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Message from the City Manager
FALL 2025 Volume XL, no. 4
A Report from the City of Monterey to its Citizens and Friends
Dear Neighbors and Friends, Haushalt: That is the German word for household. “Haushalt” means household. There is also another meaning for “Haushalt”. It stands for budget. Household and budget are intrinsically connected. Households manage budgets. This fiscal year we are experiencing a structural budget deficit of $10 million. Stated differently: our expenses are $10 million higher than our revenues. The good news: we were able to balance the budget. The bad news: for fiscal year 26/27 - our next fiscal year – we are forecasting another budget shortfall of $10 million when our expected expenses will exceed our revenues. What are our City expenses? They are mainly expenses for delivering services to our residents 24/7, 365 days a year and their associated costs. So how do we plan on balancing the future budget? That is exactly the question Council, community and staff have been discussing for the past three months. In essence, we are just like any other household or business in our City: we have to manage our household by setting priorities and adjusting our spending patterns to our actual income. We have one major problem though: for every program we have, we have passionate supporters who prefer seeing everything else changed other than their program. That is also good news, because it means that the City does a lot of things right! Neighbors enjoy our responsive services and our many, many programs. Currently, our revenues come in as projected. Still we are spending more than we earn. The question remains: how do we intend to spend our tax revenues? And it is about applying the proven rationale of how we balance our finances in our individual households. A reasonable person will always look at options to cut back on not necessary expenses. As a City, we have the challenge that all our expenses are loved and cherished by members of our community. There is not one community member who will say: “Take my program away!” Trust me- I have never heard those words spoken in the Council Chamber! Reduction of service levels is an option – yet not a realistic one. So what are our other options? Council and public discussed a few: We have the well-funded and cherished Neighborhood and Community Improvement Program (NCIP), which has a guaranteed future income of more than $5.5M coming in FY 26/27 for projects not even envisioned today. And we have $17M in approved NCIP projects appropriated including rehabilitations projects to two fire stations and one recreation center. Additionally, $6.2M in this year’s NCIP funding is still available. We can use our reserves, but why would we deplete the rainy-day fund when we can adjust our spending habits only temporarily? Would we do that at home? We can consider adjusting the sales tax as this revenue is generated by 62% of non-residents. We can become more creative and create new taxes which can generate additional income. All options with one common denominator: we are not addressing yet the spending problem. However, we are making progress! Council tasked the Neighborhood and Community Improvement Program to identify approved and not started project equal to $3M - $4M. Residents will be grateful to the Council for this clear direction as this will help us to continue providing our services including public safety. The work will need to continue to identify the remaining $6M to balance today's estimated deficit. The Council, together with the help of the community and supported by our staff, will be able to find solutions before March 2026. It is my hope that you all will talk to your elected officials and share with them what you think potential solutions are. It will not be easy, but we worked together through many challenges before, including a devastating pandemic, and the great recession. We added a FAQ site to our website to help clarify the challenges and the potential solutions. Please check them out. This is also my last City Focus newsletter as your City Manager. Many, many thanks to all of you who have helped and supported me. A very special “Danke” and thanks is reserved for our City team. You are the best of the best. Together we managed so many never-before-seen challenges and you all excelled! Monterey is proud to have you serving this great City 24/7, 365 days, with professionalism, passion and heart. Anda! ~ Hans Uslar
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ALL About the budget
CITY FOCUS
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Message from the City Manager continued...
monterey mornings with the manager
Watch the September 10, 2025 Edition of 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 - submit through the chat feature, or send questions in advance by email to suggest@monterey.gov.
HOLIDAY EVENTS ARE COMING SOON! monterey.gov/holidayevents
CULTURE CORNER - art, history, culture
Message from the City Manager Latest Budget Outlook ADC Conference in Monterey First City Academy Graduates Decades Old Fire Stations in the Spotlight for Upgrades Intersection Accessibility Upgrades Monterey Hosts Professional Planners Conference The Role of Police Community Service Officers Firefighter Recruitments Monterey Provides Expanded Ambulance Service New Aerial Ladder Fire Truck Tree Ordinance Survey Career Opportunities What is Code Compliance? Harbor Division Helps Keep Monterey Bay Clean Prescription Drug Drop-Off at Monterey Police Sign Up for Alert Monterey County Monterey's New Parks & Recreation Director Monterey Recreation Preschool Programs Trunk or Treat Another Fun Event Saturday with Santa Fall/Winter Programs with Monterey Recreation Thanksgiving Drive Thru Meal Program Pumpkin Plunge & Dia de Los Muertos at the MSC Veteran's Day Free MSC Admission
CITY BRIEFS
IN THE NEWS
PARKS & PLAY - to health, wellness, activity, and fun
MSC Holiday Membership Promotion Youth Basketball League Swim Lessons Winter Sports Camp & Counselor in Training January Personal Training Promotion
Inside this issue
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How Your Neighborhood Watershed Connects to the Bay Adopt-a-Catch-Basin Program Climate Action Plan Next Steps Sea Level Rise Assessment Gifts from Sister Cities Lower Presidio History Park Survey Holiday Events 2025 Employee Spotlight on You
GREEN SCENE - stewarding our environment
CITY FOCUS - FALL 2025
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At the August 27, 2025 Special City Council meeting, the Finance Director and staff presented information on the rising costs of expenses outpacing the growth in revenue that has resulted in an ongoing structural deficit of $10 million annually. The current Fiscal Year (FY25/26) was balanced by utilizing one-time solutions including restructuring commitments to other funds, reducing contributions to select reserve accounts by 50% for the 24-25 and 25-26 fiscal years, reducing projected Operations and Management (O&M) costs for by 7%, closing spending for FY24-25 in O&M six weeks early, increasing the projected rate of salary savings, freezing (chilling) and not funding positions from current vacancies, and reducing the appropriation to CIP projects. To address the structural deficit, significant time at subsequent Council meetings has been dedicated to reviewing and identifying strategies to reduce the deficit. Several potential direct strategies include: Reappropriating some or all NCIP Funds to the General Fund Increase Sales Tax by 0.375% Implementation of Admissions Tax Implementation of Streaming Tax Update of Real Property Transfer Tax Use Attrition to Gain Salary Savings Establishing Payments in Lieu of Taxes (PILOTs) with local non-profit organizations Discontinue Mills Act Approvals Optimize Veterans Park Campground City Staff and City Council are also exploring other, indirect relief of the General Fund’s structural deficit. These are strategies which may materialize over time and help bolster the overall fiscal health. Several potential indirect strategies include: Renewal of Measure G Renewal of Measure P/S Update and reinstatement of Stormwater Fees Adjust Rent on the Aquarium Lease Furthermore, City Staff and City Council are exploring other, one-time, savings such as defunding non-priority NCIP projects, selling unused property, and making a Charter Amendment for Visitor Accommodation Facilities. The above items are only a snapshot of the many creative solutions City Staff, Monterey Residents, and City Council have brought to the table for consideration. All of Monterey is committed to identifying mechanisms to reduce the structural deficit. At the October 13 joint City Council/NCIP Committee meeting, Council instructed the NCIP Committee to review between $3 and $4 million of current NCIP Projects to be defunded to support balancing the current and future year budgets. Frequently Asked Questions About the City's $10 Million Budget Deficit Check it out at Online Budget Book, also linked from the City's website at monterey.gov/budget.
monterey.gov/budget
Understanding the City Budget Deficit SUBMITTED BY THE FINANCE DEPARTMENT
This year, the City of Monterey is proud to welcome the Association of Defense Communities to the Monterey Conference Center for their Installation Innovation Forum. This event offers an opportunity for defense communities (those who are home to military bases and other Department of Defense assets) to meet with federal, state, and private industry partners to explore ways we can work together to strengthen cooperation and bolster national security. This is where innovative ideas and agreements are formulated and shared such as our very own Monterey Model, which has done so much good for our city and military installations alike. Several city staff members will be in attendance and we look forward to an excellent and informative event, especially in light of a precarious federal budget situation and numerous geopolitical complexities afoot.
Association of Defense Communities Conference in Monterey BY MANAGEMENT ANALYST MARK ACKERMANN
monterey.gov/finance monterey.gov/montereymodel
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City Budget article continued...
monterey.gov/firstcityacademy
"First City Academy" & "Monterey Way Academy" Graduates First Class BY CITY MANAGER'S OFFICE
Congratulations to our First City Academy graduates! Thirty residents completed the nine week course. They received presentations from staff across all city departments that we are hopeful were engaging and informative. The last session held on October 23, 2025, was a culmination of ways to get involved, now that they have the awareness and knowledge of the vast programs and services offered. While Monterey is considered a small city of just under 30,000 residents, Monterey is, without a doubt, a full service city. It is hard to find another small city that has all the amenities the City of Monterey offers: a library, sports center, conference center, historic museums, parking facilities, harbor and marina, numerous parks and beaches, police and fire services, and more. Our goal was to have graduates leave with a stronger connection to Monterey and a clearer sense of how they can contribute to creating a higher quality of life in Monterey, now, and for future generations. From the feedback we heard, we feel proud to have met that goal. The City of Monterey will schedule another First City Academy in the coming months. Visit monterey.gov/firstcityacademy for more information. See the flyer, Six Ways to Connect With Your Local Government.
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We also had a similar academy for staff, the Monterey Way Academy. Here is there graduation photo. Congratulations to the graduates!
monterey.gov/traffic
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Intersection Accessibility Upgrades Prompt Traffic Analysis BY ENGINEERING ASSISTANT II MARISSA GARCIA
Academies article continued...
City Staff is currently studying operations at the signalized intersection of Prescott Avenue and Taylor Street. The City must make accessibility upgrades to the intersection in compliance with the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) and the City is in the process of developing design plans. Traffic patterns have changed since the installation of the traffic signal at Prescott Ave and Taylor St in 1985 and a recent traffic analysis concluded that the current traffic patterns may no longer warrant a traffic signal. While the intersection is in flashing mode the City will collect data and make traffic observations and would like to receive any feedback from residents on their observations. Please remember to treat all traffic signals in flashing mode as an All-Way Stop. Staff will be monitoring and considering extending the study due to the impacts of the government shutdown, after the study is concluded staff will be reaching out to collect feedback and presenting findings to the City Council before any design decisions are made. Please send your feedback by email to engineering-admin@monterey.gov. For more information please see https://monterey.gov/news_detail_T39_R47.php.
Supported by the Monterey Firefighters, the Neighborhood and Improvement Committee (NCIP) heard proposals from City staff to rehabilitate Fire Stations 12 and 13. During the Fiscal Year 2024/25 cycle the Committee voted highly to recommend funding to renovate the two fire stations serving the southern and northern parts of the city from their respective bases in New Monterey (Fire Station 12) and Villa Del Monte (Fire Station 13). The combined project received the sixth highest number of votes at 139 out of a possible 150. The recommended funding levels were $1,050,000 for Fire Station 12 and $1,200,000 for Fire Station 13 based on preliminary cost estimates. City Council in-turn voted to appropriate $2,250,000 to the Fire Station Rehabilitation Projects on November 19, 2024. The two Fire Stations were built in the early 1950s and serve as critical infrastructure for services across the City. Now, more than 70 years later, with some minor renovations over the years, the Stations are showing their age and are in need of significant renovation and improvements including updates to meet accessibility standards. In February 2025, the City contracted with a construction management firm to manage the rehabilitation projects. The construction management firm hit the ground running starting with evaluating the needs at Fire Station 12 including interviewing firefighters assigned to the Station, developing a more detailed list of needs, and refining the project cost estimate. Based on this updated information, City Staff presented a status report to the NCIP Committee on June 11, 2025. During this meeting, Staff requested an additional $900,000 for a total budget of $1,950,000 to complete the full scope or work. Once again, the NCIP Committee responded to meet the moment and recommended that Council appropriate the additional funding which City Council followed through with on August 5, 2025. With the funding in-place, the next steps in the process are to complete the new interior design to incorporate required accessibility improvements, permitting, structural analysis and seismic strengthening of the apparatus bay and building as necessary, and other necessary improvements including new heating, ventilation, and cooling (HVAC) equipment, bathroom and kitchen upgrades, windows, electrical upgrades, and painting. Stay tuned to future NCIP Committee meetings for updates on the Fire Station Rehabilitation Projects and other projects across the City. The meeting schedule along with project status reports can be found on the City’s website at https://monterey.gov/ncip. Learn more about Monterey Fire Department history.
monterey.gov
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Fire Stations, Built in the 1950s, in the NCIP Spotlight for Upgrades BY SENIOR ENGINEER REGINALD PAULDING
Fire Station 11 on Pacific Street, 1959.
Monterey Hosts California Planning Professionals Conference BY PRINCIPAL PLANNER CHRISTY SABDO
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The City of Monterey hosted the American Planning Association (APA) California 2025 Conference. This year's theme, Waves of Change - Reconnecting Communities, reflects the dynamic forces reshaping California’s planning landscape. From addressing housing affordability and advancing climate resilience to promoting equity and improving mobility, the conference highlighted transformative strategies that strengthen community connections and foster a more inclusive and sustainable future. This year's conference set a new milestone as one of the most highly attended CA APA California conferences to date, drawing over 2,000 planners, professionals, and visionaries that came together to shape the future of our cities, towns, and regions. City of Monterey Mayor, Tyler Williamson, and City Manager of Emeryville, LaTanya Bellow, inspired planners at the Opening Keynote by sharing the power of perspective in the face of pressing statewide and local challenges. City staff from the Community Development Department, Monterey Public Library, Public Works, and City Manager's office played a role in the success of the conference by volunteering on one of many conference planning subcommittees, being a designated host for attendees, a mentor for new planners during the conference, or being part of a speaker panel at the conference. Here are presentations and mobile workshops where City staff played a role as a speaker: Presentations: Hard-Won Housing: Success Stories of Housing Projects Overcoming the Odds Are You Riding the Wave to be a Division Manager or Department Head? Siri, What Should I Do with My Aging Mall? Reimagination in a Digital Era This Otter Be Fun! Monterey Bay Aquarium and Cannery Row Behind the Scenes Tour Mobile Workshops: Changing Climates and Coastlines: Window on the Bay and Sand City's Sand Dunes Restoration (bike tour) Monterey's Finest: The Impact of the Craft Brew Scene (walking tour) Walking in the Footsteps of Portola We are all inspired to continue positive transformative work in the community - making waves of change!
monterey.gov/planning
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monterey.gov/police
The Role of Monterey Police Department Community Services Officers BY MONTEREY POLICE SERGEANT JEREMIAH RUTTSCHOW
The Monterey Police Department is committed to serving the community through a wide range of services, and not all of them require a sworn police officer. Community Service Officers (CSOs) play a vital role in keeping the city safe and responsive by handling many essential duties that support both the public and the department’s overall mission. Who They Are: CSOs are non-sworn civilian employees specially trained to assist with law enforcement support tasks. While they do not carry firearms or make arrests, they are highly visible in the community and can serve as the first point of contact for residents in need of assistance. The Monterey Police Department has two full-time CSOs and five CSO interns. What They Do: The responsibilities of Monterey CSOs are broad and designed to free sworn officers to focus on higher-priority law enforcement duties. Their tasks include: Taking police reports for non-emergency incidents such as lost or found property. Assisting with traffic control at accident scenes, community events, or emergencies. Enforcing certain municipal codes, such as abandoned vehicle complaints and vehicle towing. Providing support during special programs like Coffee with a Cop, the Shop with a Cop back-to -school event, and the annual MPD toy drive. Helping with unlawful camping cleanups and property storage. Transporting evidence, equipment, or non-custodial property as needed. Animal control related activities. Community Connection: Beyond their daily tasks, CSOs strengthen relationships between the Police Department and the community. Their approachable role allows them to answer questions, provide information, and direct residents to the right resources. They often interact with tourists, local businesses, and residents, ensuring that Monterey remains a safe and welcoming city. Why It Matters: By handling calls for service that do not require a sworn officer, CSOs make the department more efficient and responsive. This division of labor allows sworn officers to dedicate more time to serious crimes and proactive policing, while ensuring the public still receives timely, professional service. Community Service Officers are an essential part of the Monterey Police Department team. They provide critical support, enhance community safety, and build trust between law enforcement and the people they serve. Their work ensures that Monterey continues to balance effective policing with strong community partnerships.
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Pictured: Carmel Fire Ambulance Firefighter/Paramedic Matt Nitenson and Monterey Fire Department Firefighter Ross Pounds.
As of October 1, 2025, the City of Monterey began providing full ambulance services to the City of Carmel-by-the-Sea! Four (4) Carmel Fire Ambulance employees transitioned to become City of Monterey Firefighters in this exciting merge. Since 2012, the City of Monterey has successfully provided fire protection services to the City of Carmel-by-the-Sea. Building on more than a decade of collaboration and shared commitment to public safety, this expanded agreement reflects the cities’ joint efforts to enhance service delivery, improve operational efficiency, and maintain high standards of emergency medical care. Residents can expect no interruption in service.
City of Monterey Now Provides Ambulance Service for the City of Carmel-by-the-Sea SUBMITTED BY THE MONTEREY FIRE DEPARTMENT
Firefighter Recruitments SUBMITTED BY THE MONTEREY FIRE DEPARTMENT
monterey.gov/fire
The Monterey Fire Department is proud to announce that seven (7) new firefighters, hired in September 2024 have successfully completed their probationary period in September 2025. We commend their hard work and dedication this past year. In addition, the department is currently in the process of hiring up to five (5) additional firefighters, expected to begin the fire academy training in November 2025. This continued hiring effort supports our mission to maintain strong emergency response capabilities and meet the needs of the communities we serve.
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New Aerial Ladder Fire Truck SUBMITTED BY THE MONTEREY FIRE DEPARTMENT
After a three-year wait, the Monterey Fire Department is expecting the delivery of our new aerial ladder fire truck in October 2025. This new state-of-the-art apparatus features updated technology and improved safety features supporting the safety of both firefighters and the community. The truck will serve as a front-line apparatus responding to a wide range of emergency calls including vehicle accidents, structure fires and emergency medical service (EMS) calls. The truck represents a major investment in public safety and will help the department to continue delivering high-quality service to our community. The cost of the new engine was just under $1.9 million.
Follow Monterey Fire Department on Instagram: instagram.com/montereyfiredepartmentofficial
The Parks Division is updating the City's tree ordinance and they are seeking public input. There's still time to take the Tree Ordinance Survey. One community town hall event happened on Monday, October 13, and there was a good turnout and great discussion. Another town hall is set for Monday, October 27 at 6:00 p.m. at El Estero Park Center. We encourage you to take the tree ordinance survey and attend the next town hall. It's an opportunity to weigh in on changes you would like to see to the City of Monterey's current tree ordinance. The current tree ordinance is available on the Monterey City Code website at monterey.municipal.codes/Code/37-2.
This is a great opportunity to join a dedicated group of professionals working together to serve our historical coastal community and shape its vibrant future. Current full time positions: City Manager Plans Examiner Police Officer Recruit Police Officer Lateral, Academy Graduate and Attendees Senior Engineer Visit the new Human Resources web pages and discover what makes the City of Monterey a great place to work.
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Still Time to Take the Tree Ordinance Survey and Attend a Town Hall SUBMITTED BY PARKS DIVISION
monterey.gov/fire haveyoursaymonterey.org
CITY FOCUS - SUMMER 2025
Be a Part of the City of Monterey Team SUBMITTED BY HUMAN RESOURCES
Ensuring Safety, Cleanliness, and Quality of Life BY CODE COMPLIANCE COORDINATOR RORY LAKIND
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The Code Compliance Office within the City of Monterey's Community Development Department plays a vital role in maintaining the city’s standards and ensuring a safe, welcoming environment for everyone. The role of Code Compliance is to investigate violations of the Monterey City Code. If residents have an issue within the County of Monterey, but not the City of Monterey, then they need to contact the County of Monterey Code Compliance Office. What Is Code Compliance? Code Compliance investigates complaints from all parties. Common reporting parties include property owners, tenants, business owners, visitors, and government staff. Depending on the nature of the issue, the Code Compliance Coordinator determines the appropriate response: Handled directly by Code Compliance: Graffiti removal Overgrown weeds Short-term rental violations Unauthorized vending Collaboration for Safety Safety is the top priority. Code Compliance works closely with the Building and Safety Division to address structural and health-related concerns. The coordinator also partners with: Police Fire Planning Public Works Parks and Recreation Monterey County Health How to Report a Concern Residents can report issues or ask questions through: Email: lakind@monterey.gov Phone: (831) 646-3750 Online Portal: Monterey Online Service Center Stay Involved Your feedback helps keep Monterey safe and beautiful. If you have questions or comments, please reach out to the Code Compliance Unit. Together, we can uphold the standards that make our city a great place to live. Visit the Code Compliance webpage at monterey.gov/codecompliance.
monterey.gov/codecompliance
monterey.gov/harbor
The City of Monterey’s Harbor Division joined forces with several local, state, and federal partners on October 15 for an oil spill preparedness exercise in Monterey Harbor. The event was part of the California Department of Fish and Wildlife’s (CDFW) Office of Spill Prevention and Response (OSPR) Sensitive Site Strategy Exercise Program, which brings together agencies to practice real-world environmental protection strategies. During the exercise, crews from CDFW-OSPR, the U.S. Coast Guard, National Response Corporation/Republic Services, and the Marine Spill Response Corporation worked alongside the Harbor Division to deploy floating containment boom—a long barrier designed to keep oil from entering sensitive areas. This exercise focused on the entrance of the Harbor, where teams practiced placing and adjusting the boom to balance spill protection with safe boat traffic. The Harbor Division provided on-the-water support and local knowledge to make sure the deployment ran smoothly. Exercises like this one are an important way to stay ready in case of a real spill and to protect the marine life and landscape that make Monterey such a special place.
Subscribe to Harbor News Updates sent to your email box include upcoming Harbor events and activities, "fresh off the boat" fish sales, Harbor maintenance information, and more.
Harbor Division Helps Keep Monterey's Waters Protected BY HARBORMASTER NICHOLE RODRIGUEZ
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The City of Monterey has a pharmaceutical drug take back program available to the public. The public may safely and anonymously dispose of unused/expired prescription or over-the-counter medication through the City's Prescription Drug Drop Box Program. No needles, syringes or liquids are accepted. All items must be in a bottle with a prescription label that has a name of the prescriber and the name of the drug. Drugs that are loose or in an unlabeled container can be dropped off at CHOMP or the Pacific Grove Police Department drop off location. The drop off box is located in the lobby of the Monterey Police Department at 351 Madison Street.
Prescription Drug Drop Off at Monterey Police SUBMITTED BY MONTEREY POLICE
Register Your Cell Phone With Alert Monterey County SUBMITTED BY CMO
Alert Monterey County is the official emergency alert and warning system for the County of Monterey and it's municipal jurisdictions, including the City of Monterey. This system delivers critical public safety information to the public from the local government and public safety officials. The Alert Monterey County is managed by the County of Monterey Department of Emergency Management and administered by Public Safety Answering Points, Law Enforcement, Fire, Public Health, and Emergency Management agencies. Sign up at https://alertmontereycounty.org. Frequently Asked Questions are available at https://readymontereycounty.org/prepare/stay-informed.
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Preschool Programs at El Estero & Hilltop Park Centers BY RECREATION MANAGER SHANNON LEON
parks & play - to health, wellness, activity & fun
Introducing the City of Monterey's New Parks & Recreation Director Mike Pacheco SUBMITTED BY CMO
monterey.gov/rec
The City of Monterey Recreation Division has been offering popular and educational preschool programs for children ages 3-5 since 1963. We realize the importance of developing learning skills, and our program emphasizes that children learn best through play. Daily activities include art, music, science, math, pre-reading and writing skills, movement and story-time. We provide a safe and nurturing environment where your child's need for discovery and development is recognized and encouraged. For more information and registration information, please call the preschool location of your choice. El Estero Park Center, (831) 646-3873 or Hilltop Park Center, (831) 646-3975.
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City Manager Hans Uslar announced last week the hiring of Mike Pacheco as the new City of Monterey Parks & Recreation Director. Mr. Pacheco comes to the City of Monterey as the former Recreation & Community Services Director for the City of Vista, California, where he managed a $13.5 million budget and a team of 31 full-time and 300 part-time positions across six divisions. The City of Monterey’s Parks & Recreation Department budget is nearly $19 million with a total of about 47 full-time and 350 part-time seasonal positions across five divisions. Mr. Pacheco has extensive experience in spearheading and developing master plans, securing funding for recreation-focused capital improvement projects, modernizing new software systems, and developing unique recreation programs like the first Age-Friendly Plan, a strategic framework to enhance the quality of life for residents of all ages and abilities. He has had leadership roles in the municipal recreation and community services field since 1997, working for several Southern California cities including the City of Carlsbad and beginning his career at the City of Albuquerque as an Assistant Pool Manager. “I'm excited to join the City of Monterey’s Parks and Recreation team and look forward to working alongside the dedicated staff to ensure the City's continued success, and to contribute to the vision of Monterey as a beautiful, special place to live, work, and visit,” said Mr. Pacheco. Mr. Pacheco’s first day will be November 3, 2025. He will offer community meet and greet opportunities in the coming months.
parks & play
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Monterey Recreation, Monterey Fire and MyMuseum are excited to announce the 2nd Annual Donuts with Santa Photo Op on Saturday, December 6 from 9 a.m. to 12:30 p.m.! This is a perfect opportunity to snap a great family photo while enjoying donuts and making a holiday craft. Santa will be visiting from the North Pole if you would like to take your own picture. Monterey Fire Station #13 on Dela Vina Avenue will be decked out for the perfect photo op. We hope you will join us! Photo op appointments will be available in early November. Check our website at monterey.gov/rec or follow Monterey Recreation on Facebook and Instagram @montereyrecreation for the latest updates on upcoming events and programs.
Saturday with Santa, December 6 BY RECREATION MANAGER SHANNON LEON
The City of Monterey hosted the 4th Annual Halloween Trunk or Treat and Movie in the Park on Saturday, October 18. Children and families of all ages came dressed in costume to trunk-or-treat with us. This free, community event included lots of tricks and treats, food trucks, fire engines, kids' activities, and more! We hope you can join us for more Spooky, Kid-friendly FUN! Save the date for Saturday, October 17, 2026.
Thank You for Joining Us at the Annual Halloween Trunk or Treat & Movie in the Park! BY RECREATION MANAGER SHANNON LEON
Gymnastics at El Ester Park Center
Save the Date! Community Thanksgiving Drive Thru Meal Kit Distribution BY RECREATION MANAGER SHANNON LEON
Monterey Recreation is now taking registration for Fall leagues and programs for all ages and interests. Programs for Toddlers and Youth: Winter Break Camp, Preschool Programs at Hilltop Park and El Estero Park Centers including Stories and Adventures, Gymnastics, Chess, a variety of dance classes Art Classes for Adults: Art Studio: Drawing and Painting, Watercolor Painting, Art Workshops and Ceramics. Exercise for Adults: Pilates and Modified Pilates, Yoga, Tai Chi, Chi Gong, Chair Yoga and Meditation and Line Dancing Field Sports Leagues: Youth Flag Football, Adult Ultimate Frisbee League and much more! Please check our website frequently or follow Monterey Recreation on Facebook and Instagram for the latest updates. Questions? Email: montereyrecreation@monterey.gov Register Online Now! See the online Amilia/SmartRec store for additional class information.
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Register Now for Fall/Winter Programs with Monterey Recreation BY RECREATION MANAGER SHANNON LEON
Everyone in our community should be able to enjoy a delicious Thanksgiving Dinner. The Kiwanis Club of Monterey, Food Bank for Monterey County, and City of Monterey are working together to offer a drive thru and walk-up Community Thanksgiving Dinner on Tuesday, November 25. Each meal kit will include all of the fixings to prepare your own traditional Thanksgiving meal for a family of 4 or 6-8 people. All meal kits will be pre-packaged and the same for everyone. This is a contact-less drive thru or walk-up program and reservations will be required. Space is limited. Reservations will open at the beginning of November. Check our website at monterey.gov/rec or follow Monterey Recreation on Facebook and Instagram for the latest updates on upcoming events. Please note: The Food Bank for Monterey County will be offering other distribution options for December Holiday Meals. Check the foodbankformontereycounty.org website for updates.
Pumpkin Plunge and Dia De Los Muertos BY FITNESS SUPERVISOR LAURI ATAIDE
On Veterans Day, Tuesday, November 11, 2025, the Monterey Sports Center will offer free admission for any Active Duty, Reserve, Retired Military and Family Members (*Must have valid Military ID.) We are open from 8:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. with a modified group exercise schedule.
monterey.gov/sportscenter
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Join us for a day of cultural enrichment and community spirit on Saturday, October 25, 2025. Pumpkin Plunge 2:00 to 4:00 p.m. Swim through a pool of floating pumpkins and pick one to take home! Pumpkins are limited. Registration is required. Register for your pumpkin Thriller Dance Party 4:30 to 5:30 p.m. Learn the Thriller dance moves and grooves with Brandy and Alicia outside in the front of the Sports Center. No registration required. *Guests must bring Photo ID and complete the Guest Waiver for free admission. Dia De Los Muertos 6:00 to 9:00 p.m. Experience the magic of Day of the Dead! Dress in the spirit of the day, add a photo, flower or memento to our Dia de los Muertos altar, taste the tradition with culturally significant foods from local vendors, and enjoy family focused activities and performances. Prizes will be awarded to the best Dia de los Muertos costume. *Guests must bring Photo ID and complete the Guest Waiver for free admission.
Free Admission on Veteran's Day for Active Duty, Reserves, Retired Military and Family Members
Holiday Membership Promotion - Give the Gift of Fitness! BY FITNESS SUPERVISOR LAURI ATAIDE
Youth Basketball League BY FITNESS SUPERVISOR LAURI ATAIDE
Monterey Sports Center Holiday Hours Thursday, Nov 27, 2025, Thanksgiving Day, CLOSED Friday, Nov 28, Day After Thanksgiving, OPEN 8:00 a.m. - 5:00 p.m. Wednesday, Dec 24, Christmas Eve, OPEN 8:00 a.m. - 5:00 p.m. Thursday, Dec 25, Christmas Day, CLOSED Friday, Dec 26, Day After Christmas, OPEN 8:00 a.m. - 5:00 p.m. Wednesday, Dec 31, Year's Eve, OPEN 8:00 a.m. - 5:00 p.m. Monday, January 16, Martin Luther King Jr. Day, OPEN 8:00 to 5:00 p.m.
The Monterey Sports Center will host a Youth Basketball League in December for Boys, Girls and Co-Ed teams of all ages. Evaluations days for placement are December 6 and December 7. Times vary depending on age group. See the front desk or visit our website for further details. The fee is $190, City of Monterey Residents receive a 10% discount ($171 per person).
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The Monterey Sports Center will launch its Holiday Membership Promotion on Friday, November 28, 2025: 20% OFF annual memberships and new monthly autopay subscriptions. Give the gift of fitness to yourself and your loved ones this year! As the premier sports and fitness center on the Monterey Peninsula, the Sports Center offers two heated pools, a cardio fitness area, a cardio/weight room, a free weight room, locker rooms and saunas, a full gymnasium, a cafe with smoothies and a coffee bar, a robust group exercise schedule and personal training. Promotion runs through December 31, 2025 so don’t delay. Visit the Membership page at montereysportscenter.org for details.
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The Monterey Sports Center offers group and private swim lessons for all ages! Our experienced instructors teach on a student paced curriculum with a focus on water safety. Visit our website at montereysportscenter.org for details.
Kick start the new year with a new fitness journey! Beginning January 1, 2026, save 20% on all personal training packages. Get the help you need to meet all of your goals.
Winter Sports Camp and Counselor in Training BY FITNESS SUPERVISOR LAURI ATAIDE
Swimming Lessons BY FITNESS SUPERVISOR LAURI ATAIDE
Looking for a great activity for kids and teens over winter break? The Monterey Sports Camp is offering two, 4-day camps: Winter Sports Camp (ages 5-12 years) and Counselor In Training (ages 13-17), December 22 through 26, and December 29 through January 2. No camps on December 25th or January 1st. Young kids will have a great time at Winter Sports Camp, being active, playing games and making friends while teens will focus on mentoring younger campers, assisting with coaching various sports activities and gaining the skills needed to work as a camp counselor in the future. Register on the Program Registration page at montereysportscenter.org.
Personal Training Promotion in January 2026 BY FITNESS SUPERVISOR LAURI ATAIDE
What is a Watershed? How Your Neighborhood Connects to the Bay BY ENVIRONMENTAL REGULATIONS ANALYST REBECCA BAGGOTT
Monterey sits within a unique watershed where water from our neighborhoods flows directly into the Monterey Bay National Marine Sanctuary, one of the world's most protected marine environments. The steep terrain from the Santa Lucia Mountains to sea level means water moves quickly through the system, carrying whatever it encounters straight into sensitive marine habitats. From Natural to Urban Originally, the area featured seasonal streams, coastal oak woodlands, and natural wetlands—including where Lake El Estero sits today, once a brackish lagoon connected to the bay. These natural systems filtered water and provided storm detention, functions now largely replaced by engineered infrastructure. Urban development transformed how the watershed functions. Where rainfall once soaked into soil and flowed through seasonal streams, it now hits impervious surfaces—rooftops, streets, parking lots—and rushes toward storm drains. While development brought economic benefits and allowed more people to enjoy Monterey's environment, natural watershed processes like filtration and groundwater recharge had to be replicated through human-built infrastructure. Today's Infrastructure Solution Monterey's stormwater system now serves as the essential link between urban development and watershed health. This engineered system performs critical functions that natural landscapes once provided: detention basins hold peak flows like wetlands, treatment vaults filter contaminants that soil and vegetation previously removed, and constructed channels safely convey water that once flowed through seasonal streams. The city combines traditional systems—storm drains, detention basins, and treatment facilities—with green infrastructure approaches including bioretention areas, rain gardens, and permeable pavements. This layered approach captures runoff at its source while mimicking natural filtration processes, creating resilience as development increases and storm patterns intensify. Without this infrastructure, urban runoff would compromise both neighborhood safety and the marine environment that defines Monterey's ecological and economic value.
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green scene - stewarding our environment
monterey.gov/environmentalregs
green scene
Our Adopt-a-Catch Basin Program: Protecting Our Highest Risk Areas BY ENVIRONMENTAL REGULATIONS ANALYST REBECCA BAGGOTT
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The City of Monterey's Adopt-a-Catch Basin program is expanding with a focused effort to protect our community's most vulnerable areas from urban runoff pollution. We've identified 38 high-risk catch basins located in downtown Monterey and along Cannery Row that require immediate attention from dedicated community guardians. Why These Basins Matter Most – High foot traffic, busy commercial activity, and increased debris accumulation make these 38 catch basins critical control points in our fight against stormwater pollution. Located in our most visited areas, these storm drains face constant challenges from litter, leaves, and urban debris that can quickly clog the system and send pollutants directly into Monterey Bay. When these high-priority basins are properly maintained, they serve as powerful barriers preventing contamination from reaching our National Marine Sanctuary waters. But when neglected, they become pollution hotspots that can impact water quality, close beaches, and harm marine life. Be a Guardian Where It Counts – We're calling on community members and local organizations to step up and adopt these essential catch basins. Whether you live nearby, work in the area, or simply care about protecting our coastal waters, you can make an outsized impact by choosing to adopt one of these high-risk locations. The commitment is simple: regular monitoring and debris removal using basic supplies like gloves, a broom, and collection containers. Your efforts will directly protect one of Monterey's busiest and most environmentally sensitive areas. How to Adopt a High-Priority Basin – Visit our interactive Adopt-a-Catch Basin web tool to view all available high-risk catch basins on the map. These priority locations are clearly marked, making it easy to find one convenient to your routine. Simply select your basin, give it a unique name, and register your adoption. You'll join an elite group of environmental guardians protecting Monterey's frontline defense against urban runoff. Coming Soon: Business Guardian Program – We're excited to announce an upcoming enhancement to the Adopt-a-Catch Basin program specifically designed for Monterey businesses! Soon, local businesses that adopt catch basins will be featured on a dedicated webpage on the City of Monterey website, showcasing participating companies with their logos and links. This recognition program will highlight your business's commitment to environmental stewardship while providing valuable community visibility. Stay tuned for more details on this opportunity to demonstrate your investment in Monterey's environmental future. Ready to make a difference? Visit the https://arcg.is/11b1HK5 today to adopt a high-priority basin and become a guardian for Monterey Bay. Follow this project at monterey.gov/adopt-a-catch-basin.
Our Climate Action Plan: Shaping a Cleaner, Healthier Future! BY SUSTAINABILITY ASSISTANT ROCIO MADRIGAL BRISTOW
monterey.gov/sustainability
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The City of Monterey is updating its Climate Action Plan (CAP) to reduce greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions, save energy, and build a healthier, more resilient community. This plan builds on past successes and lessons learned, while introducing new strategies to meet California’s climate goals. A new GHG inventory now serves as the foundation for the CAP. It identifies the largest sources of emissions within the city: on-road transportation (54%), building natural gas (22%), and building electricity (16%). These findings are guiding the development of measures and actions across key sectors, including Buildings, Transportation, Solid Waste, Water, and Carbon Sequestration (carbon capture). The plan combines measurable reduction strategies with supportive programs, community partnerships, and efforts to ensure equity and funding for successful implementation. The 2025 CAP is more than just a plan to reduce emissions, it’s a plan to make Monterey stronger and healthier. By taking action, the City aims to improve air quality, save energy, support cleaner ways to get around, and make sure everyone in the community benefits. Next steps Complete the draft CAP (Fall 2025) Hold more community events to refine strategies Finalize and adopt the plan (early 2026) Your voice matters! Community input is essential to making the CAP effective and inclusive. So far, the City has hosted more than 10 events, including workshops, focus groups, and pop-up events, to inform the community and gather ideas and priorities from residents and businesses. There are still more events to come. Visit the Have Your Say Monterey page for the latest information and opportunities to get involved.
Sea Level Rise Assessment Background Report BY PRINCIPAL PLANNER CHRISTY SABDO
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The first task of the Coastal Commission LCP Local Assistance Grant has been completed. A Sea Level Rise Assessment Background Report has been prepared that compiles findings from a variety of sea level rise studies and other relevant analyses that have already been completed for the City and wider Monterey Bay area. The Background Report provides a synthesis of these existing studies with a summary of the types of hazards assessed, identified vulnerabilities, and proposed adaptation strategies. In addition, the report identifies current data gaps or information that needs to be updated to reflect newer science and best practices. This information will inform subsequent tasks so that work is not duplicated but rather integrated and expanded upon. The City's consultant, GHD, has started the Vulnerability Assessment that will consider risks that the City, its assets, and its coastal resources are likely to encounter as the impacts of sea level rise and coastal hazards worsen over time. The assessment will divide the City coastline into transects/subareas based on similarities in land uses and coastal form to provide a clear framework for assessing localized impacts within each defined area. The assessment will address relevant gaps identified in the background report, will include assessment of impacts of sea level rise on historically marginalized communities, and will be consistent with the California Ocean Protection Council (OPC) 2024 State Sea Level Rise Guidance. Community outreach is anticipated to start in early 2026. Follow this project at https://haveyoursaymonterey.org/sea-level-rise-adaptation-plan
The City of Monterey has seven sister cities: Isola delle Femmine, Italy, established 2017 Lankaran, Azerbaijan, 2011 Kusadasi, Turkey, 2007 Dubrovnik, Croatia, 2006 Nanao, Japan, 1995 Lleida, Spain, 1984 Tainan City, Taiwan, 1963 A sister city is a partnership established between two cities based on aspects of importance for both communities. Collaborative partnerships are built in various areas of focus including, municipal, cultural, business, and education. During these friendly and peaceful interactions with cities from around the world, several gifts have been shared with the City of Monterey. These gifts are part of the City’s Art Collection. A few examples include The Sound of the Sea sculpture by Yoshida Takashi, in Sister City Park from the City of Nanao, Japan; paintings of historic sites and a vase from Tainan City, Taiwan; and a painting from the City of Dubrovnik, Croatia of their city’s patron saint, Sveti Vlaho by Josip Trostmann. Recently a delegation from the City of Nanao visited Monterey. During a tour led by Library and Museums Director Brian Edwards, two people identified the ceremonial Ohi Vessel created by their grandfather, that is part of the art collection. The vessel was given to the City of Monterey to commemorate the 50th Anniversary of the Monterey Jazz Festival in 2007. It is exciting for the City to build these friendships and partnerships, and to celebrate one another’s heritage and community successes! If you are interested in learning more about the City of Monterey’s Sister City Program please visit, monterey.gov/sistercities. Learn more about Sister Cities at sistercities.org.
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Sveti Vlaho by Josip Trostmann, 2006, City of Monterey Art Collection
Gifts from City of Monterey's Sister Cities BY MUSEUMS AND CULTURAL ARTS DIVISION ARTIFACTS SPECIALIST BY BRIANNA SCHWERLING
monterey.gov/museums
culture corner - art, history, culture
Ohi White Ceremonial Vessel by Toshio Ohi, 2007, City of Monterey Art Collection
Lower Presidio Historic Park Survey BY LIBRARY AND MUSEUMS DIRECTOR BRIAN EDWARDS
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We want to hear from you about your experiences at Lower Presidio Historic Park including feedback about operations of the park. Please take the Lower Presidio History Park Operations Survey The Lower Presidio Historic Park is a unique partnership between the City of Monterey and United States Army Garrison (USAG) Presidio of Monterey to provide open access on a historic park site. The park and facilities on the Lower Presidio are leased to the City by the USAG, and the City provides groundskeeping maintenance and museum services. For over 25 years, the City and USAG have worked together to provide public park access and a free, public museum for the community. The Museum and Lower Presidio Historic Park were created by a partnership between the City of Monterey and the Presidio of Monterey during a process of Base Relocation and Closures (BRAC) in the 1980s and 1990s. Currently the Presidio of Monterey Museum is managed by the Museums Division of the Library and staffed by volunteers. An interpretive plan was implemented in partnership with USAG, City of Monterey, and Old Monterey Foundation, with signage throughout the park to tell our Monterey stories. Please tell us about your experiences at Lower Presidio Historic Park along with feedback about operations of the park through this survey. Find out more about the history of the Lower Presidio and plans for development of the Lower Presidio Historic Park, in the Lower Presidio Historic Park Master Plan. Links to the Plan are posted at haveyoursaymonterey.org/lphp-master-plan
culture corner
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Please note: We are still adding dates and links for 2025 holiday season events. You can also check https://seemonterey.com/events/christmas/ November 22 - Tree Lighting at Del Monte Center, 5:00 to 7:00 p.m. November 28 - 29 - Thanksgiving - most city offices closed TBD - Ice Skating by the Bay November 29 - Cannery Row Tree Lighting November 29 - Small Business Saturday November 29 - December 18 - Fire Dept Food Drive and Monterey Firefighters Association (MFFA) Toy Drive - Food collection bins and toy donation bins are located at all Monterey, PG, and Carmel stations except the airport location. The food drive is organized by the Monterey Fire Department and benefits the Monterey County Food Bank. The MFFA toy drive dates are pending. The holiday toy drive benefits local children in need and is being organized by the Monterey Firefighters Community Foundation and PG Kiwanis. December 5 - Tree Lighting at Colton Hall, 5:00 December 5 - 21 - 9th annual Christmas on the Wharf, Saturdays, and Sundays December 7 - Brighten the Harbor Lighted Boat Parade, 5:15 to 7:00 p.m. December 12 - 13 - Christmas in the Adobes December 21 - Winter Solstice December 31 - First Night Monterey
Holiday Events 2025 SUBMITTED BY CITY MANAGER'S OFFICE
Visit firstnightmonterey.org for First Night Monterey 2026 details. Happy New Year!
Teen Librarian Andrea Osejo
Employee Spotlight on You - Meet Andrea Fajardo Osejo, Teen Librarian, Monterey Public Library
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Andrea has lived in Monterey for almost two years now. She started in her current position in January 2024. ES: Do you have any pets? Andrea: Sadly, no. ES: What do you like best about working in your department/division? Andrea: I love working with people who are passionate about reading and who aim to unite the community. ES: What’s your favorite meal? Andrea: Wings! ES: What’s your favorite thing to do in Monterey? Andrea: Go to Bookworks and order a vanilla latte. ES: What’s your favorite band, movie and/or book? Andrea: My favorite movie is Pride and Prejudice and favorite book is The Book Thief by Markus Zusack. ES: What do you like to do in your spare time? Any hobbies/interests? Andrea: Read and rewatch my favorite binge worthy tv shows. ES: If you could be any animal, what would you be, and why? Andrea: I would be an elephant because they are so majestic! ES: Who’s your hero, and why? Andrea: People who defend our right to read. ES: What is your most treasured possession? Andrea: My sonny angels collection.
@CityofMonterey on social media channels
Holiday Cheer in Monterey at Old Fisherman's Wharf
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
FALL 2025 volume XL, no. 4 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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