LoCOBot / Wednesday, Oct. 25, 2023 @ 3:20 p.m. / Agendizer
Fortuna City Council
Oct. 16, 2023, 6 p.m.
1. CALL TO ORDER / FLAG SALUTE / ROLL CALL
2. PRESENTATIONS / PROCLAMATIONS
a. Introduction of Police Dispatcher Emma Valk (postponed)
b. Domestic Violence Awareness Month Proclamation
DOCUMENTS:
3. ORAL COMMENTS FROM THE PUBLIC
4. CONSENT CALENDAR
a. City Council Minutes – October 2, 2021 (Regular Meeting)
b. Administrative Department Monthly Report
This report is about the monthly activities of the Administration Department, which includes the City Attorney, City Clerk, Risk Management/Human Resources, and Information Technology divisions. The City Attorney worked on various legal projects for a total of 10 hours. The City Clerk prepared agendas for multiple city council meetings and handled various administrative duties. The Risk Management/Human Resources division provided updates on workers’ compensation claims and discussed upcoming flu and COVID vaccinations for employees. The Information Technology division provided updates on website statistics and ongoing technology upgrades. The report recommends that the city council receive the report for informational purposes.
— LoCOBot
Monthly Administrative Department Report Recipe
Ingredients:
- City Attorney billing for the month of September 2023
- Agendas for Regular City Council meetings, Rohner Community Recreation Park District, Parks & Recreation Commission, and Measure E Oversight Committee
- Public Records Act Requests
- General Information Requests
- Ordinances
- Resolutions
- Minutes Prepared
- Notary Services Provided
- Claims for Damages Filed
- FPPC Filings
- Legal/Proof of Publications
- Notices Posted (Public Hearing, Agenda, Ordinance, etc.)
- Risk Management updates
- Human Resources updates
- Information Technology updates
Instructions:
1. Preparing City Attorney Division:
- Take the City Attorney billing for the month of September 2023 from Mitchell Law Firm, LLC.
- Support the project with agenda and staff report review, bid proposal review, contract review, and various email and telephone calls.
2. Preparing City Clerk Division:
- Prepare and publish two agendas for Regular City Council meetings.
- Prepare and publish one agenda for the Rohner Community Recreation Park District.
- Prepare and publish one agenda for the Parks & Recreation Commission.
- Prepare and publish one agenda for the Measure E Oversight Committee.
3. City Clerk’s Office Key Duties:
- Handle Public Records Act Requests (3).
- Respond to General Information Requests (25-30 per day, average).
- Process Ordinances (1).
- Process Resolutions (3).
- Prepare Minutes (2).
- Provide Notary Services (0).
- File Claims for Damages (1).
- File FPPC Filings (0).
- Handle Legal/Proof of Publications (2).
- Post Notices for Public Hearings, Agendas, Ordinances, etc. (6).
4. Risk Management / Human Resources Division:
- Review and update Worker’s Compensation claims and tort claims.
- Schedule Flu and COVID vaccinations for all employees in early November.
- Conduct Safety Committee meetings to address risk concerns and incident reports.
- Participate in NEOGOV “Onboard” trainings for HR and Finance staff.
- Attend trainings hosted by Humboldt Count Employment Relations Consortium.
- Recruit qualified staff for open positions.
5. Information Technology Division:
- Monitor and update City Website.
- Work with Revize to design and develop new landing pages.
- Encourage citizens to sign up for e-notifications for updates from the City.
- Finalize upgrades to fiber and phone lines at City locations.
- Transition phone systems from Optimum to AT&T.
- Plan for transition of Police servers and equipment for the move to the new police facility.
6. Recommendation:
- Receive the Administration Division Monthly Report through Consent Agenda vote.
— LoCOBot
DOCUMENTS:
c. Community Development Department Monthly Report (Next report will be provided in November)
d. Finance Department Monthly Report
The Finance Department has provided a monthly report to the Mayor and City Council. They received a letter notifying them about an audit of the city’s Transportation Development Act (TDA) activities. They are also monitoring the city’s sales tax revenue, which is the largest source of income for the city. Sales tax receipts were down by 3% compared to the previous year, and revenue fell short of the budgeted amount by $100,000. The report includes information about projects funded by Measure E, a committee meeting, and a list of finance department activities for the month. The Council is recommended to receive the report for informational purposes.
— LoCOBot
(Verse 1)
In the city of Fortuna, where the Council resides
The Finance Department keeps an eye on our finances
They monitor the sales tax, the revenue streams
To ensure that our city can achieve its dreams
(Chorus)
Oh, Finance Department, we rely on you
To keep our city’s budget strong and true
From transportation audits to sales tax updates
You help us make sure our finances are in shape
(Verse 2)
They received a letter, oh what a delight
The auditors are coming, it’s time to get things right
They’ll be checking the TDA, the Senior Bus program too
Street improvement projects, they’ve got much to do
(Chorus)
Oh, Finance Department, we rely on you
To keep our city’s budget strong and true
From transportation audits to sales tax updates
You help us make sure our finances are in shape
(Bridge)
Sales tax can fluctuate, it’s a fickle friend
But Finance staff are on it, they’ll help it on the mend
Though this year’s revenue fell a little bit short
We’ll keep on monitoring, we won’t fall off course
(Chorus)
Oh, Finance Department, we rely on you
To keep our city’s budget strong and true
From transportation audits to sales tax updates
You help us make sure our finances are in shape
(Verse 3)
Measure E is an important part of our plan
It funds projects that benefit our wonderful land
From police positions to storm drain assessments
The Finance Department ensures we make progress
(Chorus)
Oh, Finance Department, we rely on you
To keep our city’s budget strong and true
From transportation audits to sales tax updates
You help us make sure our finances are in shape
(Outro)
So let’s give a round of applause to the Finance Department team
For keeping our city’s finances on the right beam
They work hard to ensure our budget’s on track
We’re grateful for all they do, we can’t thank them back!
— LoCOBot
DOCUMENTS:
e. Parks & Recreation Monthly Report
This report is about the Parks & Recreation Department’s activities and maintenance work in September 2023. They deep cleaned basketball courts, repaired irrigation, installed new equipment, and set up events. The Fortuna Depot Museum had 157 visitors, and a new exhibit about the Great Berkeley Fire was installed. The Fortuna Transit Bus had 787 trips with 96 more riders than last year. There were sports leagues, classes, and facility rentals happening. The Recreation division implemented a new cashiering system. Roller skating resumed with theme skates and private parties. The department also had community service workers helping with maintenance projects. The report recommends the City Council receive this report as an informational item.
— LoCOBot
(Verse 1)
Oh, gather round, my mates, and listen to me tale,
Of the City Council’s report, a monthly detail,
The Parks and Recreation, they work hard, you see,
Maintaining our beloved spaces, for all lovers of the sea.
(Chorus)
Hoist the sail, set your sights on the horizon,
Where the parks and facilities, their magic lies therein,
From basketball courts to skylights high,
They strive to keep our city spry.
(Verse 2)
They deep cleaned the courts, for the ribbon-cutting day,
Repaired irrigation, so the flowers brightly sway,
A new skylight was installed, at the cookshack patio lost,
And the Bartow Field, set up for dogs, at no cost.
(Chorus)
Hoist the sail, set your sights on the horizon,
Where the parks and facilities, their magic lies therein,
From basketball courts to skylights high,
They strive to keep our city spry.
(Verse 3)
Yellow jackets were ousted from the soccer field,
Spindles were repaired, a broken grill now healed,
Maintenance and weed spraying, they diligently do,
To keep our parks pristine, for me and for you.
(Chorus)
Hoist the sail, set your sights on the horizon,
Where the parks and facilities, their magic lies therein,
From basketball courts to skylights high,
They strive to keep our city spry.
(Verse 4)
The Depot Museum, visitors it does attract,
157 in September, a number that is exact,
From California to Alaska, visitors they came,
To immerse themselves in history, and learn about our fame.
(Chorus)
Hoist the sail, set your sights on the horizon,
Where the parks and facilities, their magic lies therein,
From basketball courts to skylights high,
They strive to keep our city spry.
(Bridge)
The Fortuna Transit, it carries passengers far,
787 trips last month, it was quite a star,
With new riders and medical appointments too,
Jeff Pearce, our new driver, we welcome you.
(Chorus)
Hoist the sail, set your sights on the horizon,
Where the parks and facilities, their magic lies therein,
From basketball courts to skylights high,
They strive to keep our city spry.
(Verse 5)
Sports, classes, and rentals, bring joy to us all,
Softball, Pickleball, and football stand tall,
Rented halls and events, like the Sip of Summer,
Rohner Park comes alive, with fun for every comer.
(Chorus)
Hoist the sail, set your sights on the horizon,
Where the parks and facilities, their magic lies therein,
From basketball courts to skylights high,
They strive to keep our city spry.
(Verse 6)
Recreation programs, for young and old alike,
Cashiering systems improved, smiles they strike,
Drop-in volleyball, a popular choice,
And playgroups for kids, where laughter finds its voice.
(Chorus)
Hoist the sail, set your sights on the horizon,
Where the parks and facilities, their magic lies therein,
From basketball courts to skylights high,
They strive to keep our city spry.
(Verse 7)
The skating rink, brings joy with every glide,
Private parties and public skates, side by side,
We hosted many, with smiles wide,
For the love of roller skating, we always provide.
(Chorus)
Hoist the sail, set your sights on the horizon,
Where the parks and facilities, their magic lies therein,
From basketball courts to skylights high,
They strive to keep our city spry.
(Outro)
And let us not forget, the community service they give,
Helping with trash pickup, so our parks can live,
Thousands of hours served, with heart and glee,
Fortuna’s Parks and Rec, the pride of the sea.
(Chorus)
Hoist the sail, set your sights on the horizon,
Where the parks and facilities, their magic lies therein,
From basketball courts to skylights high,
They strive to keep our city spry.
— LoCOBot
DOCUMENTS:
f. Police Department Monthly Report
This is a report from the Chief of Police about the activities of the Fortuna Police Department in September 2023. They received 1,371 calls for service and made 71 arrests, including 15 felonies and 56 misdemeanors. They also issued 64 citations for traffic offenses. The report mentions that they have one vacant police officer position and one new dispatcher candidate who has completed the background investigation and will start training at the dispatch academy. They also hired a new kennel attendant. The report mentions that they submitted a grant application for body-worn cameras, which was approved, and they also submitted a funding application for a new police officer position, which is still awaiting approval. The recommendation for the City Council is to receive the report as an informational item.
— LoCOBot
Emma Valk, the newly hired entry-level Public Safety Dispatcher, sat at her desk in the bustling Fortuna Police Department. She had just completed her pre-employment background investigation and was eager to start her training at the dispatch academy. Meanwhile, Libbi Wolfe, the recently hired Kennel Attendant, was in the next room taking care of the police department’s K-9 unit.
As the Chief of Police, Casey J. Day, walked into the station, he noticed the City Manager, Merritt Perry, waiting for him. They both headed towards the Council Chamber, where the City Council was about to discuss the Police Department’s monthly report for September 2023.
Inside the Council Chamber, the honorable Mayor and Council Members took their seats. Chief Casey J. Day stood in front of them and began his presentation.
“Good evening, Mayor and Council Members. Today, I am here to present the Police Department’s monthly report for September 2023,” Chief Day started. “During the month of September, our dedicated officers responded to a total of 1,371 calls for service.”
He continued, “We also made 71 arrests, including 15 felony arrests and 56 misdemeanor arrests. Additionally, our officers issued 64 citations for traffic offenses and other miscellaneous violations.”
Chief Day paused briefly to allow the information to sink in. He then moved on to the staffing updates. “Currently, we have one sworn police officer position open,” he informed the Council. “However, we have successfully hired Emma Valk as an entry-level Public Safety Dispatcher. She has completed her background investigation and is ready to start her training.”
The Council members nodded in approval as they recognized Emma’s name from the previous reports. Chief Day continued, “We have also hired Libbi Wolfe as our new Kennel Attendant. She joined us in September, and she has been doing an excellent job taking care of our K-9 unit.”
The Chief’s update on grant awards and applications was the next topic on the agenda. He informed the Council, “We have recently submitted an application for the USDA’s Body Worn Camera grant, which has been approved. We are in the process of implementing this new technology.”
He added, “We have also submitted an application for the COPS funding, which would allow us to add a new police officer position. We are awaiting approval and should receive an announcement in October.”
Chief Day concluded his presentation by recommending that the Council receive the Police Department’s monthly report for September as an informational item on the Consent Agenda.
“Thank you for your attention, Mayor and Council Members. I believe that this report demonstrates the hard work and dedication of our police force. We look forward to continuing to serve and protect the city of Fortuna,” Chief Day said with a sense of pride in his voice.
The Council Members discussed briefly among themselves and then the Mayor called for a vote. The Police Department Monthly Report for September 2023 was accepted and received as an informational item on the Consent Agenda. Emma Valk and Libbi Wolfe, though busy in their respective roles, felt a sense of accomplishment knowing that their contributions were acknowledged. And with that, the meeting moved on to the next item on the agenda, closing another productive day at the Fortuna Police Department.
— LoCOBot
DOCUMENTS:
g. Public Works Monthly Report
This is a report from the Public Works/Engineering Department about ongoing projects and maintenance tasks.
- The Police Facility Remodel Project is making progress, but it will take longer than expected to complete. Some subcontractors have finished their work, but there are still more tasks to be done.
- The Water Tank Coating Project has been finished and the water system is back to operating at full capacity. The project ended up costing less than expected.
- The Water System Emergency Generator Project is almost complete, with the final interconnection scheduled for October 10th. Once it’s finished, the project will be officially closed out.
- The 12th Street Utility Undergrounding Project has made progress, with AT&T successfully transitioning to fiber-optic cables. The remaining contractor work, including pole removal and sidewalk restoration, is being expedited.
- The preliminary design phase of the Kenmar Interchange Improvement Project is expected to be completed in early 2024. The department has requested funding to cover the final engineering plans and construction costs.
- The Utilities Division has completed various service calls, including water shut-offs, meter readings, and water leak repairs. They have also performed maintenance tasks on the water distribution system and cleaned sewer mains.
- The Water Treatment/Wastewater Division has worked on various projects, including managing water brought from the Cal-Trans Fernbridge project, working on a Basin Plan Amendment, and conducting monthly maintenance on equipment.
- The General Services and Streets Division has completed assignments such as storm drain repairs, watering newly planted vegetation, placing fall banners, and monitoring and clearing drainage inlets.
Overall, the report highlights the progress and completion of various projects and maintenance tasks in the Public Works/Engineering Department.
— LoCOBot
… or, as a heartbreaking country/western song!
(Verse 1)
In the heart of a small town, where dreams were born,
A police facility, a place to be torn,
They worked day and night, to make it right,
But unforeseen circumstances, brought a bitter fight.
(Chorus)
Oh, the Police Facility Remodel, it’s a heartbreaking tale,
The schedule extended, and the budget set to fail,
But they keep pushing on, through the blood and sweat,
Hoping for a brighter day, when their dreams are met.
(Verse 2)
The water tank, coated in hope and promise,
But the budget, it couldn’t be honest,
The project was complete, but the cost was too high,
Leaving them with empty pockets, and a long, heavy sigh.
(Chorus)
Oh, the Water Tank Coating, a bittersweet endeavor,
They filled it to the brim, but it left them with a forever,
A debt that can’t be repaid, a hole in their hearts,
Aching for a solution, for a brand new start.
(Bridge)
They worked on the Kenmar Interchange, dreaming of better days,
Hoping for funding, to pave the way,
But the budget was tight, and their dreams put on hold,
Leaving them with uncertainty, in a world so cold.
(Chorus)
Oh, the Kenmar Interchange, a dream left behind,
They fought for their project, with all their might,
But the funds didn’t come, and the dream slipped away,
Leaving them with empty hands, and nothing left to say.
(Verse 3)
The utilities division, working day and night,
Completing service calls, with all their might,
But the leaks and repairs, they just keep coming,
Leaving them with a broken system, and hearts that are numbing.
(Chorus)
Oh, the Utilities Division, fighting an endless war,
Fixing broken pipes, and seeking something more,
But the challenges they face, are relentless and tough,
Leaving them with broken spirits, and dreams not enough.
(Outro)
In the small town’s monthly report, a story of heartbreak,
A Public Works Department, trying to stay awake,
But through the pain and struggle, they never give up,
Hoping for a better future, a chance at new luck.
— LoCOBot
DOCUMENTS:
The staff report is about the monthly activities at the River Lodge Conference Center and Fortuna Monday Club in September 2023. There were 27 events that took place, including two weddings, a Celebration of Life, and two trainings. The report also mentions two fundraisers for the Eureka Symphony and Redwood Preparatory School. Additionally, there was a Back to School Mixer at the Monday Club for Academy of the Redwoods. During the event, some spindles on the porch were accidentally broken, but the school agreed to pay for the repairs. The staff recommends receiving the report as an informational item.
— LoCOBot
INT. CITY COUNCIL CHAMBERS - DAY
The City Council members are seated around a long table, with Jennifer Lourenzo and Merritt Perry seated across from them. Jennifer holds a copy of the River Lodge and Monday Club monthly report for September 2023.
MAYOR
Alright, let’s move on to the next item on the agenda. Jennifer, please present the report for River Lodge and Monday Club.
JENNIFER
Thank you, Mayor. Good morning, Council members. In the month of September, the River Lodge and Monday Club hosted a total of 27 events, including two wedding celebrations.
COUNCIL MEMBER 1
Could you provide some details about the weddings?
JENNIFER
Certainly. One wedding was a reception for about 350 people. It was a grand celebration with a large guest list. The second wedding had traditional Japanese elements, and the father of the bride constructed a breathtaking chandelier made up of a thousand paper cranes. I have a picture here if anyone would like to see.
COUNCIL MEMBER 2
That sounds incredible. Please pass the photo around.
Jennifer passes the photo around the table, allowing the Council members to admire the chandelier.
MAYOR
Moving on, were there any other significant events at the River Lodge in September?
JENNIFER
Yes, there was one Celebration of Life for a 19-year-old who tragically passed away in a car accident. The community came together to support the family during the planning process, and we were honored to be a part of it.
COUNCIL MEMBER 3
That must have been a difficult event to handle. We appreciate your efforts in providing support during such a challenging time.
JENNIFER
Thank you, Council member. We strive to provide a supportive environment for all our clients.
MAYOR
Alright, any other notable events in September?
JENNIFER
Yes, the City of Fortuna hosted two trainings on Public Employee Discipline, conducted by Liebert Cassidy and Whitmore, LCW. These trainings were held at River Lodge. Additionally, there were two fundraisers – one for the Eureka Symphony and the other for the Redwood Preparatory School Gala. Both events were successful in raising funds for their respective organizations.
COUNCIL MEMBER 4
That’s great to hear. Supporting our local arts and education is always important.
JENNIFER
Absolutely, Council member. Finally, the Academy of the Redwoods held their Back to School Mixer at the Monday Club. Unfortunately, a few spindles were broken on the porch during the event. The school has taken responsibility and agreed to pay for the replacements. Our Parks crew was able to make the repairs promptly.
COUNCIL MEMBER 1
Thank you for the update. It’s vital to maintain the condition of our facilities.
MAYOR
Thank you, Jennifer. Council members, any further questions or comments on the report?
There are no further questions or comments from the Council members.
MAYOR
Alright, let’s move to the next item on the agenda. Jennifer, thank you for your presentation.
The interview concludes as the Council moves on to the next agenda item. Jennifer and Merritt exchange nods of acknowledgment before they exit the council chambers.
FADE OUT.
— LoCOBot
DOCUMENTS:
DOCUMENTS:
j. Authorization of Destruction of Selected Fortuna Police Department Files, Resolution 2023-30
The Chief of Police is recommending that the City Council approve a resolution to destroy certain files from the Fortuna Police Department. These files have been selected for destruction because they meet the criteria outlined in the law and the city’s Records Retention Policy. The Chief of Police can only destroy these files with approval from the City Council. The City Attorney has reviewed and approved this recommendation. The recommended action for the City Council is to adopt the resolution.
— LoCOBot
En la Ciudad de Fortuna
El Consejo se reunió
Para autorizar la destrucción
De archivos del Departamento de Policía.
La fecha, 16 de octubre de 2023,
El Alcalde y los Concejales presentes,
Recibieron el informe del jefe,
Casey Day, el más valiente.
A través del Gerente de la Ciudad,
Merritt Perry, el enlace,
Se presentó la recomendación,
Para aprobar la Resolución 2023-30.
Una auditoría rutinaria,
De los archivos de Asuntos Internos,
Del Departamento de Policía,
En septiembre fue realizada.
Como resultado de esta revisión,
Una lista de archivos se seleccionó,
Para la destrucción autorizada,
De acuerdo a las leyes que se establecieron.
El Código Penal de California,
Sección 832.5(b) es la referencia,
El Código de Gobierno, sección 34090,
Y el Código de Gobierno, sección 26202.
Además, la Política de Retención de Registros,
De la Ciudad de Fortuna,
De marzo de 2001,
También se tuvo en cuenta en esta fortuna.
La ley estatal dictamina,
Que estos archivos pueden ser destruidos,
Por la dirección del jefe de policía,
Y con la aprobación del Consejo rendido.
La información de destrucción de archivos,
Fue proporcionada por el Departamento de Policía,
Fortuna es la ciudad amada,
Y protegida por su valentía.
Se recomienda al Consejo,
Adoptar la Resolución 2023-30,
Una votación en el Consentimiento,
Para proceder con la destrucción de expedientes.
Adjunto se encuentra la Resolución,
2023-30: Autorización para la destrucción,
De los registros mencionados,
En esta importante reunión.
En resumen, el Consejo,
Autorizó la destrucción de expedientes,
Para mantener el orden y la ley,
En la ciudad de Fortuna, eternamente.
— LoCOBot
DOCUMENTS:
k. Authorization of Destruction of Selected Finance Department Files, Resolution 2023-31
The City Council is considering whether to destroy certain files from the Finance Department. They will discuss this at their next meeting and vote on whether to approve the destruction of these files. The files have been reviewed and meet the criteria for destruction according to state law. The City Attorney has also reviewed this proposal. The Finance Department has provided the information on which files should be destroyed. The Council will vote on a resolution to authorize the destruction of these files.
— LoCOBot
… or, as an insane conspiracy theory!
Insane Conspiracy Theory: The Secret Plot to Erase the City’s Financial Corruption
According to this cryptic staff report from the City Council, the Finance Department has requested authorization to destroy selected files. But what if this seemingly innocent request is actually part of a sinister plot to erase evidence of rampant financial corruption within the city?
Delving deeper into this seemingly benign document, it becomes clear that something nefarious is afoot. The mention of California Government Code Section 34090 raises suspicions that this destruction of records is more than just routine housekeeping. Is this section being used as a smokescreen to hide the true nature of these files?
Consider the individuals involved in this report: Aaron Felmlee, the Finance Director; Merritt Perry, the City Manager; and Ryan Plotz, the City Attorney. Could these high-ranking officials be colluding to ensure the destruction of incriminating evidence? What secrets are they trying to bury?
The timing of this resolution and the consent agenda vote is particularly suspicious. Why October 16, 2023? Could there be a hidden significance to this date? Perhaps it coincides with a major investigation or a whistleblower going public with damning evidence. By destroying these files, the conspirators can cover their tracks and prevent any exposure of their misdeeds.
But what exactly are these files that they are so desperate to destroy? The report only mentions the Finance Department, leaving us to ponder the possibilities. Could they contain evidence of embezzlement, money laundering, or illicit financial dealings between government officials and private corporations?
Ultimately, this conspiracy theory leads to a chilling conclusion: the city’s financial corruption runs deep, with powerful individuals at the helm orchestrating a systematic cover-up. The destruction of these files is just one cog in a larger machine dedicated to maintaining their stranglehold on power.
Only time will tell if this theory holds any weight, but one thing is clear: something fishy is happening behind the scenes. The citizens must remain vigilant and demand transparency from their elected officials, as their very democracy may be at stake.
— LoCOBot
DOCUMENTS:
5. CITY COUNCIL BUSINESS
a. Approve a Supplemental Budget Request for the Police Facility Remodel Project
The Public Works Director and Finance Director are recommending to the City Council to approve an additional budget request of $430,000 for the Police Facility Remodel Project. The project is expected to be completed next year. The original budget estimate has changed as the project progressed, with some items costing more than expected and some costing less. The main reasons for the cost increase are changes in construction, electrical upgrades, and unforeseen engineering issues. In addition to the planned items, there is a need for furnishings and the installation of solar panels to offset future utility costs. The additional funds needed for the project will come from Measure E reserves. Although this brings the reserves below the stated goal, it is still above the recommended amount for operating expenses. The City Council will review the recommendation and vote on it.
— LoCOBot
[Trailer Voice Over]
In a city plagued by crime and corruption, one police facility stands as a beacon of hope.
[Opening shot: A dimly-lit police station]
VOICEOVER: “From the creators of ‘Justice Unleashed’ comes a thrilling new chapter in law enforcement.”
[Quick shots: Police officers in action, crime scenes, police cars racing through the streets]
VOICEOVER: “But this time, they face their greatest challenge yet.”
[Cut to a meeting room with the City Council]
COUNCIL MEMBER 1: “We need to approve a supplemental budget request for the Police Facility Remodel Project.”
COUNCIL MEMBER 2: “How much are we talking about?”
COUNCIL MEMBER 3: “A staggering $430,000.”
[Cut to Brendan Byrd and Aaron Felmlee presenting their case]
BRENDAN BYRD: “We’ve encountered numerous unforeseen conditions during the construction.”
AARON FELMLEE: “The radio system upgrade and construction engineering costs have also exceeded our initial estimates.”
[Quick shots: Workers on the construction site, blueprint drawings, financial charts]
VOICEOVER: “As tensions rise and funds dwindle, they must find a way to complete the project.”
[Cut to a montage of intense moments]
VOICEOVER: “They thought they had it all under control. But now, they must fight against time and budget constraints.”
[Quick shots: Council members arguing, workers hustling, City Manager Merritt Perry making tough decisions]
VOICEOVER: “In a city divided, can they unite to overcome this monumental challenge?”
[Final shot: The Police Facility Remodel Project nearing completion]
VOICEOVER: “Don’t miss ‘The Price of Progress’ – a gripping tale of dedication, determination, and the cost of making a difference.”
[Title card: The Price of Progress]
VOICEOVER: “Coming soon.”
[End with the movie’s tagline]
TAGLINE: “Sometimes, the greatest battles are fought within.”
[Fade out]
— LoCOBot
DOCUMENTS:
b. Approve a Supplemental Budget Request for the Purchase of a new Records Information Management System Server
The Chief of Police is recommending that the City Council approve a budget request to purchase a new server for their records management system. The current server is outdated and no longer supported by Microsoft. The upgrade is necessary to comply with state requirements and to continue accessing important databases. The cost of the new server is estimated to be $39,667.12, with additional expenses for licenses and integration. The funding for this purchase will come from various sources, including the city’s general fund reserves. The Council is advised to approve the budget request and no competitive bidding process is recommended. The total cost for the project is $65,000.00.
— LoCOBot
… or, as a World War I infantryman's letter home to his sweetheart!
October 16th, 1917
My Dearest Jane,
I hope this letter finds its way to you in good health and high spirits. I apologize for the delay in writing to you, but the situation here in the trenches has been dire. We are constantly under heavy fire from the German artillery, and life has become increasingly difficult.
I long for the day when I can hold you in my arms again and escape this dreadful war. Each passing day feels like a lifetime, as every moment is spent in fear for our lives. The trenches are filled with mud and despair, and the constant noise of the shells exploding has become our unfortunate lullaby.
My thoughts are constantly consumed by you, my love. Your unwavering support and love are my only solace during these dark times. I often find myself daydreaming of our future together, when this war is nothing but a distant memory.
I must inform you of a recent development that has added to our burdens. Our current server, which is essential for our records and information management, is outdated and no longer supported by Microsoft. Without immediate action, we will lose access to crucial databases and fail to meet the requirements set by the California Department of Justice.
To rectify this, the police department has recommended a supplemental budget request to purchase a new server. The total estimated cost is $39,667.12 for the server itself, $7,888.00 for associated licenses, and $11,500.00 for integration costs. They have also requested a contingency budget of up to $5,000.00 to cover any additional expenses.
I understand that these budget requests may seem substantial, but it is imperative for the success of our department and the safety of our community. The current server has served us beyond its expected lifespan, and it is crucial that we upgrade to retain support from Microsoft. Additionally, the Fortuna Police Department has existing agreements with other agencies that stipulate their contribution towards server replacement costs.
I assure you, my love, that the City’s IT consultant, Nylex, has proven to be the most reliable choice for this project. They possess an intimate knowledge of our IT infrastructure and have previously met our IT needs satisfactorily. Therefore, conducting a competitive bidding process would not be in our best interests.
In terms of funding, the AB 109 will allocate $13,750.00, the revenue generated through outside agency agreements for dispatch services will provide $10,800.00, and the remaining $44,550.00 will come from the City’s General Fund Reserves. This allocation ensures that the burden of the cost is shared appropriately and responsibly.
My dearest Jane, I cannot express how much I long to return to you and leave this war behind. The horrors of the trenches weigh heavily on my soul, but the thought of you keeps me going. Please stay safe and know that my love for you remains steadfast.
Yours eternally,
Charles
— LoCOBot
DOCUMENTS:
6. CITY MANAGER’S REPORT
This report is about upcoming meetings in the city. There are meetings for the City Council, Planning Commission, Measure E, Rohner Community Recreation and Park District, and Fortuna Business Improvement District. The dates and times for each meeting are listed. There is also a section for a verbal report, but it is not specified what the report is about.
— LoCOBot
In the city hall,
Where meetings are held tall,
The city manager provides a report,
For the mayor and council, a support.
Upcoming council dates to know,
Special workshop, on the go,
November 6th, at 6 PM,
In the council chambers, a gem.
November 20th, another meeting,
At 6 PM, in the same seating,
City council discussing matters,
In the chambers that flatters.
Planning commission, much to decide,
October 24th, a date to bide,
At 6 PM, council chambers they’ll fill,
City hall with thoughts, they will spill.
November 14th, planning commission meets,
At 6 PM, fulfilling their feats,
In the council chambers they will gather,
To discuss plans that will matter.
Measure E, an important affair,
December 19th, they will share,
At 5:30 PM, council chambers they’ll greet,
To ensure Measure E is complete.
Rohner Community Recreation and Park,
November 2nd, a time to spark,
At 2:30 PM, council chambers the place,
For RCRPD meeting’s embrace.
Fortuna Business Improvement District,
October 24th, a time to commit,
At 8:30 AM, council chambers awake,
For FBID’s meeting, a chance to partake.
Lastly, a verbal report,
By the city manager, a comfort,
To update the council on city’s state,
In this nursery rhyme, they’ll relate.
So, in the city hall, meetings thrive,
With city manager’s report alive,
Honorable mayor and council, they see,
The city’s progress, so beautifully.
— LoCOBot
DOCUMENTS:
7. FUTURE AGENDA ITEMS
8. CITY COUNCIL REPORTS AND COMMENTS
a. Council Member Kyle Conley
b. Council Member Mike Losey
c. Council Member Kris Mobley
d. Mayor Pro Tem Mike Johnson
e. Mayor Tami Trent
9. ADJOURN
CLICK TO MANAGE