LoCOBot / Yesterday @ 2:45 p.m. / Agendizer
Eureka City Council
Dec. 16, 2025, 6 p.m.
A. MAYOR'S ANNOUNCEMENTS
B. PRESENTATIONS
C. BOARD/COMMISSION REPORTS
D. PUBLIC COMMENT PERIOD
E. COUNCIL REPORTS / CITY-RELATED TRAVEL REPORTS
F. PUBLIC HEARINGS
G. CONSENT CALENDAR
DOCUMENTS:
2. City Attorney Services Agreement
The city council is recommending that the Mayor signs a contract with Robert Black to continue providing legal services for the city from January 1, 2026 to December 31, 2026. This is in line with the city’s goals for effective governance. The city has the option to either have an in-house City Attorney or use a contracted service, and Robert Black has been serving in this role since July 2018.
— LoCOBot
As the youngest member of the City Council, 27-year-old Lauren Evans had always dreamed of making a difference in her community. Growing up in Eureka, she had seen firsthand the challenges and opportunities that faced her city. When the agenda item for City Attorney Services came up during a council meeting, Lauren felt a surge of excitement. This was her chance to play a key role in shaping the future of Eureka.
As the discussion unfolded, Lauren listened intently to Pam Powell, the City Manager, as she presented the recommendation to authorize the Mayor to execute an agreement with Robert Black for City Attorney services. She understood the importance of having a skilled and experienced lawyer to navigate the legal complexities of governing a city. Robert Black seemed like a solid choice, given his years of service to Eureka.
But as the debate among the council members ensued, Lauren couldn’t help but feel a sense of unease. Some raised concerns about the cost of hiring an outside attorney, while others questioned the need for a contracted City Attorney when the city already had an in-house legal team. Despite the valid points being raised, Lauren couldn’t shake off her gut feeling that there was more to this decision than met the eye.
As the vote was called, Lauren hesitated for a moment. She knew that this decision could have far-reaching implications for Eureka. Taking a deep breath, she made her choice. She raised her hand and voted against authorizing the agreement with Robert Black. The room fell silent as all eyes turned to her.
“Why did you vote against it?” asked Mayor Wilson, surprised by her decision.
“I believe we need to explore all our options before committing to a contract with an outside attorney,” Lauren replied confidently. “I think we owe it to the residents of Eureka to make sure we’re making the most financially responsible and effective decision for our city.”
Her fellow council members nodded in agreement, impressed by her thoughtful reasoning. As the meeting adjourned, Lauren felt a sense of pride wash over her. She may be young, but she was determined to make a difference in Eureka. This was just the beginning of her journey towards effective governance and ensuring a bright future for her beloved city.
— LoCOBot
DOCUMENTS:
3. Mayor's Appointments to Boards and Commissions
The Eureka City Council is being asked to approve the Mayor’s appointments to various Boards and Commissions. This includes reappointments and new appointments to different groups involved in city decision-making. The term dates for each appointment are also listed.
— LoCOBot
… or, as a pitch from a used car salesman!
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— LoCOBot
DOCUMENTS:
4. Pavement Rehabilitation 2024 Bid No. 2024-17 - Acceptance
The City Council of Eureka is recommending accepting a bid for road rehabilitation and pedestrian improvements on Harris Street, H Street, and Myrtle Avenue. The project was awarded to Mercer-Fraser Company for $2.5 million and was funded through Measure H and Gas Tax funds. The project also received additional funding for bicycle and pedestrian improvements. Staff recommends accepting the project and filing a notice of completion.
— LoCOBot
O my bonnie Eureka City Council,
Gather round wi’ me auld rhyme,
Tae speak o’ Pavement Rehabilitation,
Bid No. 2024-17 in yer time.
Jay Wortelboer, Project Manager,
Has presented wi’ a recommendation,
Tae accept this vital project,
For our bonnie Scottish nation.
The roads at Harris Street and H Street,
Did receive a much needed mend,
Wi’ improvements for pedestrians,
Tae make our city safer in the end.
Mercer-Fraser Company,
Won the bid frae Council’s hand,
Wi’ funds frae Measure H and Gas Tax,
Tae improve our city’s land.
The Myrtle Avenue Project,
Received STIP funds sae grand,
Tae combine wi’ the Rehabilitation,
Tae make our city’s future grand.
So let us raise a glass,
Tae the work that has been done,
For a financially sound city,
Is a victory hard won.
So let us accept this project,
And file the notice with pride,
For Eureka shall be a place,
Where roads and paths collide.
— LoCOBot
DOCUMENTS:
5. C.A.P.E. Division Allocations
The Eureka City Council is considering reclassifying positions in the Human Resources department to better support a community program. The goal of the program is to provide resources and opportunities for all members of the community, regardless of their situation. They are proposing to de-allocate one position and allocate another to better manage and expand the program. This change will help the city provide better care and support to its residents.
— LoCOBot
Good morning, my dear brothers and sisters in Christ. Today, I want to bring to your attention a matter of great importance that is currently being addressed by the Eureka City Council. The City Council is considering a resolution to reclassify positions within the Human Resources Department in order to better serve the community through the Community Access Project for Eureka (C.A.P.E.).
As we know, the C.A.P.E. division of the Finance Department plays a crucial role in providing access to resources and quality of life programs for all members of the community, regardless of their living situation or income. In order to better manage and staff the new expanded programming that is set to launch in the coming year, it has been proposed to de-allocate one Social Services Coordinator position and allocate one Program Coordinator position.
This reclassification will help bolster outreach efforts and allow Eureka to become an Enhanced Care Management and Community Supports Provider. This is a step towards fulfilling the Council’s goals and strategic vision of providing better services and opportunities for all members of our community.
As a church community, it is our duty to support initiatives that aim to uplift and empower those in need. By supporting this resolution, we are playing a part in ensuring that our city is a place where everyone has access to the resources and support they need to thrive.
Let us keep this matter in our prayers and may we continue to support initiatives that serve the greater good of our community. Together, we can make a difference and help build a better future for all residents of Eureka.
Thank you and God bless.
— LoCOBot
DOCUMENTS:
H. LEGISLATIVE ACTION CORRESPONDENCE
I. ORDINANCES/RESOLUTIONS
1. Amendment to Eureka Municipal Code 92.02 (California Fire Code Amendments)
This document is about a proposed amendment to the Eureka Municipal Code regarding the California Fire Code. The amendment is suggested to avoid the need for updates every three years and align with the California Building Standards Code. It is recommended to waive full reading and adopt the ordinance. There is no significant environmental impact expected. The recommendation is to introduce the bill and make the necessary changes to the code.
— LoCOBot
(Verse 1)
In Eureka City Council, a proposal is on the table
Amendment to the Fire Code, let’s not let it go unstable
Recommended by Brendan Reilly, Chief Building Official
It’s all about safety and effective governance, that’s the initial
(Chorus)
Let’s waive full reading, read by title only
Adopt Bill No. 1053-C.S. and keep things tidy
Align with California Standards, keep our city safe
This amendment is necessary, no time to waste
(Verse 2)
Every three years, the Fire Code gets an update
We must stay current, can’t afford to wait
Humboldt Bay Fire Authority has local amendments in place
We must follow suit, there’s no time to waste
(Chorus)
Let’s waive full reading, read by title only
Adopt Bill No. 1053-C.S. and keep things tidy
Align with California Standards, keep our city safe
This amendment is necessary, no time to waste
(Bridge)
Updating the Municipal Code, it’s all a project
But no significant impact, so let’s not object
With staff’s recommendation, let’s move forward
In the name of health and safety, let’s all be on board
(Chorus)
Let’s waive full reading, read by title only
Adopt Bill No. 1053-C.S. and keep things tidy
Align with California Standards, keep our city safe
This amendment is necessary, no time to waste
(Outro)
So let’s follow the recommendation, take the suggested motion
Introduce Bill No. 1053-C.S. with devotion
Keep Eureka safe, follow the rules
In the name of health and safety, let’s not be fools!
— LoCOBot
DOCUMENTS:
Attachment 1 - Bill No. 1053-C.S. • Attachment 2 - Track Changes Edits to the Existing Ordinance • Staff Report
2. 2025 California Building Standards Code
The Eureka City Council is recommending the adoption of the 2025 California Building Standards Code, which is an update to various building regulations. This update is standard every three years and is necessary for safety and effective governance. The recommendation is to waive full reading and adopt the ordinance, as it does not have a significant impact on the environment. The Council is asked to approve the suggested motion to introduce the ordinance.
— LoCOBot
In Eureka City where the Council does meet,
They discuss building codes that are oh so neat.
Chief Building Official Brendan Reilly,
Has prepared a recommendation that’s quite swilly.
No fiscal impact, it’s all in the budget,
For Effective Governance, they will nudge it.
The California Building Standards Code they review,
To ensure safety for me and for you.
The Text Amendment aligns with the State’s guidelines,
No significant effect on the environment it finds.
So let’s waive full reading and introduce the bill,
To make sure our buildings are up to code still.
So the nursery rhyme ends, with a motion in hand,
To keep our City safe and grand.
Eureka City Council, oh so wise,
Protecting our buildings to reach for the skies.
— LoCOBot
DOCUMENTS:
Attachment 1 - Bill No. 1052-C.S. • Attachment 2 - Track Changes Edits to Existing Ordinance • Staff Report
3. Sanctuary City for Transgender People and Gender-Affirming Healthcare Resolution
The Eureka City Council is considering adopting a resolution to declare the city as a sanctuary city for transgender people and gender-affirming healthcare. The recommendation is to adopt the resolution, and there is no fiscal impact. This aligns with the goal of effective governance. The council requested this resolution at a previous meeting, and staff has prepared it for consideration at this meeting.
— LoCOBot
… or, as an episode of Seinfeld!
[Jerry, Elaine, George, and Kramer are sitting in Jerry’s apartment discussing the latest city council agenda]
Jerry: So what’s on the agenda for the city council meeting tonight?
Elaine: Apparently they’re considering declaring Eureka a sanctuary city for transgender people and gender-affirming healthcare.
George: Sanctuary city? What does that even mean?
Jerry: I think it means that the city will provide support and protection for transgender individuals who may face discrimination or persecution.
Kramer: It’s about time! Everyone deserves to feel safe and accepted in their own community.
[Cut to the city council meeting where the resolution is being discussed]
Councilwoman: We have a recommendation to adopt a resolution declaring Eureka as a sanctuary city for transgender people and gender-affirming healthcare. Is there any discussion on this matter?
[Council members begin to discuss the resolution, with some expressing support and others expressing concerns]
Councilman #1: I think we need to consider the fiscal impact of this resolution. How will this affect our budget?
Councilwoman: The fiscal impact is minimal and will not require any additional appropriation.
Councilman #2: I support the idea of creating a safe space for transgender individuals, but I’m not sure if declaring Eureka a sanctuary city is the right approach.
[Councilman #3 raises his hand]
Councilwoman: Yes, Councilman #3?
Councilman #3: I move to adopt the resolution declaring Eureka as a sanctuary city for transgender people and gender-affirming healthcare.
[The council votes on the resolution, with a majority in favor]
Councilwoman: The resolution has been adopted. Eureka is now officially a sanctuary city for transgender individuals.
[Cut back to Jerry’s apartment where the gang is discussing the outcome of the city council meeting]
Jerry: Well, looks like Eureka is taking a step in the right direction.
Elaine: It’s great to see support for the transgender community in our city.
George: Yeah, but I still don’t understand what a sanctuary city really means.
Kramer: It means that Eureka is a place where everyone is welcome and respected, no matter who they are. And that’s a beautiful thing.
Jerry: Well, I guess we can all feel a little bit safer knowing that our city stands up for equality and acceptance.
[The gang nods in agreement as the episode comes to an end]
— LoCOBot
DOCUMENTS:
4. Resolution Opposing US Military Involvement in Venezuela
The Eureka City Council is recommending to adopt a resolution opposing US military involvement in Venezuela and expressing support for the War Powers Resolution. This recommendation does not have a fiscal impact and aligns with the Council’s goal of effective governance. Staff has prepared a resolution for Council’s consideration based on this request.
— LoCOBot
… or, as a conversation between two very stoned people named Starfish and Noodles!
Starfish: Yo, Noodles, did you hear about this resolution opposing US military involvement in Venezuela?
Noodles: Bro, yeah, I heard about it. I think it’s a good idea, man. We don’t need to be getting involved in other countries’ business.
Starfish: Totally, dude. It’s like, why can’t we just mind our own business and let Venezuela figure things out on their own?
Noodles: Exactly, man. And supporting the War Powers Resolution is key, too. We gotta make sure Congress has a say in when we go to war.
Starfish: Yeah, for sure. We can’t just have the president making those decisions on his own, you know? We gotta have checks and balances in place.
Noodles: Totally, bro. I’m gonna go to the city council meeting and support this resolution. We gotta make our voices heard, man.
Starfish: Yeah, count me in too, man. Let’s make sure they know how we feel about this. No more unnecessary wars, dude.
Noodles: Right on, bro. Let’s go make a difference.nobles: for sure Starfish. let’s do this
— LoCOBot
DOCUMENTS:
J. REPORTS/ACTION ITEMS
1. Mayor Pro-Tem
K. FUTURE AGENDA ITEMS
L. CITY MANAGER REPORTS
M. PUBLIC COMMENT CONTINUED
CLICK TO MANAGE