To: Board of Supervisors
From: Sheriff
Agenda Section: Departmental
Vote Requirement: Majority
SUBJECT:
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Ratification of Local Emergency Proclamation Due to a 5-Alarm Structure Fire of Multiple Commercial Buildings at 10th and H Street, Arcata, CA
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RECOMMENDATION(S):
Recommendation
That the Board of Supervisors:
1. Ratify the Local Emergency Proclamation issued by the Humboldt County Sheriff dated Jan. 3, 2026, due to 5-alarm structure fire involving multiple commercial buildings at 10th and H Street, Arcata, CA; and
2. Forward a copy of this signed Resolution to the Director of the California Governor's Office of Emergency Services (Cal OES) requesting that the Director of Cal OES find this Proclamation acceptable in accordance with State law and forward this proclamation to the Governor of the State of California for consideration and action on Humboldt County's requests; and
3. Designate Patric Esh, Interim Emergency Services Program Manager, or his representatives as the authorized representative of the County of Humboldt for the purpose of receipt, processing, and coordination of all inquiries and requirements necessary to obtain available State or Federal assistance.
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STRATEGIC PLAN:
This action supports the following areas of your Board's Strategic Plan.
Area of Focus: Core Services/Other
Strategic Plan Category: 9999 - Core Services/Other
DISCUSSION:
The water runoff associated with fire suppression efforts resulting from the 5-alarm structure fire involving multiples commercial buildings at 10th and H Street, Arcata, CA, on Jan. 2, 2026, including runoff containing ash, debris, and potentially hazardous substances from building contents, poses an imminent threat to public health and safety and may cause significant impacts to environmental resources, including storm drain systems, surface waters, and adjacent properties. Due to these impacts and potential impacts to water quality and environmental health, including down...
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