The Buzz 08.01.24

FREE SPEECH

The Ralph M. Brown Act declares that California’s public commissions, boards, councils and agencies “exist to aid in the conduct of the people’s business” and the intent is that the actions of such public agencies “be taken openly and that their deliberations be conducted openly.” What if you call publicly elected officials of different boards and councils together for a meeting? State Sen. John Laird, D-Santa Cruz, invited mayors from the Monterey Peninsula, Monterey County Supervisor Mary Adams, and others, to a “Water Roundtable” on Friday, July 26 in downtown Monterey, specifically to discuss the Peninsula’s lack of water, an impediment to new housing. The Monterey County Weekly requested an invitation and was told there wasn’t enough room. Staff writer Pam Marino attempted to enter and was told it was a “closed meeting.” Laird says he wanted local officials to be able to speak freely about the issues and avoid a situation where electeds might be tempted to “grandstand” for the press.

QUOTE OF THE WEEK

“I knew I had made a mistake as soon as I saw those red and blue lights flashing behind me.” - Monterey County Sheriff Tina Nieto, responding to footage showing her getting pulled over by the California Highway Patrol for reportedly speeding (see story, montereycountynow.com)

GOOD WEEK / GREAT WEEK

GOOD:

Thanks to an anonymous donor, more veterans with special needs will receive aquatic therapeutic exercise, and at no cost. The Josephine Kernes Pool in Monterey received the donation, facilitated through the Community Foundation for Monterey County. While the dollar amount is not public, Lynn Young, executive director for Kernes Adaptive Aquatics, says it is enough to provide a year of free services for as many as 10 veterans. Water’s buoyancy alleviates the physical demands of movement, making it accessible for those who may struggle with muscle control, balance or strength, according to Kernes Pool. “We are very grateful for this gift, and appreciate the Community Foundation for Monterey County for being a bridge between this donor’s generosity and the needs of our veterans,” Kernes said. “This contribution will make a tremendous difference in the health and quality of life of those who have served and their families.”

GREAT:

It’s never too early to start saving for college. The Hartnell College Foundation and Bright Futures of Monterey County announced that registration recently opened for the California Kids Investment and Development Savings Program (CalKIDS), a fund created by the State of California in 2022 that provides free college savings accounts. In Monterey County, there are an estimated 64,000 children who qualify with $33 million available. Eligible newborns and low-income public school children could qualify for up to $1,500 to start their college savings account, which accrue interest and can be accessed when they reach 17 years old. “This seed money is a great starting point for students in preparation for college/university or a vocational training opportunity upon graduating from high school,” said Irma Lopez, manager at the Alisal Family Resource Center.