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Showing posts from December, 2024

County of Monterey Online Climate Action Simulator Lets Residents Select Emission Reduction Targets

  As part of the County of Monterey’s Climate Action and Adaptation Plan process, the community is invited to help the County prioritize meeting its emission reduction targets.   Using an online Climate Action Simulator, residents can step into the role of a climate action planner and help the County prioritize key actions. The simulator lets users select actions they believe the County should take over the next five years and see how those selections add up towards emissions reductions goals and submit them to county staff. Your input is encouraged!   The simulator is available at: https://ascent.mysocialpinpoint.com/monterey-county-ccaap.

CHP Will Have New Year's Maximum Enforcement Period from December 31 Until January 1

  As 2025 approaches, the California Highway Patrol (CHP) in King City, Templeton and all over the state is taking action to promote safe travel and prevent tragic crashes on California’s roadways. Starting at 6:01 p.m. on Tuesday night, December 31, the CHP will begin a statewide Maximum Enforcement Period (MEP) to crack down on dangerous driving behaviors and protect all road users. This heightened enforcement will run through 11:59 p.m. on Wednesday night, January 1, 2025. This year’s Christmas MEP highlighted the risks drivers face. In just 30 hours, crashes claimed the lives of 5 people within CHP jurisdiction, while CHP officers arrested more than 300 individuals for driving under the influence (DUI)—an average of 1 DUI arrest every 6 minutes. “Our officers are committed to working through the holidays to ensure everyone can reach their destinations safely,” said CHP Commissioner Sean Duryee. “Safe roads are possible when every driver makes responsible decisions behind the wh...

Monterey County Sheriff’s Search and Rescue Team Conducts 16-hour Rescue Operation of Hiker Who Fell Ill in Ventana Wilderness

  The Monterey County Sheriff’s Search and Rescue Team, along with CalFire and the Urban Search and Rescue Team completed a nearly 16-hour rescue mission of a hiker who fell ill while hiking in the Ventana Wilderness area. Search and Rescue teams were notified at about 8:00 PM on Sunday December 29, 2024, of a 20-year-old hiker who needed assistance and could not hike out on his own. Thanks to the assistance of other hikers in the area, an SOS rescue signal was sent out and emergency notification was made to 9-1-1. 6 Monterey County Search and Rescue team members set out to search for the patient who was located near Sykes Hot Springs. The patient was provided first aid and helicopter rescue assistance was made. Due to weather conditions, helicopters were unable to assist. Urban Search and Rescue team members joined in the rescue by foot. While returning, rescue teams became stranded and unable to cross a river where water levels had risen. Rescue crews and the patient remained at ...

New Mee Memorial Children's Health and Wellness Center, Devoted Solely to Children's Medical Care, Opens in King City!

  KING CITY, CA, 12/30/2024 - The new Children's Health and Wellness Center, located on the Mee Memorial campus at 809 Broadway in King City, is set to transform pediatric care in South County. Designed to address the unique challenges of pediatric medicine, this dedicated space will provide compassionate and specialized care for children in the community. The center's grand opening will take place on Wednesday, January 14 at 11 a.m., featuring a ribbon-cutting ceremony and guided tours. As a hub for pediatric patients, the center will also help increase capacity at Mee Memorial's King City Clinic, allowing Family and Community Medicine providers to better serve patients of all ages. "The opening of this center is a significant milestone in our mission to build a healthier, stronger community," said Rena Salamacha, CEO. "The Mee Memorial Children's Health and Wellness Center is more than just a building—it's a testament to our commitment to ensuring t...

Man in King City Arrested for Vehicle Theft and Other Charges on December 29

  On Sunday, December 29, 2024, at approximately 1130 am, the King City Police Department responded to a report of a vehicle that was reportedly stolen. An initial investigation, utilizing review of surveillance video, provided officers with a known suspect identified as Martin Torres. Assistance was requested from the California Highway Patrol Air Operations H70, who was in the area on patrol. CHP H70 located the stolen vehicle on the 100 block of Sussex Way with Torres exiting the vehicle and walking into a residence. Upon arrival of KCPD officers, Torres exited the rear of the residence and tried to hide in a backyard. Officers contacted Torres and arrested him for theft of the car, a Parole Violation and Driving Under the Influence of a Controlled Substance. Torres was later booked into the Monterey County Jail without incident, while the vehicle was returned to the owner. The King City Police Department thanks their allied Law Enforcement Partners for their assistance which re...

Author Cindy Wittstrom Will Speak at SMCRWF Luncheon and Meeting on January 7 in King City

  Southern Monterey County Republican Women Federated will be holding its monthly meeting on Tuesday, January 7 at 11:30 a.m. at the Cork & Plough Restaurant located at 200 Broadway in King City. The guest speaker will be Cindy Wittstrom, author of the book “When The Brakes Fail”. She will discuss recognizing and finding help for mental health issues. Everyone is welcome to attend the meeting. For reservations and further information call (831) 385-1333 or email karenjleonhard@gmail.com

3.1 Magnitude Earthquake Rattles Outside of Pinnacles National Park on December 26

  According to the US Geological Survey a 3.1 magnitude earthquake shook things up over 7 miles northwest of Pinnacles National Park at 3:57 pm on Thursday afternoon, December 26. The earthquake had a reported depth of almost 4 miles. No damages were reported. 

3 Vehicle Wreck on Highway 101 Outside of King City on December 26

  A 3 vehicle accident happened on Highway 101 Northbound near the Central Avenue exit outside of King City at 12:07 pm on Thursday afternoon, December 26. One of the vehicles overturned as a result of the crash. Minor injuries were reported from the collision. 

Greenfield Man Sentenced to 40 Years in Prison for 4 Counts of Child Molestation Involving 3 Victims

  SALINAS, California- Monterey County District Attorney Jeannine M. Pacioni announced on December 20 that on December 19, 2024, the Honorable Rafael Vazquez sentenced 38-year-old Eleuterio Dominguez Ortiz of Greenfield, to 40 years in prison for committing 4 counts of forcible lewd acts upon a child under 14. These offenses are serious and violent felonies and considered strikes under California’s Three Strikes law. Ortiz will also be required to register as a sex offender for the rest of his life. John Doe reported that Ortiz, a family member, had molested him on at least 2 separate occasions when he was in the 4th grade. John Doe’s brave disclosure to law enforcement caused Jane Doe 1 and Jane Doe 2 to disclose that Ortiz had molested them as well when they were very young. According to research into sexual assault victim behavior, it is very common for victims to delay reporting the sexual abuse, especially when the victim is a minor and has a close relationship with the perpet...

Monterey County Sheriff’s Office Ramps Up DUI Enforcement for the 2024-25 Holiday Season

  As the holiday season and New Year’s celebrations approach, the Monterey County Sheriff’s Office is increasing its efforts to keep roadways safe by targeting impaired drivers. Through enhanced DUI saturation patrols, deputies will focus on preventing alcohol-related incidents and helping to ensure the safety of all residents and visitors. These operations are funded by the California Department of Alcoholic Beverage Control’s Alcohol Policing Partnership (ABC-APP) Grant, which provides resources to combat alcohol-related harm. This grant allows the Monterey County Sheriff’s Office to deploy additional patrols dedicated specifically to finding and removing impaired drivers from the roads during this critical time of year. “The holidays are a time for celebration, but safety must remain a priority,” said Sheriff Tina Nieto. “Impaired driving endangers lives, and we are committed to ensuring everyone can enjoy the season responsibly. Thanks to the ABC-APP Grant, we can increase enfo...

Monterey County Receives 1st Round of Funding for Substance Use Response Team from Opioid Settlement

The County of Monterey has received its initial funding from a historic national opioid settlement, aimed at combating the devastating opioid crisis. The settlement has already delivered $2.9 million to the County between 2022 and 2023, with a total of $13 million anticipated over the next 20 years. These funds stem from legal agreements with over a dozen companies held accountable for their role in the opioid epidemic. The money is being directed toward local initiatives to address substance use and improve public health, managed through the County of Monterey Health Department.   One key recipient of these funds is Central Coast Overdose Prevention (CCODP), which received $627,609 to establish the Substance Use Response Team (SURT). Operating between July 2024 and June 2025, the SURT program provides mobile outreach and street medicine to individuals struggling with substance use disorders across Monterey County. Special attention is being given to those recently released fr...

Rep. Lofgren Announces $1.5M+ in Federal Funding for COVID-19-Related Expenditures

  WASHINGTON, DC – On Tuesday, December 17 U.S. Congresswoman Zoe Lofgren (CA-18) announced that the U.S. Department of Homeland Security's Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) is reimbursing Salinas Valley Health for a total of $1,544,351.83 for emergency health and safety expenditures incurred as a result of the COVID-19 pandemic.   “Salinas Valley Health played a critical role in delivering needed public health resources during the COVID-19 pandemic, including testing and screenings. I applaud this federal investment that will help cover part of the costs associated with these protective measures, and I will continue to advocate for all funds owed and additional reimbursements to ensure the Salinas Valley is prepared for future health challenges,” said Rep. Zoe Lofgren.   This funding was authorized by the Stafford Disaster Relief and Emergency Assistance Act and appropriated through the Continuing Appropriations and Extensions Act of 2025, which Rep. Lofgren vot...

Rep. Lofgren Announces $320K in Federal Funding for Road Safety Plans in Watsonville

  SALINAS, CA – On Monday, December 16 U.S. Congresswoman Zoe Lofgren (CA-18) announced that the City of Watsonville will receive $320,000 from the U.S. Department of Transportation (DOT) to develop and update road safety plans.   “Mobility is key to our local, regional, and national economies, and thanks to the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law, robust funding is flowing all around the country for road improvement projects,” said Rep. Zoe Lofgren. “I’m glad to announce this federal investment to help the City of Watsonville develop and improve plans that will make roads safer for everyone.”   This funding is part of the DOT’s Safe Streets and Roads for All (SS4A) grant program, which supports the planning and implementation of comprehensive safety action plans to address roadway safety issues.   The DOT funding was provided by the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law, which Rep. Lofgren voted in favor of during the 117th congressional session.

Jury Convicts 33-year-old Greenfield Man on 4 Counts of Child Molestation Involving 4 Victims

  SALINAS, California- Monterey County District Attorney Jeannine M. Pacioni announced on December 13 that a jury found 33-year-old Gustavo Espinoza Villalobos of Greenfield, guilty of 3 counts of Penal Code section 288(a) – lewd or lascivious acts on a child under the age of 14, and 1 count of Penal Code section 647.6 – annoying or molesting a child under the age of 18. The jury also found true the multiple victim enhancement for each count of Penal Code section 288(a). In December of 2018, Detective Joseph Dyles of the Greenfield Police Department spoke with John Doe 1, who was 12 years old at the time. John Doe 1 disclosed to Detective Dyles that Villalobos molested him when he was 10 years old. At the time of the molestation, Villalobos resided near John Doe 1 in Greenfield. Further investigation led to disclosures by John Doe 2, 3, and 4 that Villalobos, a family member, also molested them. These molestations occurred when John Doe 2 was 12 years old, John Doe 3 was 9 years ol...

King City PD is Searching for 2 People Suspected in December 4 Homicide; 2 People were Arrested for Assisting

  On December 1, 2024, at approximately 1:46 PM, officers from the King City Police Department were dispatched to the 800 block of Willow Street on a report of a shooting. Upon arrival, officers located a 31-year-old male victim in a vehicle suffering from gunshot wounds. The victim was pronounced dead at the scene. The investigation is on-going and there is no additional information at this time. Update 12/3/2024: A silver Honda believed to be involved in the homicide was recovered in King City. The vehicle was reported stolen out of the San Francisco Bay Area on November 25, 2024. The vehicle is currently in the custody of the King City Police Department and is being processed for evidence. There is no additional information at this point and the investigation is on-going. Update 12/13/2024: Through investigation, detectives were able to identify a person of interest in this case. He is 20-year-old Israel Martinez of King City. On December 13, 2024 officers from the King City Pol...

17-year-old Juvenile Arrested for Attempted Murder Incident in King City on December 4

  On December 4, 2024, at approximately 1:11 PM, officers from the King City Police Department were dispatched to the 500 block of Lynn Street for a report of a shooting. Upon arrival, officers located 2 vehicles parked on Lynn Street that sustained damage from gunshots. The investigation revealed there was an altercation between the occupants of 2 vehicles traveling on Lynn Street, 1 traveling eastbound and 1 traveling westbound. During the altercation, one of the occupants of the vehicle traveling eastbound exited his vehicle and fired several rounds in the direction of the vehicle traveling westbound. Nobody was hit but the 2 aforementioned vehicles sustained damage from the gunshots. Officers investigating the scene located multiple bullet casings at the intersection of Lynn Street and Russ Street. Through investigation, detectives were able to identify a person of interest in the case. The person of interest is a 17-year-old male juvenile resident of King City. On December 13,...

Rep. Lofgren Announces $75K in Federal Funding to Support Rural Small Businesses

  SALINAS, CA – On Friday, December 13 U.S. Congresswoman Zoe Lofgren (CA-18) announced that El Pajaro Community Development Corporation will receive $75,000 from the U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) to support current and emerging rural businesses in Monterey, Santa Cruz, and San Benito counties.   “Small businesses help drive our local, regional, and national economies, and I respect the El Pajaro Community Development Corporation’s commitment to empowering entrepreneurs in the Central Coast. This federal funding will help provide management resources for rural, small business owners, equipping them with tools for success,” said Rep. Zoe Lofgren.   This funding comes from the USDA’s Rural Business Development Grants Program, which promotes economic development and job creation in rural communities. The funding is projected to assist at least 75 businesses within Monterey, Santa Cruz, and San Benito counties.   The USDA funding was provided by the FY24 consolid...

King City Axe Murderer Convicted by Jury

  SALINAS, California- Monterey County District Attorney Jeannine M. Pacioni announced on December 12 that a jury convicted Kevin James Powell of First-Degree Murder and First-Degree Attempted Murder. On September 14, 2022, the deceased victim and his brother were in town for work staying at a Motel 6 in King City. That night, after returning from dinner at their sister’s house, they stood outside their room talking. Meanwhile, another guest, later identified as Powell, parked his car near the victims. The victims—strangers to Powell—paid no attention as he got out, rummaged in the rear passenger seat of his car, and then suddenly produced a three-foot axe and attacked them with it. One victim ran and escaped with minor injuries; the other tripped, suffered serious injuries from the assault, and later died at the hospital. Powell testified that he attacked the victims due to methamphetamine-induced psychosis. The jury convicted Powell of First-Degree Murder and First-Degree Attempt...

Internationally Known Mexican Singer Alejandro Fernández Donates to Monterey County Sheriff’s Office Toy Drive

  Internationally known Mexican singer Alejandro Fernández has made a donation to the Monterey County Sheriff’s Office Toy Drive. Alejandro Fernández rose to global fame with his unique take on Mexican music. He is known for his records that speak of hard emotional truths. Throughout his career Alejandro has surprised his fanbase with his musical versatility in different genres. He has a long history of helping others through his music and shows. In 2023, he was recognized by the US Congress for his contributions to Mexican music and Latino culture along his career of over four decades. It also recognized Fernández as a humanitarian for the long-lasting impact he has made beyond his music worldwide. In the same year, Alejandro also supported the community of Pajaro after they suffered a catastrophic flood. The international artist has been instrumental in uplifting and uniting the Latino community through donating his time, resources, and art. Alejandro Fernández has made a generou...

Legendary Mexican Rock Band MANÁ makes donation to Monterey County Sheriff’s Office Toy Drive

  Internationally known Mexican rock band MANÁ has made a generous donation to the Monterey County Sheriff’s Office Toy Drive. The legendary band just concluded their 100-date tour, México Lindo y Querido in their home country of Mexico, playing in over 14 countries with millions of fans around the world. Their tour was a timeless celebration of the group’s love and admiration for Mexico and the multigenerational Latino community. Over three decades, MANÁ has amassed a diverse audience of fans of all ages that continue to celebrate their music around the globe. MANÁ’s influence spans beyond music, for over 28 years, the Selva Negra Ecological Foundation has been the band’s social arm, combining conservation and environmental rescue with social development. Throughout their career, the band has been a vocal advocate for issues impacting their fans around the globe. In 2023, MANÁ supported the community of Pajaro after they suffered catastrophic flood. During their time on tour with ...

Community Invited to Celebrate Mural Unveiling on December 14 at the Alisal Integrated Health Clinic in Salinas!

  County of Monterey Behavioral Health Bureau – Child and Youth Services in collaboration with Hijos Del Sol and the Salinas Valley Chamber of Commerce invites the community to take part in the unveiling of the Alisal Integrated Health Clinic’s mural, titled “The Hug / El Abrazo.” The Hug represents support, safety, acceptance, and belonging in our community. “Our deepest appreciation for artist José Ortiz and the artistic team at Hijos del Sol for bringing this mural to life. The mural is an outward expression of the therapeutic work that is happening inside our clinics and the support provided to the children, youth, and families.” - Dr. Marni R. Sandoval. The celebration and unveiling will take place Saturday, December 14 from 11 am to 1 pm at the Alisal Integrated Health Clinic at 331 Sanborn in Salinas. The Alisal Integrated Health Clinic in the heart of East Salinas offers holistic care of body and mind providing mental health services through Monterey County Behavioral Healt...

Rep. Lofgren Announces Nearly $200K for STEM Research at Hartnell College

  WASHINGTON, DC – On Wednesday, December 11 U.S. Congresswoman Zoe Lofgren (CA-18), the Ranking Member of the House Science, Space, and Technology Committee, announced that Hartnell College will receive $199,951 from the National Science Foundation (NSF) to upgrade STEM research equipment.   “Strong STEM education programs set students up for success in the 21st Century economy, and I am always encouraged when local institutions are building upon their offerings. This federal funding will help advance scientific discovery and make STEM education more accessible to Hartnell’s diverse student population, fostering the next generation of STEM leaders,” said Rep. Zoe Lofgren.   The NSF funding comes from the FY24 consolidated appropriations package, which Rep. Lofgren voted in favor of.

Monterey County Farm Bureau Honored at Annual Meeting on December 9!

  Salinas, CA - California Farm Bureau held their Annual Meeting in Monterey and on Monday, December 9 awarded Monterey County Farm Bureau with several awards.   Monterey County Farm Bureau received the “County of the Year” Award for Farm Bureaus with 300 to 700 members for membership recruitment and retention and for being politically active in its region. The Farm Bureau was recognized for fostering relationships with elected officials at all levels of government and working with regulatory agencies; Board members are engaged on several issues, including water, labor, land use and food safety.   Monterey County Farm Bureau is involved in consumer education and provides volunteer and financial support for three annual Farm Day events that educate 6,000 third graders about food production and processing. It also partners with the community on issues such as housing, homelessness, and illegal dumping.   Monterey County Farm Bureau is often a source used by the local m...

Office of Traffic Safety Awards $276,000 Grant to the County of Monterey’s Health Department for Child Safety Seat Education Program

  The County of Monterey Health Department announced on December 10 that they received a $276,000 grant from the California Office of Traffic Safety (OTS), through the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration. Funding will be used to inform parents and caregivers about the importance of child safety seats and traveling safely.   "We are thrilled to receive this grant to support our child safety seat education program,” said Public Health Program Manager Christabelle Oropeza. “Proper use of child car seats can dramatically reduce the risk of injury or death in a crash. With this funding, we can provide hands-on training, resources, and support so that every family has the knowledge and tools needed to keep their children safe."   Grant funds will be used to provide the community with car seat safety program services, which include:     Child safety seat inspection events and education classes.     Child Passenger Safety Technician (CPST) training ...

Gonzales Man Sentenced to 4 Years in Prison for Being a Felon in Possession of a Firearm

  Salinas, California- Monterey County District Attorney Jeannine M. Pacioni announced on Monday, December 9 that 43-year-old David Paul Farias of Gonzales, was sentenced to 4 years in prison on December 4 for being a felon in possession of a firearm. On January 9, 2024, Farias was instructed to report to the Salinas Parole Office to be placed on GPS monitoring. Farias was taken into custody on a parole violation, and his cell phone was searched. On his cell phone was a picture of a firearm, which Farias was not allowed to possess due to prior felony convictions. On January 11, 2024, a parole search was conducted at Farias’s residence in Gonzales. Inside a safe in his garage, investigators located a safe containing the firearm from the photograph from Farias’s cell phone, along with over 100 rounds of ammunition. Judge Pamela L. Butler sentenced Farias to 2 years in state prison, which was doubled to 4 years due to prior “strike” convictions within the meaning of California’s Three...

National Wreaths Across America Day will be Held at the King City Cemetery on December 14

  King City Cemetery, an official Wreaths Across America location will be hosting a wreath-laying ceremony on Saturday, December 14 at 10am, joining this year more than 4,500 other locations across the country for National Wreaths Across America Day with more than 3 million volunteers coming together. Coordinated and led by local volunteers and  fundraising groups, they will place wreaths on Veterans graves at the King City Cemetery. This annual event seeks to further the Wreaths Across America mission of Remember, Honor and Teach, ensuring that the memory of those who served our country endures. King City Mayor Mike LeBarre, District 3 Monterey County Supervisor Chris Lopez, Captain Pete Gomez Sr. Naval Science Instructor of the Soledad High School Junior ROTC along with Fort Hunter Liggett Col. Stephen Trotter will all be speaking at the ceremony. In addition, Fort Hunter Liggett Command team members will be participating at the ceremony as follows:  Lt. Col. Amorris Co...

King City Police Department Looks into Threats Against December 6 King City Christmas Parade

On December 6, 2024, the King City Police Department received a call regarding possible threats of gang violence that may occur during the scheduled Christmas Parade. The information came from a single reporting person. The reporting person indicated he was walking in the area of the King City Cemetery on Wednesday, December 4, 2024 in the afternoon. As he passed a male talking on a cellular phone, he thought he overheard the male tell the person on the other end of the line that he wanted to retaliate for the recent gang shootings. The male on the phone did not name a particular target but did indicate it would occur at an intersection on the parade route. Responding officers conducted a thorough investigation into the information provided by the reporting person and were unable to substantiate the validity of the information provided. While the investigation is ongoing and not yet conclusive, the evidence thus far does not support the information to be credible. The King City Police ...

San Antonio Drive Path and Safe Routes to School Project Public Workshop Will be Held at the King City City Hall on December 11

  The City of King will be holding a Community Feedback Workshop on Wednesday night, December 11 at the City Council Chambers from 6 p.m. to 8 p.m.  The project will be funded from a $11 million State grant and includes a new dedicated bike path along San Antonio Drive from Mildred Avenue to Broadway Street and then west on Broadway Street to the King City High School, a series of roundabouts at each intersection on Broadway Street from San Antonio Drive to Mildred Avenue, installation of bike lanes on Mildred Avenue, and other safe routes to school improvements. This will be a major project for the community.  It is designed to improve pedestrian safety, reduce traffic congestion at each intersection on Broadway Street adjacent to the High School, and make the community more bike-friendly.  Everyone is encouraged to attend, learn more about how the project is designed and will work, and provide your input and questions.  Translation, child care, and free refres...

Office of Traffic Safety Awards $747,048 Grant to the Monterey County District Attorney's Office for Specialized DUI Prosecution Team

  Salinas, Calif. – Monterey County District Attorney Jeannine M. Pacioni announced on December 5 that her office has received a grant from the California Office of Traffic Safety (OTS) to support a specialized prosecution team that handles alcohol- and drug-impaired driving cases. The grant program runs through September 2025. “We are grateful for this grant, which will allow us to focus specifically on holding individuals accountable for impaired driving and making the roads in our community safer for everyone,” Monterey County District Attorney Jeannine Pacioni said. “Impaired driving remains a significant danger on our roads, particularly drivers suspected of operating a vehicle under the influence of both alcohol and drugs. This funding strengthens our commitment to improving road safety and making sure justice is served effectively and efficiently.” The specialized prosecution team will also partner with the statewide Traffic Safety Resource Prosecutor Training Program (TSRP)...

Rep. Lofgren Announces Nearly $200K in Federal Funding for Solar Energy Project in Salinas

  WASHINGTON, DC – On Thursday, December 5 U.S. Congresswoman Zoe Lofgren (CA-18) announced that the Sam Farr Crop Research Center, owned and operated by the U.S. Department of Agriculture’s Agricultural Research Service (ARS), will receive $200,000 from the U.S. Department of Energy (DOE) to design a solar energy system.   “As the threat of climate change becomes more dangerous, it is more important than ever to fund innovative and environmentally-friendly solutions. This solar energy project will help the Sam Farr Crop Research Center meet its energy needs and continue to conduct ag research that matters in our communities and our country,” said Rep. Zoe Lofgren. “I will continue to support smart, green investments like this that boost the ag economy.”   This grant funding comes from the DOE’s Assisting Federal Facilities with Energy Conservation Technologies (AFFECT) program, which supports clean energy projects at federal facilities across the country.   The DOE ...

November 5, 2024 Monterey County Election Results are Certified

  SALINAS, CA – Final certified results for the November 5, 2024, Presidential General Election are available at https://www.countyofmonterey.gov/government/departments-a-h/elections/election-results. Final results had 148,916 votes cast, the 2nd highest presidential election vote cast total in Monterey County’s vote history, with a turnout of 69.3% based on a registration of 214,883 voters.   Registrar of Voters Gina Martinez expressed deep appreciation for the community's efforts in making this election a success:   "We extend our heartfelt gratitude to the voters and candidates of Monterey County for their commitment to democracy and participation in this election. We are especially thankful for our poll workers, emergency planning response partners, and for the dedicated staff members who worked tirelessly to ensure every ballot was processed securely and accurately."   This year's election was a collaborative success made possible by the efforts of community par...

UPDATE Regarding December 1 Homicide in King City

  On December 1, 2024, at approximately 1:46 PM, officers from the King City Police Department were dispatched to the 800 block of Willow Street on a report of a shooting. Upon arrival, officers located a 31-year-old male victim in a vehicle suffering from gunshot wounds. The victim was pronounced deceased at the scene. The investigation is on-going and there is no additional information at this time Update December 3, 2024 According to the King City Police Department a silver Honda believed to be involved in the fatal shooting on December 1 on the 800 block of Willow Street in King City which resulted in the death of 31-year-old male victim was recovered in King City. The vehicle was reported as stolen out of the San Francisco Bay Area on November 25, 2024, is currently in the custody of the King City Police Department and is being processed for evidence. There is no additional information at this point and the investigation is on-going. Anyone with information regarding this case...

Greenfield Man Arrested for November 26 Attempted Murder Incident in King City

  On November 26, 2024, at approximately 4:05 PM, officers from the King City Police Department were dispatched to the 900 block of Broadway Street for a report of a shooting. Upon arrival, officers learned that the victim had been shot multiple times and was transported by family members to a local hospital for treatment for non-life-threatening wounds. Through investigation, detectives identified a possible suspect vehicle. A subject associated to that vehicle was contacted and later arrested for his involvement in the shooting. He is identified as 20-year-old Adrian Justo of Greenfield. Justo was booked into Monterey County Jail for attempted murder. There is no additional information at this time and the investigation is on-going. Anyone with information regarding this case is encouraged to contact the King City Police Department at (831) 385-4848; Sergeant Joshue Partida at (831) 386-5988 or jpartida@kingcity.com; or the WeTip line at 1-800-78-CRIME. Your call may remain compl...

Mills Ranch Central Park Ribbon Cutting Ceremony in King City on December 3

  King City’s newest park, located in the Mills Ranch subdivision, will officially open on Tuesday, December 3.  The park was constructed by Mills Ranch developer, Nino Homes, and will now be maintained and operated by the City of King. The new park features a variety of amenities, including youth soccer fields, 3 basketball courts, 2 pickleball courts, an extensive playground area along with a barbeque and picnic area, restrooms and landscaping. An official ribbon cutting ceremony will be held at noon on Tuesday, December 3 to officially dedicate the park.  The park is located between Victoria Avenue and Boston Lane in King City.  Free food will be provided.  Everyone is invited to attend.  Please see the attached flyer for more information.   Contact King City City Hall at 831-385-3281 if you have any questions.

King City Police are Investigating Shooting that Killed 1 Person on December 1

  According to the King City Police Department on Sunday afternoon, December 1, 2024, at approximately 1:46 PM, officers were dispatched to the 800 block of Willow Street in King City for a report of a shooting. Upon arrival, officers located a 31-year-old male victim in a vehicle suffering from gunshot wounds. The victim was pronounced dead at the scene. The investigation about this incident is on-going and no additional information has been released. Anyone with information regarding this case is encouraged to contact the King City Police Department at (831) 385-4848; Sergeant Joshue Partida at (831) 386-5988 or jpartida@kingcity.com; or the WeTip line at 1-800-78-CRIME. Your call may remain completely anonymous.