February has been another busy month, full of learning, leading, and connecting. I traveled to Washington D.C., advocating for Monterey County needs at the Federal level. I was able to bring back so many resources and action items for the County team. You know that I always want MORE, BETTER, FASTER, but am proud to say that we are doing so much RIGHT, WELL, and GOOD at home in Monterey County. Immediately following are some highlights of that good work.
It is such a privilege to serve you.
ON THE AGENDA
WINTER STORM RECOVERY - The Board of Supervisors (BOS) is working to support community-wide recovery following January's winter storm event. The storms damaged vital infrastructure and facilities belonging to the County of Monterey and other agencies such as the Monterey County Water Resources Agency (MCWRA). Damages to MCWRA facilities included portions of the Pajaro Levee, the Nacimiento Reservoir spillway plunge pool, and other flood control facilities and supporting infrastructure.It will be some time before the total of damages are fixed, but a strong strategic reserve and federal disaster designation (making reimbursements through FEMA possible), enabled my support of a $7 million cash-flow loan request from the MCWRA.
AFFORDABLE HOUSING - The BOS has enjoyed a cooperative relationship with the City of Salinas when it comes to development of housing opportunities for low-income and unhoused people for several years. This past month we took another step together toward bringing additional units online for low-income seniors when we authorized staff to enter into exclusive negotiations with Eden Housing to design and develop an 100% affordable multifamily rental unit at 855 E. Laurel Drive. The property is owned by the County.
CLIMATE ACTION - Our Sustainability Program is small, but mighty! Just this month they notified the BOS of two grants we have won to make Monterey County more climate adaptive and resilient. First, a $40,000 CalAPP grant to promote the development of residential solar program, decreasing permit approval times, and ultimately, help California meet its greenhouse gas emission reduction goals. And just today, a nearly $300,000 Transformative Climate Communities award. This funding will be used to work with residents in the Pajaro area to develop community-based climate action projects, such as identifying the best locations for bike paths or preferred methods of getting to public transit.
IN THE COMMUNITY
Back home, my team was in the District celebrating local milestones, including the 40th anniversary of D4 based business DKI Kleenup Specialists, honoring high school artists at Poetry Out Loud, official opening of the City of Seaside's Broadway Walk of Fame, connecting with Salinas Valley Chamber members at the first Government Relations Breakfast in 15 years, and the investiture of CSUMB's 4th President, Dr. Vanya Quinones. So much good stuff!
SAVE THE DATE
There is a lot happening in the District and County. Here are just a few of the events and meetings scheduled over the next few weeks that you should know about.
Seaside Groundwater Basin Watermaster - March 1st @ 2:00 pm, 5 Harris Court
Capital Improvement Committee - March 6th @ 2:30 pm - Online
Legislative Committee - March 13th @ 1:30 pm - Online
Transportation Agency Board of Directors - March 22nd @ 9:00 am 1441 Schilling Place, Salinas & Online
Please note, with the Declared COVID-19 State of Emergency ending, many meetings will be returning to the in-person format. Many public agencies are making it possible for the public to continue to participate remotely, but not all. Please be sure to look at agendas and plan your participation accordingly.
ALSO (click on images to link to additional information)
YOUR VOICE IS APPRECIATED
My team and I rely on communication from individuals like you to keep us informed about issues that matter to all Monterey County residents. Do not hesitate to reach out for any assistance if you need it.