Rio Dell City Council Approves Abatement Costs, Prepares for Landscaping RFP

The Rio Dell City Council convened on September 2nd for a roughly 29-minute meeting, addressing several key items impacting city residents. Mayor Debra Garnes, along with Councilmembers Carter, Orr, Wilson, and Weedall, were present, with some members potentially participating remotely. While the meeting's audio quality presented some challenges, key decisions and announcements were discernible.

One primary focus was the approval of a consent calendar, passed unanimously (4-0) with no details provided in the available video transcript. More substantial discussion centered on a public hearing regarding cost recovery for an abatement conducted at 533 Third Avenue on May 20th, 2025. The council unanimously (5-0) approved the $4,054.54 cost assessment.

No public comments were received during the designated time slot. However, Councilmember Carter announced the upcoming "Touch-a-Truck" event scheduled for September 6th, from 11:00 AM to 1:00 PM at the Fire Hall, providing a positive community engagement opportunity.

Looking ahead, the council's September 16th meeting will feature a second reading and potential approval of Ordinance Number 418-2025. This ordinance will amend the city's accessory dwelling unit (ADU) regulations to reflect state-mandated changes under SB 1211. Additionally, the City Manager will soon issue a request for proposals (RFP) for annual landscaping maintenance services. The council plans to revisit the topic of potentially outsourcing landscaping services and explore the application of AI in budget forecasting during future meetings.

Residents interested in learning more about these decisions or participating in future meetings should visit the City of Rio Dell website at https://www.cityofriodell.ca.gov/minutes-and-agendas for meeting agendas and minutes. The next City Council meeting is scheduled for September 16th, 2025.