CITY OF HEALDSBURG
CITY COUNCIL/REDEVELOPMENT SUCCESSOR AGENCY
REGULAR MEETING MINUTES
October 21, 2024
City Hall Council Chamber
401 Grove Street, Healdsburg
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CALL TO ORDER/ROLL CALL
Mayor/Chairperson Hagele called to order the concurrent meeting of the City Council and Redevelopment Successor Agency of the City of Healdsburg at 6:00 p.m. with the following Council Members present:
Present: Council Members/: Edwards, Herrod, Kelley, Mitchell and Mayor Hagele Board Members
Absent: Council Members/: None.
Board Members
APPROVAL OF AGENDA
On a motion by Councilmember Kelley, seconded by Councilmember Edwards, approved the October 21, 2024, City Council and Redevelopment Successor Agency meeting agenda as submitted. The motion carried on a unanimous voice vote. (Ayes 5, Noes 0, Absent – None)
REPORT ON CLOSED SESSION
Mayor Hagele reported a closed session was held prior to the meeting and there was no reportable action.
ANNOUNCEMENTS/PRESENTATIONS – COMMUNITY SERVICES DEFERRED
MAINTENANCE PROGRAM AND PROJECT UPDATE
Project Manager Campbell introduced the Community Services maintenance project and project update, noted the budget allocation was $475,000 to address various projects and presented a table outlining the projects identified to be completed. Manager Campbell provided a comprehensive overview of the completed projects, which included the Community Center Roof, Recreation Park Concession Stand, Villa Chanticleer Parking Lot Lighting, Giorgi Park Tennis Courts, Plaza Gazebo, Recreation Park Goal Posts, Recreation Park Grandstand, and the Villa Chanticleer Storage Building. Manager Campbell noted the Villa Chanticleer Entrance Gate and Skate Park decking and shade, have been deferred due to budget reallocations.
In response to Councilmember Kelley’s inquiries, Manager Campbell confirmed the actual costs incurred to complete the projects and noted the remaining funds had been reallocated.
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Manager Campbell further reviewed the construction progress of the Foley Family Community Pavilion, including completed work, ongoing tasks, and the next steps in the project.
In response to Councilmember inquiries, Manager Campbell explained that the open space behind the pavilion will include a driveway connecting to the Duchamp Hotel, a parking lot for the hotel, and a planted buffer to separate the two buildings and confirmed the project is on track to be completed Summer 2025.
Councilmember Herrod expressed gratitude for Manager Campbell’s hard work and dedication.
CITY MANAGER REPORTS
City Manager Kay shared details about the upcoming DEA Drug Take Back Program in collaboration with the Police Department, mentioned that the Dia De Los Muertos event happening on Sunday, and noted the Public Works Department will be there to provide information about the Active Transportation Plan and concluded by announcing the availability of the Welcome Home Packet.
Mayor Hagele added that the City Manager’s update is available to subscribe online.
In response to Councilmember Kelley’s inquiry, City Clerk Allan explained the Welcome Home Packet will also be translated into Spanish.
PUBLIC COMMENTS ON ITEMS ON THE CONSENT CALENDAR AND NON
AGENDA ITEMS
Linda Cade expressed her dissatisfaction with the Chamber Forum held on October 1, 2024 and announced that she was hosting an open mic will be held at the Plaza tomorrow.
Dan Pizza expressed his dissatisfaction with Councilmember Herrod and Councilmember Kelley and read aloud remarks made by Councilmember Kelley.
CONSENT CALENDAR
On a motion by Vice Mayor Mitchell, seconded by Councilmember Edwards, approved the Consent Calendar as follows:
A. REVIEW AND ATTEST TO THE VERACITY OF THE 2023 CALENDAR YEAR
POWER SOURCE DISCLOSURE REPORT AND ATTESTATION
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Adopted Resolution No. 121-2024 titled, “A RESOLUTION OF THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF HEALDSBURG ATTESTING TO THE VERACITY OF THE 2023
POWER SOURCE DISCLOSURE AND ASSOCIATED POWER CONTENT LABEL
AND DIRECTING STAFF TO SUBMIT THE REPORT TO THE CALIFORNIA ENERGY COMMISSION.” (Ayes 4, Noes - Kelley, Absent – None)
B. ORDINANCE APPROVING FOURTH AMENDMENT TO THE DEVELOPMENT
AGREEMENT BETWEEN THE CITY OF HEALDSBURG AND REPLAY
HEALDSBURG, LLC
Adopted Ordinance No. 1244 titled, “AN ORDINANCE OF THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE
CITY OF HEALDSBURG APPROVING A FOURTH AMENDMENT TO THE
DEVELOPMENT AGREEMENT (DA 2018-01.04) BY AND BETWEEN THE CITY OF
HEALDSBURG AND REPLAY HEALDSBURG, LLC FOR THE MILL DISTRICT PROJECT.” (Ayes 4, Noes - Kelley, Absent – None)
C. A PROFESSIONAL SERVICES AGREEMENT WITH UTILITY DESIGN
SERVICES, LLC
Adopted Resolution No. 122-2024 titled, “A RESOLUTION OF THE CITY COUNCIL OF
THE CITY OF HEALDSBURG APPROVING A PROFESSIONAL SERVICES
AGREEMENT WITH UTILITY DESIGN SERVICES, LLC TO PROVIDE UTILITY DESIGN SERVICES RELATED TO THE CITY’S ELECTRIC UTILITY FOR AN AMOUNT NOT TO EXCEED $94,850.” (Ayes 4, Noes - Kelley, Absent – None) D. ACCEPTANCE OF THE FITCH MOUNTAIN PUBLIC ACCESS IMPROVEMENTS
PROJECT
Adopted Resolution No. 123-2024 titled, “A RESOLUTION OF THE CITY COUNCIL OF
THE CITY OF HEALDSBURG ACCEPTING THE FITCH MOUNTAIN PUBLIC
ACCESS IMPROVEMENTS PROJECT AS COMPLETE AND AUTHORIZING STAFF TO FILE A NOTICE OF COMPLETION WITH THE COUNTY RECORDER'S OFFICE.” (Ayes 4, Noes - Kelley, Absent – None)
The motion to approve the Consent Calendar as above carried on a roll call vote with Councilmember Kelley dissenting. (Ayes 4, Noes - Kelley, Absent – None)
PUBLIC HEARINGS
None.
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OLD BUSINESS
None.
NEW BUSINESS – SAGGIO HILLS DEVELOPMENT PARK NAMING
Mayor Hagele recused himself from this item as he lives within 500 feet of the property.
Councilmember Kelley asked for clarification from City Attorney Zutler if she should recuse herself from this item due to potentially being within 500 feet of the property.
Following a brief recess, City Attorney Zutler clarified that Councilmember Kelley’s property is outside of the 500-foot buffer.
Community Services Director Themig stated the action this evening was to receive a recommendation from the Parks and Recreation Commission for proposed names for the Saggio Hills Development Park and adopt a resolution naming the park. Director Themig recognized the individuals involved in the park naming process, shared background information on the naming process and reviewed the Saggio Hills Development Park Master Plan.
Director Themig further reviewed the objectives, implementation plan and additional elements of the Park Naming Policy, noted Council's direction from December 19, 2022 City Council meeting and provided details on recent naming processes. Additionally, Director Themig provided information on the naming process conducted for the Saggio Hills Development Park, presented a list of park naming submissions, noted the submissions moved forward by the naming committee for further research by Holly Hoods and shared the four potential park names recommended to move forward by the Parks and Recreation Commission.
Holly Hoods Healdsburg Museum Director, provided a detailed history of each naming proposal, including “Pomo-Wappo Park,” “Smith Robinson Park,” “Parque De Luna,” and “Laura Fish Somersal Park.”
Public Comment
Abel De Luna Jr. expressed gratitude for the consideration of his father’s name in the park naming proposal. He reflected on his father's many accomplishments and shared his belief that honoring him would be a meaningful representation of the Hispanic community.
Lorenzo Sandoval reflected on his time working with Abel De Luna.
Yolanda Somersal, great-granddaughter of Laura Fish Somersal, spoke about the significance of naming the park after her great-grandmother. She emphasized Laura’s commitment to preserving City Council/RSA Regular Meeting Minutes
October 21, 2024
and sharing Native American culture, noting how proud Laura was of her heritage and how deeply she enjoyed connecting with the community.
A relative of Laura Fish Somersal shared how Laura had passed on Native American cultural traditions and teachings, emphasizing the importance of that legacy.
Frank Gonzales shared his experiences gathering materials and making baskets with Laura Fish Somersal and expressed gratitude for her being considered in the naming process.
Yolanda Dorene Smith voiced her support for naming the park in honor of Laura Fish Somersal.
Linda Cade acknowledged the worthiness of all naming proposals and reflected on the personal impact some of the individuals had on her family. Ms. Cade expressed support for naming the park either Pomo-Wappo or Laura Fish Somersal and inquired whether there might be opportunities to honor the other proposed names at different locations.
Angelica Smith expressed support for naming the park after Laura Fish Somersal and emphasized the positive impact it would have on the community.
Jeff Navarro voiced his support for naming the park after Abel De Luna and reflected on the meaningful contributions Abel made to the community.
Leslie Macias thanked Abel De Luna for his empathy and love for the community and urged Council to consider naming the park after him.
Sherry Smith Ferry expressed support for naming the park in honor of Laura Fish Somersal, reflected on the lack of Native American representation she experienced growing up in Healdsburg and emphasized the importance of visibility and cultural preservation. Ms. Smith Ferry shared a quote from Laura’s niece, highlighting Laura’s talent in basket weaving and her love for her heritage.
Miriam Gomez voiced her support for Abel De Luna, recalling her time working with him at his radio station and spoke of the support she received from Mr. De Luna, emphasizing the impact he had on her life and the community.
Ivan Jacobo expressed support for naming the park after Abel De Luna, emphasizing his significant contributions to the Hispanic community. Mr. Jacobo suggested that portions of the park be dedicated to the other individuals who were nominated if an alternate name is selected.
Shane McCloud expressed support for Laura Fish Somersal and reflected on the legacy she has left behind.
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Member of the Community expressed support for naming the park after Laura Fish Somersal and shared a personal story about a park named in honor of his uncle. He emphasized the importance of visibility, noting that there are very few public spaces named after Native American individuals.
Clarita voiced her support for naming the park in honor of Abel De Luna, reflected on her time working with him at his radio station and highlighted the strong sense of community he fosters.
Fred Peña expressed his support for Abel De Luna and reflected on his personal upbringing in Healdsburg and spoke to the meaningful and lasting impact Mr. De Luna has had on the community and his family.
Sara Bittner expressed support for naming the park after Laura Fish Somersal, emphasizing that doing so would honor both the legacy of Laura Fish Somersal and Native American culture.
Martha Perez shared her personal experience on living and working in Healdsburg, expressing that the park should be named after Abel De Luna as a tribute to his many years of hard work and dedication to the community.
Chris Wright expressed support for naming the park after Laura Fish Somersal and reflected on her importance to the tribe and her lasting impact on the people.
Jack Pollard expressed support for naming the park after Laura Fish Somersal, noting that only two parks currently honor Native American individuals and expressed a belief that naming the park after Laura Fish Somersal would be a meaningful step toward recognizing Native American history and culture.
Council Comments
Councilmember Edwards acknowledged the limited recognition of Native Tribes in the community and expressed support for the Parks and Recreation Commission’s recommendation of naming the park after Laura Fish Somersal.
Councilmember Herrod recognized the difficulty of the decision and expressed gratitude to Holly Hoods for providing valuable historical context, he thanked the Parks and Recreation Commission, particularly Commissioner Conklin and Commissioner Thwaites, for their thoughtful work, as well as the public for their active participation and the insights they shared.
Councilmember Herrod noted Healdsburg’s underrepresentation of both Hispanic and Native American communities and expressed his support for naming the Park after Abel De Luna.
Councilmember Kelley thanked the community for their thoughtful nominations, commended Holly Hoods for her in-depth historical research, expressed appreciation to Commissioner Conklin, Commissioner Thwaites, and the Parks and Recreation Commission for their work.
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Councilmember Kelley acknowledged the diverse voices in the room and expressed gratitude to those who shared their personal stories and expressed support for naming the park after Laura Fish Somersal.
Vice Mayor Mitchell expressed appreciation for the Council’s decision to amend the naming policy to allow recognition of living individuals, noting gratitude that Abel De Luna now has the opportunity to be honored. Vice Mayor Mitchell echoed the sentiments of her fellow councilmembers, recognized Abel De Luna’s lasting impact on the Hispanic community, expressed support for naming the park in Mr. De Luna’s honor and requested that staff explore future opportunities to recognize Laura Fish Somersal in a meaningful way.
In response to Council’s inquiries, City Attorney Zutler clarified that no formal decision has been made regarding the park’s name, as the Council remains at a split vote.
City Manager Kay added that we echo the sentiments of the Council and will most certainly keep the door open for more opportunities to recognize other nominees and encouraged the council to deliberate further and come to a majority vote.
Councilmember Edwards acknowledged the difficulty of the decision and proposed the idea of naming different sections of the park after various individuals to honor multiple contributions.
Vice Mayor Mitchell shared that it was heartwarming to witness the community coming together with mutual respect and thoughtful engagement.
Councilmember Herrod emphasized the Council’s responsibility to move forward with a name for the park, and suggested exploring additional community spaces that could carry meaningful acknowledgments.
Councilmember Kelley expressed appreciation for Vice Mayor Mitchell’s comments regarding the amended naming policy and thanked Councilmember Herrod for identifying other community assets that could be considered for future recognition. Councilmember Kelley expressed gratitude for the heartfelt stories and support from the community honoring Abel De Luna, emphasized the importance of building a lasting partnership with Native American communities and ensuring their presence and history are permanently and meaningfully represented in Healdsburg.
Vice Mayor Mitchell changed her vote in support of naming the park after Laura Fish Somersal and directed staff to identify a significant location in Healdsburg that could be named in honor of Abel De Luna.
Councilmember Herrod also changed his vote, expressed heartfelt gratitude to Mr. De Luna and reaffirmed the City’s commitment to honoring the Latino community and personally thanked Mr.
De Luna for his presence and lifelong contributions.
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Councilmember Kelley inquired if there was interest from Council in naming the Community Center after Abel De Luna.
After brief discussion, there was Council consensus to move forward with bringing back a Resolution to name the Community Center in honor of Abel De Luna.
On a motion by Councilmember Kelley, seconded by Councilmember Herrod, adopted Resolution No. 124-2024, titled “A RESOLUTION OF THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY
OF HEALDSBURG NAMING THE SAGGIO HILLS DEVELOPMENT PARK THE LAURA FISH SOMERSAL PARK”, with the changes read into the record by City Attorney Zutler. The motion carried on a roll call vote with Mayor Hagele abstaining. (Ayes 4, Noes 0, Absent 0, Abstaining – Mayor Hagele)
Mayor Hagele rejoined the meeting at this time.
NEW BUSINESS – APPOINT A COUNCIL SUBCOMMITTEE TO INTERVIEW ARTS
AND CULTURE COMMISSION APPLICANTS
City Clerk Allan stated the recommended action for this evening is to appoint a Council subcommittee to interview the Arts and Culture Commission applicants, provided information on the application deadline, outlined the timeline for interviews, and noted when appointments to the Commission will be made.
There were no public comments on this item.
Vice Mayor Mitchell nominated Mayor Hagele and Councilmember Herrod to serve on the subcommittee.
In response to Councilmember Kelley’s inquiry, City Clerk Allan confirmed that three applications have been submitted for the Arts and Culture Commission to date.
Councilmember Kelley expressed interest in participating on the subcommittee.
On a motion by Vice Mayor Mitchell, seconded by Councilmember Edwards, appointed Mayor Hagele and Councilmember Herrod to interview the applicants for the Arts and Culture Commission. The motion carried on a roll call vote with Councilmember Kelley dissenting. (Ayes 4, Noes - Kelley, Absent 0)
Mayor Hagele asked whether the Council had specific questions they would like to include in the interview process.
Council discussion ensued regarding the qualities of an ideal candidate for the Arts and Culture Commission, emphasized the importance of diversity, familiarity with City policies, active City Council/RSA Regular Meeting Minutes
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participation in City and community events, the ability to collaborate effectively with the Council, and a clear understanding of the Commission’s responsibilities.
COUNCIL REPORTS ON MATTERS OF INTEREST OCCURRING SINCE PREVIOUS
REGULAR MEETING/EXPENSE REIMBURSEMENT REPORTS
Councilmember Edwards reported he saw the new police vehicle, attended the Solful Ribbon Cutting event, Healdsburg Elementary School Fall Event, and Conservation Corps of the North Bay meeting.
Councilmember Herrod reported he attended the Generation Housing Summit, Senator McGuire’s fundraiser, and was one of the Hall-O-Ween dog costume contest judges.
Vice Mayor Mitchell reported she attended the Hall-O-Ween pet parade, the Mayor’s and Councilmember’s Dinner, Housing Presentation with Director Sotomayor at the Senior Center, and gave an update to the Parks and Recreation Commission at their last meeting.
Councilmember Kelley reported she attended Walk and Roll to School Day, National Night Out, a Film Screening with First 5, Northern Sonoma County Air Pollution Control District meeting, and the Wellness Center convening.
Mayor Hagele reported he attended a Housing Presentation with Director Sotomayor at the Senior Center, Mayor and Councilmember’s dinner, Solful Ribbon Cutting event, and the Multicultural Wellness Center. Additionally, he announced he will be speaking to 2nd graders at Healdsburg Elementary School.
WRITTEN COMMUNICATIONS
None.
ADJOURNMENT
There being no further City Council/Redevelopment Successor Agency business to discuss, the meeting was adjourned at approximately 8:35 p.m.
APPROVED: ATTEST:
_________________________________ __________________________________ David Hagele, Mayor Raina Allan, City Clerk