"...and remain focused on maintaining Monterey's quality of life."
Message from the City Manager
SPRING 2023 Volume XXXVIII, no. 2
A Report from the City of Monterey to its Citizens and Friends
Currently, our team is putting together our budget for Fiscal Year 2023/2024. Every February, our Finance Team, together with our staff throughout the City departments, attempt to estimate our future income and expenses. At the end, in June, our Council will approve a balanced budget, which represents nothing more and nothing less than our best estimate. This year’s process is not different, although we must consider the effects of a future recession. (Experts tell us that there will be a recession, that it will be painful for many, and that it will be short lived.) Our questions are, how will the recession impact our hospitality industry? Will there be fewer stays in our hotels accompanied by less sales tax? What effects will there be on our Conference Center or Sports Center? On April 26th, we will be presenting a '35,000 feet level' big picture summary of our draft budget, which is based on our already provided service levels, work programs and financial obligations. At that time, we will also hear from you, the public, and from our elected officials. Where do you see the priorities? Where will others from the public and City Council see the priorities? Then, most likely in two sessions in June, the public and the Council will finalize the budget. It will be the single largest one in the history of our City. Thankfully, over the past years our Council has allocated funding towards our reserves including reserves for the Sports Center and Conference Center, our fund for economic uncertainty, a newly formed sea level rise fund, and a pension side fund. Staff will once again propose a fiscally sound plan, which ensures that we will set aside funds today so that tomorrow’s taxpayers have fewer worries. The objective of the budget process is actually simple: minimize the expenses, stick to the core services we provide and avoid frills, keep staffing levels lean by hiring the best and the smartest, make the community and businesses part of the solution (i.e., Neighborhood and Community Improvement Program, business districts), and remain focused on maintaining Monterey’s high quality of life. Let’s see if we can make this happen again. As always, enjoy this City Focus and the many articles. If you have any questions, concerns or suggestions, please feel free to contact me. It is our privilege to work for you. ANDA! Hans Uslar City Manager
continued next page...
SPRING TIME IS BUDGET SEASON
CITY FOCUS
Monterey 2031 - have your say
Message from the City Manager continued...
Watch the April 12, 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 May 3 at 9:30 a.m.
Monterey 2031 Housing Survey Pop-up Outreach Events Continue Visit City of Monterey Planning staff at the next events. Hope to see you there! Thu, 4/13, 11 am-12 pm at the Monterey Public Library Tues, 4/18 and 4/25, 4-6 pm at the Alvarado St. Farmers Market If you live, work, or go to school in Monterey, please take the survey: https://monterey2031.mysocialpinpoint.com
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 Monterey 2031 Survey 4 Addressing Homelessness 5 Wildfire Protection Workshops 6 Monterey 2031 - Get Involved 7 Accessory Dwelling (Granny) Units 8 Intelligent Transportation System Award 9 Addition to the City Fleet 10 Two Free Hours of Parking 11 Laguna Grande Park Strategy Timeline 13 NCIP Approved Projects CERT Update 15 Monterey Channel Programs 16 Summer Recreation Jobs and Camps 17 Get Ready For a Fun Summer at MSC PAGE STORY 18 Snapshot Day - You can help 19 Earth Week 20 Storm Response and Damage Numbers 21 The Western Flyer 23 Worlds Toughest Row 24 MIIS Intern Perspective 25 Employee Spotlights 28 Bunny Hop Photo Op Photos
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 - Spring 2023
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March 22, 2023 - Top photo - A local encampment. Bottom photo - MPD, CAT, and Parks teams work together on successful camp abatement.
monterey.org/mdot
Often people ask what the City of Monterey and the Monterey Police Department (MPD) are doing to address homeless issues. First, it must be acknowledged that being homeless is not a crime. Many unhoused individuals suffer from mental health issues, addiction issues, loss of jobs, and loss of homes. Because the causes of homelessness are wide ranging and complex, there is no simple or quick solution. Several years ago, the MPD created the Multi-Disciplinary Outreach Team (MDOT) to better navigate through solutions to homelessness. MDOT consists of our Community Action Team police and community service officers (CAT), as well as local service providers including a YWCA domestic violence advocate, a Community Health Innovations social worker, a Monterey County Behavioral Health mobile crisis response worker, Adult Protective Services, Gathering for Women, Interim, and other providers. Some of these service providers have workstations at the Monterey Police Department and work side-by-side with our officers. The City has had great success in coordinating services for people that has included enrollment in mental health and drug treatment programs, as well as long-term housing solutions. For individuals willing to go to a shelter or program, the police often drive them to the shelter or their appointment(s) where they can receive services. While we have had success, not everyone wants help, or is willing to make changes to their current living conditions. When these living conditions result in illegal behavior, MPD enforces violations of the law. For example, individuals who possess or use narcotics, are intoxicated in public, or commit other crimes are frequently arrested. However, arrests are not a long-term solution, and with the decriminalization of drug and property crimes, many of these arrests are misdemeanors that result in subject(s) being cited, released from jail, and then they return back on the street within hours. Another frequent complaint is camping in public spaces. When encampments are discovered, the MPD provides occupants with a list of local, available shelter options and gives them a reasonable amount of time to remove their property from the site. Camps that are not moved are abated by the MPD working in partnership with the City of Monterey's Parks Division. In January 2023, we abated 60 (continued next page)
City of Monterey's Homeless Response and Limitations BY MONTEREY POLICE SERGEANT MICKEY ROOBASH
Carmel-by-the-Sea
May 23, 6 - 8:30 pm
Sunset Center
W/s Mission between 8th & 10th
Monterey
May 24, 6 - 8:30 pm
Conference Center
1 Portola Plaza
Pacific Grove
May 25, 6 - 8:30 pm
Community Center
515 Junipero Ave
https://haveyoursaymonterey.org/cwpp
In conjunction with the Community Wildfire Protection Plan, in-person community workshops will be held in May 2023 to foster a community driven discussion and learn about wildfire concerns throughout the unique communities in the Plan Area. One workshop will be held in each Plan Area city - Monterey, Pacific Grove, and Carmel-by-the-Sea, the following dates and times. The public is encouraged to attend a workshop. Workshops are designed for public feedback, and include an array of activities and discussion topics to get input from residents, landowners, and community stakeholders regarding your concerns related to wildfire and how the CWPP can reflect the community’s priorities for mitigating wildfire risk. Each workshop will include snacks, refreshments and a raffle! Please fill out the registration form to reserve your spot: https://surveymonkey.com/r/CWPPCommunityWorkshops , and join us in creating a more wildfire resilient community!
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encampments. Timely camp abatement is done to ensure locations are not eroding the beach, creating public health problems, and damaging the area with contaminating trash, human waste, and drug paraphernalia. Abatement also prevents potential fire danger in forested areas. The MPD publishes the work CAT and MDOT performs via our Monthly Report. You can find the Monthly Report online under the 'Get Informed' tab at montereypolice.org. The MPD is committed to the safety of the public and we are working within the confines of the law and ensuring those who are unhoused are offered services to address this complicated issue. To better address this issue, community members can help by doing the following: Contact your state representatives and ask them for help. Tell them how you feel about the current situation on the local beaches and other open spaces. Explain your concerns to them. Try to understand that each individual situation is unique and being empathetic to people’s needs can help. Do not provide handouts or cash to those who may be asking, instead find a reputable nonprofit and donate to that group. Non-profits provide a more structured way of providing services. Keep the communication channels with your community leaders open. Dialogue and continuing to work together as a community will make us stronger and we will see positive results. If you see something, say something. While most homeless persons are not a threat, it is always good to be aware and if you see something that does not seem right, please let us know. This goes for any individual, not just a homeless person. If you see a crime being committed, call 9-1-1. If you see an incident, but not a crime taking place, call the Police non-emergency number at (831) 646-3914.
Community Wildfire Protection Plan Workshops
Monterey 2031 Pop-Up Events last month at the Farmer's Market at Del Monte Center, the Monterey Public Library, and Captain + Stoker on W. Franklin Street
haveyoursaymonterey.org
Interactive, Online Monterey 2031 Community Survey - Deadline Extended to April 30, 2023 BY ASSOCIATE PLANNER CHRISTY SABDO
It's not too late to help build a housing plan for Monterey! Survey deadline extended to April 30, 2023. On March 1, as part of the Monterey 2031 General Plan Update, the City launched an interactive online survey that gives community members a voice in shaping the plan for where new housing, employment, and shopping should be located and how to achieve other community objectives like improving transportation options, revitalizing older commercial streets, and preserving and enhancing neighborhood character. As of April 1, over 500 people have shared their ideas, but to ensure that everyone who lives, works, or goes to school in Monterey has the opportunity to participate, the survey deadline is extended to April 30, 2023. Choose from a 5-minute survey, a 10-minute survey, or take them both at haveyoursaymonterey.org/monterey2031 .
TAKE THE SURVEY
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in the news
ADU/JADU Amendments Aim to Reduce Barriers, Streamline Permit Process BY PRINCIPAL PLANNER FERNANDA ROVERI
monterey.org/building
Monterey ADU - detached
The next City Council Meeting on ADUs is May 2 - find the agenda at isearchmonterey.org
Monterey ADU - attached
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California is experiencing a housing crisis, with housing demand outstripping supply. Since 2016, the California State Legislature has brought forward several bills (Government Code sections 65852.2 and 65852.22) relating to the planning and permitting of Accessory Dwelling Units (ADUs) and Junior Accessory Dwelling Units (JADUs) to address the housing supply crisis. Over the years, State ADU and JADU law has been revised to improve its effectiveness at creating more housing units. Over the years the City has followed, with adoption of zoning regulations that further reduce barriers, streamlining the approval process, and expanding the capacity to accommodate ADU/JADU development. For example, the City waived lot coverage, floor area ratio, open space, and size regulations to allow a second story ADU above an attached or detached garage or carport up to 25 feet in height in the R-3 Zoning District. All attached ADUs may be up to 25 feet in height and two stories in any zoning district. The City has drafted amendments to its ADU/JADU Ordinance to respond to changes in State law that took effect on January 1, 2023. The following list summarizes the amendments: ADU definition amended to also allow ADU(s) on the same parcel as a proposed multifamily dwelling and to clarify the difference between attached vs. detached ADUs Fire sprinklers shall not be required for an existing single-family dwelling or multifamily dwelling as a condition of the construction of an ADU An attached ADU may be up to 25 feet in height and two stories A detached ADU may be up to 18 feet in height if the lot is within 1/2 mile walking distance of a major transit stop or a high-quality transit corridor. It may be up to 20 feet in height to accommodate a roof pitch that is aligned with the roof pitch of the single-family or multifamily dwelling A detached ADU may be up to 18 feet in height on a lot with an existing or proposed multifamily, multistory dwelling Limits on front setbacks cannot prevent construction of an 800 square-foot ADU with minimum four-foot side and rear yard setbacks The City anticipates that the draft ordinance will be considered for adoption at the May 2, 2023 City Council Meeting, where the City Council will have the opportunity to debate these important policy decisions. The public is welcome to attend and participate.
The City of Monterey is proud to announce the Adaptive Traffic Control System Project won a 2023 Outstanding Local Streets and Roads Project Award for Safety or Intelligent Transportation System Projects! The League of California Cities' news release announcing the winners reads, in part: The City of Monterey is a booming tourist destination, receiving approximately 4.6 million visitors a year. As a result, the city sees unpredictable traffic demands, leading to citizen complaints, frustrated commuters and visitors, and degraded safety. The City leveraged Adaptive Traffic Control Systems, the latest technology for improving traffic flow by better synchronizing and controlling traffic signals to progress traffic through a corridor with few or no stops; thus resulting in less fuel consumed, fewer emissions, and improved travel time, quality of life, and safety. As of January 2023, the City has completed implementation at 41 signalized intersections, with significant reductions to average travel time (-16%), delays (-30%), stops (-40%), and an increase of average speed (27%). Because the system eliminates idling due to fewer stops and the resulting acceleration, vehicles burn less fuel and expel fewer pollutants and particulate matter. When completed, the system will result in a yearly reduction of 20 tons of criteria pollutants (NOx, ROG, and PM). ---------------------------- Congratulations City of Monterey Public Works! League of California Cities Related News Post
Engineering Assistant Marissa Garcia receiving the award.
Monterey Wins 2023 Outstanding Local Streets and Roads Project Awards - Safety or Intelligent Transportation System Projects BY CMO STAFF
Photo of the award.
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monterey.org/traffic
Environmentally-Compliant Vacuum Hydro-Jet Truck Joins the Fleet
The Streets Division is excited to share our newest addition to the fleet - a California Air Resources Board (CARB)-compliant Vac-Con combination vacuum and hydro jet unit. This vehicle replaces our non-CARB Compliant Vactor combination unit. The Vac-Con vehicle carries 850 gallons of fresh water, and has 800’ of 3/4” hydro jet hose on the front. The vacuum is created by a triple turbine vacuum unit and has some great safety features, like a built-in directional arrow board, and 360-degree camera views. The combination unit is instrumental in the Streets Division including, in part: Opening sewer blockages, and mitigating the effects of sanitary sewer overflows - rinse, wash down, disinfect, and vacuum up of effluent. Routine cleaning of catch basins prior to the first rain event, to keep up with storm water permitting, and minimize the amount of refuse that ends up in the bay. We inspect and open each catch basin to vacuum out any leaves and debris. Quarterly tunnel washing, to vacuum up wash water, soap, and engine particulate that accumulates on the walls, and prevent it from entering the Monterey Bay. Hydro-excavating when digging around sensitive utilities - gas, electric, fiber-optic. Supporting Monterey One Water during sewer wet well cleaning. Monterey One Water maintains our sewer wet wells, which are large holding tanks of sewage. We assist with grit and grease removal. Supporting other municipalities during major Sanitary Sewer Overflows. We are very thankful to have such a specialized piece of equipment in our fleet, to serve the community in so many important ways.
New Vacuum Hydro-Jet Truck
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The crew receives a six hour training on this vehicle to ensure efficient operation and maintain safety standards.
monterey.org/streets
Did you know? The Resident Discount Parking Permit provides two hours of free parking in the Downtown Garages, both East and West, the Cannery Row Garage, and the Waterfront Lot. With the renovation of the Waterfront Lot, the gated parking system has been removed and self-pay stations have been installed, changing the way the permit works in order to receive 2 hours of free parking. (The lot renovation is anticipated to be completed by June.) Below are instructions for using your Resident Discount Parking Permit in the renovated Waterfront Lot, as well as in the Cannery Row Garage and Downtown Garages. For use in the Waterfront Lot: Locate the closest self-pay station in the Waterfront Lot (formerly the gated lot). Press button on screen stating “PERMIT HOLDERS TAP HERE”. Enter your Resident Discount Parking Pass Permit Number and push the “NEXT” button. The permit number will automatically pair with your license plate number on record and can only be used with the vehicle registered to your permit. Select “I JUST WANT THE FREE TIME” button to receive 2 hours free, or select “I NEED TO BUY MORE TIME” to pay for any additional time needed beyond the 2 hours of free. Follow on screen prompts to pay for the additional time. For use in Cannery Row Garage and Downtown Garages (both East and West): Scan the barcode located on the front of your Resident Discount Parking permit underneath the red light on the machine (where it reads “scan”) at the entrance gate in the Downtown Garages or Cannery Row Garage (Foam St. entrance) The barcode will prompt the machine to automatically print a dispenser ticket to allow entry. Keep the ticket with you for the duration of your stay. If you lose your ticket, you will need to pay a “lost ticket” fee. Before returning to your vehicle, validate the ticket at any of the self-pay stations. If you parked less than two hours, your stay is free. If you parked longer than two hours, the pay station will prompt you to pay for the additional time. Upon exit, insert your dispenser ticket into the machine and the gate will open. If you have any trouble, please use the “press for assistance” button on the top right corner of the pay station and one of our parking service representatives will be happy to help. Resident Discount Parking Passes are $20 for twelve months. If you have questions about this permit, or how to use it, please visit monterey.org/parking, call (831) 646-3953, or stop by the Parking Division Office, 8:00 a.m. - 4:30 p.m. Monday through Friday.
city briefs
Resident Discount Parking Permit - 2 Free Hours BY PARKING STAFF
monterey.org/parking
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Click to view larger
The City of Monterey has compiled a timeline as a resource for those interested in seeing the progress made since the Laguna Grande Joint Powers Agency was re-engaged in mid 2021 to develop a strategy for the park. The timeline is published as a PDF as well as an infographic in summary. ------------------------------------------------ Timeline in PDF | Timeline Summary Infographic The City of Monterey continues to serve as the lead agency for the Laguna Grande Regional Park Trail and Vegetation Maintenance Strategy, working closely with other Joint Powers Agency (JPA) partners: the City of Seaside and the Monterey Peninsula Regional Park District. A summary of efforts to date include: Background: In 1976, the Monterey Peninsula Regional Park District and the cities of Seaside and Monterey established the Laguna Grande Regional Park Joint Powers Agency (JPA). Since then, the JPA task is the long-range planning, operation and maintenance of Laguna Grande Regional Park. The current park Master Plan was adopted in 1978. Many of the site improvements have been implemented, while community interests and priorities may have changed. April to May 2021, Strategy: Laguna Grande Regional Park JPA voted to authorize the development of a Trail and Vegetation Maintenance Strategy. Funding for this effort included: City of Monterey $24,982.50, City of Seaside $24,982.50, and MPRPD $60,000. The City of Monterey chosen as lead agency to manage and work with the consultant and to complete the environmental review process. The City of Monterey is serving as lead staff for this effort in-kind. May 2021, Architect Selection: Monterey-based BFS Landscape Architects selected to complete the Trail and Vegetation Maintenance Strategy. (continued next page)
Timeline Highlights
Laguna Grande Regional Park Improvement Project Update BY KAREN LARSON, PARKS AND RECREATION DIRECTOR
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July 2021 & ongoing, Community Engagement: Published web page on engagement portal, https://haveyoursaymonterey.org; Hosted virtual Town Hall, Jul 28, 2021; Park walk with the community, Aug 14, 2021; JPA meeting, Dec 6, 2021; JPA meeting, Mar 7, 2022; Park Cleanup with Blue Zones Project, Mar 12, 2022 December 6, 2021, Draft: The Draft Trail and Vegetation Strategy released. March 7, 2022, Draft Presented: The Draft Trail and Vegetation Strategy presented to the Laguna Grande Regional Park JPA. April to December 2022, Details Addressed: The City of Monterey, in partnership JPA partner agencies, work to address several outstanding items: research and confirmation of private property ownership and easements for public access and maintenance confirmation of the park boundary that involves three jurisdictions and a mixture of private and public property creation of multiple maps and park depictions to accompany the environmental study refinement of trail locations based on feedback from the JPA agencies and public input initial evaluation of biological and archeological resources within the park meeting negotiations to update and solidify future general park maintenance by multiple agencies, and preliminary work for numerous environmental permits based on the impending plan finalization and CEQA document. January to February 20, 2023, Initial Study/CEQA: Notice of Intent published. California Environmental Quality Act (CEQA) comment period closed with no comments received. March 2023, Meeting: On Thursday, March 30, 2023 at 6:00 p.m., the Laguna Grande JPA Board: Established a new Chair and Vice Chair Received a presentation, adopted the Laguna Grande Regional Park Trail and Maintenance Strategy Project Mitigated Negative Declaration and Mitigated Monitoring and Reporting Program, and adopted the Laguna Grande Regional Park Trail and Maintenance Strategy Amended the budget for the Laguna Grande Regional Park Trail and Maintenance Strategy and Environmental Review April 2023 to TBD, Certification and Permit Process: After the JPA certification of the environmental document, the Cities of Seaside and Monterey and the Monterey Peninsula Regional Park District will also need to work with their respective legislative bodies to certify the environmental document. Then, a multitude of environmental permits must be obtained before any significant maintenance or Capital Improvement Projects are implemented. The permit process is expected to take approximately one year. The various permits include: Coastal Development Permit (CA Coastal Commission), Lake/Streambed Alteration Permit 1600 (CA Department of Fish and Wildlife), Clean Water Act Section 404 Permit (US Army Corps of Engineers), Clean Water Act Section 401 Certification (Central Coast Regional Water Quality Control Board) 2024, Estimated Launch: Adoption and implementation.
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CERT groups have been very busy with storm response and evacuation warnings. Teams have gone door-to-door in areas in Pacific Grove, Carmel Valley and along the Salinas River to check on the welfare of citizens and to provide flood related evacuation warnings. We have relieved the Monterey Fire Department many, many times at the scene of trees and wires down to allow response units to handle additional emergencies. Also we have assisted with missing person events. Peninsula residents interested in being part of CERT can send an email to: training@montereycert.org Read the April 2023 CERT newsletter. Find this and past newsletters on the CERT web page under the Preparedness tab at montereyfiredept.org.
monterey.org/cert monterey.org/ncip
Neighborhood & Community Improvement Program Approved Projects
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Thirty projects were approved as Neighborhood and Community Improvement Program (NCIP) projects in Fiscal Year 2022-23, with five additional projects that may be undertaken if the unexpended funding from other projects completed this year will support them. In effect, if a project is completed under budget, the remaining budget balance can be used toward the cutoff projects. SEE THE CURRENT LIST OF APPROVED PROJECTS What was the process to get here? The NCIP Committee voted on 154 projects that were nominated this year and developed a prioritized list based on the number of votes each project received. Each neighborhood in the City votes on every nominated project, scoring it between 0 and 10. The total number of votes cast for each project is calculated, and the projects are prioritized in order from the highest to the lowest scoring projects. Staff prepared focused project cost estimates for the highest ranking projects, and the NCIP Committee made a recommendation to City Council to fund the projects that can be completed within the funding that is available this year. An additional NCIP meeting was held in August to review the final list of projects that was recommended to Council for funding in September. In addition to the list of approved projects, we also have posted on the NCIP webpage at https://monterey.org/ncip (found under the Residents tab) a list of completed projects since April 2020, as well as projects from the approved list are currently active. The lists continually get updated as we continue to complete projects. Both lists include the date range for reference. The related photos show street trees planted for NCIP Project No.32n1721. Monterey is proud to be designated a Tree City USA for decades by the Arbor Day Foundation. Keeping Monterey beautiful! (continued next page)
CERT Monterey's April Newsletter BY MONTEREY CERT
monterey.org/ncip
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NCIP Project No. 32n1721, New Street Trees
The Monterey Channel broadcast offers programming on City programs and services. We also live broadcast City Council, Planning Commission, Historic Preservation Commission, Architectural Review, Parks & Recreation, Library Board, and Neighborhood Improvement Program Committee meetings. The Monterey Channel is operated by Access Monterey Peninsula, a nonprofit organization contracted by the City to provide media services to our community. Watch the Monterey Channel on cable TV channel 25, streamed LIVE and on-demand on the web. Below is our new programming guide, also available at monterey.org/tv. Meetings are also streamed live and available in a Playlist for watching anytime on the City's YouTube page at https://youtube.com/cityofmonterey. Thank you for watching and participating in your local government!
monterey.org/tv
Programming Guide for the Monterey Channel
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Cable Channel 25 Programming Guide
Monterey Recreation – We Are Hiring for Summer 2023 and Beyond! BY RECREATION MANAGER SHANNON LEON
Register for Monterey Recreation Summer 2023 Camps BY RECREATION MANAGER SHANNON LEON
parks & play - to health, wellness, activity & fun
monterey.org/rec
Before we can offer our award winning summer camps, we first need to hire amazing staff. We are looking for dedicated and positive people that want to make a difference in their community. Benefits include competitive pay and a set schedule with guaranteed hours in a fun, outdoor environment. The following positions are available: – Playground Senior Leader/Recreation Leader – Day Camp Counselor – Camp Quien Sabe Resident Camp Counselor, Support Staff (Kitchen Helper, Handyperson, Crafts Assistant), Crafts Leader, Lifeguard and Cook – Field Sports Recreation Leader Email montereyrecreation@monterey.org for more information and to request a job application or go online to monterey.org/summerjobs.
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Monterey Recreation is offering a variety of summer camps for all ages and interests this summer. Some exciting camps to look forward to include: 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, Chess, Woodworking, Dance Camps and much more! Register online! See the online Amilia/SmartRec store for additional class information. It’s time to play!Monterey.
Summer Fun at the Monterey Sports Center BY MONTEREY SPORTS CENTER MANAGER ANDREA WILLER, Ed.D.
Sports Camp JUNE 5 - AUGUST 11, 2023 ONE-WEEK SESSIONS FOR JUST $220. Monterey Residents receive 10% discount. At MSC Sports Camp there are new activities everyday! The schedule is packed with over 30 fun activities each week including Capture the flag, floor hockey, basketball, wiffleball, swimming, and much more! Each Friday, campers get to test their skills on the WIBIT Water Obstacle Course. Sessions fill up fast so sign up today. Counselor in Training JUNE 5 - AUGUST 11, 2023 ONE-WEEK SESSIONS FOR JUST $125. Monterey Residents receive 10% discount. Take the first step in becoming a Camp Counselor. Our Counselor in Training program is an opportunity to spend the summer mentoring younger campers, building new skills, and making new friends. The program is a bridge between our Sports Camp program and the opportunity to potentially work as a Sports Camp Counselor in the future. Space is limited so sign up today. Swim Lessons JUNE 3 - AUGUST 3, 2023 6 GROUP LESSONS FOR JUST $70 Monterey Residents receive 10% discount. Classes are available for all ages and abilities. Space is limited so sign up today. Employment Opportunities We are hiring Camp Counselors, Lifeguards, and Swim Instructors. All positions pay $17-$19/hour. Pick up an application today at the Monterey Sports Center front desk or visit our website at montereysportscenter.org. If you have any questions, please call the front desk at (831) 646-3730.
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parks & play
monterey.org/sportscenter
green scene - stewarding our environment
monterey.org/environmentalregs
Photos from past years' Snapshot Day events.
Volunteers are needed for Snapshot Day, May 6, from 8:30 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. Join the Snapshot Day team to be a federally recognized volunteer with the Monterey Bay National Marine Sanctuary (MBNMS). Trained volunteers participate in this Sanctuary-wide volunteer water quality monitoring event designed to increase information and public awareness about water quality issues impacting watersheds that drain to MBNMS. This community event provides a one-day "snapshot" of the health of the rivers and streams that flow into the MBNMS. Temperature, dissolved oxygen, pH, and conductivity are measured in the field and water samples are collected for laboratory analysis of nutrients and bacteria levels. The volunteers collecting this valuable information play a key role in our community as stewards of our watersheds. The information they provide is used by resource agencies, local governments and community groups to protect and improve the health of our local streams through the 303(d) list among other resources. Register as a volunteer at https://tinyurl.com/snapshotday2023. Better yet, get some friends and volunteer together!
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Volunteer for Snapshot Day, May 6, 2023 SUBMITTED BY ENVIRONMENTAL REGULATIONS MANAGER TRICIA WOTAN
green scene
Earth Week 2023 BY SUSTAINABILITY ASSISTANT MALLORY PANKRETZ
monterey.org/sustainability
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Monterey State Beach.
Earth Week is April 16 – 22 and there are endless ways to celebrate. While here in the Sustainability Office every day is Earth Day, Earth Week is the time of year when we can all feel more connected to our environment and do a little extra (or a lot) to protect our planet. Here are a few ideas on how to celebrate this year: Divert your food scraps from the garbage. Divert food scraps into the green curbside cart. If you don’t yet have a green cart, contact Monterey City Disposal at (831) 372-7977 to sign up for service. If you’re already diverting food scraps, get your neighbors started if they haven’t already or have them contact the Sustainability Office. Try plant-based foods. One does not have to be entirely vegetarian or vegan to make their diet more sustainable. A diet consisting of plant-based foods has a lower ecological footprint than a diet consisting heavily of meat. Try vegetarian versions of your favorite dishes or vegan alternatives to certain ingredients – switching just one out can make an impact (and you might even like it better). Participate in a beach cleanup or conduct your own! April 23 at 10: 00 a.m.: Surfrider is hosting a beach cleanup at McAbee Beach by El Torito on Cannery Row. If it’s more convenient, you can always simply go pick up trash on your own or with friends. Be sure to wear gloves and steer clear of hazardous waste. Be “eyes for otters” and prevent plastic pollution. Monterey requires all disposable food service ware to be currently recyclable or compostable, and used for dine-out services only. If you see plastic straws - including straws made from bioplastic - or other non-compliant products, send an email to pankretz@monterey.org so we can reach out to non-compliant businesses and educate them on Monterey’s requirements. Bring your own bag when grocery shopping, and ditch plastic bottles for a reusable water bottle. Take time to connect with nature. Monterey is beautiful. Step outside and enjoy it! For information and resources, visit monterey.org/sustainable and connect with the Sustainability Office on Instagram: @montereysustainability
HARBOR SURVEY
Storm-Related Response and Damage Numbers BY LAURIE HUELGA, PUBLIC INFORMATION OFFICER
Storm damage.
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SINCE JANUARY IN MONTEREY - THE NUMBER OF... Fallen trees = 165 Major limbs damaged = 25 Temporary streets closed = 83 Street potholes patched = 188
What a winter! This winter will be in the history books for one of the wettest and windiest on record. To ensure public safety and readiness, the City of Monterey activated our Emergency Operations Center (EOC) three times during the largest January storms. City teams were in emergency preparedness and response mode with clear, citywide situational analysis to effectively and quickly respond to impacts as they occur. During the height of the storms, City Manager Hans Uslar addressed the situation. “Our residents and businesses are strong and resilient, and we thank the community for helping one another get through this very stormy winter. Keep it up – we are almost through the worst!” He added, “We are incredibly proud and grateful for all our hardworking staff across the City and our CERT volunteers who have responded professionally to hundreds of calls for services and needs in our community!” During the storms and after, our teams from the Parks Division keep track of the damage caused by fallen trees. The total number of trees downed by the major storm systems since January in Monterey is 165. This may not include some private trees that weren't reported, and 25 "hangers", which describe large limbs on trees that impacted neighborhoods or business districts that had to be cleaned up. In addition, the trees down caused 83 individual temporary street closures.
monterey.org/stormcenter
City of Monterey Emergency Operations Center
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The Western Flyer - it’s not just your average fishing boat! BY MONTEREY PUBLIC LIBRARY AND MUSEUMS DIRECTOR BRIAN EDWARDS
monterey.org/library
Did you know John Steinbeck and Ed Ricketts boarded the Western Flyer in 1940 on their six-week voyage of biological and marine exploration? Their expedition, recorded in the Sea of Cortez, A Leisurely Journal of Travel and Research (Viking Press), was first published in 1941, just days after the bombing of Pearl Harbor leading to a limited release of the original book. Steinbeck’s follow up book, The Log from the Sea of Cortez (Penguin Classics) was published in 1951 following Rickett’s death to tell the narrative portion from Sea of Cortez. Both books, notorious for comprehensive research and writings continue to have historical significance today. Many also credit this voyage and their findings as the beginning of a larger environmental and conservation movement. Built in 1937 in Tacoma, Washington, the Western Flyer was originally designed as a fishing boat, a sardine seiner, and later for crab fishing. During their voyage on the Sea of Cortez and with the onset of World War II, they came upon Japanese fisherman, who were said to be using environmentally destructive practices in catching shrimp, potentially damaging the seafloor. Upset by the possible debilitation of marine life, they were determined to study the linkage and interdependence between animals, humans and natural habitats. Through their varied specimen collection and scientific observations, some say the field of ecology was born. Ricketts' work with intertidal zones can still be seen today in the organization of exhibits at the Monterey Bay Aquarium. Following several journeys and exchanging multiple owners, the boat was now named Gemini and had been converted for use as a crab boat and later as a salmon tender. Through the unique boat call signal, the Gemini was identified as the Western Flyer. By the time that John Gregg purchased the boat in 2015, it had sunk multiple times in Anacortes, WA and was in need of dire restoration. The Western Flyer Foundation has been working tirelessly to restore the original fishing boat with the Port Townsend Shipwrights Coop for research and educational purposes. Although there is no firm date for when the vessel will arrive in Monterey Bay, we expect to see it in 2023. They plan to offer marine research partnerships, onboard oceanography lessons to students, and classroom based environmental lessons. Interestingly enough, the Monterey Bay Aquarium Research Institute (MBARI) had their own "Western Flyer” for the past 25 years. Built in 1996, their 117-foot vessel (the Western Flyer) participated in more than 500 research trips, which also resulted in the identification of more than 200 species. Their flagship boat recently retired from Monterey Bay and found a new home at the Florida Institute of Oceanography (FIO), within the University of South Florida in St. Petersburg, Florida, to be used by students studying STEM (science, technology, engineering and math), and researching ocean and marine life and conservation. (continued next page)
The Western Flyer
culture corner - art, history, culture
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The Western Flyer is a significant part of the City of Monterey’s history and evolving ecological discovery. The stories brilliantly told in Steinbeck’s book have become legendary. The significance of their findings attribute to a broader calling of awareness to our intertwined biological ecosystem and the many factors that connect us long term. Many of this year’s Cannery Row Days have focused on the historical, artistic and scientific analysis of both the vessel and voyage findings. The Monterey Public Library and Museums partnered with several local agencies and nonprofits to provide a vast array of lectures, programs and exploration activities. Below are some additional resources on the Western Flyer, as well as recorded recent programs. We are thrilled to be part of this special “voyage” back to Monterey and look forward to further exploration. The Western Flyer Foundation: https://westernflyer.org The Monterey Public Library and Museums Cannery Row Days program: https://youtube.com/user/montereypubliclib/videos Monterey Public Library YouTube for archived programs: https://monterey.org/library/events/cannery_row_days_2023.php
culture corner
From the World's Toughest Row website: "The inaugural Pacific Challenge starts in June 2023 with up to 20 teams participating from around the world. The annual edition of this race will see teams starting from the historic harbor of Monterey, following the path of many adventurers and explorers of yester year. An incredible atmosphere of apprehension and excitement is guaranteed during the pre-race period as teams complete their final preparations to set off to row across the Pacific Ocean. A finish line as unique as Hanalei Bay on the stunning island of Kauai is hard to beat as the backdrop to what will be the most incredible, once in a lifetime adventure." Starting from Monterey, California and finishing in Nawiliwili harbor in Kauai, Hawaii. 2800 miles of rowing carried out by human power. 15 teams (pairs, trios, fours & fives) from around the world including USA, UK, Holland, Antigua, Denmark, Austria, Germany and Switzerland. Vessels and teams will begin arriving May 31st and will be here through June 12th (race day). The vessels, teams and various vendors will be setup in the Waterfront lot for the two weeks leading up to race day. Make sure you stop by the harbor during the pre-race period! See the short videos for more information, and the website, https://taliskerwhiskyatlanticchallenge.com.
monterey.org/harbor
"World's Toughest Row" - A Pacific Challenge Race Coming to Monterey in June BY HARBORMASTER BRIAN NELSON
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A MIIS Graduate Student Intern's Perspective BY MARK ACKERMANN
The opportunity to serve as an intern in the City Manager’s Office here in Monterey was a welcomed surprise when I started my Master of Public Administration (MPA) program at the Middlebury Institute of International Studies (MIIS) last Fall. MIIS has an international flare, but I enrolled in their MPA program with local government in mind. I was thrilled to find out the City was attending our Fall career fair. My passion for public service, particularly in local government, developed from watching my mom serve our small town in Virginia as Assistant County Administrator. The City offered me the perfect opportunity to gain some of that local government administration experience firsthand, and even better, I get to enjoy that experience with a great team in a beautiful location. Monterey, in particular, really has a special place in my heart, so this is a dream opportunity for me. As an active duty member of the United States Air Force, I studied at the Defense Language Institute (DLI) at the Presidio of Monterey from 2012 to 2014. When the Air Force offered me the chance to return to DLI as a Military Language Instructor (MLI) in 2019, I jumped at the opportunity. Upon my return, I met my partner, and she eventually gave birth to our brilliant little daughter, Luna, in 2021. I will never be able to give back to this community as much as it has given to me, but I’ve been giving it my very best effort. Since joining the City Manager’s Office team, I’ve been involved with several projects. On day one, our more senior intern, Brianna Kennedy, asked me to assist her with the City’s 2023 ADA Transition Plan Update. By the end of my first week, I had created a page on the City’s Have Your Say Monterey site, spoken with outside consultants on behalf of the City, and set to work discussing timelines for public town hall sessions. Our Public Information Officer, Laurie Huelga, has been consistently generous with her time, and she showed me how to create flyers and news releases for our public events. She’s been able to show me how the City communicates with the public and how we can get even better at doing so. I’ve also been able to work directly on updating internal policies regarding topics like remote work and performance evaluations, but my favorite project so far has been providing analysis on what the City staff finds to be our strengths, weaknesses, opportunities, and threats (SWOT). It was motivating to find out that so many City employees take pride in their work and love working as part of the Monterey team. Hans Uslar, our City Manager, and Nat Rojanasathira, our Assistant City Manager, have both offered me great mentorship, but getting to co-present the SWOT analysis with Nat at a management team meeting at the Conference Center is my favorite highlight of this experience so far. Hans and Nat are both incredibly busy, but they both take the time share their insights and experiences with me. I truly appreciate that mentorship. I also know that the knowledge I’m gaining over the course of my time here is something that is going to help catapult me into the next phase of my public service career, and I am beyond grateful for it. The rarity of such a well-meaning, great group of people coming together to work on a team with the collective mission of simply bettering our community is not lost on me. Wherever my path goes from here, the City of Monterey will always be close to me, and I look forward to seeing what this City is able to achieve in the future.
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Ray La Fontaine, celebrating 50 years of service to the community.
Employee Spotlight on You - Meet Ray La Fontaine BY PUBLIC INFORMATION OFFICER LAURIE HUELGA
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monterey.org/hr
In the last issue of City Focus, 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. Here's the second and third installments of Employee Spotlight on You for 2023. EMPLOYEE SPOTLIGHT NOTE: Ray is celebrating 50 YEARS of working in the Monterey Fire Department! What an achievement! Thank you for 50 years of dedication to your community, and congratulations! Meet Ray LaFontaine, Fire Captain, Monterey Fire Department Ray came to Fort Ord in 1960. He started working at the City as a Firefighter at Station 1 (downtown across from the Monterey Public Library), March 1, 1973. He was promoted to Captain January 1, 1981, and he works in that capacity currently. Ray has lived in Aromas since 1993. Prior to Aromas, Ray lived in Prunedale and Seaside. ES: Do you have family/relatives in the area? Ray: My wife, Ingrid, who was also a Seaside Firefighter. My son is a Los Angeles Firefighter, and my daughter is a Navy wife in Hawaii. I have two grandsons taking either fire science or trying to get a firefighter job. My granddaughter is in nursing school and my grandson works in a lab. ES: Do you have any pets? Ray: My wife has a horse, four dogs, one house cat, two barn cats and about 30 chickens. She is retired and I call them hers. ES: What do you like best about working in your department/division? Ray: The personnel I work with and helping the citizens throughout my career. ES: What qualities/traits do you bring to the job, which allow you to excel at what you do? Ray: It has always been my mechanical skills from working on cars and building additions on several houses and remodeling. From fences to block walls, to sheetrock. I am “Cal Ray” (as in “Cal Am” – California American Water) on my property since I fix all the plumbing, and I’m the electrician too. My crew and myself always get the job done, whatever it is. ES: What’s your favorite meal? Ray: If I am cooking it is peanut butter and jelly. I like pizza, steak, Tri -tip meat, etc. (continued next page)
Want to be a part of the City of Monterey team?! The City of Monterey is actively recruiting for several positions throughout the organization! This is an opportunity to join a dynamic and diverse team of talented individuals and work in the idyllic coastal town of Monterey. Visit monterey.org/hr to learn more about the available positions and to apply!
ES: What’s your favorite thing to do in Monterey? Ray: I love the weather and riding around in my old 1972 (Ford) Bronco. ES: What’s your favorite band, movie and/or book? Ray: Creedence (Clearwater Revival). Old school rock. My Bronco will not run unless I have rock or country on the radio. ES: What do you like to do in your spare time? Any hobbies/interests? Ray: I work on my Bronco and property. I have four tractors to help me. I also have two riding movers, five commercial gas weed eaters, and two Kawasaki mules. ES: If you could be any animal, what would you be, and why? Ray: One of Ingrid’s dogs. They run all day on the property, eat the best dog food, and sleep in doors at night. That’s a good life. ES: Are you a volunteer? If so, where and what do you do? Ray: I volunteered 40 years at first the Bing Crosby golf tournament and then the AT&T golf tournament as a courtesy driver. ES: Who’s your hero, and why? Ray: It’s always been my father. He is a veteran of three wars – World War 2, Korea, and then Vietnam. He always told me he had one more war in him, but he was 80 at the time. ES: Which word or phrase do you most overuse? Ray: Best job I ever had, been saying it for years. Before the movie Fury about World War 2 tanks with Brad Pitt. ES: Which historical figure do you most identify with? Ray: I really respect the military and their sacrifices. ES: What is your most treasured possession? Ray: My job, property, old car, and animals. ES: Anything else you’d like to say about your job, your interests, or your philosophy of life? Ray: Best job I ever had.
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Employee Spotlight on You - Meet Hayley Goodwein BY PUBLIC INFORMATION OFFICER LAURIE HUELGA
Meet Hayley Goodwein, Administrative Assistant, City Manager’s Office Hayley just moved to Del Rey Oaks. She’s originally from Salinas but has lived in PG, Soledad, San Luis Obispo, and the UK! Hayley started at the City in the City Manager’s Office in December so she’s “still learning the ropes.” ES: Do you have any pets Hayley: I have an 11-pound black cat named Jillian aka JillyBean. She likes to play fetch and talks back when I tell her not to do things. ES: What do you like best about working in your department/division? Hayley: No day is exactly the same so there is always something to learn! ES: What’s your favorite thing to do in Monterey? Hayley: I like finding a bench on the Rec Trail or in a park and just watching everything move past me. People, nature, the ocean, the clouds. I find it very meditative. ES: What’s your favorite band, movie and/or book? Hayley: I don't think I have a favorite band, movie or book! Too many good ones to choose from. I will say that if Raiders of the Lost Ark, Aliens, or The Princess Bride is on any tv screen, I will always sit and watch them. ES: What do you like to do in your spare time? Any hobbies/interests? Hayley: Hiking. Playing ultimate frisbee. Birdwatching. If you ever see me sitting on a bench around Colton Hall, I'm definitely looking at what birds are around. ES: If you could be any animal, what would you be, and why? Hayley: A red-tailed hawk. I'd love to be able to fly and they are super adaptable birds, so I'd be able to live in any environment! ES: What is your most treasured possession? Hayley: A pair of earrings from my late grandmother. As a kid, I would always play with her jewelry so when she gave me the earrings a couple years ago, it was very special. I know she's smiling when I wear them.
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Hayley Goodwein
The 3rd Annual Bunny Hop Photo Op was a huge success. Over 150 children and their families took a photo with our bunny friend and enjoyed face painting, carnival games, a scavenger hunt and more! Monterey Recreation is busy planning for more events this coming year, including our 2nd Annual Halloween Trunk and Treat. 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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The Monterey Recreation Team
April 1 'Bunny Hop Photo Op' a Sold Out Success BY RECREATION MANAGER SHANNON LEON
@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
Photo from the April 1 Bunny Hop Photo Op hosted by Monterey Recreation.
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.
Spring 2023 volume xxxviii, no. 2 published since 1985
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