CITY OF CRESCENT CITY
MAYOR ISAIAH WRIGHT MAYOR PRO TEM CANDACE TINKLER
COUNCIL MEMBER RAY ALTMAN COUNCIL MEMBER JASON GREENOUGH
COUNCIL MEMBER STEVE SHAMBLIN
MINUTES
REGULAR MEETING OF THE
CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF CRESCENT CITY
FLYNN CENTER BOARD CHAMBERS
981 H STREET
CRESCENT CITY, CA 95531
MONDAY JULY 6, 2026 6:00 P.M.
CLOSED SESSION
Call to order Mayor Wright called closed session to order at 5:30 p.m.
Roll call Council Members present: Council Member Ray Altman, Council Member Jason Greenough, Mayor Pro Tem Candace Tinkler, and Mayor Isaiah Wright Council Member absent: Council Member Steve Shamblin
Staff members present: City Manager Eric Wier, City Attorney Martha Rice, and City Clerk/Administrative Analyst Robin Altman
• Conference with Legal Counsel - Existing Litigation (Gov. Code § 54956.9(d)(1)):
Alba Lopez v. Crescent City, et al (DNSC Case NO. CV261084) • Conference with Legal Counsel - Potential Litigation (Gov. Code § 54956.9(d)(2)):
Government Claim of Carson Taylor
There were no comments from the public on closed session items.
Closed session adjourned at 5:49 p.m.
OPEN SESSION
Call to order Mayor Wright called open session to order at 6:00 p.m.
Roll call Council Members present: Council Member Ray Altman, Council Member Jason Greenough, Mayor Pro Tem Candace Tinkler, and Mayor Isaiah Wright Council Member absent: Council Member Steve Shamblin
Staff members present: City Manager Eric Wier, City Attorney Martha Rice, City Clerk/Administrative Analyst Robin Altman, Finance Director Linda Leaver (via Zoom), Public Works Director Dave Yeager, Economic Development and Grants Manager Bridget Lacey (via Zoom), Recreation Director and Events Coordinator Kelly Feola, Contract Planner Ethan Lawton (via Zoom), Interim Fire Chief Bill Gillespie, Police Officer Mai Thao, Police Officer Chase Gardner, Police Sergeant Alex Pearson, Police Officer Colton Maxwell, Police Officer Conner Sperling, Police Officer Daniel Sanders, Police Officer Zackery Turkins, and Police Chief Richard Griffin
Pledge of Allegiance led by Mayor Wright
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REPORT OUT OF CLOSED SESSION
City Attorney Rice reported the following action was taken in closed session:
animously with uni Member enous ted layor City or ascent tic rejected the government claim of Carson Taylor.
CEREMONIAL ITEMS
• Oath of Office for Police Officer Mai Thao and Police Officer Chase Gardner Police Chief Griffin reported to the Council that Officer Thao was selected as the final class Sergeant at the Academy and Officer Gardner almost broke a record in the 180 body drag competition and did it in 3 minutes. He also earned the Service Above Self Award. He then administered the oath of office for Officer Thao and Officer Gardner. • Police Chief Commendation - Officer Colton Maxwell
Chief Griffin explained how Officer Maxwell recovered tens of thousands of dollars worth of bicycles that have been stolen around town and made several arrests. He has also visited the RV Park and given recommendations to visitors with bikes. He presented him with the Police Chief Commendation award. Officer Maxwell addressed the Council thanking them for the opportunity to serve the community.
REPORTS AND PRESENTATIONS
• Plaza Cleanup
Recreation Director and Events Coordinator Feola addressed the Council and went over the project that was taken on by the Youth Council to clean up the plaza. • 4th of July Update
City Manager Wier reported to the Council that this year's 4* of July celebration went very well with minimal incidents. Police Chief Griffin reported the calls for service that the police department had and Fire Chief Gillespie reported on the calls the fire department responded to for the evening.
PUBLIC COMMENT PERIOD
There were no comments from the public.
CONSENT CALENDAR
1. Warrant Claims List
• Recommendation: Receive and file the warrant claims list for the period May 30, 2026 through June 12, 2026
2. Council Minutes
Recommendation: Approve and adopt the June 15, 2026 minutes of the City Council of the City of Crescent City.
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3. Payroll Report
• Recommendation: Receive and file the biweekly payroll reports for the period ending June 13, 2026 paid June 19, 2026.
4. Amendments to Professional Services Agreements with Greenworks, PC • Recommendation: Approve and authorize the City Manager to execute Amendment No. 2 to the Professional Services Agreement with GreenWorks, PC, increasing the Clean CA contract amount by $14,293
• Approve and authorize the City Manager to execute Amendment No. 3 to the Professional Services Agreement with GreenWorks, PC increasing the Clean CA contract amount by $30,000
• Approve and authorize the City Manager to execute Amendment No. 7 to the Professional Services Agreement with GreenWorks, PC increasing the Beachfront Park design contract amount by $30,000
• Approve and authorize the City Manager to execute additional amendments to the Front Street Cultural Gateway and Beautification Project and Beachfront Park Phase 1 design contracts for construction administrative services for up to an additional $30,000 for each contract
There were no comments from the public.
On a motion by Council Member Greenough, seconded by Council Member Altman, and carried on a 4-0 polled vote with Council Member Shamblin absent, the City Council of the City of Crescent City adopted the consent calendar consisting of items 1-4 as presented.
PUBLIC HEARING - None
CONTINUING BUSINESS - None
NEW BUSINESS
5. Short Term Rental Regulation Discussion
• Recommendation: Hear staff report
• Technical questions from the Council
Receive public comment
Further Council discussion and direction to staff regarding the regulation of short-term rentals
City Manager Wier reported to the Council that this item was at the request of Council Member Shamblin who was absent. Council Member Greenough asked if the item should be postponed to a future meeting so Council Member Shamblin can be a part of the discussion. Mayor Pro Tem Tinkler stated that due to the fact that there are members of the public who are present to speak on the item, we should start the discussion. City Manager Wier stated that the Council could hear the staff report and take public comment while holding off on any final decision as an option; the Council agreed. Contract Planner Lawton explained to the Council that there currently isn't an ordinance directly related to short-term rentals (STRs). The current process for STRs is the business license referral process. He stated that the purpose of the Bed and Breakfast Establishments regulations in the Crescent City Municipal Code, are to provide for the control and regulation of bed and breakfast establishments in keeping with the safety, convenience and welfare of the general public, assist in allowing these sorts of visitor-serving uses, which benefit the local economy by encouraging destination tourism; protect the residential character of the various zoning districts where bed and breakfast establishments are allowed; and ensure a fair process by which the location and operation of such establishments may be in the best interest of the entire community. These are allowed in all zones except for the Coastal Zone - Open 3 | Page
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Space. Mayor Wright asked if we know how many of the STRs are paying TOT; City Manager Wier stated that the Finance Department runs an audit of TOT. He stated that staff checks the websites that list the STRs to check if they are registered with the City and paying TOT. A few were found that were not registered and staff is reaching out to the owners. He further explained that a firm can be hired to do an extensive search of all STRs in the City should that be the Council's direction. Planner Lawton stated that the City of Trinidad used a service that cost about $500 per year but discontinued that contract after 3-4 years as they found it was not 100% accurate and it didn't provide enough information. Mayor Wright suggested reaching out to the organizations directly to obtain the information on how many vacation rentals there are (AirBnB and VRBO). Director Leaver stated that staff work directly with the property owners, not AirBnB or VRBO at this time. City Manager Wier stated that if the Council directed staff to reach out to those agencies, that can be an option. He further stated that this is new to the City and there are a lot of variables to crafting an ordinance such as how STRs effect the housing stock. Mayor Pro Tem Tinkler went into detail about the number of vacation rentals in the City limits and believes the quoted percentage is not an accurate representation of the STR market's effect on the housing stock. She would like to know how many single-family homes are being used as STRs in the city limits. City Manager Wier asked Planner Lawton if the 2-3% number included apartments; Planner Lawton answered in the affirmative. Planner Lawton explained that Humboldt County has a 2% cap on STRs while the Coastal Commission prefers at least a 15% cap as they want the coastline more accessible for those who may be income restricted. The most common cap is 5% - 10% and it is the Council discretion what percentage to have. City Manager Wier advised the Council that staff is seeking direction on what additional information the Council would like in order to draft this ordinance. Mayor Pro Tem Tinkler detailed her desire to limit the amount of STRs in neighborhoods so it doesn't effect the cost of housing and the quality of life of long-term residents in those neighborhoods. She further stated that motels have a manager on site that if there are any issues with noise, you can reach out to them, where vacation rentals do not. Mayor Wright stated that if the issue is bad enough, one should call dispatch. Council Member Greenough stated there are already enforcement opportunities in place such as noise and time-limits for them.
Does not want to put too many restrictions on this and encourages anyone with issues to contact law enforcement. Council Member Altman concurred with Council Member Greenough and stated that being on the Council you are required to live in the city limits. One should not be expected to own a home and have the City tell you what you can and cannot do. Council Member Altman also stated that he does not want to use taxpayers' money for a consultant to look into it. Mayor Wright agreed with not putting too many restrictions on property owners, but would like to ensure that those that have vacation rentals are paying TOT and would like staff to look into it. Mayor Pro Tem Tinkler disagreed with her fellow Council Members. She would like to see an emphasis on making sure the market isn't saturated with vacation rentals. She would also would like to see people who own vacation rentals also reside in the home for portions of the year. Council Member Altman agrees to ensure that TOT is paid, but that the Council has spoken for years about supporting small businesses and this is a good opportunity to do so. Further stated that Crescent City has some of the most beautiful sights to see and a lot of them are along the coastline. He wants to ensure people who visit can have the opportunity to view them.
The following members of the public addressed the Council:
Dave Garcia: spoke about non-traditional vacation rentals, such as RVs and yurts, that the Council may have to consider when developing an ordinance.
Mark Bower: vacation rental owner, agrees with the proper use of vacation rentals by the tenants, but does not think they need additional regulations.
Patricia Black: agrees with limiting the amount of vacation rentals; has several around her neighborhood.
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Bobbi Jo Bower: owns a vacation rental and stated that you cannot live in the home for portions of the year because it affects your rating and visibility on the site.
Michael Zuval: vacation rentals in southern California are heavily regulated due to multiple issues with them. The vacation rentals always have a number posted to call if any problems arise.
Mayor Wright stated that this item will be brought back to the Council so Council Member Shamblin can be a part of the discussion. City Manager Wier asked the Council if they wanted staff to look into how many single-family residences are also vacation rentals; the Council was in consensus to have staff do so. Council Member Altman wanted clarification on why a consultant would be hired to find out who's paying TOT when all of that should be found with the business licenses. Mayor Wright stated that this would be to find what vacation rentals do not have a business license and also not paying TOT. The Council was in consensus to do some research on the TOT portion. City Manager Wier asked if the Council also wanted staff to look into single family rentals and to differentiate between houses and apartments. Mayor Wright was not in support of it; Mayor Pro Tem Tinkler was in favor. Mayor Wright suggested reaching out directly to VRBO and AirBnB to get the metrics on the STRs in Crescent City. Mayor Pro Tem Tinkler stated that her concern was the lack of houses on the market for long term residents. Additionally, she would like regulations in place to enforce management, especially for properties owned by people out of the area. She further stated she would like the property owner or manager of the property to either be on-site or live in Del Norte County. Mayor Wright stated that directly contacting the vacation rental website companies, he's certain they would be able to provide a list of STRs within the city limits broken down into number of bedrooms, or if they are an apartment. Council Member Altman stated that the reason there isn't a lot of housing for sale is because they have been sold. He disagreed with putting restrictions based on what the house is being used for. Does not agree with regulating property owners on how they choose to use their house. He further stated that the TOT information should be included in the business license information; City Manager Wier stated that there are some STR owners that are unaware they need a business license, therefore the City would not have a full report for all vacation rentals within the city limits. Council Member Greenough supported reaching out to the vacation rental companies to get a listing of all STRs within the City. The Council was in consensus to have staff reach out to those companies to find out the number of STRs to determine who is not paying TOT.
6. City Parking Lot Regulations Ordinance
• Recommendation: Hear staff report
• Technical questions from the Council
• Receive public comment
Further Council discussion
Waive full reading, read by title only and introduce Ordinance No. 866, AN
ORDINANCE OF THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF CRESCENT CITY AMENDING CHAPTER 10.24, STOPPING, STANDING, AND PARKING, OF TITLE 10, VEHICLES AND TRAFFIC, OF THE CRESCENT CITY MUNICIPAL CODE City Attorney Rice reported to the Council that this ordinance outlines the framework to enable the Council to set parking lot regulations by resolution. The Council was in agreement that this ordinance will be a great enforcement tool for the police department.
The following member of the public addressed the Council:
Mark Bower: supports the ordinance and asked the City to have a safe place for the RVs to park.
On a motion by Council Member Altman, seconded by Mayor Pro Tem Tinkler, and carried on a 4-0 polled vote with Council Member Shamblin being absent, the City Council of the City of Crescent City waived full reading, read by title only and introduced Ordinance No. 866, AN
ORDINANCE OF THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF CRESCENT CITY AMENDING 5| Page
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CHAPTER 10.24, STOPPING, STANDING, AND PARKING, OF TITLE 10, VEHICLES AND TRAFFIC, OF THE CRESCENT CITY MUNICIPAL CODE.
7. 3rd Street Downtown Project Design Task Order
• Recommendation: Hear staff report
• Technical questions from the Council
• Receive public comment
• Further Council discussion
• Authorize the City Manager to approve and sign Amendment No. 1 to Stover Engineering Task Order #6 for the design of K Street and 3° Street Public Works Director Yeager detailed the 3rd Street Downtown Project for the design of K Street and 3rd Street by Stover Engineering. The project will include undergrounding of the overhead utilities, landscape improvements within existing curblines, accessibility and other minor repairs to existing sidewalks. Additionally, there will be mid-block sidewalk lights with hanging baskets, catenary roadway lights with banner poles, planting beds in parking lane, and street furniture such as trash baskets, bike racks, benches, and landscaped pots. Council Member Greenough asked if the trees that are planted in the sidewalks going to be moved since the plan is to have trees in the parking lane; Director Yeager explained that the Master Plan is still being put together and the plans are not yet finalized. There will be a community workshop for input at Crescent Fire on Washington Blvd. Council Member Greenough asked if the Downtown Divas will be included in the workshop; Director Yeager answered in the affirmative and that a Stakeholders Meeting will occur before the public workshop.
The following members of the public addressed the Council:
David Garcia: spoke about self-driving vehicles and how they pick up and drop people off.
Doug Dye: spoke about a $150 million bailout for the Battery Point development.
Mark Bower: suggested making 3rd and 4"h Street one way to make a loop for a business district as well as widening the streets.
On a motion by Mayor Pro Tem Tinkler, seconded by Council Member Greenough, and carried on a 4-0 polled vote with Council Member Shamblin being absent, the City Council of the City of Crescent City authorized the City Manager to approve and sign Amendment No. 1 to Stover Engineering Task Order #6 for the design of K Street and 3d Street.
8. Acceptance of Insurance Funds for Cultural Center East Wall Insurance Claim • Recommendation: Hear staff report
• Technical questions from the Council
• Receive public comment
• Further Council discussion
• Approve and adopt Resolution No. 2026-52, A RESOLUTION OF THE CITY
COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF CRESCENT CITY AMENDING THE FISCAL YEAR 2026-27 BUDGET OF THE CITY OF CRESCENT CITY
Director Yeager reported to the Council that this item is for the Cultural Center floor and wall repair. Our insurance company has sent a check in the amount of $50k upfront to start the repair The total amount of the claim is $630k. The proiect plans will come before the Council at a later date. Council Member Greenough asked when we will hear from GSRMA about the timing of receiving the rest of the money; Director Yeager stated staff is expecting it soon.
There were no comments from the public.
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On a motion by Council Member Greenough, seconded by Council Member Altman, and carried COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF CRESCENT CITY AMENDING THE FISCAL YEAR 2026-27 BUDGET OF THE CITY OF CRESCENT CITY.
CITY COUNCIL ITEMS
Reports, Concerns, Referrals, Council travel and training reports - None Legislative Matters - None
City Manager Report and City Council Directives - City Manager Wier reported the following:
Upcoming public workshop regarding the Downtown Master Plan Planning Commission meeting
Front Street at F Street project is out to bid
RV Bathroom renovation project went very well
Headstart improvements are close to being complete
Front Street Gateway project update was presented by Director Yeager
ADJOURNMENT
There being no further business to come before the Council, Mayor Wright adjourned the meeting at 8:07 p.m. to the regular meeting of the City Council of the City of Crescent City on Monday, July 20, 2026 at 6:00 p.m. at the Flynn Center Board Chambers, 981 H Street, Crescent City, CA ATTEST:
Robin Altman, City Clerk/Administrative Analyst
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