7/6/2021

Sewer Rate Increase Hits Businesses on August 6, But Increase Not as High and Abrupt as Originally Proposed

Your Monterey Peninsula Chamber of Commerce has been part of a business coalition that opposed a plan from the regional wastewater control district (Monterey One Water) for an abrupt, substantial increase in sewer rates. The rate increase would mainly pay for infrastructure improvements, although some of the new fee revenue would help build reserves and pay unfunded employee pension liability.

Your Chamber felt that such a dramatic immediate increase was foolhardy and excessive at a time when businesses are trying to recover from coronavirus public health orders. An initial unanimous board vote on March 29 to seek the proposed increase floundered when public opposition intensified and the board could not get a weighted two-thirds vote at its June 7 meeting to put it into effect as of July 1. On June 28, the board approved a more gradual sewer rate increase. And today (July 6), the board implemented the modified increase and had it take effect as of August 6, after rejecting a proposal to have it take effect today (July 6).

While there will always be business concerns about any tax or fee increase, the Monterey One Water board did make some changes to the original proposal that will delay some of the burdens of the sewer fee increase. We understand that wastewater infrastructure deteriorates and becomes outdated over decades, just like equipment deteriorates in our own businesses.
Pacific Grove Museum of Natural History Joint Ribbon Cutting Recap
We were thrilled to host a joint ribbon cutting with the Pacific Grove Chamber to celebrate this momentous occasion.

The "Changes" Exhibit explores the different Monterey County natural habitats and the changes they have faced in the age of humans.

“This exhibition explores the changing landscapes of Monterey County through memory and data, through what we remember and what we record. How have habitats changed? How might they continue to change? And what can we do to protect this place we all share?”

This is a must-see for any Monterey County resident!
View the full photo album on the MPCC Facebook Page. Don't forget to tag yourself, friends and fellow businesses!
Monterey County Fair is Back for 2021 on Sept. 3-6
at Monterey County Fair & Event Center

Monterey County Fair is back for 2021 with the theme, “Fair Fun in 2021!” on Sept. 3-6, after cancelling the 2020 event because of the pandemic.
 
The 85th annual Fair will be held at the Monterey County Fair & Event Center, 2004 Fairground Road, but in a scaled-down version.
 
“We are excited to have the Monterey County Fair back in 2021, with all the things people expect from the Fair — food, entertainment, live music, exhibits and a carnival with rides and games — although in a scaled-down way for health and safety reasons,” said Fair CEO Kelly Violini. “We have a ‘limited footprint’ with all carnival rides on the main lawn, which allows for parking on-site. All ticket sales are in advance in an effort to be cashless. Tickets are $10 for adults/seniors and $5 for children ages 6-11. Children 5 and under are free.”
 
While some details of the Fair are still being finalized, the live music lineup has been released:
 
  • Left of Center — 7:30 p.m. Friday, September 3, at the Payton Stage
  • Journey Revisted – 7:30 p.m. Saturday, Sept. 4, at Payton Stage
  • Money Band — 7:30 p.m. Sunday, Sept. 5, at Payton Stage
  • Samz School of Rock — 2:00 p.m. Monday, Sept. 6 at Payton Stage
Monterey Peninsula Chamber of Commerce is Now Hiring

Salesperson: a self-starter is sought to sell membership, advertising, and other marketing tools to the local regional business community. The ability to make a sale is the ultimate condition. Income is basis plus commission. Benefit package available.

Please submit resume or inquiries to communications@montereychamber.com or call 831-648-5383.
MPCC LEADERSHIP CIRCLE
Please forward this e-blast to your colleagues, customers, clients, friends, family and fellow community members!