Carmel-by-the-Sea City Council
October 6, 2026

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
City Council Chambers
662 Monte Verde Street
Carmel-by-the-Sea, CA 93921
Regular Meeting
Tuesday, October 6, 2026
4:30 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 and enter the passcode. https://ci-carmel-ca-us.zoom.us/j/83138976374
Webinar ID: 831 3897 6374
Passcode: 862068
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 inperson 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.

CALL TO ORDER AND ROLL CALL

PLEDGE OF ALLEGIANCE

EXTRAORDINARY BUSINESS
A. Carmel High School Report Out
B. Non-Profit Spotlight: Opera Carmel
C. Proclamation recognizing the Carmel Art Association's Upcoming Centennial

PUBLIC APPEARANCES
Members of the public are entitled to speak on matters of municipal concern not on the agenda during Public Appearances. Each person's comments shall be limited to 3 minutes, or as otherwise established by the Chair. While stating your name is optional, it helps to identify speakers in the meeting minutes. Under the Brown Act, public comment for matters on the agenda must relate to that agenda item, and public comments for matters not on the agenda must relate to the subject matter jurisdiction of this legislative body. Remote or in-person participants who do not comply with the requirements of the Brown Act will be muted.

ANNOUNCEMENTS
City Administrator Announcements
City Attorney Announcements
Councilmember Announcements

ORDERS OF BUSINESS
Orders of Business are agenda items that require City Council discussion, debate, direction to staff, and/or action.
1) Receive a joint presentation from the Chamber of Commerce and the Carmel Heritage Society on a proposed shared use of the First Murphy House and provide direction to Staff on whether to proceed with drafting a lease agreement 2) Receive a Presentation on El Niño/Storm Preparedness, Shoreline Projects, and Resource Allocation; and Provide Direction Regarding Ongoing Shoreline and Storm Preparedness Efforts and Resource Allocations
3) Resolution 2026-076 Ratifying a Proclamation of Existence of a Local Emergency by the Acting City Administrator due to Anticipated El Niño Event 2026-2027 4) Receive the 2026 Car Week After Action Report and Provide Direction to Staff 5) Resolution 2026-075 adopting the Fiscal Year 2026-27 At-Will (Unrepresented) Compensation and Benefits Plan which was previously approved at Council's September meeting, including a reduction in employee CalPERS retirement contributions, and an updated At-Will salary schedule incorporating the new City Administrator salary range

PUBLIC HEARINGS
6) First Reading and Introduction of Ordinance No. 2026-005 amending Carmel Municipal Code Chapters 17.08, 17.14, 17.18, 17.38, 17.64, and 17.68 to implement specific General Plan Housing Element (6th cycle) programs to remove constraints to the development of housing and comply with State housing law.

RECESS
The City Council will take a 30-minute break around 6:30 p.m.

FUTURE AGENDA ITEMS

ADJOURNMENT
This agenda was posted at City Hall, 662 Monte Verde Street, Harrison Memorial Library, 345 Ocean Avenue, the Carmel-by-the-Sea Post Office, 56B 5th 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, 662 Monte Verde Street, Carmel-by-the-Sea, 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
Proclamation
IN RECOGNITION OF THE CARMEL ART ASSOCIATION’S UPCOMING CENTENNIAL WHEREAS, the Carmel Art Association was founded on August 8, 1927, when nineteen artists gathered at “Gray Gables,” the Carmel home and studio of painters Josephine Culbertson and Ida Johnson, with a shared vision “to advance the knowledge of and interest in art and to promote a greater spirit of cooperation and fellowship among artists and the public”; and
WHEREAS, as the Carmel Art Association prepares to celebrate its 100th anniversary on August 8, 2027, the City of Carmel-by-the-Sea recognizes nearly a century of extraordinary contributions to California’s art history and to Carmel’s identity as a community devoted to art, creativity, culture, and the preservation of its unique village character; and
WHEREAS, generations of Carmel Art Association members have contributed not only to the visual arts, but also to the broader cultural life of Carmel, lending their talents and support to the performing arts, the Forest Theater, the Bach Festival, and other community institutions that helped establish Carmel as an internationally recognized center for the arts; and
WHEREAS, the Carmel Art Association has maintained a continuously operating nonprofit gallery that has welcomed generations of residents and visitors through its iconic red Dutch door, while providing a home for an extraordinary range of artistic styles and traditions and representing more than 850 juried local artist members throughout its history; and
WHEREAS, Carmel Art Association artists have demonstrated a longstanding commitment to art education and community service by establishing the original Carmel Art Institute, supporting young artists through exhibitions and scholarships, and contributing to efforts to preserve Carmel’s historic architecture, natural beauty, and village character; and
WHEREAS, as it enters its centennial year, the Carmel Art Association continues to honor the vision of its founders and serve as the heart of local visual art, fostering fellowship among artists and the public while enriching the cultural life of Carmel-by-the-Sea.

NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT PROCLAIMED, that I, Dale Byrne, Mayor of the City of Carmel-by-the-Sea, on behalf of the City Council and the entire community, hereby recognize the Carmel Art Association as it prepares to celebrate its Centennial Anniversary on August 8, 2027, and express the City’s gratitude to the pioneering artists who established this enduring institution, to the generations who have sustained it, and to those who will carry its legacy and original vision forward into its next one hundred years.

IN WITNESS WHEREOF, I have hereunto set my hand and caused the official seal of the City of Carmelby-the-Sea to be affixed this 6th day of October, 2026. _____________________________
Dale Byrne, Mayor

CITY OF CARMEL-BY-THE-SEA
City Council
Staff Report
October 6, 2026

ORDERS OF BUSINESS
TO: Honorable Mayor and City Council Members
SUBMITTED BY: Brandon Swanson, Acting City Administrator APPROVED BY: Brandon Swanson, Acting City Administrator SUBJECT: Receive a joint presentation from the Chamber of Commerce and the Carmel Heritage Society on a proposed shared use of the First Murphy House and provide direction to Staff on whether to proceed with drafting a lease agreement
RECOMMENDATION:

Receive a joint presentation from the Chamber of Commerce and the Carmel Heritage Society on a proposed shared use of the First Murphy House and provide direction to Staff on whether to proceed with drafting a lease agreement BACKGROUND / SUMMARY:

A little over two years ago, the City Council entertained the idea of a shared lease with the Carmel Heritage Society, and the Chamber of Commerce to share the space at the First Murphy House. Discussions were limited, and ultimately no lease was negotiated, and the two entities stayed in their separate respective places. Recently, conversations have surfaced again, and both entities have approached the City with an interest to share the space at the First Murphy House.

City Council will be receiving a joint presentation from the two groups on how the shared space would be used and the potential benefits of their proposed arrangement.

Following the presentation, council will be asked by staff for direction on whether or not to enter into good faith lease negotiations for the First Murphy house to be shared by both parties.

The joint presentation, prepared by the Chamber and the Heritage Society, is attached

to this Staff Report (Attachment 1).

FISCAL IMPACT:

Receipt of this presentation has no fiscal impacts. Future impacts of a potential lease will be discussed when and if that item returns to Council.

PRIOR CITY COUNCIL ACTION:

ATTACHMENTS:

1. First Murphy House Partnership – Council Presentation 10.6.26

FIRST MURPHY HOUSE:

A Partnership to Share CARMEL'S HISTORY
CITY COUNCIL | OCTOBER 6, 2026
Presented by: Kati Enea, Carmel Chamber President & CEO & Leah Beets, Carmel Heritage Society, Executive Director ATTACHMENT 1

A Carmel Treasure
Carmel’s Only Museum
A place for residents and visitors to learn
our history, and to be inside it.

Built in 1902 and cared for by the
Heritage Society for 36 years
ATTACHMENT 1

The Partnership
The Chamber subleases space through the
Heritage Society.

Two local organizations, one shared
purpose.

Supported by Carmel's nonprofits
of each other for a sustainable
future.

ATTACHMENT 1

Heritage Society
• Maintains the historic home
• Trains every volunteer
• Curates exhibits & leads docents
• Provides a strong volunteer base
• Staffs expanded public hours
• Natural connector between the business
community, tourism and the residents.

Chamber of Commerce
How It Works
ATTACHMENT 1

Sharing the Space
• Chamber E.D. office: 78.5 sq ft
• Heritage Society E.D. office:

82.75 sq ft
• Heritage Society exhibit &
shared meeting space: 240 sq ft
• Entry with docent stand, sales
counter & card rack: 143 sq ft
• 748 sq ft total (636.5 sq ft net)
ATTACHMENT 1

Protecting the History
• Updated volunteer training manual.
• Every volunteer is trained by us
before serving.
• The Heritage Society remains
steward of the home.

ATTACHMENT 1

Our Volunteers
• Dedicated locals who know and love
Carmel
• Retirees who were powerhouses in their
experience, now giving back, a blessing
to our community
• Chamber works with 30+ Visitor Center
Volunteers, 10+ Chamber Ambassadors
and 12+Summer Interns
ATTACHMENT 1

What It Means for the City
• No financial ask of the city
• A City-owned building put to fuller use
• Expanded hours: working towards weekends
• A continued path towards being selfsustaining
ATTACHMENT 1

NEXt Steps & Ask of the Council
We ask you consider approval and direct the City
Attorney to draft a lease.

We thank you for your consideration.

ATTACHMENT 1

CITY OF CARMEL-BY-THE-SEA
City Council
Staff Report
October 6, 2026

ORDERS OF BUSINESS
TO: Honorable Mayor and City Council Members
SUBMITTED BY: Shari Carlet, Project Manager
APPROVED BY: Brandon Swanson, Acting City Administrator SUBJECT: Receive a Presentation on El Niño/Storm Preparedness, Shoreline Projects, and Resource Allocation; and Provide Direction Regarding Ongoing Shoreline and Storm Preparedness Efforts and Resource Allocations
RECOMMENDATION:

Staff recommends that the City Council receive this presentation and provide direction regarding Provide Direction Regarding Ongoing Shoreline and Storm Preparedness Efforts and Resource Allocations.

BACKGROUND / SUMMARY:

El Niño Overview and 2026–27 Seasonal Outlook
This report provides an update on the City’s shoreline capital projects and El Niño preparedness efforts as the City anticipates a potentially strong El Niño season. Staff will also be presenting a detailed report at the City Council meeting on this topic.

NOAA forecasts indicate an increased likelihood of stronger storms, heavier rainfall, larger waves, rising sea levels, and coastal erosion. In response, staff has expanded its focus on beach, bluff, and shoreline protection needs.

El Niño is the warm phase of the El Niño–Southern Oscillation (ENSO) climate cycle. It occurs when easterly trade winds weaken, allowing warm ocean water to shift eastward across the central and eastern tropical Pacific Ocean. This results in unusually warm sea surface temperatures that disrupt typical atmospheric circulation and influence

global weather patterns, including precipitation, storm tracks, and coastal hazards.

El Niño events occur approximately every 2 to 7 years and generally last 9 to 12 months. NOAA formally declares an El Niño when sustained sea surface temperatures in the Niño 3.4 region rise +0.5°C or higher and the atmosphere responds accordingly.

This scientific background information is sourced from the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) and its National Ocean Service.

In June 2026, NOAA issued an El Niño Advisory confirming that El Niño had formed and was expected to intensify throughout the year. The Climate Prediction Center (CPC), in its September 2026 ENSO Diagnostic Discussion, reports a greater than 90% probability that the 2026–27 El Niño will become a very strong event, and a 75% probability of reaching historic strength, potentially exceeding all El Niños measured since 1950. Current observations show sea surface temperature anomalies in the Niño

3.4 region at +3.0°C, with subsurface anomalies exceeding +10°C—evidence of deep, sustained warming. These forecasts come directly from the NOAA Climate Prediction Center.

NOAA’s California-specific guidance indicates a 98% likelihood that a very strong El Niño will affect the state during the 2026–27 winter season. Expected statewide impacts include enhanced heavy rainfall, increased atmospheric river activity, coastal flooding, erosion, and more frequent and intense storm systems. Forecasting agencies note that this year’s event may approach or surpass the magnitude of major historical El Niños such as 1982–83, 1997–98, and 2015–16, making it potentially one of the strongest on record. This information is sourced from NOAA’s National Weather Service and international forecasting partners.

Potential Local Impacts
A very strong El Niño may bring heavy rainfall, coastal flooding, beach erosion, falling trees, landslides, and power outages to coastal communities such as Carmel. Increased storm intensity, higher sea levels, and more frequent atmospheric rivers can overwhelm drainage systems, damage infrastructure, and accelerate erosion along beaches and bluffs.

City Task Force: El Niño and Storm Preparedness Plan
These NOAA and CPC predictions reinforce the importance of the City’s proactive preparation efforts, including the work of the El Niño Task Force, ongoing interdepartmental coordination, and collaboration with regional, state, and federal agencies.

The City’s El Niño Task Force has been meeting consistently since June 2026 and continues to meet regularly as we prepare for seasonal storm impacts. The Task Force includes representatives from all major City departments and executive leadership, with input from informed outside experts, ensuring a coordinated, cross-departmental approach.

During these meetings, roles and responsibilities for all departments involved in storm preparedness and response have been defined and refined. The plan covers operations before, during, and after storm events, including pre-season maintenance and inspections, real-time staffing and resource deployment, and post-storm assessment and recovery.

In addition to internal coordination, the Task Force is strengthening collaboration with external agencies, including Monterey County, NOAA, Monterey Fire, CalFire, PG&E, and neighboring jurisdictions. Staff is actively pursuing mutual aid opportunities, shared response strategies, and access to state and federal resources to support storm preparation, emergency response, and long-term recovery.

A major outcome of this work is development of a comprehensive Storm Operations "Manual"—a durable, annually updated document that will serve as the City’s long-term guide for storm preparedness and response. The manual will standardize protocols, improve communication, and ensure seamless coordination among departments and partner agencies.

City staff is also preparing the community through public outreach, informational materials, coordinated messaging, and community meetings. A community meeting is planned for mid-October (date TBD) to provide residents with resources and education on preparedness and the City’s efforts.

Shoreline Projects and El Niño Operations Update
In addition to scheduled shoreline capital work, this update includes key beach- and bluff-related CIP efforts prompted by the elevated risks associated with the predicted strong El Niño season. As outlined in the State of California’s El Niño declaration, coastal jurisdictions should expect substantial impacts. Accordingly, staff has increased focus on shoreline and coastal resiliency, including beach armoring, sand redistribution, and riprap (engineered large rocks) placement to stabilize vulnerable areas.

City staff is advancing shoreline-related measures such as interim armoring, bluff stabilization, riprap evaluation, and drainage readiness. These improvements are paired with operational preparations including storm-drain cleaning and repairs, EOC readiness, refined communication protocols, contractor coordination, and updated storm-response workflows.

These shoreline CIP efforts and operational preparations form part of an integrated storm-preparedness framework that supports both immediate response to anticipated El Niño conditions and long-term resilience for future storm seasons.

1. Sand Redistribution Operation
Staff conducted a second sand redistribution operation in late September and early October to reinforce existing revetments, the sand ramp, and bluffs. The first redistribution occurred in June. Staff will continue to monitor conditions and undertake a

third redistribution if needed before winter storms arrive.

2. 10th and 12th Avenue Beach Stairs Repair Project
Due to anticipated strong El Niño conditions, the Beach Stairs Replacement Project— approved July 24, 2026—is being postponed until spring 2027. Proceeding during the storm season could jeopardize the project due to its in-kind design.

3. Santa Lucia / 13th Avenue ADA Ramp and Parking Improvements Installation of a new ADA ramp, accessible parking spaces, and pathway upgrades was completed in early September 2026, enhancing accessibility and safe coastal access.

4. Scenic Road Bluff Erosion Repair Project at 11th Avenue This urgent project is planned for completion before the winter storm season. Design work is complete, contractor site visits and quotes have been received, and staff is coordinating with the Monterey Regional Park District to secure riprap material at no cost. Construction is anticipated to begin in early November 2026 pending expedited procurement and emergency authorization.

5. Sand Ramp Project at 8th Avenue
The Sand Ramp Project is part of long-term coastal resiliency planning. Geotechnical soil borings completed in March 2026 support future stabilization design. Interim efforts focus on armoring and coordinating sand redistribution as it is prepared for the potential impacts of the predicted El Nino. In recent meetings, the Council directed staff to return with a more detailed discussion on the approach to reconstructing this ramp, which will occur at the beginning of 2027. Design consultant procurement is being planned for spring 2027 pending that conversation with Council. Depending on the final scope of the project, the timeline is anywhere from 1-3 years for full design, permitting, and construction.

6. 4th Avenue Outfall Project
Geotechnical work was completed in March 2026. Due to budget constraints, staffing, and Council priorities, the project remains on hold until the next fiscal year per the adopted 5-year CIP plan. This is one of the areas that the El Nino taskforce is targeting for interim armoring to ensure no further damage to this aged infrastructure.

7. Vista Lobos Transfer Switch Installation
Staff is preparing installation of transfer switches at Vista Lobos to improve electrical reliability and ensure access to emergency power, supporting its potential function as an auxiliary EOC during El Niño or other emergency events.

FISCAL IMPACT:

Funding for the CIP projects identified in the FY 2026–27 Capital Improvement Program (CIP) was approved as part of the recently adopted CIP budget. These allocations support the planned CIP projects currently underway, including newly established FY 26–27 projects and carryover projects from FY 25–26.

However, additional emergency work related to El Niño preparation is not covered under the FY 26–27 CIP budget. The State of California’s El Niño declaration has required the City to shift priorities toward accelerated shoreline stabilization efforts, including additional riprap acquisition, sand redistribution support, other potential armoring measures, and coordination with on-call contractors for emergency installation work.

Staff anticipate the need for supplemental funding to address costs such as, but not limited to:
• Additional riprap and other beach armoring procurement • On-call contractor installation support
• Specialized delivery and mobilization expenses
• Shoreline stabilization and coastal protection measures outside the adopted CIP scope
These emergency expenses were not included in the approved CIP budget and will require future Council consideration for budget augmentation. Staff will return with finalized cost estimates once contractor quotes and material pricing are confirmed.

Additionally, staff is actively coordinating with State agencies to determine whether supplemental funding, emergency support, or resource assistance—such as materials, equipment, or other storm-response supplies—may be made available to aid the City’s El Niño preparedness efforts.

PRIOR CITY COUNCIL ACTION:

No prior City Council action.

ATTACHMENTS:

None

CITY OF CARMEL-BY-THE-SEA
City Council
Staff Report
October 6, 2026

ORDERS OF BUSINESS
TO: Honorable Mayor and City Council Members
SUBMITTED BY: Brandon Swanson, Acting City Administrator APPROVED BY: Brandon Swanson, Acting City Administrator SUBJECT: Resolution 2026-076 Ratifying a Proclamation of Existence of a Local Emergency by the Acting City Administrator due to Anticipated El Niño Event 2026-2027
RECOMMENDATION:

Adopt Resolution 2026-076 Ratifying a Proclamation of Existence of a Local Emergency by the Acting City Administrator due to Anticipated El Niño Event 2026- 2027.

BACKGROUND / SUMMARY:

DISCUSSION
On September 21, 2026, California Governor Gavin Newsom issued a Proclamation of a State of Emergency on September 21, 2026 (Governor’s Proclamation) based upon the ongoing development of a strong and likely historic El Niño event in the Pacific Ocean.

On September 30, 2026, Acting City Administrator Brandon Swanson issued a Proclamation of Existence of a Local Emergency due to the Anticipated El Niño Event 2026-2027 (Attachment 1).

The proclamation strengthens the City’s ability to coordinate resources with the State, opens the door to possible funding, and may help streamline regulatory steps for storm preparation, especially along Carmel Beach.

The Governor’s Proclamation is attached to the Proclamation by Brandon Swanson as Exhibit “A”.

The Governor’s Proclamation contains multiple recitals with detailed facts regarding the anticipated El Niño event 2026-2027.

An El Niño event creates a substantial risk of major flooding in the County, including the City, and potential damage to public and private property, such as road closures, structure damage, loss of power, loss of trees and impacts to Carmel Beach.

Resolution No. 2026-076 (Attachment 2) will ratify the Proclamation of Existence of a Local Emergency by the Acting City Administrator due to the anticipated El Niño Event 2026-2027.

FISCAL IMPACT:

None
PRIOR CITY COUNCIL ACTION:

None
ATTACHMENTS:

1. 9.30.2026 Proclamation Declaring Local Emergency due to El Nino_signed

2. Resolution 2026-076 - Ratifying Local Emergency due to El Nino (10.6.2026)

PROCLAMATION OF EXISTENCE OF A LOCAL EMERGENCY BY THE ACTING CITY ADMINISTRATORDUE TO ANTICIPATED EL NINO EVENT 2026-2021 WHEREAS,theCaliforniaEmergencyServicesAct(CalifomiaGovemmentCode sections8639,8550,et.seq.)definesalocalemergencyastheexistenceofconditionsof airu.ro * of extreme peril-to the safety ofpersoni and property within the territorial limits of u "ity, "uu."a
ty conditions which are or -i lik.ly to be beyond the control ofthe services' p"*l,ir"i, .qrrirment, and facilities of a city, and require the combined forces of other political subdivisions to combat; and
WHEREAS,Chapter2,section2.64.o2ooftheCityofCarmel-by-rhe-S.ea(.'City,,) Municipal code defines imergency as the actual or threatened existence ofconditions of airu.t"i o,. of"*treme peril to iire safety olpersons and property within this City^, which are or u.. fif."f, to be beyoni the control ofihe services, personnel, equipment' and facilities of this City,r.qri.irgthecombinedforcesofotherpoliticalsubdivisionstocombat;and WHEREAS,Chapter2,section2.64.o5ooftheCityofCarmel-by-the-Sea('.City.') Municipal code designaies the city Administrator as the Director of Emergency Services for the City; and
WHEREAS'Chapter2'section2.64.060empowerstheCityAdministrator,asthe Director ofEmergency Services, lo proclaim the existence or threatened existence of a local ".".g"n.V
*henihe City Council is not in session so long as such proclamation is ratified by the City Council within seven (7) days; and
WHEREAS,CalifomiaGovemorGavinNewsomissuedaProclamationofAStateof Emergency on September 21' 2026 (Govemor's Proclamation) based upon the ongoing a"r"i[p.!., of a strong and likety historic El Niflo event in the Pacific Ocean; and WHEREAS,theGovernor.sProclamationisattachedheretoasExhibit..A',andis hereby incorporated by reference as though set forth in full; and WHEREAS,theGovernor'sProclamationcontainsmuttipleRecitalswithdetailed facts regarding the anticipated El Niflo event; and
WHEREAS, an El Nifro event creates a substantial risk of major flooding in the County, including the City, and potential damage- to public and private property' such as road closures, loss of power, rt.u"turi damage. loss of trees, and impacts to Carmel Beach' NOW, THEREFORE' the Director of Emergency Services finds that:

A.ThesubstantialriskstotheCitythatcouldbecausedbyanElNifioeventconstitutes a condition ofpotential disaster and extreme jeril to the safety ofpersons, their property, and public services.

B.Anemergency'asdefinedinSection2.64.020oftheCityMunicipalCode, Govemment code Section ssSS("), the puuic Contracrs Code Section 1 102. now exists in the city' ATTACHMENT 1 Page 1 of 8

c. During the existence of said local emergency the powers, functions, and duties of the City Administrator or designee shall be those prescribed by State law and the ordinances, resolutions, codes, and approved plans ofthe City in order to mitigate the effects of local emergency.

D. Pursuant to section 2.64.020 of the city municipal code, all expenditures made in connection with this local emergency, including mutual aid activities, shall be deemed to be the protection and benefit ofthe inhabitants and property ofthe City.

E. The City Administrator, or his designee, is hereby, designated as the authorized Agent for the City for the purposes ofreceipt, processing, and coordination ofall inquiries and requirements necessary to obtain available county, state, and Federal assistance.

F. pursuant to Govemment Code section 8630, the local emergency shall be deemed to continue to exist for a period ofup to seven (7) days, and thereafter by ratification and extension by the City Council until it is terminated by the City Council.

G. At the time of this Proclamation, the City Council is not in session' Now' THEREFoRE, BE IT RESoLVED, a local emergency is hereby declared on september 30,2026 within the city of Carmel-by-the-Sea. During the local emergency, the powers and duties ofthe City Administrator and of the City Council shall be as defined in stut" and federal law, and the ordinances, resolutions, and approved plans ofthe City of Carmel-by-the-Sea in order to mitigate the effects of said local emergency; and This Proclamation shall be transmitted to the City Council within seven (7) days for ratification, and this local emergency shall continue until terminated by further declaration of the undersigned, or by resolution ofthe City Council.

Executed on September 30,2026 at 3:50 p.m'
Brandon Swanson
Director of Emergency Services
Acting City Administrator
,r-v-'---*_-
ATTACHMENT 1 Page 2 of 8

EXECUTIVE DEPARTMENT

STATE OF CALIFORNIA

PROCLAMATION OF A STATE OF EMERGENCY
WHEREAS in the past several years, California has experienced increasingly severe and destructive storms, including atmospheric river events that have caused widespread flooding, mud and debris flows, landslides, high winds, power outages, road and highway closures, evacuation orders, damage to homes and critical infrastructure, and disruption of essential services; and WHEREAS climate change is intensifying these weather and hydrologic extremes in California, contributing to increasingly severe swings between drought and flooding, and heightening the risks that extreme storms pose to communities, infrastructure, natural resources, and the economy; and WHEREAS California is entering the 2026–2027 wet season amid the ongoing development of a strong and likely historic El Niño event in the Pacific Ocean; and
WHEREAS the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration’s National Weather Service Climate Prediction Center, in its August 13, 2026, diagnostic report, found that the El Niño event is strengthening, with a greater than 90 percent chance of a very strong event during Northern Hemisphere fall and winter of 2026–2027; and
WHEREAS the Climate Prediction Center projected a 69 percent chance that the event will reach historic strength during the October through December 2026 season, defined as a three-month Relative Oceanic Niño Index, and exceeding the strength of all prior El Niño events in the historical record beginning in 1950; and
WHEREAS the National Weather Service Climate Prediction Center has found that atmospheric conditions over the tropical Pacific are consistent with a strengthening El Niño, including changes in equatorial winds and an eastward shift in enhanced convection and rainfall toward the central and eastern Pacific, making it more likely that at least some parts of California will experience stronger storms in coming months; and
WHEREAS elevated baseline coastal water levels, combined with high tides, large waves, high surf, and coastal storms, can increase risks of coastal flooding, beach erosion, bluff erosion, transportation disruption, and damage to public and private infrastructure; and
WHEREAS California has already begun to experience effects attributed to this El Niño event, including unusual precipitation and significant coastal flooding; and
WHEREAS historical experience demonstrates that very strong El Niño events do not produce uniform statewide outcomes, but can be associated with exceptionally wet and destructive winter conditions in California; and WHEREAS California’s recent experience with atmospheric rivers, debris flows following wildfires, flash flooding, coastal erosion, inundation, and damage to transportation and flood-control infrastructure demonstrates the importance of procuring and positioning resources, clearing waterways, and taking additional actions to prepare before severe storms arrive; and WHEREAS areas affected by recent wildfires are particularly susceptible to flash flooding, mud and debris flows, erosion, sediment transport, and road closures during high-intensity rainfall; and
Exhibt A ATTACHMENT 1 Page 3 of 8

WHEREAS in light of that experience, local governments, local water agencies, and local flood control authorities have requested action now to enable them to move quickly to begin preparations for preventing and responding to the impacts of potential flooding; and
WHEREAS low-income communities, farmworker families, rural residents, seniors, persons with disabilities, residents with limited transportation access, people experiencing homelessness, and communities in flood-prone, coastal, or post-fire areas may face disproportionate risks; and
WHEREAS the demonstrated potential for a very strong or historic-strength El Niño event to cause elevated coastal water levels and high-impact storms in California warrants early, coordinated, and targeted preparedness actions to protect Californians, critical infrastructure, agricultural lands, natural resources, and the State’s economy; and
WHEREAS under the provisions of Government Code section 8558(b), I find that conditions of extreme peril to the safety of persons and property exist due to the developing El Niño event; and
WHEREAS under the provisions of Government Code section 8558(b), I find that the developing El Niño event is likely to cause conditions that, by reason of their magnitude, are likely to be beyond the control of the services, personnel, equipment, and facilities of any single local government and require the combined forces of a mutual aid region or regions to appropriately respond; and
WHEREAS under the provisions of Government Code section 8625(c), I find that local authority is inadequate to cope with the magnitude of the extreme peril posed by the developing El Niño event; and
WHEREAS under the provisions of Government Code section 8571, I find that strict compliance with various statutes and regulations specified in this Proclamation would prevent, hinder, or delay the mitigation of the effects of the developing El Niño event.

NOW, THEREFORE, I, GAVIN NEWSOM, Governor of the State of California, in accordance with the authority vested in me by the State Constitution and statutes, including the California Emergency Services Act, and in particular, Government Code section 8625, HEREBY PROCLAIM A STATE OF EMERGENCY to exist statewide due to the developing 2026–2027 El Niño event.

IT IS HEREBY ORDERED THAT:

1. All agencies of the state government are to utilize and employ state personnel, equipment, and facilities for the performance of any and all activities consistent with the direction of the Governor’s Office of Emergency Services and the State Emergency Plan. The Governor’s Office of Emergency Services shall coordinate statewide preparedness activities for potential severe weather, flooding, coastal flooding, erosion, mud and debris flows, and related impacts associated with conditions resulting from the El Niño event, including atmospheric rivers and other severe storm systems. The Governor’s Office of Emergency Services shall work with local and tribal governments to support emergency planning, resource coordination, and requests for state assistance. To protect their safety, all residents are to obey the direction of emergency officials with regard to this emergency.

Exhibt A ATTACHMENT 1 Page 4 of 8

2. As necessary to assist local governments and for the protection of public safety and the environment, state agencies shall enter into contracts to arrange for the procurement of materials, goods, and services necessary to quickly assist with the response to and recovery from the impacts of this emergency. Applicable provisions of the Government Code and the Public Contract Code, including but not limited to travel, advertising, and competitive bidding requirements, are suspended to the extent necessary to address the effects of this emergency.

3. The California Environmental Protection Agency and the California Natural Resources Agency, including boards, departments, and offices within those agencies, are directed to prioritize work to help local agencies prepare for anticipated impacts from the El Niño event. In particular, those state agencies are directed to prioritize permitting, consultation, and technical assistance to support local efforts to prevent or mitigate impacts from anticipated or potential flooding, landslides, and mud and debris flows, including local efforts to expedite levee and other flood management infrastructure repairs, vegetation management, debris removal, sediment management, bridge scour protection, and channel-capacity improvements. State agencies are directed to work with local agencies to issue any necessary permits or other approvals for such efforts as quickly as possible, including by identifying and invoking existing emergency authorities or other pathways for streamlined review.

On or before October 16, 2026, the Secretary for Environmental Protection and the Secretary of the Natural Resources Agency shall submit a joint recommendation to my office as to whether further action or emergency suspensions are necessary to support and expedite this work.

4. The Governor’s Office of Emergency Services shall coordinate the State’s preparation for and response to the developing El Niño event, including by working with the Department of Water Resources and other appropriate government agencies to prepare to pre-position personnel, equipment, supplies, commodities, and other resources based on forecast conditions, local needs, and identified risks. In particular, this work shall draw on the Department of Water Resources’ guidance regarding floodrisk-reduction activities.

5. The Department of Water Resources shall take appropriate action to procure, maintain, stage, pre-position, distribute, and replenish flood-fight supplies, equipment (including, but not limited to, sandbags, riprap and other rock materials, plastic sheeting, and pumps), and other materials necessary to support statewide flood preparedness, response, and protective actions in connection with the El Niño event. The Department of Water Resources shall coordinate with appropriate government agencies to identify priority areas for flood-fight material staging and plans to make these materials available where they are needed, when they are needed.

6. The Department of Water Resources, through its Division of Safety of Dams, shall conduct outreach to owners of jurisdictional dams regarding potential severe conditions during the El Niño event and shall reiterate to dam owners their responsibilities to inspect, operate, maintain, repair, and safely manage their dams and appurtenant structures in accordance Exhibt A ATTACHMENT 1 Page 5 of 8

with applicable law, permit conditions, emergency action plans, and directives of the Division of Safety of Dams.

7. The Governor’s Office of Emergency Services, in coordination with the Department of Water Resources, shall conduct outreach to counties, cities, and relevant local agencies that are responsible for levees, floodcontrol facilities, and associated structures that may be vulnerable to impacts of the El Niño event to take appropriate actions to procure, maintain, stage, pre-position, distribute, and replenish flood-fight supplies, commodities, equipment, and materials necessary to support flood preparedness, response, and protective actions.

8. The Department of Water Resources, in coordination with the State Water Resources Control Board, shall conduct outreach and education to advance groundwater recharge projects and to use flood flows to recharge groundwater aquifers under existing law with the goal of reducing flood impacts and strengthening local water supplies.

9. Consistent with Paragraph 3 of this Proclamation, the Coastal Commission is directed to expedite review and action on proposed development by coastal communities to prepare for the impacts of this El Niño event.

Coastal communities are encouraged to submit permit applications, as appropriate, to facilitate timely Coastal Commission review, technical assistance, and other support for El Niño preparations. After an application is received, the Commission shall respond with notification of any incomplete items within five days. After an application is complete, it shall be scheduled for hearing at the next Commission meeting. For emergency permit requests, the Commission shall accept both written and oral requests to its district offices. When necessary to address an urgent need related to this emergency, the Commission shall take action on emergency permit requests as quickly as possible and within twentyfour hours of receipt.

10. The California Department of Transportation and California State Transportation Agency shall identify those state highways, bridges, culverts, drainage facilities, slopes, and other transportation infrastructure most at risk of flooding, erosion, debris flows, rockslides, mudslides, or other significant impacts from severe storms caused by the El Niño event, and transmit to the Governor’s Office of Emergency Services a prioritized list of projects to address such risks within 30 days of this Proclamation.

11. The California Department of Transportation shall develop plans to preposition personnel and materials (including directional signage, trafficcontrol devices, road-closure devices, warning signs, delineators, emergency communications equipment, and other resources) at or near locations that may be identified as at risk of severe impacts from the El Niño event. This shall include plans to prepare and pre-position snowremoval, snow-control, and ice-control equipment as appropriate, including snowplows, snow blowers, graders, loaders, chain-control equipment, salt, sand, and other materials necessary to maintain safe travel and restore access on state highways during the El Niño event.

12. The Adjutant General and the California Military Department shall, in coordination with the Director of the Governor’s Office of Emergency Exhibt A ATTACHMENT 1 Page 6 of 8

Services, identify California National Guard personnel, equipment, and capabilities that may be available to support state and local emergency operations, if activated or tasked, in relation to this El Niño event. Such planning shall include readiness for high-water vehicle operations; aviation operations, including reconnaissance, search and rescue, transport, and heavy-lift support, as appropriate; engineering support; emergency communications; transportation and logistics; evacuation support; flood-fight activities; debris removal and route clearance; commodity distribution; shelter support; and other life-safety and emergency-support missions.

13.California Volunteers, in coordination with the Governor’s Office of Emergency Services and other appropriate agencies, shall prepare to mobilize volunteers and trained service members, consistent with their training, mission, safety requirements, and applicable law, to support state and local preparedness, response, and recovery activities in connection with the El Niño event.

14. The California Conservation Corps shall prepare to deploy Corpsmembers, consistent with its statutory mission, training, available resources, safety requirements, and applicable law, to support severe weather preparedness and response activities in connection with the El Niño event.

15. The California Energy Commission, the Office of Energy Infrastructure Safety, and the State Water Resources Control Board and regional water quality control boards are directed, and the California Public Utilities Commission is requested, to coordinate, consistent with their respective authorities, with electrical, natural-gas, water, wastewater, telecommunications, transportation, and other critical-service providers to enhance readiness and support timely restoration of essential services following storm impacts.

16. The Governor’s Office of Emergency Services, in consultation with relevant state agencies, shall expand accessible, multilingual public preparedness communications related to severe weather, flooding, emergency alerts, evacuation readiness, power outages, safe travel, disaster assistance, and household emergency planning.

17.Agencies under my direct authority shall cooperate in their response to this emergency. Other agencies are requested to assist in responding to this emergency, as appropriate.

18. The restrictions set forth in Penal Code section 396, which are automatically triggered upon proclamation of a state of emergency, are suspended, and no such restrictions are imposed, with respect to this El Niño event, at this time.

I FURTHER DIRECT that as soon as hereafter possible, this Proclamation be filed in the Office of the Secretary of State and that widespread publicity and notice be given of this Proclamation.

This Proclamation is not intended to, and does not, create any rights or benefits, substantive or procedural, enforceable at law or in equity, against the State of California, its agencies, departments, entities, officers, employees, or any other person.

Exhibt A ATTACHMENT 1 Page 7 of 8

IN WITNESS WHEREOF I have
hereunto set my hand and caused
the Great Seal of the State of
California to be affixed this 21st day
of September 2026.
_________________________

GAVIN NEWSOM
Governor of California
ATTEST:
_____________________________
SHIRLEY WEBER, PH. D
Secretary of State
Exhibt A ATTACHMENT 1 Page 8 of 8

CITY OF CARMEL-BY-THE-SEA

CITY COUNCIL
RESOLUTION NO. 2026-076

RESOLUTION OF THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF CARMEL-BY-THE-SEA RATIFYING

PROCLAMATION OF EXISTENCE OF A LOCAL EMERGENCY BY THE ACTING CITY ADMINISTRATOR DUE TO ANTICIPATED EL NIÑO EVENT 2026-2027 WHEREAS, the California Emergency Services Act (California Government Code sections 8639, 8550, et. seq.) defines a local emergency as the existence of conditions of disaster or of extreme peril to the safety of persons and property within the territorial limits of a city, caused by conditions which are or are likely to be beyond the control of the services, personnel, equipment, and facilities of a city, and require the combined forces of other political subdivisions to combat; and
WHEREAS, Chapter 2, section 2.64.020 of the City of Carmel-by-the-Sea ("City") Municipal Code defines emergency as the actual or threatened existence of conditions of disaster or of extreme peril to the safety of persons and property within this City, including conditions which are or are likely to be beyond the control of the services, personnel, equipment, and facilities of this City, requiring the combined forces of other political subdivisions to combat; and WHEREAS, Chapter 2, section 2.64.050 of the City of Carmel-by-the-Sea ("City") Municipal Code designates the City Administrator as the Director of Emergency Services for the City; and
WHEREAS, Chapter 2, section 2.64.060 empowers the City Administrator, as the Director of Emergency Services, to proclaim the existence or threatened existence of a local emergency when the City Council is not in session so long as such proclamation is ratified by the City Council within seven (7) days; and
WHEREAS, California Governor Gavin Newsom issued a Proclamation Of A State of Emergency on September 21, 2026 (Governor’s Proclamation) based upon the ongoing development of a strong and likely historic El Niño event in the Pacific Ocean; and WHEREAS, on September 30, 2026, Acting City Administrator Brandon Swanson issued a Proclamation of Existence of a Local Emergency Due to Anticipated El Niño Event 2026-2027 (“City Proclamation)”; and
WHEREAS, the Governor’s Proclamation is attached as Exhibit “A” to the City’s Proclamation and incorporated by reference therein; and WHEREAS, the Governor’s Proclamation contains multiple Recitals with detailed facts regarding the El Niño event; and
WHEREAS, an El Niño event creates a substantial risk of major flooding in the County, including the City, and potential damage to public and private property, such as road closures, loss of power, structure damage, loss of trees, and impacts to Carmel Beach.

NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED BY THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF CARMEL-BY-THE-SEA, that the Proclamation of the Existence of a Local Emergency issued by ATTACHMENT 2

Resolution 2026-076

the Acting City Administrator serving as the Director of Emergency Services is hereby confirmed and ratified by the City Council of the City of Carmel-by-the-Sea; and BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED, that said local emergency shall be deemed to continue to exist and shall be reviewed at least once every 60 days until its termination is proclaimed by the City Council of the City of Carmel-by-the-Sea pursuant to California Government Code Section 8630; and
BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED, that the City Administrator or his or her designee is authorized to take whatever other action is authorized under the Carmel-by-the-Sea Municipal Code and state and federal law, subject to any required authorization from the City Council, consistent with this Resolution and its basic purposes.

PASSED AND ADOPTED BY THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF CARMEL-BY-THE-SEA this 6th day of October 2026, by the following vote:

AYES:

NOES:

ABSENT:

ABSTAIN:

APPROVED: ATTEST:
___________________________ _____________________________ Dale Byrne, Mayor Nova Romero, MMC, City Clerk
ATTACHMENT 2

CITY OF CARMEL-BY-THE-SEA
City Council
Staff Report
October 6, 2026

ORDERS OF BUSINESS
TO: Honorable Mayor and City Council Members
SUBMITTED BY: Todd Trayer, Police Chief
APPROVED BY: Brandon Swanson, Acting City Administrator SUBJECT: Receive the 2026 Car Week After Action Report and Provide Direction to Staff
RECOMMENDATION:

Receive the 2026 Car Week After Action Report and provide staff with feedback and direction regarding continued Car Week planning, traffic and noise mitigation, enforcement, community engagement, and regional coordination.

BACKGROUND / SUMMARY:

Car Week continues to be one of the Peninsula’s largest annual periods of concentrated vehicle, visitor, traffic, and special-event activity. Following the 2025 Car Week After Action Report, Carmel-by-the-Sea undertook a number of changes for 2026 based on community input, Council direction, staff evaluation, and regional planning.

The 2025 report identified community listening sessions, sound-enforcement tools, additional speed humps, improved signage and messaging, parking and route changes, stronger event-organizer responsibilities, regional coordination, and continued enforcement of dangerous driving as areas for 2026 action. All of those recommendations were implemented or advanced during 2026.

The overall 2026 approach emphasized three principles: Set clear expectations before visitors arrive (both driving, sound, and behavioral), engineer the roadway environment to discourage unsafe behavior, and support those measures with visible and focused enforcement. The result of 2026 were no major incidents, no sideshow activities, and a noticeable increase in visibility and enforcement from our team.

Community Engagement and Planning
Community input was an important part of the 2026 planning process. Listening sessions following Car Week 2025 identified recurring concerns involving excessive vehicle noise, speeding and reckless driving, nighttime activity, pedestrian safety, residential impacts, parking, and the overall livability of the village during Car Week.

The City also coordinated earlier planning this year with stakeholders like Public Works, Police, Community
Activities, Monterey Fire, and City staff, and the prior meetings mentioned with the community.

A Car Week Listening Session was scheduled for Saturday, September 26, 2026, at 10:00 a.m. in Carpenter Hall at Sunset Center. The continued listening-session format gives residents and businesses an opportunity to identify what worked, what did not, and what should be considered for 2027. This process is a continuation of the 2025 listening sessions and how it not only provided space for our community to provide invaluable feedback, but also keeps open those channels of communication until 2027’s Car Week.

The City also continued regional coordination with neighboring jurisdictions and publicsafety partners. A 2026 Car Week Regional Debrief (with Police Chiefs and City Administrators) took place on September 16, 2026 to obtain agency feedback, discuss successes and challenges, and begin identifying improvements for the following year.

Events
Three scheduled events occurred on August 11 (Concours for a Cause), August 12 (Astons on the Avenue), and August 14 Ferrari Owners Club Concours Carmel). In addition, numerous Car Week-related attractions and gatherings took place throughout the week, including activities at L’Auberge, Fourtané, Mad Dogs & Englishmen, and the Stilwell Hotel.

Each of these locations generated varying levels of activity, complaints, and, at times, required police response for traffic, crowd, noise, or other public-safety concerns.

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.

Parking stall permits are not issued on days with events in the downtown area, Tuesday, Wednesday, and Thursday. Spaces are 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 (Non-profit/School) and $150 (Other) per stall/day and $300 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 parking stalls understand that they are responsible for whatever happens because 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 onlookers, 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 benefiting this year’s event when the cars were drawing an unexpected crowd. City staff will work with Fourtané on Lincoln next year to manage crowds and traffic control with private security if they apply for parking stall rentals again next year.

Free Parking and Shuttle Program
The City again provided free parking and shuttle service between Larson Field and downtown during three days of Car Week 2026. The program recorded approximately 726 shuttle users:
• Tuesday, August 11 - 351
• Wednesday, August 12 - 100
• Thursday, August 13 - 275
Tuesday generated the highest ridership, followed by Thursday. Although most survey respondents reported that they did not use the shuttle, the operational counts show that the service supported a meaningful number of trips and provided an alternative to downtown parking.

For 2027, the City should consider stronger advance promotion, coordination with event organizers and clearer messaging about the shuttle’s location, schedule, and City sponsorship. Many community members requested additional shuttle service during Friday and Saturday hours, but that was not an option offered to the City during this year’s planning.

Traffic, Noise, and Safety Strategy
For 2026, the Police Department refined its traffic-management strategy with an emphasis on reducing cruising, reckless driving, unnecessary vehicle noise, and the potential for street-takeover behavior. The traffic plan directed vehicles from Ocean Avenue to San Carlos Street, Seventh Avenue, and Highway 1, while traffic-calming measures were used to reduce speed and discourage repeated cruising through the downtown core.

This, along with the many other changes, involved a collaborative action plan with our Public Works Department, who worked to ensure the Police Department had the right resources to enact a new traffic diversion. This enabled a safer walking environment in the core business/downtown area of Carmel by the Sea.

Temporary speed humps again played an important role and were viewed as a successful deterrent. This year, the Public Works Department added a total of 4 sets of speed humps (Ocean, Santa Lucia, Carpenter, and San Carlos) on key roadways at the request of the Police Department through community engagement. The Department also expanded advance messaging and deployed Sound/Speed Enforcement Zone signage, so visitors were clearly advised of local expectations before enforcement action became necessary.

The Department’s approach was intentionally education first, backed by enforcement.

Social-media messaging, roadway signage, the Pipe Down program, traffic calming, and officer visibility were designed to establish expectations while preserving enforcement resources for dangerous, reckless, or disruptive behavior.

Vehicle Volume/Data
For the year-over-year comparison, the City reviewed the same seven license plate reader (LPR) cameras over equivalent eight-day Car Week periods: August 10–17, 2025, and August 9–16, 2026.

Across the seven matched cameras, camera-level unique detections decreased from 102,040 in 2025 to 89,274 in 2026, a reduction of approximately 12.5%. Total plate reads decreased from 252,846 to 215,711, a reduction of approximately 14.7%.

The results varied significantly by location and direction. Rio Road/Lasuen southbound decreased approximately 41%, Ocean Avenue/Junipero eastbound remained nearly unchanged at 3% lower, and Ocean Avenue/Junipero westbound increased approximately 38%. This variation suggests that vehicles moved differently through

Carmel in 2026 and that the overall decrease was not uniform across the City.

LPR figures represent system detections rather than an unduplicated count of vehicles entering Carmel-by-the-Sea. A vehicle may be recorded as unique with more than one camera.

Key takeaway: Across the same seven cameras and equivalent Car Week periods, LPR activity was lower overall in 2026, while substantial differences by corridor indicate that traffic circulation patterns also changed. The reasons are not precisely known, but could be due to Social Media outreach, City signage, Car club outreach, Media/newspaper reporting of increased enforcement, the fires near Big Sur, and other factors.

Sound Monitoring
A significant addition in 2026 was the deployment of R8080 sound meters at four locations: San Carlos Street in the downtown core, Rio Road at the gateway to the City, Carpenter Street in a residential area, and Fourth Avenue in a residential area. Controlperiod data were collected and compared with Car Week readings using matched time periods.

The data confirms that Car Week increased sound levels throughout Carmel-by-theSea. The increases were not uniform, and the results help identify the corridors and times where mitigation and enforcement resources can have the greatest impact for 2027’s Car Week.

Matched evening analysis showed measurable increases at all four locations. San Carlos increased its average from approximately 71.7 dB to 74.2 dB, with readings at or above 80 dB increasing from approximately 14.2% to 24.0%. Rio Road increased from approximately 61.4 dB to 69.7 dB. Carpenter and Fourth Avenue also recorded increases during matched periods. The main take away from collected sound data was that our goal to keep heavier sound violations out of the residential neighborhoods appears to have some data support showing success. With this additional sound focus and evening route changes, the Police Department was able to pinpoint violations much easier and address those violations. This is also supported by our Community Survey which resulted in 65% of respondents stating Car Week was quieter this year compared to last year.

The sound-monitoring project gives the City an objective baseline for future Car Week comparisons and a better basis for targeted education, engineering, and enforcement.

Police Activity and Enforcement
Police activity increased substantially during Car Week 2026. Available Department data show 820 calls/events in 2026 compared with 659 in 2025, an increase of approximately 24%. Officer-initiated activity also increased approximately 72%, reflecting a more proactive enforcement posture.

• Thursday, 8/13/26 had the most calls during all 7 days of Car Week at 127 calls for service.
o Between 12:00 pm and 4:00 p.m.
o Ocean and San Carlos had the highest calls
o The top 10 locations for calls for service were primarily downtown • Highest calls for service were Traffic Complaints throughout the week.

The operational focus remained on behavior that most directly affects community safety and quality of life, including reckless driving, speeding, unnecessary revving, and excessive noise. The Department issued 139 traffic citations during the 2026 Car Week operational period. The Pipe Down program was used 22 times as an education and intervention tool for excessive vehicle noise. This represented 99% increases in police citations over 2025.

The comparison data from 2025 to 2026 supports a significant focus on enforcement from the police team as a whole:
2025
8/09/25 – 08/18/25
• Traffic Stops: 137
• Citations: 70
• Arrests: 7
• Tows: 13
• DUI: 1
• Parking Cites: 320
• “Pipe Down” Enforcement: 0
2026
08/07/26 – 08/16/26
• Traffic Stops: 235 (+72%)
• Citations: 139 (+99%)
• Arrests: 9
• Tows: 22 (+69.2%)
• DUI: 1
• Parking Cites: 506 (+58%)
• “Pipe Down” Enforcement: 22 (0 Last Year)
Volunteers and Regional Support
Carmel’s VIPS volunteers continued to be important partners in the City’s Car Week response. The Department also coordinated with regional law-enforcement partners.

Outside staffing assistance from CSUMB and was incorporated during the highestimpact periods.

The VIPS alone provided over 106 volunteer hours during Car Week and attending the weekly planning meetings. We are so grateful for their relentless support and service to our City!
Community Survey
❖ 53% of the community rated 2026 Car Week as “Loved It” or “It was Okay”. ❖ 59.8% stated they thought this year ran better than last year. ❖ 73.2% felt the traffic calming measures were effective (45%) or partially effective (27%).
❖ 65% felt it was quieter this year.

What Worked
• Community listening sessions provided direct resident and business input before and after Car Week.
• Temporary speed humps and engineered traffic controls reduced speeds and discouraged cruising behavior.
• Sound/Speed Enforcement Zone signage and advanced social-media messaging clearly communicated expectations.
• The Pipe Down program gave officers an education-based tool to address excessive vehicle noise.
• Focused officer deployment increased proactive activity and enforcement during the busiest periods.
• R8080 sound monitoring provided objective data rather than relying solely on anecdotal noise complaints.
• VIPS partnerships expanded the City’s available resources and were critical in maintaining safety during daytime events.
• Route changes to address excessive nighttime traffic downtown. • Shuttle and parking at Larson Field facilitated hundreds of cars during the daytime events until early evening.

Areas for Continued Review/Planning for 2027
• Use the September Listening Session, community survey, and regional debrief to identify additional adjustments before 2027.
• Continue matched sound monitoring at consistent locations and times so yearto-year comparisons remain meaningful. • Evaluate additional or repositioned speed humps and other engineered trafficcalming measures. • Continue and refine Sound/Speed Enforcement Zone signage and pre-event social-media messaging.

• Expand direct communication with car clubs, event organizers, hotels, and businesses regarding noise and driving expectations. It is recommended that this be a regional approach.
• Continue focused evening enforcement, particularly during the 9:00–11:00 p.m. period identified through community feedback.
• Increase sound enforcement tools for patrol (additional kits). • Evaluate traffic routing and controlled parking concepts that could further reduce repeated downtown cruising.
• Consider additional police/security personnel to assist as a force multiplier for the police team.
• Continue regional planning and planned resource sharing with neighboring lawenforcement agencies. • Consider additional parking/shuttle options.
• Peninsula-based Social Media public messaging.

Conclusion
Car Week 2026 demonstrated that Carmel-by-the-Sea can reduce some of the evening’s most disruptive impacts through a combination of planning, communication, engineering, education, enforcement, volunteer support, and regional coordination.

The 2026 strategy did not eliminate traffic or noise. The available data show that Car Week increased vehicle activity and sound levels, particularly along key travel corridors and during peak evening periods. At the same time, the City now has substantially better information about when and where those impacts occur and a growing set of tools to address them.

The Department should continue to build on the measures that worked in 2026 - particularly signage, speed humps, focused enforcement, the Pipe Down program, objective sound monitoring, community engagement, and regional coordination—while using the 2026 data as a baseline for continued improvement in 2027.

FISCAL IMPACT:

N/A
PRIOR CITY COUNCIL ACTION:
2025 Car Week After Action Report
ATTACHMENTS:

1. 2026 Car Week Survey Results

2. Car Week Aug. 2026 After Action - presentation 10.6.2026

I am:
120 responses
How did you feel about Car Week in Carmel-by-the-Sea overall this year?
119 responses
We want to know your thoughts about Car
Week and its impacts in Carmel-by-the-Sea.
120 responses
Publish analytics
Copy chart
0 25 50 75 100
A resident of 93921
A restauranteur in 93921
A retail shop owner in 93…
An innkeeper in 93921
A worker in 93921
A peninsula resident (939…
A Car Week visitor from…
CBTS resident in annexe…
Former 93921 resident fo…
Business Owner
Live in Sphere of Influenc…
84 (70%)
2 (1.7%)
1 (0.8%)
1 (0.8%)
6 (5%)
26 (21.7%)
3 (2.5%)
1 (0.8%)
1 (0.8%)
1 (0.8%)
1 (0.8%)
Copy chart
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.

16.8%

29.4%

12.6%

41.2%
9/15/26, 6:10 AM
https://docs.google.com/forms/d/15CVNB972BbVOzC5ytcmfqWlj_EansLJFJqLtTrWifPA/viewanalytics 1/41 ATTACHMENT 1

Compared to last year, do you feel like Car Week ran:
117 responses
Copy chart
Better
Worse
The same
The scheduled events were fi…
Seems to be bigger each year
I don’t know
Better in some areas but the t…
1/2

21.4%

59.8%
9/15/26, 6:10 AM
https://docs.google.com/forms/d/15CVNB972BbVOzC5ytcmfqWlj_EansLJFJqLtTrWifPA/viewanalytics 2/41 ATTACHMENT 1

Please share how you felt about Car Week this year:
107 responses
Best year yet.

Wish it would go away!
Too disruptive. Unable to operate my small business for the entire car week event.

We need quality vs. quantity events to try to bring back how Car Week used to be with historic classic cars. Tuesday’s event felt like a festival and didn’t have the elegance of what Car Week used to be.

I liked a more visible police presence.

Concours for a Cause was great.

There were a bunch of influencers
A huge success that is world class
Too: many unnecessary cars (not show) and loud. Extremely overcrowded, kids standing in streets taking pictures and being inconsiderate.

Too many people, Traffic ridiculous, Idiots racing up and down PCH all night (where was the CHP
Traffic management was much better this year. Carmel handled this year's events very well in spite of the crowds.

Police dept was well prepared
Appreciated the speed bumps but cars simply went over them and speeded off.

It was great. An important cultural, marketing, and economic event! Concourse d’hooligans!
too noisy!!!
Police department did an excellent job.

Too many events specifically on Tuesday, Wednesday and Thursday. Need to get back to celebrating cars not all the other add ons....art, food, drink, music, etc... 9/15/26, 6:10 AM .
https://docs.google.com/forms/d/15CVNB972BbVOzC5ytcmfqWlj_EansLJFJqLtTrWifPA/viewanalytics 3/41 ATTACHMENT 1

Were their some people who did not respect our unique town yes but if we saw something we respectfully commented. But it brought a lot of business to our deserving services and retail.

We smiled and 90% of people smiled back. It seemed to be appreciated by many.

This year was definitely better than last year.

It is still a major inconvenience that I feel does not add much to the community. But I feel this year, was not as out of control as last year.

There still is a disrespect from many of the drivers. Is it really necessary for them to race around the smaller streets, Lincoln, Monte Verde, Dolores, Camino Real etc....

Overall noise level a lot better, speeding through streets not as bad. A lot better than last year.

Personally it drove my dogs mad, from the noise
Loved the Aston Martins! Traffic around and into town on Highway 1 was busy, but I stayed off the roads after 10 am Tuesday through Sunday.

Hated it.

Greatly miss the Tuesday downtown car show.
please, please do something about the loud cars racing in the residential areas Way to many people for our small village, our local streets, we’re still race tracks for vehicles.

Better then the last few years but needs more enforcement Bigger and better handled car shows- Tuesday Concor for a cause - Thursday concourse Ferrari - Police were friendly, love that - what ever was done to make traffic flow, it was better except one evening, I can't remember which night - An overall feeling of how good it felt to have Car Week "really" back in Carmel-by-the-Sea.

Less late night noise, still some, but better. Enjoyed the concours for a cause on Ocean Ave.

Well organized, fun music. Loved the lowriders. I was not out and about, so can’t comment about traffic for working folks.
does Carmel need three daytime events?
It wasn’t as loud as previous years (yay!), so thank you! The traffic and jockeying for parking spots was over the top! It felt dangerous to walk from our house on North Casanova to Ocean.

Slightly less noise, but still a couple of local "incidents" that could have been handled better 9/15/26, 6:10 AM We want to know your thoughts about Car Week and its impacts in Carmel-by-the-Sea. https://docs.google.com/forms/d/15CVNB972BbVOzC5ytcmfqWlj_EansLJFJqLtTrWifPA/viewanalytics 4/41 ATTACHMENT 1

It’s always a great event and although the traffic and one off issues are annoying, it remains the best event for enthusiasts anywhere in America.

So happy there were 3 shows on Ocean Ave. Ferrari was bigger and better, loved it.

It seemed busier, but controlled
A large disruption to normal life here
I feel like on Thursday is when things really shifted this year. The hardest thing for me is my office and my home are in Carmel and it is difficult to escape the constant noise of the loud engines coming from all directions. I had bad headaches Thursday through Saturday. I can mostly avoid the older car exhaust fumes. But if I don’t, those also contribute to struggles with my health. I do commend our police department for all of their mitigation efforts.

How I think is more relevant than feel. The height of activity during Car Week and the number of visitors to Carmel is a disproportionate burden to those of us who live here. Some of us actually go to an expense to leave our homes or curtail our daily routines for the week. This may also include medical appointments. However, the economic benefits to the businesses of Carmel and the City budget are a positive reality. With this reality comes the responsibility of the City to mitigate burdens posed to its residents during car week. The primary burden to the resident, business owners, their employees, etc, is the abundance of visitor cars, increased traffic, grid lock and inadequate parking in Carmel. Suggestion:. Car week visitors could park at a regional location(s) to Carmel town and be bussed into town and Car Week select activities by City run trams. Early registered parking permits for the central location would provide early helpful data, control car counts at locations, aid traffic control, assist police priorities, provide income to the City, etc. The lots at Crossroads used for the marathon would be again useful, as well as regional sites. Residents, business, owners,their employees could be provided a parking sticker by the City allowing the holder to park on City streets for only the Car Week days. This would help offset some of the burden otherwise endured by full time members of the Carmel community. I think if this burden is mitigated, we can all share a healthier perspective on sharing Car week.

Overall, it was much better than last year. There are some opportunities for some of the traffic re-routing patterns.

Monterey Peninsula does not have the infrastructure to handle 100,000 visitors at one time without seriously impacting the lives of locals. The all day/all night car racing on Highway 1 south is not ok—noise level is intolerable and the lack of respect for residents is beyond amazing, and obviously very dangerous. I don’t think the attitude of some that if you don’t like it, just leave town during the event is ok either! It seems to me that shuttles provided to the sanctioned events would be a good thing, but then there are all the pop up and unofficial events that have gotten completely out of hand. They’re everywhere! I live in Carmel Highlands and between the fires and bad behavior on the highway it was a nightmare.

I think one of the my biggest complaints is the behavior of people who come here and don’t respect the area or residents.
9/15/26, 6:10 AM We want to know your thoughts about Car Week and its impacts in Carmel-by-the-Sea. https://docs.google.com/forms/d/15CVNB972BbVOzC5ytcmfqWlj_EansLJFJqLtTrWifPA/viewanalytics 5/41 ATTACHMENT 1

Too much, safety hazards.

Better organized, more efforts to slow traffic, better signage, more restrooms. Overall I thought it went very well
Parking is awful. Walking a dog as a resident is dangerous. People are so upset about finding a place to park. Speeding. Larson Field shuttle (we overheard) was slow, took only about 15 people at a time, and was poorly advertised. Diverting cars off Ocean only drove them into the residential streets without ANY TRAFFIC CONTROL --- never saw one officer or volunteer mitigating traffic in the neighborhoods all week. Miserable experience.

My activities in town had to be changed to zoom. It is such a shame that there’s no way for us residents to carry on our normal life.

Loved all the activities. Would have liked a calendar of events - was difficult to piece together where and when the gs were happening .

The events were nice, restaurants crowded and speeding much better compared to past years 40 year round resident here....well..this year was 98% better than any other year....until Ferrari day...I live 2 blocks off Ocean Ave..on Lincoln..no speed bumps were on our street. we heard 1st gear to 2nd gear popping all day and into the evening...zipping down to the beach and back before dinner and then back to the beach before sunset...it was brutal. Considering that we usually only hear the ocean, the wind, and seagulls... PLEASE please, please consider more speed bumps in the neighborhoods....especially the traffic to/from the beach...or constructing a oneway route to the beach..any help would be appreciated...

My favorite time of year. It is heartwarming to know how many friends I have that depend on the income from Car Week each year.

Better managed, seemed like a better flow during the day. Having Ocean closed seems like it really helped out. Still noisy with the reving. But using decibel meter was a fantastic idea!! Sunset Center for parking this year vs hyper car events last year provided a much better experience for neighbors. The speed bump on San Carlos helped to mitigate the racing like in previous years. The official events were very well managed. Overall, a much better experience this year. Thank you and your staff for the tireless effort put into planning and managing that week!
Especially enjoyed the Tuesday Concourse for a Cause
The stop sign at 4th and Monte Verde seemed to be a suggestion which was rarely followed.

Much like many of traffic laws.

Car week does not belong in CBTS. Keep Carmel a small and quaint village that is for everyone not just a select few. Keep it safe and fun for the residents and the visitors. 9/15/26, 6:10 AM We want to know your thoughts about Car Week and its impacts in Carmel-by-the-Sea. https://docs.google.com/forms/d/15CVNB972BbVOzC5ytcmfqWlj_EansLJFJqLtTrWifPA/viewanalytics 6/41 ATTACHMENT 1

It seemed more controlled and quieter. I appreciated the higher level of ticketing of noise violators. Kudos to the Police Department and the VIPS who put in so much time.

Must improved control of traffic and noise. Although Saturday evening had a large influx of younger folks to view cars coming into town or cars being exhibited! my guess due to influencers, tough to control!
Overall much better control - less noise and chaos. The only issue we had on !st and Delores was increased traffic Saturday night the 15th with many young men speeding and running through the stop sign - 2 near misses!
Loved the signs and speed bumps, but your neighbors in Carmel Woods would also appreciate those traffic calming measures in our neighborhoods! The speeding and noise on Camino del Monte and Serra were the same as last year as was the cut through traffic! The event has grown too large overall. WRT CBTS events, I would like to see the number reduced to just two events.

Especially enjoy Tuesday's event: Concours for a Cause
We were traumatized by the end of the week. the car events were An embarrassment to the city. The car events featured cars you could see on the road for the most part. No consideration for the residents of Carmel. SOMETHING HAS TO CHANGE.

It was better but still too noisy and too many loud accelerations.

Widespread reckless driving poses a serious risk to the community.

I love it, beautiful cars ... nice to see the new generation interested in car parades ...

I was never able to come on a weekday before, so being down town during the week was a whole different vibe, loved it
every year it gets better, and I think the Police Chief, public safety, public works, VIPS and CERT are doing an excellent job.

Too many people!
Carmel Police did a great job of strategizing and implementing more speed bumps, staffing and noise measuring devices which helped with ticketing and nabbing vehicle offenders. The day events in Carmel were great. The challenge is controlling the young, loud, fast cars and influencers at night. Pebble Beach is not going to cancel its world renowned Concourse d Elegance so we need to continue to find ways to deter the young and loud cars that come to town.
9/15/26, 6:10 AM We want to know your thoughts about Car Week and its impacts in Carmel-by-the-Sea. https://docs.google.com/forms/d/15CVNB972BbVOzC5ytcmfqWlj_EansLJFJqLtTrWifPA/viewanalytics 7/41 ATTACHMENT 1

Traffic and noise control very well organized. Ocean Ave. events were thoughtfully organized and the bands were a real plus. Saturday had many younger people loitering on corners and the fencing outside the public toilets — somewhat menacing.

I felt the mitigation efforts enacted to ease the noise, congestion, and rowdyism had a positive effect.

Calmer, fewer hot shot people
The organized events were enjoyable and well organized. Blocking off the streets to spread our crowds felt safe and relaxing and enjoyable. We can walk to town from our house so we didn’t have to experience traffic or parking problems as others might.

Ferrari event was great
Enjoyed it but the crowds and traffic are over the top and becoming out of bonyrol.

I thought the events that the City controlled or collaborated with event sponsors were well run - - Tuesday through Thursday. Enhanced enforcement of existing regulations was also extremely important. Where there's room for improvement is in enhanced traffic control (keep that with trained City personnel), put music or other noise events more towards the central business area instead of near residential areas.

Not just this year. . .get ride of it. . .a commercial embarrassment and NOT resident oriented.

Ridiculous, environmentally harmful, ostentatious wealth on display for no reason.

Fun to see everyone enjoying themselves!
Too much traffic, to many individuals hanging around taking pictures and videos.

I felt that the traffic and “cruising” was much better controlled. I enjoy all of the organized car week events! It’s the late night highway 1 backfiring contest that’s a strain.

Better organization during day events, but at what cost to the City?. Still damage to City property, probably during evenings, but cannot confirm that supposition. I did not risk going into town then. Aston group more respectful of City than Ferrari groups. way to many fast high end cars speeding thru our town...super fast disrespectful and entitled way too much noise disrespectful young drivers from out of town diluting the original intent of our car week concours would like to bring it back to 5 years ago...that was more in line with concours
More controlled my family, friends and I enjoyed it
9/15/26, 6:10 AM We want to know your thoughts about Car Week and its impacts in Carmel-by-the-Sea. https://docs.google.com/forms/d/15CVNB972BbVOzC5ytcmfqWlj_EansLJFJqLtTrWifPA/viewanalytics 8/41 ATTACHMENT 1

Traffic control downtown was much improved. Love the car shows downtown.

It keeps getting better in the City of Carmel; it’s generous to offer free viewing of cars that some people wouldn’t otherwise be able to see. With Concourse tix being out of reach for many it’s great to get up close. Nightly noise was greatly curtailed; speed bumps helpful.

I felt that the activity within the village of Carmel was better controlled and the visitors more respectful this year than last year. The police did a great job enforcing noise and speed laws within the city. It was more the overall size of event and disarray across the broader peninsula that caused problems this year. For example, my husband could not get to a medical appointment (which typically would be 15 minutes from our home) during the week despite leaving over 75 minutes early for it. He had to call from the car and reschedule it after standing still in traffic on hwy 1 for 45 minutes. My veterinarian ended up having to close her practice mid week because staff could not get to the office. I'm fine avoiding restaurants and leisure activities for a week while visitors are here but we residents have to be able to get to essential medical services and both ourselves and our pets.

Too much loitering. Especially with camera phones.

I knew goin
Slightly improved thank to Carmel PD’s new measures but I still hate it It is a wonderful event! Thank you
Traffic control was much improved, seemed safer and saner. car people were respectful and spend money in our community benefiting many charities I feel that this year was highly organized by Carmel PD and supporting agencies.

Except for the weather,events were enjoyable.Traffic issue remain the big problem.

Chaos, traffic, excessive noise from car engines...at night they sounded like fireworks.

Could not get to doctor appointments on time, stressful.

Better than last year. Much less car engine noise and drivers more respectful of locals when driving city streets.

Great to see all the cars. Much more organized and controlled.

Loved the car events downtown but a nightmare for residents Car week is terrible for the locals, it’s like we are quarantined to our house for a week or more ! 9/15/26, 6:10 AM We want to know your thoughts about Car Week and its impacts in Carmel-by-the-Sea. https://docs.google.com/forms/d/15CVNB972BbVOzC5ytcmfqWlj_EansLJFJqLtTrWifPA/viewanalytics 9/41 ATTACHMENT 1

It is disruptive to our town and community. Some of the events are ok but traffic, litter fills the streets and highways. Too many unauthorized activities makes the roadways dangerous. 7 more responses are hidden
EVENTS
Did you attend the Concours for a Cause event on Tuesday, August 11?
119 responses
How did you feel about the Concours for a Cause event  on Tuesday, August 11?
105 responses
Copy chart
Yes

41.2% No

58.8%
Copy chart
Loved it.

It was okay.

I did not like it at all.

What event?
didn't attend, have no opinion
I try to cancel all errands duri…
it seemed better this year
It was a carnival, not a car sh…
1/3

9.5% 10.5%

16.2%

48.6%
9/15/26, 6:10 AM We want to know your thoughts about Car Week and its impacts in Carmel-by-the-Sea. https://docs.google.com/forms/d/15CVNB972BbVOzC5ytcmfqWlj_EansLJFJqLtTrWifPA/viewanalytics 10/41 ATTACHMENT 1

Did you atend the Astons on the Avenue Car Show on Ocean Avenue on Wednesday, August 12?
120 responses
How did you feel about the Astons on the Avenue Car Show on Ocean Avenue on Wednesday, August 12?
90 responses
Did you attend the Ferrari Owner's Club event on  Thursday, August 13?
119 responses
Copy chart
Yes
60% No
40%
Copy chart
Loved it.

It was okay.

I did not like it at all.

What event on Ocean Avenue?
Did not attend
Have no opinion
didn't attend, have no opinion
1/3

11.1%

8.9%
20%

33.3%
Copy chart
Yes
No
didn't attend, have no opinion

55.5%

42.9%
9/15/26, 6:10 AM We want to know your thoughts about Car Week and its impacts in Carmel-by-the-Sea. https://docs.google.com/forms/d/15CVNB972BbVOzC5ytcmfqWlj_EansLJFJqLtTrWifPA/viewanalytics 11/41 ATTACHMENT 1

How did you feel about the Ferrari Owner's Club Concours Carmel event on Thursday, August 13?
91 responses
How do you feel about the events in Carmel-by-the-Sea in general this year?
112 responses
Copy chart
Loved it.

It was okay.

I did not like it at all.

What event on Dolores Street?
Have no opinion
I do not like Ferraris
didn't attend, have no opinion
1/3
11%
11%

18.7%

37.4%
Copy chart
Loved them.

They were okay.

I did not like them at all.

Too many
Didn’t go
Saw little.
glad for the businesses, a he…
I stay home, but think I can sh…
1/3

15.2%

18.8%

46.4%
9/15/26, 6:10 AM We want to know your thoughts about Car Week and its impacts in Carmel-by-the-Sea. https://docs.google.com/forms/d/15CVNB972BbVOzC5ytcmfqWlj_EansLJFJqLtTrWifPA/viewanalytics 12/41 ATTACHMENT 1

Why do you feel that way?
92 responses
Brings everyone together to a enjoy such beautiful cars.

Wish the event would go back to just the weekend of Concours d’Elegance As a small business owner in Carmel I am unable to operate during car week. There is no parking before car week and especiallly during car week. My clients are local people with pain who come to me for a physical therapy and there is especially no parking during an event. I had to move my office this year to Pacific Grove because of this lack of parking.

Nothing special, it’s a lot of work to close off city streets etc.

Well organized and fun.

Not interested. Too crow. No parking
Its a great way to see these beautiful automobiles
Fun activity spread across town. Although could be difficult to move around and get into restaurants.

The concourse on the avenue was a fine event
Well-organized events
We participated at many events throughout town
I don't like car culture-lot's of rich people showing off. Not my style.

They are improving and must continue improving.

Been there done that. Tired of all of it!
Carnival atmosphere on Tuesday, Wednesday & Thursday were more focused on Cars We attended a free jazz concert at Sunset last week. Great music and vibes! This year was much better than last.

Again, i feel that the events are not focused on giving back to the community , they are focused on using the community as a backdrop.
9/15/26, 6:10 AM We want to know your thoughts about Car Week and its impacts in Carmel-by-the-Sea. https://docs.google.com/forms/d/15CVNB972BbVOzC5ytcmfqWlj_EansLJFJqLtTrWifPA/viewanalytics 13/41 ATTACHMENT 1

It seemed to have less vehicles gunning tneir motors and racing .

Thank you Carmel Police
Great cars. Relaxed atmosphere. Fun visitors.

As a resident, I feel overwhelmed. I live in the thick of it in Carmel and it seems like residents don't matter at all. Not only are the streets loud and congested at all times, but the vibe sucks:
lots of young guys hanging around and insufferable entitled people, paying no attention to the fact that they are GUESTS in our town.

I like the other events that Carmel hosts during the year They are way to big, draws way to many people… cars were parked all the way down to 13 Ave… Because high quality events met my expectations of what Carmel by the Sea should be.

Well organized, not overly crowded as has been in past years. Good use of side streets Concours for a Cause.is a pure for profit event. IT drew the wrong crowd and sent the wrong message.

So many people made it fun but also it just felt a little chaotic and again, the people looking for parking just made things dicey!
Crowds and some really STUPID drivers
It’s always the best event of the year
Ocean was filled with people and the events were well done. It invigorated the town.

Parking downtown is a problem
Picking up prescriptions and general errands were impossible. I had an optometry appointment at Blink in crossroads and some event was there and I was late because it was a scene Which event was very different from each other. So it is hard to say how I feel about all of them. I do miss concourse on the avenue and when they tour de elegance would stop in Carmel. I do not miss prancing ponies.

See my earlier comments
There is great variety of events and we are fortunate to have them in our community. I especially like the dinner on Dolores Street during Culinary Week. Good mix of locals and visitors staying in the hotels.
9/15/26, 6:10 AM We want to know your thoughts about Car Week and its impacts in Carmel-by-the-Sea. https://docs.google.com/forms/d/15CVNB972BbVOzC5ytcmfqWlj_EansLJFJqLtTrWifPA/viewanalytics 14/41 ATTACHMENT 1

Fun to see the cars and the people
Because we live on 10th between Mission and Junipero and spent the entire 10 days or so dodging cars, picking up trash from our yard, putting up with people speeding down 10th or gunning their motors to drive up the hill to San Carlos. Why are we subjected to such poorly managed tourism?
Life essentially stops for residents in town.

These events bring the type of activity and people associated with them i'd rather not to have in my neighborhood.

Well organized, safe and fun. Great cars to see and all the people.

I think it’s a good idea to have free events during the day for all the visitors we are use to peace and quiet...we hear the ocean, the wind, and seagulls...the noise level was unsettling
why impact everyone, positive or negative, when you could isolate the impact to a controlled space such as the sunset center
Two activities would have been better. Three days was a bit much. However, they were all very well managed. Especially, Concours for a Cause.

Kind of fun but noise
I didn’t attend anything. Just went back and forth to MPCC. The traffic and crowds were horrible.

I think if there are going to be car events within Carmel, they should be small, family oriented events that do not involve closing the streets and bringing in several flashy cars. Consider something like a Car themed arts and crafts fair.

The events seemed organized and controlled. They seemed to clean up well after the events.

They were not overblown, well organized not too crowded Missed the Prancing Ponies - I like the shows with a variety of cars and people associated with them
More traffic control for ingress and egress from Carmel is needed when we have these large events. No way for locals to leave, have company, function in general during these three days. I ventured from Carmel Woods to Carmel beach on Thursday and was appalled at all of the cars 9/15/26, 6:10 AM We want to know your thoughts about Car Week and its impacts in Carmel-by-the-Sea. https://docs.google.com/forms/d/15CVNB972BbVOzC5ytcmfqWlj_EansLJFJqLtTrWifPA/viewanalytics 15/41 ATTACHMENT 1

parked everywhere- corners included! It made every street a dangerous single lane cart path! Thank goodness there was no emergency. Makes me want to leave town next year!!!! Very well organized. Enjoyed the different music.

There was a complete lack of historically important cars. Car week started as a showcase for historically important cars. The shows this year featured cars you could see in any affluent city in California on the road. Bring back some class to our city and return the Tour D'Elegance.

PLEASE
I prefer more of the older generation of classics and not the newer more expensive Astons and Ferraris.

Typical of years past.

Carmel feels exciting and alive ....

Too many people
The events were well run and smaller. Crowds were nice and very controllable.

Well organized and spread enough to avoid bottlenecks
I enjoy car week but not as much as in the early days when it was less crowded but I'm glad it continues.

Not so many cars at Cause event (it seemed), and not so many great cars Blocking off streets was essential. The calmer voice on speaker was much improved than previous years. The announcer focused on car facts and history related to event and not worldwide political or personal issues unrelated to the event. The announcer was positive toward the goodwill of local fundraisers and thanked the city for the opportunity to partner on the event.

All the events were great, need more designated parking Well attended and good variety.

Mentioned earlier, the City events were well managed. The Tuesday Concours program was by far the best bringing together so many types of cars and nonprofit organizations for a real cross section not just of Carmel but the best of the County. The other two events felt more exclusive and not inclusive. If you have an Aston or Ferrari, they were for you, if not, the presenters were certainly not hostile, but they were little more than "exhibitor" events, like an auction. Being new to this event, that may be the expectation, but I preferred the overall tone of Tuesday's event.
9/15/26, 6:10 AM We want to know your thoughts about Car Week and its impacts in Carmel-by-the-Sea. https://docs.google.com/forms/d/15CVNB972BbVOzC5ytcmfqWlj_EansLJFJqLtTrWifPA/viewanalytics 16/41 ATTACHMENT 1

Not oriented to preserve resident values.

Too much focus on bringing in more visitors. To those who say CBTS needs those tourists to pay for police, fire, road maintenance, etc., I say the roads need the work because of tourist traffic. Tourists require more police and EMT services.

Wells organized events
The organized events are the perfect way to participate in car week.

Because of so many events are planned using the City as a location, it has pushed the residents who live in town and the surrounding area out.

I have owned a home in Carmel for 26 years and Car Week has always been a part of Carmel My wife and I can walk into town to enjoy them.

Such fun to be surrounded by an event that has history and joy and serves a fundraising purpose.

We have great events and continually improve.

I knew in my heart the city had gone to greater measures to make it safer.

So disruptive and disrespectful to our peaceful beauty. PEOPLE ACTUALLY LIVE HERE! It is a wonderful event! Thank you
Brings the town together along with visitors.
people were out celebrating cars and enjoying the city respectfully Honestly, I think about safety in the event of an emergency.

They were well run and the mix of cars was great. I really liked the bands on the Avenue during Concours for a Cause
Gives vibrancy to the town.

If they have to have them it’s nice to have a them in town so locals can walk to see them.

Absolutely beautiful vehicles you normally wouldn’t get to see all in one place.

The cars and owners were awesome
9/15/26, 6:10 AM We want to know your thoughts about Car Week and its impacts in Carmel-by-the-Sea. https://docs.google.com/forms/d/15CVNB972BbVOzC5ytcmfqWlj_EansLJFJqLtTrWifPA/viewanalytics 17/41 ATTACHMENT 1

See previous answer.

Too disruptive for the city. Our town is not a carnival for outsiders. Find an event place that can handle this kind of crush of cars and people.

Brings in high dollar visitors
Can’t even go to the store or doctors appointment total gridlock Well organized not to crowed every was very pleasant
I love the energy they bring to the town
great events and free for everyone to enjoy

SHUTTLES
Did you use the City provided free parking and shuttle for any of the events this year?
120 responses
If you answered, "Yes" what days did you use the shuttle service? 69 responses
Copy chart
Yes
No
What shuttle?

89.2%
Copy chart
Tuesday
Wednesday
Thursday
All of the above
I did not use the shuttle service. 92.8%
9/15/26, 6:10 AM We want to know your thoughts about Car Week and its impacts in Carmel-by-the-Sea. https://docs.google.com/forms/d/15CVNB972BbVOzC5ytcmfqWlj_EansLJFJqLtTrWifPA/viewanalytics 18/41 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?
38 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?
97 responses
Copy chart
Easy to find field and
shuttle stops
Regularity of shuttles Ease of parking Niceness of shuttles 0 5
10 15
20 Excellent Okay Sub par No comment
Copy chart
Yes
Maybe
No
Did not use the shuttle service.

Very nice and convenient
service. It would be nice if we
could identify a way to avoid the
excess non show cars in
Carmel. Locals could not even
park.

13.2%

78.9%
Copy chart
Yes
Maybe
No
We walk to the events.

We walked from home
I live here, so not used.

I don’t utilize the library or sto…
I walk into town
1/4

22.7%

41.2%

12.4%
9/15/26, 6:10 AM We want to know your thoughts about Car Week and its impacts in Carmel-by-the-Sea. https://docs.google.com/forms/d/15CVNB972BbVOzC5ytcmfqWlj_EansLJFJqLtTrWifPA/viewanalytics 19/41 ATTACHMENT 1

If you answered, "Maybe" or "No" to the above question, why? 54 responses
Very convenient
Because we live not far away from Ocean Avenue and walked as we were well aware of the congestion downtown
I live in Carmel.

I don’t need it
I can walk to the events.

N/A
I don’t like taking a shuttle.

I live within walkable distance of the events.

We walked from home
Not needed for us.

I live in town and enjoy walking.

Not interested
To see what the experience was like
We would like to attend Pebble Beach events next year and that would be the reason I'm really going to try not to be there next year.

Live within walking distance to town.

I would LOVE a daily shuttle into town as a perk to eliminate having to park in town year round We walked into town
I live in town and walk to the events.

Did not use because walked to Ocean Ave events from home. 9/15/26, 6:10 AM We want to know your thoughts about Car Week and its impacts in Carmel-by-the-Sea. https://docs.google.com/forms/d/15CVNB972BbVOzC5ytcmfqWlj_EansLJFJqLtTrWifPA/viewanalytics 20/41 ATTACHMENT 1

We can walk to downtown so we don’t need to drive.

I avoid downtown completely except for Post Office during these events I am not a car enthusiast. It’s a transportation mode for me.

I live in town and then walk.

I can walk to the events
Because I'd rather not to have any of this happening in my city.

I live in town and it’s easier to walk
Prefer using my own car or public transportation
We can walk to the events.

Too much trouble
See above.

It might be useful next year ...

I live and work in Carmel so I do not need it. However I think it is a great idea.

Live in town so I walked to all events in Carmel
Would make life easier.

Do you really think Carmel-by-the-Sea needs more cars?
Not interested in car week nonsense.

I walk. No need for a shuttle.

Yes - I just simply wasn’t in need of the shuttle this year, but love it as an option for future years!
We walk in to town.

Depends on events. Easy for me to walk.
9/15/26, 6:10 AM We want to know your thoughts about Car Week and its impacts in Carmel-by-the-Sea. https://docs.google.com/forms/d/15CVNB972BbVOzC5ytcmfqWlj_EansLJFJqLtTrWifPA/viewanalytics 21/41 ATTACHMENT 1

easier to walk for me. park at home.

I purposely do not attend any car week events.

Live in town and just walk in.
we walk to events
I can walk up the street.

We live in town and can walk to the events
I do not want to become a participant.

Because I live close enough to town to walk but even closer to mission.

I can walk to most events.

I live On Dolores st
I'm handicapped, have limited walking ability and find standing without a seat for relief painful.

Live in carmel wood so I walk
might make it easier to get in vs finding parking
9/15/26, 6:10 AM We want to know your thoughts about Car Week and its impacts in Carmel-by-the-Sea. https://docs.google.com/forms/d/15CVNB972BbVOzC5ytcmfqWlj_EansLJFJqLtTrWifPA/viewanalytics 22/41 ATTACHMENT 1

Other thoughts about shuttle service during Car Week?
44 responses
More shuttles
More out-of-Townes should use it
The shuttle service is an excellent idea and should be used for every busy weekend.

N/a
It should be mandatory/uber
A good idea to keep as many cars out of the area as possible.

Concours shuttle driver got lost in Pebble Beach! Not acceptable. Especially for our visiting guests.

I think it's a great idea!!
Great idea!!!!
Sounds like a good idea for next year as well
Folks told me a lot more shuttles were needed.

Full support of shuttle service for Car Week and Point Lobos And year round for general visitors to Carmel.
very good idea, i do support this
my friends told me you needed more shuttles...they loved it..but not enough shuttles None
See my earlier comments
great idea
I think it’s a great idea.

I encourage anything that reduces traffic. Unfortunately the whole point of Car Week is car enthusiasts attend and they like to drive their own very loud cars. 9/15/26, 6:10 AM We want to know your thoughts about Car Week and its impacts in Carmel-by-the-Sea. https://docs.google.com/forms/d/15CVNB972BbVOzC5ytcmfqWlj_EansLJFJqLtTrWifPA/viewanalytics 23/41 ATTACHMENT 1

The shuttle is very important and should continue each year.

The Shuttle is a good idea
What about using the Carmel high parking lots as well as the Mission and having the shuttle do a circle? That would get even more cars out of Carmel.
shuttles are good
I think it is a great idea and eases the parking and traffic during the week We saw lines of people waiting for a shuttle, so it was useful to them ...

I think the shuttle is great and should be for the whole car week and include weekends Great idea for the employees to park.

Keep it up
I would have used the shuttle service. I did not because I had appointments outside of town and was uncertain I would be able to leave work and get to them in time.

Trying to solve a problem aggressive business interests have created.

Offer it for Saturday night. Who knew it would be so crowded! Good idea.

Good for out of towners
Very necessary to keep shuttles
I rode the Shuttle to Pebble Beach Concours
It should also be in a place easier for people coming from the North of Carmel. It doesn't make a lot of sense to have the traffic from Ocean Avenue to Rio Road waiting for parking. I think renting space from the old hospital on Valley Way or Forest Theater parking lots.

Great idea! Thank you!
Two sets of friends visited on Tuesday and encouraged them to park by the Mission and take the shuttle. One did and getting in was very easy. Unfortunately on the way out around 3:00 there was a 1 hour line to catch the shuttle back to the parking lot. Maybe there could be one additional shuttle available in the after noon to get people out of town. 9/15/26, 6:10 AM We want to know your thoughts about Car Week and its impacts in Carmel-by-the-Sea. https://docs.google.com/forms/d/15CVNB972BbVOzC5ytcmfqWlj_EansLJFJqLtTrWifPA/viewanalytics 24/41 ATTACHMENT 1

Needs to be expanded and promoted more.Add service from north of the city Fantastic idea!
Great idea but I was able to walk downtown
Increase off-site parking and frequency of Shuttle Service It the town needs shuttle service the events a too much I think it's a good idea for the physically able.

TRAFFIC AND SAFETY
How effective were the evening traffic calming measures in the business district during Car Week in improving safety?
108 responses
Copy chart
Effective – they successfully…
Partially effective – the busine…
Not effective – they did not pr…
I don't know
I appreciated the efforts to cal…
Need more speed bumps on…
One evening we couldn't get…
I did not see speeding. traffic…
1/3

13.9%

27.8%

45.4%
9/15/26, 6:10 AM We want to know your thoughts about Car Week and its impacts in Carmel-by-the-Sea. https://docs.google.com/forms/d/15CVNB972BbVOzC5ytcmfqWlj_EansLJFJqLtTrWifPA/viewanalytics 25/41 ATTACHMENT 1

Why do you feel that way?
71 responses
You could see the enforcement in full effect. Great job! Most of downtown seemed OK.

My husband who sleeps with ear plugs was awakend at night several times due to car noise from car week.

They helped but there’s always room for more to be done The traffic flow was organized
Speed bumps kept kids from speeding. Although hated the excessive LOUD car noise. It was earpiercing.

Idiots racing around
I walked around every evening
Well done. Much improved from last year.

No longer a concourse d’elegance. Nothing elegant about it! Just a venue for legalized breaking of the law!
We need some bike police down on Scenic
I live on San Carlos and 8th. Cars are still making way too much noise late into the evening.

I heard less engines this year.
saw lots of CPD in town re-directing traffic; but speeding remained a problem on the smaller streets
We live in a beautiful city and we need to welcome the tourist industry what about the residential areas like Carpenter St ?
We saw the police stopping very noisy cars in the town, but nothing on our local residential streets….

Cuz I live on carpenter and people race this street.
9/15/26, 6:10 AM We want to know your thoughts about Car Week and its impacts in Carmel-by-the-Sea. https://docs.google.com/forms/d/15CVNB972BbVOzC5ytcmfqWlj_EansLJFJqLtTrWifPA/viewanalytics 26/41 ATTACHMENT 1

See other above.

I wasn’t downtown. The signage, speed bumps on Carpenter were great idea. From a sound perspective, I can hear downtown from my house, it seemed quiet. Good planning by the police. Listening sessions also good idea.

I was downtown many nights and it was a big improvement It was bumper to bumper on Ocean it seemed with lots of engine revving.

Getting to Post Office was a marathon
It was noticeably less busy
see answer above.

Didn’t hear all the noise.

The sounds of the cars racing down San Carlos literally rattle my house windows. The speed bump turned it into a roar, pause, roar
I don’t know that I have a full understanding of all of the measures that were implemented. But I know our police department is trying their best and exploring all options.

At times in the evening, Monte Verde was shut down between 6th, Ocean and 7th. I get closing Ocean to 7th given the cars at Auberge, but there was no signage on where to go once you made a right. When you drop down a block to get back over to 7th, that is an extremely narrow street. At night if you don't live here, it does not feel safe. Also, some people chose to take a right, then take the next right which put them back into the circulation. Seems to have added to the congestion, not help.

Well, we actually tried to live in our home for Car Week. Big mistake. I couldn't work in my own yard that fronts 10th Avenue --- vehicles fly down 10th to Junipero and there were NO traffic "calming" measures to preclude speeding and careless driving. No speed bumps. Traffic laws were not being enforced. Not even the "daylighting" loading zone spots on San Carlos. Same car parked there every day all day right in front of the crosswalk. So drivers can't see the pedestrians trying to cross. You didn't enforce your own regulations.

It’s a car event so there will be traffic and noise but was well managed by city and police activities. Well done.

Much quieter than years past
parking and to many people
9/15/26, 6:10 AM We want to know your thoughts about Car Week and its impacts in Carmel-by-the-Sea. https://docs.google.com/forms/d/15CVNB972BbVOzC5ytcmfqWlj_EansLJFJqLtTrWifPA/viewanalytics 27/41 ATTACHMENT 1

word got out to the disrupters for the most part, very proactive I live at 4th and Monte Verde and watched as people ignored the stop sign from all directions.

I still noticed a lot of traffic in the evenging.

Less noise. No news of out of control behavior.
noticeable improvement on racing, car noise! Not perfect but a step in the right direction.

Carmel police constantly out in force full time
As mentioned before most nights were good - Saturday night the 15th, a lot of traffic down Delores - mostly young guys - many speeding and running the Stop Sign - several near miss collisions as First has no sign on that intersection.

We’re near the northern exit path from CBTS off Serra and our traffic flow was not improved at all. Still big back ups at the end of the events and speeding cars the rest of the time.

Loud cars speeding at all times somewhere in Carmel during the week.

I feel we could employ more speed bumps as the car owners soon became familiar with the placement and accelerated after passing knowing there weren't any more. One problem I think needs more attention is the loud revving of engines. I personally experienced two cars stuck in Ocean Ave traffic and one car revved his engine to an uncomfortable level and a car on the opposite side did the same. This went back and forth several times and it was very loud and uncomfortable. Perhaps more noise monitors?
Lots of focus on the business district but I can understand how law enforcement can get overwhelmed with the sheer volume of traffic around the business district. The speed bump on Carpenter was a good thing. I wish there were more on other main roads around the City.

It shows more traffic control then usual ...

Could barely leave my driveway
The congestion was not as bad this year as in 2025.

No possibility of speeding which also reduced noise
Exiting town between 6 and 7pm, was better earlier in the week than towards the end of the week (Thursday, Friday, Saturday). There was more downshifting, actual fights over parking spaces, distracted pedestrians and near miss accidents. This may be a fact of life when the population rapidly increases for an event, but it was more noticeable later in the week.

My street became a noisy, dangerous, speed-filled path out of town. 9/15/26, 6:10 AM We want to know your thoughts about Car Week and its impacts in Carmel-by-the-Sea. https://docs.google.com/forms/d/15CVNB972BbVOzC5ytcmfqWlj_EansLJFJqLtTrWifPA/viewanalytics 28/41 ATTACHMENT 1

Personal observation
Seeing damage to structures on Ocean Avenue, the crowds must have been huge.

Less noise and confusion downtown
Felt safe walking around town.

Clearly improved from previous years
Traffic was not the big issue. Loitering was.

I remember when the cars were doing donughts on Ocean Ave and Junipero, thus the barricades at that section now. Also, for the most part the word was out on social media not to rev the engines or noise ticket.

People are assholes and those with modified mufflers belong anywhere other than Carmel.

Extra traffic is part of the event. Some of the car people could drive a little slower without gunning the engine.

Traffic slowed considerably through town which made town safer. the speed bumps are too much and cause more traffic and damage to cars I didn't see any speeding but it was a bit inconvenient for locals to get across town Personally observed
I was walking around at night and very impressed by the way the police handled the traffic.

Cars speeding up Carpenter all night long
See previous answer.

I live in the neighborhood and cars are flying down the street because Carpenter St, the highway are all jammed with guests and locals trying to get to work are home.

Total gridlock
Areas around Stilwelll Hotel were out of control and very hard to navigate around. Our garage was blocked by a car, however, Carmel PD was quick to respond, which was very much appreciated.
9/15/26, 6:10 AM We want to know your thoughts about Car Week and its impacts in Carmel-by-the-Sea. https://docs.google.com/forms/d/15CVNB972BbVOzC5ytcmfqWlj_EansLJFJqLtTrWifPA/viewanalytics 29/41 ATTACHMENT 1

In Pacific Grove, I experienced it. I listened to my Carmel friends discuss it.

Didn’t see or hear any problems
i didn’t experience any issues
Do you feel like it was quieter this year than last year? 113 responses
Please check if you did see the following:
108 responses
Copy chart
Yes
No 34.5%

65.5%
Copy chart
0 25 50 75 100
Speed bumps
Changes in traffic patterns
Increased enforcement
Social Media Posts
City signage warning of a…
Spoof bumps too small.…
Nothing in our residential…
Noise enforcement
More increased enforce…
Not in the area
There were a few cars pl…
I avoided the Ocean Ave…
loved the sign regarding…
Applause!
End the insanity
91 (84.3%)
67 (62%)
69 (63.9%)
33 (30.6%)
73 (67.6%)
1 (0.9%)
1 (0.9%)
1 (0.9%)
1 (0.9%)
1 (0.9%)
1 (0.9%)
1 (0.9%)
1 (0.9%)
1 (0.9%)
1 (0.9%)
9/15/26, 6:10 AM We want to know your thoughts about Car Week and its impacts in Carmel-by-the-Sea. https://docs.google.com/forms/d/15CVNB972BbVOzC5ytcmfqWlj_EansLJFJqLtTrWifPA/viewanalytics 30/41 ATTACHMENT 1

What improvements would you recommend to better handle Car Week's traffic? 73 responses
More closed streets at night. Tow more cars.

Make it go away (wishful thinking!)
Hold some of the events at a larger venue. Shorten car week.

More officers out in the downtown and patrolling residential areas I think it was overall very orderly
Mandatory shuttle service or Uber use. Locals are fine. However, the young kids have no reason to bring their non-show cars here.

CHP stationed on PCH.

I would maintain a police presence through Sunday evening.

More speed bumps, more enforcement.

Stop the youth from “just hanging out.” Some of them were loud, obnoxious, rude, blocked the side walks.

Cancel it!
more noise enforcement
Police on bikes on Ocean for illegal parking and flow.

No noise after 10pm during the week and 11pm on weekend. Just cut off the noise. More cops near the Sunset Center area please.

Encourage a service like parking buddy so that locals could offer a parking on their property so that people don't end up parking in town.
not an over abundance, but more strategically placed speed bumps Thank you for your efforts.
put speed bumps on Carpenter !!! traffic cams everyone to catch speeders and loud cars 9/15/26, 6:10 AM We want to know your thoughts about Car Week and its impacts in Carmel-by-the-Sea. https://docs.google.com/forms/d/15CVNB972BbVOzC5ytcmfqWlj_EansLJFJqLtTrWifPA/viewanalytics 31/41 ATTACHMENT 1

Not to have events in town, del Monte center has space to show and park… More speed bumps on carpenter and more police presence.

Make sure road construction including leftover lane closure is removed or on hold during Car Week. Wouldn’t hurt halting residential construction truck parking for car week. Free up many, many parking spaces in the neighborhoods for visitors for one week. eliminate the Tuesday event, do not market Carmel at all in August, we have plenty of locals and visitors as it is.

Keep events further away from Post Office
None. It’s a well balanced approach not too much, not too little.

Parking/shuttle information spread
Stop signs on San Carlos between 10-13th
Unfortunately, I don’t know how to make things better.

When re-routing, have clear signage on where to go.

If the City redirects traffic away from the main entry streets, then THINK where those cars are going to go. It's not like they're going to disappear and simply not come to Carmel. They're going to enter and exit via residential streets that are not prepared nor equipped nor monitored for erratic traffic patterns or increased speeds. Speed bumps on 10th are absolutely necessary to control driving habits. You needed traffic staff on 8th, around Sunset Center, and off San Carlos to those side streets. It seemed woefully understaffed. And enforce your own traffic and parking laws. Block off neighborhood streets. Don't create major traffic jams by redirecting traffic --- define an entry and exit and enforce it so there's not cars running everywhere randomly. What a mess.

No to invite them back.
decrease the amount of days of the event, export Ferrari day to Pebble.......more speed bumps in the beach going neighborhoods...monitor the the beach routes..or construct an one way to the beach..(they were cutting through all the side streets, seemed like they were racing down to the water..).
keep the events off of Ocean ave, and scale them to fit the sunset center lot Less Official Events. Would Love to see The Tour d'Elegance on Ocean like in the past. More about the Show cars than the Exotics.
9/15/26, 6:10 AM We want to know your thoughts about Car Week and its impacts in Carmel-by-the-Sea. https://docs.google.com/forms/d/15CVNB972BbVOzC5ytcmfqWlj_EansLJFJqLtTrWifPA/viewanalytics 32/41 ATTACHMENT 1

Police presence at the events was evident and effective but less so in the evenings, especially on Friday and Saturday nights. Disappointing performance on those evenings. Police presence started strong but by end of week appeared to flag. On the whole an improvement over last year - thank you for your efforts!
Sadly I don’t have any great ideas other than continued and increased traffic enforcement More speed bumps. Closing traffic to only people living/working/ or visiting Carmel. Not people cruising/ joy riding.

Continue to utilize shuttle, continue speed bumps and noise monitoring. increase number of speed bumps just outside carmel center and on upper ocean and even junipero
Get more cars out of the neighborhoods and control the exiting crowds! We had no issues during the daytime events and people parking in the neighborhood Post on social media that if you come to Carmel and your cars noise is above the legal limit you will be cited for an equipment fix. Speed bumps in better places. Strict parking enforcement.

More speed bumps and more noise enforcement.

More speed bumps. Fewer events. I don’t see how more enforcement is possible with the resources we have, even with help from mutual aid. Everyone seems overwhelmed.

More direction signs ...

Stop advertising
This year’s plan seemed to be highly effective. Thank you! Keep up the great work! Continue above, social media will alert their users.

We were very happy with TWTh organized Carmel events. I heard other residents complain about loud cars on Friday and Saturday in their neighborhoods and in town during the days when Carmel did not have organized events.

The music was fantastic -- please don't lose that -- but move to it to the center of town. Expand on the concept of inclusivity. Could traffic be calmed by closing the business district to cars and just keeping the residential streets open to residents once the display cars are moved it.

Anyone wanting to visit comes in by shuttle? This would be an expensive proposition, but it my 9/15/26, 6:10 AM We want to know your thoughts about Car Week and its impacts in Carmel-by-the-Sea. https://docs.google.com/forms/d/15CVNB972BbVOzC5ytcmfqWlj_EansLJFJqLtTrWifPA/viewanalytics 33/41 ATTACHMENT 1

answer the concerns of residents while allowing for the expansion of an extremely popular and lucrative event.

Dump all car related events. The City Council puts sill care events ahead of community safety and peace.

Cancel and return to environmental health, put cars in museums and video them for the public.

Shuttles in the evenings on Friday and Saturday nights. Cruising seems to be the "thing". Lots of people not able to park or move.

Completely blocking off sixth and 7th streets between Monte Verde and Junipero I thought the shuttle service and the traffic management on Ocean Avenue at night was a huge improvement. The police armed with a megaphone to shame offenders was hilarious. The more we make the night scene “lame” and “boring” the better it can be managed as onlookers won’t gather to see nothing. It also seemed like more super and hyper car car owners were not participating in the late night cruising. That also helped.

I honestly couldn't recommend anything other than reducing the in town events. more police motorcycle enforcement to catch speeders and noise and reckless driving Continue with the good work
Really promote the shuttle service more. Make it even easier to use and focus on some of the evening traffic when folks are coming into town for dinner. That is when I observed the most issues with folks cruising for parking spaces and creating them when they couldn't find them any other way.

Stop the loitering and “influencers” from just hanging out. rent the underground parking that NOBODY uses at Del Monte Center for shuttling people in from the North. OR somewhere even further north than that to help with traffic on Highway One I commend the police. Thank you for keeping Carmel safe. go back to how it was 5 years ago
A few more speed bumps off of Carpenter. Perhaps it will set the tone as people enter from that direction. Use Carmel CERT in the evenings as undercover observers and help PD with barriers and traffic control. (This is Wanda)
Add more shuttle service
9/15/26, 6:10 AM We want to know your thoughts about Car Week and its impacts in Carmel-by-the-Sea. https://docs.google.com/forms/d/15CVNB972BbVOzC5ytcmfqWlj_EansLJFJqLtTrWifPA/viewanalytics 34/41 ATTACHMENT 1

Just keep a good big police presence and it seems to work.

More speed bumps. CHP ticketing speeding cars
Move all these events out to The college in Seaside where there is plenty of parking and it will not disrupt the locals !
Don’t have it. Limit it to a few events in large open areas where traffic and visitors can be controlled.

More speed bumps, more traffic enforcement, CHP presence 3 day event fri sat sun
More of the same. I thought the city did a really good job of improving based on the issues from the last couple of years. Maybe have some police or explorers on foot to help direct traffic/wrangle pedestrians in congested areas, as it was difficult to get home due to out-oftowners not knowing how to navigate narrow roads and just generally being unaware or uncaring of others around them.

Limit it, consider the residents.

Keep doing what work this year
Maybe tell social media about informant
Your input matters!  Join us at Carpenter Hall on 9/26 (10 am) for a Car Week listening session.
9/15/26, 6:10 AM We want to know your thoughts about Car Week and its impacts in Carmel-by-the-Sea. https://docs.google.com/forms/d/15CVNB972BbVOzC5ytcmfqWlj_EansLJFJqLtTrWifPA/viewanalytics 35/41 ATTACHMENT 1

Any other thoughts about Car Week or things you would like to share? 62 responses
Great job and a big improvement over last year.

It is much longer than one week. Keep it to one week since some of us have no choice but to leave town.

Thank you to our police chief and officers for all the work they do! Well done.

Car week is a world renowned event that brings massive attention to the peninsula ! Keep up the good work
Great job this year overall.

It’s a total nightmare for MANY residents. Especially older ones. It’s a danger and invasion of peace and quiet.

Stayed home don’t like the crowds and racing and noise
Love having an address and hope we can get some of these deep potholes fixed.

Definite improvement over last year. But.... I prefer the old car week. Classy ladies and gentlemen showing their beautiful cars. Now it seems we have lots of young folks racing around and revving their engines and showing off. Let's try to get back to the original please.

I believe that participants and this includes people, vendors, car owners, and event sponsors and owners, should contribute towards a Community Fund within Carmel so that at the end of car week we have all services that we end up providing covered as well as a pool of funds to beautify or benefit the city after they leave.

Our CPD Chief was on top of it and very responsive - Kudos to him and his team Continue metering noisy cars for excessive sound
I guess hating it is not going to stop it. I guess money matters more than people. I'm just going to leave town during as much of it as I possibly can.

Save our village, no more events that draw so many people and vehicles 9/15/26, 6:10 AM We want to know your thoughts about Car Week and its impacts in Carmel-by-the-Sea. https://docs.google.com/forms/d/15CVNB972BbVOzC5ytcmfqWlj_EansLJFJqLtTrWifPA/viewanalytics 36/41 ATTACHMENT 1

Continue Car week. love it. Car Club organizers told me the City (carmel) was great to work with. That's a great thin to hear especially since Doug Freeman has a hard time with the city.

Thank you, Carmel, for welcoming the car clubs and event organizers.

Keep up the good work Carmel!
Ask Visit Carmel to stop marketing in the summer months, including Car Week.

I feel like noise levels were much better, but police didn't deal properly with my neighbor who called with a noise complaint about a party on our street and was treated combatively and rudely by the person on the phone when he called police.

The city does a great job of balancing the needs of the public and hosting one of the worlds greatest car events
It’s basically a hassle and it’s one week out of the other 51 weeks we live in such a lovely place None. Thank you for putting out the survey to get community feedback. I hope a lot of great suggestions come from it.

The lot across from our Carmel post office was used for longer term parking during Car Week days. It was nearly impossible to park and use our in town post office for those of us in Zip 93921 who rely on a PObox. This lot needs to be monitored by the City during car week For Concours for a Cause, the music needs to be laid out better. Building a stage in the wee hours of the morning in front of the Cypress Inn is not good for hotel guests. Should move the stage down the block. Some of the music was over lapping, so more thought needs to go into how it is laid out.

Very concerned about safety with first responders and threat of evacuations which would be extremely difficult during the best of times but unimaginable during Car Week. This has to be a priority.

Please enforce parking rules around crosswalks. The City skirted on the daylighting law by allowing "loading zone" curbs by crosswalks (think San Carlos & 9th in front of the Sunset Center) but you never enforce the 20 minute limit. Same car was there today, all day. Red car 9EPC004. We walk all over this town and rely on the visibility afforded a driver by having an open space by a crosswalk. It keeps pedestrians safer. And why don't you make parking in Larsen Field MANDATORY? Improve the shuttle service and insist visitors park outside of downtown and the neighborhoods. Think of US sometimes instead of only the hotels and restaurants and stores.

It’s a great boost to Carmel to have such a prestigious car week. Let’s keep it going strong! Thank you.
9/15/26, 6:10 AM We want to know your thoughts about Car Week and its impacts in Carmel-by-the-Sea. https://docs.google.com/forms/d/15CVNB972BbVOzC5ytcmfqWlj_EansLJFJqLtTrWifPA/viewanalytics 37/41 ATTACHMENT 1

Hope it continues
it is a great time on the monterey peninsula that raises millions for local charities Keep up the decibel meter program and a few more speed bumps.

Best would be to avoid it completely. If not, then small, family friendly events (Arts & Crafts, educational seminars, etc) would be better.

This year seemed better than any in the past. Keep up the good work.

It is a fun event, hope to see it continue, enjoy the events in Carmel (as we can walk to them).

The town did a good job enhancing control this year.

This year the calming measures worked well downtown- now they need to be expanded into the surrounding areas. One last comment- we ran into residents closing their block of 5th between Lincoln and Monte Verde on Saturday night. They yelled at us for driving down “their” street since we weren’t residents of that block. I don’t believe this was either neighborly or legal.

Carmel must return to the past of only having events with historically automobiles.

This week has evolved over the years from a subdued celebration of classic lder cars to a loud demonstration of exotic new cars with extreme noise levels and a following of younger fans that seem only interested in recording all the mayhem.

This has to be scaled back before someone is seriously injured or worse right here in CBTS.

We have been living in Carmel since 1998 and we love the city and all its events ...

More old pick up trucks :-)
After hearing nothing but negativity, I truly enjoyed Car Week. You could tell that there had to have been a Citywide effort to make this event a success. And everyone who came seemed to genuinely enjoy themselves. You could see people making real connections and enjoying each other's shared passions whether they had the money to buy in or they simply showed up to appreciate the vehicles. That was worth it.

Why do we do it? What benefit does it bring to Carmel????? What does all of the signage, extra police work, and closed streets costs? What do we gain? In 2026 with all that is known about climate change, environmental destruction, air quality, wasting fuel, it’s time to say goodbye to Car Week.

Thank you for continuing to work towards improving the car week experience for everyone. 9/15/26, 6:10 AM We want to know your thoughts about Car Week and its impacts in Carmel-by-the-Sea. https://docs.google.com/forms/d/15CVNB972BbVOzC5ytcmfqWlj_EansLJFJqLtTrWifPA/viewanalytics 38/41 ATTACHMENT 1

Chief Trayer did a great job trying to mitigate the problems of the previous year.

Car Week has been part of Carmel for decades. I hope it can continue. I think the new controls have made it much more livable for people who don’t enjoy it.

I appreciate you giving the residents a space to share.

Please make it go away in Carmel
It was a wonderful event. I look forward to it each year! we moved to Carmel by the Sea because we love Car Week! This is part of Carmel and the Monterey Peninsula. I think this went extremely well and was very organized. People either love it, tolerate it, or leave for the "week." I particularly liked how PD in Carmel and Seaside used the social media influencers to put messages out that let people know it would be different this year. It worked. Thank you for the survey and hard WORK!
Keep learning what works and what doesn't and apply that next year. Viva La Car Week In these difficult times, Car Week just seemed like an indulgence to flaunt expensive toys with disregard for the overall inconvenience of residents. Many neighbors including myself wished that we could have left the area to escape the noise and disruption.

Overall much better than last year’s total disaster. Thank you for making it bearable to live in Carmel by the Sea during car week this year.

It’s one of the world’s car event. It has been happening for years. It definitely has changed, so we have to change with it. But I view it as a huge opportunity for the community.

Make it go away !
Please increase number of speed bumps, traffic signage & police presence Just a thank you for the efforts made by the city.

Thank you for the opportunity to express myself. While I don't live in Carmel, I worked there for years; I visited family from my earliest days until the last passed in 2022. The Peninsula has been my home -- Monterey, Carmel, PG, Carmel Valley for almost 85 years. In addtion, I own property in Corral de Tierra and have family along the Monterey-Salinas Highway and spend time in both places. Car Week has impacted the residents of each community in myriad ways, mostly inconvenient.

Very fun evant
9/15/26, 6:10 AM We want to know your thoughts about Car Week and its impacts in Carmel-by-the-Sea. https://docs.google.com/forms/d/15CVNB972BbVOzC5ytcmfqWlj_EansLJFJqLtTrWifPA/viewanalytics 39/41 ATTACHMENT 1

Social media has changed the tone of the week. The addition of the exotics means that the followers will come and support their events. Meanwhile, the Concours remains true to its vision.
thanks for working on improving everything
This content is neither created nor endorsed by Google. - Terms of Service - Privacy Policy Does this form look suspicious? Report
Forms
9/15/26, 6:10 AM We want to know your thoughts about Car Week and its impacts in Carmel-by-the-Sea. https://docs.google.com/forms/d/15CVNB972BbVOzC5ytcmfqWlj_EansLJFJqLtTrWifPA/viewanalytics 40/41 ATTACHMENT 1

9/15/26, 6:10 AM We want to know your thoughts about Car Week and its impacts in Carmel-by-the-Sea. https://docs.google.com/forms/d/15CVNB972BbVOzC5ytcmfqWlj_EansLJFJqLtTrWifPA/viewanalytics 41/41 ATTACHMENT 1

2026 Car Week
After-Action Report
October 2026
Chief Trayer

CITY OF CARMEL-BY-THE-SEA
CITY OF CARMEL-BY-THE-SEA 1
ATTACHMENT 2

• Listening Sessions (x2)
• After Action Report (November ‘25)
• Peninsula Agency Meetings
• Car Week Cohort
• PD, PW, Dispatch, VIPS, Community Activities, Fire,
City Administrator/and Assistant City Administrator
• Speed Bumps
• Route Changes
• Barricades/Safety Precautions
• Decibel Readers
• “Pipe Down” Tools/Training
• Additional resource ask
• Heavy social media/TV-news/radio/The Carmel Pinecone
• Influencer outreach CITY OF CARMEL-BY-THE-SEA 2

Preparations for 2026 Car Week
ATTACHMENT 2

CITY OF CARMEL-BY-THE-SEA

Events
• Tuesday, August 11, 2026:

Concours for a Cause
• Wednesday, August 12, 2026:

Astons on the Avenue
• Thursday, August 14, 2026:

Ferrari Owners' Club Concours
Carmel
There were 3 main events permitted in
Carmel-by-the-Sea this year:

Photo Credit: Carmel Realty Company
ATTACHMENT 2

CITY OF CARMEL-BY-THE-SEA 4

Community Response: Survey of Events
Residents Who Attended Enjoyed the Events
(Based on 93921 resident responses)
ATTACHMENT 2

CITY OF CARMEL-BY-THE-SEA

Car Week Events
• Wednesday – Sunday
• L’Auberge (6 spots)
• Wednesday-Sunday
• Fourtané (11 spots)
• Saturday, August 15, 2026:
• Cars and Coffee @ Mad Dogs & Englishmen
• Range Rover Event, August 12-16, 2026
• Stillwell Hotel
There were 4 additional smaller events in
Carmel-by-the-Sea this year:

ATTACHMENT 2

These events were closely monitored by Police, Public
Works, City Administration, our Community Activities
Coordinator… and our VIPS!
VIPS gave 106 hours of volunteer time to keep our
events running smoothly. Thank you!
CITY OF CARMEL-BY-THE-SEA 6

Event Operations
ATTACHMENT 2

Shuttle Users
• Tuesday 8/11/26 = 351
• Wednesday 8/12/26 = 100
• Thursday 8/13/26 = 275
CITY OF CARMEL-BY-THE-SEA 7

The Numbers: Shuttle Service
ATTACHMENT 2

CITY OF CARMEL-BY-THE-SEA 8

Traffic - The Numbers: Vehicles
ATTACHMENT 2

9 The Numbers: Vehicles
2025 Vehicle Numbers
2026 Vehicle Number
2025 showed a larger vehicle influx on
Wednesday - Saturday
2026 showed less vehicles on
every comparable day.

Both years show the heaviest
days are Friday and Saturday.

ATTACHMENT 2

• Vehicles
CITY OF CARMEL-BY-THE-SEA 10

Car Week Sound Measurements
ATTACHMENT 2

CITY OF CARMEL-BY-THE-SEA 11

The Numbers: Decibel Data Results
ATTACHMENT 2

CITY OF CARMEL-BY-THE-SEA 12

Sound Data: Continued
ATTACHMENT 2

Calls for Service:

Increased Demand. Increased Response
Total Events (includes Officer Initiated Events)
820 in 2026
659 in 2025
Officer Initiated Events
235 in 2026
137 in 2025
CITY OF CARMEL-BY-THE-SEA 13
24% Increase
72% Increase
ATTACHMENT 2

CITY OF CARMEL-BY-THE-SEA 14

Car Week Enforcement Activity
ATTACHMENT 2

CITY OF CARMEL-BY-THE-SEA 15

Community Response: Overall Car Week
ATTACHMENT 2

CITY OF CARMEL-BY-THE-SEA 16

Community Response: Survey
Traffic & Safety
ATTACHMENT 2

Community Sentiment
Residents/Businesses
Wish list
CITY OF CARMEL-BY-THE-SEA 17

Community Listening Session 2026
ATTACHMENT 2

CITY OF CARMEL-BY-THE-SEA 18

AREAS FOR CONTINUED REVIEW
PLANNING FOR 2027

LISTEN & ENGAGE MANAGE TRAFFIC
Continue community listening sessions and spring
planning meetings
Review routes, speed humps, signage, residential
corridors and shuttle service

ENFORCE & MEASURE COORDINATE REGIONALLY
Maintain proactive enforcement and Pipe Down;
continue sound monitoring
Expand Peninsula coordination, car-club outreach and
unified messaging
The community noticed improvement in 2026. Our 2027 focus is extending those gains into impacted residential neighborhoods.

ATTACHMENT 2

q
Discussion/
Questions?
CITY OF CARMEL-BY-THE-SEA 19

Carmel-by-the-Sea
ATTACHMENT 2

CITY OF CARMEL-BY-THE-SEA
City Council
Staff Report
October 6, 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: Resolution 2026-075 adopting the Fiscal Year 2026-27 At-Will (Unrepresented) Compensation and Benefits Plan which was previously approved at Council's September meeting, including a reduction in employee CalPERS retirement contributions, and an updated At-Will salary schedule incorporating the new City Administrator salary range
RECOMMENDATION:

Adopt Resolution 2026-075 (Attachment 1):
1) Adopting the Fiscal Year 2026-27 At-Will Employees Compensation and Benefit Plan (Attachment 3), which includes a three-percentage-point (3%) reduction in the employee CalPERS retirement contribution, effective September 1, 2026; and 2) Adopting an updated At-Will Salary Schedule (Attachment 4) incorporating the new City Administrator salary range.

BACKGROUND / SUMMARY:

At its September 1, 2026, regular meeting, the City Council approved amendments to the Fiscal Year 2026-27 At-Will Compensation and Benefits Plan. This item presents the updated Plan and At-Will Salary Schedule for Council approval, incorporating the previously authorized changes. The approved amendments to the Plan included the following:

1. No cost-of-living adjustment (COLA): A 0% salary adjustment for Fiscal Year 2026-27.

2. CalPERS employee contribution: A three-percentage-point (3%) reduction in the employee CalPERS retirement contribution, effective September 1, 2026.

3. Market equity adjustments: Adjustments to the salary ranges of certain At-Will classifications identified as being below the market median, as follows:
o Police Chief/Assistant City Administrator pay band: 3.05% o Human Resources Manager: 4.51%
o Building Official: 8.30%
To comply with CalPERS requirements, staff has updated the At-Will Compensation and Benefits Plan (the “Plan”) to incorporate the amendments authorized by the City Council, effective September 1, 2026. The redlined Plan is included as Attachment 2 for final ratification and will be made available on the City’s website as required by law.

The clean version of the Plan is included as Attachment 3 (Exhibit A).

In addition, pursuant to CalPERS requirements and Municipal Code Section 2.52.520, the updated At-Will Salary Schedule is presented for Council review and approval (Attachment 4, Exhibit B). The Salary Schedule incorporates the City Administrator salary range of $280,000 to $330,000 annually, depending on the selected candidate’s qualifications, established by the City Council on September 1, 2026.

SUMMARY
Staff recommends that the City Council adopt the attached resolution (Attachment 1) approving the Fiscal Year 2026-27 At-Will Compensation and Benefits Plan and updated At-Will Salary Schedule (Attachments 3 and 4). The resolution incorporates the previously authorized three-percentage-point reduction in employee CalPERS retirement contributions and the new City Administrator salary range approved by the City Council at its September 1, 2026, regular meeting.

FISCAL IMPACT:

The fiscal impact associated with the three-percentage-point reduction in employee CalPERS contributions is estimated at $80,000 annually, based on current At-Will payroll and CalPERS-eligible compensation.

The fiscal impact associated with the City Administrator's new salary range will be determined once a new City Administrator contract is adopted. Funding for the reduction in employee CalPERS retirement contribution is available within the Fiscal Year 2026-27 adopted budget.

PRIOR CITY COUNCIL ACTION:

September 1, 2026: Council adopted Resolution No. 2026-065 approving the Fiscal Year 2026-27 At-Will (Unrepresented) Compensation and Benefits Plan, including a

zero percent cost-of-living adjustment, a three percentage-point reduction in employee CalPERS retirement contributions, and special market equity adjustments for certain classifications.

Council also adopted Resolution No. 2026-067 establishing a new salary range for the position of the City Administrator.

ATTACHMENTS:

1. Resolution 2026-075

2. At-Will Comp and Benefit Plan - REDLINED

3. Exhibit A - At-Will Comp and Benefit Plan - CLEAN

4. Exhibit B - Updated 2026 At-Will Salary Schedule

CITY OF CARMEL-BY-THE-SEA

CITY COUNCIL
RESOLUTION NO. 2026-075

A RESOLUTION OF THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF CARMEL-BY-THE-SEA ADOPTING THE FISCAL YEAR 2026-27 AT-WILL (UNREPRESENTED) COMPENSATION AND BENEFITS

PLAN, INCLUDING A THREE-PERCENTAGE-POINT REDUCTION IN EMPLOYEE CALPERS

RETIREMENT CONTRIBUTIONS, AND ADOPTING THE UPDATED AT-WILL SALARY

SCHEDULE
WHEREAS, the City Council of the City of Carmel-by-the-Sea (“City Council”) establishes compensation and benefits for employees who are not represented by a recognized employee organization, including employees designated as At-Will employees; and WHEREAS, on September 1, 2026, the City Council approved amendments to the Fiscal Year 2026-27 At-Will (Unrepresented) Compensation and Benefits Plan (the “Plan”); and WHEREAS, the Plan amendments approved by the City Council included a zero percent (0%) cost-of-living adjustment for Fiscal Year 2026-27; and WHEREAS, the City Council approved in the Plan a three-percentage-point (3%) reduction in the employee contribution toward CalPERS retirement, effective September 1, 2026; and WHEREAS, the City Council also approved market equity adjustments to the salary ranges of certain At-Will classifications identified as being below the applicable market median, including the following adjustments:
• Police Chief/Assistant City Administrator pay band: 3.05%; • Human Resources Manager: 4.51%; and
• Building Official: 8.30%; and
WHEREAS, staff has updated the Plan to incorporate the compensation and benefit amendments authorized by the City Council, including the three-percentage-point (3%) reduction in employee CalPERS retirement contributions effective September 1, 2026; and WHEREAS, the updated Plan is attached hereto as Exhibit A and incorporated herein by this reference; and
WHEREAS, pursuant to California Public Employees’ Retirement System (“CalPERS”) requirements and Municipal Code Section 2.52.520, the City Council is required to approve the applicable salary schedule; and
WHEREAS, on September 1, 2026, the City Council adopted Resolution No. 2026-067 establishing a salary range of $280,000 to $330,000 annually for the City Administrator position, depending upon the selected candidate’s qualifications; and WHEREAS, the updated At-Will Salary Schedule incorporates the City Administrator salary range established by the City Council and is attached hereto as Exhibit B and incorporated herein by this reference; and
WHEREAS, the City Council finds that approval of the updated Plan and At-Will Salary Schedule is necessary to formally incorporate the compensation and benefit amendments ATTACHMENT 1

Resolution 2026-075

previously authorized by the City Council and to comply with applicable CalPERS requirements and the City's Municipal Code.

NOW THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED THAT THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF CARMEL-BY-THE-SEA DOES HEREBY:

1. Approves and adopts the At-Will (Unpresented) Compensation and Benefits Plan attached as Exhibit A to this Resolution.

2. Approves and adopts the At-Will (Unrepresented) salary schedule, including the salary range of $280,000 to $330,000 annually for the City Administrator position, attached as Exhibit B to this Resolution.

PASSED AND ADOPTED BY THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF CARMEL-BY­THE-SEA this 6th day of October, 2026 by the following vote:

AYES:

NOES:

ABSENT:

ABSTAIN:

APPROVED: ATTEST:
____________________________ __________________________ Dale Byrne, Mayor Nova Romero, MMC, City Clerk
ATTACHMENT 1

Resolution 2026-075

EXHIBITS
Exhibit A – Fiscal Year 2026-27 At-Will (Unrepresented) Compensation and Benefits Plan Exhibit B – Updated At-Will (Unrepresented) Salary Schedule ATTACHMENT 1

City of Carmel-by-the-Sea

AT-WILL COMPENSATION AND BENEFITS PLAN
EFFECTIVE JULY 1, 2024 SEPTEMBER 1, 2026
This Compensation and Benefits Plan (Plan) is intended to establish standard compensation, benefits and conditions of employment for all At-Will (unrepresented) positions with the City of Carmel-by-the-Sea (City). The positions recognized as At-Will classifications are listed in Appendix "A". Such recognition shall extend only to the employees holding permanent positions with the City.

All At-Will positions are exempt from the Fair Labor Standards Act (FLSA) and are at-will employees.

With the exception of the City Administrator, who holds office for and at the pleasure of the City Council, all At-Will positions serve at the pleasure of the City Administrator and can be terminated with or without notice or cause and with no rights to appeal as provided in Municipal Code section

2.52.050.

1. Salary and Compensation

1.1-The City Administrator receives compensation as determined by the City Council set forth in the City Administrator's employment contract, and any subsequent amendments.

1.2 All At-Will positions, except the City Administrator, receive compensation based on publicly approved salary schedules approved by the City Council and outlined in individual employment contracts, as approved by the City Administrator. At-Will employees are eligible for merit salary step advancements, subject to a satisfactory performance evaluation and the City Administrators' approval as provided in Municipal Code section 2.52.555.

1.3 Cost of Living Adjustments for all At-Will positions mirror those of the LiUNA Management Unit and are subject to City Council approval.

2. Deferred Compensation

2.1 The City offers all employees the opportunity to participate in a deferred compensation (457) plan on a voluntary basis through payroll contributions. Participation and contributions are regulated by the rules and regulations established by the Internal Revenue Service (IRS) for such plans.

2.2 The City Administrator receives a City contribution as determined by City Council and outlined in the City Administrator's employment contract.

2.3 All At-Will positions, except the City Administrator, receive a minimum City contribution of $100 per month. The City Administrator has sole discretion to determine a higher contribution amount on a case-by-case basis based on recruitment and retention needs, and performance merits.

REDLINE ATTACHMENT 2

3. Retirement

3.1 Miscellaneous Employees Tier 1: Employees hired on or before November 1, 2011 are subject to the 2%@ 55 retirement formula. Final compensation for the purpose of determining a retirement benefit is based on the highest consecutive 12-month period. The required member contribution is 7% of reportable compensation as defined by CalPERS. At WiH employees contribute an additional 3% tovvards the City's cost share, for a total of 10% towards the normal cost of pension benefits, as provided by Cal.Gov. Code Section 20516.

3.2 Miscellaneous Employees Tier 2: Employees hired after November 1, 2011, and prior to January 1, 2013, and employees with qualified reciprocity (Classic Members) are subject to the 2%@ 60 retirement formula. Final compensation for the purpose of determining a retirement benefit is based on the average of the final 3-years of the member's salary. The required member contribution is 7% of reportable compensation as defined by CalPERS. At WiH employees contribute an additional 3% towards the City's cost share, for a total of 10% tovvards the normal cost of pension benefits, as provided by Cal.Gov. Code Section 20516.

3.3 Miscellaneous Employees Tier 3 (PEP BA): Employees hired on or after January 1, 2013 or who do not qualify for pension reciprocity, non-Classic Members, are subject to the 2%@ 62 formula. Final compensation for the purpose of determining a retirement benefits is based on the average of the final 3-years of the member's salary. As required by Cal. Gov. Code Section 7522.04(g), members covered by this retirement formula shall pay fifty percent (50%) of the normal cost as determined by CalPERS annually. In addition to paying 50% of the normal cost, PEPRA At Wil employees contribute an additional 3% tovll'ards the City's cost share as provided by Cal. Gov. Code Section 20516.

3.4 Public Safety Employees Tier 1: At-Will Public Safety members hired prior to November 1, 2011 shall be subject to the same CalPERS retirement program plan provisions outlined in the Carmel Police Officers Association bargaining unit.

3.5 Public Safety Employees Tier 2: At-Will Public Safety members hired on or after November 1, 2011, and prior to January 1, 2013, shall be subject to the same CalPERS retirement program plan provisions outlined in the Carmel Police Officers Association bargaining unit.

3.6 Public Safety Employees Tier 3 (PEPRA): At-Will Public Safety members hired on or after after January 1, 2013 shall be subject to the same CalPERS retirement program plan provisions outlined in the Carmel Police Officers Association bargaining unit.

3. 7 Pursuant to Government Code Section 20965 and the City's CalPERS contract, an employee may elect to use accrued but unused sick leave available to them under the provision of the contract for sick leave service credit. If an employee elects to use sick leave available for service credit, such time cannot also be applied to the "sell back" provision outlined in the Plan under Leaves (Section 6.2).
2IPag e
REDLINE ATTACHMENT 2

4. Special Provisions

4.1 Uniform Allowance - Public safety At-Will positions are eligible for $100 per month of uniform allowance for the purchase and maintenance of required uniform items and footwear.

4.2 Boot Reimbursement-At-Will employees who are required to wear safety work boots for the performance of job duties shall be afforded an annual reimbursement of up to $300 per year for the purchase of approved safety boots. Employees shall provide receipts for items for which they are requesting reimbursement.

4.3 Wellness Reimbursement-At-Will employees are eligible to receive a reimbursement of up to $50/month to defray costs of a membership to a licensed gym/health club/fitness facility of the employee's choosing. This reimbursement will be provided on a semi-annual basis in arrears (July and January). Evidence of monthly membership payment is required along with the request of reimbursement.

4.4 Education Incentive Program (EIP) - Consistent with LiUNA Management Unit employees' labor agreement Article 5, employees are eligible to receive a two and one-half percent (2.5%) increase to their base salary upon satisfactory completion of 30 units of college level jobrelated courses. Upon satisfactory completion of 60 units or the attainment of an Associate Degree, employees are eligible to receive a salary increase equal to five percent (5%) of base salary. In no case shall the EIP rate of compensation exceed five percent (5%). a. Eligibility:

5. Insurance
i. The City Administrator is eligible to receive Education Incentive pay as determined by City Council and outlined in the City Administrator's employment contract.
ii. All AT-Will employees, except the City Administrator, are eligible to receive Education Incentive pay as determined by the City Administrator based on recruitment and retention needs on a case-by-case basis.

5.1 Health Insurance -The City shall provide At-Will employees with the same health plan options which are provided to other City employees. The City shall pay 85% of the medical premium of the At-Will employee and eligible dependents based on employee choice. a. Retirees-the City will contribute the mandatory monthly minimum contribution, as determined by CalPERS, for eligible At-Will employees that retire from City service. b. Option Out (Medical Program Only)-At-Will employees may elect to not participate in the City's medical plan. Any At-Will employee who elects to not participate shall 3 ID a g
REDLINE ATTACHMENT 2

be eligible to receive $291.00 per month in lieu of medical coverage. The following conditions must be met:
i. They shall submit proof of medical legally compliant coverage elsewhere. ii. They shall sign a medical plan waiver.
iii. Exclusion may apply when a legal order to provide medical coverage for dependents exists.

5.2 Dental and Vision - The City shall provide At-Will employees with the same dental and vision plan options which are provided to other City employees. The City shall pay 100% of the premium for the Core dental and vision plans for employees and eligible dependents.

Employees have the option to purchase buy-up options that are fully paid by the employee.

5.3 Life Insurance - Life insurance coverage paid by the City is Thirty Thousand Dollars ($30,000) for all employees and Five Thousand ($5,000) per dependents.

5.4 Long Term Disability Insurance - Premium coverage is paid by the City.

6. Leaves

6.1 Vacation Leave -At-Will employees will accrue vacation leave consistent with LiU NA Management Unit employees and in accordance with Municipal Code sections 2.52.625 through 2.52.645. The following are the current vacation accrual rates:
1 -4 Years of service:
5 -10 Years of service:
11 -15 years of service:
80 hours per year
120 hours per year
160 hours per year
15 years of service and over: 176 hours per year
a) The rate of accrual for the City Administrator may be determined by City Council and outlined in the City Administrators' employment contract. b) The City Administrator has the sole discretion to grant prior government service credit for recruitment and retention purposes to At-Will employees on a case-bycase basis. c) Pursuant to Municipal Code section 2.52.655, At-Will employees may "sell back" to the City vacation hours at the same rate as LiUNA Management Unit employees (currently up to 80 hours once per fiscal year).
41 a g E..

REDLINE ATTACHMENT 2

6.2 6.3

6.4 6.5
Sick Leave-At-Will employees shall accrue eight (8) hours of sick leave each month, consistent with all represented employee units. These hours are to be accrued and used in accordance with procedures outlined in Municipal Code section 2.52.665 through 2.52.685.

Bereavement Leave -At-Will employees are entitled to twenty-four (24) hours of bereavement leave each fiscal year for serious illness, disability, or death in the employee's immediate family. If the employee exhausts the 24 hours of bereavement leave, the employee shall be permitted to use up to two days of accrued sick leave as bereavement leave. If an additional incident qualifying for bereavement leave occurs in the same calendar year, the employee shall be permitted to use up to an additional five days of accrued sick leave as bereavement leave.

Executive (Management) Leave -Pursuant to Municipal Code 2.52.650, At-Will employees shall receive 96 hours of Executive (Management) Leave at the beginning of each fiscal year.

This is consistent with the current 80 hours of Executive Leave plus 16 hours of General Leave for the Management Unit. This leave must be taken during the fiscal year in which it is earned and will be replenished at the beginning of each fiscal year. Executive (Management) Leave hours have no cash out value. Leave hours shall be prorated for new hires.

Holidays -Consistent with all represented employee units, At-Will employees shall receive paid holidays annually as set forth below as approved by City Council (currently 12 days).

1. New Year's Day (January 1)

2. Martin Luther King Day (3rd Monday of January)

3. Lincoln's Birthday (February 12)

4. President's Day (3rd Monday of February)

5. Memorial Day (Last Monday of May)

6. Independence Day (July 4)

7. Labor Day (1st Monday of September)

8. Veterans Day (November 11)

9. Thanksgiving Day (4th Thursday in November)

10. Friday after Thanksgiving (Day after Thanksgiving)

11. Christmas Eve (December 24)

12. Christmas Day (December 25)
51 age
REDLINE ATTACHMENT 2

7. At-Will Status and Severance Pay
Pursuant to Municipal Code section 2.52.050, At-Will status shall mean the City retains the right to terminate the employment relationship for any reason, with or without cause, with or without notice, without further obligation or liability except for severance pay as set forth below.

The City Administrator serves at the pleasure of the City Council. Termination of employment and severance pay, with or without cause, are as outlined in the City Administrators' employment contract.

The City Administrator may resign from employment upon giving appropriate written notice to the City Council as outlined in the City Administrators' employment contract.

In the event the City Administrator terminates an employee's At-Will employment without cause, the terminated At-Will employee shall receive a single lump sum payment equal to one (1) month of their current aggregate salary. Employees terminated for cause are not entitled to severance pay.

Termination for cause is that involving misconduct including but not limited to illegal activities, gross malfeasance, dereliction of duties, or absence from employment without good cause.

With the exception of the City Administrator, all At-Will employees may resign from employment at any time, provided they give thirty (30) days' written notice to their Department Head or the City Administrator to remain in good standing. In the event of resignation, At-Will employees shall not be entitled to any additional compensation or payment, including severance, but shall be entitled to base salary, accrued vacation pay, and all other accrued and unused benefits as required by law.

8. Municipal Code - Title 2 Administration and Personnel The City of Carmel-by-the-Sea Municipal Code, personnel ordinances, resolutions, rules and policies not specifically addressed here shall apply to At-Will positions in the same manner as are applied to other City employees.

REDLINE ATTACHMENT 2

Appendix "A"
At-Will (unrepresented) Classifications:

1. City Administrator

2. Assistant City Administrator

3. Public Safety Director (Police Chief)

4. Public Works Director

5. Community Planning and Building Director

6. Police Commander

7. Library and community Activities Director (Library Director)

8. Finance Manager

9. Human Resources Manager

10. Information Services/Network Manager

11......City Clerk
4+.12,
4-2-:-13.
4-a:-14.
4¼.15.
4-5:-16.
-+&.17.
t-r.18.
4-&.-19.
*20.

Capital Program Manager
Environmental Compliance Manager
Project Manager
Building Official
Senior Human Resources Analyst
Deputy City Clerk
Administrative Analyst
Executive Assistant
Administrative Technician
71 REDLINE ATTACHMENT 2

City of Carmel-by-the-Sea

AT-WILL COMPENSATION AND BENEFITS PLAN
EFFECTIVE SEPTEMBER 1, 2026
This Compensation and Benefits Plan (Plan) is intended to establish standard compensation, benefits and conditions of employment for all At-Will (unrepresented) positions with the City of Carmel-by-the-Sea (City). The positions recognized as At-Will classifications are listed in Appendix “A”. Such recognition shall extend only to the employees holding permanent positions with the City.

All At-Will positions are exempt from the Fair Labor Standards Act (FLSA) and are at-will employees.

With the exception of the City Administrator, who holds office for and at the pleasure of the City Council, all At-Will positions serve at the pleasure of the City Administrator and can be terminated with or without notice or cause and with no rights to appeal as provided in Municipal Code section

2.52.050.

1. Salary and Compensation

1.1 The City Administrator receives compensation as determined by the City Council set forth in the City Administrator’s employment contract, and any subsequent amendments.

1.2 All At-Will positions, except the City Administrator, receive compensation based on publicly approved salary schedules approved by the City Council and outlined in individual employment contracts, as approved by the City Administrator. At-Will employees are eligible for merit salary step advancements, subject to a satisfactory performance evaluation and the City Administrators’ approval as provided in Municipal Code section 2.52.555.

1.3 Cost of Living Adjustments for all At-Will positions mirror those of the LiUNA Management Unit and are subject to City Council approval.

2. Deferred Compensation

2.1 The City offers all employees the opportunity to participate in a deferred compensation (457) plan on a voluntary basis through payroll contributions. Participation and contributions are regulated by the rules and regulations established by the Internal Revenue Service (IRS) for such plans.

2.2 The City Administrator receives a City contribution as determined by City Council and outlined in the City Administrator’s employment contract.

2.3 All At-Will positions, except the City Administrator, receive a minimum City contribution of $100 per month. The City Administrator has sole discretion to determine a higher contribution amount on a case-by-case basis based on recruitment and retention needs, and performance merits.

EXHIBIT A ATTACHMENT 3

2 | Page

3. Retirement

3.1 Miscellaneous Employees Tier 1: Employees hired on or before November 1, 2011 are subject to the 2% @ 55 retirement formula. Final compensation for the purpose of determining a retirement benefit is based on the highest consecutive 12-month period. The required member contribution is 7% of reportable compensation as defined by CalPERS.

3.2 Miscellaneous Employees Tier 2: Employees hired after November 1, 2011, and prior to January 1, 2013, and employees with qualified reciprocity (Classic Members) are subject to the 2% @ 60 retirement formula. Final compensation for the purpose of determining a retirement benefit is based on the average of the final 3- years of the member’s salary. The required member contribution is 7% of reportable compensation as defined by CalPERS.

3.3 Miscellaneous Employees Tier 3 (PEPRA): Employees hired on or after January 1, 2013 or who do not qualify for pension reciprocity, non-Classic Members, are subject to the 2% @ 62 formula. Final compensation for the purpose of determining a retirement benefits is based on the average of the final 3-years of the member’s salary. As required by Cal. Gov. Code Section 7522.04(g), members covered by this retirement formula shall pay fifty percent (50%) of the normal cost as determined by CalPERS annually.

3.4 Public Safety Employees Tier 1: At-Will Public Safety members hired prior to November 1, 2011 shall be subject to the same CalPERS retirement program plan provisions outlined in the Carmel Police Officers Association bargaining unit.

3.5 Public Safety Employees Tier 2: At-Will Public Safety members hired on or after November 1, 2011, and prior to January 1, 2013, shall be subject to the same CalPERS retirement program plan provisions outlined in the Carmel Police Officers Association bargaining unit.

3.6 Public Safety Employees Tier 3 (PEPRA): At-Will Public Safety members hired on or after after January 1, 2013 shall be subject to the same CalPERS retirement program plan provisions outlined in the Carmel Police Officers Association bargaining unit.

3.7 Pursuant to Government Code Section 20965 and the City’s CalPERS contract, an employee may elect to use accrued but unused sick leave available to them under the provision of the contract for sick leave service credit. If an employee elects to use sick leave available for service credit, such time cannot also be applied to the “sell back” provision outlined in the Plan under Leaves (Section 6.2).

4. Special Provisions

4.1 Uniform Allowance - Public safety At-Will positions are eligible for $100 per month of uniform allowance for the purchase and maintenance of required uniform items and footwear.

4.2 Boot Reimbursement – At-Will employees who are required to wear safety work boots for the performance of job duties shall be afforded an annual reimbursement of up to $300 per year for EXHIBIT A ATTACHMENT 3

3 | Page
the purchase of approved safety boots. Employees shall provide receipts for items for which they are requesting reimbursement.

4.3 Wellness Reimbursement – At-Will employees are eligible to receive a reimbursement of up to $50/month to defray costs of a membership to a licensed gym/health club/fitness facility of the employee’s choosing. This reimbursement will be provided on a semi-annual basis in arrears (July and January). Evidence of monthly membership payment is required along with the request of reimbursement.

4.4 Education Incentive Program (EIP) – Consistent with LiUNA Management Unit employees’ labor agreement Article 5, employees are eligible to receive a two and one-half percent (2.5%) increase to their base salary upon satisfactory completion of 30 units of college level jobrelated courses. Upon satisfactory completion of 60 units or the attainment of an Associate Degree, employees are eligible to receive a salary increase equal to five percent (5%) of base salary. In no case shall the EIP rate of compensation exceed five percent (5%). a. Eligibility:
i. The City Administrator is eligible to receive Education Incentive pay as determined by City Council and outlined in the City Administrator’s employment contract.
ii. All AT-Will employees, except the City Administrator, are eligible to receive Education Incentive pay as determined by the City Administrator based on recruitment and retention needs on a case-by-case basis.

5. Insurance

5.1 Health Insurance – The City shall provide At-Will employees with the same health plan options which are provided to other City employees. The City shall pay 85% of the medical premium of the At-Will employee and eligible dependents based on employee choice. a. Retirees – the City will contribute the mandatory monthly minimum contribution, as determined by CalPERS, for eligible At-Will employees that retire from City service. b. Option Out (Medical Program Only) – At-Will employees may elect to not participate in the City’s medical plan. Any At-Will employee who elects to not participate shall be eligible to receive $291.00 per month in lieu of medical coverage. The following conditions must be met:
i. They shall submit proof of medical legally compliant coverage elsewhere. ii. They shall sign a medical plan waiver.
iii. Exclusion may apply when a legal order to provide medical coverage for dependents exists.

EXHIBIT A ATTACHMENT 3

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5.2 Dental and Vision – The City shall provide At-Will employees with the same dental and vision plan options which are provided to other City employees. The City shall pay 100% of the premium for the Core dental and vision plans for employees and eligible dependents.

Employees have the option to purchase buy-up options that are fully paid by the employee.

5.3 Life Insurance – Life insurance coverage paid by the City is Thirty Thousand Dollars ($30,000) for all employees and Five Thousand ($5,000) per dependents.

5.4 Long Term Disability Insurance – Premium coverage is paid by the City.

6. Leaves

6.1 Vacation Leave – At-Will employees will accrue vacation leave consistent with LiUNA Management Unit employees and in accordance with Municipal Code sections 2.52.625 through 2.52.645. The following are the current vacation accrual rates:
1 – 4 Years of service: 80 hours per year
5 – 10 Years of service: 120 hours per year
11 – 15 years of service: 160 hours per year
15 years of service and over: 176 hours per year
a) The rate of accrual for the City Administrator may be determined by City Council and outlined in the City Administrators’ employment contract. b) The City Administrator has the sole discretion to grant prior government service credit for recruitment and retention purposes to At-Will employees on a case-bycase basis. c) Pursuant to Municipal Code section 2.52.655, At-Will employees may “sell back” to the City vacation hours at the same rate as LiUNA Management Unit employees (currently up to 80 hours once per fiscal year).

6.2 Sick Leave – At-Will employees shall accrue eight (8) hours of sick leave each month, consistent with all represented employee units. These hours are to be accrued and used in accordance with procedures outlined in Municipal Code section 2.52.665 through 2.52.685.

6.3 Bereavement Leave – At-Will employees are entitled to twenty-four (24) hours of bereavement leave each fiscal year for serious illness, disability, or death in the employee’s immediate family. If the employee exhausts the 24 hours of bereavement leave, the employee shall be permitted to use up to two days of accrued sick leave as bereavement leave. If an additional incident qualifying for bereavement leave occurs in the same EXHIBIT A ATTACHMENT 3

5 | Page
calendar year, the employee shall be permitted to use up to an additional five days of accrued sick leave as bereavement leave.

6.4 Executive (Management) Leave – Pursuant to Municipal Code 2.52.650, At-Will employees shall receive 96 hours of Executive (Management) Leave at the beginning of each fiscal year.

This is consistent with the current 80 hours of Executive Leave plus 16 hours of General Leave for the Management Unit. This leave must be taken during the fiscal year in which it is earned and will be replenished at the beginning of each fiscal year. Executive (Management) Leave hours have no cash out value. Leave hours shall be prorated for new hires.

6.5 Holidays – Consistent with all represented employee units, At-Will employees shall receive paid holidays annually as set forth below as approved by City Council (currently 12 days).

1. New Year’s Day (January 1)

2. Martin Luther King Day (3rd Monday of January)

3. Lincoln’s Birthday (February 12)

4. President’s Day (3rd Monday of February)

5. Memorial Day (Last Monday of May)

6. Independence Day (July 4)

7. Labor Day (1st Monday of September)

8. Veterans Day (November 11)

9. Thanksgiving Day (4th Thursday in November)

10. Friday after Thanksgiving (Day after Thanksgiving)

11. Christmas Eve (December 24)

12. Christmas Day (December 25)

7. At-Will Status and Severance Pay
Pursuant to Municipal Code section 2.52.050, At-Will status shall mean the City retains the right to terminate the employment relationship for any reason, with or without cause, with or without notice, without further obligation or liability except for severance pay as set forth below.

The City Administrator serves at the pleasure of the City Council. Termination of employment and severance pay, with or without cause, are as outlined in the City Administrators’ employment contract.

The City Administrator may resign from employment upon giving appropriate written notice to the City Council as outlined in the City Administrators’ employment contract.

EXHIBIT A ATTACHMENT 3

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In the event the City Administrator terminates an employee’s At-Will employment without cause, the terminated At-Will employee shall receive a single lump sum payment equal to one (1) month of their current aggregate salary. Employees terminated for cause are not entitled to severance pay.

Termination for cause is that involving misconduct including but not limited to illegal activities, gross malfeasance, dereliction of duties, or absence from employment without good cause.

With the exception of the City Administrator, all At-Will employees may resign from employment at any time, provided they give thirty (30) days’ written notice to their Department Head or the City Administrator to remain in good standing. In the event of resignation, At-Will employees shall not be entitled to any additional compensation or payment, including severance, but shall be entitled to base salary, accrued vacation pay, and all other accrued and unused benefits as required by law.

8. Municipal Code – Title 2 Administration and Personnel The City of Carmel-by-the-Sea Municipal Code, personnel ordinances, resolutions, rules and policies not specifically addressed here shall apply to At-Will positions in the same manner as are applied to other City employees.

EXHIBIT A ATTACHMENT 3

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Appendix “A”
At-Will (unrepresented) Classifications:

1. City Administrator

2. Assistant City Administrator

3. Public Safety Director (Police Chief)

4. Public Works Director

5. Community Planning and Building Director

6. Police Commander

7. Library and Community Activities Director (Library Director)

8. Finance Manager

9. Human Resources Manager

10. Information Services/Network Manager

11. City Clerk

12. Capital Program Manager

13. Environmental Compliance Manager

14. Project Manager

15. Building Official

16. Senior Human Resources Analyst

17. Deputy City Clerk

18. Administrative Analyst

19. Executive Assistant

20. Administrative Technician
EXHIBIT A ATTACHMENT 3

Pay Band Classification Grade Resolution # Effective
Date
Minimum Annual
Salary
Maximum Annual
Salary
City Administrator W-1CA 2026-XXX 9/1/2026 $280,000.00 $330,000.00 Assistant City Administrator W-1ACA 2026-065 9/1/2026 $207,648.48 $252,397.78 Public Safety Director W-1 2026-065 9/1/2026 $207,648.48 $252,397.78 Public Works Director W-1PWD 2024-069 7/1/2025 $197,417.61 $239,962.63 Community Planning and Building Director W-2CPBD 2024-069 7/1/2025 $197,417.61 $239,962.63 Police Commander W-443PC 2024-069 7/1/2025 $174,275.91 $211,834.39 Library and Community Activities Director W-440DL 2024-069 7/1/2025 $174,275.91 $211,834.39 4 Human Resources Manager W-20 HRM 2026-065 9/1/2026 $165,061.19 $200,632.98 Finance Manager W-459FM 2024-069 7/1/2025 $157,938.18 $191,974.91 Information Services/Network Manager W-403IS 2024-069 7/1/2025 $157,938.18 $191,974.91 City Clerk W-400CC 2024-069 7/1/2025 $157,938.18 $191,974.91 6 Capital Program Manager 2026-035 7/1/2025 $153,845.36 $187,000.00 7 Building Official W-366BO 2026-065 7/1/2025 $141,284.15 $171,705.32 Environmental Compliance Manager W-377EC 2024-069 7/1/2025 $130,456.28 $158,546.00 Project Manager W-10 2024-069 7/1/2025 $130,456.28 $158,546.00 9 Senior Human Resources Analyst W-362SA 2024-069 7/1/2025 $107,590.20 $134,694.17 Deputy City Clerk W-342DC 2024-069 7/1/2025 $92,933.68 $112,951.06 Administrative Analyst W-7AA 2024-069 7/1/2025 $92,933.68 $112,951.06 11 Executive Assistant W-3EXA 2024-069 7/1/2025 $93,476.74 $101,102.78 12 Administrative Technician W-9AT 2024-069 7/1/2025 $78,952.43 $96,009.73 8 10
1 2
3 5
City of Carmel by the Sea SALARY SCHEDULE
Effective September 1, 2026

AT-WILL (UNREPRESENTED) CLASSIFICATIONS
City Council Meeting: October 6, 2026 |Reso #2026-XXX
Exhibit B ATTACHMENT 4

CITY OF CARMEL-BY-THE-SEA
City Council
Staff Report
October 6, 2026

PUBLIC HEARINGS
TO: Honorable Mayor and City Council Members
SUBMITTED BY: Marnie R. Waffle, AICP, Principal Planner APPROVED BY: Brandon Swanson, Acting City Administrator SUBJECT: First Reading and Introduction of Ordinance No. 2026-005 amending Carmel Municipal Code Chapters 17.08, 17.14, 17.18,

17.38, 17.64, and 17.68 to implement specific General Plan Housing Element (6th cycle) programs to remove constraints to the development of housing and comply with State housing law.

RECOMMENDATION:

Staff recommends that the City Council:

1. Request the City Attorney to read the title of Ordinance No. 2026-005; and

2. Motion to waive further reading and introduce Ordinance No. 2026-005 (Attachment 1) amending Carmel Municipal Code Chapters 17.08, 17.14, 17.18, 17.38, 17.64, and

17.68 to implement specific General Plan Housing Element (6th cycle) programs to remove constraints to the development of housing and comply with State housing law.

BACKGROUND / SUMMARY:

On April 8, 2024, the City Council adopted the 6th cycle Housing Element, which covers the 2023-2031 planning period. On July 7, 2026, the City Council adopted an amendment to the 6th cycle Housing Element that includes revised programs and strategies for achieving the City’s regional housing needs allocation (RHNA) of 349 new housing units by 2031, of which 231 must be affordable to lower and moderate-income households. The city is also responsible for reducing regulatory barriers to housing development and complying with new housing legislation.

The State Department of Housing and Community Development (HCD) found both the adopted (2024 version) and amended (2026 version) Housing Element to be in substantial compliance with State law (Gov. Code Section 65580 et seq.) To remain compliant, the city must implement the programs outlined in Housing Element Chapter 2, Goals, Policies, and Programs (Attachment 2).

On February 25, 2025 (agenda report and video), the Planning Commission held a special meeting to review proposed amendments to the Carmel Municipal Code (CMC) to implement specific Housing Element programs. The proposed amendments were general code revisions required by State law to:
a) reduce or eliminate governmental constraints on the provision of affordable housing; b) incentivize affordable housing development; and
c) facilitate transitional and supportive housing in appropriate districts.

Not all amendments reviewed at the special Planning Commission meeting in February 2025 will be discussed in this report. Some items require additional research or coordination with other programs before being brought back as an amendment for adoption. Staff will return in the future with code amendments to implement other Housing Element programs, including the Hotel to Residential Transfer of Development Rights, Mixed-Income Incentive Program, and Live-Work, among others.

Summary of Topics: Table 1 below lists certain Housing Element programs to be implemented in whole or in part as part of this recommended action. Table 2 lists the associated Chapters of the Carmel Municipal Code (CMC) that are affected by the implementation. Following these tables is a description of each Housing Element program that requires a CMC amendment as an implementing measure, and the proposed amendments.

The Planning Commission reviewed the proposed amendments and on August 19, 2026, adopted Resolution 2026-44-PC recommending City Council adoption of the amendments (Attachment 3).

Table 1. Summary of Programs to be Implemented
Housing Element Programs
Program No. Program Name

1.3.B Employee Housing

1.3.C Manufactured Homes on a Foundation System

3.1.E Reduced Parking Requirements

3.1.G Establish Minimum Densities

3.3.A Zoning for Transitional and Supportive Housing

3.3.D Single-Room Occupancy (SRO) Units
Table 2. Summary of Amended Municipal Code Chapters
Carmel Municipal Code
Chapter Title

17.08 Residential Zoning Districts

17.14 Commercial Zoning Districts

17.38 Off-Street Parking Requirements

17.64 Findings Required for Permits and
Approvals

17.68 Use Classifications
Program 1.3.B, Employee Housing:

Amend the Carmel Municipal Code to include a definition for employee housing, consistent with the California Employee Housing Act, and allow employee housing for six or fewer employees to be treated as a single family structure and permitted in the same manner as other dwellings of the same type in the same zone.

Proposed Amendment: A new definition of Employee Housing would be added as a residential housing type in Section 17.68.030, the Use Classifications chapter of the CMC, and would read as follows:

Employee Housing. Housing that provides for five or more employees under specified circumstances as defined in the California Employee Housing Act (California Health and Safety Code Sections 17000 through 17062.5), as may be amended. Employee housing is privately operated and does not include government-owned and -operated migrant worker facilities. Employee housing includes living quarters provided in connection with any work, whether or not rent is involved.

Additionally, Employee Housing would be listed as a permitted use in Section

17.08.040 (Land Use Regulations) within the R-1 District.

Schedule II-1 Land Use Regulations for Residential Districts

P = Permitted Use
L = Limitations Apply
C = Conditional Use
Permit Required
R-1 R-4 Additional Regulations
Residential See CMC 17.08.060
Employee Housing P / L-5 P / L-5
Specific Limitations and Conditions:
…

5. Limited to occupancy within a single-family residence. For Employee Housing, the total number of employees occupying a single-family residence shall not exceed six (6). …
Discussion: This code amendment is to comply with the Employee Housing Act as set forth in the California Health and Safety Code. It is intended to address housing for agricultural workers due to Carmel’s proximity to agricultural uses. Housing Element Appendix A, Housing Needs and Fair Housing Report states the following:

According to the 2021 American Census Survey (ACS) data, zero percent of individuals residing in Carmel-by-the-Sea households reported that they were employed in the Agriculture, Forestry, or Fishing and Hunting industry. According to the Department of Conservation’s Important Farmland Categories, the City of Carmel-by-the-Sea is entirely designated as “Urban and Built-up Land” and does not contain any important or prime farmlands. There are no agricultural lands or agriculturally zoned properties within the City limits. There are no farm labor housing developments in the City nor are there projects assisted with Rural Housing Administration financing; however, the City shares the responsibility for farmworker housing as farmworkers may work within 75 miles of agricultural land uses (including dairy, vineyards, and produce) and the City is within 75 miles of these uses. While HCD has no established metrics, the United States Department of Agriculture, (USDA) considers farmworkers that work at a specific location within 75 miles of their home to be “settled” and thus permanent members of their home community.

For these reasons, Program 1.3.B was created. Source: Employee Housing Act, Health and Safety Code Section 17000, Sections 17021.5 and 17021.6.

Program 1.3.C, Manufactured Homes on a Foundation System:

Add manufactured homes as a permitted use in the R-1 district, subject to the same design and development standards that apply to a conventionally built single-family residential dwelling on the same lot.

Proposed Amendment: A new definition of Manufactured Home would be added as a residential housing type in Section 17.68.030, the Use Classifications chapter of the

CMC, and would read as follows:

Manufactured Home. A structure that was constructed on or after June 15, 1976, is transportable in one or more sections, is eight body feet or more in width, or 40 body feet or more in length, in the traveling mode, or, when erected on site, is 320 or more square feet, is built on a permanent chassis and designed to be used as a single-family dwelling with or without a foundation when connected to the required utilities, and includes the plumbing, heating, air conditioning, and electrical systems contained therein (Health and Safety Code Section 18007, as may be amended). “Manufactured home” includes any structure that meets all the requirements of this paragraph except the size requirements and with respect to which the manufacturer voluntarily files a certification and complies with the standards established under the National Manufactured Housing Construction and Safety Act of 1974 (42 U.S.C., Sec. 5401, and following).

Additionally, a Manufactured Home would be listed as a permitted use in Section

17.08.040 (Land Use Regulations) within the R-1 District.

Schedule II-1 Land Use Regulations for Residential Districts P = Permitted Use
L = Limitations Apply
C = Conditional Use Permit Required
R-1 R-4 Additional
Regulations
Residential See CMC

17.08.060
Manufactured Home P -
Discussion: Manufactured homes are not currently prohibited and would remain subject to the residential design guidelines. This amendment identifies them as a distinct housing type that is permitted by right like any other single-family home in the singlefamily residential district. Source: Government Code Section 65852.3 Program 3.1.E, Reduced Parking Requirements:

One component of this program is to clarify that affordable units are exempt from the parking in-lieu fees.

Proposed Amendment: Text revisions to CMC Section 17.14.060.B would clarify that apartments in the Central Commercial (CC) District which are already exempt from providing off-street parking are also exempt from payment of parking in-lieu fees.

B. No off-street parking shall be required, nor shall any parking in-lieu fee be imposed, for apartments.

In addition, Table A: Minimum Parking Requirements in CMC Section 17.38.020 would

be amended to distinguish apartments and condominiums under the category of Permanent Residential Use and reflect that deed-restricted affordable units for moderate and lower income households are not required to provide off-street parking in the Central Commercial (CC) District.

Table A: Minimum Parking Requirements
Land Use District Parking
Factors
Land Use Basis for
Requirement
CC SC RC R4
Spaces
per Dwelling Unit
1 N/A
Permanent 1 1.5 1.5
Residential Use
Apartment*
Condominium
Spaces per Dwelling
Unit
1 1 1.5 1.5
Deed Restricted
Affordable Housing
for Moderate-, Lowor Very-Low
Income**
Spaces per Dwelling
Unit
1/2
N/A
1/2 1/2 1/2
Spaces per Dwelling
Unit
Senior Housing, 1/3 1/3 1/3 1/3
Cooperative Housing
or Group Care
Facilities Guest Spaces per Each
Four Full Units
1 1 1 1
Nursing Home or
Other Resident Care
Facility
Spaces per Patient or
Resident
N/A 1/3 1/3 1/3
Commercial Retail or
Service Uses Not
Otherwise Specified
in This Table
Spaces per 600 Square
Feet of Commercial
Floor Area or per
Business/Shop Space,
Whichever is Greater
1 1 1 1
SIC 701: Hotels and
Motels
Spaces per Rental Unit,
Including Manager’s
Unit
1 1 1 1
*Parking In-lieu fee shall not be required for apartments in the CC District. **Parking in-lieu fee shall not be required for affordable housing.

Discussion: HCD identified the payment of parking in-lieu fees to be a constraint on the development of affordable housing. The proposed amendment would make affordable housing units ineligible for the parking in-lieu fee program. Affordable housing units are afforded a reduced parking requirement, and this amendment would ensure that all parking is provided onsite.

In Chapter 17.38, Off-Street Parking Requirements, Table A: Minimum Parking Requirements, a Permanent Residential Use in the CC District requires 1 space per unit. A permanent residential use could be an apartment (rental) or a condominium (ownership).

In Chapter 17.14 Commercial Zoning Districts, Section 17.14.060.B, it states that no off-street parking shall be required for apartments.

Apartments are for permanent residential use; however, Table A indicates that 1 offstreet parking space is required. Table A is proposed to be amended to address this inconsistency by distinguishing between apartments and condominiums.

Apartments would not be required to provide parking in the CC District in accordance with CMC Section 17.14.060.B; however, condominiums would still be required to provide 1 space per unit. Because parking is prohibited in the CC District, a parking inlieu fee would be assessed for condominiums to satisfy the parking requirement.

Program 3.1.G, Establish Minimum Densities:

Prohibit new single-family development in the CC, SC, RC, and R-4 zoning districts.

Proposed Amendment: The footnote to the land use regulations table (Schedule II-B) would be revised to prohibit all new single family dwellings in the commercial districts (CMC Section 17.14.030). Additionally, the findings that allow for single-family dwellings in the SC and RC districts would be eliminated (CMC Section 17.64.230).

New single-family dwellings in the R-4 district would also be prohibited (CMC Section

17.08.040).

Schedule II-B: Commercial Districts – Use Regulations
Commercial
Districts
P = Permitted Use
L = Limitations Apply
C = Conditional Use Permit
Required CC SC RC
Additional
Regulations
Residential/Public and Semi-public
Single-Family Dwellings L-5 C L
-5
C L-5 See CMC 17.08.050(H)
...

L-5: Limited to sites that are already developed with a single-family dwelling, or that were originally developed as, or used as, a single-family dwelling but have since been converted to another use. New single-family dwellings are prohibited. Existing singlefamily dwellings can be maintained, altered, and/or repaired in accordance with Chapter 17.36 Nonconforming Uses and Buildings and/or redeveloped. R-1 district floor area ratio standards shall apply to these sites.
...
§ 17.64.230. Single-Family Dwellings in the SC and RC Districts (Required Findings for Approval).

A. There is an existing single-family dwelling on site that is being maintained, remodeled, altered, expanded or demolished and replaced with a new single-family dwelling; or
B. The project contributes to community character and will be compatible with the streetscape, mass, bulk and uses of surrounding properties. (Ord. 2012-07 (Exh. A), 2012)
Schedule II-1 Land Use Regulations for Residential Districts P = Permitted Use
L = Limitations Apply
C = Conditional Use Permit
Required
R-1 R-4 Additional Regulations
Residential See CMC 17.08.060
Single-Family P P - See CMC 17.08.050(E), (H)
Studio P P/L8 -
...

5. Limited to occupancy within an existing single-family residence. ...

8. Limited to sites with an existing single-family residence.

Discussion: The intent of this amendment is to encourage redevelopment of sites at a higher density to increase the city’s housing stock. Prohibiting the creation of new single-family dwellings would cause any existing single-family dwelling in the CC, SC, RC, and R-4 districts to become legal nonconforming. A lawful nonconforming structure can be maintained, repaired, or altered so long as the nonconformity is not increased.

Alterations, repairs, or remodeling that enlarge, extend, or increase a nonconforming feature of a building would be prohibited. Other uses associated with single-family dwellings, such as studios, would continue to be allowed on sites with existing singlefamily residences.

Program 3.3.A, Zoning for Transitional and Supportive Housing:

Permit as a residential use subject only to restrictions that apply to other residential dwellings of the same type in the same zone.

Proposed Amendment: The land use tables would be updated to reflect that transitional and supportive housing are permitted multifamily use types in all zoning districts and are subject only to those restrictions that apply to other residential dwellings of the same type in the same zone.

Schedule II-B: Commercial Districts – Use Regulations
Commercial
Districts
P = Permitted Use
L = Limitations Apply
C = Conditional Use Permit
Required CC SC RC
Additional Regulations
Residential/Public and Semi-public
Multifamily Dwellings * * * See CMC §

17.14.040(N)
*Includes Transitional Housing and Supportive Housing.

Schedule II-1 Land Use Regulations for Residential Districts P = Permitted Use
L = Limitations Apply
C = Conditional Use Permit
Required
R-1 R-4 Additional Regulations
Residential See CMC 17.08.060
Supportive Housing P P/C
Transitional Housing P P/C
Proposed Amendment: The existing definition for Transitional Housing would be amended to align with current state housing law as follows:

Transitional Housing. Buildings configured as rental housing developments, but operated under program requirements that require the termination of assistance and recirculating of the assisted unit to another eligible program recipient at a predetermined future point in time that shall be no less than six months from the beginning of the assistance. Transitional Housing means housing with supportive services for up to 24 months that is exclusively designated and targeted for recently homeless persons. Transitional housing includes self-sufficiency development services,

with the ultimate goal of moving recently homeless persons to permanent housing as quickly as possible, and limits rents and service fees to an ability-to-pay formula reasonably consistent with the United States Department of Housing and Urban Development’s requirements for subsidized housing for low-income persons. Rents and service fees paid for transitional housing may be reserved, in whole or in part, to assist residents in moving to permanent housing (See Health and Safety Code, §50801, subd. (i).) Transitional housing is a residential use of property subject only to those restrictions that apply to other residential dwellings of the same type in the same zone.

Discussion: The current definition of Supportive Housing aligns with State law; therefore, no change is proposed. Source: Senate Bill 2 (2007), Gov. Code Sections 65582, 65583, 65589.5
Program 3.3.D, Single Room Occupancy (SRO) Units:

Add a definition for a single room occupancy unit.

Proposed Amendment: Single-room occupancy units would be added as a residential housing type in CMC Chapter 17.68 (Use Classifications) and a permitted use in the commercial and multifamily districts.

Single-Room Occupancy (SRO) Unit. A permanent, affordable housing unit between 150 and 399 square feet, rented on a month-to-month or longer-term basis, and serving as the primary residence for up to two occupants. It may or may not include a private kitchen or bathroom facilities. If private facilities are not provided in individual units, shared kitchen and/or bathroom facilities are required on each floor, at a per-unit ratio, in accordance with the California Building Code. Onsite laundry facilities shall be provided. Single-Room Occupancy Units are a residential use of property subject only to those restrictions that apply to other residential dwellings of the same type in the same zone.

Schedule II-1 Land Use Regulations for Residential Districts P = Permitted Use
L = Limitations Apply
C = Conditional Use Permit
Required
R-1 R-4 Additional Regulations
Residential See CMC 17.08.060
Single-Room Occupancy (SRO) Units P P/C
Schedule II-B: Commercial Districts – Use Regulations
P = Permitted Use Commercial Additional Regulations

L = Limitations Apply Districts
C = Conditional Use Permit
Required CC SC RC
Residential/Public and Semi-public
Multifamily Dwellings L-9 L-9 L-9 See CMC §

17.14.040(N)
Specific Limitations and Conditions:

L-9: Includes Transitional Housing, and Supportive Housing, and Single-Room Occupancy (SRO)

Discussion: In response to the statewide housing shortage and especially affordable housing, reducing regulatory barriers to the production of housing includes treating all housing types the same regardless of the population they serve. Source: Gov. Code Section 66583

ENVIRONMENTAL REVIEW
On April 8, 2024, the City Council adopted Resolution 2024-028, adopting a Mitigated Negative Declaration (MND) and associated Mitigation Monitoring and Reporting Program (MMRP) for the 6th cycle Housing Element (2023-2031). On July 7, 2026, the City Council adopted Resolution 2026-053, adopting an addendum to the MND/MMRP.

FISCAL IMPACT:

The costs associated with preparing the municipal code amendments are covered by the general fund.

PRIOR CITY COUNCIL ACTION:

On April 8, 2024, the City Council adopted Resolution 2024-029, approving a General Plan amendment and adopting the 6th cycle housing element update. The Housing Element outlines a range of programs to be implemented through 2031.

On July 7, 2026, the City Council adopted Resolution 2026-054 amending the 6th cycle Housing Element.

ATTACHMENTS:

1. Ordinance 2026-005

2. Chapter 2 Goals Policies and Programs

3. PC Resolution 2026-44-PC

CITY OF CARMEL-BY-THE-SEA

CITY COUNCIL
ORDINANCE NO. 2026-005
ORDINANCE AMENDING CARMEL MUNICIPAL CODE (CMC) CHAPTERS 17.08, 17.14,

17.38, 17.64, AND 17.68 TO IMPLEMENT SPECIFIC GENERAL PLAN HOUSING ELEMENT (6TH CYCLE) PROGRAMS TO REMOVE CONSTRAINTS TO THE DEVELOPMENT OF

HOUSING AND COMPLY WITH STATE HOUSING LAW
WHEREAS, pursuant to Ordinance 96, the City of Carmel-by-the-Sea is determined to be primarily, essentially, and predominantly a residential City, wherein business and commerce have in the past, are now, and are proposed to be in the future subordinated to its residential character; and
WHEREAS, on April 8, 2025, the City Council adopted the 6th cycle Housing Element for the 2023-2031 planning period by Resolution 2024-029, and on July 7, 2026, the City Council adopted an amendment to the 6th cycle Housing Element by Resolution 2026-054; and WHEREAS, the City of Carmel-by-the-Sea is responsible to plan for 349 new housing units by 2031, reducing regulatory barriers to housing development, and complying with new housing legislation; and
WHEREAS, the State Department of Housing and Community Development (HCD) found the adopted Housing Element to be in substantial compliance with State law (Gov. Code Section 65580 et seq.) on April 25, 2024, and determined on May 28, 2026, that the amended Housing Element continues to comply with State Housing Element Law; and WHEREAS, to remain in compliance, the city must implement the programs outlined in Housing Element Chapter 2, Goals, Policies, and Programs; and WHEREAS, on February 25, 2025, the Planning Commission held a special meeting to review and provide feedback on proposed amendments to the Carmel Municipal Code to implement specific Housing Element programs; and
WHEREAS, Title 17 of the Carmel Municipal Code, also known as the City's Zoning Ordinance, is part of the Local Coastal Program (LCP) Implementation Plan; and WHEREAS, this ordinance is an amendment to Title 17.08, 17.14, 17.38, 17.64, and 17.68 of the Carmel Municipal Code and LCP Implementation Plan and requires certification by the California Coastal Commission; and
WHEREAS, on August 19, 2026, the Planning Commission held a duly noticed public hearing and adopted Resolution 2026-44-PC recommending City Council adoption of the proposed Ordinance; and
WHEREAS, on October 6, 2026, the City Council held a duly noticed public hearing, waived the first reading, and introduced the proposed Ordinance; and WHEREAS, on November 3, 2026, the City Council held a duly noticed public hearing for the second reading of the proposed Ordinance; and
WHEREAS, this Ordinance is found to be exempt from environmental review, per the ATTACHMENT 1

Ordinance No. 2026-005

provisions of California Public Resources Code §§21080.085 and §§15061(b)(3) and 15378 of the CEQA Guidelines because the proposed project implements adopted Housing Element programs and does not present any unusual circumstances that would result in a potentially significant environmental impact, it can be seen with certainty that the Ordinance has no potential for resulting in a physical change in the environment, directly or indirectly, and no exceptions to the exemption exist pursuant to section 15300.2 of the CEQA Guidelines. On April 8, 2024, the City Council adopted Resolution 2024-028, adopting a Mitigated Negative Declaration for the 6th cycle Housing Element (2023-2031) and on July 7, 2026, the City Council adopted Resolution 2026-053 adopting an addendum to the adopted Mitigated Negative Declaration and associated Mitigation Monitoring and Reporting Program for the 6th cycle Housing Element Amendment (2023-2031); and
WHEREAS, the city certifies that the amendments to Title 17 are intended to be carried out in a manner fully in conformance with the California Coastal Act (CA Section 30510); and WHEREAS, the City Council finds this ordinance necessary to implement the programs adopted in the 6th-cycle Housing Element.

NOW, THEREFORE, THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF CARMEL-BY-THE-SEA DOES ORDAIN AS FOLLOWS:

SECTION 1. Incorporation of Recitals. The City Council of the City of Carmel-by-the-Sea incorporates the Recitals above by reference as though fully set forth here.

SECTION 2. Codification. This Ordinance shall be codified in the City of Carmel-by-the-Sea Municipal Code as set forth below.

SECTION 3. Employee Housing. To implement Housing Element Program 1.3.B Employee Housing, Section 17.68.030, Residential Use Classifications, is hereby amended, in part, to add the following definition:

Employee Housing. Housing that provides for five or more employees under specified circumstances as defined in the California Employee Housing Act (California Health and Safety Code Sections 17000 through 17062.5), as may be amended. Employee housing is privately operated and does not include government-owned and -operated migrant worker facilities. Employee housing includes living quarters provided in connection with any work, whether or not rent is involved.

Further, Section 17.08.040 Land Use Regulations, Schedule II-1 Land Use Regulations for Residential Districts, is hereby amended, in part, to add Employee Housing as a Residential land use type as follows:

Schedule II-1 Land Use Regulations for Residential Districts P = Permitted Use
L = Limitations Apply
C = Conditional Use Permit Required
R-1 R-4 Additional Regulations
Residential See CMC 17.08.060
Employee Housing P / L-5 P / L-5
Specific Limitations and Conditions:

ATTACHMENT 1

Ordinance No. 2026-005

1. Limited to advertising, consumer credit reporting, secretarial and court reporting, equipment maintenance and repair, personnel supply services, and nonretail computer services and repair.

2. Allowed only on existing quasi-public use sites established prior to December 1, 1980, or added as an accessory use to such existing uses.

3. Limited to existing units established prior to January 1, 1967, and/or authorized by a use permit issued between 1967 and 1990.
*Note: These provisions approved by voter referendum.

4. Limited to existing commercial spaces established prior to 1993 and occupied by commercial uses continuously since that time.

5. Limited to occupancy within a single-family residence. For Employee Housing, the total number of employees occupying a single-family residence shall not exceed six (6).

6. Limited to permits approved prior to the adoption of Ordinance 2019-03.

7. Limited to transient rental units approved through the issuance of a conditional use permit as an incentive for the creation of new housing units. See CMC § 17.14.040(W)(2)(b).

SECTION 4. Manufactured Homes. To implement Housing Element Program 1.3.C Manufactured Homes on a Foundation System, Section 17.68.030 Residential Use Classifications is hereby amended, in part, to add the following definition of Manufactured Home:

Manufactured Home. A structure that was constructed on or after June 15, 1976, is transportable in one or more sections, is eight body feet or more in width, or 40 body feet or more in length, in the traveling mode, or, when erected on site, is 320 or more square feet, is built on a permanent chassis and designed to be used as a single-family dwelling with or without a foundation when connected to the required utilities, and includes the plumbing, heating, air conditioning, and electrical systems contained therein (Health and Safety Code Section 18007, as may be amended). “Manufactured home” includes any structure that meets all the requirements of this paragraph except the size requirements and with respect to which the manufacturer voluntarily files a certification and complies with the standards established under the National Manufactured Housing Construction and Safety Act of 1974 (42 U.S.C., Sec. 5401, and following).

Further, Section 17.08.040 Land Use Regulations, Schedule II-1 Land Use Regulations for Residential Districts, is hereby amended, in part, to add Manufactured Home as a Residential land use type as follows:

Schedule II-1 Land Use Regulations for Residential Districts P = Permitted Use
L = Limitations Apply
C = Conditional Use Permit Required
R-1 R-4 Additional Regulations
Residential See CMC 17.08.060
Manufactured Home P -
ATTACHMENT 1

Ordinance No. 2026-005

SECTION 5. Parking Standards and Parking In-Lieu Fees. To implement a portion of Housing Element Program 3.1.E Reduced Parking Requirements, Section 17.14.060.B, is hereby amended as follows:

B. No off-street parking shall be required, nor shall any parking in-lieu fee be imposed, for apartments.

Further, Section 17.38.020 General Requirements, Table A: Minimum Parking Requirements is hereby amended, in part, as follows:

Table A: Minimum Parking Requirements
Land Use Basis for Requirement
Land Use District Parking
Factors
CC SC RC R4
Permanent Residential Use
Apartment*
Condominium
Spaces per Dwelling Unit
1 N/A 1 1.5 1.5
Spaces per Dwelling Unit 1 1 1.5 1.5
Deed Restricted Affordable
Housing for Moderate-, Low- or
Very-Low Income**
Spaces per Dwelling Unit 1/2
N/A 1/2 1/2 1/2
Senior Housing, Cooperative
Housing or Group Care
Facilities
Spaces per Dwelling Unit 1/3 1/3 1/3 1/3
Guest Spaces per Each
Four Full Units 1 1 1 1
Nursing Home or Other
Resident Care Facility
Spaces per Patient or
Resident N/A 1/3 1/3 1/3
Commercial Retail or Service
Uses Not Otherwise Specified
in This Table
Spaces per 600 Square
Feet of Commercial Floor
Area or per
Business/Shop Space,
Whichever is Greater
1 1 1 1
SIC 701: Hotels and Motels Spaces per Rental Unit,
Including Manager’s Unit 1 1 1 1
*Parking In-lieu fee shall not be required for apartments in the CC District. **Parking in-lieu fee shall not be required for affordable housing.

SECTION 6. Single-Family Dwellings in the Commercial Districts. To implement a portion of Housing Element Program 3.1.G Establish Minimum Densities, Section 17.14.030, Land Use Regulations, Schedule II-B: Commercial Districts – Use Regulations is hereby amended, in part, as follows:

Schedule II-B: Commercial Districts – Use Regulations
P = Permitted Use
L = Limitations Apply
C = Conditional Use Permit Required
Commercial Districts Additional Regulations

CC SC RC
Residential/Public and Semipublic
Single-Family Dwellings L-5 C L-5 C L-5 See CMC 17.08.050(H) ATTACHMENT 1

Ordinance No. 2026-005

Specific Limitations and Conditions:

L-1: Limited to advertising, consumer credit reporting, secretarial court reporting, equipment maintenance and repair, personnel supply services, and nonretail computer services and repair.

L-2: Allowed only as accessory use to gasoline stations and limited to a maximum of 300 square feet. No sales of alcohol are permitted. See CMC § 17.14.040(D)(2) and (J)(2).

L-3: Any establishments with activities generating noise, odors, deliveries by large vehicles, high traffic by customers, or requiring large storage needs are not permitted.

L-4: Limited to offices for the following categories: operators of nonresidential buildings, apartment buildings, dwellings, real estate agents and managers, and title companies.

L-5: Limited to sites that are already developed with a single-family dwelling, or that were originally developed as, or used as, a single-family dwelling but have since been converted to another use. New single-family dwellings are prohibited. Existing single-family dwellings can be maintained, altered, and/or repaired in accordance with Chapter 17.36 Nonconforming Uses and Buildings and/or redeveloped. R-1 district floor area ratio standards shall apply to these sites.

L-6: Subject to the same regulations as apply to other family residential dwellings in the same zone.

L-7: Limited to permits approved prior to the adoption of Ordinance 2019-03.

L-8: Limited to transient rental units approved through the issuance of a conditional use permit as an incentive for the creation of new housing units. See CMC § 17.14.040(W)(2)(b).

Further, Section 17.64.230 Single-Family Dwellings in the SC and RC Districts (Required Findings for Approval) is hereby deleted.
§ 17.64.230. Single-Family Dwellings in the SC and RC Districts (Required Findings for Approval).

A. There is an existing single-family dwelling on site that is being maintained, remodeled, altered, expanded or demolished and replaced with a new single-family dwelling; or B. The project contributes to community character and will be compatible with the streetscape, mass, bulk and uses of surrounding properties. (Ord. 2012-07 (Exh. A), 2012)
Further, Section 17.08.040 Land Use Regulations, Schedule II-1 Land Use Regulations for Residential Districts, is hereby amended, in part, as follows:

Schedule II-1 Land Use Regulations for Residential Districts P = Permitted Use
L = Limitations Apply
C = Conditional Use Permit Required
R-1 R-4 Additional Regulations
Residential See CMC 17.08.060
Single-Family P P - See CMC 17.08.050(E), (H)
Studio P P/L-8 -
Specific Limitations and Conditions

1. Limited to advertising, consumer credit reporting, secretarial and court reporting, equipment maintenance and repair, personnel supply services, and nonretail computer services and repair.

ATTACHMENT 1

Ordinance No. 2026-005

2. Allowed only on existing quasi-public use sites established prior to December 1, 1980, or added as an accessory use to such existing uses.

3. Limited to existing units established prior to January 1, 1967, and/or authorized by a use permit issued between 1967 and 1990.
*Note: These provisions approved by voter referendum.

4. Limited to existing commercial spaces established prior to 1993 and occupied by commercial uses continuously since that time.

5. Limited to occupancy within an existing single-family residence.

6. Limited to permits approved prior to the adoption of Ordinance 2019-03.

7. Limited to transient rental units approved through the issuance of a conditional use permit as an incentive for the creation of new housing units. See CMC § 17.14.040(W)(2)(b).

8. Limited to sites with an existing single-family residence.

SECTION 7. Transitional and Supportive Housing. To implement Housing Element Program

3.3.A Zoning for Transitional and Supportive Housing, Section 17.14.030, Land Use Regulations, Schedule II-B: Commercial Districts – Use Regulations, is hereby amended, in part, as follows:

Schedule II-B: Commercial Districts – Use Regulations
P = Permitted Use
L = Limitations Apply
C = Conditional Use Permit Required
Commercial Districts Additional Regulations

CC SC RC
Residential/Public and Semipublic
Multifamily Dwellings * * * See CMC § 17.14.040(N)
Specific Limitations and Conditions:

L-1: Limited to advertising, consumer credit reporting, secretarial court reporting, equipment maintenance and repair, personnel supply services, and nonretail computer services and repair.

L-2: Allowed only as accessory use to gasoline stations and limited to a maximum of 300 square feet. No sales of alcohol are permitted. See CMC § 17.14.040(D)(2) and (J)(2).

L-3: Any establishments with activities generating noise, odors, deliveries by large vehicles, high traffic by customers, or requiring large storage needs are not permitted.

L-4: Limited to offices for the following categories: operators of nonresidential buildings, apartment buildings, dwellings, real estate agents and managers, and title companies.

L-5: Limited to sites that are already developed with a single-family dwelling, or that were originally developed as, or used as, a single-family dwelling but have since been converted to another use. Existing single-family dwellings can be maintained, altered, repaired and/or ATTACHMENT 1

Ordinance No. 2026-005

redeveloped. R-1 district floor area ratio standards shall apply to these sites.

L-6: Subject to the same regulations as apply to other family residential dwellings in the same zone.

L-7: Limited to permits approved prior to the adoption of Ordinance 2019-03.

L-8: Limited to transient rental units approved through the issuance of a conditional use permit as an incentive for the creation of new housing units. See CMC § 17.14.040(W)(2)(b). *Includes Transitional Housing and Supportive Housing.

Further, Section 17.08.040, Land Use Regulations, Schedule II-1 Land Use Regulations for Residential Districts, is hereby amended, in part, as follows:

Schedule II-1 Land Use Regulations for Residential Districts P = Permitted Use
L = Limitations Apply
C = Conditional Use Permit Required
R-1 R-4 Additional Regulations
Residential See CMC 17.08.060
Supportive Housing P P/C
Transitional Housing P P/C
Further, Section 17.68.030 Residential Use Classifications is hereby amended, in part, to add the following revised definition of Transitional Housing:

Transitional Housing. Buildings configured as rental housing developments, but operated under program requirements that require the termination of assistance and recirculating of the assisted unit to another eligible program recipient at a predetermined future point in time that shall be no less than six months from the beginning of the assistance. Transitional Housing means housing with supportive services for up to 24 months that is exclusively designated and targeted for recently homeless persons. Transitional housing includes self-sufficiency development services, with the ultimate goal of moving recently homeless persons to permanent housing as quickly as possible, and limits rents and service fees to an ability-to-pay formula reasonably consistent with the United States Department of Housing and Urban Development’s requirements for subsidized housing for low-income persons. Rents and service fees paid for transitional housing may be reserved, in whole or in part, to assist residents in moving to permanent housing (See Health and Safety Code, §50801, subd. (i).) Transitional housing is a residential use of property subject only to those restrictions that apply to other residential dwellings of the same type in the same zone.

SECTION 8. Single Room Occupancy Units. To implement Housing Element Program 3.3.D Single Room Occupancy (SRO) Units, Section 17.68.030, Residential Use Classifications, is hereby amended, in part, to add the following definition:

Single-Room Occupancy (SRO) Unit. A permanent, affordable housing unit between 150 and 399 square feet, rented on a month-to-month or longer-term basis, and serving as the primary residence for up to two occupants. It may or may not include private kitchen or bathroom facilities.

If private facilities are not provided in individual units, shared kitchen and/or bathroom facilities are required on each floor, at a per-unit ratio, in accordance with the California Building Code.

On-site laundry facilities shall be provided. Single-Room Occupancy Units are a residential use ATTACHMENT 1

Ordinance No. 2026-005

of property subject only to those restrictions that apply to other residential dwellings of the same type in the same zone.

Further, Section 17.08.040, Land Use Regulations, Schedule II-1 Land Use Regulations for Residential Districts, is hereby amended, in part, to add Single-Room Occupancy (SRO) Units as a Residential land use type as follows:

Schedule II-1 Land Use Regulations for Residential Districts P = Permitted Use
L = Limitations Apply
C = Conditional Use Permit Required
R-1 R-4 Additional Regulations
Residential See CMC 17.08.060
Single-Room Occupancy (SRO) Units P P/C
Further, Section 17.14.030, Land Use Regulations, Schedule II-B: Commercial Districts – Use Regulations, is hereby amended, in part, as follows:

Schedule II-B: Commercial Districts – Use Regulations
P = Permitted Use
L = Limitations Apply
C = Conditional Use Permit Required
Commercial Districts Additional Regulations

CC SC RC
Residential/Public and Semipublic
Multifamily Dwellings L-9 L-9 L-9 See CMC § 17.14.040(N) Specific Limitations and Conditions:

L-9: Includes Transitional Housing, and Supportive Housing, and Single-Room Occupancy (SRO) Units.

SECTION 9. Conflicts. All ordinances and parts of ordinances in conflict herewith are hereby repealed.

SECTION 10.Severability. If any section, subsection, provision, sentence, clause, phrase or word of this Ordinance is for any reason held to be illegal or otherwise invalid by any court of competent jurisdiction, such invalidity shall be severable, and shall not affect or impair any remaining sections, subsections, provisions, sentences, clauses, phrases or words of this Ordinance.

SECTION 11. Effective Date. This Ordinance shall take effect on the later of (i) 30 days after its final passage by the City Council of the City of Carmel-by-the-Sea or (ii) final certification of the Ordinance adopted by the City Council by the California Coastal Commission in accordance with the California Coastal Act.

SECTION 12. Publication. The City Clerk is directed to certify this Ordinance and cause it to be published in the manner required by law.

INTRODUCED at a Regular City Council meeting on October 6, 2026.

ATTACHMENT 1

Ordinance No. 2026-005

PASSED AND ADOPTED BY THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF CARMEL-BY-THESEA this 3rd day of November, 2026, by the following vote:

AYES:

NOES:

ABSENT:

RECUSED:

APPROVED: ATTEST:

Dale Byrne, Mayor Nova Romero, MMC, City Clerk
ATTACHMENT 1

Chapter 2.0 Goals, Policies, and Programs 2-1 EMC Planning Group Carmel-by-the-Sea 6th Cycle Housing Element Update Adopted April 8, 2024

2.0 Goals, Policies, and Programs

2.1 Introduction
The City is responsible for enabling the production of housing by reducing regulatory barriers, providing incentives, and supporting programs that create or preserve housing, especially for vulnerable populations. To enable the construction of quality housing, the City has identified the following goals:

Goal HE-1 Facilitate Housing Construction
Goal HE-2 Protect Affordable Housing and Improve the Housing Stock Goal HE-3 Provide Opportunities for New Affordable and Other Special Needs Housing Goal HE-4 Exemplify Sustainable Development and Energy Conservation Goal HE-5 Publicize Housing Needs and Resources
disparities, formed an integral part of program development. Highlights include: the predominant age group in 2019 was between 65 to 74 years of age; the population was comprised of over 85 percent White individuals; the unemployment rate was 0.1 percent; above-moderate households made up the majority of households at 62 percent; and 57 percent of total households were owner occupied and 43 percent renter occupied. Of note, 23 percent of household are cost burdened and 23 percent are severely cost burdened. Detailed information is provided in Appendix A.

Additionally, the majority of the sites identified in the Site Inventory were not identified in the 5th Cycle Housing Element. The Policies and Programs below are intended to reduce the regulatory barriers to redevelop of these sites and to demonstrate the City is taking measures to ensure construction of more units, in the 6th cycle.

2.2 This section provides an overview of significant new policy and program directions being taken by the City of Carmel-by-the-Sea to address housing issues in the community and the larger Monterey Bay Area.

ATTACHMENT 2

Chapter 2.0 Goals, Policies, and Implementing Programs 2-2 EMC Planning Group Carmel-by-the-Sea 6th Cycle Housing Element Update Adopted April 8, 2024 Affirmatively Furthering Fair Housing
The new policy direction that the City will undergo during the 6th Cycle Housing Element Update involves addressing historic economic and racial segregation patterns. In 2018, the California Legislature established an independent state mandate to affirmatively further fair housing (AFFH).

Affirmatively furthering fair housing is defined specifically as taking meaningful actions that, taken together, address significant disparities in housing needs and in access to opportunity by replacing segregated living patterns with truly integrated and balanced living patterns; transforming racially and ethnically concentrated areas of poverty into areas of opportunity; and fostering and maintaining compliance with civil rights and fair housing laws.

Contributing Factors
The following contributing factors that impact fair housing and affirmatively furthering fair housing (AFFH) within the City were identified and prioritized as follows:

Lack of affordable housing;
Lack of adequate housing stock that meets the needs of residents; Jobs-worker imbalance;
Lack of accessible units for individuals with disabilities; Lack of Transitional and Supportive Housing/Emergency Shelters; There is a lack of developable land, and the City is subject to additional coastal zone regulations;
Lack of racial and ethnic diversity within the City; and Cost of land, materials, and labor which limit profitability of affordable housing.

Lack of access to information about fair housing rights; and Limited knowledge of fair housing by residents.

More detailed AFFH information is located in Appendix A. The City of Carmel-by-the-Sea is adopting new policies and programs through the update of this 6th Cycle Housing Element, to align ATTACHMENT 2

Chapter 2.0 Goals, Policies, and Programs 2-3 EMC Planning Group Carmel-by-the-Sea 6th Cycle Housing Element Update Adopted April 8, 2024

2.3 Program Overview and Quantified Objectives
Quantified Objectives estimate the number of units likely to be constructed, rehabilitated, or conserved/preserved by income level during the planning period. The Quantified Objectives do not represent a ceiling on development, but rather set a target goal for the jurisdiction to achieve, based on needs, resources, and constraints. These objectives will focus communication between the City and HCD with future Annual Progress Reports (APRs). HCD does not require that all objectives must be met, rather, it is a goal that enables objective assessments about program effectiveness so the City can make informed determinations to continue, modify, or delete programs with the next Housing Element update Cycle. Table 2-1, Quantified Objectives, provides an estimate of the number of units likely to be constructed, rehabilitated or conserved/preserved in Carmel-by-the-Sea in the 6th Cycle.

Table 2-1 Quantified Objectives Summary
Income Category New Construction Rehabilitation* Conservation/ Preservation**
Extremely Low 61 - - Very Low 60 5 - Low 93 5 50
Moderate 61 6 - Above Moderate 135 400 - Total 410 416 50 SOURCE: City of Carmel-by-the-Sea 2023
NOTES: *The City has approximately 3,800 residential units, 60 (or about one percent) of which are affordable units. Each year the City processes approximately 100 building permits for remodels, additions, and other construction, which rehabilitates the existing housing stock. For the lower-income categories rehabilitation goals, the City assumes that one percent of the total permits processed will be for affordable units. Under these assumptions, the City would rehabilitate two units of affordable housing a year or approximately 16 units throughout the 2023-2031 planning cycle. This represents approximately 30 **The City has no units at risk of converting to market rate during this planning cycle.

ATTACHMENT 2

Chapter 2.0 Goals, Policies, and Implementing Programs 2-4 EMC Planning Group Carmel-by-the-Sea 6th Cycle Housing Element Update Adopted April 8, 2024

2.4 Goals, Policies and Programs
Community input has been and continues to be an
integral part of the development of policies and programs for the 6th Cycle Housing Element. The purpose of this
section is to set forth goals, policies, and programs to further the development of housing for all income levels in the community. The Implementation Programs listed
below provide a workplan for programs to ensure timely
implementation and tracking. The following programs are will be implemented city-wide, unless otherwise specified below.

GOAL H1 FACILITATE HOUSING

CONSTRUCTION
Policy 1.1: Ensure adequate sites are available to
growth needs.

The City has a RHNA or growth need of 113 units affordable to Extremely Low- and Very LowMunicipal Code provide for housing types at appropriate densities to accommodate the RHNA. The City will encourage and facilitate the development of new units consistent with the RHNA by continuing to work with housing providers such as the Carmel Foundation and will actively find new organizations to partner with. The City also offers incentives and concessions outlined in Programs listed below. in meeting its Housing Element objectives, as well as remain in compliance with the no-net loss requirements of Government Code Section 65863.

Quantified Objective: 61 Extremely Low, 60 Very Low, 93 Low, 61 Moderate and 135 Above Moderate-Income housing units
Timeframe: Maintain adequate sites to meet RHNA through June 2031 Responsible Party: Community Planning and Building Department Funding Source: General Fund
(Formerly Program 3-3.1.a: Adequate Sites)
"... The land as it exists
now, the way it's zoned,
could support the 349
units, plus the buffer. So,
the question then is how do
we get people excited
about developing some of
those units?
That's where these
programs and processes
come into play and that's
why we need to amend the
Municipal Code, to codify
those things..."
May 24, 2023 Housing Ad Hoc
ATTACHMENT 2

Chapter 2.0 Goals, Policies, and Programs 2-5 EMC Planning Group Carmel-by-the-Sea 6th Cycle Housing Element Update Adopted April 8, 2024 The City plans to pursue three (3) sites (#1, #2, and #3 in the Sites Inventory) over the next five years for the potential development of 149 total units over the three sites (124 affordable to lowerincome households and 25 for moderate-income households). These sites would remain in City ownership and are anticipated to be made available for development through long-term leases. diverse housing types, including senior housing. Projects undertaken throughout the 2023-2031 Housing Element planning period will be processed in accordance with the requirements of the Surplus Land Act and all other applicable State laws. Please note there are no State-owned or Federally-owned sites within Carmel-by-the-Sea.

The City will assess the appropriateness of and consider implementing the following: outreach opportunities with housing developers, requests for proposals, development incentives, fee waivers, priority process, and financial assistance (when available) to facilitate and incentivize developers to develop housing units on City-owned sites.

The City has an existing long-term lease with the Carmel Foundation, which manages 50 affordable apartment units for seniors (55+). The lease has benefitted the community, and the City would like to expand the number of affordable housing in the City through the use of the three identified sites.

Specific planned actions by the City include the establishment of development standards (for the Sunset Center sites, specifically), development of a project description, publication of an RFP, selection of a development partner, entering into an Exclusive Negotiation Agreement, processing land use entitlements and development agreements, building permit issuance, and construction.

Council approval is required and public participation will take place for each step in this process.

Specific actions the City is committed to:

Establish and implement development standards for Sunset Center (Sites #1 and #2) by December 2025;
Develop project description and establish an RFP process and solicit developers by December 2025;
Target Exclusive Negotiating Agreement by December 2026; and Target land use entitlements issuance by December 2028.

If by December 2026, the City has not established the necessary developer agreements, the City will pursue the following alternative actions to enable the development of the sites for affordable housing:

Increase outreach efforts with non-profit affordable housing developers beginning January 2027; Re-issue RFP and solicit developers by December 2027;
Identify additional/alternative sites;
ATTACHMENT 2

Chapter 2.0 Goals, Policies, and Implementing Programs 2-6 EMC Planning Group Carmel-by-the-Sea 6th Cycle Housing Element Update Adopted April 8, 2024 Pursue funding opportunities such as Permanent Local Housing Allocation (PLHA), Multifamily Super NOFA, IIG Small Jurisdictions, CDBG Funds, and HOME Investment Partnerships to assist with entitlement and building permit fees (ongoing); and Develop incentives for developers, including 60-day approval timeline; clear development standards; full cooperation with City staff and elected and appointed officials; accelerated approval process; waiving parking standards for multi-family development.

The length of time it takes to gain entitlement approvals can drastically impact the financial feasibility of development projects. The developer incentives outlined above are intended to shorten the period of time between submittal of entitlement applications and issuance of occupancy, in order to enable the development of multi-family residential units.

Quantified Objective: 39 Extremely Low, 39 Very Low, 46 Low, 25 Moderate Income units Timeframe: Complete investigations and potential partnerships by December 2026; Pursue alternative actions by August 2027
Responsible Party: Community Planning and Building Department Funding Source: General Fund
(Formerly 3-3.1.b: Surplus Sites)
Small sites can be difficult to develop particularly when development standards into account small lot dimensions. The City will continue to offer incentives and concessions that facilitate development on small sites in the commercial and multi-family districts, including density bonuses that allow for development up to 88 du/ac. Presently, Carmel Municipal Code Section

17.14.060 (Central Commercial (CC) District Regulations Applicable) waives off-street parking entirely for apartments in the CC district. In the Service Commercial (SC) District, the required parking for an affordable housing unit is ½ space per unit and for senior housing it is space per unit. Senior housing also has a guest parking requirement of 1 space per 4 housing units. The City will further evaluate the residential parking requirements in the Service Commercial (SC) and Residential & Limited Commercial (RC) zoning districts to help facilitate market rate housing.

Alternative parking programs such as bike and/or car share, or free or discounted bus passes, will be evaluated to offset reduced parking.

Quantified Objective: 35 Very Low-Income units with reduced parking Timeframe: Complete evaluations by December 2024
Responsible Party: Community Planning and Building Department Funding Source: General Fund
(Formerly 3-3.1.c: Development on Small Sites)
ATTACHMENT 2

Chapter 2.0 Goals, Policies, and Programs 2-7 EMC Planning Group Carmel-by-the-Sea 6th Cycle Housing Element Update Adopted April 8, 2024 In 2020, the California legislature passed Assembly Bill (AB) 1851 and AB 2244 in 2022, which encourage the use of religious facility sites (including parking lots) for housing developments and prohibit jurisdictions from requiring replacement parking when used for qualified development. property and is eligible for a State density bonus, meaning it has elements of affordability.

Consistent with AB 1851 and AB 2244, the City will amend the Zoning Ordinance to allow religious institution-affiliated housing development projects by-right as an accessory use to a permitted religious institution use, allow these uses at densities up to 33 dwelling units per acre, and update the parking requirements consistent with State law. The City commits to modifying standards and make making other modifications as needed to achieve the maximum allowed densities.

If no application for housing on a religious institution/faith-based site is received by December 2025, the City will expand outreach efforts to be conducted annually. This may include direct mailings to faith-based sites highlighting current successful affordable housing units on other faithbased sites, as well as available City grants and loans for such housing and human services endeavors.

Quantified Objective: 1 Extremely Low, 1 Very Low, 1 Low, 3 Moderate, and 3 Above Moderate Income units
Timeframe: Amend the Zoning Ordinance by December 2026; Annual Outreach Responsible Party: Community Planning & Building Department Funding Funding Source: General Fund
(NEW)
To ensure the City is able to meet its RHNA, the City is committed to working with the Carmel Foundation to enable the development of 21 lower-income residential units (identified as Site #8 in Appendix C). The City will meet annually with the Carmel Foundation to identify funding sources to support redevelopment of the site with affordable residential units; provide guidance on the housing needs of the community to construct housing types/units that meet the need; and support the rve Carmel-by-the-Sea community members.

If at mid-cycle the necessary land entitlements and building permits are not completed, the City will reallocate the anticipated 21 lower-income units for Site #8 by utilizing City-owned sites or another available public or private site to construct the residential units to accommodate the RHNA. The City is committed to the following actions:

ATTACHMENT 2

Chapter 2.0 Goals, Policies, and Implementing Programs 2-8 EMC Planning Group Carmel-by-the-Sea 6th Cycle Housing Element Update Adopted April 8, 2024 Distributing the 21 lower-income units on City-owned sites including but not limited to Sunset Center Sites #1 and #2, Vista Lobos Sites #3, or another available public or private site by June 2028; and
Conducting outreach to non-profit developers and identifying funding sources such as, CDBG, HOME, PLHA, and the Housing Trust Fund to support the development of affordable undation).

Quantified Objective: 11 Very Low-Income units and 10 Low-Income units Timeframe: Review Site #8 development status by December 2027; Implement alternative measures by June 2028
Responsible Party: Community Planning and Building Department Funding Source: General Fund
(Formerly 3-3.1.c: Development on Small Sites)
Policy 1.2: Continue to monitor and work cooperatively with regional agencies to augment infrastructure in a manner that provides adequate capacity for existing and new housing needs while preserving and improving the unique visual character of the City.

Perhaps the greatest constraint to housing production in Carmel-by-the-Sea is the lack of water. The -2031 planning period
is estimated to require approximately 40 acre feet of water.

Potable water is a fundamental infrastructure need for housing and is a limited resource in Carmelby-the-Sea. Water is regulated by the State Water Resources Control Board (SWRCB) and the Monterey Peninsula Water Management District (MPWMD). Few developed sites have available water credits sufficient to accommodate construction of additional residential units, own water allocation is quite limited. Further, due to the current State imposed cease-and-desist order in Carmel, California American Water (Cal-Am) is not permitted to set new water meters at this time. In an effort to address water constraints, the City will:

Support efforts by the MPWMD to expand the water supply with new water sources that will support affordable housing development (December 2027).

Work cooperatively with MPWMD to implement water conservation methods through the building permit process (e.g., low-flow fixtures, instant hot water heaters, cisterns/rain gardens) to augment water for new development projects. The City has received many building permit applications for remodels and refurbishments of older homes, which would result in water conservation implementation, and is supportive of new water supplies. The City and MPWMD will measure the amount of water conserved on an annual and ongoing basis.

ATTACHMENT 2

Chapter 2.0 Goals, Policies, and Programs 2-9 EMC Planning Group Carmel-by-the-Sea 6th Cycle Housing Element Update Adopted April 8, 2024 Work cooperatively with MPWMD to establish a procedure to prioritize water allocation for housing developments that include affordable units for lower-income households (December 2026). From its own modest water allocation of approximately 1.6 acre-feet, the City will grant water allocation priority to those projects that assist the City in meeting its share of the regional housing need for lower- and moderate-income households. A City policy to clearly reflect water allocation priority and incentives for Extremely Low, Very Low, Low and Moderate-Income households will be adopted (December 2026).

Quantified Objective: Prioritize 193 affordable units for water Timeframe: Adopt policy by June 2025
Responsible Party: Community Planning and Building Department Funding Source: General Fund
(Formerly Program 3-3.2: Address Infrastructure Constraints) crafting Capital Improvement Programs that effectively manage infrastructure is imperative.

Additionally, the City experienced significant power outages during the 2022-2023 winter season that City infrastructure including road maintenance and storm drains, 5-Year Capital Improvement Plan process. The City will continue to work cooperatively with outside agencies, including the Pacific Gas and Electric Company (PG&E), the Carmel Area Wastewater District (CAWD), and California American Water (Cal-AM),
infrastructure.

The City of Carmel proposes the following actions and timeline to address infrastructure constraints during the 6th Cycle:

The City of Carmel will collaborate with and support the undergrounding of electrical wires by PG&E in an effort to provide consistent power. The City is working with PG&E to develop an undergrounding plan estimated to be complete within 10-15 years for a small portion of the City
undergrounded in the next 20-30 years.
o Quantified Objective: Underground a small portion of the electrical wires by December 2034, and work with PG&E to underground the remainder over the next 20-30 years.

The City will implement drainage and street improvements, including ADA ramps and sidewalk slope improvements through the Capital Improvement Process.

ATTACHMENT 2

Chapter 2.0 Goals, Policies, and Implementing Programs 2-10 EMC Planning Group Carmel-by-the-Sea 6th Cycle Housing Element Update Adopted April 8, 2024 o Quantified Objective: The City will invest $2.065 million in drainage improvements and $6.7 million in street improvements by December 2026.

Timeframe: -Year Capital Improvement Process through June 2031 Responsible Party: Public Works Department
Funding Source: General Fund
(Formerly Program 3-3.2: Address Infrastructure Constraints) Policy 1.3: Reduce or eliminate governmental constraints on the provision of affordable housing. Direct public funding resources to the conservation of existing housing units in neighborhoods where continued residential use is appropriate.

The City will continue to implement the condominium conversion ordinance, which restricts the conversion of apartments to condominiums to preserve the lower-cost rental housing options (i.e., apartments) within the City. Apartments cannot be converted to condominiums unless a new apartment is being created to offset the conversion.

Quantified Objective: Preserve rental units
Timeframe: Continued ordinance implementation through June 2031 Responsible Party: Community Planning and Building Department Funding Source: General Fund
(Formerly Program 3-5.3.a: Condominium Conversions)
Pursuant to Coastal Zone requirements, the City has recognized existing overnight visitor accommodations (hotels/motels, inns, bed and breakfasts and other various lodging options) as an important coastal visitor asset and economic base in the community. There are a number of older, overnight visitor accommodations in the R-1, CC, RC, and SC zoning districts, including some that are non-conforming. Appendix C provides a list of existing eligible overnight visitor accommodation locations. Property owners of these establishments are encouraged to consider rehabilitating these sites as multi-family rental residences. These properties are distributed throughout the City and this policy would diversify the housing stock through more cost-effective means of rehabilitating and refurbishing existing buildings.

The City will incentivize both the transfer of development rights of overnight visitor accommodations to other sites within commercial zoning districts and conversion of existing overnight visitor accommodation properties to multi-family residences that include 15 percent lower-income units. The same number of overnight visitor accommodation rooms to serve coastal visitor access in the City will be retained while increasing the affordable multi-family housing rental stock.

ATTACHMENT 2

Chapter 2.0 Goals, Policies, and Programs 2-11 EMC Planning Group Carmel-by-the-Sea 6th Cycle Housing Element Update Adopted April 8, 2024 The City will conduct outreach to property owners in addition to meeting annually with non-profit affordable housing developers to identify eligible sites that can be converted from overnight visitor accommodation to multi-family housing, and help to identify funding to enable the conversion of overnight uses to permanent affordable housing.

If at mid-cycle the City has not received any applications to transfer development rights or to convert existing properties to permanent affordable housing, the City will evaluate the funds in the housing trust fund and partner with a non-profit to identify eligible properties for purchase.

Quantified Objective: 33 units converted from overnight visitor accommodation rooms to housing units
Timeframe: Mid-cycle review in June 2027
Responsible Party: Community Planning and Building Department Funding Source: General Fund
(Formerly Program 3-4.1.b Conversion of R-1 Motels)
-10 § 1 (Exh. A), 2017). Carmel-bythe-Sea is currently following the requirements of State law in the review and approval of ADUs and JADUs. The City is in the process of updating its ADU Ordinance to incorporate state laws that have expanded since 2017, and to clarify the ADU permitting process for property owners.

The City recognizes that ADUs provide affordable housing options for family members, seniors, students, in-home health care providers, and other small household types. ADUs can also be useful to generate additional rental income for the homeowner, making homeownership more financially feasible. also important to note that 80 percent of Carmel-by-theseasonal, recreational, or occasional (second home) use. ADU and JADU development on properties used for occasional use adds to the permanent rental housing stock and provides on-site oversight for second home properties. The City includes the Housing and Community Development Department ADU Handbook on the Planning Department website to offer technical assistance to interested property owners.

Pre-approved, standardized plans can eliminate the costs of designing a custom ADU, and assures property owners the unit type and size is already approved by the City. Pre-approved plans can also make construction more affordable if the designs are using materials that are easily sourced and standard sized.

To further promote ADU development the City will implement to the following:

The City is on track to adopt an updated ADU Ordinance by the end of 2024. The City will also amend the Municipal Code to reflect current State ADU law in a timely manner as new relevant state laws are adopted during the planning cycle.

ATTACHMENT 2

Chapter 2.0 Goals, Policies, and Implementing Programs 2-12 EMC Planning Group Carmel-by-the-Sea 6th Cycle Housing Element Update Adopted April 8, 2024 Timeframe: Ordinance adopted by December 2024
Develop pre-approved, standardized ADU plans to further incentive the construction of ADUs.

Quantified Objective: 5 Extremely Low, 5 Very Low, 10 Low, 10 Moderate, and 4 Above Moderate-Income units
Timeframe: December 2026
Responsible Party: Community Planning and Building Department Funding Source: General Fund
(Formerly Program 3-5.3.c: Subordinate Units)
The City has a number of overnight visitor accommodation (motels, hotels, inns) properties that would greatly benefit from incorporating affordable on-site employee housing. Appendix C provides a list of existing overnight visitor accommodation locations. These units would alleviate the current lack of housing that many hospitality employees that work in Carmel face. As an incentive to the owners/operators of motels, hotels, and inns to provide on-site affordable employee housing, the City will offer an additional overnight accommodation room for each onsite housing unit created.

This incentive will serve to increase affordable rental housing, offset the loss of revenues for the business owners, and maintain visitor-serving coastal access. The City will amend the Municipal Code to allow at least one on-site affordable employee housing unit in conjunction with one new overnight visitor accommodation room.

The City will conduct outreach with overnight visitor accommodation property owners to better discern the viability of the incentive program by December 2024.

If at mid-cycle, the City has not received any building permits identifying construction of an on-site employee housing unit, the City will amend the Municipal Code to require an on-site deed-restricted affordable housing unit be developed, in conjunction with one new overnight visitor accommodation room upon receiving a building permit.

Quantified Objective: 4 Extremely Low, 4 Very Low, 12 Low, 11 Moderate-Income employee housing units by December 2031
Timeframe: Amend Municipal Code by December 2026
Responsible Party: Community Planning and Building Department Funding Source: General Fund
(Formerly Program 3-5.3.c: Subordinate Units)
The Community and Cultural Center Zoning District, A-2, allows senior housing (55+) as a permitted use in addition to uses that provide cultural and community activities associated with the arts, education and recreation; however, development standards are not specified for the A-2 district ATTACHMENT 2

Chapter 2.0 Goals, Policies, and Programs 2-13 EMC Planning Group Carmel-by-the-Sea 6th Cycle Housing Element Update Adopted April 8, 2024 and design review is required. The lack of development and design standards adds uncertainty and can significantly lengthen the development process. Amending the A-2 zoning district with clear setbacks, height, and objective design standards will add clarity and remove a development constraint. The City will amend the Municipal Code to include clear development and design standards for the A-2 zoning district to encourage affordable senior housing.

Quantified Objective: 25 Extremely Low, 25 Very Low, 35 Low, and 8 Moderate-Income units
Timeframe: Adoption of Municipal Code amendments by December 2025 Responsible Party: Community Planning and Building Department Funding Source: General Fund
(NEW)
As stated in Appendix A there are no farmworkers or agricultural employment in Carmel-by-the-Sea.

Accordingly, the City has not identified a need for specialized farmworker housing beyond overall programs for housing affordability.

In compliance with Employee Housing Act (Health and Safety Code § 17000 et seq.) Sections 17021.5 and 17021.6, the City of Carmel-by-the-Sea will amend the Municipal Code to include a definition for employee housing that permits employee housing for six or fewer employees to be treated as a single-family structure and permitted in the same manner as other dwellings of the same type in the same zone.

Quantified Objective: N/A
Timeframe: Adoption of Municipal Code amendments by December 2024 Responsible Party: Community Planning and Building Department Funding Source: General Fund
(NEW)
The City currently permits manufactured homes on a foundation system on lots zoned for conventional single-family residential dwellings pursuant to state law Government Code 65852.3. Manufactured homes represent an affordable and cost-effective form of housing. The City will amend the Municipal Code to include manufactured homes as a permitted use in the R-1 zoning district subject to the same development standards to which a conventional single-family residential dwelling on the same lot would be subject.

Quantified Objective: 8 Low Income units
Timeframe: Adoption of Municipal Code amendments by December 2024 Responsible Party: Community Planning and Building Department Funding Source: General Fund
(NEW)
ATTACHMENT 2

Chapter 2.0 Goals, Policies, and Implementing Programs 2-14 EMC Planning Group Carmel-by-the-Sea 6th Cycle Housing Element Update Adopted April 8, 2024 According to Senate Bill (SB) 35, Statutes of 2017, jurisdictions that have insufficient progress toward their lower-income RHNA must accommodate a streamlined ministerial approval process for proposed developments with at least 50 percent affordability. Early implementation of SB 35 did not apply to coastal cities. However, in October 2023, SB 423 was signed into order, expanding SB 35 measures to include cities located in the coastal zone and extending the operation of the streamlined ministerial approval process to January 1, 2036.

Eligibility requirements for a development in the coastal zone include the following:

The development that is located in a coastal zone satisfies the conditions to obtain a coastal development permit; and
A public agency with coastal development permitting authority to approve a coastal development permit if it determines that the development is consistent with all objective Changes made by SB 423 would apply in a coastal zone on or after January 1, 2025.

In compliance with SB 35 and SB 423, the City will establish a standard procedure for processing eligible development projects.

Quantified Objective: N/A
Timeframe: Adoption of Municipal Code amendments by December 2024 Responsible Party: Community Planning and Building Department Funding Source: General Fund
(NEW)
SB 10 encourages strategic density within neighborhoods. Three (3) underutilized sites currently zoned R-1 and located on the periphery of the commercial district are occupied by non-residential uses that could accommodate multi-family housing with the implementation of SB 10. The City will work with the property owners to zone these sites for development under the provisions of SB 10, including a by-right process, requiring no discretionary review. These sites include Site #5 (First Church of Christ Parking Lot), Site #6 (American Red Cross), and Site #9 (American Legion).

Quantified Objective: 4 Extremely Low, 3 Very low, 6 Low, 3 Moderate, and 3 Above Moderate-Income units
Timeframe: Adoption of Municipal Code amendments by December 2024 Responsible Party: Community Planning and Building Department Funding Source: General Fund
(NEW)
ATTACHMENT 2

Chapter 2.0 Goals, Policies, and Programs 2-15 EMC Planning Group Carmel-by-the-Sea 6th Cycle Housing Element Update Adopted April 8, 2024 In compliance with AB 2339 Statutes of 2022, the City will amend Title 17 to define emergency shelters and clearly state they are a permitted use by-right, requiring no discretionary review in the CC, SC, and RC commercial districts.

Quantified Objective: N/A
Timeframe: Adoption of Municipal Code amendments by December 2024 Responsible Party: Community Planning and Building Department Funding Source: General Fund
(NEW)
To remove potential constraints to the development of multi-family housing, the City will review and modify the Forest and Beach Commission required findings to ensure they do not impede multi-family development on the basis of base floor area.

Quantified Objective: N/A
Timeframe: Adoption of Municipal Code amendments by December 2024 Responsible Party: Community Planning and Building Department Funding Source: General Fund
(NEW)
Policy 1.4: Improve Development Review and Approval Processes Multistock. The use permit (UP) (or conditional use permit (CUP)) requirement is implemented as an additional regulatory tool and adds extra regulations, review, and required findings, to a variety of development standards that affect multi-family development. Municipal Code Chapter 17.64 Findings Required for Permits and Approvals includes a broad list of applicable conditional uses and incentives. There are opportunities to reduce redundancies and facilitate residential construction while still enabling development to meet City regulations. For example, a use permit is required in:

Municipal Code Section 17.64.190 Residential Construction at Densities Between 33 and 44 Units per Acre;
Municipal Code Section 17.64.230 Affordable Housing Residential Construction at Densities Between 45 and 88 Units Per Acre for developments the request a bonus density or a density bonus; and
Municipal Code Section 17.14.150 Building Height requires a use permit for additional underground floors used for parking vehicles, storage and mechanical equipment. The additional use permit requirement can affect how much parking can be accommodated and limit the number of units.

ATTACHMENT 2

Chapter 2.0 Goals, Policies, and Implementing Programs 2-16 EMC Planning Group Carmel-by-the-Sea 6th Cycle Housing Element Update Adopted April 8, 2024 The City will eliminate UP requirements to remove the constraint to the development of multifamily residential units, and licensed residential care facilities of seven or more persons. Additionally, the City will remove subjective language from the required findings for UP and adopt objective findings to promote approval certainty.

Quantified Objective: 50 Moderate-Income units
Timeframe: Adoption of Municipal Code amendments by December 2024 Responsible Party: Community Development Department
Funding Source: General Fund
(Formerly Program 3-2.1.D: Multi-Family Residential Development Review) The City currently relies upon mostly subjective design guidelines for new single-family residences.

In the commercial and multi-family districts, less detailed subjective design guidelines are in place.

T residential and commercial design guidelines are being updated this year to provide clarity and more objectivity. The lack of objective design guidelines creates a higher level of subjectivity for multi-family affordable projects.

The lack of Objective Design and Development Standards poses a constraint to residential development. Guidelines that are subjective increase uncertainty and risk for housing developers.

Objective Design and Development Standards provide a measure of clarity that proposed developments will be measured against, and provide the community with assurance that developments will conform with measurable objective standards. The City will create Objective Design and Development Standards for multi-family housing projects that include at least one deedrestricted affordable housing unit.

In November 2023, the City received an $85,000 REAP 2.0 Local Suballocation Grant which will be used to pursue the creation and adoption of Objective Design and Development Standards (ODDS) to reduce governmental constraints presently limiting the production of affordable housing. Once adopted, the City's ODDS will be used to review and approve housing projects with at least 20 percent affordable units (units for very-low, low, and moderate-income households) on sites identified within the City's draft 2023-2031 6th Cycle Housing Element. The City's expectation, and desired intent, is that having ODDS in place will incentivize and accelerate the construction of multi-family affordable housing projects in the City's downtown zones, including the Central Commercial (CC), Service Commercial (SC), Residential & Limited Commercial (RC), and Multi-family Residential (R-4), which all fall within the Potential Opportunity Area identified by Moving Forward Monterey Bay 2045.

Quantified Objective: N/A
Timeframe: Adoption of Objective Design Guidelines by December 2025 ATTACHMENT 2

Chapter 2.0 Goals, Policies, and Programs 2-17 EMC Planning Group Carmel-by-the-Sea 6th Cycle Housing Element Update Adopted April 8, 2024 Responsible Party: Community Planning and Building Department Funding Source: General Fund
(NEW)
GOAL H2 PROTECT AFFORDABLE HOUSING AND IMPROVE THE

HOUSING STOCK
Policy 2.1: Maintain and encourage expansion of permanent residential housing stock in the Residential and Commercial Districts.

Providing additional development capacity of any type increases project feasibility. In order to better incentivize affordable residential development, the City will amend the Municipal Code to increase the floor area bonuses from 15 to up to 25 percent for projects that include housing for Moderate, Low or Very-Low-income households. The City will also distribute informational materials promoting the floor area bonus and other applicable incentives.

Quantified Objective: 5 Moderate-Income units
Timeframe: Adoption of Municipal Code amendments by December 2024 Responsible Party: Community Planning and Building Department Funding Source: General Fund
(Formerly Program 3-2.1.a)
Short-term rentals can provide valuable coastal visitor-serving access; however, units used as shortterm rentals preclude the establishment of permanent housing. The City also has a significant percentage of the housing stock that remains vacant for part of the year due to second home ownership. This creates a significant barrier for current and potential residents to enter the local housing market and further limits opportunities to correct the housing crisis, address diversity, and provide inclusive housing options.

The City dinance prohibiting short-term, transient rentals and timeshares of residential dwellings in the R-1 District and allowing a limited number of short-term rentals in the commercial areas has successfully limited the proliferation of these uses. The City will continue to implement these ordinances. In an effort to address the high rate of second home ownership, the City will promote Accessory Dwelling Units and Junior Accessory Dwelling Units (see Programs 1.3.C and 1.3.D) to add affordable rental units on properties that may otherwise lie vacant, and will establish an Affordable Housing Trust Fund (see Program 2.1.D).

Quantified Objective: Preservation of permanent housing and affordable units Timeframe: Continued ordinance implementation through June 2031 ATTACHMENT 2

Chapter 2.0 Goals, Policies, and Implementing Programs 2-18 EMC Planning Group Carmel-by-the-Sea 6th Cycle Housing Element Update Adopted April 8, 2024 Responsible Party: Community Planning & Building Department/City Administrator Funding Source: General Fund
(Formerly Program 3-4.1.a)
The City will develop a City-managed Affordable Housing Oversight Program and continue to monitor affordable housing projects and work with the owners to preserve affordability through identification of funding sources and/or opportunities for partnerships with other housing providers. The program will formalize annual monitoring of the affordable housing stock throughout the city to ensure affordable housing is being protected and provided as required by Government Code Section 65590. The City will update its databases to better track data on new construction, demolition, conversion and replacement housing units for low- and moderate-income households including the following:

The number of new housing units approved for construction; The number of low- and moderate-income housing units required to be provided in new housing developments;
The number of existing residential dwelling units occupied by low- and moderate-income households that have been authorized to be demolished or converted; and The number of low- and moderate-income housing units required to be replaced (of those units being demolished or converted).

Additionally, in compliance with AB 1397, the City will adopt a policy to require replacement housing units subject to the requirements of Government Code section 65915, subdivision (c)(3) when any new housing development project occurs on a site meeting the any of the following conditions: 1) currently has residential uses or within the past five years has had residential uses that have been vacated or demolished, 2) was subject to a recorded covenant, ordinance, or law that restricts rents to levels affordable to persons and families of low or very low-income, 3) subject to any other form of rent or price 4) is occupied by low or very low-income households. Quantified Objective: Monitor 50 Lower-Income housing units
Timeframe: Develop program by June 2025
Responsible Party: Community Planning and Building Department Funding Source: General Fund
(Formerly Program 3-5.3.d: Monitor Affordable Housing Stock) ATTACHMENT 2

Chapter 2.0 Goals, Policies, and Programs 2-19 EMC Planning Group Carmel-by-the-Sea 6th Cycle Housing Element Update Adopted April 8, 2024 The City currently relies on outside agencies and organizations to fund affordable housing projects. However, in an effort to establish a City-funded source dedicated to supporting the creation, maintenance, and rehabilitation of affordable units, the City will explore the creation of an Affordable Housing Trust Fund. Sources of funding could include increasing the existing Transit Occupancy Tax (TOT) or dedicating a portion of existing TOT to affordable housing, property transfer tax, sales tax, vacancy tax or other funding source.

Quantified Objective: $1,000,000
Timeframe: Establish Fund by June 2031
Responsible Party: City Administrator
Funding Source: General Fund
(NEW)
Policy 2.2: Preserve and protect the scale of established neighborhoods while encouraging property improvement.

Cities have unique characteristics that develop over time. Carmel-by-the-Sea has a distinctive building style and form that existing residents cherish and which serves to attract new residents and visitors. In an effort to continue to encourage improvements to the existing housing stock, the City will continue to promote education programs that
cultural and design heritage, and provide zoning flexibility and incentives to facilitate rehabilitation of historic resources. The City will continue to use the Historic Building Code to facilitate residential rehabilitation of historic residences.

Quantified Objective: 50 Low Income rehabilitated historic units Timeframe: Continued education and ordinance implementation through June 2031
Responsible Party: Community Planning and Building Department Funding Source: General Fund
(Formerly Program 3-4.3.a: Neighborhood Preservation Educational Programs) I believe a vacancy tax
should be proposed to the
voters, which can go toward
funding affordable housing.

The City needs to frame
affordable housing in a
positive way. I feel like
people's aversion to
affordable housing in their
communities is just a public
relations failure."
May 24, 2023 Housing Ad Hoc
Committee Community Meeting
ATTACHMENT 2

Chapter 2.0 Goals, Policies, and Implementing Programs 2-20 EMC Planning Group Carmel-by-the-Sea 6th Cycle Housing Element Update Adopted April 8, 2024 Policy 2.3: Preserve and expand affordable and rental housing opportunities to enable local employees to live in the community where they work.

The retail and office landscape is shifting and the City continues to experience retail and office vacancies. This shift represents an opportunity to increase supply of housing as a preferred development form in all Commercial Districts. The City currently prohibits the conversion of existing second-floor residential units to commercial use and requires all newly constructed secondfloor space to be used as residential units. Housing over first-floor commercial uses is a particularly suitable solution for underutilized second-floor space. Therefore, the City will proactively work with property owners to encourage conversion of vacant or underutilized upper floors to residential use.

Quantified Objective: 5 Moderate and 110 Above Moderate-Income units Timeframe: Proactive outreach through December 2031
Responsible Party: Community Planning and Building Department Funding Source: General Fund
(Formerly Program 3-2.1.b)
Policy 2.4: Preserve the existing housing stock
In order to stay habitable and energy efficient, all buildings need maintenance. When buildings fall into an extreme state of disrepair, a more comprehensive housing rehabilitation procedure is needed.

Over the past few years, inflation and building supply chain issues have dramatically increased the cost of building materials. Labor costs have also risen significantly due to a shortage of skilled construction workers and ongoing cost-of-living increases. This results in very costly rehabilitation projects.

In order to assist low-income property owners, the City will distribute information on inspection services, housing rehabilitation programs, and alternative ways to finance home repairs. Based on Code Compliance reports, the City will specifically monitor and conduct outreach to residential units in need of rehabilitation and maintenance throughout the city with a focus on the southern region of the city.

Quantified Objective: 16 Low-Income rehabilitated units Timeframe: Proactive outreach through June 3031
Responsible Party: Community Planning and Building Department Funding Source: General Fund
(Formerly Programs 3-1.1.a and 3-1.1.c Housing Rehabilitation and Housing Maintenance) ATTACHMENT 2

Chapter 2.0 Goals, Policies, and Programs 2-21 EMC Planning Group Carmel-by-the-Sea 6th Cycle Housing Element Update Adopted April 8, 2024 GOAL H3 PROVIDE OPPORTUNITIES FOR NEW AFFORDABLE AND

OTHER SPECIAL NEEDS HOUSING
Policy 3.1: Incentivize affordable housing development, with an emphasis on affordable housing built to accommodate Extremely-Low and Low-Income residents.

Encourage the private sector to produce affordable housing.

The retail and office landscapes are shifting and this change represents an opportunity to encourage mixed-use developments (housing over first-floor commercial uses) as a preferred development form via community outreach. The City will proactively work with property owners, property managers, and realtors to promote and incentivize upper-floor housing opportunities, including the potential of allowing a third-floor mezzanine for affordable housing. Such development would be 30-foot height limit.

The City has identified the following regional affordable housing organizations to include in the discussion of revising design guidelines to promote mixed-use affordable housing in the City.

County of Monterey Housing Authority Development Corporation (HDC); Woodman Development Company, Inc.;
Community Housing Improvement Systems and Planning Association, Inc. (CHISPA); Eden Housing;
EAH Housing; and
Mid-Peninsula Housing.

Based on the feedback received by City Staff from the development community, the City will implement the following actions:

Revise design guidelines based on community and developer feedback; Revise approval processes if constraints are identified during feedback gathering; and Annually host outreach and FAQ forums for developers and community members.

Quantified Objective: 10 lower-income units
Timeframe: Proactive outreach through June 2031; Revise guidelines and approval processes by December 2027
Responsible Party: Community Planning and Building Department Funding Source: General Fund
(Formerly 3-2.1.c: Incentives for Mixed Use Affordable Housing) ATTACHMENT 2

Chapter 2.0 Goals, Policies, and Implementing Programs 2-22 EMC Planning Group Carmel-by-the-Sea 6th Cycle Housing Element Update Adopted April 8, 2024 Providing housing units for Extremely-Low Income (ELI)
Households earning 30 percent or less of the Area Median Income (AMI) for Monterey County has proved challenging for the City. The City will continue to place specific
emphasis on the provision of multi-family housing and nontraditional housing types such as single-room-occupancy units and transitional housing. The City will encourage development of housing for ELI households through a
variety of activities such as targeted outreach to for-profit and non-profit housing developers on at least an annual basis, providing in-kind technical assistance, fee deferrals, expedited/priority processing, identifying grant and funding opportunities, applying for or supporting applications for funding on an ongoing basis, reviewing and prioritizing local funding for developments that include housing for ELI households and/or offering additional incentives to supplement the density bonus provisions in state law.

The City also has a variety of programs to encourage the development ELI units including Accessory Dwelling Units, a portion of which are affordable by design to Extremely-Low Income Households and Employee Housing. The City has also funded a full-time permanent Associate Planner position through the General Fund to focus on long-range planning and housing needs.

Quantified Objective: 57 Extremely Low-Income units
Timeframe: Fund Associate Planner through June 2031
Responsible Party: Planning and Building Department
Funding Source: General Fund
(Formerly Program 3-5.4.b)
Density bonuses can provide a significant incentive to build affordable housing units. By increasing the number of units permitted to be built on a property, the financial investment required to bring the development to fruition has a higher likelihood of a return. Given the high cost of materials, labor and borrowing costs, increasing the number of units can make the housing project financially feasible.

I'm pretty passionate about
affordable housing and
diversity. I think that's what
makes a community, and we
do lack it. I have kids that
live in the community and
go to Carmel High School,
and I would like to see more
of a social, economic, and
age difference in our
community, personally."
May 24, 2023 Housing Ad Hoc
Committee Community Meeting
ATTACHMENT 2

Chapter 2.0 Goals, Policies, and Programs 2-23 EMC Planning Group Carmel-by-the-Sea 6th Cycle Housing Element Update Adopted April 8, 2024 provisions to be consistent with recent changes to State Density Bonus Law. Additionally, the City will further review and revise local bonus density ordinances to clarify the regulations and increase certainty of applicability.

Quantified Objective: 187 Lower-income units
Timeframe: Adoption of Municipal Code amendments by December 2024 Responsible Party: Community Planning and Building Department Funding Source: General Fund
(Formerly Program 3-5.4.a: Density Bonus)
administrative and operating costs; however, these fees may have the unintended consequence of increasing the cost of housing. To encourage the development of affordable housing, the City will waive the parking in-lieu fees for affordable housing units and reduce the planning and building permit fees by up to 25 percent for affordable housing units in commercial areas.

Quantified Objective: Reduced City fees by 25 percent for developments with affordable units
Timeframe: Adopt Fee Schedule by July 2025
Responsible Party: Community Planning and Building Department Funding Source: General Fund
(Formerly Program 3-5.5.a: Reduced Entitlement and Development Fees) Parking requirements increase costs to residential development and take up valuable space that can be used for housing. The City will continue to offer reduced parking requirements for affordable housing developments. Additionally, the City will waive the parking in-lieu fees for affordable units, clarify the program requirements in the Central Commercial (CC) zoning district, and reduce parking requirements in the Multi-Family Residential (R-4), Residential & Limited Commercial (RC), and Service Commercial (SC) zoning districts.

Quantified Objective: Reduced parking for developments with affordable units Timeframe: Adoption of Municipal Code amendments by December 2024 Responsible Party: Community Planning and Building Department Funding Source: General Fund
(Formerly Program 3-5.5.b: Reduced Parking Requirements) ATTACHMENT 2

Chapter 2.0 Goals, Policies, and Implementing Programs 2-24 EMC Planning Group Carmel-by-the-Sea 6th Cycle Housing Element Update Adopted April 8, 2024 Faster permit processing times reduce overall project timelines and allow a project to get to the construction stage in a timely manner. Reducing overall project timelines is critical during this inflationary period where materials and labor costs continue to rise. Additionally, supply chains still have not recovered to pre-pandemic levels and delays in processing can also result in delays in placing orders and receiving materials and securing labor.

To enable a more efficient permit processing system, the City is committed to contracting with a qualified consultant to
inefficiencies and make recommendations on process improvements to streamline the permitting process
procedures including but not limited to the following:

Implement concurrent permit processing for projects that incorporate several land uses or features that would typically require two or more permit applications, to be concurrently reviewed and approved or disapproved by the highest-level review authority or joint meetings.

This will expedite the review process for complex development projects.

Allow an option for affordable multi-family projects to utilize 3-D modeling or other comparable methods, in lieu of story poles, that provide objective information for the City to assess impacts of development on important coastal scenic view resources; Prioritize projects with affordable units, assign a dedicated planner to facilitate the development process, and schedule joint public hearings when multiple decision-making bodies are involved.

Quantified Objective: Shorter processing times by 50 percent for developments with affordable units
Timeframe: Hire consultant by December 2024; Adoption of Municipal Code amendments by June 2026
Responsible Party: Community Planning and Building Department Funding Source: General Fund
(Formerly Program 3-5.5.c: Expedited Processing Procedures) Establishing a minimum density can be utilized as a tool to ensure the limited available land in a City is used in an efficient manner and lower densities are avoided. minimum density in the Commercial and Multi-Family Residential Districts is rooted in enabling the development of more dense housing in the City. Currently, the Commercial District (SC, RC, and CC) permits residential densities of 0-22 dwelling units per acre and the Multi-Family Residential District (R-4) permits a maximum of 33 dwelling units per acre. Effectively, establishing a minimum density in these districts will result in higher yields of residential units. Recent residential from 22-33 dwelling units
per acre.

ATTACHMENT 2

Chapter 2.0 Goals, Policies, and Programs 2-25 EMC Planning Group Carmel-by-the-Sea 6th Cycle Housing Element Update Adopted April 8, 2024 The City will revise the Municipal Code for commercial districts (RC, SC, and CC) and the multifamily residential (R-4) district to establish a minimum density of 33 dwelling units per acre, as part of the base zoning. Additionally, the City will restrict new single-family development in the R-4, CC, RC, and SC Districts. Existing single-family dwellings in these districts will be considered legal nonconforming uses.

In addition, and in compliance with Government Code 65583.2(h)(i), sites identified in the site inventory to accommodate the lower-income RHNA category, are subject to by-right development, requiring no discretionary review. By-right means a jurisdiction shall not require:

Conditional Use Permit;
Planned Unit Development Permit;
Design review, other than Objective Development Design Standards; or defined in Section 2100 of the Public Resources Code (California Environmental Quality Act The City is committed to modifying development standards in the commercial and multi-family districts to ensure the standards support the minimum density and do not function as a constraint to meeting the minimum density, as necessary.

Quantified Objective: 14 Extremely Low, 14 Very Low, 11 Low, 22 Moderate, and 110 Above Moderate-Income units
Timeframe: Adoption of Municipal Code amendments by December 2024 Responsible Party: Community Planning and Building Department Funding Source: General Fund
(NEW)
Policy 3.2: Recognize the special needs of persons with disabilities and the need to retain flexibility in the design review process to accommodate these needs.

A reasonable accommodation is any change, exception or adjustment to a rule, policy, practice or service that allows a person with a disability to have an equal opportunity to participate. Information on reasonable accommodation procedures will continue to be provided at City Hall and on the The City will evaluate and revise Policy C11-01, which describes procedures to provide reasonable accommodation and will explore reduced or waived permit fees for persons with disabilities in compliance with the provisions of SB 520, in an effort to remove any additional barriers and encourage those with disabilities to apply.

ATTACHMENT 2