Melinda Cervantes

The meeting included an annual update from Central Coast Community Energy (3CE), which discussed their accomplishments and plans for 2023 and beyond, focusing on local control, rates, clean and renewable power procurement, and community reinvestment. The council also received a presentation from Public Agency Retirement System (PARS) regarding the city's section 115 trust investments and an audit update.

The meeting included discussions on the Carmel Public Library Foundation, the librarian's report, and the treasurer's report. The annual event Educated Edition was successful, and the foundation received a grant of $15,000. Library staff met with master plan architects to review progress. Circulation and foot traffic numbers look good, comparing favorably to pre-pandemic levels. There's an increasing trend in electronic book usage, especially audiobooks. The board also discussed the proposed budget for the fiscal year 23-24, focusing on filling vacant positions, collection development, and program development. The library is planning increased expenditures across the board due to increased library activities, programs, and overall costs for materials and transport.

The City Council held a special meeting to discuss a new ordinance regarding wireless telecommunications, with concerns raised about the lack of resident input. There was also discussion regarding an amendment to an emergency ordinance adopting rules for conduct at legislative body meetings, including vaccination and face covering requirements. Public comments were heard on both issues, followed by council discussion and votes.

The commission discussed the upcoming sea level rise community meeting and whether it should be noticed as a Brown Act meeting to allow all commissioners to attend. There was also a discussion regarding the process change for community meetings. Additionally, the commission discussed the acting public works director's report and the shoreline infrastructure repair project.

The special City Council meeting included the certification of the election and declaring the results of the general municipal election. The council also discussed recognizing and expressing gratitude for the service of a retiring councilmember, highlighting their contributions to the city's finances, customer service improvements, and overall dedication to the community. Newly elected and re-elected members were sworn in, and they shared remarks about the importance of community engagement, volunteerism, and collaboration with city staff to serve the best interests of the city.