Fortuna City Council
April 20, 2026

Proposal for the City of Fortuna February 2026
Planwest Partners, Inc.

APPENDIX A – PLANWEST RESUMES
TEL: (707) 825-8260P.O. Box 4581 Arcata, CA 95518www.planwestpartners.com

VANESSA BLODGETT
Principal Planner and Partner
Vanessa Blodgett is a Principal Planner and partner with Planwest Partners Inc. She has nearly 20 years of experience working with national, state, private, and local agencies on resource management, community infrastructure and planning projects.

Vanessa has expertise in land use planning and environmental compliance and mitigation monitoring programs subject to the California Environmental Quality Act (CEQA) and National Environmental Policy Act (NEPA). Her knowledge and leadership in policy development and program implementation has shaped outcomes for projects such as the City of Arcata General Plan Update; City of Ferndale Land Use Element Update; numerous Housing Element Updates; and various Humboldt Bay Harbor, Recreation and Conservation District Projects. Her planning experience includes the preparation and processing of planning documents, facilitating community engagement, preparing environmental permits, environmental impact reports, mitigated negative declarations, policy analysis, and implementation plans.

Relevant Project Experience
• City of Arcata General Plan 2045 Update
Worked with the City of Arcata on a comprehensive general plan update which includes, but is not limited to, land use, circulation system, infrastructure, safety, design, resource conservation, and open space. The project also includes a new area plan (Gateway Area Plan). Assisted the City with coordinating and facilitating outreach activities throughout the project including an open house, public meetings and coordinating associated CEQA review. • City of Ferndale Contract City Planner
Serving as contract city planner which includes providing staffing services at Planning Commission and City Council meetings, processing and coordinating review of planning applications, and preparing staff reports. Prepared General Plan Element Updates including Land Use Element and the 6th Cycle Housing Element Update. Conducted community surveys, hosted open house event, and facilitated public review processes.

Prepared CEQA EIR for General Plan Land Use and Safety Element Updates. • 6th Cycle Housing Element Updates
Worked with numerous jurisdictions on 6th Cycle Housing Element Updates including, but not limited to Del Norte County, City of Yreka, City of Mt. Shasta, City of Dunsmuir, and others. These updates included substantial public engagement including surveys, stakeholder interviews, and public meetings. • City of Fortuna Mill District Specific Plan
Planwest led the development of a Specific Plan and Supplemental Environmental Impact Report (EIR) for the Mill District in the City of Fortuna. This project involves assessing the existing conditions and constraints of the Mill District; identifying the use, development, and other needs of the area; drafting amendments to the General Plan Land Use Element policies; and conducting stakeholder outreach to draft a Mill District Specific Plan (MDSP) that will support, improve, and increase the City’s economic, employment, and residential potential. • City of Arcata West End Specific Plan
Planwest prepared the West End Specific Plan (WESP) for the City of Arcata which included land use, circulation system, infrastructure, economic development, and finance components. The plan provided recommendations for improvements that encourage development.

EDUCATION
University of California, Santa Cruz
Environmental Studies/Earth
Sciences, 2005

TRAINING/PROFESSIONAL AFFILIATIONS
HSU Leading Organizational and
Community Change
Courses 2016-2017
Humboldt Area Foundation, Cascadia
Leadership Program, 2011
Member, Association of Environmental
Professionals (AEP)
2008-Present
AEP Advanced CEQA Workshops
2009-2024
TEL: (707) 825-8260P.O. Box 4581 Arcata, CA 95518www.planwestpartners.com • Humboldt Bay Harbor Recreation and Conservation District Projects. Humboldt County, CA.

Participates in a variety of planning, environmental review, and permitting activities for Harbor District projects.

Coordinates with District staff and consultants; manages, prepares, and reviews CEQA documents. Coordinate and prepare coastal development permit applications for District projects and facilities. • Noyo Harbor District Community Sustainability Plan
Collaborated with the Noyo Harbor District Staff and Commissioners, stakeholders and the greater Fort Bragg regional community in the preparation of a Community Sustainability Plan (CSP). The Planwest team facilitated multiple outreach sessions to solicit input from key Noyo Harbor stakeholder groups, including commercial fishermen, charter boat operators, waterfront businesses, and community members, as well as conducted surveys, interviews, and public meetings.
• Tenmile Creek Watershed Forest Health Project: CalVTP Project Specific Analysis Prepared documentation to demonstrate compliance with the California Vegetation Treatment Program (CalVTP) PEIR. Prepared Project Specific Analysis (PSA) and addendums, detailing potential project impacts as well as applicable Standard Project Requirements and Mitigation Measures to comply with CEQA and NEPA. • City of Eureka Business Ready Implementation and Recommendation Plan Provided recommendations to make Eureka’s development processes simple, concise, efficient, and streamlined, including policies and procedures changes. • Tolowa Dee-Ni’ Nation HVR Wastewater Improvement Project Environmental Services Prepared environmental compliance documents to the specifications of the State Water Quality Control Board Environmental Package for the project financial assistance application. Assisted with CEQA document review and adoption and applicable federal cross-cutter requirements for the project. • McKinleyville Community Services District Wastewater Facility Improvement Project Environmental Compliance
Prepared permitting documentation including Coastal Development Permit (CDP). Reviewed project Initial Study/Mitigated Negative Declaration, Mitigation Monitoring Program, and prepared exhibits for and conducted public informational open house for the project.
• Local Agency Formation Commission (LAFCo) Staffing Services Planwest provides contract staffing services to multiple LAFCos in northern California, including, but not limited to, Humboldt, Del Norte, Trinity, and Shasta LAFCo. Services include the preparation, management and review of the Spheres of Influence (SOI) and of Municipal Service Reviews (MSR) for each city, fire protection district, water district, sanitary district, and other special districts in each county. • Samoa Town Master Plan Environmental Documents and Local Coastal Plan Amendment Planwest led a team in the preparation of the Samoa Town Master Plan Environmental Impact Report. During EIR preparation, review and certification, Planwest coordinated with County staff, the applicant and their consultants, and state, local, and federal agencies. Prepared Supplemental EIR for project updates. • Arcata Rail with Trail Connectivity Project Constraints Analysis, Initial Study and MND Coordinated the preparation of the Environmental Constraints Analysis, Initial Study and MND for a proposed 4.5- mile long Class I, ADA accessible, non-motorized multiuse paved trail in Arcata. • City of Arcata Land Use Code, General Plan Amendments and Local Coastal Program Amendment (2008) Completed Land Use Code Amendments and conducted associated CEQA review and resulting negative declaration. Coordinated California Coastal Commission review of Local Coastal Program Amendment for General Plan: 2020 and Land Use Code. Prepared various permit application handouts.

TEL: (707) 825-8260670 9th Street, Suite 201, Arcata, CA 95518www.planwestpartners.com Michelle Nielsen, AICP
Senior Planner
Michelle Nielsen is a Senior Planner with nearly 20 years of experience working with local governments in California, including long range and project land use planning. Previously, Michelle served as Senior Planner for Humboldt County Planning and Building Department.

Michelle’s housing element preparation and implementation, engagement with a broad range of stakeholders, and project permitting and entitlement experience offers a broad perspective when engaging organizations, agencies and stakeholders in developing housing policy and implementation programs. She has project management experience that is tailored to the unique needs of communities served.

Relevant Project Experience
• Local Agency Housing Element Preparation
Prepared housing element drafts for local agencies, including affirmatively furthering fair housing analysis and action plans. Lead planner for preparing housing elements with implementation programs that emphasize property owner technical assistance, removal regulatory and procedural barriers, improving housing production for special populations, and meeting new State housing laws. Responsible for facilitating discussions with Department of Housing and Community Development for certification, and preparing revisions to respond to HCD input.
• Housing Element Implementation
Prepared zoning and subdivision ordinance amendments to implement housing element programs for the cities of Ferndale, Fortuna, and Point Arena. Prepared SB 2 and LEAP grant applications, implemented awarded activities, and administered the grants. Responsible for the preparation of annual general plan and housing element annual progress reports. Led the development of a Article XXXIV ballot measure authorization that Humboldt County voters passed. Developed a local agency initiative that leveraged new state Housing Law to improve housing production, and led the campaign to recruit property owners. Facilitated the development of an RFP for local agency committee to solicit proposals for a supportive services.
• Public Engagement
Led public outreach and preparation of the 25-26 Unmet Transit Needs Assessment for HCAOG. Developed community online community surveys for housing element updates, and responsible for promoting the surveys to increase resident participation. Led community workshops. • Land Use Project Planning
Prepared the City of Ferndale’s 2024 Local Road Safety Plan. Project planner for density bonus, use permits, boundary adjustments, and subdivisions for the cities of Ferndale and Fortuna. Project planner for entitling numerous residential, commercial and industrial developments including preparation of project negative declarations. Prepared general plan conformance reviews for local agencies.
• Project Management
Managed the planning, coordination, execution, and implementation of the 6th cycle housing element updates for the cities of Yreka, Mt. Shasta, Dorris, Dunsmuir, Etna, Montague, and Tulelake in Siskiyou county, and the 2019 Housing Element Update for the County of Humboldt.

EDUCATION
B.A., University of California, Riverside

TRAINING/PROFESSIONAL AFFILIATIONS
American Institute of Certified
Planners (2026)
Humboldt Area Foundation, Cascadia
Leadership Program, 2019
American Planning Association
Association of Environmental
Professionals
Advanced CEQA Workshops 2014-
2025
TEL: (707) 825-8260 670 9th Street, Suite 201 Arcata, CA 95521www.planwestpartners.com Michael Richardson
Senior Advisor
Michael Richardson is a Senior Advisor with Planwest Partners Inc.

He has over thirty years of experience supporting local governments in both long-range and current planning. From 1991 to 2022, Michael held planner and management roles with the Humboldt County Planning and Building Department, leading major long-range and current planning initiatives. He led and authored six Housing Element updates, preparing GIS analyses, staff reports, and policy recommendations that expanded opportunities for affordable housing, second units, and subdivisions while maintaining-range and current planning initiatives. He led and authored six Housing Element updates, preparing GIS analyses, staff reports, and policy recommendations that expanded opportunities for affordable housing, second units, and subdivisions while maintaining compliance with state Housing Element law from 1991 to 2022.

Since joining Planwest in 2023, Michael was instrumental in the successful completion and certification of housing elements for five cities in Siskiyou county. Michael also supported the preparation of the CEQA documentation and draft staff report for a 70-unit mixed use development in McKinleyville, and the Initial Study/Mitigated Negative Declaration for a Hydrogen Fueling Station located at the Humboldt Transit Authority’s main yard in the City of Eureka.

Relevant Project Experience
• County of Humboldt Housing Element Updates for Six Cycles Led the preparation and presentation of draft Housing Element and staff reports and recommendations on six Housing Element updates. He also implemented them, overseeing several major General Plan and Coastal Plan amendments to encourage second units, affordable housing and mixed-use developments. He managed and implemented an ambitious rezoning program that added more than 800 units of multifamily development potential to the residential land inventory, maintaining the County’s Housing Element’s compliance with state law. He oversaw implementation of policy and process improvements to reduce permit requirements and processing times for most forms of housing, cottage industry and non-conforming uses in the County’s General Plan, zoning and subdivision ordinances.
• County of Humboldt General Plan Update
Served as senior planner for the County’s comprehensive update of the General Plan, responsible for advising County leadership and stakeholder groups of regulatory policy options and potential implications. He prepared and delivered presentations at 50+ public meetings and hearings. • Expert Technical Assistance and Support
Provided regular and on-going planner assistance to the McKinleyville and Eureka municipal advisory committees, management and line staff on community development issues and trends and how they intersect with land use regulations. He conducted comprehensive housing and land use planning studies and secured approval of a wide variety of current planning projects including General Plan and zoning changes, conditional use permits, and subdivisions.

EDUCATION
Southern Illinois University
Geography MS
1987
Humboldt State University
Natural Resources Planning BS
1985
Member, Association of Environmental
Professionals
2023-Present
TEL: (707) 825-8260 670 9th Street, Suite 201 Arcata, CA 95521www.planwestpartners.com Sarah Wickman
Associate Planner
Sarah Wickman is an Associate Plannerwith Planwest Partners Inc. She has over eight years of experience working with national, state, private, and local agencies on resource management, community engagement, and planning projects. Sarah has expertise in resource management, stakeholder outreach, and environmental compliance subject to the California Environmental Quality Act (CEQA). Her knowledge in policy development and environmental compliance has shaped outcomes for projects such as the ongoing Mendocino County Regional Sea Level Rise Strategies, Humboldt County Climate Action Plan (CAP), and various Humboldt Bay Harbor, Recreation and Conservation District projects. Her planning experience includes the preparation and processing of planning documents, environmental permits, environmental impact reports, policy analysis, and implementation plans.

Relevant Project Experience
• El Dorado County Targeted Fire Protection District MSR Prepared a targeted MSR for five fire protection districts (FPDs) in El Dorado County which analyzed each FPD for service capacity, response times, infrastructure needs, governance, and financial performance. Led coordination with fire district staff to collect detailed operational and fiscal data, including call volumes, staffing levels, apparatus inventories, and multi-year budgets.
• Contra Costa County Miscellaneous County Service Area MSR Drafted the Contra Costa County Miscellaneous County Service Area (CSA) MSR evaluating governance structures, service delivery, infrastructure needs, and fiscal sustainability for 15 CSAs providing a variety of community services including drainage, ferry, transit, street lighting, police, and libraries. Conducted detailed analysis of agencyspecific data, budgets, and demographic trends, and developed written SOI and MSR determinations in compliance with LAFCo and state requirements. Coordinated directly with CSA staff and Contra Costa County departments (including Public Works, Library Services, and the Sheriff’s Office) to collect and synthesize operational, financial, and infrastructure data across multiple service areas.
• Humboldt Bay Harbor Recreation and Conservation District Projects Provides comprehensive environmental review and permitting for a range of coastal infrastructure and restoration projects for the Harbor District in Humboldt, California. Responsibilities include preparing and managing Coastal Development Permit (CDP) applications, coordinating CEQA and NEPA compliance, and ensuring consistency with Coastal Act policies and federal regulatory requirements. Provides technical assistance through all project phases, including environmental documentation, interagency coordination, and permit implementation and monitoring for major projects such as the Nordic Aquafarms Project and the Redwood Marine Terminal Offshore Wind Project.

City of Ferndale General Plan Environmental Impact Report Assisted in preparation of the City of Ferndale’s General Plan Programmatic Environmental Impact Report (PEIR) by conducting research, drafting impact analysis, and undergoing CEQA compliance review. Contributed to technical sections, integrated stakeholder input, and ensured consistency between the General Plan policies and environmental documentation to support adoption and implementation.

EDUCATION
Humboldt State University
Marine Biology, 2015
Minor: Environmental Ethics
Middlebury Institute of International
Studies in Monterey
International Environmental
Policy MA, 2022

TRAINING/PROFESSIONAL AFFILIATIONS
People and Culture Coordinator,
Association of Environmental
Professionals
2023-Present
Member, Association of Environmental
Professionals
2023-Present
AEP CEQA and NEPA Workshops
2023-2025
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New Budget Appropriation Intra‐Department Budget Transfer Additional Budget Appropriation Other Budget Transfer

REVENUES
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EXPENDITURES
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PURPOSE
Department Head: Date:

Finance Director: Date:

City Manager: Date:

CITY OF FORTUNA
SUPPLEMENTAL BUDGET REQUEST
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PROFESSIONAL SERVICES AGREEMENT

CITY OF FORTUNA

PROFESSIONAL SERVICES AGREEMENT
This Agreement (“Agreement”) for professional services is made on April 9, 2026, between the City of Fortuna, a California municipality (“City”), and Planwest Partners Inc(“Consultant”).

1. Scope of Services. Consultant shall provide to City the professional services described in the Scope of Services, attached hereto as Attachment A and incorporated herein (the “Services”). Only the City’s governing body or the City Manager may authorize any change or addition to the Scope of Services specified in Attachment A.

Any such authorization shall be in writing and signed by the parties to be effective.

Consultant acknowledges that all documents created under this Agreement are public records and shall be provided to the City promptly upon request to comply with the California Public Records Act.

2. Term. This Agreement shall become effective on April 21, 2026 and shall continue in effect until the Services are completed, unless terminated sooner in accordance with Section 12 of this Agreement. Time is of the essence in respect to all provisions of this Agreement that specify a time for performance. City may suspend all or part of the work for its convenience upon written notice.

3. Compensation. For the full and satisfactory completion of the Services, City shall compensate Consultant on a Time and Materials as needed basis as described in Attachment B.

4. Prevailing Wage Laws. Services by persons deemed to be employees of Consultant possibly may be subject to prevailing wages under California Labor Code Sections 1770-1781. Consultant has the sole responsibility to comply with those requirements, should they apply. If a dispute based upon the prevailing wage laws occurs, Consultant, at its expense, shall indemnify, defend (including Consultant’s providing and paying for legal counsel for City), and hold harmless City, its officers, agents, employees, and representatives from and against all liability, claims, suits, demands, damages, fines, penalties, wages, costs, or expenses pertaining to the prevailing wage laws.

5. Payment. City shall pay Consultant for services satisfactorily provided during each calendar month within thirty (30) days following City receipt and approval of a detailed invoice. Amounts unpaid 30 days after receipt of the invoice shall bear interest from the date payment is due at the rate of one percent (1%) per month until paid. The invoice must include, at a minimum:

5.1 A description of the specific Services provided,

5.2 the name of the individual providing the Services,

5.3 the date(s) upon which the Services were provided,

5.4 the time spent providing the Services,

PROFESSIONAL SERVICES AGREEMENT

5.5 the amount due for the Services and the basis for calculating the amount due, and

5.6 an itemized summary of Allowable Reimbursable Expenses.

6. Independent Contractor.

6.1 Consultant understands and acknowledges that Consultant is an independent contractor, not an employee, partner, agent, or principal of City. This Agreement does not create a partnership, joint venture, association, or employeremployee relationship between the Parties. At its own expense, Consultant is responsible for providing compensation; employment benefits; disability, unemployment, and other insurance; workers’ compensation; training; permits and licenses; and office space for Consultant and for Consultant’s employees and Subconsultants. Consultant has, and shall retain, the right to exercise full control over the employment, direction, compensation, and discharge of all persons whom Consultant uses in performing the Services under this Agreement. Consultant shall provide the Services in Consultant’s own manner and method, except as this Agreement specifies. Consultant shall treat a provision in Consultant Agreement that may appear either to give City the right to direct Consultant as to the details of doing the work, or to exercise a measure of control over the work, as giving Consultant direction only as to the work’s end result.

6.2 Consultant shall indemnify, defend (including Consultant’s providing and paying for legal counsel for City), and hold harmless City for any obligation; claim; suit; demand for tax or retirement contribution, including any contribution or payment to the Public Employees Retirement System (PERS); social security; salary or wages; overtime, penalty, or interest payment; or workers' compensation payment that City may be required to make on behalf of Consultant, an employee of Consultant, or any employee of Consultant construed to be an employee of City, for the work done under this Agreement.

7. Consultant’s Warranties.

7.1 Consultant warrants that all Services provided under this Agreement shall be performed in accordance with generally accepted professional practices and standards for Consultant’s profession in the state.

7.2 Consultant warrants that all Services provided under this Agreement shall be performed in accordance with applicable federal, state, and local laws and regulations.

7.3 Consultant warrants that Consultant has no present interest which would conflict in any manner with the performance of Services on the City’s behalf.

7.4 Consultant represents and warrants that it is now, and will remain for the duration of its Services, properly licensed, qualified, experienced, and equipped to perform the Services.

PROFESSIONAL SERVICES AGREEMENT

7.5 Consultant possesses the competence, experience, expertise, skill, facilities, equipment, personnel, financial wherewithal, and other resources necessary to perform this Agreement and the Services in a professional and competent manner.

7.6 Consultant represents and warrants that the Services and the sale or use of the Services shall not infringe, directly or indirectly, on any valid patent, copyright or trademark, and Consultant shall, at Consultant 's sole cost and expense, indemnify, defend and hold harmless the City from and against any and all claims and causes of action based on alleged or actual infringements thereof.

7.7 These warranties shall survive the expiration or termination of this Agreement, and are in addition to any warranties provided by law. No payment to Consultant for any Services performed hereunder (including, without limitation, final payment) shall constitute a waiver of any Claims by the City against Consultant relating to the Services.

7.8 Consultant shall comply with the City of Fortuna Conflict of Interest Code and the California Political Reform Act and applicable regulations promulgated by the Fair Political Practices Commission.

7.9 Consultant shall perform all services in accordance with the degree of care and skill ordinarily exercised by professionals in the same field and locality under similar circumstances, as required by Civil Code § 2782.8.

8. Notice. Any notice, billing, or payment required by this Agreement must be made in writing, and sent to the other party by personal delivery, U.S. Mail, a reliable overnight delivery service, facsimile, or by e-mail as a .pdf (or comparable) file. Notice is deemed effective upon delivery unless otherwise specified. Notice for each party shall be given as follows:

City: City of Fortuna
Attn: City Manager
P.O. Box 545
Fortuna, CA 95540
Phone: (707) 725-1410
Email: [email protected]
Consultant: Planwest Partners Inc.
670 9th St #201
Arcata, CA 95521

9. Indemnity.

9.1 General. For purposes of the following indemnification provisions, the phrases “design professional” and “design professional services” shall have the same

PROFESSIONAL SERVICES AGREEMENT

meaning as set forth in California Civil Code section 2782.8. If any term, provision or application of this Section 9 is found to be invalid, in violation of public policy or unenforceable to any extent, such finding shall not invalidate any other term or provision of this Section 9 and such other terms and provisions shall continue in full force and effect. If there is any conflict between the terms, provisions or application of this Section 9 and the provisions of California Civil Code Sections 2782 or 2782.8, the broadest indemnity protection for the City under this Section 9 that is permitted by law shall be provided by Consultant.

9.2 Indemnification for Design Professional Services Claims. Consultant shall indemnify, defend and hold harmless the City, its governing board, directors, officers, employees, and agents against any claims that arise out of, or pertain to, or relate to the negligence, recklessness, or willful misconduct of Consultant, its employees, subcontractors, and agents in the performance of design professional services under this Agreement, excepting only liability arising from the sole negligence, active negligence or willful misconduct of City, or defect in a design furnished by City, but in no event shall the amount of such Consultant’s liability exceed such Consultant’s proportionate percentage of fault as determined by a court, arbitrator or mediator, or as set out in a settlement agreement. In the event one (1) or more defendants to any action involving such claim or claims against City is unable to pay its share of defense costs due to bankruptcy or dissolution of the business, Consultant shall meet and confer with the other parties to such action regarding unpaid defense costs. Notwithstanding the foregoing, for any direct claims initiated by the City exclusively against Consultant unrelated to, and without limitation on, Consultant’s indemnity or defense obligations for third-party claims, Consultant will not be obligated to provide the City a defense for the direct claim but, in the event the City prevails in such direct claim, Consultant shall be subject to Section 15.13, below, concerning the the reimbursement of its reasonable attorneys’ fees and court costs.

9.3 Indemnification for All Other Claims or Loss. For any claim, loss, injury, damage, expense or liability other than claims arising out of Consultant’s performance of design professional services under this Agreement (e.g., those types of claims usually covered by general liability insurance or automotive liability insurance), Consultant shall indemnify, defend and hold harmless City, its governing board, directors, officers, employees, and agents against any claim for loss, injury, damage, expense or liability resulting from or alleging injury to or death of any person or loss of use of or damage to property, arising from or related to the performance of services under this Agreement by Consultant, its employees, subcontractors, or agents, excepting only liability arising from the sole negligence, active negligence or willful misconduct of City, or defect in a design furnished by City.

9.4 Indemnification Not Limited by Availability of Insurance; Survival. The obligations set forth in this Section 9 (including, without limitation, the indemnification and defense obligations) are not limited by any limitation on the amount, coverage or type of damages available under any applicable insurance policy held by Consultant and

PROFESSIONAL SERVICES AGREEMENT

shall survive the expiration or early termination of this Agreement with respect to any liability subject to the indemnity obligations created by this Agreement.

10. Insurance. Consultant shall comply with the Insurance Requirements for Professional Services, as described in Attachment C hereto and incorporated herein, during the Term of this Agreement.

11. Dispute Resolution. In the event that any dispute arises between the parties in relation to this Agreement, the parties agree to meet face to face as soon as possible to engage in a good faith effort to resolve the matter informally. In the event that any dispute arises between the parties in relation to this Agreement, and the dispute is not resolved by informal discussions, the parties agree to submit the dispute to mediation.

11.1 Either party may give written notice to the other party of a request to submit a dispute to mediation, and a mediation session must take place within sixty (60) days after the date that such notice is given, or sooner if reasonably practicable. The parties shall jointly appoint a mutually acceptable mediator. The parties further agree to share equally the costs of the mediation, except costs incurred by each party for representation by legal counsel.

11.2 Good faith participation in mediation pursuant to this Section is a condition precedent to either party commencing litigation in relation to the dispute.

11.3 Consultant shall continue to perform Services during any dispute or mediation unless the City directs otherwise in writing.

12. Early Termination.

12.1 Termination for Convenience. City may terminate this Agreement for convenience by giving ten (10) calendar days written notice to Consultant. In the event City elects to terminate the Agreement without cause, it shall pay Consultant for services satisfactorily provided up to the effective date of termination.

12.2 Termination for Cause. If either party breaches this Agreement by failing to timely or satisfactorily perform any of its obligations or otherwise violates the terms of this Agreement, the other party may terminate this Agreement by giving written notice ten (10) calendar days prior to the effective date of termination, specifying the reason and the effective date of the termination. Consultant shall be entitled to payment for all services satisfactorily provided up to the effective date of termination, except that the City may withhold from that payment the amount of costs the City incurred, if any, because of Consultant’s alleged breach of the Agreement.

PROFESSIONAL SERVICES AGREEMENT

13. Work Product. Consultant’s pre-existing proprietary materials, software, models, and tools shall remain the property of Consultant, but Consultant grants the City a perpetual, royalty-free license to use any such materials included in the deliverables.

14. Audit. During this Agreement’s Term and for a period of four (4) years after the expiration, cancellation, or termination of this Agreement, or any extension of it, Consultant shall:

14.1 Keep and maintain, in their original form, all records, books, papers, or documents related to Consultant’s performance of this Agreement; and

14.2 Permit City or its authorized representatives, at all reasonable times, to have access to, examine, audit, excerpt, copy, photocopy, photograph, or transcribe all records, books, papers, or documents related to Consultant’s performance of this Agreement including, but not limited to: direct and indirect charges, and detailed documentation, for work Consultant has performed or will perform under this Agreement.

15. General Provisions.

15.1 Assignment and Successors. Neither party may transfer or assign its rights or obligations under this Agreement, in part or in whole, without the other party’s prior written consent. This Agreement is binding on the heirs, successors, and permitted assigns of the parties hereto.

15.2 Third Party Beneficiaries. There are no intended third party beneficiaries to this Agreement.

15.3 Nondiscrimination. Consultant shall comply with all applicable federal, state and local laws, rules and regulations regarding nondiscrimination in employment because of race, color, ancestry, national origin, religion, sex, marital status, age, medical condition, disability, or other prohibited basis. All nondiscrimination rules or regulations required by law to be included in this Agreement are incorporated by this reference.

15.4 Choice of Law and Venue. This Agreement shall be governed by California law, and venue shall be in the Superior Court for the county in which City is located, and no other place.

15.5 Severability. If any provision of this Agreement is determined to be illegal, invalid, or unenforceable, in part or in whole, the remaining provisions, or portions of the Agreement shall remain in full force and effect.

15.6 Amendment. No amendment or modification of this Agreement shall be binding unless it is in a writing duly authorized and signed by the parties to this Agreement.

PROFESSIONAL SERVICES AGREEMENT

15.7 Provisions Deemed Inserted. Every provision of law required to be inserted in this Agreement shall be deemed to be inserted, and this Agreement shall be construed and enforced as though included. If it is discovered that through mistake or otherwise that any required provision is not inserted, or not correctly inserted, this Agreement shall be amended to make the insertion or correction.

15.8 Entire Agreement. This Agreement constitutes the final, complete, and exclusive statement of the terms of the agreement between the parties regarding the subject matter of this Agreement and supersedes all prior written or oral understandings or agreements of the parties.

15.9 Attachments. If any provision in any attachment to this Agreement conflicts with or is inconsistent with the provisions set forth in the body of this Agreement, the provisions set forth in the body of this Agreement shall control over the conflicting or inconsistent provisions in the attachment.

15.10 Waiver. No waiver of a breach, failure of any condition, or any right or remedy contained in or granted by the provisions of this Agreement shall be effective unless it is in writing and signed by the party waiving the breach, failure, right, or remedy. No waiver of any breach, failure, right, or remedy shall be deemed a waiver of any other breach, failure, right, or remedy, whether or not similar, nor shall any waiver constitute a continuing waiver unless the writing so specifies.

15.11 Force Majeure. If either party is delayed or hindered in or prevented from the performance of any act required hereunder because of strikes, lockouts, inability to procure labor or materials, failure of power, riots, insurrection, war, fire or other casualty, or other reason beyond the reasonable control of the party delayed, excluding financial inability (“Force Majeure Event”), performance of that act shall be excused for the period during which the Force Majeure Event prevents such performance, and the period for that performance shall be extended for an equivalent period. Delays or failures to perform resulting from lack of funds shall not be Force Majeure Events.

15.12 Headings. The headings in this Agreement are included for convenience only and shall neither affect the construction or interpretation of any provision in this Agreement nor affect any of the rights or obligations of the parties to this Agreement.

15.13 Attorneys Fees and Venue for Disputes. If litigation becomes necessary to enforce the terms and provisions of this Agreement or as a result of any breach by Consultant or the City of this Agreement, the prevailing party in any such litigation shall be entitled to recover reasonable attorney’s fees and costs. The Humboldt County Superior Court for the State of California shall have exclusive

PROFESSIONAL SERVICES AGREEMENT

jurisdiction over any dispute arising out of this Agreement or Consultant’s provision of Services hereunder, and shall serve as the venue for any such dispute.

All parties expressly consent to this designation of jurisdiction and venue.

15.14 Execution in Counterparts. This Agreement may be executed in any number of counterparts, each of which shall be an original, but all of which together shall constitute one instrument.

15.15 Authorization. Each individual executing this Agreement, or its counterpart, on behalf of the respective party, warrants that he/she is authorized to do so and that this Agreement constitutes the legally binding obligation of the entity which he/she represents.

15.16 Government Code 1097.6 Safe Harbor. Consultant’s duties and services under this agreement shall not include preparing or assisting the public entity with any portion of the public entity’s preparation of a request for proposals, request for qualifications, or any other solicitation regarding a subsequent or additional contract with the public entity. The public entity entering this agreement shall at all times retain responsibility for public contracting, including with respect to any subsequent phase of this project. Consultant’s participation in the planning, discussions, or drawing of project plans or specifications shall be limited to conceptual, preliminary, or initial plans or specifications. Consultant shall cooperate with the public entity to ensure that all bidders for a subsequent contract on any subsequent phase of this project have access to the same information, including all conceptual, preliminary, or initial plans or specifications prepared by contractor pursuant to this agreement.

SIGNATURE PAGE FOLLOWS THIS PAGE

PROFESSIONAL SERVICES AGREEMENT

The parties agree to this Agreement as witnessed by the signatures below:

CITY: CONSULTANT:

City of Fortuna Planwest Partners Inc.
s/_______________________________ s/_________________________ Amy Nilsen, City Manager Vanessa Blodgett, Partner
Date: ___________________________ Date: ______________________ Attachments:

Attachment A: Scope of Services
Attachment B: Consultant’s Fee Schedule
Attachment C: Insurance Requirements for Professional Services 4/9/2026
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Task 1.0: Project Kickoff, Coordination, and Management Task 1.1 Project Management
Michelle Nielsen will serve as the Planwest team’s Project Manager. She will oversee the organization, administration, and technical production of all tasks and sub-tasks of the project. Michelle will ensure the dayto-day management of the contract is efficient and aligned with the direction and objectives of City staff.

Project management activities include:
• The Planwest Project Manager and other team members, as needed, will attend bi-weekly virtual meetingswith theCity to ensure the projectremains on schedule and budget. The meeting schedulemay be modified in response to phasing, milestones, or workflow needs. Before each meeting, the Planwest team will provide a brief agenda, status report, and updated schedule brief for the upcoming tasks. • The Planwest team will provide City staff with post-meeting summaries, including any action items (Word).
• On an as-needed basis to address any issues that may arise between project team meetings, the Planwest team will be available for periodic discussions with the City Manager and City staff. • Planwest will provide monthly invoices by the 15th of the following month. All invoices will be supported by documentation of expenses of time and materials.

Task 1.2 Review of 6th Cycle Housing Element and Data Collection Before the kick-off meeting and working session, Planwest will conduct a thorough review and annotation of Fortuna’s entire adopted 6th Cycle Housing Element. We will identify the sections of the Housing Element that require updates and the anticipated extent of those updates (e.g., minor vs. substantive), aswell as newsections that must be added to meet new State law requirements. This annotated document will serve as the roadmap for updating the Housing Element. We also review the City’s 6th Cycle Housing Element annual progress reports to identify any possible housing development trends. The General Plan EIR will be consulted to preliminarily assess CEQA environmental review. Planwest will also compile a comprehensive list of necessary City data and documents to ensure the Housing Element incorporates and reflects information from local sources.

Task 1.3 In-Person Kick-off Meeting and Working Session Planwest team representatives will coordinate and lead a collaborative half-day kick-off meeting/working session with City staff. The kick-off portion of the meeting will include a comprehensive review of the scope/schedule/budget, and refine roles and responsibilities and expectations for schedule, process, and work products. Before the kick-off meeting, the Planwest team will prepare and distribute a detailed draft work program including a schedule of task phasing, milestones, and deliverable schedule. The work plan will be finalized based on review and input received at the kick-off meeting. We will review the annotated document prepared in Task 1.1 with City staff during the kickoff meeting and use it to refine the scope of work, priorities, deliverables, and responsibilities.

The working session portion of the meeting will focus on City staff providing input on key housing element topics:
the current site inventory, updates on the status of existing sites, any pending residential projects, and City staff input and insights on potential newsites to help position the City for the region’s significant RHNA increase. Other discussion topics for the working session will include City input on the effectiveness of current housing programs for the City and community, any noted programgaps, and the City’s objectives for community engagement, along with any new State housing element legalrequirements, and reviewing the list of necessary data and documents, and developing a schedule for the City to deliver these items. Planwest will discuss the outreach strategy with City staff to ensure we build on the City's ongoing visioning work.

Key Task 1.0 Deliverables:
 Detailed work program (schedule and timeline), and budget tracking document.  Post-meeting summaries to document City staff direction on housing element topics reviewed (e.g., programs, sites).

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Task 2.0: Community Outreach and Engagement
The overarching objectives of the design of the Planwest team’s community outreach and engagement tasks are to provide formeaningful and inclusive participation and tomake a diligent effortto reach all economic segments of the community, including underrepresented populations, and to satisfy the requirements of GC section 65583(c)(9). We also recognize that community inputs from the listening and visioning sessions led by Jen Rice Consults, which began in 2025 and are still underway, could be leveraged to refine the scope of community outreach and engagement for preparation of Fortuna’s 7th Cycle Housing Element. The scope of work and budget for this task reflects an approach to build upon this community engagement work rather than duplicating it. Even so, Planwest remains flexible and open to refining outreach strategies in coordination with City staff to best meet community priorities, and the project’s outreach goals and objectives.

Task 2.1. Develop a Detailed Outreach and Engagement Strategy Planwest recognizes that the community listening sessions conducted by Jen Rice Consults will provide insights into the community’s priorities and thoughts for the City’s future. The design of the community listening sessions includes a range of community voices and perspectives, including those traditionally underrepresented in planning processes, and uses various formats–community workshops, focus groups, and interviews. To leverage this engagement work, Planwest will coordinate with City staff to review the details of this engagement and identify any gaps (e.g., input from stakeholders representing special populations such as affordable housing providers). If the analysis identifies gaps, in collaboration with City staff, Planwest will develop strategies to close them and ensure public outreach for the Housing Element meets the requirements of State Housing Element law.

Planwest will do this by:
• Conducting coordination meetings with City staff to refine community priorities, outreach goals, and desired levels of engagement for the Housing Element update. • Perform a gap analysis by compiling, reviewing, and analyzing listening campaign reports and other related materials and information for the Fortuna Strategic Plan and General Plan Updates to identify any gaps with the public outreach and engagement requirements of State law and HCD-recommended practices.
• Evaluating outreach tools and methods appropriate for the City of Fortuna, such as workshops, surveys, interviews, online engagement, andwritten comment opportunities, in light of community size, capacity, and available resources.

Tasks 2.2 Development and Management of a Housing Element Update Website Planwest will develop and manage a dedicated Housing Element website and prepare public-facing communications to simplify the day-to-day outreach logistics and ensure compliance with AB 215’s posting and notification requirements. The Planwest-managed housing element website will be maintained throughout the update process and will serve as a dedicated landing page for announcing public engagement opportunities, associated links, and key project milestones. As residents are familiar with the City’s website and other communication platforms (e.g., social media, physical posting locations), Planwest will also provide ready-touse content designed for use across the City’s existing platforms.

In coordination with the City, Planwest will prepare clear, accessible public announcements to support community awareness and engagement in the 7th Cycle Housing Element update. All materials will be written in plain language and will explain the purpose of the Housing Element, the value of public input, and opportunities for community participation.

Planwest will coordinate with City staff on timing and preferred platforms. The City will retain final control over publishing and distribution on City-managed platforms, with Planwest supplying prepared content and maintaining the project website. Content will be provided in English and Spanish, with additional locally spoken Proposal for the City of Fortuna February 2026
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prevalent languages based on City staff direction and demographic data. The project budget assumes materials will be translated using Google Translate or Microsoft’s translation tools.

Task 2.3 Public Online Survey
The Planwest team, in coordination with the City, will design, administer, and analyze an online public opinion survey to gather community input to help inform various sections of the 7th Cycle Housing Element. The survey will be designed to allow Fortuna residents to provide anonymous input on their housing preferences, opportunities, and challenges. Survey questions will be written in plain language. To encourage participation across a wide range of community members, the survey will be available in English and Spanish, with additional locally spoken prevalent languages based on City staff direction and demographic data, and will be mobilefriendly. Residents will also have the option to complete a paper survey.

The survey will be promoted via social media, announcements, and fliers with QR codes. Survey promotion materials will be in the same languages as the survey. In addition to the Planwest-managed website, the survey will be distributed through City communication channels (e.g., City website, social media, email lists). The Planwest team will coordinate with the City to ensure the survey reaches traditionally underrepresented populations.

Upon survey close, Planwest will compile and analyze survey responses as part of Task 3.7 (Results of Community Outreach and Engagement), including basic demographic cross-tabulation where feasible. The project budget assumes materials will be translated using Google Translate or Microsoft’s translation tools.

Task 2.4 Resident and Stakeholder Interviews
The extent of resident and stakeholder interviews will be informed by Planwest’s gap analysis of the community listening sessions and visions discussed above. Depending on that analysis, Planwest team, in coordinationwith the City, will conduct 5 to 8 follow-up and new interviews with residents. To ensure resident interviews provide opportunities to explore different housing needs and desires, Planwest will review available demographics from the listening and visioning sessions to ensure there is a diverse group of Fortuna residents, including those who are less likely to engage in formal public processes, like renters, students, families with young children, people with disabilities, and older adults.

The gap analysis will include a review of stakeholders who participated in the listening and visioning sessions and the nature of their input. This analysis will also ensure the Housing Element’s outreach includes key internal and external housing stakeholders, such as the departments of Public Works and Parks and Recreation, affordable housing providers, civic groups and institutions (e.g., Saint Joseph Pantry Shelf in Fortuna, the Eugene Lucas Center, Senior Resource Center, etc.), local schools, business leaders, property owners, and the real estate industry. Planwest will also assess whether stakeholder input and information pertinent to Housing Elements development have been provided.

For this task, Planwest will prepare draft and final resident and stakeholder interview questions. Upon completion of the interviews, Planwest will compile and analyze survey responses as part of Task 3.7 (Results of Community Outreach and Engagement), including basic demographic cross-tabulation where appropriate.

The project budget assumes one round of consolidated City staff review edits for each deliverable.

Task 2.5 Community Workshop
Planwest will lead and facilitate one community workshop that will use the survey and interview findings from tasks 2.3 and 2.4, along with housing data from tasks 3.2 and 3.3, to get residents and local leaders to engage in a generative discussion together. The workshops will be structured to support public understanding and public participation. Planwest will prepare meeting materials, including announcements, facilitate discussions, and document public input. As part of Task 3.7, input received during the community meetings will be summarized and incorporated into theHousing Element, including the housing needs assessment, constraints analysis, AFFH Proposal for the City of Fortuna February 2026
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analysis, and development of goals, policies, and implementation programs. Planwest will coordinate closely with City staff regarding meeting logistics and notice requirements.

Task 2.6 Updates to the City Council and Community
Planwest will attend up to three (3) City Council regular meetings to provide brief updates to the Council and residents on the key Housing Element update next steps and upcoming public engagement opportunities. For our first meeting, planned for one of the Council’s regular Aprilmeeting, we would introduce the Housing Element update roadmap, socialize the Planwest-managed website, and review upcoming public engagement opportunities (e.g., the online survey and workshops). The activities of this task are in addition to Planwest’s participation in the Housing Element public hearings described in Tasks 4.3 and 5.2.

Key Task 2.0 Deliverables:
 Draft and final community outreach and engagement strategy memo (Word/PDF).  Development and management of a Planwest-managed housing element website for the duration of the update process.
 Draft and final platform-ready announcement content for City distribution (English and Spanish; Word/PDF).
 Draft and final Stakeholder Interview Questions (Word/PDF).  Draft and release of the final Public Survey Questions (English and Spanish; Word/PDF).  Lead and facilitate one community workshop.

Task 3.0: Prepare Housing Element Sections
Planwest will consult and collaborate with City staff during the preparation of the various Housing Element sections. The deliverables for Task 3.0 are detailed in Tasks 4.0 through 6.0 below.

Task 3.1: Evaluation of 2019 – 2027 Housing Element and Document Review Planwest will evaluate the performance of the 6th Cycle Housing Element’s goals, objectives, and programs to meet the requirements of GC section 65588(a). A performance evaluation will be prepared for each program and will include an assessment of the program’s appropriateness and effectiveness based on the results of the 6th Cycle. Additionally, Planwest’s assessment will recommend improvements to meet the community’s needs and address housing element legal requirements based on the results of the 6th Cycle and with input from City staff.

This task includes Planwest conducting a comprehensive review of the City’s existing relevant land use regulations and environmental documents, regional plans (e.g., the HCAOG’s Regional Transportation Plan), and State documents, especially those from HCD.

Task 3.2 Housing Needs and Special Populations Needs Assessment Planwest will prepare the housing needs assessment (i.e., housing profile) pursuant to GC sections 65583 and 66583.1 with the best available data, including information from the U.S. Census, the California Department of Finance, the California Employment Development Department, the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development, the U.S. Department of Agriculture. Planwest will consult with City staff as local experts on the community’s housing needs and existing conditions. The updated housing needs assessment will include information on the following topics:
• Population, including demographics, and employment trends; • Household characteristics, including trends, tenure, overcrowding; • Overpayment of income and tenure;
• Project housing needs by income group;
• Housing stock conditions, including type, cost, and vacancy, and estimated number of units in need of rehabilitation and replacement
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• Housing needs for special populations (i.e., senior households; persons with disabilities, including a developmental disability; acutely-low and extremely-low income households; large families; farmworkers; single-parent and single-parent female-headed households; people experiencing homelessness;
• At-risk housing (i.e., assisted affordable housing at risk of converting to market rate during the next 10 years).

Task 3.3 Housing Constraints and Opportunities
Planwest will lead the review and update of the housing constraints analysis, which identifies and analyzes potential and actual governmental and non-governmental constraints to the maintenance, improvement, or development of housing for all income levels. This task includes incorporating any recent changes in the analysis (e.g., new ordinances and fees) and complying with new requirements related to governmental constraints for special needs housing (e.g., group homes, supportive housing, low barrier navigation centers, emergency shelters, accessory dwelling units). With input from City staff, the analysis will consider the location and adequacy of the City’s public facilities, maintenance, and needed improvements. Planwest will also update information in the nongovernmental constraints related to land costs, construction costs, and the availability of financing. City staff will provide updated information on the length of time between project approval and request for a building permit and any requests the City has received for reduced density. As part of this task, Planwest will also identify existing administrative, regulatory, and financial housing resources and opportunities.

While Planwest will take the lead, this task assumes that City staff will provide the necessary inputs and interpretations of code to complete this update. After completing the analysis, Planwest will identify potential programs to remove or mitigate any identified constraints.

Task 3.4 Sites Inventory
Planwest will review and update the sites inventory to comply with current state requirements and demonstrate the City’s capacity to meet its RHNA for the 7th Cycle planning period. This task assumes close collaboration between Planwest and City staff throughout its completion. Preparation of the sites inventory will include all of the following activities and elements:
• City staffwillreviewand update Table 34 (Vacant Residential Sits Inventory), and associated figures from the current Housing Element, identifying sites that have been developed, are now in the development pipeline, or should be removed from the inventory.
• City staff, with guidance from Planwest, will also provide detailed information on approved residential projects currently pending in the City’s pipeline that are expected to be constructed during the 7th Cycle Housing Element planning period, including unit counts by income level, status, remaining steps, and expected completion.
• Planwestwillwork closely with City staff to identify any newly available sites not included in the previous Housing Element, including sites that may be available through General Plan amendments and other amendments completed since the current Housing Element was adopted in 2019. Planwest, with City staff input, will assess each site’s suitability for housing development, considering zoning, physical, and environmental constraints. City staff will assist Planwest in updating and developing site profiles for current and newly identified sites.
• Planwest will review the buildout assumptions based on changes in allowable densities, analysis of recently built housing developments, and site-specific limitations. Planwest, in consultation with City staff, will update any assumptions as needed. City staff will provide the necessary local knowledge of individual sites and their constraints to develop realistic capacity assumptions. Planwest will then calculate the realistic capacity of each parcel and prepare a map or series of maps showing all available sites.

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• Planwest, and in consultation with City staff, will identify any sites being reused from previous housing elements, which are subject to GC section 65583.2(c).
• Planwest will work with City staff to prepare an assessment of the adequacy of water and wastewater infrastructure to meet housing needs, based on infrastructure capacity information provided by City staff.
• Planwest will work with City staff to evaluate known environmental constraints and hazards (e.g., flooding, fire hazards, seismic safety, riparian and wetland habitat areas) at a programmatic level, and how they relate to sites in the inventory.
• Should non-vacant sites with existing residential uses be included in the sites inventory, the affordability of the units will be assessed, an anti-displacement analysis will be performed, and replacement housing obligations will be identified.

Planwest will assess baseline capacity relative to the City’s assigned 7th Cycle RHNA. To set up the City for compliance with No Net Loss Law (GC section 65863) throughout the 7th Cycle planning period, Planwest will work closely with City staff to ensure the sites inventory provides for HCD’s recommended buffer of 15 to 30 percent.

Should the results of the sites inventory task indicate a shortfall of sites or an insufficient buffer, Planwest will identify the required rezonings and develop an implementation program meeting the requirements of GC sections 65583(c), and subparagraphs (c) and (h) of 65583.2.

Planwest will prepare an electronic copy of the sites inventory using HCD’s required Excel workbook, which will be submitted to HCD with all draft and final versions of the 7th Cycle Housing Element.

Task 3.5 AFFH Analysis and Action Plan
Planwest will update the AFFH data and analysis in the 6th Cycle Housing Element to meet AB 686 requirements.

We will update the current section using available data sources, including HCD’s AFFH mapping tool and other relevant state and federal datasets. Because the state and national AFFH data are at the census tract and blockgroup level, Planwest will supplement these data with local knowledge and data (quantitative and qualitative), following HCD’s recommended best practices for small rural cities. To ensure the AFFH analysis accurately reflects local on-the-ground conditions, Planwest will interview select City staff (e.g., directors of public works, planning, code enforcement), leaders of non-profit community organizations (e.g., resource centers), to ascertain local conditions and the presence of patterns, if any, related to capital improvements, infrastructure investment, community amenities and resources, and other observed demographic and socioeconomic patterns. The local knowledge generated by this effort will be incorporated into the AFFH analysis, which will include:
• A summary of fair housing issues and an analysis of fair housing enforcement and outreach. • An analysis of local and regional patterns and trends related to integration and segregation. • Identification and analysis of Racially or Ethnically Concentrated Areas of Poverty (R/ECAPs) and Areas of Affluence.
• Assessment of disparities in access to opportunity, including access to education, employment, transportation, services, and housing for persons with disabilities. • Analysis of disproportionate housing needs that affect protected classes (e.g., overpayment, overcrowding, housing conditions), including displacement risk. • Identify the primary contributing factors to fair housing challenges within the community; and • The extent to which the City’s draft housing sites inventory supports fair housing outcomes.

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market conditions. Actions will be structured to be clear, measurable, state geographic targets, and implementable within the 7th Cycle planning period as required.

Task 3.6: Analysis of Disadvantaged Communities (SB 244) Planwest will leverage our extensive experience and work with Local Agency Formation Commissions (LAFCOs) to prepare an analysis of Disadvantaged Unincorporated Communities (DUC) pursuant to SB 244 and incorporate the results into the draft Housing Element as appropriate. This will include a review of currently available census data, county and city General Plans, prior Municipal Service Reviews (MSRs), and other planning documents as necessary to develop a comprehensive review of DUC. If appropriate, the task will include spatial analysis to examine the geographic relationship between identified DUCs, existing service boundaries, planned infrastructure improvements, and areas identified for future housing development in the Housing Element. Where relevant, Planwest will assess how these conditions intersect with fair housing considerations, housing needs, and access to opportunity.

Depending on the outcomes of the analysis, and if necessary, Planwest will prepare clear, policy-level findings suitable forincorporation into the 7thCycleHousing Element. Where appropriate, Planwestwill identify potential strategies or implementation considerations to address identified issues, recognizing that SB 244 does not require immediate infrastructure expansion but does require thoughtful consideration and planning coordination. The analysis will be coordinated closely with City staff to ensure accuracy, consistency with local knowledge, and alignment with adopted City and County planning documents.

Task 3.7 Results of Community Outreach and Engagement (Task 2) As detailed in Task 2 (Community Outreach and Engagement), the Planwest team will develop and implement an inclusive engagement strategy that makes a diligent effort to achieve public participation of all economic segments of the community to inform the housing element, and to meet the requirements of GC section 65583(c)(9). Planwest will compile and analyze quantitative and qualitative data and information gathered from the Task 2 stakeholder interviews, the online survey, and the community workshop to document public input.

Planwest will prepare a summary of key themes and findings presented in a clear narrative suitable for inclusion in the Housing Element and for presentation to decision-makers and the public. These findings will inform the housing needs and special population needs assessment, constraints analysis, sites inventory, AFFH analysis, and the development of goals, policies, housing programs, and quantified objectives.

Task 3.8 Goals, Policies, Programs, and Quantified Objectives Planwest will lead the development of new and updated housing goals, policies, and implementation programs to reflect current efforts and priorities, and comply with new housing element law requirements. Planwest will use the findings from Task 2.0 and Tasks 3.1 through 3.7 to inform updates of the goals, policies, programs, and quantified objectives for the 7th Cycle Housing Element. Planwestwill also provide direction on changes needed based on the evaluation of the existingHousing Element(Task 3.1),the analysis of housing needs and constraints (Tasks 3.2 and 3.3), community input from the community engagement program (Task 2), and overall best practices. Planwest will work with City staff to ensure that each implementation program has a specific time frame, quantified objective, identifies the departments responsible, and a geographic target. Also, the AFFH action plan (Task 3.5) will be integrated into the Housing Element programs to ease post-adoption implementation and reporting.

Planwest will consult closely with City staff to review and refine the preliminary housing programs and housing sites assumptions thatwill form the foundation of the 7th Cycle Housing Element. This task is intended to ensure early alignment between City priorities, realistic development assumptions, and State Housing Element requirements prior to preparation of detailed policy language and the formal sites inventory. Planwest, in consultation with City staff, will participate in HCD-hosted technical assistance office hours for the purpose to getting early HCD feedback and guidance on best practices and possible approaches to address issues.

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As part of this task, Planwest will also work collaboratively with City staff to update the discussion of funding resources available for affordable housing programs and opportunities for energy conservation. City staff will provide information on local housing programs and initiatives, as well as relevant state and federal funding programs currently available for affordable housing. For the energy conservation section, City staff will similarly provide input to reflect new local and regional programs and initiatives. Planwest will supplement with information on recent changes to the state building code related to energy efficiency.

Task 4.0: Draft Housing Element
Task 4.1 Administrative Draft Housing Element
Planwest will compile the components developed in Task 3 into a cohesive, formatted administrative draft Housing Element. Planwest’s administrative draft will utilize the current Housing Element’s Word template and will generally follow the organization of the current Housing Element. On the other hand, Planwest is flexible and welcomes City staff input and direction on modifications to the Element’s organization and format. The administrative draftwill be submitted to City staff to review/approve. This task assumes City staffwill provide one set of consolidated, clear, and directive comments on the administrative draft, using Microsoft’s Track Changes, to support an efficient revision process.

Task 4.2 Public Review Draft Housing Element
Planwest will review and revise the administrative draft Housing Element to address one round of City staff comments and will prepare the Public Review Draft Housing Element for City staff to review/approve. Planwest will deliver two versions of the public review draft: a clean copy and a track changes copy to clearly show all revisions made to address City comments. Upon receipt of the City’s review/approval, Planwest will transmit the Public Review Draft to the City for posting on the City’s website, and we will post it on the Planwest-managed website for 30 days. Also, Planwest will send emails to persons and organizations that previously requested notices relating to the City’s 7thCycleHousing Element. Planwestwill coordinatewith City staff to confirmdates, posting locations, and distribution methods used throughout the process.

This task assumes that only minimal changes would be needed after City staff’s review/approval. If additional discussion or substantive revisions are needed after City review, a budget amendment may be needed.

Task 4.3 Schedule, Notice, and Conduct a Public Hearing for the Public Review Draft Housing Element Planwest will present the Public Review Housing Element at one (1) public hearing before the City Council.

Planwest will coordinate closely with City staff on meeting logistics, agenda placement, noticing requirements, and the preferred presentation format. Vanessa Blodgett and Michelle Nielsen will be available to attend the meeting, presentthematerials, facilitate discussion and input on the PublicReviewDraft oftheHousing Element, and document any input from the City Council and the public for incorporation into the 7th Cycle Housing Element.

Task 4.4 Prepare HCD Review Draft
Upon completion of the 30-day public review period, Planwest will spend the next 10 business days considering and incorporating public comments. We will also revise the Housing Element to incorporate input and direction from the Planning Commission and City Council. Planwest will deliver two versions of the HCD Review Draft to City staff for review/approval: a clean copy and a tracked changes copy that clearly shows all revisions made in response to comments and input. Upon receipt of the City’s review/approve, and completion of the AB 215 period, Planwest will submit the first HCD draft of the Housing Element to HCD to begin their 90-day review period. The HCD submittal package will also include the Excel sites inventory workbook completed in Task 3.4, and a cover letter documenting the City compliance with the requirements of AB 215. Planwest will submit the Housing Element to HCD using their portal, HCD Connect.

Concurrently, Planwestwill post the firstHCDReview Draft to the Planwest-maintainedwebsite, andwewill send emails to persons and organizations that requested notices relating to the City’s 7th Cycle Housing Element.

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This task assumes City staff will provide necessary authorizations to HCD to allow Planwest to register an HCD Connect account on the City’s behalf for this purpose.

Task 4.5 Coordinate HCD Review of the HCD Review Draft, and Incorporation of HCD’s Requested Revisions Planwest will serve as the City’s point of contact throughout the HCD review process. We will facilitate virtual meetings/phone calls requested by HCD during their 90-day reviewperiod, and Planwestwillreviewand respond to informal feedback provided by HCD during their 90-day review period.

Should HCD find that the draft Housing Element requires revisions to comply with Housing Element Law, Planwest will coordinate and schedule a meeting (virtual or telephone) with HCD staff, City staff, and Planwest to review and discuss their findings and necessary revisions to produce a compliant Housing Element.

Following receipt of HCD’s findings letter on the HCD Review Draft, Planwest willwork in close coordination with City staff to address and incorporate HCD’s requested revisions, preparing targeted revisions to the Housing Elementtext,tables, figures, and supporting analyses as needed. This task is intended to ensure thattheHousing Element is revised in a manner that fully responds to State comments and supports timely certification.

Planwest will prepare a response-to-comments memorandum or similar documentation summarizing how each HCD comment has been addressed, including references to specific revised sections of the Housing Element.

Planwest will coordinate with City staff to review/approve the proposed revisions prior to posting to the webpage and resubmitting to HCD for the subsequent 60-day review after the AB 215 7-day noticing period.

This task assumes incorporation of revisions necessary to achieve HCD conditional approval or certification and is limited to the scope of comments issued by HCD during the applicable review periods.

Key Task 4.0 Deliverables
 Administrative draft Housing Element and Public Review Draft Housing Element addressing City comments (Word).
 HCD Review Housing Element draft, and revised Housing Element drafts addressing HCD comments (Word/PDF).
 HCD submittal packages: transmittal letters; memos documenting compliance with AB 215 required public review periods, posting of draft Housing Element documents, notification of interested parties; Excel sites inventory workbook (Word/PDF/Excel).
 Response-to-HCD Comments memorandum or comment matrix (Word/PDF).

Task 5.0: Preparation of Housing Element for Adoption and Public Hearings Planwest will prepare and present the final Housing Element for adoption at two (2) public hearings: one hearing before the Planning Commission, and another before the City Council.

Task 5.1 Prepare Hearing Notices, Staff Reports, Findings, Adoption Resolutions, and PowerPoints for Planning Commission and City Council Hearings
Planwest will prepare the required notice and adoption materials to support the formal consideration and adoption of the 7th Cycle Housing Element by the Planning Commission and City Council. This task is intended to ensure that the Housing Element adoption is procedurally complete, legally defensible, and clearly documented for subsequent submittal to HCD.

Planwest will prepare public hearing notices for posting and publication. Our staff report will summarize the Housing Element update process, including statutory requirements, public participation efforts, major policy components, and key revisions made in response to HCD comments. The staff report will describe the relationship between the adopted Housing Element and applicable State Housing Element law. Planwest will draft the required findings and adoption resolution for the Planning Commission and the City Council. Findings will bewritten to clearly support adoption of theHousing Element, document consistencywith State law, address public participation requirements, and reference completion of CEQA and tribal consultation obligations. The Proposal for the City of Fortuna February 2026
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adoption resolution will be formatted to meet City standards and will include all required statements for formal adoption and authorization to submit the adopted Housing Element to HCD for certification.

Additionally, Planwest will prepare a PowerPoint presentation for the adoption hearing. The presentation will summarize the purpose of the Housing Element, key components of the update, public outreach conducted, responses to HCD comments, and next steps following adoption. The presentation will be structured to support public understanding and facilitate Planning Commission and City Council discussion and decision-making.

Planwest will coordinate closely with City staff to ensure materials are consistent with City formatting preferences and agenda requirements. One round of consolidated City staff review comments is assumed for each deliverable under this task. This task assumes the City will retain responsibility for posting public hearing notices in accordance with Fortuna Municipal Code and State law, including publication in a local newspaper of general circulation.

Task 5.2 Present the Adoption Draft Housing Element at Public Hearings Planwest will present the adoption draft Housing Element at public hearings before the Planning Commission and City Council and respond to questions.

Key Task 5.0 Deliverables:
 Draft notices for the public and for government agencies (English and Spanish; Word/PDF). The project budget assumes materials will be translated using Google Translate or Microsoft’s translation tools.  Draft and Final Planning Commission and City Council staff reports, findings, and resolutions (Word/PDF).
 Planning Commission and City Council Adoption Hearing Presentation (PowerPoint).  Adopted Housing Element (Word/PDF).
 A public water and sewer providers letter for the City to deliver for compliance with GC section 65589.7 (Word/PDF).

Task 6.0: State Certification
Task 6.1 Submission of the Adopted Housing Element for HCD Review and Certification FollowingCityCouncil adoption of the 7thCycleHousing Element, Planwestwill prepare and submit the adopted Housing Element to HCD for final review and certification in accordance with GC Section 65585. Planwest will assemble the final submittal package, which will include the adopted Housing Element, adoption resolution, final housing sites inventory, and any required supporting documentation demonstrating consistency with HCD comments and conditional approval requirements. Planwest will coordinate with City staff to confirm that all adoption actions have been properly completed and documented.

Planwestwillrespond to any follow-up questions or minor clarification requests from HCD related to the adopted document and will address any remaining procedural or technical issues needed to secure certification.

Upon receipt of HCD’s certification letter, Planwest will provide the City with copies of the certification documentation and assist with any final administrative steps related to posting or distribution of the certified Housing Element. Planwest understands that all materials resulting from this task become the property of the City.

Key Task 6.0 Deliverables
 Final Adopted and Certified Housing Element document (Word/PDF). Planwest can provide printed and bound copies of the final document for an additional charge at the City’s request.

Task 7.0: CEQA Compliance
Planwest will ensure that CEQA compliance processes and documentation are properly addressed for the Housing Element update. Should policies and programs be developed during the course of the Housing Element Proposal for the City of Fortuna February 2026
Planwest Partners, Inc. Page | 20
Update that substantially alterland use practices fromthe existing LandUse Element designations, Planwestwill provide an updated scope and cost estimate for additional CEQA analysis.

Task 7.1 Tribal Consultations
Planwest will coordinate with City staff to implement SB 18 and AB 52 tribal consultation requirements for the Housing Element update, as applicable. The Planwest team will coordinate with City staff to identify California Native American Tribes that have requested consultation or are otherwise entitled to notice based on the City’s geographic area. Planwest will prepare draft consultation initiation letters and supporting materials for City review, consistent with statutory timelines and content requirements. The City will retain responsibility for formally issuing consultation notices, with Planwest providing technical and administrative support.

If a tribe requests consultation, Planwest will assist the City in coordinating and documenting consultation meetings or correspondence. Planwest will support the preparation of meeting summaries and documentation reflecting consultation efforts, issues raised, and outcomes, consistent with CEQA requirements and City procedures. Consultation activities will be conducted in a manner appropriate to the policy-level nature of the Housing Element, recognizing that the Housing Element does not approve specific development projects.

This task assumes consultation limited to the scope of the 7th Cycle Housing Element update and does not include site-specific cultural resource studies or project-level mitigation measures. Should consultation identify the need for additional analysis beyond the Housing Element level, Planwest will coordinate with City staff to determine next steps and, if necessary, provide a revised scope and cost estimate.

Task 7.2 Prepare Exemption or Addendum and Notice of Determination Planwestwill coordinatewithCity staff regardingCEQA interpretation and documentation expectations. This task and budget are scoped for the preparation of either a Notice of Exemption (NOE) pursuant to Section 15061(b)(3) (Common Sense Exemption) of CEQA Guidelines, or an Addendum to the certified programmatic EIR for the General Plan Update (State Clearinghouse # 2007062106) consistentwith CEQA Guidelines Sections 15162 and 15164.

If a NOE is recommended, Planwest will prepare a concise Technical Memorandum summarizing the analysis that underpins the determination for the Common Sense Exemption, and the NOE form pursuant to the CEQA Guidelines. Should an Addendum to the General Plan EIR be found to be suitable, Planwest will prepare an Addendum that evaluates whether the Housing Element would result in any new or more severe significant environmental impacts beyond those previously analyzed and would document the rationale for reliance on the prior environmental review. If an Addendum is prepared, Planwest will also prepare a Notice of Determination (NOD) in accordance with CEQA requirements.

Planwest will prepare the required CEQA findings as part of Task 5.0. This task assumes one round of City review/approval of the draft CEQA document and that the City will retain responsibility for the filing and posting requirements (e.g., the Humboldt County Clerk, CEQA Submit, and the City’s website). If the approach broadens to include an expanded CEQA analysis, a project scope and budget amendment may be required.

Key Task 7.0 Deliverables
 Draft and final tribal consultation Letters (Word/PDF)  Draft and final CEQA document (Word/PDF)

CONFLICT OF INTEREST STATEMENT
Planwest Partners Inc. recently completed work under contract with the City to assist with 6th Cycle Housing Element program implementation, ADU Ordinance updates, and Mill District Specific Plan development and implementation. Planwest also provides contract staffing services for the Humboldt Local Agency Formation

PROFESSIONAL SERVICES AGREEMENT

Insurance Requirements for Professional Services
Consultant shall procure and maintain for the duration of the contract insurance against claims for injuries to persons or damages to property which may arise from or in connection with the performance of the work hereunder by the Consultant, its agents, representatives, or employees.

MINIMUM SCOPE AND LIMIT OF INSURANCE
Coverage shall be at least as broad as:

1. Commercial General Liability (CGL): Insurance Services Office Form CG 00 01 covering CGL on an “occurrence” basis, including products and completed operations, property damage, bodily injury and personal & advertising injury with limits no less than $1,000,000 per occurrence. If a general aggregate limit applies, either the general aggregate limit shall apply separately to this project/location (ISO CG 25 03 or 25 04) or the general aggregate limit shall be twice the required occurrence limit.

2. Automobile Liability: Insurance Services Office Form Number CA 0001 covering, Code 1 (any auto), or if Consultant has no owned autos, Code 8 (hired) and 9 (non-owned), with limit no less than $1,000,000 per accident for bodily injury and property damage.

3. Workers’ Compensation insurance as required by the State of California, with Statutory Limits, and Employer’s Liability Insurance with limit of no less than $1,000,000 per accident for bodily injury or disease. (Not required if Consultant provides written verification it has no employees)

4. Professional Liability (Errors and Omissions) Insurance appropriates to the Consultant’s profession, with limit no less than $2,000,000 per occurrence or claim, $2,000,000 aggregate. The Retroactive Date must be shown and must be before the date of the contract or the beginning of contract work. Insurance must be maintained and evidence of insurance must be provided for at least five (5) years after completion of the contract of work. If coverage is canceled or nonrenewed, and not replaced with another claims-made policy form with a Retroactive Date prior to the contract effective date, the Consultant must purchase “extended reporting” coverage for a minimum of five (5) years after completion of contract work. A copy of the claims reporting requirements must be submitted to the Entity for review.

5. Cyber Liability / Technology E&O: Minimum $1,000,000 per claim, covering data breach, privacy liability, and network security.

If the Consultant maintains broader coverage and/or higher limits than the minimums shown above, the Entity requires and shall be entitled to the broader coverage and/or

PROFESSIONAL SERVICES AGREEMENT

higher limits maintained by the Consultant. Any available insurance proceeds in excess of the specified minimum limits of insurance and coverage shall be available to the Entity.

Other Insurance Provisions
The insurance policies are to contain, or be endorsed to contain, the following provisions:

The Entity, its officers, officials, employees, and volunteers are to be covered as additional insureds on the CGL policy with respect to liability arising out of work or operations performed by or on behalf of the Consultant including materials, parts, or equipment furnished in connection with such work or operations.

General liability coverage can be provided in the form of an endorsement to the Consultant’s insurance at least as broad as one of the following ISO ongoing operations Forms: CG 20 10 or CG 20 26 or CG 20 33 (not allowed from subcontractors), or CG 20 38; and one of the following ISO completed operations Forms: CG 20 37, CG 20 39 (not allowed from subcontractors), or CG 20 40.

Primary Coverage
For any claims related to this contract, the Consultant’s insurance coverage shall be primary insurance coverage at least as broad as ISO CG 20 01 04 13 as respects the Entity, its officers, officials, employees, and volunteers. Any insurance or self-insurance maintained by the Entity, its officers, officials, employees, or volunteers shall be excess of the Consultant’s insurance and shall not contribute with it.

Notice of Cancellation
Consultant shall provide immediate written notice if (1) any of the required insurance policies is terminated; (2) the limits of any of the required polices are reduced; (3) or the deductible or self-insured retention is increased. In the event of any cancellation or reduction in coverage or limits of any insurance, Consultant shall forthwith obtain and submit proof of substitute insurance.

Waiver of Subrogation
Consultant hereby grants to Entity a waiver of any right to subrogation which any insurer of said Consultant may acquire against the Entity by virtue of the payment of any loss under such insurance. Consultant agrees to obtain any endorsement that may be necessary to affect this waiver of subrogation, but this provision applies regardless of whether or not the Entity has received a waiver of subrogation endorsement from the insurer.

However, the Workers’ Compensation policy shall be endorsed with a waiver of subrogation in favor of the Entity for all work performed by the Contractor, its employees, agents and subcontractors.

Self-Insured Retentions

PROFESSIONAL SERVICES AGREEMENT

Self-insured retentions must be declared to and approved by the Entity. The Entity may require the Consultant to provide proof of ability to pay losses and related investigations, claim administration, and defense expenses within the retention. The policy language shall provide, or be endorsed to provide, that the self-insured retention may be satisfied by either the named insured or Entity.

Acceptability of Insurers
Insurance is to be placed with insurers authorized to conduct business in the state with a current A.M. Best’s rating of no less than A:VII, unless otherwise acceptable to the Entity.

Verification of Coverage
Consultant shall furnish the Entity with original Certificates of Insurance including all required amendatory endorsements (or copies of the applicable policy language effecting coverage required by this clause) and a copy of the Declarations and Endorsement Page of the CGL policy listing all policy endorsements to Entity before work begins. However, failure to obtain the required documents prior to the work beginning shall not waive the Consultant’s obligation to provide them. The Entity reserves the right to require complete, certified copies of all required insurance policies, including endorsements required by these specifications, at any time.

Subcontractors
Consultant shall require and verify that all subcontractors maintain insurance meeting all the requirements stated herein, and Contractor shall ensure that Entity is an additional insured on insurance required from subcontractors.

Special Risks or Circumstances
Entity reserves the right to modify these requirements, including limits, based on the nature of the risk, prior experience, insurer, coverage, or other special circumstances.

Consent Agenda Item 3l

STAFF REPORT
Consent Agenda Item
DATE: April 20, 2026
TO: Honorable Mayor and City Councilmembers
FROM: Siana Emmons, City Clerk/Human Resources Manager
THROUGH: Amy Nilsen, City Manager
SUBJECT: Call for a Municipal Election to be Held on November 3, 2026, Establish Council Election Policies, and Request Consolidation with the County of Humboldt; Resolution 2026-11
STAFF RECOMMENDATION:

Call for a Municipal Election on November 3, 2026, establish Council Election Policies and request a Consolidated Election with the County of Humboldt by adopting Resolution 2026-11.

EXECUTIVE SUMMARY:

The City’s next municipal election will be held on November 3, 2026. The filing period for nomination papers will run from Monday, July 13, 2026, to Friday, August 7, 2026. If an incumbent does not run, a five-day extension is granted for returning nomination papers. A calendar that shows the election schedule is attached for your information.

In the past, the County has administered the election for the City and the City reimburses the County for costs. Funds for this election are included in the Fiscal Year 2026-27 Budget. The rules and policies regarding the conduct of running the election are shown in the attached resolution.

RECOMMENDED COUNCIL ACTION:

Adopt Resolution 2026-11. Consent Agenda vote.

ATTACHMENTS:
• Resolution 2026-11; A Resolution of the City Council of the City of Fortuna Calling for the Holding of a Municipal Election to be Held November 3, 2026, Establishing Policies for a Municipal Election, and Requesting the Board of Supervisors of the County of Humboldt Consolidate Said Election Pursuant to Section 10403 of the Elections Code • 2026 Election Calendar
RESOLUTION 2026-11

A RESOLUTION OF THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF FORTUNA CALLING FOR A MUNICIPAL ELECTION TO BE HELD NOVEMBER 3, 2026,

ESTABLISHING POLICIES FOR A MUNICIPAL ELECTION, AND REQUESTING

THE BOARD OF SUPERVISORS OF THE COUNTY OF HUMBOLDT CONSOLIDATE SAID ELECTION PURSUANT TO SECTION 10403 OF THE ELECTIONS CODE WHEREAS, Pursuant to the requirements of the laws of the State of California relating to general law cities and charter cities where the charter is silent, there is called and ordered to be held in the City of Fortuna, California, on Tuesday, November 3, 2026, a Municipal election. Said election will fill the offices of four (4) City Council seats; three (3) City Council members for a full term of four years and one (1) City Council member for a full term of two years; and WHEREAS, the City Council of the City of Fortuna is desirous of having the County of Humboldt Elections Department conduct the municipal election, pursuant to Elections Code Section 10403, to be held on November 3, 2026;

NOW, THEREFORE, THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF FORTUNA DOES RESOLVE, DECLARE, DETERMINE AND ORDER AS FOLLOWS:

SECTION 1: Pursuant to the requirements of Section 10403 of the Elections Code, the City Council of the City of Fortuna hereby requests the Board of Supervisors of the County of Humboldt to agree to the consolidation of the Municipal Election with the Statewide General Election on November 3, 2026 and issue instructions to the Humboldt County Elections Department that the election in all respects be held as if there were only one election and to conduct the Municipal Election including the publishing of all election materials, the mailing of sample ballots, the hiring of election officers, canvassing the returns, and the actual conduct of the election; and
SECTION 2: That in all particulars not recited in this resolution, the election shall be held and conducted as provided by law for holding municipal elections; and SECTION 3: That notice of the time and place of holding the election is given and the City Clerk is authorized, instructed, and directed to give further or additional notice of the election, in time, form and manner as required by law; and SECTION 4: The City of Fortuna recognizes that additional costs will be incurred by the County by reason of this consolidation and agrees to reimburse the County of Humboldt for all costs associated with the conduct of the City of Fortuna municipal election to be held on November 3, 2026; and
NOW, THEREFORE BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED by the City Council of the City of Fortuna that the following policies shall be established for the conduct of the November 3, 2026 municipal election:

SECTION 5: GENERAL ELECTION PROVISIONS
A. The Elections Code of the State of California provides that the local governing body shall establish policies concerning the conduct of municipal elections and the following policies are solely at the discretion of the City Council of the City of Fortuna.

B. The polls shall be open from 7:00 o'clock A.M. to the hour of 8:00 o'clock P.M. on Election Day.

C. One polling place shall be established; the Fortuna Veteran’s Memorial Building located at 1426 Main Street. This polling place is subject to change with notice from the Registrar of Voters.

D. The City Clerk of the City of Fortuna or designee thereof shall distribute and receive all nomination papers from candidates for said election.

E. In the event two or more persons receive an equal and the highest number of votes, as certified by the County Registrar of Voters, the City Council in accordance with Elections Code 15651(b) shall set a time, date, and place to summon the candidates and determine the winner by the casting of lots.

SECTION 6: CANDIDATE STATEMENTS
A. That pursuant to section 13307 of the Elections Code of the State of California, each candidate for elective office to be voted for at an Election to be held in the City of Fortuna on November 3, 2026, may prepare a Candidates Statement of Qualifications (statement) on an appropriate form provided by the City Clerk.

B. The statement will be printed in the voter pamphlet mailed by the Humboldt County Registrar of Voters to every registered voter in the City of Fortuna.

C. The statement is optional and is printed at the expense of the candidate. The City of Fortuna requires a deposit of $638 (an estimate of the actual cost) at the time, the candidate submits a statement and files all required nomination documents. The deposit goes toward the actual cost of printing the statement and the City Clerk will either bill the candidate for an additional amount or refund the candidate monies depending on the actual final and verified cost, which varies from election to election, presented to the City by the Humboldt County Registrar of Voters.

D. The statement may include the name, age and occupation of the candidate and a brief description of no more than 200 words, using the word count standards found on the guidelines provided, of the candidate’s education and qualifications expressed by the candidate himself or herself. The statement shall not include party affiliation of the candidate, nor membership or activity in partisan political organizations. Reference to another candidate for that office, or to another candidate’s qualifications, character, or activities is prohibited.

E. That words in all capitals, indentations, italics, bold, underlines, stars, dots, bulleted lists, leading hyphens, etc., are prohibited.

F. The heading of the statement includes the candidate’s name (required), age (optional), and occupation (optional). The heading is standardized and does not count toward the 200-word limit.

G. The statement shall be filed, on the form provided and in an electronic format, in the office of the City Clerk at the time the candidate’s nomination papers are filed.

The statement may be withdrawn, but not changed, during the period for filing nomination papers and until 5:00 p.m. of the next working day after the close of the nomination period.

SECTION 7: BALLOT DESIGNATIONS
A. The City Clerk shall comply with all recommendations and standards set forth by the California Secretary of State regarding Ballot Designations. A copy of the Secretary of State guidelines for Ballot Designations will be provided to each candidate.

SECTION 8: MISCELLANEOUS
A. The City Clerk shall provide each candidate or the candidate’s representative a copy of this Resolution at the time nomination papers are issued.

NOW THEREFORE BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED the City Clerk is hereby directed to file a certified copy of this resolution with the Board of Supervisors and the Humboldt County Registrar of Voters.

PASSED AND ADOPTED by the Fortuna City Council on this 20th day of April by the following vote:

AYES:

NAYS: None
ABSENT:

ABSTAIN: None
_______________________________
Mike Johnson, Mayor City of Fortuna
ATTEST:
______________________________________
Siana L. Emmons, City Clerk, City of Fortuna
APPROVED AS TO FORM:
_______________________________
Ryan Plotz, City Attorney
Consent Item XX

Calendar
November 3, 2026
General Municipal Election
Monday, June 15, 2026 Council to adopt resolution
Monday, June 29, 2026 to
Monday, July 13, 2026
Publish Notice of Election
Monday, July 13, 2026 to
Friday, August 7, 2026
Filing period for nomination papers
Friday, August 7, 2026, 5:00 p.m. Last day to file nomination papers Wednesday, August 12, 2026, 5:00 p.m. Filing extension in case an incumbent does not file Thursday, August 13, 2026 Secretary of State to determine order of names on ballot Thursday, August 20, 2026 Cancel election - insufficient candidates TBD Candidates briefing by City Manager
Monday, September 7, 2026 to
Tuesday, October 20, 2026
Filing period for write-in candidate
Must arrive by November 10, 2026 and Must be
Postmarked on Election Day November 3, 2026
Mailing permanent Vote-by-Mail ballots
Monday, October 19, 2026 Last day to register to vote (online or post marked by) Tuesday, October 27, 2026 Last day for Election Official to publish Notice of Nominees Tuesday, November 3, 2026 ELECTION DAY
No later than December 18, 2026 Council to Declare results Business Agenda Item 4a

STAFF REPORT
Business Agenda Item
DATE: April 20, 2026
TO: Honorable Mayor and City Council Members
FROM: Amy Nilsen, City Manager
SUBJECT: Transactions and Use Tax Measure
STAFF RECOMMENDATION:

Staff recommends that the Council:

1. Receive a report from staff regarding a proposed ballot measure to increase the existing transactions and use tax within the City by ¾-cent to fund essential services.

2. Introduce, on first reading by title only, and submit to the voters Ordinance 2026-785, an Ordinance of the City of Fortuna to increase the existing City of Fortuna transactions and use tax to be administered by the California Department of Tax and Fee Administration, subject to approval of a majority of the electors voting on the tax measure at the general municipal election to be held on Tuesday, November 3, 2026.

3. Adopt Resolution 2026-12, which:
a. Submits Ordinance 2026-785 to the qualified voters at the November 3, 2026 general municipal election;
b. Requests the election on the ordinance be consolidated with the Statewide General Election;
c. Sets dates for submission of arguments for and against the proposed tax measure; d. Sets dates for submission of rebuttal arguments;
e. Authorizes the Mayor to submit a written argument in favor of the measure on behalf of the Council;
f. Requests the City Attorney prepare an impartial analysis of the measure; and g. Agrees to reimburse the County for the costs of conducting the election on the measure.

DISCUSSION:

In November 2016, a majority of voters approved a local ¾-cent transactions and use tax (Measure E) with the intention of funding previous cuts to public safety and to help maintain and enhance public safety services, support local businesses, provide essential services, and stabilize the City budget. The tax was originally set to expire on March 31, 2025; however, in November 2020, a majority of voters approved an extension of the tax through March 31, 2033.

Business Agenda Item 4a

Measure E revenues are essential for the City to maintain and continue to improve certain essential City services and to maintain a balanced budget. However, as discussed in more detail below, the City has experienced a significant increase in the cost of providing essential services since 2016 and additional funds are necessary to meet current and projected costs.

The City of Fortuna has experienced several consecutive years of structural financial challenges driven primarily by stagnant or declining revenues and rapidly increasing operational costs— particularly for public safety, insurance, and core community services.

1. How Fortuna Reached this Fiscal Crossroads
a. Sales Tax Revenues Are Not Keeping Pace With Inflation The City’s largest unrestricted revenue source is sales tax, and sales tax has not kept up with inflation. Under normal inflation, revenues would have increased to $5.2M by FY 2026–27. Actual projected revenues are only $4.1M. This results in a gap of over $1,000,000. This means the City effectively lost the purchasing power of nearly one million dollars over a five-year period. See below chart. b. Transient Occupancy Tax (TOT) Revenues Have Declined Significantly Traditionally, TOT helps fund City services and tourism-related impacts. The City’s TOT revenue has dropped sharply since FY 2021–22. Expected inflation-adjusted TOT for FY 2026–27 is approximately $1.1M. Actual projected TOT is $700,000, a gap of over $400,000. This decline appears linked to regional lodging patterns and reduced tourism activity. See below chart.

Business Agenda Item 4a

c. Liability Insurance Costs Have Skyrocketed
Liability insurance—an unavoidable cost—has increased more dramatically than any other major expense category. Actual costs for liability insurance in fiscal year 2021– 22 were $435,894. Projected costs for fiscal year 2026-27 is $1,051,372, an increase of over $615,000, or over 140%. The resulting gap compared to inflation-adjusted expectation is over $500,000. These increases are consistent with statewide trends affecting municipal risk pools. See below chart.

The result of these three trends is a General Fund structural budget deficit. These combined trends demonstrate rising costs and flat to declining revenues. In order to address these trends the use of reserves and a hiring freeze has been put into place. In addition, there is a potential for reductions in services to maintain critical operations.

Business Agenda Item 4a

To better understand voter attitudes toward these challenges and gauge the feasibility of a future sales tax measure, the City commissioned EMC Research to conduct a statistically valid public opinion survey from February 23 to March 5, 2026, collecting 200 interviews with a margin of error of ±6.9%.

At a regular meeting held on April 6, 2026, the Council reviewed EMC Research public opinion results and subsequently voted to place a ¾-cent sales tax measure on the November 3, 2026, ballot.

The draft resolution incorporates the ballot language used during EMC Research’s public opinion polling and reviewed on April 6, 2026, as follows:

Fortuna Essential Services Funding Measure
Shall the measure to maintain essential City services, such as protecting public safety; increasing and restoring police officers; repairing aging/ deteriorating streets and potholes; providing programs for seniors and youth; and keeping parks clean and safe, by authorizing a ¾-cent sales tax in the City of Fortuna, generating $1,800,000 annually for general government use until ended by voters, requiring independent audits, community oversight, and all funds staying in Fortuna, be adopted?
Yes
No
Included with this Staff Report are two attachments:
• Attachment A is the final proposed ordinance that, among other things:
o Authorizes an increase of the existing transaction and use tax by ¾-cent; o Maintains all other provisions of the existing transaction and use tax, including maintaining the independent audit requirement; maintaining the oversight committee; and maintaining the rights of the voters or future City Councils to repeal the measure; except that this ordinance would remove the existing sunset date of March 31, 2033.
• Attachment B is the final proposed resolution that, among other things:
o Submits the ordinance (Attachment A) to the qualified voters at the November 3, 2026, General Municipal Election;
o Requests the election on the ordinance be consolidated with the Statewide General Election;
o Designates the ballot title and question;
o Sets dates for submission of arguments for and against the proposed tax measure;
o Sets dates for submission of rebuttal arguments;
o Authorizes the Mayor to submit a written argument in favor of the measure on behalf of the Council;
o Requests the City Attorney prepare an impartial analysis of the measure; and
o Agrees to reimburse the County for the costs of conducting the election on the measure.

Business Agenda Item 4a

Increasing the City’s transaction and use tax will allow the City to continue to have more competitive salaries and fund special programs beyond normal operation. Not pursuing additional tax revenue will make it harder for the City to recruit and retain employees and limit the ability to do special projects. It is important to note, that while the sales tax would be administered by the California Department of Tax and Fee Administration (“CDTFA”), the revenues are earmarked exclusively for use by and within the City – the State would not be able to take or borrow these funds.

FISCAL IMPACT:

Without the proposed additional ¾-cent increase to the City’s existing transactions and use tax, the City will continue to lose the ability to fund all but the necessary projects and would struggle to retain staff by paying competitive salaries. If the tax is not increased in 2026 then the City would look to work toward balancing future budgets by reducing services and staffing. In addition, the following essential services would be at risk for elimination or reduction:
• Capital Improvement Projects (CIP) that are scheduled for the repair and/or replacement of deteriorated City infrastructure will continue to be postponed and/or cancelled • Fewer staff and maintenance projects for city streets • Fewer repair projects for city drainage facilities
• Fewer staff and expansion or improvement of city parks RECOMMENDED COUNCIL ACTION:

1. Receive a report from staff regarding a proposed ballot measure

2. Open and Close public comment

3. Council discussion

4. Motion to introduce and hold first reading of Ordinance 2026-785 (Two-thirds vote required), and read by title only, and submit to the voters.

5. By way of a separate motion, move to adopt Resolution 2026-12, and read by title only.

ATTACHMENTS:

A. Ordinance 2026-785, An Ordinance of the City of Fortuna to Increase the Existing City of Fortuna Transactions and Use Tax to be Administered by The California Department of Tax and Fee Administration, Subject to Approval of a Majority of the Electors Voting on the Tax Measure at the General Municipal Election to be Held on Tuesday, November 3, 2026
B. Resolution 2026-12; A Resolution of the City Council of the City of Fortuna Ordering the Submission to the Qualified Electors of the City of Fortuna a Certain Measure Relating to a Proposed Ordinance Amending Chapter 3.13 to Title 3 of the Fortuna Municipal Code Increasing the City’s Transactions and Use Tax by ¾-cent for General Purposes at the General Municipal Election to be Held on Tuesday, November 3, 2026 as Called and Proposed to the Qualified Electors by Resolution; Directing the City Attorney to Prepare an Impartial Analysis of the Measure; Setting the Dates for Arguments on the Measure and Business Agenda Item 4a

Requesting the Board of Supervisors of the County of Humboldt to Consolidate Said Election Pursuant to Section 10403 of the Elections Code

ORDINANCE 2026-785

AN ORDINANCE OF THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF FORTUNA

TO INCREASE THE EXISTING CITY OF FORTUNA TRANSACTIONS AND USE TAX TO BE

ADMINISTERED BY THE CALIFORNIA DEPARTMENT OF TAX AND FEE

ADMINISTRATION, SUBJECT TO APPROVAL OF A MAJORITY OF THE ELECTORS

VOTING ON THE TAX MEASURE AT THE GENERAL MUNICIPAL ELECTION TO BE HELD ON TUESDAY, NOVEMBER 3, 2026
WHEREAS, pursuant to California Revenue and Taxation Code § 7285.9, the City of Fortuna ("City") has the authority to levy a local transactions and use tax for general purposes ("TUT'); and WHEREAS, at the General Municipal Election on Tuesday, November 8, 2016, the qualified voters of the City of Fortuna approved Measure E, which imposed a three-quarters cent TUT for an eight (8) year period through and including March 31, 2025, to ensure a reliable, locally-controlled source of funds to address, plan, and prepare for community priorities including increasing police protection services; maintaining 9- 1-1 response; nuisance abatement; repairing and maintaining streets, sidewalks, and drainage; maintaining parks; maintaining programs for youth and seniors; and maintaining other essential services; and WHEREAS, at the General Municipal Election on Tuesday, November 3, 2020, the qualified voters of the City of Fortuna approved Measure G, which extended the sales tax through March 31, 2033; and WHEREAS, the revenues derived from Measure E are essential to maintain essential city services; however, due to rising costs and inflationary pressures, the revenues derived from Measure E are insufficient to continue to maintain the programs and services funded by Measure E; and WHEREAS, over the past several years, the City has seen a decrease in sales tax and transient occupancy tax and an increase in costs totaling $1.9 million, and WHEREAS, because of decreased revenues and rising costs the City has implemented a hiring freeze and the use of general reserves and discretionary service reductions; and WHEREAS, funds from this Measure will help maintain essential services in the City such as protecting public safety; increasing and restoring police officers; repairing aging/deteriorating streets and potholes; providing programs for seniors and youth; and keeping parks clean and safe; and WHEREAS, the City Council desires to propose to the qualified voters of the City of Fortuna an ordinance to increase the TUT with all revenues continuing to be subject to an independent audit and overseen by a community oversight committee.

NOW, THEREFORE, the People of the City of Fortuna do ordain as follows:

SECTION 1. APPROVAL OF TAX INCREASE. The qualified votes of the City of Fortuna hereby approve and adopt an ordinance increasing the currently imposed transaction and use tax rate, as codified in Chapter 3.13 of Title 3 of the Fortuna Municipal Code, from 3/4-cent per dollar to a rate not to exceed

1.5-cent per dollar, effective April 1, 2027, and continuing thereafter until repealed by the voters or rescinded by four-fifths vote of the City Council.

SECTION 2. AMENDMENT TO THE MUNICIPAL CODE. Section 3.13.050 of Chapter 3.13 of Title 3 of the Fortuna Municipal Code is hereby deleted and replaced in its entirety as follows:

3.13.050 Transactions tax rate.

A. For the privilege of selling tangible personal property at retail, a tax is hereby imposed upon all retailers in the incorporated territory of the city at the rate of ¾-cent (0.75 percent) per dollar of the gross receipts of any retailer from the sale of all tangible personal property sold at retail in said territory on and after the operative date of this chapter.

B. Effective April 1, 2027, and continuing thereafter, until repealed by the voters or rescinded by the City Council, the rate of ¾-cent (0.75 percent) per dollar of the gross receipts set forth above in subdivision A of this Section 3.13.050 shall be increased to a rate of 1.5-cents (1.5 percent) per dollar of the gross receipts of any retailer from the sale of all tangible personal property sold at retail in said territory or a lesser rate (in oneeight increments) as approved by resolution of the City Council. The increased transaction tax rate of 1.5-cent (1.5 percent) shall be authorized and effective commencing on April 1, 2027, and shall continue thereafter until terminated in accordance with this Chapter.

SECTION 3. AMENDMENT TO THE MUNICIPAL CODE. Section 3.13.070 of Chapter 3.13 of Title 3 of the Fortuna Municipal Code is hereby deleted and replaced in its entirety as follows:

3.13.070 Use tax rate.

A. An excise tax is hereby imposed on the storage, use or other consumption in the city of tangible personal property purchased from any retailer on and after the operative date of this chapter for storage, use or other consumption in said territory at the rate of 0.75 percent per dollar of the sales price of the property. The sales price shall include delivery charges when such charges are subject to state sales or use tax regardless of the place to which delivery is made.

B. Effective April 1, 2027, and continuing thereafter until repealed by the voters or rescinded by the City Council, the rate of ¾-cent (0.75 percent) per dollar of the sales price set forth in subdivision A of this Section 3.13.070 shall be increased to 1.5-cents (1.5 percent) per dollar of the sales price of the property or a lesser rate (in one-eight increments) as approved by resolution of the City Council. The increased use tax rate of

1.5-cent (1.5 percent) shall be authorized and effective commencing on April 1, 2027, and shall continue thereafter until terminated in accordance with this Chapter.

SECTION 4. AMENDMENT TO THE MUNICIPAL CODE. Section 3.13.200 of Chapter 3.13 of Title 3 of the Fortuna Municipal Code is hereby deleted and replaced in its entirety as follows:

3.13.200 Termination of Tax

The authority to levy the tax imposed by this chapter shall continue until repealed by the city council or by the voters.

SECTION 5. EFFECTIVE DATE. This ordinance relates to the levying and collecting of the City transactions and use taxes and shall take effect only if approved by a majority of the voters voting on the measure at the November 3, 2026 General Municipal Election and shall become effective ten (10) days after the City Council declares and certifies by resolution the results of the election and that the measure was approved by a majority of the voters voting thereon.

SECTION 6. CERTIFICATION AND PUBLICATION. Upon approval by the voters, the City Clerk shall certify to the passage and adoption of this ordinance and shall cause it to be published according to law and transmitted to the California Department of Tax and Fee Administration.

SECTION 7. COMPLIANCE WITH THE CALIFORNIA ENVIRONMENTAL QUALITY ACT. The approval of this Ordinance is exempt from the California Environmental Quality Act (Public Resources Code §§ 21000 et seq., “CEQA,” and 14 Cal. Code Reg. §§ 15000 et seq., “CEQA Guidelines”). The transactions and use tax enacted by this Ordinance is a general tax that can be used for any legitimate governmental purpose; it is not a commitment to any particular action. As such, under CEQA Guidelines section 15378(b)(4), the tax is not a project within the meaning of CEQA because it creates a government funding mechanism that does not involve any commitment to any specific project that may result in a potentially significant physical impact on the environment. If revenue from the tax were used for a purpose that would have either such effect, the city would undertake the required CEQA review for that particular project. Therefore, pursuant to CEQA Guidelines section 15060 CEQA analysis is not required.

PASSED AND ADOPTED by the City Council of the City of Fortuna on the 20th day of April 2026, by at least a two-thirds vote of the City Council, as follows:

AYES:

NAYS:

ABSENT:

ABSTAIN:
________________________________
Mike Johnson, Mayor
ATTEST:
________________________
Siana L. Emmons, City Clerk
Approved As To Form:
_____________________________________
Ryan T. Plotz, City Attorney

RESOLUTION NO. 2026-12

A RESOLUTION OF THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF FORTUNA ORDERING THE

SUBMISSION TO THE QUALIFIED ELECTORS OF THE CITY OF FORTUNA A CERTAIN MEASURE RELATING TO A PROPOSED ORDINANCE AMENDING CHAPTER 3.13 TO TITLE 3 OF THE FORTUNA MUNICIPAL CODE INCREASING THE CITY’S TRANSACTIONS AND USE TAX BY ¾-CENT FOR GENERAL PURPOSES AT THE GENERAL MUNICIPAL ELECTION TO BE HELD ON TUESDAY, NOVEMBER 3, 2026, AS CALLED AND PROPOSED TO THE QUALIFIED ELECTORS BY RESOLUTION;

DIRECTING THE CITY ATTORNEY TO PREPARE AN IMPARTIAL ANALYSIS OF THE MEASURE; SETTING THE DATES FOR ARGUMENTS ON THE MEASURE AND

REQUESTING THE BOARD OF SUPERVISORS OF THE COUNTY OF HUMBOLDT TO CONSOLIDATE SAID ELECTION PURSUANT TO SECTION 10403 OF THE ELECTIONS CODE
WHEREAS, at the General Municipal Election on Tuesday, November 8, 2016, the qualified voters of the City of Fortuna approved Measure E, which imposed a ¾-cent transaction and use tax (“sales tax”) to protect and maintain essential City services, including increasing and restoring police officers and programs, repairing aging/deteriorating streets and potholes, parks maintenance, and programs for youth and seniors; and
WHEREAS, at the General Municipal Election on Tuesday, November 3, 2020, the qualified voters of the City of Fortuna approved Measure G, which extended the sales tax through March 31, 2033; and WHEREAS, the revenues derived from Measure E are essential to maintain and continue to improve city services, including police protection, code enforcement and other essential services; however, due to rising costs and inflationary pressures, the revenues derived from Measure E are insufficient to continue to maintain the programs and services funded by Measure E; and WHEREAS, the City desires to amend Chapter 3.13 of the Fortuna Municipal Code to increase the current rate of the sales tax by ¾-cent to maintain essential City services, such as protecting public safety; increasing and restoring police officers; repairing aging/ deteriorating streets and potholes; providing programs for seniors and youth; and keeping parks clean and safe; and WHEREAS, the City Council desires to submit to the voters at the election a question relating the proposed increase of the of the current ¾-cent transactions and use tax to 1.5-cent transactions and use tax for general purposes; and
WHEREAS, a General Municipal Election will be held on Tuesday, November 3, 2026, and be called by a Resolution of the City Council; and
WHEREAS, the City Council of the City of Fortuna desires that the County of Humboldt Elections Department conduct the municipal election, pursuant to Elections Code Section 10403, to be held on November 3, 2026; and

NOW, THEREFORE, THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF FORTUNA DOES RESOLVE, DECLARE, DETERMINE AND ORDER AS FOLLOWS:

SECTION 1. The City Council, pursuant to its right and authority, does order submitted to the voters at the General Municipal Election of November 3, 2026, the following question:

Fortuna Essential Services Funding Measure
Shall the measure to maintain essential City services, such as protecting public safety; increasing and restoring police officers; repairing aging/ deteriorating streets and potholes; providing programs for seniors and youth; and keeping parks clean and safe, by authorizing a ¾-cent sales tax in the City of Fortuna, generating $1,800,000 annually for general government use until ended by voters, requiring independent audits, community oversight, and all funds staying in Fortuna, be adopted?
Yes
No
SECTION 2. The proposed measure submitted to the voters is attached as Exhibit A. The City Council hereby approves the ordinance by a two-thirds vote of the City Council, the form thereof, and its submission to the voters of the City at the November 3, 2026 General Municipal Election, as required by Revenue and Taxation Code section 7285.9. The ordinance specifies that the rate of the transactions tax shall be increased by ¾-cent per dollar to 1.5-cent per dollar of the sales price of certain personal property; it specifies that the rate of the use tax shall be increased by ¾-cent per dollar to 1.5-cent per dollar of the sales price of tangible personal property stored, used or otherwise consumed in the City. The California Department of Tax and Fee Administration shall collect the tax from retailers subject to the tax and remit the funds to the City.

SECTION 3. In all particulars not recited in this resolution, the election shall be held and conducted as provided by law for holding municipal elections, including but not limited to Elections Code section 10418.

SECTION 4. Pursuant to the requirements of Section 10403 of the Elections Code, the City Council of the City of Fortuna hereby requests the Board of Supervisors of the County of Humboldt to agree to the consolidation of the Municipal Election with the Statewide General Election on November 3, 2026 and issue instructions to the Humboldt County Elections Department that the election in all respects be held as if there were only one election and to conduct the Municipal Election including the publishing of all election materials, the mailing of sample ballots, the hiring of election officers, canvassing the returns, and the actual conduct of the election.

SECTION 5.
a. The last day for submission of primary arguments for or against the measure shall be by 5:00 p.m. on August 17, 2026.
b. The last day for submission of rebuttal arguments for or against the measure shall be by 5:00 p.m. on August 27, 2026.
c. Primary arguments shall not exceed three hundred (300) words and shall be signed by not more than five persons.

d. Rebuttal arguments shall not exceed two hundred fifty (250) words and shall be signed by not more than five persons; those persons may be different persons than the persons who signed the primary arguments.
e. Pursuant to California Elections Code Section 9282, the Mayor is hereby authorized to file a written argument in favor of the proposed measure on behalf of the City Council. At Mayor Trent’s discretion, the argument may be signed by members of the City Council or bona fide associations or by individual voters who are eligible to vote on the measure. In the event that an argument is filed against the measure, the Mayor is also authorized to file a rebuttal argument on behalf of the City Council, which may be signed by members of the City Council or bona fide associations or by individual voters who are eligible to vote on the measure, which may be different from those who signed the primary argument. f. Pursuant to California Elections Code Section 9285, when the City Clerk has selected the arguments for and against the measure, which will be printed and distributed to the voters, the City Clerk shall send copies of the argument in favor of the measure to the authors of the argument against, and copies of the argument against to the authors of the argument in favor.

Rebuttal arguments shall be printed in the same manner as the primary arguments. Each rebuttal argument shall immediately follow the primary argument, which it seeks to rebut. g. Pursuant to California Elections Code Section 9280, the City Council hereby directs the City Clerk to transmit a certified copy of the measure to the City Attorney. The City Attorney shall prepare an impartial analysis of the measure, not to exceed 500 words in length, showing the effect of the measure on the existing law and the operation of the measure, and file the impartial analysis with the City Clerk by August 12th, 2026.

SECTION 6. The City of Fortuna recognizes that additional costs will be incurred by the County by reason of this consolidation and agrees to reimburse the County of Humboldt for all costs associated with the conduct of the City of Fortuna’s municipal election to be held on November 3, 2026.

SECTION 7. That notice of the time and place of holding the election is given and the City Clerk is authorized, instructed and directed to give further or additional notice of the election, in time, form and manner as required by law.

SECTION 8. That the City Clerk shall certify to the passage and adoption of this Resolution and enter it into the book of original Resolutions.

SECTION 9. The approval of this Resolution is exempt from the California Environmental Quality Act (Public Resources Code §§ 21000 et seq., “CEQA,” and 14 Cal. Code Reg. §§ 15000 et seq., “CEQA Guidelines”). The transactions and use tax to be submitted to the voters is a general tax that can be used for any legitimate governmental purpose; it is not a commitment to any particular action. As such, under CEQA Guidelines section 15378(b)(4), the tax is not a project within the meaning of CEQA because it creates a government funding mechanism that does not involve any commitment to any specific project that may result in a potentially significant physical impact on the environment. If revenue from the tax were used for a purpose that would have either such effect, the city would undertake the required CEQA review for that particular project. Therefore, pursuant to CEQA Guidelines section 15060 CEQA analysis is not required.

NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED the City Clerk is hereby directed to file a certified copy of this resolution with the Board of Supervisors and the Humboldt County Registrar of Voters.

PASSED AND ADOPTED this 20th day of April 2026, by the following vote:

AYES:

NOES:

ABSTAIN:

ABSENT:
______________________________
Mike Johnson, Mayor
ATTEST:
________________________________
Siana L. Emmons, City Clerk
APPROVED AS TO FORM:
_____________________________
Ryan T. Plotz, City Attorney

EXHIBIT A
[FINAL APPROVED FORM OF ORDINAINCE 2026-785 TO BE ATTACHED TO THIS RESOLUTION FOLLOWING ADOPTIONG BY THE CITY COUNCIL]