Issuu

CITY MANAGER ROUND UP

JANUARY 2026

MESSAGEFROMTHECITYMANAGER

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!

To subscribe to receive this publication and other City information directly to your inbox, visit: https://www.city.fortbragg.com/departments/city-manager/citymanager-news

Let’s get Social

Click on icons below to follow the City across the different platforms

OURCOREVALUES OURMISSION OURVISION

FortBraggisasmalltownnestledbetweenthecoastandtheredwoodswithastrongsenseof communitythatseekstopreserveitsenvironmentwhileprovidingresilientpublicfacilitiesand infrastructureandsupportingasafeandvibranteconomic,multi-cultural,andrecreational experienceforbothlocalsandvisitorsalike

ACaliforniacoastaldestinationwithrichnaturalresourcesandruggedbeauty,istransformingour futurebyweavingtogetherourpeople,ecosystems,andeconomytocreatecommunity prosperity.Wearemakingourmarkinthe21stCenturybycreatingclimate-readywaterand energyindependence,housingandeconomicopportunities,accessiblehealthcare,community publicsafety,andeducationforall

INNOVATION SERVICE-ORIENTED

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.

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.

CITY MANAGER

City of Fort Bragg 2026

Economic Development & Mill Site

Community Survey City of Fort Bragg 2026

Economic Development & Mill Site Community Survey

Dear Fort Bragg Residents and Business Owners,

I invite you to take a few minutes to share your thoughts in the short community survey included with your utility bill. Your input will help guide City Council decisions on Fort Bragg’s economic future and the long-term vision for the former Mill Site.

The survey is brief, anonymous, and easy to complete. Simply scan the QR code or visit the City’s website to participate. Your voice matters, and your feedback helps shape the future of our community. Thank you for being an engaged part of Fort Bragg.

CITY MAN

CITY COUNCIL PROCLAMATIONS

AttheCityCouncilmeetingonJanuary26 ,MayorJasonGodeke,onbehalfoftheFortBragg CityCouncil,officiallypresentedaproclamationhonoringthe25thAnniversaryofArtExplorers, Inc.

ArtExplorersisacreativeartsprogramandprogressivestudioservinglocalneurodivergent adultsandadultswithphysicaldisabilities.Theirmissionistoprovideafun,nurturing,nonjudgmental,andartisticallystimulatingenvironmentforcreativitytothrive.Theircontributions toourcommunityaredeeplyappriciated.

CITYCOUNCILCORNER JANUARY2026

OnJanuary12th,2026,CityCouncilProclaimed January9th,2026LawEnforcementAppreciationDay OnJanuary12th,2026,CityCouncilAdoptedOrdinance1021-2026AmendingSection2.04.060(Salary Designated)ofChapter2.04(CityCouncil)ofTitle2(AdministrationandPersonnel)oftheFortBragg MunicipalCode.

OnJanuary12th,2026,CityCouncilAdoptedaResolutionoftheFortBraggRedevelopmentSuccessor AgencyApprovingRecognizedObligationPaymentSchedule 26-27PursuanttoHealthandSafety CodeSection34177(l)

OnJanuary12th,2026,CityCouncilAdoptedaresolutionApprovingFirstAmendmenttoProfessional ServicesAgreementwithLumos&AssociatesforMaterialsTestingandInspectionServicesforthe BainbridgeParkEnhancementsProjectandAuthorizingtheCityManagertoExecuteContract Amendment(AmountNotToExceed$60,873.00)

OnJanuary12th,2026,CityCouncilAdoptedaresolutionoftheFortBraggCityCouncilApprovingthe EscrowAgreementfortheRawWaterLineProjecttoFormandAuthorizingthePublicWorksDirectorto SigntheAgreementintheamount$150,000withtheCaliforniaDepartmentofFishandWildlife(CDFW) toEnsurePerformanceofMitigationRequirements

OnJanuary12th,2026,CityCouncilAdoptedaResolutionoftheFortBraggCityCouncilApprovingFirst AmendmenttoProfessionalServicesAgreementwithLumos&AssociatesforConstruction ManagementServicesfor2025StreetsandStopGapProjectsandAuthorizingtheCityManagerto ExecuteContract

OnJanuary12th,2026,CityCouncilReceivedaReport,HeldaPublicHearing,andConsideredAdopting aResolutionApprovinganApplicationforFundingandtheExecutionofaGrantAgreementandAny AmendmentsTheretofromthe2025FundingYearoftheStateCommunityDevelopmentBlockGrant (CDBG)Program

OnJanuary12th,2026,CityCouncilReceivedaReportandConsideredAdoptionofResolution AuthorizingContractChangeOrderNo.1withWaterWorksEngineersfortheReservoirProjectforWater StorageResilience,IncreasingtheTotalContractAmountto$909,641,andApprovingBudget Amendment2025/26-08intheAmountof$200,000

OnJanuary12th,2026,CityCouncilReceivedaReportandConsideredAdoptingMunicipal ImprovementDistrictResolutionAwardingtheDryerBuildingReconstructionProject,CityProjectNo. WWP-00027toAugust-Jaye,Inc astheLowestResponsibleBidder,andAuthorizingtheCityManager toExecuteContract

OnJanuary26th,2026,CityCouncilpresentedaproclamationHonoringthe25thAnniversaryofArt Explorer'sInc

OnJanuary26th,2026,CityCouncilReceivedaStaffReportaboutAdvancingOurStrategicPlan(20242028):Statusand2026Goals

OnJanuary26th,2026,CityCouncilReceivedaReportonCityofFortBraggMunicipalBroadband UtilityProject,ProvideDirectiontoStaff,andConsiderApprovingCityCouncilResolutionAuthorizing CityManagertoExecuteContractChangeOrderNo.2withHPCommunications,Inc

OnJanuary26th,2026,CityCouncilReceivedaReportandConsideredAdoptionofaResolution ApprovingContractChangeOrderNo.5withA.B.S.Builders,Inc.fortheBainbridgeParkEnhancement ProjectandAuthorizingCityManagertoExecuteContractCEQAExemptions15301(d),15303,15304,and 15332

OnJanuary26th,2026,CityCouncilReceivedtheResultsoftheFortBraggCityCouncilAcceptingthe ResultsoftheOrdinance672SalarySurveyandAuthorizingtheCityManagertoExecuteSameand AdoptChangestotheCityofFortBraggSalaryRateCompensationPlan

ALL TICKETS ON SALE FEBRUARY 1ST! F O R T B R A G G B L U E S F E S T I V A L

10 BANDS, 4 VENUES + FREE COMMUNITY CONCERT

TICKET TYPES INCLUDE:

*ALL-ACCESS PASSES

*TWO-DAYWEEKEND PASSES

*SATURDAY OR SUNDAY SINGLE DAY-PASS

*SATURDAY OR SUNDAY HEADLINER ONLY PASS +

“ROARING 20'S” KICK-OFF EVENT ON APRIL 30TH

LOCALS DISCOUNT GOOD FOR MONTH OF FEBRUARY ONLY!

18% OFF MOST PASSES +

ROARING 20'S KICK-OFF PARTY

(NO DISCOUNTS ON ALL-ACCESS PASSES)

PROMO CODE: FBLOCAL

ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT

COMMUNITYDEVELOPMENT DEPARTMENT

SITE PLANS

WelcometoCDD,yourgo-toresourceforallyourplanningand buildingneeds!

We’reheretoassistyouwitheverythingfrombuildingpermitsto businesslicensesandsignpermits.

VisitusonMonday,Tuesday,Thursday,orFriday,orgiveusacallat 707-961-2827,extension111.Ifwe’reunabletoansweryourcall,please leaveamessage,andwepromisetogetbacktoyouassoonas possible.

AtCDD,wearededicatedtoprovidingyouwiththesupportand guidanceyouneedtoensureyourprojectsrunsmoothlyand successfully.Letushelpturnyourplansintoreality!

COMMUNITY DEVELOPMENT DEPARTMENT

SITE PLANS

Which submittals require a Site Plan?

ALL submittals/projects require a Site Plan!

What Is a Site Plan?

A site plan (also called a plot plan) is a scaled drawing that shows a property from an overhead view It illustrates both existing conditions on the site and proposed changes or improvements, and—most importantly how those elements relate to one another.

A site plan may be required for many types of projects, including building additions (such as a garage), window or façade updates, new signage, landscaping changes, or temporary events It shows property boundaries and the placement of structures, access points, utilities, and other features so reviewers can understand how the proposal fits within the site

In short, a site plan provides a clear visual explanation of what exists today and what you are proposing to change.

Why Do I Need a Site Plan?

A site plan is a key part of the review and approval process It helps ensure that proposed improvements are appropriate, compliant, and properly documented. Specifically, a site plan is used to:

1.Ensure compliance with local zoning and building codes

2 Confirm that local services and infrastructure can support the proposal

3.Demonstrate proper use of the property

4.Create an official record of changes made to the site

Beyond regulatory requirements, a site plan also serves as a communication tool between propert owners, designers, contractors, and City staff By clearly showing dimensions, locations, and relationships, it helps prevent errors, supports efficient review, and keeps everyone aligned throughout the project.

Examples of Site Plans for a Limited Term Permit Event:

COMMUNITY DEVELOPMENT DEPARTMENT

SITE PLANS

What should be included on a Site Plan?

Site Plans for smaller projects and events may not require as much detail as larger/more complex projects Please check with Community Development Department staff to confirm applicable requirements for your project

1. Property owner’s name, job address, and Assessor’s Parcel Number(s).

2. Legal parcel configuration clearly shown with all property boundaries, dimensions and acreage (must include all Assessors’ Parcel Numbers)

3 Adjacent streets both public and private and any access easements

4 Distance from centerline of any public/private roadway to property line

5. North arrow and scale if applicable.

6. Proposed structure or addition including distance from property lines and other structures

7. All existing structures clearly labeled and distance from property lines

8 Driveways, parking and loading areas Parking space size and setbacks from property lines must be shown for all commercial/industrial parking and wells, including distances from structures

10 Easements and utility lines (power, sewer, water, access etc )

11. Fences retaining walls.

12. Lakes, ponds or streams identified with names if appropriate from watercourse to proposed project.

13 Location of floodplain/ floodway

14 Location of any signs and distances to property lines for commercial/industrial uses

Example of Site Plan for a Building

Permit:

COMMUNITY DEVELOPMENT DEPARTMENT

SITE PLANS

Does the City have a Site Plan for my property that I can use?

No Site Plans from previously approved submittals may not have accurate or up to date information

The City requires the applicant to provide a new Site Plan reflecting the current features of the property.

Examples of Site Plans for a Limited Term Permit for a Parade:

PUBLIC

YOUTH ADVISORY BOARD

TheYouthAdvisoryBoardistransforminghowtheyouthinFortBraggengagewiththeir community.AspartofProjectRightNow(PRN)theboardgivesavoiceinshapingprogramsthat mattermosttothem PRNfocusesonopioidpreventionandrecovery,offeringfree,personalized servicestoyouthage15-25.ThroughtheYouthAdvisoryBoard(YAB),studentsaresteppingupto createmeaningfulchange.

Currently,YABmembersfromtwoschoolsitesarecollaboratingonprojectsdesignedtoprovide classmateswithbetteropportunitiesandhealthieralternativestosubstanceuse.Thesestudents havealreadymetwithPRNstaffandpresentedtheirideastocommunityleaders,includingthe PoliceDepartmentmanagementandschooladministration.Showinghowpassionatetheyabout theirinduvialprojectsandhelpingtheircommunity.

Theprojectsunderwayreflectaclearvision:preventionthroughengagementandeducation One majorinitiativefocusesonexpandingenrichmentopportunitiessuchasclubs,sports,and communityactivities.Researchshowsthatparticipationinextracurricularprogramsislinkedto lowerratesofsubstanceabuse,astheseactivitiesreduceunsupervisedtimeandhelpyouthbuild socialandemotionalskills.TheYABisworkingtomaketheseopportunitiesmoreaccessibleand evenintroducenewoptionsbasedonstudentinterest.

Anotherprojectaimstosimplifyaccesstovitalresources.Navigatingmentalhealthcare,housing, andrecoveryservicescanbeoverwhelming,sotheYABisdevelopinganupdatedcommunity resourcepamphletbothinEnglishandSpanishthatorganizesinformationintoclearcategories andincludesQRcodesforquickaccess Thistoolwillempowerfamiliesandindividualstofindhelp withoutunnecessarystress.

Finally,YABplanstoreachteensonsocialmedia.Plansincludecreatingsocialmediaaccountsto shareeducationalcontent,resources,andevenshortvideosontopicslikeNarcantrainingand substanceuseprevention.Byusingplatformsfamiliartoyouth,theboardhopestomakecritical informationmoreaccessibleandengaging.

Theseeffortsareambitious,buttheyreflectadeepcommitmenttobuildingahealthier,safer community.Andthisisjustthebeginning.TheYouthAdvisoryBoardisdeterminedtokeepgrowing, launchingnewprojects,andfindinginnovativewaystosupporttheirpeers They’reprovingthat whenyoungpeoplearegivenavoice,theycanleadrealchange

PUBLIC

COMMUNITY EMERGENCY RESPONSE TEAM

TheCityofFortBraggispleasedtoannouncearenewedpartnershipwithNorthCoast OpportunitiestorelaunchtheCommunityEmergencyResponseTeam(CERT)ontheMendocino Coast Thisvitalprogramservesasaforcemultiplierforfirstresponders,equippingcommunity memberswiththeskillstoassisttheirneighborsduringemergenciesandsupportoverall disasterresilience.

ThereestablishedCERTprogramwillofferhandsontraining,practicalpreparednessskills,and opportunitiesforvolunteerstoplayanactiveroleincoastalemergencyreadiness.We encourageresidentstogetinvolvedandhelpstrengthenourcommunity’scapacitytorespond whenitmattersmost.

EMPLOYEE SPOTLIGHT

CONTINUED EDUCATION

Earlierthismonth,ourHumanResourcesManager,JuliMortensen,attendedLiebert CassidyWhitmore’sannuallegalconferenceinSanFrancisco,aneventthatbrings togetherexpertstosharebestpracticesforpublicagenciesacrossCalifornia.

Sessionsfocusedonlegalupdatesforpublicsafety,employeediscipline,public recordslaws,andprocessesforreturningemployeestowork.Thesesessionsalso addressedkeylegalprincipleslikeBradyandPitchess,whichhelpensurefairnessand transparencyinlawenforcement.Juliprioritizesmaintainingtrustandaccountability inherrole.Bykeepingupwiththelatestlegalstandardsandbestpractices,wecan betterserveourresidents,strengthenpublicconfidence,andensureourcitycontinues tooperatewithintegrityandprofessionalism.

PublicHealth BLUE ZONES

MendocinoCountyisnowacertifiedBlueZonesCommunity®,amilestone madepossiblebytheworkofourHumanResourcesManager,JuliMortensen. MendocinoCountynowstandsasamodelforwhat’spossiblewhen communitiesunitetomakewell-beingapriority.Afterfouryearsofdedicated efforts,BlueZonesProjectMendocinoCountyhasachieveditsgoalof transformativechangeandwell-beingimprovementacrosstheregion.

Thisworkhashelpedtomakehealthychoicesforourcommunityeasier.The resultisapositiveshifttowardmoreactiveliving,healthiereating,andstronger socialconnections,whichwillcontinuetoimprovewell-beinginourcommunity foryearstocome.Implementingpoliciesthatmakethehealthychoicetheeasy choicehelpstolayastrongfoundationforlasting,meaningfulchange. ThiscertificationencouragestheCityofFortBraggtofurtherintegratewellbeingintoourorganization’sculture,values,anddailydecisions.