Sage Alexander / @ 1:48 p.m. / Agendizer

Fortuna City Council Could Adopt Mobile Home Rent Stabilization Ordinance Tonight, Will Consider Placing Sales Tax Increase on Ballot

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Tonight, the Fortuna City Council will consider adopting a long-discussed ordinance to stabilize rents in mobile home parks.

If adopted, rent increases would be capped to inflation, as measured by the Consumer Price Index (CPI), at the city’s four parks, which host a total of 283 spaces.

After years of lot rent increases at the largest park in the city, seniors at Royal Crest Mobile Home Park began organizing to stabilize rents last year. The city has taken up the request by meeting with residents and park owners and drafting a rent stabilization ordinance.

In the meantime, the Fortuna council took the step of temporarily freezing rent increases to prevent an anticipatory rent spike by park owners. This moratorium ends April 30, or whenever the ordinance is finalized.

The first draft of the ordinance was released in January; the RSO would tie rent hikes to the cost of living increases, measured by the Consumer Price Index (CPI).

This new version has a couple of changes.

Now, it would prohibit any rent increase following the sale or replacement of a mobile home on the same lot. It would limit rent increases to once a year.

Following comments by residents, the maximum increase is halted at a 5% CPI cap, for years when inflation skyrockets.

At Royal Crest, rents increased 96% over a period of 13 years, with increases often outpacing the CPI.

Organizers from Save Our Seniors are seeking a few tweaks in this version and intend on filling council chambers again.

The ordinance requires a four-fifths vote to pass. Previously, councilmember Abe Stevens was opposed to the rent freeze.

It’s proposed as an urgency ordinance, with the document pointing to the possibility that residents could go homeless if rent continues to increase and the vulnerability of those on fixed incomes.

City staff is recommending adoption of the ordinance, alongside a document outlining administrative fees, tonight.

Tax Measure

The council will discuss taking another stab at a sales tax measure. City staff is recommending the council approve placing a local sales tax measure on the Nov. 3, 2026 ballot — just two years after a similar measure failed to pass.

Fortuna is cash-strapped, with the city recently taking financial measures like a hiring freeze to boost police pay. The staff report points to a gap between expected and actual sales tax revenue, noting the “City effectively lost the purchasing power of nearly one million dollars over a five-year period.”

“Simultaneously, cost drivers outside the City’s control — especially liability insurance — have increased substantially, resulting in a widening budget gap,” the staff report said.

According to a presentation included in the agenda from opinion researchers EMC Research, who did some polling of Fortuna residents, “support for a potential sales tax is within range of the majority threshold, marginally higher than support for 2024’s Measure P,” but the analysis adds that the Measure is vulnerable to opposition.

In 2024, the measure failed after 58.33% of Fortuna voters voted no, which would have increased sales tax by 0.75%.

A three-quarter cent sales tax measure is estimated to generate $1.8 million per year “and is essential for the City to maintain and continue to improve City services,” the staff report said. 

The meeting will be held April 6, 2026, at 5 p.m. at 621 11th St. Fortuna. It can also be attended through Access Humboldt’s YouTube channel.


Fortuna City Council
April 6, 2026, 5 p.m.

1. CALL TO ORDER / FLAG SALUTE / ROLL CALL

2. PROCLAMATIONS

a. Sexual Assault Awareness Month April 2026

DOCUMENTS:

Proclamation


b. National Public Safety Telecommunications Week

DOCUMENTS:

Proclamation


c. National Animal Control Officer Appreciation Week

DOCUMENTS:

Proclamation


3. CONSENT CALENDAR

a. City Council Minutes – March 16, 2026 (Regular Meeting) & March 16, 2026 (Special Meeting)

b. Report of Disbursements

This is a report about the money spent by the City of Fortuna for various expenses like software renewal, legal services, supplies, building repairs, and utility bills. The report provides details of the disbursements made on March 18, March 24, and April 1, 2026, totaling $779,666.26. The recommendation is for the City Council to receive this report as an informational item.

— LoCOBot

… or, as a bedtime story!

Once upon a time in the city of Fortuna, there was a magical land where the streets shimmered like gold and the buildings sparkled in the moonlight. The city was ruled by a wise and noble Mayor, who was loved by all the residents.

One day, the Mayor and the City Council received a report of disbursements from the City Manager, Amy Nilsen. The report detailed the amount of money that had been spent on various expenses for the city, including software renewals, legal services, and maintenance of city buildings.

As the Mayor and City Council reviewed the report, they were impressed by the diligent work of the city staff in managing the city’s finances. They knew that the money had been spent wisely and thoughtfully to benefit the residents of Fortuna.

That night, as the moon rose high in the sky, the Mayor decided to share the story of the disbursements with the children of Fortuna. He gathered them around him in the town square and began to tell them a bedtime story.

“Once upon a time, in the magical city of Fortuna, there was a group of dedicated city workers who carefully managed the city’s finances,” the Mayor began. “They made sure that every penny was spent with care and consideration, to ensure that our city remained prosperous and thriving.”

The children listened intently as the Mayor recounted the details of the report, explaining how the money had been used to maintain the city’s infrastructure, support essential services, and invest in the future of Fortuna.

As the story drew to a close, the children’s eyes sparkled with wonder and admiration for the hardworking city staff. They drifted off to sleep with visions of a bright and prosperous future for their beloved city, knowing that it was in good hands.

And so, in the city of Fortuna, the Mayor and City Council continued to govern with wisdom and integrity, ensuring that every dollar was spent with the best interests of the residents at heart. And the children of Fortuna grew up knowing that their city was a place of magic and wonder, where dreams could come true.

— LoCOBot

DOCUMENTS:

Staff Report


c. Approve and Adopt the Humboldt County Operational Area Local Hazard Mitigation Plan, Resolution 2026-08

The city of Fortuna is being asked to adopt and approve an update to the Humboldt County Operational Area Local Hazard Mitigation Plan. This plan outlines potential risks and projects to mitigate those risks, and is required for the city to be eligible for FEMA grants. The update includes stronger outreach, more detailed modeling, and a focus on community lifelines. Adopting the plan has minimal cost and enables the city to apply for grant funding for projects. The city council is recommended to adopt the resolution in order to maintain eligibility for FEMA funding.

— LoCOBot

… or, as a nursery rhyme!

In a town called Fortuna, just the other day,
The Director of Public Works had something to say.
He wrote a report for the Mayor and Council Members,
About a plan to keep us safe from disasters that linger.

The plan is called LHMP, a mitigation scheme,
To protect our city, like a well-thought-out dream.
To qualify for FEMA grants, we must approve,
And show we’re ready for the dangers that might move.

The Mayor and Council must vote to adopt,
To keep our community safe, they can’t be stopped.
The plan includes projects to strengthen our town,
Against floods, quakes, and dangers that come around.

So let’s all support Resolution 2026-08,
To keep Fortuna safe and in a resilient state.
With teamwork and collaboration, we’ll be ready to face,
Any hazard that comes, with courage and grace.

— LoCOBot

DOCUMENTS:

Staff ReportAttachmentResolution 2026-08


d. Approve Pay Schedule, Appointment and Employment Contract for Community Development Director/City Engineer

The city is recommending the approval of an updated pay schedule and the appointment of Brendan Bryd as the Community Development Director/City Engineer. This position has been vacant since August 15, 2025, and Mr. Bryd is a highly qualified candidate with relevant experience. The fiscal impact is within the budgeted amount for the current fiscal year, and there may be opportunities to offset costs through various programs. The City Council is asked to approve the appointment and authorize the City Manager to execute the employment contract.

— LoCOBot

… or, as a Robert Burns poem!

O, braw City Manager, Amy Nilsen dear
Wi’ news o’ Brendan Bryd we love to hear
A Community Director and Engineer sae braw
To help our city thrive and grow, we awe

The position has been empty far too lang
But now we have a man who’s strong and gang
Brendan Bryd, a man of skill and grace
To lead us forward in this fine place

Wi’ qualifications frae Humboldt State
And leadership in transport we elate
His expertise we greatly need
To guide us forward, to succeed

So let us approve the pay and contract true
For Brendan Bryd, who’ll lead us through
The streets, the buildings, the drainage too
In his capable hands, we trust and rue

So to the Honorable Mayor and Council Members aye
Approve this agenda, without delay
And let Brendan Bryd lead us with cheer
For a prosperous future, we hold dear

Signed by Amy Nilsen, City Manager braw
In the year o’ 2026, April awa”

— LoCOBot

DOCUMENTS:

Staff ReportEmployment AgreementPay Rate Schedule


e. Approve a Second Amendment of Loan to Debra Kay Chisum for 320 Main Street

The city of Fortuna is recommending that the City Council approve a second amendment to a loan agreement with Debra Kay Chisum for a property she purchased from the city in 2020. The amendment would extend the due date for a large payment she owes on the loan, allowing her more time to sell other properties and make the payment. The city will not lose money from this extension, as the interest earned will be similar to if the loan had been paid off on the original due date.

— LoCOBot

… or, as a Socratic dialogue!

Socrates: Greetings, my fellow citizens. Today we gather to discuss the Second Amendment of Loan to Debra Kay Chisum for 320 Main Street. Let us engage in dialogue to explore the implications of this recommendation.

Plato: Thank you, Socrates. It seems that Ms. Chisum has been diligent in making her monthly payments and has requested an extension for the balloon payment due date. What are your thoughts on this matter?

Socrates: Indeed, Plato. It is commendable that Ms. Chisum has been consistent in meeting her financial obligations. However, we must consider the reasons behind her request for an extension. What are the circumstances that have led her to seek additional time to make the balloon payment?

Plato: It is mentioned in the staff report that Ms. Chisum is planning to sell other properties in order to raise the necessary funds for the balloon payment. It seems that she is taking proactive steps to fulfill her financial commitments.

Socrates: A noble endeavor, indeed. It appears that Ms. Chisum is demonstrating responsibility and accountability in her approach to managing her finances. In light of this information, do you believe it is reasonable to grant her request for an extension?

Plato: I believe that considering Ms. Chisum’s track record of timely payments and her proactive efforts to raise the funds needed, it would be just and fair to approve the second amendment to extend the due date of the balloon payment. This decision aligns with the principle of supporting individuals who demonstrate responsible financial behavior.

Socrates: Your reasoning is sound, Plato. By granting this extension, we not only acknowledge Ms. Chisum’s efforts but also provide her with the necessary flexibility to fulfill her financial obligations effectively. Let us proceed with the council’s approval of the Second Amendment to Promissory Note Secured by Deed of Trust between the City of Fortuna and Debra Kay Chisum.

Plato: Agreed, Socrates. The proposed action benefits both parties involved and upholds the values of fairness and responsibility. Thank you for engaging in this dialogue with me.

— LoCOBot

DOCUMENTS:

Staff ReportPromissory NoteAmendment


f. Authorize the City Manager to Execute a Professional Services Contract Amendment with Jacobs for City’s Wastewater National Pollutant Discharge Elimination System Compliance Project

The city of Fortuna needs to upgrade its wastewater treatment plant to comply with regulations. They are requesting approval for a contract amendment with Jacobs Engineering for $409,821 to provide engineering and support services. This project is important for the city’s environmental compliance and will be funded from the Wastewater Reserve Fund. The recommended action is to approve the contract amendment.

— LoCOBot

… or, as a bildungsroman!

Title: The Wastewater Warrior

In the bustling city of Fortuna, a young engineer named Emily had always been passionate about environmental conservation. From a young age, she had been fascinated by the intricate systems that kept the city running smoothly, but she had always felt a calling to do more for the planet.

As she grew older, Emily pursued a degree in civil engineering with a focus on environmental sustainability. After graduation, she was thrilled to land a job at the City of Fortuna’s Public Works department, where she quickly became involved in the city’s Wastewater National Pollutant Discharge Elimination System Compliance Project.

Under the guidance of her mentor, Brian Issa, the Public Works Director, Emily dove headfirst into the project. She was tasked with working closely with the engineering firm Jacobs to ensure that the city’s wastewater treatment plant met the strict environmental regulations set by the North Coast Regional Water Quality Control Board.

As Emily delved deeper into the project, she encountered challenges and obstacles at every turn. From negotiating funding for the project to navigating the complex regulatory landscape, she faced setbacks that tested her resolve. But with determination and perseverance, she pushed forward, determined to make a difference in her community.

As the project progressed, Emily’s skills and knowledge grew exponentially. She learned the ins and outs of wastewater treatment technology, environmental impact assessments, and regulatory compliance. With each new obstacle she overcame, she became more confident in her abilities as an engineer and an advocate for environmental stewardship.

But it wasn’t just the technical aspects of the project that shaped Emily’s growth. She also learned valuable lessons about teamwork, communication, and leadership. Working alongside her colleagues at the City of Fortuna and Jacobs, she discovered the power of collaboration and the importance of building strong relationships in the workplace.

Despite the challenges and setbacks, Emily never lost sight of her ultimate goal: to create a more sustainable future for her community. And as the project neared completion, she was filled with pride and satisfaction, knowing that her hard work had paid off.

In the end, the City of Fortuna’s Wastewater National Pollutant Discharge Elimination System Compliance Project was a success, thanks in large part to Emily’s dedication and expertise. She had grown from a young engineer with a passion for the environment into a true wastewater warrior, ready to take on whatever challenges came her way in the future. And as she looked out over the clean, pristine waters of Strongs Creek and the Eel River, she knew that she had made a difference – not just for her city, but for the planet as a whole.

— LoCOBot

DOCUMENTS:

Staff ReportAttachment


g. Ratification of Amended Resolution 2026-07 — State Community Development Block Grant Program, 2025 Funding Year

This report is about a recommendation to the City Council to approve changes to the State Community Development Block Grant (CDBG) application for the 2025 funding year. The changes are administrative and technical, and do not affect the previously approved projects or funding amounts. The Council is being asked to ratify the amended resolution to ensure compliance with State requirements.

— LoCOBot

… or, as a Brazilian carnival song!

O carnaval chegou, é hora de celebrar
Com alegria e animação, vamos dançar
Na cidade, o CDBG está a chegar
Ratifiquem a resolução, vamos festejar

Autorizem a aplicação do grant
Com amendamentos claros, sem desvantagem
Seguindo as normas do Estado, tudo em ordem
Vamos garantir o financiamento, sem discordar

Aplausos para a equipe, que fez acontecer
Com a liderança da Katey e Amy a frente
Confirmem as mudanças, sem hesitar
E o carnaval da cidade, vamos manter contente

Vamos festejar, o CDBG está a caminho
Com dança, música e muita animação
Ratifiquem a resolução, sem vacilar
E vamos todos juntos, celebrar a reunião.

— LoCOBot

DOCUMENTS:

Staff ReportAttachment


4. CITY COUNCIL BUSINESS

a. EMC Research Regarding a Potential Local Sales Tax Measure and Next Steps

The City of Fortuna is facing financial challenges due to stagnant or declining revenues and increasing costs. To address these issues, the city commissioned a survey to gauge public opinion on a potential sales tax measure. The survey results showed mixed attitudes towards tax increases, but potential support for a 0.75% sales tax measure to generate revenue for essential services. The next steps involve finalizing ballot language and submitting the measure for the November 3, 2026, election. The sales tax measure is estimated to generate $1.8 million per year to support city services. The City Council is recommended to approve placing the measure on the ballot.

— LoCOBot

… or, as an episode of Seinfeld!

Title: The Sales Tax Dilemma

(Jerry, George, Elaine, and Kramer are sitting at Monk’s Cafe discussing the latest news in Fortuna)

Jerry: So, apparently, the City of Fortuna is considering a local sales tax measure to address their financial challenges.

George: A sales tax measure? That’s the last thing I want to deal with when I’m shopping.

Elaine: I heard they commissioned a public opinion survey to gauge the feasibility of the measure.

Kramer: (excitedly) Oh, I love surveys! Maybe I should move to Fortuna and participate in it.

Jerry: (sarcastically) I’m sure they would love to hear your opinions, Kramer.

(Just then, Newman enters the cafe)

Newman: (excitedly) Did you guys hear about the sales tax measure in Fortuna?

Jerry: Yes, we just heard about it. What’s your take on it?

Newman: Oh, I’ve been following it closely. I think it’s a brilliant idea. The city needs that extra revenue.

Jerry: (mockingly) Of course, you would support a sales tax measure. More money for the government means more bureaucracy for you to navigate.

Newman: (defensively) Hey, I’m just saying it’s for the greater good.

(The group continues to discuss the sales tax measure, with each sharing their opinions on whether it would be beneficial for Fortuna)

Later on, Jerry decides to visit Fortuna to see how the residents are reacting to the potential sales tax measure. He meets a group of locals at a bar and engages in a conversation about the survey results and their thoughts on the measure.

Jerry: So, how do you all feel about the sales tax measure?

Local 1: Well, I understand the need for additional funding for city services, but I’m worried about how it will impact my wallet.

Local 2: I think it’s necessary to maintain the quality of services in Fortuna, but I want to make sure the funds are managed properly.

Jerry: It seems like there’s a mixed reaction among the residents. It’ll be interesting to see how this plays out.

(Back in New York, the group reunites at Monk’s Cafe to discuss Jerry’s trip to Fortuna)

Elaine: So, what’s the verdict on the sales tax measure?

Jerry: It’s a divisive issue. Some residents see the need for it, while others are concerned about the implications.

Kramer: (excitedly) Did you bring back any souvenirs from Fortuna?

Jerry: (sarcastically) Yes, I brought back a tax form for you to fill out, Kramer.

(The group laughs as they continue to debate the pros and cons of the sales tax measure in Fortuna)

(End scene)

— LoCOBot

DOCUMENTS:

Staff ReportAttachment


b. Rent Stabilization Regulations for Mobile Home Parks Urgency Ordinance 2026-784 and Resolution 2026-10

The City Manager recommends that the City Council adopt an Urgency Ordinance for Rent Stabilization Regulations for Mobile Home Parks, including establishing fees for the program. The ordinance aims to address concerns about rent increases in mobile home parks and ensure fairness and transparency. Public feedback was considered in the drafting of the ordinance, which includes provisions for CPI rent adjustments, limitations on rent increases upon sale of a mobile home, and a fair return petitions process. The proposed fees will cover the costs of administering the program without impacting the city’s General Fund.

— LoCOBot

… or, as a chanson!

Chanson:

Dans la ville de Fortuna,
Les résidents ont peur
Des augmentations de loyer
Qui les rendent malheureux

Mais le Conseil Municipal
A une solution en main
Un règlement urgent
Pour les parcs de maisons mobiles, c’est malin

Les résidents ont parlé
Ils veulent des augmentations limitées
Et des décisions neutres
Pour garder l’équilibre dans la cité

Avec un plafond de 5%
Sur les augmentations chaque année
Et pas de frais excessifs
Pour garantir la vérité

Le Conseil propose aussi
De proclamer une résolution
Pour établir des frais justes
Et maintenir la condition

Alors chantez avec moi
Pour le règlement des parcs mobiles
Pour une ville plus juste
Et un avenir plus viable

Fortuna sait écouter
Les résidents et leurs besoins
Avec ce règlement urgent
La paix retiendra son éloge fin

— LoCOBot

DOCUMENTS:

Staff ReportAttachment AAttachment BAttachment CAttachment DAttachment E


c. Declare Fortuna City Council's Intent to Levy the Fortuna Business Improvement District's Assessment for Fiscal Year 2026-27, Resolution 2026-09

The City Council is considering levying a flat assessment of $25.00 per business to support the Fortuna Business Improvement District for the upcoming fiscal year. This assessment would generate approximately $16,500 to fund community events. The Council must adopt a resolution declaring its intention to levy the assessment and set a public hearing for May 4, 2026, where business owners can voice any concerns. It is recommended for the Council to adopt the resolution to ensure ongoing funding for community events.

— LoCOBot

… or, as an Elizabethan sonnet!

Oh, gentle Mayor and Council, hear my plea
To levy the assessment for FBID
A flat fee of twenty-five dollars, you see
To support events that make our city shine, splendid

The businesses of Fortuna, six-sixty strong
Would contribute to the sum of sixteen grand
To fund the Apple Harvest, Lighted Parade, and song
Without these funds, our community events would disband

A resolution of intent, we must declare
To levy the assessment for the fiscal year
A public hearing on May 4th, we prepare
For business owners to voice their protest, sincere

So let us adopt Resolution 2026-09
And ensure our city’s events will brightly shine.

— LoCOBot

DOCUMENTS:

Staff ReportAttachment


5. ORAL COMMENTS FROM THE PUBLIC

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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