CITY OF HEALDSBURG
CITY COUNCIL/REDEVELOPMENT SUCCESSOR AGENCY
REGULAR MEETING MINUTES
November 18, 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 November 18, 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
None.
ANNOUNCEMENTS/PRESENTATIONS
None.
CITY MANAGER REPORTS
City Manager Kay provided information about immigration enforcement and existing City Policies and State Laws regarding immigration enforcement. Manager Kay provided an update on the rainy weather, announced the upcoming Merry Healdsburg celebration, the annual Senior Dinner, and the ribbon-cutting ceremony for the new Fire Substation.
In response to Councilmember Kelley’s inquiries, City Manager Kay confirmed that the City will help disseminate information about new state immigration laws and noted that the City will be proactive about continuing the conversations.
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PUBLIC COMMENTS ON ITEMS ON THE CONSENT CALENDAR AND NON
AGENDA ITEMS
Eddy expressed concerns about President Trump’s plans of immigration deportation and detailed ways in which the Council can protect the community.
Paul Quessenberry provided information about his business Deep End Fitness and urged Council to keep the pool open through the winter.
CONSENT CALENDAR
On a motion by Vice Mayor Mitchell, seconded by Councilmember Kelley, approved the Consent Calendar as follows:
A. LANDSCAPE MAINTENANCE AGREEMENT
Adopted Resolution No. 126-2024 titled, “A RESOLUTION OF THE CITY COUNCIL OF
THE CITY OF HEALDSBURG APPROVING A PROFESSIONAL SERVICES
AGREEMENT WITH GOLDEN GATE LANDSCAPING FOR LANDSCAPE
MAINTENANCE SERVICES IN AN AMOUNT NOT TO EXCEED $774,506, APPROVING A 10% CONTINGENCY IN THE AMOUNT $77,450, AND
AUTHORIZING THE CITY MANAGER TO EXECUTE THE AGREEMENT AND FUTURE AMENDMENTS.” (Ayes 5, Noes 0, Absent – None)
B. BLOODROOT RAMBLE EVENT AGREEMENT
Adopted Resolution No. 127-2024 titled, “A RESOLUTION OF THE CITY COUNCIL OF
THE CITY OF HEALDSBURG APPROVING A THREE-YEAR SPECIAL EVENT
AGREEMENT AND A THREE-YEAR COST RECOVERY DEPOSIT AGREEMENT
WITH REEVE WINES FOR THE BLOODROOT RAMBLE ON THE HEALDSBURG
COMMUNITY CENTER CAMPUS AND AUTHORIZING THE CITY MANAGER TO EXECUTE THE AGREEMENTS.” (Ayes 5, Noes 0, Absent – None) C. ACCEPTANCE OF THE CABERNET ROAD CULVERT REPLACEMENT
PROJECT
Adopted Resolution No. 128-2024 titled, “A RESOLUTION OF THE CITY COUNCIL OF
THE CITY OF HEALDSBURG ACCEPTING THE CABERNET ROAD CULVERT
REPLACEMENT PROJECT AS COMPLETE AND AUTHORIZING STAFF TO FILE A NOTICE OF COMPLETION WITH THE COUNTY RECORDER'S OFFICE.” (Ayes 5, Noes 0, Absent – None)
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D. BID AWARD DRY CREEK WATER TREATMENT PLANT UPGRADES –
CRYPTOSPORIDIUM TREATMENT
Adopted Resolution No. 129-2024 titled, “A RESOLUTION OF THE CITY COUNCIL OF
THE CITY OF HEALDSBURG CONDITIONALLY AWARDING THE DRY CREEK WATER TREATMENT PLANT UPGRADES – CRYPTOSPORIDIUM TREATMENT PROJECT TO CATS4U, INC., FOR AN AMOUNT NOT TO EXCEED $748,186 AND
AUTHORIZING THE CITY MANAGER TO EXECUTE THE CONTRACT AND TO APPROVE CHANGE ORDERS UP TO $74,820.” (Ayes 5, Noes 0, Absent – None) E. CORE POLICING TEAM STAFFING
Adopted Resolution No. 130-2024 titled, “A RESOLUTION OF THE CITY COUNCIL OF
THE CITY OF HEALDSBURG APPROVING THE CITY OF HEALDSBURG SALARY SCHEDULE, THE AUTHORIZED POSITION LIST EFFECTIVE NOVEMBER 18, 2024, APPROVING A BUDGET AMENDMENT AND RESCINDING RESOLUTION NO. 67- 2024 AND RESOLUTION NO. 88-2024.” (Ayes 5, Noes 0, Absent – None) F. FOLEY FAMILY COMMUNITY PAVILION ENVIRONMENTAL ENGINEERING
SERVICES CONTRACT AMENDMENT
Adopted Resolution No. 131-2024 titled, “A RESOLUTION OF THE CITY COUNCIL OF
THE CITY OF HEALDSBURG APPROVING AN AMENDMENT TO THE
PROFESSIONAL SERVICES AGREEMENT WITH EBA ENGINEERING FOR
ENVIRONMENTAL ENGINEERING SERVICES FOR THE FOLEY FAMILY
COMMUNITY PAVILION PROJECT, AUTHORIZING THE CITY MANAGER TO
EXECUTE THE AMENDMENT AND INCREASING THE NOT TO EXCEED AMOUNT TO $74,480.” (Ayes 5, Noes 0, Absent – None)
The motion to approve the Consent Calendar as above carried on a unanimous voice vote. (Ayes 5, Noes 0, Absent – None)
PUBLIC HEARINGS
None.
OLD BUSINESS – FISCAL YEAR 2024-25 FIRST QUARTER BUDGET REVIEW AS OF SEPTEMBER 30, 2024
Finance Director Edgar stated the action this evening to adopt a resolution approving amendments to the Fiscal Year 2024-25 budget. Director Edgar provided information about general fund revenues and expenses noting that expenses are at about 22% of total budget, noting general fund revenues have exceeded initial estimates and staff are proposing a one-time City Council/RSA Regular Meeting Minutes
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contribution of $305,000 to the Vehicle Replacement Fund to support the purchase of a Type I fire truck.
Director Edgar further reviewed the Community Services revenue and expenditures, highlighting that first-quarter revenues account for 30% of the total $8 million budget and noted the Community Services fund balance is projected to meet the reserve policy target of 30%, and there are no budget adjustments currently proposed.
Additionally, Director Edgar reviewed the water, wastewater and electric funds balance, noting that revenues continue to exceed budget projections in the water fund, revenues and expenditures are tracking consistently with the adopted budget for the first quarter in the wastewater fund and the electric fund is expected to meet both its operating and capital reserve targets for the current fiscal year.
In response to Councilmember inquiries, Director Edgar explained that there is a possibility to move forward with deferred Community Services projects however, it would be best to wait until the mid-year budget review to determine if any additional, unanticipated revenues become available. Community Services Director Themig provided information on the recent donations received and noted the donated funds were allocated to the football goal post replacement and the Plaza holiday tree. Director Edgar clarified there has been a decline in revenue from key sectors, particularly fine dining and auto sales.
There were no public comments on this item.
On a motion by Vice Mayor Mitchell, seconded by Councilmember Herrod, adopted Resolution No. 132-2024, titled “A RESOLUTION OF THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF HEALDSBURG AMENDING THE FISCAL YEAR 2024-25 BUDGET.” The motion carried on a unanimous roll call vote. (Ayes 5, Noes 0, Absent - None) OLD BUSINESS – 2025 MASTER CALENDAR OF EVENTS AND REQUESTS FOR
CITY PARTNERSHIP
Recreation Supervisor Matt Milde stated before Council this evening is the 2025 Master Calendar of Events and Requests for City Partnership. Supervisor Milde provided an overview of the master calendar, reviewed the three categories of special events and noted the four new sponsorship requests that have been received.
Supervisor Milde further reviewed the proposed 2025 Master Calendar of Events, noting carryover events from 2024 along with new updates and provided a detailed summary of new special event requests seeking City partnership, as well as potential new City-led and cosponsored events.
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In response to Councilmember’s inquiries, Community Services Director Themig provided information on the seating capacity at the Foley Pavilion, addressed challenges related to the high demand for the space and noted staff is researching the ability for a schedule of events be made available and noted that the City is in the process of issuing a Request for Proposals (RFP) for scheduling software to better manage event coordination.
Regarding road closures, Director Themig further reviewed potential road closures and parking options that will be available when the Foley Family Pavilion opens and confirmed that the anticipated completion date for the Foley Pavilion is July 2, 2025, weather permitting.
Recreation Supervisor Matt Milde clarified that the Art After Dark event will not take place this year, but the Arts Festival will still be held in the Plaza, confirmed that the Tianguis market is currently located at the City Hall parking lot and will transition to the Foley Pavilion once the space is ready. Director Themig confirmed the inclusion of the 4th of July event on the master calendar and noted that any additions to the event would be brought back to Council for approval.
Supervisor Milde further reviewed the master event calendar process has improved overall efficiency in permit processing. and confirmed that City-sponsored events can be promoted in advance, whereas partnered events are responsible for managing their own marketing.
Public Comment
Cathy Waterbury inquired whether the City could approve a community nonprofit flea market to be held at the Foley Pavilion.
Cristal Lopez, representing Corazón Healdsburg, expressed gratitude to the Community Services Department for their continued support, shared information about previous Pachanga and Art After Dark events, expressed interest in exploring new opportunities for collaboration with the City and asked Council to reconsider shifting from a sponsorship to a collaborative partnership.
Rosio Gonzales spoke about the Guelaguetza event and requested that the Council consider a collaborative partnership for future efforts.
Council Comments
Councilmember Kelley expressed her appreciation to Community Services staff for the hard work and dedication to events and requested that the City explore the collaborative partnership option for the Pachanga and Art, Tianguis, and Guelaguetza events.
Councilmember Edwards expressed his support for the collaborative partnership option for the Pachanga and Art, Tianguis, and Guelaguetza events.
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Councilmember Herrod expressed his support for the collaborative partnership option for the Pachanga and Art, Tianguis, and Guelaguetza events.
Supervisor Milde confirmed that establishing collaborative partnerships for the Pachanga and Art, Tianguis, and Guelaguetza events is feasible and noted that the City has a limited allocation of Recology garbage services for events, which may impact the availability of services for other events in the future.
Vice Mayor Mitchell was supportive of the 2025 Master Calendar as proposed and expressed concerns about adding three collaborator-type events, noting the potential strain on staff resources and the impact of additional road closures.
Mayor Hagele was supportive of the 2025 Master Calendar as proposed and expressed concerns about adding three collaborator-type events, noting the potential strain on staff resources and the impact of additional road closures. Mayor Hagele inquired why the Vamos event was held in the part of the City Hall parking lot without shade and recommended taking a more proactive approach to engaging youth participation and suggested exploring ways for events to promote local hotel accommodation.
In response to Councilmember Kelley’s inquiry, Supervisor Milde confirmed he would coordinate with the Kiwanis Club to explore potential adjustments to the timing of the Celtic event following the St. Patrick’s Day parade and Director Themig clarified the reason the bathrooms at Giorgi Park were locked during the FFA parade and noted additional portable restrooms could be provided on the Giorgi Park side during the FFA fair.
On a motion by Councilmember Kelley, seconded by Councilmember Herrod, “Approved the 2025 Master Calendar of Events, incorporating the following new "collaborator" events: Vamos’ eight Vamos al Tianguis de Healdsburg evening markets, Oaxaca Tierra del Sol’s Guelaguetza Sonoma County event, Corazón Healdsburg for Pachanga & Art event and incorporating the following new “sponsor” event: True West Film Center’s two additional Movies Under the Stars movie night events.” The motion carried on a unanimous roll call vote. (Ayes 5, Noes 0, Absent - None)
OLD BUSINESS – DISCUSSION AND DIRECTION REGARDING USE OF 217
HEALDSBURG AVE (FORMER CHAMBER OF COMMERCE BUILDING)
Central Services Manager Kettmann stated the proposed action this evening was to receive a presentation summarizing the results of an RFP for the use of 217 Healdsburg Avenue and consider a conditional award and authorization to negotiate and execute the lease. Manager Kettmann provided background information about the RFP process for the lease of 217 Healdsburg Avenue, noting the City conducted two RFP’s as no bids were received the first time.
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Manager Kettmann further reviewed the proposals received during the second RFP process, noted Healdsburg Realty withdrew their proposal, gave an overview of the RFP process and recommended Council move forward with the remaining proposal from Bike Tour Sonoma.
In response to Councilmember’s inquiries, Manager Kettmann provided information on the size of the building, addressed feedback received following the release of the initial RFP, confirmed that staff will work with Public Works and Community Development Departments to establish terms and conditions for use of space and provided information on the lease terms.
City Manager Kay noted the lease was intentionally left out in hopes the space could be used for nonprofit or other community benefit. Manager Kettmann clarified ADA requirements of the building. Planning and Building Director Duiven added that the Building Official will review the space to ensure ADA compliance. Manager Kettmann
Councilmember Kelley expressed concerns about Bike Tour Sonoma, inquired if they were a new operator in Healdsburg, if they were renting and selling bikes, if there would be a perceived conflict of interest and expressed concerns about adding another business to Healdsburg that may compete with existing businesses.
Councilmember Herrod expressed support for Bike Tour Sonoma and excitement around this business type occupying the building.
Mayor Hagele shared concerns about not knowing the tenant and the potential issue of bikes being left throughout the town.
Manager Kettmann provided information about the location of additional bike storage. City Manager Kay clarified that the lease terms will address where bikes can be placed and not the total number of bikes allowed.
Public Comment
Chris Cummings, Bike Tour Sonoma, addressed the Council’s questions and concerns regarding the proposed business plan and operation including those related to bike storage, their primary and revenue streams and read aloud a statement encouraging Council to support their proposal.
Richard Burg inquired about tenant improvements, who would pay for the improvements and whether the tenant would assume ownership of the adjacent lawn area.
Council Comments
Councilmember Kelley expressed support for Bike Tour Sonoma and wished them success.
Mayor Hagele urged staff to include bike storage requirements in the lease agreement.
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In response to Councilmember Edwards’ inquiry, City Attorney Zutler clarified that indemnity language would be included in the lease.
Vice Mayor Mitchell emphasized the importance of ensuring all concerns raised are addressed in the lease agreement and expressed concern about the price of the lease.
On a motion by Councilmember Herrod, seconded by Councilmember Edwards, adopted Resolution No. 133-2024, titled “A RESOLUTION OF THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY
OF HEALDSBURG CONDITIONALLY AWARDING THE LEASE OF THE CITY-OWNED SPACE AT 217 HEALDSBURG AVE. TO BIKE TOUR SONOMA, LLC, AND
AUTHORIZING THE CITY MANAGER TO NEGOTIATE AND EXECUTE THE LEASE AGREEMENT ON BEHALF OF THE CITY.” The motion carried on a unanimous roll call vote. (Ayes 5, Noes 0, Absent - None)
OLD BUSINESS – APPOINTMENTS OF ARTS AND CULTURE COMMISSIONERS Mayor Hagele introduced the item for discussion.
Councilmember Herrod provided a summary of the applications received, the interview process conducted, reviewed the recommended applicants for appointment and noted the reason for not selecting a youth commissioner.
In response to Councilmember Kelley’s inquiry, Councilmember Herrod clarified that two applicants did not show up for their scheduled interviews.
Public Comment
Michiko Conklin expressed gratitude to the Council for establishing the Arts and Culture Commission and acknowledged the time and effort invested on its behalf.
Richard Burg described how art inspired him to move to Healdsburg.
Mark McMullen expressed thanks to the Council for creating the Arts and Culture Commission and reflected on the collaborative effort taken to reach this milestone.
Councilmember Kelley thanked Mayor Hagele and Councilmember Herrod for their commitment to interviewing all the applicants, expressed enthusiasm about reaching this stage in the process and encouraged the public to continue participating in the Arts and Culture Commission efforts moving forward.
On a motion by Councilmember Herrod, seconded by Vice Mayor Mitchell “appointed Marcy Frank, Alexander Harris and Gina Riner to the Arts and Culture Commission for a term of two years due to expire January 1, 2027, and appointed Michiko Conklin, Gianna Davey, Noah City Council/RSA Regular Meeting Minutes
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Jeppson, and Cristal Lopez Pardo to the Arts and Culture Commission for a term of three years due to expire January 1, 2028.” The motion carried on a unanimous roll call vote. (Ayes 5, Noes 0, Absent – None)
NEW BUSINESS – DECLARING THE CITY OF HEALDSBURG’S INTENT TO
INITATE PROCEDURES TO TRANSITION TO DISTRICT ELECTIONS
City Manager Kay introduced the item for discussion, noting the item before the Council is a Resolution to transition to District-Based elections and provided an overview of the items that would be covered this evening.
City Attorney Zutler provided background information on the California Voting Rights Act of 2001 (CVRA), the purpose of the CVRA and introduced key terms and definitions relevant to the process. Ms. Zutler detailed the legal standards under the CVRA, how racially polarized voting is identified and the significance of the safe harbor provision. Attorney Zutler further addressed whether racially polarized voting exists in Healdsburg, discussed the City's recommendation to transition to district-based elections, outlined alternative election methods to five districts and provided an overview of the criteria used for drawing district maps.
City Clerk Allan provided information on the tentative timeline to transition to district-based elections, explained the role of the demographer, the tentative community engagement and outreach strategy, and shared a list of other Sonoma County cities that have transitioned to district elections.
City Manager Kay noted the City has reached an agreement for an extension to the ninety-day deadline and requested feedback from the Council on the proposed timeline.
In response to Council’s inquiries, City Manager Kay outlined the next steps in the process, clarified the role of the demographer and the City Council and provided an overview of the structure of the upcoming elections and what to expect during the next series of public hearings.
City Attorney Zutler explained the differences between transitioning to district-based elections, confirmed that district boundaries cannot be drawn based on where current or future Councilmembers reside and clarified the role of the demographer and the legal requirements under the California Voting Rights Act (CVRA) and the FAIR MAPS Act when establishing districts.
City Clerk Allan described the differences between the required public hearings, the proposed community meetings and confirmed that outreach efforts will be conducted in both English and Spanish and that the City will work with community partners to effectively engage Latino communities. Attorney Zutler further discussed the alternative option of expanding the number of districts, noted that the demographer would provide guidance on what configurations would be appropriate, confirmed that the current City Councilmembers will not lose their seats as a result of the transition, as their terms are already established and explained what will happen City Council/RSA Regular Meeting Minutes
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when districts are phased in, starting in 2026. City Manager Kay clarified the use of census data during the districting process, clarified that two districts will appear on the ballot in the next election and noted that the City can research how other municipalities have addressed the atlarge Mayor option. City Attorney Zutler added that having an at-large mayor is consistent with the California Voting Rights Act (CVRA). Additionally, City Manager Kay clarified a scenario in which two incumbents reside within the same district, noted the Healdsburg Unified School District is not required to transition to district-based elections alongside the City and noted that the City will explore ways to continue utilizing this information beyond the scope of districtbased elections.
Public Comment
Richard Burg commented on Windsor’s transition to district elections, shared concerns about the number of districts relative to Healdsburg’s size, opined on whether residents would be interested in running for office in certain districts, noted the advantages of the Latino population being more geographically dispersed and inquired whether the City could consider a model with two districts, each represented by two Councilmembers, along with an at-large mayor.
Cathy Waterbury inquired if there could be voting districts for residents in the case someone who lives in a specific district doesn’t want to vote for the person running for office.
Linda Cade opined on including information about district elections in utility bill inserts to help inform the community.
Council Comments
Following a brief discussion, there was Council consensus to reschedule the Public Hearing tentatively scheduled for January 13, 2025 to January 6, 2025 and confirmed the remaining timeline worked for the Council.
In response to Councilmember Edwards inquiry, City Attorney Zutler explained the process that would occur if no candidates file to run in a specific district and provided a definition of a protected class.
Councilmember Kelley commented on the allegations outlined in the Shenkman letter, offered historical context regarding Latino voter participation and representation on the City Council, emphasized that the primary goal of transitioning to district elections is to create equitable opportunities for all residents to run for office by reducing barriers to participation and expressed confidence that it is unlikely a district would go without a candidate. Additionally, Councilmember Kelley suggested gathering community input on preferences for the number of districts and whether residents support having an at-large mayor.
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Mayor Hagele expressed support for five districts with a rotating mayor and reflected on the potential for high campaigning costs for an at-large mayoral seat. Mayor Hagele emphasized the need for better public education on how to run for office.
Vice Mayor Mitchell expressed disappointment that the City is required to transition to District Elections, commended City staff for their dedication and hard work in managing the process and opined that she does not agree with the allegations presented in the Shenkman letter.
Councilmember Edwards echoed Mayor Hagele’s comments about the importance of public education and recommended that public meetings be recorded to increase transparency.
Councilmember Kelley echoed Mayor Hagele’s concerns about barriers to participation in atlarge elections and the financial burden of campaigning. Councilmember Kelley reflected on the optional costs associated with placing a candidate statement in the election guide and suggested implementing a fund to help with election costs.
On a motion by Councilmember Herrod, seconded by Councilmember Kelley, adopted Resolution No. 134-2024, titled “A RESOLUTION OF THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF HEALDSBURG DECLARING THE CITY OF HEALDSBURG’S INTENT TO INITIATE
PROCEDURES TO TRANSITION FROM AT-LARGE ELECTIONS TO DISTRICT-BASED ELECTIONS PURSUANT TO CALIFORNIA ELECTIONS CODE SECTION 10010, APPROVING THE TENTATIVE TIMELINE AND OTHER RELATED ACTIONS.” The motion carried on a unanimous roll call vote. (Ayes 5, Noes 0, Absent - None)
COUNCIL REPORTS ON MATTERS OF INTEREST OCCURRING SINCE PREVIOUS
REGULAR MEETING/EXPENSE REIMBURSEMENT REPORTS
Councilmember Herrod reported he participated in the Arts and Culture Commission interviews, attended an open house of the Sonoma County Air Pollution Control District, Veterans Day Breakfast with the Rotary Club and commented on Election.
Councilmember Kelley reported she attended the open house for the Sonoma County Air Pollution Control District, Veterans Day brunch at the Senior Center, True West Film Center fundraiser, and the Holiday Makers Market.
Vice Mayor Mitchell reported that she signed on to a letter from Los Cien to support the Latino community.
Councilmember Edwards reported he attended a meeting with Chris Rogers and GLIDE Jam in San Francisco.
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Mayor Hagele reported he had a meeting with Senator Padilla’s staff, attended the grand opening of Monte Alban Market, Veterans Day Breakfast with the Rotary Club and had a meeting with Senator McGuire’s office.
WRITTEN COMMUNICATIONS
None.
ADJOURNMENT
There being no further City Council/Redevelopment Successor Agency business to discuss, the meeting was adjourned at approximately 9:55 p.m.
APPROVED: ATTEST:
_________________________________ __________________________________ David Hagele, Mayor Raina Allan, City Clerk