LoCOBot / @ 2:50 p.m. / Agendizer

Humboldt County Board of Supervisors
July 8, 2025, 9 a.m.

A. ROLL CALL

B. SALUTE TO THE FLAG

C. MODIFICATIONS TO THE AGENDA

D. CONSENT CALENDAR

1. Approval of Cooperative Agreement No. 25-0002-018-SF, Pest Detection Trapping Contract with the California Department of Food and Agriculture in the Amount of $21,689

The Agricultural Commissioner is recommending that the Board of Supervisors approve a contract with the California Department of Food and Agriculture for a Pest Detection Trapping Program. This program aims to identify harmful insect pests in Humboldt County that could damage trees, crops, and the environment. The contract is for $21,689 and will be in effect from July 1, 2025, to June 30, 2026. The funding will cover the costs of trapping surveys for pests like the Spongy Moth and Japanese Beetle. Approval of this contract is important to prevent potential damage to the county’s environment and agricultural products.

— LoCOBot

… or, as a Bruce Springsteen song!

(Verse 1)
In the County of Humboldt, in the year of ‘25
The Agricultural Commissioner stood tall, keeping pests alive
A cooperative agreement, for pest detection so clear
To protect our environment, for all the coming years

(Chorus)
Oh, we’re trapping for the Spongy Moth and the Japanese Beetle too
Fighting for our trees and plants, doing what we have to do
With $21,689, we’ll keep our county safe and sound
Trapping those pests all year round

(Verse 2)
The Spongy Moth from Europe, a threat to our trees
With caterpillars feasting, causing damage with ease
And the Japanese Beetle, spreading far and wide
Threatening our crops, leaving devastation in its stride

(Chorus)
Oh, we’re trapping for the Spongy Moth and the Japanese Beetle too
Fighting for our trees and plants, doing what we have to do
With $21,689, we’ll keep our county safe and sound
Trapping those pests all year round

(Bridge)
Waiving nuclear provisions, to get the job done
Protecting our agriculture, under the California sun
From budgeted expenses to projected costs ahead
We’ll keep our county safe, no need to dread

(Chorus)
Oh, we’re trapping for the Spongy Moth and the Japanese Beetle too
Fighting for our trees and plants, doing what we have to do
With $21,689, we’ll keep our county safe and sound
Trapping those pests all year round

(Outro)
So let’s all come together, for the County of Humboldt’s sake
Supporting our Agricultural Commissioner, for goodness’ sake
With this cooperative agreement, we’ll keep our county strong
Protecting our environment, where we all belong.

— LoCOBot

DOCUMENTS:

Staff ReportCooperative Agreement No. 25-002-018-SF.pdf


2. Approval of Cooperative Agreement No. 25-0186-000-SA, Organic Inspections Contract with the California Department of Food and Agriculture in the Amount of $6,010

The Agricultural Commissioner is recommending to the Board of Supervisors to approve a cooperative agreement with the California Department of Food and Agriculture for organic inspections. The agreement is for $6,010 for the period of July 1, 2025 to June 30, 2026. This agreement will help offset the local cost of enforcing state-mandated programs related to organic farming in Humboldt County. The county staff will conduct inspections at production sites and farmers’ markets to ensure compliance with organic requirements. The funding for this agreement comes from state and federal funds. It is important for the Board to approve this agreement so that the county can receive reimbursement for these activities.

— LoCOBot

… or, as a science-fiction story!

In the year 2025, the County of Humboldt was on the brink of a technological breakthrough unlike any other. While they were known for their lush green landscapes and organic farming practices, they were now on the cusp of something extraordinary - a partnership with the California Department of Food and Agriculture to enforce state-mandated programs for organic inspections.

As the Board of Supervisors gathered for their meeting on July 8th, 2025, the Agricultural Commissioner presented File #25-823, outlining the details of the cooperative agreement. The agreement, totaling $6,010, would allow Humboldt County to conduct spot inspections of organic producers to ensure compliance with state organic program requirements.

But little did they know, this partnership would lead to an unexpected and otherworldly discovery. As county staff began their inspections at various organic farms and farmers’ markets, they started noticing strange anomalies. Crops were growing at an accelerated rate, and produce was glowing with an otherworldly light.

As they delved deeper into their investigations, they uncovered the shocking truth - the organic produce in Humboldt County was extraterrestrial in nature. It was not of this world.

It turns out, the California Department of Food and Agriculture had unknowingly stumbled upon a alien technology that had been integrated into the organic farming practices of Humboldt County. The alien technology was responsible for the rapid growth and glowing properties of the produce.

As news of this discovery spread, the world was captivated by the story of Humboldt County’s extraordinary organic produce. Scientists, researchers, and government officials from around the globe descended upon the county to study this unique phenomenon.

In the end, Humboldt County became known not only for its organic farming practices but also as the epicenter of a groundbreaking scientific discovery. The cooperative agreement with the California Department of Food and Agriculture had inadvertently led them to the forefront of interstellar technology.

And so, as the Board of Supervisors approved the agreement and authorized the Chair to sign the documents, they unknowingly set in motion a chain of events that would forever change the course of human history. The organic inspections contract was just the beginning of Humboldt County’s journey into the unknown realms of science and exploration.

— LoCOBot

DOCUMENTS:

Staff ReportCooperative Agreement No. 25-0186-000-SA.pdf


3. Notice of an Unscheduled At-Large Vacancy on the Humboldt County Assessment Appeals Board

The Humboldt County Assessment Appeals Board has an unscheduled vacancy due to a member being removed. The Board of Supervisors is recommended to receive and file the report, and applications for the vacancy are available for those interested. There is no financial impact to posting the vacancy, and appointments will be considered at a later meeting. Members appointed to the board must comply with certain requirements.

— LoCOBot

… or, as a bildungsroman!

Title: Finding Her Voice in Humboldt County

In the quiet, picturesque County of Humboldt, a young woman named Emily had always felt like she was meant for something more. Growing up in the small town surrounded by towering redwoods and serene beaches, she often found herself daydreaming about the world beyond her quiet community.

As she reached her early twenties, Emily’s desire for adventure and new experiences only grew stronger. She longed to explore the world, to make a difference, to find her own voice in a society that often overlooked young women like herself. And so, when the announcement of an unscheduled at-large vacancy on the Humboldt County Assessment Appeals Board came about, Emily saw it as her opportunity to step out of her comfort zone and into a new chapter of her life.

Without hesitation, Emily applied for the position, feeling a surge of excitement at the thought of being involved in local government and making a meaningful impact on her community. To her surprise, she was selected as one of the candidates to be interviewed for the position.

As the interview date approached, Emily felt a mixture of nerves and determination. She had always been a shy and reserved person, but she knew that this was her chance to prove to herself and to others that she was capable of more than they might have realized. With each question asked by the Board of Supervisors, Emily spoke confidently and passionately about her beliefs and her vision for the future of Humboldt County.

To her delight, Emily was ultimately chosen to fill the vacancy on the Assessment Appeals Board. Overwhelmed with gratitude and a newfound sense of purpose, she eagerly dove into her new role, attending meetings, learning about the intricacies of local government, and working with her fellow board members to address the needs of their community.

Through her experiences on the board, Emily began to find her voice in ways she never thought possible. She spoke up about issues that were important to her, advocated for marginalized voices in the community, and made meaningful connections with her fellow board members and constituents.

As she continued to grow and evolve in her role, Emily realized that she had found her calling in public service. Humboldt County had given her the opportunity to discover her strengths, her passions, and her ability to make a difference. And in return, she had found a sense of belonging and purpose that she had been searching for all along.

— LoCOBot

DOCUMENTS:

Staff ReportNotice of Vacancy


4. Authorize the Clerk/Recorder/Registrar of Voters to Execute Necessary Documents to Accept Help America Vote Act (HAVA) Grant Awards

The County of Humboldt is requesting permission to accept a grant from the Help America Vote Act to improve elections. The grant is up to $150,000 and will be used for things like voting equipment, voter education, and training for election workers. The grant will not impact the general fund, and the money will be reimbursed by the state. The Clerk/Recorder/Registrar of Voters is requesting approval to accept the grant.

— LoCOBot

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

My Dearest Jane,

I hope this letter finds you well. I am writing to you from the trenches, under heavy fire from German artillery. The thunderous booms and screams of my fellow soldiers fill the air as we fight for our lives on the battlefield.

I long for the peaceful days we spent together, walking hand in hand through the meadows of our beloved County of Humboldt. The memories of your sweet smile and gentle touch give me strength in this dark hour.

I must confess, my love, that the horrors of war weigh heavy on my soul. The thought of never seeing you again fills me with fear and sadness. But I draw courage from the thought of holding you in my arms once more, safe and sound.

Please know, my dear Jane, that you are always in my heart, even in the midst of chaos and danger. Your love sustains me through the darkest of nights and the fiercest of battles. I will fight on, with thoughts of you as my guiding light.

Yours forever,

Charles

— LoCOBot

DOCUMENTS:

Staff Report


5. Renewal of the Professional Services Agreement with Humboldt Area Foundation Regarding the Provision of Training, Consultation and Support Services that are Designed to Assist with the Development and Implementation of an Institutional Process for Advancing Racial Equity in an Amount of $155,078

The County of Humboldt is renewing an agreement with the Humboldt Area Foundation to provide training and support services for advancing racial equity within the Department of Health and Human Services. The agreement is for a total of $155,078 for the period of July 1, 2025, through June 30, 2026. The services provided will help the department meet various mandates and standards related to racial equity, diversity, and inclusion. The Board of Supervisors is recommended to approve the agreement to support the department’s efforts in becoming an anti-racist organization and maintaining a healthy workforce.

— LoCOBot

… or, as a Rodney Dangerfield joke!

“I tell ya, I just read a proposal from the County of Humboldt about advancing racial equity with a budget of $155,078. That’s great and all, but I still can’t get any respect from my own family!”

— LoCOBot

DOCUMENTS:

Staff ReportRenewal of the Professional Services Agreement with Humboldt Area Foundation Regarding the Provision of Training, Consultation and Support Services that are Designed to Assist with the Development and


6. Legal Services Agreement with Liebert Cassidy Whitmore Regarding the Provision of Professional Legal Services Related to Representation of the County of Humboldt in Labor Negotiations, Administrative Proceedings and other Employment-Related Matters in an Amount Not to Exceed $225,000 for the Period of July 1, 2025 through June 30, 2026

The County of Humboldt is proposing to enter into a legal services agreement with a law firm, Liebert Cassidy Whitmore, to represent them in labor negotiations, administrative proceedings, and other employment-related matters for a one-year period. The agreement would not exceed $225,000 and the Board of Supervisors is being asked to approve it. The agreement includes provisions for ongoing staff training and development on employment law issues. Funding for the agreement comes from non-General Fund Departments Revenue & Contributions and General Fund County Department Charges. Approval of the agreement will not impact current staffing levels. The Board has the option to not approve the agreement, but it is recommended as Liebert Cassidy Whitmore is already assisting the County in various matters.

— LoCOBot

… or, as an episode of Seinfeld!

Title: The Legal Conundrum

[Jerry, George, Elaine, and Kramer are sitting in Monk’s Café, discussing their latest woes]

Jerry: So get this, I received a letter from the County of Humboldt asking for approval for a legal services agreement.

George: Legal services agreement? What did you do this time, Jerry?

Jerry: Nothing! It’s not for me, it’s for the county. Apparently, they need representation in labor negotiations and other employment-related matters.

Elaine: That sounds like a hassle. Dealing with lawyers is never fun.

Kramer: Oh, I know all about lawyers. I once represented myself in court.

Jerry: I’m sure that went well.

Kramer: Oh, it was a disaster. But that’s beside the point. What are you going to do about this legal services agreement, Jerry?

Jerry: Well, I don’t have to do anything. But it got me thinking, what if we had our own lawyer? Someone to handle all our legal issues.

George: That’s not a bad idea. We seem to find ourselves in legal trouble quite often.

Jerry: Exactly. Maybe we can hire someone to be our personal attorney.

Elaine: I like the sound of that. It would be nice to have someone to call whenever we need legal advice.

[Kramer gets an idea]

Kramer: Hey, I have a friend who’s a lawyer. He could be our personal attorney!

Jerry: Really? What’s his name?

Kramer: Bob Sacamano. He’s the best in the business.

George: Bob Sacamano? I’ve heard of him. He’s a little eccentric, isn’t he?

Kramer: Oh, he’s a character, that’s for sure. But he knows his stuff. I’ll give him a call and see if he’s interested in representing us.

[Later that week, Bob Sacamano meets with Jerry, George, Elaine, and Kramer at Monk’s Café]

Bob Sacamano: So you guys want me to be your personal attorney, huh? I like the sound of that.

Jerry: We just want someone we can trust to handle our legal issues.

Bob Sacamano: Well, you’ve come to the right place. I’ll make sure you stay out of trouble, legally speaking.

Elaine: That’s a relief. We seem to always find ourselves in sticky situations.

Bob Sacamano: Not to worry, I’ve seen it all. Just leave it to me. I’ll take care of everything.

[The group raises their glasses to their new personal attorney, Bob Sacamano, as they toast to a trouble-free future]

— LoCOBot

DOCUMENTS:

Staff ReportRevised FY 25-26 LCW Legal Services Agreement_rm.pdf


7. Supplemental Budget in the Amount of $14,000 for Administration of the Calhome Program for Fiscal Year 2024-25 (4/5 Vote Required)

The Planning and Building Department is asking the Board of Supervisors to approve a supplemental budget of $14,000 for the CalHome Program. This funding is needed to cover expenses related to owner-occupied rehabilitation and accessory dwelling unit loan programs. The money will come from the CalHome Program Income fund, and the department has already spent more than anticipated on office supplies. It is recommended that the Board approve the supplemental budget to avoid going over budget.

— LoCOBot

… or, as an Elizabethan sonnet!

Upon the County of Humboldt’s grand stage,
Where wisdom dwells in Board of Supervisors,
A tale unfolds of budget in a cage,
For CalHome Program Income’s rise incurs.

A supplemental budget, now in sight,
For administration of grant’s domain,
To aid in housing dreams, a noble fight,
And prioritize development’s gain.

Misunderstandings led to this request,
To reallocate funds, correct the flow,
Salaries for administration’s best,
In program income, now they need to grow.

So let us approve this budget’s flight,
And support housing for all in its light.

— LoCOBot

DOCUMENTS:

Staff ReportCal Home Supplemental Budget


8. Saterlee General Plan Amendment Petition on Four Parcels (APN 214-116-004, 214-221-001, 216-301-005, and 216-301-006) to Change the Land Use Designation on Four Parcels from Residential Agriculture (RA) and Commercial Recreation (CR) to Timberlands (T) and Agriculture Grazing (AG)

The Board of Supervisors is considering a petition to change the land use designation on four parcels in Humboldt County to Timberlands and Agriculture Grazing. The purpose is to preserve the land for timber production and open space. The petition is consistent with the General Plan’s criteria for amendments. The recommendation is to accept the petition and adopt a resolution. There will be no financial impact on the General Fund as the applicant will cover the costs. Other agencies will be involved in the process. The Board could reject the petition, but staff believes the necessary findings can be made.

— LoCOBot

… or, as a Robert Burns poem!

My laddies o’ Humboldt County fair,
Gather roond and hear my prayer,
For on this day o’ 7/8/2025,
A matter o’ great importance looms alive.

A petition for land use change,
On four parcels, ain’t it strange?
From RA and CR to T and AG,
Shall we accept or shall we sway?

To the Board of Supervisors, I say,
Consider carefully this day,
For the landowner seeks TPZ benefit,
To maintain timberland, a fine asset.

In the Fort Seward Ranch, it shall be,
Adding parcels for all to see,
Preserve the ecosystem, protect the land,
With thoughtful planning, we take a stand.

The petition meets the required criteria,
With community values as its criteria,
For public benefit and Guiding Principles too,
In the public interest, let us review.

So let us accept the petition fair,
And approve the resolution with care,
For Humboldt County’s future at stake,
Let us make the right decision to take.

In the spirit of Burns, let us be wise,
And with courage, let us rise,
To protect the land and its grace,
For the future of this special place.

— LoCOBot

DOCUMENTS:

Staff ReportAttachment 1 - DRAFT ResolutionAttachment 2 - Applicant Petition SubmittalAttachment 3 - Location Map


9. Adoption of an Ordinance Amending Title III, Division 5, Chapter 2 of Humboldt County Code section 352; amending Subsections 352-2(2) to acknowledge judicial review as part of the process, 352-3 modifications to the following definitions: Administrative Civil Penalty, Code Enforcement Investigator, Completion Date, Costs, Imposition Date, Responsible Party, Violation, 352-4 to process methods of providing notice, 352-5(a) to address accrual of fines, 352-5(b) to provide time for a responsible pa

The Planning and Building Department of Humboldt County is proposing changes to the county code related to administrative civil penalties. These changes aim to clarify existing processes and set boundaries on penalty assessments for properties violating the county code. The recommendation is for the Board of Supervisors to adopt these changes. The changes include defining administrative costs, clarifying the imposition of penalties, and allowing additional time for violation correction. The goal is to promote compliance with the code, not penalties. There is no ongoing financial impact from these changes. County Counsel is involved, and the Board has the option to not adopt or modify the proposed changes.

— LoCOBot

… or, as Star Trek fan fiction!

Stardate 47522.3: The USS Enterprise, under the command of Captain Jean-Luc Picard, received a distress call from the County of Humboldt on Earth. The communication was filled with technical jargon and legal terms that were difficult for the crew to decipher, but they knew they had to respond to help.

As the Enterprise arrived in orbit around Earth, they were greeted by a team from the Planning and Building Department of Humboldt County who beamed aboard the ship. The team included Chief Inspector Reynolds and Code Enforcement Investigator Martinez, who explained the situation to Captain Picard and his crew.

It seemed that Humboldt County was facing a crisis of property violations and administrative civil penalties were being imposed on properties that were not in compliance with the county code. The team from Humboldt County was seeking the help of the Enterprise to assist them in resolving these issues and ensuring that the penalties were being assigned fairly and justly.

Captain Picard immediately went to work with his crew to analyze the data provided by the Humboldt County team. Lieutenant Commander Data used his advanced analytical abilities to break down the complex legal language into simple terms that the crew could understand.

After thorough analysis, it became clear that there were discrepancies in the enforcement of the county code and that some properties were being unfairly targeted for penalties. Captain Picard made the decision to work with Chief Inspector Reynolds and Code Enforcement Investigator Martinez to create a fair and just system for determining penalties based on the intent of the ordinances.

With the help of the Enterprise’s advanced technology and legal expertise, the team was able to draft new guidelines for assessing administrative civil penalties that would ensure compliance with the county code while also protecting the rights of property owners.

The modified ordinance was presented to the Board of Supervisors of Humboldt County, who unanimously approved the changes. The team from the Enterprise bid farewell to their new allies on Earth, knowing that they had made a positive impact on the community and helped to create a more just and equitable system for all.

As the USS Enterprise warped away from Earth, Captain Picard reflected on the experience and the importance of upholding the law while also ensuring fairness and justice for all. The crew continued on their journey through the stars, knowing that they had made a difference in the county of Humboldt and beyond.

— LoCOBot

DOCUMENTS:

Staff ReportHCC 352 Amendments for Adoption


10. Animal Shelter Services Agreement with City of Blue Lake

The Humboldt County Sheriff’s Office is recommending that the Board of Supervisors approve an Animal Shelter Services Agreement with the City of Blue Lake. The agreement includes maintaining and operating an animal shelter for the city’s domestic animals. The cost of services will be paid by the City of Blue Lake. The agreement has been in place since 2004 with annual CPI increases. The Sheriff’s Office requests retroactive approval of the agreement to July 1, 2025. It is important for the Board to approve this agreement, as it ensures the city of Blue Lake will have access to animal shelter services.

— LoCOBot

… or, as a job interview!

The interviewee, Sarah, is sitting across the table from the panel of interviewers, including the Sheriff and the Chair of the Board. The Sheriff looks over her resume before starting the interview.

Sheriff: Thank you for coming in today, Sarah. Let’s dive into some questions about your experience. Can you tell us about a time when you had to negotiate a contract or agreement with another organization?

Sarah: Sure, I actually have experience negotiating contracts in my previous role at the animal shelter in Redwood City. I worked with our local government to adjust our agreements with neighboring cities to better reflect the cost of services and ensure fair compensation for our shelter.

Chair of the Board: That sounds great, Sarah. How do you handle situations where unexpected changes or challenges arise during a contract negotiation process?

Sarah: Flexibility and communication are key in those situations. I always make sure to keep all parties informed and work collaboratively to find solutions that benefit both sides. I am comfortable with renegotiating terms if necessary to ensure a fair and effective agreement for all involved.

Sheriff: That’s good to hear. Can you walk us through your approach to managing financial impacts in a service agreement like the one we are discussing today with the City of Blue Lake?

Sarah: Absolutely. I believe it is important to thoroughly analyze the existing financial data and projections, communicate openly with all stakeholders about potential impacts, and work to find the most cost-effective solutions that meet the needs of both parties. I would also ensure that all fees and funding sources are accurately documented and accounted for to maintain transparency and accountability.

Chair of the Board: Thank you, Sarah. One final question - how do you prioritize and manage multiple contracts or agreements simultaneously, especially in a high-pressure environment?

Sarah: Prioritizing tasks, setting clear timelines, and maintaining open lines of communication with all parties involved are crucial in managing multiple agreements effectively. I am confident in my ability to handle the workload and maintain a high level of professionalism and efficiency in a fast-paced environment.

Sheriff: Thank you for your thoughtful responses, Sarah. We will be in touch with you soon regarding the next steps in the hiring process. Thank you for your time today.

Sarah: Thank you for the opportunity to interview. I look forward to potentially working with the County of Humboldt on this important agreement.

— LoCOBot

DOCUMENTS:

Staff ReportCity of Blue Lake Animal Shelter Services Agreement_rm.pdf


E. ITEMS PULLED FROM CONSENT

F. PUBLIC COMMENT ON NON-AGENDA ITEMS

G. MATTERS SET FOR TIME CERTAIN (NONE SCHEDULED)

H. PUBLIC HEARINGS (NONE SCHEDULED)

I. DEPARTMENTAL REPORTS (NONE SCHEDULED)

J. MATTERS INITIATED BY BOARD (NONE SCHEDULED)

K. CLOSED SESSION

1. Conference with Labor Negotiator - Pursuant to Government Code Section 54957.6 it is the Intention of the Board of Supervisors to Meet in Closed Session to Review the County's Position and Instruct its Designated Labor Negotiator. Labor Negotiators: Elishia Hayes, Zachary O’Hanen, and Jack Hughes. Employee Organizations (Represented and Unrepresented): SEIU/In-Home Support Services, American Federation of State, County and Municipal Employees (AFSCME local 1684), Humboldt County Attorneys Associ


2. Conference with Legal Counsel – Pursuant to Government Code Section 54956.9(d)(1) to discuss existing litigation in the matter of the Potter Valley Hydroelectric Project, FERC Project No. 77-285


3. Conference with Legal Counsel – Pursuant to Government Code Section 54956.9(d)(1) to discuss existing litigation in the case of Christopher Mitchell v. County of Humboldt, Case No. 3:24-cv-03845-RFL



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