Wendy Root Askew

The meeting focused on the Gas Tax Replacement, addressing the current transportation funding system and the potential $31 billion funding shortfall over 10 years caused by electric vehicle adoption, fuel efficiency gains, and climate policies. Discussions covered legislative proposals, including a Road User Charge Pilot Program and a gas tax replacement spot bill. Key issues and potential solutions were deliberated, guided by principles such as the "User-Pays" Principle, Equity, and Revenue Stability. The impact on Monterey County under a proposed mileage-based Road User Charge (RUC) versus an increased Vehicle Registration Fee was analyzed, noting that the RUC structure might result in higher average annual costs for Monterey County drivers compared to the state average due to higher Vehicle Miles Traveled (VMT). The session concluded by outlining next steps, including potentially advocating for a preferred alternative to legislation.

The Executive Committee meeting addressed several key agenda items. The committee unanimously approved the consent agenda, which included the minutes from the November 5, 2025, meeting. The committee voted to recommend the Board adopt the 2026 Legislative Program, with discussion focusing on the Cap and Invest Program funds and the federal Surface Transportation Act expiration date. Guidance was provided to staff concerning assumptions for the three-year budget (FY 26/27 through 28/29), including proposed software contract changes, office space allocation, Cost of Living adjustment (2.8%), and adding one planner position. An update was received regarding changes to the Brown Act due to Senate Bill 707, specifically concerning ADA accommodations. Directions were given to place items such as the Employee of the Quarter, Election of 2026 Officers, Gas Tax Replacement Study Session, and Brown Act Update on the TAMC Board draft agenda. A closed session was held to evaluate the performance of the Executive Director and Agency Counsel.

The 2026 Regional Transportation Plan is a long-range document designed to establish funding priorities over 20+ years, serve as a basis for state and federal funding, and promote regional collaboration. It is structured around three core elements: a Policy Element defining goals, objectives, and performance measures; a Financial Element detailing budgetary allocations; and an Action Element specifying projects. The plan identifies key goals encompassing access and mobility, safety and health, environmental stewardship, equity, and economic vitality. It also categorizes projects as either 'constrained' (financially feasible) or 'unconstrained'.

The Board of Directors elected new officers and Executive Committee members for the upcoming term. Key discussions included a presentation and public hearing on the Draft 2026 Monterey County Regional Transportation Plan (RTP), which establishes regional goals for safety, sustainability, and multimodal access, and a study session on revenue alternatives to replace the Gas Tax. The study session reviewed the projected $215.7 billion 10-year transportation funding shortfall and focused on two sustainable replacement options: a New Road User Charge or increasing Vehicle Registration Fees. Staff was directed to engage regional partners regarding a replacement mechanism that prioritizes affordability for rural residents concerning Vehicle Registration Fees. Additionally, an update was provided on the installation of adaptive AI systems at nine signalized intersections along Scenic Route 68, expected to become operational in May.

The meeting agenda covered numerous action items, primarily focused on contract approvals and amendments across various programs. Key actions included approving a contract increase with the County Counsel's office for legal services and authorizing a contract not to exceed $476,000 with Fehr & Peers for the Monterey County Active Transportation Plan and Level of Traffic Stress Analysis. The Board also approved a contract amendment with GHD for additional design work on the Fort Ord Regional Trail and Greenway (FORTAG) California Avenue Segment, and approved the scope for a Construction Management Request for Proposals for the same segment, allocating up to $1,400,000 in Measure X funds for construction management. Furthermore, agreements were approved for programming related to the Broadway Ave Complete Street Corridor, the FORTAG California Avenue segment, Harden Parkway Safe Routes to Schools, and the Alisal High Sidewalk Art project. In the Rail Program, updates were received on the Coast Corridor Rail Project, and representatives were appointed to the Coast Rail Coordinating Council Policy Committee. The Board adopted the 2026 Legislative Program, addressed changes to the Brown Act (SB 707), and conducted a public hearing on the Draft 2026 Regional Transportation Plan. A study session was held regarding revenue alternatives to replace the Gas Tax, specifically mentioning the Road Usage Charge pilot program. Other business included presenting the Employee of the Quarter, electing officers for the coming term, and conducting a closed session to evaluate the performance of the Executive Director and Agency Counsel.