LoCOBot / @ 3:45 p.m. / Agendizer

Fortuna City Council
March 16, 2026, 6 p.m.

1. CALL TO ORDER / FLAG SALUTE / ROLL CALL

2. ORAL COMMENTS FROM THE PUBLIC

3. PRESENTATIONS/PROCLAMATIONS

a. Community Health Assessment in Fortuna presented by Humboldt County Department of Health & Human Services Public Health Branch


4. CONSENT CALENDAR

a. City Council Minutes – March 2, 2026 (Regular Meeting) & March 2, 2026 (Special Meeting)

b. Administrative Department Monthly Report

This report is about the monthly activities of the City’s Administrative Department for January and February 2026. It includes updates on the City Attorney, City Clerk, Risk Management/Human Resources, and Information Technology divisions. The report recommends receiving the information as an update. It also includes details on meetings, claims, recruitments, and IT security recommendations. The Council is advised to receive the report and vote on it as part of the Consent Agenda.

— LoCOBot

… or, as a chanson!

Dans la ville de Fortuna, la vie continue
Le conseil se réunit, l’ordre du jour est venu
Les avocats, la ville, risques, ressources humaines
Et l’informatique, les piliers sans peine

Le cabinet de la ville travaille sans repos
Les heures s’accumulent, les projets en cours
Revues de contrats, demandes de personnel
Les avocats soigneusement, gèrent le judiciel

Le secrétariat de la ville, une tâche sans fin
Préparation d’agenda, publications jusqu’au matin
Réclamations, résolutions, minutes préparées
Notarial et publications, tout est bien géré

Gestion des risques, ressources humaines aussi
Les réclamations fermées, un travail acharné
Recrutements en cours, postes à pourvoir
Toujours en quête, de personnel fort

L’informatique, un monde en perpétuel mouvement
La protection, un enjeu primordial, évidemment
Les technologies avancent, les menaces aussi
Le système en place, doit veiller sur les siens

Le Conseil éclairé, reçoit le rapport du mois
Agenda consentement, vote rapide, sans émoi
La ville de Fortuna, avance avec sagesse
Grâce à ces services, toujours en liesse

Aux membres du Conseil, ma chanson est dédiée
Pour leur travail envers la cité
Avec honneur et dévouement
Ils servent Fortuna fièrement

— LoCOBot

DOCUMENTS:

Staff Report


c. Community Development Department Monthly Report

The Community Development Department has been busy processing business licenses, permits, and land-use projects. They are also working on strategic planning, repealing ordinances, and facilitating development projects. The Planning Commission has made recommendations on various zoning and development issues. The department has also secured grant funding for various projects, including forest management, housing, library upgrades, and environmental conservation. The Building Division has been issuing permits for construction projects. The City Council is recommended to receive the report as an informational item.

— LoCOBot

… or, as a bildungsroman!

Title: Growth in Fortuna

Once upon a time in the bustling city of Fortuna, a young woman named Sophia found herself at a crossroads in life. She had recently graduated from college with a degree in urban planning and had landed a job as an assistant planner in the Community Development Department. As she settled into her new role, she quickly became fascinated by the growth and development happening around her.

Under the guidance of Katey Schmidt, the Senior Planner, Sophia learned the ins and outs of processing business licenses, home occupation permits, and land-use projects. She attended workshops on the City’s Strategic Plan and participated in meetings to develop a Development Streamlining Project. With each new task, Sophia felt a sense of purpose and excitement about the impact she could have on the city’s future.

As the months passed, Sophia grew more confident in her abilities and began taking on more responsibilities. She assisted in releasing Requests for Proposals for Housing Element and General Plan Updates, attended Regional Climate Action Plan meetings, and even presented a zoning map amendment to the Planning Commission.

One of Sophia’s most challenging projects was a Conditional Use Permit for a new multi-family development in the Commercial Thoroughfare Zone. She worked closely with developers, builders, and city officials to ensure the project met all requirements and regulations. Despite the long hours and late nights, Sophia was determined to see the project through to completion.

In addition to her work on development projects, Sophia also played a crucial role in securing grant funding for various city initiatives. She helped apply for grants for Economic Development, ADA Barrier Removal, and community forest expansion. Each successful grant awarded boosted Sophia’s confidence and reinforced her passion for making a positive impact on the city she called home.

As Sophia’s knowledge and experience grew, so did her connection to the city of Fortuna. She felt a deep sense of pride in contributing to the city’s growth and development. With each project completed and grant secured, Sophia’s confidence and passion for urban planning flourished.

By the end of the year, Sophia had grown from a young, eager assistant planner to a skilled and respected member of the Community Development Department. She had found her place in the vibrant city of Fortuna, where her dedication to shaping the future of the community was truly making a difference. And as she looked ahead to the new year, Sophia knew that the journey of growth and development was only just beginning.

— LoCOBot

DOCUMENTS:

Staff Report


d. Finance Department Monthly Report

The Finance Department presented a report to the Mayor and Council Members regarding the mid-year budget review for the fiscal year 2026-27. They are currently gathering budget requests from departments and will present them to the Measure E committee for review. The Finance Department also successfully filed all tax forms on time and updated the Measure E committee on funding proposals for various city departments. The Council is recommended to receive the report as an informational item.

— LoCOBot

… or, as a Bollywood song!

(Verse 1)
In the city where dreams come true
We work hard to make sure our budget’s true
Mid-year review, preparing for the next
Solicit department requests, Measure E is our bet

(Chorus)
Oh Mayor and Council, hear our plea
Receive our report as an informational decree
Tax reporting, Measure E funding
We’re proud of our team, our hard work resounding

(Verse 2)
Electronic filing, a team effort indeed
W-2’s, 1099’s filed with speed
Measure E committee meeting on the horizon
Funding proposals from departments, decisions to widen

(Chorus)
Oh Mayor and Council, hear our plea
Receive our report as an informational decree
Tax reporting, Measure E funding
We’re proud of our team, our hard work resounding

(Bridge)
Police Detective positions, Parks and Rec too
Transit trips for seniors, all good through and through
Encampment outreach, street and storm drain projects
Measure E making a difference, spreading its effects

(Chorus)
Oh Mayor and Council, hear our plea
Receive our report as an informational decree
Tax reporting, Measure E funding
We’re proud of our team, our hard work resounding

(Outro)
Finance Department Monthly Report, a job well done
Together we strive, towards success we run
Oh Mayor and Council, our work is complete
Receive our report, let our accomplishments repeat

— LoCOBot

DOCUMENTS:

Staff ReportSummary February 2026Treasurer's Report


e. Parks & Recreation Monthly Report

This report is an update on the Parks and Recreation Department’s activities for January 2026. It includes information on park maintenance, rentals, community service, recreation programs, Fortuna Transit, the Fortuna Depot Museum, and events at the River Lodge. The staff recommends receiving the report as an informational item.

— LoCOBot

… or, as a Bruce Springsteen song!

Title: River Lodge Blues

Verse 1:
Working down at the River Lodge, feeling like I’m stuck in time
Patchin’ up the walls and windows, tryin’ to make it shine
Deferred maintenance all around, we’re just tryin’ to hold it together
From the Sheetrock to the paint, it’s a battle we can weather

Chorus:
Oh, we’re singin’ the River Lodge blues
Tryin’ to keep it running, for all the folks to use
From the weddings to the events, we gotta keep it strong
Oh, we’re singin’ the River Lodge blues all night long

Verse 2:
Parks and Rec department, keepin’ it all in line
From the maintenance to rentals, it’s a constant grind
But we’re proud of what we do, for the community’s sake
Even when the work piles up, we’ll never break

Chorus:
Oh, we’re singin’ the River Lodge blues
Tryin’ to keep it running, for all the folks to use
From the weddings to the events, we gotta keep it strong
Oh, we’re singin’ the River Lodge blues all night long

Bridge:
From the Museum to the Transit, we’re keepin’ it all running smooth
Even when the numbers dip, we’ve got nothing to prove
So play that guitar, sing that song
We’ll keep on goin’, all night long

Chorus:
Oh, we’re singin’ the River Lodge blues
Tryin’ to keep it running, for all the folks to use
From the weddings to the events, we gotta keep it strong
Oh, we’re singin’ the River Lodge blues all night long

Outro:
So here’s to the hard work, the dedication we show
In the heart of this town, where the River Lodge will always glow
Singin’ the River Lodge blues, we’ll carry on
For the love of the community, we’ll never be gone.

— LoCOBot

DOCUMENTS:

Staff ReportStaff Report


f. Police Department Monthly Report

The Interim Chief of Police presented a report to the Mayor and Council Members about the Police Department’s activities in February 2026. The report included statistics on patrol, staffing updates, training attended by officers, enforcement efforts such as DUI arrests, and community engagement initiatives. The Council is recommended to receive the report as an informational item.

— LoCOBot

… or, as a job interview!

Interviewer: Thank you for coming in today. We have reviewed your resume and are excited to learn more about your qualifications for the open Fulltime Sworn Police Officer position here at the Fortuna Police Department. Can you tell us about your experience with case investigations and misdemeanor and felony arrests?

Candidate: Yes, of course. In my previous position as a police officer in a neighboring city, I had the opportunity to work on numerous case investigations, including burglaries and assaults. I have experience interviewing witnesses, collecting evidence, and working with other law enforcement agencies to solve cases. I have also made several misdemeanor and felony arrests throughout my career, utilizing my training in conflict resolution and de-escalation techniques to handle each situation with professionalism and sensitivity.

Interviewer: That sounds like valuable experience. Can you also speak to your training background, particularly in relation to standardized field sobriety testing and advanced roadside impaired driving enforcement?

Candidate: Absolutely. I have completed certified training in standardized field sobriety testing and advanced roadside impaired driving enforcement. I understand the importance of identifying and apprehending impaired drivers to ensure the safety of our community. I am committed to staying up-to-date on the latest techniques and regulations in this area to effectively enforce DUI laws and prevent accidents on our roadways.

Interviewer: Great to hear. Community engagement is also a key aspect of our department. How do you approach building relationships with community members and organizations?

Candidate: Building positive relationships with the community is essential to effective policing. I believe in being visible and accessible, attending community events, and participating in outreach programs to engage with residents and address their concerns. I also value partnerships with local organizations and businesses to collaboratively address public safety issues and build trust within the community.

Interviewer: Thank you for sharing your insights. Before we conclude, is there anything else you would like to add or ask about the position?

Candidate: I just want to express my enthusiasm for the opportunity to join the Fortuna Police Department and contribute to the efforts to ensure the safety and well-being of our community. I am confident in my abilities and committed to upholding the values and standards of the department. Thank you for considering my application.

Interviewer: Thank you for your time and for sharing your experiences with us. We will be in touch with any further updates on the hiring process. Have a great day.

— LoCOBot

DOCUMENTS:

Staff Report


g. Public Works Monthly Report

The Public Works Director and engineering staff have been working on various projects like fixing a sewer break, designing a new interchange, and submitting grants for funding. The Utilities Division has been repairing water leaks and upgrading their systems, while the Water Treatment Division has been maintaining their facilities. The General Services staff has been completing various maintenance tasks around the city. The council is recommended to receive this report as an informational item.

— LoCOBot

… or, as a bedtime story!

Once upon a time, in the bustling city of Fortuna, there lived a hardworking Public Works Director named Brian Issa. Brian and his team of engineers and staff worked tirelessly every day to ensure that the city ran smoothly and efficiently.

One evening, as the moon rose high in the sky, Brian sat down to write his monthly report to the Honorable Mayor and Council Members. As he put pen to paper, he reflected on the many tasks and projects that his department had completed in the month of February.

From helping with a sewer main break on main street to working on designs for the Kenmar Interchange, Brian and his team had been busy. They had also submitted grant applications, coordinated with neighboring landowners, and completed numerous maintenance tasks throughout the city.

As Brian finished writing his report, he couldn’t help but feel a sense of pride in the work that he and his team had accomplished. With a satisfied smile, he sealed the envelope and sent it off to the Mayor and Council Members.

Later that night, as the city slept, a gentle breeze whispered through the streets of Fortuna. The stars twinkled in the sky, and the sound of crickets filled the air. It was a peaceful night, a night filled with the knowledge that the city was in good hands thanks to the hard work of Brian and his team.

And so, as the citizens of Fortuna drifted off to sleep, they did so knowing that they were safe and secure, thanks to the dedication and diligence of the Public Works Department. And as they dreamed their sweet dreams, they knew that when they awoke, a bright and beautiful city awaited them, thanks to the efforts of Brian Issa and his team. The end. Goodnight.

— LoCOBot

DOCUMENTS:

Staff Report


h. Report of Disbursements

This report is about the disbursements made by the City of Fortuna for the months of March. The City Council is recommended to receive the report as an informational item. The disbursements include payments for various services and supplies such as utility billing, physicals, security services, equipment fuel, and vehicle repairs. The total disbursement for March 3, 2026, was $249,998.72 and for March 11, 2026, was $358,316.62. The Council is asked to approve the report by Consent Agenda vote.

— LoCOBot

… or, as a World War I infantryman's letter home to his sweetheart!

My Dearest Jane,

I write to you in the midst of chaos and destruction, as the sound of German artillery thunders around me in the trenches. The horrors of war have never felt more real than they do now.

I long for the day when I can hold you in my arms again, far away from this madness. The thought of your love is the only thing that gives me strength to carry on in this endless nightmare.

Please know that my heart belongs to you, now and always. I pray for the day when this war is over, and we can be together again, safe and sound.

With all my love,

Charles

— LoCOBot

DOCUMENTS:

Staff Report


i. Approve Submitting a Grant Application to the United States Department of Agriculture Rural Development Loan and Grant Assistance Program Application for Police Vehicles

The Fortuna Police Department needs new police vehicles because their current fleet is old and has high mileage, causing frequent mechanical issues. They are applying for a grant from the USDA to cover 55% of the total cost of purchasing two new vehicles. If the grant is awarded, the city will need to provide the remaining 45%. The City Council needs to approve the grant application for the funding. If they do not, the department will have to continue using old vehicles that are costly to maintain.

— LoCOBot

… or, as an Elizabethan sonnet!

Oh grant application, fair and noble deed,
To aid our police fleet in dire need,
For vehicles worn with age and excess miles,
Their state a burden that oft beguiles.

Two units lay dormant, beyond repair,
Their engines strained, beyond compare,
High-mileage units, on patrol they roam,
Facing breakdowns in their well-worn home.

The USDA offers a helping hand,
Granting funds to purchase a new band,
Of Interceptors to serve and protect,
With 55% covered, we must not neglect.

For if we fail to seize this grant so grand,
Our fleet will crumble, a broken land.

— LoCOBot

DOCUMENTS:

Staff ReportDowntown Ford QuoteSilke Quote


j. Receive the 2025 General Plan and Housing Element Annual Progress Reports and Direct Staff to Submit Reports to the California Department of Housing and Community Development and Governor's Office of Planning and Research

The city is reviewing their progress on their long-term plan for growth and housing, and need to present reports to the state government. They have made updates to their development plans and policies, and are working on improving land use, economic development, housing, health, safety, and community design. The police and fire departments have also provided details on their activities and responses to incidents. The city needs to submit their annual progress reports for approval.

— LoCOBot

… or, as a right-wing radio talk show hosted by Merv "The Beast" Tarkington!

Merv “The Beast” Tarkington: Good morning, patriots! This is Merv “The Beast” Tarkington coming to you live from the heart of America. Today, we’ve got a hot topic to discuss - the 2025 General Plan and Housing Element Annual Progress Reports in the City of Fortuna.

Now, folks, let me break this down for you. The City of Fortuna is facing a major decision - whether or not to submit their progress reports to the California Department of Housing and Community Development and the Governor’s Office of Planning and Research. Sounds innocent enough, right? Wrong!

This is just another example of big government overreach. These bureaucrats in Sacramento think they know what’s best for the good people of Fortuna. Well, I say enough is enough!

The General Plan and Housing Element are supposed to guide the city’s growth and development, but who are these unelected officials to dictate how Fortuna should be run? This is a violation of our rights as Americans to govern ourselves at the local level.

And don’t get me started on the so-called “environmental review” exemption. They’re trying to push this through without properly assessing the impact on our community. It’s a disgrace!

We need to stand up and fight back against this encroachment on our freedoms. We need to tell the City Council in Fortuna to reject these reports and protect the rights of their citizens. It’s time to make a stand against government overreach and defend our way of life.

So, patriots, I urge you to call the City of Fortuna and tell them to reject these progress reports. Let’s show them that we won’t be pushed around by the bureaucrats in Sacramento. Stand up, speak out, and defend our liberties! This is Merv “The Beast” Tarkington signing off. Stay strong, stay vigilant, and God bless America!

— LoCOBot

DOCUMENTS:

Staff ReportAttachment


k. Approve Amended and Restated Joint Powers Agreement with the Redwood Region Economic Development Commission

The City Council is being asked to approve changes to an agreement with the Redwood Region Economic Development Commission. These changes are meant to update the agreement to better reflect the current economic landscape and regional partnerships. The City of Fortuna’s approval is needed for this updated agreement to be put into effect. There is no immediate cost associated with this approval, as it is already part of the city’s routine operations.

— LoCOBot

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

Moe Hogan: Welcome to The Moe Hogan Experience. Today, we have a very special guest, Amy Nilsen, City Manager of Fortuna. Amy, thank you for being here.

Amy Nilsen: Thank you for having me, Moe.

Moe Hogan: Now, I gotta ask you about this document you wrote, talking about the Amended and Restated Joint Powers Agreement with the Redwood Region Economic Development Commission. What’s that all about?

Amy Nilsen: Well, the Redwood Region Economic Development Commission is a regional agency that helps promote economic development in our area. The agreement we’re updating is to ensure we’re all on the same page and working together effectively.

Moe Hogan: But what about all these changes and updates? Is there something shady going on here? Like, are they trying to take over or something?

Amy Nilsen: No, not at all. The changes are just to reflect the current economic landscape and make sure we’re all aligned in our goals and processes.

Moe Hogan: Oh, okay, okay. I see what you’re saying. So, like, it’s just bureaucratic stuff, right?

Amy Nilsen: Exactly. It’s all about making sure we can continue to work together efficiently and effectively for the benefit of our community.

Moe Hogan: Got it, got it. Well, thanks for clearing that up, Amy. Now, before we go to our sponsor break, let me tell you about this amazing dietary supplement I’ve been taking. It’s called SuperViteXtreme, and let me tell you, it’s changed my life. Stay tuned for more after the break.

[Commercial Break]

Moe Hogan: And we’re back. Now, Amy, before we wrap up, I just wanna make sure I got this right. Hey, Producer, can you look up something for me?

Producer: Sure thing, Moe. What do you need?

Moe Hogan: Can you look up if these changes in the agreement are really necessary? Like, do we really need to update all this stuff?

Producer: Actually, Moe, the changes outlined by Amy are necessary to ensure the agreement reflects current practices and regional needs. It’s important for effective collaboration and economic development.

Moe Hogan: Ah, I see. Thank you, Producer, for setting me straight. Well, that’s all the time we have for today, folks. Thanks for tuning into The Moe Hogan Experience. And remember, stay woke, stay informed. Peace out.

— LoCOBot

DOCUMENTS:

Staff ReportAttachment


l. Ratify the Fortuna Fire Protection District’s Ordinance No. 2025/2026-1 Adopting the 2025 California Fire Code, Title 24, Part 9, Based on the 2024 International Fire Code, Resolution 2026-06

The Fortuna Fire Protection District has passed an ordinance adopting the 2025 California Fire Code and 2024 International Fire Code standards. The City Council needs to ratify this ordinance for it to be enforceable within the City of Fortuna. There is no fiscal impact to the city from ratifying this ordinance. The recommended action is for the City Council to adopt a resolution ratifying the Fire Protection District’s ordinance.

— LoCOBot

… or, as a Dungeons & Dragons campaign!

Title: The Fortuna Fire Code Quest

Background:
The city of Fortuna has recently ratified the Fortuna Fire Protection District’s adoption of the 2025 California Fire Code, based on the 2024 International Fire Code. As a result, new fire prevention regulations are being enforced within the city’s boundaries. In response to this, a group of adventurers is tasked with exploring the city and ensuring that all buildings and structures are in compliance with the new Fire Code.

Quest Objectives:
- Investigate buildings and structures within the city to ensure they meet the requirements of the new Fire Code.
- Assist the Fortuna Fire Protection District in enforcing the Fire Code by reporting any violations or hazards discovered during the investigation.
- Help educate the citizens of Fortuna about the importance of fire prevention and safety measures.

Quest Challenges:
1. Fire Hazard Detection: The adventurers must use their skills and abilities to detect potential fire hazards within buildings and structures.
2. Code Enforcement: The adventurers may encounter resistance from building owners or occupants who are reluctant to comply with the new Fire Code regulations.
3. Time Pressure: The city is at risk of a fire outbreak if the Fire Code is not enforced quickly and effectively, adding a sense of urgency to the quest.

Quest Rewards:
- Gold and treasures found during the investigation.
- Recognition from the Fortuna Fire Protection District for helping to ensure the safety of the city.
- Potential alliances with influential figures within the city for future quests or endeavors.

Outcome:
By successfully completing the quest and ensuring that the city of Fortuna is in compliance with the new Fire Code, the adventurers help prevent future fire disasters and ensure the safety and well-being of the city’s residents. Their actions are celebrated by the city council and the Fortuna Fire Protection District, establishing them as heroes within the community.

— LoCOBot

DOCUMENTS:

Staff ReportExhibit AExhibit BExhibit C


m. Approve a Facility Use Agreement with Humboldt Fastpitch

The Parks and Recreation Director is recommending that the City Council approve a Facility Use Agreement with Humboldt Fastpitch to use the city’s fields at a reduced rental rate. The organization has used the facilities for several years, and fees were previously waived. A donor funded their use in 2025, but now a reduced rate agreement is proposed. The agreement will result in a reduction of revenue for the city, but it is recommended to support youth sports and attract visitors. The Council is advised to approve the agreement to avoid potential budget cuts in the future.

— LoCOBot

… or, as a nursery rhyme!

In the city of Fortuna, where the sun always shines,
Humboldt Fastpitch plays ball, having a grand old time.
They want to use the fields, for practice and for play,
But the cost is quite high, what’s a team to say?

A generous donor stepped in, to save the day,
Funding their season, so they could still play.
Now they’re back again, with a request for a deal,
To use the fields once more, to run, hit, and steal.

The City Council must decide, what to do next,
To approve the agreement, or keep them vexed.
With reduced rental rates, the team can still play,
Keeping youth sports alive, in a wonderful way.

So let’s all support them, in their time of need,
So Humboldt Fastpitch can continue to succeed.
Let’s approve the agreement, without delay,
So they can hit the fields, and run, hit, and play.

— LoCOBot

DOCUMENTS:

Staff ReportAttachment


n. Approve a Memorandum of Understanding with the Eel River Valley Official's Association

The Parks and Recreation Department is recommending that the City Council approve the renewal of a Memorandum of Understanding with the Eel River Valley Officials Association. The association provides referees and other services for the city’s adult sports leagues at no cost to the city. Not renewing the agreement would mean the city’s sports leagues would be without these essential services.

— LoCOBot

… or, as an episode of Seinfeld!

(The episode opens in Jerry’s apartment. Jerry and George are sitting on the couch, flipping through a pile of mail.)

Jerry: (excitedly) Look at this, George! The city is renewing their Memorandum of Understanding with the Eel River Valley Officials Association!

George: (perplexed) The Eel River Valley Officials Association? What is that, some sort of fancy organization for referees?

Jerry: (nodding) Exactly! They provide referees, umpires, scorekeepers, and timekeepers for the adult sports leagues in the city.

George: (sarcastically) Oh, great. Because that’s just what we need, more rules and regulations in our lives.

Jerry: (smirking) Well, you know what they say, George. Without referees, it’s just chaos.

George: (rolling his eyes) Please, chaos is my middle name.

(Just then, Elaine enters the apartment, holding a flyer.)

Elaine: Hey guys, have you heard about the new adult CoEd softball league starting up in the city?

Jerry: (excitedly) Yes, Elaine! That’s the league that the Eel River Valley Officials Association is providing services for.

Elaine: (raising an eyebrow) Oh, really? So, what you’re saying is, if we want to play in this league, we have to follow all these rules and guidelines?

Jerry: (nodding) That’s right. But hey, at least we’ll have professional referees keeping us in line.

Elaine: (skeptical) I don’t know, Jerry. I’m not sure I want someone blowing a whistle at me while I’m trying to hit a home run.

George: (chuckling) Yeah, Elaine. Knowing you, you’ll probably get thrown out of the game for arguing with the umpire.

Elaine: (indignant) Hey, I don’t argue. I simply state my case in a loud and passionate manner.

Jerry: (laughing) Well, regardless, it looks like we have a decision to make. Do we join the league and play by the rules, or do we risk it all and go rogue?

(Just then, Kramer bursts into the apartment, holding a baseball bat.)

Kramer: (excitedly) Hey, you guys! I just signed up for the CoEd softball league!

Jerry: (surprised) You did? Since when do you play softball, Kramer?

Kramer: (smirking) Oh, I don’t play softball, Jerry. I’m the designated cheerleader. I’ll be on the sidelines, leading the crowd in cheers and chants.

George: (rolling his eyes) Of course you are, Kramer. Because why actually play the game when you can just cheer for others?

(As they all laugh, the scene fades to black, leaving the audience wondering what antics will ensue in the adult CoEd softball league with the Eel River Valley Officials Association overseeing the games.)

— LoCOBot

DOCUMENTS:

Staff ReportAttachment


5. CITY COUNCIL BUSINESS

a. Public Hearing: Second Reading and Adoption of a Zoning Map Amendment for Assessor’s Parcel Number 040-172-009 from Retail Commercial to Commercial Thoroughfare, and Find the Project Exempt from the California Environmental Quality Act, Ordinance 2026-783

Katey Schmidt, a Senior Planner from the Community Development Department, is recommending to the Honorable Mayor and Council Members to hold a public hearing for the second reading and adoption of a zoning map amendment from Retail Commercial to Commercial Thoroughfare for a specific parcel. The project is exempt from the California Environmental Quality Act. The applicant wants to rezone the parcel to align it with the existing Commercial General Plan Land Use designation and allow ambulance services with conditional approval. The current zoning does not align with the proposed use of the property, and the amendment will better fit its historical uses. The project is also consistent with the City of Fortuna Municipal Code procedures for zoning amendments.

— LoCOBot

… or, as a text thread between three teenage mean girls!

Kaylee: Ugh, did you guys see this report about the zoning map amendment?

Brianna: Yeah, what a snoozefest. Like who even cares about zoning?

Madison: Right? Like, who even knows what all those zoning terms mean anyway?

Kaylee: I know, right? Who has time to read all that jargon?

Brianna: I bet Katey Schmidt wrote that report just to make herself feel important.

Madison: Totally. Like, get a life Katey.

Kaylee: I can’t believe they expect us to care about this stuff. Like, can we just skip this meeting or something?

Brianna: I’m down. Let’s just pretend we didn’t see this report and go get some coffee instead.

Madison: Sounds like a plan. Screw zoning maps, I need a latte. Let’s bounce.

— LoCOBot

DOCUMENTS:

Staff ReportOrdinance 2026-783Exhibit A


b. Approve a Memorandum of Understanding with Fortuna Union High School District for Shared Use of Facilities and Authorize the City Manager to Execute

The city of Fortuna and Fortuna Union High School District have a proposal to share the Shelton Field for sports activities. The agreement includes a $1000 annual payment from the school district, as well as covering the utility bills for the field. This would result in increased revenue for the city and savings in staff maintenance costs. The recommended action is to approve the agreement for shared facility use.

— LoCOBot

… or, as a Twitter thread!

🌟Exciting news for the Fortuna community!🌟 We have a proposed Memorandum of Understanding between the City of Fortuna and Fortuna Union High School District for shared use of facilities. Let’s dive into the details in this thread. #Fortuna #CommunityPartnerships

Traditionally, there has been no fee charged for facility use exchange between the City and FUHSD. However, a change is being proposed for Shelton Field. FUHSD has offered to pay $1000 annually for year-round use. #MemorandumOfUnderstanding #FacilitySharing

City staff counter-proposed that FUHSD also cover the utility (water) bill for Shelton Field, increasing the annual cost to $6493.84. This would result in additional revenue for the City, as well as savings in staff time for maintenance. #CommunityBenefits #FinancialImpact

The agreement would allow FUHSD to utilize Shelton Field for baseball, while also freeing up Lesku Field for other user groups to rent by having their soccer team use Shelton Field’s outfield. A win-win for both parties! #FacilityUtilization #BeneficialPartnerships

Tonight, the City Council will review this proposal and we hope for your support to approve the MOU between the City of Fortuna and FUHSD. Let’s continue to work together for the benefit of our community. #Cooperation #CommunityDevelopment

Thank you for following along with this important update. We look forward to further strengthening our relationship with FUHSD and providing more opportunities for our community to enjoy recreational and athletic facilities. #BuildingConnections #FortunaParksRec

— LoCOBot

DOCUMENTS:

Staff ReportAttachment


c. Receive and File the Fortuna Business Improvement District's Annual Report and By-Law Amendments

The City Manager is recommending that the Council review and approve the Fortuna Business Improvement District’s annual report, which includes activities and expenses for the fiscal year. The FBID was established in 1990 to benefit and promote businesses in the city. The report includes information on proposed changes in boundaries, activities for the year, and budget summary. The Council is asked to approve a flat assessment of $25 per business for the next fiscal year. The FBID fund has an estimated balance of $16,280.

— LoCOBot

… or, as a science-fiction story!

As Amy Nilsen, the City Manager, finished presenting the annual report for the Fortuna Business Improvement District to the Mayor and Council Members, the room fell into a heavy silence. The business agenda item was always a dry subject, but there was something off about this year’s report that left everyone feeling uneasy.

The Council members glanced at each other, furrowing their brows as they tried to make sense of the information in front of them. The proposed changes in the FBID boundaries were minimal, the activities for the fiscal year seemed standard, and the budget summary appeared to be in order. But there was a nagging feeling that something was not quite right.

As they delved deeper into the report, Council Member Jackson noticed a discrepancy in the financial transactions. The expenditures for the previous year seemed unusually high, and the revenue generated from the flat assessment fee of $25 per business didn’t quite add up to the proposed budget for the next fiscal year. There was a missing piece to the puzzle, and they were determined to find out what it was.

After some thorough investigation, they discovered a hidden agenda within the FBID. It wasn’t just about promoting public events and decorating public places in the district. There was a secret operation being funded by the surplus revenues, something far more sinister than they could have imagined.

The FBID was actually a front for a covert government project to manipulate the minds of the city’s inhabitants. Through the music played in public places, subtle messages were being transmitted to control people’s thoughts and behaviors. The decorations were designed to subliminally influence their decisions, turning them into unwitting pawns in a larger scheme.

The Council members were shocked by the revelation. They couldn’t believe that the business improvement district they had trusted for so many years was involved in such a nefarious plot. They knew they had to take action before it was too late.

With the city’s future at stake, the Council members devised a plan to expose the FBID’s true intentions to the public. They called for an emergency town hall meeting, where they presented the evidence they had uncovered and urged the residents to stand against the manipulation of their minds.

The response was overwhelming. The citizens of Fortuna were outraged by the deceit that had been perpetrated against them. They demanded accountability from those responsible and vowed to never let their city fall victim to such control again.

In the end, the FBID was disbanded, and new safeguards were put in place to ensure that such a betrayal of trust could never happen again. The city of Fortuna emerged stronger than ever, united in their commitment to protect their freedom and independence from any who sought to manipulate or oppress them. And the Council members knew that they had done their duty to safeguard their city’s future, no matter the cost.

— LoCOBot

DOCUMENTS:

Staff ReportAttachment


6. CITY MANAGER’S REPORT

7. FUTURE AGENDA ITEMS

8. CITY COUNCIL REPORTS AND COMMENTS

a. Council Member Kyle Conley


b. Council Member Carlos Diaz


c. Council Member Abe Stevens


d. Mayor Pro Tem Tami Trent


e. Mayor Mike Johnson


9. ADJOURN


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