LoCOBot / @ 4:20 p.m. / Agendizer

Eureka City Council
Nov. 4, 2025, 6 p.m.

A. MAYOR'S ANNOUNCEMENTS

B. PRESENTATIONS

1. 2025 Holiday Season Initiatives


2. StartUp Humboldt Competition


C. BOARD/COMMISSION REPORTS

D. PUBLIC COMMENT PERIOD

E. COUNCIL REPORTS / CITY-RELATED TRAVEL REPORTS

F. PUBLIC HEARINGS

G. CONSENT CALENDAR

1. Council Minutes

2. Withdrawal of Measure N Local Coastal Program Amendment

The Eureka City Council is recommending the withdrawal of a long-dormant Measure N Local Coastal Program Amendment application that was submitted in 2011 but has not been certified by the California Coastal Commission. The application was for the proposed Marina Center mixed-use project at the Balloon Track property. The property owner has requested the withdrawal of the project applications and the LCP amendment. The withdrawal will allow the city to focus on future planning for the site, consistent with the 2040 General Plan. The Balloon Track redevelopment is seen as an opportunity to improve access to the waterfront, address contamination, and enhance wetland restoration. This action does not have any fiscal impact and does not require environmental review under the California Environmental Quality Act.

— LoCOBot

… or, as a fantasy story!

Once upon a time, in the city of Eureka, there lay a mystical land known as the Balloon Track. This land, once occupied by the Union Pacific Railroad, had been abandoned for over 30 years, left to decay and gather dust. However, the citizens of Eureka saw potential in the forgotten land, envisioning a vibrant and thriving district that would enrich the city’s economy and provide a space for creativity and innovation to flourish.

The dream for the Balloon Track came in the form of Measure N, a local coastal program amendment that sought to change the land use and zoning designations at the Balloon Track property to allow the proposed Marina Center mixed-use project. With 68% of voters’ approval, Measure N seemed like a beacon of hope for the once neglected land.

However, as time passed, the Measure N Local Coastal Program Amendment Application No. EUR-MAJ-1-11 submitted to the California Coastal Commission in 2011 remained dormant. Despite efforts to move the project forward, the Coastal Commission deemed the submittal incomplete and identified substantial Coastal Act issues that needed to be addressed.

Years went by, and the Balloon Track remained in limbo, waiting for a resolution to its uncertain fate. The property owner, CUE VI, LLC, finally decided to take matters into their own hands. In August 2025, they submitted a letter to the City of Eureka, withdrawing their Marina Center project applications and requesting the withdrawal of the associated LCP amendment from Coastal Commission consideration.

With the fate of the Measure N local coastal program hanging in the balance, the City Council of Eureka gathered to make a decision. After much discussion and consideration, they decided to adopt a resolution formally withdrawing the Measure N Local Coastal Program Amendment Application No. EUR-MAJ-1-11.

As the resolution was passed, a sense of closure fell upon the Balloon Track. The long-dormant project was finally put to rest, allowing the city to focus on future planning for the site in line with the 2040 General Plan. The vision for the Balloon Track remained unchanged, with plans for a high-quality, mixed-use commercial district that would bring new life to the once forgotten land.

And so, the story of the Balloon Track in Eureka continued, as the city embarked on a new chapter of development and growth. The land that had been neglected for so long was finally given a chance to flourish, thanks to the determination and vision of the citizens and leaders of Eureka. The dream of a vibrant and thriving district at the Balloon Track was still alive, waiting to be realized in the years to come.

— LoCOBot

DOCUMENTS:

Staff ReportAttachment 1 - Resolution Attachment 2 - Property Owner Letter Requesting Withdrawal


3. New Classifications

The Eureka City Council is considering adding new job classifications for Utility Billing Supervisor, Records Coordinator, Police Property Supervisor, and Digital Services Specialist. These additions are aimed at improving departmental efficiency and enhancing operations. Each new position will have specific education, experience, and responsibilities, as well as salary differences compared to existing positions. The recommendations will be included in the City’s Classification and Compensation Plan.

— LoCOBot

… or, as a Funkadelic song!

(Verse 1)
We’ve got a new agenda, it’s time for a change
Adding new classifications, it’s all rearranged
Utility Billing Supervisor, Records Coordinator too
Police Property Supervisor, Digital Services crew

(Chorus)
Eureka City Council, they’re making a move
Improving efficiency, gotta approve
New positions in the plan, it’s time to evolve
City’s future is bright, we’re breaking the mold

(Verse 2)
Finance Department shifting roles, making a switch
Reallocation of positions, it’s quite a pitch
Education and experience, qualifications in play
Upgrading the workforce, in a major way

(Chorus)
Eureka City Council, they’re making a move
Improving efficiency, gotta approve
New positions in the plan, it’s time to evolve
City’s future is bright, we’re breaking the mold

(Bridge)
From Accounting Technician to Utility Bill Supervisor
Paralegal to Records Coordinator, the change is super
Police Property Coordinator to Supervisor, a new leader in town
Administrative Technician to Digital Services, wearing the crown

(Chorus)
Eureka City Council, they’re making a move
Improving efficiency, gotta approve
New positions in the plan, it’s time to evolve
City’s future is bright, we’re breaking the mold

(Outro)
So let’s get on board, with this funky beat
Funkadelic City Council, can’t be beat
New classifications, a fresh start
Eureka City Council, we’re making our mark!

— LoCOBot

DOCUMENTS:

Staff ReportResolution_New Classifications.docx Utility Billing Supervisor 9-2025.pdf Records Coordinator 9-2025.pdf Police Property Supervisor 8-2025.pdf Digital Services Specialist 10-2025.pdf


4. Pavement Rehabilitation 2025 - Award

The Eureka City Council is awarding a contract to Mercer Fraser Company for a project to rehabilitate streets in the city. The project will include improvements for bicycles and pedestrians. The low bid for the project is $2,761,761. The project is expected to start in the fall of 2025.

— LoCOBot

… or, as a Brazilian carnival song!

Vem comemorar, vem sambar
Nas ruas de Eureka, o carnaval vai começar
Reabilitação do pavimento, ação a se tomar
Mercer Fraser Company é a melhor, vamos premiar

Bicicletas terão melhorias, sinalização a se adotar
Pedestres terão mais segurança, vamos celebrar
Pavimentação e cruzamentos a melhorar
Em Eureka, o carnaval vai bombar

A obra vai começar no outono
Vamos todos juntos, fazer a festa no abandono
Mercer Fraser Company merece a nossa gratidão
Em 2025, o carnaval em Eureka será pura emoção!

— LoCOBot

DOCUMENTS:

Staff Report


5. Red Panda Exhibit - Remodel 2025 Project - Acceptance

The Eureka City Council is being asked to approve the completion of the Red Panda Exhibit - Remodel 2025 Project. The project was awarded to Triad Inc for $197,359 and included renovations to the zoo exhibit. The project was funded through a grant and fundraising efforts. The project was completed on September 30, 2025, and staff recommends accepting the project.

— LoCOBot

… or, as an episode of Seinfeld!

INT. MONK’S CAFE - DAY

Jerry, George, Elaine, and Kramer are sitting at their usual booth, discussing their latest happenings.

Jerry: So, have you guys heard about the new Red Panda exhibit at the zoo?

Elaine: Oh yeah, I saw something about that on the news. They remodeled it, right?

George: Red Pandas are so cute. I love going to the zoo and seeing them.

Kramer: You know, I once had a pet red panda. His name was Rufus.

Jerry: Of course you did, Kramer.

Just then, Newman enters the cafe, looking very excited.

Newman: Oh ho ho, do I have news for you guys! The Red Panda exhibit at the zoo is finally completed!

Jerry: (sarcastically) Oh wow, hold the front page!

Newman: No, you don’t understand. They’re having a special event to commemorate the completion of the project. And guess who’s been invited?

Elaine: Please don’t tell me it’s you.

Newman: Me and all of you! We’re going to the zoo!

Jerry: (rolling his eyes) Great.

INT. SEQUOIA PARK ZOO - DAY

The gang arrives at the zoo for the event. They are greeted by Matt Grosjean, the Special Projects Manager.

Matt: Welcome, welcome! We’re so glad you could join us to celebrate the completion of the Red Panda exhibit remodel.

Jerry: (under his breath) This better be good.

They walk towards the exhibit and are amazed by the renovations. The red pandas are happily playing in their new habitat.

George: Wow, this looks incredible.

Elaine: I think I might actually prefer the red pandas over the monkeys now.

Kramer: Rufus would’ve loved this.

As they continue to explore the exhibit, they come across a plaque with their names on it.

Matt: As a thank you for your support, we’ve included your names on this plaque to acknowledge your contribution to the project.

Newman: (proudly) Ah, the heroes of the Red Panda exhibit!

Jerry: (smirking) I never knew liking red pandas would be so rewarding.

The gang spends the rest of the day enjoying the exhibit and basking in their newfound status as Red Panda advocates.

FADE OUT.

— LoCOBot

DOCUMENTS:

Staff Report


6. 1.77 Mobile Device Policy

7. Board and Commission Appointments


8. StartUp Humboldt Letter of Support

The Eureka City Council is being asked to approve a letter of support for the StartUp Humboldt Program and Competition, which aims to promote economic development by helping small businesses grow and create jobs. The program involves collaboration with local organizations and aligns with the City’s goals of supporting innovation and retaining businesses. There is no financial impact associated with this recommendation.

— LoCOBot

… or, as a nursery rhyme!

In Eureka City Council, a letter was drafted
For StartUp Humboldt, support was crafted
Swan Asbury prepared, for all to see
A recommendation for economic prosperity

No fiscal impact, just a helping hand
To boost small businesses across the land
Mentorship, education, and funding galore
To create jobs and so much more

Cal Poly Humboldt, College of the Redwoods too
All coming together, for this great debut
With local investors joining in the mix
Eureka City’s goals, they do fix

City Attorney and Clerk, they both agree
This letter of support, is the way to be
For StartUp Humboldt, let’s give a cheer
For economic growth, is now near!

— LoCOBot

DOCUMENTS:

COE Letter of Support_StartUp Humboldt Staff Report


9. Humboldt Made Funding Agreement

The Eureka City Council is considering a funding agreement with Humboldt Made for economic development initiatives. The agreement includes $5,000 in support of the Choose Humboldt shop local campaign, in addition to the ongoing funding for the Eureka Friday Night Market. The total allocation is $35,000, with Humboldt Made managing the Friday Night Market and the City serving as a sponsor for the Choose Humboldt campaign. The recommendation is to approve the updated funding agreement.

— LoCOBot

… or, as Star Trek fan fiction!

As the USS Enterprise orbited the planet Eureka, Captain James T. Kirk and his crew received a transmission from the Eureka City Council. The council was seeking their support for an economic development initiative to promote local businesses in the region.

“We have received a request for assistance from the Eureka City Council,” Spock informed the captain. “They are looking to promote their Choose Humboldt shop-local campaign and are seeking our help.”

Captain Kirk nodded, intrigued by the idea of supporting a community’s economic growth. “Let’s lend a hand, Mr. Spock. Contact the council and let them know we are willing to assist in any way we can.”

The Enterprise crew sprang into action, working with the Eureka City Council to coordinate a special event in support of the Choose Humboldt campaign. They set up a marketplace on the planet’s surface, showcasing goods from local vendors and artisans. The crew also organized entertainment and activities to draw in visitors from across the region.

As the event kicked off, Captain Kirk and his crew mingled with the locals, sharing stories of their adventures in the galaxy. The people of Eureka were thrilled to meet the legendary Starfleet officers and eagerly participated in the shop-local campaign.

At the end of the day, the event was a resounding success. The Choose Humboldt campaign received a significant boost in support, and local businesses saw an increase in sales. The Eureka City Council thanked Captain Kirk and his crew for their assistance, expressing their gratitude for the help in promoting their community.

As the Enterprise prepared to depart, Captain Kirk reflected on the day’s events. “It’s moments like these that remind us of the importance of supporting local economies,” he said to his crew. “By working together, we can help communities thrive and prosper.”

With a sense of fulfillment, the USS Enterprise set course for its next adventure, leaving behind a grateful community on the planet Eureka. The legacy of their partnership with the Eureka City Council would continue to inspire others to support local businesses and promote economic development across the galaxy.

— LoCOBot

DOCUMENTS:

Staff ReportHumboldt Made Funding Agreement 2025-26 FNM


H. LEGISLATIVE ACTION CORRESPONDENCE

I. ORDINANCES/RESOLUTIONS

1. City of Eureka's Emergency Operations Plan 2025

The City of Eureka is updating its Emergency Operations Plan to make sure they are prepared for emergencies. The new plan focuses on coordination, flexibility, and communication with the community. It also includes considerations for people with different needs. The update makes the plan easier to understand and use for everyone involved.

— LoCOBot

… or, as a recipe!

Title: City of Eureka Emergency Operations Plan 2025

Department: Public Works

Prepared by: Kelly Allen, Public Works Director

Recommendation:
Adopt a Resolution of the City Council adopting the 2025 City of Eureka Emergency Operations Plan (EOP).

Fiscal Impact:
No Fiscal Impact

Council Goals/Strategic Vision:
Financially Sound City Providing Effective Services

Ingredients:
- Draft Emergency Operations Plan (EOP)
- Senate Bill 160 (Emergency Services: Cultural Competence) guidelines
- Community partner collaboration

Instructions:
1. In a large city council meeting, present the draft Emergency Operations Plan from 2009.
2. Update the plan to align with Senate Bill 160 and the “Whole Community” approach.
3. Focus on inclusivity, coordination, flexibility, and interagency communication.
4. Simplify the structure, modernize content, and enhance accessibility for all stakeholders.
5. Include operational procedures in annexes for response personnel.
6. Adopt the revised EOP in a Resolution by the City Council.

Serve and implement the City of Eureka’s Emergency Operations Plan 2025 for improved emergency preparedness, training, and operations.

— LoCOBot

DOCUMENTS:

Staff ReportResolution_EOP. 2025 COE EOP Attachment 1


2. Bill No. 1048-C.S. Designation of Local Fire Hazard Severity Zones

The Eureka City Council is considering a bill to designate local fire hazard severity zones based on factors like fuel loading, slope, and climate. The updated map shows that the City of Eureka is mainly in the Moderate Fire Hazard Zone. City staff have reviewed the data and recommend adopting the map to improve public safety and align with state wildfire resilience strategies. Adoption of the map is not considered a project under environmental regulations.

— LoCOBot

… or, as a Dungeons & Dragons campaign!

In this Dungeons and Dragons campaign, the adventurers are hired by the Eureka City Council to investigate reports of strange occurrences in the newly designated Moderate Fire Hazard Severity Zone. The party is tasked with exploring the area, determining the cause of the disturbances, and ensuring the safety of the residents.

As the adventurers journey through the forested region, they encounter signs of increased fire activity and find evidence of magical interference with the natural landscape. They must navigate through treacherous terrain, battling fire elementals and other fiery creatures that have been drawn to the area.

As they delve deeper into the heart of the zone, the party uncovers a dark secret - a group of rogue mages have been using forbidden fire magic to manipulate the elements and wreak havoc on the land. The mages are determined to harness the power of wildfire for their own twisted purposes, and the adventurers must race against time to stop them before their actions lead to a catastrophic wildfire that threatens the entire city.

With the fate of Eureka hanging in the balance, the adventurers must confront the rogue mages in an epic final battle. Only by using their skills, wit, and courage to overcome the magical fire threats can they restore balance to the region and ensure the safety of the city’s residents. If successful, they will be hailed as heroes, their names forever remembered in the annals of Eureka’s history.

— LoCOBot

DOCUMENTS:

Staff ReportBill No. 1048 Fire Severity Zones FHSZ_City_LRA_11x17_Eureka


3. Bill No. 1051 C.S. - Tobacco Retailer Licensing Ordinance

The Eureka City Council is considering a new Tobacco Retailer Licensing Ordinance aimed at reducing youth access to tobacco products. The ordinance would require tobacco retailers to obtain a license and follow regulations to prevent illegal sales to minors. It also includes enforcement measures, such as fines and license suspension, for businesses that violate the law. This ordinance aligns with the city’s goals of promoting health and safety.

— LoCOBot

… or, as a right-wing radio talk show hosted by Merv "The Beast" Tarkington!

Merv “The Beast” Tarkington: Welcome back, folks! It’s Merv “The Beast” Tarkington here, your favorite voice of reason in the wild world of politics. Today, we’ve got a new ordinance on the table from the Eureka City Council, and let me tell you, it’s a doozy.

The council is pushing Bill No. 1051 C.S. – the Tobacco Retailer Licensing Ordinance. Now, on the surface, this might sound like a good idea, right? Who doesn’t want to keep tobacco out of the hands of minors? But let me tell you, this is just another government overreach into our lives.

They want to add more regulations, more red tape, and more bureaucracy to an already heavily regulated industry. They want to force small business owners to jump through hoops and fill out paperwork just to sell a legal product. It’s absurd!

And not only that, but they’re talking about fines, license suspensions, and even revocations for businesses that “repeatedly violate tobacco laws.” Who decides what constitutes a violation? Who decides how many violations warrant such harsh penalties? It’s a slippery slope, my friends.

And don’t get me started on how they want to tie this in with their Nitrous Oxide Ordinance. It’s like they’re trying to criminalize small businesses left and right. What happened to free enterprise? What happened to personal responsibility?

Folks, we need to push back against this overbearing government intrusion. We need to stand up for the rights of business owners and individuals to make their own choices. Say no to Bill No. 1051 C.S. – it’s time to take a stand for freedom! This is Merv “The Beast” Tarkington signing off, but not backing down. Stay strong, my friends.

— LoCOBot

DOCUMENTS:

Staff ReportTobacco Retail_Licensing Ordinance


4. Bill No. 1050 C.S. - Sales of Nitrous Oxide Ordinance

The Eureka City Council is considering a new ordinance, Bill No. 1050 C.S., which would make it illegal to sell nitrous oxide in the city. This ordinance is aimed at addressing the issue of nitrous oxide being used as an inhalant. The council’s recommendation is to waive the full reading, read by title only, and adopt the ordinance. So far, some other local government entities in the region have already passed similar ordinances. This measure is seen as a step towards ensuring the health and safety of the community.

— LoCOBot

… or, as an Elizabethan sonnet!

Oh, Eureka City Council, hear my plea,
For Bill No. 1050 C.S. doth stand at hand,
To ban the sale of nitrous oxide, and be
A voice for health and safety in the land.

Waive full reading, adopt this bill with care,
No fiscal impact, a simple step to take,
To curb the use of nitrous in the air,
And keep our community safe for all’s sake.

In meetings convened, leaders did agree,
A city-wide ordinance must be passed,
For inhalant use must come to a decree,
To safeguard citizens from danger amassed.

Let us unite, in this noble endeavor,
To protect the health of Eureka forever.

— LoCOBot

DOCUMENTS:

Staff ReportNitrous Oxide Ordinance


J. REPORTS/ACTION ITEMS

K. FUTURE AGENDA ITEMS

L. CITY MANAGER REPORTS

1. 3rd Quarter EPD Statistics


M. PUBLIC COMMENT CONTINUED


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