Salinas · issues
Civic issues
Topics getting the most attention in Salinas public meetings, ranked by how frequently they come up.
Measure G tracking poll
A new poll shows about 64% support for extending the half-cent sales tax that funds streets, parks and public safety. But the same poll shows residents are frustrated with city responsiveness, and public commenters warned that skepticism on Nextdoor could sink the measure.
SHARE Center operations agreement
Multiple homeless residents and advocates sharply criticized the city for sweeping encampments and confiscating belongings while the shelter is closed, and praised the new Community Human Services agreement for the SHARE Center. Councilmember De La Rosa asked staff to help people protect IDs and documents during cleanups.
Measure H and the repeal of renter protections
Voters will decide in November whether to repeal the city's rent stabilization, just-cause eviction, anti-harassment, and rental registration ordinances. Tenants urged the council to keep protections; property and business voices said rents rose despite them.
2026-27 El Niño Flood Preparedness and Local Emergency
NOAA says there's a better than 90% chance of a very strong El Niño this winter, with central coast impacts peaking January–March 2027. The city is clearing creeks, stockpiling 20,000 sandbags, planning evacuations and shelters, and declared a local emergency to move faster. Residents should sign up for Alert Monterey County and prepare go-bags now.
Affordable housing and housing cooperatives in the 2026-2027 budget
Students presented a plan for 120 affordable units at 58 West Market Street, citing high rents, overcrowding, and workers unable to live near their jobs. Speakers urged the city to act on housing affordability for families, seniors, and young buyers.
Gavilan Creek Homeless Encampment
The council updated city rules on camping and storing belongings in public spaces, cutting cleanup notice from 72 to 48 hours. Supporters say parks and sidewalks need protecting; opponents say it just pushes unhoused people around without adding shelter. The council also committed to an intergovernmental homelessness summit.