TO: City Council DATE: August 11, 2025 DEPARTMENT: City Manager's Office
PREPARED BY: Isaac Whippy, City Manager
PRESENTER: Isaac Whippy, City Manager & Pam Bell Events AGENDA TITLE: Building Connection and Community: Hosting Fort Bragg’s First Longest Table Event on October 5, 2025 ______________________________________________________________________________
RECOMMENDATION
Staff recommends that the City Council:
Receive this report and presentation on the upcoming Longest Table Fort Bragg event scheduled for October 5, 2025; and Endorse the City’s continued support and promotion of the event as a key community-building initiative. _____________________________________________________________________________ The Longest Table is a global community engagement initiative designed to bring neighbors together for conversation, connection, and collaboration. Originating in Chelsea, New York, following the COVID-19 pandemic, the Longest Table concept has grown internationally, with more than 28 events scheduled across the U.S., as well as in Paris, London, and Dublin.
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The event centers on one simple, yet profound idea: people connect best while sharing a table. Attendees bring a dish or enjoy food provided by local partners and are seated at one long, continuous table in a public space. The shared experience breaks down social barriers, strengthens civic pride, and fosters dialogue among residents who might not otherwise meet.
The City of Fort Bragg will host its inaugural Longest Table Fort Bragg on Sunday, October 5, 2025, in Downtown Fort Bragg. The event is free and open to the public, and it aligns with the City’s mission to promote inclusivity, unity, and a thriving community life.
DISCUSSION
Hosting The Longest Table will provide the following key benefits to the community:
Community Building and Social Cohesion
Brings together residents from diverse backgrounds to foster conversation and mutual understanding.
Strengthens neighborhood relationships and creates new connections that can lead to lasting collaboration.
Civic Engagement and Public Trust
Demonstrates the City’s commitment to supporting events that break down barriers and nurture belonging.
Provides a welcoming, low-pressure environment for residents to engage with each other and with City leaders.
Economic and Cultural Impact
Encourages local business participation through food, sponsorship, and volunteer opportunities.
Enhances Fort Bragg’s reputation as a vibrant, creative, and community-focused city.
Alignment with City’s Strategic Goals
Community Enrichment: Promotes events that foster civic pride and social connectivity.
Economic Development: Draws visitors to the Downtown Core and supports local restaurants and vendors.
Public Engagement: Encourages public participation and creates a positive City presence in community life.
EVENT OVERVIEW
Date: Sunday, October 5, 2025 1-4pm
Location: Downtown Fort Bragg (specific street closures to be finalized) Format: One long table set in the public right-of-way; attendees bring food or enjoy local offerings.
Partners: Local restaurants, nonprofits, service clubs, and volunteers The event will also include music, conversation prompts, and opportunities for participants to share stories about community life in Fort Bragg.
FISCAL IMPACT
The total estimated City cost is $7,300-$8,000, which will be funded from the approved FY 2025–26 Events Budget. Staff will leverage partnerships and volunteer efforts to minimize expenses while maximizing community benefit
CITY COUNCIL STRATEGIC PLAN CONSISTENCY
Community Engagement and Pride: Creates a welcoming and inclusive event that enhances Fort Bragg’s quality of life.
Economic Vitality: Supports downtown activation and local business participation.
City as a Community Partner: Reinforces the City’s role as a facilitator of positive, unifying experiences
ATTACHMENTS
PowerPoint Presentation of Longest Table transitions.
AGENDA ITEM NO. 8A
CITY COUNCIL STAFF REPORT