Isabella Vanderheiden / @ 3:45 p.m. / Agendizer

THIS WEEK IN EUREKA CITY COUNCIL: Bay to Zoo Property Acquisition and Affordable Housing Funds

Photo: Andrew Goff

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The Eureka City Council is in for a twofer this week! The council will convene for a special meeting at 5 p.m. to go over proposed changes to the city’s charter — you can find that coverage here — and then reconvene at 6 p.m. for its regularly scheduled meeting. Let’s take a look at that agenda!

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The city council will consider a request from the city’s engineering department to acquire a little piece of land at 1344 McFarlan Street, as seen in the map below. The property owner has already accepted the city’s $100,000 offer for the 0.58-acre property, which lies in the path of the proposed Bay to Zoo Trail. Now, staff needs permission from the council.

“The City intends to use this parcel for the Bay to Zoo Trail, specifically providing access from McFarlan Street to the existing sewer access road and future trail,” the staff report states. “The remaining parcel will be utilized for trail purposes and as a mitigation site.”

The item appears on the consent calendar and, as such, will likely pass without discussion unless it is pulled by a member of the council.

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The council also had a pair of public hearings set for Tuesday’s meeting, but Eureka City Manager Miles Slattery told the Outpost this afternoon that those items were removed from the agenda and will be rescheduled for the council’s April 21 meeting. The items concerned $50 million in tax-exempt revenue bonds from the California Municipal Financing Authority (CMFA) that, if approved by the council, would help fund ongoing affordable housing projects.

The Housing Authority of the City of Eureka (HACE) has secured $30 million for the first phase of an ambitious plan to upgrade hundreds of public housing units across the city. Over the next decade, HACE plans to add over 150 new income-restricted housing units to the local housing stock and redevelop nearly 200 existing units. The first phase, dubbed the “Green Phase,” focuses on around 100 units on Prospect Avenue, Burrill, Elizabeth, Hiler West Harris and West Everding streets. 

Read the resolution here.

Danco secured $20 million in CMFA bonds to build the long-awaited EaRTH Center, a housing and transportation hub that will replace two city-owned parking lots on Third Street between G and H streets, behind Lost Coast Brewery. The development will host the Humboldt Transit Authority’s regional transportation hub on its ground floor, plus five commercial spaces for businesses. The upper floors will feature 45 residential units designated for low- and very-low-income households.

Read the resolution here.

But again — those two things are coming back at a later date.

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The northeast corner (Third and G streets) of the Eureka Regional Transit & Housing Center. | Rendering via the City of Eureka.

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What else is on the agenda? The council will consider a few small amendments to the city’s Animal and Transient Occupancy Tax (TOT) ordinances. The council will also receive an update on the city’s guidelines for emergency shelters.

Find the full agenda, with our Agendabot’s item summaries, below. The Eureka City Council will meet for a special meeting at 5 p.m. — details here — and its regular meeting at 6 p.m. at Eureka City Hall — 531 K Street.


Eureka City Council
April 7, 2026, 6 p.m.

A. MAYOR'S ANNOUNCEMENTS

1. Proclamation-Sexual Assault Awareness Month


2. Proclamation- National Public Safety Telecommunications Week


B. PRESENTATIONS

1. Emergency Shelter Guidelines


C. BOARD/COMMISSION REPORTS

D. PUBLIC COMMENT PERIOD

E. COUNCIL REPORTS / CITY-RELATED TRAVEL REPORTS

F. PUBLIC HEARINGS

1. CMFA Multifamily Housing Revenue Bonds in an Aggregate Principal Amount for the Purpose of Financing the Green Phase Apartments

The Eureka City Council is considering approving the issuance of $30 million in bonds to finance a housing development project. The bonds are tax-exempt and will be issued by the California Municipal Financing Authority. The City will have no financial obligation for the project. The bonds will be repaid by the borrower. The City must conduct a public hearing to allow community members to provide input on the use of tax-exempt bonds for the project. The City is being recommended to approve the issuance of the bonds to support affordable housing.

— LoCOBot

… or, as a heartbreaking country/western song!

(Verse 1)
In a small town called Eureka, where the streets are lined with dreams
There’s a story of a housing project, not always what it seems
The City Council gathered, for a resolution to decide
On the fate of the Green Phase Apartments, where hopes and fears collide

(Chorus)
Oh, the Bonds may be issued, but the cost is oh so high
For the ones who call it home, it’s a tearful goodbye
Families torn apart, by the decisions made that day
In the name of progress, they’re forced to walk away

(Verse 2)
Kristen Raymond, she presented, the proposal on that night
To approve the issuance of Bonds, under the pale moonlight
For the benefit of the Developer, with promises of affordable housing
But for those who call it home, it’s a future that’s astounding

(Chorus)
Oh, the Bonds may be issued, but the cost is oh so high
For the ones who call it home, it’s a tearful goodbye
Families torn apart, by the decisions made that day
In the name of progress, they’re forced to walk away

(Bridge)
The CMFA, they claim to help, with economic development
But for the residents of Eureka, it’s a broken covenant
The City may have no financial obligation, but the cost is still too steep
When the bonds are issued, it’s the people who weep

(Chorus)
Oh, the Bonds may be issued, but the cost is oh so high
For the ones who call it home, it’s a tearful goodbye
Families torn apart, by the decisions made that day
In the name of progress, they’re forced to walk away

(Outro)
So here’s to the Green Phase Apartments, where memories were made
But now they’re just a memory, of a place that couldn’t stay
As the City Council moves on, with their agenda in hand
The heartbreak lingers on, in the broken promises of the land

— LoCOBot

DOCUMENTS:

Staff ReportResolution


2. CMFA Multifamily Housing Revenue Bonds for the Purpose of Financing the EaRTH Center Apartments

The Eureka City Council is considering issuing bonds to finance a housing project. The bonds would be issued by the California Municipal Finance Authority and used to refinance a multifamily rental housing project in Eureka. The city must hold a public hearing to allow community input on the use of tax-exempt bonds. The bonds would be the sole responsibility of the Borrower, not the city. The CMFA was created to help with economic development and charitable activities in California. A portion of the bond issuance fee would be granted to the city’s general fund. Staff recommends conducting the public hearing and approving the resolution for the bond issuance.

— LoCOBot

… or, as Star Trek fan fiction!

Captain Kathryn Janeway studied the agenda summary for the Eureka City Council meeting, her brow furrowed in concentration. As the Commander of the USS Voyager, she was used to dealing with complex problems and making difficult decisions, but this was a new challenge for her.

The Eureka City Council was considering approving the issuance of CMFA Multifamily Housing Revenue Bonds for the EaRTH Center Apartments. The project would provide much-needed affordable housing for the residents of Eureka, but it required the council’s approval to move forward.

Janeway knew the importance of affordable housing, especially in a time of crisis like the one the galaxy was currently facing. The Borg threat loomed large, and every planet, every community needed to come together to support one another.

She called a meeting of her senior staff to discuss the situation. Lieutenant Commander Tuvok, her tactical officer, raised an eyebrow in curiosity as she outlined the details of the project.

“We must consider the potential risks and benefits of supporting this project,” Tuvok stated, his voice calm and logical as always.

Janeway nodded in agreement. “We need to ensure that this project aligns with our values and goals as a Starfleet crew. Providing affordable housing and supporting the community is important, but we also need to consider the financial implications.”

As the discussion continued, Ensign Harry Kim, the young and eager operations officer, suggested reaching out to the Eureka City Council to offer Starfleet’s assistance in any way they could. Perhaps they could provide resources or expertise to help move the project forward.

With a plan in place, Captain Janeway contacted the Eureka City Council and offered Starfleet’s support. She explained their mission to explore new worlds and seek out new life, and how important it was to build strong relationships with the communities they encountered.

The council members were impressed by Janeway’s passion and commitment to helping others. They welcomed Starfleet’s assistance and agreed to work together to ensure the success of the EaRTH Center Apartments project.

In the end, the Eureka City Council approved the issuance of the CMFA Multifamily Housing Revenue Bonds, knowing that they had the support of Starfleet behind them. Captain Janeway smiled, knowing that they had made a difference in the lives of the residents of Eureka.

As the USS Voyager continued on its journey, Captain Janeway was proud of her crew and the impact they were able to make, even in the far reaches of the galaxy.

— LoCOBot

DOCUMENTS:

Staff ReportResoultion


G. CONSENT CALENDAR

1. Council Minutes

2. Housing & Safety Element Updates RFP

The City Council is considering releasing a Request for Proposals (RFP) to update the City’s Housing Element and Safety Element. This update is required every eight years and must be submitted to the California Department of Housing and Community Development. The RFP will allow the City to contract with consultants to complete the necessary work. The Housing Element must demonstrate sites for 1,740 housing units across income levels and include a public outreach process. The Safety Element must incorporate new hazard information and climate adaptation strategies.

— LoCOBot

… or, as a Rodney Dangerfield joke!

“I tell ya, I went to a City Council meeting where they were discussing updating the Housing & Safety Element, and even the agenda was giving me no respect. They had a whole section on fiscal impact, but no mention of the impact on my self-esteem!”

— LoCOBot

DOCUMENTS:

Staff ReportAttachment 1 - Request for Proposals


3. Eureka Flood Reduction and Sea Level Rise Project - Award

The Eureka City Council is considering awarding a construction project to Wahlund Construction, Inc. to reduce flooding and address sea level rise. The project involves replacing storm drain pipes, installing new storm drain pipes and manholes, and relocating sewer lines. The project also includes installing stormwater trash capture devices and restoring vegetation in disturbed areas. The total construction budget is $8,337,800, with Wahlund Construction, Inc. bidding the lowest responsible and responsive bid. Funding for the project comes from City, CalOES, CNRA, and DWR grants. Staff recommends the City Council approve the project to ensure full utilization of available grant funds.

— LoCOBot

… or, as a Twitter thread!

Exciting news from Eureka City Council regarding flood reduction and sea level rise project! 🏗️ A recommendation has been made to declare Wahlund Construction, Inc. the preferred bidder and award them Bid No. 2026-18 in the amount of $6,280,675.00. #EurekaCityCouncil

The project includes replacing storm drain pipes, installing new storm drain pipe, manholes, junction boxes, tide gates, rock slope protection, and more. Additionally, stormwater trash capture devices will be installed and vegetation will be restored. 🌊 #EurekaFloodProject

The bid from Wahlund Construction, Inc. was determined to be the lowest responsible and responsive bid, meeting all project requirements. The project funding is covered by City, CalOES, CNRA, and DWR grants. 🏦 #FundingSecured

With the total bid amount exceeding available grant funding, adjustments to the project scope were made to align with funds. The recommended contract amount is $6,280,675.00. Let’s make Eureka more resilient to floods and sea level rise! 🌊 #Resilience #EurekaCityCouncil

Environmental review for the project was completed in compliance with CEQA. Staff recommends awarding the construction contract to Wahlund Construction, Inc. and approving a total construction budget of $8,337,800. 🌳 #EnvironmentalStewardship #EurekaCityCouncil

Stay tuned for updates on the Flood Reduction and Sea Level Rise Project as it progresses! Eureka City Council is dedicated to creating a financially sound city that provides effective services for all residents. 💪 #EurekaCityCouncil #CommunityDevelopment

— LoCOBot

DOCUMENTS:

Staff Report


4. Award Bid No. 2026-04 Metal Building Operations Complex

The Eureka City Council is planning to award a bid for the construction of a metal building operations complex. The project is part of the city’s goals for public works and disaster response. The bid will be awarded to True North Constructors Inc. for $2,460,496. The project will involve relocating the current operations yard to a new location. The project will be completed in two phases, with the second phase involving the construction of the metal building. The bid process involved multiple companies submitting proposals, with True North Constructors Inc. offering the lowest bid. Once the bid is awarded, the company will work closely with the city and architects to ensure the building is constructed according to the plans and specifications.

— LoCOBot

… or, as a Robert Burns poem!

Ode tae Eureka City Council

In auld Eureka’s fair domain,
Where council meets wi’ might and main,
Agenda set for metal fame,
To build an operations complex grand.

Katie Marsolan, project manager fine,
Presents the bid, a task divine,
True North, the chosen one in line,
For two million, four hundred sixty grand.

25% contingency in reserve,
For unforeseen items we deserve,
Budget allocation, let us observe,
Three million and seventy-five grand.

Council goals and visions clear,
To construct complex, nae fear,
Protection from hazards, year by year,
In Eureka’s land, we persevere.

So let us follow Burns’ wise words,
And build this complex like the birds,
Renew the corp yard, like the herds,
For Eureka’s future, true and stirred.

So Eureka City Council bold,
Award this bid, let it unfold,
In metal building, may it hold,
The future bright, for young and old.

— LoCOBot

DOCUMENTS:

Staff Report


5. 1344 McFarlan Street Property Acquisition (APN 006-181-004)

The Eureka City Council is considering acquiring a vacant property on McFarlan Street for $100,000 to use for the Bay to Zoo Trail project. The property has wetland habitat and a sewer easement. The project has completed environmental reviews and the California Transportation Commission has approved it. The City Attorney, City Clerk/Information Services, Finance, and Engineering Department have reviewed and approved the acquisition.

— LoCOBot

… or, as an episode of Scooby Doo!

Title: Scooby-Doo and the Bay to Zoo Trail Mystery

[The episode begins with the Mystery Inc. gang driving through Eureka City, excited to explore the Bay to Zoo Trail. As they arrive at the trailhead, they notice a group of city council members gathered around a property with a “For Sale” sign.]

Velma: (pointing to the property) Look, gang! That must be the 1344 McFarlan Street property that the city council is acquiring for the Bay to Zoo Trail.

Fred: Let’s go check it out and see if we can lend a hand with the acquisition process.

[As they approach the property, they are greeted by Brittany Powell, the Project Manager.]

Brittany: Hi, Mystery Inc.! I’m glad you’re here. We could use your help with a little mystery that’s been brewing involving this property.

Shaggy: Zoinks! What’s going on?

Brittany: Well, ever since the city council approved the acquisition of this property, strange things have been happening. Tools go missing, strange noises are heard at night, and the property owner claims to have seen ghostly figures wandering around.

Daphne: Sounds like a mystery we can solve! Let’s split up and investigate.

[Scooby-Doo and Shaggy head towards the wetland habitat at the western end of the property, while Velma, Fred, and Daphne inspect the sewer easement.]

[Scooby and Shaggy stumble upon a hidden tunnel leading underground.]

Scooby-Doo: Ruh-roh! Looks like we found where those ghostly figures are coming from.

[Meanwhile, Velma discovers a secret compartment in the sewer easement.]

Velma: Jinkies! This compartment leads to a hidden room where someone has been storing the missing tools.

[Daphne notices footprints leading to the wetland habitat.]

Daphne: Guys, I think I found the source of the strange noises. Let’s go check it out.

[As they all regroup at the wetland habitat, they uncover the mystery of the ghostly figures. It turns out that the property owner was trying to scare off potential buyers to keep the property for themselves.]

Property Owner: And I would have gotten away with it too, if it weren’t for you meddling kids!

[The police arrive to arrest the property owner, and the city can continue with the acquisition process for the Bay to Zoo Trail.]

Brittany: Thank you, Mystery Inc., for solving the mystery and helping us move forward with the trail project.

Fred: It was our pleasure, Brittany. Just another day of solving mysteries and helping communities.

[The gang bids farewell to Eureka City and drives off into the sunset, ready for their next adventure.]

— LoCOBot

DOCUMENTS:

Staff ReportResolution


6. Statewide Strategy for the Coexistence of California Fishing Communities and Offshore

The City Council is being asked to support a plan for California fishing communities and offshore wind energy to coexist. The plan was created through a two-year collaborative process and received support from all members. There is no financial impact for the city.

— LoCOBot

… or, as a job interview!

INT. CITY COUNCIL CHAMBERS - DAY

The room is abuzz with council members and staff moving about, preparing for the meeting. Miles Slattery, the City Manager, sits at the front of the room reviewing his notes for the upcoming presentation on the Statewide Strategy for the Coexistence of California Fishing Communities and Offshore Wind Energy. He takes a deep breath and stands up as the mayor calls the meeting to order.

MAYOR
(looking over at Miles)
Mr. Slattery, are you prepared to present the recommendation for the letter of support for the Statewide Strategy for the Coexistence of California Fishing Communities and Offshore Wind Energy?

MILES
(with confidence)
Yes, Mayor. I am ready to present the recommendation and answer any questions from the council.

MAYOR
(looking around the room)
Alright then, let’s get started.

Miles approaches the podium at the front of the room and begins his presentation, outlining the details of the Statewide Strategy and the benefits it will bring to both the fishing communities and the development of offshore wind energy. The council members listen intently, taking in all the information.

COUNCIL MEMBER #1
(raising their hand)
I have a question about the impact of this strategy on the local economy. Can you speak to that?

MILES
(slightly adjusting his glasses)
Certainly. The Statewide Strategy outlines a plan for how offshore wind and fisheries can coexist, ultimately creating new economic opportunities for the fishing communities while also supporting the growth of renewable energy. It’s a win-win situation for all involved.

COUNCIL MEMBER #2
(nodding)
That all sounds great, Mr. Slattery. Thank you for your presentation. I move to authorize the Mayor to sign the letter of support for the Statewide Strategy.

MAYOR
(looking around the room)
Do we have a second?

COUNCIL MEMBER #3
(nodding)
I second the motion.

The council members vote in favor of authorizing the Mayor to sign the letter of support, and Miles breathes a sigh of relief, knowing that his hard work has paid off. He steps away from the podium, feeling proud of the progress being made to support both the fishing communities and the development of offshore wind energy in California. The meeting continues on, but Miles knows that this important step forward is a significant milestone in achieving effective governance and communication within the city.

— LoCOBot

DOCUMENTS:

Staff ReportStatewide Strategy for the Coexistence of California Fishing Communities and Offshore Wind Energy LOS


7. Board and Commission Appointments


H. LEGISLATIVE ACTION CORRESPONDENCE

I. ORDINANCES/RESOLUTIONS

1. Bill No. 1059-C.S. Animal Ordinance Update

The City Council is considering updating animal regulations in Eureka to make them clearer and easier to enforce. The changes will include rules for animals at City events, like the Friday Night Market and Fourth of July celebrations, to keep people safe and reduce liability. The updates will also address issues like excessive noise from barking, ownership limits, and enforcement. The goal is to create a more consistent and fair system for animal control in Eureka.

— LoCOBot

… or, as a recipe!

Recipe Title: Animal Ordinance Update

Prepared by: Robert N. Black, City Attorney; Gregory Holtz, Deputy City Attorney

Ingredients:
- Title IX, Chapter 91, Sections 91.101 through 91.1105 of the Eureka Municipal Code
- Additional Sections 91.206 and 91.1106
- Uniform Administrative Hearing Procedures
- Dogs and domestic animal regulations for City-sponsored events

Instructions:

1. In a large mixing bowl, combine Title IX, Chapter 91, Sections 91.101 through 91.1105 of the Eureka Municipal Code with additional Sections 91.206 and 91.1106.
2. Add in Uniform Administrative Hearing Procedures and mix well to ensure consistency in enforcement actions and due process protections.
3. Incorporate regulations for dogs and other domestic animals at designated City-sponsored events to ensure public safety and compliance with California Health and Safety Code Section 114259.5.
4. Clarify nuisance animal standards, excessive noise provisions, ownership limitations, and enforcement mechanisms to improve clarity for residents and support Animal Control.
5. Establish new authority to regulate animals at events to reduce safety risks and potential liability exposure, with exemptions for service animals.
6. Emphasize humane treatment and responsible ownership for all City populations.
7. Serve the updated Animal Ordinance at the next regular City Council meeting for adoption.

Enjoy a more comprehensive, consistent, and enforceable regulatory framework for animal control within the City of Eureka, while improving public safety and community well-being. Bon appétit!

— LoCOBot

DOCUMENTS:

Staff ReportBill No. 1059-C.S. Animal Ordinance Update


2. Bill No. 1058-C.S. TOT Ordinance Update

This agenda is about updating the city’s Transient Occupancy Tax Ordinance to reflect modern lodging arrangements and improve enforcement. The proposed changes clarify definitions, align administrative procedures, and strengthen compliance measures. The goal is to ensure that the city can collect taxes from lodging businesses and support government operations effectively.

— LoCOBot

… or, as a Bollywood song!

(Verse 1)
In the city council chambers, a bill introduced
Updating the TOT ordinance, much ado
Robert N. Black and Gregory M. Holtz
City Attorney and Deputy, on the spot

(Chorus)
Waive full reading, introduce with pride
Bill No. 1058, let it ride
Amending Title 3, Chapter 35
Bringing compliance, keeping the city alive

(Verse 2)
Fiscal impact, included in the budget
No additional appropriation, we can just forget
Maximize housing, expand economic development
Support businesses, bring in diverse ownership

(Chorus)
Waive full reading, introduce with pride
Bill No. 1058, let it ride
Amending Title 3, Chapter 35
Bringing compliance, keeping the city alive

(Bridge)
Modernizing definitions, aligning administration
Improved compliance, enforcing the regulation
Operator responsibilities, clear and sound
Protecting revenue, keeping the city’s ground

(Chorus)
Waive full reading, introduce with pride
Bill No. 1058, let it ride
Amending Title 3, Chapter 35
Bringing compliance, keeping the city alive

(Outro)
Ensuring fairness, protecting the source
This Bollywood song, celebrating the course
Bill No. 1058 TOT, a step to progress
Eureka city council, cleaning up the mess.

— LoCOBot

DOCUMENTS:

Staff ReportBill No. 1058-C.S. TOT Ordinance


J. REPORTS/ACTION ITEMS

1. Transportation Safety Protocols


K. FUTURE AGENDA ITEMS

L. CITY MANAGER REPORTS

M. PUBLIC COMMENT CONTINUED


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