CITY OF CARMEL-BY-THE-SEA
CITY COUNCIL AGENDA
Contact: 831.620.2000 www.ci.carmel.ca.us
Mayor Dale Byrne
Councilmembers Jeff Baron, Hans Buder, Bob
Delves, and Alissandra Dramov
All meetings are held in the City Council Chambers
East Side of Monte Verde Street
Between Ocean and 7th Avenues
Special Meeting
Wednesday, September 9, 2026
12:00 PM
HYBRID MEETING ATTENDANCE OPTIONS
This meeting will be held in person and via teleconference ("hybrid"). The public is welcome to attend the meeting in person or remotely via Zoom, however, the meeting will proceed as normal even if there are technical difficulties accessing Zoom. The City will do its best to resolve any technical issues as quickly as possible. To view or listen to the meeting from home, you may also watch the live stream on the City's YouTube page at: https://www.youtube.com/@CityofCarmelbytheSea/streams. To participate in the meeting via Zoom, copy and paste the link below into your browser. https://ci-carmel-ca-us.zoom.us/j/81612190616
Webinar ID: 816 1219 0616
Passcode: 452607
Dial in: (253) 215-8782
HOW TO OFFER PUBLIC COMMENT
The public may give public comment at this meeting in person, or use the Zoom teleconference module, provided that there is access to Zoom during the meeting. Zoom comments will be taken after the in-person comments. The public can also email comments to [email protected]. Comments must be received at least 2 hours before the meeting in order to be provided to the legislative body. Comments received after that time and up to the beginning of the meeting will be made part of the record.
PUBLIC COMMENT GUIDELINES FOR SPECIAL MEETINGS
During Special City Council Meetings, public comments are permitted on items listed on the agenda. After each item on the agenda is introduced, the Mayor will invite public comment on that item. Each speaker has 3 minutes to speak unless otherwise adjusted by the Mayor.
While stating your name is optional, it helps to identify speakers in the meeting minutes.
Remote or in-person participants who do not comply with the requirements of the Brown Act will be muted.
CALL TO ORDER AND ROLL CALL - 12:00 PM
ORDERS OF BUSINESS
Orders of Business are agenda items that require City Council discussion, debate, direction to staff, and/or action.
1) Status of Recruitment for City Administrator and request for Council Direction.
ADJOURNMENT
This agenda was posted at City Hall, Monte Verde Street between Ocean Avenue and 7th Avenue, Harrison Memorial Library, located on the NE corner of Ocean Avenue and Lincoln Street, the Carmel-by-the-Sea Post Office, 5th Avenue between Dolores Street and San Carlos Street, and the City's webpage (http://www.ci.carmel.ca.us) in accordance with applicable legal requirements.
CORRESPONDENCE RECEIVED AFTER THE POSTING OF THE AGENDA Any correspondence or supplemental materials related to items on this agenda that are received after the agenda has been posted will be distributed to the City Council and made available for public review at City Hall (Monte Verde Street between Ocean and Seventh Avenues) during regular business hours. Written comments emailed to the City Clerk will not be read aloud, but will be posted online with the related agenda at:
https://carmelbytheseaca.portal.civicclerk.com/.
SPECIAL NOTICES TO PUBLIC
In compliance with the Americans with Disabilities Act, if you need special assistance to participate in this meeting, please contact the City Clerk's Office at 831-620-2000 at least 48 hours prior to the meeting to ensure that reasonable arrangements can be made to provide accessibility to the meeting (28CFR 35.102-35.104 ADA Title II).
CITY OF CARMEL-BY-THE-SEA
City Council
Staff Report
September 9, 2026
ORDERS OF BUSINESS
TO: Honorable Mayor and City Council Members
SUBMITTED BY: Marisa Bermudez, Acting Assistant City Administrator APPROVED BY: Brandon Swanson, Acting City Administrator SUBJECT: Status of Recruitment for City Administrator and request for Council Direction.
RECOMMENDATION:
1. Discuss draft brochure for Recruitment of City Administrator
2. Motion to approve draft brochure and authorize release of brochure
3. Other direction by Council related to this Agenda item BACKGROUND / SUMMARY:
At the City Council meeting held on September 1, 2026 during open session, the City Council gave direction for a special meeting of the City Council to held on September 9, 2026 at noon in open session following public input on the qualifications for the City Administrator and other information to be included in a brochure announcing the recruitment.
There was public input on the qualifications for the City Administrator and other information at both the September 1, 2026 City Council meeting and at a community meeting held on September 4, 2026.
Based upon Council comments at the open session of the Council meeting on September 1, 2026 and upon public input on September 1, 2026 and September 4, 2026, and upon individual comments by Council to Wendi Brown, a draft recruiting brochure is being prepared by Wendi Brown which will be posted on the City website by the 5 pm today (September 8).
Following staff presentation of this item on September 9, 2026, and questions from Council, and public input, then there should be Council discussion and direction on how to proceed including approval of the recruiting brochure.
FISCAL IMPACT:
None
PRIOR CITY COUNCIL ACTION:
September 1, 2026 -- Council direction as described above.
ATTACHMENTS:
1. City of Carmel by Sea-City Administrator-R10
CITY ADMINISTRATOR
CITY OF CARMEL-BY-THE-SEA
ANNUAL SALARY: $280,000–$330,000 DOE/DOQ
THE CITY OF CARMEL-BY-THE-SEA, CALIFORNIA, is seeking an accomplished local government leader to serve as its next City Administrator—an exceptional opportunity to lead one of California’s most iconic and distinctive coastal communities. The City Administrator oversees the City’s approximately $42 million budget and total staff of 87. They will have an exciting opportunity to turn the Council’s vision into action—strengthening the organization, elevating customer service, and moving forward major capital and infrastructure investments that will shape Carmel-by-the-Sea’s future. This leader will embrace what’s next while fiercely protecting what makes Carmel special—its historic charm, unmistakable character, and extraordinary quality of life. The ideal candidate is a dynamic and seasoned municipal leader who knows how to bring out the best in people, build an exceptional organization, and navigate the complexities of city government with confidence and sound judgment. Financially savvy, operationally strong, and a natural relationship builder, they will be visible, approachable, and genuinely engaged—someone who listens, communicates openly, builds trust, and enjoys connecting with staff, the Council, and the community. Apply today for the opportunity to help shape the next chapter of one of America’s most distinctive and internationally recognized communities.
This recruitment is managed by
CAREER OPPORTUNITY
DISCOVER CARMEL-BY-THE-SEA
NO COMMUNITY CAPTURES THE MAGIC OF CALIFORNIA’S CENTRAL COAST quite like Carmel-by-the-Sea (Carmel), a charming coastal village set within a beautiful Monterey pine forest and known for its distinctive architecture, white-sand beach, thriving arts scene, and highly walkable downtown. Located on the Monterey Peninsula between Pebble Beach and Point Lobos State Natural Reserve, and just north of Big Sur, Carmel offers an exceptional quality of life surrounded by some of California’s most iconic scenery. Residents and visitors enjoy an impressive collection of restaurants, boutiques, galleries, wine tasting rooms, cultural attractions, and community events, along with easy access to Carmel Beach, 17-Mile Drive, world-renowned golf, hiking, cycling, kayaking, whale watching, and the Big Sur coastline. Long known as a haven for artists, writers, architects, and musicians, Carmel has cultivated a remarkable sense of place shaped by its forested setting, creative spirit, and rich architectural history—from its beloved storybook cottages to a diverse collection of architectural styles that have evolved over generations. Tourism and hospitality remain an important part of the local economy, alongside culinary services, retail, arts and culture, and professional services, creating both opportunity and the need for thoughtful stewardship to preserve the character, quality of life, and enduring appeal that make Carmel-by-the-Sea such an extraordinary place to live, work, and visit.
1.1 SQUARE
MILES
120 MILES SOUTH
OF SAN FRANCISCO
Carmel-by-the-Sea
LIFE ALONG THE COAST
Mediterranean
Climate
WITH 269 DAYS OF
SUNSHINE PER YEAR
76%
BACHELOR’S RESIDENTS DEGREE
3,049 8%
Two or
More
Races
85%
White
5%
Hispanic
or Latino
1-2%
Asian or
AfricanAmerican
THE CITY&
CITY COUNCIL
THE CITY OF CARMEL-BY-THE-SEA operates under a Council-City Administrator form of government and is governed by a five-member City Council comprised of
the Mayor and four Councilmembers, all elected at-large.
Councilmembers represent Carmel-by-the-Sea on a variety of regional boards, agencies, and committees, helping advance the City’s interests throughout the Monterey Peninsula and ensuring the community has a strong voice in issues that extend beyond its boundaries.
Serving a community as extraordinary as Carmel-by-the-Sea calls for an equally exceptional approach to public service.
The City is committed to being responsive, accessible, and connected to its community while protecting the character and charm that make Carmel unlike anywhere else. Municipal services are delivered through six departments, along with the City Administrator’s Office, which includes the City Clerk, Finance, Human Resources, and Information Technology.
Together, this team keeps Carmel moving—protecting public safety, caring for its treasured public spaces and infrastructure, supporting local businesses and community programs, and safeguarding the historic, architectural, and environmental qualities that define the village. At the heart of the
organization is a commitment to transparency, collaboration, fiscal stewardship, and outstanding service, while thoughtfully balancing the needs of a world-renowned destination with those of the close-knit community that calls Carmel home.
VIEW THE ORGANIZATIONAL CHART
THE CITY
ADMINISTRATOR’S
OFFICE &JOB
THE CITY ADMINISTRATOR’S OFFICE PLAYS A CENTRAL ROLE in keeping the organization moving forward and ensuring City Council priorities are carried out effectively. The Office coordinates resources, supports key initiatives, connects departments, and helps align the organization around shared priorities. With responsibility for the City’s workforce of 87 employees and an annual budget of approximately $42 million, key responsibilities include:
• Translating City Council direction
into clear organizational priorities
and meaningful results, while
proactively identifying emerging
needs and opportunities.
• Building a strong, collaborative
workplace culture through
empowering leaders, developing
talent, managing labor relations,
and bringing out the best in City
teams.
• Creating a Citywide culture of
exceptional customer service that
is responsive, welcoming, and
solutions-oriented.
• Evaluating opportunities for
economic stewardship and revenue
enhancement within the context of
the City’s broader priorities and
long-term financial goals.
• Moving major capital priorities
forward—removing barriers,
empowering departments, and
getting important projects across
the finish line.
• Advancing technology and
modernization, including stronger
systems, infrastructure, services,
and the responsible use of AI.
• Addressing the unique impacts of
Carmel’s significant second-home
population on community
connection, services, and longterm planning.
• Protecting Carmel’s extraordinary
character, natural beauty, history,
architecture, and traditions while
thoughtfully preparing for its future.
• Being a visible, accessible, and
engaged presence in the
community—listening, building
relationships, and connecting with
residents, businesses, and regional
partners.
• Making progress visible through
clear performance measures,
dashboards, and reporting that
keep the Council and community
informed and priorities moving
forward.
UPCOMING PROJECTS
&INITIATIVES
Lead a major reinvestment in Carmel’s
public infrastructure, implementing the
Council’s plan to address more than $100
million in identified deferred maintenance
through $10+ million in annual capital
investment in streets, sidewalks, beach
armoring, stormwater systems, facilities,
and other community assets.
Bring a major community investment to
life by advancing the Police Station and
Public Works facility project through design,
financing, and project delivery.
Build a culture of performance and
accountability with clear KPIs, stronger use
of data, and public-facing dashboards that
make progress visible.
Elevate customer service Citywide by
establishing clear service standards,
gathering resident feedback, and creating
a more responsive, solutions-focused
organization.
Advance Carmel’s housing priorities through
thoughtful implementation of the Housing
Element, balancing State requirements and
community needs with the character that
makes Carmel distinctive.
SEE THE CAPITAL IMPROVEMENT PLAN
VIEW ADDITIONAL COUNCIL PRIORITIES
THE IDEAL CANDIDATE
T HE IDEAL CANDIDATE IS AN ACCOMPLISHED, APPROACHABLE, and action-oriented municipal leader who knows how to bring people together, navigate complexity, and turn priorities into results. They will bring broad organizational leadership, political acumen, financial savvy, experience with labor and employee relations, and the ability to move important capital projects and initiatives forward. A collaborative leader, they will empower talented people, build trust and accountability, and bring out the best in City teams.
Confident and forthright, yet thoughtful and diplomatic, they will be a skilled communicator and active listener who is comfortable in a highly engaged community where perspectives may differ. Success will require curiosity, adaptability, sound judgment, and the ability to balance competing interests—embracing thoughtful change while respecting Carmel’s history and traditions and carrying its distinctive character forward.
EMPLOYMENT STANDARDS
Any combination of education and experience that provides the required knowledge, skills, and abilities described herein may be qualifying. A typical pathway includes:
Education: Equivalent to a bachelor’s degree from an
accredited college or university; master’s degree is
beneficial.
Experience: Progressively responsible administrative or executive leadership experience in a City and/or County government and similarly complex public-sector organization.
HOWtoAPPLY
For first consideration,
apply by SEPTEMBER 30 at:
SAVE THE DATES. Selected candidates
must be available for both dates.
• First round of interviews will be virtual
interviews and will take place on
OCTOBER 27.
• Finalists will move forward to round two
in-person interviews on NOVEMBER 6.
QUESTIONS? Please contact
your recruiter, Wendi Brown,
with any questions:
[email protected]
866.929.WBCP (9227) toll-free
541.664.0376 direct
WBCP JOB BOARD
Highlights include:
Health Insurance: The City shall pay 85%
of the medical premium of the At-Will
employee and eligible dependents based
on employee choice.
Dental & Vision Insurance: The City shall
pay 100% of the premium for the Core
dental and vision plans for employees
and eligible dependents.
Retirement: The City participates in
CalPERS.
Life Insurance: Up to $30,000 for
the employee.
Long-Term Disability: Premium
coverage is paid by the City.
Deferred Compensation 457 Plan
Available
Vacation: Based on negotiated
terms in the contract.
Holidays: 12 paid holidays per year.
Sick Leave: Accrue 8 hours each month.
Bereavement Leave: 24 hours each fiscal
year.
Executive Management Leave: 96 hours
per fiscal year.
Wellness Reimbursement: $50 per month
Education Incentive Program: Determined
by City Council and outlined in the City
Administrator’s employment contract.
SALARY&BENEFITS
Annual Salary: $280,000–$330,000 DOE/DOQ, PLUS an attractive benefits package.