MONTEREY PENINSULA WATER MANAGEMENT DISTRICT
NON-RESIDENTIAL WATER RELEASE FORM AND WATER PERMIT APPLICATION NOTE: When approved and signed by the Jurisdiction this form must be submitted with final and complete Construction Plans to:
[email protected]
Completing the Water Release Form & Water Permit Application does not guarantee issuance of a Water Permit.
ALL SPACES BELOW MUST BE COMPLETED OR THE APPLICATION MAY NOT BE PROCESSED. (Please print firmly)
1. OWNERSHIP INFORMATION: 2. AGENT/REPRESENTATIVE INFORMATION:
3. PROPERTY INFORMATION:
Assessor Parcel Number - - NOTE: Separate water meters are required for each User.
4. Type of Non-Residential Use:
5. Project Description
Any change in Use/Expansion of Use requires a Water Permit. Deed Restriction Required for all Water Permits. Mandatory Retrofit Upon Expansion of Use.
Existing Group I (All Uses before project) Post Project Group I (All Uses after project) Users in this category are low water uses where water is primarily used for employee hygiene and minimal janitorial uses. Examples are shown below.
Type of Use SqFt Factor Capacity Type of Use SqFt Factor Capacity Existing Group II (All Uses before project) Post Project Group II (All Uses after project) Users in this category prepare and/or sell food/beverages that are primarily provided to customers in/on disposable tableware. Food with high moisture content and liquid food may be served on reusable tableware. Glassware may be used to serve beverages. Users in this category are not full-service restaurants.
Type of Use SqFt Factor Capacity Type of Use SqFt Factor Capacity Existing Group III (All Uses before project) Post Project Group III (All Uses after project) Type of Use Quantity/SF Factor Capacity Type of Use Quantity/SF Factor Capacity EXISTING Capacity TOTAL PROPOSED Capacity TOTAL = Group IV Modified Uses Reduced water Capacity and have received a Water Use Credit or modified factor from the District New/Refurbished Landscape Refer to District Rule 142.1 Water Efficient Landscape Requirements PROPOSED WATER CAPACITY (DIFFERENCE BETWEEN EXISTING CAPACITY POST PROJECT CAPACITY) NOTE: Water Factors are subject to change by Board action. (Jurisdiction must authorize water for positive result) I certify, under penalty of perjury, that the information provided on this Water Release Form & Permit Application is to my knowledge correct, and the information accurately reflects the changes presently planned for this property.
Signature of Owner/Agent Date
ATTACHMENT 2
ATTACHMENT 12
24-15
Monterey Peninsula Water Management District
TABLE 2: NON-RESIDENTIAL WATER USE FACTORS
Group I 0.00007 AF/SF
Users in this category are low water uses where water is primarily used for employee hygiene and minimal janitorial uses. Examples are offices, warehouses, and low water use retail businesses.
Group II 0.0002 AF/SF
Users in this category prepare and/or sell food/beverages that are primarily provided to customers in/on disposable tableware. Food with high moisture content and liquid food may be served on reusable tableware.
Glassware may be used to serve beverages. Users in this category are not full-service restaurants.
Group III
Assisted Living (more than 6 beds)2 0.085 AF/Bed
Bar (limited food/not a full-service restaurant) 0.0002 AF/SF1 Dog Grooming 0.0567 AF/Grooming Station
Child/Dependent Adult Day Care 0.0072 AF/Person
Dry Cleaner w/on-Site laundry 0.0002 AF/SF
Dormitory Beds @ Educational Institution3 0.02 AF/Bed
Laundromat 0.12 AF/Machine
Motel/Hotel/Bed & Breakfast 0.064 AF/Bedroom
Large Bathtub (Add to bedroom factor) 0.03 AF/Tub
Each additional Showerhead beyond one per stall (Add to bedroom factor) 0.02 AF/Showerhead Nail and/or Beauty Salon 0.00007 AF/SF
Irrigated Areas/Landscaping ETWU (See Rule 142.1)
Plant Nursery 0.00009 AF/SF Land Area
Public Toilet 0.058 AF/Toilet
Public Urinal 0.036 AF/Urinal
Zero Water Consumption Urinal No Value
Recreational Vehicle Water Hookup 0.064 AF
Restaurant - Full Service (including associated Bar Seats) 0.02 AF/Interior Restaurant Seat Exterior Restaurant Seats above the “Standard Exterior Seat Allowance”4
0.01 AF/Exterior Restaurant Seat
Exterior Restaurant Seats within the “Standard Exterior Seat Allowance” No Value Restaurant (24-Hour and Fast Food) 0.038 AF/Interior Restaurant Seat School or Church 0.00007 AF/SF
Self-Storage 0.0002 AF/100 SF
Skilled Nursing/Alzheimer’s Care 0.12 AF/Bed
Spa 0.05 AF/Spa
Swimming Pool 0.02 AF/100 SF of Surface Area
Theater 0.0012 AF/Seat
Group IV - MODIFIED NON-RESIDENTIAL USES
Users in this category have a reduced water Capacity compared to the Groups I-III and have received a Water Use Credit for modifications (Rule 25.5-F-4-d) or the permanent installation of validated technology that results in a quantifiable reduction in Water Use Capacity. Please inquire for specific property information.
Group V - INDUSTRIAL USES
Users in this category use water during the production process for either creating their products or cooling equipment. Industrial water may also be used for fabricating, processing, washing, diluting, 1 ABC Licensed Premises Diagram area shall be used for calculation of square-footage. 2 Assisted living Dwelling Units shall be permitted as Residential uses per Table 1, Residential Fixture Unit Count Values. 3 Dormitory water use at educational facilities is a Residential use, although the factor is shown on Table 2. 4 See Rule 24-B-1 and Rule 25.5 for information about the “Standard Exterior Seat Allowance”.
ATTACHMENT 3
24-16
Monterey Peninsula Water Management District
cooling, or transporting a product. This includes industries involved in the production of chemicals and food products, as well as certain hospital uses. The Water Use Capacity shall be termined after reviewing the project’s construction and business plans, along with estimated wate use, and may be considered under Rue 24 Special Circumstances.
Notes: Any Non-Residential water use which cannot be characterized by one of the use categories set forth in Table 2 shall be designated as “other” and assigned a factor which has a positive correlation to the anticipated Water use Capacity for that Site. When a Non-Residential project proposes two or more of the uses set forth in Table 2, each proposed use shall be subject to a separate calculation. When the proposed use appears to fall into more than one group or use, the higher factor shall be used.
Table amended by Ordinance No. 125 (9/29/2006); Resolution 2008-01 (1/24/2008); Resolution 2010-15 (12/13/2010); Resolution 2013-16 (9/16/2013); Resolution 2014-04 (3/17/2014); Resolution 2014-12 (7/21/2014); Ordinance No. 164 (4/20/2015); Resolution 2016-06 (3/21/2016); Ordinance No. 176 (1/25/2017); Resolution 2017-14 (7/21/2017); Resolution 2017-16 (12/11/2017); Resolution 2018-21 (11/19/2018); Ordinance No. 182 (5/20/2019); Resolution 2019-10 (7/15/2019); Resolution 2019-15 (9/16/2019); Resolution 2021-15 (11/15/2021); Resolution 2022-27 (9/19/2022); Resolution 2022-33 (11/14/2022); Resolution 2024-14 (12/16/2024)
ATTACHMENT 3
CITY OF CARMEL-BY-THE-SEA
City Council
Staff Report
November 3, 2025
ORDERS OF BUSINESS
TO: Honorable Mayor and City Council Members
SUBMITTED BY: Todd Trayer, Police Commander
APPROVED BY: Chip Rerig, City Administrator
SUBJECT: Receive the 2025 Car Week After Action Report and provide staff with feedback/direction. (Estimated time - 30 min)
RECOMMENDATION:
Receive the 2025 Car Week After Action Report and provide staff with feedback/direction.
BACKGROUND / SUMMARY:
BACKGROUND
Since its inception, “Car Week” has evolved from being just a handful of events during the span of a week to tens of public and private events held over the span of a week and a half on the Monterey Peninsula.
This year “Car Week” took place from Friday, August 8 through Sunday, August 17, 2025. This After Action Report seeks to discuss traffic and safety impacts to Carmel-bythe-Sea during Car Week, as well as a breakdown of any issues with events held in the Village and to propose mitigation tactics to counter these effects in subsequent years.
EVENTS HELD IN CARMEL-BY-THE-SEA
For 2024, staff worked with event organizers from the previous year to build on the events that they presented in 2023, understanding that if there are events in Carmel during Car Week that they would like to get back to the look and feel of the prepandemic events. With the expansion of Concours for a Cause on Tuesday and
Prancing Ponies and the Concours Carmel on Thursday, this year looked and felt more like Car Week pre-pandemic than it has in the past few years. There were four permitted events in Carmel-by-the-Sea this year:
• Tuesday, August 12 Concours for a Cause
• Wednesday, August 13 Astons on the Avenue & Rivian Event • Thursday, August 14 Prancing Ponies
• Thursday, August 14 Ferrari Owners' Club Concours Carmel • Thursday, August 14 L’Auberge Motorsports Event
Concours for a Cause
The Concours for a Cause event was held Tuesday, August 12, 2025, from 10:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m. The event was held in Devendorf Park, and on Ocean Avenue between Junipero and Dolores Streets, inclusive of the side streets between Sixth and Seventh Avenues. Event set-up began at 12:00 a.m. and event breakdown was completed by 8:00 p.m. This was the third year for this event in Carmel-by-the-Sea, and it featured classic cars organized by country. There were no issues with safety or the load-in. The load-out of the event did take hours longer than expected and there were complaints from the business community. We will work with the organizers to work towards clearing the event out quicker.
Astons on the Avenue
This was the third year for the Astons on the Avenue event, which grew out of parking stall rentals in front of the Meuse Gallery in 2023. The event was held on Wednesday, August 13, 2025 from 10:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m. on Ocean Avenue from Dolores Street down to Monte Verde Street and Lincoln between 6th and 7th Avenues. There were no issues with safety or the load-in/load-out of the event.
Prancing Ponies All Woman Car Show
The Prancing Ponies event was held Thursday, August 14, 2025 from 10:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m. This is the 6th year this event was held in the City. Ocean Avenue was closed from Junipero to San Carlos Street. Mission Street was also closed between Red Eagle Lane and Sixth Avenue. Event set-up began at 12:00 a.m. and event breakdown began at 4:00 p.m. There were no major issues with this event.
Ferrari Owners Club Concours Carmel
This was the third year of the Concours held on Thursday, August 14, 2025 from 9:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m. The event was held on Dolores Street between Ocean and Seventh Avenues. Event set-up began at 1:00 a.m. and breakdown was completed by 7:30 p.m.
This judged event featured curated vintage and modern Ferraris and Italian motorcycles, music, interviews with car owners and award ceremony. There were no issues with safety or the load-in/load-out of the event.
L’Auberge
This was a very popular event again this year and sanctioning the parking spaces with
the hotel helped. The exotic vehicles arrived a day before the event and were left uncovered. This attracted hundreds of people who flooded Monte Verde. Police and VIPS closed the street until the problem was resolved with the help of hotel and security personnel: They covered the vehicles. We will work with the organizers to ensure this is not an issue in 2026.
Overall Event Summary
Overall, each event ran very smoothly and there were no major issues to report.
PARKING STALL PERMITS
In the early 2000’s the City began renting individual parking stalls in the downtown commercial district for non-construction purposes or as part of a special event permit.
The purpose of the individual parking stall rentals was intended to allow businesses to set-up valet services during busy times of the year for their patrons or to park prestigious vehicles in front of their businesses to draw visitors to their establishments.
Prior to the pandemic parking stall permits were not issued on the Tuesday and Thursday of Car week, due to the all-encompassing size of the events traditionally held on these days - COTA and the Tour. Spaces were rented for the remaining days of the week during Car Week.
Currently, if businesses want to rent a parking stall they must complete a parking stall permit application through the Community Activities Department. If the applicant is requesting the placement of carpet, stanchions, etc. in the parking stall in addition to parking a vehicle they must also pay the fee for a Temporary Encroachment Permit.
Pricing for the rental of parking stalls is scaled based on the time of year, with higher rental rates during Peak Demand times, including the weeks surrounding the December Holidays, major golf events at Pebble Beach, and during Car Week. The cost for the rental of parking stalls is $861 for the permit and $100 per stall/day and $200 per stall/day during Peak Demand Rental time. During recent years demand for parking stall permits has been concentrated during and around Car Week, very few if any parking stall permit applications are received around the December Holidays or major golf events.
Last year the Council approved some additional restrictions on parking stall rentals during Car Week that included:
• Vehicles placed in the rented parking stalls remain in that stall for the entire day unless they are actually being used for valet services. • Businesses who rent the parking stalls understand that they are responsible for whatever happens as a result of that parking stall rental regardless of who owns the vehicle - including providing security to keep onlookers out of the streets.
There were issues with a high number of on-lookers and businesses called 911 to ask for help.
• No rental of the green zone 30 minute parking stalls at the corners of blocks, as this contributes to congestion around intersections which can be hazardous to
onlookers, as well as through traffic.
Staff recommends keeping these restrictions in place for next year. In particular, L’Auberge worked with City staff through multiple meetings to develop a plan for managing crowds and traffic control with private security which ended up benefitting this year’s event when the cars were drawing an unexpected crowd.
If parking stalls are not regulated, it is likely that exotic vehicles will randomly park, attract crowds, and responsibility for all spaces would fall on the Police Department.
Parking enforcement would be tasked with monitoring timed parking and those spots would likely remain full each day with the same cars. The parking fines are minimal compared to the current revenue structure and if exotic vehicles are in violation, they would not likely be towed due to liabilities.
SHUTTLES
For 2025, the City implemented a free parking and shuttle program to provide visitors and employees with convenient access to downtown on Tuesday, Wednesday, and Thursday of Car Week. This program mirrored a program that used to operate on Tuesday of Car Week as a condition of approval for the Concourse on the Avenue event, which no longer exists. The parking lot and shuttle operated from Larson Field adjacent to the Carmel Mission, which has a maximum capacity of approximately 300 cars once properly set up. Setup included removing sections of chain link fencing around the large baseball field, protecting irrigation valves, and roping off the dirt infields to keep cars on the grass only. The shuttle hours were from 9:00 a.m. to 9:00 p.m. Over the three days of operation, daily usage was as follows:
• Tuesday, August 12: Between 200–260 cars parked, peak occupancy at roughly 200 cars at one time.
• Wednesday, August 13: 176 cars parked, with peak occupancy at roughly 140 cars at one time.
• Thursday, August 14: 320 cars parked, peak occupancy at roughly 275 cars at one time.
Running between Larson Field and the Carmel Plaza, shuttles picked-up/dropped-off riders every 5–10 minutes on Tuesday and Wednesday, and approximately every 10- 15 minutes on Thursday due to heavier traffic. Peak parking and shuttle demand occurred between 10:00 a.m. and 1:00 p.m. on Tuesday and Wednesday, and from 11:00 a.m. to 2:00 p.m. on Thursday. The utilization of two large 14-passenger shuttles effectively addressed the demand for rides, resulting in no reported complaints regarding wait times. Staff observed that the presence of one (1) professional parking attendant was necessary to guide cars into spaces, maximize lot capacity and maintain safe driving lanes. In addition to the professional parking attendant, it was also necessary to have one (1) volunteer during peak times to direct traffic coming in from Rio Road to the small gates that led to the grass fields.
Feedback from users was overwhelmingly positive. Riders reported that shuttle frequency was appropriate and convenient. Visitors expressed appreciation for the reliability, quality, and convenience of the service, the clear signage directing them to the lot, and the fact that the shuttle was free of charge. Several riders specifically commented on the value of worry-free parking during the busiest days of Car Week.
A wide range of individuals utilized the shuttle, including domestic and international visitors, peninsula area residents, local employees, and community members. The majority of riders consisted of out-of-town visitors attending Car Week, with local residents also comprising a substantial segment of the ridership. The shuttle also served a meaningful accessibility role: 20 individuals with mobility challenges used the service on Tuesday, 7 on Wednesday, and 15 on Thursday. Riders most often learned of the program through car event websites, social media (including dedicated Car Week groups), or by following posted signs on Highway 1 and in the Village after being unable to locate downtown parking. Riders expressed a strong sentiment that there should be recognition of the City’s role in offering the program, with many indicating that they wanted to know whom to thank.
Based on the success of the program, areas to explore next year should include:
• Work more closely with Car Week event organizers to promote use of the lot and shuttle and explore opportunities for cost-sharing with Carmel event organizers. • Consider improvements to ADA accessibility, including shuttles with lifts, and additional signage for designated handicap spaces.
• Collect formal survey data on ridership demographics and guest satisfaction. • Reduce lot hours of operation to align with demand, as usage declined significantly after 5:00 p.m.
• Increased messaging of the city’s role in providing the shuttle program.
In conclusion, the shuttle program provided a meaningful contribution to traffic mitigation during Car Week 2025. The program succeeded in reducing congestion downtown, improving the visitor experience, demonstrating the viability of off-site shuttle programs into the Village, and setting a strong foundation for expansion in future years.
Image 1 - Professional Parking Attendant Guiding Cars To Organized Parking Lanes Image 2 - Volunteer Parking Attendant Guiding Cars Onto Grass Fields
Image 3 - Shuttle Vans in Operation Picking Up Guests at Larson Field
TRAFFIC, NOISE, AND SAFETY IMPACTS
Again, as in past years, Carmel-by-the-Sea was inundated with specialty vehicles known as “exotics.” Exotics are a group of exclusive and expensive high-performance vehicles owned or rented by enthusiasts and members of car clubs. “Exotic” cars have a large following and can draw substantial crowds and car enthusiast videographers who produce videos and other content for display on the internet and social media sites. Subgroups of exotics enthusiasts also enjoy demonstrating the engine power and high performance capabilities of exotic cars and similar cars designed for street racing. These enthusiasts or groups have in the past taken over streets and intersections in towns and cities to conduct illegal street races or to engage in reckless driving behavior in events called “Sideshows." Groups and enthusiasts sometimes use messaging platforms like Twitter, Snapchat, YouTube, and/or Facebook to post videos of reckless driving and illegal car show activities. They also utilize social media to post the intended location of street racing sites with the intent to draw crowds to be spectators to dangerous acts, including speeding and burnouts through intersections.
These groups have come to Carmel-by-the-Sea in the past and continue to conduct illegal “Sideshow” events all over the country.
Due to previous illegal “sideshows” in Carmel-by-the-Sea during Car Week, the City and Police Department coordinated plans to implement traffic calming measures on Ocean Avenue in the evenings to deter the take over of intersections on Ocean
Avenue. Carmel-by-the-Sea has become known as a location where some of the most expensive and rare exotic cars are on display and drive the streets during car week.
The high end exotics were parked on display throughout Car Week and were here in our City the entire week.
Like previous years, the high end exotic cars were parked in and around the downtown area prominently presented and displayed. Due to the multiple county wide events throughout the week it appeared more visitors ascended to our city to view the exotics parked everywhere after hours. By Friday and Saturday, there were large groups of people in town all day to view the cars, and the crowds increased into the evenings as other local events concluded. In response to past activity, the Police Department was able to control and dissipate the crowds using planned staffing of additional personnel, planned traffic calming measures on Ocean Avenue, engineered controls of traffic to alleviate cruising activities. This year, Carmel-by-the-Sea Police Department were not required to utilize mutual aid from neighboring agencies. The STOPP (Strategic Traffic Observation and Prevention Program), made up of units from Carmel, Monterey, Marina, and Salinas Police Departments was not available this year due to police staffing throughout the Peninsula as these cities needed their own officers to be within their city.
As in years past, the Police Department took a “No Tolerance” approach to dangerous driving and to that end officers conducted 137 traffic stops (70 citations) for various violations including; Speeding, Exhibition of Speed, Reckless Driving, Registration Violations and Modified Exhaust. The Police Department arrested 7 subjects, took two illegal firearms off the streets, and also made one DUI arrest. They towed 13 vehicles.
The Police Department also issued approximately 320 parking citations for the week.
The Police Department quickly worked on a high-profile vandalism of 2 McLaren vehicles that had significant damage by a vandal. The subject was quickly located and taken into custody by Carmel-by-the-Sea officers within hours of the crime.
This year, the City utilized speed bump traffic calming measures on Ocean Ave which proved successful at slowing down traffic entering and exiting the village. We also utilized our VIPS program (Volunteers in Police Services) program throughout the week. The VIPS were helpful in the successful outcome of these events by providing direction and guidance to event attendees. They provided a total of 85 hours of service during these events.
Chief Trayer is interested in conducting a Community Listening Session where businesses and our community can weigh in on Car Week. This will give us an opportunity to hear exactly what areas we can focus on that were outside of the survey answers below. We are also looking at increasing training and technology to help our officers be prepared for the excessively loud vehicles. Chief Trayer has been meeting with companies to find the best tools to help in quick, accurate, and effective enforcement options.
SURVEY RESULTS
After Car Week, staff issued a survey to the community seeking feedback on the events held in Carmel and Car Week overall (Attachment 1). There were 422 respondents and 199 of those were residents. This year, the poll added a new measurement of “Conflicted” so the data is not exactly comparable to surveys in the past. Of all respondents 22% loved Car Week overall, 36% were conflicted, 7% thought it was okay, and 35% did not like it at all. Last year 66.7% loved Car Week overall, 17.5% thought it was okay, and 15.9% did not like it at all.
The lower “loved car week” appears to be the community’s dislike of the heavy traffic evening events as much of the survey pointed to. Speeding on residential streets, loud vehicles revving, and late night noise were a large part of complaints. Many community members complained about the lack of access to parking at or near their homes.
Events continue to mostly receive positive ratings. The community’s largest concerns and complaints around Car Week center around dangerous and reckless driving in Carmel and around the peninsula, disrespectful visitors, and noise. As with last year’s survey, traffic and noise impacts were of concern, not only in the village, but peninsula wide, posing challenges for locals getting to appointments, school and work. Staff does participate in interjurisdictional meetings - both for public safety agency communications and planning, and for staff processing special event permits. While these concerns are discussed, at the staff level, it would likely take a larger change in mindset not only between all of the jurisdictions regarding number of and timing of events, but also that of the business and hospitality community who are a driving force championing the economic benefits of Car Week for the entire peninsula.
PLANNING FOR 2026
At the conclusion of Car Week, the Police Department made an evaluation of efforts and will be looking to re-evaluate traffic calming and engineered controls, staffing and planning of events, seek direction on how Car Week may be adjusted next year and in years to come, and evaluate best practices and implement changes to our planning and event management based on the expectations of Council, residents, and the business communities.
Staff recommends the following for next year to try to mitigate some negative effects of Car Week:
• Community Listening Session(s) or Town Hall with Chief Trayer/City Staff • Consider and implement sound tools to allow officers greater enforcement options
• Consider adding speed humps after input from Community/PD/PW/City Staff • Consider alternate delivery routes for downtown businesses • Reconsider no parking zones and increase parking enforcement • Rented parking stalls and business responsibilities must be adhered to • Continuing to refine traffic calming measures in the downtown business district
to seriously deter the cruising behavior that draws the exotics or similarly-minded car enthusiasts who come to Carmel to view and film the cars in the evenings. • Continuing to work with event organizers to ensure security and non-police staffing for their events so that the Police Department can reserve resources for the evenings or other times to ensure Village security and to ensure a timely emergency response.
• Continuing to work with regional and state law enforcement assets to monitor car events and social media for information on illegal car activities. • Continuing to enforce the “No Tolerance” approach to dangerous or illegal street activity.
• Continuing to work with Peninsula L.E. partners in developing mutual aid responses for partner cities, including more planned resource sharing in the City.
• Continuing to improve signage and messaging through press, media, and social media to directly educate the public and potential visitors on Carmel-by-the-Sea event events and plans for road closures and police enforcement of traffic and parking rules.
Staff are also looking for Council direction on the following proposed additional mitigation tactics for next year:
• Increasing fines for certain violations of the Municipal Code during Car Week. • Completely closing Ocean Ave during the evening hours to mitigate the street takeover/block party mentality and create a safe, friendly walking environment. • Implementing the aforementioned modifications for the rental of parking stalls during Car Week
CONCLUSION
All of the permitted events held in Carmel-by-the-Sea went very smoothly this year and staff are looking forward to working with event organizers to start planning for Car Week 2026. The load-out and pre-event issues are identified and can be better planned with organizers next year.
The traffic calming measures deployed on Ocean Avenue worked well to deter many of the influential groups, and dissuaded “sideshow” events/street takeovers. City staff will look for ways to continue to improve these types of measures, in addition to exploring the deployment of strategically placed temporary speed bumps and other traffic calming measures at other potential key spots within the City limits.
Through thoughtful planning and coordination within City departments and other outside jurisdictions, staff will continue to strive to improve the safety and success of future Car Week events, and the safety of the village overall, as Car Week continues to grow in size and attendance throughout the peninsula.
FISCAL IMPACT:
None
PRIOR CITY COUNCIL ACTION:
This is an annual update to City Council with the last update on 11/04/24.
ATTACHMENTS:
1. Survey Results Car Week 2025
2. PowerPoint Car Week After Action Report 2025
I am:
421 responses
We want to know your thoughts about Car
Week and its impacts in Carmel-by-the-Sea.
423 responses
Publish analytics
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A resident of 93921
A restauranteur in 93921
A retail shop owner in…
An innkeeper in 93921
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A peninsula resident (9…
A Car Week visitor fro…
A resident of 93923
I live one block out of t…
Property owners/part-ti…
95076, formerly of Car…
A longtime Carmel Libr…
Carmel Views resident
Own a house in 93921
Resident of 93953
Resident of CbTS in 93…
Carmel native.
Big Sur
Work in 93923
Carmel part-timer (3 m…
Carmel Woods resident
part-time resident of 93…
Business owner
I am a resident of Car…
Carmel Cares Leader
Yoga studio in Carmel…
207 (49.2%)
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10/22/25, 9:50 AM
https://docs.google.com/forms/d/15hC0W7g-j9QDVliB45TfpLLAVfR9WeqvEeZAjuZUTCQ/viewanalytics 1/57 ATTACHMENT 1
How did you feel about Car Week in Carmel-by-the-Sea overall this year? 422 responses
Copy
Loved it.
It was okay.
Conflicted. The revenue is good
for the peninsula, but it is a lot.
I did not like it at all.
22.3%
35.3%
35.8%
10/22/25, 9:50 AM
https://docs.google.com/forms/d/15hC0W7g-j9QDVliB45TfpLLAVfR9WeqvEeZAjuZUTCQ/viewanalytics 2/57 ATTACHMENT 1
Why do you feel that way?
405 responses
Too much traffic
WAY TOO MUCH. really undesirable group. Noise all night long! Too many people -- too few restrooms -- too few trash cans Too noisy
No where to park, shuttle hours did not work for store hours (open at 8am or close at 10pm), visitors don't shop in stores (restaurants got business, not retail) Loved cars back on Ocean. Disliked the Lambos etc parked on streets that attract the hordes of teenagers.
Too congested on streets and highways , too much noise, did not feel safe.
Lots of cool cars
It’s not like it used to be. Very organized and feeer events and fewer out of town exotic cars racing through our town and PB
Too many people. It's difficult to drive anywhere with congested roads. There are car shows not only Carmel, but Pebble Beach, Pacific Grove, Monterey and Carmel Valley and people, some of them rowdy, everywhere.
The Penninsula is too small for what has become a very large event. the residents feel hostage to either stay at home or leave town. Our infrastructure cannot handle 100,000 people. Seeing how we pay the taxes here, i think it is very unfair to expect us to put up with increasing crime and unruly behavior. I have experienced harassment on the road, there is a new unsavory element that has come in, not like before when the event was small.
Why are cars allowed to make SO MUCH NOISE?? If 'police' won't do anything about it, why are they employed?
Traffic was THE WORST EVER!! Out quiet street was used for a race track and a constant flow of shuttle vehicles.
Traffic is chaotic, with drunk visitors acting out or driving recklessly. too much traffic that impedes appointments, etc. Not enough county wide coordination and too much noise from the exotics.
10/22/25, 9:50 AM
https://docs.google.com/forms/d/15hC0W7g-j9QDVliB45TfpLLAVfR9WeqvEeZAjuZUTCQ/viewanalytics 3/57 ATTACHMENT 1
Traffic, noise, rude, entitled and dangerous drivers. It took me 1-1/2 hours to drive from Pacific Grove to Mission Ranch.
Love cars and the energy!
Lots of traffic and noise levels are high
I don’t mind the crowds for a limited time, but the car noise was excessive this year, as was the speeding and generally unsafe driving behavior in town and throughout Pebble Beach (we live close to the 2nd Ave gate). There definitely did not seem to be enough police and CHP to manage the traffic in town and on the highways, or to make residents feel safe from the crazy, dangerous drivers
To many people, to noisy, to many traffic violations like running stop signs, disrespect of locals and were sales in town really that profitable for local merchants? Massive frat party with many high risk situations involving big cars and children in close proximity.
events are great but visitors are disrespectful of the community. Lots of noise, speeding and dead squirrels all over our roads.
Three words: traffic, traffic, traffic. Plus lots and lots of noise and crazy, dangerous, disrespectful drivers!!!
Raises funds for local charities, business and local government. I’d reduce the police presence.
The donuts on ocean occurred 5 years ago enough already The daytime organized events are nice but the influx of people to look at supercars parked on the street feels like an invasion.
Beautiful cars, enjoy welcoming visitors from all over the world.
Every year it gets worse with the loud cars. We live overlooking Pescadero Canyon and the noise from 17 mile Drive and all around is so unbearable that we have taken to leaving town for the second half of the week until Monday the past 5 years. The shows on Ocean Avenue are nice. But the the exotic cars with young people egging them on, have no business in this town.
Carmel is a nice quiet, small little town and not equipped to handle all those numbers of people and cars.
We had to have an important family gathering (my father's funeral) and the family could not gather properly due to ALL the other people and cost. I know it's important for revenue but life (death) is important too.
It’s a really great opportunity to see beautiful cars and showcase our amazing village 10/22/25, 9:50 AM
https://docs.google.com/forms/d/15hC0W7g-j9QDVliB45TfpLLAVfR9WeqvEeZAjuZUTCQ/viewanalytics 4/57 ATTACHMENT 1
The traffic and congestion were outrageous. The event has morphed over the past decades from two events to over two dozen, WITHOUT the consent of the residents that have to put up with the mess. Yes, it's good for business -- but at what point do we put the brakes on "development" and "good for business" at the expense of quality of life?!? The events and revenue are fantastic. The construction zones are absolutely ridiculous. So many projects started just before carweek? The roundabout at the grade absolutely could have been postponed a week or two. They always run late anyways. Sitting for an hour at a red-light is insane.
The car show in Carmel has lost its charm. Too many events have saturated our community.
Carmel-by-the-Sea for the week of Car Week reminds me of so many Friday nights while I was in high school in the Bay Area: a bunch of folks (teens back then) mindlessly cruising up and down the El Camino on the Bay Area’s peninsula in search of something to do. Our beautiful little village turns into a chaotic, unsafe and unwelcoming place to call home.
Too many disrespectful people who could care less about our beautiful landscape, thoughtful community, residents, wildlife, etc. The biggest problem is punk 20 something males pretending or not pretending to be macho: racing, raving, raving, running lights and stop signs even in the quietest parts of 93921 and 93923
Late for appointments, Raucous noises, increase of lawlessness , late for work, excess expense for city clean-up after the mess left behind, law enforcement, impeding medical needs, ie. ambulance, not all “non-hospitality businesses” not patronized (loss of revenue), hardship on the infrastructure!!
So fun as ever! LOVE the tues event in carmel
It has gotten too big and out of hand and away from just the concourse. It’s unsafe for the children of carmel to even leave the house that week with crazy drunk drivers on every street.
Too many people, too much noise this year. It seemed out of control at times.
I love seeing the classic and exotic cars against our beautiful city backdrop. I made 30 tasteful Instagram reels downtown Tuesday, Wednesday, and Thursday on my @stacyincarmel account. Please enjoy!
Great for the city and enjoyed the excitement
Loud speeding cars all night long. Congestion on Hwy in and out of town. No parking The blocked-off streets hurt our businesses!!!
Enjoyed looking at the cars but not the reckless speeding and bad behavior. 10/22/25, 9:50 AM
https://docs.google.com/forms/d/15hC0W7g-j9QDVliB45TfpLLAVfR9WeqvEeZAjuZUTCQ/viewanalytics 5/57 ATTACHMENT 1
I enjoy seeing visitors having fun!
Too many people and events. The attitudes of most visitors were rude and entitled Too much traffic, people had to shut their businesses because their clients couldn’t get there, people who work were stuck in traffic and lost work time and had increased childcare costs, the noise and pollution were terrible, the peninsula isn’t big enough to deal with a massive event like this. No one calculates the cost in terms of water, infrastructure, pollution, lost work, increased childcare costs, lost time stuck in traffic and the stress it puts on the community.
Loved seeing the cars! Exasperated with the traffic since I had to travel to appointments.
E habit my cars and enjoy energy of the events
First off, thank you for giving residents a chance to voice what we go through during car week.
We wish Pebble Beach cared about those of us who have to endure all the noise, crowds, chaos & inconvenience. Looking at nice cars is one thing - letting them drive on tiny streets both in CBTS and PB is ludicrous. It’s not healthy when workers are stressed b/c they can’t get to work on time, and we can’t sleep b/c loud muffler-less car engines are screaming through the roads past midnight. It’s inconvenient - we have to do all grocery shopping, not schedule appts - basically prisoners for more than a week b/c we can’t get in or out of our neighborhoods. Everywhere you go prior and after the event - grocery stores, doctors office, hair salons - the ‘bad’ experiences, accidents, noise, crowds, theft, traffic - it’s all anyone talks about. Why? We didn’t spend a lot of money to purchase homes here and pay exhorbitant taxes to live with this. No one cares what residents have to endure. It’s all about the mighty dollar.
We’d love to see someone back out all the expenses of extra law enforcement, employee’s time lost sitting in traffic, responding to accidents, and on and on, taken out of the so-called ‘boom in economy’ the event stimulates. Seriously, if a Motel 6 can charge more than $1000 a night during car week and doesn’t make money? It’s a skewed number that’s reported to media, and we’re foolish for falling for it!
Loud, traffic violations, lost some of its quality and class.
My family leaves town typically for at least some of car week. We can’t handle the noise, the personalities, the traffic. I wish there was a way that it could be shorter and more concentrated to one or two geographic areas versus feeling like the entire peninsula is taken over. I also wish, and I almost never say this, that there was more police presence.
The growing chaos, the vandalism, the groups of young men in hoodies and speeding muscle cars in Carmel. This is not the Car Week of ten years ago, and I almost didn’t feel safe walking around, especially in the evening.
Car show needs to move else where. It costs many local people trying to get their kids to school, get to work…
It’s become a risk as roads are blocked, drunk drivers, hinders fire personnel from getting to 10/22/25, 9:50 AM
https://docs.google.com/forms/d/15hC0W7g-j9QDVliB45TfpLLAVfR9WeqvEeZAjuZUTCQ/viewanalytics 6/57 ATTACHMENT 1
areas.
It’s to big for our small community areas. It needs to move…. too many people,. bad timing with school starting, crazy traffic, rude visitors Town was filled with a bunch of entitled punks who had no respect for the City or its residents .
Was a participant in the Tuesday Carmel Concours for a Cause. A nice low key event.
Spectated at the Thursday events (Ferrari show and Prancing Ponies). Enjoyed this less…pretty crowded and the music was too loud.
Traffic! 😳☹️😳
Three beautiful car shows on Ocean Ave!
Car Week should never go away, however it is far too long and out of control now.
The congested traffic made it impossible to get to classes that I take in town. I also had trouble getting home with my groceries because of all the car carriers blocking lanes of traffic at the mouth of the Valley.
rude drivers, noise especially at night , engines blasting on the beckoning roads in pebble beach, big behaverial changes. And much more.
Of all years this was the most crowded....over crowded
People drinking in the streets next to cops, no rules, total chaos, can’t get to work.
The event on Ocean is unique for Car Week, and I really appreciate that. I especially like the interviews with the car owners. Having the fantastic old and new cars driving around town during the week gives me a reason to walk downtown and hang out. It's a classy event that draws a classy group of tourists, and I like that.
I stock up on groceries, make my kids take the bus, and enjoy all the free goodies! It’s like living in a real city for 1 week a year. I do not particularly like the hoodlums (middle of street just to take photos and not for actual events) but that’s good for us to be shaken up a bit.
I've generally been pretty tolerant of Car Week because it brings a lot of business to the community and many people really enjoy it. This year may have finally broken me though. The traffic, noise and number of people was far more overwhelming. In previous years. I could live my life with car week in the background. This year, however, it was impossible to get anywhere or do anything. I ended up cancelling several appointments because getting to them would have taken hours. I did enjoy walking around the events we hosted in Carmel and the two I attended seemed to be well organized and the visitors were polite. But after hours things would just get crazy across the entire peninsula - I was hearing the cars all night long. 10/22/25, 9:50 AM
https://docs.google.com/forms/d/15hC0W7g-j9QDVliB45TfpLLAVfR9WeqvEeZAjuZUTCQ/viewanalytics 7/57 ATTACHMENT 1
It's too crowded and too busy with cars desperate trying to find parking. If the city wants the revenue, then a shuttle from Larson Field into town should be considered. And turn Ocean Ave into a pedestrian mall. Cars in town were miserable! Trying to walk our dogs in the residential portions was an exercise in avoiding getting hit.
I love the energy and vibrancy it brings to town. Once week a year it's OK to be a little crazy! Lots of beautiful cars and energy!
Unlawful reckless and dangerous driving and a week of unbearable noise Traffic impacts and CO2 emissions
We live above Carmel Valley Rd, across from CMS. The racing and backfiring engines at all hours are very disruptive for the week—exponentially louder than at any other time of the year. I can live with the daytime noise, but cars race on CV Road at 2am and 3am, at high speed. It wakes up my household. The night racing is unsafe and truly obnoxious. I’m upset that our local law enforcement allows it. It happens every year but was worse this year.
Way too many people and too much traffic congestion for a town this small. Time to start canceling some of the events and move most of them out to Laguna Seca.
I only went out “as necessary” during the week and stayed away from Carmel.
It was a way to see the cars if you are not attending the Pebble Beach de’Elegance.
Streets VERY crowded with traffic nonstop. All restaurants packed with people, so we can't eat there. No parking available within 5 blocks of Ocean Ave, north or south. Ferrari drivers racing their engines at all hours of day or night.
I welcome visitors to Carmel, I like that charities benefit, but feel that the peninsula cannot safely sustain the volume of people.
al classy events except the Prancing Ponies, that was too many on the same day and it was not a classy show.
As a resident and avid car buff and owner of both classic collector and modern supercars we have traditionally loved car week. However, something was different this year. Not sure if it has changed because of a younger crowd, more people or influencers.
Great energy, very positive!
There are too many events and it has grown too large. Further, they "type" of visitor seems to have shifted over the years. It used to be nice people who wanted top look at and trade old cars. The addition of more and more hypercars, "classic" muscle cars and other racing cars 10/22/25, 9:50 AM
https://docs.google.com/forms/d/15hC0W7g-j9QDVliB45TfpLLAVfR9WeqvEeZAjuZUTCQ/viewanalytics 8/57 ATTACHMENT 1
that are not really related to the prior nostalgic theme of what the Concourse used to be, it has drawn a younger crowd that is more prone to street racing, making as much noise as possible, exhibitions of speed, aggressive driving behavior and other borderline conduct. Car week has nothing to do with elegance any more. It is now "Carmageddon." Great cars, lots of patronage for local businesses and I thought all the events on Ocean Ave were exceptional this year.
People are classy, rude, and drive too fast
For the 3rd year in a row, Car week is so disruptive that our business drops consistently 40% that week. No locals come in to shop. We experience a rise in theft and consequently have to spend more money on payroll to have additional staff. We have 15 weeks a year that are really our bread and butter months. To have Car week fall during a month that would be busy regardless is a real shame. Why not do Car week during the slow season? I have spoken to several Carmel retail shop owners who suffer greatly in Carmel due to the traffic and the crowd not being interested in experiencing Carmel, but rather just seeing the cars. We have brought a beautiful business to Carmel and we are heartbroken each year at car week to see that Carmel does absolutely nothing to help out their small retailers during this time. In fact, we basically give up one of the best 15 weeks of revenue we have of the year, so that Carmel can benefit from the tax revenue of hotels gouging their pricing. Hotels, Bars and restaurants, and some select luxury goods shops are the only ones winning . Everyone one else pays for their win.
Due to the overwhelming theft that we experienced, along with the disruption of our business, I am looking into my legal rights. In other cities that have major disruption events such as Super Bowl, Coachella where there the increased revenue to the city is not equally distributed (Meaning there are clear winners -Hotels / and clear losers - small local retails), a Business Mitigation Fund is set up to off-set the expense to the small local businesses. I have done a lot of research on this and would love to share it and talk to someone in the City Council about getting this on the agenda. Through only word of mouth, I've got at least 15 small shops interested in doing anything they can to support this, and i haven't even begun to organize anything official. Can you please let me know the name of someone at the City level that I can speak to about presenting the idea of a Business Mitigation fund, and to show my research on how other cities handle Majorly Disruptive Events?
Impossible to get from work and home. I work in emergency care and it was impossible to get anywhere I needed to be quickly. This situation can be life or death.
I took a 50% hit on sales in my business. The young male crowd was more of an impact than a benefit to the town.
It used to be manageable with only one main event downtown, now 3 days of events dowtown is way too much. Too crowed, people speeding and showing off. The police did a great job, but they were out numbered and too much on their plate. My vote is ONE event downtown only.
Road closure for a car rally Thursday around 12:30 at the time of schools getting out (early to accommodate the car week traffic as it was) delayed parents to young children in our schools - 10/22/25, 9:50 AM
https://docs.google.com/forms/d/15hC0W7g-j9QDVliB45TfpLLAVfR9WeqvEeZAjuZUTCQ/viewanalytics 9/57 ATTACHMENT 1
approving a closure we should be considering the schools and traffic patterns for buses.
SPEEDING cars all week down Rio revving engines all hours.
I attended the events in Carmel, and enjoyed them.
So many loud cars and careless driving. Lots of young people just trying to capture photos and willing to run into traffic to do it. Scary!
I live in Pebble Beach. I don't like the loud cars revving their engines all night long and doing burnouts and donuts on the streets. If they want to drive like that, go to a race track. They are a bunch of inconsiderate jerks.
Although a lover of cars, I do not feel Carmel or the larger area is capable of managing the number of visitors during car week. What starts as a great event, ends as extremely disruptive making area residents and small businesses consider leaving for the week.
Too many people, too much traffic
Too many events around the peninsula. Traffic is awful everywhere.
The speeding up and down Carpenter and even smaller streets was horrible The excessive traffic puts too much demand on the roads and residents. The cars racing into the night up and down Carmel Valley Road are dangerous and not fair to the residents.I think additional sheriffs/police officers/CHIPs need to be brought in to minimize this.
Carmel is where I do much of my business; for the entire week the gates to Carmel were closed. Locals were forgotten.
I work for a small business on the peninsula, and we had a major decrease in business during car week since we serve local clientele. My commute also increased so much that I had to double my gas budget which, as a solo parent, that was a logistical and financial hit.
Additionally, the reckless driving incidents add a level of anxiety to the traffic frustration.
Love seeing the cars and appreciate the economic benefits car weeks make to the area The noise and congestion is not so good for residents. In particular, there were many cars speeding along 17 Mile Drive in Del Monte Canyon. The noise from the mufflers…unbearable.
Night and day.
Noise, pollution, traffic, "jerks" with cars, ...glad I don't live in the city. But, just going to Trader Joe's requires very careful timing and oodles of patience. God help me if I had a medical emergency (senior).
303 more responses are hidden
10/22/25, 9:50 AM
https://docs.google.com/forms/d/15hC0W7g-j9QDVliB45TfpLLAVfR9WeqvEeZAjuZUTCQ/viewanalytics 10/57 ATTACHMENT 1
EVENTS
Did you attend the Concours for a Cause event on Tuesday, August 12? 422 responses
How did you feel about the Concours for a Cause event on Tuesday, August 12?
346 responses
Did you atend the Astons on the Avenue Car Show on Ocean Avenue on Wednesday, August 13?
419 responses
Copy
Yes
60% No
40%
Copy
Loved it.
It was okay.
I did not like it at all.
What event?
NA
Did not attend
did not attend
1/9
16.2%
17.6%
34.1%
Copy
Yes
No
67.8%
32.2%
10/22/25, 9:50 AM
https://docs.google.com/forms/d/15hC0W7g-j9QDVliB45TfpLLAVfR9WeqvEeZAjuZUTCQ/viewanalytics 11/57 ATTACHMENT 1
How did you feel about the Astons on the Avenue Car Show on Ocean Avenue on Wednesday, August 13?
306 responses
Did you attend the Prancing Ponies All Woman Car Show on Ocean Avenue on Thursday, August 14?
416 responses
How did you feel about the Prancing Ponies All Woman Car Show on Ocean Avenue on Thursday, August 14?
316 responses
Copy
Loved it.
It was okay.
I did not like it at all.
What event on Ocean Avenue?
Did not attend
NA
N/A
1/9
17.6%
8.5%
18%
25.8%
Copy
Yes
No 64.7%
35.3%
Copy
Loved it.
It was okay.
I did not like it at all.
What event on Ocean Avenue?
Did not attend
NA
did not attend
1/9
24.1%
14.2%
14.2%
15.8%
10/22/25, 9:50 AM
https://docs.google.com/forms/d/15hC0W7g-j9QDVliB45TfpLLAVfR9WeqvEeZAjuZUTCQ/viewanalytics 12/57 ATTACHMENT 1
Did you attend the Ferrari Owner's Club event on Dolores Street on Thursday, August 14?
415 responses
How did you feel about the Ferrari Owner's Club Concours Carmel event on Dolores Street on Thursday, August 14?
303 responses
How do you feel about the events in Carmel-by-the-Sea in general this year?
397 responses
Copy
Yes
No
Too crowded
See above
not this year.
as above
Tried to, but the noise, crowd…
1/3
64.8%
30.8%
Copy
Loved it.
It was okay.
I did not like it at all.
What event on Dolores Street?
Did not attend
NA
See above
1/8
19.1%
9.2%
18.5% 27.1%
Copy
Loved them.
They were okay.
I did not like them at all.
Too many
Did not attend
Too many people -- walked by…
Too many people and activities.
1/13
20.4%
23.7%
28%
10/22/25, 9:50 AM
https://docs.google.com/forms/d/15hC0W7g-j9QDVliB45TfpLLAVfR9WeqvEeZAjuZUTCQ/viewanalytics 13/57 ATTACHMENT 1
Why do you feel that way?
326 responses
See previous answer
See above
No class!
Too many people, not enough control
Again, just too noisy. And cars driving a bit too fast.
Congestion in town with no real answer for employee parking.
Liked the variety that was done years ago
I’m all for a good time but the week has gotten out of hand. Safety concerns, etc as mentioned above.
Variety, quality, entertaining
Liked how it was when they exhibited and judged all the cars on ocean and interviewed the owners. That was great and missed. It was also very organized Carmel is taken over by outsiders. It's difficult to even get to Carmel.
As stated before, it has become too crowed and too hard to get around Above
Carmel is lovely and felt welcomed there.
Too many events. I thought a few years ago we said no more than 2.
They’ve changed the character of our community. It feels like the Hamptons Love cars and the momentum. I get there are some hurdles but worth it for what it all brings to our town.
Too much going on on Thursday.
They kept the cars from racing down Ocean but did little to encourage safety (pedestrians swarming all over moving cars).
10/22/25, 9:50 AM
https://docs.google.com/forms/d/15hC0W7g-j9QDVliB45TfpLLAVfR9WeqvEeZAjuZUTCQ/viewanalytics 14/57 ATTACHMENT 1
I miss the tour d elegance, I think the City should work with Pebble Beach to get it back. I also think we have too many shows. I think we should only close City streets twice - Tuesday and Thursday
Too much congestion, traffic, noise and dangerous drivers.
Because Carmel is special, so are the events.
Love everything but Car Week.
They cause incredible congestion, traffic, chaos, bad driving behavior.
Carmel by the sea is a historic location for carweek, as soon as the car events end in carmel by the sea, the love of car week will decline. Exotics on canary row was a fantastic show, it was changed to the Broadway location in seaside and now it's a pointless stop. Please dont get rid of the carmel bts shows
Reduce the number of events (to one car show only on one day only in our village), and other events will be better appreciated. I like the cadence of events in the village throughout the year; it’s only Car Week that’s really troubling.
Again, too many people driving.
Too many tourists with no respect
Organized, safe, the weather, the car prices matched the real estate Great energy, fun crows, beautiful weather.
The events bring people in to do more than eat and shop. Strangers have an opportunity to exchange information, joy and excitement about something they all love, cars! See previous answer.
I look forward to these car events. They have gotten so popular that parking and traffic is heavily impacted. (The Hatton Canyon freeway would have helped locals navigate around the bottlenecks. Just dreaming...)
Good variety and free to the public.
It’s too much! Like the Mayor stated - too many people and cars in a tiny quaint town. Too many cars in what’s supposed to be a quiet forest. The shuttles probably helped and that needs to be expanded. Bring the people in and leave ALL the cars out - out of Carmel, Carmel Valley and Pebble Beach. Tall order, but that’s the answer that needs figured out. 10/22/25, 9:50 AM
https://docs.google.com/forms/d/15hC0W7g-j9QDVliB45TfpLLAVfR9WeqvEeZAjuZUTCQ/viewanalytics 15/57 ATTACHMENT 1
No longer a classic show.
The Carmel events are improving over the last year or two, though the Aston Martin event was a bit repetitious…so many of the same car, BUT it’s the gangs of young men in hoodies we now see who I doubt are spending significant money in Carmel but are clogging the sidewalks that disturb me. They and the fast, loud cars they drove or gawked at, made me feel unsafe. We also saw one of the damaged McLarens…alarming.
Not enough parking
too many people, too much traffic, rude visitors
Too many people who have no respect for Carmel !!!!
Loved the Tuesday show. The Thursday Ferrari and Prancing Ponies shows were too chaotic! Suggest moving one of them to a different day…
Well organized and supervised.
Minimal crowds… Weather OK.
Local infrastructure cannot support that many people. With so many free events, the crowds were too big this year. Cell phones didn’t even work, due to live streamers using up bandwidth.
They caused traffic congestion and street closures that kept me out of town and away from businesses and restaurants that I usually frequent.
read my comments at the beginning of the survey
The Ferrari event is very classy and we loved the LIVE ITALIAN MUSIC!! Need more food and wine.
These events inject a liveliness into the air.
I’m just explained why on the first page! Haha
It was fun having a few events in the village that I could walk to and enjoy for free. The crowds for the events I attended seemed polite. The size of the events didn't feel overwhelming.
Helps us as residents to plan our day and know what to expect The car events are important to the community because they bring people in to buy and eat/drink. If the City were to not do them, you'd still have lots of the "influencers" in town anyway. I think the car events actually bring in the "normal" crowd. 10/22/25, 9:50 AM We want to know your thoughts about Car Week and its impacts in Carmel-by-the-Sea. https://docs.google.com/forms/d/15hC0W7g-j9QDVliB45TfpLLAVfR9WeqvEeZAjuZUTCQ/viewanalytics 16/57 ATTACHMENT 1
Too many people and not enough law enforcement. Many dangerous driving maneuvers that could have seriously injured someone. Our family got no sleep for 10 days It is a big deal economically for the peninsula. One of the neighboring municipalities purchased an app to track cellphone data, and saw a 2000% increase in some business visits.
Car week events are generally not compelling for me. I’d go see a show of old VW buses and bugs, maybe. Keep meaning to get to the Concours de Lemons in Seaside. Next year.
It's just not formatted the right way
The cars.
Most of the cars were not that interesting.
Too conjested.
again, all except Prancing Ponies that had actual rental cars being shown, and a low-quality fashion show.
Love being able to walk to events. Meet true car buffs, our neighbors and support the community.
Great job on these local events. They keep getting better every year. Our concern isn’t with these events , it is with the shift in attendees, lack of respect for local host community (Carmel and Monterey) as well as neighbors. Personally witnessed young adults slamming beers on our street corner and then driving, drugs and disrespect towards locals. . Never seen this at car week before.
Carmel is a great place for families - I think we could do more to attract/welcome them.
Multiple times throughout the entire evening/night of Friday and Saturday, people driving their race cars down Rio Road past the mission and towards Highway 1 feel like they have to rev their engines and make as much engine noise as possible. It is loud and not welcome.
Exceptional and interesting cars.
Doesn’t help business owners
One of the worst parts of the planning is that our block on San Carlos was blocked to Traffic for two days, with no Show Cars parked on our block. So there was no attraction, but also no parking and no reason for people to walk down that block. Completely unfair to tax paying businesses. Felt really screwed by Carmel
Traffic and reckless behavior
10/22/25, 9:50 AM We want to know your thoughts about Car Week and its impacts in Carmel-by-the-Sea. https://docs.google.com/forms/d/15hC0W7g-j9QDVliB45TfpLLAVfR9WeqvEeZAjuZUTCQ/viewanalytics 17/57 ATTACHMENT 1
Not that exciting, need to condense all of them to ONE day only.
We walked from our home to enjoy with our children. Attendees littering while walking. Not abiding crosswalk safety. It’s just a lot when running children to after school activities, no parking for them - disruptive.
I enjoy the cars and people watching
Didn't participate
I'm a lifelong "car guy" and love car week. It does seem to be getting a bit too chaotic though.
Because the car owners are a bunch of juveniles who want everyone to see how loud their cars are. "My car will do zero-to-sixty in 1.2 seconds!!!" Yeah...and you still have to stop at all the red lights, don't you?
Although it was nice to look at the cars at each event, the pleasure was outweighed by the negatives of crowds and traffic.
Just too much
The events have outgrown the location.
The people watching is fun and seeing all the exotic cars is a blast Please see previous note regarding noise and congestion. again, this is a dirty event for the wealthy that makes daily living activities very difficult In general, I appreciate the events in Carmel.
Carmel is a village grounded in an ethic of environmental responsibility and sensitivity, and these events that feature fast autos that burn tremendous amounts of fossil fuels are not in tune with that heritage. One can only cringe at the amount of CO2 and other toxic pollutants that were emitted by all the cars and all the private planes and all the trucks carrying these cars from all over the country. And the noise and disrespect shown to residents and neighborhoods is just too much. The money may be good, but what is sacrificed for it is not worth it.
Too big for the town in terms of traffic. My street was a parking lot as folks tried to leave.
Need to cap cars entering the city to park and require remaining people to park off site and shuttle into town
10/22/25, 9:50 AM We want to know your thoughts about Car Week and its impacts in Carmel-by-the-Sea. https://docs.google.com/forms/d/15hC0W7g-j9QDVliB45TfpLLAVfR9WeqvEeZAjuZUTCQ/viewanalytics 18/57 ATTACHMENT 1
Too crowded for small community, very rude driving behavior for over a week by visitors, dangerous walking in town and on neighborhood streets.
THE NEGATIVE IMPACT ON THE VILLAGE AND THE BUSINESSES IS TOO SEVERE.
Not enough events for young artsy people
Parking and traffic in town was a nightmare!
Too many events in town and mediocre quality.
Carmel is so limited on parking as it is that it’s such a challenge when so many tourist come to town.
The Concours for a Cause event and the Ferrari Club event were fantastic! The PONIES event needs to be on a different day or another place. The cars are NOT HIGH END ENOUGH to be IN CARMEL with FERRARIS! DOES NOT MATCH and brings the event DOWN! Same answer as before.
I chose not to attend any of the events in Carmel-By-The-Sea because I knew that traveling into that town would be a crowded mess. Those roads are cramped enough on a regular day, let alone during Car Week. A lack of parking is a huge impediment for me to attend these events.
If we had increased publicly provided transportation similar to the trolley system between Monterey and Cannery Row to provide locals access to the Carmel-by-the-Sea events, then I'd be more inclined to attend.
Nothing works during Car Week: one cannot go to a doctor’s appts, pick up kids from school, go grocery shopping because of Car Week Traffic. I couldn’t even walk my dog, 6 Ferraris were roaring through the neighborhood!
See first answer. And I used to enjoy it. And I can still understand it’s a money maker. But it’s untenable for it to be so clearly unsafe and congested.
I think it was due to a lack of security. Passes were required in previous years and I didn’t see that this year. I strongly suggest making it a ticketed event to raise money not only for the city, but also for security reasons.
Traffic was jammed up all three days of the events, plus at night when people came to town to just hang out. Way more traffic than other years.
Good for Carmel. Crowds got tiresome.
I'd like to see only two events....Concours for a Cause and Astons on the Avenue. Prancing Ponies and the Ferrari Club just aren't that interesting. 10/22/25, 9:50 AM We want to know your thoughts about Car Week and its impacts in Carmel-by-the-Sea. https://docs.google.com/forms/d/15hC0W7g-j9QDVliB45TfpLLAVfR9WeqvEeZAjuZUTCQ/viewanalytics 19/57 ATTACHMENT 1
The parked cars are fine. It’s all the people driving around with very loud cars and speeding which seems to go hand in hand with the events.
It greatly impacts our daily routine in a negative manner.
See previous statement
223 more responses are hidden
SHUTTLES
Did you use the City provided free parking and shuttle for any of the events this year?
423 responses
If you answered, "Yes" what days did you use the shuttle service? 18 responses
Copy
Yes
No
What shuttle?
8%
86.5%
Copy
Tuesday
Wednesday
Thursday
All of the above
22.2%
16.7%
44.4%
16.7%
10/22/25, 9:50 AM We want to know your thoughts about Car Week and its impacts in Carmel-by-the-Sea. https://docs.google.com/forms/d/15hC0W7g-j9QDVliB45TfpLLAVfR9WeqvEeZAjuZUTCQ/viewanalytics 20/57 ATTACHMENT 1
If you answered, "Yes" how did you find the quality of service? If you answered, "Yes" would you use the shuttle service again during Car Week to attend events?
40 responses
If you didn't use the shuttle services or didn't know there was a shuttle service would you be interested in trying it out to attend next year's Car Week events?
335 responses
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Easy to find field and
shuttle stops
Regularity of shuttles Ease of parking Niceness of shuttles 0 10
20 Excellent Okay Sub par No comment
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Yes
Maybe
No
We walked since so close. Bu…
Did not use
More shutlle buses needed! T…
No because I live in town and…
Shuttle for workers? for locals…
1/2
17.5%
10%
55%
Copy
Yes
Maybe
No
I used it and it was perfect
We live in walkable area.
N/A as live within walking dist…
I live in town
1/6
19.4%
53.4%
13.4%
10/22/25, 9:50 AM We want to know your thoughts about Car Week and its impacts in Carmel-by-the-Sea. https://docs.google.com/forms/d/15hC0W7g-j9QDVliB45TfpLLAVfR9WeqvEeZAjuZUTCQ/viewanalytics 21/57 ATTACHMENT 1
If you answered, "Maybe" or "No" to the above question, why? 187 responses
I live in town
Can walk
Didn’t need the shuttle
Hours of the shuttle didn't work for my schedule. (open at 8am or close at 10pm) I can walk to events. I live close to town
I'm not overly interested in cars, but I might go if I could get to it.
I’m not interested in going to the events
I walk to events downtown.
Events are too crowded
Because I walked into town from where I live.
I live in town and I walk
I live in town - no need for a shuttle.
Live in walking distance of downtown.
I live locally and walk to most of the events
I'm not interested in Car Week events.
We would love to use it next year
The inconvenience, the massive crowds.
We have a concours park pass and bikes
I could just walk to the events if I wanted to risk my life on the streets that week Other locals and visitors told ne there were long lines and delays 10/22/25, 9:50 AM We want to know your thoughts about Car Week and its impacts in Carmel-by-the-Sea. https://docs.google.com/forms/d/15hC0W7g-j9QDVliB45TfpLLAVfR9WeqvEeZAjuZUTCQ/viewanalytics 22/57 ATTACHMENT 1
We live close enough we can walk.
We walk to events and don’t need to use the service.
I don't have the luxury of being able to spend a lot of time waiting for a shuttle.
We, as PB residents, are literally forced to leave for the week, and have done so since 2020.
Sad but true. So it costs us more even money to leave our home. It’s simply not worth the abundant headaches and inconvenience. We couldn’t even go on a walk w/out seeing things like six Porches in a driveway on Riata gunning their engines all at once. It’s senseless. And, forget about the 30 day min rental rule - it’s violated over and over that week! These car events puts too much stress on our infrastructure and day to day life for locals all over the peninsula. It's become outrageous!
I have to be at work early every day during Car Week. I don’t want to have to start my day even earlier so I can catch a shuttle (or risk being late if the shuttle doesn’t run as expected).
I have no interest in Car Week activities.
see above
Easiest for us to just walk in
I hate traffic so when I was working, I leave early and get home late. I definitely don’t want to be dealing with traffic in a shuttle where they don’t use side streets to get around it! I just park two blocks further away - parking it really not that big of a deal.
I get to work early enough to find parking
Sounds like a good option if I decided to go downtown—but I usually prefer to stay away from crowded places that I could visit at quieter times.
I'm heading to Long Beach for that week
I live in town and didn't need them.
I don't need the shuttle. I live walking distance to downtown.
Live locally and usually able to find parking or walk.
I walked from my house, 15 minutes.
10/22/25, 9:50 AM We want to know your thoughts about Car Week and its impacts in Carmel-by-the-Sea. https://docs.google.com/forms/d/15hC0W7g-j9QDVliB45TfpLLAVfR9WeqvEeZAjuZUTCQ/viewanalytics 23/57 ATTACHMENT 1
Not sure I am willing to go through the pain in order to attend the event I am able to walk to the Ocean Ave events.
too many people
Too much work to participate in something I'm lukewarm about.
I have no interest in attending any events because they negatively impact my daily life during Car Week.
I have yet to engage in car week but may in the future.
Didn't know about it, might have attended an event
I live in town and can walk
See above…too many people for small area throughout the peninsula but especially downtown Carmel.
i find Car Week to be a bit over the top causing stress and hardship to many
THE ONLY CAR EVENT I WANT TO GO TO IS WHAT USED TO HAPPEN ON OCEAN AVE WITH THE ELEGANT OLD CARS. IT WAS BEAUTIFULLY DONE FOR HALF A DAY.
I answered it above.
I can walk to the events I want to go to
Why would I use a stupid shuttle in a small town? You guys are not Monterey. Is this what you wasted tax payers money on? Really?!? You couldn’t have thought of making another public parking lot?! By the way, I asked a lot of people that came into town for these events and they have the same opinion as I do. If the point of these shuttles was to solve parking issues and traffic, you failed!
I can easily walk to town.
In general this entire event is over-attended and recently poorly organized for the size of Carmel.
I have no interest in any of the events.
Hope to leave town next year during car week. Heard a lot of people say that after this year’s events.
10/22/25, 9:50 AM We want to know your thoughts about Car Week and its impacts in Carmel-by-the-Sea. https://docs.google.com/forms/d/15hC0W7g-j9QDVliB45TfpLLAVfR9WeqvEeZAjuZUTCQ/viewanalytics 24/57 ATTACHMENT 1
I live in Pebble Beach, so I have generally not needed to use the shuttle, but I think it would be a great idea to reduce traffic.
No because I live within walking distance of Ocean Avenue Not needed
Depends on the findings from this study
Not interested.
Depends on where it goes. We get Beach Club parking and have friends who love bear the lodge so likely not use it. We live in unincorporated Carmel on the Point.
I parked in my driveway and walked into town
Not needed
I live within walking distance but it is a great initiative so residents can use their “regular” street parking.
Too much noise and too many people
Would probably opt for an uber
We live closer to town that to the Mission and walk into town every day I want nothing to do with this event ever again. I want it to go away.
We only go to one event that provides parking.
I walk to town from home.
Like to drive my own car
Don’t need a shuttle.
No interest
Not interested in the cars
I plan on leaving town that week
10/22/25, 9:50 AM We want to know your thoughts about Car Week and its impacts in Carmel-by-the-Sea. https://docs.google.com/forms/d/15hC0W7g-j9QDVliB45TfpLLAVfR9WeqvEeZAjuZUTCQ/viewanalytics 25/57 ATTACHMENT 1
I live in Carmel Woods, though I lived my growing up years inside Carmel proper. It seems pointless to drive from the Woods to the Mission to park and shuttle into town. I chose to stay home.
Depends on frequency and ease of parking wherever they pick up I live in Carmel
As stated in my previous answer
The events I attend outside of 93921 I get to before they open, and I participate. I need my car with me! I recommend the shuttle to all my friends.
Doesn't apply to me
Not use to shuttling into my town
I can walk
Too many people here cat week
I just want to hide during car week now.
I am not interested in attending Car Week, so I would not use the shuttle for it. I do, however, think it is a good idea to have a shuttle. If more people used it, that would reduce traffic on the roads, which I am in favor of.
all depends upon ease of use and frequency of rides
Took an hour and a half to drive from PG to Carmel
Depends on location of parking/shuttle service as well as frequency. Coming from Hwy 68\airport side, it would be nice to provide parking north of Ocean to not have to drive past Carmel.
Nothing to do with the shuttle- I generally don’t attend any car week events Won’t support car week. Refuse to.
Events are not for me.
Not interested in cars
Cancel Car Week
10/22/25, 9:50 AM We want to know your thoughts about Car Week and its impacts in Carmel-by-the-Sea. https://docs.google.com/forms/d/15hC0W7g-j9QDVliB45TfpLLAVfR9WeqvEeZAjuZUTCQ/viewanalytics 26/57 ATTACHMENT 1
I think it is just too crowded.
I live in town and walk to the events
I attend mostly the Carmel events and can walk to them.
See above....oh and the room rates in the hotels were jacked up to extortion levels. How would it even be possible for a normal family with kids come and afford these events? I don't know if I will go to any. Probably will leave the area for the week, like last year 84 more responses are hidden
10/22/25, 9:50 AM We want to know your thoughts about Car Week and its impacts in Carmel-by-the-Sea. https://docs.google.com/forms/d/15hC0W7g-j9QDVliB45TfpLLAVfR9WeqvEeZAjuZUTCQ/viewanalytics 27/57 ATTACHMENT 1
Other thoughts about shuttle service during Car Week?
123 responses
Good idea!
N/A
We need more shuttles in general -- definitely during times when there are extra events happening (Bach festival, food events, etc.)
Probably a good idea
Employee shuttle should leave from MPC so we can avoid highway 1 congestion near Carmel - Or convince the city to reserve the lot at the Carmel Plaza for event days.
Great idea
Think it’s good idea but still doesn’t address issues of too many people, safety, resident considerations, etc. We also need to get rid of the outrageous amount of money that we pay for marketing, our town does not need it.
Wish they hadn’t used our street for their route
I think the City of Carmel should partner with MST to have the trolley, which has a vintage look very fitting for the event, providing shuttle service to all events. It's a good way to support local businesses, promote the use of public transit, and help ease the chaotic traffic. The City of Monterey does a phenomenal job encouraging tourists and residents to use the trolley during the summer. I'm confident that the City of Carmel-by-the-Sea can address some of the traffic issues by doing the same during big events or even the summer season.
Great idea, signage on HWY 1 was too small and a majority of employees did not know about the shuttle.
Heard shuttle to pebble beach took 2 hours
Good service.
Shuttles are a terrific idea. Anyone who lives or works in 93921 and 93923 should be issued a resident’s pass. Everyone else visiting CBTS and surrounding neighborhoods: Carmel Point, Carmel Woods, etc should be shuttled in. The amount of dangerous traffic MUST be reduced.
As the word gets out ahead of time more people will plan to use it. I found out less than a week in advance. Too late to tell my friends coming from out of city 10/22/25, 9:50 AM We want to know your thoughts about Car Week and its impacts in Carmel-by-the-Sea. https://docs.google.com/forms/d/15hC0W7g-j9QDVliB45TfpLLAVfR9WeqvEeZAjuZUTCQ/viewanalytics 28/57 ATTACHMENT 1
Should be the ONLY way to get around once you have been bused into the city.
I think it is a marvelous idea.
Would be a good idea for those that have no time constraints.
Needs to be promoted better
Car week & The Concourse seem to be two different shows. The people who are really interested in car history are in Pebble, the punks with daddy's money are in Carmel, go away !! Traffic was very bad on Junipero just getting to the Shuttle parking lot! It took a half hour (around noon on Thursday) driving from Ocean and Junipero to the Shuttle parking lot.
Otherwise the Shuttle seemed to work well…
Glad your moving carweek up a week next year!
good for all
I think it is a good option for people.
Great idea! I think the jurisdictions should get together and get shuttle/bus service going regularly between the various events throughout the Peninsula. Perhaps consider a dedicated bus "route" that would give them priority over the other cars.
I heard it was successful
Was it worth the expense? Was it utilized to the maximum of its capabilities? Great to have the shuttle service, thank you.
We walked by on our way to school every day and the set up seemed nice and organized.
Drivers were safe entering and exiting the parking lot
Great idea, I herd great reviews
More!
That shuttle needs to be on the local news!
It is a great service and should be mandatory for those that do not purchase a capped number of parking passes
10/22/25, 9:50 AM We want to know your thoughts about Car Week and its impacts in Carmel-by-the-Sea. https://docs.google.com/forms/d/15hC0W7g-j9QDVliB45TfpLLAVfR9WeqvEeZAjuZUTCQ/viewanalytics 29/57 ATTACHMENT 1
CRITICAL TO HAVE. AT LEAST SEVERAL HUNDRED CARS DID NOT TRY TO PARK IN THE RESIDENTIAL AREAS.
The city needs to set up mass parking arrangements outside of the city limits like pebble beach does during the At&t. Thusly shuttling spectators in and out of the city clearing access for safety vehicles
Shuttles are the way to go as long as they're close
Please make the fact that you had a shuttle service widely known or incorporated in existing public transportation systems. Signage at existing bus stops or trolley locations would help a lot.
It was a great and desperately needed service
Although I didn't use it personally, I think it's a great idea.
Excellent idea. My employees definitely like the idea and used it.
The drivers were the best. Would not have ventured down town without that shuttle. Would have loved a shuttle to the commercial tents at Pebble Beach as well.
I’m in favor of it and hope it expands!
Good ide
It is a good idea for people who want to go
Although I didn't use it, the idea has real merit. Congratulations for starting it this year.
Time to shorten length of event & limit disruption to local & host community As long as the traffic is less next year I’d love to use the shuttle. It was so bad one day even the high school students and residents were trapped.
Important to offer!
Even though I didn't use the shuttle I think it is a good idea and I heard positive comments from people who did use the shuttle.
They should only limit a certain amount of cars here in carmel and Pebble Beach and have the rest of the people shuttle in
Good idea otherwise.
10/22/25, 9:50 AM We want to know your thoughts about Car Week and its impacts in Carmel-by-the-Sea. https://docs.google.com/forms/d/15hC0W7g-j9QDVliB45TfpLLAVfR9WeqvEeZAjuZUTCQ/viewanalytics 30/57 ATTACHMENT 1
How did the cost compare to extra sales tax and TOT revenue? When I drove by Larsen Field, the shuttle seemed very underutilized....a waste of money and resources.
Please, please control the traffic, especially on the major arteries into the city-Carpenter, Ocean, etc,
The shuttle service was extremely well organized. Appreciated the frequency of the shuttles, the ease of parking and long hours.
Does it help alleviate traffic?
it could be a good thing
Great idea. Let's continue it next year with more promotion earlier in the game Great idea. We should have a car-free downtown. Carmel is basically an open market.
Good idea
Honestly, it didn’t work. There people parking on 4th. Some cars blocked one road going up to Carpenter. Cars were still parked in residential parking, taking over the home owners’ parking spots. What was said in the pine cone shows that Mayor Byrne and Mr. Swanson did not take the time to drive around the whole village to see what was going on. Shame on you guys for lying!
I think it's a great idea. We should probably implement it on summer weekends.
I live in a village because it’s a village. I didn’t move here for noise, pollution, speeding, and expensive slick race cars. In years past, it was an elegant affair and the venues were fun and I enjoyed going. Now it’s ridiculously overcrowded. it seems that these noisy race cars are the epicenter of the whole thing. These kids come in here to race their cars, make noise and terrorize people. It’s a free-for-all. Not much elegance about it anymore I was going to be downtown past the shuttle closing time, otherwise I might have tried it.
Thought it was terrific
I heard that there was a shuttle service but I didn’t know where they were going They were painfully slow. Wait time was 90 minutes
Seems like a good idea. The data needs to tell the story and answer questions on if it is a 10/22/25, 9:50 AM We want to know your thoughts about Car Week and its impacts in Carmel-by-the-Sea. https://docs.google.com/forms/d/15hC0W7g-j9QDVliB45TfpLLAVfR9WeqvEeZAjuZUTCQ/viewanalytics 31/57 ATTACHMENT 1
worthwhile, value add service
I do think the shuttle is an EXCELLENT idea and should be better advertised. People would use it. Maybe get the car clubs to post in advance about the shuttle would help, including on the social media pages. That way even people who are not part of the car clubs but follow their posts would be aware. How about branding it "Influencer Parking" lol? Better than when we didn't have shuttles but traffic was still gridlock.
I think this ois a very good idea, but traffic, especially on Carmel Valley road was way too much.
no
Perhaps seaside should consider this for their events
It's a start to control the impact to a small town
Love the idea. Didn’t know about it for residents.
Need more shuttles
You tried trolley service a few years ago and some of your hoity-toity locals found that below their dignity. I live in Monterey, thank god! and find that this works well.
It is high time that "Carmel proper" moved into a less exclusionary mindset. Maybe the Peninsula cities could help adjust that.
I heard it worked well
It's a good idea for those who want to attend events.
A resident shuttle would be nice. I live downtown and have street parking. Not easy.
Shuttle was spectacular!
We had houseguests who used the shuttle and thought it was terrific N:A
Great idea! So glad the Mission co-operated and helped out in this way! Try to encourage attendees to visit more retail establishments in town. Almost a ghost town a block off Ocean
10/22/25, 9:50 AM We want to know your thoughts about Car Week and its impacts in Carmel-by-the-Sea. https://docs.google.com/forms/d/15hC0W7g-j9QDVliB45TfpLLAVfR9WeqvEeZAjuZUTCQ/viewanalytics 32/57 ATTACHMENT 1
Please Make a parking area somewhere outside of CBTS and shuttle the people in. Close the streets to cars - just allow pedestrians
SEE above answer
Additional traffic direction might help the congestion problem.
Seems like a good idea if it could be used more and get more cars out of downtown Shuttle service is a good idea in that any option to DECREASE traffic is good.
Great option and that would be great if people used it.
If its actually being used I would support it, especially if it was expense neutral to the city budget
I think its a good idea.
I think it’s fabulous for people who do not live in town to get them off our local streets.
Good idea to keep cars out of the neighbor hoods
Too expensive
Shut it down ASAP. Watch car museum videos. Don't waste gas and jet fuel flying cars in from all over the world.
I think it’s smart, and it should be mandated for non residents, frankly.
Very well run, nice van, driver very courteous great service Great to have shuttles
Needs to be better publicized to guests and residents
21 more responses are hidden
TRAFFIC AND SAFETY
10/22/25, 9:50 AM We want to know your thoughts about Car Week and its impacts in Carmel-by-the-Sea. https://docs.google.com/forms/d/15hC0W7g-j9QDVliB45TfpLLAVfR9WeqvEeZAjuZUTCQ/viewanalytics 33/57 ATTACHMENT 1
How effective were the evening traffic calming measures in the business district during Car Week in improving safety?
384 responses
Copy
Effective – they successfully…
Partially effective – the busine…
Not effective – they did not pr…
no comment
Avoided town
Don’t know
didn’t go downtown
1/9
15.4%
26.3%
41.1%
10/22/25, 9:50 AM We want to know your thoughts about Car Week and its impacts in Carmel-by-the-Sea. https://docs.google.com/forms/d/15hC0W7g-j9QDVliB45TfpLLAVfR9WeqvEeZAjuZUTCQ/viewanalytics 34/57 ATTACHMENT 1
Why do you feel that way?
259 responses
LOUD
Loud, fast cars all day and night -- no police control on residential streets that i saw, need speed bumps on roads like san antonio that has minimal stop signs so they go very fast down this street.
Again, too noisy and erratic driving.
witnessed speeding and rolling through stop signs first hand.
Self explanatory
Just too many people
Out of town exotic cars were racing out of the PB gate on San Antonio Jo and running in packs of 5 and 6 cars. Running stop signs at Fourth and San Antonio. Need to add officers at that location or temporary speed bumps to discourage this high speed exit from PB I rode my bicycle
Above
I tried to do my part by walking, taking transit, or riding my bike during that week, but when I had to drive, it was a bit insane the amount of traffic I was in.
I really did not observe any downtown traffic calming because I avoided it.
Police are understaffed.
Week was smooth
I live 2 blocks from Ocean. It was excessively noisy.
Because the constant engine noise and people running stop signs at Juniper,13th and Rio Roads was horrendous! With no sidewalk on Rio because of overgrown ice plant covering was pathway that was there put the public in the road and in danger of getting hit from zooming cars and people running stop signs.
Witnessed a number of unsafe situations involving large moving cars and children in close proximity.
10/22/25, 9:50 AM We want to know your thoughts about Car Week and its impacts in Carmel-by-the-Sea. https://docs.google.com/forms/d/15hC0W7g-j9QDVliB45TfpLLAVfR9WeqvEeZAjuZUTCQ/viewanalytics 35/57 ATTACHMENT 1
Friday night it was crazy. People standing in the middle of ocean ave to take pictures of cars in the parking spots bought by businesses (should not be allowed - creates too many crowds).
First come first serve on parking and parking tickets during car week should be increased minimum 10x
I live in town and it was crazy in my neighborhood. People were out of control.
Ever video I’ve seen shows a motorcycle cop giving a ticket. Not a warring a ticket. I watch him turn his siren on a car pulled over that was picking up an elderly women that had lunch a village Corner
Any evening traffic calming measures in the business district are useful and appreciated.
Although we went away for the weekend, all of our friends and neighbors said the noise was worse than ever.
It was chaotic: too many cars, too many events and I felt as though our fine law enforcement team was overmatched.
Neighborhood traffic and speeding and total disregard for pedestrians, stop signs etc was out of control.
Crazy drivers were just rerouted to typically quieter streets where they drove unsafely and don’t know where there are stop signs, who has the right of way, etc I live at Carpenter and Hwy 1. Cars were revving engines backfiring and speeding all night long for over a week. Also cutting through our neighborhood looking for shortcuts.
Traffic was a nightmare, horrible for the income of business owners.
Just seemed too crowded.
Twice it took me over a half an hour to go a block.
Can't stop congestion during popular events.
Observation
It’s apparent and obvious from all the stories we hear before and after the event from fellow residents, in the grocery stores and wherever you go - it’s out of control and this year was the worst.
I saw sports cars flying up Junipero, right past the Police Station. 10/22/25, 9:50 AM We want to know your thoughts about Car Week and its impacts in Carmel-by-the-Sea. https://docs.google.com/forms/d/15hC0W7g-j9QDVliB45TfpLLAVfR9WeqvEeZAjuZUTCQ/viewanalytics 36/57 ATTACHMENT 1
These car events puts too much stress on our infrastructure and day to day life for locals all over the peninsula. It's become outrageous!I'm
Kept the traffic in town down
Much better than last year.
A normal commute of 15 minutes took nearly an hour during Car Week.
Exotic cars were racing all around my neighborhood.
redundant question
mot enough police presence
Things have gotten out of control in past years, but this year, things seemed calm.
It was fine.
Speed bumps on Ocean were great --- except traffic re-routed to 8th, Guadalupe, Forest streets to avoid Ocean. That was difficult because visitors are unfamiliar with the streets, honked at people walking dogs into Mission Trails Park, and generally were anxious trying to get out of town and back on Ocean to exit. Next time be more thoughtful of the residential neighborhood impact and close off side streets. Low clearance cars clearly were not using Ocean Ave I live in the service-commercial zone and was not impacted as much this year as years past by speeding vehicles. I am aware of the cars in the canyon and in PB, but they're going to do what they do. It's just for a week.
Effective in specific areas but not on 8th avenue thta leads straight to the beach General consensus among locals I know is that traffic was bad as usual, noise and speeding were worse than ever. How many citations are issued?
Because noise and speeding still a problem in neighborhood.
Kudos to Chief Trayer and his team for all of their fantastic efforts.
I was in town every night, while lots of young people meandering about, I did not see much fast driving as the streets were shut off to traffic.
All it did was push the crazy driving outside of the downtown business district. There was plenty of racing going on on Rio Road and up Highway 1. 10/22/25, 9:50 AM We want to know your thoughts about Car Week and its impacts in Carmel-by-the-Sea. https://docs.google.com/forms/d/15hC0W7g-j9QDVliB45TfpLLAVfR9WeqvEeZAjuZUTCQ/viewanalytics 37/57 ATTACHMENT 1
No drivers were out of control or exhibitionists
Too many cars not enough space
I live downtown and taking a last walk with my dog at 10:30pm was like New York City.
Shockingly busy then.
Many cars were speeding, reving engines and too many people in a small space.
Events and road closures impacted school operations.
I live in San Carlos and traffic was bad all night long.
The speeding on carpenter on Friday and Saturday was horrible Others shared their displeasure/dusnay.
Traffic in and around the area was not good for residents.
Excessive noise and air pollution in Carmel Woods. You can smell the hydrocarbons and engines race at high RPMs and decibels at ALL hours!
The roads in our area were not safe to be on.
Obnoxious people racing through neighborhoods
Seemed like a constant madhouse and saw most enforcement at traffic lights on Hwy 1. Not enough patrols on Ocean or. Carpenter Street. Need to have limits on cars that enter!!! The city did not make sure to enforce any type of parking safety guidelines anywhere in the residential area that would accommodate for emergency services vehicles. You should ask the fire department.What requirements they need to drive a fire engine down any one of those given streets?And do they have access to all the fire hydrants.
Very dangerous drivers and too much traffic
There were too many "little car shows" that popped up and no police> Traffic was a real mess SATURDAY NIGHT! The worst ever.
Same answer as before
I live near Old Monterey, and traffic continued to be obnoxious in the area. Many of the visitors did not respect one-way roads and made a point of loudly racing in the area. 10/22/25, 9:50 AM We want to know your thoughts about Car Week and its impacts in Carmel-by-the-Sea. https://docs.google.com/forms/d/15hC0W7g-j9QDVliB45TfpLLAVfR9WeqvEeZAjuZUTCQ/viewanalytics 38/57 ATTACHMENT 1
Sports car drivers were racing around all the surface streets adjacent to Carpenter Street. They were noisily drag racing until the early hours on Hwy One and Carmel Valley Road keeping residents a wake!
Unsafe. Very.
Witnessed multiple traffic incidents and crowding outside my business and residence.
Loud motors in the neighborhood of carmel Woods and below us until after midnight. People speeding on 17 mile drive in Pescadero Canyon where it is straight, revving engines like a speedway. This has to stop.
Crowded. Tried to avoid Carmel
Dangerous drivers and rude visitors
See previous statement
I was a pedestrian. Too many close calls with speedy and/or drunk drivers.
The business district has been better controlled in recent years, but residents in Carmel and Pebble Beach still deal with traffic and speeding.
Much much more evening car revving than usual in Car week.
It’s a mad house. The PD is overwhelmed and just trying to manage an impossible situation.
Can we just close the town down at 9:00?
I honestly stayed away from the village in the evenings but it seemed more controlled than in the past because ai didn’t hear about any incidents
Enjoy car week with all it has to offer. Life it and be happy and proud to be in this wonderful town that has a world reknown car week
still too many racing cars, loud, etc.
Slow traffic and traffic jams every day, not to mention cars racing each other on Hwy 1 as well as residential streets.
There weee a few speeders, but I felt it was the younger generation and their wanting to be part of the crowd
The noise of tuned exhausts on the overrun.
10/22/25, 9:50 AM We want to know your thoughts about Car Week and its impacts in Carmel-by-the-Sea. https://docs.google.com/forms/d/15hC0W7g-j9QDVliB45TfpLLAVfR9WeqvEeZAjuZUTCQ/viewanalytics 39/57 ATTACHMENT 1
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Try driving during that time? Insane.
Did not go to any events
Because there was contolled traffic in town in the evenings Much more noise and speeding in neighborhoods, and blowing through stop signs. You could also put in a camera at San Carlos and 13th to ticket those who don’t stop, along with temporary speed bumps.
Fast cars all day long on Santa Lucia
Cars are driving very fast and loudly through my neighborhood in the north east corner of Carmel.
The intended traffic calming measures exacerbated the problem by adding more foot traffic to the existing car traffic.
Way too loud
Did not experience the evening traffic. Stayed home.
Obvious
We tried to have dinner "in town" one evening...took too long to get there so went to Carmel Valley Village.
No control over the noise until all hours of the night
I live in a neighborhood that experienced a great deal of speeding and excessive noise.
I heard through friends.
I walked into town both Friday and Saturday. Commander was on the scene, and it was clearly under control. Bravo to CPD and their helpers from out of town. 158 more responses are hidden
10/22/25, 9:50 AM We want to know your thoughts about Car Week and its impacts in Carmel-by-the-Sea. https://docs.google.com/forms/d/15hC0W7g-j9QDVliB45TfpLLAVfR9WeqvEeZAjuZUTCQ/viewanalytics 40/57 ATTACHMENT 1
What improvements would you recommend to better handle Car Week's traffic? 319 responses
No internet events. No concert at fairground. Too many simultaneous things going on! Not enough police!
close down the streets at night and offer shuttle service for restaurants Control speeds
don't allow any driving in Carmel by the Sea during the event days. Walk-only.
Cancel some of the events and the marketing of events.
Restrict access to CbtS on a safety issue, not an access issue which contravenes the Coastal Commission rules
More officers and enforcement
Sell tickets and limit the number of people coming.
Pebble Beach should go back to a weekend event, not this 10 day headache Why are cars allowed to make SO MUCH NOISE?? If 'police' won't do anything about it, why are they employed?
Temporary speed bumps especially on streets with shuttles Partner with MST.
A county wide organizational meeting to discuss timing and enforcement issues.
Use more proceeds from the event to increase police staffing More law enforcement presence
Force all tourists to use the shuttle service.
Shut down Ocean Ave completely during car week.
Better scheduling for all the various events for sure.
Remove the speed bumps on ocean damages sports cars. Fire the motorcycle cop 10/22/25, 9:50 AM We want to know your thoughts about Car Week and its impacts in Carmel-by-the-Sea. https://docs.google.com/forms/d/15hC0W7g-j9QDVliB45TfpLLAVfR9WeqvEeZAjuZUTCQ/viewanalytics 41/57 ATTACHMENT 1
More police presence, more cameras.
Not allow the large number of events in thus small town that can't handle it. Go back to it being a classic car show.
REDUCE THE NUMBER OF EVENTS AND THE LENGTH OF CAR 10-DAYS! Even though the construction was paused during the day, the sites were still holding up traffic.
The roundabout going into pebble is asinine, holding up people on both sides of the highway and down to the middle school.
1) limit car shows that week to only 1 car show here in the village 2) ALL visitors to that 1 car show must use the shuttle. Once that lot is full, the shuttles stop until visitors want a ride back to their car
3) install speed bumps/humps on Junipero between 8th and 4th; on 4th from San Antonio to Monte Verde; on 5th and 6th from Santa Rita to Junipero 4) post electronic signage at the top of Ocean (near Highway 1), on Carpenter at the City border, on Rio at Highway 1, and just south of the Carmel/Pebble Beach gate on San Antonio reminding drivers to slow down and watch for pedestrians See answer regarding shuttle service. Shuttles are a terrific idea. Anyone who lives or works in 93921 and 93923 should be issued a resident’s pass. Everyone else visiting CBTS and surrounding neighborhoods: Carmel Point, Carmel Woods, etc should be shuttled in. The amount of dangerous traffic MUST be reduced.
Move the events to fort ord and/ or Laguna seca
Well getting quail to move earlier in week
Move it all out of carmel by the sea
More VISIBLE police presence (that does not mean parking an empty squad car on Ocean Ave) More law enforcement
Minimum street closure
If a street is not being used for a 4-6 hour interval don’t close it!!! I walked all over town and many spots were closed all day and sat empty because signs were up for different car show days.
Speed bumps on Carpenter. CHP watching for speeding and ticketing.
Do NOT block off so many streets
More police officers on foot patrolling.
10/22/25, 9:50 AM We want to know your thoughts about Car Week and its impacts in Carmel-by-the-Sea. https://docs.google.com/forms/d/15hC0W7g-j9QDVliB45TfpLLAVfR9WeqvEeZAjuZUTCQ/viewanalytics 42/57 ATTACHMENT 1
Limit number of people. Bus in from Marina (like huge golf events).
Encourage parking away from town and offer golf cart shuttles.
Restrict it.
The city is doing its best. Too bad there are fewer parking spaces in town now that many have been eliminated near cross streets.
Major events on the Peninsula need to be timed to best limit traffic snarls… perhaps as all need to adjust to the Concurs new 2028 schedule ,it would permit the entire weekly schedule to flow better.
Less events for starters. You might be drawing in some good people and business, but also thanks to social media and such, now there are side shows in Del Monte Shopping Center parking lot, for one example. Is that what you want to attract here? Because it is. Less events and everyone needs shuttled in. No cars unless they’re on display. Period.
More traffic control & noise abatement.
Thick ropes across the street to slow down the show off.
I hnestly don’t know, but I am leaving town for Car Week next year and already booked the trip Scale back these events on the entire peninsula.
stop it from coming here
No events in Carmel .
Overall traffic wasn’t too bad in Carmel proper. It was terrible elsewhere particularly Pebble Beach which had multiple road closures, no signs or people helping with traffic etc. A normal 15 minute drive from Pebble to Carmel took over an hour (on Friday and Saturday).
W with this year‘s smaller crowds, the police did an excellent job.
Minimize the number of free events.
More sheriff patrols in outlying neighborhoods.
more control about and over local residents parking, such as having someone check the parking lot at the Post Office
SHUTTLE IN ONLY...no extar cars in town other than the show cars 10/22/25, 9:50 AM We want to know your thoughts about Car Week and its impacts in Carmel-by-the-Sea. https://docs.google.com/forms/d/15hC0W7g-j9QDVliB45TfpLLAVfR9WeqvEeZAjuZUTCQ/viewanalytics 43/57 ATTACHMENT 1
Do not let non-residents park inside the city unless they are showing a car (with a special event pass). Direct them only to city specific parking and make them PAY! They can go down ocean to junipero ONLY. Tell residents that they must get a special event pass. Also please hire temp parking attendants—cars parked in loading zones all day with no tickets!!! We (as a city) should have made $100k from this event and lowered our taxes!
Force cars to go down Ocean; close off side streets. Shuttles from outside the town into Carmel. Close off city streets to vehicles and convert to full pedestrian. People love that and it would be more enjoyable and safer for everyone
Honestly, again, I don't really mind the traffic and noise that much.
The closure of Hwy 1 for the Concours rally created TOTAL CHAOS. That really needs to be rethought. It was complete and total gridlock. Interestingly, the same thing happened today (September 2) when CalTrans shut down one lane just past the Holman Hwy North-bound onramp. It was literally gridlocked for a couple of hours in the height of the afternoon. I think better communication is in order to both locals and guests. Again, a priority shuttle service would improve things. I liked the text message notifications, but they too could be improved with more real-time information.
Curfew? Entrance fee? Mandatory parking away from Carmel by the Sea (people blocked my driveway)? Increased Law Enforcement past midnight. The impact on our corner, our home since 1975), is nothing short of ridiculous and gets worse every year Crack down on neighborhood and late night speeding. These are safety issues and need to be addressed.
Cancel it!
Ticketing noisy drivers racing their engines.
Kudos to Chief Trayer and his team for all of their fantastic efforts. close the entire downtown to traffic.
Don’t have any suggestions and not sure how to curb impact of “younger crowd” and “influencers” and change in “feeling” of car week. Again, we are local and huge supporters of this week and absolutely love it despite the traffic and inconvenience it brings. But something was different this year . Have never witnessed the disrespect for law and community like we did this year.
Mor law enforcement, more cameras, more tickets, more seizure of cars when they race.
Enforcement of noise ordinance against drivers revving their engines.
Do enforce 2 hour parking rules during day events held in Carmel 10/22/25, 9:50 AM We want to know your thoughts about Car Week and its impacts in Carmel-by-the-Sea. https://docs.google.com/forms/d/15hC0W7g-j9QDVliB45TfpLLAVfR9WeqvEeZAjuZUTCQ/viewanalytics 44/57 ATTACHMENT 1
Cancel it
Do not have Car events in downtown Carmel. Keep Carmel, Carmel. Let it be a respite, a place for locals and travelers alike to be able to explore the town on foot and remain a village, not an Auto Show.
How do we reduce the social media influencer crowd?
The police did a great job, just need less events to attact less people.
Seems like not everyone in the same planning page. It’s clear events are priority over locals and that leaves a sour taste.
Carmels traffic was better than in years past, HWY 1. Grid lock.
Coordinate events better with neighboring jurisdictions.
Move the event to Bakersfield.
Funnel event traffic separate from normal area drivers
Make non-residents park outside the Golden Rectangle and shuttle in. Residents can have permits to access their homes.
Fewer events overall
Speed bumps on carpenter & move police outside of center of town more officers and more tickets. more tickets could be another revenue generator Greater cooperation with CHP--their traffic control favored participants over those trying to get from here to their. It is no longer a classy and sophisticated event. It's been taken over by partiers.
Much greater law enforcement presence and harsher penalties for infractions that occur during Car Week.
Shut 17 Mile Drive at sunset. Install speed cameras with noise detectors for better traffic enforcement.
Convert to eAuto event. Fewer events, more shuttles, noise monitors and electronic tickets on Highway 1 by Carpenter Street light
Less visitors; less events.
10/22/25, 9:50 AM We want to know your thoughts about Car Week and its impacts in Carmel-by-the-Sea. https://docs.google.com/forms/d/15hC0W7g-j9QDVliB45TfpLLAVfR9WeqvEeZAjuZUTCQ/viewanalytics 45/57 ATTACHMENT 1
Just don't have events that invite the sort of people who would view Carmel as a place to behave in the way too many behaved.
Less events will bring less traffic.
Capping number of cars by requiring permits to drive into city and shuttle for all others; traffic patrols for crosswalks to allow for better flow of traffic See above… limit attendance, more traffic calming measures within the town, fines for obnoxious/rude/obscene behavior toward locals. Raise fees to discourage low lifes.
HAVE ONE WELL-RUN ELEGANT EVENT. STOP THE EXCESSIVE MARKETING VIA SOCIAL MEDIA.
I have lots of ideas, but too many to place here. What you really need to do is set up an EOC, then treat this like a massive catastrophe. Meaning, you must provide a safe place for all the visitors to park, a way to transport them in and out of the city safely, and keep clear all accesses to all the residential streets for fire engines, ambulances, and police cars to safely get in and out of the city expeditiously.
Someone having a severe stroke or heart attack has six minutes to get from their residence or business area to a cardiac and stroke center. Can you honestly say that you accomplished this goal? Six minutes before brain cells die, before cardiac cells die.
This may sound overdramatic to you, but it is very serious and should be your primary concern.
Have you ever tried to drive an ambulance code three through highly congested streets? It is almost impossible I should know.I have done it here on the peninsula.
More staff and tickets to unsafe drivers
Maybe…I don’t know.. something other than shuttles.
Shuttle everyone in
MAYBE make it 100% SHUTTLE on certain days. Like TUES and THURSDAY.
A serious overhaul of how the city and county handle traffic has to be done. There is not enough planning for how large the event has gotten. Again, not enough law enforcement to handle the influx of people.
Spread out the events so that they're not so concentrated in just a few locations. Have more events closer to Salinas, where there's more room for those who want to race to do so more safely.
Make the event much smaller or get rid of it!
It was such a nice event when Concourse de Elegance was just on the lawn at the Lodge. 10/22/25, 9:50 AM We want to know your thoughts about Car Week and its impacts in Carmel-by-the-Sea. https://docs.google.com/forms/d/15hC0W7g-j9QDVliB45TfpLLAVfR9WeqvEeZAjuZUTCQ/viewanalytics 46/57 ATTACHMENT 1
Disperse the density. Have some of the actually popular events in further out areas and towns in county.
NEED MORE POLICE AND PRIVATE SECURITY MEASURES!!
Please put a slow or traffic control speed sign on the straightaway of 17 mile drive in Pescadero Canyon. Save our neighborhood and wildlife. Also stage the beginning and ending of events in carmel so that not everyone is backed up from Highway one all the way to town Along neighborhood streets. It also seems like events in PG and carmel overlap too much and the highway one traffic overlapped as a result. It took me one hour to get from Whole Foods to carmel Woods mid week
Not sure that is possible. Car show bigger, more people every year. 218 more responses are hidden
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10/22/25, 9:50 AM We want to know your thoughts about Car Week and its impacts in Carmel-by-the-Sea. https://docs.google.com/forms/d/15hC0W7g-j9QDVliB45TfpLLAVfR9WeqvEeZAjuZUTCQ/viewanalytics 47/57 ATTACHMENT 1
Any other thoughts about Car Week or things you would like to share? 286 responses
No
It would be good for the community to understand the "value" of this circus to our community - - tax $ generated vs. a normal summer week.
Nope
Police did an amazing job but how is CBTS compensated for us footing the bill for them plus the wear and tear to our streets, sidewalks, landscaping and residential areas.
Thank goodness for Carmel Cares cleaning up all the trash Tickets for noise and recklessness
I hate it
Reduce the events
Why are cars allowed to make SO MUCH NOISE?? If 'police' won't do anything about it, why are they employed?
Impose a curfew
It’s almost too much.
Overall it’s nice to have car week but the number of cars and people just get out of control for our beautiful small village.
Our Police department did a fantastic job. Don't outsource it. Limit the events in Carmel to two - not 5 (Thursday there were 3 events)
This year was really bad and all of my neighbors feel the same way. It’s great for the local economy, but there needs to be a compromise between even organizers and the needs of locals.
Keep it going nice to see people walking around town
Car week was great and entertaining, thank you to all the volunteers.
Ban the noisy popping smoking cars and crowds. Better enforcement of laws. 10/22/25, 9:50 AM We want to know your thoughts about Car Week and its impacts in Carmel-by-the-Sea. https://docs.google.com/forms/d/15hC0W7g-j9QDVliB45TfpLLAVfR9WeqvEeZAjuZUTCQ/viewanalytics 48/57 ATTACHMENT 1
The economic impact is the reason used to justify the outsized impact of this event but it would be helpful to share those numbers, by sector. All I keep hearing about is businesses coming in from outside the area to profit, so the fundamental premise seems flawed.
I did enjoy the smaller scale English car show in the Village.
It’s a great opportunity to see our village shine!
STOP the unfettered increase in events, guests, traffic.
It is the single week of the year that bucket lists are checked off. Its known around the world, it's critical to the area and the small business revenue is worth all of the griping and complaints of traffic
Friends have told me (that have lived here for years) that the 2025 Carmel Car Week was the worst they’d ever experienced (too noisy, smelly, too many events, etc). I’d concur. The event may draw in revenue, but at what price? For 2026, my girlfriend and I have already decided to simply leave town for 4 or 5 days. Sad, right?
Shuttles are a terrific idea. Anyone who lives or works in 93921 and 93923 should be issued a resident’s pass. Everyone else visiting CBTS and surrounding neighborhoods: Carmel Point, Carmel Woods, etc should be shuttled in. The amount of dangerous traffic MUST be reduced.
Move most of the events to a less congested and populated area.
Don’t host it the same week CUSD is back to school. Actually care about the children of Carmel by the Sea not just the elderly and businesses
Car week is not what it used to be, it is not a premiere event, just a touristic bro-zone, instagram mess. Meh
I would like to know if the city (not the local businesses) makes money off of car week or if the extra police, public works, etc. costs exceed any direct revenue to the city. Are the residents subsidizing the local merchants and hoteliers?
Thank you. I was at the city council meeting when they voted it down from five days to three days during preliminary stages.and I was a little disappointed, but three days seemed like enough. I had lots of shop owner friends in town that don’t get any business during Car week.
Everyone is outside looking at the cars.
Enjoyed Car Week. Great job by everyone
It would help if the city added extra trash bins along Ocean. The cans were overflowing every day. Porta Potties?
Dread it
10/22/25, 9:50 AM We want to know your thoughts about Car Week and its impacts in Carmel-by-the-Sea. https://docs.google.com/forms/d/15hC0W7g-j9QDVliB45TfpLLAVfR9WeqvEeZAjuZUTCQ/viewanalytics 49/57 ATTACHMENT 1
Over all enjoyed but not really looking forward to next year.
Residents should be encouraged to do their shopping, post office visits, etc. early in the day if they need to drive anywhere. Then give the streets to tourists to enjoy our community.
Hopefully they spend money and add to the community revenues.
It needs to be scaled back dramatically.
Don’t throw the baby out with the bath water by focusing too much on the relatively few who behave immature.
Just that we really hope our input as residents gets voiced. The Concours organizers stated that the reason the event will be bumped up a week in 2026, is from ‘listening’ to entrants, attendees, vendors … b/c they want their kids to be able to attend? Really? What is that number exactly? Are there more non resident’s w/ kids attending car week than residents? Why are the organizers only listening to them? We’ve sent numerous emails to the organizers over the years and never, ever have we got a response. It’s so defeating. Seriously makes us not even want to live here anymore. Which they probably don’t care about that either. Thank you again for the opportunity to have a voice even if it falls on deaf ears.
Glad you want feedback.
I’ve always loved it, always supported it. This year was different. The demographic has changed significantly.
The area seems to be changing and not in a good way. I plan to move out of CA in the next 1-2 years. If it’s crowded and unsafe AND has the highest taxes, I can find a better spot for me.
Good luck with everything
Car week has outgrown Carmel. I also do not want to hear about all the money local merchants make, I doubt if even 20% of the downtown businesses are owned by Carmel residents, IE: the money does not stay here in Carmel !!
Great to see that Carmel is back hosting major car week events! I believe it increases awareness of the city and all it has to offer.
If you have to cancel school because of Car Week, that should be a clear indicator that it’s out of control.
I would be very happy to see Car Week canceled or at least limited to fewer days. It is no longer Car Week, but Car Month.
only keep the CLASSY CAR SHOWS like the TUESDAY EVENT and the THURSDAY FERRARI CLUB. Not Oldies Hot Rod cars like Ponies.
10/22/25, 9:50 AM We want to know your thoughts about Car Week and its impacts in Carmel-by-the-Sea. https://docs.google.com/forms/d/15hC0W7g-j9QDVliB45TfpLLAVfR9WeqvEeZAjuZUTCQ/viewanalytics 50/57 ATTACHMENT 1
Why, just why?
There is a large contingent of fantastical lowrider cars on the penninsula, and think it would be interesting to set aside a street to showcase some of those cars next year. They exhibited in Monterey this year, but it was a side street and didn't attract a big crowd.
Soooo much fun! Lean into it! Also talk with Monterey Bus Transit about creating a bus-only route where through traffic is blocked! So people take buses and shuttles or are residents only! Just too busy for the infrastructure of our community. Plus, to be frank, the "events" have become repetitive and boring. And we own SCCA Formula Continentals, so it's not like we don't enjoy cars!
I really liked the vent on Tuesday on Dolores. One of the best ever, I thought. I loved the old big band /swing live music, thought it was perfect for the event. And I liked that someone wasn't droning on and on on the microphone, the way often happens during the Thursday event.
Also, I think many business owners often think about the effectiveness of car week incorrectly.
It their sales don't double they think it is a failure. For me, it brings clientelle to town that we might not otherwise see, and allows us to make connections that I can follow up on all year long. I think it really increases our client base and reach.
I love it! My household LOVES it! We enjoy all the local events and just know that you shouldn't drive or schedule appointments during Car Week.
It’s getting worse. Small changes will not forestall the impact ot the onslaught of people who will attend Car Week 2026. It’s not the old guy with a Ferrari anymore (my dad) There are influencers who descend on the area to build content. If they drive into town to do donuts for a couple of hours, how is that a boost to the economy? We, the residents, deserve some respect.
We live here.
We’re always glad when the week is over. I truly hope it was as good for local businesses as the proponents claim. That would almost make it worth it (if the speeding violations were properly enforced).
UGH!
It definitely should occur before school starts (I’m glad to hear that this is being done), but that brings up conflicts with other events, like the Bach Festival. Carmel is a small place with narrow streets and limited parking. Car Week is more suited to places with larger open space; even Pebble Beach has more of this. Maybe it’s not necessary to have so many events right in town? There’s more space near Rio Road/Hwy 1. Maybe shuttle people from hotels to a space outside city limits?
We have lived here in town for 31 years and enjoyed the concourse event on Ocean Ave when the historic cars were parked there after the Tour. It seemed very civilized and controlled. Now 10/22/25, 9:50 AM We want to know your thoughts about Car Week and its impacts in Carmel-by-the-Sea. https://docs.google.com/forms/d/15hC0W7g-j9QDVliB45TfpLLAVfR9WeqvEeZAjuZUTCQ/viewanalytics 51/57 ATTACHMENT 1
there are too many people, too much traffic, too much noise, and too much chaos. We don't look forward to Car Week anymore.
Thank you to all City staff and volunteers for their effots. I am really pleased that all City leaders will be meeting to discuss this year's car "week." I, like many, think that the crowds were the biggest we have seen. From a standpoint of public safety, I could not help but think of what would happen if there was a major disaster, medical emergency, or the like. Many people I speak to say that someone has to get hurt or worse in order for real change to happen. I suggest leaders consider limiting the events, perhaps taking it back to a few days instead of 10 days? This can still be a fun time on the peninsula with some program changes perhaps? I do not have an answer, but I do think a change needs to happen. THANK you for this survey and all you do.
more shuttle service would help. Close off more downtown streets at night, as cars are only circling to find parking which was not available anyway.
I'd like to see more outdoor dining, food pop-ups
Scale it back. I understand the economic benefits. But it has become too big. Also, restrict events in Carmel to the type of cars and crowds that will not attract street racers. More Model T and less Ferrari.
Loved it. Keep creating more quality events
As a business owner my sales were die. 25 percent from a regular weekend the car people are not spending money
Please reach out to me with a contact of someone at the City Level that I can speak to on behalf of all small retailers that pay the price for car week. There are solutions that have been outlined by other cities, with similar problems during large scale events. It's imperative that our concerns are heard. My work email is [email protected] There needs to be a community event for all to attend to discuss mitigation measures. We need to know what the financial benefits are to the city. Where does the money go? And what are the expenses?
I don’t like that things got out of hand in Monterey and Seaside.
Would like to see the shuttle service work all year round - or at least during busy months.
Most of the annoyances seem to have their origins from the contemporary supercar crowds and the fans. Maybe shifting the emphasis back to classic cars and deliberately away from modern supercars would help--if there is even a way to do that.
They (local businesses) make more and more money every year, so it's very unlikely that anything will be done to alleviate the problems. Money is the prime motivator. Unfortunately 10/22/25, 9:50 AM We want to know your thoughts about Car Week and its impacts in Carmel-by-the-Sea. https://docs.google.com/forms/d/15hC0W7g-j9QDVliB45TfpLLAVfR9WeqvEeZAjuZUTCQ/viewanalytics 52/57 ATTACHMENT 1
for those of us that don't profit from it, it's like a case of herpes - there is no cure and we just have to suffer through it every year.
make event smaller not larger like this year. itemize the exact net revenue generated after costs. communicate that traffic controls (tickets, officers) are in place to deter speeding. it's only a matter of time before there is a terrible accident and/or fire generated by crashes. racing around the roads is unacceptable.PLEASE do something about it! The Elegance is gone. The peaceful co-existence with locals is gone. It's a CRAZY free-for-all.
The little sporty cars and cars that have removed their mufflers have really tainted the spirit of Car Week. Something needs to be done about this Testosterone Fest.
I am a car nut and think, with traffic enforcement, it is wonderful for Pebble Beach and Carmel.
Convert to electric autos only event.
Carmel and the Peninsula used to have tolerable events that featured older classic cars...many of which had excellent gas mileage in reality. The events didn't last long either...three days as i remember. And we residents were not so disturbed.
Why not have the Exotics event at Ft. Ord. And maybe some shuttles to Carmel and PG from Ft Ord, clearing out traffic.
The cars are great but the people that come with them really destroy the ability to enjoy this tradition
My husband and I, and all our neighbors were relieved when it was over! Block off entrances to neighborhoods from hwy1 so drivers can’t SPEED AND CURSE AT LOCALS TRYING TO WALK!!! Thank you for listening, Sylvia Schaefer
The only residents I know who really enjoyed Car Week left town for the week. I would love to see an honest and accurate financial assessment of the cost to the city of hosting this circus each year and compare it to an honest and accurate assessment of the benefits. It seems like we have lost control. The long term cost to the City and its residents will elude the spreadsheet. Regardless of how well the events themselves are run, the masses of people are untenable.
The answer is simple, safety first.
I appreciate the hard work and long hours City employees put in to make car week a success.
The LIVE bands on TUESDAY were fab! Especially the ITALAIN BAND on DOLORES! Saw them again on THURSAY at the FERRARI event! AWESOME!! They must be from SF or someplace.
VERY GOOD! Bring 'em back!
10/22/25, 9:50 AM We want to know your thoughts about Car Week and its impacts in Carmel-by-the-Sea. https://docs.google.com/forms/d/15hC0W7g-j9QDVliB45TfpLLAVfR9WeqvEeZAjuZUTCQ/viewanalytics 53/57 ATTACHMENT 1
Do not schedule Car Week to coincide with the first week of school. That was poor planning.
Coordinate events that occur in multiple cities to better account for traffic expectations and allocate the appropriate police resources to keep people safe. Perhaps having a central committee or organization be in charge of that planning would probably help.
I would definitely try to rope in other local communities like Salinas, Seaside, or Marina to host events. The County Fairgrounds, Laguna Seca, and other local venues would be perfect to expand the different opportunities for engagement, including for locals.
I feel that events that showcase different types of car enthusiasts would be fun. I was hoping to see an event that focused on those people who have successfully restored older vehicles.
I'd like to see more hobbyists and artists as opposed to people who just want to show off how much disposable income they have. That batmobile this year would have been great to see up close, but I had no idea where they were going! If there was a event for "Creative auto projects!" I would have loved to attend that.
Yes, I plan to get out of town like so many other residents to avoid it next year.
Now because of social media,
it attracts a lot of lawless hooligans looking for a good time! ! Our children miss half of a day of school as a result of the event.
At the high school, because of the Hwy One closure,
and the subsequent traffic, the students couldn’t even leave the school. The event does not reflect the community’s values.
No. Appreciate your asking. Truly.
Love car week, but again suggest returning to making it a ticketed event in downtown Carmel.
Also suggest adding more art related events to draw car collectors who are also interested in the arts to support local galleries
I know it brings in business, but it’s really miserable for those of us who don’t care about cars and just need to go about our daily lives. There need to be shuttles from big parking lots out in Fort Ord or somewhere. It must be also miserable for tourist who are trying to manage the events. Basically, there are too many people in cars, it’s out of control.
Let’s keep them in Monterey
It feels like the entire Peninsula was negatively impacted by the incredibly large number of attendees. Perhaps it's time for all of the organzations & cities that host these events consider a smaller event in the future.
Bring back something like the Tour d’elegance. It was very relaxed and educational with a wide variety of historic vehicles. It did not create a frenzy of car enthusiasts but was much more respectful and approachable. Seemed more in keeping with Carmel’s culture. 10/22/25, 9:50 AM We want to know your thoughts about Car Week and its impacts in Carmel-by-the-Sea. https://docs.google.com/forms/d/15hC0W7g-j9QDVliB45TfpLLAVfR9WeqvEeZAjuZUTCQ/viewanalytics 54/57 ATTACHMENT 1
It used to be a well organized, elegant event but no more. I would like it to return to a more manageable event with the needs of the community kept in mind. I feel that we are “trampled on”.
While the revenue is good for our economy, it comes at a great price for residents. Because it's all about cars, it has started attracting an undesirable and rowdy element who use our roads as a race track. Does a tragedy need to happen before this problem is addressed? Your attempt to calm traffic on upper Ocean Ave with temporary speed bumps was very effective, but just a drop in the bucket compared to the negative impact of the event and its impact on the entire Peninsula.
Even making money for charity should not be used to argue for this.
We do not sell fireworks to help the boy scouts either, do we? Limit events in carmel and and have officers patrol neighborhoods in the evening.
Always really enjoy the glamour and beauty of the classic cars, despite the small annoyance once a year with traffic and speeding. Keep up the good work! Somehow reduce social media’s push for sideshows et al. And monitor same so might anticipate where the racing and illegality will happen. (I realize this is hard to do.) Block 3rd Ave, Carmel at Hwy 1 for the week.
Parking to atten evnts needs to be resolved
Block our streets to residents only, and parking for the events, no through traffic Use to be enjoyable…too many young & irresponsible fans/drivers who don’t know basic courtesy
See my earlier response. Short version: the disruption, noise and public safety risks have are no longer tolerable and need to be fixed.
It is absolutely out of control. I know it brings in a lot of business revenue but we need to either stop the mass of people from arriving or invest in significantly more law enforcement I’d like to see the number of events pared down. Maybe relocate some of them to Salinas or Marina (like the event at Blackhorse) to spread out the traffic and impact. It would bring good revenue to those other areas of the Peninsula. .
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10/22/25, 9:50 AM We want to know your thoughts about Car Week and its impacts in Carmel-by-the-Sea. https://docs.google.com/forms/d/15hC0W7g-j9QDVliB45TfpLLAVfR9WeqvEeZAjuZUTCQ/viewanalytics 55/57 ATTACHMENT 1
Forms
10/22/25, 9:50 AM We want to know your thoughts about Car Week and its impacts in Carmel-by-the-Sea. https://docs.google.com/forms/d/15hC0W7g-j9QDVliB45TfpLLAVfR9WeqvEeZAjuZUTCQ/viewanalytics 56/57 ATTACHMENT 1
10/22/25, 9:50 AM We want to know your thoughts about Car Week and its impacts in Carmel-by-the-Sea. https://docs.google.com/forms/d/15hC0W7g-j9QDVliB45TfpLLAVfR9WeqvEeZAjuZUTCQ/viewanalytics 57/57 ATTACHMENT 1
Car Week 2025
Carmel-by-the-Sea
City Council
Chief Todd Trayer
November 3rd, 2025
ATTACHMENT 2
There were six permitted events in Carmel-by-the-Sea
this year:
Tuesday, August 12, 2025:
• Concours for a Cause
Wednesday, August 13, 2025:
● Astons on the Avenue
● Rivian
Thursday, August 14, 2025:
• Prancing Ponies on Ocean Avenue
• Ferrari Owners' Club Concours Carmel
• L’Auberge Motorsports
CITY OF CARMEL-BY-THESEA
Events
ATTACHMENT 2
After the daily events, exotic vehicles and their fan base highly impacted traffic/quality of life.
• Daily events & crowds
• Traffic calming measures on Ocean Ave.
• De-construction/load-out delays after events
• “No Tolerance” approach to dangerous driving
• Temporary Speed bumps
• No unsanctioned events/impromptu car shows
Impacts & Mitigation
ATTACHMENT 2
By the Numbers
• Traffic Stops: 137
• Citations Issued: 70
• Arrests: 7
• Vehicles Towed: 13
• DUI Arrests: 1
• Parking Citations: 320
This year brought a record number of visitors and car enthusiasts. Crowds were manageable during the day but grew significantly at night. No community member/visitor was injured during Car Week (2 people tripped on their own).
CITY OF CARMEL-BY-THESEA
Impacts & Mitigation
ATTACHMENT 2
How did our survey results (Overall) feel about Car
Week?
• 151 “Conflicted, good, but it was ‘a lot’”
• 149 “Did not like it at all.”
• 94 “Loved it.”
• 28 “It was okay.”
CITY OF CARMEL-BY-THESEA
2025 Survey Results
ATTACHMENT 2
• 422 respondents (some did not answer this question)
• 202 of the respondents are residents
• 43 are part of the business community
• 166 are from the greater peninsula
• 7 Visitors + 2 Others
• Survey added “Conflicted” this year.
CITY OF CARMEL-BY-THESEA
2024 Survey Results
2024: 378
Responses
66.7% Loved it
15.9% Did not
2023: 303
Responses
34% Loved it
34% Did not
6%
ATTACHMENT 2
● Mixed feedback overall — responses split roughly into thirds:
○ ~1/3 Loved it/Liked it: saw it as exciting, energetic, and good for local business.
○ ~1/3 Conflicted: appreciated the economic benefit
but disliked congestion, noise, and crowd behavior.
○ ~1/3 Did not like it: found it overwhelming,
disruptive, and unsafe.
CITY OF CARMEL-BY-THESEA
2025 Survey Results
ATTACHMENT 2
CITY OF CARMEL-BY-THESEA
2025 Survey Results (Local)
ATTACHMENT 2
Positive Themes
● Economic & tourism benefits – increased retail and restaurant sales; exposure for Carmel businesses.
● Community energy – “fun atmosphere,” “great cars,” “international visitors,” “village felt alive.”
● Well-organized Tuesday events– widely praised
● Shuttle service – appreciated by those who used it; praised for long hours, friendliness, and ease once located.
● Police presence downtown – seen as strong and professional during the main events.
2025 Survey Results
ATTACHMENT 2
• Overall Impressions: Relatively Positive
• Users described it as “excellent” & “spectacular”
• Suggested: Signage, increased hours, additional
drop-off points
• Community Activities Commission asked:
• Large/more signage/banners/Social Media
(increased notifications)
• Longer hours
• Charging for parking
• Discussion of less events occurred
CITY OF CARMEL-BY-THESEA
Larson Field Shuttle
ATTACHMENT 2
• Community Listening Session
• Consider a new traffic divergence plan/downtown
system
• Consider alternate delivery routes/times
• Police representative on event planning (parking +
overall planning)
• Consider additional speed humps on residential
streets
• No parking management changes
• Sound equipment/camera feasibility
• Additional staffing
Planning for 2026
ATTACHMENT 2
Staff recommends Council consider the following:
• Event Organizers & Accountability
• Take down times
• Crowd control measures
• Consider rental of parking stalls
• Creates a separate car show/high crowds
• Businesses are responsible for traffic control and
security as needed
CITY OF CARMEL-BY-THESEA
Recommendation
ATTACHMENT 2
Staff recommends Council consider the following:
• Consider/implement traffic flow/patterns
• Potential to install more speed humps
• Implementation of tools to help officers enforce noise laws • Notify local hotels of overall plans/parking
• Notify Chamber of Commerce
Recommendation
ATTACHMENT 2
Staff recommends Council consider the following:
• Sunset Center Events: “Searchlight” concerns mentioned in 2024; occurred in 2025
• Employee Costs and 2026 outlook
Recommendation
ATTACHMENT 2
Receive the 2025 Car Week After Action Report and
provide staff with feedback and direction.
Recommendation
ATTACHMENT 2
Questions?
Chief Todd Trayer
November 2025
ATTACHMENT 2
CITY OF CARMEL-BY-THE-SEA
City Council
Staff Report
November 3, 2025
ORDERS OF BUSINESS
TO: Honorable Mayor and City Council Members
SUBMITTED BY: Todd Trayer, Police Commander
APPROVED BY: Chip Rerig, City Administrator
SUBJECT: Resolution 2025-096 Accepting the 2025 updates to the existing Emergency Operations Plan (Estimated time - 20 min)
RECOMMENDATION:
Adopt Resolution 2025-096 Accepting the 2025 updates to the existing Emergency Operations Plan.
BACKGROUND / SUMMARY:
Government Code 8610 and 8607, contained within the California Emergency Services Act, requires the city to have an Emergency Operations Plan (EOP Plan). The purpose of the plan is to provide a legal framework to manage emergencies and to provide guidance on operations in the Emergency Operations Center (OES). In 1979, Carmelby-the-Sea established Chapter 2.64 within the Carmel Municipal Code. Chapter 2.64, titled “Emergency Organization,” defines the authorities and process of how the City will manage disasters.
In 1981, the city developed an emergency plan, which was supplemented in 1993, by the Carmel-by-the-Sea Management Operations Plan (MOP). The MOP was developed because the State Office of Emergency Services (OES) established the Standardized Emergency Management System (SEMS) as the standard for managing disasters.
Following the 2001 terrorist acts, the Federal government issued a response mandate known as the “National Incident Management System” (NIMS), to address disaster management. In 2006, the City Council adopted a Resolution approving NIMS as the official regulatory guidance for emergency responses. Although SEMS meets the intent
of NIMS, it is important the City’s Emergency Operations Plan be updated in a manner to assure full compliance with policies and requirements of both SEMS and NIMS.
The existing Emergency Operations Plan (EOP) was created in 2008 to meet these requirements. The plan is updated every two years and presented to the council. The plan was most recently updated in June 2021. Most of the changes in the plan were merely administrative changes involving personnel names and contact information.
The following are highlights of the past two years, including incidents, training, planning, and preparation by the city.
The Emergency Operations Plan was utilized on multiple occasions over the past two years. The plan was also utilized through multiple major storms impacting the city and residents in early 2025.
Over the past years, the city has recognized the importance of having both highly trained staff and volunteers to handle emergency situations as they arise. The city has devoted resources to our Community Emergency Response Team (CERT) and our Volunteers in Policing (VIPS), both of which have made major contributions to providing assistance during emergencies. The updated 2025 EOP Plan (Attachment 2) is pending Council approval through adoption of a Resolution (Attachment 1).
Over the next two years, the focus will be on continued training of staff and volunteers to be better prepared to manage emergencies as they happen. The following goals include:
1. Develop a more Comprehensive Evacuation Plan to include incident-specific protocols for Carmel-by-the-Sea.
2. Provide a training day/workshop for the community where we participate in an opportunity to evacuate participants from the City.
3. Provide training to staff in various levels of Emergency Management.
4. Provide resources and training for our volunteers in CERT/VIPS.
5. Engage our partnering agencies: State, County, and neighboring in further collaboration that will benefit Carmel-by-the-Sea’s readiness.
This updated plan includes the following changes/updates:
• Prior EOP was ~422 pages
• New EOP ~96 pages
• Hyperlinked content
• CERT/VIPS added
• Added Community Wildfire Protection Plan and Climate Change Vulnerability Assessment
• New Virtual EOC mindset instead of our hardwired EOC
• CSAP (Carmel Safety Alliance Program)+
• Clearer Emergency Plan Structure/EOC Position requirements, and directs to
specific Hazard Indexes
• THIRA (Threat Hazard Identification Risk Assessment)
• Inclusion of Emergency Support Functions (ESFs). ESFs, as detailed in the emergency operations plan, categorize specific functions (e.g., transportation, public safety, health services) that provide support to the City during declared disasters and emergencies.
• Other updated items related to the importance of training/community integration.
Some identified goals under this new plan are:
• Carmel Safety Day
• Training: Police/CERT/VIPS/Community + Other partners • Incident Specific Guide Sheets:
o Planning internally & will be available to the community. • Strengthen our relationships on the Peninsula.
The existing EOP was presented to the City Council for adoption in December 2008.
The plan was revised in June 2011, 2013, 2015, 2017, 2019, 2021, and 2024.
FISCAL IMPACT:
None for this action.
PRIOR CITY COUNCIL ACTION:
The existing EOP was presented to City Council for adoption in December 2008. The plan was revised in June 2011, 2013, 2015, 2017, 2019, and 2021, & 2024.
ATTACHMENTS:
1. Resolution 2025-096
2. Updated Carmel Emergency Operations Plan (2025)
3. Presentation - EMERGENCY OPERATIONS PLAN UPDATE October 2025
CITY OF CARMEL-BY-THE-SEA
CITY COUNCIL
RESOLUTION NO. 2025-096
A RESOLUTION OF THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF CARMEL-BY-THE-SEA ACCEPTING THE 2025 UPDATES TO THE EXISTING EMERGENCY OPERATIONS PLAN WHEREAS, the City established Carmel Municipal Code, Chapter 2.64, which defines the authorities and process of how the City will manage disasters; and WHEREAS, Government Code 8610 requires the City to have an Emergency Operations plan; and
WHEREAS, the City adopted the original Emergency Operations Plan in 2008 to meet those requirements; and
WHEREAS, the Emergency Operations Plan is updated every two years.
NOW THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED THAT THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF CARMELBY-THE-SEA DOES HEREBY:
Accept the 2025 updates to the Emergency Operations Plan.
PASSED AND ADOPTED BY THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF CARMEL-BY-THE-SEA this 3rd day of November 2025, by the following vote:
AYES:
NOES:
ABSENT:
ABSTAIN:
APPROVED: ATTEST:
_________________________ _________________________
Dale Byrne Nova Romero, MMC
Mayor City Clerk
ATTACHMENT 1
ATTACHMENT/EXHIBIT A
1. The 2025 Emergency Operations Plan
ATTACHMENT 1
[email protected]
Carmel-by-the-Sea
Emergency
Operations Plan
City Council of Carmel-by-the-Sea
Dale Byrne, Mayor
Bob Delves, Mayor Pro Tem
Hans Buder, Council Member
Jeff Baron, Council Member
Alissandra Dramov, Council Member
October 2025
RESOLUTION 2025-096 EXHIBIT A ATTACHMENT 2
PAGE | 1 Carmel-by-the-Sea Emergency Operations Plan
Acknowledgements
Carmel-by-the-Sea is susceptible to a range of emergency situations. However, it has limited resources compared to larger cities on the Monterey Peninsula or within Monterey County.
Consequently, the City depends on external response partners and volunteer organizations to aid in mitigation efforts during major disasters. The mutual aid response partners will vary based on the severity of the emergency and its impact on our community.
Foreword
The Carmel-by-the-Sea Emergency Operations Plan (EOP) follows the principles of the National Incident Management System (NIMS), and the Standardized Emergency Management System (SEMS) used in California. NIMS and SEMS, both based on the Incident Command System (ICS), are fundamental to this plan. It offers organizational and policy guidance for emergencies, serves as a training reference for City employees, and includes standardized checklists and forms. All City officials and employees are encouraged to familiarize themselves with this plan.
The Carmel-by-the-Sea Emergency Operations Plan (EOP) approved by the Carmel-by-the-Sea City Council, originally took effect on December 2, 2008, and was updated in February 2024.
Promulgation
RESOLUTION 2025-096 EXHIBIT A ATTACHMENT 2
PAGE | 2 Carmel-by-the-Sea Emergency Operations Plan
Preserving life, property, the environment, and the economy is a duty of local, state, and federal governments. While no plan can prevent all loss or damage, effective plans executed by trained personnel can minimize these losses.
Carmel-by-the-Sea has prepared this Emergency Operations Plan (EOP) to ensure the most effective and efficient allocation of resources for the maximum benefit and protection of the civilian population during times of emergency.
This Emergency Operations Plan establishes an emergency organization, assigns responsibilities, specifies policies and general procedures, and provides for the coordination of planning efforts among the respective staff. It will be periodically reviewed, exercised, and revised as necessary to accommodate changing conditions and needs.
This document is Carmel-by-the-Sea's updated Emergency Operations Plan, superseding all earlier editions. It provides guidelines for employees and assisting agencies on preparation, protection, mitigation, response, and recovery in cases of emergencies or disasters.
The Mayor and City Council fully support this Emergency Operations Plan and urge all officials, employees, and residents to contribute to Carmel-by-the-Sea's community emergency efforts.
This most recent update to the EOP became effective on October 7, 2025, when approved by the Mayor and City Council of the Carmel-by-the-Sea.
_____________________________________________ ____________________ Mayor Date
_____________________________________________ ____________________ City Administrator Date
_____________________________________________ ____________________ Director of Public Safety Date
RESOLUTION 2025-096 EXHIBIT A ATTACHMENT 2
PAGE | 3 Carmel-by-the-Sea Emergency Operations Plan
Carmel-by-the-Sea Council Adoption Approval
[Insert City Council Resolution once document is approved] RESOLUTION 2025-096 EXHIBIT A ATTACHMENT 2
PAGE | 4 Carmel-by-the-Sea Emergency Operations Plan
Annual Review - Record of Changes
The Carmel-by-the-Sea Office of Emergency Services (OES), with input from key stakeholders and partners, maintains and updates this Emergency Operations Plan (EOP) annually. Revisions are made in collaboration with local jurisdictions and planning partners to ensure accuracy. If immediate changes are needed due to trainings, exercises, or incidents, OES will review and implement the necessary updates. All changes will be recorded on the table below.
VERSION DATE NAME/ORGANIZATION CHANGE DESCRIPTION
2009v1.1 12/7/2009 Pg. 6,44,,45
2011v1.1 6/1/2011 Various
2013v1.1 6/4/2013 Various
2015v1.1 6/1/2015 Chip Rerig, City Administrator Various 2017v1.1 6/1/2017 Chip Rerig, City Administrator Various 2019v1.1 6/1/2019 Chip Rerig, City Administrator Various 2021v1.1 6/1/2021 Paul Tomasi, Chief of Police Various
2024v1.1 1/9/2024 Paul Tomasi, Chief of Police Various
2025v1.1 6/1/2025 Paul Tomasi, Chief of Police
Todd Trayer, Commander
Thomas Uretsky, Emergency
Action Planning (EAP) Safety
Consultants.
Complete document reconstruction, new
fonts, graphics repagination and organization
of plans, position descriptions, checklists and
resources. EOP is divided into three sperate
folders for ease of operations.
RESOLUTION 2025-096 EXHIBIT A ATTACHMENT 2
PAGE | 5 Carmel-by-the-Sea Emergency Operations Plan
Record of Distribution
This is a list of individuals and organizations that receive a copy of the EOP. The record of distribution can be used to provide evidence that tasked individuals and agencies have had the opportunity to read and understand their responsibilities. To that end, copies should be numbered, and show the date of transmittal. The record of distribution also serves as a convenient checklist for distributing later revisions to the plan.
DATE NAME / TITLE DEPARTMENT # OF COPIES
RESOLUTION 2025-096 EXHIBIT A ATTACHMENT 2
PAGE | 6 Carmel-by-the-Sea Emergency Operations Plan
Table of Contents
Acknowledgements......................................................................................................................... 1 Promulgation .................................................................................................................................. 1 Carmel-by-the-Sea Council Adoption Approval.............................................................................. 3 Annual Review - Record of Changes............................................................................................... 4 Record of Distribution..................................................................................................................... 5 Intent and Policy ............................................................................................................................. 9 Mission............................................................................................................................................ 9 Purpose ......................................................................................................................................... 10 Proponent ..................................................................................................................................... 10 Plan Administration ...................................................................................................................... 11 Emergency Plan Structure ............................................................................................................ 15 Hazard/Vulnerabilities Analysis Overview................................................................................. 16 Threat Hazard Identification Risk Assessment (THIRA) ................................................................ 17 Community Wildfire Protection Plan (CWPP)............................................................................... 18 Concept of Operations.................................................................................................................. 25 Disaster Management Cycle ......................................................................................................... 28 Organization and Assignment of Responsibilities ........................................................................ 31 NIMS/SEMS Organizational Structure Diagram........................................................................ 32 (NIMS) Organizational Chart......................................................................................................... 33 Carmel Emergency Operations Center (EOC) Structure and Policies........................................... 34 Emergency Operations Center (EOC) Activation and Notification ............................................... 40 Virtual Emergency Operations Center Protocol ........................................................................... 41 Level of Activation ....................................................................................................................... 42 EOC Functional Plans and Reports ................................................................................................ 44 Organization and Assignment of Responsibilities..................................................................... 49 Disaster Service Workers.............................................................................................................. 55 Crisis Communications and Public Information ........................................................................ 57 Direction, Control, and Coordination ........................................................................................ 63 Emergency Support Functions (ESFs) ........................................................................................... 69 Information Collection, Analysis, and Dissemination............................................................... 70 Administrative Practices, Finance, and Logistics ...................................................................... 72 RESOLUTION 2025-096 EXHIBIT A ATTACHMENT 2
PAGE | 7 Carmel-by-the-Sea Emergency Operations Plan
Table of Contents
Other Operational Considerations and Factors............................................................................ 75 Resources Management ............................................................................................................... 78 Demobilization and Post Incident Procedures........................................................................... 80 Phases of Recovery ....................................................................................................................... 81 Plan Development and Maintenance ........................................................................................... 83 Authorities, References, Attachments and Annexes.................................................................... 88 Glossary......................................................................................................................................... 90 RESOLUTION 2025-096 EXHIBIT A ATTACHMENT 2
PAGE | 8 Carmel-by-the-Sea Emergency Operations Plan
Executive Summary
The City of Carmel-by-the-Sea Emergency Operations Plan (EOP) is an all-hazards document describing the municipal incident management organization, compliance with relevant legal statutes, other relevant guidelines, whole community engagement, continuity of government focus, and critical components of the incident management structure. The incident management system is a component-based system designed to be scaled up and components activated as necessary to reflect the incident/event’s escalation from routine incident(s) to emergency, disaster, or catastrophe affecting residents and visitors of Carmel-by-the-Sea. This EOP is not intended to address specific emergency responses, scenarios, hazards, or threats.
Functional and hazard specific annexes to this EOP will outline specific activities for response organizations.
This Emergency Operations Plan accomplishes the following:
• Establishes a jurisdictional incident management organization which will coordinate and support on-scene responses including maintenance of situational awareness, facilitation of effective communication between operation centers at various levels of government, maintain continuity of government, and interaction with public information sources. • Establishes the overall operational concepts associated with the management of incidents, emergencies, crises, disasters, and catastrophes in the City of Carmel-by-theSea and operational area levels. • Provides a flexible platform for planning and response to all hazards, incidents, events, and emergencies believed to be important to Carmel-by-the-Sea. It is applicable to a wide variety of anticipated incident events including earthquakes, wildland fires, floods, and public health issues.
This EOP continues the Carmel-by-the-Sea’s compliance with the Standardized Emergency Management System (SEMS), the National Incident Management System (NIMS), the Incident Command System (ICS), and the National Response Framework (NRF). It facilitates multi-agency and multi-jurisdictional coordination during emergency operations, public information functions, and resource management.
This Emergency Operations Plan serves as the legal and conceptual framework for incident management to be utilized by Carmel-by-the-Sea and its various departments within municipal government. There are a number of separately published annexes that support this EOP. These supporting annexes further describe the operational or functional response to particular threats and hazards and the basic considerations, actions, and responsibilities of specific emergency response and management disciplines or functions.
RESOLUTION 2025-096 EXHIBIT A ATTACHMENT 2
PAGE | 9 Carmel-by-the-Sea Emergency Operations Plan
Intent and Policy
The intent and policy governing the Carmel-by-the-Sea Emergency Operations Plan (CEOP) is to ensure that all major emergency and disaster operations undertaken by the City of Carmel-bythe-Sea are conducted in a coordinated and integrated manner consistent with the National Incident Management System (NIMS) and the Standardized Emergency Management System (SEMS).
The City of Carmel-by-the-Sea will comply with NIMS and SEMS in all emergency management operations, including those involving federal, state, county, local, tribal, private sector, and nongovernmental agencies. The City Council has approved this revised emergency plan, incorporating relevant Monterey County Operational Area plans for effective use during emergencies.
Mitigation Plan Requirement
All California municipalities are required to develop a Local Hazard Mitigation Plan. This plan must be submitted via the Governor's Office of Emergency Services to the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) for approval. Carmel-by-the-Sea was a participant in the development of the County of Monterey Multi-Jurisdictional Hazard Mitigation Plan (MJHMP).
This plan fulfills the requirement for the Carmel-by-the-Sea Local Hazard Mitigation Plan; the Carmel-by-the-Sea element of this plan was adopted by Council action on October 2, 2007, and became effective on that date.
Mission
The mission of the City of Carmel-by-the-Sea is to safeguard and preserve the lives and property of its residents throughout all stages of emergency management and disaster situations affecting the city. This includes ensuring a comprehensive and coordinated response.
Additionally, this mission involves providing accurate, coordinated, complete, timely, understandable, responsive, and appropriate disaster-related information and instructions to all elements of the city government and to the residents of Carmel-by-the-Sea.
The mission ofthe Emergency Operations Center (EOC) isto:
• Minimize injury and loss of life.
• Minimize property damage and adverse economic impact. • Minimize adverse environmental impact.
• Provide forthe immediate needs of disaster victims.
• Acquire and assess emergency information and disseminate essential intelligence. • Provide timely and accurate information to the public regarding emergency actions. • Establish resource coordination andmanagement operations. • In conjunction with other county,state and federal agencies, oversee the disaster recovery processthroughout the impacted areas.
RESOLUTION 2025-096 EXHIBIT A ATTACHMENT 2
PAGE | 10 Carmel-by-the-Sea Emergency Operations Plan
Purpose
This Plan outlines response, recovery, mitigation, preparedness, and prevention guidelines for operations before and during all natural, technological, and man-made major emergencies or disasters that could impact the City of Carmel-by-the-Sea. The purpose of the Emergency Operations Plan (EOP) is to delineate the organization, responsibilities, and doctrine under which the City will manage and prepare for disaster operations.
The City’s Emergency Operations Plan serves as a comprehensive, authoritative source of guidance and procedures for the City to prepare for, respond to, and manage significant or catastrophic natural or man-made threats, crises, incidents, or events necessitating a coordinated response. This EOP is designed to comply with the California State Emergency Plan for managing responses to multi-agency and multi-jurisdictional incidents. It is also aligned with federal, state, and local partners' emergency plans and guidance documents. Best practices and lessons learned have been incorporated into this plan where feasible, identified through reviews of after-action reports from recent large-scale national disasters, incidents, and events, including Stafford Act and non-Stafford Act incidents and events.
This EOP aims to foster collaboration and consistency among our emergency response partners and their specific plans, procedures, functions, and capabilities. As such, the EOP is adaptable for use in all incident types and will support short-term recovery activities.
In the event of an emergency or disaster, the primary responsibility of the City of Carmel-bythe-Sea is to maximize public safety, minimize property and environmental damage, and ensure government continuity. To achieve these objectives all jurisdictions within the Monterey County Operational Area (OA) operate under SEMS, NIMS, and ICS, which are utilized to manage and control response operations.
Proponent
The City Administrator serves as the Emergency Services Director, with the Director of Public Safety or Chief of Police as the Assistant. The Emergency Services Director develops emergency plans and manages overall emergency services as assigned by the City Council. Departmental Directors/Chiefs must ensure their teams are familiar with this content and that all EOC positions are filled with experienced personnel. The responsibilities and powers of the Emergency Services Director and Assistant are detailed in City Code 2.64.050 and subsequent sections, and are treated equally for plan implementation.
RESOLUTION 2025-096 EXHIBIT A ATTACHMENT 2
PAGE | 11 Carmel-by-the-Sea Emergency Operations Plan
Plan Administration
Emergency Services Director and Plan Development
The Emergency Services Director or their designee is tasked with developing this plan, which ensures the effective mobilization of all City resources, both public and private, to address any local emergency, regional catastrophic event, or other significant crisis. The plan outlines the organization, powers, duties, services, and staff of the emergency organization. The revised plan becomes effective upon adoption by a City Council Resolution.
Emergency Management Advisory Committee
The Emergency Services Director is authorized to convene an Emergency Management Advisory Committee at their discretion. The Emergency Management Advisory Committee will be composed of members of the City Staff with expertise in emergency management matters. At the discretion the Emergency Services Director, representatives of civic, business, labor, veterans, professional, or other organizations having an official emergency responsibility, or specific expertise, may be invited to participate in the committee's deliberations.
Emergency Management Advisory Committee Duties
The Emergency Management Advisory Committee is dedicated to supporting the City's disaster preparedness, response, recovery, and mitigation initiatives. This includes engaging in training exercises and providing counsel to the Emergency Services Director on matters pertaining to emergency management. These endeavors aim to enhance the efficiency and effectiveness of emergency operations. The Committee convenes at the discretion of the Emergency Services Director.
Additionally, this workgroup is committed to increasing public preparedness through outreach efforts and the development of educational materials. Activities may include disaster skills training sessions, attendance at community events, and hosting forums to disseminate resources and best practices for community educators. Furthermore, they assist Community Emergency Response Team (CERT) groups by offering training sessions and providing necessary materials. The membership comprises professionals from the fields of public education, communication, and emergency management.
Plan Reproduction
This plan is the sole property of the City of Carmel-by-the-Sea. As such, it may be copied in part or as a whole by employees of the City for use in preparation for and during an actual major emergency or disaster. This plan may not be reproduced or copied by agencies or jurisdiction outside the City of Carmel-by-the-Sea. Segments of this plan, or redacted versions relevant to public information and guidance, may be posted on the city website or social media.
RESOLUTION 2025-096 EXHIBIT A ATTACHMENT 2
PAGE | 12 Carmel-by-the-Sea Emergency Operations Plan
Policies and Plan Employment
The operational elements of this plan will be employed in the event of a major emergency incident or disaster.
• To accomplish the stated mission and purpose, the City of Carmel-by-the-Sea will employ the applicable elements of emergency management as a participant in the Monterey County Operational Area (OA).
• To facilitate emergency management, the Carmel-by-the-Sea Emergency Operations Center (EOC) will be activated.
The following policies are applicable to plan activation:
• The Carmel-by-the-Sea Emergency Operations Plan becomes operational upon the activation of the Carmel-by-the-Sea Emergency Operations Center (EOC). • The plan may be activated by the City Council (if in session), the City Administrator, or the Director of Public Safety/Chief of Police, or a designated Alternate Emergency Services Director. (See City Code 2.64.060.)
• The plan will be activated upon declaration of a "Local State of Emergency" by the City Council (if in session) or upon issuance of a declaration by the Emergency Services Director, or by declaration of a "Local State of Emergency" by Monterey County, or by declaration of "State of Emergency" either as declared by the Governor as defined in the California Emergency Services Act, or a "State of War Emergency" is declared by the President of the United States. (See City Code 2.64.060.) • Routine, non-disaster emergencies stemming from 9-1-1 calls and other forms of notification will be handled in accordance with the protocols developed and employed by the Carmel-by-the-Sea Director of Public Safety/Chief of Police, the Monterey Fire Chief, the Carmel-by-the-Sea Public Works Director, and the Monterey County Emergency Medical Services Agency.
• The plan will be automatically activated on receipt of an attack warning or the observation of an act of war or terrorist attack.
This plan has been prepared in accordance with NFPA 1600 Standard on Disaster/Emergency Management and Business Continuity Programs 2013 Edition, published by the National Fire Protection Association, the National Incident Management System (NIMS) and Standardized Emergency Management System (SEMS). The National Fire Protection Association standard promotes a common understanding of the fundamentals of planning and decision making to help entities examine all hazards and produce an integrated, coordinated, and synchronized program for disaster/emergency management and business continuity.
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Supporting Plans and Documents
Additional plans and procedures that are
developed in support of this Emergency Operations
Plan such as mutual aid plans, mitigation plans, city
department standard operating procedures (SOP’s)
and any related procedures are incorporated by
reference and are maintained separate from this
base plan. Some of these supporting plans may be
appended to the end of this plan as deemed
appropriate.
Functional Support Annexes
Once the Carmel-by-the-Sea Office of Emergency
Services planning team identifies and prioritizes potential threats and hazards, as well as assesses the associated risks and vulnerabilities, they proceed to develop essential operational functions. These operational functions are then transformed into specific functional annexes that focus on critical operational tasks for the City and outline the courses of action designed to implement them.
While the basic plan outlines the overall strategy and concept of operations for the City's crisis response, functional annexes detail the implementation of that strategy tailored to Carmel's specific requirements. Additionally, functional annexes rely on departmental plans and standard operating procedures (SOPs) to carry out the tasks specified in the annex. Functional Support and Hazard-Specific Annexes for Monterey County and those specific to the City of Carmel-by-the-Sea offer particular procedures or support functions for distinct events as an extension of the Emergency Operations Plan.
Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs)
Each department within the City of Carmel-by-the-Sea is required to maintain standard operating procedures for the purpose of tactical direction. SOPs provide the purpose, authorities, duration, and details for the preferred method of performing a single function or a number of interrelated functions in a uniform manner. When developing SOPs Carmel-by-theSea departments should also take into consideration how many activities delineated within the EOP interact with, support, or require support from other departments or agencies.
Standard Operating Procedures must also ensure inclusionary planning for vulnerable people, including those with disabilities and others with access and functional needs. Where supporting plans are inconsistent with the general principles described in the City of Carmel-by-the-Sea’s Emergency Operations Plan (EOP), the EOP will supersede supporting plans.
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Situation and Assumptions
The City of Carmel-by-the-Sea’s Office of Emergency Services will be aware of significant emergency conditions as they arise. These conditions will trigger a response consistent with the respective responsibilities and roles defined either by the Emergency Operations Plan (EOP), or other legal and policy frameworks. The City may be constrained in their response by the level of training, readiness activities, and interagency coordination undertaken prior to or during the incident.
This section outlines the City's current situation and assumptions about potential impacts on operations and management during the plan's tenure.
• The City of Carmel-by-the-Sea issituated on the Monterey Peninsula, a scenic area on the Central Coast of California. The City has developed the majority of its land area.
Additional expansion is unlikely, but programmed enhancement of existing developed areas and structures will likely continue.
• The Monterey Fire Department is contractually responsible for overseeing and managing the City's fire and paramedic services, a practice that is anticipated to continue. The dispatching of fire units will remain under the jurisdiction of the Monterey County Emergency Communications Department, unless any unexpected changes arise. • The City of Monterey Fire Department may contract to provide services for other Peninsula fire service agencies in the future. Any such consolidation is likely to have a minimal impact on the implementation of this plan.
• City services may be consolidated or contracted with other municipalities to reduce costs.
• The City of Carmel-by-the-Sea will continue to be an active and supporting member of the Monterey County Operational Area Authority (OA).
• In a major emergency or disaster, City resources may be overwhelmed. To maintain effective operations, assistance from the Monterey County Operational Area or higher authority may be needed.
• Routine emergencies resulting from 9-1-1 calls and other forms of notification will continue to be managed in accordance with the protocols established by the Carmel-bythe-Sea Director of Public Safety/Chief of Police, the Monterey Fire Chief, the Carmelby-the-Sea Public Works Director, and the Monterey County Emergency Medical Services Agency. Any minor adjustments necessary to address evolving operational priorities and needs will be implemented by the relevant agencies as required. • Future management of major emergencies may adopt a regional approach, potentially involving a Regional or Peninsula Emergency Operations Center with collaborative staffing. An Integrated Emergency Operations Plan could support this regional model. • The Carmel-by-the-Sea Fire Ambulance (CFA) organization serves as an essential emergency response resource for the City and is expected to remain so in the future.
This capability will continue to operate in coordination with the Monterey Fire Department paramedic minimum staffing. The City in doing so will maintain its 1797.201 rights which are essential for operating an ambulance service in compliance with state regulations.
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• Incidents may require temporary shelter facilities and food service operations for displaced populations or to support the rest and feeding needs of first responders and City staff providing services during the emergency.
• Continued growth in the local Monterey Peninsula area may lead to increased traffic congestion on highways adjacent to the City of Carmel-by-the-Sea. Such congestion could hinder response efforts during a major emergency or disaster situation. • Environmental restrictions can challenge emergency management, requiring better inter-agency coordination.
• Special events will continue to enhance the atmosphere of the City and may expand in both number and scope.
• Emergency managers and staff from the City of Carmel-by-the-Sea will continue to participate in strategic planning in the development of the Local Hazard Mitigation Plan incorporation with the Monterey County Multi-Jurisdictional Hazard Mitigation Plan (MJHMP) as required by FEMA.
• City staff will continue to mitigate any action items that develop from the Threat Hazard Identification Risk Assessment (THIRA) or mitigation action items from the Community Wildfire Protection Plan (CWPP).
• Carmel-by-the-Sea will comply with the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA), which requires that emergency procedures enable people with disabilities to evacuate and participate in all emergency and disaster-related programs together with their service animals.
Emergency Plan Structure
The format and structure of this Emergency Operations Plan is broken down into three Sections.
1. The Basic Plan, which describes the purpose, scope, situations and assumptions, hazard analysis, concept of operations, plan management, and authorities of the City departments and agencies in response to an emergency or disaster.
2. Emergency Operations Center positions descriptions and checklists for the Incident Management Team (IMT) which follow the Incident Command System (ICS).
3. Functional Support and Hazard Specific Annexes.
Section One
Basic
Emergency
Operations
Plan
Section Two
EOC
Position
Descriptions
Checklists
Section Three
Functional
Support and
Hazard Specific
Annexes
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Hazard/Vulnerabilities Analysis Overview
A hazard represents an event or physical condition that has the potential to cause fatalities, injuries, property damage, infrastructure damage, agricultural losses, damage to the environment, interruption of business, or other types of harm or loss. Vulnerability indicates the level of exposure of human life and property damage from natural and man-made hazards.
This segment of the Emergency Operations Plan (EOP) presents a series of jurisdiction-specific risk assessments based on the Monterey County Operational Area (OA) Hazard Mitigation Plan.
In compliance with 44 CFR § 201.6(a)(4), The Monterey County Multi-Jurisdictional Hazard Mitigation Plan (MJHMP) geographically covers the entire area of Monterey County and has multiple participating jurisdictions including Carmel-by-the-Sea.
In March of 2022, emergency planning personnel from the City of Carmel-by the Sea collaborated with the County of Monterey in the development and integration of Carmel’s Local Hazard Mitigation Plan into the Monterey County Multi-Jurisdictional Hazard Mitigation Plan.
The City of Carmel-by-the-Sea’s Planning Team used the same risk assessment process as the Monterey County Steering Committee.
The hazard profiles in Volume 1 of the Monterey County Multi-Jurisdictional Hazard Mitigation Plan discuss overall impacts to the County and describes the hazards, as well as their extent, magnitude/severity, previous occurrences, and the likelihood of future occurrences. Hazard vulnerability specific to City of Carmel-by-the-Sea is included in Volume 2, Annex B of the Monterey County Plan.
The City planning team performed an inventory and analysis of existing capabilities, plans, programs, and policies that enhance its ability to implement mitigation strategies.
These Mitigation Strategies are detailed in the Monterey County Multi-Jurisdictional Hazard Mitigation Plan and included:
• Planning and Regulatory Capability.
• Administrative and Technical Capability.
• Fiscal Capability.
• Education and Outreach Capability.
• National Flood Insurance Program (NFIP) Compliance.
The National Flood Insurance Program (NFIP) compliance refers to the City of Carmel-by-theSea’s adherence to regulations and standards required to participate in the NFIP and receive flood insurance coverage. Essentially, it ensures that communities are actively managing their flood risk and protecting property and lives.
The table on the subsequent page presents the outcomes of the hazard risk ranking exercise conducted by the City of Carmel-by-the-Sea’s Planning Team. High, moderate, and substantial risk factors are further detailed in this Emergency Operations Plan for the purpose of awareness and future mitigation planning.
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Threat Hazard Identification Risk Assessment (THIRA)
Hazard Geographic
Extent
Likelihood
of
Occurrence
Magnitude
Severity Impact Total out of 16
Degree of
Risk
Agricultural Emergencies 1.2 1.2 1.3 1.4 5.2 Slight
Coastal Erosion 3.0 2.8 2.7 3 11.5 Substantial
Coastal Flooding 2.4 2.7 2.0 2.3 9.4 Moderate
Cyber-Attack 2.9 2.6 3.0 3.3 11.8 Substantial
Dam Failure 1.3 1.1 1.1 1.4 5 Slight
Drought & Water Shortage 3.6 3.7 3.1 3.1 13.5 High
Earthquake 3.4 2.8 3.4 3.6 13.2 High
Epidemic 3.4 2.9 3.3 3.7 13.3 High
Extreme Cold/Freeze 1.8 1.8 2.1 2.1 7.8 Possible
Extreme Heat 2.2 2.0 2.0 2.3 8.6 Moderate
Flash Flood 2.0 2.0 2.2 2.4 8.7 Moderate
Hazardous Materials Incident 2.6 2.1 2.1 2.6 9.3 Moderate Invasive Species 3.0 2.7 2.6 2.3 10.6 Substantial
Levee Failure 1.6 1.3 1.7 1.6 6.1 Possible
Localized Stormwater Flooding 3.0 2.7 2.9 2.9 11.5 Substantial Mass Migration 1.3 1.3 1.6 1.6 5.8 Slight
Pandemic 3.4 3.0 3.8 3.8 13.9 High
Riverine Flooding 2.0 2.1 2.0 2 8.1 Moderate
Sea Level Rise 2.8 3.1 2.6 3 11.5 Substantial
Severe Winter Storms 2.9 2.8 2.5 2.6 10.8 Substantial
Slope Failure 2.5 2.5 2.4 2.5 9.9 Moderate
Targeted Violence 2.0 2.5 2.5 2.7 9.7 Moderate
Terrorism 2.2 1.0 3.0 3.3 9.5 Moderate
Tsunami 2.8 2.5 2.9 3 11.1 Substantial
Utility Interruption/PSPS 3.5 3.5 3.0 3.3 13.3 High
Water Contamination 3.0 2.3 3.3 3.0 11.6 Substantial
Wildfire 3.8 3.1 3.4 3.8 14 High
Windstorms 3.4 3.4 3.0 3.1 12.9 High
Moderate to High risk factors are described in more detail in the Monterey County MultiJurisdictional Hazard Mitigation Plan Volume 2, Annex B.
The following information provides supplementary details on threats, vulnerabilities, and resources, complementing the data found within the local hazard mitigation plan. The Local Hazard Mitigation Plan, the Monterey County Multi-Jurisdictional Mitigation Plan, and the Community Wildfire Protection Plan contain additional, specific risk factors and action plans for the prevention, response, mitigation, and recovery from anticipated threats.
Wildland & Urban Fires:
In August 2023, wildfires in Maui, Hawaii led to evacuations and at least 102 fatalities. Dry, gusty conditions from nearby high-pressure areas and Hurricane Dora contributed to the spread. The Palisades Fire began on January 7, 2025, in Los Angeles County's Santa Monica Mountains. It affected Pacific Palisades, Topanga, and Malibu, burning 23,707 acres, killing 12 people, and destroying 6,837 structures before being contained on January 31.
Additionally, the Colorado Fire in 2022, the Willow Fire in 2021 and the Dolan Fire in 2020 all in nearby Ventana wilderness have caused significant concerns for all Peninsula residents and business.
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Although it is challenging to link individual fire events directly to climate change, the risk of wildfires increases as a result of climate change due to higher temperatures extending fire seasons, creating drier fuels, and reducing forest health. With the increased frequency and intensity of wildfires in California, community wildfire planning becomes increasingly crucial to prepare for and adapt to wildfires. Community Wildfire Protection Plans (CWPPs) serve as a tool to mitigate the severity and impact of wildfires and enhance community resilience.
Community Wildfire Protection Plan (CWPP)
In November 2023, the Monterey Fire Department led the development of a Community Wildfire Protection Plan (CWPP) for the incorporated cities of Monterey, Pacific Grove and Carmel-by-the-Sea with planners from DUDEK Associates. The CWPP outlines the area's physical characteristics, wildfire hazards, assets at risk, strategies for reducing wildfire risk, vegetation/fuel management projects, and action items to mitigate wildfire danger. The CWPP is a detailed and comprehensive Plan that is vital to future planning and resource management for Carmel-by-the-Sea.
Climate Change:
Climate change boosts the frequency, duration, and intensity of natural hazards like wildfires, extreme heat, drought, storms, heavy precipitation, and sea level rise. Communities are currently experiencing these impacts. These trends will likely persist for decades, introducing new risks to state and local governments and complicating their mitigation plans. They also uniquely threaten the nation's most vulnerable populations by worsening disaster impacts on already underserved and socially vulnerable groups. In July 2021 a Climate Change Vulnerability Assessment was conducted to characterize climate hazards that will impact the community and City assets in Carmel-by-the-Sea, The Vulnerability Assessment aims to provide focus on the City’s adaptation planning efforts. Climate change results in three important changes to the global climate system:
• Increasing temperatures.
• Rising sea levels.
• Changing precipitation patterns.
Rising Sea Levels:
Rising sea levels will affect flooding and liquefaction risks. Low-lying areas not currently affected by regular tides may become submerged. Additionally, temporary coastal flooding events may occur more frequently and extend further inland. Stormwater flooding might also increase as higher sea levels reduce stormwater drainage capacity. Higher sea levels can raise the groundwater table, making soils more prone to liquefaction during an earthquake and potentially affecting potable groundwater supplies in the future.
U.S. coastlines are projected to see an average sea level rise of .5 to 1 foot above today's levels. Specific amounts will vary regionally, influenced by local factors like land height and ocean conditions. The National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) projects that by 2030, relative sea level rise will be 0.37 feet along the Carmel coastline.
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Winter Storm/Extreme Weather:
The Monterey Peninsula experiences damage from winter storms between November and April. Typically, the coastline and nearby areas are significantly affected, leading to potential severe damage from high winds and heavy rains within the City. Trees may fall due to winter storms or extreme weather, posing a substantial risk to the City in terms of property destruction, threats to life, and disruption of essential services and transportation, potentially resulting in a multifaceted emergency situation. The City has encountered this threat multiple times in the past and should consider it seriously.
Flooding:
The effects of flooding on the City of Carmel-by-the-Sea will normally be generated from two sources, flooding of the Carmel River which has the capacity to inundate the Carmel Regional Water Pollution District sewage plant located south of the City adjacent to the Carmel River, and localized flooding of streets and areas due to heavy rainfall and/or poor drainage from the urbanized watershed to the east and north of the City. With the exception of the sewage treatment ponds which provide sewage treatment for the City, the City is situated well above the 100-year flood plain. Flooding of the sewage plant could force it to be shut down, thus impacting the City.
Levee Failure and Resultant Flooding: In the event of a levee failure and subsequent flooding, the unincorporated area of Mission Fields, located directly east of the City's southeastern boundary, may be affected. Notably, in March 1995, Mission Fields experienced damage to 220 residences and a complete evacuation of all residents. The primary impact on the City would involve disrupted transportation to and from the southeastern sections. Additionally, City resources may need to be allocated for mutual aid assistance in this region.
Stormwater Flooding: Stormwater flooding occurs in Carmel-by-the-Sea during high precipitation events when rainfall runoff collects in areas that were once natural waterways but are now part of the City's combined sewer and stormwater collection system. Consequently, some low-lying areas tend to collect stormwater. This can result in ponding on roadways, storm drain overflows, and heavy runoff on paved areas. Accumulated stormwater on surfaces and backups from the combined sewer stormwater system may enter nearby structures, causing property damage. The risk of stormwater flooding could increase in the future due to more intense precipitation events and sea level rise.
Earthquake:
The San Andreas Fault lies approximately twenty-five miles to the east of the City. While this segment of the fault is relatively less active than other segments, it does have the potential of generating very strong earthquakes of magnitude 7.0 or greater that could cause structural damage and injuries within the City. In 1989, The Monterey Peninsula experienced the Mw 6.9 Loma Prieta Earthquake.
The 1989 quake was centered near Loma Prieta peak in the Santa Cruz Mountains, approximately 40 miles north of Monterey The quake lasted only 15 seconds, but resulted in severe shaking in the San Francisco and Monterey Bay regions.
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Tsunami:
A tsunami is a seismically generated series of sea waves that can produce major coastal damage. Although an extremely infrequent occurrence, tsunamis, often mistakenly called “tidal waves,” have caused damage in Crescent City, Santa Cruz, and in Moss Landing during recent events. Carmel Beach would be the primary area affected by a tsunami. Tsunami inundation is the maximum horizontal distance reached by tsunami waves on shore. Runup is the maximum height and distance of tsunami-related water inundation on shore. Runup is measured vertically from a reference sea level, such as mean sea level. Inundation is measured horizontally from the mean sea level position at the water's edge. The Monterey County Operational Area Tsunami Incident Response Plan (TIRP) provides specific incident related guidance for this type of event as well as detailed runup and inundation maps (See Functional Support Annex-E Beach Closure, Evacuation, and Tsunami Plan for functional guidance.) High Surf Conditions/Coastal Flooding:
The combination of high tides, large swells, and high winds can produce high surf conditions and flooding of the Carmel Beach. These conditions could pose a severe threat to life and property within that area of the City and could destroy beach access points/routes.
Additionally, the unincorporated coastline areas southward of the City and around Carmel Point and areas adjacent to the Carmel River Lagoon could be impacted during high surf conditions.
City agencies could be requested to provide mutual aid to adjacent unincorporated areas during these conditions. (See Functional Support Annex-E Carmel Beach Closure, Evacuation, and Tsunami Plan for functional guidance.)
Drought:
California’s Mediterranean climate is typified by dry summers followed by long, wet winters, thus making the state particularly susceptible to drought and flooding. The potential of increased fire danger will be prevalent, and the likelihood of a negative impact on the hospitality industry will exist. Drought conditions may persist for extended periods of time depending on the severity of climatic conditions, and preparations and precautions should be undertaken accordingly.
The ability to predict when droughts will occur, which involves forecasting precipitation weeks to months in advance, is currently limited. Enhancing long-range weather modeling capabilities is an area requiring further research. Drought conditions necessitate that the City's efforts align with those of the Monterey Peninsula Water Management District, Monterey County, the State of California, California American Water Company, and other relevant agencies. As a result, dissemination of drought-related public information and other pertinent actions must be coordinated with these agencies to ensure consistency and continuity. In some instances, the City may choose to allow these agencies to lead public information efforts and follow their guidance.
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During declared drought conditions, the City's mitigation efforts will be focused on, but not limited to, the following areas:
• Conservation of water, both within City facilities and grounds, and by citizens. • Close monitoring of fire prone or high fuel areas, including Pescadero Canyon and Mission Trails Park.
• Disseminating and publicizing water conservation information as provided by the Monterey Peninsula Water Management District and California American Water Company.
• Publicizing and promoting vegetation clearance around structures in accordance with the Community Wildfire Protection Plan (CWPP).
Essential Services/Transportation/Utilities Disruption:
The Monterey Peninsula is vulnerable to disruptions in essential services due to limited major transportation routes. Emergencies have the potential to interrupt vehicular traffic, thereby affecting the delivery of utilities, emergency medical transportation, and other critical services.
The City has previously encountered instances of disruptions in electrical and natural gas services, underscoring the need for preparedness.
• Potable Water Contamination/Disruption: The City is serviced by the California American Water Company water system. A remote possibility exists of contamination and/or disruption due to a variety of manufactured or natural causes. • Transportation Disruption: It is conceivable that in certain types of emergencies, key transportation arteries into and out of the City could be disrupted or closed. An event of this nature could require circuitous routing through either surrounding unincorporated areas of Monterey County, or Pebble Beach, causing delays both in general travel and emergency response.
• Electrical Power/Natural Gas Service/Sewer Service Disruption: Disruption of electrical and natural gas service has and could result from winter storms, high winds, human error, fallen trees or limbs, vehicular accidents, vandalism, system failure, Public Safety Power Shutoffs (PSPS), and other causes.
A Public Safety Power Shutoff (PSPS) event in the Monterey Peninsula, like any PSPS event, is a measure to prevent wildfires by temporarily turning off power in high-risk areas during severe weather conditions. PSPS events are triggered by specific weather conditions, like high winds and dry vegetation, which create a high wildfire risk. The duration of a PSPS event can vary, depending on the severity and duration of the weather conditions and the time it takes for PG&E to inspect power lines after the weather has cleared.
The City receives electrical power service from Pacific Gas & Electric (PG&E). Due to portions of this service being above ground, the system is particularly susceptible to severe weather and winter storms. Extended disruptions can create sub-emergency situations where homes cannot be heated, meals cannot be prepared, and businesses are unable to operate. A major disruption of the grid or the local distribution system could result in an extended power outage. Natural gas distribution to the City is managed by a single pipeline as the sole source.
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Hazardous Materials Incident:
Hazardous materials have properties that make them potentially dangerous and harmful both to human health and to the environment. An accidental hazardous material release can occur wherever hazardous materials are manufactured, stored, transported, or used. Depending on the substance involved, the release may affect nearby populations and may contaminate critical or sensitive environmental areas. The universe of hazardous materials is large and diverse.
Hazardous substances can be in liquid, solid, or gas form, and can include toxic chemicals, radioactive materials, infectious substances, and wastes.
Should a hazardous material incident occur, field operations will be governed by the Monterey County Health Department Emergency Response. The Hazardous Materials Management Service (HMMS), comprising members of an Emergency Response Team (ERT), collaborates with local fire and police agencies, California Highway Patrol, Cal-Trans, U.S. Coast Guard, and National Marine Sanctuary personnel.
The ERT provides 24/7 emergency response to incidents necessitating Health Department oversight, including:
• Hazardous materials releases and spills
• Environmental crimes
• Bioterrorism
• Illegal Drug Laboratories
• Sewage spills
• Food poisoning incidents
Evacuation:
Any incident could result in the need to evacuate residences or businesses of the City of Carmel-by-the-Sea in order to preserve life or prevent injuries. In order to ensure effectiveness and maintain civil order, evacuations must be well planned and efficiently executed. For the purpose of this plan, a situation in which evacuation or other actions are deemed necessary to protect the citizens of Carmel-by-the-Sea, the following three defined categories will be applicable.
• Evacuation Advisory (Precautionary): No immediate threat exists, however prudent emergency management dictates removal of persons from a specific area, or evacuation of specific vulnerable portions of the community as a precautionary measure. • Evacuation Warning (Mandatory): A threat is present or impending and requires that all persons and livestock living in a specific area be evacuated from the scene for their protection without delay. This type of evacuation is mandatory. • Shelter-in-Place:
Shelter-in-Place may be implemented when there is a threat that makes it safe for citizens to remain within their residences or places of employment. It requires individuals to have sufficient supplies of food, water, medicines, and cooking fuels such as propane. Those who do not meet these self-sufficiency requirements may need to evacuate. Instructions for Shelter-In-Place must be clear, precise, and communicated through all available channels.
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Evacuation Authority: The Emergency Services Director is authorized to direct evacuations in all situations. In the absence of the Emergency Services Director, this authority will be assumed by the Director of Public Safety/Chief of Police. In the event that an immediate, localized evacuation is deemed warranted on the fire ground or at a crime scene, an on-scene fire service or law enforcement Incident Commander may direct an evacuation. (See Functional Support Annex-F General City Evacuation for additional information.) Pandemic/Public Health Hazards:
Because pandemics are recurring events, it is not a question of whether there will be another pandemic: the question is when the next pandemic will occur and how severe it will be. The Monterey County Health Department has the necessary infrastructure, resources, and expertise to address public health emergencies and to coordinate effectively with the California Department of Health.
Public health hazards are addressed in Chapter 13 of the County of Monterey's MultiJurisdictional Hazard Mitigation Plan. Additionally, the Carmel-by-the-Sea Pandemic Influenza Incident Response Plan (CPIIRP) outlines specific actions and responsibilities for the city in the event of a pandemic occurrence.
Terrorism/General:
Terrorism is defined in the Code of Federal Regulations as “the unlawful use of force and violence against persons or property to intimidate or coerce a government, the civilian population, or any segment thereof, in furtherance of political or social objectives” (28 CFR, Section 0.85). The FBI categorizes two types of terrorism in the US:
• Domestic terrorism involves groups or individuals without foreign direction whose terrorist activities, including the use of Weapons of Mass Production (WMDs), are directed at the government or population. The FBI, the primary response agency for domestic terrorism, coordinates domestic preparedness programs and activities to limit domestic terrorism.
• International terrorism involves groups or individuals whose terrorist activities are foreign-based and/or directed by countries or groups outside the United States, or whose activities transcend national boundaries.
Terrorism Chemical/Biological/Radiological/Nuclear/Explosive (CBRNE): Carmel-by-the-Sea, though not a typical high-value target for terrorists, is a popular tourist spot with a busy business district that could be vulnerable. Neighboring areas might attract high-value targets, leading to emergencies that necessitate immediate federal or state assistance via DHS protocols. Initially, explosive events follow Public Safety and Fire Department protocols, while biological, radiological, chemical, or nuclear incidents adhere to DHS and Monterey County Health Department plans. Terrorism is classified as a Human-Caused Hazard in the Monterey County Hazard Mitigation Plan, Chapter 12, prompting a multi-jurisdictional response.
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Active Shooter:
All public and private buildings in the City of Carmel-by-the-Sea are physically susceptible to a violence event such as an Active Shooter/Attacker. Schools, churches, large event venues, and workplaces have been locations of previous targeted violence incidents and may be more vulnerable to attack. The 2024 Monterey County Active Attacker/Criminal Mass Casualty Protocol defines Active Shooter/Attacker as, “an incident, normally occurring in a confined and populated area, during which one or more armed suspects are using deadly force in an ongoing manner and where persons have been killed, injured, or are under imminent threat of death or serious bodily harm by such suspects.” This type of event typically falls under law enforcement jurisdiction, with support from fire services and emergency medical resources. Depending on the duration of the event, the Carmel Emergency Operations Center (EOC) may not be deployed, and the Police Chief or City Administrator may handle media and public information aspects, allowing the Incident Commander to focus on the tactical situation.
Multi-Casualty Incident (MCI):
A multi-casualty incident is one in which the local medical responders or facilities are tasked beyond their resources. While no figure for actual casualties defines this event, practical experience has indicated that the general number of five major casualties will normally constitute a multi-casualty incident. The Monterey County EMS Multi-Casualty Incident Plan will govern field operations should this event occur. The possibility of an aircraft crash or bus accident, while very remote, is a potential threat to most communities on the Monterey Peninsula. Should this type of incident occur within the City limits, it could result in a MultiCasualty Incident.
Major Maritime Incident:
Designated in 1992 by NOAA under the authority of the National Marine Sanctuaries Act, Monterey Bay National Marine Sanctuary is a federal marine protected area offshore of California's central coast. Sanctuary staff respond to an average of 11 vessel discharges, groundings, and sinkings each year. Vessel groundings can crush marine habitat and organisms, release hazardous chemicals, and discharge nets, hooks, and other hazards to marine life.
Sanctuary staff work with the U.S. Coast Guard, California Department of Fish and Wildlife Office of Spill Prevention and Response, California State Parks, local municipalities, and other agencies to ensure vessel pollution incidents are mitigated and the vessels are completely removed from the sanctuary, whether they are submerged or grounded on the shoreline.
An event such as a vessel grounding or aircraft crash necessitates extensive search and rescue operations, provision of shelter, potential coastline contamination and closure, and management of multiple casualties. Such incidents can occur on the Carmel coastline, involving a multi-jurisdictional response. These incidents are typically coordinated through the Operational Area Coastal Incident Response Plan, with Carmel city services responding as necessary and requested.
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Concept of Operations
The Concept of Operations in the emergency management system outlines the sequence and scope of planned responses. It details the division of responsibilities, actions before, during, and after an incident, and the process for requesting resources. The City of Carmel-by-the-Sea's Incident Management Team (IMT) assesses potential threats to life, property, and the environment, subsequently developing city-specific plans and procedures to address these threats. These plans and procedures are designed to coordinate and support emergency response and recovery activities, and they will be tested through exercises and validated by actual response outcomes.
Functional Annexes created by the Monterey County Department of Emergency Management provide detailed Operational Area response protocols, often with greater resources, and are referenced and incorporated into this Emergency Operations Plan. The objective is to sustain a robust incident management organization characterized by strong collaborative relationships among governments, community-based organizations, volunteers, public service agencies, and the private sector. The City of Carmel-by-the-Sea adheres to, and this EOP complies with SEMS, NIMS, and ICS guidelines.
National Response Framework (NRF)
The National Response Framework (NRF) is based upon the premise that incidents are handled at the lowest jurisdictional level. In the vast majority of incidents, state and local resources and interstate mutual aid will provide the first line of emergency response and incident management support. When state resources and capabilities are overwhelmed, Governors may request federal assistance. The NRF provides the framework for federal interaction with state, local, tribal, private sector and non-governmental entities in the context of domestic incident management to ensure timely and effective federal support.
The NRF is the core operational plan for national incident management, and establishes national-level coordinating structures, processes, and protocols that will be incorporated into certain existing federal interagency incident or hazard-specific plans. The NRF does not alter or impede the ability of first responders to carry out their specific authorities or perform their responsibilities.
The NRF and the National Incident Management System (NIMS) are designed to work in tandem to improve the Nation’s incident management capabilities and overall efficiency. Use of NIMS enables local, state, tribal, and federal governments and private-sector and nongovernmental organizations (NGOs) to work together effectively and efficiently to prevent, prepare for, respond to, and recover from actual or potential domestic incidents regardless of cause, size, or complexity.
National Incident Management System (NIMS)
NIMS offers a comprehensive approach to incident management for all hazards, integrating best practices into a consistent nationwide method. This applies at all levels and across disciplines.
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The system includes five main components: preparedness; communications and information management; resource management; command and management; and ongoing support technologies.
Standardized Emergency Management System (SEMS)
Use of the Standardized Emergency Management System (SEMS) is required by California Government Code Section 8607(a) for managing response to multi-agency and multijurisdiction incidents in California. SEMS incorporates the use of the Incident Command System (ICS), the California Master Mutual Aid Agreement, the Operational Area Concept, and multiagency coordination. Local governments must use SEMS to be eligible for reimbursement of their response-related personnel costs under state disaster assistance programs.
Incident Command System (ICS)
The Incident Command System (ICS) is a key part of SEMS and NIMS, providing a standardized approach to on-scene emergency management. It creates an integrated structure that adapts to the complexity of single or multiple incidents without jurisdictional limits. ICS manages facilities, equipment, personnel, procedures, and communications through a unified organizational structure and standard procedures, as outlined in the ICS Field Operations Guide (ICS 420-1).
Integrating Federal, State, and local Systems
Taken together the NRF, NIMS, SEMS, ICS, and this Emergency Operations Plan (EOP) integrate the capabilities and resources of various governmental jurisdictions, incident management and emergency response disciplines, non-governmental organizations (NGOs), and the private sector into a cohesive, coordinated, and seamless national framework for domestic incident management. It should be understood that field level emergency responders, Emergency Operations Center (EOC) staff, department executives, elected officials, and public information officers all have a vital role in successful comprehensive incident management and make up the Incident Management Enterprise.
Operational Area Membership
The Operational Area is defined by the Emergency Services Act as an intermediate level of the state emergency services organization consisting of a county and all political subdivisions within the county area. Political subdivisions include cities, a city and county, counties, districts, or other local governmental agency, or public agency authorized by law.
The lead agency of the operational area is responsible for:
• Coordinating information, resources and priorities among the local governments within the operational area.
• Coordinating information, resources and priorities between the regional level and the local government level.
• Using multi-agency or inter-agency coordination to facilitate decisions for overall operational area level emergency response activities.
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The City of Carmel-by-the-Sea is a participant in the Monterey County Operational Area Authority, established to meet the requirements of SEMS. Depending on the type of disaster or major emergency, the City may have resources allocated at the Local and Field Levels of the NIMS/SEMS organizational structure. The City follows the doctrines and protocols set by the Monterey County Operational Area.
Period of Self-Sufficiency
The concept of self-sufficiency in disasters underscores the necessity for municipalities to be adequately prepared and capable of independently managing emergencies without external aid. This entails assuming responsibility for individual preparedness and promoting the preparedness initiatives among community members. Accordingly, the City of Carmel-by-theSea and its community partners strive to assist our residents and businesses in stockpiling supplies, preparing disaster kits, planning for evacuations, and obtaining first aid training. The active participation of citizens in response efforts is essential for mitigating health impacts and enhancing the overall resilience of our community.
During an emergency or disaster, Carmel-by-the-Sea may need to be self-sufficient before external aid and resources become available. The following general planning assumptions will guide the execution of this plan.
• Fire, law, and emergency medical mutual aid resources requested using the protocols established by the Monterey County Fire Chiefs Association, the Monterey County Chief Law Enforcement Officers Association, and the Monterey County Emergency Medical Services Agency are usually received within one hour of the request in case of a major localized emergency affecting the City. In the event of an Operational Area-wide major emergency or disaster where law and fire resources are committed, a longer response time is likely.
• Aid or resources requested from the Monterey County Operational Area should not be expected within the first twenty-four hours after the event begins. The City should plan to be self-sufficient during this time.
• Aid or resources from the Coastal Region, California Governor's Office of Emergency Services (CalOES), may not be available for the first forty-eight hours after the event begins.
• Aid or resources from the California Governor's Office of Emergency Services (CalOES) and/or the California National Guard may not be available for the first forty-eight to seventy-two hours after the event begins.
• Aid or resources from federal sources, including the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA), may not be available for the first seventy-two to ninety-six hours following the start of the event.
• After an event like an earthquake or wildfire, Carmel-by-the-Sea will need to cover the costs for debris removal, life-saving emergency protective measures, and restoring public infrastructure. FEMA may take several weeks before the reimbursement process can be initiated.
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Disaster Management Cycle
The Disaster Management Cycle is a framework that delineates the phases of a disaster. This framework is employed by the City of Carmel-by-the-Sea emergency management organization to prepare for and respond to diverse types of disasters, including natural, technological, and human-made events. It enables professionals to identify potential hazards, evaluate risks, and formulate plans for prevention, mitigation, and response.
Emergency management functions are grouped into the
four phases of prevention/mitigation, preparedness,
response, and recovery. The grouping of emergency
management functions is useful for classifying and
conceptualizing activities. While useful for targeting efforts and resources, the phases of emergency management are
not distinct - activities in each phase often overlap with other phases. For example, recovery projects often include elements of mitigation (i.e., rebuilding structures using current building codes) and response often includes
recovery measures (i.e., immediate debris removal). The phases are also cyclical in naturelessons learned from an incident are applied in preparedness efforts for future emergencies and major disasters. The following sections provide examples of the types of activities that take place in each phase.
Prevention: The prevention phase includes activities, tasks, programs, and systems intended to avoid or intervene in order to stop an incident from occurring. Prevention can apply both to human-caused incidents (such as terrorism, vandalism, sabotage, or human error) as well as to naturally occurring incidents.
Mitigation: Mitigation activities aim to reduce the likelihood of disaster occurrence or minimize the impact of inevitable disasters. These measures include building codes, updated vulnerability analyses, zoning, and land use management, building use regulations and safety standards, preventive health care, and public education initiatives. The activities are designed to reduce or eliminate risks to individuals or property or to lessen the effects or consequences of an incident. Mitigation measures may be implemented before, during, or after an incident. These measures are often informed by lessons learned from previous incidents.
Preparedness: Preparedness activities are conducted prior to an emergency to develop operational capabilities, implement protective measures, and enhance effective disaster responses. These activities may include emergency and disaster planning, training exercises, and public education. Citizen groups, such as Carmel Prepares, Carmel Residents Association, and Carmel Cares, collaborate with the City of Carmel-by-the-Sea, the Carmel Library, and the Community Emergency Response Team (CERT) to equip our community with the necessary tools, knowledge, and support to remain safe and resilient. Citizen preparedness activities are critical components of this phase and significantly contribute to a community's ability to effectively respond to emergencies.
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Response: Activities that address the short-term, direct effects of an incident. Response includes immediate actions to save lives, protect property, and meet basic human needs.
Response also includes the execution of emergency operations plans and of mitigation activities designed to limit the loss of life, personal injury, property damage, and other unfavorable outcomes.
The response phase can be further broken down into three types of response—pre-emergency, immediate, and on-going emergency responses.
a) Pre-Emergency Response (or Crisis Response) If warning mechanisms exist for a particular hazard, then response actions to emphasize protection of life, property, and environment can be anticipated. Typical pre-emergency and crisis response actions may include:
o Alerting to necessary agencies, placing critical resources on standby. o Warning threatened populations of the emergency and appraising them of safety measures to be implemented.
o Evacuation of threatened populations to safe areas.
o Identifying the need for mutual aid.
o Proclamation of a Local Emergency by local authorities. b) Immediate Emergency Response. During this phase, emphasis is placed on saving lives and property, attempting to establish and maintain control of the situation, and minimizing effects of the disaster. Immediate response is accomplished within the affected area by local government agencies and segments of the private sector. The primary activities are on-scene by first or early responders. c) On-Going (or Sustained) Emergency Response. In addition to continuing preservation of life and property operations, mass care, relocation, public information, situation analysis, status and damage assessment operations may be initiated. Ongoing response usually involves many organizations and the activation of the City of Carmel-by-the-Sea Emergency Operations Center (EOC).
Recovery: At the onset of an emergency, actions are taken to enhance the effectiveness of recovery operations. Recovery includes both short-term activities intended to return vital lifesupport systems to operation, and long-term activities designed to return infrastructure systems to pre-disaster conditions. The recovery phase may also include cost recovery activities. The recovery stage focuses on restoring the affected community to a state of normalcy. The major objectives of the recovery period include:
• Reinstatement of family and community integrity.
• Provision of essential public services.
• Restoration of private and public property.
• Identification of residual hazards.
• Preliminary plans to mitigate future hazards.
• Recovery of costs associated with response and recovery efforts. • Coordination of state and federal public and individual assistance.
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Recovery efforts involve collaboration among various stakeholders, referred to as the “whole community” in the National Preparedness Goal and Presidential Policy Directive 8: National Preparedness. The whole community encompasses individuals and families, including those with access and functional needs; businesses; faith-based and community organizations; nonprofit groups; schools; media outlets; and all levels of government, including state, local, and federal partners, in emergency preparedness and management.
At the core of recovery operations is the preparedness and planning implemented by the City of Carmel-by-the-Sea and its stakeholders. Building reliant, redundant local support networks that include both private, public, and volunteer organizations will ensure that those partnerships and relationships will work effectively for greater long-term stability of our City.
The National Disaster Recovery Reform Act (2018) The Disaster Recovery Reform Act (DRRA), enacted in 2018, aimed to improve federal disaster preparedness, mitigation, and response by amending the Robert T. Stafford Disaster Relief and Emergency Assistance Act (Stafford Act). The DRRA introduced new funding streams, increased FEMA's accountability, and incentivized communities to build and rebuild more resiliently. The DRRA provides federal guidance in how best to restore, redevelop and revitalize the social, economic, natural, and environmental components of communities.
The Disaster Recovery Reform Act:
• Recognizes the benefits of taking action before a catastrophe occurs, and reforms FEMA and the Stafford Act by ensuring that a percentage of assistance provided in the wake of disasters is invested in pre-disaster hazard mitigation so that states, tribal, and local governments can pre-empt the damage and distress that results from disasters. • Clarifies what may be eligible for mitigation funding, making sure investments are cost effective and reduce risk.
• Speeds recovery by creating efficiencies in FEMA’s programs such as getting structures inspected faster.
• Clarifies federal programs to help expedite assistance for recipients of FEMA aid, resolve issues quickly, and rebuild more efficiently.
• Provides more flexibility in meeting disaster survivors’ housing needs. • Simplifies federal requirements for individuals and state and local governments. • Helps communities meet the needs of pets in disasters. • Increases transparency and oversight in the disaster assistance process.
The City of Carmel-by-the-Sea is dedicated to implementing all aspects of the Emergency Management Cycle and enhancing resilience through state and federal assistance programs during significant disasters affecting the City. Further details regarding the recovery phases are available on page 81 of this Emergency Operations Plan.
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Organization and Assignment of Responsibilities
The Standardized Emergency Management System (SEMS) classifies five organizational levels:
state, regional, operational area, local government, and field response level. Each of these levels is activated as needed in a modular component network style.
State Level (CalOES) The state level of SEMS prioritizes tasks, coordinates state resources for regional requests, and manages mutual aid among regions. It connects the state and federal response systems, requests assistance from other states, and coordinates with FEMA for federal help. The state level operates from the State Operations Center (SOC).
Regional Level (REOC) Operating from the Regional Emergency Operations Center (REOC), the regional level coordinates information and resources among operational areas within a mutual aid region, as well as with the state level. It also manages state agency support for emergency response within the region. California is divided into three administrative regions by Cal OES:
Inland, Coastal, and Southern. Carmel-by-the-Sea is in the Coastal Region.
Operational Area (OA) The operational area encompasses Monterey County boundaries and all political subdivisions within it, including special districts. The operational area facilitates and/or coordinates information, resources, and decisions regarding priorities among local governments within the operational area. The operational area serves as the coordination and communication link between the local government level and the region level. In accordance with state statute the OA was organized in 1995 with a cooperative agreement (Monterey County Resolution No. 95-480) between the County and all incorporated cities, special districts, and public non-profit corporations desiring to participate in the Operational Area Authority.
Local Level – Carmel-by-the-Sea Emergency Operations Center (EOC) The Emergency Operations Center for the City of Carmel-by-the-Sea, previously located in the basement of the Police Station, has been relocated as of May 2025 to the Vista Lobos property on Junipero Avenue, two blocks northeast of 4th Street. While it is not a "turnkey" operations center, each section within the Incident Command structure is represented, with supplies stored at the facility for rapid deployment.
Field Level (ICP) A field-level incident command post (ICP) is the physical location in the field where tactical-level on-scene incident command functions are carried out. It serves as the location for all ground operations, with the Incident Commander and their team executing strategic directives from the Emergency Operations Center (EOC) and overseeing the incident at a tactical level. The ICP is usually situated near the incident site and is central to directing and controlling on-scene response activities. ICPs are activated for incidents requiring immediate, on-the-ground management, such as fires, hazardous material spills, and localized emergencies.
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NIMS/SEMS OrganizationalStructure Diagram
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(NIMS) Organizational Chart
The following NIMS/SEMS Organizational Structure Diagram is applicable to the City:
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Carmel Emergency Operations Center (EOC) Structure and Policies The structure of the City of Carmel-by-the-Sea Emergency Operations Center (EOC) is derived from the Incident Command System. The design and organization of the EOC allows for the centralized management of all operational and support components, permitting maximum use of available resources with a framework of supporting strategies and response objectives. The primary purpose of establishing and operating an EOC is to provide a centralized location for the effective management of all emergency response operations. Specifically, the establishment and activation of the EOC facilitates the following activities:
• Unity of command.
• Centralized decision making and command authority.
• Centralized coordination of all emergency functions.
• Centralized management of public information.
• Centralized warning dissemination.
• Centralized resource application.
• Centralized resource support and procurement.
• Information sharing.
• Limited resource management.
• Support of field response operations.
• Receive and disseminate warning information.
• Collect intelligence from, and disseminate information to the various EOC representatives, and, as appropriate, to county, cities/towns, special districts, state, and federal agencies.
• Prepare intelligence/information summaries, situation reports, operational reports, and other reports as needed.
• Maintain general and specific maps, information display boards, and other data pertaining to emergency operations and situational awareness. • Ensure continuity of government priorities, objectives, and actions are taken. • Analysis and evaluation of all data pertaining to emergency operations. • Maintain contact and coordination with local Departmental Operating Centers (DOCs), other local jurisdiction EOCs, and Monterey County Operational Area EOC. • Provide emergency information and instructions to the public, making official releases to the news media and the scheduling of press conferences, as necessary. • Develop emergency policies and procedures in collaboration with senior policy advisory executives.
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EOC Information Flow
Information flow within the EOC and NIMS/SEMS is standardized. Vertically, it moves between Section Leaders, their personnel and the Emergency Services Director. Horizontally, it flows between Section Chiefs and their personnel.
NIMS/SEMS Information Flow
Information flow within NIMS/SEMS is vertical. The EOC communicates with the Operational Area EOC, which in turn coordinates with the Regional EOC and the State Operational Center.
Horizontal coordination between levels is also encouraged. For example, the City of Carmel-bythe-Sea EOC may directly coordinate with the City of Pacific Grove or Monterey EOCs during a shared emergency.
Internal and External EOC Communications
The primary communication tool in the EOC will be landline, cell phones and Incident Management software such as WebEOC or Microsoft Teams©. Each station in the EOC will be equipped with laptops to access their respective incident management files in order to collaborate with other Incident Management Team members and the Monterey County OA.
Incident Management Team (IMT)
The City of Carmel-by-the-Sea Incident Management Team (IMT) supports the management of major incidents within the City of Carmel-by-the-Sea’s jurisdiction that require a substantial number of department personnel and/or resources. These incidents can extend into multiple operational periods (12 hours or more) and require a written Incident Action Plan (IAP).
The Incident Management Team (IMT) is composed of trained city employees and volunteers who manage and respond to significant incidents or emergencies. The IMT staffs the Emergency Operations Center to oversee incident management for large-scale or complex situations, and provide guidance, command, control, and coordination for major incidents that cannot be addressed solely at the Incident Command Post or ones that may escalate to a Level 2 or Level 1 situation.
Members of the Incident Management Team (IMT) undertake incident management responsibilities alongside their regular employment duties. Position descriptions and checklists for IMT members (Section Two of this Emergency Operations Plan) are accessible at the Emergency Operations Center once the IMT member reports to their respective duty station.
Mayor and City Council: The Mayor and City Council set the overall policies for emergency management and support the Director of Emergency Services in the execution of their duties.
The Mayor and City Council can also serve as an effective means of communication between Carmel-by-the-Sea residents and the IMT. Generally speaking, the political body of the City is an extension of the IMT without having to be in the Emergency Operations Center. The Mayor and Council receive situations status reports from the Director of Emergency Services located in the Command Section of the EOC.
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Director of Emergency Services: This role collaborates with the Mayor and City Council to ensure emergency and disaster declarations are properly enacted and documented. The Chief of Police, in the capacity of Assistant Director of Emergency Services, will assign trained and qualified staff to Incident Management Team (IMT) positions as required.
Command Section: The Command Section of the Carmel-by-the-Sea Emergency Operations Center is charged with the overall management of any disaster response and recovery operations for the City of Carmel-by-the-Sea. The Director of Emergency Services (City Administrator) or the Assistant Director of Emergency Services (Chief of Police) lead the Command Section and the IMT. Specific section responsibilities include:
• Establish the appropriate staffing level for the IMT and continuously monitor organizational effectiveness ensuring that appropriate modifications are undertaken as required.
• Exercise overall management responsibility for the coordination between all departments and responders within the City. Ensure that all City agency actions are accomplished within the priorities established.
• Ensure that inter-departmental coordination is accomplished effectively within the EOC and the City.
• Conduct inter-agency liaison and coordination to ensure effective exchange of information and continuity of effort.
• During the course of an EOC activation, conduct regular, periodic meetings with all section chiefs and City supervisors to ensure continuity of internal communications, cohesion of purpose, and achievement of goals and objectives. • Approve the Incident Action Plan and ensure it is current.
Public Information Officer: The Public Information Officer coordinates the origination and dissemination of all public information for the City. Specific responsibilities include:
• Ensures that the media and the public within the affected area receive complete, accurate, timely, and consistent information about life procedures, public health advisories, relief and assistance programs, and other vital information. • Coordinates media releases with the Monterey County Operational Area Public Information Officer and other Public Information Officers representing other affected nearby or local jurisdictions and/or agencies.
• Organizes press conferences in conjunction with the Director. • A designated Public Information Officer will command this section with the assistance of other staff as needed to gather and disseminate essential information.
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Operations Section: The section is responsible for coordinating response and recovery operations. Specific section responsibilities include:
• Coordinate field operations directly or through a designated Incident Commander. • Ensure that operational objectives and assignments identified in the Incident Action Plan are carried out effectively.
• Establish the appropriate level of unit organizations within the Operations Section, continuously monitoring the effectiveness and modifying accordingly, and coordinating all efforts.
• Ensure that the Planning Section is provided with Situation Status Reports on a continuous basis.
• Conduct periodic operations briefings for the IMT as required or requested.
Planning/Intelligence Section: The section is responsible for all operational, strategic, and demobilization planning, disaster intelligence collection, assessment, and processing, report preparation, and incident documentation. Specific section responsibilities include:
• Develops the Incident Action Plan.
• Coordinates with the Monterey County Operational Area EOC Planning Section to ensure that the Operational Area has a clear picture of the situation affecting the City. • Analyzes all disaster intelligence, assesses the impact on the City, and disseminates this information to all EOC Sections.
• Coordinates the inspection of public and private properties to develop a comprehensive damage assessment.
Logistics Section: The Logistics Section is responsible for establishment and management of the logistics efforts, including providing logistical information to the Director; managing and coordinating the provision, allocation and use of essential resources and services to support emergency operations; and participating in the development of the Action Plan. Specific Section responsibilities include:
• Coordinates the procurement and distribution of disaster supplies and equipment. • Maintains an accurate inventory ofsupplies and equipment available to the City. • Coordinates the assignment and employment of City personnel and emergent volunteers.
• Coordinates the use of facilities needed during a major emergency or disaster. • Coordinates the procurement and assignment oftransportation assets. • Coordinates the activation and operations of Temporary Assistance Centers (TAC) and public shelters.
• Coordinates the procurement and distribution of foodstuffs and beverages, and other supplies to members of the EOC Staff, disaster service workers, and shelters.
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Finance/Administration Section: The Finance/Administration Section is responsible for providing, monitoring, and analyzing all elements of direct financial and administrative support to the EOC Staff. Specific Section responsibilities include:
• Establishes processes to record, track, and analyze the hours worked by all personnel during a major emergency or disaster.
• Manages compensation and claims arising from a major emergency or disaster. • Tracks costs associated with the activation of the EOC, and ensures cost effectiveness and efficient utilization of all resources.
• Provides direct administrative support to the EOC Staff.
Incident Command Post (ICP)
The Incident Command Post is the primary location for on-scene incident command and management. Staff at the ICP typically includes the Incident Commander, Fire Department Battalion Chief, or other City personnel in order to make the best use of available staff resources.
As mentioned previously in this plan the ICP is typically located at or near the incident site and is the center for management of on-scene and tactical operations. Planning and communications could also be coordinated from this location. Although a less desirable option, incident command can also be located off-site (City offices or Police Department) if there is a need for technical resources not available at the incident scene, or there needs to be coordination of incoming assets and resources prior to escalating to a Level 2 or Level 1 event.
This plan assumes that most emergency responses will be tactical. Its goal is to maintain the Incident Commander's (IC) operational flexibility and command authority without hindrance.
Therefore, tactical protocols for fire services, law enforcement, and emergency medical providers will take precedence.
Operational Period and Sustained Staffing
The EOC Staff must support 24-hour operations as needed. Two Incident Management Teams (IMT1) and (IMT2) will be formed. The IMT1 handles activation, while the IMT2 may rest and report for duty 12 hours later. Each team usually works 12-hour shifts, adjusted by the Emergency Services Director based on needs.
Section and Positional Staffing
Approximately twenty-five EOC Staff positions are included in the City of Carmel-by-the-Sea Emergency Operations Center Functional Organizational Diagram. Ideally, the City would have the resources to fill all positions during activation. However, without significant increase, the City will have only sufficient resources to activate key staff positions. The EOC staff duties and functional checklists are included for all positions in Section Two of this Plan. The duties of any unfilled positions will be the responsibility of the next highest filled position within the organization.
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Emergency Operations Center Activation Criteria – Should the EOC be activated? This decision must be based on the emergency event or situation. Key factors that normally trigger the Emergency Operations Center (EOC) activation include:
• Emergency response resources beyond the City’s capabilities are required. • An emergency of a long duration (12 hours or longer). • Coordination of mutual aid resources.
• Major policy decisions must or may be required.
• An emergency proclamation has been issued.
• Activation of the EOC would be advantageous to the successful management of the scale of the emergency or event.
Once the activation level has been determined.
• Decide whether or not to activate the Emergency Operations Plan and Emergency Operations Center or keep command of the incident with an Incident Command Post (ICP) and closely monitor activities for escalation to next level. • Activate the Emergency Operations Plan and activate the Primary Emergency Operations Center for all Level 2 and Level 1 events.
• Determine who on City staff is available and trained to assist in the Emergency Operations Center.
• The activation of the Carmel Emergency Operations Center may be either physical or virtual based on the circumstances and available staffing. • As long as electricity and telecommunications are functioning, virtual activation might be required in situations where getting together physically is not possible, such as when there is severe flooding, or during a pandemic. The IMT can operate by using a conference bridge to communicate with minimal staffing at the actual EOC. • Notify the City Administrator, Mayor and City Council of the incident following the Initial Assessment and decision to activate the Plan.
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Emergency Operations Center (EOC) Activation and Notification Initial Assessment Team (IAT)
The Initial Assessment Team (IAT) is comprised of senior members of various departments within the City of Carmel-by-the-Sea who meet at the onset of an emergency to discuss how to respond and actions to be taken. Depending on the severity of the incident, it could be handled locally at an Incident Command Post (ICP) or escalated to be handled in the Emergency Operations Center (EOC) assembled by the Incident Management Team (IMT).
Mobilize members of the City of Carmel-by-the-Sea Incident Assessment Team (IAT):
• Director of Office Emergency Services/City Administrator. • Assistant Director Office of Emergency Services/Police Chief. • Fire Coordinator/Monterey Fire Department.
• Public Works Director.
• Other stakeholders mobilized depending on the incident.
Conduct an Initial Assessment Meeting
• This meeting can be used to determine whether this Plan and/or EOC activation is required for an incident.
• This meeting can be used to lead into an Incident Action Planning meeting, if the event has predetermined that it is necessary to activate the Emergency Operations Plan and/or the EOC.
Activation
Emergency system activation occurs when the City of Carmel-by-the-Sea Emergency Operations Center is activated to coordinate a response to an manage a large event, major emergency or disaster.
Authority to Activate Emergency Operations Plan and Carmel EOC:
• Director of Emergency Services/City Administrator.
• Assistant Director Office Emergency Services/Police Chief, or designated alternates.
Deactivation
The deactivation of the Emergency Operations Center (EOC) is initiated by the Director of Emergency Services based on the incident status. This process may be carried out either through a gradual reduction in personnel or in a single instance. EOC responders are required to adhere to the relevant deactivation protocols as instructed by the Director of Emergency Services and outlined in the position-specific checklists for the EOC.
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Virtual Emergency Operations Center Protocol
Modern technologies enable emergency response personnel to convene electronically rather than in person. This approach is known as a Virtual Emergency Operations Center (VEOC).
Utilizing networks, software, and video conferencing, staff members can exchange information that would typically be shared during face-to-face interactions. The following protocol outlines the procedures for Incident Management Team (IMT) meetings that may be conducted virtually if circumstances prevent the establishment of a physical EOC.
If the Emergency Operations Center is operating virtually or if there are key members who are not physically present in the Emergency Operations Center, the IMT will meet at pre-set intervals via a telephone, group chat, or other selected video meeting platform, to manage the incident and share information. This agenda is to be used for calls held after the initial call. • The Incident Commander is the leader of the call.
• The Public Information Section Chief is the recorder for the meeting. (If the PI Section Chief is not on the call, a recorder should be selected at the beginning of the meeting.) • Conduct roll call. Participants should identify themselves and specify which function they represent: Operations, Finance, Planning & Intelligence, Logistics, Communications, or Command.
• The Incident Commander will brief the IMT on the current conditions and facts, then answer any questions.
• Each participant will briefly review the actions taken since last call and answer any questions.
• The Incident Commander will ask the group to review the level of incident and reassess the appropriate activation level.
• The IMT will reassess the worst-case scenario.
• The IMT will determine if the incident is being managed effectively enough to turn over the response to the most suitable city department. If this decision is made, the IMT will disband unless reactivated by the Incident Commander. If the IMT remains active, the remainder of this agenda will be followed.
• The IMT will develop objectives, prioritize response requirements, and assign specific tasks to be completed. The Planning Chief (or the designated recorder) will write the Incident Action Plan, provide to the IMT via email or other means. • The team will set the operational period (time for the next meeting). • This process repeats until the issue is resolved and/or the team stands down.
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Level of Activation
Activation Levels-- General
Activation levels for emergency and disaster response in the City of Carmel-by-the-Sea are consistent with those of the Monterey County Department of Emergency Management. The Emergency Services Director or Assistant Director will determine activation levels based on specific criteria. Unnecessary positions can be deactivated, while critical positions can be reinforced as needed. The activation level is determined by the magnitude of the emergency.
EOC staffing should align with organizational requirements. Level 1 activation represents the highest level of activation.
LEVEL 3 –MINIMUM LEVEL (MONITORING)
Level 3 is used for:
• A minor but serious incident that has occurred may require additional coordination of information and resources beyond the field level.
• Often used during the Increased Readiness Phase to prepare for a potential emergency such as an incoming storm.
• Situations which require additional but minimal coordination are needed to support a minor incident or large city function/event.
During a minimal or Level 3 activation:
• The Incident Assessment Team is notified that there is an incident that is being handled in the City by on-duty personnel which may escalate, however it is at an Incident Command Post (ICP) Level at this time.
LEVEL 2 – MODERATE LEVEL (PARTIAL ACTIVATION)
Level 2 is moderate or partial activation. This level is used for:
• Emergencies or planned events that require more than a minimum of staff but would not call for full activation of all organization elements in the EOC. • Coordination at the incident, Incident Command Post (ICP) or city level is inadequate to address the situation.
• There is a necessary increase from Level 3 Activation. • There is a need for additional staff to respond to EOC. • A physical EOC setup is required to better manage the incident.
During a moderate or Level 2 activation:
• One person may fulfill more than one SEMS function.
• SEMS organizational elements will be filled as needed. • EOC may or may not be activated 24/7.
• Emergency proclamations are likely.
Level 2 staffing should include:
• Command staff, City Administrator and Director of Public Safety/Police Chief. • General staff, Section Chiefs and additional staff for positions filled as needed.
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LEVEL 1 – MAXIMUM LEVEL (FULL ACTIVATION)
Level 1 is a maximum or full activation of the Emergency Operations Center (EOC) This level is used for:
• Emergency situation(s) is of such magnitude that coordination of the response at the scene(s), Incident Command Post (ICP) or another location is not possible. • Full multi-agency response coordination is essential. • The incident draws heavy media attention.
• Requires substantial mutual aid resource coordination. • During a maximum or full activation:
o EOC is active 24/7.
o Full activation of the EOC including full staffing of SEMS organizational units, agency representatives, etc.
o Emergency proclamations are likely.
With the activation of a Level 1 an incident has occurred that requires a coordinated response of all levels of government and emergency services to save lives and protect property. In a Level 1 activation, the Monterey County Department of Emergency Services notifies the City of Carmel-by-the-Sea IMT of the need for EOC operations; monitors the situation; provides support to field operations; and provides information and Situation Reports (SITREPS) to the IMT.
Minimum
Activation
Monitoring
EOC Not Activated
Moderate
Activation
EOC Partial
Activation
Full
Activation
EOC Fully Activated
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EOC Functional Plans and Reports
Incident Action Plan (IAP)
The IAP is a written plan that defines the incident objectives and reflects the tactics necessary to manage an incident during an operational period. The EOC staff will formulate an Incident Action Plan (IAP) within two hours of activation. This plan will delineate all goals and objectives to be undertaken during the initial operational period by the primary Incident Management Team (IMT1). Before transitioning to the relief Incident Management Team (IMT2), the Incident Action Plan will be revised to reflect the current circumstances and include the objectives and goals for the second operational period by IMT2. This procedure will continue in succession until the deactivation of the EOC.
In the Incident Action Planning meeting, a briefing is conducted, objectives are set, and the operational period is defined. The IAT meeting is initiated with a status update and additional IAT meetings are conducted after each operational period ends. Preparation of the IAP will be the responsibility of the Planning Section Chief, assisted by the other Section Chiefs. Essential elements in any Incident Action Plan include:
• Strategic objectives. Answer the question, “What are we expected to achieve?” Think of this as a to-do list. Objectives should be high level, prioritized, and consistent with City policy and state law.
• Assignments to accomplish the objectives. Answer the question, “Who will do what, when, and where?” Assignments include staff assignments necessary to perform the required functions to meet the objectives.
• Operational period. Determine the operational period (when the next meeting will occur). If the situation is quite intense, the first operational period may be short – one to two hours. Objectives are written for this time frame, and a briefing occurs at the conclusion of the operational period.
Objectives will focus on seven key areas:
1) People.
2) Facilities and infrastructure.
3) Power and Information technology (IT).
4) Mission-critical functions at risk.
5) Communications.
6) Finance.
7) Answering the question: What do you need from senior city staff? Are there strategic policy issues for the City Administrator, Mayor or Council to address? Are there specific jobs you can ask city staff to do?
The objectives should be written using strong action verbs. • Action verbs are observable and better communicate the intent of what is to be attempted. Use words such as plan, write, conduct, produce, apply, revise, contrast, install, select, assemble, compare, investigate, develop, etc.
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Objectives should be written using the SMART guideline:
• Specific – Is the objective Specific, with a key result? • Measurable – Can you Measure whether you are meeting the objective or not? • Achievable – Are you able to Achieve the objective?
• Realistic – Is it Realistic to achieve the objective? • Time – Is there an identified Time for the objective? The plan should be written in simple, understandable terms, utilizing bullet point construction.
All objectives pertinent to the current emergency situation should be addressed.
IAP Periodicity: Personnel managing the incident develop an Incident Action Plan (IAP) for each operational period. The IAP is the vehicle by which leaders on an incident communicate their expectations and provide clear guidance to those managing the incident. The plan can be modified and/or updated as deemed necessary during the operational period to address emergent factors and considerations, changes in priorities, or other issues as needed.
IAP Distribution: The Incident Action Plan (IAP) will be disseminated to all members of the Emergency Operations Center (EOC) staff. Further distribution will be at the discretion of the Emergency Services Director. Internal networks, email, and other electronic delivery methods will be primarily employed for distribution.
Initial Damage Estimate (IDE): An Initial Damage Estimate will be submitted to the Monterey County Operational Area EOC upon the assessment of damages within the City. Follow-up reports will be submitted as necessary to update the overall situation. • IDE Periodicity: A good rule-of-thumb is to create an updated IDE whenever significant changes occur.
• IDE Distribution: The IDE will be distributed to the Monterey County Operational Area EOC and all members of the EOC Staff via email or a shared Incident Management Software such as WebEOC or Microsoft Teams©. Copies of the IDE will be disseminated to the Mayor and City Council by whatever means they designate.
Situation Report (SITREP): A Situation Report will be submitted to the Monterey County Operational Area EOC on a periodic basis or upon request after the commencement of the EOC activation. The SITREP should contain sufficient detail to enable the upper levels of the emergency management structure to gain a full picture of the status of the City and of ongoing emergency response actions.
• SITREP Periodicity: A good rule-of-thumb is to create an updated SITREP whenever significant changes occur.
• SITREP Distribution: The SITREP will be distributed to the Monterey County Operational Area EOC and all members of the EOC Staff via email or a shared Incident Management Software such as WebEOC or Microsoft Teams©. Copies of the SITREP will be disseminated to the Mayor and City Council by whatever means they designate.
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Emergency Operations Center (EOC) and Support Facilities Locations The City of Carmel-by-the-Sea has established a flexible EOC system using multi-use facilities.
This relies on the City's ability to promptly activate primary, alternate, and backup sites. In doing so the City assesses the physical features of primary and alternate EOC facilities, including site, structure, accessibility, and capacity.
• Primary EOC: The primary EOC is situated in the J.O.'s Lumberyard Room within the Vista Lobos building on Junipero Street, two properties Northeast of Fourth Ave. This location is accessible within the guidelines of the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA), contains sufficient electrical and network outlets, and has approximately seven hundred square feet of conference workspace, three individual office spaces, portable tables, a whiteboard, a screen, kitchen facilities, and a restroom. EOC section supplies are stored in an adjacent storage room. An emergency generator is on site to provide backup power if needed.
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• Alternate EOC: If the primary EOC cannot be used, the Alternate EOC can be established at the Carmel-by-the-Sea Fire Station on Sixth Avenue between Mission and San Carlos Streets. The Engine Bay and Administrative Office will serve as the EOC, with other areas used if needed. This site has an emergency power generator. • Backup EOC: If the primary and alternate EOCs are inoperable, the Emergency Services Director will set up a Backup or Field EOC. The Public Works Department Offices at Junipero Street and Fourth Avenue are likely to be used, but other commercial, school, or temporary facilities may be options. These facilities may lack emergency power generators; however portable generators can be provided by Public Works personnel. • Virtual EOC: If a catastrophic emergency or disaster makes the above locations unavailable or inoperable, the Emergency Services Director will choose the site for the EOC, or work virtually with the Incident Management Team.
Incident Command Logs, Forms and Documentation: All FEMA/Incident Command forms utilized in the Emergency Operations Center (EOC) are accessible through the incident management software used in the EOC and are available at each Section workstation.
Public Safety Answering Point (PSAP): Public Safety Answering Points handle 9-1-1 calls for specific jurisdictions and/or areas. The City operates its own PSAP located in the Police Department and handles 9-1-1 calls originating within the City's boundaries. Law enforcement assets are dispatched directly by dispatchers located in the PSAP, while fire and medical related calls are transferred to Fire Command operated by the Monterey County Emergency Communications Department and located in Salinas for dispatch.
Mobile Public Safety Answering Point (Mobile PSAP): In 2017, the City acquired a Mobile PSAP to ensure continuous Primary PSAP operations if the Police Station becomes unusable. The Mobile PSAP location is determined by the Chief of Police, aiming for seamless transfer of operations. Assistance from AT&T may be required.
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The Monterey Fire apparatus and Carmel-by-the-Sea Ambulance staffed by Monterey Fire Department paramedicssupporting the City are dispatched by Fire Command. During a major emergency or disaster when the EOC is activated, fire service, law enforcement, public works, and forestry resources are dispatched by members of the EOC Staff or by the PSAP. • In the event of communications disruption, the Monterey County Emergency Communications Center can assume Carmel-by-the-Sea’s PSAP function upon initiation of the transfer switch by the Monterey County Emergency Communications Center. • Additionally, PSAP has the option to switch incoming calls to the Fire Department and to conduct public safety functions from that facility if required. • Since the City operates its own PSAP, it is necessary that it be prepared to record and log incoming telephone calls during a major emergency or disaster in order to ensure prompt and effective responsive actions. To accomplish this purpose, the following forms will be utilized:
1) All Hazard Incident Report Card - Used to record all hazard reports during all major emergencies/disasters except storms.
2) Storm Incident Report Card - Used to record all hazard reports during storm related emergencies.
3) Phone Message Report Card - Used to record all telephonic messages during all major emergencies/disastersincluding storms.
• Forms will be completed with all pertinent information by the Call Taker and routed to the appropriate Section Chief.
• Forms will be serialized and recorded on the appropriate EOC status board. Forms on which action has been completed will be filed and retained.
Temporary Assistance Center (TAC): The Harrison Memorial Library, located on the corner of Ocean Ave. and Lincoln St. and/or the Park Branch Library, located at the corner of Mission St. and 6th Ave., serve as Temporary Assistance Centers (TAC) for Carmel-by-the-Sea. These public facilities act as an evacuation point for evacuees, assess the need for shelter evacuation, provides light snacks and beverages, and share public information about the current situation.
Representatives from various agencies staff the TAC including:
• City government/staff.
• Monterey Bay Area Chapter of the American Red Cross (ARC). • An EOC Assistant Public Information Officer.
• CERT member/volunteer as assigned/available.
• Service Club representatives as available.
General Preparation Responsibilities Applicable to All City Employees While specific preparation responsibilities can vary by employee role, some general preparedness responsibilities applicable to all city employees:
• Ensure the general emergency preparedness of family and/or dependents. • Provide family members with the name and contact information of the City's Family Emergency Liaison Coordinator.
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Organization and Assignment of Responsibilities
City officials and staff share responsibility for the planning necessary to minimize losses and provide relief from disasters. This shared responsibility includes activities to ensure mitigation, preparedness, response, and recovery. Planning activities should provide for ongoing programs that prevent loss of life and property damage, and establish response and recovery capabilities to restore normalcy to municipal operations within the shortest possible time.
Operational plans will achieve specific objectives related to the goals of emergency planning.
The designation of responsibilities is based on the unique capabilities of each City department.
The following is the assignment of emergency functions to positions and departments of the City of Carmel-by-the-Sea in addition to their normal duties. The function applies to all parts of the EOP when a specific part is not designated. Each department is responsible for developing and maintaining its own Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs), which must address the responsibilities outlined below.
City Administrator (Emergency Services Director)
Director of Public Safety/Chief of Police (Assistant Emergency Services Director) The Emergency Service Director plays a crucial role as the chief executive, coordinating emergency response efforts, and ensuring public safety. They are responsible for developing contingency plans, mobilizing resources, and working with other agencies to manage the crisis. Responsibilities include:
• Leads the city's emergency response efforts, often acting as the key advisor to the mayor and council.
• Ensure effective communication and coordination among various city departments, volunteer organizations, and other relevant agencies.
• Facilitates relationships and responsibilities, ensuring that all stakeholders understand their roles and responsibilities during the emergency.
• Oversees the development, implementation, and maintenance of the city's emergency management plan.
• Conduct vulnerability assessments and risk assessments to identify potential hazards and develop mitigation strategies.
• Ensure that city departments have the necessary plans and procedures in place to respond to emergencies.
• Manages disaster response or crisis management activities, including ordering evacuations, opening public shelters, and implementing needs programs. • Coordinate with county, state, and federal emergency management officials to ensure a coordinated response.
• The city manager plays a role in the recovery process, coordinating needed services, repairing damaged assets, and providing essential services. • Work to mitigate future risks by reviewing and updating the city's emergency management plan and related procedures.
• Manages the city's budget, including allocating resources for emergency response and recovery efforts.
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• Oversee personnel matters, ensuring that city employees are adequately trained and prepared for emergency situations.
• Responsible for activating the Emergency Operations Center (EOC) and managing its operations.
• Verify that all EOC positions are allocated to suitable and qualified staff. • Brief the Mayor, City Council, Department Directors, and appropriate City employees if there is advance warning of an impending disaster situation. • Draft a local "Declaration of Local State of Emergency" for the Mayor's signature and for transmission to the Monterey County Operational Area EOC and the California Governor's Office of Emergency Services.
• Coordinate any pre-activation public information press releases and/or warning bulletins with the appropriate department heads.
• Appoint a Family Emergency Liaison Coordinator to act as the contact for City employees' families when workers are deployed or cannot communicate during emergencies or extended operations.
Mayor
The Mayor's primary role is to ensure the safety and well-being of residents. They can declare a local emergency, assume control of the city's response, and take necessary actions to protect the community. This includes coordinating with emergency services, law enforcement, and other relevant authorities, as well as communicating with the public and requesting state or federal assistance if needed. Responsibilities include:
• The authority to issue a declaration of a local emergency. • Suspending the provision of any City Ordinance prescribing the procedures for conduct of City business if strict compliance with the provision prevents, hinders, or delays necessary actions in coping with the emergency.
• Issuance of orders for evacuation.
• Invoking the provisions of any mutual aid agreement entered into by the City. • Securing funding for emergencies and emergency management. • An order requiring any or all business establishments to close and remain closed until further order.
• An order closing to the public any or all public places, including streets, public ways, schools, parks, beaches, and public buildings.
Role of the City Council
City Council members play a crucial role in supporting the city's response, often acting as a liaison between the mayor, city administration, and the public. They can provide policy direction, offer information to the public, and contribute to the recovery efforts.
Additionally, the Council may review potential or threatened litigation and provide general direction to the City Administrator in such matters. Responsibilities include:
• Review and approve the declaration of an emergency proclamation and meet regularly to review the emergency situation and determine whether to continue or terminate it. • Serve as a liaison with other city, county, state, and/or federal government representatives and with public or community organizations.
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• Receive information and assistance from the Director of Emergency Services to assist with public information outreach.
• Conduct public meetings to determine public needs and identify current or future city actions related to the disaster.
• Enact legislation to authorize payment for emergency services, approving grants or loans, or levying taxes for disaster recovery.
• Establish executive-level policies and pass important resolutions for the management of the emergency.
• Work as a liaison, in cooperation with the Public Information Officer, to connect with residents and other community groups during the recovery period. • Participate in recovery and reconstruction decisions, ensuring the needs of the community are addressed. Visit impacted areas, shelters, and other temporary facilities to identify problems and special issues.
• Participate in long-term planning and decision-making related to the rebuilding of infrastructure and the return of essential services.
• Participate in emergency response training as required by state & federal law.
Fire Chief (City of Monterey)
The Fire Chief acts as the operational leader, overseeing and coordinating all fire department activities, including fire suppression, rescue, and emergency medical services. They ensure the safety of both the public and their personnel, manage resources, and collaborate with other emergency services. Additionally, they play a crucial role in establishing incident command and managing the scene. This includes coordinating with other emergency responders like police and ambulance services, and communicating with the public and media. Responsibilities include:
• Oversees all aspects of the fire department, including fire suppression, rescue, and emergency medical services.
• Develop and implement policies, procedures, and training programs to ensure compliance with safety standards.
• Serve as the incident commander during major emergencies, making strategic decisions about how to respond, allocate resources, and coordinate with other responders.
• Coordinate with other agencies and stakeholders to ensure effective resolution. • Develop procedures for checking the condition of critical City Fire Department facilities and equipment.
• Pre-position resources and equipment asrequired.
Public Works Director
The Public Works Director plays a crucial role in coordinating and executing infrastructurerelated responses, from clearing roads to restoring essential services like water and utilities. They are responsible for assessing damage, developing response plans, and ensuring that public works resources are effectively deployed.
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The Public Works Director also works closely with other emergency responders and government agencies to ensure a coordinated and effective response. Responsibilities include:
• Lead the assessment of damage to roads, utilities, and other infrastructure. Coordinate repairs and restoration efforts, working with contractors and utility companies to ensure swift and efficient recovery.
• Organize and oversee debris removal operations, clearing the way for emergency services and residents.
• Works with utility companies to prioritize restoration efforts and ensure that these services are back up and running as quickly as possible. • Manages traffic flow, clears roads, and bridges, and facilitates access for emergency responders and essential personnel.
• Work with other emergency management agencies, including law enforcement, fire departments, and FEMA, to coordinate disaster response efforts and ensure effective communication with the public.
• Participate in emergency planning and preparedness, ensuring that their department is equipped to respond effectively to future disasters.
• Participate in long-term recovery efforts, working to rebuild infrastructure and address ongoing needs.
• Pre-position resources and equipment asrequired.
• Maintain cordoning/accesslimiting equipment asrequired. • Develop procedures forinitiating:
o Flood prevention measures including sandbagging.
o Hazardous waste removal and disposal operations.
o Request for public works and building inspectors mutual aid response.
Community Planning and Building Inspector
The Community Development Director and Building Inspector play a crucial role in managing and coordinating activities following an emergency. This includes developing and implementing plans for hazard mitigation, managing the department's budget, and working with other agencies to respond to emergencies. They also oversee activities like planning, building inspections, and code enforcement. Responsibilities include:
• Lead and coordinate the Community Development Department's response to emergencies, ensuring that all necessary services and resources are available. • Implement hazard mitigation plans, including local hazard mitigation plans, community wildfire protection plans, and emergency management plans. • Manage the department's budget, including allocating resources effectively during emergencies.
• Ensuring public safety by evaluating damaged structures, assessing the potential for collapse or further damage, and determining if buildings are safe for occupancy. • Work with other government agencies, community organizations, and the public to coordinate emergency response efforts.
• Assess the structural soundness of buildings following an earthquake, fire, flood, or other disasters.
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• Look for potential hazards like structural damage, weakened foundations, or compromised electrical or plumbing systems.
• Determine if a building is safe for occupancy, identifying buildings that may need to be evacuated or restricted for safety reasons.
• Issue emergency orders for buildings that pose an immediate threat to life or safety. • Participate in rapid assessments of damaged buildings in the aftermath of a disaster. • Conduct more in-depth evaluations of buildings to determine their suitability for occupancy after a disaster.
• Enforce building and zoning codes, which can help prevent future emergencies or mitigate the impact of disasters.
• Participate in educational programs and outreach efforts to raise awareness about disaster preparedness and building safety.
• Coordinate assistance and supplies, and request state or federal assistance if needed. • Serve as the floodplain manager, responsible for implementing floodplain regulations, updating flood maps, and administering the National Flood Insurance Program. • Provide oversight for code compliance, ensuring that buildings and developments meet safety standards.
Assistant City Administrator
The Assistant City Administrator plays a vital role in supporting the City Administrator and coordinating city-wide response efforts. This may involve assisting with incident management, coordinating communication with the public and other agencies, and overseeing the execution of emergency plans. Responsibilities include:
• Provide administrative and operational support to the City Administrator, acting as a strategic partner and leader in emergency response efforts. • Assist with the day-to-day operations of the City, including public safety agencies and the Office of Emergency Management.
• Assist in the administration and implementation of the City's Emergency Operations Plan, serving as a liaison to public safety agency partners. • Provide communication support for the Mayor and Council, including preparing replies to constituent inquiries on the emergency response efforts. • Help develop and implement strategic communication plans, including outreach materials and content, to keep the public informed during emergencies. • Assist with incident management, coordinating with various departments and agencies to ensure a smooth and effective response.
• Assist with developing and coordinating training programs for city staff and community members on emergency preparedness and response. • Assist with community outreach programs to educate residents about emergency preparedness and response measures.
• Assist with the submittal process for federal and state reimbursement claims related to emergency operations.
• Develop procedures for the procurement of goods and services during an emergency to sustain operations.
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Administrative Services Director
The Administrative Services Director plays a crucial role in managing the financial aspects of the disaster or emergency, ensuring financial stability and compliance while providing support to the overall response effort. They handle financial records, monitor costs, manage cash flow, and ensure accurate accounting and reporting, often working within the Emergency Operations Center (EOC). Responsibilities include:
• Maintaining accurate records of all financial transactions related to the emergency response, including expenditures, reimbursements, and payroll. • Monitoring and analyzing costs associated with the emergency, identifying potential areas for cost reduction or efficiency improvements.
• Managing cash flow, ensuring adequate funds are available for essential activities and preventing potential financial disruptions.
• Overseeing procurement processes, including negotiating contracts and ensuring compliance with procurement regulations.
• Working closely with other sections of the EOC, such as Logistics and Operations, to ensure effective coordination and communication.
• Implementing and maintaining a disaster accounting system to track financial activity during the emergency.
• Assisting in identifying and securing additional funding sources to support the response efforts.
• Develop and maintain the processes and procedures for submitting workman compensation claims.
City Attorney/Legal Officer
In the context of an Emergency Operations Center (EOC), the City Attorney or a legal officer would provide legal advice and support to the EOC team. This could include advising on legal issues related to emergency management, responding to legal questions arising from the emergency, and ensuring compliance with relevant laws and regulations. Responsibilities include:
• Public Safety: Legal issues related to law enforcement, public safety, and response efforts.
• Emergency Powers: Legal considerations regarding the exercise of emergency powers by the city.
• Resource Allocation: Advice on the legal implications of allocating resources during an emergency.
• Data Privacy: Legal aspects of data collection, sharing, and protection during the emergency.
• Contract Law: Guidance on contracts and agreements related to emergency response.
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Activation -- General
The period of time from the initial awareness of the emergency situation or disaster until the EOC isfully activated and functioning will be challenging for all concerned, as well as critical to the success of the overall emergency response. The challenge will be compounded if the activation occurs during non-working hours or without warning. The keys to ensuring the timely and effective activation of the EOC are:
• Pre-event planning and notification of City personnel in the case of a forecast emergency.
• Maintaining an accurate and current notification system for contacting City personnel. • Timely notification of City personnel in the event of a simultaneous emergency. • Training and proficiency of EOC Staff members.
• The personal (home/family) preparedness of EOC Staff members. • The use of the position duty descriptions and checklists contained in this plan. • Completion of pre-activation responsibilities by designated supervisors.
EOC Activation Responsibilities and Employee Check-In Procedures When activating the EOC, City Hall personnel utilize a phone tree system, or the Director of Emergency Management or their delegate will promptly notify all affected staff with preprogrammed information on the Alert Monterey County System (Genasys). Additionally, City Hall personnel will telephone the following departments to inform all concerned that the EOC has been activated. Basic activation information will be provided to:
• Library - Main Branch.
• Library - Park Branch.
• Community Services Department.
• Community Planning and Building Department.
• Public Works Department.
• Information Systems Manager.
Disaster Service Workers
One of the highest responsibilities for all public employees is to assist in preserving the life and property of the residents of Carmel-by-the-Sea. All City employees are designated as Disaster Service Workers (DSWs) by State Law (CA Gov. Code, §3101). When the Mayor and/or City Administrator declare a local emergency, any City employee may be deployed as a DSW. During emergencies such as fires, floods, earthquakes, or public health crises, non-essential staff may be reassigned to support response efforts.
During disaster operations, standard procedures may not apply. Emergency operations planning has outlined the tasks that need to be carried out during a disaster. Many City employees will maintain their primary roles but will report to different supervisors and follow a different organizational command structure. Emergency operations will be managed by the City’s Emergency Operations Center (EOC). Other City employees may perform tasks that differ from their regular assignments.
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City employees who have an assigned position in the Emergency Operations Center will immediately respond to the EOC, sign-in, and be prepared to commence EOC operations. City employees without an assigned EOC staff position should check in at the Police Department.
Keep in mind that City locations or facilities may be unsafe and uninhabitable; therefore, the above reporting location may change. If a pre-designated site is unavailable, information will be provided at the site directing you to the new location. Employees will only be dismissed from work when authorized by the Emergency Services Director or their designee.
After assessing the welfare of their family and the safety of their surroundings, all employees are expected to be ready to report to their assigned disaster response roles when notified. To ensure readiness, staff should make their families aware of this responsibility and should have personal and home disaster preparedness plans in place, ready to activate.
If an emergency occurs during normal working hours, employees should immediately report to their supervisor. On-site employees may be required to remain at work beyond their normal working hours to support the City’s response. Employees not on site should, as soon as they are able after ensuring the safety of their family, contact their designated supervisor or EOC to determine whether and when they will be needed and what their assignment will be.
If an emergency occurs after business hours employees are expected to contact their supervisor by phone, email, or as prescribed in department-specific protocols as soon as possible and be ready to report to work. Employees should also monitor their personal cell phones for instructions by voice, text, or both for reporting directives from the EOC.
City employees identified by their department as essential staff may have specific response and reporting policies they should understand and adhere to. During an emergency, shifts typically last 12 hours. The initial shift, scheduled by EOC staff, may start at any time after the onset of the incident. If an employee is not called to work the first shift, they may be called to report for any subsequent shift.
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Crisis Communications and Public Information
The City of Carmel-by-the-Sea utilizes redundant modes of communication to ensure situational awareness is maintained. The City will notify other levels of government of natural, or human caused emergencies that affect the City in accordance with existing laws, protocols, or when operational area, state and/or federal assistance is requested or anticipated.
Through collaboration with our local partners, we utilize various communication channels to maintain contact with other government levels. This approach ensures the City can promptly respond to evolving emergencies.
Public Information Officer
Information for the public is disseminated through several mechanisms under the control and advice of the Public Information Officer (PIO). The PIO reports to the Director of Emergency Services (City Administrator) and advises leadership on all public information matters relating to the management of the incident.
The PIO handles inquiries from the media, the public, elected officials, emergency public information and warnings, rumor monitoring and response, traditional and social media monitoring, and other functions required to gather, verify, coordinate, and disseminate accurate, accessible, and timely information related to the incident, particularly regarding information on public health, safety, and protection.
The Public Information Officer will use standard Carmel Emergency Bulletins and Carmel Warning Bulletins to disseminate disaster or emergency information. These bulletins will be shared with the media and all levels of the City's organization to keep both residents and City employees informed (See Functional Support Annex-C for Sample Press releases, Bulletins, and Warnings).
Message Development and Approval
Messages intended to be disseminated to the public or to other agencies or organizations may be developed by subject matter experts working in support of the City of Carmel-by-the-Sea response efforts. These messages are reviewed by the PIO to correct inaccuracies and to maintain consistency in messaging. Approval of the messages is in most cases granted to the City Administrator or Police Chief with claiming responsibility for the release of the message.
The City Attorney should review all outgoing messaging that relates to public policy, or other legal matters.
Joint Information System (JIS)
The Joint Information System (JIS) provides the mechanism to organize, integrate, and coordinate information to ensure timely, accurate, accessible, and consistent messaging across multiple jurisdictions and/or disciplines with non-governmental organizations and the private sector. It includes the plans, protocols, procedures, and structures used to provide public information.
RESOLUTION 2025-096 EXHIBIT A ATTACHMENT 2