Monterey City Council Meeting // August 4, 2026

The City of Monterey held a council meeting on August 4, 2026, which included several procurement-related discussions and public engagement on city projects. Key procurement topics included the appointment of agency negotiators for a real property easement with California American Water Company concerning land north of 731 Dry Creek Road, with public comments addressing concerns about potential installation of cellular antennas on the property. The council also deliberated extensively on the Madison Herman Larkin intersection safety improvement project, funded by a TAMSI grant, which proposed a quick-build traffic circle to improve safety and traffic flow near Monterey High School. After significant public opposition and council debate, the council voted to reject all bids and halt the project, directing the city manager to engage further with the school district and community to explore alternative solutions. Additionally, the council received an update on the draft economic development strategy and stakeholder engagement plan, focusing on diversifying Monterey's economy beyond tourism, engaging various business districts, industry clusters, and residents, and planning for future economic development staffing and implementation. No votes were taken on the economic development strategy at this meeting, but the council expressed support for continued engagement and refinement of the plan.