Trinidad City Council Addresses Resignation, Boardwalk Plans, and Mill Creek Annexation

The Trinidad City Council convened on September 9th for a meeting marked by significant decisions and community input. Key discussions centered around the resignation of Councilmember Varela, a delayed boardwalk improvement agreement, and the potential annexation of Mill Creek. Interim City Manager Adams, City Clerk Tuttle, and Councilmembers Kenny were present, along with Mayor (name unlisted in the provided transcript).

**Resignation and Vacancy:** Councilmember Varela submitted their resignation, effective immediately, which the council accepted with Varela abstaining from the vote. The city will now begin recruitment to fill the vacant seat, according to the meeting's transcript. The process for filling this vacancy will be a key focus in coming council sessions.

**Boardwalk Project Delayed:** The council tabled the Boardwalk Improvement Agreement until the October meeting at the Rancheria's request for a revised agreement type. Public commenter, Jacque Hostler-Carmesin, emphasized the need for a formal process in the boardwalk agreement discussions. This delay underscores the ongoing negotiation process and the importance of collaboration with the Rancheria.

**Public Safety and Community Concerns:** Interim City Manager Adams reported a decrease in calls for service in August (55 compared to 64 in July), with increased patrols in response to vandalism. One arrest occurred outside city limits. Hostler-Carmesin requested specific arrest statistics for the Trinidad Rancheria area, highlighting the community's interest in detailed local public safety information.

**Mill Creek Annexation Considered:** The possibility of annexing Mill Creek generated considerable discussion. Traver Parker suggested a survey to gauge resident interest, noting that the County hasn't received full reimbursement for its services related to Mill Creek beyond permit fees. Parker also recommended revising the ordinance to accurately reflect the County Health Departments service scope. This proposal highlights the potential benefits and challenges of expanding city limits, a topic likely to be revisited in future meetings.

**Other Business:** The council approved the agenda with one modification and tabled approval of the August 6th minutes due to unavailability. Councilmember Kenny provided a report on the Housing and Community Development (HCD) committee's review of the 2025-26 fiscal year work program and budget amendments. A town hall paint color voting process was announced, encouraging community engagement in a smaller-scale project.

**Looking Ahead:** The October City Council meeting will address the tabled items, including the minutes from June and July, the Boardwalk Improvement Agreement, and further discussion of Resolution 2025-08 (authorizing an MOU with the Humboldt County Department of Environmental Health). The city will also move forward with filling the council vacancy and conducting the Mill Creek annexation survey. Meeting agendas and minutes are available on the city's website at https://www.trinidad.ca.gov/meetings.