Monterey Park Development News

Monterey Council Approves Measure S Renewal for November Ballot, Prioritizing Infrastructure Funding

The Monterey City Council discussed and voted to place a renewal of Measure S on the November 2026 ballot. Measure S is a 1% special sales tax dedicated to critical infrastructure, including roads, sidewalks, and ADA compliance. Staff presented polling data indicating strong support for the renewal, with 73% in favor overall, exceeding the two-thirds supermajority required for passage. The council also discussed a potential parking tax but decided to hold off on placing it on the ballot concurrently with Measure S to avoid negatively impacting support for the sales tax renewal. Concerns were raised by council members and the public regarding the city's sidewalk repair policy, the increasing financial burden on homeowners, and the need for transparency and restored voter confidence. Staff clarified that the city's code has always placed sidewalk maintenance responsibility on adjacent property owners, though a recent ordinance extended the timeframe for commencing repairs. The council unanimously approved moving forward with placing the Measure S renewal on the ballot.