Isabella Vanderheiden / Today @ 12:20 p.m. / Agendizer
Eureka City Council Looks to Ban Nitrous Oxide Sales
Discarded cartridges of nitrous oxide. | Photo: Hansmuller via Wikimedia Commons - Creative Commons license
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Citing an “alarming” uptick in the recreational use of nitrous oxide among teens, the City of Eureka is moving forward with a ban on sales and distribution of the substance that would impose steep fines and potential jail time for offenders.
Recreational sales, distribution and use of nitrous oxide (laughing gas, whippits, whip-its, NOS, etc.) is already a misdemeanor in California, but there are loopholes in state regulations that allow “food grade” nitrous cartridges to be sold as a whipped cream propellant in smoke shops and some convenience stores.
The Sales of Nitrous Oxide Ordinance, if approved by the Eureka City Council, would restrict the sale and distribution of the substance within city limits “to reduce its availability for illicit use and promote the public health, safety, and welfare of the community.” The ban does not apply to licensed medical professionals, dentists and pharmacists. Food products containing nitrous oxide, including pressurized whipped cream cans, are also exempt.
Those found in violation of the ordinance “may be punished by a term in the county jail” or a $1,000 fine.
The ban is a part of a county-wide effort to limit the availability of nitrous oxide. In June, the Humboldt County Board of Supervisors banned recreational sales of nitrous oxide in the county’s unincorporated areas. Arcata and Rio Dell city councils have approved their own bans, and Blue Lake, Fortuna and Trinidad are in the process.
“Over the last several months, local government leaders have met to discuss ongoing issues related to nitrous oxide being used as an inhalant,” the staff report states. “All of the government entities in attendance agreed that this would be a useful tool to help in ensuring the health and safety of our community. The proposed ordinance was drafted and distributed to each local government entity for review and edits.”
The city council will also consider a Tobacco Retailer Licensing Ordinance that, if approved, would increase oversight over smoke shops and convenience stores in an effort to reduce minors’ access to tobacco and synthetic nicotine products. Those found in violation of the ordinance could have their tobacco retailer’s license revoked.
The proposed ordinance will prevent new pharmacies from selling tobacco products and prohibit existing pharmacies from renewing tobacco retailer licenses.
Staff will introduce both ordinances at Tuesday’s Eureka City Council meeting.
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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
Oct. 21, 2025, 6 p.m.
A. MAYOR'S ANNOUNCEMENTS
1. Proclamation- Domestic Violence Awareness Month
B. PRESENTATIONS
C. BOARD/COMMISSION REPORTS
D. PUBLIC COMMENT PERIOD
E. COUNCIL REPORTS / CITY-RELATED TRAVEL REPORTS
F. PUBLIC HEARINGS
G. CONSENT CALENDAR
DOCUMENTS:
The Eureka City Council is considering a resolution to destroy certain records in the Community Services Department that are no longer needed. This is in line with the city’s record retention policy. The records to be destroyed include harbor timecards, cash receipts, purchase orders, and rental contracts that are out of date. The recommendation has no financial impact and supports the goal of optimizing city operations. The resolution has been reviewed and approved by the City Clerk/Information Technology and the Community Services Department.
— LoCOBot

Once upon a time, in the city of Eureka, there was a bustling Community Services Department that worked tirelessly to keep the city running smoothly. Led by the diligent Donna Wood, they were responsible for keeping track of all the records and documents that were essential to their operations.
One day, Donna presented a recommendation to the City Council for the destruction of certain records that were no longer useful. These records, dating back to as far as 1999, had served their purpose and were now taking up unnecessary space. The Council, focused on optimizing city operations, agreed that it was time to let go of these outdated files.
As the sun began to set over the city, the Council gathered to adopt a Resolution for the destruction of the records. With no fiscal impact and in line with the City’s goals, they knew this was the right decision to make. Each Council member reviewed and approved the list of records to be destroyed, ensuring that all necessary steps were taken.
And so, with a unanimous vote, the Resolution was adopted, and the records were set to be destroyed. As the documents were shredded and disposed of, a sense of relief washed over the Community Services Department. They knew that this act would clear the way for new opportunities and growth in the city.
With the destruction of the records complete, the city of Eureka could now focus on building a brighter future. The Council members, Donna Wood, and the entire Community Services Department could rest easy, knowing that they had taken a step towards a more efficient and effective city operation. And as the stars twinkled in the night sky, the city of Eureka drifted off to sleep, dreaming of all the possibilities that lay ahead.
— LoCOBot
3. Accept Office of Traffic Safety (OTS) Grant
The Eureka City Council is considering accepting a grant from the Office of Traffic Safety for $70,000. The grant would fund overtime costs for additional traffic enforcement patrols like DUI checks, distracted driving patrols, and speed enforcement operations. This aligns with the council’s goal of effective governance.
— LoCOBot
… or, as a heartbreaking country/western song!

(Verse 1)
I got a call from the chief just the other day
Said we got a grant, but it came with a price to pay
Gonna be working overtime, out on the road
Trying to keep our streets safe, no matter the load
(Chorus)
But it’s breaking my heart, knowing what’s at stake
Every time I put on my badge and I walk out that gate
I see the dangers out there, with every passing car
Just trying to keep our town safe, but it feels so far
(Verse 2)
DUI Saturation Patrols, Distracted Driving too
It’s a constant battle, that we fight to get through
Bicycle and Pedestrian Enforcement, Speeding cars
We’re out here every day, trying to raise the bar
(Chorus)
But it’s breaking my heart, knowing what’s at stake
Every time I put on my badge and I walk out that gate
I see the dangers out there, with every passing car
Just trying to keep our town safe, but it feels so far
(Bridge)
I see the faces of those we’ve lost along the way
And I know that we’ll keep fighting, every single day
For the families left behind, the ones who bear the cost
We’ll keep on keeping on, no matter how much is lost
(Chorus)
But it’s breaking my heart, knowing what’s at stake
Every time I put on my badge and I walk out that gate
I see the dangers out there, with every passing car
Just trying to keep our town safe, but it feels so far
(Outro)
Accepting this grant, it’s a bittersweet deal
I’ll do what it takes, to protect and to heal
But the weight on my shoulders, it never fades away
Just trying to keep our city safe, in every single way.
— LoCOBot
DOCUMENTS:
The Eureka City Council is considering allowing the Public Works Department to use a special symbol recognizing them as first responders, similar to police and firefighters. This symbol is meant to raise awareness of the important role Public Works professionals play in emergency situations. The Council will vote on this recommendation during their meeting.
— LoCOBot

(Verse 1)
In Eureka City, by the rolling sea,
The Public Works Department, first responders be,
From dawn till dusk, they work so tirelessly,
To keep our city safe, and disaster-free.
(Chorus)
Hoist the flag, sing the song,
For the Public Works heroes, brave and strong,
With the “Public Works First Responder” symbol we’ll belong,
On National First Responders Day, let our unity be sung.
(Verse 2)
When storms rage and crashes occur,
Public Works professionals, they endure,
Working side by side with fire and police,
Ensuring safety for all, never seeking release.
(Chorus)
Hoist the flag, sing the song,
For the Public Works heroes, brave and strong,
With the “Public Works First Responder” symbol we’ll belong,
On National First Responders Day, let our unity be sung.
(Bridge)
The APWA recognition, a badge of honor true,
For those who serve with dedication, through and through,
Let the city council adopt this resolution bold,
To honor our Public Works, in the stories untold.
(Chorus)
Hoist the flag, sing the song,
For the Public Works heroes, brave and strong,
With the “Public Works First Responder” symbol we’ll belong,
On National First Responders Day, let our unity be sung.
(Outro)
So raise a cheer, for Public Works so grand,
With their symbol flying high, across the land,
On National First Responders Day, we’ll stand,
In unity and pride, hand in hand.
— LoCOBot
DOCUMENTS:
5. Board and Commission Appointments
6. Request to Begin Research and Development of an Unmanned Aerial System (UAS)
The Eureka Police Department wants to start researching and developing a drone program. Drones can help with safety and emergency situations. The police need City Council approval to start this process. They will research equipment, funding sources, training, and policies. There is no cost yet, but they need permission to move forward with the program.
— LoCOBot
… or, as a conversation between two very stoned people named Starfish and Noodles!

Starfish: Hey man, have you ever thought about drones like, for the police?
Noodles: Whoa, drones? Like, flying cameras?
Starfish: Yeah, exactly! Imagine if the cops had those, they could like, see everything from the sky.
Noodles: That’s pretty cool, man. But, like, what if they start spying on us?
Starfish: Oh man, good point. Maybe we should go to this City Council meeting and tell them not to do it!
Noodles: Yeah, let’s, like, make sure they know we’re watching them too.
Starfish: Totally, man. We gotta protect our privacy, even when we’re, like, stoned.
Noodles: Right on, bro. Let’s go stop the drone invasion!
— LoCOBot
DOCUMENTS:
7. Crowley Property Construction - Acceptance
The Eureka City Council is being asked to officially accept the completion of the Crowley Property Construction Project. This project involved building modular living facilities to reduce homelessness in the community. The project was approved earlier and now the city is being asked to file a “Notice of Completion” with the County Recorder. The project was completed within budget and in accordance with the plans and specifications. This decision aligns with the city’s goal of promoting community viability and health & safety.
— LoCOBot

(Verse 1)
Well, the Crowley Property Construction
Has been completed, it’s time for action
Brittany Powell managed it all with flair
Now it’s time for the City Council to declare
(Chorus)
Accept the Crowley Property Construction
Authorize the filing of a ‘Notice of Completion’
It’s all about community viability
Health and safety, that’s the key
(Verse 2)
The City of Eureka and CAPE
Working together, no escape
Reducing homelessness, building homes
Modular living facilities, no more roaming gnomes
(Chorus)
Accept the Crowley Property Construction
Authorize the filing of a ‘Notice of Completion’
It’s all about community viability
Health and safety, that’s the key
(Bridge)
Grading, paving, sewer, and water
Mercer-Fraser Company, they’re the trotters
Sustainable community development
Reducing homelessness, that’s the intent
(Chorus)
Accept the Crowley Property Construction
Authorize the filing of a ‘Notice of Completion’
It’s all about community viability
Health and safety, that’s the key
(Outro)
So let’s groove to the funky beat
Acceptance of construction, it’s no defeat
Eureka City Council, making a stand
For the betterment of our beloved land.
— LoCOBot
DOCUMENTS:
8. California Department of Fish and Wildlife Office of Spill Prevent and Response (OSPR) Oil
The Eureka City Council is considering receiving a grant of up to $5,000 from the California Department of Fish and Wildlife to purchase oil spill response equipment. This equipment would help the city respond to hazardous material releases in Humboldt Bay. The council is recommending approving the resolution to receive this funding as it would benefit the city’s stewardship of the bay.
— LoCOBot
… or, as an episode of Seinfeld!

[Jerry, George, Elaine, and Kramer are sitting in Monk’s Café, discussing their latest misadventures]
Jerry: So, get this. I was walking by the harbor yesterday and I saw this huge oil spill response equipment being delivered.
Elaine: Oil spill response equipment? What’s that doing in Eureka?
George: Probably for some big environmental cleanup project.
Kramer: Maybe they’re filming a movie about oil spills.
Jerry: Nah, it’s probably something boring like the city council allocating funding for it.
[Cut to City Hall, where the Eureka City Council is in session]
Councilmember: Alright, next on the agenda, the California Department of Fish and Wildlife’s grant for oil spill response equipment. Jeff Raimey, please present the recommendation.
[Cut back to Monk’s Café]
Jerry: Oil spill response equipment? That sounds like a riveting topic for City Hall.
Elaine: I bet they’ll be arguing over who gets to use the equipment first.
George: Or maybe they’ll fight over who has to pay for it.
Kramer: I once cleaned up an oil spill in the Hudson River. It was quite the adventure.
Jerry: Of course you did, Kramer.
[Cut back to City Hall]
Councilmember: Do I have a motion to approve the resolution for the grant funding?
Jerry (standing up from the crowd): I have a question!
Councilmember: Yes, sir. What is your question?
Jerry: What happens if they never actually use the oil spill response equipment? Do they get a refund?
[Councilmembers look at each other in confusion]
Councilmember: I…I’m not sure. That’s a good question. Maybe we should table this discussion for now.
[Cut back to Monk’s Café]
Jerry: And that, my friends, is how you cause a stir at City Hall.
Elaine: Only you, Jerry, only you.
George: Well, at least it made the council meeting a little less boring.
Kramer: I think I’ll join in on the next meeting. I have some great ideas for oil spill cleanups.
[They all laugh as the scene fades out]
— LoCOBot
DOCUMENTS:
9. Eureka Chinatown Monument Bid No. 2025-16 - Award
The Eureka City Council is considering awarding a bid for the construction of the Eureka Chinatown Monument Project to Sequoia Construction Specialties for $218,932. The project aims to honor the former residents of Eureka Chinatown and celebrate diversity. Funding comes from private donations and a grant. The project is exempt from environmental review. Council members are recommended to approve the bid.
— LoCOBot

In a city torn by a dark past, where the scars of history run deep, one project seeks to honor, remember, and celebrate the vibrant community that once thrived. From the ashes of tragedy rises the Eureka Chinatown Monument Project, a beacon of hope and unity for all who call Eureka home.
Follow Project Manager Brittany Powell as she navigates the complex world of city politics, community engagement, and the power of public art. With the fate of the monument hanging in the balance, Brittany must fight against time, resources, and personal obstacles to see her vision come to life.
But when the only bidder for the construction project is revealed, will the City Council see eye to eye on awarding the bid to Sequoia Construction Specialties? With tensions rising and community expectations at an all-time high, the stakes have never been greater.
Join us on a journey of resilience, perseverance, and the importance of acknowledging the past while embracing the future. Will the Eureka Chinatown Monument stand as a symbol of unity and remembrance, or will it crumble under the weight of history?
Don’t miss the heart-pounding drama and emotional journey of “Eureka Chinatown Monument Bid No. 2025-16 - Award.” Coming soon to a city council meeting near you.
— LoCOBot
DOCUMENTS:
H. LEGISLATIVE ACTION CORRESPONDENCE
I. ORDINANCES/RESOLUTIONS
1. Bill No. 1050 C.S. Sales of Nitrous Oxide Ordinance
The Eureka City Council is considering a new ordinance, Bill No. 1050 C.S., to make it illegal to sell or distribute nitrous oxide in the city, except for certain exceptions. The goal is to address the use of nitrous oxide as an inhalant, which has been a concern for local government leaders. Other nearby jurisdictions have already passed similar ordinances. The council believes that adopting this ordinance will help ensure the health and safety of the community.
— LoCOBot
… or, as a Brazilian carnival song!

(Verse 1)
Na cidade de Eureka, temos uma decisão
Vamos proibir a venda, do óxido nitroso então
Para proteger a saúde, do nosso povo querido
É hora de agir, pelo bem do nosso abrigo
(Chorus)
Carnaval, vamos celebrar
A segurança e saúde, vamos preservar
Com a lei do óxido nitroso, vamos nos unir
E garantir que todos possam sorrir
(Verse 2)
Com o Conselho da Cidade, vamos decidir
Proteger nossa gente, é o que nos faz seguir
Bill No. 1050 C.S., vamos introduzir
E garantir que ninguém possa agir com descuido
(Chorus)
Carnaval, vamos celebrar
A segurança e saúde, vamos preservar
Com a lei do óxido nitroso, vamos nos unir
E garantir que todos possam sorrir
(Verse 3)
Toda a região, está se unindo
Arcata, Rio Dell, Humboldt, estão decidindo
Blue Lake, Fortuna, Trinidad e Ferndale também
Juntos vamos garantir que a lei seja um bem
(Chorus)
Carnaval, vamos celebrar
A segurança e saúde, vamos preservar
Com a lei do óxido nitroso, vamos nos unir
E garantir que todos possam sorrir.
— LoCOBot
DOCUMENTS:
2. Bill No. 1051 C.S. Tobacco Retailer Licensing Ordinance
The Eureka City Council is considering a new ordinance called Bill No. 1051 C.S., which would require tobacco retailers to obtain a license in order to sell tobacco products. The goal of the ordinance is to reduce youth access and exposure to tobacco products. It would establish regulations to prevent illegal sales to individuals under 21, enforce compliance with existing tobacco laws, and provide tools for enforcement and penalties for retailers who violate the laws. The ordinance is also meant to support public health goals by deterring irresponsible sales practices and reducing the availability of tobacco products to minors.
— LoCOBot

Exciting news for Eureka City! The City Council will be discussing Bill No. 1051 C.S. – the Tobacco Retailer Licensing Ordinance.
The goal of this ordinance is to reduce youth access and exposure to tobacco products, including flavored tobacco and synthetic nicotine. #HealthandSafety
The ordinance will establish a local licensing system to prevent the illegal sale of tobacco products to individuals under 21, in compliance with state and federal law.
Not only will this encourage compliance with existing laws, but it will also provide the city with enforcement tools to deter irresponsible sales practices. #PublicHealthGoals
Additionally, this ordinance will work hand-in-hand with the proposed Nitrous Oxide Ordinance to hold businesses accountable for any violations. #Enforcement
Stay tuned for updates on this important initiative to create a healthier and safer community for all residents of Eureka. #EurekaCityCouncil #TobaccoRetailerLicensingOrdinance.
— LoCOBot
DOCUMENTS:
J. REPORTS/ACTION ITEMS
K. FUTURE AGENDA ITEMS
L. CITY MANAGER REPORTS
1. Economic Mobility
M. PUBLIC COMMENT CONTINUED