CITY OF FORT BRAGG MESSAGEFROMTHECITYMANAGER DearFortBraggResidentsandBusinesses,
Asweenter2025,Iamproudtoreflectonthe incredibleprogresswemadetogetherin2024.This yearhasbeenatestamenttothededicationofour citystaff,citycouncil,andcommunity,showcasing FortBragg’sresilienceandsharedcommitmentto growthandimprovement.TheCitycelebratedit’s 135thanniversary amilestonethathonorsour city’srichhistoryandvibrantcommunityspirit.
Strategicplanningguidedmuchofourprogress, includingcompletingthecommunityStrategic Plan2024-2028+,whichreflectsinputfromCity Council,residents,businesses,regionalpartners, andstaff.Thisroadmap,alongsidenewly establishedcorevaluesandupdatedmissionand visionstatements,laysthefoundationforFort Bragg’sfuture.
qualityoflifeandcreatingopportunitiesfor education,remotework,anddigitalconnectivity.
Toaddresshousingchallenges,weimplemented forward-thinkingpolicies,suchaswaiving minimumparkingrequirementsandintroducing ministerialdesignreviews,private/public partnershipforhousingdevelopmentwhile pursuingapro-housingdesignationfromthe statetounlockadditionalfundingopportunities.
Transparencyandcollaborationremained centraltoourefforts,withinitiativesliketheenewspublication-CityManagerRoundup, appointmentofaPublicInformationOfficer, user-friendlybudgetsoftware,andDowntown MerchantsRoundtablefosteringmeaningful communityengagement
In2024,theCity’snewlyestablishedEconomic DevelopmentDepartmentadvanceditsmissionto supportlocalbusinessesanddiversifythe economy.Keyachievementsincludedlaunching anonlinebusinessportal,creatingfunding programslikethe$650KFortBraggBusinessBoost Fund,andimplementingfaçadeimprovement initiativestoenhancecommercialdistricts.These effortswillfosterentrepreneurship,strengthen businesses,andsolidifythecity’seconomic foundation.
TheapprovaloftheMunicipalBroadbandInitiative of$14.6millionfurtherenhancestheseeffortsby providingessentialinfrastructuretoattractnew industries,supportinnovation,anddeliver affordable,reliableinternettoresidents improving
Publicsafetyremainedatoppriorityin2024, bolsteredbysuccessfulemergencyplanning effortstoenhancetheCity’spreparednessand resilience.Recruitmentandretentionofofficers werestrengthenedthroughcompetitive compensationadjustments,wellnessprograms, andtrainingopportunitiesalongsidethe completionofalong-termagreementwiththe FortBraggPoliceAssociation.Publicsafety initiativesalsoincludedincreasednarcoticsrelatedarrests,advancingsustainabilitywith63% ofthefleetnowelectric,andsecuringfundingfor theCRUProgram,whichaddresses homelessnessandmentalhealthchallenges reducingpolicecallsby27%.
MESSAGEFROMTHECITYMANAGER Infrastructureimprovementswereakeyfocus, withupgradestothewatertreatmentplant,raw waterlines,andcompletionofthe2023-24 StreetRehabilitationProject.ThePublicWorks Departmentsecuredover$25millioningrant funding,representing45%ofthecapitalproject budgetforFY2024/25,demonstratingourability toleverageresourcestobenefitthecommunity
Tocreateefficiencyinhowwework,weinvested inAcellaSoftwaretofurtherstreamlinethe LicensingprocessforapplicantsandCityStaff. Theapprovalof4leafasanalternativebuilding inspectorandplancheckservicesfurther reducespermitprocessingtimessettolaunch inFebruary2025.
Financially,theCityachievedsignificant milestonesin2024,includingreaching30% GeneralFundreservesanda$3million investmentintotheSection115Trust,ensuring fiscalstabilityandpreparationforlong-term pensionobligations.Toaddressthechallenges outlinedintheCity’slong-term5-yearfinancial projections,theCityCouncilplacedMeasuresT andUontheNovemberballot
Theapprovalofthesemeasuresbyvoterswill furtherbolstertheCity’sabilitytoprovidecritical servicesandsupportfuturegrowth,ensuring financialresilienceintheyearsahead.TheCity’s commitmenttostrongfinancialpracticeswas alsorecognizedwiththeGFOABudgetAward andExcellenceinFinancialReporting,affirming itsdedicationtotransparency,accountability, andfiscalresponsibility.
TheC.V.StarrCommunityCenter,acherished geminourcommunity,successfullytransitioned toCitymanagementin2024.Thismilestone reaffirmstheCity’scommitmenttosustaining andexpandingtheCenterasacornerstoneof connection,recreation,andeconomicvitality.
Importantly,weprioritizedthelearningand developmentofourCityteam theenginethat drivesFortBraggforward.Throughnew organizationwellnessinitiatives,acommitmentto work-lifeharmony,trainingopportunities,and focusedeffortsonrecruitmentandretention,we havestrengthenedourworkforce,ensuringthey areempoweredtocontinuedelivering exceptionalservicetoourcommunity.
ReflectingonmyfirstyearasCityManager,Iam deeplygratefulfortheopportunitytoservethis remarkablecommunity Overthepastyear,we havefacedchallengeshead-on,celebrated significantmilestones,andlaidastrong foundationforFortBragg’sfuture.
Aswemoveinto2025,Iaminspiredbyourshared visionforacitythatcherishesitspeople,culture, andnaturalresources.FortBragghasimmense potentialtogrowstronger,moreconnected,and morevibrant.Withyourcontinuedtrustand partnership,Iamconfidentwecanbuildonthis momentum,unlocknewopportunities,and achieveevengreatersuccesstogether
Besuretocheckoutthiseditionforupdatesand highlightsfromeachCityDepartment, showcasingtheprogressandinitiativesthatare shapingFortBragg’sfuture.
Withgratitudeandoptimism,
Isaac Whippy
CityManager CityofFortBragg
FortBraggisasmalltownnestledbetweenthecoastandtheredwoodswithastrongsenseof communitythatseekstopreserveitsenvironmentwhileprovidingresilientpublicfacilitiesand infrastructureandsupportingasafeandvibranteconomic,multi-cultural,andrecreational experienceforbothlocalsandvisitorsalike
ACaliforniacoastaldestinationwithrichnaturalresourcesandruggedbeauty,istransformingour futurebyweavingtogetherourpeople,ecosystems,andeconomytocreatecommunity prosperity.Wearemakingourmarkinthe21stCenturybycreatingclimate-readywaterand energyindependence,housingandeconomicopportunities,accessiblehealthcare,community publicsafety,andeducationforall
INNOVATION Drives our city forward, encouraging creative solutions and continuous improvement by embracing new ideas and technologies to enhance quality of life.
COLLABORATION Nourish civic pride and celebrates the diversity of our city and the meaningful municipal services that our residents and businesses rely on.
SERVICE-ORIENTED 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.
FAIR & ETHICAL Principles and practices, Fort Bragg promotes an inclusive community culture of unity and equality that openly invites everyone to enjoy our unique coastal enclave.
HONESTY & INTEGRITY Emanate throughout our community to engender the trust, transparency, responsibility, and accountability that our citizens deserve.
Thankyou,MayorBernieNorvell,foryoureightyearsofdedicated servicetotheCityofFortBragg Yourleadership,commitment,and visionhavebeeninstrumentalinshapingourcommunityand fosteringgrowthandprogress. Wewishyouthebestinyourfuture endeavorsandthankyouforyourinvaluableyearsofservice.
JasonGodeke,whopreviouslyservedasViceMayorontheCityCouncil,has beenunanimouslyappointedasthenewMayor Heexpressedhisgratitudetohis colleaguesfortheirsupport,stating,"I’mthankfulfortheopportunitytoserveas MayorandfortheexcellentmentoringIreceivedfromoutgoingMayorBernie Norvell IlookforwardtocollaboratingwiththestaffandtheCounciltocontinue enhancingeconomicopportunitiesforourcommunity.Thiswillbeginwith supportingthegrowthandaffordabilityofhousingandfosteringhealthylocal businesses.Wearefortunatetohaveastrategicplanthatincorporatesinput fromthecommunity,staff,andcouncil.Mygoalistousethisdocumentasa guideforourpriorities.Ithighlightsourtown’songoingandemergingresilience, includingimprovementsinwatersecurity,theavailabilityofaffordablehighspeedinternetthroughbroadband,andthedevelopmentofsafestreets.Inthe nexttwoyears,Ialsohopetofindaresponsibleapproachforthecleanupand developmentoftheformermillsite."
MarciaRafanan,adevotedadvocateforpublicsafetyandequityinFortBragg,has beenappointedastheViceMayor Herleadershipexperienceandcommitmentto representingdiversevoicesinthecommunitywillbecrucialinguidingtheCouncil's work Rafananexpressedhergratitude,stating,"Iwanttothankyouallforthehonor ofservingasyourViceMayor Together,wemustfacechallengesandappreciate thebeautyandcomplexityofourcity Ipromisetolistentoandaddresstheneeds anddesiresofourcommunityandbeyond Itisaprivilegetostandbeforeyou
Vice Mayor Marcia Rafanan
Mayor Jason Godeke
Councilmember Lindy Peters
Reelected to a four-year end term
Councilmember Scott Hockett
Elected to a four-year end term
LindyPeterswasre-electedtoafour-yeartermwithdecades ofexperienceandadeepunderstandingofthechallenges andopportunitiesfacingFortBragg.Re-electedbythe community,Petershasidentifiedseveralkeypriorities:first,to rezonetheMillSitethroughaLocalCoastalProgram amendmenttopromotesustainabledevelopmentand supportcommunitygrowth;second,torevitalizeDowntown FortBraggbyimprovingpublicspacesandfosteringavibrant businessenvironment;andthird,toestablishaSpecial Otsuchi-FortBraggExhibitattheGuestHouseMuseumto celebratethelastingculturalexchangeandfriendship betweenthetwosistercities
As a long-time resident actively involved in local affairs, Hockettispassionateaboutsupportinghiscommunity As a local business owner and fisherman, he plays a crucial role in the Noyo Harbor. His presence on the Council will provide fresh perspectives and a continued commitment totheCity'sstrategicgoals.
TheFortBraggCityCouncilapprovedtheintegrationoftheC.V.StarrCommunityCenterasaCityownedandoperatedfacility,effectiveFebruary11,2024 Sinceitsopeningin2009,theCenterhas servedasavitalcommunityresource.InitiallyownedandoperatedbytheMendocinoCoast Recreation&ParkDistrict,thefacilityfacedfinancialchallengesthatledtoitstemporaryclosurein 2011.Recognizingitsimportancetothecommunity,theFortBraggCityCouncilplacedahalf-cent salestaxmeasureontheballottosecurededicatedfundingfortheCenter’soperations, maintenance,andimprovements.VotersapprovedMeasureAinMarch2012,ensuringfinancial stabilityforthefacilitythroughthisspecialsalestax
During2024,theCitysuccessfullyonboarded C.V.Starremployeesintoitsworkforce,ensuring aseamlesstransitionintoCityoperationswhile fosteringcollaborationandenhancingservice delivery.TheCenteralsofocusedonboosting membership,achievingconsistentmonth-tomonthgrowthbypromotingitsofferingsand engagingmoreactivelywiththecommunity.
MEMBERSHIPS 2,339
7,994
InlinewiththeCity’sgoaltostimulatethelocaleconomyintheshoulderseasonthroughincreased events,theC.V.StarrCommunityCenterpartneredwithParents&Friendstohostasuccessful OctoberFest.ThiseventnotonlyhighlightedtheCenterasahubforcommunityengagementbutalso providedaneconomicboostbyattractingattendees,vendors,andlocalbusinessestoparticipatein alivelycelebration
10,665
JULYFACILITY ADMITTANCE
39
TheCVStarrCenterisFortBragg'shubforhealthand wellness,offeringavarietyof39fitnessclassesdesigned tosuiteveryfitnesslevelandinterest.Fromcalming GentleYogatoenergizingWorldDanceandhigh-intensity Bootcamp,there'ssomethingforeveryone.Popular offeringsincludeCardioSpin,WaterExercise,Circuit Training,andweightbarclasses,ensuringawell-rounded selectionforparticipantsofallagesandabilities
Despitethesesuccesses,theCV StarrCommunityCenter continuestofacechallenges,particularlyinaddressing highoperatingcosts,increasingmembership,and recruitinglifeguards.Theseongoingissueshaveimpacted theCenter’sabilitytoresumefullseven-dayoperations, highlightingthecriticalneedfortargetedworkforce developmentandrecruitmentstrategies.
$11,149 FUNDSRAISED
Toaddressthesechallenges,theCityofFortBraggis exploringinnovativesolutions,includingoffering competitiveincentives,bonuses,expandingoutreach efforts,andstrengtheningpartnershipswithlocal organizationsandschoolstobuildasustainablepipeline ofqualifiedlifeguardsandstaff.
Throughtheseefforts,theCityreaffirmsitsdedicationto sustainingandexpandingtheCV StarrCommunity Centerasacornerstoneofcommunityconnection, recreation,andeconomicvitality Byovercomingthese challenges,theCentercancontinuetoserveasavitalhub andgemwhereresidentsofallagescometogetherto pursuewellness,buildrelationships,andenhancethe qualityoflifeinFortBragg.
Thisyear,theC.V.StarrCommunityCenterproudlytookoverthe 2ndGradeSwimProgramfromMCRPD,continuingthetradition ofteachinganessentiallifeskilltoFortBragg’syouth TheCenter successfullyraised$11,149tosupportthisinitiative,providinglocal secondgraderswithcriticalswimtraining avitalskillinour coastalcommunity Byequippingyoungresidentswithwater safetyandswimmingabilities,theprogramnotonlypromotes healthandconfidencebutalsounderscorestheCenter's commitmenttofosteringasafer,morepreparedcommunity.
InJuly2024,CityManagerIsaacWhippy establishedanewEconomicDevelopment DepartmentwithinCityHall,amilestone initiativeapprovedbytheFortBraggCity Council.Thisdepartmentreflectsthe Council'scommitmenttoitsgoalofbeing business-friendlybyfocusingongrowing localbusinesses,diversifyingtheeconomy, generatingrevenuetosupportcommunity initiatives,andcreatingandretainingquality jobs.
TheestablishmentoftheEconomic DevelopmentDepartmentunderscoresthe City’sdedicationtobuildingavibrantfuture forFortBragg onethatprioritizescommunity needs,promotessustainablepractices,and providesopportunitiesforworkerswhile enhancingthequalityoflifeforresidentsand visitors.
“Wearecommittedtobeingproactive, collaborative,andforward-thinkingwhenit comestoeconomicdevelopment,”saysCity ManagerIsaacWhippy.“Creatingthisnew departmentisapivotalsteptoward unlockingopportunitiesandfostering economicprosperityforourcommunity.”
Throughleadership,partnership,and collaboration,theEconomicDevelopment Departmentaimstodrivepositivechange andlaythefoundationforaresilient,dynamic localeconomy.
NUMBERS 1.
BusinessSupport: BusinessOmbudsmanServices.Supportinglocal businessesisatoppriorityoftheEconomic DevelopmentDepartment.Whetheryourbusiness isnavigatingthepermittingprocess,seeking resources,orinneedassistanceovercoming barriers-weareheretoconnectyoutothe resourcesyourbusinessneedstosucceed.Check outournewwebsitewww.fortbraggbiz.com,and stopbyCityHalltolearnmoreabouthowwe mightsupportyourbusiness
·Accesstocapital
·NavigatingtheCitypermittingprocess
·Sitedevelopment
·JoinDowntownBusinessCoalition
·Marketing
·Problemsolving
2.BusinessLoan&GrantPrograms
Smallandmediumlocalsizedbusinessesarethe cornerstoneofourlocaleconomy Thisyear,City CouncilredirectedAmericanRescuePlanAct (ARPA)fundsprovidedbythefederalgovernment tofostereconomicrecoveryandlong-term resiliencepost-pandemic,tosupportlocal businessesthroughgrantsandloanswiththe followingprograms:
TheDowntownImprovementGrantProgram,an$80,000 initiativeaimedatenhancingtheeconomicvitalityand visualappealofdowntownFortBragg.Thisprogramis designedtosupportimprovementsthatencourage increasedbusinessactivityandinvestmentintheheart ofthecity.
FocusedonrevitalizingFortBragg’scommercial districts,theprogramwillhelpfundenhancementsto boththeexteriorandinteriorofstorefronts,aswellas otherhighlyvisiblebuildingfeatures.Bycreatingamore attractiveandwelcomingenvironmentforresidents, visitors,andpotentialinvestors,theprogramseeksto boostfoottraffic,inspirelocalpride,andfoster sustainedeconomicgrowth.
Cultivatinglocalenterpriseandemploymentopportunities
TheFortBraggCityCouncilhasapproved$650,000to establisharevolvingloanfunddedicatedto supportinglocalbusinesseswithaccesstoaffordable capital.
Smallandmedium-sizedbusinessesoftenface significantbarrierswhenseekingfinancing,including high-interestrates,stringentqualification requirements,andlimitedavailabilityoftraditional lendingoptions.Thesechallengesareexacerbatedby thecurrenteconomicclimate,whererisingcostsand tightenedcreditmarketsdisproportionatelyaffect smallerenterprises Formanybusinesses,accessto affordablecapitalisthedeterminingfactorbetween growthandstagnation orevenclosure.TheBusiness BoostFundaimstofillthisgap,providingamuchneededresourceforbusinessesstrivingtothriveina competitiveandevolvingmarketplace.
ThisinitiativebuildsonthesuccessoftheCity’s CommunityDevelopmentBlockGrant(CDBG)Business AssistanceProgram,whichdemonstratedthe transformativeimpactoftargetedeconomic investmentsbyfundingsixlocalbusinesses,creating orretaining13jobs,anddrivinglocaleconomicactivity.
RepaymentTerms:2–5years
LoanAmounts:Minimum$10,000
TheCityofFortBraggplanstoimplementdirectional way-findingsignagethroughouttheCentralBusiness District(CBD)andalongMainStreet.Thisinitiative aimstoimprovenavigation,enhancethedowntown experienceforvisitors,andincreaseaccessibilityto keyattractions,businesses,andpublicamenities.
Way-findingsignageplaysacriticalroleincreatinga cohesiveanduser-friendlyenvironment,encouraging foottraffic,andsupportinglocalbusinessesby guidingvisitorstopointsofinterest.Apriorstudy completedin2015byCitystaffoutlinedaframework forincorporatingway-findingsignsintotheCity,which willserveasthefoundationforthisproject.
Cultivatinglocalenterpriseandemploymentopportunities TheFortBraggMuralProject,inpartnershipwiththeAlleyWayArtsProject,seekstoenrichthe city’svisuallandscapebyaddingvibrantandculturallyrelevantmuralstotheCentralBusiness Districtandotherkeylocations.ThisinitiativewillcelebrateFortBragg’suniquehistory,culture, andvalueswhileenhancingtheaestheticappealofthecity.Theprojectwillengagelocalartists andcommunitymemberstocreatemuralsthatreflectFortBragg’scharacter,fostering communityprideandsupportinglocaltalent TheCityCouncilapproved$25,000willbeusedto covermaterials,artiststipends,andotherprojectcosts,withagoalofcompletingfourtofive muralsbythesummerof2025.
ThisyeartheCitycompleteddesign,constructionplans, businessmodel,financingstrategyandoperationsplanto establishamunicipalbroadbandutility.ThisimportantlastmileprojectwillconnecttotheCaliforniaStateMiddleMile initiativeandprovide100%ofresidentsandbusinesses withincity-limitsaccesstoaffordableandreliable broadband.ManythankstoCongressmanHuffmanfor allocating$1millionoffederallydirectedfunding,andtothe CaliforniaPublicUtilitiesCommissionforcontributing$10.3 millioningrantfundingtomakethisprojectareality.
“Thisinitiativewillplayavitalroleinclosingthedigitaldivideandensuringequitableaccesstohigh speedinternetforourentirecommunity–it’sincrediblyexciting”,statedCityManagerIsaacWhippy. Indeed,accesstoaffordableandreliablebroadbandiskeytocreatingequity;impactingeducation, workforcedevelopment,economicdevelopment,healthcare,andpublicsafety CityCounciland MendocinoUnifiedSchoolDistrictBoardhaveagreed,inprinciple,fortheCitytoacquireMendocino CommunityNetwork(MCN);duediligenceactivitiesareinprocess.IftheCityweretoacquireMCN, theCitywouldcontinuetoserviceexistingMCNcustomersoutsidecitylimits.AllMCNstaffwould becomecityemployeesandcustomerscouldexpecttoreceivethesamegreatservice,witheven moreofferings.
Constructionbeginsinspring2025,withthegoaltocompletebyJuly2026.
TheCityofFortBragghasbeenexploringhowastrategicfocusonblueeconomyopportunities couldstrengthenanddiversifyourlocaleconomy;improvinglivelihoods,whilealsonurturinghealthy marineecosystems Theblueeconomyincludestraditionalmaritimeactivitythatwehaveknownfor generations,likecommercialfishingandtourism-andnowaentirenewcollectionofindustriesare emergingtoaddresssomeourmostchallengingissuesandsupportclimateresiliency.These emergingopportunitiesincludebluetechnology,marinebiotechnology,mitigationbanking, renewableenergy,andaquaculture.Severalagencieshaveinvestedfundingtosupportthis endeavor,includingCASeaGrant,NationalOceanicAtmosphericAdministration,CACoastal Commission,CACoastalConservancy,CAEmploymentDepartment,US,DepartmentofCommerce andmanyothers.
NoyoOceanCollective.TheCityofFortBragg, MendocinoCollege,NoyoCenterforMarineScience, NoyoHarborDistrictandWestBusinessCenter continuetomoveregionalblueeconomyinitiatives forward.Asustainableapproachtoeconomic developmentinwhicheconomicvitalityand environmentalsustainabilityarecompatible, outcomesareequitable,andcommunityprioritiesare centered.Significantprogresshasbeenin2024such as:
·Developmentofwebsite:www.noyooceancollective.org
·SecuredfundingtodevelopcurriculumforrockyreefrestorationprogramatMendocinoCoastCenter, includingdivingcertification.
·DevelopedtheCEQAdocumenttodeployCalifornia’sfirstwave-powereddesalinationbuoy,in partnershipwithOnekaTechnologies.Thisinnovativepilotprojectisexpectedtolaunchinspring2025, andwillbeactiveforone-year.
·NoyoCenterforMarineSciencecompletedthenewdesignphasefortheOceanScienceCenteronthe NoyoHeadlands,andcompletedentitlementsforthefirstphaseofconstruction-amulti-usebuilding foreducationandresearchonmarinemammalscalledtheLa-BONE-atory.
·NoyoHarborDistrictandWestBusinessCentersecuredgranttoexpandmarketsforourcommercial fishingfleetandainstallnewicehouse.
Throughout2024,theCityofFortBraggfacilitatedseveralworkshopswithFederalagenciesand theirsisterStateagenciestoaddresscoastalresiliencyissuesinandaroundFortBragg.Together wediscussedlocalpriorities,conductedsitevisitstogainadeeperunderstandingofindividual projects’needs,andthenmappedthesepriorityprojectstofederalandstateresources.Through relationshipbuildingandcollaboration,wearemakingprogressonseveralimportantprojects thatsupportcommunityresilience.Forexample,CalOESandFEMAareassistingwithfundinga seismicretrofitoftheFortBraggVolunteerFireStationonMainStreet.TheArmyCorps.Of Engineers,CAGeologicalSociety,andNOAAishelpingusfindanaturebasedsolutionthatwill allowfortheremovalofthesedimentcontainmentcellonNoyoBeachandperformamuch neededecosystemrestorationinpartnershipwiththetribalcommunity.
Whilewesaidhellotonewfaces,wehadtosay goodbyetoOfficerOscarLopezwhoretired afternearlytwodecadesofservicetotheFort Braggcommunity.WhileOscarretired,heisstill afamiliarfaceatthePDandevents.
Theadvancedtrainingpolicedepartmentstaff attendedin2024alsoincreased.Intotal,our personnelattended43advancedschoolsin additiontowhatismandatoryeveryyear.Also, CaptainO’NealwasacceptedintoPOST CommandCollege,whichisverycompetitiveto attend.Itisa15-month,graduatelevel executiveleadershipcourseandisimportant forsuccessionplanninginthepolice department. Staffinghasgreatlyimprovedin2024.Wewelcomedthreenewpoliceofficers,twoofwhichhave beensoloforseveralmonthsandthethirdgraduatedthepoliceacademyinDecember2024.This staffinghasbeenbeneficialinallowingmoretrainingaswellasallowingofficerstotaketimeoffwith theirfamilies.WeputanemphasisonorganizationalwellnesswiththesupportofCityManager Whippy,whoprioritizeswork-lifeharmonyforallcitystaff
Thepolicedepartmentalsoembarkedonanoverhaul of the firearms program. Funding was secured to completely replace our aging firearms, transitioning to state-of-the-art optics systems on new firearms. Also, the practice of officers sharing rifles has ended. This practice increases liability due to the fact each rifleisnotsettoanindividualuser.
Bypurchasingnewriflesandindividuallyissuingthem, each officer can precisely set the optics to their preferencestoincreaseaccuracyandconfidence.
Finally, besides all new duty handguns, every officer will also be issued a compact backup handgun, whichwillincreaseofficersafetyanddecreaseliability byutilizingasingularplatform.
TheCareResponseUnit(CRU)continuestogetattentionforitssuccess.Thisyear,FortBraggPD wasawardedagrantthroughProp47fundingwhichwillinject$2.5millioninstatefundsintoour localcommunityoverthenextfouryears,addthreefull-timelivingwageandtwopart-timeliving wagejobstoourlocaleconomy,andstreamlineaccesstotemporaryandpermanenthousingfor coastresidentsstrugglingwithhomelessness Prop47willallowCRUtoexpandservicesoutsideof FortBraggtomoreofthecoast.
CRU administered a Youth Opioid Response grant and started Project Right Now, which touched the lives of over 550 youth in in our area and taught them the dangersoffentanyl.CRUtrainedover800peopleinthe use of Narcan to include 15 businesses, schools and organizations with over 1000 doses of Narcan distributed locally. It was also the driving force behind theformationoftheFortBraggFentanylTaskForce.
OUTREACH TEAM CRUhasbeenextremelysuccessfulinchangingthelivesof thoseexperiencinghomelessness Theyassistedover250 coastresidentswithservicesrelatedtosocialsecurity applications,housing,substanceusedisorders,mentalhealth illnessesanddomesticviolencerecovery.Additionally,CRU managedtheExtremeWeatherShelter,whichprovidedover 650bednightsin2024tothoseexperiencinghomelessness. CRUaddedathirdfull-timeSocialServicesLiaisonwiththe Prop47grantandsecuredexternalfundingtomaintainthe programforanothertwoyears.
IncreasingthehousingsupplyisakeypriorityfortheCityofFortBragg,asoutlinedintheCity’s StrategicPlan2024-2028+andtheCityCouncil’sgoalofaddingover200housingunitsby2026. Housingaffordabilityhasbecomeasignificantchallenge,withmanyresidentsfindingit increasinglydifficulttosecurehomes.Thecommunityfacesashortageofbothrentalandfor-sale properties,driveninpartbyFortBragg’sgrowingappealasaplacetolive,retire,andwork FortBraggTakesProactiveStepstoAddressHousingShortage
In2024,theCityofFortBraggcontinueditscommitmenttotacklingthehousingshortagethrough policychanges,partnerships,andcollaborativeefforts.Theseinitiativesaimtoexpandthehousing supply,supportworkforcehousing,andcreatediversehousingoptionsforallresidents.
StreamlinedHousingRegulations TheCityhasadoptedseveralnewhousingregulationsdesignedtoincreasehousingsupplyand makethedevelopmentprocessmoreaccessible: SimplifyingthecreationofAccessoryDwellingUnits(ADUs)toprovidemoreaffordableandflexible housingoptions.
Streamliningtheprocessofsubdividinglow-densityresidentialparcels. Allowinguptofourunitsonsingle-familyhomeparcelstoincreasehousingdensity. PermittingtinyhomesasADUsandenablingtinyhomecommunitiesforinnovativehousingsolutions. AllowingPlannedUnitDevelopmentprojectsonsmallerparcelstomaximizelanduse.
MendocinoCommunityLandTrust Establishedin2022,theMendocinoCommunityLandTrusthelpsfacilitateworkforcehousing ownershipbymakingitmoreaffordableandensuringlong-termhousingsolutionsforlocalworkers andfamilies.StaffwillbecompletingthelaunchoftheTrustin2025.
CollaborationswithDevelopers TheCityisactivelyworkingwithdevelopersonprojectsthatwilladdover100newhousingunitsby 2025,including:
1. HazelwoodSeniorProject:Aproposed48-unit,three-storybuildingat860Hazelwooddesignedto serveseniors.ThedeveloperplanstosubmittheapplicationbyOctober,withaPlanning CommissionreviewanticipatedinJanuary2025.
3.
HarborViewApartments:Thisprojectfeatures85unitsand10buildingsonaparcelsouthofthe NoyoBridge.Currentlyunderreview,itisexpectedtogobeforethePlanningCommissioninthefirst quarterof2025.
2. PattonParcelDevelopment:TheCityisindiscussionswithathirddeveloperaboutapotential housingprojectattheintersectionofHighway1andHighway20.
In2024,theFortBraggCityCounciltookaboldsteptowardaddressinghousingchallengesby approvingthepursuitofaPro-HousingDesignationfromtheStateofCalifornia.OnOctober15,the Councildirectedstafftomoveforwardwiththisprogram,whichincentivizescitiestoadoptzoning andland-usepoliciesthatmakehousingdevelopmenteasier,cheaper,andfaster.
ThePro-HousingDesignationrecognizesmunicipalitiesthatimplementprovenstrategiesto streamlinehousingproduction,includingby-rightpermitting,simplifieddesignreview,reduced regulations,andfinancialincentives.FortBragghasalreadyimplementedinitiativesearning23out ofthe30pointsrequiredforthedesignation.Achievingthisstatuswillopenupnewopportunitiesfor theCitytoaccessstatefundingtosupporthousingdevelopment.
CityCouncilApprovedPro-HousingPolicies Tosecurethedesignation,theCityCouncildirectedstafftoimplementthefollowingpolicy changes:
EliminateMinimumParkingRequirementsforResidentialDevelopment:Removingparking minimumswillreducecostsandbarriersforresidentialprojects.
EstablishaMinisterialApprovalProcessforMultifamilyandMixed-UseHousing:Thispolicy simplifiestheapprovalprocessforthesedevelopments,acceleratinghousingproduction ReplaceSubjectiveDesignStandardswithObjectiveStandards:Transitioningtoobjective standardsimprovesapprovalcertaintyandreducesdelays.
WaiveorReduceDevelopmentImpactFeesforAffordableHousingProjects:Offeringfinancial incentivesfordevelopmentsthatincludelower-incomehousingunitssupportsthecreationof affordablehousing.
OnNovember12&December9,theCityCounciladvancedtheseefforts.
KeyDepartmentUpdates:
CommunityEngagementandHousingProgress
CommunityHousingWorkshops:The departmenthostedtwoCommunityHousing WorkshopswiththeCommunityDevelopment Committee,fosteringdialogueonhousing challengesandsolutions.
Pre-ApplicationMeetings:Eightpre-application meetingswereheld,includingdiscussionswith twodevelopersplanningmajorhousingprojects oneproposing80+unitsandanother proposing56+units.
PolicyAdvancements
ResolutionsandOrdinances: Brought26ResolutionsbeforethePlanningCommissiontoaddressarangeof planninganddevelopmenttopics.
PresentedeightOrdinanceAmendmentstotheCityCouncil,including:
LocalCoastalPlanAmendment:SubmittedaLocalCoastalPlanAmendmenttothe CoastalCommissiontoalignhousing-relatedandotherordinancesintheCoastal LandUseandDevelopmentCode(CLUDC)withtheInlandLandUseandDevelopment Code(ILUDC)andStatelaw.
MobileVendingAdjustments:Refinedtheallowablelocationsformobilevending, ensuringbalancedopportunitiesforvendorswhilemaintainingpublicaccessand safety.
In2024,theCitybidaheartfeltfarewelltotwolong-servinganddedicatedPlanningCommission Chairs,JeremyLoganandScottDeitz.Theirleadershipandcommitmenthavebeeninvaluableto thecity,andtheircontributionswillhavealastingimpactonFortBragg’splanningefforts Thank you,Commissioners.
Atthesametime,wewerepleasedtowelcometwonewPlanningCommissioners,KatieTurnerand RyanBushnell.Theirfreshinsightsandenthusiasmwillundoubtedlyenrichthecommission’swork andhelpguidethecity’splanninginitiativesintheyearsahead.
InalignmentwiththeCityofFortBraggStrategicPlan2024-2028Councilapprovedacoupleofkey processimprovementsin2024,withimplementationunderwayandaplannedlaunchin February/March2025.
Theseinitiativesaredesignedtostreamline,educate,andexpeditethepermittingprocessthrough measuressuchaspre-applicationmeetings,softwareupgrades,andalternativeplanchecksand inspections.Since1994,theCityhasreliedontheMendocinoCountyPlanningandBuilding Departmentforbuildinginspectionservices.However,feedbackfromhousingworkshops highlightedcommunityconcernsabouttheneedforfasterandmoreefficientpermittingandplan checkprocesses
Inresponse,theCityexploredalternativesolutionsandselected4-LeafInc.foraPilotProjectto addresstheseconcerns.Withextensiveexperienceinbuildingservices,4-LeafInc.willprovidean additionaloptionforexpeditedbuildinginspectionserviceswitha10-dayturnaround,allowingthe Citytoevaluateitseffectivenessandimproveoperationalefficiency.
Additionally,theinvestmentinAcellaSoftwareissettoenhancetheuserexperienceforapplicants andstaff,ensuringamoreefficient,accessible,andtransparentprocessforall.
ThePublicWorksandEngineeringDepartmenthasmadesignificantstridesin2024,achievinga seriesofmilestonesthatenhanceinfrastructure,improvepublicfacilities,andsecureasustainable futureforFortBragg.TheseaccomplishmentsreflecttheCity’scommitmenttocommunity development,safety,andenvironmentalstewardship.Highlightsof2024Achievementsinclude:
WigglyGigglyPlayground:February10markedthe much-anticipatedreopeningoftheWigglyGiggly Playground.Thisvibrantspacenowprovidesan upgradedrecreationalareaforchildrenandfamilies toenjoy.
FortBuildingTransformation:TheFortbuildingis undergoinganexcitingtransformationintoatribal learningcenter,creatingavitalresourcefor educationandculturalenrichment
The2024StreetsRehabilitationProjecthasbeen successfullycompleted,improvingthepavementand functionalityofuptoeightstreetsthroughoutFortBragg. Thiscomprehensiveprojectalsoincorporatedessential upgradestothedowntownpedestriancore,enhancing safety,accessibility,andaestheticsforresidentsandvisitors alike.Keycomponentsoftheprojectincluded:
1. Street Pavement Rehabilitation: Significant upgrades were made to streets across the City, ensuring smoother surfaces andextendedlifespan.
2 Downtown Enhancements: Improvements in the Central Business District included bollard installations, street striping, and the rehabilitation of stamped asphalt crosswalks. These upgrades ensure long-term viability and enhance the pedestrianexperienceinFortBragg’sbusiestareas.
3. Crosswalk Rehabilitation: Many downtown crosswalks, originally rehabilitated in 2012, had begun to show wear This project restored them to optimal condition, improving safety andaestheticsinthedowntownpedestriancorridor.
TheCVStarrHVACProjectandSolarFacilitiesProjectmovedforwardwithcontractsawarded. BeautificationandSustainability:Art-wrappeddualwasteandrecyclingbinsweredeliveredas partoftheArtandRecyclingBeautificationProject.
Pedestriansafetyimprovements,includingextendedredcurbsatcrosswalks,were implemented.
TheCityofFortBragg,inpartnershipwithConservationWorks, successfullyplantedeightnewtreesattheFortBraggDogPark.This meaningfulproject,fundedbytheEnvironmentalGrantProgramof theCommunityFoundationofMendocinoCounty,reflectstheCity’s commitmenttoincreasinggreenspaceandfosteringahealthier ecosystem.
Theinitiativeaimedtoaddress"treedeserts"inthecommunity, enhancinghabitatandbiodiversitywhileprovidingresidentswitha hands-onopportunitytoconnectwiththeirenvironment.Beyond ecologicalbenefits,theadditionofthesetreescontributestothesocial andhealthadvantagesassociatedwithgreenspaces,creatinga welcomingandsereneenvironmentforparkvisitorsandtheircanine companions.
ThisprojectbroughttogetherCitystaff,ConservationWorks,Climate Fellows,FriendsoftheDogParkvolunteers,andstudentsfromFortBragg HighSchool,showcasingthepowerofcollaborationandcommunity engagement.
Contractswereawardedforthe2025PavementPreservationProject,StormWaterTrashCapture Devices,andtheRecycledWaterFeasibilityStudy.TheWaterSystemsDistributionPlanandthe WasteWaterCollectionSystemMasterPlanarewellunderway,withcompletionanticipatedby fiscalyear-end.
ThePublicWorksDepartmentsuccessfullysecuredover$25millioningrantfunding,with$22.39 millionallocatedforwaterprojectsand$2.72millioninotherstategrants.Thesefundsrepresent approximately45%ofthetotalcapitalprojectbudgetforthe2024/25fiscalyear,demonstratingthe City’sdedicationtoleveragingexternalresourcesforcommunitybenefit.
LookingAheadAsFortBragglooksto2025,thedepartmentcontinuestofocusoninnovation, sustainability,andcollaboration.Projectslikebio-solidsstorageandsolarpanelinstallationsatthe WasteWaterTreatmentPlantexemplifytheCity’sforward-thinkingapproach.These accomplishmentsareatestamenttothehardworkandvisionofFortBragg’sCityCouncilandits commitmenttocreatingathriving,sustainablecommunity.
FortBragg’sfinancialhealthreachednewheightsin2024,markingayearofexceptionalprogress andfiscalresponsibility.TheCity’sGeneralFundreservesarenowattheirhighestlevelinhistory, totaling$5.8million,andachievingtheGovernmentFinanceOfficersAssociation’s(GFOA) recommendedreservelevelof30%.ThismilestonereflectstheCity’scommitmenttoprudent financialplanningandensuringlong-termstability.
Despitestatewideeconomicchallenges,FortBragghasmaintainedabalancedbudgetwith revenuesexceedingoperatingexpenditures,ensuringnoservicecuts.Fortheninthconsecutive year,theCitydeliveredastructurallybalancedFY24/25GeneralFundproposedbudget. ProjectionsforthefiscalyearendedFY23/24endedindicaterevenuesof$13.1millionand expendituresof$12.2million,resultinginaprojectedsurplusof$838,000.Thissurplusnotonly underscorestheCity’sstrongfiscalpracticesbutalsopositionsFortBraggtocontinuemeeting communityneedswhilemaintainingfinancialflexibility.
Thisyear,theCityprioritizedtheretentionandsupportofitspolicedepartmentteambyproviding CostofLivingAdjustments(COLA)forpoliceofficersandsigningalong-termfour-yearcontract withthePoliceUnion.Thesestepsensurecompetitivecompensation,bolsterstaffretention,and reflecttheCity’sdedicationtomaintainingasafeandsecurecommunity.
Inadditiontobuildingreserves,theCitymadestridesinreducingdebtbypayingofftwosignificant waterenterpriseloans,strengtheningitsabilitytoreinvestinvitalinfrastructureandpublicservices. RecognizingtheCity’slargestfinancialchallenge CalPERSpensionobligations theestablishment ofaSection115Trusthascreatedafinancialbuffertocurbmarketvolatilityandstabilizefuture pensioncosts.
ThepassageofMeasuresTandUintheNovemberballotfurthersolidifiedtheCity’sfinancial outlook.Thesemeasureswillprovidecriticalfundingtosupportcommunityprioritieswhilehelping theCitykeeppacewiththerisingcostsofdeliveringessentialgovernmentservices.
TheseachievementsareatestamenttotheCity’sstrategicfinancialmanagement,focusedon sustainabilityandadaptability.AsFortBragglooksahead,thisstrongfiscalfoundation bolstered bytheadditionalfundingfromMeasuresTandU willenablecontinuedinvestmentinessential services,infrastructure,andcommunity-focusedinitiativeswhilepreparingforfutureuncertainties.
