LoCOBot / @ 8:05 a.m. / Agendizer

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

1. CALL TO ORDER / FLAG SALUTE / ROLL CALL

2. PRESENTATIONS / PROCLAMATIONS

a. Domestic Violence Awareness Month Proclamation

DOCUMENTS:

Proclamation


3. ORAL COMMENTS FROM THE PUBLIC

4. CONSENT CALENDAR

a. City Council Minutes – September 21, 2026 (Regular Meeting)

b. Report of Disbursements

The city of Fortuna recently processed disbursements totaling $107,918.40 for various expenses such as water meters, legal services, and equipment fuel. The staff recommends receiving this report as an informational item only. The expenses were paid from different funds, including the General Fund, Water Fund, and Wastewater Fund. This report will be presented to the Mayor and City Council for their information and approval.

— LoCOBot

… or, as a romance story!

Title: Unforeseen Love in Fortuna

Chapter 1: The City Manager’s Report

Amy Nilsen, the hardworking and dedicated City Manager of Fortuna, sat at her desk pouring over the latest report of disbursements. Her mind was focused on the numbers, ensuring everything was in order for the City Council meeting that evening. As she reviewed each payment, her attention was drawn to a particular vendor - Aqua-Metrics Sales Co. The amount of $21,175.13 for water meters caught her eye, and she couldn’t help but wonder about the company behind the transaction.

Chapter 2: The Water Meter Connection

Unbeknownst to Amy, the owner of Aqua-Metrics Sales Co. was none other than Ryan Campbell, a charming and charismatic entrepreneur who had recently moved to Fortuna to expand his business. As fate would have it, Ryan happened to be in town for a meeting with the City Council to discuss future projects. When their eyes met across the crowded room, there was an instant spark of recognition between them.

Chapter 3: A Chance Encounter

After the City Council meeting concluded, Amy found herself lingering in the hallway, lost in thought about the mysterious vendor from the disbursements report. Just as she was about to leave, she bumped into Ryan outside the conference room. Their eyes locked once again, and this time, Ryan took the initiative to introduce himself.

Chapter 4: Building Trust and Understanding

As Ryan and Amy spent more time together, they discovered a shared passion for community development and sustainable water management. Ryan was impressed by Amy’s dedication to her work, while Amy admired Ryan’s innovative approach to business. Together, they brainstormed ideas for future projects that would benefit the city of Fortuna and its residents.

Chapter 5: Embracing Love in Fortuna

As their friendship blossomed into something deeper, Ryan and Amy found themselves falling in love in the picturesque town of Fortuna. Their relationship faced challenges along the way, from navigating the complexities of city politics to balancing their professional obligations with their personal feelings. But through it all, their love only grew stronger, united by a shared vision for a better future for Fortuna.

Epilogue:

In the end, Ryan and Amy’s love story became a source of inspiration for the entire city of Fortuna. Their unwavering commitment to each other and to their community set an example for others to follow, proving that sometimes, the most unexpected connections can lead to the greatest joys in life. And as they stood hand in hand, overlooking the city they both loved, Ryan and Amy knew that their love story was just beginning in Fortuna.

— LoCOBot

DOCUMENTS:

Staff Report


c. Adoption of City of Fortuna Purpose Statement

The City of Fortuna is proposing a Purpose Statement that outlines their goals to provide public services, maintain infrastructure, support economic opportunities, and strengthen community character. This statement will guide decision-making and be incorporated into various city operations. The statement reflects the city’s core values and aligns with their Strategic Plan for future development. There is no immediate cost associated with this adoption. The City Council is recommended to approve the Purpose Statement to ensure the city’s future success.

— LoCOBot

… or, as a town crier's speech!

Hear ye, hear ye! Gather ‘round, noble citizens of Fortuna, for I come bearing news of great importance from the City Council. Today, we stand on the cusp of a new era as we consider the adoption of the City of Fortuna Purpose Statement.

As decreed by our esteemed City Manager, Amy Nilsen, the proposed Purpose Statement reads as follows: “Our purpose is to provide reliable public services, maintain resilient infrastructure, foster economic opportunity, and strengthen community character to ensure Fortuna remains a place where current and future generations can live, work, and prosper.”

This Purpose Statement serves as a guiding light for our beloved city, outlining the core values and goals that we, as citizens of Fortuna, hold dear. It reflects our commitment to excellence in all aspects of municipal governance, from providing dependable services to nurturing economic growth and enhancing our unique community character.

Fellow residents, this Purpose Statement is not just a mere collection of words, but a roadmap for the future of Fortuna. It is a testament to our unwavering dedication to building a stronger, more prosperous city for generations to come. By adopting this statement, we pledge to uphold the highest standards of service, integrity, and innovation in all that we do.

I urge you, honorable Mayor and Council Members, to heed the call of the people and embrace this Purpose Statement as a symbol of our shared commitment to the continued success and prosperity of Fortuna. Let us stand united in our pursuit of excellence and strive to make our city a beacon of hope and opportunity for all who call it home.

May this Purpose Statement serve as a beacon of light in the darkness, guiding our actions and decisions towards a brighter tomorrow. Let us move forward as one, with purpose and determination, to ensure that Fortuna remains a place where dreams can take root and flourish.

Thank you, noble citizens, for your attention and support. Together, we shall build a better future for Fortuna and all who inhabit it. May our city prosper and thrive for generations to come. Long live Fortuna!

— LoCOBot

DOCUMENTS:

Staff Report


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

The City of Fortuna is considering extending their agreement with Recology for solid waste, recycling, and yard waste services. They need more time to comply with new state mandates and have been working on a new agreement with improved standards and reporting. The City Council is recommended to authorize the City Manager to extend the agreement until June 30, 2027. This supports the City’s strategic plan for quality of life, community connection, fiscal foundation, and economic development.

— LoCOBot

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

(Music intro)

Merv “The Beast” Tarkington: Welcome back to the hottest show on the right, folks! I’m Merv “The Beast” Tarkington, and today we’re diving into the nitty-gritty of city politics. That’s right, we’re talking about the City of Fortuna and their so-called “solid waste franchise agreement.”

Now, let me break it down for you. The City of Fortuna is looking to extend their agreement with Recology for the collection of solid waste, recycling, and yard waste services. Sounds innocent enough, right? Wrong! This agreement is riddled with shady dealings and underhanded tactics.

First off, this agreement is a prime example of government overreach. The City is trying to force residents and businesses to comply with new state mandates, like Senate Bill 1383. They want to provide universal organics collection for all residents and businesses, provide color-compliant containers, and complete mandatory outreach/education programs. Where does it end, folks? When will the government stop meddling in our daily lives?

And let’s not forget about the cost. The City is working on a cost proposal and rate model with Recology, but who’s going to foot the bill? That’s right, it’s going to be us hardworking taxpayers. We’re going to be hit with increased fees and taxes to pay for these so-called “improvements.”

But it doesn’t stop there, folks. This agreement is just the tip of the iceberg. The City is working with other jurisdictions to provide what they call “cost-effective recycling, organics, and garbage programs.” But what they’re really doing is increasing government control and regulation over our lives.

So, what can we do about it, folks? We can stand up and fight back against this government overreach. We can demand transparency and accountability from our elected officials. We can say no to these backroom deals and underhanded tactics.

So, the next time you hear about a “consent agenda item” like this one, remember to question the motives behind it. Stand up for your rights as an American citizen and don’t let the government trample on your freedoms.

That’s all the time we have for today, folks. Remember, stay informed, stay vigilant, and stay tuned for the next episode of Merv “The Beast” Tarkington. Until next time, stay strong and stay free. (Music outro)

— LoCOBot

DOCUMENTS:

Staff Report • Attachment


e. Informational Update on GHD Professional Services Agreement for Lower Eel River Wetlands Acquisition Due Diligence

The City Manager recommends that the City Council receive an update on the professional services agreement with GHD for pre-acquisition environmental due diligence services for the Lower Eel River Wetlands Acquisition. The City is pursuing the acquisition of land to protect wetlands and uplands, and GHD will prepare necessary environmental reports. The cost of the agreement is $21,172 and will be reimbursed by the State Coastal Conservancy. This update aligns with the city’s strategic plan for parks, trails, and outdoors. No action is required from the City Council at this time.

— LoCOBot

… or, as a Twitter thread!

🌊🌿Exciting news for Fortuna! The City is pursuing the acquisition of 244 acres along the Lower Eel River to protect coastal wetlands and uplands. #environmentalconservation

🌎As part of the due diligence process, the City Manager has executed a professional services agreement with GHD for environmental assessments. This is a crucial step in evaluating the proposed acquisition. #sustainability

💰The agreement with GHD has a total not-to-exceed amount of $21,172, which will initially be paid from the park acquisition budget. These funds are expected to be reimbursed by the State Coastal Conservancy. #fiscalresponsibility

🌳This initiative aligns with Fortuna’s core values of Quality of Life and Strategic Plan Priority 6 - Parks, Trails & Outdoors. The development of Lower Eel River Park with river access is a long-term goal for the community. #communityengagement

👏Let’s celebrate this progress towards protecting our natural resources and enhancing our community’s character. Stay informed and support the City’s efforts to preserve the beauty of the Lower Eel River Wetlands! #conservation #communitypride

📝For more details, you can review the full staff report on the City’s website. Let’s continue working together to make Fortuna a sustainable and vibrant place for generations to come. #Fortuna #sustainablefuture #environmentalstewardship

— LoCOBot

DOCUMENTS:

Staff Report • Attachment


5. CITY COUNCIL BUSINESS

a. Community Development Block Grant Program Income Application

The city is applying for a grant from the Community Development Block Grant Program to fund a Business Assistance Loan Program and Downtown Façade Improvement Grant Program. The funds would support small businesses and improve downtown properties. The city has $1,005,000 in Program Income from previous loans, and they want to allocate $900,000 for loans and $100,000 for grants. The proposed programs aim to create a more vibrant downtown area and support economic growth. The City Council is being asked to approve the grant application.

— LoCOBot

… or, as Schoolhouse Rock!

(Verse 1)
Hey there Mayor and City Council too
We’ve got a plan that we want to share with you
It’s all about the Community Development Block Grant
To help our town grow, that’s the slant

(Chorus)
We’re seeking funds for our Business Assistance Loan
To help businesses expand and really hone
Their skills, their products, their services too
To create jobs and help our economy bloom

(Verse 2)
Downtown Façade Improvement Grant we need
To make our downtown a lively scene
Storefront renos, signs, and lights so bright
To attract more visitors, day and night

(Chorus)
We’re seeking funds for our Business Assistance Loan
To help businesses expand and really hone
Their skills, their products, their services too
To create jobs and help our economy bloom

(Bridge)
We’ve held workshops, received input from all
The community’s excited, they’re standing tall
Ready to see our town grow and thrive
With these programs, we’ll really come alive

(Chorus)
We’re seeking funds for our Business Assistance Loan
To help businesses expand and really hone
Their skills, their products, their services too
To create jobs and help our economy bloom

(Outro)
So let’s adopt this resolution and submit our application
To the California Department for their consideration
Let’s make our town a better place to be
With the help of the CDBG PI program, you’ll see!

— LoCOBot

DOCUMENTS:

Staff Report • Resolution 2026-34 • Attachment


b. Public Hearing: Unmet Transit Needs

The Parks & Recreation Director recommends holding a public hearing with the Humboldt County Association of Governments to discuss unmet transit needs. The assessment process involves evaluating transportation services and potential funding for improvements. The City of Fortuna’s transit service is working to expand and serve the general public. The recommended action has no immediate financial impact and not holding the public hearing may limit the city’s ability to address transit needs. The City Council should follow the recommended actions to hold the public hearing and gather public input.

— LoCOBot

… or, as a job interview!

Interviewer: Thank you for coming in today, can you please tell us about your experience working in the field of transportation and transit needs?

Candidate: Of course, I have worked for the past five years as a transit planner for a regional transportation agency, where I have been responsible for evaluating the adequacy of local transportation services and identifying unmet transit needs within our community. I have also worked closely with various stakeholders, including local agencies and community members, to address these needs and allocate funding towards improving public transportation options.

Interviewer: That’s great to hear. How do you believe your experience and skills can contribute to addressing the unmet transit needs within our city?

Candidate: I believe my experience in conducting thorough assessments of transit needs, working collaboratively with stakeholders, and developing sustainable solutions can be of great value in addressing the unmet transit needs within your city. I am also well-versed in grant writing and securing funding for transit projects, which can help in expanding and improving public transportation services for your residents.

Interviewer: That sounds very promising. Can you provide an example of a successful project or initiative that you have led in the past to address unmet transit needs?

Candidate: Certainly. In my previous role, I led a project to implement a new on-demand paratransit service for seniors and individuals with disabilities in our community, which greatly improved accessibility and mobility options for those in need. I worked closely with local transit agencies, non-profit organizations, and community members to ensure the success of this project and secure funding for its ongoing operations.

Interviewer: That’s impressive. Lastly, how do you prioritize community input and engagement when addressing transit needs, and how do you plan to involve residents in the decision-making process?

Candidate: Community input is essential in identifying and addressing unmet transit needs, as residents are the ones directly impacted by the lack of transportation options. I plan to conduct public hearings, forums, and surveys to gather feedback from residents, listen to their concerns and suggestions, and incorporate their input into the decision-making process. By engaging with the community, we can ensure that the solutions we implement are tailored to meet the specific needs of our residents.

Interviewer: Thank you for sharing your insights and experiences with us. We will be in touch with you regarding the outcome of the interview process.

— LoCOBot

DOCUMENTS:

Staff Report • Attachment


c. Hiring Freeze Exception for Full-Time Recreation Program Supervisor

The Parks & Recreation Department needs to fill a vacant position for a Full-Time Recreation Program Supervisor, but there is a hiring freeze in place. The Supervisor plays a crucial role in overseeing the day-to-day operations and coordination of various recreation programs. Leaving the position vacant would increase the workload for the Parks & Recreation Director and other staff, leading to potential issues with program quality and staffing coverage. It is recommended to approve an exception to the hiring freeze to recruit and appoint a new Supervisor. No additional funding is needed as the position is already budgeted for. Failure to fill the position could result in program delays or cancellations.

— LoCOBot

… or, as a Rodney Dangerfield joke!

I tell ya, I heard about this hiring freeze exception for a Full-Time Recreation Program Supervisor. They’re leaving the position vacant and expecting the Parks and Recreation Director to do all the work. It’s like they’re saying, “Hey, why hire someone when you can just overwork the one person you already have?”

— LoCOBot

DOCUMENTS:

Staff Report


d. Approval of River Lodge Facility Lease with the Fortuna Chamber of Commerce


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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