City Manager Round Up - AUGUST

CITY MANAGER ROUND UP AUGUST

Celebrating National Night Out

MESSAGE FROM THE CITY MANAGER

City Manager Roundup One of my top priorities is keeping our community informed and engaged. The City Manager’s Update is a monthly digital newsletter designed to keep you connected with what’s happening in Fort Bragg. Each edition includes timely updates on City news, programs, projects, and upcoming events — all in one place. I hope you find this newsletter useful and informative as we continue working together to build a stronger, more vibrant community.

Thank you for staying connected!

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OUR MISSION

Fort Bragg is a small town nestled between the coast and the redwoods with a strong sense of community that seeks to preserve its environment while providing resilient public facilities and infrastructure and supporting a safe and vibrant economic, multi-cultural, and recreational experience for both locals and visitors alike.

OUR VISION A California coastal destination with rich natural resources and rugged beauty, is transforming our future by weaving together our people, ecosystems, and economy to create community prosperity. We are making our mark in the 21st Century by creating climate-ready water and energy independence, housing and economic opportunities, accessible health care, community public safety, and education for all

OUR CORE VALUES INNOVATION

SERVICE-ORIENTED

HONESTY & INTEGRITY

Drives our city forward, encouraging creative solutions and continuous improvement by embracing new ideas and technologies to enhance quality of life.

Responsive to the public and to each other to demonstrate our genuine commitment to create a Fort Bragg that serves us today and readies us for a successful tomorrow.

Emanate throughout our community to engender the trust, transparency, responsibility, and accountability that our citizens deserve.

COLLABORATION

FAIR & ETHICAL

Nourish civic pride and celebrates the diversity of our city and the meaningful municipal services that our residents and businesses rely on.

Principles and practices, Fort Bragg promotes an inclusive community culture of unity and equality that openly invites everyone to enjoy our unique coastal enclave.

CITY COUNCIL PROCLAMATION:

WOMEN’S EQUALITY DAY During the City Council meeting on August 11th, Councilmember Albin-Smith, on behalf of the Fort Bragg City Council, officially recognized August 26th as Women’s Equality Day and celebrated the 105th anniversary of the 19th Amendment, which granted many women the right to vote. She encouraged all residents to participate in the events scheduled to honor this significant occasion and acknowledged the generations of women whose efforts and sacrifices were instrumental in achieving women's suffrage in the United States.

On August 24th of this year, the public gathered on the Kelley House lawn in Mendocino to participate in a celebration in recognition of Women’s Equality Day and the 105th Anniversary of the 19th Amendment.

CITY COUNCIL

CITY COUNCIL DIRECTS $58,000 FROM BUDGET SURPLUS TO STRENGTHEN FORT BRAGG FOOD BANK SERVICES

Mayor Godeke, on behalf of the City of Fort Bragg, proudly presented a $58,000 check to the Fort Bragg Food Bank this week, following City Council approval on July 14.

This funding—made possible through the City’s FY 2024-25 budget surplus—will strengthen food security services for Fort Bragg residents and help the Food Bank continue its incredible work serving families across our community.

A big thank you to the Fort Bragg Food Bank team for their tireless efforts in ensuring no neighbor goes hungry.

CITY MANAGER

LOCAL BUSINESS SUCCESS STORY: FB TRANSMISSION & AUTO

Richard Daniels and Kylie Galliani are the latest to benefit from the City's BEAR (Business Expansion, Attraction and Retention) Goal of supporting local businesses. In 2024, the duo purchased FB Transmission with the help of a $68,000 loan from the City of Fort Bragg’s Business Assistance Loan Program funded by Community Development Block Grant (CDBG).

This established shop is known for its highquality service, performed by ATRA Master and ASE Certified technicians who handle everything from routine maintenance like oil changes to complex transmission and engine repairs. The low-interest, flexible loan not only helped them realize their dream of owning a business but also created two new jobs in addition to retaining three existing jobs for our community.

This achievement highlights the power of combining City-backed financing with entrepreneurial spirit. Although funding for the CDBG program is on hold, the City has applied to use revenue from previous loan repayments to reactivate the program. We are eager to restart and will do so as soon as we get the green light from HCD. through our Business Boost Loan Program. For now, the City of Fort Bragg continues to help business owners.

Website: https://www.fortbraggtransmission.com/ (online appointments available) Phone: (707) 964-7960 Address: 701 S. Franklin Street, Fort Bragg, CA

Ready to start or expand your business in Fort Bragg City Limits? · Email us: ed@fortbraggca.gov · Visit our website: fortbraggbiz.com

CITY MANAGER Fort Bragg Transmission & Auto Repair, a mechanic-owned shop that has served the Fort Bragg community since 1980. After nearly a decade working in the shop, Richard knew he wanted to carry its legacy forward— and in 2024, he made that dream a reality.

To ensure the transition was a success, Richard turned to West Business Development Center for expert guidance. With the support of West Center advisor Mike Sholin, Richard secured the financing needed to purchase the shop. He also works closely with West Center business coach Rachel Clark, who continues to meet with him monthly to keep the business moving in the right direction.

One year later, Fort Bragg Transmission is thriving. The shop has welcomed new employees, expanded services, and launched a convenient online booking system to better serve customers. On top of that, the Daniels family has grown with the arrival of a new baby, making the future as exciting as it is busy.

Richard’s journey shows what’s possible when hard work and dedication are backed by the trusted support of West Center’s team of advisors and coaches.

CITY MANAGER

CELEBRATING COMMUNITY WELLNESS!

The City of Fort Bragg was honored to take part in the Fort Bragg Unified School District’s Family Wellness Fair on August 8th! This incredible event brought together students, parents, educators, and community partners for a day dedicated to health, wellness, and connection.

City staff enjoyed sharing information about city programs and community resources while hearing directly from families about their needs and ideas for a healthier Fort Bragg. Events like this showcase the strength of our community—when schools, local organizations, and city departments come together, we create a stronger support network for our youth and families.

A huge thank-you to FBUSD for organizing such a thoughtful, engaging event and to every family who stopped by our table to connect.

Together, we’re building a healthier, more vibrant Fort Bragg!

CITY MANAGER

CITY HALL EXTENDS HOURS FOR PUBLIC SERVICE

Fort Bragg City Hall is excited to announce that we are now open during lunch hours to better serve our community. As students return to school and parents face busier schedules, we aim to make local government more accessible to our citizens. Our hours are Monday, Tuesday, Thursday, and Friday from 9 AM to 5 PM. Please note that City Hall is closed to the public on Wednesdays for staff training and in-service activities. Whether you are visiting to apply for a business license, pay your water bill, or learn about volunteer opportunities, we look forward to seeing you soon!

ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT

PUBLIC SAFETY

NEW HIREDANIELLA AGUIRRE-PUERTO

Daniella Aguirre-Puerto has been hired as the Social Services Liaison for the Care Response Unit. Her position is funded by a new grant aimed at drug treatment and education in schools.

Daniella will be present at Fort Bragg High School, Noyo High School, Mendocino High School, and Mendocino Coast College, serving as a resource for youth who need help navigating drug treatment programs. This initiative is part of our ongoing effort to reduce drug use and abuse among the youth in our community.

PUBLIC SAFETY HOLIDAY TRAFFIC

It's common on holiday weekends to see an increase in people downtown. Putting a number on the increase has been difficult.

Besides catching wanted subjects and locating stolen cars, our Flock license plate reader camera system also provides analytics.

During the Labor Day weekend, almost 10,000 unique vehicles entered the city from the north and south every day. During the entire month of August, over 700,000 vehicles crossed the Noyo Bridge. That is a lot of traffic for our city!

PUBLIC SAFETY

EMERGENCY MANAGEMENT MONTHLY UPDATE

Be Ready, Fort Bragg: A Coastal Guide to Disaster Preparedness Living on the Mendocino Coast offers breathtaking beauty—and unique risks. From earthquakes and wildfires to tsunamis and power outages, Fort Bragg residents must be ready to respond quickly and confidently. Here’s how to prepare today for tomorrow’s emergencies.

Know Your Hazards: Fort Bragg faces a range of natural threats: Earthquakes: Drop, cover, and hold on. Secure heavy furniture to the wall before an earthquake hits.

Tsunamis: If you feel strong shaking or see the ocean rapidly recede, move inland and uphill immediately. Tsunamis pose the greatest risks to low-lying areas near the beach.

Wildfires: Maintain defensible space around your home and sign up for evacuation alerts.

Power Outages: Keep flashlights, batteries, and backup power and water sources ready.

Visit MendoReady.org to explore hazard maps and sign up for emergency alerts like MendoAlert and Nixle. You can also download maps of the local area to your phone for offline use using Google Maps.

PUBLIC SAFETY

EMERGENCY MANAGEMENT MONTHLY UPDATE

Be Ready, Fort Bragg: A Coastal Guide to Disaster Preparedness Build Your Emergency Kit: A well-stocked kit can save lives. Essentials include: Water (1 gallon per person per day for 2 weeks) Non-perishable food and a manual can opener Flashlights, batteries, and a hand-crank radio First aid supplies and medications Copies of vital documents (ID, insurance, prescriptions) Pet supplies and comfort items Cash in small bills and local maps Set an annual reminder to rotate supplies.

For a full checklist, see the MendoReady Emergency Preparedness page.

Make a Family/Friends Plan: Choose two meeting spots: one near home, one outside your neighborhood.

Designate an out-of-area emergency contact. This is a pre-identified person who can be contacted if your family is separated.

Practice evacuation routes and communication plans. If you live in a low-lying area, such as the Harbor or Pudding Creek area, identify both a pedestrian route and a vehicle route.

Consider the needs of children, seniors, and individuals with disabilities.

Stay Connected: Sign up for Nixle Alerts.

Tune into local radio stations if phone or internet is down.

Follow the City of Fort Bragg and Fort Bragg Police Department’s social media pages for updates on the City’s Emergency Management program.

Preparedness isn’t just a checklist—it’s a mindset. By planning ahead, Fort Bragg residents can protect their families, neighbors, and the coastal community we all cherish. Let’s be ready, together.

EMPLOYEE SPOTLIGHT

NEW HIRE- EDWIN POWERS

Edwin Powers was hired this month by the City of Fort Bragg as a Seasonal Laborer. He is a versatile worker who handles maintenance tasks such as lawn care, handyman services, and various odd jobs. Edwin has done an excellent job caring for the city's renowned Guest House Museum. The city is fortunate to have him on our staff!

CITY COUNCIL CORNER AUG 2025 On August 11th, 2025, City Council Adopted a Resolution Approving Side Letter for the Fort Bragg Employee Organization/Service Employees International Union Local 1021 (FBEO/SEIU) Revising Article 16 - Longevity Pay of the 2025-2029 Memorandum of Understanding of the Fort Bragg Employee Organization/Service Employees International Union Local 1021.

On August 11th, 2025, City Council Approved Budget Amendment 2025/26-04 to provide a One-Time $40,000 Allocation to the Humane Society to Maintain Animal Care and Shelter Services for the City of Fort Bragg.

On August 11th, 2025, City Council Adopted a Resolution Approving Budget Amendment BA 2025/26-3 and Contract Amendment for Five Additional Licenses with Accela Civic Applications for Building, Planning and Engineering Permits (Amount not to exceed $109,208).

On August 11th, 2025, City Council Adopted a Resolution Approving a Professional Services Agreement with Creative Thinking, Inc., DBA The Idea Cooperative for Strategic and Creative Marketing Services for Visit Fort Bragg and Authorizing the City Manager to Execute Contract (Amount Not to Exceed $175,000.00; Account No. 110-4321-0319).

On August 11th, 2025, City Council Announced a new event to foster Connection and Community: Hosting Fort Bragg’s First Longest Table Event on October 5, 2025 .

On August 25th, 2025, City Council Adopted a Resolution of the Fort Bragg City Council and the Fort Bragg Municipal Improvement District Approving Budget Amendment 2025/26-05 to Provide Installment Purchase Agreement Loan Funds to the Municipal Broadband Utility Project.

On August 25th, 2025, City Council Adopted a Resolution Approving a Professional Services Agreement with Marie Jones Consulting, for On-Call As-Needed Professional Planning Services (Total Project Amount Notice Not to Exceed $85,000) and Authorizing City Manager to execute the Contract, Subject to City Attorney Approval as to Form On August 25th, 2025, City Council Adopted a Resolution of the Fort Bragg City Council approving the Management Plan Template for the implementation of an Entertainment Zone.

On August 25th, 2025, City Council Awarded the Bio Solids Material Storage Building Project, City Project No. WWP-00025, to FRC, Inc. as the Lowest Responsible Bidder, and Authorizing the City Manager to Execute Contract (Not To Exceed $973,099.60).

PUBLIC WORKS FORT BRAGG'S RECYCLED WATER FEASIBILITY STUDY Fort Bragg’s Recycled Water Feasibility Study explores ways to diversify our water supply and strengthen long-term water security. The community survey is still open, and we invite you to share your thoughts on water supply options and preferences. Please scan the QR code or click the link to take the survey.

https://www.surveymonkey.com/r/7FQDC2F

ECONOMIC DEVLOPMENT

PLANNING DEPARTMENT

Design Review Permits help preserve Fort Bragg’s natural beauty and historic charm.

If you’re planning to update the exterior of your commercial property—whether it’s a new paint color, changes to the façade, or updated landscaping—a Design Review Permit is required.

The good news? The Community Development Department has streamlined the process and is here to guide you every step of the way. Our goal is to make your experience smooth and your final result stunning.

Have questions or a project in mind?

Reach out—we're happy to help!

PLANNING DEPARTMENT Do I Need a Permit?

✔️

Replacing windows?

Yes – unless they’re exact replacements in residential buildings without structural changes.

Painting your house?

No

❌

✔️ ✔️ ✔️

Putting up a new business sign?

Yes – all signs need a sign permit and design review.

Hosting a pop-up event downtown?

Maybe – depends on location and setup. Check with us early!

Building a fence?

Yes – if it’s over 6 feet, in a front yard setback, or in the Coastal Zone.

✔️

Installing solar panels?

Yes – but we love solar! Permits are typically fast-tracked.

🧠 Fun Fact: We processed over 200 permits in the last fiscal year, and about 20% of them were for things people didn’t realize needed a permit for.

When in doubt, just ask: “Do I need a permit?” We're happy to help!

UPCOMING EVENTS

PARKS & CV STARR RECREATION

CV STARR PARKS & RECREATION

CV STARR PARKS & RECREATION

PARKS & CV STARR RECREATION

PARKS & CV STARR RECREATION

PARKS & CV STARR RECREATION

JOB OPENINGS

https://www.governmentjobs.com/careers/f ortbragg

JOB OPENINGS

https://www.governmentjobs.com/careers/fortbragg

PUBLIC WORKS CALIFORNIA COASTAL CLEANUP DAY

Click here to participate!