September 10, 2025 - The September 8th meeting focused on potential changes to the planning and zoning codes that would ease regulations for businesses looking to start up or expand in Fort Bragg. The report was commissioned by the City from Marie Jones, a land-use and planning consultant, who is under contract with Fort Bragg. There were six primary elements to the plan. Of the six suggestions in the plan, only one will return to the council for discussion and approval. The other five suggestions will go to the planning commission or the community development committee for further study.
The council is considering removing the requirement for installing fire sprinklers during remodels over $120,000 and replacing it with a state-of-the-art fire alarm system for all remodels. According to Jones, the suggestion came from the Fire Marshal. Per Jones, the Fire Marshal prefers everything to have sprinklers but understands it gets in the way of remodels and upgrades, which could reduce risk. The state-of-the-art alarm systems would be connected to the fire department and presumably provide more information about the fire for first responders. The details of the alarm systems’ capacity were not discussed. A quick search of the internet indicated that costs can range from $1 to $40 per square foot, depending on the complexity, with most standard installations being between $1 and $5 per square foot. Per Jones, sprinkler systems cost between $10 and $15 per square foot.
The Fire Marshall would not change the fire sprinkler requirements for new builds or for occupancy changes that introduce a high fire risk business. During the public comment period on this item, a local businesswoman, Jay Rosinquist, supported the change. She pointed out that for her, this would help her find a buyer for her commercial building. She said the sprinkler requirement has dissuaded two offers in the past.
During public comment, residents requested a public safety meeting, derided Chief Cervenka’s record, opposed the artificial grass at Bainbridge Park, opposed an apartment building that is under review at the Coastal Commission, and criticized City Manager Issac Whippy for holding three positions at the city.
Under consent, the Fort Bragg City Council authorized the adoption of an ordinance allowing Entertainment Zones for city-approved events. They also authorized a contract with American Chiller Service for up to $119 thousand to replace the CV Starr Community Center’s Hydronic Boiler’s Water Loop System. The current system was installed in 2008.