Ferndale City Council
March 18, 2026

CITY OF FERNDALE – HUMBOLDT COUNTY CALIFORNIA – U.S.A.

AGENDA – REGULAR MEETING
Location: City Hall
834 Main Street
Ferndale, CA, 95536
Date: March 18, 2026
Time: 6:00 PM
Posted: March 12, 2026
We welcome you to the meeting. Members of the Public may be heard on any business item on this Agenda before or during the City Council consideration of the item. The public may also directly address the City Council on any item of interest to the public that is not on the agenda during the public comment time; however, the City Council generally cannot discuss or take action on an item not on the agenda.

A person addressing the City Council will be limited to five (5) minutes unless the Mayor of the City Council grants a longer period. While not required, we would appreciate it if you would identify yourself with your name and address when addressing the Council.

This City endeavors to be ADA compliant. Should you require assistance with written information or access to the facility, or a hearing amplification, please call 786-4224 24 hours prior to the meeting.

BEFORE SPEAKING ON ANY ISSUE, PLEASE WAIT TO BE
ACKNOWLEDGED BY THE MAYOR BEFORE PROCEEDING TO THE PODIUM.

City Council Meetings are recorded, and the video may be requested. The video will be sent digitally through Dropbox. A Disc and/or USB drive can also be requested for a fee.

1. CALL MEETING TO ORDER – Mayor

2. PLEDGE ALLEGIANCE TO THE FLAG

3. ROLL CALL – Mayor Cady; Councilman Lund; Councilwoman Fisk-Becker; Councilman Jorgensen; and Councilman Ostler

4. REPORT OUT OF CLOSED SESSION

5. CEREMONIAL

6. MODIFICATIONS TO THE AGENDA

7. STUDY SESSION

8. PUBLIC COMMENT. (This time is for persons who wish to address the Council on any matter not on this agenda and over which the Council has jurisdiction. PLEASE FILL OUT A SPEAKER CARD and give it to the City Clerk before the start of the meeting. Speakers will be called in the order received or at the discretion of the Mayor. Public Members who do not fill out a speaker card may speak if there is time remaining. Items requiring Council action not listed on this agenda may be placed on the next regular agenda for consideration, unless a finding is made by at least 2/3rds of the Council that the item came up after the agenda was posted and is of an urgent nature requiring immediate action. This portion of the meeting will be approximately 30 minutes total for all speakers, with each speaker given no more than five minutes. Speaker time may be reduced if many speakers have signed up.

9. CONSENT CALENDAR. (All matters listed under this category are considered to be routine by the City Council and will be enacted by one motion. Unless a specific request is made by a Council Member, staff or the public, the Consent Calendar will not be read.

There will be no separate discussion of these items. However, if discussion is required, that item will be removed from the Consent Calendar and considered separately under “Call Items.”)
March 18, 2026
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a. Approval of Minutes of February 18, 2026, Regular City Council Meeting .................................................................................................... Page 5 b. Acceptance of Checkbook Register for February 1-28, 2026 .................. Page 7 c. Acceptance of Financial Statements for February 1-28, 2026 ................. Page 11

10. CALL ITEMS REMOVED FROM CONSENT CALENDAR

11. PRESENTATION

12. PUBLIC HEARING
a. Second Reading and Adoption of Draft Ordinance 2026-02 Amending Ferndale Zoning Ordinance 02-02 to Amend Accessory Dwelling Unit Provisions to Comply with State Law, by title only ........ Page 36

13. BUSINESS
a. Introduction and First Reading of Draft Ordinance 2026-03 adopting the County of Humboldt Local Agency Management Program and associated onsite wastewater treatment system standards, and delegating implementation and enforcement to the County of Humboldt Division of Environmental Health .......................................... Page 52 b. 2025 General Plan and Housing Element Annual Progress Reports ....... Page 80 c. Resolution 2026-03 Authorizing the City Manager to Pursue a Grant Application Through the California Department of Parks and Recreation Statewide Park Development and Community
Revitalization Program (SPP) for the Ferndale Community Dog Park Project.............................................................................................. Page 103

14.CORRESPONDENCE ......................................................................................... Page 108

15. COMMENTS FROM THE COUNCIL

16. REPORTS
a. City Manager Report ............................................................................... Page 125 b. Commission and Committee Reports
c. Minutes from Joint Power Authorities (JPAs) and Reports i. Humboldt Waste Management Authority (HWMA) February
2026.............................................................................................. Page 133 ii. Redwood Coast Energy Authority (RCEA) January 2026 .......... Page 140

17. ADJOURN
This notice is posted in compliance with Government Code §54954.2. The next Regular Meeting of the Ferndale City Council will be held on April 15, 2026 at 6:00pm March 18, 2026
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Section 1

CALL MEETING TO ORDER
Section 2

PLEDGE ALLEGIANCE
Section 3

ROLL CALL
Section 4

CLOSED SESSION REPORT OUT
Section 5

CEREMONIAL
Section 6

MODIFICATIONS TO THE AGENDA
Section 7

STUDY SESSIONS
March 18, 2026
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Section 8

PUBLIC COMMENT
This time is for persons who wish to address the Council on any matter not on this agenda and over which the Council has jurisdiction.

Items requiring Council action not listed on this agenda will be placed on the next regular agenda for consideration, unless a finding is made by at least 2/3rd of the Council (three of the five members) that the item came up after the agenda was posted and is of an urgent nature requiring immediate action.

This portion of the meeting will be approximately 30 minutes total for all speakers, with each speaker given no more than five minutes. Please state your name and address for the record. (This is optional.)
Section 9

CONSENT CALENDAR
All matters listed under this category are considered to be routine by the City Council and will be enacted by one motion.

Is there anyone on the Council, Staff or the public that would like to pull an item off the Consent Agenda for scrutiny? Those items will be considered separately under “Call Items.” March 18, 2026
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City of Ferndale, Humboldt County, California, U.S.A.

DRAFT Action Minutes for City Council Meeting of February 18th, 2026 Mayor Randall Cady called the Regular City Council Meeting to order at 6:00 pm. Those present did the flag salute. Present were Council Members Leonard Lund, Jennifer Fisk-Becker, Phillip Ostler, and Skip Jorgensen, along with City staff: Interim City Manager Kristene Hall, Chief of Police Ron Sligh, and Finance Manager/Deputy City Clerk Lauren Boop.

Report out of Closed Session: None.

Ceremonial: None
Modifications to the Agenda: None
Report out of Study Session: None
Public Comment: A citizen requested the council consider releasing the easement the city has on his property.

Consent Calendar: None
Call Items Removed from Consent Calendar: There were four items on the Consent Calendar for approval. There were no comments from the Council or Public MOTION: to approve the consent calendar.
(Ostler/Lund) Unanimous
Presentation: None
Public Hearing:

Introduction and First Reading of Draft Ordinance 2026-02 Amending Ferndale Zoning Ordinance 02-02 to Amend Accessory Dwelling Unit Provisions to comply with State Law City Manager Hall explained that the HCD has contacted all out of compliance cities to update their ADU ordinances to comply with state law. Their policies are made with the goal of making more affordable housing, and restricting ADU use as short term rentals. She stated the city was already following the HCD guidelines. Councilwoman Fisk-Becker asked how man ADUs the city has (15) and how many we will allow (24). Manager Hall stated that though we have more permits available there are only really 2 places in the city available that meet our 600ft separation guidelines. Hall recommended the city start thinking about reviewing existing permits and considering future changes to the ADU policy.

MOTION: To Approve First Reading of Draft Ordinance 2026-02 Amending Ferndale Zoning Ordinance 02-02 to Amend Accessory Dwelling Unit Provisions to comply with State Law (Jorgensen/Lund) Unanimous
2nd Reading of Draft Ordinance 2026-01 Amending Building Inspector/Construction Code Ordinance 2011-01 Section 6.01
City Manager Kris Hall gave another brief overview of the necessity of the ordinance which is to become compliant with State Building Regulations and Construction Codes.

MOTION: To Approve Introduction and 1st Reading of Draft Ordinance 2026-01 Amending Building Inspector/Construction Code Ordinance 2011-01 Section 6.01 (Ostler/Fisk-Becker) Unanimous
March 18, 2026
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Business:

Approve Amended and Restated Joint Powers Agreement (JPA) with the Redwood Region Economic Development Commission (RREDC)
City Manager Kris Hall explained that RREDC is updating all city agreements. Councilman Lund, who attends the RREDC meetings on behalf od the city further stated that an ad-hoc committee had met and discussed how to improve the commission. He said they had worked very hard and come up with some great ideas to be implemented.

MOTION: To approve Amended and Restated Joint Powers Agreement (JPA) with the Redwood Region Economic Development Commission (RREDC)
(Ostler/Fisk-Becker) Unanimous
Correspondence: None
Council Comments: Councilman Lund asked Manager Hall how the LEACA City Manager conference went, Manager Hall said it was a very worthwhile experience. She mentioned that the all the Humboldt County City Manager were able to really connect and that she feels very supported by them, which is good for her and for the city. Councilman Jorgenson thanked Finance Manager Lauren Boop for the 6 Month Budget Analysis she provided upon his request.

He also asked if the lower septic revenues would negatively affect their budget. Boop explained that the revenue was always a bonus, but that the city had to fund the WWTP no matter the revenue received. The berm is often close to its maximum capacity as sludge has built up over the years, limiting the amount of septic dumpage we can accept. The city does have a grant application awaiting State Water Board approval that could alleviate the situation on the future.

Councilman Jorgenson also mentioned to the council that they should outline the performance review process for new City Manager Hall and meet both in a Study Session and a public session to discuss goals and priorities of the city. A Study Session will take place before the next council meeting 3/18/26 at 5pm. Councilman Lund noted that the bathrooms are almost completed at Firemen’s Park and look great, he wished to give a big “shoutout” to the Spirit of Ferndale for taking on this project and for all the hard work they have put in.

Reports:

City Managers Report: Acting City Manager Kristene Hall announced the City Clerk position is now live and though the position is open until filled, applicants have until March 12th for the first round of reviews.

Chief of Police Report: Chief Sligh wished to thank the Spirit of Ferndale as well for the donation of security cameras and a mounted television to view the footage live at the police station. He said it is a great safety improvement and is grateful for the community support. He also updated the council on the hiring status of two new officers.

Mayor Cady thanked the staff, public, and fellow councilmembers, and Adjourned the Meeting at 6:42pm.

Respectfully submitted,
Lauren Boop
Deputy City Clerk
March 18, 2026
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FEBUARY 2026 Deposit Recap 2.01.26 2.03.26 2.20.26 2.23.26 2.24.26 RETAIL TAX $22,490.97
T&U TAX $26,820.08
HIGHWAY USER TAX/VEHICLE LICENSE FEES $97,955.93 $3,337.61 RMRA $3,317.54

BUSINESS LIC

ANIMAL LIC

BUILDING RENTS

PERMITS
TOT

HCAOG - RSTP

PARSAC - GRANT / OTHER

COUNTY OF HUMBOLDT-STREETS & ROADS

SEPTIC DUMPS / SEWER REVENUE

FRANCHSE FEES

HUMBOLDT CTY - COPS

CASH FROM EVIDENCE LOCKER

POLICE SERVICES

SMALL MISC

ENGINEERING/PLANNING REIMBURSEMENT

DRAINAGE FEES
COUNTY OF HUMBOLDT-PROPERTY TAXES $131,555.68
COUNTY OF HUMBOLDT-SEWER $467,456.72
COUNTY OF HUMBOLDT-DRAINAGE $11,337.50
COUNTY OF HUMBOLDT-INTEREST INCOME $2,719.94
PUBLIC SAFETY $897.52

BOOKING FEES
US BANK REWARDS $2,164.16
GRANT REIMBURSEMENTS-SWB #3
\\192.168.254.148\city docs\CITY DOCS CITY CLERK\Meetings\City Council\2026\3. 03.18.26\Feb Deposits March 18, 2026
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Assets
Current Assets
Cash $ 384,481.47
Restricted Cash 15,150.00
Accounts Receivable 5,358.57
Total Current Assets 404,990.04
Total Assets $ 404,990.04
Liabilities and Fund Balance
Current Liabilities
Accounts Payable $ 22,121.40
Accrued Liabilities 685.70
Other Current Liabilities 80,838.10
Total Current Liabilities 103,645.20
Total Liabilities 103,645.20
Fund Balance
Fund Balance - Unassigned 301,344.84
Total Fund Balance 301,344.84
Total Liabilities and Fund Balance $ 404,990.04
City of Ferndale
Balance Sheet
Fund 10 - General Fund
As of February 28, 2026
No Assurance is Provided
No Disclosures are Provided 1
March 18, 2026
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Assets
Current Assets
Cash $ 23,363.48
Total Current Assets 23,363.48
Total Assets $ 23,363.48
Liabilities and Fund Balance
Current Liabilities
Total Current Liabilities $ 0.00
Total Liabilities 0.00
Fund Balance
Fund Balance - Restricted 23,363.48
Total Fund Balance 23,363.48
Total Liabilities and Fund Balance $ 23,363.48
City of Ferndale
Balance Sheet
Fund 22-Gas Tax
As of February 28, 2026
No Assurance is Provided
No Disclosures are Provided 1
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Assets
Current Assets
Cash $ 33,359.95
Total Current Assets 33,359.95
Total Assets $ 33,359.95
Liabilities and Fund Balance
Current Liabilities
Total Current Liabilities $ 0.00
Total Liabilities 0.00
Fund Balance
Fund Balances - Restricted 33,359.95
Total Fund Balance 33,359.95
Total Liabilities and Fund Balance $ 33,359.95
City of Ferndale
Balance Sheet
Fund 23 - RSTP Fund
As of February 28, 2026
No Assurance is Provided
No Disclosures are Provided 1
March 18, 2026
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Assets
Current Assets
Cash $ 107,274.71
Total Current Assets 107,274.71
Total Assets $ 107,274.71
Liabilities and Fund Balance
Current Liabilities
Total Current Liabilities 0.00
Fund Balance
Fund Balances - Restricted 107,274.71
Total Fund Balance 107,274.71
Total Liabilities and Fund Balance $ 107,274.71
City of Ferndale
Balance Sheet
Fund 20-Russ Park Fund
As of February 28, 2026
No assurance is provided 1
March 18, 2026
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Assets
Current Assets
Cash $ 218,181.70
Total Current Assets 218,181.70
Total Non Current Assets
Total Assets $ 218,181.70
Liabilities and Fund Balance
Current Liabilities
Total Current Liabilities $ 0.00
Fund Balance
Fund Balances - Restricted 218,181.70
Total Fund Balance 218,181.70
Total Liabilities and Fund Balance $ 218,181.70
City of Ferndale
Balance Sheet
Fund 24 - Transportation Development Act
As of February 28, 2026
No Assurance is Provided
No Disclosures are Provided 1
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Assets
Current Assets
Cash $ 15,955.17
Total Current Assets 15,955.17
Total Assets $ 15,955.17
Liabilities and Fund Balance
Current Liabilities
Total Current Liabilities $ 0.00
Total Liabilities 0.00
Fund Balance
Fund Balances - Restricted 15,955.17
Total Fund Balance 15,955.17
Total Liabilities and Fund Balance $ 15,955.17
City of Ferndale
Balance Sheet
Fund 26 - Drainage Fund
As of February 28, 2026
No Assurance is Provided
No Disclosures are Provided 1
March 18, 2026
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Assets
Current Assets
Cash $ 30,662.91
Total Current Assets 30,662.91
Total Assets $ 30,662.91
Liabilities and Fund Balance
Current Liabilities
Total Current Liabilities $ 0.00
Total Liabilities 0.00
Fund Balance
Fund Balances - Restricted 30,662.91
Total Fund Balance 30,662.91
Total Liabilities and Fund Balance $ 30,662.91
City of Ferndale
Balance Sheet
Fund 25 - Integrated Waste Mgt
As of February 28, 2026
No Assurance is Provided
No Disclosures are Provided 1
March 18, 2026
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Assets
Current Assets
Cash $ 376,007.49
Total Current Assets 376,007.49
Property and Equipment
Vehicles 42,332.05
Equipment 122,805.75
Sewer system 13,768,181.34
Energy Savings Project Improvements 183,000.00
Less Accumulated Depreciation (4,254,537.64)
Net Property and Equipment 9,861,781.50
Total Assets $ 10,237,788.99
Liabilities and Fund Balance
Current Liabilities
Interest Payable $ 37,139.06
Total Current Liabilities 37,139.06
Long-Term Liabilities
Notes Payable USDA 3,753,000.00
Note Payable - California Energy Resources Conservation 157,670.76 Total Long-Term Liabilities 3,910,670.76
Total Liabilities 3,947,809.82
Fund Balance
Other Equity 6,649,092.60
Fund Balances (359,113.43)
Total Fund Balance 6,289,979.17
Total Liabilities and Fund Balance $ 10,237,788.99
City of Ferndale
Balance Sheet
Fund -30 - Sewer
As of February 28, 2026
No Assurance is Provided
No Disclosures are Provided 1
March 18, 2026
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Assets
Property and Equipment
Buildings and improvements $ 617,111.14
Vehicles 187,365.86
Equipment 348,015.34
Roadways 11,171,692.50
Sidewalks 180,800.00
Streetlights 31,684.18
Land 131,000.00
Less Accumulated Depreciation (11,544,537.10)
Net Property and Equipment 1,123,131.92
Total Assets $ 1,123,131.92
Liabilities and Fund Balance
Long-Term Liabilities
Accrued Vacation/Sick pay $ 62,111.43
Notes payable-long term 14,819.48
Total Long-Term Liabilities 76,930.91
Fund Balance
Other Equity 1,718,440.75
Fund Balances (672,239.74)
Total Fund Balance 1,046,201.01
Total Liabilities and Fund Balance $ 1,123,131.92
City of Ferndale
Balance Sheet
GASB 34 ASSETS AND LIABILITIES
As of February 28, 2026
No Assurance is Provided
No Disclosures are Provided 1
March 18, 2026
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1 Month Ended 8 Months Ended FY 2025/2026
February 28, 2026 February 28,
2026
Over/(Under)
Actual Actual Budget Budget

REVENUES
Revenues - Taxes
10014102 Property tax-secured $ 0.00 $ 106,483.09 $ 196,469.86 $ (89,986.77) 10014104 Property tax-unsecured 0.00 5,691.96 7,822.69 (2,130.73) 10014106 Property tax-prior 0.00 13,298.08 19,504.36 (6,206.28) 10014107 Supplemental role 0.00 1,799.78 3,784.09 (1,984.31) 10014110 Sales and use tax 49,311.05 244,309.20 466,368.47 (222,059.27) 10014111 Trash franchise 1,944.51 9,309.23 15,825.47 (6,516.24) 10014112 PG&E franchise 0.00 0.00 18,381.09 (18,381.09) 10014114 Cable franchise 5,458.71 10,894.50 28,246.24 (17,351.74) 10014116 Business license tax 175.00 10,683.25 16,994.74 (6,311.49) 10014118 Real Property Transfer tax 0.00 3,531.55 7,090.88 (3,559.33) 10014120 Transient lodging tax 372.00 101,128.76 192,437.80 (91,309.04) 10014121 TOT Humboldt Lodging Authority 0.00 12,960.70 25,156.65 (12,195.95) Total Revenue - Taxes $ 57,261.27 $ 520,090.10 $ 998,082.34 $ (477,992.24) Revenues - Licenses and Permits
10024132 Construction permits $ 1,423.21 $ 25,391.53 $ 25,000.00 $ 391.53 10024164 Health protection 0.00 1,364.58 4,000.00 (2,635.42) 10024166 Encroachment permits 0.00 200.00 600.00 (400.00) 10024278 Animal license fees 35.00 822.50 1,300.00 (477.50) Total Revenue - Licenses and Permits $ 1,458.21 $ 27,778.61 $ 30,900.00 $ (3,121.39) Revenues - Use of Money and Property
10044182 Interest $ 0.00 $ 11,633.78 $ 16,650.00 $ (5,016.22) 10044285 Bocce ball revenue 0.00 305.00 300.00 5.00
10044297 Town Hall Rent 300.00 2,000.00 3,500.00 (1,500.00) 10044297.1 Community Center rents 2,039.85 20,979.71 40,000.00 (19,020.29) Total Revenue -Use of Money and Property $ 2,339.85 $ 34,918.49 $ 60,450.00 $ (25,531.51) Revenues - Fines
10034283 Court fines $ 0.00 $ 1,923.95 $ 3,090.85 $ (1,166.90) Total Revenue - Fines $ 0.00 $ 1,923.95 $ 3,090.85 $ (1,166.90) Revenues - Intergovernmental
10054204 Motor vehicle in-lieu tax $ 0.00 $ 100,087.04 $ 184,930.64 $ (84,843.60) 10054222 Home owners prop. tax relief 0.00 884.57 1,739.86 (855.29) 10054286 Street sweeping 0.00 22,000.00 18,735.36 3,264.64 10054289 RMRA 3,317.54 19,173.62 37,494.91 (18,321.29)
10054290 Peace off. stds. & trng. 0.00 0.00 1,000.00 (1,000.00) 10054300 Public safety 1/2 cent 0.00 2,570.47 4,793.30 (2,222.83) 10054310 COPs Program 28,966.00 163,883.04 0.00 163,883.04 10054315 AB 109 0.00 0.00 190,829.03 (190,829.03)
10054320 State and County Grants 0.00 0.00 177,000.00 (177,000.00) 10054321 Federal Grants 0.00 50,293.20 125,000.00 (74,706.80) Total Revenue - Intergovernmental $ 32,283.54 $ 358,891.94 $ 741,523.10 $ (382,631.16) City of Ferndale
Income Statement
Fund 10 - General Fund
No Assurance is Provided
No Disclosures are Provided 1
March 18, 2026
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1 Month Ended 8 Months Ended FY 2025/2026
February 28, 2026 February 28,
2026
Over/(Under)
Actual Actual Budget Budget
Revenues - Fees for Service
10084270 Plan check fees $ 0.00 $ 0.00 $ 1,000.00 $ (1,000.00) 10084271 Parking fees 57.20 469.65 475.19 (5.54)
10084287.2 Developer reimbursed fees 0.00 4,072.50 8,000.00 (3,927.50) 10084287.3 Reimbursed Fees Planning 184.22 5,370.47 10,000.00 (4,629.53) 10084291 Special police services 701.49 6,577.47 5,000.00 1,577.47 10084298 Fair racing revenue 6.58 76.61 2,278.09 (2,201.48) Total Revenue - Fees for Service $ 949.49 $ 16,566.70 $ 26,753.28 $ (10,186.58) Revenues - Other Revenue
10094284.1 Donations - City $ 0.00 $ 3,170.85 $ 5,000.00 $ (1,829.15) 10094307 Miscellaneous 2,314.16 7,070.73 0.00 7,070.73
10094308 PARSAC Grants 0.00 44,965.00 2,000.00 42,965.00 10094311 Utilities - Little League park 0.00 200.00 200.00 0.00 Total Revenue - Other Revenue $ 2,314.16 $ 55,406.58 $ 7,200.00 $ 48,206.58 TOTAL REVENUES $ 96,606.52 $ 1,015,576.37 $ 1,867,999.57 $ (852,423.20) City of Ferndale
Income Statement
Fund 10 - General Fund
No Assurance is Provided
No Disclosures are Provided 2
March 18, 2026
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1 Month Ended 8 Months Ended FY 2025/2026
February 28, 2026 February 28,
2026
Over/(Under)
Actual Actual Budget Budget

EXPENDITURES
Expenditures - City Council
10115012 Office expense $ 0.00 $ 0.00 $ 200.00 $ (200.00) 10115013 Advertising 0.00 0.00 250.00 (250.00)
10115044 Meetings and dues 85.00 1,227.00 1,500.00 (273.00) 10115045 LAFCO fees 0.00 671.00 680.00 (9.00)
Total Expenditures - City Council $ 85.00 $ 1,898.00 $ 2,630.00 $ (732.00) Expenditures City Manager
10105002 Salary - permanent $ 0.00 $ 38,003.07 $ 53,974.30 $ (15,971.23) 10105006 Payroll taxes 0.00 2,047.43 3,521.96 (1,474.53) 10105007 Medical/Dental/Vision insurance 0.00 2,137.84 4,990.99 (2,853.15) 10105009 Workers comp. insurance 0.00 1,976.88 3,325.74 (1,348.86) 10105010 Deferred retirement 0.00 2,141.06 5,604.04 (3,462.98) 10105061 Liability Insurance 0.00 3,814.78 3,239.16 575.62 Total expenditures -City Manager $ 0.00 $ 50,121.06 $ 74,656.19 $ (24,535.13) Expenditures - City Clerk
10125002 Salary - permanent $ 11,779.23 $ 90,751.81 $ 93,349.28 $ (2,597.47) 10125006 Payroll taxes 1,067.87 8,019.59 8,491.83 (472.24) 10125007 Medical/Dental/Vision insurance 276.92 9,132.10 12,268.99 (3,136.89) 10125009 Workers comp. insurance 0.00 4,751.73 6,082.32 (1,330.59) 10125010 Deferred retirement 0.00 5,421.61 4,650.85 770.76 10125012 Office expense 0.00 2,006.65 5,000.00 (2,993.35) 10125022 IT support 760.38 13,768.15 13,000.00 768.15
10125044 Meetings and dues 3,389.26 21,716.75 1,200.00 20,516.75 10125061 Liability Insurance 0.00 9,169.40 7,785.80 1,383.60 10125099 Miscellaneous 0.00 0.00 200.00 (200.00)
Total Expenditures -City Clerk $ 17,273.66 $ 164,737.79 $ 152,029.07 $ 12,708.72 City of Ferndale
Income Statement
Fund 10 - General Fund
No Assurance is Provided
No Disclosures are Provided 3
March 18, 2026
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1 Month Ended 8 Months Ended FY 2025/2026
February 28, 2026 February 28,
2026
Over/(Under)
Actual Actual Budget Budget
Expenditures - City Attorney
10145052 Professional services $ 1,166.00 $ 9,460.00 $ 20,000.00 $ (10,540.00) Total Expenditures - City Attorney $ 1,166.00 $ 9,460.00 $ 20,000.00 $ (10,540.00) Expenditures - Government Buildings
10155002 Salary - permanent $ 314.84 $ 2,602.06 $ 3,889.62 $ (1,287.56) 10155006 Payroll taxes 31.95 273.97 423.61 (149.64)
10155009 Workers comp. insurance 0.00 190.35 292.42 (102.07) 10155012 Office expense 190.82 2,456.60 2,500.00 (43.40) 10155020 Building and ground maint. 2,191.81 8,101.25 10,000.00 (1,898.75) 10155024 Special department supply 0.00 565.11 3,000.00 (2,434.89) 10155030 Trash service 58.28 597.29 554.10 43.19
10155031 Gas 1,326.31 3,374.41 4,915.67 (1,541.26)
10155032 Utilities 1,341.97 3,166.81 3,198.32 (31.51)
10155033 Water 131.76 3,751.58 4,994.20 (1,242.62)
10155034 Telephone/internet 158.57 3,470.95 6,414.90 (2,943.95) 10155061 Liability Insurance 0.00 367.35 367.17 0.18
10155063 Building and Property Insurance 0.00 0.00 6,464.28 (6,464.28) Total Expenditures - Government Buildings $ 5,746.31 $ 28,917.73 $ 47,014.29 $ (18,096.56) Expenditures - Non departmental
10165015 Property tax admin. fees $ 0.00 $ 3,059.25 $ 8,256.79 $ (5,197.54) 10165054 Audit and accounting 0.00 18,000.00 41,200.00 (23,200.00) 10165054.1 Accounting services 0.00 11,484.00 0.00 11,484.00 10165055 Contractual services 132.60 947.80 1,000.00 (52.20) 10165064 Election expenses 0.00 0.00 1,000.00 (1,000.00) 10165078 Copy machine expense 210.03 3,134.91 4,430.60 (1,295.69) 10165099 Miscellaneous 0.00 10,327.00 0.00 10,327.00
10165200 Car allowance 0.00 540.00 4,800.00 (4,260.00)
Total Expenditures - Nondepartmental $ 342.63 $ 47,492.96 $ 60,687.39 $ (13,194.43) Expenditures - Community Promotion
10175020 Building and ground maint. $ 2,611.42 $ 4,899.45 $ 250.00 $ 4,649.45 10175028 Public restroom 27.46 2,142.37 3,500.00 (1,357.63) 10175032 Utilities 43.97 291.88 503.45 (211.57)
10175033 Water 138.48 957.30 1,702.27 (744.97)
10175046 Bank charges 0.00 161.49 0.00 161.49
10175072 Chamber of commerce 0.00 27,111.90 35,000.00 (7,888.10) 10175072.3 TOT 2% HLA QTRLY 4,280.71 12,712.33 20,000.00 (7,287.67) Total Expenditures - Community Promotion $ 7,102.04 $ 48,276.72 $ 60,955.72 $ (12,679.00) City of Ferndale
Income Statement
Fund 10 - General Fund
No Assurance is Provided
No Disclosures are Provided 4
March 18, 2026
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23 _________________________________________
1 Month Ended 8 Months Ended FY 2025/2026
February 28, 2026 February 28,
2026
Over/(Under)
Actual Actual Budget Budget
Expenditures - Police
10215002 Salary - permanent $ 22,334.41 $ 209,151.99 $ 377,864.78 $ (168,712.79) 10215004 Salary - reserve 9,140.86 58,897.12 34,057.79 24,839.33 10215005 Salary - overtime 30.22 6,689.26 11,033.37 (4,344.11) 10215006 Payroll taxes 1,979.16 20,861.51 34,389.65 (13,528.14) 10215007 Medical/Dental/Vision insurance 692.30 26,920.99 61,410.30 (34,489.31) 10215009 Workers comp. insurance 0.00 17,497.62 20,965.74 (3,468.12) 10215010 Deferred retirement 0.00 11,215.08 29,374.45 (18,159.37) 10215012 Office expense 396.96 2,801.76 3,500.00 (698.24) 10215014 Vehicle expense 1,108.25 10,800.04 16,000.00 (5,199.96) 10215016 Fuel 1,642.00 13,216.35 20,000.00 (6,783.65)
10215020 Building and ground maint. 141.62 2,954.70 5,000.00 (2,045.30) 10215022 IT support 575.00 13,727.08 15,000.00 (1,272.92) 10215024 Special department supply 0.00 2,069.21 10,000.00 (7,930.79) 10215026 Uniform expense 72.58 919.06 1,000.00 (80.94)
10215026.1 Uniform allowance 0.00 3,000.00 3,000.00 0.00 10215029 Water/sewer 58.30 1,354.34 2,004.38 (650.04)
10215030 Trash service 45.12 135.36 0.00 135.36
10215032 Utilities 79.21 131.97 50.00 81.97
10215034 Telephone/internet 234.91 5,289.70 9,270.32 (3,980.62) 10215035 Dispatch service 4,316.66 34,533.28 55,000.00 (20,466.72) 10215044 Meetings and dues (15.00) 854.32 1,884.96 (1,030.64) 10215048 Training 452.55 474.55 5,000.00 (4,525.45)
10215051 Physical exams 0.00 0.00 900.00 (900.00)
10215052 Professional services 0.00 295.00 500.00 (205.00) 10215061 Liability Insurance 0.00 33,765.20 28,179.47 5,585.73 10215063 Building and Property Insurance 0.00 0.00 1,467.90 (1,467.90) 10215078 Copy machine expense 118.24 1,355.34 1,100.00 255.34 10215080 Community Emergency Response Team
Expense

0.00 135.90 1,000.00 (864.10)
10215088 Equipment repair other 0.00 94.00 1,000.00 (906.00) 10215098 Background expense 0.00 1,013.68 1,500.00 (486.32) Total Expenditures - Police $ 43,403.35 $ 480,154.41 $ 751,453.11 $ (271,298.70) Expenditures - Animal Control
10225096 Animal control $ 450.00 $ 3,600.00 $ 5,500.00 $ (1,900.00) Total Expenditures - Animal Control $ 450.00 $ 3,600.00 $ 5,500.00 $ (1,900.00) Expenditures - Health
10245052 Professional services $ 0.00 $ 800.00 $ 2,400.00 $ (1,600.00) Total Expenditures - Health $ 0.00 $ 800.00 $ 2,400.00 $ (1,600.00) City of Ferndale
Income Statement
Fund 10 - General Fund
No Assurance is Provided
No Disclosures are Provided 5
March 18, 2026
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24 _________________________________________
1 Month Ended 8 Months Ended FY 2025/2026
February 28, 2026 February 28,
2026
Over/(Under)
Actual Actual Budget Budget
Expenditures - Streets and Roads
10315002 Salary - permanent $ 4,455.36 $ 30,128.76 $ 45,755.58 $ (15,626.82) 10315005 Salary - overtime 0.00 326.34 3,158.06 (2,831.72) 10315006 Payroll taxes 588.50 4,024.18 3,953.50 70.68
10315007 Medical/Dental/Vision insurance 0.00 3,826.87 6,048.96 (2,222.09) 10315009 Workers comp. insurance 0.00 1,104.06 1,345.92 (241.86) 10315010 Deferred retirement 0.00 496.41 2,064.43 (1,568.02) 10315011 Bldg/property insurance 0.00 0.00 741.60 (741.60) 10315014 Vehicle expense 0.00 495.65 3,000.00 (2,504.35) 10315016 Fuel 37.44 37.44 0.00 37.44
10315020 Building and ground maint. 0.00 674.71 500.00 174.71 10315021 Street maintenance 0.00 82,372.73 87,000.00 (4,627.27) 10315024 Special department supply 602.14 2,569.32 2,500.00 69.32 10315026.1 Uniform allowance 0.00 0.00 300.00 (300.00)
10315034 Telephone/internet 0.00 713.22 1,279.90 (566.68) 10315055 Contractual services 870.50 5,023.25 10,000.00 (4,976.75) 10315061 Liability Insurance 0.00 2,130.48 1,809.00 321.48 10315088 Equipment repair other 0.00 0.00 500.00 (500.00) Total Expenditures - Streets and Roads $ 6,553.94 $ 133,923.42 $ 169,956.95 $ (36,033.53) Expenditures - Planning
10415052 Professional services $ 2,408.47 $ 74,713.87 $ 40,000.00 $ 34,713.87 10415052.1 Engineering-flood 0.00 0.00 1,500.00 (1,500.00) 10415053 Reimbursable Fees 440.00 7,206.72 9,000.00 (1,793.28) 10415053.1 Grant expenditures 1,286.25 32,609.50 140,000.00 (107,390.50) 10415055 Contractual services 200.00 4,390.00 9,000.00 (4,610.00) 10415059 Special Planning Projects 0.00 1,466.25 0.00 1,466.25 10415630 CLIMATE ACTION PLAN 120.00 2,641.50 3,000.00 (358.50) Total Expenditures - Planning $ 4,454.72 $ 123,027.84 $ 202,500.00 $ (79,472.16) Expenditures - City engineer
10425052 Professional services $ 769.00 $ 9,473.00 $ 30,000.00 $ (20,527.00) 10425053 Reimbursable Fees 292.50 4,387.50 3,500.00 887.50 Total Expenditures - City engineer $ 0.00 $ 13,860.50 $ 33,500.00 $ (19,639.50) Expenditures - Building Regulation
10435024 Special department supply $ 1,923.20 $ 1,923.20 $ 500.00 $ 1,423.20 10435052 Professional services 5,753.36 18,716.06 19,000.00 (283.94) Total Expenditures - Building Regulation $ 7,676.56 $ 20,639.26 $ 19,500.00 $ 1,139.26 City of Ferndale
Income Statement
Fund 10 - General Fund
No Assurance is Provided
No Disclosures are Provided 6
March 18, 2026
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25 _________________________________________
1 Month Ended 8 Months Ended FY 2025/2026
February 28, 2026 February 28,
2026
Over/(Under)
Actual Actual Budget Budget
Expenditures - Library
10615002 Salary - permanent $ 544.91 $ 4,732.34 $ 6,600.13 $ (1,867.79) 10615006 Payroll taxes 55.33 499.28 892.66 (393.38)
10615009 Workers comp. insurance 0.00 317.76 350.37 (32.61) 10615012 Office expense 0.00 0.00 50.00 (50.00)
10615020 Building and ground maint. 0.00 19,099.92 200.00 18,899.92 10615024 Special department supply 0.00 338.59 2,250.00 (1,911.41) 10615031 Gas 0.00 1,626.36 4,639.35 (3,012.99)
10615032 Utilities 288.99 1,796.01 2,570.08 (774.07)
10615033 Water 52.69 388.15 610.56 (222.41)
10615034 Telephone/internet 0.00 539.43 2,065.80 (1,526.37) 10615061 Liability Insurance 0.00 613.19 520.66 92.53
10615063 Building and Property Insurance 0.00 0.00 2,011.80 (2,011.80) Total Expenditures - Library $ 941.92 $ 29,951.03 $ 22,761.41 $ 7,189.62 Expenditures - Parks
10625002 Salary - permanent $ 171.36 $ 2,116.60 $ 47,032.16 $ (44,915.56) 10625006 Payroll taxes 7.20 126.90 3,874.70 (3,747.80)
10625007 Medical/Dental/Vision insurance 0.00 417.63 793.93 (376.30) 10625009 Workers comp. insurance 0.00 395.04 505.67 (110.63) 10625010 Deferred retirement 0.00 114.52 313.42 (198.90) 10625020 Building and ground maint. 1,156.80 13,972.24 7,500.00 6,472.24 10625024 Special department supply 109.49 278.65 200.00 78.65 10625032 Utilities 12.07 244.61 5,540.17 (5,295.56)
10625033 Water 122.69 2,867.04 3,028.26 (161.22)
10625061 Liability Insurance 0.00 762.30 634.94 127.36
10625065 Russ Park expenditures 735.37 1,612.62 1,500.00 112.62 Total Expenditures - Parks $ 2,314.98 $ 22,908.15 $ 70,923.25 $ (48,015.10) Expenditures -Community Center
10635020 Building and ground maint. $ 997.59 $ 11,111.91 $ 5,000.00 $ 6,111.91 10635031 Gas 677.65 5,299.98 4,000.00 1,299.98
10635032 Utilities 799.57 6,173.61 8,182.44 (2,008.83)
10635033 Water 128.67 802.98 1,498.91 (695.93)
10635055 Contractual services 0.00 120.00 2,000.00 (1,880.00) 10635063 Building and Property Insurance 0.00 0.00 4,424.70 (4,424.70) Total Expenditures -Community center $ 2,603.48 $ 23,508.48 $ 25,106.05 $ (1,597.57) TOTAL EXPENDITURES $ 100,114.59 $ 1,203,277.35 $ 1,721,573.43 $ (518,296.08) REVENUES OVER (UNDER) EXPENDITURES $ (3,508.07) $ (187,700.98) $ 146,426.14 $ (334,127.12) City of Ferndale
Income Statement
Fund 10 - General Fund
No Assurance is Provided
No Disclosures are Provided 7
March 18, 2026
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26 _________________________________________
1 Month Ended 8 Months Ended FY2025/2026
February 28,
2026
February 28, 2026 Over/(Under)
Actual Actual Budget Budget
Revenues
22314210.1 Gas tax (2105) $ 662.38 $ 4,935.11 $ 8,704.08 $ (3,768.97) 22314210.2 Gas tax (2106) 863.22 6,084.34 10,764.67 (4,680.33) 22314210.3 Gas tax (2107) 897.35 6,639.06 11,781.75 (5,142.69) 22314210.4 Gas tax (2107.5) 0.00 1,000.00 1,030.00 (30.00) 22314210.5 Gas Tax (2103) 914.66 7,895.84 13,051.75 (5,155.91) Total Revenue 3,337.61 26,554.35 45,332.25 (18,777.90)

EXPENDITURES
22315002 Salary - permanent 85.68 3,308.69 5,856.61 (2,547.92) 22315005 Salary - overtime 0.00 8.15 78.98 (70.83)
22315006 Payroll taxes 4.19 281.19 515.72 (234.53)
22315007 Medical/Dental/Vision insurance 0.00 3,484.86 7,249.02 (3,764.16) 22315009 Workers comp. insurance 0.00 1,241.04 2,711.27 (1,470.23) 22315010 Deferred retirement 0.00 854.01 2,153.91 (1,299.90) 22315057 Street signs 0.00 82.46 500.00 (417.54)
22315058 Street lighting 1,426.24 9,792.46 17,289.82 (7,497.36) 22315061 Liability Insurance 0.00 2,394.81 2,033.45 361.36 TOTAL EXPENDITURES 1,516.11 21,447.67 38,388.78 (16,941.11)

REVENUES OVER (UNDER)

EXPENDITURES
$ 1,821.50 $ 5,106.68 $ 6,943.47 $ (1,836.79)
City of Ferndale

STATEMENT OF REVENUES AND EXPENDITURES
FUND 22 - GAS TAX
No Assurance is Provided
No Disclosures are Provided 1
March 18, 2026
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27 _________________________________________
1 Month Ended 8 Months
Ended
FY2025/2026
February 28, 2026 February 28,
2026
Over/(Under)
Actual Actual Budget Budget
Revenues
23314211 RSTP Revenue $ 0.00 $ 0.00 $ 16,000.00 $ (16,000.00) Total Revenue 0.00 0.00 16,000.00 (16,000.00)

EXPENDITURES
23315002 Salary - permanent 397.69 4,609.38 7,123.41 (2,514.03) 23315006 Payroll taxes 19.51 288.36 551.26 (262.90)
23315007 Medical/Dental/Vision insurance 0.00 750.30 1,436.07 (685.77) 23315009 Workers comp. insurance 0.00 349.62 447.53 (97.91) 23315010 Deferred retirement 0.00 277.50 616.50 (339.00) 23315061 Liability Insurance 0.00 674.68 572.88 101.80
TOTAL EXPENDITURES 417.20 6,949.84 10,747.65 (3,797.81) REVENUES OVER (UNDER) EXPENDITURES $ (417.20) $ (6,949.84) $ 5,252.35 $ (12,202.19) City of Ferndale

STATEMENT OF REVENUES AND EXPENDITURES
FUND 23 - RSTP
No Assurance is Provided
No Disclosures are Provided 1
March 18, 2026
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28 _________________________________________
1 Month Ended 8 Months Ended FY2025/2026
February 28, 2026 February 28,
2026
Over/(Under)
Actual Actual Budget Budget
Revenues
20624182 Interest $ 131.27 $ 1,299.51 $ 0.00 $ 1,299.51 Total Revenue 131.27 1,299.51 0.00 1,299.51

EXPENDITURES
20625046 Bank charges 0.00 45.00 0.00 45.00
TOTAL EXPENDITURES 0.00 45.00 0.00 45.00
REVENUES OVER (UNDER) EXPENDITURES $ 131.27 $ 1,254.51 $ 0.00 $ 1,254.51 City of Ferndale

STATEMENT OF REVENUES AND EXPENDITURES
FUND 20- RUSS PARK
No assurance is provided 1
March 18, 2026
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29 _________________________________________
1 Month Ended 8 Months Ended FY2025/2026
February 28,
2026
February 28,
2026
Over/(Under)
Actual Actual Budget Budget
Revenues
24314231 Transportation devel. act $ 0.00 $ 45,000.00 $ 51,067.00 $ (6,067.00) Total Revenue 0.00 45,000.00 51,067.00 (6,067.00)

EXPENDITURES
24315002 Salary - permanent 0.00 11,635.80 19,379.04 (7,743.24) 24315005 Salary - overtime 0.00 253.23 1,042.25 (789.02) 24315006 Payroll taxes 0.00 645.07 1,558.13 (913.06)
24315007 Medical/Dental/Vision insurance 0.00 2,759.66 6,054.88 (3,295.22) 24315009 Workers comp. insurance 0.00 1,256.85 2,145.02 (888.17) 24315010 Deferred retirement 0.00 647.41 2,265.76 (1,618.35) 24315014 Vehicle expense 0.00 322.40 0.00 322.40
24315016 Fuel 225.27 2,970.87 10,913.91 (7,943.04)
24315021 Street maintenance 0.00 45,000.00 0.00 45,000.00 24315024 Special department supply 0.00 531.62 632.46 (100.84) 24315032 Utilities 0.00 2,869.38 4,038.63 (1,169.25)
24315033 Water 0.00 287.70 666.53 (378.83)
24315034 Telephone/internet 0.00 594.19 1,279.99 (685.80) 24315061 Liability Insurance 0.00 2,425.32 2,424.15 1.17 TOTAL EXPENDITURES 225.27 72,199.50 52,400.75 19,798.75

REVENUES OVER (UNDER)

EXPENDITURES
$ (225.27) $ (27,199.50) $ (1,333.75) $ (25,865.75)
City of Ferndale

STATEMENT OF REVENUES AND EXPENDITURES
FUND 24 - TRANSPORTATION DEVELOPMENT ACT
No Assurance is Provided
No Disclosures are Provided 1
March 18, 2026
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30 _________________________________________
1 Month Ended 8 Months Ended FY2025/2026
February 28, 2026 February 28, 2026 Over/(Under)
Actual Actual Budget Budget
Revenues
26314230 Drainage fund $ 0.00 $ 2,160.00 $ 3,250.00 $ (1,090.00) 26314240 Drainage district fees 0.00 11,337.50 30,000.00 (18,662.50) Total Revenue 0.00 13,497.50 33,250.00 (19,752.50)

EXPENDITURES
26315002 Salary - permanent 740.39 6,849.65 10,284.25 (3,434.60) 26315005 Salary - overtime 15.11 125.37 584.24 (458.87) 26315006 Payroll taxes 36.03 358.23 839.83 (481.60)
26315007 Medical/Dental/Vision insurance 0.00 0.00 3,057.09 (3,057.09) 26315007.1 Medical insurance 0.00 1,391.83 0.00 1,391.83 26315009 Workers comp. insurance 0.00 1,062.57 1,813.48 (750.91) 26315010 Deferred retirement 0.00 311.85 922.39 (610.54) 26315061 Liability Insurance 0.00 2,050.42 1,741.03 309.39 TOTAL EXPENDITURES 791.53 12,149.92 19,242.31 (7,092.39)

REVENUES OVER (UNDER)

EXPENDITURES
$ (791.53) $ 1,347.58 $ 14,007.69 $ (12,660.11)
City of Ferndale

STATEMENT OF REVENUES AND EXPENDITURES
FUND 26 - DRAINAGE FUND
No Assurance is Provided
No Disclosures are Provided 1
March 18, 2026
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31 _________________________________________
1 Month Ended 8 Months Ended FY2025/2026
February 28, 2026 February 28,
2026
Over/(Under)
Actual Actual Budget Budget
Revenues
Total Revenue 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00

EXPENDITURES
25315002 Salary - permanent 0.00 3,226.45 0.00 3,226.45 25315006 Payroll taxes 0.00 310.16 0.00 310.16
25315007 Medical/Dental/Vision insurance 0.00 317.77 0.00 317.77 25315010 Deferred retirement 0.00 324.40 0.00 324.40
TOTAL EXPENDITURES 0.00 4,178.78 0.00 4,178.78
REVENUES OVER (UNDER) EXPENDITURES $ 0.00 $ (4,178.78) $ 0.00 $ (4,178.78) City of Ferndale

STATEMENT OF REVENUES AND EXPENDITURES
FUND 25 - INTEGRATED WASTE MANAGEMENT
No Assurance is Provided
No Disclosures are Provided 1
March 18, 2026
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32 _________________________________________
1 Month Ended 8 Months Ended FY2025/2026
February 28, 2026 February 28,
2026
Over/(Under)
Actual Actual Budget Budget
Revenues
30514274 Sewer service charge $ 0.00 $ 467,456.72 $ 803,054.19 $ (335,597.47) 30514275 Sewer connection fees 0.00 400.00 5,000.00 (4,600.00) 30514303 Septic discharge 3,006.00 29,790.00 60,000.00 (30,210.00) Total Revenue 3,006.00 497,646.72 868,054.19 (370,407.47)

EXPENSES
30515002 Salary - permanent 21,084.34 204,898.50 257,741.51 (52,843.01) 30515005 Salary - overtime 1,043.81 12,363.43 15,207.18 (2,843.75) 30515006 Payroll taxes 2,561.96 18,939.93 22,557.93 (3,618.00) 30515007 Medical/Dental/Vision insurance 0.00 31,457.37 64,996.33 (33,538.96) 30515009 Workers comp. insurance 0.00 14,132.73 26,238.56 (12,105.83) 30515010 Deferred retirement 0.00 12,701.80 22,843.76 (10,141.96) 30515012 Office expense 112.04 299.36 646.91 (347.55)
30515014 Vehicle expense 1,381.73 2,210.08 898.31 1,311.77 30515016 Fuel 284.62 2,385.65 3,670.59 (1,284.94)
30515024 Special department supply 215.57 5,800.86 10,780.97 (4,980.11) 30515030 Trash service 498.99 17,569.26 26,491.67 (8,922.41) 30515032 Utilities 9,946.28 54,877.80 115,356.15 (60,478.35) 30515033 Water 54.56 1,659.38 3,139.74 (1,480.36)
30515034 Telephone/internet 40.13 5,376.61 8,345.47 (2,968.86) 30515044 Meetings and dues 0.00 1,066.00 919.58 146.42
30515048 Training 0.00 843.44 1,000.00 (156.56)
30515050 IT Support 520.00 7,412.64 12,000.00 (4,587.36) 30515061 Liability Insurance 0.00 27,272.07 23,156.89 4,115.18 30515063 Building and Property Insurance 0.00 0.00 3,237.15 (3,237.15) 30515092 Permits 0.00 16,811.28 17,496.79 (685.51)
30515121 Sewer plant maintenance 3,392.93 32,928.83 50,000.00 (17,071.17) 30515122 Sewer line maintenance 0.00 6,076.59 50,000.00 (43,923.41) 30515130 Ultra Violet Lights 0.00 22,407.32 25,000.00 (2,592.68) 30515157 Testing and monitoring 5,081.31 14,642.13 22,295.62 (7,653.49) 30515160 Postage & Shipping 588.23 588.23 4,160.09 (3,571.86) 30515170 State Water Planning Grant Expenses 0.00 1,000.00 0.00 1,000.00 30515190 USDA loan 43,308.13 199,404.84 194,000.00 5,404.84 30515197 Sewer treatment loan 0.00 531.00 0.00 531.00
TOTAL EXPENSES 90,114.63 715,657.13 982,181.20 (266,524.07) NET INCOME (LOSS) $ (87,108.63) $ (218,010.41) $ (114,127.01) $ (103,883.40) City of Ferndale

INCOME STATEMENT
FUND 30 - SEWER FUND
No Assurance is Provided
No Disclosures are Provided 1
March 18, 2026
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33 _________________________________________
Cash Balances
Current Assets
General Fund $ 384,481.47
Restricted Cash 15,150.00
Russ Park 107,274.71
Gas Tax 23,363.48
RSTF 33,359.95
TDA 218,181.70
IWM 30,662.91
Drainage 15,955.17
Sewer 376,007.49
Total $ 1,204,436.88
Checking $ 880,454.13
Checking - Restricted 86,509.30
LAIF 237,323.45
Petty cash 150.00
Total $ 1,204,436.88
City of Ferndale
Cash Balances
As of February 28, 2026
No Assurance is Provided
No Disclosures are Provided 1
March 18, 2026
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34 _________________________________________
Section 10

CALL ITEMS
These are items pulled from the consent agenda
for discussion and a separate motion.

Section 11

PRESENTATIONS
Section 12

PUBLIC HEARING
March 18, 2026
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35 _________________________________________
Meeting Date: March 18, 2026 Agenda Item Number: 12.a
Agenda Item Title: Public hearing, for second reading and adoption of Ordinance 2026-02 amending Zoning Ordinance (Ordinance No. 02-02) to ensure consistency with current state law.

Presented By: City Planner
Type of Item: X Action X Discussion Information
Action Required: No Action Voice Vote X Roll Call Vote

STAFF RECOMMENDATION
Hold a public hearing to conduct a second reading to adopt Ordinance 2026-02, amending Article 7 (General Provisions and Exceptions) and Article 3 (Definitions) to comply with state Accessory Dwelling Unit law, and correction of various errata and scrivener’s errors contained in Ordinance 02-02, which include re-alphabetizing and organizing Article 7, and updating the formatting of sections that are inconsistent in style.

BACKGROUND
The California Department of Housing and Community Development (HCD) has recognized ADUs and JADUs as affordable housing solutions because they do not require the purchase of additional land or the construction of significant new infrastructure. ADUs and JADUs also allow homeowners to provide independent living spaces for family members or renters, supporting aging in place and enabling extended families to live nearby while preserving privacy. Recent changes to state law have simplified the development of ADUs and JADUs and require local jurisdictions to align with these state standards. Since 2016, HCD had the authority to review a city’s ADU ordinance. Beginning January 1, 2024, HCD also has the authority to enforce all State ADU laws. In 2020, HCD published its first ADU Guidebook, which received two substantive updates in 2022 and 2024/2025 to incorporate new laws. The Guidebook assists local governments, homeowners, architects, and the public in understanding and applying the requirements of state law. Because the Guidebook is authored by HCD, it is essentially an interpretative manual on the application of ADU law.

On September 20, 2019, the City Council adopted Ordinance No. 2019-02, which amended Ordinance 02-02 (Zoning Ordinance), section 7.21 of Article 7, to comply with then-current state requirements for ADUs. Since that adoption, new state ADU laws that further modify ADU and JADU requirements have been enacted nearly annually. On November 14, 2025, HCD issued a Letter of Technical Assistance to the City of Ferndale regarding its existing Accessory Dwelling Unit (ADU) ordinance. In that letter, HCD advised that the City’s ADU regulations, codified in Section 7.21 of Zoning Ordinance 02-02, appear out of compliance with numerous provisions of State ADU Law. In their November 14th letter, HCD also noted that if a local ADU ordinance fails to meet State law requirements, the ordinance is considered “null and void,” and the City must instead apply default State ADU standards until a compliant ordinance is adopted. HCD specifically recommended that the City:

1. Repeal its current ADU ordinance; or

2. Amend and adopt a replacement ordinance that fully complies with State ADU statutes (Gov. Code §§ 66310–66344).

Because ADU and JADU applications are subject to ministerial approval within 60 days under State law (Gov. Code § 66317), continued application of non-compliant local standards may expose the City to legal risk and violate State requirements for timely and objective processing. To avoid this potential risk, on December 17, 2025, the City Council adopted Ordinance 2025-09, an interim urgency ordinance that suspends enforcement of the City’s March 18, 2026
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ADU and JADU regulations pending repeal and adoption of a state-compliant ADU ordinance.

The amendments to the Zoning Ordinance in Exhibit A proposed to repeal the existing ADU regulations in their entirety and adopt amendments that update the City’s regulations for ADUs and JADUs to conform with Government Code Sections 66310-66342 by directly referencing state ADU law. The proposed amendments are the statutory minimum requirements for ADUs and JADUs. These amendments will address the immediate need to bring the City’s ADU and JADU regulations into full compliance with state law, while not foreclosing the City’s ability to adopt local ADU regulations in the future. Although cities are mandated to permit ADUs and JADUs, they are not required to adopt local ADU and JADU ordinances. A city may consider adopting local regulations to further encourage the creation of ADUs and JADUs; a city’s local ADU regulations cannot be more restrictive than state law. All local ADU ordinances are subject to an HCD-compliance review, and any inconsistencies with State law must be addressed to HCD’s satisfaction.

Please note that the City staff has been aware that its existing ADU ordinance is out of date, and staff have been applying State ADU law directly in the evaluation of ADU requests and applications.

ZONING ORDINANCE TEXT AMENDMENTS
The following amendments are proposed to the City’s ADU Ordinance to ensure compliance with current state law. Specifically, section 7.21 will be repealed in its entirety and replaced with the following language:
§7.21 Accessory Dwelling Units and Junior Accessory Dwelling Units:

Sections 66310 – 66342 of the California Government Code are hereby adopted and made part of this ordinance as though fully set forth herein.

Additionally, the definition of Secondary Dwelling Unit at section 3.66, is proposed to be amended to further distinguish secondary dwelling units from accessory dwelling units. Also, the proposed changes to the definition intend to reflect the state law requirement (Gov. Code 66332) that cities are to provide a pathway to legalize an accessory dwelling unit that was constructed before 2017 but did not receive city permits:
§3.66 Secondary Dwelling Unit (Section amended by Ordinance 2025-04 on 8/20/2025, and was previously numbered as section 3.64): A separate residential unit permitted and constructed prior to January 1, 2017, containing sleeping, kitchen and bathroom facilities, created on a lot zoned R-1 or RS that already contains one legally created residential unit and that has not been permitted as an accessory dwelling unit.

As shown in Exhibit A of Ordinance 2026-02, amendments to correct various minor errata and scrivener’s errors are also proposed to be adopted.

PLANNING COMMISSION PUBLIC HEARING
On January 7, 2026, the Planning Commission held a duly noticed public hearing to consider and receive public input on the proposed amendments. No members of the public provided written or oral testimony on the proposed amendments before or at the hearing. A Planning Commissioner requested clarification on whether the City had HCD input on the proposed amendments. The Contract City Planner replied that the City had described to HCD its approach and the ordinance language as part of the City’s response to the November 14th technical assistance letter. HCD indicated the repeal/replace ordinance language would be adequate. The Planning Commission did not recommend modifications to the proposed amendments. The Planning Commission unanimously approved Resolution 2026-01 recommending that the City Council adopt the proposed amendments.

ENVIRONMENTAL ASSESSMENT
March 18, 2026
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The proposed zoning ordinance text amendment is exempt from the California Environmental Quality Act (CEQA).

Pursuant to Public Resources Code §21080.17, CEQA does not apply to ordinances implementing Government Code §65852.2, which governs Accessory Dwelling Units (ADUs) and Junior ADUs (JADUs). The ordinance is also categorically exempt under CEQA Guidelines §15303 (Class 3), which covers the construction or conversion of small accessory structures, such as ADUs and JADUs.

PUBLIC HEARING NOTICE
The public hearing notice has been published and distributed in accordance with Article 8 of the Zoning Ordinance.

Additionally, a public hearing notice was sent to the Ferndale Enterprise for publication in the February 5, 2026, edition of the Ferndale Enterprise. On February 5, 2026, the same public hearing notice was also posted at City Hall and the bulletin board in the post office, and on the City’s website.

ATTACHMENTS
A – Ordinance 2026–02 and Exhibit A, Amendments to the Ferndale Zoning Ordinance (Ord. # 02-02) B – November 14, 2025 Letter of Technical Assistance from the California Department of Housing and Community Development
C – Planning Commission Resolution 2026-01
D – Public notice for the City Council, February 18, 2026, hearing and first reading March 18, 2026
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ATTACHMENT A
ORDINANCE NO. 2026-02

AN ORDINANCE OF THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF FERNDALE MAKING THE REQUIRED FINDINGS TO ADOPT AMENDMENTS TO ORDINANCE NO. 02-02, THE FERNDALE ZONING ORDINANCE,

TO AMEND ACCESSORY DWELLING UNIT PROVISIONS TO COMPLY WITH STATE LAW WHEREAS, the City of Ferndale (City) is a general law city, incorporated under the laws of the State of California; and
WHEREAS, California Government Code Section 65850, et seq. authorizes cities to regulate land use, and to adopt and amend general plans and zoning and building ordinances for such purposes, and sets forth procedures governing the adoption and amendment of such ordinances; and WHEREAS, on October 9, 2019, Governor Gavin Newsom signed Senate Bill 13 Assembly 881, and other legislation (collectively, the “Bills”) into law, amending Government Code Sections 65852.2 and 65852.22, and adding Health and Safety Code Section 17980.12, thereby establishing statewide requirements for ADUs and JADUs; and WHEREAS, on September 20, 2019, the City Council adopted Ordinance No. 2019-02 that amended Ordinance 02- 02 (Zoning Ordinance), section 7.21 of Article 7, to comply with changes in state law related to Accessory Dwelling Units (ADUs), inclusive of Junior Accessory Dwelling Units (JADUs); and WHEREAS, since the adoption of Ordinance No. 2019-02, state ADU law has been amended in 2020, 2021, 2023, 2024, and 2025, including enactment of Senate Bill 477 in 2024, which reorganized and recodified the State’s ADU and JADU provisions into Government Code Sections 66310 through 66342 without substantive change; and WHEREAS, on November 14, 2025, the California Department of Housing and Community Development (HCD) issued a Letter of Technical Assistance advising that the City’s ADU ordinance appears out of compliance with multiple provisions of State ADU Law and may therefore be “null and void” under Government Code section 66316, requiring the City to apply default State standards; and WHEREAS, HCD recommended that the City repeal its current ADU ordinance and adopt an updated, statecompliant ordinance to ensure clarity for applicants and consistency with State housing requirements; and WHEREAS, on December 17, 2025, the City Council unanimously adopted Ordinance 2025-09, an Interim Urgency Ordinance immediately suspending enforcement of section 7.21 of the Zoning Ordinance in order to ensure that all ADU applications are processed legally, consistently, and without delay, pending repeal and replacement with a state-compliant ADU ordinance; and
WHEREAS, in order to further comply with state law, it is necessary for the City to amend its Zoning Ordinance to ensure that its provisions conform to and align exactly with the requirements set forth under Sections 66310 – 66342 of the California Government Code; and
WHEREAS, the amendments to the Zoning Ordinance, as identified in Exhibit A, attached hereto and hereby incorporated by reference in its entirety, propose to repeal and replace section 7.21 of Article 7 (General Provisions and Exceptions) of the Zoning Ordinance to update the regulations governing ADUs and JADUs to comply with State law; update the definition of secondary dwelling unit in section 3.66 of Article 3 (Definitions) to distinguish secondary dwelling units from accessory dwelling units; and address various errata, scrivener’s errors, and inconsistent formatting and styling; and
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WHEREAS, this Ordinance is intended to promote consistency between the City’s Zoning Ordinance for ADUs, JADUs, and state law, eliminate any conflicts or discrepancies, and ensure enforceability in accordance with state legal standards.

WHEREAS, on December 22, 2025, the City published a Planning Commission (PC) public hearing notice in the December 25, 2025 edition of the Ferndale Enterprise, and posted the same notice in conspicuous locations including City Hall and the City website, specifying the availability of the proposal, and the date, time, and location of the PC public hearing for these amendments to the Zoning Ordinance; and WHEREAS, the Planning Commission held a duly noticed public hearing on January 7, 2026, and after considering the recommended amendments, the California Environmental Quality Act (CEQA) finding, and written or oral testimony submitted by the public on the proposed amendments, the PC unanimously adopted Resolution No. 2026-01, recommending that the Ferndale City Council find the amendments in Exhibit A to be statutorily exempt and categorically exempt from CEQA pursuant to Public Resources Code § 21080.17 and § 15303 of California Code of Regulations Title 14, Division 6, Chapter 3 (the CEQA Guidelines), respectively; make the required findings; and adopt the amendments to the Zoning Ordinance, specifically amendments to Article 3, Article 7, and to correct various errata and scrivener’s errors contained in the Zoning Ordinance; and WHEREAS, the review and adoption of the amendments is in conformance with the requirements of California Government Code Sections 65853 through 65857, which require a duly noticed public hearing of the Planning Commission whereby the Planning Commission shall provide its written recommendation to the City Council for its consideration; and
WHEREAS, the City caused to be published in the February 5, 2026 edition of the Ferndale Enterprise, a notice of City Council public hearing and first reading of the proposed amendments; additionally, the City posted the same notice of public hearing in conspicuous locations including City Hall and the City website, specifying the availability of the proposed amendments, the date, time, and location of the City Council public hearing for these amendments to the Zoning Regulations, and recommended CEQA finding; and WHEREAS, the Ferndale City Council held a duly noticed public hearing on February 18, 2026, to consider the amendments and recommended CEQA determination; and
WHEREAS, the City Council has considered the staff report, supporting documents, public testimony, the Planning Commission’s recommendation that the City Council adopt the proposed amendments to the Zoning Ordinance, and all appropriate information that has been submitted with these amendments; and WHEREAS, all legal prerequisites to the adoption of the Ordinance have occurred.

NOW, THEREFORE, THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF FERNDALE DOES ORDAIN AS FOLLOWS:

SECTION 1. Recitals. The above and foregoing recitals are true and correct, and each is incorporated in full herein by reference.

SECTION 2. Public hearing notices and public participation. All necessary public hearings and opportunities for public testimony and comment have been conducted in compliance with state law.

SECTION 3. Findings. That all of the following findings are hereby made:

A. California Environmental Quality Act (CEQA). The proposed zoning ordinance text amendments are exempt from the CEQA. Pursuant to Public Resources Code § 21080.17, CEQA does not apply to ordinances implementing Government Code §65852.1, or Article 2 (commencing with Section 66314) or Article 3 (commencing with Section 66333) of Chapter 13 of Division 1 of Title 7 of the Government March 18, 2026
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Code, which governs ADUs and JADUs. Accordingly, the proposed ordinance is statutorily exempt from CEQA because it implements the State’s ADU and JADU laws.

In addition to the statutory exemption, the proposed ordinance is categorically exempt under the Class 3 exemption set forth in CEQA Guidelines § 15303. The Class 3 exemption applies to the construction and location of new, small structures and the conversion of existing small structures from one use to another. Section 15303 specifically lists appurtenant accessory structures and garages as examples of activities covered by this exemption. Here, the ordinance qualifies for the Class 3 exemption because it regulates the construction of, and conversion of existing structures into, ADUs and JADUs, which are accessory to a primary dwelling and limited in size.

B. Consistency with the Ferndale General Plan. The text amendments repeal the existing ADU regulations and adopt new provisions addressing both ADUs and JADUs, in accordance with California Government Code Sections 66310 through 66342. The proposed amendments implement the City’s goals and policies related to housing, land use, and residential development. They support the General Plan’s objectives to provide a range of housing types, promote efficient use of existing residential neighborhoods, and facilitate housing affordability, while maintaining the character and quality of the community.

C. Public Interest. Adopting ADU and JADU regulations that are consistent with state law is in the public interest because it avoids creating substantial confusion for property owners and applicants who prepare applications relying on outdated standards. Adopting compliant ADU and JADU relations also wards off risks, including improper denial or delay of ADU applications; violation of the Housing Accountability Act and State ADU statutes; exposure to attorney’s fees and enforcement action by HCD or private applicants.

D. Consistency with the Zoning Ordinance and Other City Ordinances. The proposed text amendments to the Zoning Ordinance are internally consistent with other applicable provisions of the Zoning Code. The amendments repeal the existing ADU regulations and adopt new provisions addressing both ADUs and JADUs, ensuring that the City’s regulations fully conform to the requirements of California Government Code Sections 66310 through 66342. The new provisions maintain consistency with the City’s residential development standards, use classifications, and permitting procedures, thereby preserving alignment with the overall framework of the Zoning Code.

NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED, that the City Council of the City of Ferndale hereby amends the Ferndale Zoning Ordinance (Ordinance 02-02) Article 3, Article 7, and to correct various errata and scrivener’s errors contained in the Zoning Ordinance in the form and substance as set forth in Exhibit A, attached hereto and incorporated in its entirety herein by reference. Following the adoption of this Ordinance, without modifying the substance, the City Clerk shall cause the amendments to be consistent in form and style with Ordinance 02-02.

SECTION 4. Effective Date. The effective date of this ordinance is thirty (30) days after adoption by the City Council of the City of Ferndale.

SECTION 5. Severability. If any provision of this ordinance is determined to be invalid, such invalidity does not affect the remaining provisions or applications of the ordinance that can be given effect without the invalid provision or application, and to this extent, the provisions of this ordinance are severable. The City Council of the City of Ferndale declares that it would have adopted this Ordinance irrespective of the invalidity of any portion thereof.

SECTION 6. Limited Repeal. Any provision of the Zoning Ordinance that is inconsistent with the requirements March 18, 2026
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of this Ordinance, to the extent of such inconsistencies and no further, is hereby repealed or modified to that extent necessary to effect the provisions of this Ordinance.

INTRODUCED and FIRST READING CONDUCTED at a regular meeting of the City Council of the City of Ferndale, California, on this 18th day of February 2026, by the following ROLL CALL vote of the City Council:

AYES:

NOES:

ABSTAIN:

ABSENT:

Randy Cady, Mayor
Attest:
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Kristene Hall, City Clerk
SECOND READING CONDUCTED, PASSED, and ADOPTED at a regular meeting of the City Council of the City of Ferndale, California, on this _____ day of _____________2026, by the following ROLL CALL vote of the City Council:

AYES:

NOES:

ABSTAIN:

ABSENT:

Randy Cady, Mayor
Attest:
________________________________
Kristene Hall, City Clerk
March 18, 2026
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STATE OF CALIFORNIA - BUSINESS, CONSUMER SERVICES AND HOUSING AGENCY GAVIN NEWSOM, Governor

DEPARTMENT OF HOUSING AND COMMUNITY DEVELOPMENT

DIVISION OF HOUSING POLICY DEVELOPMENT
651 Bannon Street, Suite 400
Sacramento, CA 95811
(916) 263-2911 / FAX (916) 263-7453
www.hcd.ca.gov
November 14, 2025
Kristine Hall
Acting City Manager
City of Ferndale
834 Main Street
Ferndale, CA 95536
Dear George Williamson:

RE: City of Ferndale – Accessory Dwelling Unit (ADU) Ordinance Updates – Letter of Technical Assistance
The most recent ADU ordinance on file for City of Ferndale with the California Department of Housing and Community Development (HCD) is from 2019. Given the numerous changes to State ADU Law since the adoption of the ordinance, the ordinance may be outdated and out of compliance with State ADU Law. If HCD’s records are incorrect, and a new ordinance has been adopted, please submit it to the ADU Portal for HCD’s review.

Below are the changes to State ADU Law that have occurred in recent years and may warrant an update to the City of Ferndale’s ADU ordinance:

Updates to the ADU Handbook (2025)
• Clarifies that ADU Law prohibits deed restrictions on ADUs. A deed restriction would be an “additional standard” and thus cannot be imposed on ADUs (Gov.

Code, § 66315).
• Clarifies that homeowners’ associations (HOAs), as a third party, cannot influence the approval of an application to create an ADU. Third party reviews by an HOA or their representatives or agents would violate State ADU Law. (Gov.

Code, § 66315.) No other local ordinances, policies, or regulations may be applied in the approval or denial of an ADU or junior ADU (JADU) permit application (Gov. Code, § 66317, subd. (c)).
• Clarifies that local agencies may not require parking as a condition to permitting a JADU, even when the JADU is converted from an attached garage (Gov. Code, § 66334, subd. (a)).

ATTACHMENT B
March 18, 2026
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George Williamson, Planning Manager

Changes to ADU Law in 2024:
• SB 477 (Chapter 7, Statutes of 2024) made changes to the numbering of the sections of the Government Code for State ADU and JADU Laws. • Prohibits a local agency from denying a permit for an unpermitted ADU or JADU that was constructed before January 1, 2020, for building code violations, unless the local agency makes a finding that correcting the violation is necessary to comply with conditions that would otherwise deem a building substandard (Gov.

Code, § 66332, subds. (a)-(c)).
• Defines “livable space” as a space in a dwelling intended for human habitation, as the term appears in Government Code sections 66313, subdivision (e), and 66323, subdivision (a)(3)(A).
• Provides that uncovered, off-street parking spaces demolished in conjunction with the construction of an ADU do not need to be replaced (Gov. Code, § 66314, subd. (d)(11)).
• Changes the allowable number of detached ADUs on a lot with an existing multifamily dwelling to eight detached ADUs, provided that the number of ADUs does not exceed the number of existing units on the lot (Gov. Code, § 66323, subd. (a)(4)(A)(ii)).
• Prohibits a local agency from imposing any objective development standards on 66323 Units that are not authorized by the provisions of Government Code section 66323, subdivision (a) (Gov. Code, § 66323, subd. (b)).

Changes to ADU Law in 2023:
• Sunsets a former prohibition on a local agency imposing an owner occupancy requirement on any ADU and instead prohibits a local agency from requiring owner occupancy for an ADU (Gov. Code, § 66315).
• Allows a local agency to adopt a local ordinance to allow the separate conveyance of the primary dwelling unit and ADU(s) as condominiums, subject to certain conditions (Gov. Code, §§ 66340-66342).

Changes to ADU Law in 2021:
• Allows local agencies to permit the separate conveyance of ADUs from the primary dwelling under Government Code section 66341 in certain circumstances.

Changes to ADU Law in 2020:
• Requires that an application for the creation of an ADU or JADU is deemed approved (not just subject to ministerial approval) if the local agency has not approved or denied the completed application within 60 days (Gov. Code, § 66317, subd. (a)).

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George Williamson, Planning Manager

• Requires ministerial approval of an application for a building permit within a residential or mixed-use zone to create one ADU and one JADU per lot (not one or the other), within the proposed or existing single-family dwelling, if certain conditions are met (Gov. Code, § 66323, subd. (a)(1)(A)). • Allows for rental or leasing of a separate interest ADU or JADU in a common interest development, notwithstanding governing documents that otherwise appear to prohibit renting or leasing of a unit, and without regard to the date of the governing documents (Civ. Code, §§ 4740, subd. (a); 4741, subd. (a)). • Allows a homeowner to create “any of the following”: one converted or attached ADU; one detached, new construction ADU; and one JADU (Gov. Code, § 66323, subds. (a)(1)-(2)). More information can be found in HCD’s 2025 ADU Handbook.

Changes to ADU Law in 2019:
• Prohibits local agencies from including requirements on minimum lot size in development standards for ADUs (Gov. Code, § 66314, subd. (b)(1)). • Allows local agencies to designate areas where ADUs may be located based on the adequacy of water and sewer services, as well as on impacts on traffic flow and public safety (Gov. Code, § 66314, subd. (a)).
• Eliminates all owner occupancy requirements by local agencies for ADUs approved between January 1, 2020, and January 1, 2025 (Gov. Code, § 66315). • Prohibits a local agency from establishing a maximum size of an ADU of less than 850 square feet, or 1,000 square feet if the ADU contains more than one bedroom and requires approval of a permit to build an ADU of up to 800 square feet (Gov. Code, § 66321, subds. (b)(2), (b)(3)).
• Prohibits a local agency from requiring replacement of off-street parking spaces for ADUs created through the conversion of a garage, carport, or covered parking structure (Gov. Code, § 66314, subd. (d)(11)).
• Reduces the maximum ADU and JADU application review time from 120 days to 60 days (Gov. Code, §§ 66317, subd. (a); 66335, subd. (2)). • Clarifies that “public transit” includes various means of transportation that charge set fees, run on fixed routes, and are available to the public (Gov. Code, § 66313, subd. (m)).
• Adds impact fee exemptions and limitations based on the size of the ADU.

ADUs up to 750 square feet are exempt from impact fees, and ADUs that are 750 square feet or larger may be charged impact fees, but those fees must be proportional in size (by square foot) to fees charged for the primary dwelling unit (Gov. Code, § 66324, subd. (c)(1)).
• Defines of an “accessory structure” to mean a structure that is accessory and incidental to a dwelling on the same lot (Gov. Code, § 66313, subd. (b)).

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George Williamson, Planning Manager

• Permits JADUs even where a local agency has not adopted an ordinance expressly authorizing them (Gov. Code, § 66320).
• Allows for a permitted JADU to be constructed within the walls of the proposed or existing single-family residence and eliminates the required inclusion of an existing bedroom and an interior entry into the single-family residence (Gov.

Code, § 66333, subd. (d)).
• Requires, upon application and approval, a local agency to delay enforcement against a qualifying substandard ADU for five years to allow the owner to correct the violation, so long as the violation is not a health and safety issue, as determined by the enforcement agency (Gov. Code, § 66331; HSC, § 17980.12).
• Makes covenants, conditions, and restrictions that either effectively prohibit or unreasonably restrict the construction or use of an ADU or JADU on a lot zoned for single-family residential use void and unenforceable (Civ. Code, § 4751)).

If an existing ADU ordinance fails to meet the requirements of State ADU Law, the ordinance is “null and void” and the local jurisdiction must apply the standards set forth in State ADU Law until it adopts an ordinance that complies with state law (Gov. Code, § 66316). HCD recommends that a local jurisdiction with a non-compliant ADU ordinance repeal the ordinance to provide clarity for ADU applicants who may otherwise rely on the outdated ordinance.

HCD requests a response by December 13, 2025 with either (1) a description of how the ADU ordinance continues to comply with State ADU Law despite the changes to the law, or (2) a plan and timeline to either repeal the current ordinance or adopt an amended, compliant ordinance and submit it to HCD for review.

If you have any questions or need additional information, please contact Reshma at [email protected].

Sincerely,
Jamie Candelaria
Section Chief, ADU Policy
Housing Accountability Unit
March 18, 2026
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ATTACHMENT C
March 18, 2026
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ATTACHMENT D
Public Notice for the February 18, 2026, Hearing and First Reading Notice published in the
February 5, 2026, edition
of the Ferndale Enterprise
March 18, 2026
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Section 13

BUSINESS
March 18, 2026
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Meeting Date: March 18, 2026 Agenda Item Number: 13.a
Agenda Item Title: Introduction and First Reading of Ordinance 2026-03 amending Ordinance 03-05 adopting by reference the County of Humboldt Local Agency Management Program and associated onsite wastewater treatment system standards, and delegating implementation and enforcement to the County of Humboldt Division of Environmental Health, by title only Presented By: City Planner
Type of Item: X Action Discussion Information
Action Required: No Action Voice Vote X Roll Call Vote

PROJECT SUMMARY
Introduction and First Reading of Ordinance 2026-03 that proposes amending the Sewer Ordinance (Ordinance 03-05). Ordinance 2026-03 proposes to adopt the County of Humboldt Local Agency Management Program (LAMP) and associated onsite wastewater treatment system standards by reference, and delegating implementation and enforcement to the County of Humboldt Division of Environmental Health (DEH).

RECOMMENDATION

1. Receive staff presentation and review questions with staff.

2. Receive public testimony.

3. Motion to introduce and hold first reading of Ordinance 2026-03, read by title only. ROLL CALL VOTE

DISCUSSION
Domestic wastewater for most properties in Ferndale is handled by the City’s sewer system. However, on the outskirts of the City there are a few developed properties that use an onsite wastewater treatment system, also referred to as septic or sewage disposal system, to treat and dispose domestic wastewater.

Currently, Ferndale does not have onsite wastewater treatment system (OWTS) regulations that comply with the state’s OWTS Policy. When a city or county lacks compliant OWTS regulations, these systems are subject to state permitting and standards. Ferndale’s high groundwater conditions make it extremely challenging to meet the state OWTS standards and requirements (referred to as Tier 1), meaning a property owner may not be able to obtain a state permit to site and operate an OWTS. This means properties on the outskirts of Ferndale must connect to the City’s sewer system. For some of these properties, connecting to the sewer system may require the property owner to extend the existing sewer line a significant distance at their expense. For these properties, adding or expanding uses that generate additional wastewater (e.g., bedrooms or ADUs) is restricted. Additionally, should a system fail, property owners may not have the option to repair the OWTS and would be required to connect to the City’s sewer.

In 2013, the California State Water Resources Control Board (SWRCB) adopted statewide standards governing the permitting and operation of OWTS, known as the Water Quality Control Policy for Siting, Design, Operation, and Maintenance of Onsite Wastewater Treatment Systems (OWTS Policy). The state’s adopted OWTS Policy is the mandatory standard for the development and management of onsite wastewater treatment systems.

The SWRCB OWTS Policy accounts for California’s diverse range of geological and climatic conditions and does not establish a single set of criteria for OWTS because that would be too restrictive. To accommodate California’s extreme variance in local conditions, local agencies may submit management programs, “Local Agency Management Programs” (LAMPs) for approval by the applicable Regional Water Board, and upon approval, then March 18, 2026
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manage the installation of new and replacement OWTS under that program. Local Agency Management Programs approved under Tier 2 provide an alternate method from Tier 1 programs to achieve the same policy purpose, which is to protect water quality and public health.1

Beginning in 2014, the County of Humboldt began developing a LAMP to comply with the OWTS Policy – Tier 2. In 2017, after a multi-year process that included public meetings and formal review by the North Coast Regional Water Quality Control Board (NCRWQCB), the Board of Supervisors adopted the Humboldt County LAMP, which was approved by the NCRWQCB in 2018. In approving the Humboldt LAMP, the NCRWQCB found that it complies with the state’s OWTS Policy for Tier 2. The County’s approved LAMP governs the siting, design, permitting, operation, and maintenance of OWTS. Additionally, it authorizes the County of Humboldt, Division of Environmental Health (DEH), to manage and regulate septic systems rather than subjecting these systems to direct State oversight and the more restrictive Tier 1 standards.

Ordinance 2026-03 proposes to adopt Humboldt County’s LAMP and associated standards for onsite wastewater treatment systems, and to delegate implementation and enforcement to the Division of Environmental Health, County of Humboldt. Adoption of Ordinance 2026-03 would establish the Humboldt County LAMP’s OWTS Policy Tier 2 standards as a permitting pathway for qualifying properties that meet Tier 2 requirements for the treatment and disposal of domestic wastewater. Importantly, adoption of Ordinance 2026-03 will also bring the City into compliance with state OWTS Policy. The proposed ordinance directly references the LAMP and associated OWTS standards, with one modification: reducing the distance from the existing sewer (from 300 feet to 200 feet) for a site to be eligible for OWTS use evaluation. DEH reviewed the draft ordinance, including the OWTS eligibility distance reduction, and advised that they had no suggested changes. Before the City began drafting Ordinance 2026-03, DEH consulted with NCRWQCB on this approach. In response to a February 2026 query from DEH about this approach, NCRWQCB advised that if Ferndale adopted the LAMP by reference, entered into a memorandum of agreement with DEH, and delegated administration to DEH, the NCRWQCB did not need to approve the City’s ordinance. As of the writing of this report, NCRWQCB is reviewing the draft ordinance.

ENVIRONMENTAL ASSESSMENT
Adoption of the proposed ordinance text is categorically exempt from the California Environmental Quality Act (CEQA) pursuant to the Class 8 exemption set forth in CEQA Guidelines Section 15308 – Actions by Regulatory Agencies for the Protection of the Environment. The Class 8 exemption is appropriate because the Ordinance benefits the City and its residents by enhancing environmental protections for onsite wastewater disposal in accordance with State OWTS Policy.

ATTACHMENTS
A – Draft Ordinance 2026–03
B – Draft Ordinance 03-05, Sewer Ordinance, with Ordinance 2026-03 incorporated 1 https://www.waterboards.ca.gov/water_issues/programs/owts/docs/adopted_owts_policy.pdf, OWTS Policy – Water Quality Control Policy for Siting, Design, Operation, and Maintenance of Onsite Wastewater Treatment Systems, accessed March 10, 2026.

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DRAFT ORDINANCE NO. 2026-03

AN ORDINANCE OF THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF FERNDALE OF HUMBOLDT COUNTY, CALIFORNIA, AMENDING ORDINANCE 03-05 AND ADOPTING BY REFERENCE

THE COUNTY OF HUMBOLDT LOCAL AGENCY MANAGEMENT PROGRAM AND ASSOCIATED ONSITE WASTEWATER TREATMENT SYSTEM STANDARDS; DELEGATING

IMPLEMENTATION AND ENFORCEMENT TO THE COUNTY OF HUMBOLDT DIVISION OF ENVIRONMENTAL HEALTH; AND MAKING RELATED FINDINGS
The City Council of the City of Ferndale (hereafter “City”) does ordain as follows:

Section 1. Findings and Purpose.
(1) The State Water Resources Control Board has adopted the Water Quality Control Policy for Siting, Design,Operation, and Maintenance of Onsite Wastewater Treatment Systems (“OWTS Policy”), which establishes the State standard for onsite wastewater system siting, design, operation, and maintenance. Moreover, all California cities and counties must comply with the OWTS Policy.
(2) The OWTS Policy authorizes local agencies to develop and implement Local Agency Management Programs (LAMPs) upon approval by the applicable Regional Water Quality Control Board. (23 Cal. Code Regs. § 2924; State Water Board OWTS Policy.) (3) After a multi-year process that included public meetings and formal review by the North Coast Regional Water Quality Control Board (“NCRWQCB”), on November 7, 2017, the Humboldt County Board of Supervisors adopted the Humboldt County Local Agency Management Program (“LAMP”). On February 8, 2018, after conducting a public hearing, the NCRWQCB approved Resolution R1-2018-0005 approving the LAMP for the County of Humboldt.
(4) In approving the Humboldt County LAMP, the NCRWQCB found it complies with the State’s OWTS Policy (Tier 2), which allows the County of Humboldt to manage and regulate septic systems instead of direct State oversight. (4) The County of Humboldt Department of Health and Human Services, Division of Environmental Health (“County Environmental Health”) is authorized to maintain and administer the approved LAMP that governs the siting, design, permitting, operation, and maintenance of OWTS within the County of Humboldt.
(5) The City Council enacts this Ordinance for the management of Onsite Wastewater Treatment Systems in order to promote the health, safety, and well-being of residents of the City of Ferndale by providing them a means to prevent water pollution, nuisances, and threats to public health.
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of Onsite Wastewater Treatment Systems and applicable policies and regulations of the State Water Resources Control Board.
(7) The City Council finds that adopting Humboldt County’s LAMP and associated OWTS standards by reference, and delegating day-to-day administration and enforcement to County Environmental Health, will promote uniform, technically current, and enforceable OWTS regulations within the City; protect public health, water quality, and the environment; and avoid duplicative local programs. (8) The City Council further finds that amending City of Ferndale Ordinance 03-05 will establish binding and enforceable public health and sanitation standards applicable to private property. (Gov. Code §§ 36931–36937)
Section2. Authority. This Ordinance is adopted pursuant to the City’s police powers under Article XI, Section 7 of the California Constitution and applicable state laws governing the enactment of municipal ordinances.

Section 3. Adoption by Reference, Scope, and Definitions. (1) Adoption by Reference. Except as modified in section 3(1)(a) herein, the City hereby adopts by reference the County LAMP, including any OWTS manuals, technical standards, procedures, and appendices referenced therein, as may be amended from time to time by the County of Humboldt and approved by the North Coast Regional Water Quality Control Board, as the City of Ferndale’s OWTS regulations. (a) Humboldt County Onsite Wastewater Treatment System (OWTS) Regulations and Technical Manual, issued and effective November 7, 2017, the subparagraph titled “Eligibility”, page 1, the first sentence is hereby modified as follows:

A site that is greater than 300 200 feet from a public sewer can be evaluated for OWTS use.
(2) Scope. The LAMP and associated OWTS standards adopted by reference in Section 3(1) apply to all OWTS activities within the City limits, including but not limited to siting, design, installation, modification, repair, replacement, operation, monitoring, inspection, and abandonment of OWTS.
(3) Definitions. Unless otherwise defined in this Ordinance, termsshall have the meanings set forth in the OWTS Policy and the County of Humboldt LAMP.

Section 4. Delegation of Administration and Agreements. (1) Delegation. The City hereby designates and authorizes County Environmental Health to administer, implement, and enforce the LAMP and associated OWTS standards within the City, including plan review, permitting, inspections, compliance actions, and monitoring oversight.

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(2) Agreements. The City Manager, or their designee, is authorized to execute any intergovernmental or service agreements, amendments, or renewals with the County of Humboldt necessary to carry out this delegation, including cost-recovery provisions.

Section 5. Permits and Fees.
(1) Permits. No person shall install, construct, alter, repair, replace, operate, or abandon an OWTS within the City without first obtaining required approvals or permits from County Environmental Health in accordance with the LAMP. (2) Fees. Applicants shall pay permit, inspection, monitoring, and related fees established by the County of Humboldt for OWTS services under the LAMP, as such fees may be amended from time to time consistent with applicable law.

Section 6. Enforcement and Remedies.
(1) Enforcement. County Environmental Health is authorized to take any enforcement action authorized by the LAMP, County code, or applicable state law for violations occurring within the City, including notices of violation, administrative orders, permit suspensions/revocations, and referrals for civil or criminal enforcement as permitted by law.
(2) City Remedies Preserved. The City retains independent authority to enforce violations of this Ordinance as City code violations, in addition to any County or state remedies.

Section 7. Incorporation by Reference and Availability. The County of Humboldt LAMP and associated OWTS standards adopted by reference are incorporated as though fully set forth herein. One copy of the current LAMP shall be maintained in the office of the City Clerk for public inspection and shall be available on the City’s website by link to the County’s LAMP repository.

Section 8. Relationship to Other Laws. Nothing in this Ordinance alters any obligation to comply with state law, the OWTS Policy, the applicable Regional Water Quality Control Board requirements, or any conditions imposed by a Waste Discharge Requirement where applicable.

Section 9. California Environmental Quality Act (CEQA). The City Council finds adoption of this Ordinance is categorically exempt from further environmental review pursuant to the Class 8 exemption set forth in CEQA Guidelines Section 15308 – Actions by Regulatory Agencies for the Protection of the Environment. The Class 8 exemption is appropriate because the Ordinance benefits the City and its residents by enhancing environmental protections for onsite wastewater disposal in accordance with State OWTS Policy. The City Manager, or designee, is directed to file a Notice of Exemption within five (5) days of adoption.

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Section 10. Publication. The City Clerk shall certify to the passage of this Ordinance and cause it to be published or posted as required by Government Code section 36933. The City Clerk shall cause Ferndale City Ordinance 03-05 to be amended, and to make any non-substantive renumbering or formatting changes necessary for formatting consistency of Ordinance 03-

05. Section 11. Severability. If any provision of this Ordinance or its application to any person or circumstance is held to be invalid, such invalidity has no effect on the other provisions or applications of the Ordinance that can be given effect without the invalid provision or application, and to this extent, the provisions of this Ordinance are severable. The City Council declares that it would have adopted this Ordinance irrespective of the invalidity of any portion thereof.

Section 12. Limited Repeal. Any provision of the Ordinance 03-05 that is inconsistent with the provisions of this Ordinance, to the extent of such inconsistencies and no further, is hereby repealed or modified to that extent necessary to effect the provisions of this Ordinance.

INTRODUCED and FIRST READING CONDUCTED at a regular meeting of the City Council of the City of Ferndale, California, on this ___th day of _____ 2026, by the following ROLL CALL vote of the City Council:

AYES:

NOES:

ABSTAIN:

ABSENT:

Randy Cady, Mayor
Attest:
___________________________________
Kristene Hall, City Clerk
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SECOND READING CONDUCTED, PASSED, and ADOPTED at a regular meeting of the City Council of the City of Ferndale, California, on this _____ day of _____________2026, by the following ROLL CALL vote of the City Council:

AYES:

NOES:

ABSTAIN:

ABSENT:

Randy Cady, Mayor
Attest:
________________________________
Kristene Hall, City Clerk
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City of Ferndale Sewer Ordinance 03-05 Page 1 of 21
ORDINANCE NO. 03-05

AN ORDINANCE OF THE CITY OF FERNDALE REGULATING THE USE OF

PUBLIC SEWERS AND DRAINS, THE INSTALLATION AND CONNECTION OF

BUILDING SEWERS, SEWER LATERALS AND PUBLIC SEWER MAIN
EXTENSIONS, REPEALING ORDINANCES 38, 172, 179, 184, 189, 245, 258, 283, 310, and 93-01.

Table of Contents
...... Article 1 Short Title, Purpose and Scope......................................................... 1 ...... Article 2 Statutory Authority / Enforcement Authority................................... 2 ...... Article 3 Administration and Enforcement...................................................... 2 ...... Article 4 Definitions........................................................................................ 3 ...... Article 5 General Provisions............................................................................ 5 ...... Article 6 Public Sewers ................................................................................... 6 ...... Article 7 Building Sewers, Lateral Sewers & Connections............................. 9 ...... Article 8 Lateral Testing Upon Sale ................................................................ 12 ...... Article 9 Public Sewer Construction ............................................................... 13 ...... Article 10 Permits & Fees ................................................................................. 15 ...... Article 11 Sewer Service Charge....................................................................... 18 ...... Article 12 Onsite Wastewater Treatment Systems
...... Article 13 Severability....................................................................................... 18 ...... Article 14 Effective Date................................................................................... 18 ...... Article 15 Posting Requirement......................................................................... 19 ...... Article 16 Enacting Date and Signatures........................................................... 19

THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF FERNDALE DOES ORDAIN AS FOLLOWS:

ARTICLE 1: SHORT TITLE, PURPOSE AND SCOPE
§1.01 This ordinance shall be known and cited as the “Sewer Ordinance”. §1.02 Purpose: This ordinance is intended to provide rules and regulations for the use and construction of sanitary sewer facilities installed, altered or repaired within the city. This ordinance shall not apply retroactively and, in the event of an alteration or repair made, shall apply only to the new materials and methods used.
§1.03 Scope: The following rules and regulations regarding sewer construction and disposal of sewage and drainage of buildings and connection to the sewage works of the City are hereby adopted. All future sewer construction shall be performed as required in this ordinance.
§1.04 The provisions adopted in this ordinance shall not be exclusive but shall be cumulative and complementary to any other provisions of Ferndale City ordinances and County, State and Federal laws. Nothing in this ordinance shall be read, interpreted or construed so as to limit any existing right or power of the City.
§1.05 Upon the effective date of this Ordinance, Ordinances 438, 172, 179, 184, 189, 245, 258, 283, 310 and 93-01 are hereby repealed.

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ARTICLE 2: STATUTORY AUTHORITY / ENFORCEMENT AUTHORITY
§2.01 Government Code 38900 et seq, and Health and Safety Code 5471 et seq, give the city legislative body authority to construct, establish, and maintain drains and sewers and to set fees, tolls, rates, rentals or other charges including water, sewer standby or immediate availability charges, for services and facilities furnished by it, either within or without its territorial limits, in connection with its water, sanitation, storm drainage, or sewerage system.

ARTICLE 3: ADMINISTRATION AND ENFORCEMENT
§3.01 Violation.

3.01.1 Violation of this ordinance shall be declared a public nuisance, using those abatement procedures as listed in Ferndale’s “Nuisance Ordinance.”
a. Summary Abatement (immediate or emergency need)
b. Administrative Abatement (non-emergency need)

3.01.2 Any person found to be violating any provision of this or any other ordinance, rule or regulation of the City shall be served by the City with written notice stating the nature of the violation and providing a reasonable time limit for satisfactory correction.

3.01.3 Written notice shall be presented no less than two or more than seven working days. The offender shall, within the period of time stated in this notice, permanently cease all violations.

3.01.4 All persons shall be held strictly responsible for any and all acts of agents or employees under the provisions of this or any other ordinance, rule or regulation of the City.

3.01.5 Violations
a. Violation of discharge or contamination must cease immediately upon notification.
b. Construction and easement violations must be corrected in a timely manner or within stated deadlines.
§3.02 Public Nuisance. It is hereby declared that whenever any area in the City is provided with a sewage system, the further maintenance or use of cesspools or other local means of sewage disposal may be declared a public nuisance. §3.03 Disconnection.

3.03.1 As an alternative method of enforcing the provisions of this or any other ordinance, rule or regulation of the City, the City shall have the power to disconnect the user or subdivision sewer system from the sewer mains of the City.

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deposit the estimated cost of disconnection and reconnection before being reconnected.

3.03.3 The City shall refund any part of the deposit remaining after payment of all costs of disconnection and reconnection.

3.03.4 During any period of disconnection, habitation of the premises is prohibited.
§3.04 Liability for Violation. Any person violating any of the provisions of the ordinances, rules or regulations of the City shall become liable to the City for any expense, loss or damage occasioned by the City by reason of such violation. §3.05 Cost Recovery. All recovery costs incurred by the City shall be sought as restitution to the City and its citizens for enforcement and correction in the interest of public health and safety. Cost recovery to the City is not intended to be a fine or punishment. Cost recovery shall be accomplished as provided in Ferndale’s “Nuisance Ordinance.”
§3.06 Protection from Damage. No unauthorized person shall maliciously, willfully or negligently break, damage, destroy, uncover, deface or tamper with any structure, system, or equipment which is a part of the City sewage works. §3.07 Powers and Authorities of Inspectors. The officers, inspectors, managers and any duly authorized employees of the City shall be permitted to enter any and all buildings, industrial facilities and properties for the purposes of inspection, re-inspection, observation, measurement, sampling, testing or otherwise performing such duties as may be necessary in the enforcement of the provisions of the ordinances, rules and regulations of the City.

ARTICLE 4: DEFINITIONS
§4.01 Definitions. Whenever words or phrases used in this ordinance are not defined in the code of this state, such definitions are incorporated in this section and shall be deemed to apply to such words and phrases used in this ordinance. For the purpose of this ordinance, additional terms shall have the meaning indicated in Chapter 1 of that certain plumbing code entitled “Western Plumbing Official’s Uniform Plumbing Code,” adopted by the City of Ferndale.

4.01.1 Applicant: the owner of the premises or his agent making application for a permit for a sewer installation on his own property.

4.01.2 Building: any structure inhabited or used by human beings.

4.01.3 Building Sewer: that portion of any sewer beginning at the plumbing or drainage outlet of any building or industrial facility and running to the property line or to a private sewage disposal system.

4.01.4 City: the City of Ferndale and its officials.

4.01.5 City Engineer: the Engineer appointed by and acting for the City Council or City Manager and shall be a Registered Civil Engineer.

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4.01.6 City Inspector: the inspector acting for and appointed by the City Council or City Manager, or the City Manager himself or herself.

4.01.7 City Manager: the person or persons appointed by the Council to administer and enforce the rules and regulations of the City.

4.01.8 Contractor: an individual, firm, corporation, partnership or association duly licensed by the State of California to perform the type of work to be done under the permit.

4.01.9 Council: the City Council of the City of Ferndale.

4.01.10 County: the County of Humboldt, State of California.

4.01.11 Garbage: solid wastes from the preparation, cooking and dispensing of food and from the handling, storage and sale of produce.

4.01.12 Multiple Dwelling: a building for residential purposes containing more than one kitchen or having facilities for the occupancy of more than one person or families, including but not limited to the following:
hotels, motels, auto courts, trailer courts, apartment houses, duplexes, rooming houses, boarding houses and dormitories.

4.01.13 Permit: any written authorization required pursuant to this or any other regulation of the City for the installation of any sewage works.

4.01.14 Person: any human being, individual, firm, company, partnership, association and private or public and municipal corporations, the United States of America, the State of California, districts and all political subdivisions, and governmental agencies.

4.01.15 Sewage: a combination of water-carried wastes from residences, business buildings, institutions and industrial establishments.

4.01.16 Sewage Treatment Plant: any arrangement of devices and structures used for treating sewage.

4.01.17 Sewage Works: all facilities for collecting, pumping, treating and disposing of sewage.

4.01.18 Sewer: a pipe or conduit for carrying sewage.
a. Building Sewer: that portion of any sewer beginning at the plumbing or drainage outlet of any building or industrial facility and running to the property line or to a private sewage disposal system.
b. Combined Sewer: a sewer receiving both surface runoff and sewage.
c. Lateral Sewer: the portion of a sewer lying within a public street connecting a building sewer to the main sewer.
d. Main Sewer: a public sewer designed to accommodate more than one lateral sewer.
e. Outside Sewer: a sanitary sewer beyond the limits of the City not subject to the control or jurisdiction of the City.
f. Onsite Wastewater Treatment System (OWTS): underground structures designed to treat and dispose of domestic wastewater on-site, typically for homes and businesses in areas without centralized sewer systems
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g. Public Sewer: a sewer lying within a street and which is controlled by or under the jurisdiction of the City.
h. Sanitary Sewer: a sewer which carries sewage and to which storm, surface and ground waters are not intentionally admitted. i. Storm Sewer: a sewer which carries storm and surface or ground waters and drainage but excludes sewage and polluted industrial wastes.
j. Side Sewer: the sewer line beginning at the foundation wall of any building and terminating at the main sewer and includes the building sewer and lateral sewer together.

4.01.19 Single Family Unit: defined to mean and refer to the place of a residence for a single family.

4.01.20 Storm Drain: see Storm Sewer.

4.01.21 Street: any public highway, road, street, avenue, alley, way, public place, public easement or right of way.

ARTICLE 5: GENERAL PROVISIONS
§5.01 City Inspector: The City Council or City Manager shall employ a fit and qualified person or persons to perform the duties of inspecting installations, connections, maintenance and use of all side sewers, public sewers and facilities in the City, to be known as the City Inspector with full authorization to enforce this Ordinance.
§5.02 Permits and Fees: No public sewer, side sewer, building sewer or other sewerage facility shall be installed, altered or repaired within the City until a permit for the work has been obtained from the City and all fees paid in accordance with the requirements of this ordinance.
§5.03 Violation Unlawful: Following the effective date of this ordinance it shall be unlawful for any person whose building is required to be connected to a public sewer to connect to, construct, install or provide, maintain and use any other means of sewage disposal from said building except by connection to a public sewer in the manner provided.
§5.04 Relief on Application.

5.04.1 When any person by reason of special circumstances is of the opinion that any provision of this ordinance is unjust or inequitable as applied to their premises, they may make written application to the City Council stating the special circumstances and requesting suspension or modification of the offending provision.

5.04.2 The City Council may, by resolution, suspend or modify the offensive provision to be effective as of the date of the application and continuing during the period of the special circumstances.

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§5.05 Relief on Own Motion: The City Council may, on its own motion, find that by reason of special circumstances any provision of this regulation and ordinance should be suspended or modified. Details of the specific circumstances must be fully stated in the motion.

ARTICLE 6: PUBLIC SEWERS
§6.01 Requirements.

6.01.1 Disposal of Wastes: It shall be unlawful for any person to place, deposit, or permit to be deposited in an unsanitary manner upon public or private property within the City, or in any area under the jurisdiction of the City, any human or animal excrement, garbage or other objectionable waste.

6.01.2 Treatment of Wastes Required: It shall be unlawful to discharge to any stream or watercourse any sewage, industrial wastes or other polluted waters, except where suitable treatment has been provided in accordance with provisions of this ordinance and County, State and Federal law.

6.01.3 Unlawful Disposal: Except as provided in this ordinance, it is unlawful to construct or maintain any privy, privy vault, septic tank, cesspool, seepage pit or other facility intended or used for the disposal of sewage.

6.01.4 Occupancy Prohibited: No building, industrial facility or other structure shall be occupied until the owner of the premises has complied with all inspections, rules and regulations of this Ordinance.

6.01.5 Sewer Required: Owners of buildings abutting on a street where there is now or may be a public City sewer, are required, at their expense, to connect the building to the public sewer in accordance with this ordinance, within ninety (90) days after date of official notice, provided that the public sewer is within one hundred (200) feet of the nearest point of the building.

6.01.6 Drainage into Sanitary Sewers Prohibited: No leaders from roofs and no surface drains for rainwater shall be connected to any sanitary sewer. No surface or storm water, seepage, cooling water or unpolluted industrial process waters shall be permitted to enter any sanitary sewer by any device or method.

6.01.7 Types of Waste Prohibited: Except as provided here, no person shall discharge or cause to be discharged any of the following waters or wastes to any public sewer:
a. Any liquid or vapor having a temperature higher than 150 degrees Fahrenheit.
b. Any water or waste which may contain more than 100
milligrams per liter of fat, oil or grease.
i. (This section added by Ord. 07-03 on 8/13/07)
Businesses must have a sample point approved by the
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City downstream of the grease trap and prior to entering the collection system.
ii. One preliminary sample will be collected by the City from this point and taken to a lab approved by the City. iii. Businesses that have samples return with results in compliance with the ordinance will be required to have a sample taken every two years.
iv. Businesses that have samples return with results above the allowed limit will be responsible for costs incurred to make any changes necessary to be in compliance and take subsequent samples every 6 months until they are in
compliance and then every 2 years thereafter.
v. The City will absorb 50% of the cost of the preliminary test. All tests subsequent to the preliminary test will be at the business’s expense. (End of section added by
ordinance 07-03, August 13, 2007)
c. Any gasoline, benzine, naptha, fuel oil or other flammable or explosive liquid, solid or gas.
d. Any garbage that has not been shredded to such a degree that all particles will be carried freely under the flow conditions normally prevailing in public sewers, with no particle greater than one-half inch in any dimension.
e. Any ashes, cinders, sand, mud, straw, shavings, metal, glass, rags, feathers, tar, plastics, wood, manure, or any other solid or viscous substance capable of causing obstruction to the flow in sewers or other interference with the proper operation of the sewage works.
f. Any waters or wastes having a pH lower than 5.5 or higher than

9.0 or having any other corrosive property capable of causing damage or hazard to structures, equipment and personnel of the sewage works.
g. Any waters or wastes containing a toxic or poisonous substance in sufficient quantity to injure or interfere with any sewage treatment process, constituting a hazard to humans or animals, or creating any hazard in the receiving waters of the sewage treatment plant.
h. Any waters or wastes containing suspended solids of such character and quantity that unusual attention or expense is required to handle these materials at the sewage treatment plant. i. Any noxious or malodorous gas or substance capable of creating a public nuisance.
j. Any septic tank sludge.

6.01.8 Interceptors.
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amounts, or any flammable wastes, sand and other harmful ingredients; except that such interceptors shall not be required for buildings used for residential purposes. All interceptors shall be of a type and capacity approved by the City Engineer and shall be so located as to be readily and easily accessible for cleaning and inspection.
b. Maintenance of Interceptors. All grease, oil, and sand interceptors shall be maintained by the owner, at his expense, in continuously efficient operation at all times.

6.01.9 Preliminary Treatment of Wastes.
a. The admission into the public sewers of any waters or wastes having the following shall be subject to the review and approval of the City Engineer:
i. A 5-day Biochemical Oxygen Demand greater than 300
milligrams per liter or
ii. Containing more than 350 milligrams per liter of
suspended solids or
iii. Containing any quantity of substance having the
characteristics described in Section 601.8 or
iv. Having an average daily flow greater than two percent of the average daily flow of the City.
b. Where necessary, in the opinion of the City Engineer, the owner shall provide, at his expense, such preliminary treatment as may be necessary to:
i. Reduce the Biochemical Oxygen Demand to 300
milligrams per liter and the suspended solids to 350
milligrams per liter or
ii. Reduce objectionable characteristics or constituents to within the maximum limits provided for in Section 601.7 or
iii. Control the quantities and rates of discharge of such waters or wastes.
c. Plans, specifications and any other pertinent information relating to proposed preliminary treatment facilities shall be submitted for the approval of the City Engineer and no construction of the facility shall begin until approvals are obtained in writing. d. Maintenance of Pretreatment Facilities. Pre-treatment systems shall be maintained continuously in satisfactory and effective operation by the owner at his expense and to the satisfaction of the City Engineer.

6.01.10 Control Manholes. When required by the City Engineer, the owner of any property served by the side sewer carrying industrial wastes shall install a suitable control manhole in the side sewer to facilitate observation, sampling and measurement of wastes. Such manhole, when required, shall be accessible and safely located, and shall be constructed in accordance with plans approved by the City Engineer.

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The manhole shall be installed by the owner at his expense, and shall be maintained so as to be safely accessible at all times.

6.01.11 Measurements and Tests. All measurements, tests and analyses of the characteristics of waters and wastes to which reference is made in Sections 601.7 and 601.9 shall be determined in accordance with standard methods and shall be determined at the control manhole provided for in Section 601.10, or upon suitable samples taken from control manholes. In the event that no special manhole has been required, the control manhole shall be considered to be the nearest downstream manhole in the public sewer to the point at which the side sewer is connected.

6.01.12 Special Agreements. No statement contained in this Article shall be construed as preventing any special agreements or arrangements between the City and any industrial concern whereby an industrial waste of unusual strength or character may be accepted by the City for treatment subject to payment by the industrial concern and subject to such terms and conditions as might be required by the City to compensate for the costs of handling treatment and disposal.

6.01.13 Swimming Pools. It shall be unlawful for any person to discharge the contents of a swimming pool into a sanitary sewer.

ARTICLE 7: BUILDING SEWERS, LATERAL SEWERS AND CONNECTIONS. §7.01 Requirements.

7.01.1 Permit Required.
a. In accordance with this ordinance, no person shall construct a building sewer, lateral sewer or make a connection with any public sewer without first obtaining a written permit from the City and paying all fees and connection charges as required. b. Design and Construction shall be in accordance with the requirements of the City and in accordance with standard City specifications.

7.01.2 Separate Sewers.
a. No two adjacent buildings fronting on the same street shall be permitted to join in the use of the same side sewer.
b. Every building or industrial facility must be separately connected with a public sewer if such public sewer exists on the street upon which the property abuts or in an easement which will serve said property.
c. However, two or more buildings located on property belonging to the same owner may be served with the same side sewer provided the property cannot be subdivided into two smaller legal-sized lots.

7.01.3 Old Sewer Connection: Old Building Sewers may be used in connection with new buildings only when they are found, upon March 18, 2026
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examination and test by the City Inspector, to meet all requirements of the City.

7.01.4 Cleanouts: Cleanouts in building sewers shall be provided in accordance with the rules, regulations and ordinances of the City. All cleanouts shall be maintained watertight.

7.01.5 Sewer too Low: In all buildings hereafter constructed in which any building sewer is too low to permit gravity flow to the public sewer, sanitary sewage carried by such building sewer shall be lifted by artificial means, approved by the City Engineer, and discharged to the public sewer at the expense of the owner.

7.01.6 Connection to Public Sewer: The connection of the building sewer into the lateral sewer shall be made in strict accordance with standard City specifications and at the applicant’s expense. The connection to the lateral sewer shall be made in the presence of the City Inspector and under his supervision and direction. Any damage to the lateral sewer shall be repaired at the cost of the applicant to the satisfaction of the City Inspector.

7.01.7 Maintenance: Maintenance of Building Sewers shall be the responsibility of the owner of the property served.

7.01.8 Testing: All building sewers and lateral sewers shall be tested in strict accordance with standard City specifications.
§7.02 Excessive Infiltration.

7.02.1 Testing. (See Sewer Testing Procedures)
a. As part of any Capital Improvement Program to repair and rehabilitate portions of the main sewer, testing and inspection of building sewers, lateral sewers and connections served by the main sewer being repaired or rehabilitated shall be conducted under the direction of the City Inspector.
b. Testing and inspection of the building sewer, lateral sewer and connections shall be conducted using one or more of the following methods:
i. Visual inspection
ii. TV inspection
iii. Smoke testing
iv. Flow monitoring
v. Air pressure testing
vi. Exfiltration testing
vii. Or similar inspection or testing methods as approved by the City Engineer.

7.02.2 Responsibility for Repair/Replacement of Building Sewers, Lateral Sewers and Connections.
a. It shall be the responsibility of the property owner to repair and/or replace any building sewer which has been found through testing and/or inspection to exhibit conditions which would March 18, 2026
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permit infiltration to enter the sewer system at a greater rate than the allowance under City standard specifications.
b. It shall be the responsibility of the City to repair and/or replace any and all lateral sewers and connections found to contribute to infiltration at a rate greater than allowed under City standard specifications on City property.

7.02.3 Notification to Property Owner.
a. A permit shall be obtained from the City and work initiated to repair and/or replace any building sewer found to be a source for infiltration pursuant to this ordinance within thirty (30) days of the receipt of a Notice to Repair Building Sewer issued by the City.
b. Such notice shall be mailed by certified US Mail to the property owner as appearing on the latest available property ownership listing from the County Assessor’s Office.
c. Work to repair and/or replace the building sewer shall be completed within ninety (90) days of the receipt of the Notice to Repair Building Sewer, unless a written extension is granted by the City Inspector.

7.02.4 Inspection and Retesting of Building Sewers.
a. Upon completion of the repair and/or replacement of the building sewer, a re-inspection and testing of the sewer lateral shall be conducted by the City Inspector.
b. The building sewer shall be tested in accordance with the City standard specifications.
c. Upon approval, a Certificate of Satisfactory Completion shall be mailed to the property owner by the City.

7.02.5 Failure to Repair/Replace Constitutes a Violation – Remedies. a. The failure to repair and/or replace a building sewer subject to correction under Section 7.02.2 within the time period given in the Notice to Repair Building Sewer shall be deemed a violation of City ordinance and is subject to the enforcement provisions as set forth in Article 3, sections 3.01 through 3.07, inclusive, of this ordinance.
b. In addition to the remedies set forth above, the City Council may direct the Director of Public Works to make the required repair and/or replacement of a building sewer for which the property owner has declined or otherwise failed to correct within the period specified in this ordinance, and to have the cost of said corrective work placed as a lien against the subject property on the property tax roll.

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ARTICLE 8: LATERAL TESTING UPON SALE
§8.01 Transfer of Property and Testing. (This section changed by Ordinance 08-01 adopted 3/10/08)

8.01.1 Whenever any property is to be sold or transferred to or vested in any other entity, the sewer lateral(s) to the property shall be tested for infiltration and all necessary repairs or replacements performed to prevent all infiltration.
a. This test will be set up by a licensed contractor, paid for by the property seller or buyer, and signed off by the City Manager or authorized representative. Test requirements are available at City Hall.

8.01.2 An inspection card signed by an authorized City Inspector must accompany title transfer proceedings. It is the responsibility of the property buyer or seller to repair, replace and conform to all infiltration requirements prior to transfer of property connected to the city sewer system.

8.01.3 Exceptions: This section shall not apply to:
a. Condominium or cooperative apartment buildings;
b. To all buildings where the City Manager, or authorized representative, determines that testing and repair or replacement of lateral(s) has been performed to City standards within the last three (3) years.
c. To all buildings where the City Manager, or authorized representative, determines that new sewer construction has been inspected and passed within the last three (3) years.
i. This determination shall be made by a test performed by City staff. Except for standard permit costs, there will be no charge to the property owner for this test. In the event that the test fails, refer to §8.03.
(End section changed by Ordinance 08-01 adopted 3/10/08) §8.02 Sewer Lateral Testing.

8.02.1 The property owner or his/her appointed contractor shall obtain a plumbing permit for sewer lateral testing prior to commencing with the testing procedure.

8.02.2 Testing methods and procedures shall conform to standard testing specifications (Sewer Testing Procedures) adopted by the city, copies of which are on file in the City Clerk’s office.

8.02.3 All conditions and access shall be made ready prior to scheduling an inspection. If an inspection is scheduled and cannot be performed because of inadequate condition or access to the sewer lateral, the city may recover costs.

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§8.03 Failure of Test.

8.03.1 Should the lateral fail the test, the lateral shall be either repaired or replaced and retested.

8.03.2 A plumbing permit will be required in order to perform the necessary repairs or replacement.

8.03.3 This process shall continue until the lateral passes the required test. §8.04 Lateral Certification. Once the lateral has successfully passed the testing procedure, the City Inspector witnessing the test will sign the permit inspection card as approved.

ARTICLE 9: PUBLIC SEWER CONSTRUCTION
§9.01 Requirements.

9.01.1 Permit Required. In accordance with this ordinance, no person shall construct, extend or connect to any public sewer without first obtaining a written permit from the City and paying all fees and connections charges and furnishing bonds as required. The provisions of this Section requiring permits shall not be construed to apply to contractors constructing sewers and appurtenances under contracts awarded and entered into by the City.

9.01.2 Plans, Profiles and Specifications required.
a. The application for a permit for public sewer construction shall be accompanied by three (3) complete sets of plans, profiles and specifications, complying with all applicable ordinances, rules and regulations of the City, prepared by a Registered Civil Engineer showing all details of the proposed work based on an accurate survey of the ground.
b. The application, together with the plans, profiles and specifications shall be examined by the City Engineer who shall within twenty (20) days approve them as filed or require them to be modified as he deems necessary for proper installation. c. After examination by the City Engineer, the application, plans, profiles and specifications shall be submitted to the City Council at its next regular meeting for its consideration. When the City Council is satisfied that the proposed work is proper and the plans, profiles and specifications are sufficient and correct, it shall order the issuance of a permit predicated upon the payment of all connection charges, fees and furnishing bonds as required by the City Council. The permit shall prescribe such terms and conditions as the City Council finds necessary in the public interest.

9.01.3 Subdivisions.

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a. The requirements of §8.01 of this ordinance shall be fully complied with before any final subdivision map shall be approved by the City Council.
b. The final subdivision map shall provide for the dedication for public use of streets, easements or rights of way in which public sewer lines are to be constructed.
c. If a final subdivision map of a tract is recorded and the work of constructing sewers to serve the tract is not completed within the time limit allowed in the permit, the City Council may extend the time limit or may complete the work and take appropriate steps to enforce the provisions of the bond furnished by the subdivider.

9.01.4 Easements or Rights of Way.
a. In the event that an easement is required for the extension of the public sewer or the making of connections, the applicant shall procure and have accepted by the City Council a proper
easement or grant of right of way having a minimum width of ten (10) feet sufficient in law to allow the laying and maintenance of such extension or connection.

9.01.5 Persons Authorized to Perform Work.
a. Only properly licensed contractors and City personnel shall be authorized to perform the work of public sewer construction within the district. All terms and conditions of the permit issued by the City to the applicant shall be binding on the Contractor.

9.01.6 Compliance with Local Regulations.
a. Any person constructing a sewer within a street shall comply with all state, county or city laws, ordinances, rules and regulations pertaining to the cutting of pavement, opening, barricading, lighting and protecting of trenches, backfilling and repaving and shall obtain all permits and pay all fees required by the department having jurisdiction prior to the issuance of a permit by the City.

9.01.7 Design and Construction Standards.
a. Minimum standards for the design and construction of sewers within the District shall be in accordance with the Standard Specifications heretofore or hereafter adopted by the City, copies of which are on file in the City Clerk’s office.
b. The City Engineer, with the consent of the City Council, may permit modifications or may require higher standards where unusual conditions are encountered.
c. Three (3) complete sets of “as-built” drawings showing the actual location of all mains, structures, Y’s and laterals shall be filed with the City before final acceptance of the work.

9.01.8 Completion of Sewer Required.
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requirements of the Standard Specifications and to the
satisfaction of the City Engineer.

ARTICLE 10: PERMITS AND FEES
§10.01 Requirements.

10.01.1 Permit Required. No unauthorized person shall uncover, make any connection with or opening into, use, alter or disturb any public sewer or appurtenances or perform any work on any lateral or building sewer without first obtaining a written permit from the City.

10.01.2 Application for Permit.
a. Any person legally entitled to apply for and receive a permit shall make such application on forms provided by the City for that purpose. He shall give a description of the character of the work, the location, ownership, occupancy and use of the premises. The City Engineer may require plans, specifications, drawings and such other information as he may deem necessary. b. If the City Engineer determines that the plans, specifications, drawings, descriptions or information furnished by the applicant is in compliance with the ordinances, rules, regulations of the City, he shall issue the permit applied for upon receiving the required fees as fixed by the City.

10.01.3 Agreement.
a. The applicant’s signature on an application for any permit shall constitute an agreement to comply with all of the provisions, terms and requirements of this and other ordinances, rules and regulations of the City, and with the plans and specifications he has filed with his application, if any, together with such corrections or modifications as may be made or permitted by the City, if any.
b. Such agreement shall be binding upon the applicant and may be altered only by the City upon the written request for the alteration from the applicant.
§10.02 Fees and Charges.

10.02.1 Connection Fees. In addition to any other charges established by the ordinances, rules and regulations of the City, there shall be collected, prior to connection to the sanitary sewerage system of the City, a special connection charge as follows:
a. Existing Facilities Connection Charge: A charge computed on a basis of a percentage, as set by the Sewer Fee Ordinance, of the estimated cost of construction of any main public sewer necessary to provide service to any parcel, unit or lot, or part of the property to be served, lying within the present boundaries of March 18, 2026
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the City. Said charge shall be deemed to be said property’s share of the cost of the existing sewer facilities of the City to be used by said property and toward the cost of which said property has made no payment.
b. Special Connection Charge: For any parcel, unit or lot, or part of said property which abuts on or can be directly served by any existing sewer main or sanitary sewer facilities of the City constructed pursuant to special agreement, wherein the City has agreed to reimburse to the party making the original installation a share of the cost of original construction attributable to parcels of property later connecting to said main or facilities, special connection charges in addition to any other charges established by the City, which must be paid prior to the issuance of a permit for sewer connection, are hereby established as follows:
i. Where private facilities consist of collection mains together with trunk mains and/or any other sanitary
sewerage facility, an additional special connection charge shall be collected in a sum to be computed by the City
Engineer as the property’s share of the cost of the sewer mains and other sanitary sewer facilities of the City,
constructed pursuant to special agreement, to be used by the property.
ii. These additional costs shall be equivalent to the prorated share of the cost of the installation made pursuant to the special agreement.
c. Lateral Service Connection Charges: In addition to any other charges established by the ordinances, rules and regulations of the City, there shall be collected, prior to connection to the sanitary sewerage system of the City, a charge, as set by the Sewer Fee Ordinance.
d. Special Connection Charges: In addition to any other charges established herein, the City may establish special connection charges for any sewer connection when, in the opinion of the City Council the circumstances of such connection necessitates the establishment of unusual conditions or necessitates the payment of charges over and above those established to recover additional cost to the City.
e. Sewer Permit and Inspection Charges: Permit and inspection charges are established by the Sewer Fee Ordinance:
i. Single Family Residence
ii. Trailer Courts and Multiple Dwellings
iii. Commercial, Industrial, Church, School, Public and Other Users. If property is to be developed for
commercial and industrial uses, the City Engineer may
require a special analysis of the effect of the installation on the sewage effluent, at the applicant’s expense.

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iv. Public Sewer Construction Permit
v. Alteration of Existing Sewer Installation.

10.02.2 Bond – Public Sewer Construction. Prior to the issuance of a permit for public sewer construction, the applicant shall furnish to the City a faithful performance bond or cash in the amount of the total estimated cost of the work; said bond to be secured by a surety or sureties satisfactory to the City. This cash deposit or faithful performance bond shall be conditioned upon the performance of the terms and conditions of the permit and shall guarantee the correction of faulty workmanship and the replacement of defective materials for a period of one (1) year after the date of the acceptance of the work.

10.02.3 All Work to be Inspected. All sewer construction work shall be inspected by an Inspector acting for the City to insure compliance with all requirements of the City. No sewer shall be covered at any point until it has been inspected and passed for acceptance. No sewer shall be connected to the City’s public sewer until the work covered by the permit has been completed, inspected and approved by the City Inspector. If the test proves satisfactory and the sewer has been cleaned of all debris accumulated from construction operations, the Inspector shall issue a certificate of satisfactory completion.

10.02.4 Notification. It shall be the duty of the person doing the work authorized by permit to notify the City Inspector that said work is ready for inspection. Such notification shall be given not less than forty-eight (48) hours, Saturdays, Sundays and Holidays excluded, before the work is to be inspected. It shall be the duty of the person doing the work to make sure that the work will stand the tests required by the City before giving the above notification.

10.02.5 Condemned Work. When any work has been inspected and the work condemned and no certification of satisfactory completion given, a written notice to that effect shall be given instructing the owner of the premises, or the agent of such owner, to repair the sewer or other work authorized by the permit in accordance with the ordinances, rules and regulations of the City.

10.02.6 Outside Sewers.
a. Permission shall not be granted to connect any lot or parcel of land outside the City unless a permit is obtained. The applicant shall first enter into a contract in writing whereby he shall bind himself, his heirs, successors and assigns to abide by all ordinances, rules and regulations in regard to the manner in which such sewer shall be used and the manner of connecting, and also shall agree to pay all fees required for securing the permit and a monthly fee in the amount set by the City for the privilege of using such sewer.
b. Subject to Council approval. The granting of such permission for an outside sewer shall require City Council approval.

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c. Special Outside Agreements. Where special conditions exist relating to an outside sewer, they shall be the subject of a special contract between the applicant and the City.
d. Street Excavation Permit. A separate permit must be secured from the County or any other person having jurisdiction thereover by owners or contractors intending to excavate in a public street outside the City for the purpose of installing sewers or making sewer connections.

10.02.7 Liability. The City and its officers, agents and employees shall not be answerable for any liability or injury or death to any person or damage to any property arising during or growing out of the performance of any work by any such applicant. The applicant shall be answerable for, and shall save the City and its officers, agents and employees harmless from any liability imposed by law upon the City or its officers, agents or employees, including all costs, expenses, fees and interest incurred in defending or in seeking to enforce this provision. Applicant shall be solely liable for any defects in the work performed in compliance with this Ordinance, or any failure which may result.

10.02.8 Time Limit on Permits. If work under a permit is not commenced within six (6) months from the date of issuance or if after partial completion, the work is discontinued for a period of one (1) year, the permit shall become void and no further work shall be done until a new permit shall have been secured. A new fee shall be paid upon the issuance of said new permit.

ARTICLE 11: SEWER SERVICE CHARGE
§11.01 Monthly Rates. The monthly service sewer charge shall be fixed by the Sewer Fee Ordinance of the City Council at such sum as it may determine necessary to maintain the system. Fees will only be terminated if the sewer is disconnected from the city sewer system and capped per City standards. §11.02 Separate Fund. The City shall maintain a separate sewer fund. No portion of the sewer fund shall be used by the City except to reimburse the City for direct sewer-related costs.

ARTICLE 12: ONSITE WASTEWATER TREATMENT SYSTEMS
§12.01 Purpose and Findings.

12.01.1 The Ferndale City Council enacts this Ordinance for the management of Onsite Wastewater Treatment Systems (OWTS) in order to promote the health, safety, and well-being of residents of the City of Ferndale by providing them a means to prevent water pollution, nuisances, and threats to public health.

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12.01.2 In addition, this Ordinance is intended to bring the City of Ferndale into compliance with the Water Quality Control Policy for Siting, Design, Operation, and Maintenance of Onsite Wastewater Treatment Systems and applicable policies and regulations of the State Water Resources Control Board.

12.01.3 The City Council finds that adopting the Humboldt County Local Agency Management Plan (LAMP) and associated Onsite Wastewater Treatment System (OWTS) standards by reference, and delegating day-to-day administration and enforcement to County of Humboldt Department of Health and Human Services, Division of Environmental Health (“County Environmental Health”), will promote uniform, technically current, and enforceable OWTS regulations within the City; protect public health, water quality, and the environment; and avoid duplicative local programs.

12.01.4 The City Council further finds that amending City of Ferndale Ordinance 03-05 will establish binding and enforceable public health and sanitation standards applicable to private property. (Gov. Code §§ 36931–36937)
§12.02 Adoption by Reference. The City of Ferndale hereby adopts by reference the Humboldt County LAMP, including any OWTS manuals, technical standards, procedures, and appendices referenced therein, as may be amended from time to time by the County of Humboldt and approved by the North Coast Regional Water Quality Control Board, as the City of Ferndale’s OWTS regulations, except as modified in section 12.02.1.a.

12.02.1 Humboldt County Onsite Wastewater Treatment System (OWTS) Regulations and Technical Manual, issued and effective November 7, 2017, the subparagraph titled “Eligibility”, on page 1, the first sentence is hereby modified as follows:
a. A site that is greater than 300 200 feet from a public sewer can be evaluated for OWTS use.
§12.03 Scope. The Humboldt County LAMP and associated OWTS standards adopted by reference in section 12.02 shall apply to all OWTS activities within the City limits, including but not limited to siting, design, installation, modification, repair, replacement, operation, monitoring, inspection, and abandonment of OWTS.

12.04 Definitions. Unless otherwise defined in this Ordinance, terms shall have the meanings set forth in the OWTS Policy and the County of Humboldt LAMP.

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§12.05 Delegation of Administration and Agreements.

12.05.1 Delegation. The City hereby designates and authorizes County Environmental Health to administer, implement, and enforce the LAMP and associated OWTS standards within the City, including plan review, permitting, inspections, compliance actions, and monitoring oversight.

12.05.2 Agreements. The City Manager, or their designee, is authorized to execute any intergovernmental or service agreements, amendments, or renewals with the County of Humboldt necessary to carry out this delegation, including cost-recovery provisions.
§12.06 Permits and Fees.

12.06.1 Permits. No person shall install, construct, alter, repair, replace, operate, or abandon an OWTS within the City without first obtaining required approvals or permits from County Environmental Health in accordance with the LAMP.

12.06.2 Fees. Applicants shall pay permit, inspection, monitoring, and related fees established by the County of Humboldt for OWTS services under the LAMP, as such fees may be amended from time to time consistent with applicable law.
§12.07 Enforcement and Remedies.

12.07.1 Enforcement. County Environmental Health is authorized to take any enforcement action authorized by the LAMP, County code, or applicable state law for violations occurring within the City, including notices of violation, administrative orders, permit
suspensions/revocations, and referrals for civil or criminal enforcement as permitted by law.

12.07.2 City Remedies Preserved. The City retains independent authority to enforce violations of this Ordinance as City code violations, in addition to any County or state remedies.

ARTICLE 13: SEVERABILITY
If any section, subsection, sentence, clause, phrase or portion of this ordinance is for any reason held to be invalid or unconstitutional by the final decision of any court of competent jurisdiction, such a decision shall not affect the validity of the remaining portions of this ordinance.

ARTICLE 14: EFFECTIVE DATE:

This ordinance becomes effective thirty (30) days after the date of its enactment.

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ARTICLE 15: POSTING REQUIREMENT:

The City Clerk shall cause publication of this ordinance within 15 days after passage in a newspaper of general circulation published and circulated in the city, and posted in at least three public places in the city.

ARTICLE 16: ENACTING DATE AND SIGNATURES:

Passed, approved and adopted by the City Council of the City of Ferndale at a regular meeting on March 4, 2004 by the following vote:

AYES:

NOES:

ABSENT:

ATTEST:
_____________________________ ____________________________ Frances Scalvini, City Clerk Elizabeth Anderson, Mayor
First Reading: December 4, 2003
Second Reading: January 6, 2004
Third Reading: February 5, 2004
Fourth Reading March 4, 2004
Amended by Ordinance 07-03 8/13/07
Amended by Ordinance 08-01 3/10/08
Amended by Ordinance 2026-03
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Meeting Date: March 18, 2026 Agenda Item Number: 13.a
Agenda Item Title: 2025 General Plan and Housing Element Annual Progress Reports Presented By: City Planner
Type of Item: x Action x Discussion Information
Action Required: No Action x Voice Vote Roll Call Vote
STAFF RECOMMENDATION:

Receive and provide input, including public comment, on the 2025 General Plan Annual Progress Report, which includes the 2025 Housing Element Annual Progress Report; accept for filing, and direct staff to submit to the State.

OVERVIEW OF THE GENERAL PLAN ANNUAL PROGRESS REPORT
Government Code Sections 65400 and 65700 mandate that all cities and counties submit an annual report on the status of the General Plan and progress in its implementation to their legislative bodies, the Governor’s Office of Land Use and Climate Innovation (LCI) (formerly known as the Office of Planning and Research or OPR) and the Housing and Community Development (HCD) by April 1 of each year. Annual progress reports (APRs) must also be presented to the local legislative body for review and acceptance, usually as a consent or discussion item on a regular meeting agenda.

The General Plan APR provides the City Council and the public with information regarding how the General Plan was implemented during the 12-month reporting period. Although the Housing Element is part of the City’s General Plan, the progress report for the Housing Element is prepared and filed separately. The housing element APR is used by the California Department of Housing and Community Development (HCD) to monitor a jurisdiction’s progress on implementing its housing element. The timely filing of the Housing Element APR is necessary for a locality to maintain compliance with housing element law. Upon acceptance of the 2025 General Plan APR (including the Housing Element APR), both reports will be filed with LCI and HCD before April 1, 2026.

Attachment A includes the Housing Element APR auto-generated summary because the full housing element APR consists of over a dozen separate Excel worksheets.

ENVIRONMENTAL REVIEW
The California Environmental Quality Act (CEQA) does not apply because the General Plan Annual Report does not constitute a “Project” under CEQA Guidelines Sec. 15378.

ATTACHMENTS:

A.1 – Summary Table from the 2025 Housing Element Progress Report A.2 – Table D from the 2025 Housing Element Annual Progress Report B – General Plan Annual Progress Report for 2025
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Jurisdiction Ferndale
Reporting Year 2025
Housing Element Planning Period 6th Cycle
Current Year
Deed
Restricted 0
Non-Deed
Restricted 0
Deed
Restricted 0
Non-Deed
Restricted 0
Deed
Restricted 0
Non-Deed
Restricted 0
Deed
Restricted 0
Non-Deed
Restricted 0
Deed
Restricted 0
Non-Deed
Restricted 3
1 4
Units by Structure Type Entitled Permitted Completed
Single-family Attached 0 0 0
Single-family Detached 0 1 0
2 to 4 units per structure 0 0 3
5+ units per structure 0 0 0
Accessory Dwelling Unit 0 3 3
Mobile/Manufactured Home 0 0 1
Total 0 4 7
Infill Housing Developments and Infill Units Permitted # of Projects Units 4 4
0 0
4 4
4 0
0 0
Income Rental Ownership Total
Acutely Low 0 0 0
Extremely Low 0 0 0
Very Low 0 0 0
Low 0 0 0
Moderate 0 0 0
Above Moderate 0 0 0
Total 0 0 0
Streamlining Provisions Used - Permitted Units # of Projects Units SB 9 (2021) - Duplex in SF Zone 0 0
SB 9 (2021) - Residential Lot Split 0 0
AB 2011 (2022) 0 0
SB 6 (2022) 0 0
SMAP 0 0
Ministerial and Discretionary Applications # of Units
Ministerial 4 4
Discretionary 0 0
Density Bonus Applications and Units Permitted
Number of Applications Submitted Requesting a Density Bonus 0 Number of Units in Applications Submitted Requesting a Density Bonus 0 Number of Projects Permitted with a Density Bonus 0
Number of Units in Projects Permitted with a Density Bonus 0 Housing Element Programs Implemented and Sites Rezoned Count 15 0
Total Housing Applications Submitted:

Number of Proposed Units in All Applications Received:

Total Housing Units Approved:

Total Housing Units Disapproved:

Total Units
Housing Applications Summary
Use of Streamlined Ministerial Approval Process or SMAP (formerly SB 35 / 423) - Applications Number of SMAP Applications
Above Moderate
Indicated as Infill
Not Indicated as Infill
Building Permits Issued by Affordability Summary
Income Level
Programs Implemented
Sites Rezoned to Accommodate the RHNA
(Jan. 1 - Dec. 31)
08/31/2019 - 08/31/2027
Units Constructed - SMAP (formerly SB 35 / 423) - Permits Number of SMAP Applications Approved
Very Low
Low
Moderate
Acutely Low
Extremely Low
ATTACHMENT A.1
Summary Table from the 2025 Housing Element Progress Report March 18, 2026
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81 _________________________________________
Jurisdiction Ferndale
Reporting Year 2025 (Jan. 1 - Dec. 31)
1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9
Name of Program Objective
Projected Completion
Date in Housing
Element
Applicable Cycle Status of Program
Implementation
Program
Implementation
Details
Quantified Outcomes:

Category
Quantified Outcomes:

Count Supporting Documents
Program 1. Ensure
adequate sites are
available and/or zoned to
allow owner-occupied and
rental multifamily
residential uses by right.

Revisit the “Character” and “Primary and
Compatible Uses”, and “Density Range”
sections of each zone in the Land Use
Element. Update as appropriate to ensure
both single-family and multifamily uses are
anticipated uses in multiple zones. Update
the Zoning Ordinance to allow multifamily
development of up to 4 units in the R4
zone without a use permit. Update the
Zoning Ordinance to allow multifamily
development of more than 4 units in the R4
zone with a use permit. Update the Zoning
Ordinance to allow multifamily development
of more than 4 units in the R3 zone with a
use permit. Evaluate and identify sites with
potential for rezoning to allow for multifamily
uses without a use permit (i.e., R3 and/or
R4 zones). Implement rezoning on
identified sites to R-3 and/or R-4 by 2023.

Review existing City processes for
compliance with AB 2162. Revise zoning
codes/processes to allow supportive
housing by right in zones where multifamily
and mixed uses are permitted, including
nonresidential zones permitting multifamily
uses. Complete review of existing City
processes by August 1, 2020.
8/1/2020 6th Cycle Completed
In Nov. 2024, the City
Council adopted a new Land
Use Map and amended its
land use element (LUE). The
result of these amendments
are: new areas in the City
designated to allow
multifamily development as
a primary use, increased
allowed densities in all
residential designations, and
an increased variety of
housing typologies &
configurations are allowed.

In August and November
2025, the City adopted
amendments to its Zoning
Map and Zoning Ord. for
consistency with the LUE
which includes completing
all objectives with Program

1. Moreover, the City worked
with Paul McDougall &
Anthony Errichetto in
response to an HCD May
2025 LOI.

Other 1
https://ci.ferndale.ca.us/wp/laws/Zoning%20O
rdinance.pdf
ATTACHMENT A.2

ANNUAL ELEMENT PROGRESS REPORT
Housing Element Implementation
Housing Programs Progress Report
Describe progress of all programs including local efforts to remove governmental constraints to the maintenance, improvement, and development of housing as identified in the housing element.

Table D
Program Implementation Status pursuant to GC Section 65583 March 18, 2026
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1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9
Name of Program Objective
Projected Completion
Date in Housing
Element
Applicable Cycle Status of Program
Implementation
Program
Implementation
Details
Quantified Outcomes:

Category
Quantified Outcomes:

Count Supporting Documents
Housing Programs Progress Report
Describe progress of all programs including local efforts to remove governmental constraints to the maintenance, improvement, and development of housing as identified in the housing element.

Program 2. Adopt
incentives for
consolidation of smaller
sites, including priority
processing, modification
of development standards
and ministerial lot line
adjustments.
1) Update Zoning Ordinance to make
Mergers and Lot Line Adjustments stafflevel processes. 2) Consider waiving Lot Line Adjustment and Merger processing
fees for projects that propose to create an
ADU or 20% deed-restricted affordable
units (20 year term).
12/31/2022 6th Cycle Completed
1) Completed: The program
component to update the
merger and lot line
adjustment regulations
completed by adoption of
Ord. 2025-07 on
11/19/2025. 2) Ongoing:

Program component for
consideration of processing
fees for qualifying LLA and
merger applications.

Other 1
https://ci.ferndale.ca.us/wp/laws/Subdivision%
20Ordinance.pdf
Program 3. Analyze
parking regulations to
assess whether they
facilitate or restrict mixeduse development.

Compare with State ADU law to determine
if City regulations can be made to match
ADU parking requirements permissiveness
(e.g. proximity to transit, location in a
significant historic district, etc.); evaluate
current parking requirements and discuss
separating parking requirements for SF &
MF developments; evaluate current parking
requirements and discuss allowing a min.
of 1 space per 2 units of MF housing;
consider allowing required parking spaces
to be provided as tandem spaces.
12/31/2023 6th Cycle Completed
Progress on Program 3 was
flagged in HCD's 5/16/2025
letter of inquiry (LOI) to the
City of Ferndale. The City's
formal reply dated and
transmitted to HCD on
6/10/2025 formally
responds, and provides an
assessment that the City's
exisitng parking regulations
faciltiate residential and
mixed-use development,
and that Program 3's have
been met. Since submitting
its 6/10/25 assessment, the
City has not received further
inquires regarding Program

3. Other 1
See City's June 10, 2025 response to HCD's
May 16, 2025 letter of inquiry (page 98):
https://ci.ferndale.ca.us/wp/city-councilpackets/250716- CouncilPacket.pdf?_wpnonce=df14defe1a
Program 4. Analyze
Ferndale’s Vacancy Rate
to better understand its
causes and develop
potential solutions.

Research methods available to get more
information on Census numbers, e.g.
reaching out to census bureau, County
Assessor, etc. and determine realistic
vacancy numbers; hold study session with
Planning Commission and Council to
discuss potential mechanisms to lower this
number, if applicable based on results of
analysis.
8/31/2027 6th Cycle Not Yet Started
The City will analyze
vacancy rates based on
2020 census data and
explore other sources. The
City will then review
programs from other
jurisdictions with similar
vacancy rates and
socioeconomic conditions to
develop a slate of candidate
programs to reduce the rate
for discussion a study
session.

Other 0
Will be made available as part of the
applicable Planning Commission's and City
Council agenda packets.

March 18, 2026
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1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9
Name of Program Objective
Projected Completion
Date in Housing
Element
Applicable Cycle Status of Program
Implementation
Program
Implementation
Details
Quantified Outcomes:

Category
Quantified Outcomes:

Count Supporting Documents
Housing Programs Progress Report
Describe progress of all programs including local efforts to remove governmental constraints to the maintenance, improvement, and development of housing as identified in the housing element.

Program 5. Offer
incentives such as density
bonuses, permit
streamlining and/or permit
fee reductions/ waivers to
developers to build senior
and affordable housing.

Consider waiving Use Permit fees for
projects in R3 or R4 proposing to create
more units than allowed by right, if 20% of
proposed units will be deed-restricted for a
minimum 20-year term and for projects in
all zones that propose to rent to seniors
(defined as 70 years of age or older).

Consider allowing up to 2 more units by
right in R2, R3, and R4 zones for
development projects that propose to rent
to seniors (defined as 70 years of age or
older). Explore financial methods available
for City to assist in the creation of ADUs,
including limited secured guarantees during
construction, partnering with local
banks/lenders to help facilitate the lending
and financing process for ADUs, property
tax moratoriums, City distribution of preapproved floorplans, etc. Two parcels (APNs 031-032-007 and 030-181-008)
have been identified as available for lower
income RHNA development in the last two
Housing Element Cycles; therefore, as
required by Government Code §65583.2
(c), proposed residential developments at
these two sites within the C-2 and R-2
designations must be allowed by right if at
least twenty percent of units are proposed
to be deed restricted affordable to lowerincome households. 12/31/2022 6th Cycle Completed
ONGOING: Some of the
objectives outlined in this
program overlap with State
Density Bonus Law (SDBL):
the City is aware that
Density Bonus is a state
mandate. A project meeting
the requirements of the state
law is entitled to receive the
density bonus and other
benefits as a matter of right.

COMPLETED with the
adoption of Ordinances
2025-04 (on 8/20/2025) and
2025-06 (on 11/19/2025).

Other 1
https://ci.ferndale.ca.us/wp/laws/Zoning%20O
rdinance.pdf
Program 6. Prioritize
regulatory concessions to
encourage Single Room
Occupancy (SRO) units.

Update the Zoning Ordinance to specifically
allow SRO units by right in R3 and R4
zones. Consider altering procedures to
make existing hotels and multifamily
structure demolition discretionary, such as
requiring City Council review, to address
the potential of converting to SRO rooms.
12/31/2022 6th Cycle Completed
COMPLETED with the
adoption of Ordinance 2025-
06 on 11/19/2025.

Other 1
https://ci.ferndale.ca.us/wp/laws/Zoning%20O
rdinance.pdf
March 18, 2026
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1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9
Name of Program Objective
Projected Completion
Date in Housing
Element
Applicable Cycle Status of Program
Implementation
Program
Implementation
Details
Quantified Outcomes:

Category
Quantified Outcomes:

Count Supporting Documents
Housing Programs Progress Report
Describe progress of all programs including local efforts to remove governmental constraints to the maintenance, improvement, and development of housing as identified in the housing element.

Program 7. Amend the
Zoning Ordinance to allow
agricultural employee
housing for six or fewer
persons to be treated the
same as single family
units in all zones (Health &
Safety Code §17021.5);
and allow bunkhouses of
36 or fewer beds or no
more than 12 units the
same as an agricultural
use in zones allowing
agricultural uses, as
required by Health and
Safety Code §17021.6.

Update the Zoning Ordinance to be
consistent with Health and Safety Code
§17021.5 and §17021.6 regarding
agricultural employee housing.
12/31/2022 6th Cycle Completed
COMPLETED with the
adoption of Ordinance 2025-
04 on 8/20/2025.

Other 1
https://ci.ferndale.ca.us/wp/laws/Zoning%20O
rdinance.pdf
Program 8. Complete
CEQA and Certify the
Safety Element Update to
minimize housing
construction in
environmentally
hazardous areas and for
compliance with
Government Code §65032.

Complete CEQA and Certify the Safety
Element Update to minimize housing
construction in environmentally hazardous
areas and for compliance with Government
Code §65032.
12/31/2022 6th Cycle Completed
COMPLETED: In Nov. 2024,
the City Council certified the
EIR and adopted the Safety
Element update. On
11/26/24, CalOES issued a
letter verifying compliance
with AB 2140. The City
participated in the 2025 multijurisdictional update of region's hazard mitigation
plan.

Other 1
https://ci.ferndale.ca.us/documents/generalplan/
Program 9. Continue to
apply for Federal and
State funding for
infrastructure
improvements and
expansion throughout the
City as outlined in the
Drainage Master Plan and
other Planning
Documents.

Apply for Federal and State Funding for
Sewer and Drainage facility improvements.

Continue to note drainage improvement
projects in the Local Hazard Mitigation Plan
and Local Streets and Roads project list.

Periodically review and update the city-wide
drainage master plan and drainage fee
ordinance. Pursue Transportation Funding
for public transit and road improvement
projects in the proximity of Main Street and
other core areas of Ferndale with potential
for increased Housing development. The
City plans to apply for funding opportunities
three times during the planning period.
8/31/2027 6th Cycle Continuous
ONGOING: In October
2022, the City Council
adopted Resolution 2022-23
for the adoption of the 2022
Drainage Master Plan
Update. The City's Drainage
Committee meets regularly
and actively explores
potential funding to support
drainage infrastructure
projects. The City is
collaborating with the County
on a joint drainage
infrastructure project. In Nov
2025, the City's fix-it-first
road improvement project
was recommended by
HCAOG for CTC funding.

Other 1
https://www.hcaog.net/sites/default/files/Draft
%202026%20RTIP%20Board%20staff%20re
port_2.pdf
March 18, 2026
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1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9
Name of Program Objective
Projected Completion
Date in Housing
Element
Applicable Cycle Status of Program
Implementation
Program
Implementation
Details
Quantified Outcomes:

Category
Quantified Outcomes:

Count Supporting Documents
Housing Programs Progress Report
Describe progress of all programs including local efforts to remove governmental constraints to the maintenance, improvement, and development of housing as identified in the housing element.

Program 10. Give sewer
hookup priority to
developments that include
housing units affordable
to lower income
households (GC
§65589.7).

Give sewer hookup priority to
developments that include housing units
affordable to lower income households.

Provide a copy of the adopted Housing
Element to Del Oro Water Company within
30 days of adoption of adoption.
12/31/2021 6th Cycle Continuous
ONGOING: The City does
not provide water service;
water service is provided by
Del Oro Water Company. As
the provider of sewer
service, the City will continue
its practice to prioritize sewer
connections for
development that include
housing units that are
affordable to lower income
households consistent with
the cited GC section.

COMPLETED: Following
adoption of the 6th cycle
Housing Element, City staff
provided the adopted
Housing Element to Del Oro
Water Company.

Other 1
The City as the sewer service provider is
aware of the prioritization requirements, and
Del Oro Water compnay was notified via
email in 2019.

Program 11. Support and
coordinate with the efforts
of affordable housing
providers and other social
service and non-profit
tenant and landlord rights
advocacy groups.

Promote reasonable
accommodation
procedures to support
people with disabilities,
including persons with
developmental disabilities.

Inform the public of their responsibilities
and rights under the law and improve
access to landlord/tenant mediation
services to resolve fair housing complaints
through informational material available at
Ferndale City Hall. Maintain State
compliant forms and refer fair housing
complaints to appropriate agencies.

Provide County social services directory to
residents at City Hall and on City website.

Explore setting up quarterly meetings with
the City Manager and local housing
providers and support groups, such as
Redwood Community Action Agency, Area
One Agency on Aging, and others to share
information and provide support. Make
reasonable accommodation and fair
housing information available throughout
the City in a variety of public locations (e.g.

City Hall, City website, library, and post
office). Review and revise the City’s
process to comply with AB 101 that
requires when a Low Barrier Navigation
Center meets specified criteria, it must be
allowed by-right in areas zoned for mixed
uses and nonresidential zones permitting
multifamily uses. Review and revise city
processes as necessary by August 1,
2020.
8/31/2027 6th Cycle Continuous
ONGOING; the City
continues to supply fair
housing information to City
residents and will review and
revise City processes in
accordance with AB 101.

The City will abide by state
and federal law regarding
reasonable accommodation,
and the City's obligation to
affirmatively further fair
housing pursuant to GC §
8899.50.

SCHEDULED: The City will
address Low Barrier
Navigation Centers (LBNC)
consistent with State law
either as a separate Zoning
Ord. update or concurrently
with 7th Cycle Housing
Element Update.

Other 0
Will be made available as part of the
applicable Planning Commission's and City
Council agenda packets.

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1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9
Name of Program Objective
Projected Completion
Date in Housing
Element
Applicable Cycle Status of Program
Implementation
Program
Implementation
Details
Quantified Outcomes:

Category
Quantified Outcomes:

Count Supporting Documents
Housing Programs Progress Report
Describe progress of all programs including local efforts to remove governmental constraints to the maintenance, improvement, and development of housing as identified in the housing element.

Program 12. Seek State
and Federal grants, as
funding becomes
available, in support of
housing construction and
rehabilitation targeted for
low-income and lowmoderate income persons
and persons with
disabilities.

Consider applying for and/or implementing
CDBG funding and the Federal HOME 1st
Time Homebuyers Assistance Program.

Make official determination on feasibility by
next housing cycle; if not feasible, remove
form list of Implementation Programs.

Explore the potential to apply for Federal
and State grants to address housing
rehabilitation needs and adopt a
rehabilitation loan program to correct
Health and Safety Code violations and
make essential repairs. Make official
determination on feasibility by next housing
cycle; if not feasible, remove from the list.

Seek State and Federal grants, as funding
becomes available, in support of housing
construction and rehabilitation targeted for
persons with disabilities, including persons
with developmental disabilities. Delegate
application preparation to City Planner or
others as deemed appropriate. If above
listed avenues are determined infeasible,
spend last year of 6th cycle researching
other grant/loan programs that may fit with
the City’s specific needs and constraints,
for inclusion in the 7th cycle Housing
Element.
12/31/2026 6th Cycle Completed
In 2022, 2023, and 2024,
the City explored using its
PLHA allocation but it was
found the City does not have
the capacity to administer
the funding or the resources
to contract for these
services. The City Council
elected to delegate its PLHA
allocation to the City of
Eureka. Unfortunately, the
City's capacity constraints
are unlikely to improve in the
near term. The City will
monitor appropriate funding
programs but its capacity
constraints make it unlikley
to pursue funding.

Other 1
see page 49 for the staff report delegating the
City's PLHA allocation:
https://ci.ferndale.ca.us/wp/city-councilarchives/2024/240221- CouncilPacket.pdf?_wpnonce=bd3410a4ee
Program 13. Explore a
partnership with RCAA to
take advantage of their
Housing Rehabilitation
program. Make official
determination on
feasibility by next housing
cycle; if not feasible,
remove from list of
Implementation Programs.

Explore a partnership with RCAA to take
advantage of their Housing Rehabilitation
program. Make official determination on
feasibility by next housing cycle; if not
feasible, remove from list of
Implementation Programs. Meet with
RCAA Senior Staff to review other services
offered that the City of Ferndale may be
able to undertake in partnership.
12/31/2026 6th Cycle Not Yet Started
NOT STARTED: The City
will look into a partnership
with RCAA before the next
housing cycle.

Other 0
Documentation will be provided upon
Program completion.

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1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9
Name of Program Objective
Projected Completion
Date in Housing
Element
Applicable Cycle Status of Program
Implementation
Program
Implementation
Details
Quantified Outcomes:

Category
Quantified Outcomes:

Count Supporting Documents
Housing Programs Progress Report
Describe progress of all programs including local efforts to remove governmental constraints to the maintenance, improvement, and development of housing as identified in the housing element.

Program 14. Support local
residential energy
conservation efforts and
provide weatherization
and energy conservation
techniques information at
City Hall and the Ferndale
Public Library.

Develop and update a master
weatherization and energy conservation
techniques handout. Include a referral
listing of public and private grant/loan
assistance programs for weatherization,
including RCAA and RCEA. Promote
energy conservation educational programs
and sustainable building techniques.

Pursue financial resources to assist in
upgrading the City’s housing stock with
green building improvements. Conduct a
study in 2020 to explore historic buildings
upgrade incentives. Support the RCEA's
efforts to provide community education on
energy issues, including reduced energy
consumption and increased energy
efficiency benefits.
8/31/2027 6th Cycle Continuous
ONGOING: The City will be
looking into historic building
energy efficiency updates.

The City is a partner in the
development of a Qualified
Regional Climate Action
Plan. The County of
Humboldt was the lead
jurisdiction for the prep of
the programmatic EIR for
the RCAP. The County
adopted the PEIR and
RCAP in late 2025. The
Ferndale CC will consider
adopting the RCAP
sometime in CY 2026.

Other 0
Will be made available as part of the
applicable Planning Commission's and City
Council agenda packets.

Program 15. Monitor
residential capacity (no
net loss) and Design
Review process
Proactively monitor the consumption of
residential acreage to ensure an adequate
inventory is maintained for the City’s RHNA
obligations. If the inventory indicates a
shortage of available sites, the City shall
rezone sufficient sites to accommodate the
City’s RHNA. Develop and implement a
project evaluation procedure pursuant to
Government Code 65863, by August 1,
2020. Monitor the Design Review process
to ensure it is not a development
constraint. If identified as a constraint
revise the process within 6 months.
8/31/2027 6th Cycle Completed
ONGOING: The City will
continue to monitor
residential capacity in
accordance with the No Net
Loss law.

COMPLETED: in October
2024, the City Council
adopted an amendment to
Design Review Permit
procedures of the Zoning
Ordinance. The City
completed this Zoning
Ordinance amendment
because the Planning
Commission is better suited
to consider all aspects of a
project, and the change will
simplify the process
considerably and make it
more efficient.

Other 1
https://ci.ferndale.ca.us/wp/laws/Zoning%20O
rdinance.pdf
March 18, 2026
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ATTACHMENT B
City of Ferndale
General Plan
Annual Progress Report for
Calendar Year 2025
Reviewed and Accepted by the Ferndale City Council on
March 18, 2026
Agenda Item No. _____________
For submittal to:

Governor’s Office of Land Use and Climate Innovation on March ___, 2026 March 18, 2026
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Table of Contents

1.0 Introduction.......................................................................................................................... 1

1.1 Annual Progress Report Purpose............................................................................................... 1

1.2 City Council Presentation and Action ........................................................................................ 1

2.0 City of Ferndale Overview...................................................................................................... 1

3.0 General Plan Elements........................................................................................................... 3

3.1 OPR General Plan Guidelines..................................................................................................... 3

3.2 Land Use Element...................................................................................................................... 4

3.3 Conservation & Open Space Element........................................................................................ 4

3.4 Safety Element........................................................................................................................... 5

3.5 Historic & Cultural Resources Element...................................................................................... 6

3.6 Noise & Air Quality Element...................................................................................................... 7

3.7 Housing Element........................................................................................................................ 7

3.8 Transportation & Public Facilities Element.............................................................................. 10

4.0 General Plan Amendments.................................................................................................. 10

5.0 Other General Plan Implementation & Planning Initiatives................................................... 10

5.1 Drainage Master Plan .............................................................................................................. 10

5.2 Accessory Dwelling Units......................................................................................................... 11

5.3 Regional Climate Action Plan................................................................................................... 11

5.4 Planned Development ............................................................................................................. 12 March 18, 2026
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Ferndale General Plan Annual Progress Report for 2025
March 2026 [1]

1.0 Introduction

1.1 Annual Progress Report Purpose
The Annual Progress Report (APR) provides the City Council and the public with information regarding General Plan implementation. APRs also inform the public of the progress in meeting the community’s goals. APRs explain how land use decisions relate to adopted goals, policies, and implementation measures of the General Plan. The APR is intended to provide enough information to identify necessary "course adjustments" or modifications to the General Plan, and to improve implementation, if needed.

Government Code Sections 65400 and 65700 mandate that all cities and counties submit an annual report on the status of the General Plan and progress in its implementation to their legislative bodies, the Governor’s Office of Land Use and Climate Innovation (formerly known as the Office of Planning and Research or OPR) and the Department of Housing and Community Development (HCD) by April 1 of each year. The General Plan APR gives the Office of Land Use and Climate Innovation (LCI) the opportunity to identify statewide trends in land use decision-making and how local planning and development activities relate to statewide planning goals and policies.1 Although the Housing Element is part of the City’s General Plan, jurisdictions are required to file a separate report. The housing element APR is used by HCD to monitor a jurisdiction’s progress on implementing its housing element.

The housing element APR reports on a jurisdiction’s:
• Progress towards meeting its Regional Housing Needs Allocation (RHNA) by reporting the number of housing units added in a jurisdiction; and
• Progress on the completion of housing programs (also referred to as implementation measures).

The Housing Element APR is prepared using a highly detailed HCD-required form, and this report provides only a summary of Ferndale’s 2025 Housing Element APR.

1.2 City Council Presentation and Action
APRs must be presented to the local legislative body for its review and acceptance, usually as a consent or discussion item on a regular meeting agenda. The APR is intended to provide sufficient information for decision-makers to assess the implementation of the General Plan during the previous 12-month reporting period. This General Plan APR is scheduled for review and acceptance by the Ferndale City Council at their regular meeting on March 18, 2026.

2.0 City of Ferndale Overview
The City of Ferndale is one square mile in size, is located 16 miles southwest of Eureka and 6 miles west of Fortuna near the Pacific coastline. The City and community have strong ties to agriculture, especially dairy and cattle grazing. Ferndale is a historic town, noted for its many well-preserved and varied historical architectural styles. The historic character of Main Street and the surrounding neighborhoods are critical marketing elements for the community, with Main Street being the primary visitor-serving area and a source of income for the City. Moreover, Ferndale’s unique setting provides 1 General Plan Annual Progress Report Memo, Governor’s Office of Planning and Research. March 4, 2020.

March 18, 2026
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Ferndale General Plan Annual Progress Report for 2025
March 2026 [2]
residents with the benefits of small-town rural living while maintaining access to services located in nearby larger cities.

Table 1 below compares the 2020 and 2024 populations of Ferndale and the incorporated cities.

According to the data, the region's population has declined, though the percentage decline in Ferndale’s population is lower than in several other cities.

Table 1: Humboldt Region Population, 2020 and 2024
Jurisdiction 2020 Population
Estimate
2024 Population
Estimate
Percentage
Change
Percentage of
Total Population
(2024)
Arcata 18,547 18,540 0.0% 14%
Blue Lake 1,205 1,149 -4.6% 1%
Eureka 26,972 26,073 -3.3% 20%
Ferndale 1,394 1,356 -2.7% 1%
Fortuna 12,530 12,181 -2.8% 9%
Rio Dell 3,390 3,241 -4.4% 2%
Trinidad 307 294 -4.2% 0%
Unincorp. County 72,118 70,266 -2.6% 53%
Total Population 136,463 133,100 -2.5% 100%
Source: California Department of Finance, Demographic Research Unit, Report E-4, 2021-2024, with 2020 Benchmark, Released: May 1, 2024, accessed March 11, 2025
As represented in Figure 1, the California Department of Finance (DOF) projects that the population of Humboldt County will continue to decrease for the foreseeable future, although a breakdown by jurisdiction is not provided. The
DOF’s projected population decline
for Humboldt County is a change
from last year’s projections, as
shown in Figure 2. Last year, the
DOF estimated that the region’s
population would decline from
2020 to 2030, but would then
begin to recover. Should the most
recent DOF projections bear out,
this may impact enrollment in City
schools and the overall ability to
finance City functions due to a
limited tax base.

Figure 1: Humboldt Population Changes, 2020 to 2045
115,000
120,000
125,000
130,000
135,000
140,000
2020 2025 2030 2035 2040 2045
Source: September 2025 Report P-2A: Total Population Projections, 2020-2070, California Counties, Demographic Research Unit, California Department of Finance (accessed March 3, 2026) March 18, 2026
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Figure 2: Humboldt Population Projections, Sept. 2024

3.0 General Plan Elements
The City’s primary land use documents are the General Plan, the Zoning Ordinance, and the Zoning Map. The City land use designations cover broad use types and density/intensity standards, while the zoning designations provide details on allowed uses and specific development standards.

3.1 OPR General Plan Guidelines
Per OPR guidelines, there are seven mandatory general plan elements for all cities and counties. The seven mandatory elements are land use, circulation, housing, conservation, open space, noise, and safety. Several optional elements may also be included based on the needs of the jurisdiction. A city’s general plan must also include an environmental justice element if there is a disadvantaged community.
2 The Ferndale General Plan currently includes all elements listed in Table 1. The City continues to update its general plan based on community goals and funding availability. As general plan elements are updated and/or amended, the City consults with Native American Tribes and considers environmental justice, although Ferndale is not designated as a disadvantaged community by CalEPA.

There are no active military lands or facilities in or adjacent to the City; therefore, the state law requirements for collaboration do not apply.

Table 2: Ferndale General Plan Elements – Summary of Mandatory Elements Element Title
Yr. of
Adoption Notes
Land Use (Includes
Conservation & Open
Space)
2024 None.
2 A disadvantaged community is defined as an area that is a low-income that is disproportionately affected by environmental pollution and other hazards that can lead to negative health effects, exposure, or environmental degradation.
134,000
134,500
135,000
135,500
136,000
136,500
137,000
137,500
2020 2025 2030 2035 2040
Source: September 2024 Report P-2A: Total Population Projections, 2020-2070, California Counties, Demographic Research Unit, California Department of Finance.

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Element Title
Yr. of
Adoption Notes
Housing 2019 Continuing to track development and report annually on programs. The City’s 7th Cycle adopted housing
element update is due to HCD in July 2027.

Safety 2024 Upon adoption of the updated local hazard mitigation plan, the City will need to review the Safety Element
for consistency and prepare any updates as needed for
AB 2140 compliance.

Historic & Cultural
Resources
2012 None.

Noise 1975 An update was drafted in 2016 that also includes Air Quality (is not adopted). Noise a mandatory element
but Air Quality is an optional element.

Transportation (Circulation)
& Public Facilities
1967 None. Needs to be updated to maintain consistency
with Land Use, Housing, and Safety Elements. The City
will continue to seek funding for an update.

3.2 Land Use Element
The Land Use Element provides for the general distribution, location, and extent of how land in the City will be used for housing, businesses, open space, agriculture, natural resources, and public facilities. It has been updated to reflect current conditions and the community’s vision. The element aims to provide more flexible housing options while preserving the area’s historic character. It supports expected population and economic growth by focusing on infill development within the City’s existing boundaries, mainly in developed neighborhoods and designated planning areas. It also includes targeted increases in density and allowable uses to stay consistent with the City’s adopted 6th Cycle Housing Element. Following numerous Planning Commission meetings, a public Open House, and joint City Council and Planning Commission Study Sessions, the City Council adopted comprehensive updates to the Land Use Element in November 2024.

The updates to the Land Use Element included land use changes (e.g., allowable uses, density) that were not reflected in the Zoning Map and Zoning Ordinance. The City Council’s adoption of Ordinance 2025-04 in August 2025 amended both the Zoning Map and the Zoning Ordinance, ensuring that both zoning documents are now consistent with the Land Use Element of the General Plan as required by California Government Code (CGC) section 65860(a). More specifically, Ordinance 2025-04 updated the residential zones, including lot and development standards, as necessary to be consistent with the corresponding land use designation’s uses, density, and intensity.

3.3 Conservation & Open Space Element
The purpose of the Conservation & Open Space Element is to preserve natural resources and ensure the continued functioning of biological processes throughout the region, and it is a mandatory general plan element. Ferndale’s Conservation & Open Space Element is incorporated into and is part of the Land Use Element. Francis Creek is an important natural resource in the City, and the Conservation & Open Space Element includes goals, policies, and implementation measures to protect it. In November 2025, the City Council adopted Ordinance 2025-06, amending the Zoning Ordinance to add section March 18, 2026
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6.08 Streamside Protection Area Combining zone or –SPA. The adoption of this amendment ensures the Zoning regulations are consistent with this General Plan element. Adoption of the –SPA also implements the Open Space & Conservation Element by directly referencing its goals, policies, and implementation programs that apply to development in the –SPA zone.3

3.4 Safety Element
In November 2024, the City Council adopted a comprehensive update to the Safety Element of the Ferndale General Plan. The purpose of the Safety Element is to provide a policy basis for measures Ferndale can take to reduce the potential risk of death, injuries, property damage, and economic and social dislocation resulting from fires, floods, earthquakes, landslides, and other natural and man-made hazards. The Element summarizes potential hazards including seismically induced surface rupture, ground shaking, and ground failure; slope instability leading to landslides; subsidence, liquefaction and other seismic hazards; flooding; wildland and urban fires; and climate change. The Safety Element also addresses evacuation routes, peak load water supply requirements, and minimum road widths and clearances around structures as those items relate to fire and geologic hazards.

In 2025, the City made progress implementing its Safety Element on several fronts. In 2025, the City participated in updating the Multi-Jurisdictional Local Hazard Mitigation Plan (LHMP). A local hazard mitigation plan is a detailed, technical plan required by federal law. It identifies specific local hazards, evaluates risks, and sets out projects the City can take on—such as strengthening infrastructure or improving emergency communication—to reduce those risks. A safety element is a guide of how a city will plan land use, development, and public safety to make the community more resilient over time. An LHMP helps implement a safety element by identifying actions needed to reduce hazards. LHMPs must be regularly updated to retain eligibility for state and federal funding. The 2025 LHMP update was approved by both CalOES and FEMA, with FEMA approving it in December 2025. An agenda item for the City Council to consider and adopt the LHMP is anticipated before the end of 2026. Additionally, in order to maintain compliance with AB 2140, which provides for state cost-share on eligible Public Assistance projects, the City will integrate any relevant information and technical documentation from the 2025 LHMP into the 2024 Safety Element.

In 2025, the City adopted Cal FIRE’s Office of the State Fire Marshall (OSFM) 2025 Fire Hazard Severity Zone map for the City of Ferndale. Although the Ferndale Fire Volunteer Fire Department provides fire services in the City, state law requires cities to adopt the OSFM-recommended Local Responsibility Area (LRA) map. The LRA map designates Fire Hazard Severity Zones in the City and applies to private and publicly owned properties (except for federally owned). The Fire Hazard Severity Zones (FHSZ) are categorized as Moderate, High, or Very High. Property owners in High and Very High fire hazard zones must follow fire prevention measures, including creating defensible space, adhering to building codes, and providing real estate disclosures. There are no properties within the City designated as High or Very High Fire Hazard Severity Zones. However, some properties south of Shaw and Rose avenues fall into the Moderate FHSZ. Adoption of the FHSZ maps by Ordinance 2025-02 supports public safety, enhances wildfire preparedness, and improves community resilience while ensuring compliance with state law. Adoption of Ordinance 2025-02 implements Safety Element Policies 3.4, 3.6, and 3.7. 3 The -SPA zone applies to both sides of Francis Creek, and extends from the edge of the top of bank or the edge of the riparian dripline for fifty feet.

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As part of Ordinance 2025-06, the range of permissible roofing materials was expanded to include lowto non-reflective Class metal roofs in all residential zones (i.e., the R1, R2, and R3 zones). Before this amendment was adopted, a property owner needed Planning Commission approval to install a Class A metal roof, in accordance with the substitute material provisions. Adding Class A metal roofs as a materials option implements Safety Element Program 3.d, and is a mitigation action in the City’s annex of the 2025 Local Hazard Mitigation Plan.

3.5 Historic & Cultural Resources Element
The Historical & Cultural Resources Element of the City’s General Plan, which was last updated in 2012, sets goals, policies and implementation strategies for the City’s role in planning for the unique historical aspects of Ferndale and its regional cultural setting in the Eel River Valley. This element is part of the City’s General Plan because preserving community character, history, and architectural features is important to Ferndale. While not specifically mandated under state planning law, 126 California counties/cities have historic preservation general plan elements. Many of Ferndale’s most defining features are its buildings and public spaces. Historical resources include individual structures, the National Register District along Main Street, and the architectural themes found throughout the City. This element also sets goals, policies, and implementation strategies for managing the qualifying historical resources and better defining historic district maintenance.

The purpose of the Historical & Cultural Resources Element is to preserve and enhance the community’s historic resources for heritage tourism, economic development and a continued source of community identity and pride. The Element also addresses new development to ensure compatibility with existing historical resources and encourages both public and private stewardship. Although the adopted General Plan contains historic preservation goals and policies, the City felt it is important to develop a long-term plan to integrate historic preservation within the context of land use development.

Implementation measures for the Historic & Cultural Resources Element focus on education and preservation. The City will continue to work with the local library and historians to develop and supply education brochures on the many different historic architecture types in the City.

As part of the 2024 legislative year, Assembly Bill 2580 was enacted that adds a requirement for jurisdictions to report new historic designations. The general plan annual progress report must now include a list of all properties designated as historic in the past year. This includes listings on the National Register of Historic Places, the California Register of Historical Resources, or a local historic register. The report must also detail the status of any housing projects proposed for these newly designated historic sites. The City’s lists of National Register of Historic Places and the California Register of Historical Resources remain the same. No structures, properties or districts were added to the City’s existing lists in 2024.

Protection of existing designated historic resources received a boost with the November 2025 adoption of Ordinance 2025-06. Ordinance 2025-06 adds procedures for the review of requests to demolish buildings and structures in the City’s designated Historic District and individual structures that are designated as historic. The adopted procedures create a structured and transparent pathway for reviewing demolition proposals, while also providing an exemption pathway to address imminent public safety hazards.

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The Planning Commission continues to review Design Review Permit requests, which are generally administered by the City Clerk.

3.6 Noise & Air Quality Element
The Noise & Air Quality Element was most recently drafted in 2016; however, due to a lack of funding for the CEQA analysis, it has not advanced further in the adoption process. The OPR Guidelines require that the Noise Element provide a basis for comprehensive local programs that control and abate environmental noise to protect citizens from excessive exposure. The element is required to identify and appraise community sources of noise and follow guidelines adopted by the Office of Noise Control in the State Department of Health Services. Local governments must analyze and quantify noise levels and the extent of noise exposure through actual measurements or noise modeling. The Noise component of the Element defines the types of noise, including mobile and stationary sources, and uses projections, contour mapping, and analysis to ensure that City noise standards are met.

Although an Air Quality Element is not a required element, in recognition of the significant value the community places on clean air, the City has chosen to include one. It is among the most common optional General Plan elements throughout California, with state level guidance found in the OPR General Plan Conservation Element Guidelines. The Air Quality component of the element focuses on air quality policy, integrating related land use, transportation and circulation, transit, safety, and energy issues. The Air Quality component's policies and programs are intended to improve air quality and encourage cooperation with other jurisdictions involved in regional air quality improvement efforts.

In addition to general air quality issues, the component discusses climate change. The potential effects of climate change are extensive, have been well documented, and are generally accepted by the scientific community. Although actions taken on a local level cannot resolve this global issue, the Noise & Air Quality Element contains policies that address energy and resource conservation and compact community design. These policies reduce greenhouse gas emissions, counteract global warming, and help reduce potential adverse effects of global warming.

The goals, policies, and programs outlined in the Noise & Air Quality Element focus on updating policies to match State standards in addition to working with local agencies to promote reduced noise and air pollutant levels. The City continues to coordinate with local agencies such as the North Coast Air Quality Management District and is participating in the development of a certified regional Climate Action Plan.

Since the element was drafted in 2016 and never fully adopted, it is likely that substantial updates will be required to ensure the element complies with current regulations. As such, the City will seek appropriate funding over the next five years to update and adopt the Noise and Air Quality Element, and to prepare the required CEQA analysis.

3.7 Housing Element
The City adopted its 6th Cycle Housing Element (covering the period of 2019 to 2027) in 2019. The Housing Element provides a comprehensive overview of the City’s current demographics and housing trends and outlines numerous programs to assist with housing development for all income levels in the city. These programs are put in place to assist the City with coming into compliance with State law, help the City reach its housing objectives, and provide for the City’s share of the Regional Housing Need Allocation (RHNA).

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The Ferndale Zoning Map and the text of Zoning and Subdivision Ordinances were amended in 2025 to complete Housing Element Programs 1, 2, 5, 6, and 7. These programs implement Housing Element Goals and Policies to ensure the preservation, improvement, and development of a variety of housing types and tenures, and for all income levels, and also to comply with state law.

To track progress on housing goals, State law requires every city and county to submit a separate Housing Element Annual Progress Report directly to HCD using its prepared form. A locality's progress towards meeting its housing needs is measured by the issuance of building permits, along with details related to the type of units, the estimated affordability of the units, and major milestones (e.g., the dates when applications for housing construction were filed and approved). The City will submit its 2025 Housing Element APR to HCD and its General Plan APR to LCI on the same day and no later than April 1, 2025.

Table 3 below summarizes the housing applications submitted, permits approved, and certificates of occupancy issued from 2019 to 2025 (by calendar year), which show that 34 units have been constructed since the start of the 6th cycle.

Table 3: Ferndale Housing Development Summary, 2019 – 2025 2019 2020 2021 2022 2023 2024 2025
Housing Applications
Submitted
10 0 0 4 3 5 4
# of Proposed Units in All
Applications Submitted
11 0 0 5 5 7 4
Total Housing Units Approved 11 0 0 5 2 7 4
Total Housing Units
Disapproved
0 0 0 0 0 0 0
Number of Building Permits
Issued
8 2 6 5 2 2 4
# of Bldg. Permits Finaled/Cert.
of Occupancy Issued 7 0 2 5*
* Four of the five building permits finaled/certificates of occupancy issued in 2025 were for building permits issued in 2024.

Figure 3 below shows the City’s progress towards meeting its 6th cycle RHNA measured by building permits issued. The 6th RHNA cycle will end in July 2027, marking the beginning of the 7th cycle, which covers the 2027-2035 planning period. Ferndale’s next adopted housing element is due to HCD by July 15, 2027. HCD released its determination for the region’s existing and projected housing needs in July 2025. Following its release, the County, the cities, and the Humboldt County Association of Governments (HCAOG) collaborated to develop a methodology to distribute the RHNA consistent with the statutory objectives. In December 2025, the HCAOG Board of Directors approved the methodology, which HCD approved in February 2026 because it meets the statutory objectives. Under HCAOG’s approved methodology, Ferndale is obligated to identify qualifying sites for 57 housing units. Table 4 is the adopted allocations for the County and seven cities, including Ferndale.

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Figure 3: Ferndale RHNA Progress 2019 – 2025
Table 4: Final 7th Cycle RHNA
Jurisdiction
Acutely
Low (0% -
15% AMI)
Extremely
Low (15% -
30% AMI)
Very Low
(30% - 50%
AMI)
Low (50% -
80% AMI)
Moderate
(80% -
120% AMI)
Above
Moderate
(120%<AMI)
Total
Jurisdictional
Allocation
Total Low
Income
RHNA
Total High
Income
RHNA
Arcata 105 163 118 200 91 365 1,042 586 456
Blue Lake 4 6 4 8 4 15 41 22 19
Eureka 174 269 194 330 154 619 1,740 967 773
Ferndale 6 9 7 11 4 20 57 33 24
Fortuna 50 75 54 92 41 167 479 271 208
Rio Dell 7 11 8 14 11 44 95 40 55
Trinidad 3 4 3 5 2 10 27 15 12
Unincorp.

County 213 329 239 404 258 1,038 2,481 1,185 1,296
Total Regional
Allocation 562 866 627 1,064 565 2,278 5,962 3,119 2,843 March 18, 2026
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3.8 Transportation & Public Facilities Element
The Transportation and Public Facilities Element was last prepared in 1967. At the time the element focused on defining transportation routes and potentially needed facilities. No major four lane roads were proposed due to the City’s relative isolation from regional transportation networks. The need for parks and other recreation facilities was also considered to be limited due to the City’s size.

The City will be seeking additional funding to update the Transportation and Public Facilities Element.

A comprehensive update to this element will ensure that it meets current State guidelines and policies in addition to updating the City’s goals to reflect changing transportation patterns and to promote mixed modal usage. Of importance to the community are policies and programs related to improving the City’s sidewalks and bicycle routes to improve safety for pedestrian and cyclists in the City. This may include assessing overall road design to slow traffic, identifying routes for new bike trials to enhance neighborhood connectivity, providing safe access to Russ Park, and working with the County to develop safe routes to nearby destinations including Centerville Beach.

As a member of the Humboldt County Association of Governments, the City continues to participate in regional transportation planning. The Regional Transportation Plan (RTP) is updated every four years, with the region’s due in early 2026. The RTP is the region’s guiding comprehensive transportation policy document, with an approach that considers the needs of all users while prioritizing safety, sustainability, and accessibility. In 2025, City staff provided HCAOG with an updated list of complete streets projects for inclusion in the RTP. Additionally, in November 2025, the HCAOG Board recommended that the California Transportation Committee award a portion of the region’s State Transportation Improvement Plan (STIP) funding to Ferndale’s fix-it-first road project to rehabilitate a portion of Francis Street. In 2025, using awarded TDA Bike & Pedestrian grant funds, the City completed pedestrian and ADA improvements at 5th Street and A. At this location, the City also completed vehicle roadway improvements funded by other sources.

4.0 General Plan Amendments
There were no General Plan amendments applied for or completed in 2025.

5.0 Other General Plan Implementation & Planning Initiatives

5.1 Drainage Master Plan
The City of Ferndale is the most downstream incorporated area in the Eel River Valley. The City and surrounding area are within the Salt River watershed, the most downstream Eel River tributary.

Ferndale and the surrounding area’s relatively flat topography result in stormwater runoff associated with heavy winter rains, causing chronic flooding and sedimentation problems.

The City of Ferndale has recognized that continued growth can only occur in or adjacent to those portions of the city that experience chronic flooding, and that providing a solution to storm water runoff management is in the public interest and a significant factor in planning future development.

Even though land in the City has been planned for growth, addressing the flooding constraint is expected to facilitate housing construction and bring more certainty for onsite improvement costs.

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Utilizing awarded SB2 funds, the City completed an update to the Drainage Master Plan in October 2022. The Drainage Master Plan helps address these issues. A site analyses has been conducted for high-priority growth areas with a specific focus on adopting a program that addresses the flooding issue through environmental hazard/drainage assessments. This will reduce a barrier to housing development by reducing the individual cost of engineering studies, allowing for public discussion of the solutions, and ensuring a regional solution that would apply to all projects. With the master plan recommended projects, the City can approve more housing in the area and provide certainty to developers about where and how much development can occur on specific sites.

5.2 Accessory Dwelling Units
Accessory dwelling units (ADUs) continue to be the most common type of housing added in Ferndale.

Property owners are adding ADUs through new construction and by converting existing accessory buildings.

Over the last three years, more than half of the residential building permits issued have been for ADUs, as indicated in Table 5. Given the number of larger single family lots in the City with a detached single residence, it is anticipated that ADU construction and conversion will continue to be important contributors to the local supply of housing.

Table 5: ADU Building Permit Summary
Year Tl. # of Housing Units
Permitted
# of Building Permits
Issued for ADUs %
2025 4 3 75%
2024 7 3 43%
2023 2 1 50%
2022 5 3 60%
Total 18 10 56%
Since 2017 state ADU has been amended annually. The changes in ADU law generally facilitate ADU development by property owners by limiting the land use authority of cities and counties to restrict ADU development. Although City staff stayed abreast of the changes to ADU law to ensure the City’s review of building permit applications was consistent with State law, local ADU regulations that do not comply with State law are null and void. In response to a November 2025 letter from HCD about the City’s ADU ordinance, the City Council adopted an urgency ordinance in December 2025. Ordinance 2025-09 immediately suspended enforcement of the City’s existing ADU regulations, directed staff to process all ADU and JADU applications solely under State law during the interim period, and begin the formal process for repeal and adoption of a State-compliant ADU ordinance. On March 18, 2026, the City Council will hold its second reading of Ordinance 2026-02 that will repeal the existing ADU ordinance and replace it with a compliant ordinance that directly references State ADU law.

5.3 Regional Climate Action Plan
The City of Ferndale continues to collaborate with the County of Humboldt and the cities of Arcata, Blue Lake, Eureka, Fortuna, Rio Dell, and Trinidad to develop a regional approach to address the challenges of climate change through the development of a Regional Climate Action Plan (RCAP).

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making throughout the RCAP's development. In December 2025, the Board of Supervisors certified the PEIR and adopted the RCAP. The agencies continue to work together, including establishing a regional Program Manager position to coordinate the regional implementation of the RCAP. This position would be housed at either HCAOG or the Redwood Energy Authority. An agenda item for the City Council to consider and adopt the RCAP is anticipated before the end of 2026.

5.4 Planned Development
The City continues to work closely with landowners and potential developers to ensure that development meets current City standards. The majority of development is planned to take place along the 5th Street corridor and south of Arlington Avenue as identified in the adopted 6th Cycle Housing Element. These are areas with known drainage issues and the City will continue to work with potential developers on comprehensive drainage solutions. In October 2025, an application for a Lot Line Adjustment between two residential parcels was submitted, and the LLA was ready for the City Engineer’s approval after the public hearing in December.

Most building permit applications for new construction are for residential development, and the counts over time are presented in Table 3. It is anticipated that applications for adding residential structures to existing lots will continue to be filed in 2026.

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Meeting Date: March 18, 2026 Agenda Item Number 13.c
Agenda Item Title Resolution 2026-03 Authorizing the City Manager to Pursue a Grant Application Through the California Department of Parks and Recreation Statewide Park Development and Community Revitalization Program (SPP) for the Ferndale Community Dog Park Project
Presented By: City Manager
Type of Item: X Action X Discussion Information
Action Required: No Action X Voice Vote Roll Call Vote
SUMMARY:

The proposed dog park would potentially be developed on approximately 1/2 acre of currently private-owned land adjacent to Fireman's Park (behind the ballpark, in front of the barbecue area), with one side already fenced. The estimated project cost is $130,000–$140,000, covering fencing and gates, ADA-accessible pathways, water stations, benches, shade structures, signage, and waste disposal stations. Land acquisition through a lease or donation would need to be obtained.

STAFF RECOMMENDATION:

Adopt Resolution No. 2026-03, authorizing the City Manager, or designee, to prepare, submit, and execute all documents, certifications, and agreements necessary to apply for funding under the California Department of Parks and Recreation Statewide Park Development and Community Revitalization Program (SPP) for the Ferndale Community Dog Park Project.

BACKGROUND:

The California Statewide Park Development and Community Revitalization Program (SPP) provides competitive grants to create, expand, or renovate parks in underserved communities. Round 5 applications are expected in Summer/Fall 2026, targeting projects that include recreational features. Previous rounds awarded over $1.2 billion for 313 projects.

Key Details of the SPP Grant (California Parks & Rec)
• Purpose: To create, expand, or improve parks in underserved communities. • Eligibility: Local agencies, state agencies, federal agencies, and non-profit organizations. • Project Types: New park creation, expansion of existing parks, and renovation of parks. • Funding: Focuses on projects in economically disadvantaged communities. • Upcoming Cycle: Round 5 applications are expected in Summer/Fall 2026 March 18, 2026
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DISCUSSION:

Approval of the project summary will allow the City Manager to start working on potential land acquisition/lease with the property owner adjacent to Fireman’s Park for the creation of the proposed dog park as well as start community engagement meetings required for the grant submittal.

At this time the projected project cost would be approximately $130,000 - $140,000 if land acquisition can be donated or a ground lease could be obtained for the common public project rent of $1/year.

CONCLUSION:

Staff recommends adoption of Resolution No. 2026-03. The Ferndale Community Dog Park Project aligns with SPP priorities and addresses a documented recreational gap for an underserved population at possibly little to no cost to the City. Staff will return to Council upon any grant award to seek authorization for project design and implementation.

ATTACHMENT:

1. Resolution 2026-03

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RESOLUTION NO. 2026-03

A RESOLUTION OF THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF FERNDALE,

AUTHORIZING THE CITY MANAGER TO PURSUE A GRANT APPLICATION

THROUGH THE CALIFORNIA DEPARTMENT OF PARKS AND RECREATION

STATEWIDE PARK DEVELOPMENT AND COMMUNITY REVITALIZATION

PROGRAM (SPP) FOR THE FERNDALE COMMUNITY DOG PARK PROJECT WHEREAS, the City of Ferndale (the "City") is a municipal corporation organized and existing under the laws of the State of California, with a population of approximately 1,552 residents located in Humboldt County;
WHEREAS, the City is committed to providing safe, accessible, and equitable recreational opportunities for all residents, including seniors, families, and pet owners; WHEREAS, Ferndale has limited recreational infrastructure and currently lacks a designated dog park, requiring residents to travel outside the community for pet exercise areas — a barrier for many seniors and households with limited transportation; WHEREAS, the median age of Ferndale residents is approximately 61 years, significantly older than the California average, and a dog park would provide low-impact outdoor recreation wellsuited to the needs of older adults; WHEREAS, the median household income of approximately $63,000 is well below the California median, with approximately 13% of residents living below the poverty line, establishing Ferndale as an underserved community in need of equitably accessible parks; WHEREAS, a suitable location has been identified for the proposed Ferndale Community Dog Park on land adjacent to Fireman's Park, situated in close proximity to the Fireman’s Park ballpark field and barbecue area, with one side already fenced, and being approximately onehalf (0.50) acres in size; WHEREAS, the California Department of Parks and Recreation administers the Statewide Park Development and Community Revitalization Program (SPP), which provides grant funding to create new parks and improve park access in communities with the greatest need; WHEREAS, the proposed project aligns with SPP priorities including expanding local recreation, community revitalization, equity, and efficient use of public land; WHEREAS, the total estimated project cost is between $130,000 and $140,000, including fencing and gates, ADA-accessible pathways, water stations, benches, shade structures, signage, and waste disposal stations
WHEREAS, the City Council finds that pursuing this grant opportunity will improve recreation opportunities for all residents of the City of Ferndale, and is in the best interest of the public health, safety, and general welfare of the residents of Ferndale; NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED that the City Council of the City of Ferndale hereby authorizes and directs the City Manager, or designee, to prepare, submit, and execute all documents, certifications, and agreements necessary to apply for funding under the California Department of Parks and Recreation Statewide Park Development and Community Revitalization Program (SPP) for the Ferndale Community Dog Park Project.

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BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED that the City Manager is hereby authorized to take all actions, execute all documents, and make all representations required by the California Department of Parks and Recreation in connection with the SPP grant application, including but not limited to:
certifying community need, submitting project descriptions and budgets, and committing to all applicable program requirements.

BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED that the City Council hereby confirms its intent to operate and maintain the Ferndale Community Dog Park through the City of Ferndale Public Works Department, to include regular grounds maintenance, waste station servicing, and community volunteer programs to ensure the long-term sustainability of the facility.

BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED that the City Council finds and declares that the Ferndale Community Dog Park Project will serve all residents, including but not limited to seniors, families, and pet-owning households, and will promote physical health, mental wellness, social connection, and community revitalization consistent with the goals of the SPP grant program.

PASSED AND ADOPTED by the City Council of the City of Ferndale at a regular meeting held on the 18th day of March, 2026, by the following vote:

Ayes:

Noes:

Absent:

Abstain:
___________________________________
Randy Cady, Mayor
Attest:
______________________________
Lauren Boop, Deputy City Clerk
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Section 14

CORRESPONDENCE
Correspondence Files are available for review at City Hall during regular business hours, Monday through Thursday, 9am to 4pm.

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NOTICE OF PREPARATION
Date: February 24, 2026
To: Reviewing Agencies, Organizations, Individuals
Subject: Notice of Preparation of an Environmental Impact Report for the Ferndale Access Project (EA 01-0N330).

The California Department of Transportation (Caltrans) District 1, as Lead Agency under the California Environmental Quality Act (CEQA), is issuing this Notice of Preparation (NOP) of an Environmental Impact Report (EIR) for the Ferndale Access Project, consistent with all CEQA requirements.

This notice is to inform agencies, organizations, and individuals about the proposed project and to solicit input on the scope and content of the EIR.

Caltrans is also serving as federal lead agency under the National Environmental Policy Act (NEPA), as assigned by the Federal Highway Administration (FHWA). Caltrans will evaluate technical studies to determine the appropriate level of federal environmental documentation. Should a NEPA Environmental Impact Study (EIS) be required, Caltrans will announce its intention to initiate the federal environmental review process for this project by publishing a Notice of Intent (NOI) to prepare an EIS in the Federal Register, as required by NEPA.

Scoping Period for Receipt of Comments
According to State law, agencies, organizations, and individuals shall be provided, at a minimum, 30 days to respond to this NOP.

Please submit written comments by 5:00 p.m. PST on April 17, 2026.

Please submit written comments by mail, email, or through the project website.

U.S. mail Caltrans District 1 Environmental
Attn: Breeanna Kalson
1656 Union Street
Eureka, CA 95501
email [email protected]
website tinyurl.com/ferndalenop
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Scoping Meeting
A scoping meeting will be held on Thursday, March 26, 2026, from 5:30 to 6:30 PM PST. At the meeting, Caltrans will provide a brief overview of the project and the environmental review process. Attendees will have an opportunity to ask questions.

All scoping comments must be submitted by mail or e-mail; questions and discussion at the meeting will not be considered scoping comments. Attendance at the scoping meeting is not necessary to submit comments.

Please visit the Caltrans website (https://engage.dot.ca.gov/01-0n330-paed) for more information about the project and the scoping meeting.

Project Title
EA 01-0N330 – Ferndale Access Project
Project Applicant
Caltrans District 1
Project Location
The Ferndale Access Project is located in unincorporated Humboldt County on State Route (SR) 211 between Post Miles R77.0 and 78.8 and encompasses Eel River Bridge No. 04 0134 (herein ‘Fernbridge’), which spans the main stem of the Eel River. See Figures 1 and 2 below.

Project Background
Fernbridge is a concrete arch bridge on SR 211 in Humboldt County, California. The bridge crosses the Eel River and is a beloved local landmark. Engineers built Fernbridge in 1911 and named it the “Queen of Bridges” due to its size. Fernbridge is the longest working poured concrete bridge in the world. It is also on the National Register of Historic Places (NRHP).

Dairy, ranching, and tourism form the basis of Ferndale’s economy. The community of Ferndale depends on Fernbridge for direct access into town. The only alternate route is a time-consuming detour along Blue Slide Road.

On December 20, 2022, there was a 6.4 magnitude earthquake 10 miles west/southwest of Ferndale. The earthquake caused widespread damage throughout Humboldt County. Fernbridge sustained major damage, which resulted in closures. A second earthquake occurred on January 1, 2023. While Caltrans completed safety repairs to allow two-way traffic by March 2023, the earthquake and damage sustained March 18, 2026
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by the bridge further highlighted the need for the Ferndale Access Project, which would provide access that meets current design standards.

Purpose
The purpose of this project is to restore reliable access to and from the community of Ferndale for all roadway users, which includes providing a structurally resilient bridge that meets current bridge design standards and reduces risk of damage from future events.

Need
Fernbridge provides the most direct route to and from the community of Ferndale. On December 20, 2022, a 6.4 magnitude earthquake, with an epicenter approximately 10 miles southwest of Ferndale, damaged the road surface and bridge approaches.

Monitoring sensors installed on the bridge indicated a permanent change in vertical pier alignment and increases in crack widths on multiple piers. While emergency repairs were made to stabilize the bridge, a permanent solution is needed for the bridge to be more resilient and reduce the risk of damage from future seismic events.

Project Description and Alternatives
The project proposes to address deficiencies of Fernbridge to provide permanent and reliable access to Ferndale and the surrounding area served by SR 211. The Environmental Impact Report (EIR) will analyze a ‘No Build’ alternative and up to seven build alternatives.
‘No Build’ Alternative: No modifications to Fernbridge
Under this alternative no work would occur. Fernbridge would not be modified from its existing condition.

Alternative 1: Rehabilitation of Fernbridge at its existing width Alternative 1 would perpetuate the current appearance (superstructure and arches) of Fernbridge as much as possible (maintaining 11'4" lanes, no shoulder). New approach structures and railing may be considered. A temporary detour bridge would be constructed. This alternative would require the use of both an upstream and downstream trestle during construction. See Figure 3.

Alternative 2: Rehabilitation and widening of existing Fernbridge Under Alternative 2, the bridge would be widened to accommodate two 12-foot-wide lanes and two 8-foot-wide shoulders. This option would attempt to preserve the architectural appearance and identity of the structure as much as possible. New March 18, 2026
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approach structures and railing would be required. A temporary detour bridge would be constructed. This alternative would require the use of both an upstream and downstream trestle during construction. See Figure 4.

Alternative 3: Construction of a new bridge on a new alignment and rehabilitation of Fernbridge for bicycles/pedestrians
The new bridge would be located upstream of the existing bridge. It would provide two 12-foot-wide lanes with two 8-foot-wide shoulders as well as a pedestrian and bicycle path. No detour bridge would be required for construction of this option, as the existing bridge would be open for traffic while the new bridge is being constructed. This alternative would require two temporary in-water trestles, a construction trestle for new bridge construction, and a rehabilitation trestle with ‘spurs’ that would allow access to the existing bridge piers. See Figure 5.

Alternative 4: Construction of a new bridge on a new alignment and rehabilitation of Fernbridge for bicycles/pedestrians with modified superstructure The new bridge would be located upstream of the existing bridge. It would provide two 12-foot-wide lanes with two 8-foot-wide shoulders as well a bicycle and pedestrian path.

Alternative 4 rehabilitation option would utilize existing piers and footings of the existing bridge to the extent possible and would replace the existing superstructure (arches and deck) with a lighter-weight steel structure or equivalent that would accommodate bicycles and pedestrians only. No detour bridge would be required for construction of this option, as the existing bridge would be open for traffic while the new bridge is being constructed. This alternative would require two temporary in-water trestles, a construction trestle for new bridge construction, and a rehabilitation trestle with ‘spurs’ that would allow access to the existing bridge piers. See Figure 6.

Alternative 5: Construction of a new bridge on a new alignment and demolition of Fernbridge
This new bridge would be located upstream of the existing bridge. It would provide two 12-foot-wide lanes with two 8-foot-wide shoulders as well as a pedestrian and bicycle path. Arching design elements reminiscent of Fernbridge would be incorporated as much as possible. No detour bridge would be required for construction of this option, as the existing bridge would be open while the new bridge is being constructed. This alternative would require the use of a temporary in-water trestle upstream of the existing bridge for construction and demolition. See Figure 7.

Alternative 6: Construction of a new bridge on a new alignment and Fernbridge as a monument
This new bridge would be located upstream of the existing bridge. It would provide two 12-foot-wide lanes with two 8-foot-wide shoulders as well as a pedestrian and bicycle March 18, 2026
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path. Arching design elements reminiscent of Fernbridge would be incorporated as much as possible. No detour bridge would be required for construction of this option, as the existing bridge would be open while the new bridge is being constructed. This alternative would require the use of a temporary in-water trestle upstream of the existing bridge for construction. See Figure 8.

Alternative 7: Construction of a new bridge on the existing alignment and demolition of Fernbridge
This alternative would build a new bridge on the existing bridge alignment. The new bridge would provide two 12-foot-wide lanes with two 8-foot-wide shoulders as well as a pedestrian and bicycle path. Arching design elements reminiscent of Fernbridge would be incorporated as much as possible. No elements of the existing bridge would be utilized in this alternative. A temporary detour bridge would be constructed ahead of bridge demolition. This alternative would require the use of a temporary in-water upstream trestle for demolition and construction. See Figure 9.

All Alternatives:

All alternatives, except the ‘No Build’ Alternative, would require intersection changes, with Alternatives 1, 2, and 7 resulting in temporary intersection changes to allow access to the detour bridge and permanent changes to accommodate widening of the existing layout (Alternatives 2 and 7). Alternatives 3 to 6 would require a new, permanent intersection to access the proposed new bridge location.

Potential Environmental Effects of the Project
The following subject areas are anticipated for study:
• Aesthetics
• Agriculture and Forestry
• Air Quality
• Biological Resources (including riparian vegetation, plants, animals and wetlands/aquatic features)
• Cultural Resources (including historic resources)
• Energy
• Geology/Soils (including paleontology)
• Greenhouse Gas Emissions/Sea Level Rise/Flooding
• Hydrology/Water Quality
• Hazards and Hazardous Materials
• Land Use/Planning
• Mineral Resources
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• Noise
• Population/Housing
• Public Services
• Recreation
• Transportation/Traffic
• Tribal Cultural Resources
• Utilities/Service Systems
• Wildlife
• Community Impacts
• Cumulative Impacts
The EIR will address NEPA-required issues such as compliance with applicable federal regulations (e.g., Section 4(f) of the Department of Transportation Act). The EIR will consider impacts associated with construction and ongoing operation. The scope of environmental analysis may be modified based on input to this Notice of Preparation from the public or agencies, or the project development process.

Summary of Key Environmental Considerations
Preliminary review suggests that the subject areas most likely to result in potentially significant impacts are aesthetics, biological resources, and historic resources.

However, further analysis and ongoing project design could reveal additional or different areas of potential impact.

Aesthetics
The project could substantially modify or remove historic Fernbridge, which has been a defining landscape feature for over 100 years. A visual and aesthetic assessment would be completed for the project. The EIR will summarize the results of the assessment, identify applicable avoidance and minimization measures, and, as applicable, identify mitigation measures that would reduce or avoid impacts.

Biological Resources
The project area would affect the Eel River, a major fish-bearing waterway, its shoreline, and banks. A Natural Environment Study (NES) would be prepared to identify the sensitive habitat areas and plant and animal special status species that may be impacted by the project. An Aquatic Resources Delineation Report would be prepared to delineate jurisdictional waters and quantify potential impacts. The EIR will summarize the results of the assessment, identify applicable avoidance and minimization measures, and, as applicable, identify mitigation measures that would reduce or avoid impacts. A Biological Assessment will be prepared as part of the Section 7 Endangered March 18, 2026
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Species Act consultation process with National Marine Fisheries Service. Coordination with the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service, U.S. Army Corps of Engineers, California Department of Fish and Wildlife, Regional Water Quality Control Board, and the California Coastal Commission is also anticipated.

Historic Resources
In addition to historic Fernbridge, additional structures in and adjacent to the project area may also be eligible for inclusion in the National Register of Historic Places (NRHP) or the California Register of Historic Places (CRHP), and /or otherwise warrant special consideration under CEQA. A qualified architectural historian will evaluate the bridge and surrounding neighboring properties in a Historic Resources Evaluation Report (HRER) to identify and evaluate potentially significant properties. Then a Finding of Effect (FOE) report will assess the potential for the project to adversely affect the NRHP-listed Fernbridge and potentially any additional historic resources identified in the HRER. The EIR will summarize the results of the assessment, identify avoidance and minimization measures, and, as applicable, discuss mitigation measures.

Contact Information
Breeanna Kalson
Caltrans North Region Environmental-D01
1656 Union Street
Eureka, CA 95501
cell: 707.672.3593
email: [email protected]
Signature: _______________________
Title: Environmental Coordinator
Reference:

California Code of Regulations, Title 14, (CEQA Guidelines) Sections 15082(a), 15103, 15375.

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Figure 1. Project Vicinity Map

VICINITY MAP

PROJECT LOCATION
HUM 211 PM R77 . 0/78 . 8
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FERNDALE ACCESS PROJECT
01-HUM-211 PM
EA 01-0N330K
R77 .O TO 78 .8
< 01 2300 0206 >
No Scale
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Figure 2. Project Vicinity Map (satellite imagery)
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Figure 3. Alternative 1 - Preliminary Layout
11 e==:l======;I-,-
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FERNBRIDGE REH AB ILITATION
TYP ICAL CROSS SECTION _____ J ___ _

TEMPORARY DETOUR BR IDGE

TYP ICAL CROSS SECTION
LAYOUT
ALTERNATIVE 1

REHABILITATE FERNBRIDGE AT CURRENT

AND REPLACE APPROACHES
<FOR ALL TRAFFIC>

FERNDALE ACCESS
HUM-211-PM R77 .0/ 78 .8
EA ON330K
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Figure 4. Alternative 2 - Preliminary Layout
2'- 0" 8'- 0" 12'- 0" 12'- 0" 8'- 0" 2'- 0"

REHABILITATE & WIDEN FERNBRIDGE

TYPICAL CROSS SECTION
_____ J ___ _

TEMPORARY DETOUR BRIDGE

TYPICAL CROSS SECTION
LAYOUT
ALTERNATIVE 2

REHABILITATE/ WIDEN FERNBRIDGE

AND REPLACE APPROACHES
<FOR ALL TRAFFIC)

FERNDALE ACCESS
HUll-211-PM R77 .0/ 78 .8
EA ON330K
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Figure 5. Alternative 3 - Preliminary Layout
LAYOUT 3
ERNATIVE ILITATION ALT FERNBRIDGE ~~;~:ATION) NEW o:~~Do~~:.ZED/ ;•~·:i:as (N FERNDA~ R77 .0 / 78.8
HUM-211-P ON330K
EA .. . ......

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Figure 6. Alternative 4 - Preliminary Layout

UPERSTRUCTURE
REP~f-fR ~TEELS Tf~c5-froN

TYP I CAL CROS

TYPI CAL CROS
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Figure 7. Alternative 5 - Preliminary Layout

NEW BRIDGJECTION TYPICAL CROSS
NEW
LAYOUT 5
A L TERNATIV~ERNBRIDGE REMOVE BRIDGE I ACCESS
FERNDA~E R77.0/ 78.8
HUM-211-PON330K - -----·· EA ··
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Figure 8. Alternative 6 - Preliminary Layout
NEW
LAYOUT E 6

AL TERNATIV MONUMENT
RNBRIDGE BRIDGE/ FE ACCl!88
Fl!RNDALI! R77 .O/ 78 .8
HUM-211-PMON330K
l!A
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Figure 9. Alternative 7 - Preliminary Layout
£
I s,·
NEW
LAYOUT
NATIVE 7
ALT E ~ FERNBRIDG:LIGNIIENT REIIOY N EXISTING

BRIDGE O ACCESS
FERNDA~E R77.0/ 78.8
HUM-211-P ON330K
EA
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Section 15

COMMENTS FROM THE COUNCIL
Section 16

REPORTS
City Manager’s Report
Commissions and Committee Reports
Minutes from JPAs and Reports
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City Managers Report
for March 2026 City Council Meeting
CITY MANAGER (February 10, 2026 – March 11, 2026)
Grant Updates
• Arlington Ave Drainage Project:

Continuing to work with Brett Vivyan from GHD on this Grant. We had a productive meeting with some of the downstream neighboring properties on March 3rd to help better understand their concerns and to better familiarize them with the project. Brett and I also had a meeting with State Water Resources Board on March 11th to discuss additional options for the project that may help address these valid concerns.

Brett still plans on updating the Council once we speak with the State Water Resources Board on some different options and more information is obtained. We would like to get a plan in place to help with moving forward on this project. • Raising of the Berm:

No updates on this grant currently. We have submitted everything we can to the state but the balls in their court now for funding.
• Per Capita:

To date we have not yet received the reimbursement funds. I, as well as Rick Hill, have sent several emails to Kevin Glaudel at State Parks to get an estimate of when the city may see these funds. Unfortunately, we have not received any emails returned. I will continue to send emails to receive the grant fund reimbursements in the approximate amount of $169,400. • OurEnergy Microgrid:

The city is still anticipating receiving the $25,000 Planning Grant to reimburse what has been spent to date plus staff time on the project. The February 25th deadline for additional document submittal to PGE’s Microgrid Strategy & Implementation Team was met by the OurEnergy team. I will continue to check in on this grant to see where the city’s standing is. • State Transportation Improvement Program (STIP):

The California Transportation Commission (CTC) will vote on our request for the Francis Street Paving Project as part of their 3/19-3/20 meeting. Staff have reviewed their agenda and their staff have recommended approving Ferndale’s project request. We are hopeful this project will be granted.
• Safety Grant:

We continue to purchase safety equipment and gear for the city. This month we purchased lighting for the wastewater truck and additional lighting for the mower. We have just about exhausted the grant funding for this year’s funds. We will start additional planning for next budget cycle but will purchase any safety equipment needed to protect our employees. We will continue to work with staff and CIRA to ensure staff’s safety. • SB1383:

I had a zoom meeting with Full Cycle Composting and Julie Arnez to discuss a proposal from Full Cycle. Though it is good program, I believe the city should continue on the path of allowing citizens to purchase backyard composters and reimburse amounts up to a specific dollar figure. This is what was discussed and approved back at the August 2025 City Council Meeting. We will continue to get that program implemented as soon as possible.

PGE Undergrounding:

Our last meeting was held on Friday, February 27th at 10:00am. We remain caught up on our tasks. The project design is scheduled for this year with construction starting in 2027.

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Regional Climate Action Plan (RCAP) Update:

In December, the County certified the EIR and adopted the RCAP. City of Eureka also adopted it at their February 3, 2026, City Council Meeting. Staff will likely bring a resolution for the CC to review and consider adoption at the 4/15/26 meeting.

Wastewater Plant:

Ongoing software issues and upgrades needed. Shawn is diligent in completing this task. We will continue our efforts to upgrade the systems and assist Shawn with whatever means are necessary for him to accomplish this. The weather has continued to be helpful with bringing the pond levels down.

Currently we are around 50% of our budget for septage dumping income. We are a little short at this point (we should be around 65%) however, this is generally our slow time of the year as we must be careful not to take too much to allow for possible storm waters. Shawn is also currently working with another possible customer that is interested in septage dumping.

Russ Park
No updates at this time.

Fireman’s Park
The bathrooms at Fireman’s Park are continuing to come along and I believe will be completed soon.

We continue to have small acts of vandalism on the picnic tables. We are considering the use of cameras to possibly help fight back; however, this is an expensive venture to get cameras with the high-quality resolution we will need. We will continue to research options.

Community Center
The Community Center continues to run fairly smoothly. So far this year we have only rented it one full weekend, however, we have six rentals scheduled so far for 2026. Four of those rentals are for non-profits and two rentals are for private events. Our goal is to really start promoting it once we are back to full staff.

Regular Meetings:
• Daily Meeting with Lauren Boop, Finance Director
• Daily Meetings with Ron Sligh, Police Chief
• Daily Meetings with Mayor Cady
• Weekly meetings with Public Works.
• Weekly meetings with Planners and Engineer
• Monthly Meetings
o City Council Meetings (February 18th)
o Planning Commission (Cancelled)
o Drainage Committee (Cancelled)
o Emergency Response (Second Thursday of the Month)
o Department Heads (Second Tuesday of the Month)
o City Managers’ Meeting (Last Thursday of the Month)
o Chamber of Commerce (March 2nd)
Other.

CIRA:

We are continuing to work with CIRA on developing some much-needed policies to ensure the city is compliant and that safety is a top priority. There is a conference coming up in May that I March 18, 2026
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plan on attending. We also anticipate putting on training in the upcoming months that will address some safety risks. The training that CIRA offers are no charge to the city and would be made available to other cities to join.

ANNUAL FIREMAN’S DINNER:

I had the privilege of being invited to and attending the annual Fireman’s Dinner at the Veteran’s Hall on Saturday, March 7th. It was a great event and very well attended. We are very fortunate to have such a hardworking, knowledgeable, and dedicated Volunteer Fire Department.

CITY CLERK HIRING:

This has been a time-consuming task, but well worth it! We posted the job opening on February 17th. To date, we have received 20 complete and thorough applications. We were able to narrow it down to 8 interviews. Initially we had anticipated Ron, Lauren, and I being the interview panel, but unfortunately Ron wasn’t able to be there, so it ended up being Lauren and myself.

With the quality of applications and resumes submitted, we believe we should be able to close the application period on March 12th and get a new clerk hired in the upcoming weeks.

STAFF: We continue to be fortunate with a dedicated and hard-working staff that keep everything going. Currently, both the Admin office and the Police Dept are a little short staffed, however, we are close to hiring a City Clerk and Ron is anticipating hiring a couple new officers to bring us back to a full staff.

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STAFF REPORTING FEBRUARY 2026

CITY CLERK ACTIVITY
Meeting Activities:
• Met with Mayor to discuss agenda items.
• Attended, Wrote Agenda, and Compiled Packets for:
o City Council Meeting 2/18/2026
• Transcribed and drafted meeting minutes
• Uploaded meeting videos for all above listed meetings. • Complied meeting agendas and public notices for Posting • Uploaded meeting packets to City Website.
• Meetings & Conversations with Attorney regarding City Business • Meetings with Community Center & Town Hall Renters to go over Facility Projects
• Assisted the public at the counter, via telephone, and email; answering questions and information requests.
• On-going communications with contract Engineers and City Planner about agenda items before the City Council, Planning Commission, and Drainage Meetings. • Processed Building Permits, Encroachment Permits, and Parade Permits • Communications with the Building Inspector to review plans and discuss finals on projects. • Pick up and distribute City correspondence.
• Organized and filed paperwork.
• Processed checks, created revenue spreadsheet, and ready deposit for bank drop-off. • Responded to Public Records Act requests.
• Maintained minutes, resolution, ordinance, and agenda binders. • Read weekly ERMA bulletins.
• Processed Monthly Reports to Assessor’s office and Construction Industry Research Board • Processed Community Center & Town Hall Rental

FINANCE OFFICER ACTIVITY
Tasks:
• Answered phones and assisted citizens at City Hall
• Processed Payroll/Payroll Tax Payments
• Processed Accounts Payable
• Processed Accounts Receivable
• Completed Quarterly Duties
• Entered Monthly Deposits into Accounting CS
• Reconciled Monthly Debits and Credits for both GL and Russ Park accounts • Delivered and received mail correspondence
• Posted all notices, meetings, etc. to City Bulletin Board at Post Office • Reviewed ERMA and HR bulletins
• Provided necessary documents to Kris for City Council Meeting • Set up chairs and tables for various meetings at Town Hall • Provided necessary documents to Stacey and Kris for month end • Billed customers for Septic Dumps
• Sent Late Notices for all open invoices
• Assisted the City Manager in the application and reporting for various grants March 18, 2026
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• Updated notes in Finance Clerk Duties Manual on all new tasks and duties learned • Communicated with grant contacts and performed steps to continue projects • Assisted with Audit preparations for FY 24/25
• Completed Post Audit Budget Analysis for council
• Set up for and Attended City Council Meeting and took minutes as Deputy City Clerk • Attended Department head meeting
• Purchased and distributed items requested by Department Heads

CITY PLANNER ACTIVITY
General Planning Services
Task 1 Response to Public Information Request:
• Responding to Frontier's request for information on City rights of way. • Ferndale Repertory Theatre window repair/rehab project: research and analysis of the project relative to the National Park Service Secretary of the Interior’s guidelines.

Task 2 CEQA Compliance
No actions for the reporting period.

Task 3 Community Planning – Reporting, Other Planning Activities Final round of proofing of 2025 adopted amendments to the Zoning and Subdivision ordinances so they can be published on the website.

Task 4 Meetings and Hearings, and Materials:
• Communications and coordination with the City Manager and City Clerk for the February and March 2026 City Council meeting, various assigned tasks, and projects. • Discussed with City Manager, then researched approaches (resolution vs. ordinance) for establishing compliance with Humboldt County’s LAMP as a requirement for onsite wastewater treatment systems in City limits.
• Coordination with City Manager about building permit data for 2025 Housing Element HE APR.
• Prepared the monthly planner’s report for the February 18 City Council meeting. • City Council and Planning Commission meetings – No actions for the reporting period. • HCAOG Technical Advisory Committee (TAC) – Attended February 2026 meeting (in-person).
• Regional Climate Action Plan – Attended February 2026 Working Group meeting (virtually).

Task 5 GIS Mapping
No actions for the reporting period.

Task 6 Grant Writing/Funding Coordination
Coordination with HCAOG for REAP 1.0 metrics as requested by HCD.

Planning Applications and Pre-Application Consultations • No actions for the reporting period.

Housing Element Update/Reporting
• Preparing Table D of the 2025 Housing Element APR (Table D).

Special Planning Projects
RTIP/STIP project administration
• No actions for the reporting period.

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Updates to ADU Ordinance in Response to November 2025 HCD Letter of Technical Assistance • Prepared ADU ordinance staff report, ordinance with recitals, and all attachments for 2/18 City Council hearing and first reading.

Local Agency Management Program (LAMP) Ordinance
• Researched and drafted City ordinance to adopt Humboldt County’s Local Agency Management Program (LAMP) and associated technical materials. • Coordination with City Manager to prepare Ordinance.

CITY ENGINEER ACTIVITY
General City Engineering Services:
• Phone calls / emails with the Acting City Manager and staff regarding various City items. • Berding Street Intersection Project
o Project Coordination
• PG&E Undergrounding project.
o Project Coordination
o Zoom Meeting with PG&E
• Regional Vision Zero Action Plan.
o Work with City staff on Project Design
Reimbursable Project Services:
• Nunes Grading
o Site visit with City Staff, DFW and Water Quality
o Correspondence with City Staff.

WASTEWATER OPERATIONS
• Monthly samples prepared and sent to North Coast Labs • Operators perform lab tests daily to measure efficiency of plant • Cleaned filters...Due to high pond flow recoveries.
• Monthly eSMR (electronic State Monthly Report) prepared and submitted • Monthly no spill verification report completed on CIWQS website • Continuous monitoring and adjustments to sludge blanket… • Monthly report of generator use for air quality.
• Front gate chain oiled each Monday
• Inspect manholes throughout town weekly
• Repair UV lamps and prepare for improvements on bank ALPHA • Weekly maintenance performed on UV banks
• Maintained Plant flows through flooding event.
• Weed removal project at pond……
• Service and maintain Aqua dams around pond.
• Dewater for total of 32 hours. Sludge dried at old site • Maintenance on filters, clean nozzles
• Operators cleaned walls and catwalk.
• Removal of duck weed from clarifiers on weekly basis. • Multiple days of computer work to upgrade and repair our Scada system at treatment plant. • Pulled and repaired Influent pump number 3
• Repaired Disc Filters.
• Prepared and managed flood conditions.

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• Ste up auxiliary pumps for bulking sludge
• Repaired and shipped UVOS for UV 3000 Plus Lamps.
• Installed and calibrated the repaired UVOS in Effluent flow ditch. • Maintained Aqua dams around pond through flood conditions. • Hydro Jett coast Guard housing on two occasions
• Billed, Steve’s Septic, Taylor and Wyckoff a total of 2142.00 Dollars for the month of February 2026 . 9 total dumps for total of 11,900 gallons.
• Total flow through plant. February was 16.6 MGD. Of that .6 MGD average flow to Francis Creek and ..2.6 MGD was pumped to retention pond.
• 5.5 inches of Rain in February 2026

PUBLIC WORKS
• Continued with monthly and daily duties. Such as, cleaning and maintenance of city's bathrooms, mowing of city's owned properties, cleaning of storm drains, keeping streets clear of debris and the maintenance of city's facilities. • Installed a new outdoor light at community center main entrance door. • Install brighter bulb in the streetlight at the library. • New light sensor ordered for light pole on Main St, closest to Washington St. • Replaced broken yield signpost at Francis and Eugene St. • Repair damaged picnic tables at Fireman’s Park.
• Replaced leaky seals and O-rings in toilet at children’s center. • Replaced a bad light switch at children’s center.
• Prepped, primed, and painted Kris’ new office.
• Replaced broken light globe on light post in city parking lot. • Repair broken up drain inlet on Berding St. between Fern and Lewis.

POLICE DEPARTMENT
We released a probationary officer that was not performing satisfactorily in the Field Training Program. Addison O’Hanen has been hired as a Police Recruit Officer and is attending the police academy. We began a background investigation on an applicant that has graduated from the Police Academy.

CERT: Conducted monthly meeting.

Police Statistics – February 2026
SERIOUS CRIMES Number Cleared
Homicide 0
Rape (Attempted) 0
Robbery 0
Larceny 0
Assault 0
Burglary 0
Vehicle Theft 0
TOTAL 0
SECONDARY CRIMES 3
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Calls for Service 229
Reports Written 8
Traffic Citations 1
Other Citations 0
Parking Citations 0
Warnings 19
ARRESTS 1
AGENCY ASSISTS 11
TRAFFIC COLLISIONS 0
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1 BOARD OF DIRECTORS
Stacy Atkins-Salazar, City of Arcata, Chair
Michelle Lewis-Lusso City of Blue Lake, Vice Chair
Leslie Castellano, City of Eureka
Randall Cady, City of Ferndale
Steve Madrone, County of Humboldt
Frank Wilson, City of Rio Dell
Minutes
Thursday, February 12, 2026, at 5:30 PM
Eureka City Council Chamber

Present: Stacy Atkins-Salazar, Elise Scafani (alternate for Michelle Lewis-Lusso), Leslie Castellano, Randall Cady.

Absent: Michelle Lewis-Lusso, Steve Madrone, Frank Wilson Staff: Eric Keller-Heckman, Tony Heacock, Helder Morais, Hilary Schwartz Legal Counsel: Nancy Diamond

1. Call to Order and Roll Call at 5:30 PM
Chairperson Atkins-Salazar called the meeting to order at 5:30 PM. A quorum was present and acting.

2. Consent Calendar
a. Approve Minutes from the January 8, 2026, HWMA Board of Directors Meeting b. Review and Approve Draft November 2025 Financial Reports Chairperson Atkins-Salazar inquired if there were any requests to pull items from the Consent Calendar, and there were no requests.

Chairperson Atkins-Salazar opened the floor to public comment, and no public comment on the Consent Calendar was received.

Chairperson Atkins-Salazar closed the floor to public comment.

Motion: Director Cady motioned, and Director Castellano seconded, to approve items a) through b) of the Consent Calendar as delivered Action: Approve the Motion as made by Director Cady and seconded by Director Castellano
Ayes: Unanimous
Noes: None

Absent: Directors Lewis-Lusso, Wilson and Madrone

3. Oral and Written Communications
Chairperson Atkins-Salazar opened the floor to public comment regarding items not on the agenda. No public comment was received.

Chairperson Atkins-Salazar closed the floor to public comment.

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2 4. Receive Auditor’s Report for Fiscal Year 2024-2025 Director Schwartz informed the board that the annual financial audit is a tool by which the board and the general public may measure the fiscal health of the Authority. The HWMA Board approved a request for proposals (RFP) for financial audit services in November 2024, and the contract was awarded to the successful proposer, Richardson & Company, LLP, in April 2025. Following the close of Fiscal Year 2024-2025, the auditors completed a thorough examination of all aspects of the Authority’s financial systems and provided recommendations in their independent audit report. Staff has implemented or partially implemented many of the recommendations and will work closely with the auditors to ensure continuing compliance with Governmental Accounting Standards Board (GASB) standards in all financial reporting.

Ingrid Sheipline of Richardson & Company, LLP, presented a detailed overview of her firm’s reporting on the Authority’s financial statements. Miss Sheipline’s presentation covered the auditor’s opinion of the financial statements, the internal control and compliance report, the required governance letter, and a letter to management with recommendations for improvement. The auditors issued an unmodified or clean opinion, which means they determined that the Authority’s financial statements were fairly presented in accordance with required accounting principles.

Miss Sheipline provided some points of discussion regarding the Authority’s financial statements. The first discussion item was the Authority’s negative unrestricted Net Position, which is related to two long-term liabilities: the Cummings Road Landfill estimated post-closure liability of approximately $10 million, described in Note D to the financial statements; and the Pension Plan liability of approximately $2 million, described in Note F. There were no significant changes in actuarial assumptions in Fiscal Year 2024-2025. With about $5 million in assets, the Authority’s financial position is good, but accounting regulations require the Authority to accrue and disclose the longterm liabilities, which results in negative equity on the balance sheet.

The Statement of Revenues and Expenses reflects net income of $881,000 added to reserves, which is comparable to net income in Fiscal Year 2023-2024. Note E to the financial statements describes the Authority’s reserves, which total approximately $3.2 million, including a pledge of revenue for landfill post-closure costs that has been designated as restricted. Note I to the financial statements details a restatement that reduced net position by $159,278 for sick leave accrual expected to be used, which is now required per GASB Statement 103. An additional restatement was made to correct an error in an asset disposal transaction.

The Internal Control and Compliance Report noted no internal control weaknesses and reflects the auditor’s opinion that the Authority complied with applicable laws and regulations related to the financial statements. The Governance Letter focuses on information the auditors are legally required to disclose, such as areas where management judgement and/or estimates were relied upon in the financial statements. The auditors encountered no difficulties in performing the audit and no unusual accounting practices.

A total of 3 adjustments were made by the auditors.

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3 The Management Letter outlines recommendations for improvement in financial accounting, but not material weakness. The auditors provided six recommendations:

1. Changes to the capitalization policy

2. Develop an anti-fraud/whistleblower policy

3. Develop a risk assessment process

4. Revisions to the reserve policy

5. Date bank transfers as of transaction date

6. Payroll to be reviewed by Executive Director
Director Castellano requested clarification of terminology related to the reserve policy.

Miss Sheipline responded that the auditors recommended that the Authority better define the intent of each reserve fund, and if the reserve level is a function of operating revenue.

Chairperson Atkins-Salazar thanked staff for their contribution to the audit process.

Chairperson Atkins-Salazar opened the floor to public comment. No public comment was received.

Chairperson Atkins-Salazar closed the floor to public comment.

5. Receive Presentation on Carpet Recycling
Director Morais gave a presentation to the board on carpet recycling. Over 340 million pounds of carpet end up in California landfills each year that could be recycled into new products. Old carpet can be recycled into new carpet fiber, tiles, and underlayment, as well as a range of products used in industries including automotive, transportation, construction, and home and garden. Director Morais explained that the HWMA joined the Carpet America Recovery Effort (CARE) when the program first started in 2012.

When customers come over the HWMA’s inbound scale with carpet, they are directed to a dedicated 28-foot box trailer that is staged at the Transfer Station. The customer offloads their carpet, which must be reasonably clean, cut in to 4 to 6-foot lengths, and rolled backing side facing out, and then stacks the rolls in the box trailer from front to back. When the customer returns to the outbound scale, they inform the scale attendant that they recycled carpet and they are charged just $2 for up to 400 pounds of carpet, significantly less than the solid waste tip fee. Since the program’s inception, the HWMA has diverted over 2.3 million pounds of carpet from the landfill.

Director Scafani inquired if most of the carpet came from professional installers.

Director Morais responded that the carpet comes from both professional installers and homeowners. Director Castellano expressed her appreciation for the program and inquired about end uses for recycled carpet. Director Morais described a variety of products that are manufactured from recycled carpet. Chairperson Atkins-Salazar inquired about how much carpet was included for the fee of $2. Director Morais indicated that 400 pounds of carpet typically fills the back of a pick-up truck, and that a homeowner who is replacing carpet in one room will generally weigh in under the 400 pound limit. Chairperson Atkins-Salazar expressed appreciation for the information about both mattress and carpet recycling at HWMA that she can provide to her constituents. Director Cady requested clarification about the acceptable length of carpet March 18, 2026
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4 sections, and Director Morais replied that the acceptable length is 4 to 6 feet, which makes the rolls easier for customers to stack in the trailer.

Chairperson Atkins-Salazar opened the floor to public comment. No public comment was received.

Chairperson Atkins-Salazar closed the floor to public comment.

6. Receive Update on Organics Processing Feasibility Study Executive Director Keller-Heckman provided an update on the Organics Processing Feasibility Study following staff’s review of the proposal that was submitted. He began by reviewing the timeline of the study and RFP process that began in November 2024.

Following two unsuccessful circulations, the RFP was re-released in October 2025 and one proposal was received. Following staff review, the proposal was deemed nonresponsive due to missing required documents. Meetings were held with jurisdiction staff who had earmarked grant funds for this study. The majority of jurisdiction staff felt that grant funds should be reallocated to other SB 1383 purposes until such time as organics collections and acceptance is underway in Humboldt County.

Director Castellano reflected on the long path to SB 1383 compliance for local jurisdictions. She inquired why the feasibility study RFP had received so few responses and how the board could move the process forward. Executive Director KellerHeckman responded that the scope of the original RFP was too broad, particularly combined with the lack of collection and processing data available at the time. He acknowledged that despite great efforts on the part of staff, jurisdictions, and the franchise haulers, the rural nature of our area is an obstacle for consulting firms already engaged in larger projects. Once in-county organics collection is underway, there will be more data to guide potential proposers. Executive Director Keller-Heckman emphasized that staff has not given up on in-county processing or feasibility.

Director Scafani asked about the date collection will commence, and Executive Director Keller-Heckman indicated that the precise date has not been determined at this time. Director Scafani inquired if there was currently in-county greenwaste processing, and Executive Director Keller-Heckman replied that there was not. Staff seeks to develop solutions for all organic material processing that will encompass both greenwaste and food waste. Director Castellano asked if collection might commence at different times in different jurisdictions. Executive Director Keller-Heckman responded that while exact commencement dates may vary, there will be a coordinated plan to roll out services across the jurisdictions in concert with franchise agreement and facility updates.

Chairperson Atkins-Salazar acknowledged the broad community support for local organics processing, despite the challenges of the roll out.

Chairperson Atkins-Salazar opened the floor to public comment. Praj White, Northpoint Consulting, provided public comment on the proposal his firm submitted for the feasibility study. Mr. White took responsibility for the omission of the anti-collusion statement that was required for a complete submission and expressed his enthusiasm to complete the study with his team of consultants if the contract was awarded to his firm.

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5 Evan Edgar, Edgar & Associates, provided public comment on the strength of the local team involved in the RFP submission and concurred with Executive Director KellerHeckman’s assessment that the larger consulting firms were too busy for this project.

Chairperson Atkins-Salazar closed the floor to public comment.

Director Castellano inquired if Northpoint Consulting provided the required anticollusion statement, would their proposal be deemed responsive. General Counsel Diamond responded that the proposal had been rejected and the request was closed out.

The board could direct staff to re-release the RFP and review a new round of proposals if they so choose. Director Castellano expressed hope that the board could engage in a more detailed conversation about the study. Executive Director Keller-Heckman indicated that jurisdiction staff who have earmarked grant funds will benefit from some direction from the board at this time.

Chairperson Atkins-Salazar agreed that staff needed direction regarding grant funding.

Director Scafani inquired that, if the RFP was re-released, would the Authority move forward with a responsive proposal. Executive Director Keller-Heckman indicated that the Authority would support that decision but also seek confirmation from jurisdiction staff regarding use of grant funds. Chairperson Atkins-Salazar asked if the determination of nonresponsiveness had been subject to a board vote, and Executive Director Keller-Heckman responded it had not. General Counsel Diamond indicated that it was a board level decision to deem a proposal nonresponsive. Executive Director Keller-Heckman responded that historically, RFP responsiveness has been determined at the staff level.

Director Cady inquired if grant funds were not used now, would they be available in the future. Executive Director Keller-Heckman responded that the funds currently earmarked for the feasibility study would be reallocated to other projects if the contract is not awarded now. Director Scafani suggested that the feasibility study be brought back at the next board meeting for further consideration. Executive Director Keller-Heckman affirmed that he would be meeting with jurisdiction staff in the next week to gather their input regarding the proposal and best use of available grant funds.

Motion: Director Scafani motioned, and Director Cady seconded, that the Organics Feasibility Study proposal be brought before the board for further evaluation at the next meeting
Action: Approve the Motion as made by Director Scafani and seconded by Director Cady.

Ayes: Directors Cady, Scafani, and Castellano
Noes: Chairperson Atkins-Salazar

Absent: Directors Lewis-Lusso, Madrone and Wilson

7. Discuss Strategic Vision Planning
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6 Executive Director Keller-Heckman described how the board had requested that Strategic Vision Planning be agendized for discussion. Staff had requested that the board provide direction on the intended timing and time frame of the planning and which jurisdiction staff and/or consultants should participate. Chairperson Atkins-Salazar commented that three regular board members were absent. Director Castellano indicated that she would like to complete the project with a consultant and jurisdiction staff before the end of her term on the Eureka City Council. Director Scafani concurred that she would prefer to start on strategic vision planning now. Chairperson Atkins-Salazar noted there was general consensus among board members to proceed.

Chairperson Atkins-Salazar opened the floor to public comment. No public comment was received.

Chairperson Atkins-Salazar closed the floor to public comment.

General Counsel Diamond inquired if the board would like to make a motion to form a subcommittee. The board members discussed interest and availability in the coming month and concluded that a three-person subcommittee of Chairperson Atkins-Salazar and Directors Cady and Castellano should be proposed.

Motion: Director Castellano motioned, and Director Scafani seconded, for Chairperson Atkins-Salazar and Directors Cady and
Castellano to form a subcommittee for Strategic Vision Planning.

Action: Approve the Motion as made by Director Castellano and seconded by Director Scafani
Ayes: Unanimous
Noes: None

Absent: Directors Lewis-Lusso, Madrone and Wilson

8. Standing Item: Board Member Reports
The Directors had no further reports.

9. Standing Item: Executive Director’s Report
Executive Director Keller-Heckman reported that CalRecycle would be issuing the Authority a new Notice to Proceed for the Organics ORG7 grant. The new grant agreement has been executed, and the Authority is now authorized to proceed with the facility upgrades necessary to accept organic material at the Hawthorne Street Transfer Station. Additionally, CalRecycle approved the Authority’s request for an extension of the grant term through April 2027.

10. Closed session
It is the intention of this Board of Directors to meet in closed session for one item, pursuant to Government Code 54956.8 Real Property, to consider the potential price and terms of purchase of APN 405-081-036.

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7 11. Report Out of Closed Session: No report.

Chairperson Atkins-Salazar adjourned the Closed Session at 7:14 pm.

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Board of Directors Draft Meeting Minutes
Wharfinger Building, Bay Room (downstairs)
1 Marina Way, Eureka, CA 95501
Thursday, January 22 2026
3:30 PM
Attendance
Present
Scott Bauer Carlos Diaz
Michael Gerace Skip Jorgensen
Jason Ramos Elise Scafani
Sarah Schaefer (left at 6:58 p.m.) Jack Tuttle
Sheri Woo (left at 5 p.m.) Frank Wilson
Mike Wilson *
* Director Mike Wilson participated remotely with just cause, travel for state agency business. There was no one present at the remote location with him during this meeting.

None Absent
Staff and Others Present
Name Title
Ken Beals Information Technology Technician
Lori Biondini Director of Business Planning & Finance
Elizabeth Burks Executive Director
Faith Carlson Regulatory & Legislative Policy Manager
Ronnie Chaussé Acting Finance Manager
Nancy Diamond RCEA Legal Counsel
Richard Engel Power Resources Director
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Roku Fukui Local Government Partner Program Manager
Lori Taketa Board Clerk
Patricia Terry Northern Rural Energy Network Senior Portfolio Mgr.

Eileen Verbeck Deputy Executive Director
Open Session
Chair Bauer called a meeting of the Board of Directors of the Redwood Coast Energy Authority to order at the above location and date at 3:32 p.m. Notice of this meeting was posted on January 17, 2026.

Board Appointments

2.1. Election of Officers and Community Advisory Committee Liaison Appointments There were no public comments on this agenda item.

M/S: M. Wilson, Schaefer: Appoint Michael Gerace as RCEA Board Chair and Sarah Schaefer as Vice Chair to serve through January 2027 and authorize them as signers on RCEA bank accounts.

The motion passed with a unanimous roll call vote. Ayes: Bauer, Diaz, Gerace, Jorgensen, Ramos, Scafani, Schaefer, Tuttle, F. Wilson, M. Wilson, Woo. Noes: None. Absent: None. Abstain:

None.

M/S: Schaefer, Scafani: Appoint Sarah Schaefer as Board Liaison and Scott Bauer as Alternate Liaison to the Community Advisory Committee to serve through January 2027.

The motion passed with a unanimous roll call vote. Ayes: Bauer, Diaz, Gerace, Jorgensen, Ramos, Scafani, Schaefer, Tuttle, F. Wilson, M. Wilson, Woo. Noes: None. Absent: None. Abstain:

None.

Director Bauer facilitated the remainder of this meeting.

2.2. Board Finance Committee Member Assignment
There were no public comments on this agenda item.

M/S: Bauer, Scafani: Continue the standing Finance Committee and appoint Chair Gerace and Directors Bauer, Jorgensen, Ramos and F. Wilson to serve on the Finance Committee for oneyear terms ending on February 28, 2027.

The motion passed with a unanimous roll call vote. Ayes: Bauer, Diaz, Gerace, Jorgensen, Ramos, Scafani, Schaefer, Tuttle, F. Wilson, M. Wilson, Woo. Noes: None. Absent: None. Abstain:

None.

Reports from Member Entities
Director Woo reported that the Humboldt Bay Municipal Water District Board voted to withdraw from both the RCEA and Redwood Region Economic Development joint powers agreements effective March 1. The directors thanked Director Woo for her committed service since 2011. Director Woo also reported on the March 18, 2026
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Water District’s involvement in fighting the recent Arcata fire. Water District staff ran pumps with generators due to higher PG&E daytime rates and there was adequate water pressure and supply. Vice Chair Schaefer reported on the countywide effort to contain the fire.

Chair Gerace reported that the Yurok Tribe, through its construction corporation Merk Confederated, will fund and begin planned battery storage and a solar array installation, the initial components of a microgrid with islanding and backup capabilities. These assets were originally planned as part of the Tribal Energy Resilience and Sovereignty project which won, then lost, Federal funding support. The Tribe is planning a 1 to 1.5 MW Ke’pel Creek hydroelectric system to generate energy for the microgrid.

RCEA may wish to discuss involvement in this project in the future.

Director Mike Wilson recommended RCEA Board Director attendance at the upcoming CivicWell Policymakers Conference in March and at the California Climate and Energy Collaborative Forum in June.

Oral & Written Communications
There were no non-agenda item public comments.

Consent Calendar

5.1. Approve Minutes of November 24, 2025, Board Meeting.

5.2. Approve Disbursement Reports for October and November 2025, and Financial Reports for this Fiscal Year Through November 2025.

5.3. Receive Federal Activity Report.

5.4. Approve the 2026 RCEA Board of Directors Meeting Calendar.

5.5. Provide Suggestions for This and Future Policy Platform Updates, and Accept 2026 RCEA Policy Platform.

There were no requests from the public or directors to remove items from the Consent Calendar.

M/S: Scafani, Schaefer: Approve all Consent Calendar items.

The motion passed with a unanimous roll call vote. Ayes: Bauer, Diaz, Gerace, Jorgensen, Ramos, Scafani, Schaefer, Tuttle, F. Wilson, M. Wilson, Woo. Noes: None. Absent: None. Abstain:

None.

Staff Reports

7.1. Executive Director’s Report
Executive Director Burks summarized RCEA’s community outreach efforts during the past month, and:
• Announced RCEA’s sponsorship program which will award $25,000 to local organizations for activities or projects that can further RCEA’s presence and mission in the community. • PG&E will implement its base services charge in March 2026. The billing change is meant to provide relief for customers, especially in high-heat areas. Locally, however, customers with low energy use will see an increase in their bills.
• RCEA received one complimentary registration for the Civic Well Policy Maker’s conference and can support a Board member’s travel to the event, and to other RCEA-related education events.

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Begin Community Choice Energy (CCE) Business
CCE Business Consent Calendar

8.1. Adopt Resolution 2026-1 Adopting the Updated Energy Risk Management Policy.

No one from the public nor the Board requested separate discussion of the CCE Business Consent Calendar item.

M/S: Jorgensen, Schaefer: Approve Community Choice Energy Consent Calendar item.

The motion passed with a unanimous roll call vote. Ayes: Bauer, Diaz, Jorgensen, Scafani, Schaefer, Tuttle, F. Wilson, M. Wilson. Noes: None. Abstain: None. Non-Voting: Gerace, Ramos, Woo. Absent: None.

Old CCE Business

10.1. Power Charge Indifference Adjustment Update (Information only) Regulatory and Legislative Policy Manager Carlson explained the Power Charge Indifference Adjustment (PCIA), where it appears on customer bills, how it affects how much Community Choice Aggregators like RCEA can charge for electricity and still remain competitive with the investor-owned utilities, and recent changes to how the PCIA is calculated that severely impact CCAs. The directors discussed actions the CCAs are taking to try to change the PCIA calculation method, and how in other states with CCA’s the PCIA charge usually ends in 10 years. California is the only state where the PCIA persists without a sunset date. Staff asked the directors to help educate legislators with whom they meet about this issue.

There were no public comments on this agenda item.

10.2. Energy Risk Management Semi-Annual Report
Power Resources Director Engel described RCEA’s declining electricity load, which appears to be caused mostly by local population decrease and business closures. Business Planning and Finance Director Biondini outlined how RCEA handles customer debt, efforts to get customers on payment plans and the relatively small, but expected, amounts recovered by RCEA’s collection agency. PG&E’s decreased generation rates combined with increased PCIA charges for RCEA customers are expected to result in about $15 million less in electricity sales revenue than expected. This is projected to result in negative $1.1 million net revenue this year and negative $6.6 million in the next fiscal year. If RCEA maintains a generation rate that is slightly less than PG&E’s, RCEA’s cash on hand is projected to steadily decline from $44 million to $2.1 million at the end of 2028. Different rate change scenarios and their impact on customer bills were described. Staff asked the board for short-term direction on RCEA customer rates relative to PG&E’s rates for 2026. Staff will update the Board on the cost-of-service rate study currently underway at a future meeting and alerted the Board that action would need to be taken soon. Staff asked the Board to convey to the community RCEA’s value beyond affordability in the form of local control, energy efficiency programs and jobs. There were no public comments on this agenda item.

End of CCE Business | Resume RCEA General Business
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Old Business

12.1. Community Advisory Committee (CAC) Member Appointments and Recruitment Deputy Executive Director Verbeck described current CAC vacancies and committee changes with the Water District’s departure from RCEA. Vice Chair Schaefer and Director Bauer volunteered to serve on an ad hoc committee to review at-large applications and recommend appointees. There were no public comments on this agenda item.

M/S: Bauer, Schaefer: Reappoint Ethan Lawton, Benjamin Fordham, and Dennis Leonardi to the Community Advisory Committee for Two-Year Terms Ending on March 31, 2028.

The motion passed with a unanimous roll call vote. Ayes: Bauer, Diaz, Gerace, Jorgensen, Ramos, Scafani, Schaefer, Tuttle, F. Wilson, M. Wilson. Noes: None. Absent: Woo. Abstain: None.

New Business

13.1. Presentation on Northern Rural Energy Network (NREN) 2028-31 Business Plan NREN Senior Portfolio Manager Terry described successful uptake of NREN energy efficiency programs during the program’s launch year both in Humboldt County and in other rural Northern California counties. Plans for the next business cycle include offering the same programs to an expanded area including Yolo and Trinity Counties and other rural, unserved counties identified through a market characterization study. There were no public comments on this item.

M/S: Schaefer, Ramos: Approve submission of the 2028-2031 Northern Rural Energy Network Business Plan Application to the California Public Utilities Commission.

The motion passed with a unanimous roll call vote. Ayes: Bauer, Diaz, Gerace, Jorgensen, Ramos, Scafani, Schaefer, Tuttle, F. Wilson, M. Wilson. Noes: None. Absent: Woo. Abstain: None.

13.2. Baker Tilly Engagement for Redwood Coast Airport Microgrid and Electric Vehicle Charging Station Tax Credits
Deputy Executive Director Verbeck reported that RCEA auditor Baker Tilly determined that the airport microgrid (RCAM) and RCEA’s electric vehicle charger network were eligible for tax incentives through the 2022 Inflation Reduction Act. RCAM is eligible for $1.6 million in investment tax credits. The EV charging network is eligible for $40,000 in credits, but filing costs make this credit not worth pursuing.

There were no public comments on this item.

M/S: M. Wilson, Schaefer:

1. Approve an amendment to Baker Tilly Advisory Group, LP Master Service Agreement to increase the not-to-exceed amount by $31,000 for a total not-to-exceed of $80,500.

2. Approve scope of work 2 with Baker Tilly for the preparation and filing of Investment Tax Credit documents for the Redwood Coast Airport Microgrid project.

The motion passed with a unanimous roll call vote. Ayes: Bauer, Diaz, Gerace, Jorgensen, Ramos, Scafani, Schaefer, Tuttle, F. Wilson, M. Wilson. Noes: None. Absent: Woo. Abstain: None.

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13.3. PG&E Local Government Partnership Contract to Provide Energy Efficiency Services Change Order
Program Manager Fukui described recent projects with Local Government Partnership (LGP) including the Arcata Community Center and rural fire stations. The LGP program provides no-cost energy assessments, project management and planning support, and help securing loans for energy efficiency projects, among other supportive services for local government agencies, schools, commercial businesses and Tribes. Staff encouraged facility managers to contact RCEA for a no cost energy efficiency assessment. There were no public comments on this item.

M/S: Schaefer, Scafani: Approve a Change Order to the PG&E Local Government Partnership Contract to extend the term through 2027, increase the budget by $799,992, and make amendments to the program design and authorize the Executive Director to execute all applicable documents after review and approval of RCEA General Counsel.

The motion passed with a unanimous roll call vote. Ayes: Bauer, Diaz, Gerace, Ramos, Scafani, Schaefer, Tuttle, F. Wilson, M. Wilson. Noes: None. Absent: Jorgensen, Woo. Abstain: None.

13.4. Discuss Regional Climate Action Plan Implementation Executive Director Burks described RCEA’s past involvement in the countywide Regional Climate Action Plan and asked the directors whether they would support RCEA hosting the Regional Climate Program Manager staff position and Regional Climate Committee to coordinate the Plan’s work. The directors discussed Humboldt County Association of Governments’ role in the Plan’s implementation, how having a climate action officer makes jurisdictions and Joint Powers Authorities eligible for additional funding, RCEA’s involvement in half of the Climate Action Plan’s measures, and how RCEA’s Strategic Plan describes the agency’s role as a regional energy planning and coordination leader, specifically in assisting climate action plan implementation. After inquiring about staff bandwidth and funding concerns, the directors expressed support for further exploring RCEA hosting the position.

Colin Fiske, submitting written comments as the Executive Director of the Coalition for Responsible Transportation Priorities, supported further exploration of RCEA coordinating Regional Climate Action Plan implementation.

Future Agenda Items
Director Bauer requested Information on what RCEA control of regional electricity transmission and distribution would entail and how it has been accomplished with power cooperatives, public utility districts and cities in other areas. The Yurok Tribe is investigating ownership of the grid in Tribal areas and could benefit from RCEA’s research.

Closed Session

15.1. Real Property Negotiations Pursuant to Government Code § 54956.8 in re: APN 001-135-007:

RCEA negotiator: Executive Director; Owner’s negotiating party: Wells Commercial: Under negotiation: price and terms.

15.2. Conference with Legal Counsel: Deciding whether to initiate litigation, pursuant to Government Code Section 54956.9(d)(4).

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15.3. Public Employee Performance Evaluation, pursuant to Government Code § 54957: Executive Director.

15.4. Conference with Labor Negotiator, pursuant to Government Code § 54956.7. RCEA designated representative, Board Chair; Unrepresented employee, Executive Director.

There were no public comments on the closed session items. The Board adjourned to closed session at 5:38 p.m. and reconvened in open session at 6:59 p.m. Director Bauer stated that there was nothing to report from closed session. The meeting was adjourned at 7 p.m.

Lori Taketa
Clerk of the Board
March 18, 2026
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Section 17

ADJOURN
March 18, 2026
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