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Message from the City Manager
WINTER 2025 Volume XL, no. 1
A Report from the City of Monterey to its Citizens and Friends
Dear Neighbors and Friends, This is the 40th year of City Focus! We are proud to present to you this Winter 2025 edition of our City’s newsletter. In 1985, our former (and most recently retired) Mayor Clyde Roberson, wrote the introduction to the City Focus, stating that the “purpose of this publication is to improve the level of public information relating to programs, services and activities of the City of Monterey.” He promised that each edition will contain articles about current City projects, happenings, Monterey’s history, and recent Council recaps. The articles in the first City Focus informed the public on many topics: Opening of Window on the Bay; free shuttle services between downtown garages, Fisherman’s Wharf and Cannery Row; the planned recreational trail for pedestrians and bikers; public safety tips - How to Beat the Burglar; Lake El Estero; A New Look for Alvarado Street; reports from the Parks and Recreation Commission; and more. Many of those visionary ideas have been completed and implemented. To name just a few - where once car repair shops, a dry-cleaner, a plumbing business, and other businesses had a home, we now have a wonderful recreational park called Window on the Bay, with playgrounds, volleyball courts, bike trails and walkways. What a great entry statement when you enter the City of Monterey! Our trolley services funded by the City of Monterey with a proportionate contribution by the Monterey Bay Aquarium are transporting more than 100,000 passengers each year between downtown and Cannery Row from Memorial Day through Labor Day. The recreational trail has been completed, portions were widened and everyday thousands of walkers and bikers enjoy the views of our precious Monterey Bay. The 1985 vision for Lake El Estero Park has been completed and the lake habitat is alive and well. Lastly, Alvarado Street received the brick sidewalks,1920s-style light fixtures, and flower planters. The levels to improve our local quality of life and sense of community have gone far beyond the 1985 vision. We now have live streaming of City Hall meetings, we provide Council meetings summaries about the Councils’ actions within 24-hours, City Hall can be and is reached 24/7 through the electronic media, and tools like “Have your Say Monterey” constantly ask residents for feedback. Add to that town hall meetings, focus groups, pop-up events in neighborhoods, and you see that you live and work in a truly transparent and welcoming City. Looking over these 1985 articles, it is clear to see, that our previous Councils had many ideas of what could be and they thought boldly about Monterey’s future. A dilapidated and burnt Cannery Row became the visitor destination it is today. A light industrial zone became a beautiful park. A railroad line became a recreational trail for residents and visitors to commute or to just recreate. Thank you to all of those who fought to get these projects in place and funded. What will we be writing in another 40 years? How will Monterey look? Since 1985, many other visions have been added and are now equally loved and cherished. Just think about the Monterey Sports Center, our community centers, the Neighborhood and Community Improvement Program, new parks and playgrounds, etc. Just recently our current Council was asked to prioritize what they see as their vision for our City. There were many new ideas. It was clear that the 2025 City Council understands that it will also take significant effort and fiscal discipline to preserve what past residents and leaders have created. This edition of the City Focus contains once again many articles meant to inform you. More importantly, we hope that it inspires you to react and to respond through active participation in our City. As always, on behalf of our entire team, we thank you for allowing us to be part of Monterey’s history. Monterey is the best place to work and live. Anda!
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VISIONARY IDEAS THEN AND NOW
CITY FOCUS
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 - submit through the chat feature, or send questions in advance by email to suggest@monterey.gov.
monterey mornings with the manager
Message from the City Manager continued...
Featured Events: STATE OF THE CITY 2025 - date to be announced soon! WILDFIRE READY MONTEREY TOWN HALL THU., FEB. 27 - 5 to 8:30 p.m. monterey.gov/fire
CULTURE CORNER - art, history, culture
Message from the City Manager Wildfire Ready Monterey Town Hall Mutual Aid Support at Palisades Fire New Year, New City Council Housing Action Plan What is Proposition 36? Preparing for Winter Storms Measure S and P Street Work Continues Local Road Safety Plan Update Exciting Changes Coming for Residential Parking ADA Transition Plan Rental Assistance Program Update Rental Inventory Program Update Training Collaboration at Ryan Ranch New Paramedic Service to Pacific Grove Holiday Meal Distribution Winter/Spring Programs in Monterey Recreation Hiring for Summer Recreation Jobs High 5 Summer 2025! Lifestyles Initiatives Continue at the MSC
CITY BRIEFS
IN THE NEWS
PARKS & PLAY - to health, wellness, activity, and fun
Inside this issue
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Advancing EV Charging Infrastructure Keep Monterey Clean - Manage Waste and Pollution How to Report Sewer Spills Symphony of Historic Monterey Special Event Support Program Application 20th Annual Chocolate and Wine Event Cemetery Historic Tour Employee Spotlight on You
GREEN SCENE - stewarding our environment
CITY FOCUS - WINTER 2025
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Mutual Aid at the Palisades Fire in Los Angeles SUBMITTED BY MONTEREY FIRE DEPARTMENT
The Monterey Fire Department sent three (3) crews of four (4) firefighters each to aid firefighting efforts in Pacific Palisades. Th first crew returned home safely on Saturday, September 18, 2025 after a nine (9) day deployment. They worked alongside crews from other regional fire departments and demonstrated the power of collaboration and mutual aid during significant emergencies. The second crew, who deployed on January 7, 2025, crew-swapped with another crew of four (4) Monterey Firefighters on January 22, 2025 (after a 16-day deployment). This third crew was assigned to tactical patrol which involves monitoring neighborhoods for lingering hot spots to prevent re-ignition and ensuring everything is safe for residents returning to their homes. Containment of the Pacific Palisades Fire is at 97% as of Jan. 30, and the third crew came home on January 25, 2025. The City of Monterey is committed to supporting all communities and fire departments across California in times of need and appreciates the hard work and dedication demonstrated by the Monterey Firefighters in carrying out the mission.
The City of Monterey will host a Wildfire Ready Monterey Town Hall event at the Monterey Conference Center on Thursday, February 27, 2025 from 5:00 to 8:30 p.m. The event will include community partner vendor booths, refreshments, and validated parking at the Downtown West and East Garage located at 341 Tyler Street. From 6:00 to 7:30 p.m. will be a panel discussion with wildfire preparedness experts. The event is a great opportunity for residents to ask questions, hear from a expert panelists about what community partner agencies are doing in collaboration regarding wildfire fuels mitigation and preparedness, and ease potential anxiety caused by the recent wildfire storms in Los Angeles County. It will also provide an opportunity to learn about what each of us can do to be prepared in case of a wildfire. Details on vendor booths, panelists, and more will be available soon.
SAVE THE DATE! Fire Ready Monterey Town Hall, Thursday, February 27, 5 to 8:30 p.m. BY COMMUNICATIONS MANAGER LAURIE HUELGA
monterey.gov/fire
Monterey’s City Council consists of a Mayor and four Councilmembers. The City Council is honored to work for the City of Monterey. Please meet your dedicated public servants on the Monterey City Council: Read a short biography of each Councilmember at: https://monterey.gov/city_hall/city_council/meet_the_mayor_and_council.php. Learn about ways you can participate in meetings, and review the District Map.
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New Year, New City Council BY CITY CLERK CLEMENTINE BONNER KLEIN
Mayor Tyller Williamson, At Large, Elected to Council November 2018; First elected as Mayor November 2022; Reelected November 2024; Term ends December 2026. (left) Councilmember Kim Barber, District 1, Elected 2022; Term ends December 2026 (middle) Councilmember Gene “Gino” Garcia, District 4, Appointed December 2022; Elected November 2024; Term ends December 2028 (right)
Councilmember Jean Rasch, District 3, Elected November 2024; Term ends December 2028 (left) Councilmember Ed Smith, District 2, First elected November 2014; Reelected November 2018 and November 2022; Term ends December 2026 (right)
monterey.gov//city_hall/city_council
monterey.gov/planning
Have Your Say Monterey webpage
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Since the certification of the Sixth Cycle Housing Element by the California Department of Housing and Community Development (HCD), the Community Development Department has started implementing the Housing Action Plan. The Housing Action Plan describes the specific goals, policies, and programs the City will undertake to achieve the long term objectives set forth in the housing element. These goals, policies, and programs are intended to provide a framework for increasing the range of housing options in the community, removing barriers and constraints to housing construction, ensuring continued maintenance of existing housing, and providing equal access to housing opportunities and services for all who live and work in Monterey. In total, the Housing Action Plan includes 53 programs to be implemented through the 2023-2031 planning period. Many of these programs require Council action to be fully implemented. At the end of 2024, the City Council adopted amendments to the Monterey Municipal Code and Specific Plans brought forth by the Department to fully implement five housing programs and partially implement one housing program. For a full summary, including adopted resolutions and ordinances, please visit the new housing element implementation engagement portal at https://haveyoursaymonterey.org/monterey2031-implementation Completed Housing Programs: Program 1-B Multi-Family Residential Overlay Amendments: The amendment expands the existing MFR overlay to include portions of the City located in the Pacific/Munras/Cass area as well as the County Courthouse site located at 1200 Aguajito Road and incorporates an increased density of 60 dwelling units per acre (du/ac) in all overlay areas. The amendment further facilitates housing development in these areas by allowing ministerial permitting of residential development when at least 20 percent of the proposed units are affordable to lower-income households in accordance with State law. Program 1-C Focused Specific Plan Updates: Focused specific plan amendments to the North Fremont, Downtown, and Lighthouse Specific Plans have been adopted to facilitate development at the projected densities planned for in the adopted housing element. Among others, amendments also included increased allowable maximum building heights and reduced parking requirements. Program 1-L County Courthouse Site: The Monterey County Courthouse site, located at 1200 Aguajito Road, is identified on the 6th Cycle housing element sites inventory. A zoning map amendment rezoned the site to Medium Density Multifamily (R-3) with the Multifamily Overlay (MF3). Land Use Regulations and Development standards contained within the Multifamily Overlay District apply to the site ensuring orderly development and allowing a maximum density of 60 du/ac. Program 2-F Update Density Bonus Ordinance and 3-C Local Density Bonus: The City amended its Density Bonus ordinance to incorporate the current requirements of State density bonus law. In addition, the amendment established an additional density bonus and development incentives for qualifying projects under local density bonus provisions. The local development bonus will target projects that consolidate small, adjacent lots and/or develop higher proportions of 2- and 3-bedroom units. Projects that commit to additional Moderate-Income units over and above those units required under the City’s Inclusionary Zoning Program would also qualify. An additional density bonus of up to 10%, along with increases in allowed building height, would be available through the program for qualifying projects as needed to support a higher share of 2- and 3-bedroom units in the Alvarado District downtown and the Pacific / Munras / Cass Multifamily Overlay District. Program 2-A By-Right Zoning Sites from Prior Inventories: Pursuant to state law, any non-vacant commercial sites identified on two prior housing element inventories that are also identified to accommodate lower income RHNA units on the 6th Cycle Housing Element shall be allowed ministerial permitting when 20 percent or more of the units are affordable to lower-income households. The Regional Housing Needs Assessment Overlay District identifies these sites to ensure compliance with State law. Qualifying projects will continue to be required to comply with existing zoning regulations and objective design standards. Partially Completed Programs Program 2-E Revise Parking Requirements: In September of 2024, the City Council adopted an amendment to the Downtown Specific Plan to eliminate minimum parking requirements for residential land uses. Subscribe to the Monterey 2031 - Sixth Cycle Housing Element Implementation webpage for updates.
Sixth Cycle Housing Element and the Housing Action Plan BY PRINCIPAL PLANNER CHRISTY SABDO
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6th Cycle Housing Element article continued...
monterey.gov/housing
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The November 5, 2024 election resulted in the passage of Proposition 36, known as the, Homelessness, Drug Addiction, and Theft Reduction Act. This law became effective December 18, 2024, introducing significant changes to the state's criminal justice system. Key provisions include: Enhanced Penalties for Drug Offenses: The proposition increases penalties for certain drug-related crimes. Notably, it adds fentanyl to the list of substances (including cocaine, heroin, and methamphetamine) that, when possessed alongside a loaded firearm, constitute a felony punishable by up to four years in prison. Previously, such an offense involving fentanyl was considered a misdemeanor with a maximum one-year jail term. In Monterey, fentanyl is one of the most common drugs seen, and the Monterey community frequently experiences fentanyl related overdoses. Felony Charges for Repeat Theft Offenders: Individuals with two or more prior theft-related convictions who commit thefts involving property valued at $950 or less can now be charged with a felony, facing up to three years in jail or prison. Previously, these offenses were misdemeanors, regardless how many prior theft related convictions the suspect had. While many of us think of theft as shoplifting, it also includes elder abuse by theft, identity theft, illegal use of credit/debit cards, theft from vehicles, fraud, and other similar theft related crime. Treatment-Mandated Felonies: The measure introduces "treatment-mandated felonies" for certain drug offenses, allowing courts to direct individuals to substance use disorder or mental health treatment instead of incarceration. Successful completion of treatment can lead to dismissal of charges, while failure may result in up to three years in state prison. Previously, treatment was rarely mandated. Court Warnings for Drug Distributors: Courts are now required to warn individuals convicted of distributing illegal drugs about potential future criminal liability, including the possibility of murder charges, if they distribute deadly substances like fentanyl, heroin, cocaine, or methamphetamine that result in someone's death. This practice is already in place for DUI drivers who receive this warning upon their first DUI. As a voter approved proposition, these changes are effective throughout the entire State of California. More information on Proposition 36 can be found on the California Department of Justice website at https://oag.ca.gov/system/files/media/2024-dle-19.pdf
monterey.gov/police
Proposition 36: Homelessness, Drug Addiction, and Theft Reduction Act BY MONTEREY POLICE SERGEANT JEREMIAH RUTTSCHOW
The City of Monterey is actively preparing for potential storms and has implemented several measures to ensure public safety. City crews are working to prevent flooding by conducting routine roadway sweeping, cleaning catch basins before, during, and after storm events, and clearing storm headwalls. Sandbags are available at Monterey Fire stations for residents and business. Stormy Weather Safety Tips Treat all downed power lines as if they are "live" or energized. Keep yourself and others away from them. Call 911, then notify PG&E at (800) 743-5002. Use battery-operated flashlights, not candles. Customers with generators should make sure they are properly installed by a licensed electrician. Improperly installed generators pose a significant danger to our crews. Unplug or turn off all electric appliances to avoid overloading circuits and fire hazards when power is restored. Simply leave a single lamp on to alert you when power returns. Turn your appliances back on one at a time when conditions return to normal. Recommendations For Residents Ensure driveway drains and gutters are clear of debris. Prepare an emergency GO-kit with food, water, and other essentials. Have battery-operated flashlights and radios ready. Be cautious on roadways, allowing extra travel time. Never use a gas stove or oven to heat your home. Use generators only outdoors and at least 20 feet from windows. Additional Resources: Reporting Issues: For localized flooding on city streets, call (831) 646-3927 or the non-emergency number (831) 646-3914 Sign up for Alert Monterey @ alertmontereycounty.org Call 2-1-1 for non-emergency information Bookmark and follow the City of Monterey's Emergency page at monterey.gov/emergency. Thank you for staying informed, prepared, and prioritizing your safety during winter storms.
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CITY FOCUS -WINTER 2025
Winter Storm Preparedness SUBMITTED BY THE MONTEREY FIRE DEPARTMENT
MEASURE P and S Citywide Planned Road Surface Repairs BY SENIOR ENGINEER MAX RIESER
monterey.gov/fixingstreets
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Citywide Road Surface Repairs 24-25 (RSR 24-25) is planned for Spring 2025. Often referred to as our “slurry” or “resurfacing” projects, a new seal coat is placed on the existing asphalt – after spot repairs to failed sections/potholes – to look like a new road. It is the most cost-effective pavement maintenance strategy. In last year’s RSR 4 work on Lighthouse Ave., Fremont Ave., and Munras Ave., etc., we used micro-surfacing rather than slurry seal successfully. You likely won’t be able to tell the difference in the appearance, but micro-surfacing sets more quickly to help expedite the work, lasts longer, and has minimal cost increase (For RSR 4 – it was 1 cent more per square foot for the upgrade). We will be using the micro-surfacing again in RSR 24-25. The project will include: All of Ocean Avenue, Forest Ridge Road, Garden Road, and Ramona Avenue David Avenue from Lighthouse Avenue to Divisadero Street. (City Limits) Taylor Street from Prescott Avenue to the Presidio of Monterey (POM) gate (Rifle Range Road) And portions of Aguajito Road, Allan Dr., Casanova Avenue, Euclid Avenue, Devisadero Street, Filmore Street, Irving Avenue, Laine Street, Lyndon Street, Terry Street, Palo Verde Avenue, Portola Alley, Helvic Avenue, and Helvic Alley. Our continued efforts with preventative maintenance and road rehabilitation are reflected by our current pavement condition index (PCI) (81 out of 100) which places the City in 92nd percentile for similar sized agencies. Before Measures P-S were implemented, the City’s streets were at risk with a PCI of 54. It’s proved a great investment to save our streets. Thank you for your patience and understanding while we continue to maintain our transportation system and provide smooth, safe roads! Schedule updates will be posted at monterey.gov/construction, and we encourage signing up to the construction news email list. If you have any questions or concerns, you can reach out to the Public Works–Engineering Office at (831) 646-3921, or email suggest@monterey.gov. ABOUT MEASURE S AND MEASURE P - Thanks to voters for passing Measure S, the City of Monterey continues to fix streets and sidewalks. 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. Information is also posted at monterey.gov/fixingstreets.
https://haveyoursaymonterey.org monterey.gov/parking
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The City of Monterey is happy to announce that 2025 will mark the launch of an updated, more modern Residential Parking Program aimed at making parking more efficient and accessible for our residents. As part of this transition, we are moving away from the traditional paper permits and sticker decals to a fully virtual permit system. This new system will be online-based, allowing residents to manage their permits through a secure portal. How Can You Get Involved? We want to hear from you! In our ongoing effort to improve the program, we are launching a survey to gather your feedback about the current residential parking program and any suggestions or concerns you may have. Your input is crucial in helping us shape a better program for everyone. Share your feedback - please take the survey: https://surveymonkey.com/r/R3HNXRR Participate in a Community Town Hall: March 27, 2025, 5:30 p.m. We will also be hosting an interactive Community Town Hall event on Thursday, March 27 at 5:30 p.m. in the Monterey Council Chamber, Few Memorial Hall, located at 580 Pacific Street. This will be a great opportunity for you to share your feedback, ask questions, and engage with City staff as we work together to develop a solution that best meets the needs of our community. Mark your calendar!
Local Road Safety Plan Community Meeting, Thursday, March 6 BY TRAFFIC ENGINEER MARISSA GARCIA
The second community meeting for the Local Road Safety Plan is scheduled for Thursday, March 6, 2025 from 6:00 p.m. to 8:00 p.m. at the City of Monterey Public Library Community Meeting Room, 625 Pacific Street. This meeting will briefly review the information shared at the first community meeting and present potential traffic safety countermeasures to address collision trends. We hope to receive your feedback on these potential transportation improvement option. You can also participate in an associated survey: Survey in English: https://surveymonkey.com/r/DZWT3QQ Nuestra Encuesta: https://surveymonkey.com/r/CMLRSPESP Follow the plan at https://haveyoursaymonterey.org/local-road-safety-plan
Exciting Changes Coming to the Residential Parking Program BY PARKING SUPERINTENDENT CRISTIE STEFFY
American's with Disabilities (ADA) Transition Plan Update Approved BY COMMUNICATIONS MANAGER LAURIE HUELGA
View the ADA Self-Evaluation and Transition Plan Final
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What Types of Projects Require Building and Planning Permits BY CODE COMPLIANCE COORDINATOR RORY LAKIND
One of the most common compliance-related questions is regarding what types of projects require building and planning permits. The City of Monterey has adopted the California Building Code which is the standard for building safety. Certain projects require both building and planning approval and many other projects require only a building permit. The best way to ensure compliance and not adding time and expenses to a project, is to contact the City of Monterey Building & Safety Division by phone at (831) 646-3891 or come by the office and speak with one of our team members. As a general guideline, projects involving only painting or flooring do not require a building permit. Many repairs such as re-roofing, window replacement, moving or adding electrical outlets, building a deck or pergola require building permits before construction begins. Many exterior changes require a planning permit so it is best to check with the Planning Office staff. For further information, please review the information on the City of Monterey website at monterey.gov/building. A copy of the California Building Code is available at the Monterey Public Library.
The Monterey City Council approved the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) Transition Plan 2024 Update at their December City Council meeting. Plans are required to be updated every ten years, and encompasses reviewing access to public buildings, parks, and public rights-of-way. The project update process included an ADA Self Evaluation of policies, programs, procedures, and communications. The resulting Plan gathered input from people with disabilities and identified barriers to accessibility, methods for improving access, and established an approach for removing ADA barriers. The goal of the plan, in collaboration with our community partners, is to work to improve the quality of life of all of our community members; champion equitable access to affordable housing; maintain a safe environment; and expand opportunities for people of all ages and abilities to bike and walk safely through active transportation, accessibility, and safety initiatives. The public can submit requests or grievances through the City of Monterey's website at monterey.gov/ada.
monterey.gov/ada monterey.gov/codecompliance
The Rental Inventory Program closed its first year of implementation on a high note with nearly 75% compliance amongst registrations and exemptions. This compliance rate is more than double what most cities experience in the first year of implementing similar programs, and it’s a testament to the community’s gracious cooperation and assistance. The program has provided tremendous insight to staff and City Council. A few key takeaways are: More than 4,200 units have been registered and more than 1,700 have been exempted. Most units available for rent are 1-2 bedroom units. Overall average rent is $2,125. The New Monterey neighborhood has the most units. The Del Monte Beach neighborhood has the highest rent. Most property owners are small, local landlords. There is currently no significant sign of large corporate activity in the market. The program has offered a tremendous amount of specific data that is not available on the online aggregator websites, and this will assist Council in the future. For more information and to view the public database, visit monterey.gov/rentalinventory.
An update to City Council was provided on the City of Monterey's Rental Assistance Program on January 21, 2025. The update focused on the past seven months of assistance since the program launched in April. Staff updated City Council on how many community members were assisted through the program, lessons learned, and recommended changes to the program guidelines. To date, the Rental Assistance Program has provided a total of $230,552.85 in assistance since launching the program and assisted 72 households. The program has an additional $250,000 to continue providing assistance into 2025. The program opens to eligible residents one day each month, usually the second week of the month. Sign up to be notified by email by contacting the Housing Office at (831) 646-3995.
Rental Inventory Program Update BY MANAGEMENT ANALYST MARK ACKERMANN
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Rental Assistance Program Update BY HOUSING & COMMUNITY DEVELOPMENT COORDINATOR JACOB VERANIA
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The Monterey Fire Department (MFD) began paramedic Advanced Life Support (ALS) service in the City of Pacific Grove on January 16, 2025. Currently MFD provides ALS services from all three (3) City of Monterey Fire Stations and this initiative adds service to the City of Pacific Grove which provides a higher level of care as well as more equitable care throughout MFD’s response area. MFD’s Paramedic ALS program has a proven track record of improved outcomes and saved lives due to the higher level of care provided by paramedics. EMTs receive about 120 hours of initial training and are trained to provide basic life support services. Paramedics receive over 1400 hours of initial training and can provide additional services such as advanced airway management, use of a non-automatic external cardiac defibrillator, initiating intravenous lines and administering medications, and other related interventions. Essentially, paramedics bring many services of a hospital emergency department to the scene of a medical emergency enabling those interventions to be provided much sooner. We thank the City of Pacific Grove for their continued partnership in providing emergency services to the community.
New Training Facility for Emergency Personnel at Ryan Ranch SUBMITTED BY MONTEREY FIRE DEPARTMENT
ALS Services Begins in the City of Pacific Grove SUBMITTED BY MONTEREY FIRE DEPARTMENT
The Monterey Fire Department, in partnership with Montage Health, completed the building of a new training prop in Ryan Ranch. The location in Ryan Ranch was provided by Montage Health and MFD relocated container boxes used for fire department training. Having a location dedicated to training is extremely important to maintain firefighter skills as well as train new recruits. It may also be considered as a factor in the City’s Insurance Services Office (ISO) rating which can affect the community’s insurance premiums. Thank you to Montage Health for the location and continued partnership!
Register Now for Winter/Spring Programs with Monterey Recreation BY RECREATION MANAGER SHANNON LEON
Thank You for Holiday Meal Distributions BY RECREATION MANAGER SHANNON LEON
parks & play - to health, wellness, activity & fun
monterey.gov/rec
The City of Monterey, lead by the Monterey Recreation Division, distributed over 2,200 meal kits (for 2-4 people and 6-8 people) plus 800 sandwich meals between the two meal drives in November and December. We also coordinated over 100 home deliveries with Monterey Fire and Police as well as Seaside and Marina Fire Departments. Overall, we served over 15,200 individuals at both food drives. This would not have been possible without support of the City Team (Monterey Fire, Police, Streets, Public Works Engineering and Parks) and our partnerships with the Food Bank for Monterey County, the Kiwanis Club of Monterey and the Defense Language Institute. This was the fifth year the City of Monterey supported holiday meal distribution efforts.
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Monterey Recreation is now taking registration for Winter/Spring leagues and programs. Programs are offered for all ages and interests: Toddler and Youth Programs: Spring Break Camp, Preschool Programs at Hilltop Park and El Estero Park Centers including Stories and Adventures, Gymnastics, Kids in the Kitchen and Theater for Youth Dance Classes: Preschool Dance Collage, Music Movement and Hip Hop, Ballet, Youth Hip Hop Dance Adults: Drawing and Painting, Watercolor Painting, Ceramics for Adults, Pilates and Modified Pilates, play! Monterey Travel Program trips to SF Ferry Building or Day in San Luis Obispo Field Sports: Youth Track and Field, Adult Co-Rec, Women’s and Men's Softball and much more! Please check our website frequently or follow Monterey Recreation on Facebook and Instagram for the latest updates and events. More information will be shared soon about the annual Bunny Hop Photo Op + EGGStra Fun and FUN! in the Park with S.T.E.A.M. at Montecito Park. Questions? Email: montereyrecreation@monterey.gov Register Online 24/7! See the online Amilia/SmartRec store for full class information.
High 5 Summer 25! Registration for Monterey Summer Camps Opens Soon BY RECREATION MANAGER SHANNON LEON
parks & play
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 and Track and Field Playwell LEGO, Art Camps, Gymnastics Camps and much more! Stay Tuned! More information will be coming soon. Check our website at monterey.gov/rec or follow Monterey Recreation on Facebook and Instagram for the latest updates. Don't forget to create your Amilia/SmartRec account if you have not used our online store before. It’s time to play!Monterey.
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Monterey Recreation - We are Hiring for Summer and Beyond! BY RECREATION MANAGER SHANNON LEON
Before we can offer our award winning summer camps, we need to hire amazing staff. We are looking for dedicated and positive people that want to make a difference in their community. 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.gov for more information and to request a job application or go online to monterey.gov/summerjobs.
Sports Medicine for Boomers, Gen X and Millennials SUBMITTED BY THE MONTEREY SPORTS CENTER
monterey.gov/sportscenter
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The next Lifestyles Initiative wellness event, Sports Medicine for Boomers, Gen X and Millennials, takes place on Saturday, March 8 from 1:00 to 3:00 p.m. Discover the latest advancements in sports medicine with a lecture from a Montage Health doctor and learn important tips about physical therapy and injury prevention. This event is free of charge and open to members and non-members of the Monterey Sports Center. ABOUT THE LIFESTYLES INITIATIVE: Last September, the City of Monterey’s Monterey Sports Center announced a new collaboration with Montage Health, called the Lifestyles Initiative – a series of events designed to positively impact our community’s well-being by emphasizing the benefits of a holistic approach to health and preventative medicine. Staff from the Monterey Sports Center and Montage Health scheduled a series of free Lifestyles Initiative events held at the Monterey Sports Center to promote wellness and active living for Monterey County residents. All events are free of charge and open to members and non-members of the Monterey Sports Center.
Advancing Electric Vehicle Charging Infrastructure BY SUSTAINABILITY DIVISION, COMMUNITY DEVELOPMENT DEPARTMENT
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green scene - stewarding our environment
The City of Monterey is advancing its sustainability goals with a $200,000 grant from the Monterey Bay Air Resources District (MBARD) to install eight new electric vehicle (EV) chargers at the Ryan Ranch Corporation Yard. This facility supports several key City departments, including Streets & Utilities, Fleet Operations, and Parks and Recreation, and will be vital in the City’s transition to a more sustainable, all-electric fleet. The infrastructure will include six Level 2 chargers and 2 DC Fast Chargers, ensuring the City can efficiently support its growing electric fleet and meet long-term environmental goals. With a total project cost of $345,000, the City will also be requesting an additional $150,000 in funding support from Central Coast Community Energy (3CE) to fully cover installation and infrastructure upgrades. In addition to charging stations, the City will also receive $40,000 from MBARD to assist with the purchase of two new electric vehicles, further advancing the transition toward a zero emission City fleet. This investment reflects Monterey’s commitment to sustainability, reducing carbon emissions, and supporting California’s Advanced Clean Fleet mandate. It’s another step in the ongoing effort to create a greener future for the community.
monterey.gov/sustainability
To report sanitary sewer spills and illegal dumping to the street, waterways, or the storm drain system, please call one of the following: 831-646-3921 (during business hours) 831-646-3914 (during after hours) 9-1-1 (county-wide, anytime) Dumping any pollutants or trash into the gutter, catch basin or the storm drain system is ILLEGAL. Please report sanitary sewer spills and any dumping to the City. Local ordinances limit storm water flows to clean rain water and non-polluted incidental flows like groundwater. Please do your part to protect local waterways! Public Reports of City Sanitary Sewer Overflows (SSOs) is available in the SWRCB California Integrated Water Quality System Project (CIWQS) database, available at waterboards.ca.gov/ciwqs/publicreports.shtml.
Winter Stormwater Tips: Keep Monterey Clean by Managing Waste and Preventing Pollution BY ENGINEERING PROJECT MANAGER KEVIN ANDERSON
Report Sanitary Sewer Spills and Illegal Dumping BY CITY STAFF
green scene
monterey.gov/environmentalregs
As we move into the winter months, the City of Monterey is reminding residents, businesses, and visitors about the importance of managing stormwater to protect our local waterways and infrastructure. With the possibility of heavy rains from January to April, it's crucial to clear storm drains of debris, and maintain proper drainage around properties to prevent flooding and pollution. Be sure to clean up pet waste, secure trash can lids to prevent litter, and never rinse anything into the street curb and gutters. These actions help reduce the amount of waste that can enter the storm drain system. City staff are actively monitoring storm drain systems, but your participation is key to keeping Monterey clean and resilient. Please report any clogged drains or water-related issues to the Public Works Department to ensure a smooth and safe winter season. Call them at (831) 646-3921 during normal business hours.
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Have you ever tuned into a City of Monterey Council Meeting or a Commission Meeting and wondered about the painting on the wall behind the council seats? The work is titled Symphony of Historic Monterey, and was painted by Francis McComas (1874-1938) in 1927 under commission for Monterey resident, Mrs. James Murray 1. The work highlights a number of historic buildings in Monterey in a collage pattern. A review of this painting reads, “[The] composition of old landmarks woven together in intriguing color and pattern, done in the best McComas manner, which is always a knowledge of craftsmanship, plus genuine feeling for beauty.” 2 McComas’ architectural style and choice of colors is from his mature period. 3 While McComas was born in Tasmania, he began his artistic career in Australia, and then moved to the United States where he ultimately settled in the Monterey region. The way he captured landscapes from around the world – including many paintings of California – earned him international recognition. Francis McComas has come to be known as California’s first modernist. 4 It is a treat that this painting is part of the City of Monterey’s Art Collection! Next time you are visiting the Council Chamber at 580 Pacific Street, officially called Few Memorial Hall of Records, take a look at the painting and see how many buildings you can identify. Footnotes: 1 Palace of the Legion of Honor, Francis John McComas Biography and Works (Palace of the Legion of Honor, 1936), 82. 2 Palace of the Legion of Honor, Francis John McComas, 83. 3 Robert J. Pierce, Francis McComas: Rediscovering California’s First Modernist (Monterey Museum of Art, 2021), 121. 4 Pierce, Francis McComas: Rediscovering, 12.
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Symphony of Historic Monterey BY MUSEUMS AND CULTURAL ARTS DIVISION ARTIFACTS SPECIALIST BY BRIANNA SCHWERLING
monterey.gov/museums
culture corner - art, history, culture
2025 - 2026 Special Event Support Program Application Opens Feb. 1 BY MANAGEMENT ANALYST VICKIE RAHMAN
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The City of Monterey will be accepting applications for the Special Event Support Program (SESP) from Saturday, February 1, 2025, through 3:00 p.m., Thursday, February 27, 2025, for events scheduled during Fiscal Year 2025 - 2026 (July 1, 2025 through June 30, 2026). There is a total of $100,000 to distribute through this program to qualified applicants. Program guidelines, criteria, and the application are available at monterey.gov/events/grant-program. The grant program focuses on not-for-profit events, events free to the public, and events that encourage educational opportunities for Monterey youth, cultural or arts experiences, provide recreational or social activities, promote economic vitality, and enhance community identity. The Special Event Support Program started in 2015 but was put on pause at the start of the COVID-19 pandemic due to its impact on the City budget. The program was reestablished in 2024 and provides an opportunity to have special events considered for funding support by the City of Monterey. In 2024, the City of Monterey provided grant funding to eight organizations hosting eight events including Monterey County Pops!, Monterey Firefighters Community Foundation, Monterey Museum of Art, Monterey Peninsula Pride, and Marine Life Studies.
culture corner
Please join the Monterey Public Library Friends & Foundation for the 20th Annual Chocolate & Wine Benefit on Saturday, February 22, 2025 from 4 to 7 p.m. at the library. Enjoy a deliciously fun evening featuring sweet treats from local bakeries, including Ad Astra, Alta Bakery, Parker Lusseau, and more; enjoy sips from local wineries and breweries, including Alvarado Brewery, Scheid Vineyards, Riboli, Family Wines, and many more; savory bites from Chris Shake, Chef Juan Ponce, and the team at Old Fisherman’s Grotto; as well as live music, silent auction, and much, much more! As the largest fundraising event of the year for the Monterey Public Library, all proceeds benefit the library. The Monterey Public Library celebrated 175 years of service in 2024 and is California’s first public library.
The 20th Annual Chocolate & Wine Event is Saturday, February 22
monterey.gov/events monterey.gov/library
Cementerio El Encinal Historic Marker Tour SUBMITTED BY LIBRARY AND MUSEUMS DIRECTOR BRIAN EDWARDS
monterey.gov/cemetery
One of the tours on the Monterey Public Library and Museum's story app is a historic tour of the City's Cementerio El Encinal. El Encinal Cemetery is located in the heart of the city at 798 Fremont Street, and adjacent to the Catholic St. John's Cemetery. A quiet stroll through the Monterey City cemetery evokes memories of such celebrated local as 'Doc' Ricketts, long-time companion of John Steinbeck; Flora Adams, infamous "madame" of Cannery Row; Sam Powers, bronc buster, stagecoach driver, and 17-Mile-Drive gatekeeper; Jack Swan, founder of California's First Theater; William Robinson, Monterey's first sheriff; and Emma Johnson, who took her place in the annals of Monterey history simply because "she was always right." The tour will continue to get updated with add stops of interesting and sometimes famous people who reside there. The historic cemetery has been maintained and operated by the City of Monterey since 1851. We are working on an updated brochure and adding more information to the website, monterey.gov/cemetery. Find the app at https://cityofmonterey.stqry.app/ and click on the Cemetery tour option on the bottom right.
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Chris Dwight in his corn field
Employee Spotlight on You article continued...
Employee Spotlight on You - Meet Chris Dwight, General Services Superintendent, Public Works Department
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monterey.gov
Chris started working for the City of Monterey on July 1, 2022, in the same role he is in now. Chris and his family have lived in Carmel for over five years. ES: Do you have family/relatives in the area? Chris: I live here with my wife Anna and our two daughters, Jade (8) and Isla (4). ES: Do you have any pets? Chris: We have two cats: Perry who is our well-behaved Siamese cat and Patsy, who we found in our garden when she was 3 weeks old. She is spicy, fluffy and weighs over 20 pounds! ES: What do you like best about working in your department/division? Chris: The people and the work that we do. General Services/Public Works provide critical support to the City and our military partners. We help ensure the facilities are a safe and fully operable space. Additionally, we respond to a wide variety of calls from pest issues to roof leaks to HVAC issues and so much more. We have an amazing, skilled, and talented workforce. Many of our staff have decades of experience working in facilities maintenance or similar roles. We have great comradery and throw an AMAZING potluck! ES: What qualities/traits do you bring to the job, which allow you to excel at what you do? Chris: My career has mainly been in managing large operations in food manufacturing. My largest staff was 450 employees across three shifts, 6 to 7 days a week when I was managing operations for Mann Packing/Del Monte Fresh in Salinas. I have a great understanding of operations and people management that helps ensure the team is working toward a common goal. ES: What’s your favorite meal? Chris: Anything I grow and/or forage. I'm a huge gardener and have a passion for taking what I grow and incorporating it in my family's meals. There is something magical about walking through a garden with a huge variety and grazing on everything that is ripe. ES: What’s your favorite thing to do in Monterey? Chris: Forage for wild edibles. I have a passion for the outdoors and nature. During the winter months you can find me on the rocks at Garrapata beach at low tide collecting mussels, edible seaweed, limpets, and sea urchin for uni. I enjoy teaching my children all the wonderful things nature has to offer. Inland we pick wild fennel and every summer we harvest wild elderberries along Carmel Valley Road to make elderberry syrup and wine. ES: What do you like to do in your spare time? Any hobbies/interests? Chris: My hobby is having hobbies. Since having children, I have had to select the ones I'm truly passionate about and put on pause the more dangerous and/or time-consuming ones like scuba dive spearfishing. I am an avid beekeeper, gardener, forager, and brewer. We have a bee yard off Robinson Canyon Road where I tend to 8 beehives in addition to the four on our property in Carmel. We have a very large garden with the crown jewel being our berry patch consisting of 11, 40-foot rows of raspberries, blackberries, black raspberries, golden raspberries and many more. Last season we harvested over 100 pounds of berries to eat fresh, freeze, or turn into countless food products to enjoy year-round. ES: Are you a volunteer? If so, where and what do you do? Chris: This last Fall I volunteered for Tatum's Treehouse for the playground build at Carmel Valley Community Center. Tatum's Treehouse mission is to provide fully inclusive and accessible playgrounds to communities. Their vision is inspiring communities to foster abundant play for children of every ability. ES: What is your most treasured possession? Chris: My grandfather's World War II journal. He documented in extreme detail his deployment to Africa and his mission up toward Europe. The journal is a huge binder/photo album filled with pictures, maps, letters to my grandmother, mission documents, detailed descriptions, and countless other bits of information in chronological order. At the end of the journal is the actual newspaper when Germany surrendered. ES: Anything else you’d like to say about your job, your interests, or your philosophy of life? Chris: My philosophy is to live life to the fullest and stay curious. It is so rewarding to learn new things, grow new plants, meet new people, forage for new wild edibles and so on. Life is too short to not open yourself up to new experiences and adventures!
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@CityofMonterey on social media channels
California Sea Lions made Monterey home for several months last summer and fall. Photo by Larry Nordwick, Creative Images
MAYOR Tyller Williamson COUNCILMEMBERS Kim Barber Gene 'Gino' Garcia Jean Rasch Ed Smith
City Manager’s Office 580 Pacific Street Monterey, CA 93940 831.646.3760 Suggestions: Call 831. 646.3799 or email suggest@monterey.gov monterey.gov haveyoursaymonterey.org
WINTER 2025 volume XL, no. 1 published since 1985
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.gov/cityfocus.
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