Fortuna City Council Tackles Nitrous Oxide, Infrastructure Funding, and River Lodge Repairs

The Fortuna City Council held a busy regular session meeting on August 18th, addressing a range of issues impacting the community. Key decisions included approving funding for a fiscal impact analysis of a proposed Enhanced Infrastructure Finance District (EIFD) and tabling a proposed ordinance to regulate the sale of nitrous oxide and tobacco products. The meeting, a hybrid format with both in-person and remote attendees, lasted approximately 50 minutes.

River Lodge Repairs Approved Despite Concerns

The council approved a contract with Hommonaka Painting Company for exterior staining of the River Lodge, with a maximum budget of \$158,000. Councilmember Diaz abstained, citing concerns about the cost. The item was initially part of the consent calendar but was pulled for separate consideration.

Nitrous Oxide and Tobacco Regulation Tabled

A presentation by Humboldt County Public Health officials Brianna Sherlock and Katie Jo Slaughter highlighted the prevalence of readily available nitrous oxide products, particularly in smoke shops throughout the county. The presentation, drawing on data from a 2021 community assessment survey and a 2024-2025 retail landscape analysis, detailed the concerning health effects of recreational nitrous oxide use. The council discussed both the Humboldt County Nitrous Oxide Ordinance and a proposed Fortuna Tobacco Retail Licensing Ordinance aimed at limiting youth access to tobacco and nitrous oxide. However, with a full council not present, the decision on the ordinance was tabled until a future meeting.

Public comments underscored the urgency of addressing nitrous oxide sales, with a Fortuna Police Chief detailing a recent arrest related to the substance and a Garberville business owner expressing concern about youth access.

Fortuna EIFD Moves Forward

Finance Director Aaron Filmore presented on the Fortuna EIFD, outlining next steps for its creation. The council approved a \$12,500 supplemental budget request and authorized a contract with Kosmont Companies to conduct a fiscal impact analysis.

Community Concerns Raised

Public comments also included concerns from Royal Crest residents regarding a lack of awareness about a rent stabilization program and issues with transparency from the park owners' association.

Looking Ahead

The City Council will revisit the Nitrous Oxide and Tobacco Retail Licensing Ordinance at a future meeting. The next steps for the Fortuna EIFD include the completion of a fiscal impact analysis by Kosmont Companies. Residents can find meeting agendas and minutes at [https://www.friendlyfortuna.com/agendas_and_minutes/agenda_packets_and_minutes/index.php](https://www.friendlyfortuna.com/agendas_and_minutes/agenda_packets_and_minutes/index.php). Upcoming events include a Redwood Division meeting at River Lodge this Friday at 3 PM, and a workshop on rent stabilization is also scheduled. A meeting with the Mayor, City Attorney, and City staff is planned for next weekend.