Our History

The north coast of Mendocino County, once inhabited by Native Americans of the Pomo tribe for approximately 10,000 years, has a rich history. In 1855, the Mendocino Indian Reservation was established, but it was short-lived, with Fort Bragg as a military post abandoned in 1865. Incorporated as a city on August 5, 1889, Fort Bragg evolved as a lumber industry hub and thrived after the 1906 earthquake, supplying lumber for San Francisco's reconstruction. Commercial fishing also played a crucial role in the city's economic base. Over the years, Fort Bragg transitioned from resource extraction to a tourism service-oriented economy. Located 165 miles north of San Francisco, the city occupies 2.7 square miles and has a population of 7,273. 

 Welcome

The Fort Bragg City Council appointed Isaac Whippy as City Manager, effective January 3, 2024 

The Council-Manager form of government is in place, with the City Council overseeing policy and the City Manager managing daily operations. The city offers various services, including public safety, infrastructure maintenance, water, and community development. Special districts and joint power authorities provide additional services to the population.

City Manager, Isaac Whippy

Isaac Whippy   

It is with great honor and humility that I accept the position to serve as your City Manager, and I am eager to contribute my skills and dedication to the progress and well-being of our community.

I am truly grateful for the confidence the entire City Council has placed in me, and I am committed to working collaboratively with the City Council, city staff, the residents, businesses, and visitors to Fort Bragg. I understand the challenges and responsibilities that come with this role, and I am confident that, together, we can build a stronger, more vibrant community.

I’ve been driven by a passion for public service and a commitment to effective and transparent governance. I believe in fostering open communication, promoting inclusivity, and working diligently to address the diverse needs of our residents. My goal is to create an environment where innovation and collaboration thrive, enabling us to overcome challenges and achieve shared objectives.

Our shared commitment revolves around delivering top-notch customer service to residents, businesses, and visitors. We actively seek and value their input, shaping our priorities and goals based on their feedback. Together, we are dedicated to ensuring Fort Bragg's continuous growth and prosperity.

I am excited about the potential for positive change and growth in our Coastal City, and I look forward to working closely with each member of the City Council and the dedicated city staff. Together, we can build upon the strengths of our community and address any obstacles that may arise.

Once again, thank you for entrusting me with the responsibility of City Manager. I am eager to begin this journey and am confident that we can make Fort Bragg an even better place to live, work, and thrive together.

If you have suggestions on how we can enhance our city, please share your ideas. Your input is invaluable, and I am eager to hear from you.

Respectfully

Isaac Whippy