"...water remains the main obstacle."
Message from the City Manager
SUMMER 2023 Volume XXXVIII, no. 3
A Report from the City of Monterey to its Citizens and Friends
The summer edition of our City Focus is here. We are excited to share with you what is going on here at City Hall and other places around town. Please enjoy reading the many short articles informing you about so many facets of our City and our City’s operations. Once again, the library’s summer reading program motivated hundreds of young readers to document their reading minutes in hopes of winning our precious reading awards. Hundreds of day campers visited the Monterey Sports Center. Our Day Camp at Whispering Pines Park was filled as well and our Camp Quien Sabe at Toro Park, which ran six separate weeks, was equally sold out. Many of our other recreation programs including the Playground Program, Field Sports Summer Camps, and Tiny Tots Summer Camp saw participants return in great numbers. Our Monterey Sports Center, the premier fitness facility of the Monterey peninsula, has returned to almost normal occupancy. Extended opening hours – now open until 9:00 p.m. weeknights and 5:00 p.m. on weekends - a new approach to marketing, motivating instructors and fitness trainers, as well as a fully functional facility and fitness equipment, have brought back many of our previous customers paired with new ones. What else is going on? Our plans to find locations for 3,654 new housing units are almost complete. Available water remains the main obstacle for meaningful implementation of the plans. Instead, Monterey is trying something new. Unfortunately, our local provider, the Monterey Peninsula Water Management District, including Monterey One Water, will not be able to supply us with enough water for 3,654 housing solutions; therefore we are exploring alternatives with the Marina Coast Water District (MCWD). Since MCWD has more water than they use and have a demand for, why not pipe some water into Monterey’s system to allow housing and modest economic development within our City? Of course, there will be obstacles ahead, but we think we can figure out an agreement that will allow our plans to become reality. If you want more housing, this is a real option to make that happen. Stormwater run-off, in essence, water from Lake El Estero, presents another option to provide water for housing. Did you know, between April 2023 and July 2023, 84 AF (acre feet) of fresh lake water were funneled to the ocean? Once we have the current project completed, this water and much more will be diverted to Monterey One Water for reuse, and we will, hopefully, get credited for it. Lastly, this summer will be another great one for our hospitality industry and for the City, as hotel tax, sales tax and parking revenues significantly pay for Monterey’s services, including the recreation programs and the Sports Center mentioned above. Summer 2023 represents a more normal tourist season when compared to the summer of 2022, when pent-up travel demand dominated. While some data points show a slight reduction when compared to 2022, fiscally speaking, it will be still a great summer. If you like reading the City Focus, tell your neighbors and friends and ask them to sign up for it. If you don’t like this edition, don’t tell anyone; or, drop me a note and let me know. Either way, have a great summer everyone. On behalf of all our employees, thank you for allowing us to work for you here in California’s First City. Anda! Hans Uslar, City Manager
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It's been a BUSY SUMMER at city hall
CITY FOCUS
FY 2023-24 ADOPTED BUDGET
Message from the City Manager continued...
Watch the July 26, 2023 edition
Monterey Mornings with the Manager Tune-in to the City's YouTube Channel every third Wednesday for the latest edition of Monterey Mornings with the Manager. Get your questions answered on the spot by the City Manager. You can also submit questions in advance by email to: suggest@monterey.org. The next edition is August 16 at 9:30 a.m.
The comprehensive Operating Budget for Fiscal Year 2023- 2024 that Council adopted in June will be available in early August. It includes a message from the City Manager, department narratives, organization charts, and more. Visit monterey.org/budget to view a copy.
Have a topic idea for the next issue of City Focus? Email suggest@monterey.org and let us know!
CULTURE CORNER - art, history, culture
PAGE STORY Cover Message from the City Manager 2 FY 2023-24 Adopted Budget 4 Back to School Safety 5 Firefighter Serves 50 Years 6 Community Open House 7 Car Week 2023 8 What to Do About Mold in Your Home 9 Fun, Fast, Free Trolley 10 Have Your Say Hot Topics CERT Update 11 Pandemic Proclamation Blossoms of Resilience 12 Upcoming Measure S Work 13 Waterfront Lot 1 Finishing Touches Wildfire Protection Plan 14 Halloween Trunk or Treat Fall Recreation Programs 15 Summer Camps a Wrap 18 Five Generations of Camp Quien Sabe 19 Pumpkin Plunge 20 New Hours at the MSC PARK(ing) Day PAGE STORY 21 Landscaping Techniques 22 Donating Edible Food 23 New Bookmobile Solarium Room 24 Buffalo Soldiers Exhibit 25 Worlds Toughest Row Launch 26 Employee Spotlight 27 Photos from Independence Day
CITY BRIEFS
IN THE NEWS
PARKS & PLAY - to health, wellness, activity, and fun
Inside this issue
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GREEN SCENE - stewarding our environment
CITY FOCUS - Summer 2023
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monterey.org/police
Colleges, high schools, and K-8 educational settings are gearing up to receive their students for the 2023-2024 school year. Our community will experience an increase in bus, private vehicle, bicycle, and pedestrian traffic, especially near our educational institutions. The Monterey Police Department would like to share some traffic safety tips curated from the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration. Drivers: Yellow flashing lights on a school bus mean slow down — don’t speed up — because the bus is preparing to stop. There are likely students waiting to get on the bus or parents waiting nearby to pick up children. Red flashing lights on a school bus mean stop — and wait at least 20 feet behind the bus — because children are getting on or off the school bus. Stay stopped until the red lights stop flashing, the extended stop-arm is withdrawn, and the bus begins moving. This applies to vehicle in BOTH directions of travel. Even when lights aren’t flashing, watch for children, particularly in the morning or mid-afternoon, around school arrival and dismissal times. Be alert as you back out of a driveway, or drive through a neighborhood, school zone or bus stop. Your child should arrive at the bus stop at least five minutes before the bus is scheduled to arrive. Teach them to play it SAFE: Stay five steps away from the curb. Always wait until the bus comes to a complete stop and the bus driver signals for you to board. Face forward after finding a seat on the bus. Exit the bus after it stops and look left-right-left for cars before crossing a street. Bicycles can be an easy and quick way to travel to school. Be sure to do these simple things to keep your bike ride safe: Always wear a correctly fitted helmet, and securely fasten the chin strap. Ride in the same direction as traffic, and follow traffic signs and signals. Stay in the bike lane whenever possible. Never use electronics while riding – they are distracting. Walking is a great way to get some fresh air, and it’s likely you or your child will be a pedestrian at some point in the day. Remind them to: Use the sidewalk whenever possible, and if there isn’t a sidewalk, walk on the edge of the street facing traffic. Whenever they are available, use marked crosswalks to cross the street, and look left-right-left for vehicles or bikes before crossing. Make sure you never play, push or shove others when you walk around traffic. Everyone should watch the road, not their phones. If you are driving, especially in a neighborhood, look out for pedestrians at all times, everywhere. Going back to school is a great way to reconnect with friends, and every year is another step closer to achieving hard-earned goals. Lower your risk by following these safety tips, and have a great school year!
Back to School safety reminders BY MONTEREY POLICE SERGEANT JEREMIAH RUTTSCHOW
Photo at left: Fire Department Chief, Assistant Chief, Division Chief and team with Ray, City Manager and Assistant City Manager.
https://montereyfiredept.org
City Manager Hans Uslar, Fire Chief Gaudenz Panholzer, and Ray LaFontaine
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Firefighter Ray LaFontaine receives a 50-year pin BY COMMUNICATIONS MANAGER LAURIE HUELGA
On Tuesday, July 25, in an informal ceremony, Firefighter Ray LaFontaine received a 50-year pin from City Manager Hans Uslar. Ray was recognized a few months ago by City Council for having served on the Monterey Fire Department for 50 years! The City keeps year pins to give to employees who serve 20, 25, and 30 years, but we had to special order a 50 year pin since it's the first time we needed one!
Fire Chief Panholzer pinning Ray.
haveyoursaymonterey.org/monterey2031
Monterey 2031 Community Open House, Monday, August 7 BY ASSOCIATE PLANNER CHRISTY SABDO
The City of Monterey will host another community open house to present the Draft 2023-31 Housing Element. The draft Housing Element is based on extensive community input including more than 1,050 online surveys, dozens of outreach meetings, as well as public meetings and discussions between public and Planning Commission and our City Council. Monterey residents are invited to attend on Monday, August 7, 2023, anytime between 6:00 p.m. to 8:30 p.m. at the Monterey Conference Center, 1 Portola Plaza, Monterey. Amid the ongoing housing shortage in the Monterey Peninsula, the City is required by State law to plan for at least 3,654 new homes over the next eight years to meet current and projected needs. The meeting will be an opportunity to learn about proposed strategies to meet projected housing needs and it will serve as the required scoping meeting per CEQA Section 15082 for an environmental impact report (EIR) to be prepared for the project. Community members are invited to share feedback on the proposed Draft Housing Element as well as the scope of the Draft EIR to be prepared, including potential environmental impacts and potential reasonable alternatives to be studied. Please register to let us know you're coming. https://bit.ly/monterey-open-house-080723 Or scan the QR code using your phone camera:
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Monterey Car Week, August 11 - 20
monterey.org/carweek
Interactive Monterey Car Week Map at https://seemonterey.com/carweek
in the news
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Classic and vintage cars will take to the streets, golf courses, and WeatherTech Raceway Laguna Seca for Monterey Car Week 2023, surrounding car enthusiasts with automobiles from yesteryear. Monterey Car Week features 10 full days of 30+ special automotive events, car shows, races, auctions, and memorabilia. The Monterey Conference Center will host RM Sotheby's 26th annual Premier Flagship Sale and Live Auction, Aug 17 – 19. A link to a full schedule of events and an interactive map to plan your Car Week is posted at monterey.org/carweek - and is available directly at seemonterey.com/carweek. Did you know there are several FREE car week events? SEE THE FULL LIST Last year's Monterey Car Week brought in an estimated $60 million dollars to the Monterey Peninsula economy, with donations to dozens of local charities topping $4.5 million. Monterey County has created an interactive map to alert the community of any travel delays caused by the busy week. You can text “CARWEEK” to 888777 for Public Safety texts during Car Week.
What to do when you suspect mold in your home BY CODE COMPLIANCE COORDINATOR RORY LAKIND
Mold is a kind of microscopic organism. There are many types and they can be found indoors and outdoors. It is common for buildings to have mold growth. Mold grows in places that have moisture, often related to leaks in pipes, windows, and roofs. Mold can grow on fabric, upholstery, insulation, dry wall, and paints. Very often, mold can be detected be sight or odor. Mold testing is not recommended due to the cost as well as the fact that different people are affected differently by mold or moisture. Instead take action to address the source of the mold, remove it, and prevent it from returning. Inspect the indoor space for water damage and visible mold. Control humidity levels. Fix all leaky roofs, windows, and pipes. Clean and dry area after flooding. Ventilate shower, laundry, and cooking areas. Consider not using carpet in areas that have moisture such as a bathroom or basement. Clean all affected non-porous areas with water and dish detergent, drying quickly and thoroughly. Use a fan to help speed the drying process. Avoid using bleach products. Remove and replace porous materials affected by mold. If you are renting an apartment and have difficulty in getting a response from the property owner or management company, please contact the Code Compliance Coordinator’s office at (831) 646-3750 or email to Code Compliance Coordinator Rory Lakind at lakind@monterey.org. Visit the Code Compliance web page at monterey.org/codecompliance. Links to Resources Basic Facts about Mold and Dampness (Centers for Disease Control and Prevention) Information on Dampness and Mold for Renters in California (Calif Department of Public Health) Mold or Moisture in My Home: What Do I Do? (Calif Department of Public Health) Mold Cleanup in Your Home (US Environmental Protection Agency EPA) A Brief Guide to Mold, Moisture in Your Home (US Environmental Protection Agency EPA)
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monterey.org/codecompliance
The FREE MST Trolley is the best way to get around the City and avoid parking and traffic congestion. The free MST Trolley operates daily 10:00 a.m. - 6:00 p.m. Memorial day weekend, Saturday May 27 through Labor Day, Monday September 4. The route serves Downtown Monterey, Fisherman's Wharf, Cannery Row and the Monterey Bay Aquarium. Look for the green MST Trolley signs to board along the route. The MST Trolley departs from the Downtown Parking Garages at Tyler Street and Del Monte Avenue every 10 to 15 minutes. All day parking is available for $12.00 in the Downtown Garages. Parking is also available at the Cannery Row Garage on Foam and Hoffman streets for $15 Monday through Thursday and $20 Friday through Sunday. There is no cost to ride a classic MST Trolley! Note: All day parking until midnight, and then the meter resets for the next day. The Trolley Shuttle Program is funded by the City of Monterey, with contributions from the Monterey Bay Aquarium. For more specific information on the Trolley, call the Monterey-Salinas Transit at 1-888-MST-BUS1 (1-888-678-2871). SEE MAP | SEE BROCHURE
city briefs
Ride the fast, fun, and free MST Trolley through Labor Day BY PARKING STAFF
monterey.org/parking
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Using a nationally published FEMA curriculum, CERT educates individuals at the local level about disaster preparedness for hazards that may impact their area and trains them in basic disaster response skills, such as fire safety, light search and rescue, team organization, triage, and disaster medical operations. Using training learned in the classroom and during exercises, CERT volunteers can protect their family first, and then others in their community following a disaster, storm, major fire or other emergency when professional responders are not immediately available to help. CERT members also assist in searches for lost persons, particularly children. Peninsula residents interested in being part of CERT can send an email to: training@montereycert.org Read the August 2023 CERT newsletter. The August newsletter includes a tutorial on the use of CERT radios. Also in the August edition: 1) CERT has multiple emergency and public service deployments; 2) New CERT class begins in October; 3) Safety tip: Hiking on our beautiful Monterey area; 4) At-risk, Monterey adult still missing (at time of publication). Find this and past newsletters on the CERT web page under the Preparedness tab at montereyfiredept.org.
We have several active topics we are tracking for you on our engagement portal, Have Your Say Monterey. Here's a quick glance at the latest status of these active projects. Rental Inventory Monterey - Council will review and consider adopting an ordinance at their September 19 Council Meeting. Community Wildfire Protection Plan - Plan adoption is scheduled for August/September. Once the plan is complete, we will have it available to the public. The final report will identify goals and outline action plans. Laguna Grande Regional Park Plan - Now that the joint agencies have all adopted the plan, we are now in the phase of getting all the necessary environmental permits. Implementation is scheduled to start in early 2024. Commercial Cannabis - The environmental review process is scheduled to be completed in October and then the ordinance will be presented to Council some time this fall/early winter. Monterey 2031 - You are all invited to a Community Open House on Monday, August 7 at the Monterey Conference Center from 6 - 8:30 p.m. where staff will introduce the Draft Housing Element. The City is required by State law to plan for at least 3,654 new homes over the next eight years to meet current and projected needs. The meeting will be an opportunity to learn about proposed strategies to meet projected housing needs and it will serve as the scoping meeting for an environmental impact report (EIR) to be prepared for the project. Please register for this meeting at the link provided at haveyoursaymonterey.org/monterey2031 Thank you to everyone who participates in providing feedback on these important topics! Follow these and more topics of interest at haveyoursaymonterey.org.
haveyoursaymonterey.org monterey.org/cert
Have Your Say Monterey - Hot topics at a glance BY COMMUNICATIONS MANAGER LAURIE HUELGA
CERT Monterey's July newsletter BY MONTEREY CERT
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Pictured: Dr. Steven Cabrales, VP/Chief Medical Officer, Dr. Steven Packer, President/CEO, Montage Health, Hans Uslar, City Manager, City of Monterey, Dr. Martha Blum, Medical Director of Infection Prevention, Montage Health.
On June 22, 2023, the City of Monterey presented Montage Health, Dr. Steven Packer, and Dr. Martha Blum, with a proclamation recognizing their response to the COVID-19 pandemic. The City thanked Montage Health and its team for their leadership, community COVID-19 vaccinations, prevention education, treatment, testing, surge planning, and demonstrating a commitment to the safety, health, and well-being of its staff, patients, and the Monterey community.
monterey.org
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A new plaque will soon be unveiled at the cherry tree pandemic memorial along the Recreation Trail near Cannery Row. The City of Monterey dedicated the memorial on March 13, 2021, one year after the COVID-19 pandemic emergency order. The plaque will read, in part: On the pandemic's first anniversary, three Akebono Yoshino Cherry Trees (Prunus akebono) were planted by the City of Monterey, each a tribute... These blossoms of resilience symbolize our community’s unity, strength, and compassion for one another that emerged from challenging times. May these trees inspire hope and unity in our hearts.
City Manager presents COVID-19 proclamation to Montage Health team BY COMMUNICATIONS MANAGER LAURIE HUELGA
Blossoms of Resilience - City of Monterey's COVID-19 Memorial BY COMMUNICATIONS MANAGER LAURIE HUELGA
Upcoming Road Rehabilitation, Winter 2023 and Spring 2024 - SEE MAP
Measure S was approved by 82% of voters in November 2018 as a continuation of Measure P. It authorized a 1% local district tax (sales and use tax) to be used “to address significant deferred maintenance by fixing streets, sidewalks, and potholes; improve related access and safety for senior citizens, disabled residents, and others; and repair its 100-year-old storm drain system to protect our beaches/Monterey Bay.” Measure P was approved by 74% of voters in November, 2014, and expired in March 2019. The tax is effective from April 1, 2019 through March 31, 2027. Despite some delays due to the pandemic, we are making great progress on fixing streets, sidewalks, and storm drains. We are currently working on Citywide Sidewalk Repair Project Phase 7 in downtown. Next is Citywide Road Surface Repair Projects Phase 4 & 5 as well as our projected Road Rehabilitation Projects for later this year and for 2024. Wondering if your street is on the list to get done? SEE A LIST OF STREET SEGMENTS FOR THE ROAD SURFACE REPAIR Thank you for voting YES on Measure S!
monterey.org/fixingstreets
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Measure S and P Update BY COMMUNICATIONS MANAGER LAURIE HUELGA
Upcoming Road Surface Repairs, Winter 2023 and Spring 2024 - SEE MAP
monterey.org/construction haveyoursaymonterey.org/cwpp
Marina Lot Ribbon Cutting Event Save-the-Date Coming Soon BY COMMUNICATIONS MANAGER LAURIE HUELGA
The City of Monterey, in conjunction with the cities of Carmel-by-the-Sea and Pacific Grove, are currently wrapping up the Community Wildfire Protection Plan Project. The project involved an in-depth hazard risk assessment, public survey, stakeholder input as well as community workshops in all three cities to receive public feedback. The final report highlighting the identified goals and action plans for each City is expected to be released some time between mid-August and early September. Details about the project are posted on haveyoursaymonterey.org/cwpp, and includes a link to the storymap website.
Community Wildfire Protection Plan Final Report BY FIRE DEPARTMENT SENIOR ANALYST CHERYL KOURETAS
The final touches are in being done on the beautiful, new Waterfront Lot 1. A short fence was just installed along the exit lane, and landscaping will be added soon. The lots between wharves 1 and 2 were made into one larger lot for easy traffic circulation. The project realigned the parking lot to improve vehicular and pedestrian circulation, rehabilitated the pavement, and implemented stormwater control measures to improve water quality discharged to the Monterey Bay. We are organizing a ribbon cutting event to celebrate the new lot some time in Fall. Watch for details coming soon and then save-the-date!
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Save the date! Annual Halloween Movie Night and Trunk or Treat BY RECREATION MANAGER SHANNON LEON
Register now for fall programs with Monterey Recreation BY RECREATION MANAGER SHANNON LEON
parks & play - to health, wellness, activity & fun
monterey.org/rec
Mark your calendars! The City of Monterey will be hosting our 2nd Annual Halloween Movie Night and Trunk or Treat on Saturday, October 21 on Colton Hall Lawn, 580 Pacific Street. We are planning even more FUN for 2023. Check our website at monterey.org/rec or follow Monterey Recreation on Facebook and Instagram @montereyrecreation for the latest updates on upcoming events and programs.
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Monterey Recreation is now taking registration for Fall leagues and programs for all ages and interests. Programs for Toddlers and Youth including; Fall Break Camp, Preschool Programs at Hilltop Park and El Estero Park Centers including Stories and Adventures, Gymnastics, Chess for Kids, a variety of Dance classes and Theater for Youth Art Classes for Adults including; Drawing and Painting, Watercolor Painting and Ceramics for Adults Exercise for Adults: Pilates and Modified Pilates, Yoga Field Sports Leagues: Youth Junior Soccer, Adult Co-Rec /Men's Softball and 30+ Baseball and much more! Please check our website frequently or follow Monterey Recreation on Facebook and Instagram for the latest updates. Questions? Email: montereyrecreation@monterey.org Register Online - See the online Amilia/SmartRec store for additional class information. It’s time to play!Monterey.
Thank you for an amazing summer of camps and fun! BY MONTEREY RECREATION MANAGER SHANNON LEON
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parks & play
Monterey Recreation had a great summer filled with camps and programs for kids of all ages! Thank you to all of the families and kids that participated. We hope you all had a great experience. These programs would not have been possible without amazing Recreation camp staff and support from the entire City of Monterey team. We have started planning for Summer 2024. Registration will begin in early 2024 for the following camps and more! Camp Quien Sabe Youth Overnight Camp Whispering Pines Day Camp Summer Fun Playground Program Tiny Tots Summer Camp Sports Camps including Challenger International Soccer, Flag Football, Basketball, Beach Volleyball Playwell LEGO, Gymnastics, Chess, Woodworking, Dance Camps and much more! Check our website at monterey.org/rec or follow Monterey Recreation on Facebook and Instagram @montereyrecreation for the latest updates on summer programs and camps for 2024.
more photos next 2 pages
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summer camp photos
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Five Generations of Camp Quien Sabe Counselors, each generation was a counselor to the next generation: (From left to right) Peggy Hutchinson, former CQS Camp Counselor to; Rachel Deis, former camp counselor and now Hilltop Park Center Recreation Coordinator; Christina Cook, former counselor and now CQS Camp Director; Jordan Garrett, former counselor and now CQS Assistant Camp Director; Peggy’s daughter, Ellen Hutchinson, CQS Camp Support Staff. Another fun fact, Peggy’s Dad and Ellen’s Grandpa, Jason Reed (not pictured) was a camper at the very first week of Camp Quien Sabe ever.
Camp Quien Sabe celebrates 70 years! BY MONTEREY RECREATION MANAGER SHANNON LEON
Did you know our youth overnight camp celebrated 70 years this summer? Camp Quien Sabe (CQS) has been offering an amazing overnight camp experience for the youth of our community for over 70 years with 47 of those years being at Monterey County’s Toro Park. This great County and City partnership provides lifelong learning and memories for the children ages 7-15 years every summer. Generations of youth, families, and even staff have been a part of what makes Camp Quien Sabe so special. Check our website at monterey.org/rec or follow Monterey Recreation on Facebook and Instagram @montereyrecreation or the latest updates on employment for summer 2024 camps.
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monterey.org/sportscenter
Pumpkin Plunge at the Monterey Sports Center BY MONTEREY SPORTS CENTER INTERIM MANAGER RYAN NUNEZ
It's only August, but October will be here before we know it. That means it is almost time to get ready for the Pumpkin Plunge! Bring your swimsuit and towel and take a plunge in the Monterey Sports Center's heated indoor swimming pool to find your pumpkin. Enjoy face painting, a photo booth, and water activities with friends! Come join the fun on Saturday, October 28 from 5:30 p.m. to 7:30 p.m. at the Monterey Sports Center, 301 E. Franklin St. in Monterey. The cost is $20 per participant. Register at the front desk or online at montereysportscenter.org. Space is limited! As a reminder, children ages five and under must be accompanied by an adult in a swimsuit in the pools. Every participant must be at least 46 inches and pass a 12-yard swim test to ride down the waterslide and they must be at least six years old and pass a 25-yard swim test or wear a life jacket to play on the Wibit Water Obstacle Course. For more information, stop by or call the front desk at (831) 646-3730 or look on the Monterey Sports Center activities and registration web page. Upcoming Fall programs include PE for Home Schooled students, Youth Wrestling, Martial Arts, October Break Sports Camps and Counselor in Training. More information can be found on the Monterey Sports Center website.
PARK(ing) Day flyer
As of July 31, the Monterey Sports Center hours hours are extended! Weekday hours are 5:30 a.m. to 9:00 p.m. and weekend hours are 8:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. Visit montereysportscenter.org, or find direct links on the home page at monterey.org and check out all the variety and quantity of fun programs offered for all ages. There are also great membership options!
PARK(ing) Day, Friday, September 15 BY COMMUNICATIONS MANAGER LAURIE HUELGA
Extended Hours Now in Effect BY MONTEREY SPORTS CENTER TEAM
City of Monterey staff enjoy engaging with community members. PARK(ing) Day is a great opportunity to do just that. On Friday, September 15 from 10:00 a.m. to 2:30 p.m., the City of Monterey will transform a few parking spaces into temporary parklets in celebration of PARK(ing) Day. An annual international community event, PARK(ing) Day re-imagines parking spaces for an entertaining and creative way to connect with community members. These mini parks feature green spaces, outdoor seating, and fun and educational booths from participating divisions: City Clerk, Fire (including CERT), Forestry, Library, Parking, Parks, Police, Recreation, and Sports Center. FREE tree seedlings, library cards, and much more will be given away to visitors. The City of Monterey thanks the Old Monterey Business Association and downtown businesses for their support. Visit the 400 block of Alvarado Street in Monterey to join in the celebration! Park(ing) day is a global, public, participatory project where people across the world temporarily re-purpose curbside parking spaces and convert them into public parks and social spaces to advocate for safer, greener, and more equitable streets for people. Learn more at https://myparkingday.org.
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With longer days and warmer weather, many of us are toiling about in the yard, testing our green thumbs during this growing season! While doing so, there are many natural techniques that may aid us in our landscaping and gardening efforts in lieu of chemical use. Some of those techniques include: Amending soils with compost for drought resistance and to augment the soil microbial community. Make quick and free compost tea for your garden! Recipe: Add a mix of compost and water to a bucket for a 24-hr soak. Then, add mixture to a watering jug and use as a gentle, natural fertilizer. Practice grass-cycling: Leave clippings in place to decompose or use them as mulch to reduce water use and need for fertilizers. Remember to keep drainage pathways free of cuttings though, to prevent them from reaching streets and clogging storm drains. Use native and climate-appropriate plants that require less water and may not need fertilizer. Spot check irrigation systems (drip, automatic, or otherwise) regularly to make sure they’re working properly, have no leaks, and are not causing water to flow off-site. Off-site water flow is a sign of over-watering, and an opportunity to conserve water and gain cost savings! Avoid, limit, or replace use of chemical herbicides and pesticides with natural methods and mechanical practices (such as manual weeding or hot water dousing of weeds in a safe manner). If chemicals are necessary, avoid outdoor application just before irrigating, and also 48 hours before likely rainfall (50% probability or greater). Doing so prevents product waste, protects the environment/water quality, and prevents transport of these products from our yards to our local waterways like the Monterey Bay.
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green scene - stewarding our environment
monterey.org/environmentalregs
Easy Landscaping Techniques to Avoid Chemical Use Outdoors...and more tips! BY ENVIRONMENTAL REGULATIONS MANAGER TRICIA WOTAN
green scene
Donating Edible Food BY SUSTAINABILITY ASSISTANT MALLORY PANKRETZ
monterey.org/sustainability
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In the Monterey County Health Needs Collaborative 2022 report, over 40% of community members in Monterey County were determined to be food insecure. Those considering themselves food insecure stated they’d run out of food in the past year, or have been worried about running out of food. Californians send 11.2 billion pounds of food to landfills each year, some of which was still fresh enough to have been recovered. Edible food recovery is part of the implementation of California’s legislation (SB 1383) addressing climate pollutants and wasted food. To reduce food waste and help address food insecurity, SB 1383 requires that by 2025 California recovers 20% of edible food that would otherwise go to waste and redistribute it to feed people in need. Residents interested in reducing food waste and assisting local food insecure families may donate to a number of organizations across the Monterey Peninsula. Please see our Edible Food Recovery web page for a list of local organizations accepting donations. Businesses can donate food through Careit! Careit is a free-to-use food rescue app and website that makes it easy for businesses to donate surplus food directly to local food recovery organizations. Donations can be posted as food becomes available, or donations can be scheduled ahead of time. While Tier I & II edible food generators are required to donate, all businesses generating edible food are encouraged to participate. For information and resources, visit monterey.org/sustainable and connect with the Sustainability Office on Instagram: @montereysustainability
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Congressman Jimmy Panetta in the Solarium Room.
Do you need a place to hold a meeting here in Monterey? Do you need a reasonably quiet space to have a virtual call? Your library has reopened the Community Room and Solarium for booking by the public and groups for non-commercial purposes. Room bookings are free for all library card holders and reservations can be made online. We’re excited to see these spaces in use by a variety of groups; even Congressman Jimmy Panetta uses the Monterey Public Library Solarium! All Community Room bookings need to be free and open to the public. Solarium room bookings are perfect for small groups that need their own space for a meeting. For all the details, terms & conditions, requirements, and to make a booking, follow our link below! https://montereypl.libcal.com/spaces
You read that right! We have a new Bookmobile arriving this year to serve the Monterey community. After over 15 years of dedicated service, our current vehicle has decided to retire. During the summer, we have been borrowing a van to deliver books in the community and head out to our outreach events. Our new vehicle will be a Sprinter van with a very Monterey-ish themed vinyl wrap-around! We had hoped to unveil the new Bookmobile this summer, however supply chain issues have still been affecting vehicle manufacturers and pushed our schedule further out. Once it arrives we look forward to proudly driving around to serve our Monterey community. Funding for the new Bookmobile has been provided through generous community donations as well as funding provided by the State of California, administered by the California State Library. Starting in August, the Bookmobile will once again be making weekly stops at Casanova Oak Knoll Park Center, 735 Ramona Avenue! You will find the Bookmobile here every Tuesday from 2:30 p.m. – 4:30 p.m. The community has been eager to see Library service return, and we hope to see you there! You can choose to pick up your library material at the stop, sign up for a library card, or just meet one of our awesome library staff. See the latest calendar of Bookmobile locations and hour at: https://monterey.org/library/services/bookmobile.php.
A sneak peek at the new Bookmobile design.
Public Bookings of the Solarium Conference Room BY MONTEREY PUBLIC LIBRARY AND MUSEUMS DIRECTOR BRIAN EDWARDS
Coming Soon! A new Bookmobile and a return of Bookmobile service to Casanova Oak Knoll BY MONTEREY PUBLIC LIBRARY AND MUSEUMS DIRECTOR BRIAN EDWARDS
monterey.org/library
culture corner - art, history, culture
A new exhibit, Extraordinary Valor: The Lost History of the Buffalo Soldiers in Monterey, opened Saturday, June 17, 2023 at the Presidio of Monterey Museum. This permanent exhibit honors the gallant history of the African American soldiers of the 9th Calvary during the Spanish American War at the turn of the 20th century. Known as the Buffalo Soldiers, the 9th Cavalry, Troops A, B, C, D, arrived in Monterey in November 1902. During their two-year stay, they trained new recruits and unbroken horses. During the summer of 1904, the 9th Cavalry rode to Yosemite National Park where they created the first marked National Park trail. Despite being segregated from the white soldiers of the Presidio of Monterey, the Buffalo soldiers had opportunities to showcase their talents in training and sporting events. Locals enjoyed watching the Buffalo Soldiers as they participated in parades, improved their marksmanship, and competed in field days. The exhibition consists of ten photographs, two mannequins, two uniforms, a map, a sword, and a facsimile of a newspaper article and more. The Presidio of Monterey Museum is located in Lower Presidio Historic Park. The Park is open to the public and free parking is available. Museum hours are Saturday and Sunday from 9:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m.
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Presidio of Monterey Museum's New Exhibit - Extraordinary Valor: The Lost History of the Buffalo Soldiers in Monterey BY MUSEUMS AND CULTURAL ARTS ARTIFACTS SPECIALIST JORDAN LEININGER
monterey.org/museums
culture corner
Photos of the Buffalo Soldiers Exhibit.
Cheering spectators enjoying the morning.
Mayor Williamson officially sending off each team.
Annually the City of Monterey Harbor Division hosts several regattas. In the past, the largest annual event has been the Spinnaker Cup Race from St Francis Yacht Club in San Francisco to Monterey Harbor on Memorial Day weekend. This year the Harbor Hosted the World’s Toughest Row, a rowing race from Monterey Harbor to Hanalei Bay, Kaua’i. The City of Monterey has supported a similar race in the past, however we were very pleased that this organizer brought of a level of professionalism and incredible athletes together that we have not witnessed before. The level of planning, safety, logistics, and outreach was extremely well done. The public turnout for the event was amazing, with the organizers and racers able to answer questions and have photo opportunities. Weather on the start date, June 12, forced the organizers to start the race at 7:00 a.m. rather than noon. Despite the time change, the well-wishers were out in force with Mayor Tyller Williamson announcing the start of the race. We are excited for the 2024 race as the organizers already have 20 registered 20 racers for next year. 2024 should be even bigger event with more to see and do for the spectators. In other harbor news, the marina staff is continuing to work with our boaters and guests with ways to decrease interactions on the docks and vessels with our fellow sea lions. I variety of deterrent systems has drastically reduced the damage caused by these marine mammals. Keeping the docks safer by reducing the interactions has been quite a project for the boaters and marina staff. Harbor staff is continuing to replace older wooden docks with modernized and lower maintenance materials. Scheduled next is the Theater Dingy Dock adjacent to Old Fisherman's wharf on Wharf 1.
monterey.org/harbor
Monterey Harbor hosts "Worlds Toughest Row" launch BY HARBORMASTER BRIAN NELSON
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EMPLOYEE SPOTLIGHT BACKGROUND This year we introduced a new edition to City Focus newsletter, the Employee Spotlight (ES) on You! The Employee Spotlight on You started back in December 2002 as part of the CityTalk internal staff monthly e-newsletter as a way to introduce City employees to colleagues working in other divisions. Now, we are bringing it to the community. We figured it was another way to bring our community together to get to know one another. Staff members are nominated periodically throughout the year by their supervisors and then randomly selected to participate. There is no obligation to participate, and if a staff member accepts the nomination, they only answer the questions they wish to answer.
Matthew Buggert
Employee Spotlight on You - Meet Matthew Buggert, Associate Planner, Planning Division, Community Development Department
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monterey.org/hr
Matthew started working for the City in 2021. He was in environmental consulting for six years prior to working here at the City. ES: Do you have any pets? Matthew: A cat, Murphy (a.k.a. Muffins, Murf, Kitty, Gremlin, Ravenous Gug) ES: What do you like best about working in your department/division? Matthew: The people here try to genuinely and earnestly help members of the public, keep the attitude upbeat, and find ways to say "yes". I have luckily found myself surrounded by good people, even on the rough days. ES: What’s your favorite meal? Matthew: Burger and fries. Please bring every sauce option available. ES: What’s your favorite thing to do in Monterey? Matthew: Two things: 1) Exploring the surrounding hills and nature walks, strolling around Lake El Estero, Jack's Peak, etc. and 2) Enjoying local shows, such as at the Paper Wing, Pearl Hour, and Deja Blue. ES: What’s your favorite band, movie and/or book? Matthew: Band, movie, and books: My favorite band might be The Midnight; for better or worse I know just about every word of the 2002 live-action Scooby Doo movie; and my favorite book series is the His Dark Materials trilogy by Philip Pullman. ES: What do you like to do in your spare time? Any hobbies/interests? Matthew: In my spare time I enjoy traveling. However, when COVID-19 hit - all that focus and investment turned to board games. I now have a large collection of board games coating my bookshelves, entertainment center, and closet(s). Always down to crack one open and play. ES: Who’s your hero, and why? Matthew: My parents, who have given me endless support and love, travel far more than anyone else I know, and survive it all together with an infectious outlook of fun, light, and joy.
Monterey's 4th of July Independence Day celebration was a smash hit! You can tell by all the smiles and the crowds. The Monterey Firefighters Community Foundation Charity Pancake Breakfast hosted a record number with 920 plates sold! The Backyard Food Fest lawn party hosted over 3,200 attendees featuring great food vendors and three festive bands playing popular music. Enjoy some photos from the special day in Monterey. A sincere thank you to Sheldon Chang who photographed for the Old Monterey Business Association, and to Shannon Liebrock for sharing her photo album. Shannon's work can be found on Instagram at @liebrockphotography1 - a few of her photos from the pancake breakfast and parade are posted below. Photos courtesy of Old Monterey Business Association: Pancake Breakfast, Parade, and Lawn Party Photos from the Pancake Breakfast and Parade, courtesy of Shannon Liebrock - on Instagram at @liebrockphotography1 Photos from the Pancake Breakfast, Parade, and Lawn Party, courtesy of City of Monterey (choose Tiles option to view thumbnails)
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monterey.org/july4th
Photos from Monterey's 4th of July Independence Day Celebration BY COMMUNICATIONS MANAGER LAURIE HUELGA
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Photos from the 4th of July continued
@CityofMonterey
City Manager’s Office 580 Pacific Street Monterey, CA 93940 (831) 646-3760 Suggestions: Call (831) 646-3799 or email suggest@monterey.org monterey.org isearchmonterey.org haveyoursaymonterey.org
MAYOR Tyller Williamson COUNCILMEMBERS Kim Barber Gene 'Gino' Garcia Alan Haffa Ed Smith
The Mayor and Councilmembers with the Fire Chief, Police Chief, and Old Grey Mare Official Driver in the Fourth of July Parade.
City Focus is published by the City of Monterey's Communications & Outreach Office to inform citizens about the programs, services and activities of city government. City Focus is available by email subscription and is posted online in January, April, July and October. See back issues at monterey.org/cityfocus.
Summer 2023 volume xxxviii, no. 3 published since 1985
Thank you for reading City Focus!