LoCOBot / @ 4:45 p.m. / Agendizer

Fortuna City Council
Dec. 16, 2024, 6 p.m.

1. CALL TO ORDER / FLAG SALUTE / ROLL CALL

2. INTRODUCTIONS

a. Introduction of New Utility Worker II - Mike McGinnis


b. Introduction of New Bus Driver II - Bill Minkel


c. Introduction of new Community Services Officer - Wyatt McKnight


d. Introduction, Oath of Office and Pinning of New Police Officer - Karlee Humphry


3. ORAL COMMENTS FROM THE PUBLIC

4. CONSENT CALENDAR

a. City Council Minutes – December 2, 2024 (Regular Meeting)

b. Administrative Department Monthly Report

This is a report for the City Council about the Administration Department’s activities in November 2024. It includes information about the City Attorney, City Clerk, Risk Management/Human Resources, and Information Technology divisions. The report recommends that the Council receive it as an informational item. It also includes details about the City Clerk’s tasks, ongoing recruitments, and upcoming training for city staff. The report suggests that the Council should approve receiving the report.

— LoCOBot

… or, as a conversation between two very stoned people named Starfish and Noodles!

Starfish: Hey, Noodles, have you ever thought about what goes on at City Council meetings?

Noodles: Uh, like, not really, man. Why? What’s up?

Starfish: Well, I was looking at this report from the Administrative Department for November, and it’s like a whole bunch of stuff about what they do.

Noodles: Oh, cool. What kind of stuff do they do?

Starfish: Like, the City Attorney worked on public records requests and contract reviews, the City Clerk made agendas for meetings and did public records requests, and the Risk Management/Human Resources division dealt with worker’s comp claims and employee training.

Noodles: Whoa, dude, that’s a lot of stuff. I wonder if they, like, have to deal with stoned employees.

Starfish: Haha, probably not. But hey, did you know they even went to a conference and heard from an Olympic Gold Medalist? That’s pretty sweet.

Noodles: No way, man. That sounds awesome. Do you think they have snacks at those conferences?

Starfish: I hope so. I could go for some munchies right about now. Maybe we should start attending City Council meetings and conferences. It could be our new hobby.

Noodles: Yeah, man, let’s do it. We’ll be the most informed stoner citizens in town.

Starfish: Totally, dude. Let’s go grab some snacks and start planning our civic engagement. Peace out, Noodles.

Noodles: Later, Starfish. Stay chill.

— LoCOBot

DOCUMENTS:

Staff Report


c. Community Development Department Monthly Report

This is a report from the Community Development Department for November 2024, highlighting activities such as receiving applications for permits and licenses, attending meetings and training sessions, and discussing plans for the Mill District. The Planning Commission did not have any meetings in November. The Building Division summary is attached.

— LoCOBot

… or, as a Bruce Springsteen song!

Verse 1:
In the City Council chambers, they’re talking about our town
The Community Development Department, they’re working all year round
Applications for short-term rentals, design reviews galore
Home occupations and business licenses, they always need more

Chorus:
Oh, we’re building up our city, brick by brick and stone by stone
Working hard to make it better, our community’s our home
From planning to building, we’re making progress every day
In this town we call our own, we’re finding a better way

Verse 2:
The Director meets with Air Quality, discussing the Mill District Plan
Attending trainings and meetings, doing all that they can
Housing Element implementation and leadership academies too
Working together for a brighter future, that’s what we all must do

Chorus:
Oh, we’re building up our city, brick by brick and stone by stone
Working hard to make it better, our community’s our home
From planning to building, we’re making progress every day
In this town we call our own, we’re finding a better way

Bridge:
No Planning Commission meetings in November, but the work goes on
Permits being processed, construction humming along
In the Building Division, they’re busy as can be
Making sure our structures are safe and sound, for all to see

Chorus:
Oh, we’re building up our city, brick by brick and stone by stone
Working hard to make it better, our community’s our home
From planning to building, we’re making progress every day
In this town we call our own, we’re finding a better way

Outro:
So here’s to the Community Development team, working with such dedication
To make our city thrive and grow, for generations to come
We’ll keep on building, keep on planning, with hope in our hearts each day
In this town we call our home, we’ll always find a better way.

— LoCOBot

DOCUMENTS:

Staff ReportAttachment


d. Finance Department Monthly Report

The Finance Department submitted cost claims to the State for reimbursement and the Measure E committee will have a meeting to discuss funding ideas. Some Measure E funds were used for police positions, park and recreation positions, transit trips for seniors, code compliance, and maintenance projects. The Council is recommended to receive the Finance Department’s report as an informational item.

— LoCOBot

… or, as a movie trailer!

(Opening shot of bustling city streets)

Narrator: In a city facing financial challenges and looking for community input, one department is stepping up to the plate.

(Cut to Aaron Felmlee, Finance Director, reviewing documents)

Aaron Felmlee: We need to make sure our city’s finances are in order and that we’re making the best use of available funds.

(Cut to Amy Nilsen, City Manager, addressing the Mayor and Council Members)

Amy Nilsen: The Finance Department has submitted cost claims and is seeking approval for funding various essential programs.

(Cut to scenes of city services in action, such as police officers and park maintenance workers)

Narrator: But when unexpected challenges arise and funding is uncertain, will the city be able to keep up with the demands of its residents?

(Cut to a heated discussion at a council meeting, as members debate the allocation of funds)

Council Member: We need to prioritize the needs of our community and make sure that every dollar is well-spent.

(Cut to a montage of Measure E-funded projects in action, such as community events and infrastructure improvements)

Narrator: With Measure E providing essential funding for key projects, the city is on track to make a real difference in the lives of its residents.

(Cut to a shot of the Finance Department’s activity log, showcasing their hard work and dedication)

Narrator: Join us as we follow the Finance Department’s journey in this thrilling tale of budget battles and community impact.

(Cut to black)

Narrator: Finance Department Monthly Report - coming soon to a council meeting near you. Receive the report, make a difference.

— LoCOBot

DOCUMENTS:

Staff ReportAttachmentAttachment


e. Parks & Recreation Monthly Report

The report is about the Parks and Recreation Department’s activities in November 2024. It includes updates on maintenance issues, visitor numbers at the Fortuna Depot Museum, Fortuna Transit ridership, facility rentals, recreational activities, and community service. The recommendation is for the City Council to receive the report as an informational item.

— LoCOBot

… or, as an episode of Seinfeld!

Title: “The Parks and Rec Report”

(Opening scene, Jerry’s apartment)
Jerry: (reading the City Council report) So, apparently there’s a hole in the River Lodge’s roof, broken soap dispensers, and trouble with the Newburg field lights.

Elaine: (enters) Did you hear about the Fortuna Depot Museum? They had a record number of visitors in November!

Jerry: (sarcastically) Wow, sounds exciting. I bet they were riveted by the broken soap dispensers.

(Kramer bursts in, holding a sandbag)
Kramer: Hey, Jerry, I got us some sandbags! You never know when you might need them.

Jerry: What are we going to do with sandbags, Kramer?

Kramer: Well, they could come in handy in case of a flood.

Jerry: (rolling his eyes) Right, because New York City is known for its frequent flooding.

(Scene change to Monks Café)
Jerry: So, George, any exciting news on your end?

George: Actually, I’m thinking of getting into pickleball. It sounds like a fun way to stay active.

Jerry: Pickleball? You?

George: Yeah, why not? I need to shake up my routine.

Elaine: (excitedly) I heard they had a record number of visitors at the Fortuna Depot Museum last month.

Jerry: (sarcastically) Oh, I bet they were on the edge of their seats looking at old train memorabilia.

(Kramer enters, covered in dirt)
Kramer: Jerry, I was patching up some holes in the siding with the sandbags and, well, let’s just say it didn’t go as planned.

Jerry: (sighs) Of course it didn’t. Why am I not surprised?

(Scene change to the Parks and Recreation Department)
Heather: (to the staff) We need to get all these maintenance issues sorted out before the end of the year.

Jerry: (entering) Excuse me, I have a complaint. I went to the Fortuna Depot Museum and there were no pickleball courts!

Heather: Uh, sir, this is the Parks and Recreation Department, not the Museum.

Jerry: Well, can’t you do something about it? I mean, you’re in charge of recreation, right?

Heather: (exasperated) We’ll look into it, sir. Now, if you’ll excuse me, we have a lot to do.

(Jerry exits, muttering about the lack of pickleball courts)
(After credits scene)
Jerry: (to Elaine) Can you believe they didn’t have pickleball at the museum?

Elaine: (laughs) Only you, Jerry. Only you.

— LoCOBot

DOCUMENTS:

Staff Report


f. Police Department Monthly Report

The Chief of Police presented the monthly report to the City Council. In November, the Fortuna Police Department handled over 1,000 calls and made 41 arrests. They are currently short four officers but have filled positions in the Communications Department. The department also participated in community events and promotions, and officers attended various training conferences. The Council is recommended to receive the report as an informational item.

— LoCOBot

… or, as a pitch from a used car salesman!

Are you in the market for a reliable vehicle that can keep up with the demands of everyday life? Look no further than our used cars at the dealership! Just like the Fortuna Police Department, our cars are well-equipped to handle whatever comes their way. With a variety of makes and models to choose from, you’re sure to find the perfect fit for your lifestyle.

Just like the Fortuna Police Department’s dedication to serving the community, our team is committed to helping you find the best car for your needs. Whether you need something compact and fuel-efficient for your daily commute or a spacious SUV for your growing family, we have a wide selection of vehicles to choose from.

Plus, with our knowledgeable sales team and top-notch customer service, you can trust that you’re in good hands every step of the way. So why wait? Visit our dealership today and drive off the lot in a reliable and affordable used car that will serve you well for years to come. Don’t miss out on this opportunity to upgrade your ride and join the ranks of satisfied customers who have found their perfect match at our dealership. We look forward to helping you find your dream car!

— LoCOBot

DOCUMENTS:

Staff Report


g. Public Works Monthly Report

The Public Works Director/City Engineer provided a report to the City Council about ongoing projects and maintenance work in the city. The City Hall remodel is almost complete under budget, and a bathroom restoration is expected to be finished soon. Other projects, like the Monday Club Chimney repair and Main Street Gateway Project, are progressing well. The Utilities Division has been working on water distribution and wastewater collection systems. The Water Treatment/Wastewater Division has been maintaining the wastewater treatment and potable water production systems. General Services and Streets have been completing various assignments, like assisting with traffic control and maintenance work. The City Council is recommended to receive the report for informational purposes.

— LoCOBot

… or, as a romance story!

Tessa had always been fascinated by the inner workings of the City Hall. As a reporter for the local newspaper, she found herself drawn to the concrete walls and bustling offices, eager to uncover the stories hidden within. Little did she know, she would soon find herself entangled in a story of her own.

It all started when Tessa was assigned to cover the City Council meeting. As the Public Works Director/City Engineer, Brendan Byrd presented the monthly report, Tessa found herself captivated by his words. There was a passion in his voice as he spoke about the various projects happening around the city, from the City Hall remodel to the Main Street Gateway Project.

But it wasn’t just Brendan’s professional demeanor that caught Tessa’s eye. There was something about the way he spoke, the way he moved, that drew her in. And as fate would have it, their paths continued to cross in unexpected ways.

One day, while on assignment to cover the progress of the Monday Club Chimney project, Tessa found herself face to face with Brendan once again. As they discussed the intricacies of the project, Tessa couldn’t help but feel a spark between them. Was it just professional admiration, or was there something more?

As the days turned into weeks, Tessa and Brendan found themselves working closely together on various stories. They shared late nights at City Hall, poring over reports and documents, discussing the intricacies of each project. And with each passing day, their connection grew stronger.

But it wasn’t until they found themselves caught in a sudden storm, seeking shelter in the Main Street Gateway Project construction site, that their true feelings came to light. As the rain poured down outside, Tessa and Brendan found themselves lost in each other’s eyes, their hearts pounding in sync.

In that moment, surrounded by the chaos of the construction site, Tessa and Brendan’s romance blossomed. And as they stood there, drenched from the rain but warmed by their love, they knew that their story was just beginning.

With the City Hall as the backdrop to their love story, Tessa and Brendan embarked on a journey filled with passion, dedication, and a love that was as strong as the projects they worked on together. And as they continued to navigate the challenges of their professional lives, they knew that as long as they had each other, they could conquer anything that came their way.

And so, as Tessa sat down to write her next article about the City Council meeting, she couldn’t help but smile as she thought about the man who had stolen her heart in the halls of City Hall. For in the midst of concrete walls and bustling offices, Tessa had found a love that was as solid as the foundation they stood upon.

— LoCOBot

DOCUMENTS:

Staff Report


h. River Lodge Monthly Report

In November 2024, the River Lodge Conference Center hosted 12 events with a total of 1,365 people attending. Events included a hospital gala, baby showers, meetings, celebrations, and conferences. The 22nd Annual River Lodge Craft Fair was also a success with 39 vendors and Santa photos. The staff recommendation is for the City Council to receive the monthly report as an informational item.

— LoCOBot

… or, as Schoolhouse Rock!

(Verse 1)
In the city council meeting, on December 16th
The Conference Center Manager had a report to present
Jennifer Lourenzo, she had quite a lot to say
About the River Lodge events that happened in November’s days

(Chorus)
River Lodge, oh River Lodge
Where people gather and events unfold
From galas and weddings to craft fairs so bold
River Lodge, oh River Lodge
A place where memories are made, stories are told

(Verse 2)
Twelve events in November, sixteen days filled with cheer
1,365 people came to gather near
There was a baby shower, a chamber of commerce meeting too
And CAL FIRE training to save lives, that’s what they do

(Chorus)
River Lodge, oh River Lodge
Where people gather and events unfold
From galas and weddings to craft fairs so bold
River Lodge, oh River Lodge
A place where memories are made, stories are told

(Bridge)
The 22nd Annual Craft Fair, vendors filled the hall
Sandi Petersen Photography capturing it all
Pictures with Santa, bringing joy to young and old
A successful event, that’s what we were told

(Chorus)
River Lodge, oh River Lodge
Where people gather and events unfold
From galas and weddings to craft fairs so bold
River Lodge, oh River Lodge
A place where memories are made, stories are told

(Outro)
So let’s receive this report, as an informational delight
River Lodge bringing communities together, shining bright
With consent agenda vote, let’s move this along
River Lodge, oh River Lodge, where memories belong!

— LoCOBot

DOCUMENTS:

Staff Report


i. Report of Disbursements

j. Declare the Canvass of Returns and Results of the General Municipal Election Held November 5, 2024, Resolution 2024-37

This report is about the results of the Fortuna Municipal Election held on November 5, 2024. The County of Humboldt has certified the results, and they show who won the seats and how people voted on Measure P. The recommendation is for the City Council to adopt Resolution 2024-37, which declares the election results official. The candidates and Measure P received this many votes… (list the vote totals). The Council is asked to vote on this as a consent agenda item.

— LoCOBot

… or, as an insane conspiracy theory!

Conspiracy Theory: The Fortuna Municipal Election Results were Rigged

According to insider sources, the City Clerk, Siana L. Emmons, and City Manager, Amy Nilsen, conspired to rig the Fortuna Municipal Election held on November 5, 2024. The results, which declared Tami Trent and Jerry King as the winners of the two available seats on the City Council, and Measure P as defeated, were all manipulated to maintain power and control over the city.

It is believed that there were tampering with the votes, with some ballots being discarded or altered to ensure the desired outcome. The substantial lead that Tami Trent and Jerry King had over the other candidates, despite their lack of popularity among the residents, raises suspicions of foul play.

Furthermore, the high number of votes against Measure P, which would have potentially restricted the power of the current administration, is also seen as a sign of manipulation and coercion. It is believed that propaganda and misinformation were spread to influence the voters to vote against the measure.

The City Clerk and City Manager are said to be working in cahoots with powerful individuals and organizations in the city who benefit from maintaining the status quo. The adoption of Resolution 2024-37 was just a formality to cover up their illicit activities and maintain a facade of democracy in Fortuna.

The truth behind the Fortuna Municipal Election is far more sinister than it appears on the surface, and the residents of the city are being manipulated and controlled by a corrupt and powerful elite.

— LoCOBot

DOCUMENTS:

Staff ReportResolution 2024-37Attachment


k. Review and Approve Mayor’s Recommendation of Appointee to the Historical Commission and the Fortuna Business Improvement District (FBID) Advisory Committee

The City Council needs to approve the Mayor’s recommendations for appointees to the Historical Commission and the Fortuna Business Improvement District Advisory Committee. There are vacancies on both boards, and the recommended appointees have submitted their applications. The terms of office for these positions are different, with the Historical Commission term being three years and the FBID Advisory Committee term being two years. The Council is asked to approve these appointments.

— LoCOBot

… or, as a recipe!

Historical Commission and FBID Advisory Committee Appointment Recipe

Ingredients:
- 3 vacancies on the Historical Commission
- 1 application from Ruth Dekat for re-appointment to the Historical Commission
- 1 vacant Fortuna Chamber of Commerce Board Representative seat on the FBID Advisory Committee
- 1 recommendation from the Chamber of Commerce for Brian Gonzales for a new appointment to the FBID Advisory Committee

Instructions:
1. Review the applications for the Historical Commission and the FBID Advisory Committee.
2. Consider approving the Mayor’s recommendation for appointment to fill the vacancies.
3. For the Historical Commission, approve the re-appointment of Ruth Dekat for a three-year term expiring on December 31, 2027.
4. For the FBID Advisory Committee, approve the appointment of Brian Gonzales for a two-year term expiring on December 31, 2026.
5. Motion to approve the Mayor’s appointments for both the Historical Commission and the FBID Advisory Committee on the Consent Calendar vote.

— LoCOBot

DOCUMENTS:

Staff ReportAttachmentAttachment


5. CITY COUNCIL BUSINESS

a. Authorize City Manager to establish the PARS 115 Trust and to execute a $850,000 Supplemental Budget Request for an Additional Discretionary Payment to the California Public Employee’s Retirement System (CalPERS) Pension Trust and/or the PARS Pension 115 Trust, Resolution 2024-38

The City Council is being asked to approve a budget request to make additional pension payments to the California Public Employee’s Retirement System. This will help address unfunded pension liabilities faced by the City. The City employees participate in different pension plans, and the Council has previously made additional discretionary payments towards these plans. The recommended action involves creating a new trust and making a $850,000 payment to the pension funds to save on interest payments. The Council will need to authorize this action by passing a resolution.

— LoCOBot

… or, as a town crier's speech!

Hear ye, hear ye! Citizens of Fortuna, I bring you news from the City Council Business Item. On this day, the honorable Mayor and Council Members have been presented with a crucial matter concerning our city’s financial future.

The Finance Director, Aaron Felmlee, has put forth a recommendation to authorize the City Manager to establish the PARS 115 Trust and execute a $850,000 Supplemental Budget Request. This request aims to make an additional discretionary payment to the California Public Employee’s Retirement System (CalPERS) Pension Trust and/or the PARS Pension 115 Trust to recognize interest payment savings.

The City of Fortuna faces significant unfunded long-term liabilities for employee pension plans, a challenge shared by many municipalities. In response, the Council has previously opted to make additional discretionary payments to CalPERS to help manage future liabilities. Now, a new approach is proposed to further address these financial obligations.

With the establishment of the PARS 115 Trust and the execution of the supplemental budget request, the City seeks to secure its fiscal sustainability and address the growing unfunded pension liabilities. The proposed strategy offers flexibility in managing assets and potential returns, while also ensuring prudent financial planning for the benefit of our city’s future.

It is crucial that we, as a community, support these measures to secure our city’s financial well-being and ensure that our employees’ pensions are safeguarded. Let us stand together in support of this important decision and work towards a stable and prosperous future for Fortuna.

May the Council’s wisdom guide us towards a path of fiscal responsibility and long-term security. Thank you, and may Fortuna thrive for generations to come!

— LoCOBot

DOCUMENTS:

Staff ReportResolution 2024-38Attachment


b. Consider the Approval of a Supplemental Budget Request to Produce a Fortuna Police Department Recruitment Video

The Chief of Police is asking the City Council for $3,000 to make a video to attract new officers to the Fortuna Police Department. This video will show the benefits of working in Fortuna and help the department recruit more diverse candidates. The money will come from reserves but will be paid back with asset forfeiture proceeds. The video will be made by a local company called Sightseer Productions, which has a good reputation for producing high-quality videos. The Council will vote on whether to approve the budget request.

— LoCOBot

… or, as an episode of 'The Moe Hogan Experience'!

Moe Hogan: Alright folks, welcome back to the Moe Hogan Experience. Today we have a special guest with us, Casey J. Day, Chief of Police, here to talk about a proposal for a recruitment video for the Fortuna Police Department. Casey, welcome to the show.

Casey J. Day: Thanks for having me, Moe. It’s great to be here.

Moe Hogan: So, tell me more about this recruitment video. Why do you think it’s necessary for the department?

Casey J. Day: Well, Moe, the Fortuna Police Department is facing some challenges when it comes to recruiting new officers. The competition among agencies is tough, and we need to stand out. A professionally produced recruitment video will help us showcase what makes Fortuna unique and attract top-tier talent.

Moe Hogan: I see, I see. And how much are we talking about here for this video?

Casey J. Day: We’re looking at a budget of $3,000, which will be drawn from reserves but reimbursed upon receipt of asset forfeiture disbursement. It’s a strategic investment to address our staffing challenges.

Moe Hogan: Sounds like a solid plan, Casey. Now, I’ve heard there’s been some positive feedback on Sightseer Productions, the company in charge of producing the video. Can you tell us more about that?

Casey J. Day: Absolutely, Sightseer Productions has a proven track record of delivering high-quality work. They’ve previously worked on projects like the Every 15 Minutes event and received excellent feedback for their professionalism and impact.

Moe Hogan: That’s great to hear. Now, before we wrap up this segment, I just wanted to remind our listeners about the importance of supporting our sponsors. Speaking of which, have you tried XYZ dietary supplement, Casey? It’s really changed my life.

- Sponsored Segment -

Moe Hogan: Folks, let me tell you about XYZ dietary supplement. I’ve been taking it for a few weeks now, and let me tell you, I feel like a new man. It’s helped me stay focused, energized, and ready to take on the day. Thanks to XYZ, I can keep bringing you the best content on The Moe Hogan Experience. Make sure to check them out, folks.

Moe Hogan: Alright, Casey, before we wrap up, I just remembered something. Producer, can you look up the Fortuna Municipal Code §2.50.080 for me?

Producer: Actually, Moe, I just checked, and it looks like you were mistaken. The Fortuna Municipal Code §2.50.080 allows the City to obtain goods and services by negotiated contract, not the specific information you were referring to.

Moe Hogan: Ah, well, you learn something new every day, folks. Thanks for setting me straight, Producer. Well, that’s all the time we have for today. Thanks again, Casey, for joining us. And remember, folks, stay curious and stay woke. This is The Moe Hogan Experience, signing off.

— LoCOBot

DOCUMENTS:

Staff ReportAttachmentAttachment


c. Introduction and First Reading of Ordinance 2024-769, Amending the Fortuna Municipal Code Title 17 (Zoning Regulations) to Add Chapter 17.10, Reasonable Accommodations Policy and Procedures and Find the Amendments to be Exempt from CEQA.

The city council is considering a new law to provide reasonable accommodations for people with disabilities when it comes to housing. This is required by state and federal laws. The law would allow for flexibility in zoning regulations to make sure people with disabilities have equal access to housing. The city is also trying to avoid penalties for not implementing their housing plan properly. The city council will have a public hearing to discuss this new law.

— LoCOBot

… or, as a bedtime story!

Once upon a time, in the bustling city of Fortuna, there was a Community Development Director named Shari Meads. Shari worked tirelessly to ensure that everyone in her city had equal access to housing opportunities, especially those with disabilities. She knew that it was important for everyone to have a place to call home.

One day, Shari presented a recommendation to the Honorable Mayor and City Councilmembers. She proposed an ordinance to amend the Fortuna Municipal Code to add a Reasonable Accommodations Policy and Procedures chapter. This policy would provide individuals with disabilities the flexibility they needed to access housing opportunities, ensuring they were not discriminated against.

The proposal was met with great excitement by the City Council, who wanted to make sure that all residents of Fortuna had a fair chance at finding a home that suited their needs. The council agreed to hold a public hearing to introduce the ordinance and conduct the first reading, setting a date for January 6, 2024.

As the news of the proposed ordinance spread throughout the city, the residents of Fortuna rejoiced. They knew that this new policy would make a positive impact on their community, creating a more inclusive and welcoming environment for all.

That night, as the stars twinkled in the sky, the children of Fortuna gathered around their parents for bedtime stories. The parents told tales of Shari Meads and the City Council, who worked together to ensure that everyone in Fortuna had a place to call home. The children listened intently, their hearts filled with hope and inspiration.

And as they drifted off to sleep, dreaming of a city where everyone was treated with kindness and respect, they knew that Fortuna was a special place indeed. A place where every resident, no matter their abilities, would always have a place to call home. And so, the story of Shari Meads and the Reasonable Accommodations Policy became a bedtime tale that was passed down from generation to generation, reminding all who heard it of the importance of equality and compassion.

— LoCOBot

DOCUMENTS:

Staff ReportOrdinance 2024-769AttachmentAttachment


d. Introduction and First Reading of Ordinance 2024-772, Amending the Fortuna Municipal Code Title 17, Zoning Regulations, Regarding Single-Room Occupancy Facilities and Finding the Amendments to be Exempt From CEQA

The City Council is considering a new ordinance that would allow single-room occupancy facilities in certain areas of the city. The purpose is to provide affordable housing for seniors, people with disabilities, and those with low incomes. The ordinance is part of a larger plan to comply with state housing regulations and avoid financial penalties. The city is holding a public hearing to discuss the ordinance and will continue to review it in early 2025.

— LoCOBot

… or, as a sea shanty!

(Chorus)
Oh, the City Council gathered ‘round, to discuss the ordinance they found,
Amendments to the zoning code, to make room for those in need.
They talked of SROs and CEQA, to ensure a brighter day,
For the homeless and low-income, in the city by the sea.

(Verse 1)
The Housing Element, their guide, to provide for all inside,
Multifamily and supportive housing, for those who need a hand.
But delinquent on their measures, facing audits and lost treasures,
They must act now to comply, to protect their precious land.

(Chorus)
Oh, the City Council gathered ‘round, to discuss the ordinance they found,
Amendments to the zoning code, to make room for those in need.
They talked of SROs and CEQA, to ensure a brighter day,
For the homeless and low-income, in the city by the sea.

(Verse 2)
The Housing for Extremely Low-Income, to be a rule, not just a footnote,
SRO facilities, a haven for the needy and the old.
The amendments were proposed, to make sure all were housed,
In compliance with the law, to protect the city’s mold.

(Chorus)
Oh, the City Council gathered ‘round, to discuss the ordinance they found,
Amendments to the zoning code, to make room for those in need.
They talked of SROs and CEQA, to ensure a brighter day,
For the homeless and low-income, in the city by the sea.

(Verse 3)
Regulatory context in play, with public hearings in the fray,
To consider the opinions of those who call Fortuna home.
With notices and fiscal impacts, and environmental facts,
They must make a decision now, to ensure the city’s known.

(Chorus)
Oh, the City Council gathered ‘round, to discuss the ordinance they found,
Amendments to the zoning code, to make room for those in need.
They talked of SROs and CEQA, to ensure a brighter day,
For the homeless and low-income, in the city by the sea.

(Outro)
So raise a glass to Fortuna, for their efforts to provide,
Housing for the needy, in a city full of pride.
May the amendments bring relief, to those who are in need,
And may Fortuna shine brightly, for all who plant their seed.

— LoCOBot

DOCUMENTS:

Staff ReportOrdinance 2024-772AttachmentAttachmentAttachmentAttachmentAttachmentAttachmentAttachmentAttachment


6. FUTURE AGENDA ITEMS

7. CITY MANAGER'S REPORT

1. CITY MANAGER'S REPORT

The City Manager, Amy Nilsen, has listed the dates for upcoming meetings for the City Council, Planning Commission, Measure E, Rohner Community Recreation and Park District, and Fortuna Business Improvement District. The meetings will be held at the Council Chambers at City Hall on specific dates and times.

— LoCOBot

… or, as a Twitter thread!

🌟 Exciting news! Check out the upcoming meeting dates for the City Council, Planning Commission, Measure E, Rohner Community Recreation and Park District, and Fortuna Business Improvement District. Mark your calendars and get involved in your community! #cityupdates

📅 Save the date for the Special Council Meeting/Workshop on January 6, 2025 at 6:00 p.m. in the Council Chambers at City Hall. Don’t miss out on important discussions and decisions impacting our city! #civicengagement

❌ Attention: The Planning Commission Meeting scheduled for December 24, 2024 has been CANCELLED. The next meeting will be on January 14, 2025 at 6:00 p.m. in the Council Chambers at City Hall. Stay informed and be a part of the planning process! #communityinvolvement

➡️ Don’t forget about the Measure E Meeting on January 21, 2025 at 5:30 p.m. in the Council Chambers at City Hall. Your input and feedback are valuable in shaping the future of our city. Make your voice heard! #localgovernment

🏞️ Stay connected with the Rohner Community Recreation and Park District (RCRPD) by attending the rescheduled meeting on January 1, 2024 (cancelled regular meeting). Details for the special meeting TBD. Let’s support our parks and recreational programs! #communitysupport

🛍️ Calling all business owners and stakeholders! Join us for the Fortuna Business Improvement District (FBID) Meeting on January 23, 2025 at 8:30 a.m. in the Council Chambers at City Hall. Let’s work together to boost our local economy and enhance our business district! #smallbusiness

🗣️ Your City Manager, Amy Nilsen, will be providing a verbal report at the upcoming Council Meeting. Stay informed on city updates and initiatives. Your participation is key in shaping the future of our community. See you there! #citymanagerreport

Let’s make a difference in our community by actively participating in these important meetings. Your input and engagement are essential in driving positive change and progress. Let’s work together to build a better future for Fortuna! #communityengagement #fortunacitymanagerreport

— LoCOBot

DOCUMENTS:

Staff Report


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. SPECIAL ORDER OF BUSINESS - CITY COUNCIL REORGANIZATION

a. Presentation to Outgoing Council Member Mike Losey


b. Outgoing Council Member's Remarks


c. Public Comment - City Council Reorganization


d. Oath of Office to Newly and Re-elected Council Members - Tami Trent and Jerry King


e. Selection of New Mayor


f. Selection of New Mayor Pro Tem


g. Incoming Mayor's Remarks


10. ADJOURN


Lately on LoCO

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