Year in
2025
Review
MESSAGE FROM THE CITY MANAGER
Dear Fort Bragg Residents and Business Owners,
Happy New Year—and welcome to 2026. I hope you were able to slow down over the holidays, spend time with family and friends, and enjoy what makes this place special—our coastline, our redwoods, and the strong sense of community that shows up here every day. On behalf of the City of Fort Bragg and City Council, thank you for the pride you take in our town and for the many ways you support one another and our local businesses.
Looking back on 2025, we made real progress together—but we also had some tough stretches. The recent winter storms hit our streets hard, and many of you have had to navigate potholes, rough road conditions, and repairs. We know the broadband construction has added to the disruption—torn-up sections of roadway, detours, and a harder time getting around for residents, visitors, and businesses. If you’ve felt frustrated, you’re not alone.
We’ve heard you, and we take those impacts seriously.
In 2026–27, we will prioritize repairing streets impacted by recent work and follow a clear plan to ensure street and sidewalk restoration meets the standard this community deserves. While the construction impacts are real, we believe the long-term payoff will be worth it: a locally owned broadband utility—built for Fort Bragg, operated here, and designed to deliver reliable, more affordable internet for residents and businesses, along with new economic development opportunities for our community.
Here are a few highlights from 2025:
Mill Site Planning and MOU
City Council directed a shift to a cooperative Mill Site strategy—pursuing a Master Development Agreement (MDA) and Local Coastal Program (LCP) amendment as a practical path forward. Following the litigation stay, the City advanced Phases 1 and 2, combining decades of planning with new analysis by Economic & Planning Systems (EPS). We shared the Draft Mill Site Development Strategy at a public workshop and refined the illustrative plan through three community meetings.
We’re continuing to work with Mendocino Railway to address long-standing issues, advance the Categorical Exclusion (CatEx) process and an MOU, and keep progress moving toward rezoning and a clear, communityinformed future for the site. A Mill Site and economic development survey will be available in early Q1 2026 online and included with utility billing—your input will help guide next steps.
Downtown Fort Bragg and economic vitality
Economic development remained a central priority. The City’s Economic Development Department continued supporting local businesses through our BEAR Strategy—Business Expansion, Attraction, and Retention—while strengthening downtown vitality. In 2025, we expanded business tools and resources, strengthened programs like the Fort Bragg Business Boost Fund, and advanced façade improvement grants to reinvest in our commercial districts. We also made visible improvements downtown—adding wayfinding signage, expanding murals in the Central Business District, and enhancing beautification with hanging flower baskets.
We supported signature gatherings like The Longest Table and continued growing the City’s events calendar including the Blues Festival, while advancing policies to activate downtown, including launching our Entertainment Zone framework. To address persistent vacancies, the City Council also approved a Vacant Storefront Registry Ordinance to bring focus and accountability to long-term vacant properties.
Housing: increasing supply and removing barriers
Housing remained a critical focus in 2025. The City applied for the State’s Pro-housing Designation and advanced practical reforms to reduce barriers—such as waiving minimum parking requirements, expanding ministerial design review where appropriate, and streamlining processes to improve predictability and timelines.
City Council also approved two major housing projects: 86 new market-rate units and 45 affordable units —important steps toward expanding housing options for a range of incomes.
Municipal broadband: a utility built for Fort Bragg
In 2025, the City acquired Mendocino Coast Network (MCN)—bringing local broadband operations under community ownership and positioning Fort Bragg to operate broadband as a true public utility focused on service, reliability, and long-term community benefit. Construction is underway, and we are targeting completion of the primary broadband build by March 2026.
This $16.9 million investment in Municipal broadband will support small businesses, enable remote work, expand access to education and telehealth, and strengthen Fort Bragg’s competitiveness for business attraction and retention.
Improving service at City Hall
Inside City Hall, we focused on improving the customer experience and increasing efficiency. We increased our opening hours and created a Public Experience Liaison position to help residents and businesses navigate City services, and we continued implementing Accela to streamline licensing and permit processing. We also expanded plan-check and inspection capacity through 4Leaf to reduce delays.
In 2026, we will launch business license modernization to make applying, renewing, and paying online easier and more user-friendly.
Isaac Whippy
Strong financial footing
Financially, the City maintained 30% General Fund reserves and invested over $3 million into the Section 115 Trust to prepare for long-term pension obligations. To address challenges identified in the City’s multi-year forecast, the City Council placed Measures T and U on the November 2024 ballot, and voters approved both measures with $1.3 million of additional tax revenues— strengthening the City’s ability to provide critical services and remain financially resilient. Our commitment to strong financial practices was also recognized through the GFOA Budget Award and Excellence in Financial Reporting.
Investing in our City team
None of this work happens without the people who show up every day—often behind the scenes— to serve Fort Bragg. In the last couple of years, we made a deliberate investment in our culture and in the long-term strength of our organization: expanding training and professional development, strengthening team building, and improving cross-department collaboration so we operate as one team with shared standards and shared purpose.
Thank you to our City Council
I also want to recognize and thank our Mayor Jason Godeke, Vice Mayor Marcia Rafanna, and Councilmembers Lindy Peters, Scott Hockett, and Tess Albin-Smith- for their leadership and steady commitment to Fort Bragg. Serving on the City Council is volunteer public service, and it requires countless hours of preparation, community conversations, and difficult decision-making —often outside of regular work and family time. I’m grateful for the time they give, the care they bring to this work, and their dedication to doing what’s best for our community.
We also took concrete steps to support
retention and stability through COLA
adjustments and long-term labor agreements,
while expanding wellness initiatives—because
a healthy, supported team is essential to a
high-performing City. Most importantly, we’re
building a culture rooted in our values:
accountability, professionalism, respect, and
continuous improvement.
Reflecting on my second year as City Manager, I’m truly grateful for the opportunity to serve Fort Bragg. My family and I have called this place home for the past 12 years, and I feel lucky to live here, raise our kids here, and be part of a community that cares so deeply about one another.
What inspires me most is the opportunity in front of us—especially with the Mill Site redevelopment.
It’s a once-in-a-generation chance to thoughtfully address long-standing community needs:
expanding housing options, strengthening our local economy, open space, improving public access and infrastructure, and shaping a waterfront that reflects Fort Bragg’s values and our next chapter.
Done right, this work can deliver real, lasting benefits for residents, families, and local businesses.
Thank you for your trust, your feedback, and your partnership. I will continue to lead with urgency, care, and accountability—and I’ll keep pushing to ensure we’re not only addressing today’s needs but setting Fort Bragg up for the next generation.
With gratitude and optimism,
City Manager
OUR CORE VALUES
OUR MISSION
OUR VISION
Fort Bragg is a small town nestled between the coast and the redwoods with a strong sense of community that seeks to preserve its environment while providing resilient public facilities and infrastructure and supporting a safe and vibrant economic, multi-cultural, and recreational experience for both locals and visitors alike.
A California coastal destination with rich natural resources and rugged beauty, is transforming our future by weaving together our people, ecosystems, and economy to create community prosperity. We are making our mark in the 21st Century by creating climate-ready water and energy independence, housing and economic opportunities, accessible health care, community public safety, and education for all Drives our city forward,
encouraging creative
solutions and
continuous
improvement by
embracing new ideas
and technologies to
enhance quality of life.
INNOVATION SERVICE-ORIENTED
Responsive to the public
and to each other to
demonstrate our genuine
commitment to create a
Fort Bragg that serves us
today and readies us for a
successful tomorrow.
Nourish civic pride and
celebrates the diversity of
our city and the
meaningful municipal
services that our
residents and businesses
rely on.
COLLABORATION
HONESTY & INTEGRITY
Emanate throughout our
community to engender the
trust, transparency,
responsibility, and
accountability that our citizens
deserve.
FAIR & ETHICAL
Principles and practices,
Fort Bragg promotes an
inclusive community
culture of unity and
equality that openly invites
everyone to enjoy our
unique coastal enclave.
CITY COUNCIL
108
Resolutions
Passed
17 Ordinances
Passed
29 Proclamations
Mayor
Jason Godeke
Vice Mayor
Marcia Rafanan
Councilmember
Lindy Peters
Councilmember
Scott Hockett
Councilmember
Tess Albin-Smith
CITY COUNCIL
On August 11, 2025, the City Council approved
providing $40,000 from Police Asset
Forfeiture Funds to the Mendocino Coast
Humane Society. With this support they can
continue to provide intake, medical treatment,
and adoption services for stray and
surrendered animals!
Fort Bragg's cutest residents are always
looking for volunteers, fosters, and those
wishing to adopt.
Visit their website today:
https://mendocinohumane.org/
Mayor Godeke on behalf of the City of Fort
Bragg proudly presented a $58,000 check to
the Fort Bragg Food Bank, following City
Council approval on July 14, 2025.
This funding—made possible through the City’s
FY 2024-25 budget surplus—will strengthen
food security services for Fort Bragg residents
and help the Food Bank continue its incredible
work serving families across our community.
A big thank you to the Fort Bragg Food Bank
team for their tireless efforts in ensuring no
neighbor goes hungry. For volunteer
opportunities please visit:
https://www.fortbraggfoodbank.org/
THE FORT BRAGG FOOD BANK
THE MENDOCINO COAST HUMANE SOCIETY
PRIORITIZING COMMUNITY RESOURCES
The Fort Bragg City Council approved $650,000 to establish the Fort Bragg Business Boost Fund—a revolving loan fund designed to help local businesses access affordable capital.
Small and medium-sized businesses often face real barriers to financing, including high interest rates, strict qualification requirements, and limited traditional lending options. In today’s economic climate—where costs are rising and credit markets remain tight—these challenges fall hardest on smaller enterprises. For many businesses, affordable capital can be the difference between expanding, maintaining operations, or closing their doors. The Business Boost Fund is intended to help fill that gap by providing a practical, local resource for businesses working to grow and remain resilient.
In 2025, the program began delivering results by assisting two local businesses with access to this fund—supporting reinvestment, stability, and job retention right here in Fort Bragg. This initiative also builds on the proven impact of the City’s CDBG Business Assistance Program, which helped fund six local businesses, created or retained 13 jobs, and strengthened local economic activity.
CITY MANAGER
DOWNTOWN REVITALIZATION
1. CENTRAL BUSINESS DISTRICT DOWNTOWN IMPROVEMENT GRANTS Façade Improvement Grants are helping strengthen the look and vitality of our downtown by partnering directly with local businesses on exterior upgrades. Through this program, eligible property and business owners can apply for matching grants of up to $25,000 to support improvements such as paint, lighting, signage, windows/doors, accessibility enhancements, and other curb-appeal upgrades that make storefronts more inviting. These reinvestments support small businesses, improve the overall streetscape, and contribute to a more vibrant, walkable Central Business District.
2. FORT BRAGG BUSINESS BOOST PROGRAM
Loan ProgramDetails:
Interest Rate: 2.5%-4% + Loan
Underwriting Fees
Repayment Terms: 2–5 years
Loan Amounts: Minimum
$10,000 Maximum $200,000
Formore information/application
Please contact our Economic
Development Team:
[email protected]
[email protected]
(707) 961 2823 Ext. 108
416 N. Franklin Street, Fort Bragg, CA
95437
3. DOWNTOWN BEAUTIFICATION- HANGING FLOWER BASKETS
To enhance the look and feel of our Central Business District, the City also introduced hanging flower baskets along key downtown corridors. These baskets add color, warmth, and curb appeal—helping create a more welcoming, walkable environment for residents, shoppers, and visitors. It’s a simple but visible investment that supports local pride and complements our broader downtown revitalization efforts, including murals, wayfinding, and façade improvements.
CITY MANAGER
DOWNTOWN REVITALIZATION
4.DOWNTOWN BUSINESS ROUNDTABLE- FIRST WEDNESDAY OF EACH MONTH To strengthen communication and partnership with our downtown community, the City launched a Downtown Business Roundtable in 2025 held on the first Wednesday of each month. This forum is designed as a listening session where business owners can share concerns, ideas, and on-theground feedback directly with City leadership and staff. The Roundtable helps us stay connected to real-time conditions downtown, identify issues early, and collaborate on practical solutions that support a vibrant and resilient local economy.
5.MURALS- PUBLIC ART
The City of Fort Bragg was proud to unveil the—The Gray Whale Mural in Kelp, designed by Larry Foster and painted by Marta Alonso Canillar—at North Coast Brewing Company in August 2025. This incredible piece became our largest mural to date and marked a major milestone in the City’s Downtown Revitalization work.
This mural was part of our partnership with the Alley Arts Project to expand public art downtown— celebrating local identity, enhancing key corridors, and creating a more vibrant, walkable Central Business District.
Special thanks to Lia Wilson and North Coast Brewing Company for helping bring this vision to life.
Looking ahead, the City plans to add three more murals in 2026, continuing this momentum and expanding public art in meaningful, visible ways.
Fort Bragg’s Entertainment Zone (EZ) is an event-based tool to help activate downtown, support local businesses, and create a more vibrant, walkable Central Business District. The program was made possible through California Senate Bill 969, which expanded the ability for cities to establish designated entertainment zones tied to community events. Locally, the Fort Bragg City Council approved a downtown Entertainment Zone pilot on September 22, 2025, setting the framework for a well-managed program with clear boundaries and rules.
Importantly, Fort Bragg’s EZ can only be activated when paired with other City-approved events, ensuring it is used intentionally and with appropriate coordination and oversight. When activated, the EZ operates Friday through Sunday, 12:00 p.m. to 9:00 p.m. The City launched the Entertainment Zone in November 2025, and the initial rollout was a huge success, demonstrating how thoughtful downtown activation can boost foot traffic and enhance the overall experience while maintaining clear expectations for safety and compliance.
CITY MANAGER
DOWNTOWN REVITALIZATION
6.ENTERTAINMENT ZONE
CITY MANAGER
In May 2025, Fort Bragg hosted its inaugural Fort Bragg Blues Festival, bringing three days of live music and downtown energy to the community. Kicking off alongside First Friday, the festival helped activate the Central Business District—drawing residents and visitors into local venues, restaurants, and shops and creating the kind of lively, welcoming atmosphere that supports small businesses and community pride.
Building on our strong first year, the City is excited to welcome the Blues back with the Second Annual Fort Bragg Blues Festival, May 1–3, 2026, continuing the momentum and growing this event into an annual tradition on the coast.
The Longest Table began as a simple, powerful idea that started in New York City—one evening each year, a long table is set in a public space and neighbors are invited to sit together, share a meal, and have real conversations. The goal is straightforward: reduce isolation and build connection— one seat at a time.
Here in Fort Bragg, we launched The Longest Table in October 2025, and the idea quickly took on a life of its own because it fits who we are. It became a meaningful downtown gathering where families, friends, and new faces sat side-by-side and were reminded that community isn’t something we talk about—it’s something we practice. It’s meaningful because it creates space for belonging: you don’t need an invitation, you don’t need to know anyone—you just show up, and you’re part of it. Moments like that—sharing a table, a laugh, a conversation—are what make Fort Bragg feel like home.
CITY MANAGER
COMMUNITY BUILDING EVENTS
THE LONGEST TABLE
Looking ahead, the City is excited to bring back The Longest Table in 2026 and build on the momentum with a second gathering that continues strengthening connection and community in the heart of downtown.
In 2025, the City of Fort Bragg achieved major momentum on housing—advancing both marketrate and affordable projects while taking concrete steps to make it easier to build housing locally.
The City approved an 83-unit housing development on South Main Street, with approvals secured from both the Fort Bragg City Council and the California Coastal Commission. This project represents the first new market-rate housing on the coast in decades and is an important step toward expanding housing options and increasing overall supply.
The City also advanced 45 units on Hazelwood focused on senior and low-income housing, helping address the needs of residents on fixed incomes and strengthening housing stability for some of our most vulnerable community members.
HOUSING
OUR BIGGEST HOUSING DEVELOPMENT IN A DECADE
Increasing housing supply remained a top City Council priority in 2025, aligned with the City’s 2024–2028 Strategic Plan goal of adding 200+ housing units by 2026. With Fort Bragg’s growing appeal as a place to live, retire, and work—and a persistent shortage of both rental and for-sale homes—the City took concrete steps to reduce barriers, improve certainty, and accelerate housing approvals.
To support this work, the City used ARPA funding that was reallocated following a community priorities survey—dedicating 50% ($800,000) toward housing-related efforts, including ordinance updates and the City’s Pro-Housing Designation initiative. In October 2024, City Council directed staff to pursue Pro-Housing Designation through the State, a program that rewards cities for adopting zoning and land use practices that make housing easier, cheaper, and faster to build— and expands eligibility and competitiveness for state housing and infrastructure funding.
Key 2025 actions to qualify for Pro-Housing Designation included:
Parking reformto support housing feasibility (March 24, 2025): City Council adopted an ordinance establishing density bonus law parking requirements for all multifamily housing projects, regardless of whether affordable units are included. This reduced regulatory burden and removed a common cost driver in multifamily development.
Keeping local codes aligned with State housing law (June 9, 2025): City Council adopted zoning updates for both the coastal and inland codes reflecting new and evolving State requirements related to emergency shelters, group homes, low-barrier navigation centers, supportive housing, and updates connected to density bonus provisions.
More predictable approvals through objective standards +ministerial design review (June 23, 2025): City Council approved changes requiring ministerial design review for multifamily housing and updated the Citywide Design Guidelines to include objective standards for multifamily projects—helping improve clarity, consistency, and approval timelines.
Beyond policy changes, the City also completed the technical groundwork needed to apply— reviewing and self-certifying compliance with key State housing and CEQA streamlining requirements, including timeframes under the Permit Streamlining Act and newer CEQA provisions that can reduce delay and legal risk for qualifying infill multifamily projects.
Why thismatters: Pro-Housing Designation is more than a label—it’s a pathway to resources. If awarded, Fort Bragg becomes eligible to pursue additional state funding opportunities and can receive priority points or processing in several competitive programs. The City is also positioned to apply for the Pro-housing Incentive Program (PIP) (Round 4), with applications due March 31, 2026, and to be more competitive for programs such as AHSC, IIG, and other housing and infrastructure grants.
Together, these actions reflect a clear direction: Fort Bragg is reducing red tape, increasing predictability, and using available funding strategically to support housing production and longterm community stability.
HOUSING
PRO-HOUSING DESIGNATION & REDUCING BARRIERS
ENTERTAINMENT ZONE
LAUNCH PARTY
VISIT FORT BRAGG
THE LONGEST TABLE THE MAGIC MARKET
WINTER WONDERLAND
The Magic Market was a
spooktacular event this year
including costume contests,
Magical vendors and incredible
live performances
Fort Braggs first ever longest table
event took place this September and
community connections were
strengthened through a shared meal
and open conversation.
The annual tree lighting, Festival of
Trees and Santa’s arrival at the guest
house made for a joyous night for all
involved!
The first ever Fort Bragg Entertainment
Zone included a launch party on
Franklin street to celebrate this new
way to connect with one another while
supporting local businesses.
4TH OF JULY FIREWORKS
THE FORT BRAGG BLUES
FESTIVAL
SUMMER KICKOFF
FIESTA LATINA
The First Annual Fort Bragg Blues Festival
was the biggest party of the year. Blues
lovers from all over flocked to the coast to
join our local aficionados in the largest
music festival Fort Bragg has ever seen!
The Summer Kickoff celebrated the arrival
of sunny days and the start of summer
vacation for local kids!
Our annual fireworks show over the
pacific ocean gathered the community
under sparkling skies!
This annual celebration of Latinx culture
(put on in partnership with the Latino
Coalition) celebrates treasured traditions,
while creating new memories for the
community at large!
VISIT FORT BRAGG
ECONOMIC
DEVELOPMENT
BUSINESS- FRIENDLY POLICY CHANGES- BEAR STRATEGY
Advancing a Stronger Local Economy
In 2025, the City proposed a set of business-friendly policy changes—some adopted and others still in process—focused on making it easier for businesses to start, grow, and stay in Fort Bragg.
These efforts were shaped through multiple City Council discussions and align with the City’s 2024–2028 Strategic Plan priority to invigorate economic opportunity and community vibrancy. To strengthen this work, the City Manager created a dedicated Economic Development Department in July 2024, guided by the City’s BEAR framework—Business Expansion, Attraction, and Retention.
Building on that foundation, the City evaluated targeted updates to address long-term commercial vacancies, improve zoning flexibility, streamline permits, and create a more supportive environment for entrepreneurs and small business owners.
Key policy directions and actions reviewed with City Council included:
Zoning Code Modernization: Exploring updates to land use tables to allow a broader range of business types across more zoning districts, simplifying permit findings, and increasing the number of viable locations for new and expanding businesses. The City also discussed consolidating commercial zoning districts to reduce complexity and better match market realities with available storefronts.
Support for Startups and Small Footprint Businesses: Considering a “small startup” approach that would allow very small businesses (under 500 square feet) to operate in more locations— especially in areas with higher vacancies—helping activate underutilized commercial spaces and lower barriers for first-time entrepreneurs.
Permit Streamlining for Events (Limited TermPermits): Reviewing improvements to the Limited Term Permit (LTP) process to reduce administrative burden, improve predictability, and support community events—potentially including a simplified pathway for smaller events and longer-term permits for recurring, well-established events.
Administrative Reformof Minor Use Permits: Evaluating changes to make certain permits truly administrative, using clear checklists and objective criteria to reduce processing time and avoid unnecessary delays for low-impact uses.
More Flexibility for Legacy and Non-Conforming Businesses: Considering amendments that would allow long-standing businesses more ability to expand within their existing footprint or parcel, provided health and safety standards are met—supporting retention and reinvestment without forcing businesses to relocate.
Fire Sprinkler Ordinance Review (In Process): Initiating a thoughtful review of fire safety requirements with the goal of balancing public safety with the practical realities of rehabilitating older commercial buildings. Early concepts discussed included modern fire alarm monitoring options, retaining sprinkler requirements for new buildings, and refining triggers tied to higher-risk occupancies—work that remains ongoing.
Together, these policy considerations reflect a deliberate shift toward reducing red tape, increasing predictability, and supporting investment in downtown and commercial areas—all with the goal of growing local tax revenue, increasing business activity, and creating jobs while maintaining appropriate public safety and community standards.
ECONOMIC
DEVELOPMENT
EXPANDING CAPACITY FEE DEFERRALS FOR SMALL
BUSINESSES
In 2025, the City expanded its Water and Wastewater Capacity Fee Deferral Program to help small, locally owned businesses reduce upfront costs when opening, reinvesting, or expanding —while still protecting the financial health of our utility enterprise funds. Capacity fees ensure growth pays its fair share for infrastructure, but for small businesses they can be a major barrier at the front end.
Building on a successful downtown pilot, Council expanded the program beyond the Central Business District to include additional commercial zones (CG, CH, and CN), aligning with the City’s Strategic Plan and BEAR economic development strategies. The program supports eligible local businesses across sectors such as food service, retail, arts, tourism, neighborhood-serving services, and low-impact artisan/light manufacturing.
Why itmatters: By deferring—rather than waiving—capacity fees, Fort Bragg is lowering barriers for small businesses to occupy and improve existing commercial spaces, encouraging infill and adaptive reuse, supporting downtown and neighborhood activity, and strengthening local job creation and economic vitality. This approach helps make it easier for businesses to invest in Fort Bragg while maintaining the financial stability needed to keep critical water and sewer infrastructure on track.
Importantly, the program defers fees—it does not waive them. Deferrals are available for up to five years, secured through recorded agreements, and capped annually (recommended $200,000/year) to ensure fiscal safeguards and compliance with SB 937.
ECONOMIC
DEVELOPMENT
NUMBERS
The City of Fort Bragg is building an underground, fiber-to-the-premise, broadband network that will be owned and managed locally for the community’s benefit. This +/- $15million project is supported with $10.3 million in grant funds from the California Public Utility Commission and will result in increased reliability and speeds, while lowering prices. The goal if this initiative is to support economic development, education and healthcare.
The City’s last-mile network will connect to the State’s middle-mile infrastructure through a jointbuild agreement – a significant step toward connecting rural Californians and closing the digital divide.
MUNICIPAL BROADBAND UTILITY:
SUPPORTING LOCAL BUSINESSES:
The City is committed to the following actions
1st Wednesday Monthly Business Roundtable
Tuesday ED Office Hours
Business Loans and Grants
New Business Welcome Letter
Utility Business Assistance Program
ECONOMIC
DEVELOPMENT
NUMBERS
The City is participating in a regional partnership – the Noyo Ocean Collective – committed to investing resources to understand how blue economy opportunities could reinvigorate our economy. The World Bank defines the blue economy as “the sustainable uses of ocean resources for economic growth, improved livelihoods, and hobs while preserving the health of ocean ecosystems. https://noyooceancollective.org/learn/
BEVRI Planning Initiative Progresses: The purpose of the Noyo Harbor Blue Economy Visioning, Resiliency and Implementation Plan is to create a roadmap for coastal resiliency within the harbor – balancing environmental stewardship with economic vitality. Our working waterfront is an integral part of local culture, and a valuable asset when considering future blue economy investment. Over the past year we’ve been gathering baseline data on existing social, economic, physical, and environmental conditions of the harbor and identifying blue economy opportunities and limitations. We are also identify potential adaptation and resiliency measures, and a suite of potential projects, partners and funding mechanisms for implementation. https://noyooceancollective.org/bevri/
California Sea Grant: The City hosted California Sea Grant Mendocino Coast Extension Specialist for another year. Jami Miller has been taking the lead on an Aquaculture Feasibility Study, and part of the BEVRI Plan. This proof-of-concept analysis will help determine whether Pacific oysters, red abalone, purple sea urchin, and bull kelp survive and grow in Noyo Harbor. The results of this study will be coupled with information on regional restoration and commercial opportunities to determine which types of aquaculture operations are environmentally, economically, and socially feasible. https://noyooceancollective.org/aquaculture-feasibility/ California Coastal Accelerator: This year, the City of Fort Bragg was invited to participate in the California Coastal Accelerator initiative, which seeks to advance high-impact coastal resilience projects and support key leaders in five coastal communities: Oceanside, Santa Barbara, Santa Cruz, Alameda, and Fort Bragg.
BLUE ECONOMY INITITIVES
ECONOMIC
DEVELOPMENT
NUMBERS
California Coastal Accelerator: This year, the City of
Fort Bragg was invited to participate in the California Coastal Accelerator initiative, which seeks to advance
high-impact coastal resilience projects and support
key leaders in five coastal communities: Oceanside,
Santa Barbara, Santa Cruz, Alameda, and Fort Bragg.
BLUE ECONOMY INITITIVES
PCOR Initiative: The City continues to support the statewide Pacific Coast Ocean Restoration (PCOR) initiative. PCOR is “a network of partners aimed at catalyzing, coordinating, and implementing marine restoration efforts to recover critical rocky reef and kelp forest habitat, and associated species in California”.
This effort includes funding the development of curriculum at Mendocino Coast College for a workforce development pilot program. https://noyooceancollective.org/rocky-reefrestoration-workforce/ North CoastKelp Fest: Bull Kelp (Nereocystis luetkeana) grows up to 60 feet in one season, to reproduce and be washed away by winter storms each year. Bull kelp forests are the foundation of our nearshore rocky reef ecosystem and in recent years this ecosystem has collapsed. The second annual North Coast Kelp Fest was held in October, bringing art, science, food and film together to learn about the kelp crisis and restoration efforts taking place. The kick-off event at Fort Bragg’s Town Hall to showcased regional blue economy efforts to date - followed with a First Friday kelp themed art walk, and a closing event at North Coast Brewing to unveil Fort Bragg’s largest mural yet, Grey Whale in Kelp. https://www.northcoastkelpfest.org/whats-up-with-kelp
VOLUNTEER
OPPORTUNITIES
Your City. Your Impact. Your Time to Shine. 🌟
The City of Fort Bragg has launched a NEW Volunteer Platform with Volunteer Central—and we’re looking for neighbors ready to roll up their sleeves and make a difference! From helping at Events 🎶 to planting in our parks 🌳 to supporting community programs 💙—there’s a spot for EVERYONE.
Here’s how it works:
Create your profile online.
Choose the opportunities that match your skills and interests.
Get ready to be part of something bigger.
We’re kicking off a busy season of events and projects, and we’d love to see YOU on the volunteer team! 🙌
📲 Sign up now: https://volunteer.fortbraggca.gov/
The CV Starr has so many accomplishments to be
grateful for this past year. The completion of
replacing the North Side Skylights is huge. Since
2020 we have been trying to find a company who
could take this project on. A special THANK YOU, to
Carlos Hernandez for making this project happen.
There are also two very big projects in progress as
we come to the close of 2025 - HVAC replacement
for the Natatorium and the Solar project taking
place in our parking lot. These projects along with
the skylights will create a more energy efficient and
financially sustainable facility.
RECREATION
PARKS & CV STARR
DEPARTMENTAL HIGHLIGHTS:
Like others, the CV Starr has had it challenging moments, this past year. As the Center operates 7 days a-week, staffing can be challenging at times. We have been without two of our team members in maintenance for several months. During this time, everyone, from Supervisors to front desk staff to lifeguards have stepped up and pitched in to fill the void. Having everyone pitch in to help has strengthened the working relationships among departments. It has also given each of us a better understanding of what the other departments do. Seeing co-workers go out of their way to help each other is truly something to be grateful for.
TEAM ACHIEVEMENTS:
The CV Starr is most proud of the partnerships we have established with the Noyo High and Light House School, along with the partnership we created with Every Child is a Swimmer Foundation.
Our partnership with the schools was made possible by a grant from the Community Foundation of Mendocino County, the grant was for the "Underserved Youth Wellness Program". This Grant has allowed staff to work with both the Noyo High and Light House students two times a week. Staff and students work side by side to learn the proper use of gym equipment and body mechanics.
The students are also working with staff in the Competition pool to learn proper swimming stokes and various skills needed to become a lifeguard.
Partnering with Every Child is a Swimmer foundation has allowed us to offer FREE swim lessons to all families, who qualify. Several families have taken advantage of this program, and we hope more will in the coming year. Our second-grade swim program is in its 38th year. Tessie Branscomb continues to teach swim lessons to all 2nd graders in our community. Throughout the year second grade classrooms are brought to the Starr Center during school hours, where they each receive 2 weeks of free swim lessons. These fundamentally swim lessons are critical living here on the coast.
RECREATION
PARKS & CV STARR
To close out the year, The CV Starr partnered with
Parents & Friends to bring the 2nd annual
Oktoberfest festival to the community and then
partnered with several Community groups to bring
the annual Trunk-or-Treat to over 1200 children.
COMMUNITY IMPACT:
RECREATION
PARKS & CV STARR
In July 2025, the City of Fort Bragg acquired MCN to serve as the foundation for a City-owned fiber-optic internet service provider (ISP). The project timeline includes completing fiber construction by March 2026, followed by customer transitions to the new fiber network in summer 2026. The City’s goal is straightforward: deliver reliable, affordable internet that is locally controlled and community-owned—so Fort Bragg has service we can count on and a digital future shaped here at home.
MENDOCINO COMMUNITY
NETWORK(MCN)
MUNICIPAL BROADBAND (MCN)- LOCAL OWNERSHIP,
COMMUNITY IMPACT
For a rural community like Fort Bragg, this investment is about far more than faster speeds. A modern fiber network supports economic development by helping local businesses compete, attracting new entrepreneurs, and making downtown and industrial areas more viable for investment. It also expands opportunities for remote work, allowing residents to live here and work anywhere—helping families stay in the community while building careers. Reliable broadband strengthens access to telehealth, making it easier for residents to connect with specialists and services without long-distance travel. And it enhances education, public safety, and overall quality of life—helping close the digital divide and ensuring our community can thrive in a modern economy.
With construction on track to be
completed in March 2026, we’re
looking ahead to an exciting
milestone: launching Fort Bragg Fiber
and transitioning customers to the
new citywide fiber network in Summer
2026.
To sign up/stay connected:
https://www.mcn.org/signup/
MENDOCINO COMMUNITY
NETWORK(MCN)
NUMBERS
2025 was a year of transition, adjustment, and integration for Mendocino Community Network. On July 1, MCN was acquired by the City of Fort Bragg, positioning the organization for long-term public ownership while maintaining uninterrupted service to the community.
Following the acquisition, MCN transitioned operations into City systems and methods. This included transfer of ownership, onboarding staff into City procedures, aligning job descriptions, and addressing employee priorities such as benefits, leave policies, and union considerations.
MCN also completed a full reset of financial operations, including establishing new bank accounts, ACH and credit card processing, and transitioning vendor payments to City methods.
A major, time-sensitive effort involved ensuring that customers receiving terrestrial internet service outside city limits completed required LAFCo documentation. Despite the scale of this effort and firm deadlines, all affected customers were successfully transitioned without service disruption.
MCN maintained stable operations across its service portfolio, including Fusion and Comptche DSL, Open Air fixed wireless, Open Air X-Press, Digital Voice, email, and hosting. The introduction of Open Air X-Press allowed customers who could not be served by traditional Open Air to remain with MCN, and also provided meaningful speed improvements for Fusion customers at the end of long lines where service had been slowest.
Network improvements included: deployment of Open Air connections using low-latency millimeter-wave technology, a network redesign in the Boat Yard shopping center that improved reliability and speed, as well as the installation of a new firewall to better protect MCN’s colocation facility. Late-year storms caused isolated infrastructure challenges, but response planning and staff preparedness minimized downtime.
MCN continued to support the City’s fiber project by participating in construction-phase meetings, coordinating with vendors on fiber electronics and customer equipment, securing power at the headend, and preparing operational systems. Technical training for staff is scheduled to begin after the new year.
MCN is also preparing a pre-signup and waiting list for fiber service, allowing residents and businesses to register interest and help ensure an efficient and equitable rollout as construction progresses.
DEPARTMENTAL HIGHLIGHTS
NUMBERS
MCN’s community impact is reflected not only in large infrastructure efforts, but in many small, everyday actions that improve quality of life across the Mendocino Coast.
From helping families maintain reliable internet so they can remain close to ill loved ones, to enabling households without cell service to stay connected through Digital Voice, to upgrading service for small businesses as they grow, MCN provides essential services that support residents, businesses, and community institutions. Individually these efforts may seem modest, but together they represent significant and ongoing community benefit.
MCN continues to serve rural customers, remote workers, small businesses, emergency services, and schools. The City’s acquisition of MCN has been positively received, as residents recognize the value of a locally owned and accountable internet provider as fiber service becomes available in Fort Bragg.
Digital Voice services continued to expand in 2025, including adoption by customers who receive internet service from other providers. This has allowed customers to retain landline-style service with modern features at lower cost, improving affordability and reliability.
MCN also responded proactively to increased phishing and email security threats by educating customers and issuing alerts. Direct access to trusted local staff helped spread awareness quickly and reduce risk.
MCN’s team of approximately eight to nine staff members supports thousands of customers and a diverse range of services. Staff are highly cross-trained and routinely take on multiple roles to ensure continuity and reliability.
Despite the complexity of the transition to City ownership and increased workloads, the team maintained service quality, professionalism, and a strong sense of community stewardship.
Leadership continuity was strengthened during the transition, no staff departures occurred, and MCN emerged stable and well-positioned for the future. As one staff member noted, even during a stressful and uncertain transition, the work remained grounded in the right mission: delivering affordable, reliable, locally accountable connectivity for the Mendocino Coast.
MENDOCINO COMMUNITY
NETWORK(MCN)
COMMUNITY IMPACT
TEAM ACHIEVEMENTS
NUMBERS
MENDOCINO COMMUNITY
NETWORK(MCN)
BROADBAND DIRECTOR
City Manager Isaac Whippy has hired Sage to assist in launching Fort Bragg’s new municipal broadband initiative, a critical step toward expanding high-speed internet access and strengthening the community’s digital infrastructure.
While this is Sage’s first time working for the City, it’s not his first experience with MCN. He began as a technician with MCN in 1997 and later served as its Manager for nearly a decade, bringing a wealth of knowledge and leadership to this new role.
On September 22, 2025, the City of Fort
Bragg proudly welcomed its newest
team member — Sage Statham — as he
took his Oath of Office. Sage joins the
organization as the City’s first Director of
Broadband and Digital Infrastructure!
SAFETY
PUBLIC
On December 1, 2025, The City of Fort Bragg and the Fort Bragg Police Department welcomed our new Chief of Police, Chief Eric Swift! Chief Swift brings a wealth of experience, strong leadership, and a commitment to community-centered policing. Chief Swift had been serving as the City’s Interim Chief during a period of transition while the City conducted a competitive recruitment process that included community engagement, such as public input opportunities and meetings with finalists.
Chief Swift brings 20+ years of law enforcement experience, including prior service as a Major with the Clarke County Sheriff’s Office (Georgia), a Lieutenant with the Napa County Sheriff’s Office, and more than a decade in various roles with the Santa Rosa Police Department We look forward to working together to continue building trust, safety, and collaboration throughout Fort Bragg as we move into 2026!
CHIEF ERIC SWIFT
Officer James was sworn in on September 5th,
Officer James was officially sworn in with the Fort
Bragg Police Department after successfully
graduating from the Butte College Law Enforcement
Academy. When asked what inspired him to pursue
this path, Officer James shared that he is the first in his family to enter law enforcement, grounded in the
strong morals and standards needed to serve his
community. On December 10, 2025, Officer James
completed his field training and is now acting as a
solo level officer.
Officer Martinez was sworn in on July 21, Officer
Martinez has a long history with the department and
previously held the position of Community Services
Officer prior to being sponsored through the police
academy by the City of Fort Bragg. Officer Martinez
graduated from the College of the Redwood
Academy on July 10th and completed her field
training program in September of 2025.
Officer Pacheco began her Field Training in January
of 2025. She completed her training in May of 2025
and has been performing as a solo level officer
since! Officer Pacheco began as a community
services officer and was later sponsored through the
academy as a police recruit! Amanda is a local and
has been living in the Fort Bragg area for the last 24
years. Amanda attributes her passion for law
enforcement to her grandfather.
SAFETY
PUBLIC
NEW OFFICERS-
SAFETY
PUBLIC
On January 21, 2025, Officer Frank was promoted
and sworn into the rank of Sergeant. Prior to his
promotion, Sergeant Frank received several
accolades including the Mothers Against Drunk
Driving (MADD) Century Award in 2022 and the
MADD Award in 2023. He was nominated for
Officer of the Year in 2022, received the Chief’s
Award in 2023, and completed his Bachelor’s in
Criminal Justice. In 2025, he was again
recognized by MADD (Mothers Against Drunk
Driving) for his outstanding working keeping the
roads safe.
On September 12, 2025, McLaughlin was
promoted to the rank of Commander with the
department. McLaughlin has proudly served with
the Fort Bragg Police Department for over 20
years. McLaughlin began his career with The Fort
Bragg Police Department as a Police Cadet,
sworn in as a Community Service Officer in 2006,
promoted to Patrol Officer in 2008, and rose to
the rank of Sergeant in 2015.
On September 10, 2025, Sergeant Welter
successfully graduated the Sherman Block
Supervisory Leadership Institute (SBSLI) for
Supervisors! The primary focus of this course is to
stimulate personal growth, leadership, and
ethical decision-making in California law
enforcement front-line supervisors.
PROMOTIONSGRADUATION/TRAINING:
SAFETY
PUBLIC CARE RESPONSE UNIT
The Care Response Unit (CRU) continued
implementation of the Proposition 47 Grant
program throughout the year, expanding
services along the Coastal Mendocino County
corridor from Albion to Westport. Through
partnerships with the Mendocino Coast
Hospitality Center, the Mendocino County
Sheriff’s Department, and the Mendocino
Presbyterian Church, CRU conducted consistent
weekly outreach initiatives in Mendocino
Township, strengthening coordinated
community support.
PROP 47
In 2025, Proposition 47 funding supported five individuals in Transitional Housing. This program provides stability for justice-involved people exiting long-term homelessness while offering a foundation to pursue sustainable income through employment or Social Security benefits. To further community involvement, Proposition 47 established a Local Advisory Committee (LAC) in 2024 to host public meetings and gather local input. Throughout 2025, the LAC faced challenges meeting regularly due to scheduling conflicts and difficulty reaching a quorum. Looking ahead to 2026, CRU will potentially open an application period to recruit new LAC members, with the goal of revitalizing community engagement and expanding opportunities for collaboration.
The Extreme Weather Shelter provided supplemental emergency shelter to 638 individuals from January to December when local housing resources were at capacity. Funding remaining from the 2024-2025 season operations was carried forward into the 2025-2026 season, allowing CRU to expand program capacity by implementing a volunteer model. This initiative reduced staffing costs for weekend shelter operations, enabling available funds to be reallocated to extend the life of the program and increase access to supplemental shelter for additional individuals.
In addition, CRU supported program applicants seeking temporary shelter while awaiting placement in stable housing options, including Hospitality House, permanent housing, or longer-term facilities better suited to their medical or behavioral health needs. Following initial intake, CRU continued outreach efforts to assist applicants with developing housing plans and connecting to service providers, with the goal of securing appropriate services to help resolve homelessness.
EXTREME WEATHER
SHELTER
SAFETY
PUBLIC CARE RESPONSE UNIT
This new round of Project Right Now marks an important step in expanding the Care Response Unit (CRU) with our impact on schools, students, and families. Project Right Now has been making meaningful progress by building strong lines of communication with four different schools to better understand and respond to their students’ needs. Through conversations with schools' staff, we have begun to address those needs by connecting students with appropriate resources and supports. We have also established a consistent presence on campus by holding open office hours, delivering classroom presentations, and assisting students with research projects.
These efforts have helped us build trust with students, increase awareness of the program, and ensure that support is accessible and responsive to what students are experiencing in real time.
In addition, Project Right Now has prioritized family and youth voices by making them a central part of the program’s development. Through our Pan Dulce and Plática meeting, we successfully brought parents into the conversation and created a space to learn what families want from the program while also helping them understand its goals and key components. Alongside this, we launched a Youth Advisory Board that allows us to meet directly with students, gain their insight, and incorporate their ideas about how the program can better support their classmates.
Together, these efforts ensure that Project Right Now is shaped by the voices of our students and community to strengthen our impact.
PROJECT RIGHT
NOW
The Fort Bragg Police Department received their POST 2025 Audit review provided by: Lisa Holton POST Region 1 Manager Law Enforcement Consultant. The audit concluded the following:
Agency Roster:
"All personnel have been appropriately documented in EDI (Electronic Data Interchange)" Selection Standards:
Background files were examined and determined to be in compliance with "established selection standards".
"Overall, the files were professionally assembled and well written".
FORT BRAGG POLICE DEPARTMENT POST AUDIT
Water and Sewer Utility Rate Study
A comprehensive Utility Rate Study is underway—marking the first update since 2014—to evaluate long-term rate sustainability and ensure the continued reliability of the City’s water and wastewater enterprise systems.
SmartWater Meter Replacement Project
Successfully completed a grant-funded changeout of all residential and commercial water meters to smart meters. Early leak detection technology enabled the City to save 250,600 cubic feet of water by notifying customers of leaks in real time.
Process Improvement & Technology Modernization
Moving to electronic document management to eliminate paper and efficiently store documents.
City is collecting over 70% of utility payment through automated process.
Over 800 customers have elected e-statements (paperless).
Transition MCN Finance Functions
Transitioned MCN Accounts Payable and Payroll functions to the City Finance Department Staff Development & Organizational Growth
Two Employees Springbrook Software training to improve system efficiency.
Three employees attended the 2025 GFOA Annual Conference to stay informed on best practices in government finance.
Recognition & Financial Health
Received the GFOA Distinguished Budget Presentation Award for the City’s FY 2024 Budget, reflecting the City’s commitment to transparency, accountability, and excellence in financial reporting.
Increased General Fund reserves to 30%
FINANCE DEPARTMENT
The Finance Department continues to champion responsible fiscal management, operational efficiency, and exceptional public service. In FY 2025–2026, the Department made critical advancements in long-term financial planning, process modernization, and revenue enhancement—each aligned with the City’s 2024–2028 Strategic Plan.
MAJOR ACCOMPLISHMENTS & INITIATIVES
Review building permits and development projects, ensure safety through building codes and inspections, guide longterm planning and zoning, support housing and community improvement efforts, provide information and help residents navigate the permit process, and so much more!
2025
Isaac Whippy- Acting Director
Sarah Peters- Associate Planner
Valerie Stump- Assistant Planner
Maria Flynn- Permit Technician
Lisi Horstman- Administrative Assistant
2025 ACCOMPLISHMENTS
COMMUNITY DEVELOPMENT DEPARTMENT
COMMUNITY
DEVELOPMENT DEPARTMENT
WHO WE ARE:
WHAT WE DO:
124
Business
Licences
20 Sign
Permits
99 Code
Enforcement
Cases
25 Planning
Commission
Staff Reports
75 Code
Enforcement
Complaints
19 Address
Listings
137
Building
Permits
91 Development
Permits
In 2025, The City proudly launched its Entertainment Zone, creating an opencontainer area in the Central Business District. The Entertainment Zone is designed to bring people together and energize our downtown. If you are interested in enacting the Entertainment Zone, call the Community Development Department (CDD) 707-961-2827 X111 today to learn more.
Planning Commissioners appointed David Jensen as Chair and Richard Neils as Vice Chair. Commissioners made decisions on 11 Planning Permits and 7 Ordinance Amendments for updates to both the Inland and Coastal Land Use and Development Code.
Ordinance Amendment topics included:
Code enforcement activity in 2025 remained complaint-driven, with most cases initiated upon receipt of a complaint. During the year, the City adopted several updates to the Fort Bragg Municipal Code related to code enforcement, including the Recovery of Enforcement Fees Ordinance and the Vacant Property Ordinance. The City also contracted with 4Leaf to assist with field enforcement activities and to leverage its expertise to improve local regulations and internal enforcement policies.
Pro-Housing Parking Regulations
Accessory Dwelling Units
Emergency Shelters
Pro-Housing Design Review
COMMUNITY DEVELOPMENT DEPARTMENT
COMMUNITY
DEVELOPMENT DEPARTMENT
WE’RE LOOKING AHEAD TO 2026—DREAM IT. PLAN IT. BUILD
IT. LET THE COMMUNITY DEVELOPMEN DEPARTMENT GUIDE
YOU EVERY STEP OF THE WAY AS YOU SHAPE YOUR FUTURE.
The Community Development Department (CDD) is streamlining the permitting process to make it faster and more convenient for you! Applicants now have the flexibility to choose where their permits are routed—either directly to the County Building Department or to 4 Leaf, Inc. This added option helps reduce delays, improves efficiency, and ensures your projects move forward without unnecessary hurdles.
By offering multiple routing choices, CDD is committed to delivering a smoother, quicker experience for all your permitting needs. The City of Fort Bragg is launching a new online permitting platform powered by Accela, designed to make applying for permits simple, efficient, and accessible from anywhere. This modern system streamlines the application process, improves transparency, and gives you real-time updates—so you can spend less time on paperwork and more time on your project. CDD is committed to delivering a faster, smarter, and more convenient permitting experience for our community! For more information on when Accela will be available for your next project email [email protected]
COMMUNITY DEVELOPMENT DEPARTMENT
COMMUNITY
DEVELOPMENT DEPARTMENT
WORKS
PUBLIC
EV Charging Stations (Police Department)– Completed
installation of four EV charging stations with six charging arms to support the City’s electric patrol vehicles.
Town Hall Retrofit &
BathroomRemodel–
Replaced windows
and exterior molding,
repaired moisture
damage, updated
storage and A/V
areas, and retrofitted
restrooms to improve
accessibility and
visibility for public use.
FACILITIES
City Hall Flooring Update– Installed durable Gemcore SPC flooring throughout public areas, enhancing safety and aesthetics.
Facilities Camera & Police Department Access Control– Upgraded security systems to improve monitoring and access management.
City Hall Roof Replacement–Replaced the aging roof to protect critical infrastructure.
Fire Station Roof Replacement– Completed roof replacement to ensure facility resilience. 2025 ENGINEERING DEPARTMENT ACCOMPLISHMENTS
WORKS
PUBLIC
PARKS & COMMUNITY SERVICES
Bainbridge Park Enhancement Project– Completed surfacing for the Wiggly Giggly Playground and reopened this area to the public. Construction is still underway on exciting new features, including two artificial turf soccer fields, a stage pavilion, bathroom remodel, furniture, and landscaping — improvements that will transform Bainbridge Park into a premier community destination.
2025 Pavement Project–Resurfaced 7.2 miles of city streets with slurry seal, patching, and ADA curb ramp upgrades.
Stop Gap Paving Project– Completed patch paving on severely degraded street segments not scheduled for near-term improvement, extending roadway life.
STREETS
CV STARR CENTER
Skylight Replacement–Replaced
southern skylight panels and serviced
northern panels, improving natural
lighting and facility safety.
WORKS
PUBLIC
STORMWATER
WASTEWATER
WATER
North McPherson Street Emergency Stormdrain Repair–
Replaced a collapsed 30inch clay pipe with CHDPE pipe,
preventing further infrastructure failure ahead of winter.
Biosolids Feasibility Study– Completed study recommending the KomlineSanderson paddle dryer as the most feasible option for achieving Class A biosolids, reducing hauling costs, and ensuring regulatory compliance.
Distribution SystemMaster Plan– Delivered an asset management plan with accurate mapping and prioritized projects to guide future improvements.
Water Meter Replacement Project– Replaced water meters installed in 2007 with new units that measure water more precisely, improved leak detection, and allowed remote control for timely service response.
Water Treatment Plant Rehab Project–
Completed rehabilitation of the
treatment plant, including upgrades to
filters, clarifiers, and piping, lining of raw
water ponds, and demolition of an
obsolete clarifier to improve reliability
and efficiency.
WORKS
PUBLIC
OnekaWavePowered Desalination Buoy–Partnered with Oneka Technologies to pilot California’s first wavepowered desalination buoy off the Fort Bragg coast. This project provided a drought resilient, renewable source of drinking water without fossil fuels. It was innovative because it harnessed the natural energy of ocean waves to produce freshwater. The buoy was planned for deployment in 2026, positioning Fort Bragg as a leader in sustainable water innovation.
INNOVATION HIGHLIGHT