Monterey County · issues
Civic issues
Topics getting the most attention in Monterey County public meetings, ranked by how frequently they come up.
Signal Hill ADU Appeal in Pebble Beach
A developer received approval to build a 3,750-square-foot home on Colton Road in Pebble Beach, which requires cutting down 12 protected trees. Neighbors raised concerns about bulk and light pollution, but staff confirmed the project meets all zoning and height rules.
2026 Homeless Point-in-Time Count Results
The county released its point-in-time count showing a 15% decrease in overall homelessness and a 23% drop in unsheltered individuals. Officials credited targeted encampment cleanups and new housing projects, though concerns remain about an aging homeless population and potential federal and state funding shifts.
Countywide Facilities Master Plan and Property Strategies
The board evaluated multiple development alternatives for the 1281 Broadway site in Seaside, ultimately adopting Option Four to house social services and a library.
Vista Lucia Annexation and Housing in Gonzalez
The board approved a property tax transfer agreement for the 771-acre Vista Lucia annexation in Gonzalez, aiming to bring thousands of new homes and affordable options.
Carmel Valley Manor Expansion and Memory Care Facility
Carmel Valley Manor is expanding its senior retirement community by adding new apartments, guest units, and a much-needed 12-bed memory care unit funded largely by resident donations.
Carmel Rio Road Residential Subdivision
A developer is pushing through a 74-unit housing project on Val Verde Drive under state builder's remedy rules. Neighbors and advisory committees raised serious concerns about putting new homes in a floodplain and worsening local traffic.
Proposed Luxury Real Estate Transfer Tax
The county is exploring a new transfer tax on high-value home sales ($5M or $10M+) and an increase to the transient occupancy tax to fund workforce housing and general fund needs. Proponents argue it addresses the severe housing crisis on the peninsula, while real estate representatives warn it could reduce long-term property tax revenue and transaction volume.
Code Enforcement & Property Restoration at 58 Mt. Devon Road
A Carmel property owner sought after-the-fact permits and a lot line adjustment to resolve unpermitted tree removal and slope development, sparking discussion on tree replacement monitoring.
Pebble Beach Residential Development and Tree Removal
A developer received approval to build a 3,750-square-foot home on Colton Road in Pebble Beach, which requires cutting down 12 protected trees. Neighbors raised concerns about bulk and light pollution, but staff confirmed the project meets all zoning and height rules.
Seaside Community Benefits Office Replacement Project
The board evaluated multiple development alternatives for the 1281 Broadway site in Seaside, ultimately adopting Option Four to house social services and a library.