CITY OF HEALDSBURG
CITY COUNCIL/REDEVELOPMENT SUCCESSOR AGENCY
REGULAR MEETING MINUTES
September 15, 2025
CITY HALL COUNCIL CHAMBER
401 Grove Street, Healdsburg
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CALL TO ORDER/ROLL CALL
Vice Mayor/Vice Chairperson Herrod 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, Hagele, Kelley and Vice Mayor Herrod Board Members
Absent: Council Members/: Mayor Mitchell
Board Members
APPROVAL OF AGENDA
On a motion by Councilmember Kelley, seconded by Councilmember Edwards, approved the September 15, 2025, City Council and Redevelopment Successor Agency meeting agenda as submitted. The motion carried on a voice vote with Mayor Mitchell noted as absent. (Ayes 4, Noes 0, Absent – Mitchell)
REPORT ON CLOSED SESSION
None.
ANNOUNCEMENTS/PRESENTATIONS – PROCLAMATION RECOGNIZING
SEPTEMBER 26, 2025 AS CALIFORNIA NATIVE AMERICAN DAY
Vice Mayor Herrod with Council concurrence issued a proclamation recognizing September 26, 2025 as California Native American Day in the City of Healdsburg.
ANNOUNCEMENTS/PRESENTATIONS – PROCLAMATION RECOGNIZING
SEPTEMBER 15 – OCTOBER 15 AS LATIN AMERICAN HERITAGE MONTH Vice Mayor Herrod with Council concurrence issued a Proclamation Recognizing September 15th – October 15th as Latin American Heritage Month in the City of Healdsburg.
Cristal Lopez Pardo, Corazon Healdsburg thanked the City Council for the proclamations and read aloud a statement regarding Latin American Heritage Month.
City Council/RSA Regular Meeting Minutes
September 15, 2025
ANNOUNCEMENTS/PRESENTATIONS – PROCLAMATION DECLARING
SEPTEMBER 21, 2025 “SUN DAY” IN THE CITY OF HEALDSBURG
Vice Mayor Herrod with Council concurrence issued a Proclamation declaring September 21, 2025 “Sun Day” in the city of Healdsburg.
Tyra Benoit Climate Action Healdsburg, thanked the Council for serving on the City Council and supporting the Sun Day efforts and provided information on the upcoming Sun Day events.
CITY MANAGER REPORTS
City Manager Kay announced the Sun Day and the Foss Creek Cleanup happening this weekend, the Healdsburg Center for the Arts, Arts Festival next weekend, provided an update on the Structure fire that occurred on Johnson Street today and the Grove Street and Healdsburg Avenue construction projects.
PUBLIC COMMENTS ON ITEMS ON THE CONSENT CALENDAR AND NON
AGENDA ITEMS
Linda Cade read aloud a letter from Maggie Lowenthal of concern from a Healdsburg resident.
Jim Walters commented on the conditions of the streets and roads in Healdsburg and encouraged Council to fix them.
Diane Lubich commented on the proposed roundabout for Dry Creek Road and the conditions of the streets in Healdsburg.
Tyra Benoit asked Council to remove Consent Item 6D from the Consent Calendar for separate consideration and opined on the green rate option for utility customers.
Holly Hoods commented on recent and upcoming events at the Healdsburg Museum.
Mark McMullen opined on the upcoming Ward Street Revitalization Project and including art.
CONSENT CALENDAR
On a motion by Vice Mayor Herrod, seconded by Councilmember Edwards, removed Consent Calendar Item 6D for discussion. The motions carried on a voice vote, with Councilmember Hagele dissenting and Mayor Mitchell noted as absent. (Ayes 3, Noes – Hagele, Absent – Mitchell)
Councilmember Kelley recused from Consent Item 6C as she lives within 500 ft of the project and has a presumed conflict of interest.
City Council/RSA Regular Meeting Minutes
September 15, 2025
On a motion by Councilmember Kelley, seconded by Councilmember Hagele, approved the Consent Calendar as follows:
A. FY 24/25 SIDEWALK REPAIR AND GAP CLOSURE PROJECT ST012 Adopted Resolution No. 78-2025 titled, “A RESOLUTION OF THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF HEALDSBURG ACCEPTING THE FY 24/25 SIDEWALK REPAIR AND GAP CLOSURE PROJECT ST012 AS COMPLETE AND AUTHORIZING STAFF TO FILE A NOTICE OF COMPLETION WITH THE COUNTY RECORDER'S OFFICE.” (Ayes 4, Noes 0, Absent – Mitchell)
B. PUBLIC EV CHARGING STATIONS PROJECT, EL 002
Adopted Resolution No. 79-2025 titled, “A RESOLUTION OF THE CITY COUNCIL OF
THE CITY OF HEALDSBURG ACCEPTING THE PUBLIC EV CHARGING STATIONS PROJECT, PHASE 1 (PROJECT EL002) AS COMPLETE AND AUTHORIZING STAFF TO FILE THE NOTICE OF COMPLETION.” (Ayes 4, Noes 0, Absent – Mitchell) C. AMENDMENT OF PROFESSIONAL SERVICES AGREEMENT WITH UTILITY
DESIGN SERVICES LLC
This items was removed from the Consent Calendar to be voted on separately. (Ayes 4, Noes 0, Absent – Mitchell)
D. 2024 CALENDAR YEAR POWER SOURCE DISCLOSURE REPORT
This items was removed from the Consent Calendar to be voted on separately. (Ayes 3, Noes - Hagele, Absent – Mitchell)
E. PROFESSIONAL SERVICES AGREEMENT WITH BKF ENGINEERS FOR
ENGINEERING DESIGN SERVICES
Adopted Resolution No. 80-2025 titled, “A RESOLUTION OF THE CITY COUNCIL OF
THE CITY OF HEALDSBURG APPROVING A PROFESSIONAL SERVICES
AGREEMENT WITH BKF ENGINEERS IN THE NOT-TO-EXCEED AMOUNT OF $271,337 TO PROVIDE ENGINEERING DESIGN SERVICES FOR THE WARD STREET NEIGHBORHOOD REVITALIZATION PROJECT NO. ST009, AUTHORIZING THE
CITY MANAGER TO EXECUTE THE AGREEMENT, AND AMENDING THE ADOPTED FISCAL YEAR 2025-26 BUDGET.” Ayes 4, Noes 0, Absent – Mitchell) City Council/RSA Regular Meeting Minutes
September 15, 2025
F. APPROVAL OF MINUTES
Approved the April 7, 2025 Regular Meeting Minutes, the April 21, 2025 Special Meeting Minutes, the April 21, 2025 Regular Meeting Minutes, the May 5, 2025 Regular Meeting Minutes and the May 19, 2025 Special Meeting Minutes. (Ayes 4, Noes 0, Absent – Mitchell)
The motion to approve the Consent Calendar as above carried on a roll call vote with Mayor Mitchell noted as absent. (Ayes 4, Noes 0, Absent – Mitchell)
AMENDMENT OF PROFESSIONAL SERVICES AGREEMENT WITH UTILITY
DESIGN SERVICES LLC
On a motion by Councilmember Edwards, seconded by Councilmember Hagele, adopted Resolution No. 81-2025 titled, “A RESOLUTION OF THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF
HEALDSBURG AUTHORIZING AN AMENDMENT TO THE PROFESSIONAL SERVICES AGREEMENT WITH UTILITY DESIGN SERVICES.” The motion carried on a roll call vote, with Councilmember Kelley abstaining and Mayor Mitchell noted as absent. (Ayes 3, Noes 0, Abstaining – Kelley, Absent – Mitchell)
2024 CALENDAR YEAR POWER SOURCE DISCLOSURE REPORT
Utility Conservation Analyst Sampson introduced Interim Utilities Director Fuss and provided information on what the Power Source Disclosure Report is and what the Power Content Label does.
In response to Council’s inquiries, Analyst Sampson provided information on the utility discount and the rates it applies to, the percentage of households that utilize the green rate, what the price difference is between the residential rate, standard rate and green rate and if the City can purchase any nuclear power.
On a motion by Councilmember Kelley, seconded by Councilmember Edwards, adopted Resolution No. 82-2025 titled, “A RESOLUTION OF THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF HEALDSBURG ATTESTING TO THE VERACITY OF THE 2024 POWER SOURCE
DISCLOSURE ANNUAL REPORT AND DIRECTING STAFF TO SUBMIT THE RESOLUTION TO THE CALIFORNIA ENERGY COMMISSION.” The motion carried on a roll call vote, with Mayor Mitchell noted as absent. (Ayes 4, Noes 0, Absent – Mitchell)
PUBLIC HEARINGS
None.
City Council/RSA Regular Meeting Minutes
September 15, 2025
OLD BUSINESS – CLIMATE MOBILIZATION STRATEGY IMPLEMENTATION
ANNUAL UPDATE
Assistant City Manager Mitts introduced the item for discussion, reviewed acronyms related to the Climate Mobilization Strategy (CMS), provided background information on the CMS, noted the emission sources in Healdsburg and the Greenhouse Gas (GHG) Emission trends in Healdsburg. Manager Mitts further reviewed the GHG reduction targets, the progress to date on the measures and actions included in the CMS, accomplishments completed in building energy, water and solid waste, electric transportation, public/active transportation and carbon sequestration.
Additionally, Manager Mitts provided information on challenges faced with the CMS and noted the next steps for the CMS.
In response to Council’s inquiries, Public Works Director Zimmer provided information on charging options for the Recology garbage truck. Conversation Analyst Smith provided information on the Optiwatt app available to the public. Interim Utilities Director Fuss provided information on a grant application. City Manager Kay provided information on staffing and Community Services Director Themig provided information on converting from gas powered leaf blowers.
There were no public comments on this item.
Council Comments
Councilmember Kelley expressed her excitement about the progress completed to date on the CMS, thanked staff for their work on the CMS and inquired how the community can be involved with the CMS.
Councilmember Edwards expressed appreciation for the update and a desire for staff to keep in touch with converting leaf blowers to electric.
Councilmember Hagele expressed a desire to see support for assistance with upgrading infrastructure in homes.
Vice Mayor Herrod was supportive of continuing to receive annual updates on the CMS.
NEW BUSINESS – MEMORANDUM OF UNDERSTANDING WITH MAGICAL
BRIDGE FOUNDATION FOR A MAGICAL BRIDGE PLAYGROUND AT BADGER PARK
Project Manager Tom Campbell stated the action this evening was to approve a Memorandum of Understanding with Magical Bridge Foundation for a playground at Badger Park. Manager City Council/RSA Regular Meeting Minutes
September 15, 2025
Campbell provided information on recent history and City Council actions relating to Badger Park and introduced Olenka Villarreal, Founder of Magical Bridge Foundation, who would be presenting.
Ms. Villarreal provided information on why Magical Bridge exists, the problem with traditional playgrounds, how Magical Bridge was created and the foundation of Magical Bridge.
Project Manager Campbell further reviewed the details of the proposed Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) with Magical Bridge Foundation, including fundraising, feasibility/planning, schematic design work and terms of the MOU and noted the next steps for the Badger Park Redevelopment Project.
In response to Council’s inquiries, City Attorney Zutler, City Manager Kay and Ms. Villarreal provided clarification on the donation for a Magical Bridge Park. Manager Campbell provided information on how the schematic design process may work and incorporating the Magical Bridge Playground into the larger Master Plan.
Public Comment
Member of the Public commented on her experience utilizing a Magical Bridge Playground in a different jurisdiction.
Christine Webster expressed her support to see a Magical Bridge Playground come to Healdsburg.
Member of the Public opined on bringing a Magical Bridge Playground to Healdsburg.
Jenelle Broadist expressed her support for a Magical Bridge Playground being built in Healdsburg and commented on the benefits of an all-inclusive playground.
Athea commented on bringing a Magical Bridge Playground to Healdsburg and a place for inclusive play for kids in Healdsburg.
Alby opined on a school project that led him to a Magical Bridge Playground and expressed support to see a Magical Bridge Playground built in Healdsburg.
Ella commented on a school project that led her to a Magical Bridge Playground and encouraged Council to move forward with a Magical Bridge Playground.
Ioni Weisman provided information on demographics of the population in Healdsburg and expressed support for a Magical Bridge Playground in Healdsburg.
City Council/RSA Regular Meeting Minutes
September 15, 2025
Cindy Rodenbaugh commented on her experience teaching some of the students who spoke and expressed support for a Magical Bridge Playground.
Emily Parker encouraged Council to build a Magical Bridge Playground in Healdsburg.
Emily Peterson expressed her support for a Magical Bridge Playground.
Council Comments
Councilmember Kelley thanked the members of the public for participating, commented on her personal experience with a Magical Bridge Playground and was supportive of moving forward with the Memorandum of Understanding.
Councilmember Edwards was supportive of moving forward with the Memorandum of Understanding.
Councilmember Hagele was supportive of moving forward with the Memorandum of Understanding with regular updates to the City Council.
Vice Mayor Herrod expressed support to move forward with the Memorandum of Understanding.
Councilmember Kelley disclosed for the record that she is an unpaid volunteer on the Board of a Non-Profit which has been involved in directing the anonymous donation.
On a motion by Councilmember Edwards, seconded by Councilmember Hagele, adopted Resolution No. 83-2025, titled “A RESOLUTION OF THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF
HEALDSBURG APPROVING A MEMORANDUM OF UNDERSTANDING WITH
MAGICAL BRIDGE FOUNDATION FOR FEASIBILITY/PLANNING, FUNDRAISING,
AND SCHEMATIC DESIGN WORK FOR A MAGICAL BRIDGE PLAYGROUND AT
BADGER PARK, AND AUTHORIZING THE CITY MANAGER TO EXECUTE DOCUMENTS ON BEHALF OF THE CITY COUNCIL.” The motion carried on a roll call vote, with Mayor Mitchell noted as absent. (Ayes 4, Noes 0, Absent – Mitchell)
COUNCIL REPORTS ON MATTERS OF INTEREST OCCURRING SINCE PREVIOUS
REGULAR MEETING/EXPENSE REIMBURSEMENT REPORTS
Councilmember Edwards reported he attended the Canine Companions kickoff fundraiser at Garrett’s and the grand opening of Appellation Hotel.
Councilmember Hagele had nothing to report.
City Council/RSA Regular Meeting Minutes
September 15, 2025
Councilmember Kelley reported she attended the Appellation Hotel grand opening, announced a company coming to Healdsburg to do some small business outreach and expressed disappoint on the comments made during public comment and provided statistics on sexual violence against women.
Vice Mayor Herrod reported he attended the Pachanga event on the Plaza, the opening of the Positive Images community center and announced he would be attending the Foss Creek Cleanup on Saturday.
ADJOURNMENT
There being no further City Council/Redevelopment Successor Agency business to discuss, the meeting was adjourned at approximately 9:03 p.m.
APPROVED: ATTEST:
_________________________________ __________________________________ Evelyn L. Mitchell, Mayor Raina Allan, City Clerk