Agenda — Willits City Council, May 27, 2026

111 E. Commercial Street
Willits, California 95490
Tel | 707.459.4601
Fax | 707.459.1562
www.cityofwillits.org

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WILLITS CITY COUNCIL
AGENDA
MAY 27, 2026 | 6:30 PM | CITY COUNCIL CHAMBERS

1. OPENING MATTERS
a. Call to Order. | b. Pledge to Flag. | c. Roll Call.

2. PUBLIC COMMUNICATIONS
The City Council welcomes input from the audience. If there is a matter of business on the agenda that you are interested in, you may address the Council when this matter is considered. If you wish to speak on a matter that is not on the agenda, you may do so at this time. In order for everyone to be heard, please limit your comments to three (3) minutes per person. The Brown Act regulations do not allow action to be taken on audience comments in which the subject is not listed on the agenda.

3. PUBLIC MATTERS

4. ENACTMENT OF ORDINANCES
a. None.

5. CONSENT CALENDAR
The City Council considers matters listed under the Consent Calendar as routine. The Council will take action with a single motion and roll call vote. A Councilmember may request the removal of an item(s) from the Consent Calendar for separate discussion and subsequent action.

The following items, as presented, are before the City Council for approval or denial:
a. City Council Minutes:
i. May 13, 2026
b. Adoption of a Resolution Authorizing Specific City Staff to Transfer Funds Between the Local Agency Investment Fund (LAIF) and Savings Bank of Mendocino County. c. Adoption of a Resolution Changing the Authorized Signatures for the City of Willits Checking Account, Payroll Account, and Safe Deposit Box at Savings Bank of Mendocino County.
d. Adopt Resolutions Pertaining to the November 3, 2026 Election, as Follows: 1) Calling and Giving Notice of General Municipal Election for the Election of City Councilmembers; 2) Consolidating General Municipal Election with Statewide General Election; and 3) Setting Election Requirements for Candidates for Elective Office Regarding Candidate Statements.

Willits City Council Agenda – May 27, 2026

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e. Adoption of Resolution Authorizing Willits Frontier Days Parade Route for July 4, 2026, and Decorations on Main Street PG&E Utility Poles.

6. MONTHLY ACTIVITY REPORTS
Matters that do not require action by the City Council but are of public interest. a. None.

7. COMMISSIONS, AGENCIES, AND AUTHORITIES
The Willits City Council meets concurrently as the City of Willits Planning Commission & City of Willits Successor Agency.

8. CITY MANAGER REPORTS AND RECOMMENDATIONS
a. Verbal Reports – No Action.

9. DEPARTMENT RECOMMENDATIONS (ACTION ITEMS)
a. Resolution Establishing an AD-HOC Committee to Review Downtown Main Street Roadway Striping, Parking, and Circulation Configurations.

Presenting staff member: Dusty Duley, Interim City Manager and Community and Economic Development Director
b. Resolution Establishing an Ad-Hoc Committee to Review the City’s Personnel Policies and Procedures Manual.

Presenting staff member: Dusty Duley, Interim City Manager and Community and Economic Development Director.
c. Approve the Employment Agreement with James Conner to Perform Specialized and Temporary Services as Interim City Manager.

Presenting staff member: Dusty Duley, Interim City Manager and Community and Economic Development Director.

10. DEPARTMENT MONTHLY REPORTS
a. Airport. b. Community Dev. c. Finance. (not available) d. Police Dept. e. Public Works. f. Utilities.

11. CITY COUNCIL ANNOUNCEMENTS, COMMUNICATIONS AND REPORTS

12. GOOD & WELFARE

13. CLOSED SESSION NOTICE
a. Public Employee Appointment (Gov. Code section 54957(b)(1).) Title: City Manager.

14. ADJOURNMENT
Right to Appeal - Persons who are dissatisfied with the decisions of the City Council may have the right to a review of that decision by a court. The City has adopted Section 1094.6 of the Code of Civil Procedure, which generally limits to 90- days, the time within an individual and/or entity may judicially challenge the decisions of the City Boards and Agencies.

I hereby certify under penalty of perjury under the laws of the State of California that I posted the foregoing Agenda on the bulletin board at the main entrance of the City of Willits City Hall, located at 111 East Commercial Street, Willits, California, not less than 72 hours prior to the meeting set forth on this Agenda.

Dated this 22nd day of May, 2026.

Willits City Council Agenda – May 27, 2026

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Delores Pedersen, City Clerk
Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) Compliance
If you need assistance to attend or participate in a City Council meeting, please contact the City Clerk’s office at (707) 459-7113 or Fax (707) 459-1562. Notification at least 48 hours prior to the meeting will assist the City Clerk in assuring the implementation of reasonable accommodations to provide accessibility to the meeting. Our meeting room is wheelchair accessible and ADA parking is available.

Additional Meeting Information for Interested Parties
Materials related to an item on this Agenda submitted to the Willits City Council, Planning Commission, or Community Development Agency after distribution of the agenda packet are available for public inspection at City Clerk’s office at 111 E. Commercial Street, Willits, during normal business hours, Monday through Thursday 9 AM to 5:30 PM. 111 E. COMMERCIAL STREET
WILLITS, CALIFORNIA 95490
(707) 459-4601 TEL
(707) 459-1562 FAX

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WILLITS CITY COUNCIL

MINUTES
WEDNESDAY, MAY 13, 2026
Mayor Allman called a regular meeting of the City Council to order at 6:30 p.m. in Council Chambers. The meeting was preceded by the Pledge to the flag.

Roll Call: Councilmembers Gerardo Gonzalez, Larry Stranske, Bruce Burton, Vice Mayor Matthew Alaniz, and Mayor Tom Allman were present.

Also present were staff members: Dusty Duley, Interim City Manager; Jim Lance, City Attorney; Davey Bowles, Building Official; Connor Stack, City Planner; Brian Fay, Police Chief; and Amber Ojeda, Administrative Services Coordinator.

2. Public Communications
 Public speaker's comments may be viewed on YouTube at timestamp 1:41.

3. Public Matters
None.

4. Enactment of Ordinances
None presented.

5. Consent Calendar
The following item(s) are recommended for approval or denial, as follows:
a. City Council Minutes:
i. April 22, 2026 – Regular Meeting.
 Dusty Duley, Interim City Manager, identified corrections that need to be made to staff members in attendance. View on YouTube at timestamp 19:59.

Item 5b was pulled for further discussion by Councilmember Burton.

Item 5c was pulled for further discussion by Vice Mayor Alaniz. b. Possible Adoption of a Resolution Approving a Catastrophic Leave Bank Policy.  Councilmember Burton expressed concern; comments may be viewed on YouTube at timestamp 20:50.
 Councilmember Gonzalez’s comments may be viewed on YouTube at timestamp 25:50.
 Councilmember Alaniz’s comments may be viewed on YouTube at timestamp 27:06.  Mayor Allman’s comments may be viewed on YouTube at timestamp 27:36.

Willits City Council Minutes of May 13, 2026 Page 2 of 4  Deborah Muchmore, HR Consultant, comments may be viewed on YouTube at timestamp 29.05.

Public Comment:
 Comments may be viewed on YouTube at timestamp 38:57.

Moved by Gonzalez/Seconded by Allman and carried 3/2 with Councilmember Stranske and Burton dissenting to approve Consent Calendar item (b). c. Adoption of a Resolution Approving Amendments to the City’s Personnel Policies and Procedures Manual.
 Item will be brought back at the City Council Meeting of May 27, 2026 to form an AdHoc Committee to review the Personnel Policies and Procedures Manual and identify the changes that need to be made.

Public Comment: None presented.
d. Adoption of Resolution Approving the Side Letter Agreement between the City of Willits and the International Brotherhood of Electrical Workers, Local 1245 (IBEW), Extending the Term of the Current Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) Through September 31, 2026, and Authorizing the Mayor to Sign the Successor MOU Reflecting the Terms.

Public Comment:
 Comments may be viewed on YouTube at timestamp 19:13. e. Adoption of Resolution Approving the Side Letter Agreement Between the City of Willits and the Willits Police Officers Association (WPOA) Extending the Term of the Current Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) through December 31, 2026, and Authorizing the Mayor to Sign the Successor MOU Reflecting the Terms.

Moved by Gonzalez/Seconded by Alaniz and carried unanimously to approve Consent Calendar item(s) (a, d, and e).

6. Monthly Activity Reports
Matters that do not require action by the City Council but are of public interest. a. Accounts Payable Activity Report: April 2026.
b. Building Permit Activity Report: April 2026.
c. Business License Activity Report: April 2026.
 Councilmember Burton’s comments may be viewed on YouTube at timestamp 57:45.

Public Comment: None presented.

7. Commissions, Agencies, and Authorities
None presented.

8. City Manager Reports and Recommendations
a. Verbal Reports – No Action.
 Interim City Manager Duley’s comments may be viewed on YouTube at timestamp 1:07:09.

Willits City Council Minutes of May 13, 2026 Page 3 of 4 Public Comment: None presented.

9. Department Recommendations (Action Items)
a. Discussion and Consideration of Adoption of a Resolution Establishing a Downtown Entertainment Zone.
 Connor Stack, City Planners' presentation and Council discussion may be viewed on YouTube, time stamp: 1:09:41.

Public Comment:
 Comments may be viewed on YouTube at timestamp 1:27:56.

Moved by Gonzalez/Seconded by Alaniz and carried 3/2 with Councilmember Burton and Stranske dissenting to adopt Resolution No. 2026-02 establishing a Downtown Entertainment Zone pursuant to Chapter 17.89 of the Willits Municipal Code.

10. City Council Announcements, Communications and Reports Councilmember Burton
 Reported that he has had many inquiries about the construction that is going on behind the Skate Park/Dog Park. Davey Bowles reported that the project behind the Skate Park/Dog Park is a wetlands mitigation as part of the Rail with Trail project.

Comments may be viewed on YouTube at timestamp 1:46:30.  Mr. Bowles reported that PG&E connected the Solar Array at the Skate Park.

Comments may be viewed on YouTube at timestamp 1:47:56.

Councilmember Gonzalez
 Local Agency Formation Commission (LAFCo)
Budget Passed.

Annexation with Ukiah.

Workshop on the sphere of influence for the City of Point Arena.

Comments may be viewed on YouTube at timestamp 1:48:23.

Councilmember Stranske
 Mendocino Solid Waste Management Authority (MSWMA) – Meets 5/14/2026 Vice Mayor Alaniz
 Mendocino Council of Governments (MCOG)
Completing the operational working plan. Comments may be viewed on YouTube at timestamp 1:50:05
 Measure K Committee –
 Attended the Skunk Train Influencer Day. Comments may be viewed on YouTube at timestamp 1:49:32.
 Brooktrails Fire Department Golf Tournament 5/16/2026 at the Brooktrails Golf Course. Comments may be viewed on YouTube at timestamp 1:52:14.  This weekend is the last weekend for Two Dogs and a Bone at the Willits Community Theater.

Public Comment: None presented.

No action taken.

11. Good & Welfare
 Councilmember Burton
 Vice Mayor Alaniz
 Councilmember Gonzalez
Willits City Council Minutes of May 13, 2026 Page 4 of 4  Councilmember Stranske
 Mayor Allman

12. Closed Session Notice
a. Pursuant to Government Code §54957 – Consideration and Possible Appointment of an Interim City Manager.

City Council Adjourned to Closed Session at 8:23 pm

13. Adjournment
The City Council reconvened to open session at 9:06 pm, and reported direction was given to staff.

Mayor Allman declared the meeting adjourned at 9:06 p.m.

For more information on the May 13, 2026, Willits City Council Meeting, please view the recording on YouTube.
_____________________________
TOM ALLMAN, Mayor
City Council for the City of Willits
ATTEST:
__________________________

DELORES PEDERSEN
City Clerk
Item No. 5b
Meeting Date: May 27, 2026

AGENDA SUMMARY REPORT
To: Honorable Mayor and Council Members
From: Delores Pedersen, City Clerk
Agenda Title: ADOPTION OF A RESOLUTION AUTHORIZING SPECIFIC CITY STAFF TO TRANSFER FUNDS BETWEEN THE LOCAL AGENCY INVESTMENT FUND AND SAVINGS BANK OF MENDOCINO COUNTY.

Type: Presentation Consent Regular Agenda Public Hearing Urgent Summary of Request: In accordance with procedures of the Local Agency Investment Fund (LAIF), a Resolution is required to authorize staff members to transfer funds between the City’s deposit accounts at the LAIF and the Savings Bank of Mendocino County. This change will authorize the following individuals to transfer funds:
• Delores Pedersen, City Clerk.
• Davey Bowles, Public Works Director/Building Official • Dusty Duley, Community and Economic Development Director. • Joseph Park, Administrative Services Manager.

These changes are necessary due to the departure of Interim City Manager; Bob Richardson, Finance Director; Manuel Orozco, and Services and Facilities Director; Walter Kolon.

Recommended Action: Adopt the accompanying Resolution authorizing certain City staff to transfer LAIF funds.

Alternative(s): None.

Fiscal Impact: None.

Personnel Impact: None.

Identified City Council Conflict of Interest: N/A
California Environmental Quality Act: N/A
This Item Relates to the following General Plan Element: N/A Land Use Circulation Conservation and Open Space Noise Housing Public Services and Facilities, Parks and Recreation Economic Development
Reviewed by: Interim City Manager City Attorney City Clerk Finance Director Human Resources Council Action: Approved Denied Other: ________________________________________ Records: Agreement Resolution #_________ Ordinance #_________ Other _________ Resolution No. 2026-__ Page 1 of 1 May 27, 2026
RESOLUTION NO. 2026-__

RESOLUTION OF THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF WILLITS AUTHORIZING CITY

STAFF TO TRANSFER FUNDS BETWEEN THE LOCAL AGENCY INVESTMENT FUND AND SAVINGS BANK OF MENDOCINO COUNTY.

WHEREAS, the City of Willits (“City”) maintains deposit accounts at the Local Agency Investment Fund (LAIF) and Savings Bank of Mendocino County for City financial transactions; and
WHEREAS, the need to revise the list of names (the addition of Joseph Park) stems from the recent departure of Interim City Manager Bob Richardson, Finance Director Manuel Orozco, and Services and Facilities Director Walter Kolon; and THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED by the City Council of the City of Willits that the following City staff are authorized to transfer funds between the Local Agency Investment Fund, Account 98-23-982, and Savings Bank of Mendocino County:

Delores Pedersen, City Clerk
Davey Bowles, Public Works Director/Building Official
Dusty Duley, Community and Economic Development Director.

Joseph Park, Administrative Services Manager.

PASSED, APPROVED, AND ADOPTED, this 27th day of May 2026.

THE CITY OF WILLITS
________________________________
TOM ALLMAN, Mayor
ATTEST:

I, Delores Pedersen, City Clerk of the City of Willits, do hereby certify that the foregoing Resolution was duly and regularly passed, approved, and adopted by the City Council of the City of Willits, California, at its regular meeting held on the 27th day of May 2026, by the following vote:

AYES:

NOES:

ABSENT:
__________________________________
DELORES PEDERSEN, City Clerk
Item No. 5c
Meeting Date: May 27, 2026

AGENDA SUMMARY REPORT
To: Honorable Mayor and Council Members
From: Delores Pedersen, City Clerk
Agenda Title: ADOPTION OF A RESOLUTION CHANGING THE AUTHORIZED SIGNATURES FOR THE CITY OF

WILLITS CHECKING ACCOUNT, PAYROLL ACCOUNT, AND SAFE DEPOSIT BOX AT SAVINGS BANK OF MENDOCINO COUNTY.

Type: Presentation Consent Regular Agenda Public Hearing Urgent Summary of Request: In accordance with procedures set forth by the Savings Bank of Mendocino County, a Resolution is required to authorize the change of signatures for the City’s checking account, payroll account, as well as the safe deposit box. This change will authorize the following signatures to account numbers XXXXXX5301 and XX4266 held at the Savings Bank of Mendocino County:
• Delores Pedersen, City Clerk.
• Davey Bowles, Public Works Director/Building Official. • Dusty Duley, Community and Economic Development Director. • Brian Fay, Police Chief.
• Joseph Park, Administrative Services Manager.

These changes are necessary due to the departure of Interim City Manager; Bob Richardson, Finance Director; Manuel Orozco, and Services and Facilities Director; Walter Kolon.

Recommended Action: Adopt the accompanying Resolution authorizing the change of signatures for the City of Willits’ checking account number XXXXX5530, payroll account number XX4266, and safe deposit box located at Savings Bank of Mendocino County.

Alternative(s): None.

Fiscal Impact: None.

Personnel Impact: None.

RESOLUTION OF THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF WILLITS AUTHORIZING

SIGNATURES FOR THE CITY OF WILLITS CHECKING ACCOUNT, PAYROLL ACCOUNT, AND SAFE DEPOSIT BOX HELD AT THE SAVINGS BANK OF MENDOCINO COUNTY.

WHEREAS, the City of Willits (“City”) maintains a checking account, payroll account, and a safe deposit box at Savings Bank of Mendocino County for the purpose of City transactions; and
WHEREAS, the need to revise the list of names (the addition Joseph Park) stems from the recent departure of Interim City Manager Bob Richardson, Finance Director Manuel Orozco, and Services and Facilities Director Walter Kolon; and
NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED THAT the City Council of the City of Willits does hereby authorize the following signatures for the City of Willits at the Savings Bank of Mendocino County:

Delores Pedersen, City Clerk/Community Coordinator.

Davey Bowles, Public Works Director/Building Official.

Dusty Duley, Community and Economic Development Director.

Brian Fay, Police Chief.

Joseph Park, Administrative Services Manager.

PASSED, APPROVED, AND ADOPTED, this 27th day of May 2026.

THE CITY OF WILLITS
________________________________
TOM ALLMAN, Mayor
ATTEST:

AYES:

NOES:

ABSENT:
_____________________________
DELORES PEDERSEN, City Clerk
Item No. 5d
Meeting Date: May 27, 2026

AGENDA SUMMARY REPORT
To: Honorable Mayor and Council Members
From: Delores Pedersen, City Clerk
Agenda Title: ADOPT RESOLUTIONS PERTAINING TO THE NOVEMBER 3, 2026 ELECTION, AS FOLLOWS: 1) CALLING AND GIVING NOTICE OF GENERAL MUNICIPAL ELECTION FOR THE ELECTION OF CITY COUNCILMEMBERS; 2) CONSOLIDATING GENERAL MUNICIPAL ELECTION WITH STATEWIDE GENERAL ELECTION; AND 3) SETTING ELECTION REQUIREMENTS FOR CANDIDATES FOR ELECTIVE OFFICE REGARDING CANDIDATE STATEMENTS.

Type: Presentation Consent Regular Agenda Public Hearing Urgent Summary of Request: Pursuant to the State Elections Code, the City is required to adopt resolutions calling an election and requesting election services to be provided by the County Registrar of Voters. The City's General Municipal Election will be held on the same date as the November 3, 2026, statewide election.

Terms for two (2) Council members are expiring this year. The proposed resolutions have been prepared for the upcoming election, pursuant to State election laws and the City’s Municipal Code, as follows:

1. Calling and Giving Notice of the Holding of a General Municipal Election to be Held on Tuesday, November 3, 2026, for the Election of City Council Members as Required by the Provisions of the Laws of the State of California Relating to General Law Cities.

2. Setting Election Requirements for Candidates for Elective Office Regarding Candidates' Statements Submitted to Voters at an Election.

Requesting that the Board of Supervisors of the County of Mendocino consolidate a General Municipal Election to be held on November 3, 2026, with the state-wide general election to be held on that date, pursuant to Section 10403 of the Elections Code, and to Render Specified Services to the City relating to the conduct of said election.

Recommended Action: Adopt resolutions as presented by the City Clerk 1) Calling and giving Notice of the Holding of a General Municipal Election to be Held on Tuesday, November 3, 2026, for the Election of City Council Members as Required by the Provisions of the Laws of the State of California Relating to General Law Cities; 2) Setting Election Requirements for Candidates for Elective Office Regarding Candidates Statements Submitted to Voters at an Election; and 3) Requesting that the Board of Supervisors of the County of Mendocino Consolidate a General Municipal Election to be Held on November 3, 2026, with the Statewide General Election to be Held on that Date Pursuant to Section 10403 of the Elections Code and to Render Specified Services to the City Relating to the Conduct of Said Election.

Alternative(s): None recommended.

Fiscal Impact: Cost of election materials, publication of notices, and actual fees for County services are unknown at this time but will be included in the FY 26/27 Proposed Budget. Consolidating with the County is an efficient, cost-effective way to manage the election process.

Personnel Impact: Staff time to coordinate paperwork with candidates, County, and State.

Identified City Council Conflict of Interest: None.

California Environmental Quality Act: Does not apply.

This Item Relates to the following General Plan Element : N/A Land Use Circulation Conservation and Open Space Noise Housing Public Services and Facilities, Parks and Recreation Economic Development
Reviewed by: Interim City Manager City Attorney City Clerk Finance Director Human Resources Council Action: Approved Denied Other: ________________________________________ Records: Agreement Resolution #_________ Ordinance #_________ Other _________ Resolution No. 2026-__ Page 1 of 2 May 27, 2026
RESOLUTION NO. 2026-__

A RESOLUTION OF THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF WILLITS, CALLING FOR THE HOLDING OF A GENERAL MUNICIPAL ELECTION NOVEMBER 3, 2026, FOR THE ELECTION OF CITY COUNCIL CANDIDATES; TO CONSOLIDATE SAID ELECTION WITH THE

STATEWIDE GENERAL ELECTION HELD ON THE SAME DATE PURSUANT TO ELECTIONS CODE §10403; AND REQUESTING THE BOARD OF SUPERVISORS OF THE COUNTY OF

MENDOCINO TO REQUEST THE COUNTY CLERK TO CONDUCT THE MUNICIPAL ELECTION OF THE CITY OF WILLITS ON TUESDAY, NOVEMBER 3RD, PURSUANT TO ELECTIONS CODE §10002.

WHEREAS,

1. The City Council of the City of Willits called a Municipal Election to be held on Tuesday, November 3, 2026; and

2. Elections Code §10403 authorizes the City Council of the City of Willits ("City") to request the Mendocino County Board of Supervisors to consolidate a municipal election with the statewide election scheduled for November 3, 2026; and

3. Elections Code §10002 authorizes the Clerk of the County of Mendocino to render specified services relating to the conduct of an election to any city or district which has by resolution, requested the Board of Supervisors to permit the County Clerk to render the services, subject to requirements set forth in that section; and

4. Pursuant to Elections Code §10403(3), the City Council acknowledges that the consolidated election will be held and conducted in the manner prescribed in Elections Code §10418; and

5. The City of Willits election shall consist of two City Council positions, any ballot measures, and all other required election matters.
a. In the event of a tie vote (if any two or more persons receive an equal and the highest number of votes for an office) as certified by the County of Mendocino Registrar Recorder/County Clerk, the City Council, in accordance with Election Code § 15651 (a) shall set a date, time and place and summon the candidates who have received the tie votes to appear and will determine the tie by lot. OR THESE (a) in accordance with Election Code§ 15651(b), shall conduct a special runoff election to resolve the tie vote, and such special runoff election is to be held on a Tuesday not less than 40- days nor more than 125-days after the administrative or judicial certification of the election which resulted in a tie vote.

NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED that pursuant to the above cited provisions, the Board of Supervisors of the County of Mendocino is hereby requested to permit the County Clerk to perform and render all services and proceedings incidental to and connected with the conduct of the November 3, 2026, Municipal Election of the City of Willits with the cooperation and assistance of the City Clerk of the City of Willits, such services to include, but not limited to the following:
a. Establish precinct boundaries to coincide with the Statewide Election. b. Designate polling places and appoint election officers. c. Notify election officers of their appointment and instruct inspectors concerning their duties.
d. Appoint and pay election officers.
e. Arrange for the availability of polling places, all supplies necessary for casting ballots, and setting up voting booths, if necessary.
f. Publish lists of precincts, election officers, dates, and times polling locations will be open.
g. Verify signatures appearing on candidates' nomination papers.

Resolution No. 2026-__ Page 2 of 2 May 27, 2026
h. Provide sample ballots to each voter.
i. Receive absent voter applications, accept absent voter ballot returns, retain custody of absent voter ballots, and count absent voter ballots.
j. Provide Certificate of County Clerk as to the result of the Canvass, for approval by the City Council.

BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED, the City Clerk shall be responsible for:
a. All functions of the City Clerk relative to arguments concerning City measures as set forth in Elections Code §9200, et seq., including filing and accepting notices required. b. Publication of Notice of Election.
c. Publication of Candidates Information as required by law. d. Distribution and receipt of nomination papers.
e. Receipt of Candidates Statement and printing deposit. f. Receive campaign statements and disclosure statements as required by law.

BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED, in consideration of the services rendered by the County Clerk and described herein, the City of Willits agrees to pay the actual direct costs reasonably attributable to the City's Municipal Election, and a ten-percent charge for associated overhead based upon a detailed invoice prepared by the County Clerk and presented to the City for payment, and payment for services due shall be made after billing is submitted by the County of Mendocino.

PASSED, APPROVED, AND ADOPTED, this 27th day of May, 2026.

THE CITY OF WILLITS
______________________________
Tom Allman, Mayor
ATTEST:

AYES:

NOES:

ABSENT:
______________________________
Delores Pedersen, City Clerk
Item No. 5e
Meeting Date: May 27, 2026

AGENDA SUMMARY REPORT
To: Honorable Mayor and Council Members
From: Dusty Duley, Interim City Manager and Community and Economic Development Director Agenda Title: ADOPTION OF RESOLUTION AUTHORIZING WILLITS FRONTIER DAYS PARADE ROUTE FOR JULY 4, 2026, AND DECORATIONS ON MAIN STREET PG&E UTILITY POLES.

Type: Presentation Consent Regular Agenda Public Hearing Urgent Summary of Request: Frontier Days has requested City approval of the parade route and associated temporary street closures for the annual July 4th Parade.

The proposed parade route would begin on East Commercial Street near Bud Snider Park, proceed west to Main Street, continue south on Main Street to East Valley Street, then east on East Valley Street to South Lenore Avenue, where the parade would generally disband near Recreation Grove Park.

To facilitate the parade and ensure public safety, temporary street closures are proposed for Main Street between Commercial Street and East Valley Street from approximately 9:00 a.m. to 1:00 p.m. on July 4th.

East Valley Street between Main Street and South Lenore Avenue would also be temporarily closed during parade activities.

Staff will coordinate with Frontier Days organizers, public safety personnel, Public Works, and PG&E regarding traffic control measures and placement of holiday decorations along the parade route.

Approval of the requested route and temporary closures would allow Frontier Days to continue hosting the long-standing community event consistent with past practice.

Recommended Action: Adopt Resolution authorizing Willits Frontier Days parade route for July 4, 2026 and decorations on PG&E utility poles.

Alternative(s): None recommended.

Fiscal Impact: Minimal fiscal impact. Staff time will be required for coordination and installation of holiday decorations on PG&E utility poles along the parade route.

Personnel Impact: Minimal staff time for hanging of the decorations on PG&E Utility Poles and coordination with Frontier Days.

Identified City Council Conflict of Interest: None.

California Environmental Quality Act: Does not apply.

This Item Relates to the following General Plan Element: N/A Land Use Circulation Conservation and Open Space Noise Housing Public Services and Facilities, Parks and Recreation Economic Development
Reviewed by: Interim City Manager City Attorney City Clerk Finance Director Council Action: Approved Denied Other: ________________________________________ Records: Agreement Resolution #_________ Ordinance #_________ Other _________ Resolution No. 2026-__ Page 1 of 2 May 27, 2026
RESOLUTION NO. 2026-XX

A RESOLUTION OF THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF WILLITS AUTHORIZING FRONTIER DAYS PARADE ROUTE – JULY 4, 2026, TEMPORARY STREET CLOSURES, AND DECORATIONS ON MAIN STREET PG&E POLES.

WHEREAS, Willits Frontier Days has requested approval of the parade route and associated temporary street closures for the annual July 4, 2026, Frontier Days Parade; and WHEREAS, the proposed parade route would begin on East Commercial Street near Bud Snider Park, proceed west on East Commercial Street to Main Street, continue south on Main Street to East Valley Street, then east on East Valley Street to South Lenore Avenue, where the parade would generally disband near Recreation Grove Park; and WHEREAS, temporary street closures of Main Street and East Valley Street are necessary to facilitate the parade and protect public health, safety, and welfare; and WHEREAS, said temporary closure will cause the re-routing of vehicular traffic on Main Street, as follows: Main Street west on Commercial Street to School Street; School Street south to Pine Street; Pine Street east to Coast Street; Coast Street south to West Valley Street; West Valley Street east to Main Street; northbound traffic to follow same detour route in a northerly direction; and
WHEREAS, in order for the parade to be held, Willits Frontier Days Association needs to seek permission from the Willits City Council, under the provisions outlined in 21101(a) of the Vehicle Code, to conduct a parade on Main Street.

WHEREAS, Willits Frontier Days Association also requests approval to have City staff install Frontier Days decorations on PG&E light poles on Main Street from Commercial Street south to the intersection of Highway 20, provided authorization is received from PG&E; and WHEREAS, the City Council finds that approval of the parade route, temporary street closures, and related decorations serves a valid public purpose and supports a long-standing community tradition.

NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED that the Willits City Council hereby approves and consents to the proposed Frontier Days July 4, 2026 Parade, including the proposed parade route and temporary re-routing of traffic onto and over affected City streets, upon such terms and conditions deemed appropriate and necessary pursuant to the California Vehicle Code and applicable public safety requirements.

BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED that the City Council authorizes temporary street closures associated with the parade, including:
• Main Street between East Commercial Street and East Valley Street; and • East Valley Street between Main Street and South Lenore Avenue BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED that the Willits City Council does hereby approve the installation of Frontier Days decorations on PG&E Company light poles on Main Street from Commercial Street south to the intersection of Highway 20, provided authorization is received from the PG&E Company.

PASSED, APPROVED, and ADOPTED this 27th day of May 2026. [Signatures continued on the following page]
Resolution No. 2026-XX Page 2 of 2 May 27, 2026

THE CITY OF WILLITS
_______________________________
TOM ALLMAN, Mayor
I, Delores Pedersen, City Clerk of the City of Willits, do hereby certify that the foregoing Resolution was duly and regularly passed, approved, and adopted by the City Council of the City of Willits, California, at its regular meeting held on the 27th day of May, 2026, by the following vote:

AYES:

NOES:

ABSENT:

ABSTAIN:

ATTEST:
_______________________________
DELORES PEDERSEN, City Clerk
Item No. 9a
Meeting Date: May 27th, 2026

AGENDA SUMMARY REPORT
To: Honorable Mayor and Council Members
From: Dusty Duley, Interim City Manager and Community and Economic Development Director Agenda Title: RESOLUTION ESTABLISHING AN AD-HOC COMMITTEE TO REVIEW DOWNTOWN MAIN

STREET ROADWAY STRIPING, PARKING, AND CIRCULATION CONFIGURATIONS Type: Presentation Consent Regular Agenda Public Hearing Urgent Time: 10 minutes.

Summary of Request: The proposed resolution would establish a temporary ad-hoc committee consisting of two City Council members appointed by the Mayor and confirmed by the City Council. The committee would serve in an advisory capacity only and would not possess independent decision-making authority.

The purpose of the committee would be to review and evaluate roadway striping and circulation patterns within the downtown Main Street corridor, including parking availability, bicycle lane configurations, traffic flow, pedestrian access, event-related operational considerations, and opportunities to support downtown economic activity.

The committee may meet with City staff, business owners, community stakeholders, and other agencies as necessary to carry out its assigned purpose and would provide recommendations back to the City Council for future consideration and direction.

Consistent with Brown Act provisions applicable to temporary ad-hoc advisory committees, the committee would consist of less than a quorum of the City Council, would be limited in scope and duration, and would automatically dissolve upon presentation of its recommendations to the City Council unless extended by future Council action.

Background: Main Street serves as the City’s primary downtown commercial corridor and accommodates vehicular traffic, pedestrian activity, bicycle circulation, special events, deliveries, and on-street parking. Over time, questions and concerns have been raised regarding the current roadway striping configuration, including the balance between bicycle facilities, parking availability, traffic circulation, and support for downtown businesses and community events.

The City Council has expressed interest in further evaluating the existing roadway configuration and exploring potential opportunities or alternatives related to downtown circulation and parking.

Recommended Action: Adopt Resolution establishing a temporary ad-hoc committee to review downtown Main Street roadway striping, parking and circulation configurations.

Alternative(s): Provide directions to staff to modify the resolution.

Fiscal Impact: The proposed action is not anticipated to have a significant fiscal impact beyond normal staff time associated with supporting the committee and evaluating potential roadway configuration concepts.

Personnel Impact: Minimal staff time anticipated. Existing staff from the Community Development Department and Public Works Department may provide administrative and technical support to the ad-hoc committee as needed.

Identified City Council Conflict of Interest: None.

California Environmental Quality Act: The proposed action is not a project subject to the California Environmental Quality Act (“CEQA”) pursuant to CEQA Guidelines Section 15378(b)(5), as the action involves organizational and administrative activities of government that will not result in a direct or indirect physical change in the environment.

This Item Relates to the following General Plan Element: N/A Land Use Circulation Conservation and Open Space Noise Housing Public Services and Facilities, Parks and Recreation Economic Development
Reviewed by: Interim City Manager City Attorney City Clerk Finance Director Human Resources Council Action: Approved Denied Other: ________________________________________ Records: Agreement Resolution #_________ Ordinance #_________ Other _________ RESOLUTION NO. 2026-XX
A RESOLUTION OF THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF WILLITS ESTABLISHING AN ADHOC COMMITTEE TO REVIEW DOWNTOWN MAIN STREET ROADWAY STRIPING, PARKING, AND CIRCULATION CONFIGURATIONS.

WHEREAS, the City of Willits desires to support a safe, functional, and economically vibrant downtown corridor; and
WHEREAS, Main Street serves as the City’s primary downtown commercial corridor and accommodates vehicular traffic, pedestrian activity, bicycle circulation, special events, deliveries, and on-street parking; and
WHEREAS, the City Council has expressed interest in evaluating the current roadway striping configuration along Main Street within the downtown area, including opportunities and constraints associated with parking, bicycle facilities, and overall circulation; and WHEREAS, the City Council finds that additional review and discussion regarding downtown roadway configuration options would benefit from focused evaluation by an ad-hoc committee of the City Council; and
WHEREAS, the City Council desires to establish a temporary ad-hoc committee for the limited purpose of reviewing existing conditions, gathering information, coordinating with staff and stakeholders, and providing recommendations to the City Council regarding potential roadway striping and circulation modifications within the downtown area.

NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED by the City Council of the City of Willits as follows:

Section 1. Establishment of Ad-Hoc Committee
The City Council hereby establishes a temporary Ad-Hoc Downtown Main Street Corridor Review Committee (“Committee”).

Section 2. Purpose
The purpose of the Committee shall be to review and evaluate the current roadway striping configuration and circulation patterns within the downtown Main Street corridor, including but not limited to:

A. On-street parking availability and utilization;
B. Bicycle lane configurations and alternatives;
C. Vehicular circulation and traffic flow;
D. Pedestrian access and safety;
E. Loading, delivery, and event-related operational considerations; F. Opportunities to support downtown businesses and economic activity; and G. Potential roadway striping modifications or improvement concepts.

Resolution No. 2026-XX Page 2 of 2 May 27, 2026
Section 3. Committee Membership
The Committee shall consist of two (2) members of the City Council appointed by the Mayor and confirmed by the City Council.

Section 4. Scope and Authority
The Committee shall serve in an advisory capacity only and shall not possess independent decision-making authority. The Committee may meet with City staff, business owners, community stakeholders, and other agencies as necessary to carry out its assigned purpose.

Section 5. Recommendations
The Committee shall provide recommendations and findings to the City Council for future consideration and direction.

Section 6. Duration
The Committee shall automatically dissolve upon presentation of its recommendations to the City Council, unless extended by subsequent action of the City Council.

PASSED, APPROVED, AND ADOPTED, this 27th day of May 2026.

THE CITY OF WILLITS
_____________________________
Tom Allman, Mayor
ATTEST:

I, Delores Pedersen, City Clerk of the City of Willits, do hereby certify that the foregoing Resolution was duly and regularly passed, approved and adopted by the City Council of the City of Willits, California, at its regular meeting held on the 27th day of May 2026, by the following vote:

AYES:

NOES:

ABSENT:
______________________________
Delores Pedersen, City Clerk
Item No. 9b
Meeting Date: May 27th, 2026

Type: Presentation Consent Regular Agenda Public Hearing Urgent Time: 10 minutes.

The purpose of the committee would be to review the City’s Personnel Policies and Procedures Manual and evaluate potential updates, organizational consistency revisions, administrative clarifications, and potential policy amendments related to current City operations, staffing structure, and organizational needs.

The committee may meet with City staff as necessary to carry out its assigned purpose and would provide recommendations back to the City Council for future consideration and direction.

Background: The City maintains a Personnel Policies and Procedures Manual establishing administrative policies, employment practices, and personnel procedures applicable to City operations and employees. The Personnel Policies and Procedures Manual was recently updated to reflect changes in employment law, administrative practices, and organizational needs.

The City Council has expressed interest in conducting additional review of the manual to evaluate potential updates, organizational consistency revisions, administrative clarifications, and potential policy amendments related to current City operations and staffing structure.

Recommended Action: Adopt Resolution establishing a temporary ad-hoc committee to review the City’s Policy and Procedures Manual.

Alternative(s): Provide directions to staff to modify the resolution.

Fiscal Impact: The proposed action is not anticipated to have a significant fiscal impact beyond normal staff time associated with supporting the committee. Due to the City not currently maintaining full-time Human Resources staff, administrative and technical support associated with the committee review process may also involve use of the City’s contracted Human Resources consulting services.

Personnel Impact: Minimal staff time anticipated. Existing staff, including contracted staff, may provide administrative support to the committee.

Identified City Council Conflict of Interest: None.

This Item Relates to the following General Plan Element : N/A Land Use Circulation Conservation and Open Space Noise Housing Public Services and Facilities, Parks and Recreation Economic Development
Reviewed by: Interim City Manager City Attorney City Clerk Finance Director Human Resources Council Action: Approved Denied Other: ________________________________________ Records: Agreement Resolution #_________ Ordinance #_________ Other _________ RESOLUTION NO. 2026-XX
A RESOLUTION OF THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF WILLITS ESTABLISHING AN ADHOC COMMITTEE TO REVIEW THE CITY’S PERSONNEL POLICIES AND PROCEDURES MANUAL.

WHEREAS, the City of Willits maintains a Personnel Policies and Procedures Manual to establish administrative policies, employment practices, and personnel procedures applicable to City operations and employees; and
WHEREAS, the City Council desires to conduct a review of the City’s Personnel Policies and Procedures Manual to evaluate potential updates, clarifications, and revisions necessary to support efficient operations and organizational consistency; and WHEREAS, the City Council finds that additional review and discussion regarding the Personnel Policies and Procedures Manual would benefit from focused evaluation by an Ad-Hoc Committee of the City Council; and
WHEREAS, the City Council desires to establish a temporary advisory committee for the limited purpose of reviewing the City’s Personnel Policies and Procedures Manual and providing recommendations to the City Council.

NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED by the City Council of the City of Willits as follows:

Section 1. Establishment of Ad-Hoc Committee
The City Council hereby establishes a temporary Ad-Hoc Personnel Policies Review Committee (“Committee”).

Section 2. Purpose
The purpose of the Committee shall be to review the City’s Personnel Policies and Procedures Manual and evaluate potential updates, organizational consistency revisions, administrative clarifications, and potential policy amendments related to current City operations, staffing structure, and evolving organizational needs, including but not limited to:

A. Position title consistency;
B. Outdated references or terminology;
C. Departmental structure references;
D. Administrative procedures and clarifications; and
E. Identification of future policy amendments for Council consideration.

Section 3. Committee Membership
The Committee shall consist of two (2) members of the City Council appointed by the Mayor and confirmed by the City Council.

Resolution No. 2026-XX Page 2 of 2 May 27, 2026
Section 4. Scope and Authority
The Committee shall serve in an advisory capacity only and shall not possess independent decision-making authority. The Committee may meet with City staff as necessary to carry out its assigned purpose.

Section 5. Recommendations
The Committee shall provide recommendations and findings to the City Council for future consideration and direction.

Section 6. Duration
The Committee shall automatically dissolve upon presentation of its recommendations to the City Council, unless extended by subsequent action of the City Council.

PASSED, APPROVED, AND ADOPTED, this 27th day of May 2026.

THE CITY OF WILLITS
_____________________________
TOM ALLMAN, Mayor
ATTEST:

AYES:

NOES:

ABSENT:
______________________________
DELORES PEDERSEN, City Clerk
Item No. 9c
Meeting Date: May 27, 2026

AGENDA SUMMARY REPORT
To: Honorable Mayor and Council Members
From: Dusty Duley, Interim City Manager and Community and Economic Development Director Deborah Muchmore, Human Resources Advisor, MTC
Agenda Title: APPROVE THE EMPLOYMENT AGREEMENT WITH JAMES CONNER TO PERFORM SPECIALIZED AND TEMPORARY SERVICES AS INTERIM CITY MANAGER.

Type: Presentation Consent Regular Agenda Public Hearing Urgent Time: 15 minutes.

Summary of Request: The City’s previous employment agreement with Bob Richardson as Interim City Manager ended on Monday, May 11, 2026, due to CalPERS requirements. Dusty Duley is currently serving in an Acting capacity as Interim City Manager. Council has interviewed and selected a new Interim City Manager candidate. This item requests that the Council consider appointing the candidate, James Conner, as Interim City Manager, effective June 1, 2026. The City continues to actively seek and recruit for a permanent City Manager. James is familiar with the City and the community, having served as Interim Police Chief in the recent past.

Recommended Action: City Council consider and adopt a Resolution and Employment Agreement appointing James Conner, a retired annuitant, as Interim City Manager, effective June 1, 2026, under Government Code section 21221, subsection (h), for a retired annuitant to fill a critically needed position during active recruitment.

Alternative(s):

1. Reject the Appointment or Agreement and return to interviewing candidates.

2. Reject the Appointment and Agreement and provide staff with direction for further Council consideration.

Fiscal Impact: Estimated at $10,168 for FY 25-26 and approximately $88,119. The $10,168 is included in the approved FY 25-26 budget as a part of the City Manager's salary. The $88,119 will be included similarly in the City Manager's salary in the proposed FY 26-27 budget.

Personnel Impact: Underfills the City Manager position with a Retired Annuitant. A retired annuitant shall not receive any benefits, incentives, compensation in lieu of benefits, or any other form of compensation beyond the hourly rate, consistent with Government Code section 21221, subsection (h). Retired Annuitants may receive actual expenditures related to the position.

Identified City Council Conflict of Interest: None.

California Environmental Quality Act: Does not apply.

Page 1 ends

CITY OF WILLITS CITY COUNCIL
AGENDA ITEM REPORT FOR MEETING OF: May 27, 2026
To: Honorable Mayor and Members of the City Council
From: Dusty Duley, Interim City Manager and Community and Economic Development Director
Deborah Muchmore, Human Resources Advisor, MTC
Agenda Title: Adopt a Resolution and Employment Agreement Appointing James Conner, a Retired Annuitant, as Interim City Manager, effective June 1, 2026.

ACTION REQUESTED:

This item is to request that the City Council consider and adopt a Resolution and Employment Agreement Appointing James Conner, a Retired Annuitant, as Interim City Manager, effective June 1, 2026, under Government Code section 21221, subsection (h), for a retired annuitant to fill a critically needed position during active recruitment.

EXECUTIVE SUMMARY:

Council has interviewed and selected a new Interim City Manager candidate. This item requests that the Council consider appointing the candidate, James Conner, as Interim City Manager, effective June 1, 2026. The City continues to actively seek and recruit for a permanent City Manager. James is familiar with the City and the community, having served as Interim Police Chief in the recent past. This appointment is made pursuant to California Government Code section 21221, subsection (h), for a retired annuitant to fill a critically needed position during active recruitment.

BACKGROUND:

The City’s previous employment agreement with Bob Richardson as Interim City Manager ended on Monday, May 11, 2026, due to CalPERS requirements. Dusty Duley is currently serving in an Acting capacity as Interim City Manager.

DISCUSSION:

If the employment agreement is approved, James Conner will begin serving on June 1, 2026. The Agreement terminates upon the earliest of (1) completion of 960 hours in a fiscal year, (2) appointment of a permanent City Manager (including two weeks after their start date), or (3) December 31, 2026, and may only be during the active recruitment of a permanent City Manager.

In accordance with CA Government Code 54953, subsection (d), a section of the Brown Act requiring the terms and conditions of a local agency executive's employment agreement to be read out loud, the following terms and conditions must be read before the Council’s final decision:

Page 2 ends

The terms and conditions of the proposed agreement are based on CalPERS requirements for the employment of a Retired Annuitant, which limit the hourly rate to the posted salary range for the position.

In addition to reimbursement of actual expenditures related to the position, James Conner will be entitled to $84.73 an hour for hours worked, which is within the publicly posted salary range for the City Manager position and does not exceed the maximum allowable compensation.

James Conner, Retired Annuitant, was selected for the position based on his specialized skills. Prior to his retirement, James Conner served 23 years in municipal law enforcement with the City of Sebastopol, rising through the ranks to become Chief of Police and serving four of those 23 years as the Santa Rosa Junior College Recruit Training Officer. Prior to his municipal law experience, he served as a Staff Sergeant in the United States Air Force, supervising security details, and then spent five years managing consumer finance and mortgage operations. James Conner is a consummate professional, approachable, well-versed in finance and business, a decorated leader, and has extensive experience in municipal law enforcement.

This appointment is made pursuant to California Government Code section 21221, subsection (h), which provides that a retired person may serve without reinstatement from retirement or loss or interruption of retirement benefits provided the California Public Employees Retirement System upon appointment by the appointing power of a state agency or public agency employer because this appointment is necessary to fill the critically needed position of City Manager for the City of Willits by June 1, 2026 because the position is vacant and the City requires specialized skills to maintain continuity of leadership and prevent stoppage of work during the active recruitment for a City Manager. These appointments shall not exceed a combined total of 960 hours for all employers each fiscal year. Furthermore, the appointment may be made only once; the compensation for the appointment shall not exceed the maximum monthly base salary paid to other employees performing comparable duties, as listed on a publicly available pay schedule, divided by 173.333 to obtain an hourly rate. A retired person appointed pursuant to this section shall not receive any benefit, incentive, compensation in lieu of benefits, or other form of compensation in addition to the hourly pay rate. The appointment terminates upon the earliest of (1) completion of 960 hours in a fiscal year, (2) appointment of a permanent City Manager (including two weeks after their start date), or (3) December 31, 2026.

This appointment is also made pursuant to California Government Code section 7522.56, which requires that a retired annuitant be retired for a bona fide break in service of at least 180 days from the date of retirement. James Conner has been retired longer than a bona fide break in service. The City Council must certify in its Resolution that the appointment is necessary to fill a critically needed position; that the appointment will be made only once; and that the City is actively recruiting for a permanent City Manager.

James Conner’s sole compensation is $84.73 per hour, which is neither less than the minimum nor more than the maximum paid to other employees performing comparable duties, and is calculated by dividing the publicly posted salary range's monthly earnings by 173.33. James Conner will certify that he has not received unemployment benefits in the last twelve months and is not eligible for any additional compensation or benefits. Retired annuitants may receive reimbursement for reasonable expenses.

Approval of the attached Resolution appoints James Conner as Interim City Manager and approves the Employment Agreement between the City and James Conner, effective June 1, 2026, pursuant to Government Code section 21221, subsection (h).

FISCAL IMPACT:

Page 3 ends

The fiscal impact is estimated to be $10,168 for FY 25-26 and approximately $88,119. The $10,168 is included in the approved FY 25-26 budget as a part of the City Manager's salary. The $88,119 will be included similarly in the City Manager’s salary in the proposed FY 26-27 budget.

OPTIONS:

1. Reject the Appointment or Agreement and return to interviewing candidates.

2. Reject the Appointment and Agreement and provide staff with direction for further Council consideration.

Staff recommends appointing James Conner and approving the Employment Agreement.

ATTACHMENTS:

Attachment 1: Resolution and Employment Agreement – James Conner Attachment 1
1 EMPLOYMENT AGREEMENT WITH JAMES CONNER TO PERFORM SPECIALIZED AND

TEMPORARY SERVICES AS INTERIM CITY MANAGER
This Employment Agreement (“Agreement”) is entered into as of June 1, 2026, by and between the CITY OF WILLITS, a municipal corporation, hereafter referred to as the “City,” and James Conner, hereafter referred to as “Employee” (each a “party” and, together, the “parties”).

WHEREAS, Government (Gov.) Code Section 21221, subsection (h) of the Public Employees’ Retirement Law permits the governing body to appoint a CalPERS retiree to a vacant position requiring specialized skills during the recruitment for a permanent appointment, and provides that such appointment will not subject the retired person to reinstatement from retirement or loss of benefits so long as it is a single appointment that does not exceed 960 hours in a fiscal year; and
WHEREAS, the City, by and through its City Council, is actively recruiting to fill the role of the City Manager position; and
WHEREAS, the Willits City Council desires to appoint Employee as an interim appointment retired annuitant to the vacant position of Interim City Manager for the City of Willits under Gov. Code Section 21221, subsection (h), effective June 1, 2026; and
WHEREAS, Employee possesses the requisite specialized skills needed by the City and is available to provide services, for an appointment of James Conner that will be made by this City for this position only once, as Interim City Manager, while the City actively recruits for a permanent City Manager; and WHEREAS, Employee is able to serve in the role of Interim City Manager until the role ends upon the successful placement of the City’s permanent City Manager, the Employee has served for 960 hours in a fiscal year, or December 31, 2026, whichever occurs first; and WHEREAS, Employee, as a Public Employees Retirement System (“PERS”) annuitant, is limited in his ability to accept public employment pursuant to Government Code Section 21221, subsection (h); and WHEREAS, the Willits City Council, the City of Willits, and Employee certify that James Conner has not and will not receive a “Golden Handshake” or any other retirement-related incentive; and WHEREAS, the governing body authorized the search for a permanent appointment on October 22, 2025, and has been actively collecting applications and interviewing candidates since then, and continues to do so; and WHEREAS, the entire employment agreement, contract, or appointment document between James Conner and the City of Willits has been reviewed by this body and is attached herein; and WHEREAS, the compensation paid to retirees cannot be less than the minimum nor exceed the maximum monthly base salary paid to other employees performing comparable duties, divided by 173.333 to equal the hourly rate; and
WHEREAS, the maximum annual base salary for this position is $186,000, and the hourly equivalent is $89.42; and
WHEREAS, the hourly rate paid to James Conner will be $84.73; and WHEREAS, the City and Employee certify that James Conner has not and will not receive any other benefit, incentive, compensation in lieu of benefit, or other form of compensation in addition to this hourly pay rate; and WHEREAS, James Conner has retired from CalPERS for a period greater than a 180-day break in service in accordance with Gov. Code Section 7522.56, subsection (f); and Attachment 1
2 WHEREAS, the City and Employee certify that no unemployment benefits have been applied for, paid to, or received by James Conner in the last 12 months; and
WHEREAS, Employee is able to provide temporary services to the City under the terms of this Agreement and within the constraints of Government Code Section 21221, subsection (h) as a PERS annuitant, and City desires to hire Employee on these terms to provide specialized services of a limited duration, which is not anticipated to exceed six months and will not exceed 960 hours within a fiscal year.

NOW THEREFORE, in consideration of these recitals and the mutual covenants, terms, and conditions, herein contained, the parties mutually and freely agree as follows:

SECTION 1 – EMPLOYMENT CONDITIONS AND DUTIES
a. Employee is hereby appointed by, and shall serve at the pleasure of, the Willits City Council. Employee has performed his due diligence to confirm with PERS that he may accept this temporary appointment as a PERS annuitant.
b. The Employee shall be responsible for performing duties of the Interim City Manager position and other duties and special projects as assigned. c. The Willits City Council hereby certifies the nature of the employment of James Conner as described herein and detailed in the attached employment agreement document and that this appointment is necessary to fill the critically needed position of City Manager for the City of Willits by June 1, 2026 because the position is vacant and the City requires specialized skills to maintain continuity of leadership and prevent stoppage of work during the active recruitment for a City Manager. Furthermore, the appointment will only be made once, will be paid $84.73 per hour which is not more than the highest monthly wage for the position on the City’s Publicly Available Pay Schedule, receive no other pay or benefits, no incentive or “Golden Handshake”, and end upon the completion of 960 hours worked, the successful placement, including two-weeks after the starting date of the permanent City Manager, December 31, 2026, whichever comes first.

SECTION 2 – EMPLOYMENT TERM
a. City agrees to employ Employee and Employee agrees to be employed and remain in the employment of the City for a term beginning June 1, 2026, and ending not later than the successful placement of the City’s permanent City Manager, inclusive of two weeks after their starting date, 960 hours of work in a fiscal year, or December 31st, whichever is later.

This is an at-will position, and the Employee has no property interest in his position. b. Nothing in this Agreement shall prevent, limit, or otherwise interfere with the rights of the City to terminate the services of the Employee at any time during such employment terms or any renewal thereof, subject to the provisions of this Agreement. c. Nothing in this Agreement shall prevent, limit, or otherwise interfere with Employee’s right to resign at any time.

SECTION 3 – EMPLOYEE RESIGNATION
If Employee terminates this Agreement by voluntary resignation, in writing, before expiration of the employment terms or any renewal(s) thereof, Employee shall not be entitled to any severance pay but shall be entitled to payment in full for consideration during his service. Employee agrees to give the City at least 14 days' written notice of resignation unless the parties agree otherwise.

SECTION 4 – EMPLOYMENT TERMINATION
Attachment 1
3 Employee serves at-will, and the City may terminate his employment with or without cause.

SECTION 5 – WORK HOURS
The Interim City Manager shall coordinate the work schedule based on the needs of the City, though he is typically expected to work between thirty-two (32) and forty (40) hours a week, including attendance at all City Council meetings. The City Council, through the Mayor, may provide direction to Employee regarding the desired work schedule.

SECTION 6 – SALARY
The City shall pay the Employee for all services rendered pursuant to this Agreement at $84.73 per hour, which represents the annual salary of the City Manager position, divided by 12 months and divided again by 173.333, as required by Government Code Section 21221, subsection (h). Employee's salary will be paid on a bi-weekly basis in conformance with the City's established pay periods and pay days; although Employee is required by Government Code Sections 21221, subsection (h) to be compensated on an hourly basis, Employee is an FLSA-exempt employee and is not entitled to overtime, even if his work week exceeds 40 hours or his work day, 8 hours.

The Employee shall maintain detailed timesheets describing his work time, to be submitted on a bi-weekly basis to the City Clerk, or their designee, who shall review and initial them to verify their accuracy.

Once verified, the timesheets will be sent to the City’s Finance Department for review and payment in accordance with the City’s established payroll and accounting practices.

The Employee will comply with all applicable PERS regulations governing post-retirement employment, including recording and reporting to PERS of hours worked for the City, as required. The City shall assist in any such reporting obligations to PERS. Additionally, the Employee shall keep the City apprised of any hours Employee works for other PERS agencies during the term of this Agreement.

The Employee shall not receive benefits, incentives, or compensation in lieu of benefits, sick leave, holiday, vacation pay, or any other form of compensation in addition to the hourly rate during his employment underthis employment agreement.

The Employee may request reimbursement for documented business expenditures incurred in the course of employment and in accordance with current City practices and policies.

SECTION 7 – INDEMNIFICATION
If the employee is named as a party in litigation relating to Employee's actions or inactions as a City employee, the City shall defend Employee and pay any judgment that may be entered against Employee, consistent with the terms of applicable law, including Government Code 810 et seq. Pursuant to Government Code Section 825, subsection (a), the City reserves its rights not to pay a judgment, compromise, or settlement until it is established that the injury arose out of an act or omission occurring within the scope of the Employee’s employment under this Agreement.

SECTION 8 – ENTIRE AGREEMENT AND AMENDMENTS
a. This agreement supersedes any and all other agreements between the parties hereto with respect to the employment of the Employee by the City and contains all of the covenants and agreements between the parties with respect to that employment. Each party acknowledges that no representations, inducements, promises, or agreements have been made by any party or anyone acting on behalf of any party verbally or otherwise that are not embodied herein.

Attachment 1
4 b. No other agreement, statement, or promise not contained in this Agreement shall be valid or binding or shall be used in interpreting the meaning of this Agreement. c. Amendments, modifications, or changes may be made to this Agreement and shall become effective on the date contained therein when executed in writing and mutually signed by both parties.
d. This Agreement and any amendments, modifications, or changes thereto shall be binding upon the City during its term.
e. This Agreement and any amendments, modifications, or changes thereto shall be binding upon the Employee and inure to the benefit of his heirs at law and executors. f. This Agreement has been negotiated and executed in the State of California and shall be governed by and construed under the laws of the State of California. Any legal action arising under or related to this Agreement shall be brought before and prosecuted in the Mendocino County Superior Court.

SECTION 9 – SEVERABILITY
If any provision or any portion hereof is held to be unconstitutional, invalid, or unenforceable, the remainder of this Agreement or the portion thereof shall be deemed severable, shall not be affected, and shall remain in full force and effect.

CITY OF WILLITS
___________________________________
TOM ALLMAN, Mayor
ATTEST:

DELORES PEDERSEN, City Clerk
APPROVED AS TO FORM:

H. JAMES LANCE, City Counsel

EMPLOYEE
James Conner
1 Monthly Achievements & Activities
● Grant funds from the State DOT for Airport maintenance have been secured to address tree removal and procure materials to rebuild the Segmented Circle. The initial application of $10,000 for FY 21/22 was submitted and plans approved to remove nine trees penetrating the transitional slope at Runway 16 on Airport property and adjacent privately owned lands.

Permission was sought by the city from the neighboring landowner, who shares the boundary line to the north of the Airport for access. Work to remove the trees and conduct erosion control on the skid trails to access them began March 18th.
• A letter was issued to all tenants reminding them of parking and use regulations. Additional “No Parking” sign were installed at the ends of the hangar rows to keep them clear of vehicles that may potentially obstruct flight operations in the movement areas. ● SHN Consulting and Engineering was granted permission to use a portion of airport property off the end of runway 34 to the South to collect data for the Brooktrails Secondary Operations Access Project.
● New Windsocks are on order; replacement is annual due to weather and UV damage. ● FAA funding is being identified and applied for to complete studies that support future capital improvement projects. These potentially include an Aeronautical Obstruction Study and a Wildlife Hazard Assessment.

Project Updates
● Any potential out-of-pocket improvement projects that are not critical to the safety of flight operations and compliance are on hold due to budget constraints and the City’s’ current financial state. Projects that are grant funded are being identified and planned for the Spring/Summer season.

Staffing Items
● Staff members continue to visit the Airport weekly for maintenance, security evaluation, and fuel quality assurance.

AIRPORT – O28
APRIL 2026 | Report
2 Budget Status
● No Change, 2 empty hangars.

Focus for Next Month
● Continuing work with legal to resolve the PART 16 Complaint and satisfy the FAA determination.

Meet the expectations declared by the Director in order to continue receiving the funding needed to sustain the facility, The FAA has granted themselves several extensions to allow for adequate time to make a determination and has done so again. – ONGOING. ● Mowing, vegetation removal, and annual fire abatement. ●Continue to monitor trail heads and access points.
● Finalize The Airport Advisory Circular and vet it with the stake holders. – This will happen at the next Tennant Meeting.
● Schedule for the next Tenant Meeting and begin Scheduling the Annual Hangar Inspections for 2026. – IN PROGRESS
● Fuel will need to be ordered to refill the 100LL-AVGAS tank. Prices will likely need to be raised to reflect inflation and the current market.
● Prepare for annual State DOT – CALTRANS Division of Aeronautics inspection. 1 Monthly Achievements & Activities
• Issued 8 Building Permits..................................................17 in March. • Opened 2 Code Enforcement Cases .............................11 in March. • Closed 9 Code Enforcement Cases................................5 in March. • Total of 54 Active Code Enforcement Cases..............45 in March.

The Department averaged 6.3 calendar days to issue April Building Permits.  Over the counter Permits (reroofs/minor electrical) are typically issued on the day of submission and are not included in the average processing timeline.  Timeline includes time for Fire Department to complete required review for certain permits.

Project Updates
• Willits Housing Rehabilitation Loan Program
o $553,857 allocated (2019–2023 funding cycle)
o Now accepting applications for $25,000–$50,000 no-interest loans o Program supports rehabilitation of owner-occupied affordable housing o For more information, property owners may contact Phil Davidson at [email protected] or 707-459-7153
• Willits Farmers Market
o Willits Farmers Market returned to Bud Snider Park on Thursday, April 30th o Staff continues to work with the Market Manager to support compatibility with the surrounding neighborhood and local businesses.
• Community Development Department Office Hours
o Updated Community Development public counter hours and building inspection schedule implemented in response to recent staffing changes and departmental restructuring.
o Public counter hours are now Monday–Thursday from 9:00–11:00 a.m. and 3:00–5:30 p.m. o Building inspections are scheduled Tuesdays and Thursdays from 9:00–11:00 a.m. and 3:00–5:00 p.m., with inspections coordinated by appointment. • Willits City Pool
o City Pool will open to the public starting June 8th and will remain open through August 14th.
o Pool schedule and list of available activities can be found on Community Development Department Facebook page or the City website.
o Hiring of seasonal staff, including lifeguards and office support staff, is nearly complete. • Solicitation of Applications for a Cannabis Activity Dispensary Permit o The City of Willits is soliciting applications for one available Medical Cannabis Dispensary Permit. City Code limits the number of permitted Medical Cannabis Dispensaries to Community Development April 2026 | Report
2 three citywide.
o Application materials and program information are available through the Community Development Department and the City website.
o The application deadline is June 25, 2026, at 3:00 p.m. Pacific Time. • Downtown Entertainment Zone
o Downtown Entertainment Zone was established at the May 13th City Council meeting and is now eligible to activate consistent with the approved City Entertainment Zone Ordinance.
• Clean Canvas Event (Clean California Grant)
o The 3rd Annual Clean Canvas Event planned for June 3rd at Bud Snider Park. o The community is invited to participate in a chalk art contest and other family-friendly activities.

Staffing Items
• No items to report.

Budget Status
• No items to report.

Focus for Next Month
• Clean California Grant
o Clean Canvas Event Coordination
• LAFCO Municipal Service Review
o Work with LAFCO staff to develop public draft MSR
o Submit Sphere of Influence Amendment application to be processed concurrently with City MSR update.
• Work with MCOG and HCD to determine City of Willits Regional Housing Needs Allocation. • Finalize hiring of seasonal pool staff.
• Develop strategy and identify funding to complete both the General Plan Housing Element and Safety Element updates as required by State law.

POLICE DEPARTMENT April 2026 | Report
Monthly Achievements & Activities
April 2025 April 2026
• 911 Calls Received 72 51
• Calls for service (CFS) 573 430
• Cases 48 31
• Arrests 24 14
• Citations 11 15
• Traffic Stops 57 68
Project Updates
• As staffing allows - continued traffic safety education and enforcement, emphasizing school zones, pedestrians in crosswalks, speeding, and passing to the right violations. • Continued deployment of the speed awareness radar trailer. • Providing extra patrols in city parks and schools, as time allows. • Increased Officer presence in the downtown area, focused on foot patrols and sidewalk pedestrian safety.

Staffing Items
• Community Services Officer Christopher Dendy continues training at the Santa Rosa Junior College Basic Police Academy. He is expected to graduate on May 29th 2026.

Save the Date
• National Night Out is scheduled for Tuesday, August 4th, 2026, at Bud Snider Park. More details in the coming weeks.
1 Monthly Achievements & Activities
• Parts are still on order to replace a section of failed storm drain that caused a sinkhole on W.

Mendocino Ave. Staff hopes to begin work on this upon receiving the parts. – OUTSTANDING ITEM
• Preparations for the Annual Chamber of Commerce Memorial Day Car and Bike Show were made. The City of Willits assisted by providing traffic control planning and equipment, additional street sweeping, logistical support, and landscape maintenance. The detour and alternate routes for traffic during the event were also evaluated, and vegetation cleared as needed. • Replacement parts to repair the damaged play structure at Snider Park were ordered. The original feature was discontinued and no longer available. – OUTSTANDING ITEM • The PD shooting range was mowed, and weed abatement was conducted as needed. • An additional Dog Waste Station was ordered for the Sports Complex on the South side of E.

Commercial St.
• Roadside mowing and vegetation mitigation season on City properties and adjacent to the public right of way has begun, as well as clearing around utility infrastructure as needed. -

ONGOING
• The water pump on the street sweeper is not functioning; a repair technician has been contacted to assess the machine. The water pump feeds the sprayers on the machine for dust suppression. • A new facility sign for the Berry Canyon Landfill was ordered to replace the original sign, which had become faded and defaced multiple times by vandalism. • As construction season ramps up, City staff have been inundated with calls for USA 811 North Mark and Locates to delineate and mark existing city infrastructure within the project work site areas. Among these include the Statewide Fiber Optic underground project, PG&E pole replacement and Gasline upgrades at various locations throughout the city.

Public Works APRIL 2026 | Report
2 Project Updates
• PG&E completed the tie-in to energize the Solar Sports Park Project. • The parking stalls at the Sports Complex were repainted. The next phase will be to reinstall the parking control signs that were removed for the solar project, paint and refresh the handicap parking stalls, and refresh the crosswalks from the parking lot to the south side of E. Commercial St.
• Several water leaks were addressed, and a sewer lateral repair was completed (SEE UTILITY REPORT FOR MORE DETAILS).
• The Franklin St. Drainage and Sidewalk Improvements are complete. • Work in the Mitigated Wetlands area behind the Skate Park and Sports Complex to offset the environmental impact of the Rails with trail project has begun. • The Haehl Creek Walking Trail was serviced, and the vegetation along the sides of the trail was cut back.
• Heavy overgrowth and debris removal from the channel along Walnut St., adjacent to the Railroad tracks, is being removed to increase flow capacity. • Trees for the environmental mitigation on the Rails with trail project are being procured and cared for at the Public Works Corp. yard in advance of fall planting. • Pothole patching was conducted at various locations, approximately 6 cubic yards of asphalt cold mix were dispersed as needed.
• One of the hot water heaters at City Hall was replaced. • Staff participated in preliminary planning efforts to assist the Brooktrails Township with Emergency Dam Inundation
• Planning for the upcoming summer is underway, including the Centennial Anniversary of the Willits Frontier Days events and the 2026 Willits City Pool Swim Season.

Staffing Items
3 ● No Report
Budget Status
• No Report, spending has been reduced, and several projects previously on hold are resuming.

Focus for Next Month*
*NOTE: SEVERAL ITEMS WERE ROLLED OVER FROM LAST MONTH OR ARE PART OF ONGOING SEASONAL OPERATION.
• Complete ditch and drainage repairs on E. Vallet St. and continue roadside mowing and vegetation management throughout the City-owned right of ways. • Pothole patching and minor road repairs at various locations; this is ongoing in areas prone to pavement failure.
• Repair the sinkhole and failed culvert pipe on W. Mendocino Ave., still waiting for parts. • Continue assisting with the annual flushing of the water system as needed. • Continue roadside mowing and vegetation management throughout the City-owned right of ways.
• Procure and refresh playground fiber media around play structures. • Assist with the facilitation of city-sponsored events. ● Assess the Fountain at Babcock Park for repairs.
● Repair the play structure at Snider Park when parts are received. ● Conduct tree trimming at various locations adjacent to public rights-of-way. ● Restore the parking lot at the Sports Complex impacted by the Solar Project. 1 Monthly Achievements & Activities
• Cleaned 3,520 feet of sewer mainline in the wastewater collection system. • Repaired multiple water leaks throughout water distribution system. • Repaired water leak at Northbrook pump station.
• Cleaned Trident filter screens at SWTP.
• Worked with JM Integration on updating communication issues at SWTP. • Dewatered and added air to the Bittenbender pressure tank. • Repaired reset button and fixed broken airline on air compressor at SWTP. • Repaired safety eye wash station at GWTP.
• Exercise all back up power generators at water distribution pump stations including SWTP. • Annual flushing completed up to Holly St. on the westside of town. • Replaced M-Roy chemical pump with a new Qdos for the soda ash system. • Installed new cord and antenna for the SWTP radio communications. • Continuing with annual cross-control and backflow testing program for the State Water Resource Control Board (SWRCB) requirements.

Project Updates
• Ongoing: Fats, Oils and Grease (F.O.G.) program throughout the sewer collection system. • Ongoing: Sewer lateral inspection program.
• Ongoing: Water meter replacement program.
• Ongoing: Grounds maintenance at Water/Wastewater facilities. • Reservoir Capacity: Morris 665-acre feet and Centennial 635-acre feet equate to 100-percent full capacity (May 13th). Both reservoirs are currently overflowing the dam boards. • April 2026 Water Usage: SWTP: 15,960,785 MG. April 2025: 12,246,829 MG.

GWTP: 1,600,000 MG. April 2025: 3,600,000 MG.

Totals: 17,560,785 MG. April 2025: 15,846,829 MG
• April Non-Potable Water Usage [Truck Fill Station]: 57,007 Gals. • April 2026 Wastewater Treatment Plant Flows: 39,862,937 MG.

Utilities April 2026 | Report
2 Staffing Items
• Congratulations to Adam Simental for passing the Grade II State Water Treatment Exam on 5/14/26!
• WWTP operator Caleb Allen received his California Rural Water Association (CRWA) Apprenticeship Completion Certificate (2-year program) at the annual CRWA 2026 Expo held in April. Congratulations Caleb!
Budget Status
• In Progress.

Focus for Next Month
• Schedule Veolia for the replacement of the Ultraviolet (UV) Disinfection control panel at WWTP.

New panel was received on March 16th. Scheduled to be installed on 4/27/26. Completed. • Schedule 307 Blosser Lane failing sewer lateral replacement at the intersection of HWY 20 at Blosser Lane with Wipf Construction. Scheduled for April 15th. Completed. • Receive and replace laser shields in Filter #2 multi-block underdrain scheduled to ship mid-May. • Install new filter media in the Trident #2 filter.
• Continuing annual water mainline flushing and valve exercise program.

Willits City CouncilMay 27, 2026

Willits City Council
May 27, 2026