Fortuna City Council Addresses Rent Concerns, Adopts Fire Hazard Maps

Fortuna residents voiced strong concerns about rising rents at the July 21st Fortuna City Council meeting, prompting calls for action on rent stabilization. The meeting, a hybrid format with both in-person and virtual attendees, also saw the unanimous adoption of Ordinance 2025-775, updating the city's fire hazard severity zone maps.

The evening began with a proclamation honoring Dr. George and Sylvia Judalla for their lifelong contributions to the community. Sylvia Judalla, present at the meeting with family, expressed her gratitude, stating, "Our children have moved away, but two are here tonight. We love this city and its people." This was followed by a series of impassioned public comments, largely focused on the escalating rental costs at Royal Crest Mobile Home Park.

Multiple speakers, including Lane Moon, Laura, Deborah Thomas, and Gail Laurich, described significant rent increases, exceeding 100% in some cases. They expressed worries about the financial strain on residents, particularly seniors and those with limited incomes. Laura highlighted that 80% of manufactured home parks in Humboldt County and Arcata have rent stabilization ordinances, emphasizing Fortuna's discrepancy. Ricardo Telemante raised concerns about inadequate water pressure during fires in Royal Crest, citing instances of homes burning down and potential violations of state emergency preparedness requirements.

Arlene Spotts shifted the focus to the vulnerability of Fortuna's after-school programs, largely reliant on federal and state funding. She urged the council to develop a contingency plan, suggesting exploration of local funding, community partnerships, and a dedicated task force to assess current program capacity. Solo, representing WMA, a group working with mobile home park owners and managers, encouraged the council to engage with park residents and consider rent stabilization as a means to preserve affordable housing.

The council also addressed the matter of fire safety. The Community Development Director presented background information on Ordinance 2025-775, which adopts updated fire hazard severity zone maps, and answered council questions. The ordinance passed unanimously. While the implementation timeline wasn't specified, the adoption reflects the city's commitment to fire safety preparedness. Second District Supervisor Michelle Bushnell clarified that while the city has no control over fire insurance rates, they will potentially examine density requirements and evacuation planning during their General Plan update.

Councilmember comments regarding specific actions were not clearly audible in the recording, but City Manager [Name unavailable due to audio quality] confirmed that placing rent stabilization on a future agenda will be considered. The meeting concluded with announcements about upcoming events, including the Fortuna Auto Expo and the recent Fortuna Fireworks Festival and Rodeo.

Citizens interested in learning more about the council's deliberations and future agendas can visit the city of Fortuna's website: https://www.friendlyfortuna.com/agendas_and_minutes/agenda_packets_and_minutes/index.php. The next City Council meeting date will be announced on the website.