Willits City Council
September 23, 2026

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

WILLITS CITY COUNCIL
AGENDA
SEPTEMBER 23, 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. September 9, 2026

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.
i.

Willits City Council Agenda – September 23, 2026

9. DEPARTMENT RECOMMENDATIONS (ACTION ITEMS)
a. Discussion and Possible Action: Adopting a Resolution Directing Staff to Proceed with Adjustments to the Water and Wastewater Service Charges Pursuant to Proposition 218.

Presenting staff member: Joseph Park, Administrative Services Manager. b. Receive Report and Consider Approving Resolution Adopting the City of Willits Planning Partner Annex of the 2026 Mendocino County Multi-Jurisdictional Hazard Mitigation Plan.

Presenting staff member: Dusty Duley, Community & Economic Development Director.

10. DEPARTMENT MONTHLY REPORTS – (presented at the second meeting of each month) a. Administrative Svcs. b. Airport. c. Community Dev. d. Police Dept. e. Public Works. f. Utilities.

11. CITY COUNCIL ANNOUNCEMENTS, COMMUNICATIONS AND REPORTS

12. GOOD & WELFARE

13. CLOSED SESSION NOTICE
a. None.

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 16th day of September, 2026.

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 the 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

WILLITS CITY COUNCIL

MINUTES
WEDNESDAY, SEPTEMBER 9, 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, and Mayor Tom Allman were present.

Also present were staff members: James Conner, Interim City Manager; Jim Lance, City Attorney; Dusty Duley, Community Development Director; Davey Bowles, Public Works Director; Brian Fay, Police Chief; and Delores Pedersen, City Clerk.

2. Public Communications
None presented.

3. Public Matters
a. Update from the Little Lake Fire District.

You may view Chief Alvarez’s comments on YouTube at timestamp 2:21.

Public Comment:

Members of the public comments may be viewed on YouTube at timestamp 10:08. b. Update from Third District County Supervisor John Haschak.

You may view Supervisor Haschak’s comments on YouTube at timestamp 12:29.

Public Comment: None presented.
c. Bi-monthly Update from the Chamber of Commerce.

Gary Huddle and Natalie Spackman presented a PowerPoint presentation.

The Chamber of Commerce’s Presentation and comments may be viewed on YouTube at timestamp 17:45
Public Comment:

Public Comment and questions may be viewed on YouTube at timestamp 30:50

4. Enactment of Ordinances
None presented.

5. Consent Calendar
The following item(s) are recommended for approval or denial, as follows:

Willits City Council Minutes of March 11, 2026 Page 2 of 4 a. City Council Minutes:
i. August 20, 2026 - Special Meeting
ii. August 26, 2026
b. Consideration of a Resolution Authorizing the City Manager to Sign and Submit Official Advocacy and Correspondence Letters on Behalf of the City Council.  Item pulled for discussion by Council Member Burton.
c. Designate Council Members as the League of California Cities 2026 Annual Conference Voting Delegate and Alternate(S).

Public Comment:

Members of the public provided public comment; comments may be viewed on YouTube at timestamp: 36:40.

Moved by Burton/Seconded by Gonzalez and carried 4/1 with Vice Mayor Alaniz Absent to approve Consent Calendar item(s) (a & c).
 Council member discussion of Item 5b may be viewed on YouTube at timestamp 38:10.

Moved by Gonzalez to approve Consent Calendar item (b); there was no second, and the motion died for lack of a second. Vice Mayor Alaniz was absent.

Public Comment:

Members of the public provided public comment; comments may be viewed on YouTube at timestamp: 46:05.

6. Monthly Activity Reports
Matters that do not require action by the City Council but are of public interest. a. Accounts Payable Activity Report: August 2026
b. Building Permit Activity Report: August 2026.
c. Business License Activity Report: August 2026.

Public Comment: None presented.

7. Commissions, Agencies and Authorities
None presented.

8. City Manager Reports and Recommendations
None presented.

9. Department Recommendations (Action Items)
None.

10. City Council Announcements, Communications and Reports Councilmember Burton
 Requested an update on the Rail w/ Trail Project. Comments and updates may be viewed on YouTube starting at timestamp 48:54.

Councilmember Gonzalez
 League of California Cities (LCC) – Meets on 9/11/2026  Local Agency Formation Commission (LAFCo) – Meets on 9/14/2026 Willits City Council Minutes of March 11, 2026 Page 3 of 4  Comments may be viewed on YouTube starting at timestamp 53:30.

Councilmember Stranske
 Requested an update on the 250K Gallon Well Tank. Comments and updates may be viewed on YouTube starting at timestamp 54:30.

Mayor Allman
 Announce that the Harvest Moon Celebration takes place on Saturday, October 3, 2026.
 There are 55 days until the Election.

Comments may be viewed on YouTube starting at timestamp 55:40.  Council member Burton added that the Roots of Motive Power’s event is Saturday, September 12, 2026, at the Recreation Grove Park. Comments may be viewed on YouTube starting at timestamp 56:19.

Public Comment: None presented.

No action taken.

11. Good & Welfare
Given during Council Reports
 City Council Convened to Closed Session at 7:26 p.m.

12. Closed Session Notice
a. Pursuant to Government Code §54957 – Recruitment and Potential Public Employee Appointment: City Manager.
b. Conference with Labor Negotiator Pursuant to Government Code §54957.6 – Agency Negotiator: Jamer Conner, Interim City Manager. Employee Organization(s):

International Brotherhood of Electrical Workers (IBEW), Willits Police Officers Association (WPOA), and Unrepresented Employees.

The City Council reconvened to open session at 7:53 p.m. Direction was given to staff.

13. Adjournment
Mayor Allman declared the meeting adjourned at 7:53 p.m.

For more information on the September 9, 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
Willits City Council Minutes of March 11, 2026 Page 4 of 4 Item No. 9a
Meeting Date: September 23, 2026

AGENDA SUMMARY REPORT
To: Honorable Mayor and Council Members
From: Joseph Park, Administrative Services Manager
Agenda Title: DISCUSSION AND POSSIBLE ACTION ADOPTING A RESOLUTION DIRECTING STAFF

TO PROCEED WITH ADJUSTMENTS TO THE WATER AND WASTEWATER SERVICE CHARGES PURSUANT TO PROPOSITION 218.

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

Summary of Request: On May 24, 2023, the Council received a presentation from Bartle Wells and Associates regarding the 2023 Water and Wastewater Rate Study. The rates are based on a 10-year financial plan that includes an analysis of cost-of-service to ensure customers continue to pay their proportionate share of utility costs.

Prior to bringing a water rate adjustment to the Council for approval, the City is required to follow the notification and public hearing requirements set forth under Proposition 218. The Proposition 218 process requires that written notification be given to all affected property owners, and that those property owners be given a 45-day period in which to submit written protests if they oppose the proposed rate adjustments.

All notices were sent out to property owners on June 2, 2023, in compliance with Article XIII D, Section 6(a)(1), and Government Code §53753, which states that “the agency shall provide written notice by mail of the proposed fee or charge to the record owner of each...parcel upon which the fee or charge is proposed for imposition.” The rates per year were adopted in Resolution No. 2023-44 (attached).

Recommended Action: Adopt the accompanying Resolution to allow the Water and Wastewater Rates to increase for the third year as listed in the Water and Wastewater Study Report.

Alternative(s): None recommended.

Fiscal Impact: Given the recently declared fiscal emergency, the city needs to recover costs of providing water and wastewater services and funding critical system projects.

Personnel Impact: Moderate
Identified City Council Conflict of Interest: None.

California Environmental Quality Act: Does not apply.

This Item Relates to the following General Plan Element :x 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 September 23, 2026
RESOLUTION NO. 2026-__

RESOLUTION OF THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF WILLITS APPROVING WATER

AND WASTEWATER RATES TO INCREASE FOR THE THIRD YEAR AS LISTED IN THE WATER AND WASTEWATER STUDY REPORT.

WHEREAS, City staff, along with Bartle Wells & Associates, prepared the Water and Wastewater Rate Study that outlines the need and basis for adjustments to existing water and wastewater rates in order to continue to maintain and operate the City’s utilities; and WHEREAS, the adoption of the Water and Wastewater rate schedule followed all requirements of Government Code §6062(a) and §6(a) of Article XIIID of the California Constitution; and
WHEREAS, City Council requested that staff evaluate the need for the rate increase and present to the Council its assessment of need for increasing the rates for the fourth year in the rate schedule; and
WHEREAS, we are in the fourth year of the rate schedule and staff recommends an increase of rates for the fourth year due to a need to cover costs of continuing projects for the water and wastewater enterprise funds;
NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED that the Willits City Council does hereby authorize staff to proceed with adjustments to water and wastewater rates based on the Water and Wastewater Rate Study adopted on the 26th day of July 2023, and has provided the proper notification required by law as published on the Water and Wastewater Rate Study in order to adjust the rates as planned in the water and Wastewater rate schedule pursuant to Government Code section 53756 for years 2026-2027. The maximum rate increases are as follows:

Water Program:

FY 23/24 - 6.5% | FY 24/25 – 6.5% | FY 25/26 – 3.25% | FY 26/27 – 6.5% | FY 27/28 –

6.5%.

Wastewater Program:

FY 23/24 - 7% | FY 24/25 – 7% | FY 25/26 – 3.25% | FY 26/27 – 6% | FY 27/28 – 6%.

PASSED, APPROVED AND ADOPTED, this 23rd day of September 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 23rd day of September 2026, by the following vote:

AYES:

NOES:

ABSENT:
_________________________
Delores Pedersen, City Clerk
Item No. 9b
Meeting Date: September 23, 2026

AGENDA SUMMARY REPORT
To: Honorable Mayor and Council Members
From: Dusty Duley – Community and Economic Development Director Agenda Title: RECEIVE REPORT AND CONSIDER APPROVING RESOLUTION ADOPTING THE CITY OF WILLITS PLANNING PARTNER ANNEX OF THE 2026 MENDOCINO COUNTY MULTI-JURISDICTIONAL HAZARD

MITIGATION PLAN
Type: Presentation Consent Regular Agenda Public Hearing Urgent Time: 30 minutes.

Summary of Request: Consider adoption of the Willits Annex to the Mendocino County Multi-Jurisdictional Hazard Mitigation Plan (MJHMP) required by the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA).

Background
Hazard mitigation planning provides a long-term framework for communities to reduce loss of life, property damage, and economic disruption resulting from natural disasters. While natural disasters cannot be avoided, communities can take proactive steps to reduce their impact and improve community resilience.

A FEMA-approved Hazard Mitigation Plan is required for eligibility for FEMA Hazard Mitigation Assistance grant programs, as well as similar funding opportunities through the California Governor’s Office of Emergency Services (Cal OES). Hazard Mitigation Plans must be reviewed and updated every five years, approved by FEMA, and adopted by participating jurisdictions to maintain eligibility for these grant opportunities.

The City of Willits is a participating jurisdiction in a Multi-Jurisdictional Hazard Mitigation Plan. The previous Plan was adopted by the Willits City Council on December 9th, 2020.

Discussion
The City of Willits Annex (Exhibit 1) identifies mitigation priorities based on the City’s hazard risk profile, potential benefits, feasibility, available capabilities, and community priorities. The City of Willits Annex identifies mitigation actions addressing the City's principal natural hazards, including drought, earthquake, flooding, landslides, severe storms, wildfire, extreme heat and cold, and dam-related risks. Projects are assigned high, medium, or low priorities based on risk and implementation considerations.

Development of the 2026 Mendocino County Multi-Jurisdictional Hazard Mitigation Plan was led by Mendocino County with professional planning assistance from Synergy Disaster Recovery, with the participating jurisdictions providing local information and developing their jurisdiction-specific annexes. The planning process included workshops, interviews, surveys, review of existing plans and technical information, and community and stakeholder engagement. Public participation occurred through both countywide and City-supported outreach. Willits assisted with distribution of the public survey and participated in outreach to nonprofit and community-based organizations.

Adoption of the Willits Annex establishes the City’s hazard mitigation priorities but does not commit the City to fund or complete each project identified in the Plan. Implementation of individual mitigation actions will occur as appropriate and will depend upon available funding, staffing capacity, project feasibility, environmental review, permitting, and any subsequent City approvals that may be required.

Recommended Action: Approve a resolution adopting the Willits Annex to the Mendocino County Multi-Jurisdictional Hazard Mitigation Plan
Alternative(s): None recommended.

Fiscal Impact: Adoption of the Plan has no immediate fiscal impact Personnel Impact: Adoption of the Plan will have no immediate personnel impact.

Identified City Council Conflict of Interest: None.

California Environmental Quality Act: The Project is not subject to California Environmental Quality Act (“CEQA”) and Title 14, the California Code of Regulations (“CEQA Guidelines”) because it does not authorize construction or physical changes to the environment. Individual projects identified in the plan will undergo environmental review before implementation.

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 Safety
Reviewed by: Interim City Manager City Attorney City Clerk Finance Director Human Resources Council Action: Approved Denied Other: ________________________________________ Records: Agreement Resolution #_________ Ordinance #_________ Other _________

Mendocino County Hazard Mitigation Plan
City of Willits Jurisdictional Annex
2 Table of Contents
TABLE OF CONTENTS....................................................................................................................... 2 1 INTRODUCTION....................................................................................................................... 3 2 MITIGATION STRATEGY........................................................................................................... 5

2.1 MITIGATION GOALS ........................................................................................................ 5

2.2 2021 MITIGATION ACTIONS............................................................................................ 5

2.3 2026 MITIGATION ACTIONS............................................................................................ 8

2.4 MITIGATION CAPABILITIES............................................................................................ 12

2.5 COMPLIANCE WITH FLOODPLAIN REQUIREMENTS...................................................... 13

2.6 PLANNING INTEGRATION.............................................................................................. 14

2.7 CONTINUING PUBLIC ENGAGEMENT............................................................................ 14

2.8 CHANGES IN COMMUNITY PRIORITIES......................................................................... 14 3 HAZARD IDENTIFICATION AND RISK ASSESSMENT............................................................... 16

3.1 HAZARD RISK RANKING................................................................................................. 16

3.2 EXPOSURE ANALYSIS..................................................................................................... 16

3.3 DAM & LEVEE FAILURE.................................................................................................. 21

3.4 DROUGHT...................................................................................................................... 23

3.5 EARTHQUAKE ................................................................................................................ 24

3.6 EXTREME COLD OR FREEZE........................................................................................... 25

3.7 EXTREME HEAT ............................................................................................................. 26

3.8 FLOOD (INLAND) ........................................................................................................... 26

3.9 MASS MOVEMENTS: LANDSLIDE, ROCK FALLS, & DEBRIS FLOWS ............................... 29

3.10 SEVERE STORMS............................................................................................................ 32

3.11 WILDFIRE....................................................................................................................... 34 APPENDIX A ADOPTION RESOLUTION .......................................................................................... 39 Professional planning services for this plan update were provided by:

Mendocino County Hazard Mitigation Plan
City of Willits Jurisdictional Annex
Introduction 3
1 Introduction
FIGURE 1 shows the City of Willits boundaries. The following city staff members participated in the HMP planning process and provided input to inform this Annex. A detailed list of the planning roster is provided in Appendix D of the Base Plan. • City Planner
• Community Development Director
• Senior City Planner
• Services and Facilities Director
In addition to the public engagement outlined in the Base Plan, the City of Willits supported outreach efforts through engagement with city staff and distribution of the public survey. The city also engaged stakeholders from non-profits and community-based organizations listed in Section 2 of the Base Plan through the stakeholder survey. To help reach vulnerable and underserved populations, the stakeholder survey was shared with Nuestra Alianza de Willits, a local organization that works closely with these communities.

The West Business Development Center was one stakeholder that provided input through the stakeholder survey. The organization serves entrepreneurs and small business owners across incorporated and unincorporated areas, as well as areas outside the county. The Center noted that recent disasters, including COVID-19, wildfires, and drought, significantly disrupted small business operations. Many small businesses were identified as unprepared or underprepared for disaster impacts, resulting in operational disruptions and permanent closures.

The West Business Development Center identified key hazards of concern for the populations it serves, including coastal hazards, earthquakes, drought, extreme heat, flooding, mass earth movements, severe storms, tsunamis, and wildfires. This feedback was incorporated into the Base Plan under local vulnerabilities for applicable hazards, with additional discussion of small businesses as an under-resourced population to reflect concerns related to disaster preparedness, response, and recovery.

Mendocino County Hazard Mitigation Plan
City of Willits Jurisdictional Annex
Introduction 4
Figure 1 City of Willits
Mendocino County Hazard Mitigation Plan
City of Willits Jurisdictional Annex
Mitigation Strategy 5
2 Mitigation Strategy
The mitigation strategy is a central component of the hazard mitigation plan (HMP) and the primary outcome of the planning process. This strategy serves as a long-term framework for reducing vulnerabilities to hazards. While this document begins by focusing on the mitigation strategy, it is important to acknowledge the various components that informed the planning process. These inputs included decisions and information from the Planning Partners, Core Planning Team (CPT), and general public, in addition to the results of the risk and vulnerability assessment. All of this information is captured in detail across the County of Mendocino Base Plan and this City of Willits Annex.

2.1 Mitigation Goals
The City of Willits has adopted the hazard mitigation goals and objectives developed by the Core Planning Team and described in Section 1.1 of the Base Plan.

2.2 2021 Mitigation Actions
The following list provides details on the progress made toward implementation of the 2021 mitigation actions for the City of Willits. Additional details about the status of implementation can be found in the Base Plan HMP Appendix B.
• Complete
o (ma-AH-WL-261) Develop a City-wide evacuation plan that identifies alternative evacuation routes in the event of a natural disaster.
o (ma-AH-WL-263) Install redundant communication systems, beyond existing landline, internet, and cell tower infrastructure, to allow for emergency notification in the event of primary systems becoming compromised during a natural disaster.
o (ma-DR-WL-266) Amend land use codes to incorporate regulations that encourage and require water savings for development.
o (ma-EQ-WL-101) Seismically retrofit or replace public works and/or emergency response facilities that are necessary during and/or immediately after a disaster or emergency.
o (ma-EQ-269) Develop a memorandum of agreement/understanding with neighboring cities to share building inspection services in the event of a natural disaster.
o (ma-PN-WL-293) Develop alternative sheltering/evacuation locations for distancing required during pandemic and other hazard events.

Mendocino County Hazard Mitigation Plan
City of Willits Jurisdictional Annex
Mitigation Strategy 6
• On-Going
o (ma-AH-WL-258) Develop a program that allows for expedited permitting and review process for backup power generation at facilities that are considered critical during a natural disaster (grocery stores, gas stations, cell/communication towers).
o (ma-AH-WL-259) Develop a program that creates incentives, through expedited permitting/review and reduced/waived permit fees, for homeowners and business owners to retrofit their homes and businesses to be more resilient to natural disasters.
o (ma-AH-WL-260) Conduct outreach to the general public to better understand where vulnerable populations live within the City of Willits so that they can be better served by the City with hazard-related outreach. o (ma-DR-WL-265) Replace existing water intensive landscaping with drought resistant landscaping.
o (ma-EW-WL-272) Routinely inspect storm water channels for vegetation build up or encroachment, trash and debris, silt and gravel build up, and erosion or bank failure.
o (ma-EW-WL-273) Implement a tree removal program for trees that are at a high risk to snapping in wind events around city facilities and infrastructure. o (ma-FL-WL-96) Retrofit wastewater and potable water facilities that are subject to flooding. Retrofitting activities may include elevating vulnerable equipment, electrical controls, and other equipment, fastening and sealing manhole covers to prevent floodwater infiltration, and protecting wells and other potable water from infiltration and flood damage by raising controls and well pipes. o (ma-FL-WL-103) Continue to participate in the NFIP program by enforcing the floodplain management ordinance to reduce future flood damage. In addition, join the Community Rating System (CRS) program. A community that participates in additional floodplain management activities, such as those outlined in the CRS program, will reduce flood losses, facilitate accurate insurance rating, and promote awareness of flood insurance.
o (ma-WF-WL-284) Develop a vegetation management program to remove understory brush and excessive fuels around city roads, evacuation routes, and buildings.
o (ma-WF-WL-291) Increase city water supply storage to achieve adequate water pressure throughout the city's system for emergency fire response and so fire sprinkler systems in buildings can function properly.

Mendocino County Hazard Mitigation Plan
City of Willits Jurisdictional Annex
Mitigation Strategy 7
• In Progress
o (ma-DR-WL-264) Implement water supply contingency projects, explore and acquire alternative water supplies, and retrofit water supply systems in order to improve water supply and delivery and conserve water.
o (ma-EW-WL-271) Perform a feasibility study for flood proofing options and analyze the drainage systems city-wide.
• No Progress – Continue Action
o (ma-EQ-WL-267) Install seismic gas shut-off valves on County buildings to prevent the flow of gas into buildings during a seismic event. o (ma-EQ-WL-268) Retrofit / Harden city-owned critical facilities and buildings and their ability to withstand earthquakes.
o (ma-EQ-WL-270) Encourage privately owned critical facilities to evaluate the ability of the buildings to withstand earthquakes and to address any deficiencies identified.
o (ma-EQ-WL-294) Conduct seismic inspections of city facilities to determine what retrofits are needed to make facilities more resilient to seismic events. o (ma-FL-WL-93) Acquire, relocate, or elevate residential structures, in particular those that have been identified as Repetitive Loss (RL) properties that are located within the 100-year floodplain.
o (ma-FL-MCOE-274) Elevate and retrofit bridges and culverts to allow proper stormwater/100-YR flows.
o (ma-PN-WL-292) Install additional barriers and proper ventilation in Emergency Operations Center (EOC, City Hall) to allow for operation of EOC during pandemic and hazard event.
o (ma-WF-WL-92) Create a vegetation management program that provides vegetation management services to elderly, disabled, or low-income property owners who lack the resources to remove flammable vegetation from around their homes.
o (ma-WF-WL-275) Retrofit city facilities with fireproof building materials to better withstand potential impacts of wildfire.
o (ma-WF-WL-288) Implement Mendocino County CWPP Mitigation Projects (Battalion 2: Willits), including a shaded fuel break to protect the Willits water system, construct a replacement fire station, and replace one aging fire apparatus.

2.2.1 Mitigation Successes
The city has identified several mitigation successes since the last HMP update, including:
• Defensible space work on the airport grounds and around the water treatment plant • The newly added Flood Annex to the EOP Element
• Installation of a groundwater emergency backup system Mendocino County Hazard Mitigation Plan
City of Willits Jurisdictional Annex
Mitigation Strategy 8
• Construction of a new firehouse
• Implementation of fire breaks along city property
• Mitigation efforts provided by the California Conservation Corps and CAL FIRE • Acquisition by CAL FIRE of Firehawk helicopters at the Howard Forest Fire Station

2.3 2026 Mitigation Actions
The City of Willits Steering Committee identified and prioritized the following mitigation actions based on the risk assessment and input from the public survey. Refer to the HMP Base Plan – Appendix C for complete details of each of the mitigation actions listed below.

2.3.1 Coastal Hazards
No known hazard areas within the local government’s boundaries. No perceived risk, therefore, not a mitigation priority.

2.3.2 Dam and Levee Incident
• High Priority
o (WL2) Morris Dam Dredging. Dredge the Morris Dam to increase reservoir capacity.
o (WL3) Morris Dam Risk Assessment. HHPD: Perform risk assessment of the aging Morris Dam to identify mitigation solutions.
• Medium Priority
o (WL1) Morris Dam Capacity Improvements. Increase the Morris Dam height to increase reservoir capacity.

2.3.3 Drought
• High Priority
o (WL4) Groundwater System Enhancements. Enhancements to the groundwater system to increase capacity & storage of the system.
o (WL5) Water Storage Capacity Improvements. Upgrade existing storage by developing new sites and expanding existing.

2.3.4 Earthquake
• Medium Priority
o (WL6) Gas Line Shutoff Valves. Install gas line shutoff valves on all city facilities. (past action ma-EQ-WL-267)
o (WL7) Seismic Risk Inspections. Conduct seismic inspections of city facilities to determine what retrofits are needed to make facilities more resilient to seismic events. (past action ma-EQ-WL-294)
o (WL8) Retrofit Critical Facilities. Retrofit / Harden city-owned critical facilities and buildings and their ability to withstand earthquakes. (past action ma-EQ-WL-268) Mendocino County Hazard Mitigation Plan
City of Willits Jurisdictional Annex
Mitigation Strategy 9
o (WL9) Private Critical Facility Assessments. Encourage privately owned critical facilities to evaluate the ability of the buildings to withstand earthquakes and to address any deficiencies identified. (past action ma-EQ-WL-270) o (WL31) Improve Water Supply. Implement water supply contingency projects, explore and acquire alternative water supplies, and retrofit water supply systems in order to improve water supply and delivery and conserve water. (ma-DR-WL264) o (WL33) Drought-Resistant Landscaping. Replace existing water intensive landscaping with drought resistant landscaping. (ma-DR-WL-265)

2.3.5 Extreme Cold or Freeze
• Low Priority
o (WL10) Warming Center Educational Campaign. Develop an educational campaign to inform at-risk populations annually during the Winter about warming center resources. Efforts will include coordination with warming centers operated by local nonprofits and religious organizations.

2.3.6 Extreme Heat
• High Priority
o (WL11) Cooling Center Educational Campaign. Develop an educational campaign to inform at-risk populations annually during the Summer about cooling center resources. Efforts will include coordination with cooling centers operated by local nonprofits and religious organizations.

2.3.7 Flood (Inland)
• High Priority
o (WL12) Automatic Annual Maintenance Permits. Coordinate automatic annual maintenance permits from CDFW to allow the city to implement mitigation. o (WL13) Private Property Owner Waterway Maintenance. Coordinate with private property owners on maintenance of local waterways (Caltrans Outlet Creek & Skunk Train Creek along Walnut)
o (WL37) Stormwater Channel Inspection Program. Routinely inspect storm water channels for vegetation build up or encroachment, trash and debris, silt and gravel build up, and erosion or bank failure. (ma-EW-WL-272) o (WL43) Continued NFIP Participation. Continue to participate in the NFIP program by enforcing the floodplain management ordinance to reduce future flood damage. In addition, join the Community Rating System (CRS) program. A community that participates in additional floodplain management activities, such as those outlined in the CRS program, will reduce flood losses, facilitate accurate insurance rating, and promote awareness of flood insurance. (ma-FL-WL-103) • Medium Priority
Mendocino County Hazard Mitigation Plan
City of Willits Jurisdictional Annex
Mitigation Strategy 10
o (WL14) Reduce Flooding Exposure. Acquire, relocate, or elevate residential structures, in particular those that have been identified as Repetitive Loss (RL) properties that are located within the 100-year floodplain. There is one Repetitive Loss structure in the city. (past action ma-FL-WL-93) o (WL15) Elevate & Retrofit Bridges and Culverts. Elevate and retrofit bridges and culverts to allow proper stormwater/100-YR flows. (past action ma-FL-MCOE274) o (WL35) Floodproofing & Drainage System Assessment. Perform a feasibility study for flood proofing options and analyze the drainage systems city-wide. (ma-EWWL-271) o (WL41) Water System Retrofits. Retrofit wastewater and potable water facilities that are subject to flooding. Retrofitting activities may include elevating vulnerable equipment, electrical controls, and other equipment, fastening and sealing manhole covers to prevent floodwater infiltration, and protecting wells and other potable water from infiltration and flood damage by raising controls and well pipes. (ma-FL-WL-96)

2.3.8 Mass Earth Movements
• High Priority
o (WL16) Brooktrail Access Road Landslide Mitigation. Construct improvements to the Brooktrail access road to eliminate mass earth movement risk.

2.3.9 Severe Storms
• Medium Priority
o (WL17) Lightning Impact Study of the Water System. Develop an annual public education campaign to launch in the Spring encouraging tree and limb mitigation to reduce impacts to private residents.
o (WL39) Tree Removal Program. Implement a tree removal program for trees that are at a high risk to snapping in wind events around city facilities and infrastructure. (ma-EW-WL-273)
• Low Priority
o (WL18) Tree Maintenance Educational Campaign. Scoping for mitigation options to reduce/eliminate lightning strike impacts on water treatment systems.

2.3.10 Tsunami
No known hazard areas within the local government’s boundaries. No perceived risk, therefore, not a mitigation priority.

2.3.11 Wildfire
• High Priority
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o (WL20) Home Wildfire Mitigation Educational Campaign. Develop an annual public education campaign focused on encouraging structural hardening and defensible space to be broadcast from the Spring through Fall. o (WL22) Harden City Facilities. Retrofit city facilities with fireproof building materials to better withstand potential impacts of wildfire. (past action ma-WFWL-275) o (WL24) Water Plant & Airport Defensible Space. Regularly implement defensible space treatments for the water treatment plant and on the airport grounds. o (WL45) Vegetation Management Program. Develop a vegetation management program to remove understory brush and excessive fuels around city roads, evacuation routes, and buildings. (ma-WF-WL-284)
• Medium Priority
o (WL19) General Plan Wildfire Annex. Develop a Wildfire Annex to the EOP Element to address evacuation and sheltering.
o (WL21) Under-resourced Resident Vegetation Management. Create a vegetation management program that provides vegetation management services to elderly, disabled, or low-income property owners who lack the resources to remove flammable vegetation from around their homes. (past action ma-WF-WL-92) o (WL23) Implement Mendocino County CWPP. Implement Mendocino County CWPP Mitigation Projects (Battalion 2: Willits), including a shaded fuel break to protect the Willits water system, and replace 1 aging fire apparatus. (past action ma-WF-WL-288)

2.3.12 Multi-Hazard
• Medium Priority
o (WL29) Vulnerable Population Outreach. Conduct outreach to the general public to better understand where vulnerable populations live within the City of Willits so that they can be better served by the city with hazard-related outreach. (maAH-WL-260) • Low Priority
o (WL25) Expedited Generator Permitting. Develop a program that allows for an expedited permitting and review process for backup power generation at facilities that are considered critical during a natural disaster (grocery stores, gas stations, cell/communication towers). (ma-AH-WL-258)
o (WL27) Expedited Permitting for Home Retrofits. Develop a program that creates incentives, through expedited permitting/review and reduced/waived permit fees, for homeowners and business owners to retrofit their homes and businesses to be more resilient to natural disasters. (ma-AH-WL-259) Mendocino County Hazard Mitigation Plan
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Mitigation Strategy 12

2.4 Mitigation Capabilities
Planning and regulatory, administrative and technical, financial, and education and outreach capabilities are powerful tools for implementing hazard mitigation. The city currently utilizes or has implemented many of these capabilities, as shown in the lists below.

2.4.1 Planning and Regulatory Capabilities
• Building Codes (Year)
o 2022 California Building Code
• Zoning Ordinance
• Subdivision Ordinance
• Hazard-Specific Ordinance
o Earthquake Hazard Reduction in Existing Buildings. (Ch. 15.36) Floodplain Combining (Ch. 17.40); Subdivision Standards. (§ 17.40.110); Natural Hazard Combining. (Ch. 17.46)
• Site Plan Review Requirements
• Capital Improvement Program or Plan (CIP)
• Erosion / Sediment Control Program
o Erosion and sediment procedures designated in Design and Construction Standards, 2009
• Seismic Safety Program (Non-Structural)
o Updated seismic safety procedures identified in General Plan Safety Element update
• General Plan Safety Element
o 2019 Update
• Community Wildfire Protection Plan (CWPP)
o Participated in the Mendocino County CWPP 2025
• Local Emergency Operations Plan
• National Flood Insurance Program (NFIP) Participant
o Entry Date: 7/19/82
• Floodplain Ordinance
o Floodway Combining (-FW) Zone. (Ch. 17.38)
• Flood Insurance Study
• Flood Insurance Rate Map/DFIRM
o Current Effective Map: 9/19/2025
o Initial FIRM Identified: 7/19/1982

2.4.2 Administrative and Technical Capabilities
• Planner/Engineer (Land Development)
• Engineer/Professional (Construction)
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Mitigation Strategy 13
• Floodplain Administrator
• Public Information Officer
• Emergency Manager
• Building Official
• Grant Writing / Management
• Warning Systems / Services (general)
o The city uses MendoAlert & Nixle for all general emergencies. • Mutual Aid

2.4.3 Financial Capabilities
• Utilities Fees
• Stormwater Service Fees
• Capital Improvement Project Funding

2.4.4 Education and Outreach Capabilities
• Social Media
• Fire Safe Councils
o The Mendocino County Fire Safe Council assists local councils with a variety of needs, including Pine Mountain, Ridgewood Park, and Sherwood in the Willits area.

2.4.5 Capability Enhancements
The city plans to expand several specific capabilities over the next five years, as outlined in the 2026 Mitigation Actions section, which also details initiatives that strengthen these mitigation efforts. The city would like to enhance staffing capacity to lead grant pursuits and grant management efforts, in addition to leading development of other required emergency management-related plans.

2.5 Compliance with Floodplain Requirements
TABLE 1 details the city's current policy coverage. As of July 31, 2025, 3 policy claims had been made and paid, totaling $22,895 in payments. The city has one repetitive loss property and no severe loss properties.

Table 1 City of Willits NFIP Participation and Insurance Details Date of Entry Initial FHBM
Identified
Initial FIRM
Identified
Policies in
Force
Total
Coverage
7/19/1982 2/8/1974 7/19/1982 25 $6,870,000
Source: FEMA Community Status Book and OpenFEMA
The city’s NFIP compliance is implemented through the following designations:

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Mitigation Strategy 14
• The City of Willits Building Official has been appointed as the Floodplain Administrator to implement and enforce the provisions of Chapter 17.40 Floodplain Management Ordinance of the City Municipal Code and other appropriate Sections of 44 CFR (National Flood Insurance Program regulations) pertaining to floodplain management.

2.6 Planning Integration
Integrating the HMP into other planning mechanisms is crucial for effectively implementing the mitigation strategy. This also benefits communities by preventing conflicts among planning documents. The city incorporated the 2021 HMP into its Land Use Element Update.

Additionally, the city plans to incorporate the updated HMP into several efforts, including the Safety Element Update, the EOP Element Update, and annual Capital Improvement Plan updates.

2.6.1 Incorporation of Existing Plans and Information
All HMP-relevant existing plans, studies, reports, data, and technical information were reviewed during the planning process. The following list provides an overview of how City of Willits resources were incorporated into the 2026 HMP. Refer to the Base Plan for a complete list of existing plans and information that was incorporated into this HMP. • These plans helped to inform the hazard profiles:
o City of Willits Draft Safety Element 2019
o City of Willits Adopted Housing Element 2019-2027

2.7 Continuing Public Engagement
The City of Willits plans to continue public hazard and mitigation engagement through the following tools:
• Hazard education and booth materials at multiple public events held in the Spring through Fall
• Safety and EOP Element update public engagement events • Informational posting on the city website
• Public events partnered with the county and community FireWise efforts

2.8 Changes in Community Priorities
The City of Willits Steering Committee has noticed increased public attention pertaining to wildfire risk and mitigation following the nearby 2020 Oak Fire.

2.8.1 Development Trends
The City of Willits does not anticipate future development increasing vulnerability to inundation, drought, floodplains, extreme temperatures, or severe storms, as new development will meet current building codes, though exposure may increase with growth.

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Future development will increase exposure to mass earth movements and wildfires; however, wildfire risk can be reduced through defensible space and home hardening measures.

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3 Hazard Identification and Risk Assessment

3.1 Hazard Risk Ranking
TABLE 2 shows the rankings for the City of Willits. Due to the city’s inland location away from the coast and lack of past event impacts it was determined that coastal hazards and tsunamis are not a mitigation priority.

Table 2 City of Willits Hazard Risk Ranking
Hazard Risk Rank
Coastal Hazards (Flood, Sea-level rise,
Erosion)
Not Applicable
Dam & Levee Incidents Moderate
Drought High
Earthquake High
Extreme Cold or Freeze Moderate
Extreme Heat Moderate
Flood (Inland) Moderate
Mass Earth Movements (landslides, rock falls,
debris flows)
Moderate
Severe Storms Low
Tsunami Not Applicable
Wildfire High

3.2 Exposure Analysis

3.2.1 Lifelines
The lifeline analysis for the City of Willits identified 42 total structures within city boundaries, as summarized below and shown in FIGURE 2. “Footprint” hazards, those with clearly defined boundaries, were evaluated to determine the number and types of community lifelines exposed within these areas. In addition, local narratives highlight critical facility assets not captured in the quantitative analysis, providing important context for understanding community vulnerabilities.

1. Safety and Security: 11 locations

2. Food, Hydration, Shelter: 7 locations

3. Health and Medical: 7 locations
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4. Energy: 0 locations

5. Communications: 0 locations

6. Transportation: 15 locations

7. Hazardous Materials: 2 locations

8. Water Systems: 0 locations
Beyond exposure analysis, the City of Willits Steering Committee also identified general infrastructure concerns relevant to all hazards, listed below. • Many cell towers lack backup power generation, which is deemed a critical life/safety threat for people without landlines.
• The City of Willits does not have a functioning redundant communications system. • Many critical local businesses (grocery stores, gas stations) lack backup power generation.
• Many property owners lack the funding to retrofit their homes and businesses to be more resilient to natural disasters.
• The city does not know where vulnerable populations live, making hazard-related outreach difficult.
• The city lacks an alternative north/south evacuation route through the city should Main St. be compromised during an emergency.

Mendocino County Hazard Mitigation Plan
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Figure 2 FEMA Lifelines in the City of Willits
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3.2.2 Structure Inventory
An analysis was also conducted on parcels exposed to various footprint hazards affecting the City of Willits. Because this analysis was performed at the parcel level, any parcel with even a portion intersecting a hazard area is considered at risk. Consequently, structures located on these parcels may not be directly within the hazard zone. A summary of the total parcel inventory for the City of Willits is provided in TABLE 3 and illustrated in FIGURE 3.

Table 3 Total Structures in the City of Willits
Use Type Parcel Count Land Value Improved Value
Commercial 268 $46,918,048 $149,332,330
Industrial 115 $15,674,352 $26,530,470
Institutional 36 $3,316,675 $15,878,414
Miscellaneous 33 $158,792 $0
Residential 1,490 $97,463,836 $223,042,540
Rural 50 $3,302,965 $1,721,289
No Data 111 $2,777,659 $3,987,354
Total 2,103 $169,612,327 $420,492,397
Source: The County of Mendocino Assessor’s Office and GIS Department Mendocino County Hazard Mitigation Plan
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Figure 3 Parcels in the City of Willits
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3.3 Dam & Levee Failure

3.3.1 Past Events
There are no documented dam or levee incidents that have impacted the City of Willits. For regional dam trends across Mendocino County, see Section 4.6 Dam and Levee Incidents of the County Base Plan.

3.3.2 Location
There are no dam inundation areas within the City of Willits. However, Scout Lake Dam, situated east of the city, is classified as a high-hazard dam and could potentially cause flooding in areas to the east, possibly blocking nearby egress routes. These dams and inundation zones are depicted in FIGURE 4 below.

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Figure 4 Dam Inundation Areas in the City of Willits
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3.3.3 Local Exposure and Vulnerability
Older adults, people with disabilities, low-income households, and residents without reliable transportation may face greater difficulty receiving warnings or responding in time.

3.3.3.1 Community Lifelines
The community lifeline analysis determined that there are no dam inundation zones within the City of Willits, so no community lifelines within the city are at risk from dam-related flooding.

However, the Steering Committee pointed out that the city's wastewater treatment plant, which serves city residents, is actually located in an inundation area outside the city limits.

3.3.3.2 Parcels
There are no dam inundation areas within the City of Willits, and therefore, no parcels are exposed to dam-related flooding hazards.

3.4 Drought

3.4.1 Past Events
According to records from the U.S. Drought Monitor, during the 1,305-week period from January 1, 2000, through January 1, 2025, the City of Willits spent 647 weeks (50% of the time period) in some level of drought, defined as Abnormally Dry (D0) or worse conditions. This period includes 486 weeks of Severe Drought (D2),114 weeks of Extreme Drought (D3), and 43 weeks of Exceptional Drought (D4). FIGURE 5 illustrates these periods of extreme and exceptional drought, including the duration of these occurrences and the range of affected county percentages.

Figure 5 Periods of Drought in the City of Willits, January 2000 – January 2025

3.4.2 Location
The entire City of Willits is vulnerable to drought impacts.

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Hazard Identification and Risk Assessment 24

3.4.3 Local Exposure and Vulnerability
The Steering Committee notes several vulnerabilities to drought within the city, listed below. • Drought can lead to water supply issues for the city. • The city lacks a backup water supply should the primary surface water supply be impacted by a natural disaster.
• Public facilities may use more water than needed for basic function such as parks and landscaping.
• There is an opportunity for the city land use code to include more requirements for developers to install drought tolerant landscaping.
• The 2025 Drought Resiliency Plan lists the City of Willits as one of the county's locations with the highest density of at-risk domestic wells and are high-risk for degraded water quality.
• Older adults, medically fragile residents, low-income households, renters, and residents with limited English proficiency may have fewer resources to adapt. These impacts may be more difficult for households already facing economic or health-related stress.

3.5 Earthquake

3.5.1 Past Events
The City of Willits has experienced several notable earthquake events, though most have been moderate in magnitude. The most significant historical event was a magnitude 4.8 earthquake on November 22, 1977, which produced measurable shaking in the area.1 Since then, smaller earthquakes have been recorded near Willits, including a magnitude 3.4 event in December 2020 and a magnitude 3.3 event north of Willits in July 2024, with light shaking reported and no significant damage2. Additional moderate earthquakes, ranging from approximately magnitude

3.7 to 3.9, occurred within 10–15 miles of Willits between 2018 and 2021, alongside smaller tremors in the 1.8–2.7 magnitude range typical of ongoing regional seismic activity3.

Refer to Section 4.8 Earthquake, Table 18, of the Base Plan for a list of past earthquake events that have impacted Mendocino County and the City of Willits.

3.5.2 Location
The City of Willits lies near the Maacama Fault zone. Refer to Section 4.8 of the Base Plan for the location of fault lines in the county that could cause earthquake events in the city. 1 THE WILLITS, CALIFORNIA, MAGNITUDE-4.8 EARTHQUAKE OF NOVEMBER 22, 1977 | U.S. GEOLOGICAL SURVEY 2 LATE-NIGHT QUAKE RATTLES WILLITS — USGS REPORTS MAGNITUDE 3.4 • THE MENDOCINO VOICE | MENDOCINO COUNTY, CA 3 SMALL EARTHQUAKE SHAKES WILLITS • THE MENDOCINO VOICE | MENDOCINO COUNTY, CA Mendocino County Hazard Mitigation Plan
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3.5.3 Local Exposure and Vulnerability
The Steering Committee notes several vulnerabilities to earthquakes within the city, listed below.
• City facilities lack seismic shut-off valves to prevent gas leaking in a seismic event. • Older construction and particularly unreinforced masonry (URM) are at a higher risk of experiencing damage during earthquakes.
• Historic buildings can be more susceptible to ground shaking since many of these buildings have weakened with age and were built before the use of building codes. • The City lacks staff to handle the volume life/safety building inspections after major disasters.
• City facilities have not been inspected for seismic safety in many years. • Renters, older adults, people with disabilities, and lower-income households may face greater challenges evacuating, sheltering, and recovering.

3.6 Extreme Cold or Freeze

3.6.1 Past Events
The City of Willits has an average minimum temperature of approximately 40°F annually. While these temperatures are generally above freezing at 32°F, the city has experienced lows reaching the mid‑20s °F during extreme cold events, such as the freeze warnings in March 2025 when temperatures dropped as low as 25°F.4 According to regional climate data and historical reports, Willits has experienced multiple frost and freeze events in recent years, including warnings in October 2024, March 2025, and November 2025.5 These events can impact sensitive vegetation, agriculture, and outdoor plumbing, particularly for local crops and gardens that are vulnerable to frost damage.

3.6.2 Location
The entire City of Willits is vulnerable to the impacts of extreme cold or freeze.

3.6.3 Local Exposure and Vulnerability
The Steering Committee noted the greatest concerns with under-resourced or socially vulnerable populations, who would benefit from formalized warming centers. Older adults, people with disabilities, people experiencing homelessness, and medically dependent residents may be more vulnerable.

There are no concerns with any specific critical infrastructure, though pipe freezing can impact all structures.
4 TUESDAY MORNING FREEZE WARNING, FROST ADVISORY ISSUED FOR MENDOCINO COUNTY • THE MENDOCINO VOICE | MENDOCINO

COUNTY, CA
5 FRIDAY MORNING FREEZE, FROST WARNINGS ISSUED FOR ENTIRE COUNTY • THE MENDOCINO VOICE | MENDOCINO COUNTY, CA Mendocino County Hazard Mitigation Plan
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3.7 Extreme Heat

3.7.1 Past Events
The City of Willits experiences warm to hot summers, with average high temperatures in July around 84 °F. The highest recorded temperature in Willits in recent years was 106°F on July 12, 2022. Willits also falls within inland Mendocino County regions that have been subject to excessive heat warnings during summer heat waves, with forecasted temperatures exceeding 100 °F, posing risks to public health and local infrastructure.6

3.7.2 Location
The entire City of Willits is vulnerable to the impacts of extreme heat.

3.7.3 Local Exposure and Vulnerability
The Steering Committee noted the greatest concerns with under-resourced or socially vulnerable populations, who would benefit from formalized cooling centers. Older adults, AFN populations, residents with chronic health conditions, outdoor workers, people experiencing homelessness, and households without reliable cooling or transportation may be most vulnerable.

There are no concerns with any specific critical infrastructure.

3.8 Flood (Inland)

3.8.1 Past Events
The National Center for Environmental Information (NCEI) database recorded a significant flood event on December 30, 2022, that impacted several locations in and around Willits. These flooding-related closures include the East Barbara Lane Bridge at Railroad Avenue, eastbound East Valley Road, the corner of East Commercial Street and Lenmore Avenue, and Walnut Street between Locust Street and Poplar Avenue. Additionally, there were multiple reports of minor flooding along Highway 101 between Laytonville and Willits.

3.8.2 Location
A map of the FEMA flood zones and the Floodplain Awareness Zones in the City of Willits is shown in FIGURE 6 below. This flooding is primarily caused by local valley drainage from multiple small creeks that converge in the Little Lake Valley.
6 EXCESSIVE HEAT WARNING ISSUED WITH 106+ DEGREE TEMPS FORECAST FOR INLAND MENDOCINO COUNTY; LIGHTNING REPORTED (UPDATED 5:07 P.M.) • THE MENDOCINO VOICE | MENDOCINO COUNTY, CA Mendocino County Hazard Mitigation Plan
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Figure 6 Flood Zones in City of Willits
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3.8.3 Local Exposure and Vulnerability
The Steering Committee noted the city’s wastewater treatment facility routinely floods during heavy rain events. City buildings and roads are impacted by localized flooding, including pooling of water after heavy rain events. Heavy rain events lead to natural drainage channels becoming choked with debris and gravel, which reduces their ability to convey stormwater downstream and leads to localized flooding on city roads.

People in lower-cost housing, rental units, or mobile homes may face greater exposure.

Residents with limited mobility, income, transportation, or English proficiency may need additional support to receive warnings, evacuate, and recover.

3.8.3.1 Community Lifelines
The lifeline analysis of facilities within floodplain zones indicates limited overall exposure.

Lifeline facilities were identified in flood-prone areas, including 6 in the 100-year floodplain, 7 in the 500-year floodplain, and 3 in floodplain awareness zones. Additionally, 2 Safety and Security facilities are located within the 500-year floodplain.

3.8.3.2 Parcels
The parcel analysis for the 100- and 500-year floodplains is presented in TABLE 4, with exposure to flood awareness zones detailed in TABLE 5. Across all flood hazard areas, residential structures make up the majority of exposed buildings.

Table 4 Willits Parcels in the 100-Year and 500-Year Floodplain Use Type Parcel Count Land Value Improved Value
Commercial 39 $8,426,776 $16,653,705
Industrial 35 $6,104,505 $11,300,552
Institutional 6 $868,369 $2,897,401
Miscellaneous 14 $108,924 $0
Residential 141 $8,246,138 $26,953,261
Rural 15 $387,039 $479,544
No Data 21 $333,052 $160,862
100-Year
Floodplain Total 271 $24,474,803 $58,445,325
Commercial 44 $8,320,456 $14,024,326
Industrial 34 $5,803,291 $10,680,043
Institutional 8 $982,864 $4,062,284
Miscellaneous 14 $108,527 $0
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Use Type Parcel Count Land Value Improved Value
Residential 254 $16,052,972 $46,147,122
Rural 15 $387,039 $479,544
No Data 31 $717,950 $945,661
500-Year
Floodplain Total 400 $32,373,099 $76,338,980
Source: The County of Mendocino Assessor’s Office and GIS Department Table 5 Willits Parcels in Floodplain Awareness Zones
Use Type Parcel Count Land Value Improved Value
Commercial 19 $6,013,880 $9,559,375
Industrial 13 $3,493,511 $5,401,420
Institutional 2 $189,866 $1,476,794
Miscellaneous 5 $18,314 $0
Residential 61 $6,570,968 $15,972,041
Rural 8 $1,021,966 $649,397
No Data 12 $308,128 $156,219
Total 120 $17,616,633 $33,215,246
Source: The County of Mendocino Assessor’s Office and GIS Department

3.9 Mass Movements: Landslide, Rock Falls, & Debris Flows

3.9.1 Past Events
Numerous landslide incidents have been documented throughout Mendocino County, with several resulting in official disaster declarations for the region. For details on these events, see Section 4.12 Mass Earth Movements: Landslides, Rock Falls, & Debris Flows of the Base Plan.

More specific to the City of Willits, a small landslide occurred in December 2016 near the southbound on‑ramp at the south end of the Willits Highway 101 bypass. The slide involved unstable soils on the hillside above the roadway and has been monitored by Caltrans as an ongoing issue.
7 3.9.2 Location
The City of Willits Safety Element identifies landslide hazard zones around the city, particularly in the southern and western hillside areas, indicating the potential for landslides and slope 7 SMALL SLIDE AT SOUTH END OF WILLITS BYPASS • THE MENDOCINO VOICE | MENDOCINO COUNTY, CA Mendocino County Hazard Mitigation Plan
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instability during heavy rain or seismic events. The Steering Committee also noted that the Brooktrails area is frequently impacted by these hazard events. These risk areas are shown in FIGURE 7 below.

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Figure 7 Landslide Risk Areas in the City of Willits

3.9.3 Local Exposure and Vulnerability
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The Steering Committee noted that there are continual issues with landslides and road slumping in Brooktrails, which could impact around 3,500 residents and numerous others accessing the area. People with limited mobility, limited transportation, or limited access to emergency information may be more affected.

3.9.3.1 Community Lifelines
The community lifeline analysis found that only two facilities are located within high to very high landslide risk areas: one Safety & Security facility and one Food, Hydration, and Shelter facility. This indicates limited overall exposure of critical infrastructure to landslide hazards. No debris flow or rockfall hazard areas have been mapped within the city boundaries.

3.9.3.2 Parcels
The parcel analysis for the City of Willits is summarized below in TABLE 6. Residential structures make up the largest category of buildings exposed to high to very high landslide risk areas.

Table 6 Willits Parcels Exposed to Landslides (High-Very High Risk Areas) Use Type Parcel Count Land Value Improved Value
Commercial 39 $10,361,934 $19,138,726
Industrial 19 $4,790,835 $4,840,548
Institutional 9 $308,914 $3,481,687
Miscellaneous 11 $113,901 $0
Residential 403 $29,714,877 $61,841,087
Rural 22 $2,841,146 $1,398,894
No Data 47 $760,941 $1,385,154
Total 550 $48,892,548 $92,086,096
Source: The County of Mendocino Assessor’s Office and GIS Department

3.10 Severe Storms

3.10.1 Past Events
The following records are noted in the NCEI Storm Events database as severe storm events directly impacting the City of Willits or the vicinity of Willits. None of these events have records of casualties.
• April 30, 1998 - Sustained winds ranged from 25 to 35 mph, with gusts reaching up to 51 mph just five miles southwest of Willits.
• September 21, 2022 - A mid to upper-level low-pressure system drifted south and settled off the north-central California coast. On the 18th, widespread rain fell, including periods of heavier rainfall. Over the next few days, scattered showers and isolated Mendocino County Hazard Mitigation Plan
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Hazard Identification and Risk Assessment 33
thunderstorms developed. One particularly intense shower dropped more than 2.5 inches of rain in 45 minutes near Willits, causing flooding on the Willits Bypass and bringing traffic to a halt; water receded quickly after the storm passed. Multiple Special Weather Statements (SPSs) and Flood Advisories (FLAs) were issued during these days in response to stronger thunderstorms and heavy rain.

December 19, 2022 - Late December brought a multi-day atmospheric river event to Northwest California, delivered by deep-layer westerly flow along a stationary frontal boundary positioned zonally. Heavy rain and strong winds impacted the region widely.

Rain triggered a rockslide onto HWY 101 between Willits and Redwood Valley, leaving rocks covering half of the highway's lanes.

March 1, 2024 - A significant trough caused hail showers and substantial snowfall across Northwest California. Several feet of snow accumulated in mountainous areas, while hail led to many traffic incidents along the coastline. Wind damage knocked out power for 220 customers four miles north-northwest of Willits. The public reported a tree falling onto a car roughly four miles NNW of Willits.

March 3, 2024 - Another deep trough brought more widespread hail showers and heavy mountain snow to the region. Numerous traffic accidents were reported on the coast due to hail, and law enforcement noted trees and rocks strewn across the roadway eight miles west-southwest of Willits.

3.10.2 Location
The entire City of Willits is at risk of severe storm events.

3.10.3 Local Exposure and Vulnerability
The Willits Steering Committee developed the following problem statements, which identify local vulnerability to severe storm events.
• The city’s wastewater treatment facility is susceptible to flooding during heavy rain events.
• City buildings and roads are impacted by localized flooding, including pooling of water after heavy rain events.
• Heavy rain events lead to natural drainage channels becoming choked with debris and gravel, which reduces their ability to convey stormwater downstream and leads to localized flooding on city roads and private property.
• Strong winds can blow over trees and utility lines, posing a threat to traffic and pedestrians and leading to power outages.
• Older adults, medically dependent residents, people with disabilities, mobile home residents, and households without backup power or reliable transportation may be more vulnerable.

Mendocino County Hazard Mitigation Plan
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3.11 Wildfire

3.11.1 Past Events
Several wildfire events have impacted areas in or near the City of Willits since the previous HMP update. Narratives describing these significant events are provided below. In addition, wildfire incidents reported by the National Interagency Fire Center (NIFC) are shown in FIGURE 8. • September 2020: Oak Fire - A significant wildfire ignited north of Brooktrails (near Willits), burning approximately 1,100 acres, destroying 56 structures, and prompting mandatory evacuations of over 3,200 residents in the Brooktrails/Willits area. The fire crossed U.S. Highway 101, leading to school closures and poor air quality in Willits.8 During one of the days, the wildfire smoke blocked out the sun for a few hours. • September 2022: Walker Fire - A wildfire burned south of Willits near Highway 101 and Walker Road, growing to around 124 acres. Evacuation warnings were issued for nearby subdivisions, including Pine Mountain and Ridgewood Road, but large-scale damage in the city was avoided.9
• August 2023: Golden Fire - A smaller wildfire ignited along Highway 101 south of Willits near Mill Creek, burning just over 11 acres before containment. No major damage or evacuations were reported, though traffic was temporarily affected.10 • July 2023: Ryan Fire - A wildfire started north of Willits near Ryan Creek Road, prompting fire response efforts that included aerial retardant drops and ground crews to slow its spread.11
• July 2024: Riley Fire - The Riley Fire burned near Camp Noyo, on the border between Fort Bragg and Willits, covering about 17.5 acres. Fire crews contained the fire without major structural damage.12
• July 2024: Rios Fire - A small wildfire near Highway 162 south of Dos Rios (near Willits) remained limited in size and did not develop into a larger incident. 8 OAK FIRE REMAINS AT 1100 ACRES, NOW 50% CONTAINED — FIVE LARGE STRUCTURES DESTROYED, 20 MINOR STRUCTURES — SEPT. 12 • THE MENDOCINO VOICE | MENDOCINO COUNTY, CA
9 WALKER FIRE REACHES 100% CONTAINMENT • THE MENDOCINO VOICE | MENDOCINO COUNTY, CA 10 "GOLDEN FIRE" AT U.S. HWY 101 SOUTH OF WILLITS NOW 50% CONTAINED (UPDATED 8/28) • THE MENDOCINO VOICE |

MENDOCINO COUNTY, CA
11 [UPDATE 7:26 P.M.] ‘RYAN’ FIRE IGNITES NORTH OF WILLITS - REDHEADED BLACKBELT 12 RILEY FIRE MORNING REPORT: WILDFIRE WEST OF WILLITS 60 PERCENT CONTAINED AT 17.5 ACRES • THE MENDOCINO VOICE |

MENDOCINO COUNTY, CA
Mendocino County Hazard Mitigation Plan
City of Willits Jurisdictional Annex
Hazard Identification and Risk Assessment 35
Figure 8 Historical Wildfires in the City of Willits

3.11.2 Location
Mendocino County Hazard Mitigation Plan
City of Willits Jurisdictional Annex
Hazard Identification and Risk Assessment 36
Fire Hazard Severity Zones (FHSZ) classify areas as having moderate, high, or very high wildfire hazard based on factors such as fuel loading, slope, fire weather, and wind conditions that influence fire behavior and spread (CAL FIRE). State Responsibility Areas (SRA) are generally rural or undeveloped lands where CAL FIRE provides wildland fire protection, while Local Responsibility Areas (LRA) are more developed areas where fire protection is provided by local fire agencies. For the purposes of this analysis, SRA and LRA were mapped together to provide full coverage of the planning area. Risk analysis focused on assets located within high to very high FHSZ, which represents the greatest wildfire hazard. FIGURE 9 shows the Fire Hazard Severity Zones in the City of Willits.

Mendocino County Hazard Mitigation Plan
City of Willits Jurisdictional Annex
Hazard Identification and Risk Assessment 37
Figure 9 Fire Hazard Severity Zones in the City of Willits Mendocino County Hazard Mitigation Plan
City of Willits Jurisdictional Annex
Hazard Identification and Risk Assessment 38

3.11.3 Local Exposure and Vulnerability
Older adults, people with disabilities, residents without reliable vehicles, renters, lower-income households, and people with respiratory conditions may face greater challenges during response and recovery.

3.11.3.1 Community Lifelines
CAL FIRE designates Fire Hazard Severity Zones within the City of Willits. Within these high- to very high-risk areas, there are four transportation-related critical facilities. Additionally, the City of Willits Steering Committee noted that many city-owned buildings are of older construction and may require retrofitting or hardening to better withstand wildfire impacts. In addition, excessive vegetation and fuel loads are present around critical facilities, including the water treatment plant and the airport, which serves as an emergency evacuation area, increasing potential wildfire risk.

3.11.3.2 Parcels
The parcel analysis for the City of Willits is summarized below in TABLE 7. Residential structures represent the largest category of buildings exposed to high to very high wildfire risk.

Table 7 Willits Parcels Exposed to Wildfire Risk Areas (High-Very High Risk) Use Type Parcel Count Land Value Improved Value
Commercial 10 $1,159,136 $63,000,236
Industrial 19 $3,481,085 $6,532,255
Institutional 3 $242,421 $597,567
Miscellaneous 4 $19,053 $0
Residential 347 $22,546,173 $57,419,169
Rural 13 $589,624 $457,884
No Data 19 $247,967 $358,604
Total 415 $28,285,459 $128,365,715
Source: The County of Mendocino Assessor’s Office and GIS Department Mendocino County Hazard Mitigation Plan
City of Willits Jurisdictional Annex
Appendix A Adoption Resolution 39
Appendix A Adoption Resolution

ATTACHMENT A
RESOLUTION NO. 2026-__

A RESOLUTION OF THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF WILLITS ADOPTING THE CITY OF WILLITS PLANNING PARTNER ANNEX OF THE 2026 MENDOCINO COUNTY MULTIJURISDICTIONAL HAZARD MITIGATION PLAN WHEREAS, the City of Willits recognizes the threat that natural hazards pose to people and property within the City of Willits; and
WHEREAS, the City of Willits has prepared a multi-hazard mitigation plan, hereby known as The City of Willits Planning Partner Annex of the 2026 Mendocino County Multi-Jurisdictional Hazard Mitigation Plan in accordance with federal laws, including the Robert T. Stafford Disaster Relief and Emergency Assistance Act, as amended; the National Flood Insurance Act of 1968, as amended; and the National Dam Safety Program Act, as amended; and FEMA requirements at 44 C.F.R. 201.6; and
WHEREAS, City of Willits Planning Partner Annex of the 2026 Mendocino County MultiJurisdictional Hazard Mitigation Plan identifies mitigation goals and actions to reduce or eliminate long-term risk to people and property in the City of Willits from the impacts of future hazards and disasters; and
WHEREAS, adoption by the City of Willits demonstrates its commitment to hazard mitigation and achieving the goals outlined in the City of Willits Planning Partner Annex of the 2026 Mendocino County Multi-Jurisdictional Hazard Mitigation Plan.

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

Section 1. Recitals
A. The above recitals are true and correct and are incorporated herein as findings of the Willits City Council.

B. The Willits City Council adopts The City of Willits Planning Partner Annex of the 2026 Mendocino County Multi-Jurisdictional Hazard Mitigation Plan, as approved by FEMA. Subsequent plan updates following the approval period for this plan will require separate adoption resolutions.

PASSED, APPROVED, AND ADOPTED, this 23rd day of September 2026.

THE CITY OF WILLITS
______________________________
Tom Allman, Mayor
Resolution No. 2026-__ Page 2 of 2 September 23, 2026
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 23rd day of September 2026, by the following vote:

AYES:

NOES:

ABSENT:
______________________________
Delores Pedersen, City Clerk
Achievements & Activities
• FY 2024-25 Audit Samples provided during onsite visit from Moss, Levy & Hartzheim • Data Collection for upcoming upgrade to VOIP infrastructure • Research and Development performed regarding Utility Billing Improvements with Springbrook
Project Updates
• None
Staffing Items
• The possibility of interns supplementing entry-level office tasks Focus for Next Month
• Finish FY 24-25 Audit / Report
• Implementation of Water / Sewer Rates
• Changing Mobile Carriers for Savings
Administrative Services August 2026 | Report
1 Monthly Achievements & Activities
● The City worked with the FAA to submit two grant applications. One for a Wildlife Hazard Site Visit, which will identify the presence of wildlife such as deer, turkeys, rabbits, and other animals that frequent the Airport property and could potentially come into conflict with aircraft during movement. The data collected will provide justification to potentially seek Federal funding for planning and construction of additional fencing to secure the property and reduce the number of animals that congregate on the runway and taxiway. The second is to provide a study and assessment of the paved surfaces of the Airport. The study will allow the City to develop a Pavement Management Preservation Plan or PMPP. Once the data is quantified and the plan is adopted, it will allow the City to seek funding from the FAA to make repairs and improvements to the pavement surfaces: the runway, taxiway, and apron. ● The Airport Advisory Circular draft is being distributed to an additional tenant by request who was unable to attend the tenant meeting, although the six tenants who were present mutually agreed the simple document was adequate. Once the tenant who requested the opportunity has had a chance to provide input, the information in the Advisory Circular will be made available at the facility and through the City website. For transparency, the Circular is basic information regarding the Airport and not a regulatory requirement.

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 as time and resources allow.

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

Budget Status
● No Change.

AIRPORT – O28
AUGUST 2026 | Report
2 Focus for Next Month
● Continue to work with the FAA and Airport Consultants to secure Federal funding for grantfunded capital improvement projects. ● 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 itself several extensions to allow for adequate time to make a determination and has done so again. – ONGOING. ● Planning for potential repairs to the Segmented Circle. – ONGOING. ● Continue to monitor trailheads and access points.
● Finish the remaining annual hangar inspections; 7 have been completed. 1 Project Updates
• City Pool
o The City Pool officially closed for public use on September 11th, concluding another successful summer season. Staff would like to recognize Pool Manager Mattie Owen, our lifeguards, and supporting staff for another great season. Operation of the pool would not have been possible without the continued staff and financial support provided through the City's partnership with the Willits Unified School District.. • FAA Grant Award
o Staff has been awarded 2 grants from the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) for improvements at the Willits Municipal Airport:
• Pavement Management and Maintenance Plan (PMMP) with Geotechnical Report – $154,086 total project cost, including $146,382 in requested federal funding and a $7,704 local match. The PMMP will assess existing airport pavement conditions and identify and prioritize future maintenance and rehabilitation needs, providing a basis for planning and funding future airport pavement improvement projects. • Wildlife Hazard Site Visit – $29,678 total project cost, including $28,194 in requested federal funding and a $1,484 local match. The study will identify wildlife hazards and provide recommendations to improve airport safety and support future wildlife mitigation projects.
• CDBG Grant Award
o The City was awarded $1.8 million in 2025 Community Development Block Grant (CDBG) funding to support two activities:
 Business Loan Program – $1,500,000 to establish a new business assistance loan program supporting eligible local businesses.
 MCHC Planning Grant – $300,000 to support planning and design activities associated with Mendocino Community Health Clinic’s proposed medical campus o The City also requested CDBG funding for improvements to the Willits Grange, including roof replacement and ADA improvements; however, that project was not awarded funding through the 2025 CDBG funding cycle. The Grange was one of the three projects originally authorized for application by the City Council
o The City currently has an RFP out to secure consultant support for the Business Loan Program, including loan underwriting and related administrative services, as well as assistance with CDBG grant administration and reporting. o Grant funds are available to support both staff time and consultant services associated with administration of the CDBG-funded programs
• GIS Sewer Mapping
o Staff are coordinating with GraniteNet and the City's IT consultant to integrate the City's sewer asset information with ArcGIS Online.

Community Development August 2026 | Report
2 o Staff are working to identify the appropriate feature service and data access requirements necessary to make the sewer asset information available through the City's online GIS environment.
o Integration will provide the City with a centralized, map-based system for accessing sewer infrastructure and inspection information, helping staff identify infrastructure conditions, track maintenance needs, and prioritize future sewer repair and rehabilitation projects. • Housing Element and Safety Element
o Staff are developing a staff/consultant work program for preparation of the City's 2027– 2035 Housing Element as well as the Safety Element
o Staff anticipate completing portions of the update in-house, including public and stakeholder engagement and updates to goals, policies and programs, while utilizing consultant support for specialized technical and statutory requirements, including the sites inventory, demographic data, Fair Housing analysis and HCD compliance.

Staffing Items
• No items to report.

Budget Status
• No items to report.

Focus for Next Month
• LAFCO Municipal Service Review and SOI Amendment
o Continue coordination with LAFCO staff to develop the public draft Municipal Service Review and process the City's Sphere of Influence Amendment.
• Housing Element and Safety Element
o Finalize a staff/consultant work plan and consultant scope of work for preparation of the 2027–2035 Housing Element and associated Safety Element update. • Highway 20/Walker Sculpture
o Facilitate Art in Public Spaces Committee to review County request to place Walker Sculptures in the City Highway 20 Park.
• Highway 20 Corridor Study
o Coordinate with MCOG on initiation of the grant-funded Highway 20 Corridor Study to evaluate opportunities for pedestrian, bicycle, and other active transportation improvements along the Highway 20 corridor.
• Regional VMT Mitigation Program
o Continue coordination with MCOG on development of the Regional Vehicle Miles Traveled (VMT) Mitigation Program, including development of practical mitigation options and implementation strategies for local development projects. • Cannabis Dispensary Proposal Selection
o Facilitate Cannabis Dispensary Selection Committee meeting to complete proposal evaluations and select highest ranked proposal.
• GIS/Sewer Asset Management
o Continue coordination with GraniteNet and the City's IT consultant to establish integration of sewer asset and inspection information with ArcGIS Online. 3 Police Department August 2026 | Report
Monthly Achievements & Activities
August 2025 August 2026
• 911 Calls Received 66 56
• Calls for service (CFS) 520 464
• Cases 50 47
• Arrests 27 20
• Citations 38 16
• Traffic Stops 63 51
Project Updates
• As staffing allows, continued traffic safety education and enforcement, emphasizing school zones, pedestrians, speeding, passing on the right violations, and distracted driving. • A new patrol vehicle (pick-up) is in the process of being outfitted with emergency equipment. • Providing extra patrols in city parks and schools as time allows. • Increased Officer presence in the downtown area continues to focus on foot patrols and sidewalk pedestrian safety.

Staffing Items
• Police Officer Dendy continues to progress through the Field Training Program. • City Human Resources and the Department have opened a recruitment to fill a Police Officer vacancy. Interviews are scheduled for mid-September.

Abatement
• Staff have identified vehicles which may qualify for the Countywide Abandoned Vehicle Abatement (AVA) program.
1 Monthly Achievements & Activities
• Annual ditch clearing and storm drain evaluations are underway to prepare for the upcoming wet weather season. This will be a primary focus for the month. • The City continues to support the First Fridays Event hosted by the Willits Chamber of Commerce by providing traffic control equipment.
• New ADA-approved playground woodchips were purchased and spread at both the Recreation Grove and the City Park playgrounds. Each facility received an entire transfer load. • Multiple water distribution system leaks were repaired (SEE UTILITY REPORT FOR MORE DETAILS).
• Base rock and asphalt cold mix for utility and road repairs was ordered to restock the material bins. Sand for sandbags during flood events was also ordered. • An impact-resistant signpost was ordered for the ADA parking sign in the City Hall / Police Station parking lot.
• Tree trimming and vegetation removal for line of sight and sign visibility at various intersections was conducted as needed.
• The pedestrian crossing beacons on State St. x N. Main St. were repaired and are now functioning; a new button was installed, and the batteries were replaced as needed. • Roadside debris and trash reported by members of the public were collected at several locations. Transient camp clean-up and mitigation is ongoing. • The Recreation Grove and Snyder Park hosted several local events, the City provides the venues for multiple annual events and gatherings throughout the summer season.

Public Works AUGUST 2026 | Report
2 Project Updates
• The 1987 Ford Bucket Truck was taken to Peterson Caterpillar in Ukiah for an estimate on repair to the boom.
• The truncated dome was installed on the East Hill Rd. sidewalk section replaced by the City. • Several sprinklers at the Sports complex were replaced; 18 sprinklers were sent back to the manufacturer through the vendor they were purchased from for warranty replacement. • Public Works staff respond via dispatch through the Willits Police Department to address issues of concern regarding Public Safety or potentially hazardous conditions on a regular basis.

Public Works Maintenance Crew hours are from 6:00 A.M.- 2:30 P.M., M-F. ● The backup generator at the Corp yard was evaluated and is being serviced for winter standby. • The Maintenance Department responds to requests made through the 811 USA NORTH Program to mark City-owned water lines and storm drains for asset protection during excavation and underground projects. It is state law that anyone breaking ground is required to submit a ticket requesting the mark and locate service to avoid damaging utility infrastructure. The department has processed 730 ticket requests so far this year; each requiring an evaluation, potential site visit to identify and mark utilities in conflict, and completion of the ticket through the online portal.

Staffing Items
● The Public Works Maintenance crew is holding at 4 members.

Budget Status
• No Report; spending has been reduced, and several projects previously on hold are resuming. 3 Focus for Next Month*
*NOTE: SEVERAL ITEMS WERE ROLLED OVER FROM LAST MONTH OR ARE PART OF ONGOING SEASONAL OPERATION.
• Seasonal Wet Weather Preparedness at the Landfill; annual vegetation removal and ditch clearing.
• Pothole patching and minor road repairs at various locations; this is ongoing in areas prone to pavement failure.
• Seasonal tree pruning and trimming of street-owned trees in the public right-of-way. • Begin winterizing and weatherizing Parks and city-owned facilities as needed. • Continue ditch clearing and storm drain maintenance in the public right-of-way to prepare for wet weather months. - ongoing
• Identify projects to enhance pedestrian safety that can be completed by staff with limited resources and minimal financial impact. - ongoing
• Resume work on the Bittenbender waterline repairs and upgrades. ● Continue tree trimming along roadways for clearance at various locations as needed. - ongoing ● Evaluate and replace additional traffic control and street signs as needed at various locations. ● Mow the Haehl Creek walking trail and remove overgrowth as needed from the trailheads. 1 Monthly Achievements & Activities
• Completed the cleaning and inspection of the North Aeration Basin at WWTP. • Cleaned 1,750 feet of sewer mainline in the sewer collection system. • Operators assisted PW with Vac truck cleaning of storm drains and drop inlets prior to the rainy season.
• Operators assisted PW and Water Department with various water leaks in the water distribution system.
• Replaced Vactor truck water tanks under warranty due to corrosion starting. • Cleaned and flushed soda ash system (corrosion control) at SWTP. • Cleaned and flushed all turbidimeters at SWTP.
• Cleaned ferric chloride (main coagulant) system at SWTP. • Repaired check valves on the soda ash pump system.
• Repaired water mainline break on Furlong in the distribution system. • Continued algae control weekly in Morris Reservoir.
• Removed secondary radio communications antenna from SWTP roof and stored for a backup. • Exercised all backup power generators in the water distribution system. • Cleaned and installed a new bleed-off valve on the potassium permanganate chemical pump system.
• Received new multi-block underdrain system laser shields for the WesTec Trident filter.

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 544 acre-feet and Centennial 493 acre-feet equate to 80 percent full capacity (September 10th).
• August 2026 Water Usage: SWTP: 28,276,924 MG. August 2025: 26,231,487 MG.

GWTP: 500,000 MG. August 2025: 1,800,000 MG.

Totals: 28,776,924 MG. August 2025: 28,031,487 MG
• August 2026 Wastewater Treatment Plant Flows: 17,029,922 MG.

Utilities August 2026 | Report
2 Staffing Items
• Interviews for two vacant water treatment plant operator positions are in progress.

Budget Status
• FY 26/27 completed.

Focus for Next Month
• Complete annual Bio-solids application to the sludge field for disking and plowing at WWTP. • Complete new Bittenbender 2” water line installation including 6 new service lines. • Install new laser shields and filter media in the Trident #2 filter at SWTP. • Complete Emergency Action Plan for CalOES for Morris, Centennial, and the Saddle Dam at Centennial reservoirs.
• Continue working on Lead Service Line Inventory (LSLI) with engineering firm CDM Smith.

Completion is due in October 2027.
• Schedule CalFire crews for the annual vegetation removal for the Division of Dams Safety at Centennial Spillway/Dam.