APRIL 2024


Oneka Technologies Update

The City of Fort Bragg and Oneka Technologies are partnering to deploy California’s first wave-powered desalination project. The entire desalination process will take place about ½ mile offshore from a modular buoy. The energy from the ocean activates a wave-actuated pump that moves seawater through reverse osmosis membranes, delivering fresh water through an underwater pipe to shore at the City’s Waste Water Treatment Facility. An environmental analysis pursuant to the California Environmental Quality Act (CEQA) is being prepared for a one-year pilot/demonstration. Several agencies are involved in the permitting conversation including the Department of Fish and Wildlife; California Coastal Commission; State Lands Commission; Sherwood Valley Band of Pomo Indians; and more. Studies prepared to inform this pilot project include, but are not limited to: a Benthic Habitat Survey; Essential Fish Habitat; Sensitive Species Survey; Entrapment Study and Mitigation; Brine Discharge Technology; and Subsurface Intake Feasibility. Stay tuned for updates as this project progresses, and sign up for “Blue Economy” e-notifications on the City’s website, as well as the e-newsletter from Noyo Ocean Collective.

Public Works Updates

The City of Fort Bragg is excited to announce a new initiative aimed at improving pedestrian safety within the community. Starting in May, the City will begin painting red curbs at the approach to any marked or unmarked crosswalks, extending them to comply with California Assembly Bill 413. This new measure is designed to increase visibility and awareness for pedestrians crossing the street, helping to reduce the risk of accidents and improve overall safety for residents and visitors alike. By extending the red curbs to the crosswalks, drivers will be reminded to slow down and yield to pedestrians, making the streets of Fort Bragg safer for everyone.

On April 9th and 10th, the City hosted a Federal/State Resource Workshop intending to connect regional partners working on coastal climate resiliency projects to resources to move initiatives forward. Discussion included emergency egress and circulation on N. Harbor Drive, which involves finding a new location for dredging activities, removing soil containment cells, restoring the beach, and connecting the Noyo Headlands coastal trail to the harbor. Other topics included a seismic retrofit of the fire station and Veteran’s Hall, adding additional resources to CV Starr Center, construction of new reservoirs and underground distribution pipes, improvements at Mendocino Coast College to support kelp restoration activities,  blue STEM workforce opportunities, and more. Stay tuned…


CITY EMPLOYEE SPOTLIGHT


MEET RUBY ACOSTA

ADMINISTRATIVE COORDINATOR

We celebrate the dedication and hard work of our city employees, who tirelessly contribute behind the scenes. Their commitment is crucial to the city’s functioning, meriting our utmost appreciation and acknowledgment. This month, we look to CV Starr Community Center to select our April EmployeeSpotlight for their exceptional contributions.

Meet Ruby Acosta, our esteemed Administrative Coordinator.  She consistently showcases excellence in her role with unwavering dedication, embodying our community’s core values. Ruby, a native of Fort Bragg, started part-time at the C.V. Starr Community Center in February 2018, initially at the front desk. Recognizing her hard work, she swiftly rose to the position of Senior Administrative Assistant in 2019. This achievement motivated her to pursue her current role, a responsibility she takes immense pride in. Ruby finds fulfillment in her job, cherishing her role within the Center’s team. When not working, she enjoys quality time at home with her two cats, indulging in video games, and exploring new recipes. Ruby excels in the “behind the scenes” aspects of her job, relishing tasks like creating event flyers, monthly newsletters, website editing, and crafting short videos for the front desk display. Her proficiency with various applications adds a rewarding and enjoyable dimension to her work. Ruby is thankful for her supportive coworkers who provide constant encouragement and assistance.


CITY OF FORT BRAGG NEW HIRES