The Monterey County Board of Supervisors is set to consider the approval of a ten-year lease agreement on Tuesday, November 17.
This decision could greenlight the expansion of the Health Department's Clinic Services Bureau by securing approximately 1,483 rentable square feet of space at 559 East Alisal Street, Suite 101 in Salinas.
The proposed lease with San Jose Ave. Apartments, LLC., aims to tackle the persistent barriers to dental care within the county, including limited provider availability, low Medi-Cal participation, and a scarcity of affordable preventive and restorative services. These challenges have disproportionately affected the county’s vulnerable, low-income population, leading to higher rates of untreated decay and oral health complications, according to the board report.
If approved, the new facility will allow Clinic Services to significantly expand its capacity to deliver comprehensive and affordable dental care, directly addressing community demand and improving access to essential services. This expansion aligns with the County of Monterey Health Department's 2025-2028 Strategic Plan, specifically targeting the goal of "Exceptional Person-Centered Care through Accessible, Community-Focused Health Services.”
The lease payments, starting at $4,569 per month, will be covered by the Health Department’s existing budget, ensuring no financial impact on the General Fund. The approval will initiate necessary tenant improvements, paving the way for the new dental practice setup and the delivery of much-needed services to the community.