1 City of Portola
AGENDA
Regular Meeting
April 22, 2026 06:00 PM
35 Third Ave, Portola, CA 96122
https://www.cityofportola.com/
https://zoom.us/j/3583067836
Mayor Bill Powers • Mayor Pro Tem Mikki Battaglia • Councilmember Jim Murphy • Councilmember Vacant • Councilmember Lauren Miller
City Manager Ryan Bonk
REASONABLE ACCOMMODATIONS
The City Council welcomes you to its meetings which are regularly held the second and fourth Wednesday of each month at 6:00 p.m. at the City Hall Council Chambers. Your interest and participation is encouraged and welcome.
As a courtesy, the City Council meeting is also accessible to the public via live streaming at:
https://zoom.us/j/3583067836 or by phone at: Phone Number 1.669.900.6833; Meeting ID: 358 306 7836. Online and telephonic access does not guarantee the public the ability to observe the meeting in the event there is a disruption or connectivity issues that affect broadcasting.
Members of the public who want to be assured that they have the ability to observe the meeting and make comment during the meeting, should attend the meeting in-person.
Any person desiring to address the City Council or any committee, commission or agency under the jurisdiction of the City Council, on any item not on the agenda may do so during public comment period.
Public comment during the meeting will be accepted in person only. Public Comment can be made on the online agenda by clicking on the "comment" section next to each agenda item listed below. Meeting facilities are accessible to persons with disabilities.
Reasonable efforts will be made to accommodate the participation of persons with disabilities in the City’s public meetings. If special accommodation is needed, please notify the City at 530.832.6801 at least 48 hours prior to the meeting.
1. Call to Order
A. Roll Call
B. Pledge of Allegiance
2. Public Comments
2 Discussion Comment
This section is intended to provide members of the public with an opportunity to comment on any subject that does not appear on this agenda. Please note that California law prohibits the City Council from taking action on any matter which is not on the posted agenda, unless it is determined to be an urgency item by the City Council. Any member of the public wishing to address the City Council during “PUBLIC COMMENT” shall first secure permission of the presiding officer, stand; may give his/her name and address to the Clerk for the record. Each person addressing the City Council shall be limited to five minutes ordinarily, unless the presiding officer indicates a different amount will be allotted.
3. City Communications
Discussion Comment
A. City Council Communications
B. Reports: Beckwourth Peak Fire Protection District / Plumas County Sheriff / Northern Sierra Air Quality
C. Staff Communications
D. City Manager Report
4. Consent Agenda
Discussion Possible Action Comment View Item
These items are expected to be routine and non-controversial. The City Council will act upon them at one time without discussion. Any Councilmembers, staff member or interested party may request that an item be removed from the consent agenda for discussion. Additional budget appropriations will require a four/fifths roll call vote.
A. Claims:
Adopt Resolution No. 2647. The resolution authorizes payment of payroll from March 21st, 2026 through April 3rd, 2026 and accounts payable from April 9th, 2026 through April 22nd, 2026 The amount of payroll to be paid is $35,609.14
The amount of accounts payable to be paid is $79,755.81 The total amount to be paid is $115,364.95
B. Minutes
Adopt the minutes of the April 8th, 2026 Regular City Council Meeting.
5. Resolution 2646: Honoring Former Councilmember Pat Morton Discussion Possible Action Comment View Item
Council to consider Resolution 2646.
6. Plumas-Sierra Partners Conservation Project Proposal Discussion Possible Action Comment View Item
Feather River Land Trust and Plumas-Sierra Partners to present to City Council a proposal for a
3 conservation project. Staff to present report on proposal.
7. City Councilmember Resignation & Filling the Vacancy Discussion Possible Action Comment
City Attorney to present to the Council on the resignation of Councilmember Morton and options to fill the vacancy. Council will discuss the process to fill the vacancy including how the vacancy will be filled, requirements, and timeline.
8. Mayoral Appointments
Discussion Possible Action Comment View Item
Mayor to appoint Councilmembers to vacant positions on the Plumas County Transportation Commission and LAFCo board.
9. Adjournment
Resolution No. 2647 April 22nd, 2026
RESOLUTION NO. 2647
A RESOLUTION OF THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF PORTOLA
AUTHORIZING PAYMENT OF CLAIMS FOR PAYROLL FOR THE PERIOD MARCH 21ST, 2026, THROUGH APRIL 3RD, 2026, AND ACCOUNTS PAYABLE FROM APRIL 9TH, 2026, THROUGH APRIL 22ND, 2026
WHEREAS, the City Council of the City of Portola has been fully advised that all such claims and demands are legal obligations of the City; and, WHEREAS, the City Council has fully considered the claims and money demands and payment thereof as set forth below and in "Exhibit A" attached hereto and incorporated herein.
Check Nos: Amount
48039 - 48072 $79,755.81
Total Accounts Payable $79,755.81
Payroll:
3/21/2026 – 4/3/2026 $35,609.14
Total Payroll $35,609.14
Total Claims $115,364.95
PASSED, APPROVED AND ADOPTED this 22nd day of April 2026, by the following vote:
AYES:
NOES:
ABSTAIN:
ABSENT:
Bill Powers, Mayor
ATTEST:
_______________________________
Kristen Schiavone, Deputy City Clerk
I, Kristen Schiavone, Deputy City Clerk of the City of Portola, do hereby certify that the above and foregoing Resolution was duly passed and adopted by the City Council of the City of Portola at a regular meeting thereof held on April 22nd, 2026.
________________________________
Kristen Schiavone, Deputy City Clerk
4/15/2026 9:31 AM A/P HISTORY CHECK REPORT PAGE: 1
VENDOR SET: 01 City of PortolaBANK: PC POOLED CASH - PLUMASDATE RANGE: 0/00/0000 THRU 99/99/9999
CHECK CHECK CHECK CHECK
VENDOR I.D. NAME STATUS DATE AMOUNT DISCOUNT NO STATUS AMOUNT000010 RENO PAINT MART INC I-202604134483 PAINT AND SUPPLIES R 4/22/2026 048039 100 414-600.06 MATERIALS AND SUPPLIES PAINT AND SUPPLIES 405.59 405.59 000018 CINTAS
I-202604134482 MEDICAL SUPPLIES R 4/22/2026 048040 208 317-600.06 MATERIALS AND SUPPLIES MEDICAL SUPPLIES 51.71 710 311-600.06 MATERIALS AND SUPPLIES MEDICAL SUPPLIES 51.71 720 311-600.06 MATERIALS AND SUPPLIES MEDICAL SUPPLIES 51.71 155.13 000098 MDK,LLC WESTERN ENVIRONMENTA
I-202604134494 REGULATORY TESTING R 4/22/2026 048041 710 311-600.51 TESTING REGULATORY TESTING 911.07 720 311-600.51 TESTING REGULATORY TESTING 9,154.50 10,065.57 000115 HIGH COUNTRY MOBILE MECHANIC,
I-202604134490 ROAD GRADER INSPECT & REPAIR R 4/22/2026 048042 208 317-600.07 EQUIPMENT REPAIR/MAINTENANCE ROAD GRADER INSPECT 605.00 605.00 000120 CALIFORNIA BUILDING STANDARDS
I-202604074474 CALIFORNIA BUILDING STANDARDS R 4/22/2026 048043 100 114-600.06 MATERIALS AND SUPPLIES CALIFORNIA BUILDING 6.00 6.00 0005 AIRGAS, INC.
I-202604144497 VARIOUS GASES R 4/22/2026 048044 720 311-600.07 EQUIPMENT REPAIR/MAINTENANCE AIRGAS, INC. 168.31 208 317-600.07 EQUIPMENT REPAIR/MAINTENANCE AIRGAS, INC. 168.31 710 311-600.07 EQUIPMENT REPAIR/MAINTENANCE AIRGAS, INC. 168.31 504.93 0008 ALWAYS ANSWER
I-202604024463 EMERGENCY 1-800 NUMBER R 4/22/2026 048045 710 311-600.05 TELEPHONE EMERGENCY 1-800 NUMB 23.25 720 311-600.05 TELEPHONE EMERGENCY 1-800 NUMB 23.25 46.50 0010 AMAZON CAPITOL SERVICES
I-202604134493 VARIOUS SUPPLIES R 4/22/2026 048046 100 414-600.06 MATERIALS AND SUPPLIES VARIOUS SUPPLIES 27.92 208 317-600.07 EQUIPMENT REPAIR/MAINTENANCE VARIOUS SUPPLIES 36.44 710 311-600.06 MATERIALS AND SUPPLIES VARIOUS SUPPLIES 504.30 720 311-600.06 MATERIALS AND SUPPLIES VARIOUS SUPPLIES 598.13 1,166.79 0039 BULLET INFORMATION TECHNOLOGY
I-202604084481 IT CONSULTING SERVICES R 4/22/2026 048047 100 111-600.18 PROFESSIONAL SERVICES IT CONSULTING SERVIC 460.00 710 311-600.18 PROFESSIONAL SERVICES IT CONSULTING SERVIC 460.00 720 311-600.18 PROFESSIONAL SERVICES IT CONSULTING SERVIC 460.00 1,380.00 Exhibit A
4/15/2026 9:31 AM A/P HISTORY CHECK REPORT PAGE: 2VENDOR SET: 01 City of PortolaBANK: PC POOLED CASH - PLUMASDATE RANGE: 0/00/0000 THRU 99/99/9999
CHECK CHECK CHECK CHECK
VENDOR I.D. NAME STATUS DATE AMOUNT DISCOUNT NO STATUS AMOUNT0053 CIVICPLUS I-202604024464 MUNICODE CODIFICATION ADMIN R 4/22/2026 048048 100 111-600.22 CODE REFERENCE UPDATE MUNICODE CODIFICATIO 82.69 710 311-600.22 CODE REFERENCE UPDATE MUNICODE CODIFICATIO 82.69 720 311-600.22 CODE REFERENCE UPDATE MUNICODE CODIFICATIO 82.68 248.06 0101 HUNT & SONS, INC.
I-202604134495 FUEL R 4/22/2026 048049 710 311-600.09 VEHICLE FUEL FUEL 1,354.54 720 311-600.09 VEHICLE FUEL FUEL 1,557.08 208 317-600.09 VEHICLE FUEL FUEL 210.40 3,122.02 0103 IEDA
I-202604024465 LABOR RELATIONS FEES R 4/22/2026 048050 100 111-510.01 PERSONNEL COSTS LABOR RELATIONS FEES 13.69 100 113-510.01 PERSONNEL COSTS LABOR RELATIONS FEES 6.91 100 114-510.01 PERSONNEL COSTS LABOR RELATIONS FEES 6.07 100 311-510.01 PERSONNEL COSTS LABOR RELATIONS FEES 13.68 207 315-510.01 PERSONNEL COSTS LABOR RELATIONS FEES 12.42 208 317-510.01 PERSONNEL COSTS LABOR RELATIONS FEES 15.80 710 311-510.01 PERSONNEL COSTS LABOR RELATIONS FEES 103.81 720 311-510.01 PERSONNEL COSTS LABOR RELATIONS FEES 80.96 730 311-510.01 PERSONNEL COSTS LABOR RELATIONS FEES 9.44 262.78 0105 INTERMOUNTAIN DISPOSAL
I-202604074476 COP06- WILLIAMS HOUSE R 4/22/2026 048051 100 413-600.94 REFUSE COLLECTION COP06- WILLIAMS HOUS 16.72 16.72 0105 INTERMOUNTAIN DISPOSAL
I-202604074477 COPOR- CITY HALL R 4/22/2026 048052 100 111-600.94 REFUSE COLLECTION COPOR- CITY HALL 171.74 171.74 0105 INTERMOUNTAIN DISPOSAL
I-202604074478 COP03- PUBLIC WORKS R 4/22/2026 048053 710 311-600.94 REFUSE COLLECTION COP03- PUBLIC WORKS 194.40 720 311-600.94 REFUSE COLLECTION COP03- PUBLIC WORKS 194.41 388.81 0105 INTERMOUNTAIN DISPOSAL
I-202604074479 COP07- SEWER PONDS R 4/22/2026 048054 720 311-600.94 REFUSE COLLECTION COP07- SEWER PONDS 239.09 239.09 0111 JEFFERSON SUPPLY COMPANY
I-202604134489 MATERIALS & SUPPLIES R 4/22/2026 048055 710 311-600.76 LINE REPAIR MATERIALS & SUPPLIES 1,233.38 1,233.38
4/15/2026 9:31 AM A/P HISTORY CHECK REPORT PAGE: 3VENDOR SET: 01 City of PortolaBANK: PC POOLED CASH - PLUMASDATE RANGE: 0/00/0000 THRU 99/99/9999
CHECK CHECK CHECK CHECK
VENDOR I.D. NAME STATUS DATE AMOUNT DISCOUNT NO STATUS AMOUNT0124 KOMATSU EUIPMENT I-202604134486 MINI EXCAVATOR RENTAL R 4/22/2026 048056 710 311-600.25 EQUIPMENT RENTAL MINI EXCAVATOR RENTA 1,060.94 720 311-600.25 EQUIPMENT RENTAL MINI EXCAVATOR RENTA 1,060.94 2,121.88 0141 MCI MEGA PREFERRED
I-202604024466 EMERGENCY # LONG DISTANCE R 4/22/2026 048057 710 311-600.05 TELEPHONE EMERGENCY # LONG DIS 23.49 720 311-600.05 TELEPHONE EMERGENCY # LONG DIS 23.48 46.97 0148 NAPA SIERRA
I-202604134492 PARTS R 4/22/2026 048058 208 317-600.08 VEHICLE REPAIR & MAINTENANCE PARTS 22.40 22.40 0157 O'REILLY AUTO PARTS
I-202604134485 EQUIPMENT REPAIR AND PARTS R 4/22/2026 048059 208 317-600.08 VEHICLE REPAIR & MAINTENANCE EQUIPMENT REPAIR AND 770.31 770.31 0184 PLUMAS SIERRA RURAL ELECTRIC
I-202604074475 LAKE DAVIS WTP ELECTRIC R 4/22/2026 048060 710 325-600.04 GAS AND ELECTRIC LAKE DAVIS WTP ELECT 1,164.15 1,164.15 0185 PLUMAS SIERRA TELECOMMUNICAT
I-202604144496 FIBER INTERNET R 4/22/2026 048061 710 325-600.05 TELEPHONE INTERNET 109.00 710 311-600.05 TELEPHONE INTERNET 54.50 720 311-600.05 TELEPHONE INTERNET 54.50 100 113-600.05 TELEPHONE INTERNET 10.90 100 111-600.05 TELEPHONE INTERNET 21.80 710 311-600.05 TELEPHONE INTERNET 32.70 720 311-600.05 TELEPHONE INTERNET 32.70 730 311-600.05 TELEPHONE INTERNET 10.90 100 413-600.05 TELEPHONE INTERNET 109.00 436.00 0188 PORTER SIMON CORPORATION
I-202604024462 LEGAL FEES R 4/22/2026 048062 100 111-600.03 BOOKS AND SUBSCRIPTIONS PORTER SIMON CORPORA 3,357.75 100 117-600.13 LEGAL FEES PORTER SIMON CORPORA 915.75 710 311-600.13 LEGAL FEES PORTER SIMON CORPORA 915.75 720 311-600.13 LEGAL FEES PORTER SIMON CORPORA 915.75 100 111-601.16 LEGAL-OTHER PORTER SIMON CORPORA 298.66 710 311-601.16 LEGAL - OTHER PORTER SIMON CORPORA 298.67 710 311-601.16 LEGAL - OTHER GLCSD 1,792.00 720 311-601.16 LEGAL-OTHER PORTER SIMON CORPORA 298.67 8,793.00
4/15/2026 9:31 AM A/P HISTORY CHECK REPORT PAGE: 4VENDOR SET: 01 City of PortolaBANK: PC POOLED CASH - PLUMASDATE RANGE: 0/00/0000 THRU 99/99/9999
CHECK CHECK CHECK CHECK
VENDOR I.D. NAME STATUS DATE AMOUNT DISCOUNT NO STATUS AMOUNT0192 PURCHASE POWER - PITNEY BOWES I-202604084480 POSTAGE R 4/22/2026 048063 100 111-600.02 POSTAGE POSTAGE 171.36 100 113-600.02 POSTAGE POSTAGE 171.36 710 311-600.02 POSTAGE POSTAGE 171.36 720 311-600.02 POSTAGE POSTAGE 171.36 730 311-600.02 POSTAGE POSTAGE 171.36 856.80 0222 SMALL CITIES ORGANIZED RISK EF
I-202604074473 Q4 Workers Comp Premium R 4/22/2026 048064 100 111-510.01 PERSONNEL COSTS Q4 Workers Comp Prem 542.29 100 113-510.01 PERSONNEL COSTS Q4 Workers Comp Prem 98.02 100 112-510.01 PERSONNEL COSTS Q4 Workers Comp Prem 220.24 100 212-510.01 PERSONNEL COSTS Q4 Workers Comp Prem 601.36 100 114-510.01 PERSONNEL COSTS Q4 Workers Comp Prem 410.73 100 311-510.01 PERSONNEL COSTS Q4 Workers Comp Prem 1,981.17 100 411-510.01 PERSONNEL COSTS Q4 Workers Comp Prem 974.74 207 315-510.01 PERSONNEL COSTS Q4 Workers Comp Prem 2,764.02 208 317-510.01 PERSONNEL COSTS Q4 Workers Comp Prem 3,365.18 710 311-510.01 PERSONNEL COSTS Q4 Workers Comp Prem 9,460.38 720 311-510.01 PERSONNEL COSTS Q4 Workers Comp Prem 5,312.81 730 311-510.01 PERSONNEL COSTS Q4 Workers Comp Prem 1,046.40 26,777.34 0233 SUNRISE ENVIRONMENTAL SCIENTIF
I-202604134491 SEWER MAINTENANCE R 4/22/2026 048066 720 311-600.90 MAINTENANCE SEWER PRODUCTS & MA 3,384.58 3,384.58 0235 SUSAN SCARLETT
I-202604154500 FINANCE OFFICER CONSULTING R 4/22/2026 048067 100 113-600.10 ACCOUNTING FEES FINANCE OFFICER CONS 1,100.00 207 315-600.10 ACCOUNTING FEES FINANCE OFFICER CONS 495.00 208 317-600.10 ACCOUNTING FEES FINANCE OFFICER CONS 495.00 710 311-600.10 ACCOUNTING FEES FINANCE OFFICER CONS 1,430.00 720 311-600.10 ACCOUNTING FEES FINANCE OFFICER CONS 1,430.00 730 311-600.10 ACCOUNTING FEES FINANCE OFFICER CONS 550.00 5,500.00 0239 THATCHER , INC
I-202604144498 SEWER CHEMICALS R 4/22/2026 048068 720 311-601.12 Chemicals THATCHER , INC 7,125.67 7,125.67 0256 USA BLUE BOOK INC
I-202604134488 MATERIALS & SUPPLIES R 4/22/2026 048069 710 311-600.06 MATERIALS AND SUPPLIES MATERIALS & SUPPLIE 126.43 720 311-600.06 MATERIALS AND SUPPLIES MATERIALS & SUPPLIE 126.43 252.86
4/15/2026 9:31 AM A/P HISTORY CHECK REPORT PAGE: 5VENDOR SET: 01 City of PortolaBANK: PC POOLED CASH - PLUMASDATE RANGE: 0/00/0000 THRU 99/99/9999
CHECK CHECK CHECK CHECK
VENDOR I.D. NAME STATUS DATE AMOUNT DISCOUNT NO STATUS AMOUNT0265 WHITE CAP READY-MIX, INC I-202604134487 RIVERWALK CONCRETE PADS-ARPA R 4/22/2026 048070 100 312-600.06 MATERIALS AND SUPPLIES RIVERWALK CONCRETE P 1,834.51 1,834.51 1 KELLIE PATO
I-202604024468 REIMBURSEMENT R 4/22/2026 048071 710 311-600.32 TRAINING AND EDUCATION KELLIE PATO:REIMBURS 308.66 308.66 1 KRISTEN SCHIAVONE
I-202604074470 SCORE R 4/22/2026 048072 100 111-600.30 CONFERENCE/TRAVEL KRISTEN SCHIAVO:SCOR 342.57 342.57 * * T O T A L S * * NO INVOICE AMOUNT DISCOUNTS CHECK AMOUNT REGULAR CHECKS: 33 79,755.81 0.00 79,755.81 HAND CHECKS: 0 0.00 0.00 0.00 DRAFTS: 0 0.00 0.00 0.00 EFT: 0 0.00 0.00 0.00 NON CHECKS: 0 0.00 0.00 0.00 VOID CHECKS: 0 VOID DEBITS 0.00 VOID CREDITS 0.00 0.00 0.00 TOTAL ERRORS: 0
** G/L ACCOUNT TOTALS ** G/L ACCOUNT NAME AMOUNT ---------------------------------------------------------------------- 100 111-510.01 PERSONNEL COSTS 555.98 100 111-600.02 POSTAGE 171.36 100 111-600.03 BOOKS AND SUBSCRIPTIONS 3,357.75 100 111-600.05 TELEPHONE 21.80 100 111-600.18 PROFESSIONAL SERVICES 460.00 100 111-600.22 CODE REFERENCE UPDATE 82.69 100 111-600.30 CONFERENCE/TRAVEL 342.57 100 111-600.94 REFUSE COLLECTION 171.74 100 111-601.16 LEGAL-OTHER 298.66 100 112-510.01 PERSONNEL COSTS 220.24 100 113-510.01 PERSONNEL COSTS 104.93 100 113-600.02 POSTAGE 171.36 100 113-600.05 TELEPHONE 10.90 100 113-600.10 ACCOUNTING FEES 1,100.00 100 114-510.01 PERSONNEL COSTS 416.80 100 114-600.06 MATERIALS AND SUPPLIES 6.00 100 117-600.13 LEGAL FEES 915.75
4/15/2026 9:31 AM A/P HISTORY CHECK REPORT PAGE: 6VENDOR SET: 01 City of PortolaBANK: PC POOLED CASH - PLUMASDATE RANGE: 0/00/0000 THRU 99/99/9999 ** G/L ACCOUNT TOTALS ** G/L ACCOUNT NAME AMOUNT ---------------------------------------------------------------------- 100 212-510.01 PERSONNEL COSTS 601.36 100 311-510.01 PERSONNEL COSTS 1,994.85 100 312-600.06 MATERIALS AND SUPPLIES 1,834.51 100 411-510.01 PERSONNEL COSTS 974.74 100 413-600.05 TELEPHONE 109.00 100 413-600.94 REFUSE COLLECTION 16.72 100 414-600.06 MATERIALS AND SUPPLIES 433.51 *** FUND TOTAL *** 14,373.22 207 315-510.01 PERSONNEL COSTS 2,776.44 207 315-600.10 ACCOUNTING FEES 495.00 *** FUND TOTAL *** 3,271.44 208 317-510.01 PERSONNEL COSTS 3,380.98 208 317-600.06 MATERIALS AND SUPPLIES 51.71 208 317-600.07 EQUIPMENT REPAIR/MAINTENANCE 809.75 208 317-600.08 VEHICLE REPAIR & MAINTENANCE 792.71 208 317-600.09 VEHICLE FUEL 210.40 208 317-600.10 ACCOUNTING FEES 495.00 *** FUND TOTAL *** 5,740.55 710 311-510.01 PERSONNEL COSTS 9,564.19 710 311-600.02 POSTAGE 171.36 710 311-600.05 TELEPHONE 133.94 710 311-600.06 MATERIALS AND SUPPLIES 682.44 710 311-600.07 EQUIPMENT REPAIR/MAINTENANCE 168.31 710 311-600.09 VEHICLE FUEL 1,354.54 710 311-600.10 ACCOUNTING FEES 1,430.00 710 311-600.13 LEGAL FEES 915.75 710 311-600.18 PROFESSIONAL SERVICES 460.00 710 311-600.22 CODE REFERENCE UPDATE 82.69 710 311-600.25 EQUIPMENT RENTAL 1,060.94 710 311-600.32 TRAINING AND EDUCATION 308.66 710 311-600.51 TESTING 911.07 710 311-600.76 LINE REPAIR 1,233.38 710 311-600.94 REFUSE COLLECTION 194.40 710 311-601.16 LEGAL - OTHER 2,090.67 710 325-600.04 GAS AND ELECTRIC 1,164.15 710 325-600.05 TELEPHONE 109.00 *** FUND TOTAL *** 22,035.49 720 311-510.01 PERSONNEL COSTS 5,393.77 720 311-600.02 POSTAGE 171.36 720 311-600.05 TELEPHONE 133.93 720 311-600.06 MATERIALS AND SUPPLIES 776.27 720 311-600.07 EQUIPMENT REPAIR/MAINTENANCE 168.31
4/15/2026 9:31 AM A/P HISTORY CHECK REPORT PAGE: 7VENDOR SET: 01 City of PortolaBANK: PC POOLED CASH - PLUMASDATE RANGE: 0/00/0000 THRU 99/99/9999 ** G/L ACCOUNT TOTALS ** G/L ACCOUNT NAME AMOUNT ---------------------------------------------------------------------- 720 311-600.09 VEHICLE FUEL 1,557.08 720 311-600.10 ACCOUNTING FEES 1,430.00 720 311-600.13 LEGAL FEES 915.75 720 311-600.18 PROFESSIONAL SERVICES 460.00 720 311-600.22 CODE REFERENCE UPDATE 82.68 720 311-600.25 EQUIPMENT RENTAL 1,060.94 720 311-600.51 TESTING 9,154.50 720 311-600.90 MAINTENANCE 3,384.58 720 311-600.94 REFUSE COLLECTION 433.50 720 311-601.12 Chemicals 7,125.67 720 311-601.16 LEGAL-OTHER 298.67 *** FUND TOTAL *** 32,547.01 730 311-510.01 PERSONNEL COSTS 1,055.84 730 311-600.02 POSTAGE 171.36 730 311-600.05 TELEPHONE 10.90 730 311-600.10 ACCOUNTING FEES 550.00 *** FUND TOTAL *** 1,788.10 NO INVOICE AMOUNT DISCOUNTS CHECK AMOUNT VENDOR SET: 01 BANK: PC TOTALS: 33 79,755.81 0.00 79,755.81 BANK: PC TOTALS: 33 79,755.81 0.00 79,755.81 REPORT TOTALS: 33 79,755.81 0.00 79,755.81
4/15/2026 9:31 AM A/P HISTORY CHECK REPORT PAGE: 8
SELECTION CRITERIA
------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------VENDOR SET: 01-CITY OF PORTOLAVENDOR: ALLBANK CODES: AllFUNDS: All------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------CHECK SELECTIONCHECK RANGE: 048039 THRU 048072DATE RANGE: 0/00/0000 THRU 99/99/9999CHECK AMOUNT RANGE: 0.00 THRU 999,999,999.99INCLUDE ALL VOIDS: YES------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------PRINT OPTIONSSEQUENCE: CHECK NUMBERPRINT TRANSACTIONS: YESPRINT G/L: YESUNPOSTED ONLY: NOEXCLUDE UNPOSTED: NOMANUAL ONLY: NOSTUB COMMENTS: NOREPORT FOOTER: NOCHECK STATUS: NOPRINT STATUS: * - All------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
1 City of Portola
Minutes
Regular Meeting
April 08, 2026 06:00 PM
35 Third Ave, Portola, CA 96122
https://www.cityofportola.com/
1. Call to Order
The meeting was called to order at 6:00 pm by Mayor Bill Powers.
Mayor Powers announced that Councilmember Morton submitted a letter of resignation due to personal reasons.
A. Roll Call
Present: Mayor Bill Powers, Councilmember Jim Murphy, Councilmember Lauren Miller
Absent: Mayor Pro Tem Mikki Battaglia
Staff Present: City Manager Ryan Bonk, Administrative Services Manager Kristen Schiavone, City Attorney Steve Gross (Zoom), Finance Officer Susan Scarlett (Zoom), Solid Waste Consultant Tom Valentino (Zoom),
B. Pledge of Allegiance
Led by Mayor Bill Powers
2. Public Comments
3. City Communications
A. City Council Communications
Councilmember Miller had nothing to report.
Councilmember Murphy had nothing to report.
Mayor Powers had nothing to report.
B. Reports: Beckwourth Peak Fire Protection District / Plumas County Sheriff / Northern Sierra Air Quality Beckwourth Peak Fire Protection District - No Report
Plumas County Sheriff - No Report. City Manager Bonk advised the council that the Law Enforcement Agreement with the Plumas County Sheriff will go before the County Supervisors next Tuesday, and he plans to attend.
Northern Sierra Air Quality - No Report. City Manager Bonk mentioned that the Green Waste Disposal
2 Program flyers were sent with the April utility billing statements. The flyer can also be found on the City's website as well as the City's Facebook page.
C. Staff Communications
City Attorney Steve Gross commented on the resignation of Councilmember Morton, which is effective 4/8/2026. He provided a brief overview of the next steps regarding the vacancy. He recommended that we agendize this matter for discussion at the next city council meeting.
D. City Manager Report
City Manager Bonk reported that no alarms have been received from the Gulling Street Bridge. He also advised the council that we have not received a report back from the initial Caltrans inspection conducted in January 2026 and that staff will continue to follow up with Caltrans regarding the inspection report and collaborate on the underwater dive inspection schedule.
He also provided an update on community events and outreach. He mentioned that the Big Boy Steam Engine was in Portola today and that many people were out enjoying the event. He also mentioned the upcoming Green Waste Disposal event, sponsored by Northern Sierra Air Quality Management, scheduled for April.
He reported that the Plumas Fire Safe Council (PCFSC) will sponsor a Community Chipping Day for Portola area residents on Saturday, April 25th, from 8am to 5pm, at the Portola Disc Golf Course. This event provides the community to dispose of woody vegetation. He stated that staff is also working with the United States Forest Service to attempt to remove downed trees from a portion of the River Walk in conjunction with this event.
He advised that he will participate in a Town Hall Meeting with Plumas County District 1 Supervisor Dwight Ceresola on Thursday, April 23rd, at the Portola Veterans Hall starting at 6:00pm.
He reported that Pool Manager Amy has been rehired for the upcoming season. He also mentioned that Public Works will begin making repairs to the pool, if needed. He also explained that staffing increases by more than 2x during the pool season.
He provided an update on the Accounting Tech vacancy, stating that he will conduct interviews next week and that the target date to fill this position is the end of April. With the vacancy, staff have been helping with payroll functions, which has been great for cross-training.
He advised that Public Works is preparing Golden Springs for delivery of the water storage tanks provided through a grant, as well as making upgrades to the Riverwalk to prepare for the summer season.
Lastly, he mentioned that Public Works is working on the Taylor Avenue grading this week and should finish this project soon.
4. Consent Agenda
A. Claims:
Adopt Resolution No. 2645 The resolution authorizes payment of payroll from March 7th, 2026 through March 20th, 2026 and accounts payable from March 25th, 2026 through April 8th, 2026 The amount of payroll to be paid is $33,007.54
The amount of accounts payable to be paid is $83,962.51
3 The total amount to be paid is $116,970.05
B. Minutes
Adopt the minutes of the March 25th, 2026 Regular City Council Meeting.
Councilmember Jim Murphy motioned to approve. Councilmember Lauren Miller seconded the motion.
The roll call vote:
Aye Mayor Bill Powers Aye Councilmember Jim Murphy Aye Councilmember Lauren Miller Absent Mayor Pro Tem Mikki Battaglia
5. RFP Evaluation: Consulting Services, Solid Waste Franchise Agreement and Solid Waste Ordinance City Manager Bonk provided an update on the RFP for Consulting Services, sent on January 14th, 2026, as the City seeks to modernize the Solid Waste Franchise Agreement and Solid Waste Ordinance. The City received three responses, and staff evaluated and scored each firm's qualifications and technical package.
Once scoring was complete, the staff received proposal pricing from each firm to avoid biasing the bidding process. He then provided the council with a brief overview of the proposals, recommended that we award the contract to HF&H. He introduced Solid Waste consultant Tom Valentino and opened the discussion.
Tom Valentino joined the meeting and provided an overview of the current Solid Waste Agreement. He went on to state that over the past 25 years, there have been many changes in the solid waste industry, including Senate Bill 1383, which targets organic landfill waste legislation. He stated that, with the current agreement ending soon and with his possible retirement in the near future, it would be beneficial to see what other firms could do to assist the City in developing an updated franchise agreement for Solid Waste collection services for the next 15 to 20 years. He also endorsed HF&H for the consultant job, as they have staff based in Truckee, and their experience would be uniquely beneficial to the City of Portola's solid waste requirements.
Councilmember Murphy commented on the overall consulting proposal, the consulting fee, and whether the outcome would result in significant rate increases once the consultants returned their findings and recommendations. Tom Valentino responded that getting a fresh set of eyes on the City’s current solid waste agreement wouldn’t necessarily lead to rate increases and stated that the City would be best served to have a modernized solid waste agreement that keeps the City in compliance with the state.
City Attorney Steve Gross also made a statement regarding the potential cost increase to the City, whether or not we go out to bid with consultants. He stated that the current franchise agreement will end next year and that the agreement would need to be renegotiated with the current service provider, with the service cost potentially increasing. He added that, with or without the consulting scenario, there was no guarantee the cost would not go up.
Mayor Powers also commented that reviewing the franchise contract with fresh eyes and getting up to speed with California laws would be beneficial.
Councilmember Miller also noted that the consulting agreement would cover bringing the City into compliance with state regulations.
City Council voted to award the Solid Waste Franchise Agreement and Solid Waste Ordinance consulting service to HF&H.
Councilmember Lauren Miller motioned to approve. Mayor Bill Powers seconded the motion.
The roll call vote:
4 Aye Mayor Bill Powers Aye Councilmember Jim Murphy Aye Councilmember Lauren Miller
6. Prop 68 Grant Funds: Riverwalk Upgrades
City Manager Bonk presented the Council with five potential projects to continue the enhancement of the City’s Riverwalk and utilize the remaining $27,730 of the Prop 68 grant funds that were used to install two vault toilets along the Riverwalk. He stated that staff is recommending the Mindful Pause and Ice Wall, as they allow the City to complete two projects that will enhance the natural aesthetics of the Riverwalk. Most of the work can be done “in house” by staff, with the exception of the proposed painting of a mural for a section of the ice wall. Lastly, he stated that the City will need to obtain approval from the State of California to proceed with this project and obtain associated grant deeds, etc. City Council approved moving forward with the Mindful Pause and Ice Wall project.
Councilmember Jim Murphy motioned to approve. Councilmember Lauren Miller seconded the motion.
The roll call vote:
Aye Mayor Bill Powers Aye Councilmember Jim Murphy Aye Councilmember Lauren Miller
7. Public Comments - 2026/2027 Budget Preparation
No public comment.
8. Adjournment
The regular meeting of the Portola City Council adjourned at 6:44pm.
Resolution No. 2646 April 22nd, 2026
RESOLUTION NO. 2646
A RESOLUTION OF THE CITY OF PORTOLA ACKNOWLEDGING
AND HONORING PAT MORTON FOR 13 YEARS OF DEDICATED
SERVICE TO THE CITY OF PORTOLA
WHEREAS, Pat Morton faithfully served the City of Portola as both Councilmember and Mayor at various times for thirteen years, providing steady leadership and commitment to the City of Portola; and
WHEREAS, during her tenure, Pat Morton demonstrated dedication to community and a genuinely likable nature that earned the respect and appreciation of staff, colleagues, volunteers, and community members alike; and WHEREAS, Pat Morton volunteered on many City & County Committees and championed key initiatives such as the Lake Davis/Willow Springs project, the consolidation of Portola’s Fire and Ambulance service, and the Angel Tree Program; and
WHEREAS, the City of Portola is deeply grateful for Pat Morton’s years of service and the lasting impact she has made on the community; and
NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED that the Council for the City of Portola hereby recognizes and honors Pat Morton for her thirteen years of service as Councilmember and Mayor and extends its sincere appreciation for her dedication and contributions to the residents of the City of Portola; and BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED that the City of Portola congratulates Pat Morton on her retirement and wishes her continued health, happiness, and success in all future endeavors.
PASSED, APPROVED AND ADOPTED this 22nd day of April 2026, by the following vote:
AYES:
NOES:
ABSTAIN:
ABSENT:
Bill Powers, Mayor
ATTEST:
_______________________________
Kristen Schiavone, Deputy City Clerk
I, Kristen Schiavone, Deputy City Clerk of the City of Portola, do hereby certify that the above and foregoing Resolution was duly passed and adopted by the City Council of the City of Portola at a regular meeting thereof held on April 22nd, 2026.
________________________________
Kristen Schiavone, Deputy City Clerk
1 Memo for Portola City Council – Summary of April 22, 2026 presentation by Feather River Land Trust and Plumas Sierra Partners
Summary
The City of Portola (City) has a unique opportunity to acquire 585.24 acres of land at no cost to establish a community forest that provides outdoor recreation, wildfire resilience, and long-term economic and community benefits. This proposal is structured to minimize the burden on the City through partnerships, grant funding, and phased implementation.
What Is Being Proposed
• Donation of 585.24 acres for public benefit
• Low-impact uses:
o Non-motorized trails
o Wildlife habitat conservation
o Scenic and passive recreation
• Existing cell tower lease (~$9,000/year) offsets property taxes (~$1,600/year) • Property already treated for fuels reduction (2025)
• A forest management plan will be prepared as part of the acquisition process to set the City up for future forestry practices and potential of timber harvest to generate revenue Key Concerns: The Capacity of Portola to manage a Community Forest The City is not expected to develop or manage property alone. A partnership model is proposed with Feather River Land Trust and Plumas Sierra Partners facilitating the first phase:
• Writing and securing grants to acquire the property
• Commissioning technical studies and leading due diligence (appraisal, environmental review, planning)
• Development of a Community Forest Plan
Followed by a partnership model with supporting partners: local nonprofits and stewardship groups.
The City’s role is to own the land, set policy, and complete future improvements as capacity allows.
Partners will assist with fundraising and “friendraising” for on-site maintenance, public education and volunteer based land stewardship (watershed restoration, under burns, trail construction, etc).
Case studies demonstrate that communities succeed when they retain ownership while leveraging partnerships for funding, planning, and management. For Portola, this means:
• Minimal upfront cost
• Limited operational burden
• Significant long-term community and economic benefits Proven California Community Forest Models (details in Appendix) • Arcata Community Forest (2,300+ acres)
City-owned; managed with partners, grants, and community support • Pomo Community Forest
Nonprofit-facilitated; grant-funded; ownership focused on community benefit • Blue Creek Community Forest (47,000 acres)
Large-scale partnership model with nonprofits and agencies Successful community forests rely on shared responsibility, not city-only management.
Financial Considerations
• No acquisition cost
• Existing revenue exceeds property taxes
• Eligible for:
o State and federal grants
o Recreation and wildfire resilience funding
2 o Potential revenue from timber sale basis
• Improvements can be 100% grant-funded and phased over time Risk & Liability
• Comparable to existing open space and trail systems
• Managed through:
o Insurance pools
o Defined trail systems and signage
o Ongoing fuels management (grant eligible)
The property already contributes to reduced wildfire risk for the City of Portola due to recent fuels reduction.
Alignment with City Priorities
This project supports and does not compete with core priorities:
• Economic development: outdoor recreation and tourism
• Workforce attraction: quality of life improvements
• Public health: accessible trails and open space
• Resilience: wildfire risk reduction and land stewardship • Maintaining open space is a key feature of goal CO-8 of the Portola General Plan (Community Forest permanently preserves 585 acres of open space, protects scenic viewsheds and natural character and reinforces open space as a defining City feature) Potential Implementation Approach
• Phase 1: Accept land; maintain as low-impact open space • Phase 2: Develop Community Forest Plan (grant-funded) • Phase 3: Add improvements only as funding and capacity allow No obligation to expand beyond available resources
Conclusion
This is a low-risk, high-value opportunity to secure a permanent community asset:
• No purchase cost
• Net-positive annual revenue
• Minimal initial workload
• Flexible, phased implementation
• Strong partner support
Portola does not need to build internal capacity first. Accepting the land and developing a plan with partners positions the City to fully leverage available funding and support.
3 Appendix - more detail on Community Forests in CA
1. Arcata Community Forest
Overview
• Ownership: City of Arcata
• Size: ~2,300 acres
• Established: Early 20th century (expanded over time)
Governance Model
• City-owned with professional forestry management
• Supported by:
o State and federal agencies
o Academic partners
o Community advisory input
Funding & Operations
• Revenue from timber harvesting
• Grants for restoration and recreation
• Volunteer stewardship programs
Relevance to Portola
• Demonstrates that a small rural city can successfully own and benefit from a large forest • Long-term success built on partnerships and phased management, not heavy city staffing
2. Pomo Community Forest
Overview
• Ownership: Potter Valley Tribe
• Size: ~48 acres
• Established: 2021
Governance Model
• Acquisition and development facilitated by
Trust for Public Land
• Ongoing support from federal programs
Funding & Operations
• Funded through U.S. Forest Service Community Forest Program • Emphasis on:
o Education
o habitat restoration
o low-impact recreation
Relevance to Portola
• Mirrors proposed structure:
o External organization leads technical work
o Ownership focuses on community outcomes
• Shows how grant funding offsets nearly all upfront costs
3. Blue Creek Community Forest
Overview
• Ownership/Management: Yurok Tribe
• Size: ~47,000 acres
• Established: Multi-phase acquisition (ongoing)
Governance Model
• Managed through a network of nonprofit and agency partnerships • Long-term planning integrates:
o ecological restoration
o cultural values
o economic opportunities
4 Funding & Operations
• Multi-source funding:
o Philanthropy
o State and federal grants
o Conservation transactions
Relevance to Portola
• Demonstrates that even very large, complex forests are managed collaboratively • Reinforces that scale increases partnership opportunities—not City burden
4. Bear Creek Working Forest
Overview
• Ownership: Private timberland owner
• Size: ~8,200 acres
• Partner: Pacific Forest Trust
Governance Model
• Conservation easement ensures:
o habitat protection
o watershed conservation
o long-term sustainability
• Ownership and conservation responsibilities are shared across entities Funding & Operations
• Working forest generates economic return (timber revenue) • Conservation financed through:
o public funding
o environmental markets
Relevance to Portola
• Demonstrates flexibility:
o Ownership can be separated from management responsibilities o Revenue-generating uses can offset costs
• Supports structuring options like:
o easements
o leases (e.g., cell tower)
o third-party management
o timber or forest products
o grants tied to public access and conservation
Plumas-Sierra
Partners
Conservation
Project
A Potential Portola
Community Forest
April 22, 2026
Shelton Douthit, Feather River Land
Trust
Linda Judge, Plumas Sierra Partners
Agenda
• Introductions
• Project Background
• Community Forest Project
Concept
• Considerations for Portola
• Next steps
A Brief History of
the Area and
Property
• Carmichael Ranches
and subdivision
• Teanna Ranch
annexation into Portola
in 2003
• Hat Creek Construction
purchase of subject
Property in 2020
oMining and Asphalt
Plant proposal
oCommunity rises up in
concern
Capped
Portola
Landfill
77413 Meadow Way Page 24
Plumas Sierra Partners
Property – A Brief Intro
• Property purchased in 2021
by newly formed LLC (PSP)
• Goal Community Benefit
• PSP conducted visioning
and public engagement
sessions
• Meetings with non-profits,
including Feather River
Land Trust
• Consultation with Portola
and Plumas County
Plumas Sierra Partners
Property
• 585.24 acres, zoned Ag Preserve and General
Forest, with a Williamson Act contract
• Mostly forested
• Outstanding scenic vistas from higher elevations
• Part of a larger Feather River Land Trust
conservation strategy of three adjacent properties
• Within the SOI of Portola
• One cell tower
• Old decomposed granite quarry
(“C m l p t*”)
• Network of dirt roads and trails
• Elevational gradient from 5,040 to 5,760 feet
*PTL Trans DG Pit CA Mine ID# 91-32-0022 Page 26
Legal access points
• Center piece – 1025
acres, permanently
conserved in 2025
• Eastern property –
463 acres, a science-
based outdoor
education camp –
conservation in-
progress (Forest
Legacy Program and
Wildlife Conservation
Board)
• Western PSP
property – 585 acres
Landscape
Context:
A three-property
conservation effort by
Feather River Land Trust (Now owned by Sierra Nevada
Journeys)
• Big Grizzly Creek corridor
conservation area
• Important mule deer migratory
and fawning area
• Proximity to Wild & Scenic Middle
Fork Feather River
• Viewshed from Feather River
Scenic Byway
• Near other public lands
• Between residential areas
Landscape Context
SHF
Properties
(conserved by
FRLT in 2025)
Plumas National Forest
CDFW
CDFW
CDFW
BLM
Plumas National Forest
Wild & Scenic
Middle Fork Feather
River
Big Grizzly Creek
Big Grizzly
Creek
Big Grizzly Creek
City of Portola
Private
land
Ranch annexed
into City of Portola
in 2003
Portola
SOI
boundary
BLM
Dept of Water
Resources Big
Grizzly Creek
corridor
parcel
Big Grizzly
Creek
Gaines, Teanna Ranch
Gaines, Teanna Ranch
SR 70 / Feather River
Scenic Byway
(within Portola’s
Sphere of
Influence)
Legend:
Plumas Sierra Partners (715.63 ac)
SHF Properties (1025.2 ac)
Sierra Nevada Journeys (462.94 ac)
Portola City Boundary
Portola Sphere of Influence
SR 70 - Feather River Scenic Byway
CDFW Crocker Meadows Wildlife Area
(585.2 ac.)
Community
Forest &
Forest Legacy
Programs
Two Key Competitive Grant Programs
USFS Community Forest Program
• Supports municipality acquiring
privately owned forest land
• Requires 100% non-federal match
• Requires a Community Forest
Plan
CalFire Forest Legacy Program
• Funds acquisition of actively
managed forestlands
• State funds (works as match)
• Requires forest management plan
• May require conservation
easement
Portola Community
Forest Concept
“C mm t f t ff p m g lt t f m t g f t l and for putting in the hands of local residents the critical economic, environmental, recreational, social, cultural, and aesthetic values those f t t t ll p .” - Acquiring and Managing A Community‐Owned Forest: A Manual for Communities
Readymade Trails
• Logging roads
• Comm site access
• Single-track trails
Meadow View Trailhead
• Pads from former quarry
• Gates and fencing in-place
• Immediately adjacent to Cityowned landfill
Portola Community
Forest Concept
Portola Community
Forest Concept
• Demonstration of sustainable
forest management practices
• Manage forest in the Portola WUI
• Forest stewardship - establish
habitat conservation zones
• Forest-based work/education:
• Hands-on youth programs,
including high school community
service
• California Conservation Corps,
AmeriCorps, Feather River RCD
• Workforce training - fuels
reduction, trail work, reforestation
Can Portola own this land?
• California Law - Cities have authority to acquire, hold, and dispose of real property both inside and outside their boundaries when it serves a municipal purpose
• Portola Municipal Code – Does not address ownership outside City limit
• County Code – County zoning and land use regulations apply • Consistency with Portola General Plan
• Open space for the preservation of natural resources
• Outdoor recreation
• Preservation of scenic areas and vistas
• Wildfire risk and mitigation
“Economic development for the City of Portola
and the east Plumas County region depends on
protecting the abundant, high quality natural
resources that are essential to the quality of life in
Portola.”
Implications of Zoning
Agricultural Preserve – for ag
production and low-density rural
uses
• Additional allowed uses:
• Timber management
• Ag product sales
• Recreation
And, with special use permit:
• Wildlife management
• Public service facilities
• Williamson Act Contract
General Forest – to protect and
maintain lands for forest management &
forest products
What is a Community Forest Plan?
Required Components
1. Property description (acreage,
location, vegetation present)
2. Community Forest objectives
3. Anticipated benefits to community
4. How community will be involved in
planning and implementation
5. Implementation strategy
6. Infrastructure needs
7. Public access plan – protection of
resources, safety, rationale for any
access limitations
8. Long-term use and management
Portola Community Forest Objectives
Some ideas…
• Protection of conservation values (wildlife habitat/corridor buffer, botanical resources, cultural resources, open space, viewshed)
“Community-based forestry is a participatory approach to forest management that strengthens communities’ capacity to build vibrant local economies while protecting and enhancing their local forest ecosystems.” – Arcata Community Forest webpage
Subset of Anticipated Community Benefits
Outdoor recreation venues help with younger population growth/retention Recreation economy – lodging, dining, shopping
Health benefits of hiking and wildlife viewing in nature Education - school field trips, community tours
Managed forest in the WUI
Protecting watershed
“Outdoor recreation venues are significant drivers of population growth and retention for younger demographics, acting as crucial quality-of-life amenities that attract talented workers, young families, and remote workers. Communities that invest in parks, trails, and green spaces often see faster economic growth and higher rates of in-m g t mp t t w t t m t ”
– Institute for Decision-making, University of Northern Iowa “Rural Revitalization: In rural areas, outdoor
recreation is used to reverse population decline
and boost local economies by remote workers
and new residents seeking lifestyle
mp m t .”
– EPA
“ m x m z retention of younger populations,
investments must focus on well-designed, safe, and
accessible spaces that offer diverse, structured activities t t p g p l .” - CDC Page 39
Considerations for the City of Portola
Portola Considerations
Consistency with
P t l ’
Facilitating the
acquisition
Infrastructure &
maintenance
Financial
picture
Portola General Plan
• Economic Development Goal 3: Expand and diversify tourism both within the City and in the eastern Plumas County region.
• ED-P-4: Emphasize the quality of the natural environment as an essential feature of the C t ’ m l pm t ff t .
• ED-P-14: Maintain and enhance an attractive community environment that will draw visitors, residents, and new employers.
• Public Services/Facilities - The intent is to provide a series of parks within convenient walking distance of one another and linked by a pedestrian system consisting of sidewalks and trails through open space areas.
• Conservation & Open Space - Clean air and water, healthy forests, meadows, streams and the Feather River make Portola an attractive place to live and work. These assets must be conserved and protected as the community grows and the population increases.
Recreation and fuels and fire management… are highly important to public safety, quality of life provided to residents, attraction of visitors and the health of Portola’s economy
Community ideas collected
Priorities identified through Community
Outreach:
• Hiking, walking, running, cross-country skiing and
snowshoeing trails
• Forestry education and outdoor activities for local
school children
• Mountain bike trails
• Link for mountain bike trails from Sierra Buttes
trail in Portola adjacent to the hospital through
Teanna Ranch to Lake Davis/West Road
• An astronomy viewing area
Facilitating the Acquisition
• Feather River Land Trust is prepared to facilitate!
• Seeking grant funding for project development
• Staff time
• Contractors:
• Appraisal
• Environmental site assessment
• Development of Community Forest Plan
• Legal services
• Purchase & sale agreement
• Grant writing
• Due diligence
Infrastructure &
maintenance
Visitor Facilities
• Existing dirt roads and trails provide access to
most of the property
• Partner with SBTS for trail work
• Start simple with dirt parking area, some
signs, porta potties
• Additions per needs/resources:
• Potable water supply, vault toilet
(ala new Riverwalk facilities)
• Nature/interpretive trails
• Benches, picnic tables in aspen grove
Infrastructure &
maintenance
Forest Management
Completed or In-progress:
• ~200 acres of fuels reduction in the
areas closest to town were completed
in 2025
• Fire Safe Council/CalFire Eastern
Plumas Wildfire Protection Project
• Mechanical thinning, mastication,
removal of ladder fuels, and selective
tree removal
• Seedling planting in reclamation area
(this May)
Future:
• Community Forest/Forest Management
Plan created with forester & community
input
• Merchantable timber at some point in the
future
• Under burns and hand thinning
• Use of wood products on-site
• Occasional removal of hazard trees
Quarry reclamation is
nearing completion Key Elements of Reclamation Plan
• Graded restored to conform with
surrounding areas
• Topsoil replaced to promote natural
vegetation
• Native grass seed, straw & wood chips
applied to prevent erosion
• Retention ponds established to prevent
soil loss
• Natural water flow restored from ponds to
aspen grove
• Existing access roads maintained
Retention ponds reworked
Slope recontoured & seeded with
native grasses – March 2026
City of Portola Considerations
Finances
Anticipated costs:
• Property taxes - $1600/year
• Visitor facilities
• Maintenance staff
• Tie-in with city landfill
maintenance responsibilities?
• Insurance & liability
• C t ’ t l mm t
• Pooled insurance products
• Periodic updates to Community
Forest Plan
• Existing & Potential Funding/Resources
• Current cell tower lease
($750/month = $9,000/year)
• Potential Grants
• Capital improvements
• Trail maintenance (SBTS has ideas!)
• Forest Health
• Portola Parkland Development Fees?
• Future merchantable timber
• Community support
• Volunteerism/Community workdays
• Donations/fundraising
City of Portola Considerations
Finances
Many existing and potential project partners
• Plumas Sierra Partners
• Feather River Land Trust
• Sierra Buttes Trail Stewardship
• Lost Sierra Food project
• The Sierra Institute
• Feather River Resource
Conservation District
• Plumas Fire Safe Council
• Cal Fire
• US Forest Service
• Natural Resource Conservation
Service
• Plumas Underburn Cooperative
Next Steps
• Is the City interested?
• Contacts/subcommittee to work
with us?
• Process and timeline
• Spring 2026- CalFire
Capacity grant application
• Summer/Fall 2026 -
Appraisal, due diligence,
forest plan drafting (prior to
forest grant applications)
• USFS Community Forest
application – TBD
• Fall 2026 - CalFire Forest
Legacy grant application
• 2027-28 - Transaction steps
• Fall 2028 – City takes
ownership
Thank you for your time
and consideration
1 MEETING DATE: April 22, 2026
AGENDA ITEM: 6. Plumas-Sierra Partners Conservation Project Proposal FROM: Ryan Bonk
RE: Plumas-Sierra Partners Conservation Project Proposal BACKGROUND:
Over the course of multiple years, the Plumas-Sierra Partners have approached various members of staff and the Council to discuss potential options for the use of their land outside of City limits but within the sphere of influence of the City. There has been substantial staff and elected official time allocated to these discussions.
In response to these discussions, Plumas-Sierra Partners and the Feather River Land Trust have developed the concept presented this evening.
FINDINGS:
Staff, including the City Attorney, have reviewed the proposal in depth.
We believe that the proposal may not be in the best interest for the City for the following reasons:
Risk & Liability:
- The scale (585 acres) of this potential acquisition would result in exponential risk and liability for the City - The area is a "Very High" Fire Hazard Severity Zone as established by 2025 State Fire Marshal maps. Any fire related situation that might occur on this land could result in significant financial and legal exposure to the City
- Legal actions resulting from the use of this area would result in significant exposure to the City - Terrain posses additional risk, liability, and challenges due to it's topography. In addition, the topography and conservation aspects would limit the development and potential future uses for the land.
Financial Exposure:
- We currently have seven (7) full time employees
- We do not have the staffing capability, or technical skillset, required to operate and maintain a community forest especially considering wildfire risk and mitigating this risk - Ongoing operating and maintenance costs would occur indefinitely and likely increase year over year without a viable revenue stream to offset these costs
Outside of Core Competency:
2 - Operating and maintaining a community forest is not within the core competencies of the City meaning these activities would have to be outsourced. Although there may currently be grant funding available to address some of the maintenance requirements of a community forest, there is no guarantee that funding would be awarded to the City, or that the funding would exist in the future. If this funding ceased to exist, these activities and expenses would be a use of general fund balance. - Although grants and other resources may currently be available to address some of these costs, we do not have the staffing required to manage these grants or programs Public Response:
- We do not know if a community forest is something the residents of Portola would invite as a benefit to our area
Availability of Similar Resources:
- There are numerous similar resources in Plumas County and we have multiple park spaces already developed for similar uses
Professional Opinion From Our Liability Coverage Provider:
In addition to the above, staff contacted our liability coverage provider, the Small Cities Organized Risk Effort (SCORE) to obtain their professional opinion on the proposal. SCORE has provided the attached memo detailing their recommendation that the city not take possession of the proposed land.
FISCAL IMPACT:
This proposal has the potential to expose the City to significant costs that would result in the use of the general fund in perpetuity. Most significantly, operation and maintenance costs for a massive parcel of forested land prone to wildfire risks.
In addition, the City would be exposed to a large number of unquantifiable financial liabilities in the form of potential legal activities.
Without a viable revenue stream to offset these expenses, the general fund would continually be at risk.
RECOMMENDATION:
Staff appreciates the work that the parties have put into the proposal and recognizes the importance of conservation in our area.
That being said, staff does not recommend moving forward with this proposal due to the reasons listed above.
3 ATTACHMENTS:
A. PORTOLA FOREST PLAN
President
Mr. Todd Juhasz
Secretary
Ms. Jenny Coelho
City of Tulelake
Vice President
Mr. Dan Brown
City of Susanville
Treasurer
Mr. Blake Michaelsen
City of Dunsmuir
A Public Entity Joint Powers Authority
c/o Alliant Insurance Services, Inc. | 2180 Harvard St, Ste 380, Sacramento, CA 95815| Phone: 916.643.2700 |Fax: 916.643.2750 Small Cities Organized Risk Effort
A Joint Powers Authority
SCORE
April 13, 2026
Ryan Bonk, City Manager
City of Portola
35 Third Avenue
Portola , CA 96122
Re: City Assumption of Community Forest Property
Dear Ryan:
I’m writing on behalf of the city’s liability coverage provider, the Small Cities Organized Risk Effort (SCORE), to voice concerns and recommend the city not take possession of the proposed Portola Community Forest. While understanding the original intent is worth supporting, preventing mining operations and preserving the land for the benefit of the community, the liabilities associated with taking over the property are of concern and seem to outweigh the benefits.
Foremost among these is the issue of wildfire risk and liability. The City would assume significant responsibility for managing a forested property in a region increasingly affected by wildfire. This includes not only the costs of ongoing fuel reduction, vegetation management, and emergency preparedness, but also potential liability exposure in the event of a fire originating on or spreading through City-owned land. Given the scale and unpredictability of wildfire risk in the area, this could create a substantial and long-term burden on City resources and taxpayers.
In addition, taking ownership would obligate the City to maintain the property in perpetuity. Even with a partnership in place, there is no guarantee that external funding or organizational capacity will remain consistent over time. The project appears likely to depend heavily on grant funding, which can be temporary and uncertain. If such funding is reduced or discontinued, the City may be left to cover ongoing costs without sufficient financial support.
Similarly, the success of the project may rely on sustained volunteer engagement for maintenance and stewardship. While community involvement is valuable, volunteer participation can fluctuate over time and should not be assumed as a stable or sufficient resource for long-term land management. A decline in volunteer interest could further increase the operational and financial burden on the City.
There are also broader fiscal implications to consider. Assuming ownership of this property may divert limited public funds and staff capacity away from essential municipal services. It is important to ensure that any new responsibility taken on by the City is both financially sustainable and aligned with core priorities.
President
Mr. Todd Juhasz
Secretary
Ms. Jenny Coelho
City of Tulelake
Vice President
Mr. Dan Brown
City of Susanville
Treasurer
Mr. Blake Michaelsen
City of Dunsmuir
A Public Entity Joint Powers Authority
c/o Alliant Insurance Services, Inc. | 2180 Harvard St, Ste 380, Sacramento, CA 95815| Phone: 916.643.2700 |Fax: 916.643.2750 Small Cities Organized Risk Effort
A Joint Powers Authority
SCORE
Finally, while partnerships can be beneficial, the structure, accountability, and long-term commitments of such an arrangement should be clearly defined before any transfer of ownership occurs. The City should consider whether alternative arrangements—such as continued land trust ownership with cooperative agreements—could achieve the same community benefits without transferring full responsibility and risk to the City.
I respectfully urge the City to thoroughly assess wildfire exposure, long-term liabilities, funding uncertainties, and reliance on volunteer labor before proceeding with any decision to take possession of the property.
Thank you for your time and thoughtful consideration.
Regards,
Marcus Beverly
SCORE Program Director
P a g e
1 | 1
Document Name Mayoral Appointments
Document Number F-037 Revision Letter A
Document Location SharePoint Revision Date 12/03/2025
Document Type Form
Council Adoption Date NA
Resolution No. NA
2026
Mayoral Appointments
Regional Commissions, Committees, and Boards
Abandoned Vehicle Abatement Susan Scarlett
Lauren Miller
Airport Land Use Commission Bill Powers
Mikki Battaglia
DEAL Bill Powers
Plumas County Integrated Waste Management Task Force Mikki Battaglia Bill Powers(alternate)
Plumas LAFCo
Bill Powers
Jim Murphy
Mikki Battaglia Pat Morton
(alternate)
SCORE Ryan Bonk
Kristen Schiavone (alternate)
Transportation Commission
Lauren Miller Pat Morton
Bill Powers
Susan Scarlett
City of Portola Committees
Community Development Lauren Miller
Bill Powers
Emergency Services Policy Committee
Jim Murphy
Ryan Bonk
Lauren Miller
Finance and Administration Jim Murphy
Pat Morton
Infrastructure Committee Jim Murphy
Bill Powers
Power Outage Plan (Ad Hoc) Bill Powers
Mikki Battaglia