LoCOBot / @ 1:30 p.m. / Agendizer

Fortuna City Council
June 1, 2026, 6 p.m.

1. CALL TO ORDER / FLAG SALUTE / ROLL CALL

2. ORAL COMMENTS FROM THE PUBLIC

3. CONSENT CALENDAR

a. City Council Minutes – May 18, 2026 (Regular Meeting)

b. Report of Disbursements

The City of Fortuna processed two disbursements on May 20 and May 27, 2026, totaling $341,543.62. The report includes detailed information on the payments made to different vendors for various services and supplies. The staff recommends that the City Council receive the report as an informational item through a Consent Agenda vote.

— LoCOBot

… or, as a nursery rhyme!

In the city of Fortuna, where the council did meet,
They reviewed disbursements, oh what a feat!
The report was processed, two payments in all,
For various services, both big and small.

On May 20th, a sum of one million six,
For lab testing and park refunds, a mix.
And on the 27th, three hundred grand more,
For supplies and services, all in store.

The staff recommended, a vote to receive,
An informational item, the council did believe.
So they voted by consent, to approve the report,
And the city’s finances were in good support.

Now the council can rest, the disbursements are done,
Until the next report, when they’ll review another one.
But for now, all is well in the city of Fortuna,
With budgets and payments, they’ve made a good run-a!

— LoCOBot

DOCUMENTS:

Staff Report


c. Approve Biennial Review and Amendments to the City’s Conflict of Interest Code, Resolution 2026-20

The city is required to review and update its Conflict of Interest Code every two years. The proposed amendments involve adding and deleting certain individuals from the code. The city council is responsible for reviewing and approving these changes. There is no financial impact associated with this update. The recommendation is to adopt Resolution 2026-20 to approve the amendments.

— LoCOBot

… or, as an episode of Seinfeld!

“The Conflict of Interest”

[Jerry and George are sitting at Monk’s Cafe, discussing the latest news in the city]

Jerry: Did you hear about the city’s Conflict of Interest Code amendment?

George: Conflict of Interest Code? What’s that?

Jerry: It’s a set of rules that public officials have to follow to avoid any conflicts of interest while they’re in office.

George: Ah, that sounds boring. Why do I care about that?

Jerry: Well, the city council is voting on it soon, and Kramer is all excited about it.

[Cut to Kramer bursting into Jerry’s apartment]

Kramer: Jerry, you won’t believe what I found out! The city’s Conflict of Interest Code is being amended!

Jerry: Yeah, we heard. What’s so exciting about that?

Kramer: I found out that Newman is one of the designated filers on the list! He’s involved in some shady deals, Jerry!

Jerry: Newman? Involved in shady deals? I’m shocked, I tell you, shocked!

[Cut to Elaine and Kramer at the city council meeting]

Elaine: So, what’s the big deal about this Conflict of Interest Code, Kramer?

Kramer: It’s a matter of ethics, Elaine. We have to ensure that our public officials are not using their positions for personal gain.

Elaine: Well, I guess that’s important. But why are you so invested in this?

Kramer: Because I have a feeling that something big is about to go down, Elaine. And I want to be there to witness it.

[Cut to the city council voting on the amendment]

Council Member: All in favor of adopting Resolution 2026-20 to amend the Conflict of Interest Code, say “aye.”

[Council members say “aye”]

Council Member: Any opposed?

[Silence]

Council Member: The ayes have it. Resolution 2026-20 is adopted.

[Cut to Jerry’s apartment]

Jerry: So, did anything exciting happen at the city council meeting?

Kramer: Oh, you bet, Jerry. Newman tried to sneak out of the meeting early, but I caught him red-handed trying to avoid the vote.

Jerry: Newman? Trying to avoid a vote? I’m shocked, I tell you, shocked!

— LoCOBot

DOCUMENTS:

Staff ReportResolution 2026-20Biennial Notice


d. Approve the Full-time Pay Rate Schedule for Fiscal Year 2026-27, Resolution 2026-21

The City is proposing changes to the pay rates for certain positions, such as Police Lieutenant, as well as increasing the salaries for the City Manager, Finance Director, and City Clerk/HR Director. These changes are part of the annual budget for the next fiscal year. The City Council is being asked to approve these changes by adopting Resolution 2026-21.

— LoCOBot

… or, as a recipe!

Full-Time Pay Rate Schedule for Fiscal Year 2026-27

Ingredients:
- Salary adjustment for Police Lieutenant
- 3% increase for City Manager, Finance Director, and City Clerk/HR Director
- Resolution 2026-21

Instructions:

1. Adjust the salary for the Police Lieutenant to address salary compression impacts from a previous agreement with the Fortuna Police Employees Association. Increase the salary by 10% and discontinue the $9,800 annual stipend.

2. Provide a 3% increase per employment contract for the City Manager, Finance Director, and City Clerk/HR Director.

3. Incorporate the fiscal impacts into the FY 2026-27 Adopted Budget.

4. Have the City Council approve the Full-time Pay Rate Schedule by adopting Resolution 2026-21. Vote on this item as part of the Consent Agenda.

— LoCOBot

DOCUMENTS:

Staff ReportResolution 2026-21FT Rate Schedule


e. Approve the Part Time Pay Rate Schedule for Fiscal Year 2026-27, Resolution 2026-22

The Human Resources Director is recommending that the City Council approve the Part-Time Pay Rate Schedule for the upcoming fiscal year. This includes a one-time retention stipend for regular part-time employees. The fiscal impacts of this schedule were included in the budget for the upcoming year. The Council is being asked to adopt Resolution 2026-22 to approve this schedule.

— LoCOBot

… or, as a high-energy radio advertisement!

Are you looking for a high-energy part-time job with great pay and benefits? Look no further than the City of Fortuna! We are excited to announce our Fiscal Year 2026-27 Part-Time Pay Rate Schedule, with amazing opportunities for regular part-time employees.

But that’s not all - we’re offering a one-time $3,000 retention stipend for our regular part-time employees! This stipend will be paid in two equal lump sum installment payments of $1,500 each. To qualify, you must be currently employed by the City and scheduled for active shifts or on paid leave.

Don’t miss out on this fantastic opportunity to join our team and earn great pay while enjoying a flexible part-time schedule. Take action now and vote to adopt Resolution 2026-22 at the City Council meeting. It’s a consent agenda item, so let’s make it happen!

Join us at the City of Fortuna for a rewarding part-time job with competitive pay and benefits. Vote to adopt Resolution 2026-22 and seize this amazing opportunity. Don’t wait, act now and make a positive change in your career. Thank you for your support!

— LoCOBot

DOCUMENTS:

Staff ReportResolution 2026-22PT Rate Schedule


f. Approve Side Letters for the Fortuna Police Employees Association, Fortuna Employees Association and Resolution 2026-23 for the Unrepresented Employees for Limited Duration Medical Premium Offset

The City of Fortuna is making changes to their medical plan options for employees, resulting in increased premiums for both employees and the City. The City is providing a temporary premium offset to help mitigate the financial impact on employees for six months. The Council is being asked to approve side letters to the Memoranda of Understanding between the City and employee associations, as well as a resolution for the unrepresented group. These changes are being made to address rising healthcare costs and maintain competitive benefits for employees. It is important for the Council to approve these changes to avoid financial strain on employees and potential turnover.

— LoCOBot

… or, as a Twitter thread!

🚨 Important update: City of Fortuna staff are recommending the approval of side letters to Memoranda of Understanding between the city and employee associations, as well as Resolution 2026-23 for the Unrepresented Group for FY 2025-2027. This includes a temporary premium offset for eligible employees from July 1, 2026 to December 31, 2026.

🏥 The city will be transitioning to updated medical plan options to provide greater long-term stability while maintaining comprehensive coverage. This will result in increased premiums for both employees and the city, reflecting rising healthcare costs and demand for care related to chronic conditions and specialty medications.

💼 Staff met with Council to discuss these increases and potential options to mitigate financial impacts on employees. The recommended actions aim to support employees during this transition period without compromising the city’s financial stability or competitiveness in the labor market.

💰 The total cost to the city for the temporary offset is $32,000, with breakdowns of the city and employee portions included in the proposal. These measures, if approved, will be included in the upcoming FY 26-27 budget to be adopted on June 15, 2026.

🛡️ It’s crucial for the City Council to consider the long-term impact on labor relations, morale, and workforce instability before making a decision on these measures. The approval of side letters and Resolution 2026-23 is vital to ensuring the continued well-being of city employees during this transition.

🔒 Stay tuned for updates on the outcome of the Council’s vote on these important measures to support City of Fortuna employees. Your support and understanding during this period of change are greatly appreciated. #CityOfFortuna #EmployeeWellBeing #CouncilDecision.

— LoCOBot

DOCUMENTS:

Staff ReportDraft FPEA Side LetterDraft FEA Side LetterResolution 2026-23


g. Acceptance of $10,000 Grant Award from Humboldt Area Foundation and Approval of Supplemental Budget

The City of Fortuna has been awarded a $10,000 grant from the Humboldt Area Foundation to support their community engagement efforts. The grant will be used to reimburse Jen Rice Consults for additional services related to the Strategic Plan and General Plan Guiding Principles. The grant does not require matching funds or formal reporting. It is recommended that the City Council accept the grant and approve the supplemental budget.

— LoCOBot

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

My Dearest Jane,

I hope this letter finds you well and safe. I am writing to you from the trenches, where we are under heavy fire from German artillery. The situation here is dire, but I find solace in thoughts of you and our love.

I wanted to share some news from back home with you. The City of Fortuna has been awarded a $10,000 grant from the Humboldt Area Foundation to support our Listening Campaign and Future Fortuna Workshops. This grant will allow us to continue our inclusive engagement process and ensure broad community participation.

I am proud of the work we are doing here, even in the face of danger. I know that with your love and support, we will make it through these trying times.

Please know that you are always in my thoughts and prayers. I cannot wait for the day when I can hold you in my arms again.

With all my love,
Charles

— LoCOBot

DOCUMENTS:

Staff ReportAttachment


h. Review and Approve Mayor’s Recommendation of Appointee to the Planning Commission

The city council needs to approve the appointment of Ryan Jones to the Planning Commission as an alternate member. The term is for two years, and the council is recommended to approve the Mayor’s recommendation for this appointment.

— LoCOBot

… or, as a bildungsroman!

Growing up in a bustling city, Ryan Jones always had an interest in city planning and development. From a young age, he would notice the changes happening in his community, from new buildings popping up to renovations of old landmarks. As he got older, Ryan knew he wanted to be a part of shaping the future of his city, so he decided to pursue a career in urban planning.

After completing his education and gaining experience in the field, Ryan felt ready to take on a more active role in city planning. When he saw that there was an opening for an Alternate seat on the Planning Commission, he knew he had to apply. Ryan spent hours perfecting his application, outlining his experience and passion for creating thriving, sustainable communities.

When the day finally came for the City Council to review the applications, Ryan nervously awaited their decision. As the Council members discussed the candidates, Ryan’s heart raced with anticipation. Finally, the Mayor announced that Ryan had been chosen for the Alternate seat on the Planning Commission.

Overwhelmed with joy and excitement, Ryan knew that this was the first step towards making a real difference in his city. He quickly got to work, attending meetings, collaborating with fellow Commissioners, and learning the ins and outs of city planning regulations. With each passing day, Ryan felt more confident in his abilities and more determined to leave a lasting impact on the community he loved.

As Ryan dove deeper into his new role, he faced challenges and obstacles along the way. There were disagreements with fellow Commissioners, heated debates over development projects, and long hours spent poring over zoning laws and regulations. But through it all, Ryan remained steadfast in his commitment to creating a city that was vibrant, inclusive, and sustainable for all residents.

As his term on the Planning Commission progressed, Ryan’s skills and expertise grew, and he became a trusted voice in the city planning community. His innovative ideas and thoughtful approach to urban development earned him respect and admiration from his peers and city officials alike. By the time his term came to an end in December 2028, Ryan had made a lasting impact on the city, with new parks, affordable housing initiatives, and sustainable transportation projects to his name.

Looking back on his time on the Planning Commission, Ryan felt a sense of fulfillment and pride in all that he had accomplished. He knew that this experience had shaped him into the planner and leader he had always dreamed of becoming. As he reflected on his journey, Ryan knew that this was only the beginning of his career in city planning, and that the best was yet to come.

— LoCOBot

DOCUMENTS:

Staff ReportAttachment


i. Amendment to the Existing Solid Waste Franchise Agreement between Recology and the City of Fortuna

The City of Fortuna is recommending extending their agreement with Recology for waste collection services to comply with new state mandates. This agreement includes improvements such as universal organics collection, color-compliant containers, monitoring, and reporting. The city council is being asked to authorize the City Manager to execute this extension until a new agreement is in place.

— LoCOBot

… or, as smack talk from a professional wrestler!

Listen up, Mayor and Council Members! Amy Nilsen, the City Manager, wants to extend the Solid Waste Franchise Agreement between Recology and the City of Fortuna. This agreement is outdated, just like all of you! We need to comply with new state mandates, like SB 1383, and make improvements to our waste collection services. But you’re all dragging your feet, just like you always do! We need to get this done, so let’s authorize the extension and finally get on track. Stop wasting time, and let’s get this show on the road!

— LoCOBot

DOCUMENTS:

Staff ReportAttachment


4. DISCUSSION

a. Community-Generated Economic Development Initiative

The City of Fortuna has been working on plans for future development. Members of the community have created reports with recommendations on how to improve the local economy. The reports suggest focusing on creating a clear economic vision, utilizing natural and cultural assets, attracting new industries, improving housing availability, revitalizing downtown, and supporting workforce development. The community also proposed forming working groups to address these priorities. The City Council is being asked to support and endorse this community-led initiative. It will not require immediate funding, but may have future financial implications.

— LoCOBot

… or, as a sea shanty!

(Chorus)
Oh, the city of Fortuna, so full of pride,
Working together, side by side.
With a vision for the future, we will thrive,
In our community, we will revive.

(Verse)
In June of twenty-six, the council did meet,
To discuss economic growth on our streets.
Amy Nilsen, our city manager, did say,
The community’s voice will lead the way.

(Chorus)
Oh, the city of Fortuna, so full of pride,
Working together, side by side.
With a vision for the future, we will thrive,
In our community, we will revive.

(Verse)
The survey was conducted with care,
Business owners and managers shared.
Their thoughts on the future of our town,
Seeking solutions to help it renown.

(Chorus)
Oh, the city of Fortuna, so full of pride,
Working together, side by side.
With a vision for the future, we will thrive,
In our community, we will revive.

(Verse)
Key priorities were identified,
From downtown revitalization to workforce supply.
A community-working group was proposed,
To tackle these challenges, we’re all exposed.

(Chorus)
Oh, the city of Fortuna, so full of pride,
Working together, side by side.
With a vision for the future, we will thrive,
In our community, we will revive.

(Verse)
So let’s raise our sails and set forth,
With unity and determination, we’re worth.
Building a future for Fortuna strong,
Together, we’ll sing this sea shanty song.

(Chorus)
Oh, the city of Fortuna, so full of pride,
Working together, side by side.
With a vision for the future, we will thrive,
In our community, we will revive.

— LoCOBot

DOCUMENTS:

Staff ReportAttachment AAttachment BAttachment C


5. CITY COUNCIL BUSINESS

a. Approve a Hiring Freeze Exception for Full-Time Deputy City Engineer Position

The Public Works Department is asking the Mayor and Council Members to approve an exception to the current hiring freeze to allow for the recruitment and appointment of a Full-Time Deputy City Engineer. This position is necessary for project management and reporting within the Public Works Department. Approval of this exemption would allow the City to maintain continuity in its projects without creating a new position or increasing staffing levels. The funding for this position is already accounted for in the budget. It is recommended to approve this exception to avoid disruptions to ongoing projects and engineering matters.

— LoCOBot

… or, as a Dungeons & Dragons campaign!

“Dungeons & Dragons: The Quest for the Deputy City Engineer”

In the city of Evercrest, the Public Works Department is in need of a new Deputy City Engineer. The previous Deputy City Engineer has mysteriously disappeared, leaving a gap in the management and oversight of crucial projects throughout the city. The Mayor and Council Members have approved an exception to the hiring freeze in order to fill this important position.

Adventurers in the city hear of this opportunity and are drawn to the challenge of finding the missing Deputy City Engineer and completing the tasks that were left unfinished. The party must navigate through the city, facing various obstacles and dangers as they search for clues about the disappearance.

As they uncover more information, they discover that a powerful sorcerer has kidnapped the Deputy City Engineer in an attempt to disrupt the city’s infrastructure and bring chaos to Evercrest. The party must utilize their skills and teamwork to defeat the sorcerer and rescue the Deputy City Engineer before it’s too late.

Along the way, the party encounters rogue engineers, mischievous goblins causing mischief in construction sites, and even a dragon threatening to destroy a crucial bridge. With each challenge they overcome, the party gains valuable experience and knowledge that will help them in their final showdown with the sorcerer.

Will the adventurers be able to save the city of Evercrest, find the missing Deputy City Engineer, and secure the position for themselves? Only time will tell in this thrilling Dungeons & Dragons campaign: “The Quest for the Deputy City Engineer.”

— LoCOBot

DOCUMENTS:

Staff Report


b. Authorize the City Manager to Award the Annual Water Valve Replacement Project (CIP 9990) to Wendt Construction and Establish a Maximum Contract Amount of $297,000 and Approve Supplemental Budget Request for $202,399

The City is proposing to award a contract to Wendt Construction for the Annual Water Valve Replacement Project. This project aims to replace old and faulty valves in the City’s water distribution network to improve efficiency and minimize disruptions. The total cost for the project is $297,000, with funding coming from City Water Capital Reserve Funds. The project is expected to begin in July 2026. The City Council is recommended to approve the contract and supplementary budget request.

— LoCOBot

… or, as a Robert Burns poem!

O, dear Honorable Mayor and Council Members,
I come to ye with urgent matters to discuss,
For the Annual Water Valve Replacement Project is at hand,
And we must act swiftly, without fuss.

From the Engineering Department, I bring news,
Of valves that fail and cause much woe,
For when repairs are needed, they do not shut tight,
And the water flow must be stopped, you know.

Wendt Construction has bid the lowest price,
To replace the valves that cause us grief,
With a maximum contract amount of $297,000,
To bring relief to our water system, our belief.

Let the City Manager award this project to Wendt,
And approve the supplementary budget request,
For $202,399 from the Water Capital Reserve Funds,
To ensure our water system is at its best.

So hear my plea, O Mayor and Council Members,
To act upon this recommendation with haste,
And let the water flow freely once more,
With valves that shut tight and do not waste.

— LoCOBot

DOCUMENTS:

Staff ReportSupplemental Budget RequestDraft Notice of Potential Award


c. Review and Approve the Fiscal Year 2026-2027 Five-Year Capital Improvement Program

The Public Works Director is recommending that the City Council review and approve the Five-Year Capital Improvement Program for the fiscal year 2026-2027. This program includes infrastructure improvement projects like roads, sidewalks, and sewer and water mains. The City Council appropriates funding for the first year of the program and approves the following years on a planning basis. The program aligns with the city’s long-term goals and will be funded as part of the overall budget for the fiscal year.

— LoCOBot

… or, as a Brazilian carnival song!

Vamos comemorar, é hora de celebrar
Aprovando o orçamento para o novo olhar
Fortuna crescerá com infraestrutura melhor
Ruas, parques, prédios, a cidade vai florescer

O Five-Year Capital Improvement Program
É essencial para a nossa evolução
Aproveitemos essa oportunidade
Para uma cidade com mais qualidade

O Conselho Municipal vai decidir
O destino dos recursos para investir
Em projetos que vão transformar
A nossa cidade, o nosso lugar

Vamos aprovar, vamos celebrar
O futuro de Fortuna está a brilhar
Com infraestrutura de alto padrão
Vamos juntos nessa canção

Vale a pena investir no amanhã
Com sabedoria e responsabilidade
O Carnaval de Fortuna será uma festa
Com uma cidade mais bela e completa

Vamos comemorar, vamos festejar
Aprovando o orçamento e avançar
Para um futuro brilhante e sem igual
Fortuna, nossa terra, símbolo do carnaval!

— 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


Lately on LoCO

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