Civic Issues
Topics getting the most attention in Monterey public meetings, ranked by how frequently they are discussed.
4 issues with critical priority
Budget deficit and Roadmap to Resilience workshops
Costs the city can't control are eating the budget: liability insurance up 153% since 2022, pension costs up 48%, utilities up 70%. Councilmember Barber floated pursuing a state tort cap to slow insurance hikes.
Measure S renewal for November 2026 ballot
Council wants voter polling on extending the 1% streets tax (Measure P&S), a 5–8% parking tax, and a possible vacancy tax — new revenue ideas in a deficit year.
June 2026 Half-Cent Sales Tax Measure
Monterey faces a projected $10 million-plus structural deficit driven by salary growth, added positions, and rising insurance and pension costs. The council voted to put a 0.375% sales tax with a nine-year sunset and an 8% parking tax before voters in June 2026.
Displaced Tenants from 800 Casanova Avenue Fire
Fire Chief Moore gave a detailed account of the third-alarm fire at 800 Casanova Avenue, crediting firefighters, police, CERT, the Red Cross, the Hyatt and nonprofits for saving lives and sheltering displaced residents.