Wing. The project aims to enhance public facilities and create a more welcoming community space. The Council has reviewed proposals from different firms and decided that ORW Architecture is the best choice for the project. The recommended budget for the design services is $455,552.

— LoCOBot

… or, as a town crier's speech!

Hear ye, hear ye, good people of Eureka! I bring you news from the City Council meeting regarding the Municipal Auditorium – West Wing Improvements 2025 project.

The Engineering Department, under the leadership of Special Projects Manager Matt Grosjean, has prepared a recommendation to declare ORW Architecture as the preferred architectural firm to lead the design services for this important project. The Council is also being asked to award the design services contract to ORW Architecture and approve a budget of up to $455,552 for the design services fee.

This project is in line with the Council’s goals and strategic vision of committing to the health and safety of both the public and staff, improving public facilities, and fostering a more welcoming community amenity.

The Municipal Auditorium, which dates back to 1936, is in need of upgrades and improvements. After an extensive review of proposals from various architectural firms, it has been determined that ORW Architecture has offered the best value in terms of services, expertise, and vision for the project.

Therefore, it is recommended that the Council approve the recommendation to move forward with ORW Architecture as the preferred bidder for the Municipal Auditorium – West Wing Improvements 2025 project.

Let us support the enhancement of our beloved Municipal Auditorium and create a better space for all to enjoy. Thank you for your attention, and may progress and prosperity reign in our great city of Eureka!

— LoCOBot

DOCUMENTS:

Staff Report


4. Crowley Property Electrical Installation Project Bid No. 2024-11 -Project Acceptance

The Eureka City Council is recommending accepting and finalizing a project for the Crowley Property Electrical Installation. This project was part of a larger effort to provide sustainable community development to reduce homelessness. The project was funded by grants, local contractors, and community partners, with the final work being the electrical infrastructure construction. The project was awarded to Spencer Electric for a bid of $207,036, with a final cost of $228,288. The city staff recommends accepting the project and filing a notice of completion.

— LoCOBot

… or, as a Brazilian carnival song!

Vamos celebrar, é carnaval
Em Eureka City, a festa não pode parar
Crowley Property elétrico a brilhar
A cidade se ilumina, é hora de festejar

Brittany Powell, a gerente do projeto
Fez acontecer, não há desgosto
Aceitar o projeto, é a decisão certa
Vamos autorizar, a conclusão está perto

Parceiros comunitários, CAPE em ação
Reduzir a sem-teto, é nossa missão
Funding garantido, do Cal ICH
Modular housing, uma solução rica

Spencer Electric, o contratante escolhido
Por $207,036, o projeto foi conduzido
Mudanças no caminho, mas tudo se resolveu
Festa na cidade, a energia fluiu

Agora é hora, de comemorar
Aceitamos o projeto, vamos celebrar
Eureka City, a dançar e cantar
No Carnaval, fazemos história sem parar

Chegou a hora, de anunciar
O Crowley Property, é para celebrar
Fica registrado, no escritório oficial
Com alegria e festa, a tudo embelezar

Vamos todos juntos, em união
Eureka City, a nossa paixão
Carnaval brasileiro, é a inspiração
Festa e alegria, em cada coração

Vamos celebrar, com muita animação
Eureka City Council, a nossa canção
Crowley Property, um marco na história
No Carnaval, celebramos a vitória!

— LoCOBot

DOCUMENTS:

Staff Report


5. Board and Commission Appointments


6. Commercial Street Marine Fueling Facility - Tank Replacement Project

The Eureka City Council is recommending the purchase of an aboveground fuel storage tank for the Commercial Street marine fueling facility to replace the existing underground tanks. This is necessary because the current tanks do not meet state regulations and need to be removed by a certain deadline to avoid penalties. The new tank will cost approximately $1,000,000 and will be funded from transportation maintenance funds. The Council is asked to receive the report, authorize staff to enter into contracts for the project, and approve the additional appropriation.

— LoCOBot

… or, as an episode of Seinfeld!

INT. MONK’S CAFE - DAY

(Jerry, George, Elaine, and Kramer are sitting at a booth, discussing their latest misadventures)

Jerry: So get this, the city council is spending $1 million to replace an underground fuel tank at the marine fueling facility on Commercial Street.

Elaine: That seems like a lot of money for a tank.

George: And why do we care about some fuel tank?

Jerry: Well, apparently it’s a big deal because the current tanks are not compliant with state law and they are facing penalties if they don’t replace them.

Kramer: Ahh, the old underground fuel tank switcheroo. I’ve seen it a million times.

Jerry: You have?

Kramer: Oh yeah, it’s a classic move. They take out the old tank, put in a new one, and act like nothing ever happened.

Elaine: Well, I guess that makes sense. But $1 million seems like a lot for a tank replacement.

George: Maybe we should get in on this tank business. It sounds like there’s some money to be made.

Jerry: Oh, I’m sure the city council has it all under control. They wouldn’t just throw away $1 million on a tank without a good reason.

INT. EUREKA CITY COUNCIL MEETING - DAY

(Jerry, George, Elaine, and Kramer sneak into the back of the meeting room, disguised in glasses and fake mustaches)

COUNCIL MEMBER: And now we will discuss the purchase of the aboveground fuel storage tank for the Commercial Street marine fueling facility.

JERRY: (whispers) This is it, the big reveal.

GEORGE: (whispers) I can’t wait to see this tank.

ELAINE: (whispers) Shh, they’re talking about the tank.

KRAMER: (whispers) I bet it’s a beauty.

(Jerry, George, Elaine, and Kramer eagerly listen as the council members discuss the tank replacement project and the $1 million appropriation)

COUNCIL MEMBER: All in favor of approving the tank replacement project and the additional $1 million appropriation?

(The council members raise their hands)

JERRY: (whispers) Well, I guess that settles it.

GEORGE: (whispers) Looks like we missed our chance to get in on the tank business.

ELAINE: (whispers) I told you they had it under control.

KRAMER: (whispers) Ahh, the sweet smell of success. And fuel.

(The gang watches as the council members continue with the meeting, satisfied with their brief stint in the world of municipal tank replacements)

FADE OUT.

— LoCOBot

DOCUMENTS:

Staff Report


7. Policy Update - 3.30 Temporary Disability Leave, 3.29 Parental Bonding Leave

The Eureka City Council is updating its policies on temporary disability leave and parental bonding leave to align with California state standards. The changes aim to provide better benefits for employees recovering from childbirth and those bonding with a new child. The policies include improvements such as automatically granting leave for childbirth recovery and providing paid bonding leave for up to eight weeks. These updates are designed to support employee wellbeing, work-life balance, and family planning.

— LoCOBot

… or, as a romance story!

In the bustling city of Eureka, where city policies and council meetings dominate the agenda, two individuals find themselves unexpectedly drawn to each other amidst the chaos of bureaucracy.

Will Folger, the Director of Human Resources, is a dedicated and hardworking man who has spent years crafting and implementing policies to benefit the employees of Eureka. His focus on employee wellbeing and work-life balance has earned him respect and admiration from his colleagues and the community.

On the other hand, there’s Emily, a passionate and ambitious employee who is determined to make a difference in the world. She attends every council meeting and diligently reads through all the proposed policies, looking for ways to improve the lives of her fellow employees.

When Will presents his latest policy update on Temporary Disability Leave and Parental Bonding Leave, Emily is immediately intrigued. The compassion and thoughtfulness behind the policies resonate with her own values, and she can’t help but admire Will for his dedication to creating a supportive workplace environment.

As they work closely together to implement the new policies, a spark ignites between Will and Emily. Their shared passion for making a positive impact on the lives of others brings them closer together, and they soon find themselves falling in love amidst the stacks of paperwork and council meetings.

But as their romance blossoms, they face challenges and obstacles that threaten to tear them apart. Will’s commitment to his job and Emily’s drive to make a difference clash, causing tension between them. They must navigate their feelings for each other while balancing their professional responsibilities and personal desires.

Ultimately, Will and Emily must decide whether their love can withstand the pressures of their demanding careers and the fast-paced world of city politics. Can they find a way to prioritize their relationship while still making a positive impact on the lives of others in Eureka? Only time will tell as they navigate the complexities of love, work, and the ever-changing landscape of city policy.

— LoCOBot

DOCUMENTS:

Staff Report3.30 Temporary Disability Leave - 2025 3.29 Parental Bonding Leave 2025


G. LEGISLATIVE ACTION CORRESPONDENCE

H. ORDINANCES/RESOLUTIONS

1. Amendment to Eureka Municipal Code Section 150.105-121 for Live/Work Occupancies.

2. Amendment to Eureka Municipal Code Chapter 130.30 for Abandoned and Derelict

The Eureka City Council is considering a proposal to amend the city’s Municipal Code regarding abandoned shopping carts. The proposal suggests charging fees for businesses to retrieve their abandoned carts to reduce waste and expenses. The amendment is not expected to have a significant impact on the environment. The council is recommended to waive full reading and introduce the ordinance.

— LoCOBot

… or, as a Rodney Dangerfield joke!

“I tell ya, I went to the Eureka City Council meeting and they’re all about trying to wrangle those abandoned shopping carts. They wanna charge fees for ‘em, like they’re little lost puppies or somethin’. Next thing you know they’ll be setting up a shopping cart adoption agency!”

— LoCOBot

DOCUMENTS:

Staff ReportBILL 1046- 130.30


I. REPORTS/ACTION ITEMS

1. League of California Cities Voting Delegate


2. Humboldt County Association of Governments (HCAOG) Memorandum of Understanding

The Eureka City Council is being asked to approve a Memorandum of Understanding with the Humboldt County Association of Governments (HCAOG) for a transit planning project called PAACT. The project is funded by a grant with a required city match. The goal is to build strong relationships among different organizations involved in transit planning and consider socio-economic and equity factors. The council is recommended to approve the MOU and staff time match for this project.

— LoCOBot

… or, as a Funkadelic song!

(Verse 1)
Listen up now, Eureka City Council’s got a plan
Gonna make some moves with HCAOG, oh man
Memorandum of Understanding, we’re on the same page
Working together for the PAACT project, paving the way

(Chorus)
Let’s get funky with the Humboldt County Association of Governments
Getting things done, no time for arguments
We’re on a mission, making changes for the better
City and HCAOG, working together

(Verse 2)
Fiscal impacts, we got it covered in the budget
No need to worry, we won’t fudge it
Council goals and vision, effective governance in sight
With this MOU, we’re gonna do it right

(Chorus)
Let’s get funky with the Humboldt County Association of Governments
Getting things done, no time for arguments
We’re on a mission, making changes for the better
City and HCAOG, working together

(Bridge)
Collaborative planning, building strong relationships
Among transit providers, tribes, and agencies, no skips
Socio-economic factors, equity in mind
With Caltrans by our side, we’re gonna shine

(Chorus)
Let’s get funky with the Humboldt County Association of Governments
Getting things done, no time for arguments
We’re on a mission, making changes for the better
City and HCAOG, working together

(Outro)
So let’s approve this MOU, and get to work
Making Eureka’s transit system, a true perk
HCAOG and the City, hand in hand
Funky collaboration, taking a stand.

— LoCOBot

DOCUMENTS:

Staff ReportMOU


J. FUTURE AGENDA ITEMS

K. CITY MANAGER REPORTS

L. PUBLIC COMMENT CONTINUED

M. COUNCIL REPORTS / CITY-RELATED TRAVEL REPORTS


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