By Investigative Reporter, Linda Sutter – January 26, 2025
In Crescent City Harbor, loopholes seem to be a favored strategy for navigating challenges. Harbormaster Radamaker has developed a reputation for exploiting ambiguities in laws and regulations to achieve his goals, often bending rules rather than adhering to them. While creativity in leadership can be an asset, the methods employed here raise serious ethical and legal concerns.
The Board Packet Controversy
One example of Rademaker’s approach emerged during discussions about releasing board packets with meeting agendas. When the issue was debated, he claimed – incorrectly – that under case law, providing board materials to the public was merely a courtesy, not a requirement within the 72 hour notice period. This misrepresentation was used to justify withholding crucial information from the public.
Circumventing the Brown Act
The Brown Act which prohibits serial meetings among governing body members to ensure transparency, also became a target of Rademaker’s maneuvering. He allegedly advised commissioners to send blind copies (BCC) of emails to one another to circumvent the law. This was revealed in a text sent to Annie Nehmer on January 3, 2025 at 10:24 p.m., illustrating a deliberate attempt to bypass transparency requirements.
Misuse of Abalone Building
Another significant issue involves the illegal use of illegally built apartments in the old abalone building near the Coastguard Station. Referred as the “Harbor House”. Radamaker told Del Norte Planning Department that first responders were living in these units, a claim that was later found to be untrue. Radamaker and Harbor Finance Director, Dave Negus who earn $96,000 and $122,000 annually respectively, are living in these units rent free.
The benefits extend beyond free rent, electricity, water, sewer, garbage and internet services which are also provided at no cost to them. Mr. Radamaker believes this arrangement avoids reporting the perks as taxable income to the IRS under a loophole designed for groundskeepers- a designation that clearly does not apply here.
Zoning violations
The abalone building is zoned as a Harbor Dependent Recreational Coastal Combining District, meaning it is not approved as a residential area. While the nearby Coast Guard station does have suitable living quarters for first responders, Rademaker has chosen not to utilize those facilities.
Legal Advice and the Absence
Perhaps one of the most troubling aspects of Radamaker’s leadership is his decision to forego professional legal counsel during public meetings. Instead, he interprets laws and advises the Harbor Commissioners based on his own understanding of case law. This practice not only risks legal missteps but also undermines public trust in the harbor’s governance which led to a public member getting thrown out of a meeting on January 7, 2025 and which is getting viewed by a civil rights attorney from Oakland.
A Path Forward
The Crescent City Harbor’s reliance on loopholes and questionable practices could have significant long-term consequences. The misuse of public resources, lack of transparency, and avoidance of professional legal advice create a shaky foundation for the harbor’s future. Leaders are entrusted with upholding ethical standards, ensuring compliance with laws and prioritizing the public good. These are responsibilities that cannot- and should not -be sidestepped through loopholes. As these issues come to light, it is imperative for the community to demand accountability and transparency from its leadership. Only by addressing these concerns head-on can Crescent City Harbor District chart a course toward ethical and effective governance
