"How should the city be rezoned to accommodate 3,654 additional housing units?"
Message from the City Manager
FALL 2022 Volume XXXVII, no. 4
A Report from the City of Monterey to its Citizens and Friends
Dear Monterey Residents, Several changes will be coming soon to City Hall. The 2022 election will result in the election of a new Mayor. Since we have two incumbents running for the mayoral office, the City Charter requires both candidates to surrender their seats on November 9, the day after the elections. That also means while one of them will be Monterey’s new Mayor, the other vacant seat must be filled by appointment. Another significant new development is that for the first time, two Council members will be elected by their respective districts. Also, on behalf of staff, a special congratulations and thank you to Mayor Clyde for serving as Monterey Mayor, and to his wife, Dottie, for her steadfast support to the community. Monterey has started working on the update of our Housing Element and General Plan! Over the next 13 months, you, the residents, will have multiple opportunities to voice your ideas and provide input to us. At the center of our work will be the quest to find an answer to the following question: “How should the City be rezoned to accommodate 3,654 additional housing units?” Equally important will be to provide transparency about the existing and forecasted supply of water. The additional housing units will require additional water sources and allocations to allow developers to build those 3,654 units. I encourage all of you to stay involved and informed as we and all other communities move through this challenging process. Please read our "Monterey 2031" article on page 6 explaining this undertaking in more detail. As always, the City Focus contains many interesting articles, which highlight certain aspects of our work and our initiatives. Monterey is truly a special place to live and work. Thank you for your help and support. Enjoy the upcoming holiday season. We have some new dining establishments that complement the longtime, popular restaurants, as well as many fun and interesting shops to explore. We always encourage to buy local! May the new year bring an ease to the economy and peaceful resolutions to the current conflicts happening around the world. ANDA! City Manager, Hans Uslar
continued next page...
CHANGES AHEAD AT CITY HALL
CITY FOCUS
Buy Local Monterey means: Be Local, Help the Environment, Support your Community When you shop at locally-owned stores, more of your dollars recirculate within the community through taxes, employment, and philanthropic support for local groups. Every dollar spent in Monterey helps sustain the economic vitality of our community by supporting: our local businesses; our friends and neighbors who are employed by these businesses; and many of the City programs and services enjoyed by our residents, from recreation programs and the Monterey Sports Center to the Monterey Public Library and fire services, and much more!
buy local monterey
Message from the City Manager continued...
Have a topic idea for the next issue of City Focus? Email suggest@monterey.org and let us know!
CULTURE CORNER - art, history, culture
PAGE STORY Cover Message from the City Manager 4 December Featured Events 5 Quarterly Featured Events 6 Monterey 2031 7 The November Election 8 Wireless Facility Update 9 Internet For All Campaign 10 EV Charger Station Changes Housing Programs Annual Snapshot 11 NCIP Program Approved Projects 12 Holiday Safety Tips from Police CERT October Newsletter 13 Recreation Programs 14 Halloween at the Sports Center Sign up for the MSC Newsletter 15 Flag Football Starts Soon Be a VIP in Parks PAGE STORY 16 Fence Guidelines Preparing Your Property for Rain 17 Virtual Coastal Tour Signs 18 New State Regulations to Reduce Plastic and other Packaging 19 MY Place to Learn 20 State Historic Landmarks 20 - 23 Sister City Update
CITY BRIEFS
IN THE NEWS
PARKS & PLAY - to health, wellness, activity, and fun
Inside this issue
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GREEN SCENE - stewarding our environment
CITY FOCUS - Fall 2022
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Return to the days of Alta California during Monterey’s premier holiday event, Christmas in the Adobes. Co-sponsored by Monterey State Historic Park Association (MSHPA) and California State Parks, this early evening walking tour of Monterey’s historic adobes adorned in holiday décor surprises and delights visitors with welcoming, candle-lit luminarias leading the way to each building’s entrance. Enjoy festive music and a variety of entertainment as you explore over a dozen magical, historic adobes on the tour. Hear the stories of Monterey’s earliest buildings and savor the warm spirit of community of this annual event that has become a family favorite during the holidays. Colton Hall is a main attraction at this popular event, December 9 and 10, 5:00 to 9:00 p.m. For tickets and pricing visit https://www.eventbrite.com/e/christmas-in-the-adobes-tickets-419282042877 or mshpa.org/christmasintheadobes
For a list of more local holiday events, check monterey.org/holidayevents
DECEMBER featured events
Christmas in the Adobes, December 9 - 10
Historic Downtown Monterey Traditional Tree Lighting Celebration at Colton Hall, December 2
All are cordially invited to this local favorite - the Historic Downtown Monterey Traditional Tree Lighting Celebration! Join us on the lawn in front of Colton Hall to share in this much-loved holiday celebration, Friday, December 2, 5:00 to 6:00 p.m. Sponsored by the City of Monterey, First Night Monterey, and the Old Monterey Business Association. For more information, please contact the Old Monterey Business Association at (831) 655-8070, pcofresi@oldmonterey.org.
December
A list of city meetings is posted on the City's public search engine, isearchmonterey.org
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quarterly city or city-sponsored featured events OR HOLIDAYS
COMMUNITY
11 Veteran's Day - most city offices closed 13 Monterey Bay Half Marathon - Expo at the Monterey Conference Center open to everyone, Friday, noon to 6:00 p.m. and Saturday, 9:30 a.m. to 6:00 p.m. 19 Tree Lighting at Del Monte Center 24-25 Thanksgiving - most city offices closed 25-Jan. 1 Ice Skating by the Bay 25 Cannery Row Tree Lighting 26 Small Business Saturday 2 Tree Lighting at Colton Hall 4 Brighten the Harbor Lighted Boat Parade 9 -10 Christmas in the Adobes Dec. Monterey Fire Department Toy Drive 21 Winter Solstice 31 First Night Monterey Happy New Year! - most city offices closed Jan. 2
meetings
A list of community-wide events is available at seemonterey.com/events
NOVEMBER
NOTE: This list is not complete. Please check the City's social channels at @cityofmonterey and the calendar at monterey.org for more information.
JANUARY
Monterey 2031 – General Plan Update Begins BY COMMUNITY DEVELOPMENT DEPARTMENT STAFF
haveyoursaymonterey.org
Timeline
This important citywide project involves updates to the Housing, Land Use, and Safety Elements of the City of Monterey General Plan to respond to emerging issues and new State laws. The update will be a collaborative effort between the City, and its residents and stakeholders to create a blueprint that will guide Monterey in the years to come. The Housing Element involves RHNA, which stands for Regional Housing Needs Assessment - the number of market rate and below market rate housing units that the Housing and Community Development Agency (HCD) determines is necessary to build in an eight year cycle in areas of California. Monterey's RHNA number is 3,654 housing units. The first phase of the project, Issue and Opportunity Identification, will run from October 2022 through January 2023 and will focus on identifying the critical issues and opportunities that need to be addressed as part of the project. Community engagement is integral to this phase of the work to build an understanding of issues and opportunities from a variety of perspectives. There will be multiple opportunities to get involved, including, but not limited to: Listening sessions; Community meetings; Pop-up outreach around the City; Interactive website; and A youth-led survey on topics such as climate resilience. Visit the project webpage to learn more about the project and ways to have your say. Send in your comments (in the Open Comments section) about what you would like to see for Monterey in 2031 for a chance to win a Monterey poster! Thank you for in advance for getting involved with this important process for Monterey's future! https://haveyoursaymonterey.org/monterey2031
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Voter dropping her ballot at the official ballot box in front of the Monterey Public Library.
November 8, 2022 Election BY CITY CLERK CLEMENTINE BONNER KLEIN
monterey.org/elections
Election Day is almost here. Monterey voters' ballots will include candidates for Council for District 1 and District 2, candidates for Mayor, and Measure J (Cannabis Business License Tax). Following is a timeline with action items and resources. Resources Register to vote or re-register to vote if you have moved, changed your name, or wish to change your party preference Check your voter registration status Sign up to be a poll worker Download your voter info guide Learn more about Monterey's Council districts See Councilmember District Map Measure J (Cannabis Business License Tax) From October 10 Ballots and voter info guides begin to be mailed to all registered voters by Monterey County Elections Ballot drop boxes open. Drop your ballot securely anytime in the box out front of the Monterey Public Library (625 Pacific St.); see all ballot drop box locations Early voting begins at Monterey County Elections with in-person assistance; see dates, hours, location October 24 - Last day to register to vote After this date residents may register and vote conditionally at Monterey County Elections, early voting center (see below), or any polling location until polls close on Election Day November 1 Early voting center opens at Embassy Suites with in-person assistance; see dates, hours, location November 8 - ELECTION DAY Polls and ballot drop boxes open 7:00 a.m. to 8:00 p.m. Find your polling place for in-person voting December 6 (tentative) Swearing-in of elected Councilmembers and Mayor (if Monterey County Elections has certified election results). Agenda will be posted at least 72 hours before the meeting at https://isearchmonterey.org.
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Because "Democracy is not a spectator sport." ~ Marian Wright Edelman
Timeline front and back, 2018 to present
in the news
Wireless Ordinance Update BY COMMUNITY DEVELOPMENT DIRECTOR KIMBERLY COLE
monterey.org/wireless
Next Planning Commission Meeting on Wireless is October 25 - details 24 hours ahead on isearchmonterey.org
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The City of Monterey is working on updating the Personal Wireless Service Facilities Ordinance. Per the ordinance, this section is enacted to reasonably regulate, to the extent permitted under California and Federal law, the placement, design, construction, and modification of wireless facilities within the City of Monterey. These regulations are designed to protect and promote public health, safety, community welfare, aesthetics and the unique historic setting and views of the City, which attributes benefit residents, attract visitors worldwide, and protect the City of Monterey from financial loss. Per the September 27, 2022 Planning Commission Agenda Report, in April 2022, the Planning Commission hosted the first public hearing on the text of the proposed wireless ordinance culminating two years of public meetings on the topic. The Commission continued the public hearing to allow staff to review the public comments received. On August 9, 2022, the Planning Commission hosted the second public hearing on the ordinance. The Commission continued the ordinance so staff could document the changes between the subcommittee draft ordinance and proposed draft. On September 13th, the Commission reviewed the changes between the subcommittee and public draft and requested additional information about (1) setbacks; (2) mock ups; (3) removal bonds; and (4) specific designs. This additional information was presented on September 27th. At the September 27th meeting, the Commission continued the ordinance to the October 25th meeting with the following direction: specify that mockups are not required but photo simulations are required both from a distance and close-up; facilities must be separated by a minimum of 250 feet to avoid visual clutter; distances from schools and residences must be 100 feet minimum excluding situations in which effective prohibition could be proven; and, standardized pole design shall be included in the draft Ordinance. The Commission did not include removal bonds in their recommendation. The next Planning Commission meeting is scheduled for October 25, 2022. As a refresher for those following the wireless topic, here's an FAQ with more information. All this information, plus current wireless applications, and a brand new timeline graphic are available on the newly updated wireless webpage at monterey.org/wireless. We appreciate your interest and participation in helping us update the ordinance to best reflect the community needs and wants, and within the State and Federal regulatory framework.
Let's get Monterey and MPUSD Families Connected!
ACP Enrollment Data - will be updated as we increase enrollment
monterey.org/parking
The City of Monterey and Monterey Peninsula Unified School District (MPUSD) are joining together in a commitment to help low-income households afford and connect to high-speed Internet service. The goal of the Get Connected California! Affordable Connectivity Program (ACP) is to get 90% of eligible Californians connected by 2024. An estimated 60% of MPUSD families currently qualify for free or reduced lunch - one way to qualify to participate in the ACP. According to the State of California's Broadband for All website, the City of Monterey has 13,681 eligible households, and only 422 enrolled in this program to provide qualifying families affordable, high-speed Internet. City Manager Hans Uslar said, “Together with our partner MPUSD we are embracing the challenge to close the technology gap so underserved local families can have an equal benefit of the internet for work and school, to boost access to vital resources, and to feel connected and participate in community engagement.” MPUSD Superintendent PK Diffenbaugh is an enthusiastic proponent of this effort as well. “We saw firsthand during the pandemic that many families did not have access to the internet. This statewide initiative is encouraging as it will give a boost to many of our families who need it most. MPUSD is committed to bringing awareness to help families get connected.” Eligible households could receive: Up to a $30/month discount on your internet service A low-cost service plan that may be fully covered through the ACP Eligible households interested in applying for ACP can do so online, or if needing assistance completing the application, enrollment applications will be available in English and Spanish at upcoming events during 2022 and through 2023. Staff will be available to support eligible households, answer questions about the ACP benefit, and provide hands-on assistance with the application. Families will be required to bring with them the required documents to apply. Details and a calendar of upcoming events will be available at https://monterey.org/acp Program information is also available at https://affordableconnectivity.gov/
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"Get Connected California!" Campaign Makes it to Monterey BY LAURIE HUELGA, PUBLIC INFORMATION OFFICER
Downtown Electric Vehicle (EV) Charging Stations BY PARKING SUPERINTENDENT CRISTIE STEFFY
The City of Monterey recently replaced the free EV Charging Stations with new ChargePoint EV Charging stations. The new chargers charge a fee to users of $0.36 per kWh. To provide the best service to as many EV drivers as possible, we have also established a standard to kindly move your vehicle once charging stops so another person can use it. The new stations are conveniently installed in the Downtown West Garage on the ground floor and in Lower Lot 7 (of the Calle Principal Garage). The City also has a future location planned in Cannery Row Lot 7, and we are working on more locations for Tesla charging stations. The latest status will be included in a presentation to Monterey City Council at a Study Session scheduled for Wednesday, October 26. Sustainability Manager Ted Terrasas will provide a climate change update, framing the problem, explaining what the City has done so far, and what we still need to do. If you miss the meeting you can watch the recording in the City Council Playlist at https://youtube.com/cityofmonterey. We also have a related Climate Action Plan adopted 2016, available in the City Green Actions section of monterey.org/sustainable.
In Fiscal Year (FY) 2021-22, the Housing Programs Office spent $1.9 million on housing programs. Community Development Block Grant (CDBG) projects and programs focused on continued support of public services, improvements to public facilities, rehabilitation of non-profit owned facilities used to provide services to the disadvantaged, preservation of existing affordable ownership units, and housing rehabilitation grants. The Housing Programs Snapshot for 2021-2022 is now available for review and posted at monterey.org/housing.
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Housing Programs Snapshot BY HOUSING PROGRAMS ANALYST GRANT LEONARD
monterey.org/parking monterey.org/housing
Current project upgrading play equipment at Laguna Grande Park, expected to be completed by late October.
monterey.org/ncip
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city briefs
NCIP Project on Helvic Avenue, completed last year.
Citywide construction updates are listed at monterey.org/construction
Neighborhood & Community Improvement Final Projects List BY PUBLIC WORKS ADMINISTRATIVE ASSISTANT ALYSSA HUERTA
This fiscal year, more than $5 million was allocated to the Neighborhood and Community Improvement Program (NCIP) for projects. At the September 20, 2022 City Council meeting the 2022/23 NCIP program was adopted and funding for thirty projects was approved, with five additional projects that may be undertaken if unexpended funding from other projects completed this year will support them. Here's the list of approved projects - also available online at monterey.org/ncip. Established in 1985, the Neighborhood and Community Improvement Program (NCIP) directs tourist-generated dollars directly back into the City’s residential neighborhoods. Under a Charter Amendment, at least 16 percent of the money collected through hotel taxes (Transient Occupancy Tax) must be spent on neighborhood and community improvements. Each fiscal year, a committee consisting of Monterey residents from each of the 15 City neighborhoods considers all nominated projects and makes a recommendation to City Council of which projects should be funded. A number of public meetings are held to discuss the nominated projects before they are finally voted on and ranked by the NCIP committee. Watch for the schedule of upcoming meetings beginning in spring 2023. Visit monterey.org/ncip or sign up to receive email updates.
montereypolice.org monterey.org/cert
As we approach the holiday season, your friends at the Monterey Police Department wish you a safe, happy, and peaceful holiday season. We wanted to take this opportunity to remind our community members of some holiday safety tips. Keep all car doors locked and windows closed. Do not leave packages or valuables on the seat of your car. If you must leave something in the car, lock it in the trunk or put it out of sight. When approaching or leaving your vehicle, be aware of your surroundings. Do not leave your purse, wallet, or bag in a shopping cart or on a counter. Notify the credit card issuer immediately if your credit card is lost or stolen. Arrange to be home for package deliveries, have a neighbor collect packages, or elect to pick packages up at the facility. Never drink and drive. Buzzed driving is drunk driving. The holiday season is always a special time of year, but every day is a good day to practice vigilance.
Holiday Safety Tips BY SERGEANT JEREMIAH RUTTSCHOW
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Monterey has an active and well-organized Community Emergency Response Team (CERT). Funded by the City of Monterey and organized through the Monterey Fire Department, CERT trains members throughout the year. Featured in the October newsletter: 59 CERT members participate in October 1st training CERT deployed to Josselyn Canyon for tree down and extended power outage Hurricane Ian reinforces need to be very prepared for an emergency Use of the CERT radios Location of the CERT neighborhood containers Thank-you for everything you do to support our communities and CERT! For more information on CERT, or how to become a CERT member email training@montereycert.org. The monthly newsletters are also linked from https://monterey.org/cert.
CERT Monterey Newsletter BY MONTEREY CERT
Did you know that Monterey Recreation continues to offer programs and services for all ages and interests? Programs offered include Preschool Programs at Hilltop Park and El Estero Park Centers, Gymnastics Camps and Classes, Pee Wee Flag Football and Youth Flag Football Leagues, Dance Classes for Toddlers and Youth including Preschool Dance Collage, Music Movement and Hip Hop, Ballet, Youth Hip Hop Dance, Drawing and Painting, Watercolor Painting, Ceramics for Adults, Pilates and Modified Pilates, Adult Co-Rec and Men's Softball and much more! Program registration is available online 24/7 at monterey.org/rec. Full program information is posted on the Monterey Recreation registration website. Additional services for seniors include a drive thru meal pick-up program offered Tuesday -Friday with meals provided by Meals on Wheels of the Monterey Peninsula and a Senior Produce Distribution in partnership with the Food Bank for Monterey County is offered every Monday at the Scholze Park Center. Contact Scholze Park Center at (831) 646-3878 for more information. Monterey Recreation, the Food Bank for Monterey County and the Kiwanis Club of Monterey will also be hosting Holiday Drive Thru Meal Kit Distribution events again this year. Thanksgiving meal kits will be distributed Wednesday, November 23 and Holiday meal kits will be distributed on Thursday, December 22. Updates on the Thanksgiving distribution will be available at monterey.org/rec beginning the first week of November. Follow Monterey Recreation on Facebook and Instagram or online for updates as new programs, sessions and events are added frequently. STAY TUNED FOR MORE FROM MONTEREY RECREATION! Questions? Email: montereyrecreation@monterey.org. It's time to play!Monterey.
Fall Monterey Recreation Programs and Events - Serving All Ages and Needs BY RECREATION MANAGER SHANNON LEON
Holiday Drive Thru Distribution at El Estero Park Center, 2021
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parks & play - to health, wellness, activity & fun
monterey.org/rec
Subscribe to the Monterey Sports Center Monthly Newsletter BY MONTEREY SPORTS CENTER STAFF
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Want to see more from the Monterey Sports Center? Sign up for their new monthly newsletter! The very latest news on upcoming classes, programs, and special events. Be informed about special offers, and get to know about the instructors! Text MRYSPORTSCENTER to 22828 to subscribe, or sign up at montereysportscenter.org.
monterey.org/sportscenter
parks & play
Have you ever picked a pumpkin from a pool? Bring your swimsuit and take a plunge in the Monterey Sports Center’s heated, indoor pool to find your pumpkin this year. Enjoy face painting, photo booth and water activities with friends, too! This festive fall event takes place on Saturday, October 29 from 4:30 - 6:30 p.m. at the Monterey Sports Center at 301 E. Franklin Street in Monterey. The cost is $15 per participant. Space is limited! Register at the Monterey Sports Center front desk or online at montereysportscenter.org search activity #41331-A. As a reminder, children ages five and under must be accompanied by an adult in a swimsuit in the pools. Event participants must be at least 46 inches tall and pass a 12-yard swim test to ride down the waterslide and they must be at least six years old and pass a 25-yard swim test or wear a life jacket to play on the WIBIT Water Obstacle Course. For more information, stop by or call the front desk at (831) 646-3730 or look on the Monterey Sports Center Activities & Registration web page.
Get Pumpkin Plunge at the Monterey Sports Center BY MONTEREY SPORTS CENTER STAFF
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We look forward to getting back to another great season of flag football this winter and would love for you to be a part of it. The Monterey Recreation Flag Football League encourages and creates a fun and rewarding experience for all players, parents and teams. Junior Flag Football League (December 3 - January 21) $132/$105.60 (Mtry Resident Fee) An organized, co-ed flag football league for boys and girls grades 2nd - 8th. Teams are organized by grades 2nd - 3rd, 4th - 5th & 6th - 8th. All practices and games will be coached by Monterey Recreation Staff and all players will receive equal playing time each game, regardless of ability. Teams will have one weeknight practice beginning the week of November 28. Games will be played Saturdays @ Sollecito Ballpark starting December 3. Pee Wee Flag Football (December 3 - January 21) $105/$84 (Mtry Resident Fee) An introductory program for Kindergarten and 1st graders to the sport of flag football. Players will be taught the basic fundamentals through a 6-week assortment of instructional drills and games.
Are you interested in working outdoors, being active, and enjoy sports? The City of Monterey Recreation Field Sports Division is hiring now! For more information, please email montereyrecreation@monterey.org, or contact the Monterey Recreation Field Sports office at (831) 646-3823.
The City of Monterey Parks Division invites residents to participate as a Volunteer in Parks - VIP! Call the Parks Office at (831) 646-3860 if you are interested.
monterey.org/rec monterey.org/parks
Get Pee Wee and Junior Flag Football - Register by November 4 BY FIELD SPORTS COORDINATOR BRENT ALMARIO
green scene - stewarding our environment
While doing those fall clean-up projects around our homes, yards, and businesses, let’s remember to check property gutters and drains for maintenance needs, and watch the weather. Throughout the year, roof gutters, downspouts, trench drains, curb drains, and sidewalk gutters may accumulate excessive debris like fallen leaves, branches, and windblown trash. These items are easily picked up by rainfall runoff and can clog drains and cause localized flooding, as well as become water pollution when deposited into our local creeks, lakes, and the Monterey Bay. Inspecting a property’s drainage features and clearing them before the rainy season will help prepare us all for the winter weather to come, and may help prevent localized drainage issues, too. When a precipitation event is predicted, do a quick outdoor perimeter check prior to the storm. Be sure to check that downspout and gutter flow paths are clear of equipment and materials, move equipment and supplies indoors or undercover, securely cover any stockpiles to withstand wind and rainwater, and don’t leave any household chemicals outdoors – move them indoors or take them to your local household hazardous waste site before the storm. Lastly, place green debris such as leaves and branches in the yard waste bin and trash in the trash bin; and, always remember to securely close the bin lids, and never overfill. Each of these steps helps protect our properties, our community, and our local environment. Many thanks this rainy season, from your Public Works Department! To learn more, visit montereysea.org/take-action/
Preparing Properties For The Rainy Season BY ENVIRONMENTAL REGULATIONS MANAGER TRICIA WOTAN
monterey.org/codecompliance monterey.org/environmentalregs
One of the common complaints received by the Code Compliance Division is about the height of fences on residential lots. The City does not require a permit for fences that meet the fence guidelines. Monterey City Code Chapter 38 contains the Base District Regulations for Residential Districts. Sections 21-26 have specific requirements for each residential property. The maximum height of a fence at the front of a residential property is four feet tall, including the front yard setback. Outside of the front yard setback, which is most commonly 15 feet, the maximum height is six feet tall. Please contact the Planning Division at (831) 648-3885 or come by the office at 570 Pacific Street before starting a fence building project for guidance.
Fence Guidelines and the City Code BY CODE COMPLIANCE COORDINATOR RORY LAKIND
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Link to the online app that takes you to all 14 locations
monterey.org/environmentalregs
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In the last year, three (3) new signs were constructed to support greater coastal and water resources awareness in our community and for visitors, alike. In late 2021, two (2) signs were installed along the Recreation Trail that book-end the coastal length of the Pacific Grove Area of Special Biological Significance (ASBS) shoreline, an approximate 3.2-mile reach between the Monterey Bay Aquarium and Point Pinos. The 500-acre nearshore rocky intertidal zone along this stretch is 1 of 34 unique and designated State Water Quality Protected Areas along the California coast. Its watershed includes approximately 1,100 acres in eastern Pacific Grove and 100 acres in New Monterey. The two Recreation Trail signs each contain a QR code that, when scanned by a smartphone, allow the user to take a Virtual Coastal Tour along the ASBS shoreline. Today, the tour contains 14 stops of interest to learn about the natural and biological resources there, cultural and community history and institutions, as well as the seen and unseen technology and infrastructure that are helping to protect the water quality of this special aquatic environment. In 2022, an additional sign was added by the City of Monterey to augment outreach efforts at the top of the ASBS watershed at Hilltop Park Center in New Monterey. The bilingual Water Cycle sign helps to educate our community about the science of water, the importance of water in the environment and for humans and wildlife, and how to keep water clean for everyone into the future.
green scene
Virtual Coastal Tour and Water Education/Outreach Signs BY ENVIRONMENTAL REGULATIONS MANAGER TRICIA WOTAN
The country’s most sweeping restrictions on single-use plastics and packaging were signed into law on June 30th, 2022, with the California State Legislature acknowledging that smaller, one-off bills (such as requiring straws upon request) are not enough to tackle the waste crisis. The Plastic Pollution Prevention and Packaging Producer Responsibility Act (SB 54) prohibits producers of single-use disposable packaging and food service ware products from distributing packaging/products unless they are recyclable or compostable, effective January 1, 2032. Additionally, a plastic packaging recycling rate of at least 30% is required by 2028, 40% by 2030, and 65% by 2032. SB 54 is a circular economy bill based on three principles: Designing out waste and pollution Keeping products and materials in use Regenerating natural systems This circular economy will focus on packaging manufacturers and sellers embracing sustainable designs, using regenerative materials, and collecting end of life products/materials for continuous use - otherwise known as “closing the loop.” By closing the loop, the amount of virgin materials used to make packaging decreases as producers utilize resources that have already been harvested. Producers thus transition to more sustainable packaging, putting less plastic on the market (and therefore less plastic in the environment). Rather than funding implementation through consumer-paid fees, SB 54 acts as an Extended Producer Responsibility (EPR) law. EPR is a policy approach under which industry is given significant responsibility for treatment or disposal of the post-consumer products it generates. Plastic pollution responsibilities shift from the consumer to the producer, with producers funding and operating the program under government oversight. Producers of plastics-covered material will also pay a surcharge into the California Plastic Pollution Mitigation Fund, at a rate of $500 million annually for 10 years. $350 million will come from producers, and $150 million will come from plastic resin manufacturers. This fund will be used to mitigate environmental and public health impacts of plastic, with 60% of funding allocated to benefit low-income and disadvantaged communities. For more information, please visit the National Stewardship Action Council website at: https://nsaction.us/
monterey.org/sustainable
California Passes Most Ambitious Packaging Legislation in the Country BY SUSTAINABILITY ASSISTANT MALLORY PANKRETZ
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MPL - My Place to Learn: a Redesign of the Library's Children's Area BY ILANA ENTIN, COMMUNICATIONS SPECIALIST
monterey.org/library
Imagine an area where kids can still be kids. A simple yet complicated statement during a very challenging time in all of our lives. Here at the Monterey Public Library, we pride ourselves on being an inclusive community hub for everyone, including our future generations of young readers and community leaders. With that in mind, MPL’s Friends & Foundation has prioritized funding the redesign of the library’s children area through the My Place to Learn (MPL) Campaign. The Monterey County Gives! (MCGives) annual campaign kicks off November 10th and runs through December 31st. . The My Place to Learn (MPL) redesign initiative will provide a much needed facelift to include an open, aesthetically happy and safe learning and play zone, surrounded with brightly colored age appropriate kids furniture and decor for Monterey families and visitors to enjoy. The proposed newly designed book nook will house the current children’s book collection, while also providing a free family gathering area with developmental toys, puzzles, art projects and interactive stations. Initial design blueprints promote areas conducive to early literacy and increased reading comprehension for all children, in an imaginative and nurturing environment. At My Place to Learn, weekly story time and other kid friendly programming stations will aim to spark exploration, diversity, learning and growth though the love of books and reading. MPL currently provides summer reading resources and programming, weekly story time for toddlers, age appropriate arts and crafts classes for young children and teens, online homework and study skills support, and school aged classroom visits. There is significant importance in providing an inviting, easily accessible, kid friendly library area. It sets children up to be inspired by the love of learning and for future school success. It is also paramount to continued library success and community focused programming for all current and new families. It is an investment in our community, youth and future. Donated funds to My Place to Learn through Monterey County Gives! will have an additional matched percentage back to MPL at the end of the campaign, making your generous dollars go even further. To donate or for more information on the MCGives campaign, please visit MontereyCountyGives.com. For more information on the Library, please visit monterey.org/library and MPL’s Friends & Foundation at InvestInMPL.org.
culture corner - art, history, culture
monterey.org/sistercities
culture corner
Sister City Update: Nanao, Japan - Isola delle Femmine, Italy - and Dubrovnik, Croatia BY LAURIE HUELGA, SISTER CITY LIAISON
The City of Monterey is proud of the sister city ties that stretch around the world. Along with local friendship associations, we work to continue to maintain and build the relationships between us and our sister cities. Monterey is a member of Sister Cities International, whose role is to support cities to "create relationships based on cultural, educational, information and trade exchanges, creating lifelong friendships that provide prosperity and peace through person-to-person citizen diplomacy.” Here's a brief update about activities that have resumed since travel reopened after the height of the pandemic. Sister City Nanao, Japan, established 1995 - see Resolution The Sister City connection with Nanao, Japan was based on working together for our economies and redevelopment ideas. Since the Nanao Friendship Association was formed over thirty year ago, much has been accomplished, and friendships have endured through generations. The Junior Wings program organized in association with Colton Middle School has been a huge success as a student exchange program for many years. The pandemic put a pause on this program but the Nanao Friendship Association and Junior Wings Program are working to bring it back. In addition, Nanao has a Wharf similar to our Old Fisherman's Wharf, and an annual Monterey Jazz Festival! Yes, they named their Jazz Festival after Monterey, California's famous Jazz Festival. Youth jazz musicians from here have played several times at the festival in Nanao. In September, we were delighted to participate in a reception at the Casa Munras Hotel to greet the Nanao Jazz Festival's Executive Director Setsuko Miyakawa, a member of the Board of Directors Yoshitaka Kinoshita, and their interpreter from Hawaii Alan Kinuhata. They were excited to be back and attend the 65th annual Monterey Jazz Festival held September 23-25 at the Monterey County Fairgrounds. Here are some photos from the reception.
Did you know, the number one Historic State Landmark in California is Monterey's Custom House Plaza? Built in 1827 by the Mexican government, the Custom House played a critical role in the functioning of the Mexican government, as duties from foreign commerce were the prime source of revenue. On July 7, 1846, Commodore John D. Sloat raised the American flag over the building marking the official takeover of California by the U.S. military. The building remained an important edifice during the transition to American rule, and over time became a valued symbol of an earlier age. The building was preserved through the efforts of the Native Sons of the Golden West and the citizens of California. Location: Monterey State Historic Park, Custom House Plaza, along the Recreation Trail at Custom House Plaza and Old Fisherman's Wharf Listed on the National Register of Historic Places: NPS-66000217 Learn more about Historic State Landmarks on the State Of California Parks website, http://ohp.parks.ca.gov/?page_id=21441
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Custom House Plaza Historic State Landmark #1
Custom House
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Next: Isola delle Femmine
Nanao Sister City Reception at the Casa Munras Hotel's Esteban Restaurant, hosted by the Nanao Friendship Association of Monterey.
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Photo includes Mayor Clyde Roberson, San Francisco Italian Consul General Sergio Strozzi, Deputy Vice Consul General Fabio Ballerini, Italian Heritage Society of Monterey President Annamarie Della Sala-Stanton, and members of both the Monterey and Pittsburg Isola Friendship associations.
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Sister City Isola delle Femmine, Sicily Italy, established 2017 - see Resolution The foundation of the Sister City connection with Isola delle Femmine is a cultural one. Isola delle Femmine is the birthplace of many people of Italian heritage that have lived in Monterey. In fact, a large group of people who currently reside in Monterey are originally from Isola delle Femmine or have ancestors who came from Isola delle Femmine. Many people from Isola delle Femmine are primarily fishermen who pioneered the fishing and canning industry which flourished in Monterey. Isola delle Femmine is a coastal city, a favorite for tourists, well known for its fishing industry, nature reserve and coastal beauty, very similar to the City of Monterey. The Italian Consulate Office in San Francisco is very excited to acknowledge and participate in the sister city bond. They have representatives each year come down for the Festa Italia. Just like what happened to most events, the Festa Italia was canceled for a couple of years due to the pandemic. But it was back this year and as popular as ever. The local friendship association is supported by and organized with the Pittsburg, California association. Pittsburg and Isola are also sister cities, and many families who moved from Isola to Monterey, moved to Pittsburg later. There's a lot of historical information available on their website. https://friendsofisoladellefemmine.org/ Sister City Dubrovnik, Croatia established 2006 - see Resolution The Sister City relationship with Dubrovnik started out as a twinning program. The United States Agency for International Development (USAID) established a "Technical Twinning" exchange between Dubrovnik, Croatia and Monterey, California for a two year period starting in Spring 2005. Originally, USAID asked the City of Santa Barbara to participate, but they declined. The primary tasks of this exchange were to develop tourism activities based on long-term, responsible and sustainable principles; develop a better understanding of public finances and joint public-private partnerships; to explore opportunities to increase the awareness of historic preservation; and to facilitate culture, sports and education as economic development possibilities. The cities of Dubrovnik and Monterey are very similar with respect to their significant historic and cultural values as well as their dependency on sustainable tourism. The relationships and ideas flourished, and after a couple of visits back and forth, we realized that many Croatians live on the Monterey Peninsula and Watsonville, and some are related to the Dubrovnik government representatives we were working with! It was so fun to find this out. In 2006 the twinning program was over and the cities became official sister cities. Since then, we have learned much about historic preservation and sustainable tourism. With the help of Monterey City Staff, the Big Sur Marathon Foundation, and many other community members, the Dubrovnik Half Marathon became a reality in 2015. Since then the Du-Motion team in Dubrovnik has developed from top to bottom as an elite five-star program engaging locals as well as people from 50 plus countries who come to compete every year. In July of 2016 Sister cities Dubrovnik and Monterey won the first Sister Cities International award for cooperation in the preparation and organization of Du Motion, within the category "Innovation: Economic Development" including the cities with less than 100,000 inhabitants. The two cities also started a Runner Exchange, with many thanks to the Big Sur Marathon Foundation. Every November two Monterey Bay Half Marathon runners win a trip the following April to the Dubrovnik Half Marathon, where two winners from that race win a trip to Monterey for the following year. It's been an outstanding cooperation that continues to grow. The teams are excited to continue the exchange after a two year break due to the pandemic. Learn more about the race at https://du-motion.com, where everyone is a Dubrovnik Running Hero! If you want to get involved with the Sister City Program at the City of Monterey, fill out the form at monterey.org/sistercities.
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The stradun (main street) lined with runners at the start of the Dubrovnik Half Marathon, 2022
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Sea lions in Monterey. We humans share this space with other species. Thanks for being respectful to wildlife.
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Fall 2022 volume xxxvii, no. 4 published since 1985
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