# Parks and Recreation Commission Meeting // October 14, 2026


**Body:** City of Monterey, California
**Date:** October 13, 2026
**Jurisdiction:** SLED

**Tags:** Construction & Infrastructure, Physical Infrastructure, Grants & Funding


The City of Monterey Parks and Recreation Commission met on October 14, 2026. Staff reported that City Council awarded a contract on October 6 for replacement of the Hilltop Park Center roof; the contractor and award amount were not stated. The roof work is anticipated in spring 2027. Staff also reported that an architectural firm had received a notice to proceed for a building assessment and concept design. The department submitted Neighborhood and Community Improvement Program requests for Hilltop Park Center improvements, El Estero facilities and ADA work, El Estero Park Complex improvements, and Jack’s Park field improvements. Jack’s Park estimates exceeded expectations despite a $150,000 Monterey Peninsula Foundation grant. Laguna Grande did not qualify for an urban greening grant, while staff planned to discuss another potential grant with the Coastal Conservancy; Seaside’s $1.8 million grant for Laguna Grande work is in design. The department also reported recent Sports Center equipment and facility upgrades, including new treadmills and refinished floors, without providing costs or vendors.

The commission discussed the city’s structural budget deficit and Parks and Recreation’s role in addressing it. City staff described a projected $11.7 million gap, $3.6 million in savings from 30 frozen positions, and a $3.5 million NCIP reallocation to help balance the current-year budget; the city is seeking operational efficiencies and revenue opportunities, including online campground registration, facility rentals, and field-use partnerships. The commission expressed support by consensus for Parks and Recreation staff to explore drafting an amendment that would prohibit smoking in all city parks and recreation areas and potentially bring it to City Council; no formal vote was taken on that item. The commission voted to recommend City Council approval of a Rotary-sponsored peace pole at Sister City Park. Rotary would pay for the pole, installation, and replacement, while the city would provide routine maintenance.

**Source:** City of Monterey, California