Fortuna keeps River Lodge, directs marketing push and approves $190,000 exterior stain contract

The Fortuna City Council on Sept. 2 voted to keep the River Lodge in city management for now, direct staff to return with an enhanced marketing and investment plan, and authorized a city manager contract to stain the building’s exterior with a not‑to‑exceed amount of $190,000.

The River Lodge, built in 1998 and operated by the city, has drawn steady attendance but cost the general fund. City staff told the council the facility has attracted roughly 18,872 attendees in fiscal 2023–24 and about 18,628 in 2024–25 and that "over the last 5 years, it is nearly a million dollars, more in expenses than revenues from the River Lodge," according to the staff presentation.

City staff and River Lodge management described the building as a community gathering place that houses trainings, conferences, weddings and memorials. "River Lodge was built for the city of Fortuna by a group of individuals who care deeply for their community," River Lodge manager Jennifer Lorenzo said, adding that current management has worked to increase bookings and online visibility since 2021.

Why it matters: Council members framed the decision as a tradeoff between preserving a locally valued facility and reducing a…