All Humboldt

The Humboldt County Association of Governments board meeting on Thursday saw a robust discussion over the allocation of state transportation funds, with a proposed roundabout project in Fortuna drawing public criticism for potentially increasing traffic. While the board directed staff to move forward with the funding plan, they also approved emergency repair funds for a bridge in Blue Lake and heard updates on transit improvements funded by Measure O.

The Fortuna Planning Commission has approved a 26-foot-tall accessory dwelling unit on Elizabeth Barcus Way in a contentious 4-1 vote. The decision came after numerous neighbors voiced strong objections regarding the structure's height, scale, and potential impact on privacy and neighborhood character.

The Fortuna City Council has directed staff to draft a total ban on the sale of nitrous oxide and create a tobacco retail license ordinance following a stark public health presentation. The council also heard a sobering report from the Fortuna Police Employees Association, which detailed a critical officer retention problem and nearly 3,000 hours of overtime worked in just over three months.

In response to impassioned pleas from senior residents facing steep rent hikes, the Fortuna City Council voted 4-1 to enact an immediate, temporary moratorium on rent increases for mobile home spaces. The urgency ordinance provides a stopgap measure while the city develops a permanent rent stabilization ordinance.

The Fortuna City Council held its September 15th meeting, addressing key issues including police overtime, the Kenmar/Ross Hill Road intersection, and approving a new investment policy. Proclamations celebrating Constitution Week and Redwood Coast PACE were also adopted.

The Fortuna Planning Commission unanimously approved a lot line adjustment for the Eel River Valley Community Foundation at their September 9th meeting. The meeting also saw the announcement of a new City Planner and updates on housing and arena projects.

The Fortuna City Council held a special meeting on September 2nd to discuss the future of the Fortuna River Lodge. After hearing public comment and a financial review, the council voted to develop an enhanced investment plan focusing on upgrades and marketing. A future study session will address the potential impact of cannabis legalization on the city's budget.

The Fortuna City Council's August 18th meeting addressed several key issues, including a proposed ordinance to regulate nitrous oxide sales, infrastructure funding, and the River Lodge exterior staining project. Several public comments highlighted community concerns about youth access to nitrous oxide and transparency in community governance.

The Fortuna Planning Commission held a brief meeting on August 12th, approving minutes from a previous meeting and granting a one-year extension for Phase II of the CLK Kenmar Major Subdivision. The commission also announced an upcoming meeting to discuss lot line adjustments for a supportive housing project.

The Fortuna Planning Commission held a hybrid meeting on July 22, 2025, approving a minor subdivision and a conditional use permit for a warehouse conversion. Public comment highlighted concerns about a potential spring on the subdivided property and support for increased housing and local businesses.

The Fortuna City Council's July 21st meeting saw passionate public comment regarding rent increases in mobile home parks, particularly Royal Crest. The council also unanimously adopted Ordinance 2025-775, establishing new fire hazard severity zone maps. Future agenda items will include consideration of a rent stabilization ordinance.

The Humboldt County Association of Governments (HCAG) board approved a revised personnel policy, implementing a tiered system for administrative leave. The decision sparked debate among board members regarding fairness to existing employees. The policy change will affect future hires.

The Fortuna Planning Commission unanimously approved a major senior housing development at their June 24th meeting, granting waivers and clearing the way for construction of the Humboldt Senior Resource Center. The next meeting has been cancelled due to outstanding items.

The Fortuna City Council introduced a new Public Works Director and adopted a new fire hazard severity zone map during its brief meeting on June 16. The council also heard from a resident regarding water runoff issues and approved several routine items on its consent calendar.

The Fortuna Planning Commission held their June 10th meeting, approving a minor subdivision and hearing concerns from a resident about project approval processes. The commission also announced an upcoming review of a significant senior housing project.

The Fortuna City Council held a brief meeting on June 2nd, approving a proclamation for World Elder Abuse Awareness Day and several consent calendar items, including budget allocations. Concerns were raised regarding the city's reliance on outside contractors for capital improvement projects.

The Humboldt County Citizens Advisory Committee on Measure Z Expenditures met on March 6th to discuss funding applications. Key decisions included removing Rio Dells dispatch application and prioritizing public safety needs across the county. The committee will continue reviewing applications before making final recommendations to the Board of Supervisors.

The Humboldt County Citizens Advisory Committee on Measure Z Expenditures met on March 21st to review funding applications. After considerable debate, the committee made recommendations for funding allocations, including a reduction to the Fortuna Police Department's request, and a final recommendation of $1,400,000 for the Humboldt County Fire Chiefs' Association. These recommendations now go to the Board of Supervisors for final approval.