09-02-2026 Regular City Council Mtg.

The City of Soledad held its regular City Council meeting on September 2, 2026, which included discussions on several procurement and funding-related matters. Key procurement topics included the presentation and acceptance of the Soledad Container Village Feasibility Study and the USDA Rural Business Development Grant Closeout Report, highlighting a phased approach to developing a small business incubator with an estimated full build-out cost of $9 to $10 million. The council approved the acceptance of an additional $50,000 in funding for the Sandero Interim Housing Program, increasing the professional services agreement to a combined amount not to exceed $550,000, supporting operations through April 2027. Presentations from El Pajaro Community Development Corporation and Monterey County Business Council detailed ongoing partnerships and support for local entrepreneurs, including business advising, training, and access to capital. The council also received a strategic plan quarterly update, noting progress on urgent and semi-urgent objectives, and discussed community engagement strategies emphasizing social media growth, accessibility, and partnerships. Motions to approve the consent calendar and funding amendments were passed unanimously. The meeting also included proclamations recognizing National Childhood Cancer Awareness Month, National Recovery Month, and National Hispanic Heritage Month, underscoring community support initiatives.