Fortuna City Council Addresses Elder Abuse, Approves Budget Items, and Discusses Contractor Reliance

The Fortuna City Council convened a meeting on June 2nd, 2025, addressing a range of issues from elder abuse awareness to budget approvals and the city's reliance on outside contractors. The meeting, lasting approximately 17 minutes, was held in person and recorded for remote viewing. Mayor Mike Johnson presided over the meeting, along with Council Members Connelly, Deis, Stephens, and Mayor Pro Tem Trent, and the city manager.

One of the key actions of the meeting was the unanimous approval of a proclamation declaring June 15th as World Elder Abuse Awareness Day in Fortuna. Andrea Brunk, manager of the Long-Term Care Ombudsman Program, was present to receive the proclamation and provided valuable information about the program's work in protecting vulnerable older adults. Brunk also announced the Elder Rights Summit, a free two-day event scheduled for June 11th and 12th at the Sequoia Conference Center in Eureka, aimed at addressing elder justice issues.

"The Long-Term Care Ombudsman Program is certified by California to advocate for residents of nursing homes and assisted living facilities," Brunk stated, emphasizing the program's role in resolving concerns and responding to reports of abuse and neglect. She encouraged community involvement and highlighted the program's reliance on volunteers.

The council also unanimously approved a consent calendar encompassing six items. These included approval of the May 19th meeting minutes, the fiscal year 25-26 Capital Improvement Program (CIP 9990), the appointment of a new Public Works director, authorization for the annual water valve replacement project (also under CIP 9990), and renewal of the Community Resource Center agreement. However, Councilmember Deis voiced concerns about the cost-effectiveness of utilizing outside contractors for CIP projects, suggesting that relying heavily on outside contractors might lead to a loss of institutional knowledge and skills as city staff retire.

"We need to give more attention to trails and pedestrian access in future years," Deis commented, highlighting his focus on long-term infrastructure planning. He also expressed concern about the potential loss of knowledge and skills if the city continues to rely on outside contractors.

In other council reports, Councilmember Connelly noted the cancellation of the Redek meeting due to Memorial Day, while Councilmember Deis reported on the RCEA meeting which discussed budget concerns and potential office relocation. Mayor Johnson announced upcoming meetings, including a Transportation, Communication, and Public Works policy meeting next Friday and a Public Safety meeting scheduled for either Thursday or Friday of the following week.

The city manager will be following up with Councilmember Deis regarding the cost analysis of utilizing city staff versus outside contractors for future projects. The next city council meeting will be held on a Monday, excluding Memorial Day. For further information on agendas and minutes, residents can visit [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).