LoCOBot / Friday, March 15 @ 3:05 p.m. / Agendizer
Fortuna City Council
March 18, 2024, 6 p.m.
1. CALL TO ORDER / FLAG SALUTE / ROLL CALL
2. ORAL COMMENTS FROM THE PUBLIC
3. PRESENTATIONS / PROCLAMATIONS
DOCUMENTS:
4. CONSENT CALENDAR
a. City Council Minutes – February 5, 2024 (Regular Meeting)
b. City Council Minutes – February 20, 2024 (Regular Meeting)
c. City Council Minutes – February 26, 2024 (Special Meeting)
d. Administrative Department Monthly Report
This report discusses the monthly activities of different departments in the city government, such as the City Attorney, City Clerk, Risk Management/Human Resources, and Information Technology. It includes information on legal work, city council meetings, elections, risk management, human resources, and updates on the city’s website. The recommendation is for the City Council to receive the report as an informational item.
— LoCOBot
… or, as an episode of Seinfeld!
Title: The City Council Report
(Scene: Jerry and George are sitting in Jerry’s apartment, reading through the City Council’s monthly report)
Jerry: (reading) “City Attorney billing was 18 hours for the month of February…blah blah blah.”
George: (interrupting) Wait, hold on, City Attorney billing? What does a city attorney even do?
Jerry: I’m not sure, but it sounds important. (continues reading) “Risk Management/Human Resources…no new worker’s comp claims.”
George: Worker’s comp claims? I could use some compensation for all the work I do!
Jerry: (sarcastically) Yes, because being unemployed is such hard work.
George: (ignoring Jerry) “Current recruitments for various departments…”
Jerry: (excitedly) Ah, here we go! Open positions! Maybe this is our chance to finally get real jobs!
George: (intrigued) Hmm, a Police Dispatcher position. Do you think we’d make a good team?
Jerry: (smirking) I can see it now… “This is Dispatcher Seinfeld, what’s the deal with your emergency?”
George: (laughing) And then I could answer the phone like, “I’m sorry, I can’t help you right now, I’m in the middle of a high-speed pursuit.”
Jerry: (laughing) We’d be the worst dispatchers ever!
(Scene: Elaine enters Jerry’s apartment)
Elaine: Hey guys, what’s so funny?
Jerry: We’re considering a career change to become Police Dispatchers.
Elaine: (sarcastically) Oh yes, because you two are experts at handling emergencies.
Jerry: (defensive) Hey, we’d be great at it! We’d bring a whole new level of comedy to the job.
Elaine: (rolling her eyes) Well, good luck with that. I’m sure the city council will be thrilled to have you two on board.
(Scene: Kramer enters Jerry’s apartment)
Kramer: Hey, what’s the buzz?
Jerry: We’re thinking of applying for jobs as Police Dispatchers.
Kramer: (excitedly) Oh, I love it! You guys would be a great addition to the police force.
Jerry: (confused) Really? You think so?
Kramer: (nodding) Absolutely. Just imagine the chaos you two would cause behind the scenes. It’d be a sitcom waiting to happen!
Jerry, George, Elaine, and Kramer all share a laugh as they continue discussing the city council report and their potential career change. The scene fades to black as they joke and banter with each other.
— LoCOBot
DOCUMENTS:
e. Community Development Department Monthly Report
The City Council is receiving a report from the Community Development Department about their activities in February 2024, including planning department activities, planning commission activity, permits under review, grant statuses, and building division activities. The staff recommendation is for the Council to receive the report as an informational item and vote on it as part of the Consent Agenda.
— LoCOBot
It was a quiet night in the small town of Mill Valley, nestled in the shadow of the old PALCO mill site. The citizens went about their evening routines, unaware of the horrors that were about to unfold.
The Community Development Director, Shari Meads, had just finished up her report for the City Council meeting the next day. As she placed the final pages in the file, she felt a sudden chill run down her spine. The room seemed to grow darker, the air heavy with an unexplained tension.
Ignoring her unease, Shari left the office and headed towards her car. But as she walked through the dimly-lit parking lot, she heard the sound of footsteps echoing behind her. She quickened her pace, glancing over her shoulder, but no one was there.
The next day, at the City Council meeting, Shari presented her report as usual. But as she spoke, a sudden sense of dread washed over her. Something was terribly wrong, she could feel it in her bones.
As the meeting progressed, strange occurrences began to happen. Lights flickered, papers shuffled on their own, and a cold breeze swept through the room. The council members exchanged nervous glances, but no one dared speak out.
Suddenly, a loud crash echoed through the chamber, causing everyone to jump in their seats. The lights went out, plunging the room into darkness. Panicked whispers filled the air as the council members fumbled for their phones, trying to illuminate the room.
And then, a bloodcurdling scream pierced the silence. Shari’s body was found lying on the floor, her eyes wide with terror. Her report lay open beside her, the pages now smeared with blood.
The town of Mill Valley was thrown into a state of fear and confusion. Rumors of a vengeful spirit haunting the old mill site spread like wildfire. The once peaceful community now lived in fear, never knowing when the ghostly presence would strike again.
And as the nights grew longer, the shadows darker, the citizens of Mill Valley could feel the malevolent force watching, waiting, hungry for its next victim. The horrors of that fateful City Council meeting would never be forgotten, a grim reminder of the darkness that lurked in the heart of their town.
— LoCOBot
DOCUMENTS:
f. Finance Department Monthly Report
The Finance Department presented a report to the Mayor and Council Members about the mid-year budget review and upcoming budget process for the fiscal year. They also discussed tax reporting and updates on Measure E funding for various city departments. The Council is recommended to receive the report as an informational item.
— LoCOBot
In the city of merry folk,
Where budgets and taxes evoke,
There lived a Finance Director, so wise,
Aaron Felmlee was his name, you surmise.
He presented to the Mayor and Council,
A report so grand, no detail was insoluble.
The Fiscal Year budget was reviewed,
With measures taken, all approved.
The Measure E committee convened,
To discuss funding, so it seemed,
They approved positions and projects galore,
For the city to thrive, forevermore.
Tax reporting was done in time,
Despite challenges faced, a mountain to climb.
W-2’s and 1099’s were filed with care,
Every form submitted, a tale so rare.
Now the Finance Department seeks,
To continue their work, for weeks and weeks.
Their monthly report, a nursery rhyme,
For all to read, in story time.
— LoCOBot
DOCUMENTS:
g. Parks & Recreation Monthly Report
The Parks and Recreation Department presented their monthly report for February 2024, which includes updates on park maintenance, visitation at the Depot Museum, Fortuna Transit ridership, classes, rentals, sports programs, and community service activities. The staff recommends receiving the report as an informational item.
— LoCOBot
… or, as a heartbreaking country/western song!
(Verse 1)
In a small town called Fortuna, where the Depot Museum stands
The heart of the community, held together by caring hands
But behind the scenes, there’s a story of struggle and strife
As the Parks & Rec Department faces challenges in their life
(Chorus)
Broken receptacles, tree work in the Rodeo Grounds
Plumbing issues at River Lodge, the list goes round and round
Depot Museum visitation down, Transit riders on the rise
But through it all, they keep on going, under those clear blue skies
(Verse 2)
With only two on community service, the workload grows each day
But they keep on pushing forward, in their own quiet way
From painting pavilions to setting up for Hot Shots
Their dedication never wavers, no matter the plots
(Chorus)
Broken receptacles, tree work in the Rodeo Grounds
Plumbing issues at River Lodge, the list goes round and round
Depot Museum visitation down, Transit riders on the rise
But through it all, they keep on going, under those clear blue skies
(Bridge)
They may not get the recognition, that they truly deserve
But their hard work and determination, is what keeps the town preserved
(Chorus)
Broken receptacles, tree work in the Rodeo Grounds
Plumbing issues at River Lodge, the list goes round and round
Depot Museum visitation down, Transit riders on the rise
But through it all, they keep on going, under those clear blue skies
(Outro)
So here’s to the Parks & Rec Department, in Fortuna they’ll stay
Tackling each challenge, in their own special way
Their dedication and heartbreak, in each task they do
Deserves a country song, to honor their spirits true.
— LoCOBot
DOCUMENTS:
h. Police Department Monthly Report
The Acting Chief of Police is recommending that the City Council receive the Police Department Monthly Report for February 2024 as an informational item. The report includes statistics on patrol activities, staffing updates, training information, and funding applications. The Council is asked to vote on this as part of the Consent Agenda.
— LoCOBot
… or, as a Rodney Dangerfield joke!
I tell ya, I saw the police department monthly report for February 2024 and it was rough. They made 51 arrests, issued 72 citations, and still can’t get no respect!
— LoCOBot
DOCUMENTS:
i. Public Works Monthly Report
The Public Works/Engineering Department Monthly Report includes updates on various projects and maintenance tasks. The report recommends that the City Council receive the information as an informational item. Key updates include the progress on the Police Facility Remodel Project, a Water and Sewer Rate Study, and the Mill Creek Habitat Connectivity Project. The report also details completed tasks related to water distribution, wastewater events, and general services/streets maintenance. The Council is asked to take action to receive the report as part of the Consent Agenda.
— LoCOBot
(Scene opens in a City Council meeting, with Mayor Adams presiding over the meeting. Council members are seated, listening attentively.)
Mayor Adams: (addressing the Council) Thank you, Director Byrd, for that comprehensive report on the Public Works and Engineering Department’s monthly activities. It’s great to see all the progress being made on these important projects. Council members, any questions or comments on the report?
Council Member Thompson: (standing up) Yes, Mayor Adams. I have a question regarding the Water and Sewer Rate Study. Can you provide more information on how these rate adjustments will affect our residents?
Director Byrd: (standing up) Thank you for your question, Council Member Thompson. The upcoming rate adjustments are necessary to ensure that we can cover current and future operating expenses, as well as fund crucial capital improvement projects. Our goal is to maintain affordable rates for our residents while also ensuring the long-term sustainability of our water and sewer systems.
Council Member Ramirez: (standing up) Director Byrd, I appreciate the explanation. It’s good to see that these adjustments are being carefully considered to balance the needs of the city and its residents. I look forward to seeing the recommended rate adjustment strategy at the April 15th meeting.
Mayor Adams: (nodding) Thank you for your questions and comments, Council Members. It’s clear that the Public Works and Engineering Department is working diligently to improve our city’s infrastructure. Let’s move on to the next agenda item. Thank you, Director Byrd, for your report.
(The scene fades out as the Council continues with their meeting, discussing the next item on the agenda.)
— LoCOBot
DOCUMENTS:
In February 2024, there were 22 events held at the River Lodge and Monday Club. Events included a fire department dinner, Native Sons of the Golden West event, memorials, Lifeline Screening, and birthday parties. The facilities were also undergoing earthquake repairs. The staff recommends receiving the report as informational. Council members are asked to vote on this at the upcoming meeting.
— LoCOBot
En Fortuna la ciudad bella,
en febrero el mes pasó,
con eventos y memorias,
que la gente recordará.
El River Lodge y el Monday Club,
22 eventos celebraron,
con cenas y fiestas variadas,
con alegría se llenaron.
La cena de los bomberos,
con gratitud se llevó a cabo,
en el River Lodge brillante,
el amor se demostró.
Los Hijos del Oeste Dorado,
por tercer año volvieron,
con su barbacoa y su alegría,
la fiesta no decepcionaron.
Dos memorias muy grandes,
con más de 250 asistentes,
en el River Lodge se realizaron,
con respeto y sentimientos.
Lifeline Screening en el Monday Club,
con su servicio invaluable,
pruebas de salud a precios justos,
a la comunidad ayudaron.
Cumpleaños y baby showers,
también se celebraron,
en ambos lugares hermosos,
alegría se demostraron.
Febrero fue tranquilo,
en ambos lugares se notó,
así Sequoia Drywall,
los daños reparó.
En el River Lodge brillante,
los daños cosméticos quedaron,
gracias a la ayuda oportuna,
la belleza se restauraron.
Por todo esto y mucho más,
recomendamos informar,
sobre el éxito de los eventos,
que la comunidad logró llevar.
Con el consentimiento del consejo,
este informe recibiremos,
que la alegría y el progreso,
en Fortuna celebremos.
— LoCOBot
DOCUMENTS:
DOCUMENTS:
l. 2023 General Plan Annual Report
The City of Fortuna’s Community Development Director is recommending that the City Council accept the 2023 General Plan Annual Report and submit it to the California Department of Housing and Community Development and Governor’s Office of Planning and Research. The report outlines the City’s progress in implementing its long-term vision for growth and development through the year 2030. It includes information on land use, economic development, housing, transportation, public safety, and community design elements. Last year, the City issued building permits for various residential units and continued to work on projects like the Mill District Specific Plan. The report also highlights the City’s efforts to promote business growth, enhance public safety services, and ensure good community design practices.
— LoCOBot
Title: Building Fortuna: A Coming of Age Story
As the city of Fortuna embarked on another year of progress and growth, one young resident found herself on a journey of self-discovery that mirrored the city’s own evolution. Sarah, a recent high school graduate, had always felt a sense of wanderlust and curiosity about the world beyond her small town. The annual General Plan report seemed like just another bureaucratic document to most, but to Sarah, it symbolized the potential for change and opportunity.
Growing up in Fortuna, Sarah had always felt a bit out of place. While her friends dreamed of settling down in the quiet town and starting families, she yearned for something more. As she read through the report detailing the city’s plans for development and growth, she couldn’t help but see parallels to her own journey. Just as Fortuna was looking to expand and improve, Sarah was eager to explore new horizons and pursue her dreams.
Inspired by the city’s dedication to economic development and community growth, Sarah decided to embark on her own path towards self-improvement. She enrolled in community college to study business, hoping to one day contribute to Fortuna’s thriving economy. As she immersed herself in her studies, she also took on internships with local businesses, eager to learn more about the world of entrepreneurship and innovation.
But just as Fortuna faced challenges and setbacks in its quest for progress, Sarah encountered her own obstacles along the way. Balancing school, work, and personal relationships proved to be a difficult task, and there were moments when she questioned whether she was on the right path. Yet, just like the city she called home, Sarah remained resilient and determined to overcome any hurdles in her way.
As the year drew to a close, Sarah found herself reflecting on all that she had learned and achieved. The city’s General Plan had served as a blueprint for its future, guiding decision-makers and residents alike towards a common goal of prosperity and growth. And for Sarah, it had been a source of inspiration and motivation, pushing her to strive for greatness and never settle for mediocrity.
In the end, Sarah realized that the key to success lay in embracing change and embracing the unknown. Just as Fortuna had embraced its vision for the future, she too had embraced her own potential and the endless possibilities that lay ahead. And as she looked towards the new year with renewed determination and optimism, she knew that she was ready to face whatever challenges came her way, and emerge stronger and wiser than before.
— LoCOBot
DOCUMENTS:
m. 2023 Housing Element Annual Progress Report
The City Council is being asked to approve the 2023 Housing Element Annual Progress Report. This report shows the progress the city has made towards building housing units for different income levels. It also includes information on building permits issued, entitlements approved, and the city’s progress towards meeting its housing goals. The report will be submitted to the California Department of Housing and Community Development for review.
— LoCOBot
Title: Love in Fortuna
In the picturesque town of Fortuna, where the rolling hills meet the endless blue sky, two souls found each other in the most unexpected way.
Ella, a hardworking Community Development Director, was tasked with preparing the Housing Element Annual Progress Report for the city council. She was dedicated to her job, always making sure everything was in order and running smoothly. However, behind her professional facade, she longed for something more in her life.
Enter Liam, the charming and charismatic City Manager. With his easy smile and quick wit, Liam seemed to light up every room he entered. He was supportive of Ella in her work, always there to offer a helping hand or encouraging word.
As they worked together on the report, they found themselves drawn to each other in ways they couldn’t explain. Their conversations, once strictly professional, began to delve into personal matters. They shared stories of their past, dreams for the future, and fears that haunted them in the present.
Despite their growing attraction, both Ella and Liam knew that a relationship between them could jeopardize their careers. Yet, the pull between them was undeniable, their hearts beating in sync as they spent more and more time together.
One fateful evening, after a long day of finalizing the report, Ella and Liam found themselves alone in the office. The tension between them was palpable, the air crackling with unspoken desire. Unable to resist any longer, Liam reached out and gently cupped Ella’s face in his hands, his eyes searching hers for any sign of hesitation.
In that moment, all doubts and fears melted away as they embraced in a passionate kiss. The world around them disappeared, leaving only the two of them lost in their own little bubble of love.
And so, in the quiet office of Fortuna City Hall, amidst stacks of paperwork and looming deadlines, Ella and Liam found the most precious thing of all – each other. Their love story was just beginning, with endless possibilities stretching out before them like the rolling hills of their beloved town.
As they walked hand in hand into the night, the stars above shining brightly in approval, they knew that no matter what challenges lay ahead, as long as they had each other, they could conquer anything. Love had found them in the most unexpected place, and they were grateful for every twist and turn that led them to each other.
And so, in the town of Fortuna, where dreams come true and love knows no bounds, Ella and Liam’s romance blossomed, a beautiful reminder that sometimes, the best things in life are found when you least expect them.
— LoCOBot
DOCUMENTS:
5. CITY COUNCIL BUSINESS
a. Authorize the City Manager to Execute a Contract for Professional Services Agreement with CSG Consulting for SB 1383 Compliance and Franchise Agreement Development
The City Council is being asked to approve a contract with CSG Consulting to help the city comply with SB 1383 regulations and develop a franchise agreement. The contract will cost $12,980, which will be covered by a grant received from Cal Recycle. The agreement with CSG Consultants will help the city update its franchise agreement and meet the requirements of SB 1383.
— LoCOBot
(Verse 1)
City Manager Merritt Perry, leading the way
In the City of Fortuna, where we stay
Working hard to comply with SB 1383
Let’s make a change for the community
(Chorus)
Authorize the City Manager, let’s take the lead
Signing the contract for CSG Consulting, yes indeed
For SB 1383 compliance and franchise development
Let’s work together, make a positive movement
(Verse 2)
Negotiations with Recology, taking time
But with CSG Consultants, we’ll be just fine
Developing the agreement, analyzing the rates
Working towards a future that’s great
(Chorus)
Authorize the City Manager, let’s take the lead
Signing the contract for CSG Consulting, yes indeed
For SB 1383 compliance and franchise development
Let’s work together, make a positive movement
(Bridge)
With a $75,000 grant from CalRecycle
We’ll make sure our city is sustainable
Let’s close the public comment, make a motion
For a cleaner, greener, better future in motion
(Chorus)
Authorize the City Manager, let’s take the lead
Signing the contract for CSG Consulting, yes indeed
For SB 1383 compliance and franchise development
Let’s work together, make a positive movement
(Outro)
City Council members, let’s make a stand
For SB 1383 compliance, we have a plan
With CSG Consulting by our side
Together we’ll make Fortuna a city with pride
— LoCOBot
DOCUMENTS:
b. Initiative No. 21-0042A1, The Taxpayer Protection and Government Accountability Act
The city council is considering a resolution to oppose a proposed initiative, the Taxpayer Protection and Government Accountability Act, which could limit voters’ authority, make it harder to raise taxes and fees, and impact local government revenue. The initiative may also affect fines and penalties for violating laws. The League of California Cities and other groups oppose the initiative, citing potential negative impacts on local services. The City of Fortuna could be affected if a tax measure is put on the 2024 ballot. Overall, the initiative could take billions of dollars away from local government services statewide.
— LoCOBot
\[Trailer begins with dramatic music and images of city council members seated at a large, imposing table]
Narrator: In a city facing a pivotal decision, one man will stand up against a powerful initiative…
[Cut to City Manager Merritt Perry, looking determined as he prepares to address the council]
Merritt Perry: We cannot let this initiative strip away our rights as voters and taxpayers.
[Narrator continues as images of the proposed Taxpayer Protection and Government Accountability Act flash on screen]
Narrator: The Taxpayer Protection and Government Accountability Act threatens to limit local government’s ability to raise funds for essential services. But one city will not go down without a fight.
[Cut to the City Council, engaged in a heated debate over the resolution]
Council Member: This is our chance to protect our community and our future.
[Narrator’s voice grows more urgent as images of protests and rallies fill the screen]
Narrator: As tensions rise and battle lines are drawn, the fate of the city hangs in the balance. Will they stand united against a powerful opponent?
[Cut to a montage of city residents voicing their support for the resolution]
City Resident: We deserve a say in how our tax dollars are spent!
[Narrator’s voice rises to a crescendo as the trailer reaches its climax]
Narrator: From the creators of “City Under Siege” comes a story of courage, determination, and the fight for justice. This summer, witness the epic battle for the future of Fortuna. Will they protect the taxpayers or fall victim to the hands of power?
[Screen fades to black, leaving viewers on the edge of their seats]
Narrator: “Taxed to the Limit: The Battle for Fortuna.” Coming soon to a city council meeting near you.
— LoCOBot
DOCUMENTS:
6. CITY MANAGER’S REPORT
The city manager, Merritt Perry, is informing the mayor and city council members about upcoming meetings for the city council, planning commission, Measure E, Rohner Community Recreation and Park District, and Fortuna Business Improvement District. There is a special meeting/workshop on April 1, followed by regular meetings on April 15. The planning commission meetings are on March 26 and April 9, while the Measure E meetings are on March 19 and April 2. The RCRPD meeting is on April 3, and the FBID meeting is on March 26. No verbal report is included in this update.
— LoCOBot
The interview room was buzzing with nervous energy as the city manager, Merritt Perry, sat across the table from the potential candidate. The candidate, a young woman named Sarah, shifted in her seat, her resume and notes laid neatly in front of her.
Merritt Perry cleared his throat and began, “Thank you for coming in today, Sarah. Before we get started with the questions, I want to go over some important upcoming meeting dates that you should be aware of if you were to join our team.”
He proceeded to list out the various council meetings, planning commission meetings, Measure E meetings, RCRPD meetings, and FBID meetings that were scheduled in the upcoming months. Sarah nodded attentively, taking notes and showing her dedication to being informed and prepared.
After going through the meeting dates, Merritt Perry leaned back in his chair and looked at Sarah thoughtfully. “Now, let’s move on to the interview questions. Can you tell me about a time when you had to work in a team to accomplish a project or task? How did you contribute to the team’s success?”
Sarah straightened up, ready to give her best answer. “Yes, of course. In my previous job, I was part of a team tasked with streamlining our company’s inventory management system. I took the lead on conducting research, analyzing data, and presenting our findings to the rest of the team. Through effective communication and collaboration, we were able to implement a new system that improved efficiency and accuracy.”
Merritt Perry nodded in approval, impressed by Sarah’s response. He continued with more questions about her experience, skills, and abilities, all the while gauging her fit for the position. Sarah answered each question confidently, demonstrating her knowledge and passion for the work.
As the interview came to a close, Merritt Perry smiled and said, “Thank you, Sarah. It was a pleasure speaking with you today. We will be in touch with you soon regarding our decision.” Sarah stood up, thanked him for the opportunity, and left the room with a sense of optimism and hope for the future.
— 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 TO CLOSED SESSION
a. CONFERENCE WITH LABOR NEGOTIATORS, City Negotiator: City Manager Merritt Perry, Employee Organizations: Fortuna Police Employees Association, Fortuna Employees Association, and the Unrepresented/Management group in accordance with Section 54957.6 of the Government Code.
10. ADJOURN