Fortuna City Council Addresses Overtime Concerns, Approves Roundabout, and Celebrates Constitution Week

The Fortuna City Council convened on September 15th, 2025, for a meeting covering a range of topics impacting the local community. Four of the five council members were present, along with the Mayor. The approximately 55-minute meeting saw the approval of several key items and a robust discussion on community concerns.

The meeting began with the reading of two proclamations. The first commemorated the 238th anniversary of the U.S. Constitution, urging citizens to reflect on its importance. The second recognized Redwood Coast PACE, highlighting its vital role in providing affordable care for over 650 Humboldt County seniors. A representative from the Daughters of the American Revolution also spoke, thanking the council for recognizing Constitution Week and announcing the organization's participation in Bells Across America.

Following the proclamations, the council introduced Hannah Vitello, the new Recreation Program Supervisor. The consent calendar, including various monthly reports, was then approved, but not before a representative from the Fortuna Police Employees Association raised concerns about the significant number of overtime hours worked by police officers—a staggering 2136.75 hours over a 10-week period. This prompted a commitment from the council to address this issue.

The council also unanimously approved the investment policy for the 2025-2026 fiscal year and a supplemental budget request for the police department to replace outdated computers. A resident voiced concerns about the dangerous conditions at the Kenmar/Ross Hill Road intersection, advocating for a roundabout solution. Following this public comment, the council unanimously voted to pursue the roundabout option, with staff tasked with securing funding for the next phase of the project. The council will also consider the impact of the Mill Site development on the intersection design.

Finally, a study session on mobile home rent stabilization was held, acknowledging the existing state regulations and the need for local consideration of rent increases. The council will receive further direction on next steps concerning this complex issue. The meeting concluded with announcements about upcoming community events, including a Spookathon.