Clearlake council approves housing application, Axon camera contract and authorizes loan framework for stalled subdivision

The Clearlake City Council on Nov. 3 approved several measures aimed at advancing housing projects, public‑safety technology and local economic development.

Council adopted Resolution 2022‑61 authorizing the city to submit a Permanent Local Housing Allocation (PLHA) plan to the state Housing and Community Development (HCD) department and apply for the city’s allotted funds. City staff estimated Clearlake’s five‑year PLHA allocation at about $875,000 and told the council that the 2019 portion—roughly $150,000—must be applied for before the end of the month or it will be reallocated by HCD. City Manager Flora said the plan lists projects such as finishing curb, gutter and sidewalks at the Hope Center and potential uses for workforce housing up to 120% of area median income.

“Over the five‑year period, they’re estimating Clearlake’s allocation to be a little bit over 875,000,” City Manager Flora said during the presentation. Flora told the council staff would return with more detailed project programming and that the council could amend the plan later.

On infrastructure finance, the council authorized the city manager to develop and execute a loan agreement to complete road and storm drainage work on 30 Sixth Avenue, a project tied to a previous agreement that included the sale of 18 city lots to a private developer. Staff described the developer relationship as troubled but said two houses are nearly complete and that completing the road would make the remainder of the subdivision marketable. Councilmembers agreed the city should seek multiple security mechanisms—liens on remaining lots, loan agreements and personal guarantees where feasible—to protect the housing fund. The motion passed with a roll‑call of Aye (Overton, Kramer, Claffey, Mayor Slotin) and one abstention (Vice Mayor Purdock).

The council also approved a five‑year lease and service agreement with Axon Enterprises for 30 body‑worn cameras and a digital evidence management system (Resolution 2022‑63). Staff said the initial year cost would be $37,031.70, then about $33,837.86 each subsequent year, totaling $172,383.14 over five years; the current contract cost is roughly $19,000 per year. Acting Lieutenant Peterson and Chief White described officer‑safety and audit features—GPS location for officers on foot, automatic taser alerts, and tools for randomized supervisory review—and said the department will consolidate multiple camera purchases and spread costs across participating funds.

“Having an audit program in place is the next logical step,” Chief White said, adding that video evidence has been decisive in prior complaints and investigations.

Council also authorized an agreement allowing the Lake County Economic Development Corporation and the Clear Lake Chamber of Commerce to use the city’s visitors center facility, and approved the consent agenda and other routine items.

The council heard public comment on unrelated items, including complaints about recurring sewage odors near a pump station and questions about a new splash pad; staff said the splash pad equipment is installed but controller parts and finishing work remain and that it is expected to open in spring.

Next steps: staff will submit the PLHA application, prepare a loan agreement for the 30 Sixth Avenue improvements for council review and finalize procurement documents for the Axon contract.