|
Greetings,
The term "City of Monterey" is actually from March 30, 1850 - prior to that it was "Pueblo de (of) Monterey." This was when the California Legislature approved incorporating Monterey as a City during their first legislative meeting. The early days consisted of a Common Council of nine members, with one elected as President. Our first Mayor of the City, Phillip Roach, was also the last Alcalde of the Pueblo.
In 1853, Mexican land grants and borders were still in question statewide. Attorney Delos Rodeyn Ashley and City Treasurer David Jacks worked on assessing all of the unoccupied lands across the City of Monterey, nearly 30,000 acres. In a much lengthier story - a bill of $991.50 was presented to the City Council for payment by Ashley. The City was unable to pay the bill, and decided to auction off their unoccupied lands to the highest bidders at the steps of Colton Hall. Who were the only bidders? Ashley and Jacks - for $1002.50: the $991.50 assessment reimbursement and the $11 sale fee. The City unincorporated in 1853.
These lands later became what we call Pacific Grove, Carmel Valley, Pebble Beach, etc. (Point Pinos Lighthouse was first in the area considered Monterey). The City unincorporated of 1853 created a new form of leadership, and now unable to tax residents for basic services. The Common Council changed to a board of three members: President, Treasurer, and Clerk. Who became the first "President of the Board" in 1853? Mr. Delos Rodeyn Ashley. The City of Monterey lost several court cases to recoup the lost land. Ashley eventually sold all of his lands to his friend David Jacks.
On June 10, 1889, the City incorporated again - providing more power locally. This was driven by the community - interested in local control and the power to tax themselves to provide basic services. The community gathered at Bixby's Opera House to discuss incorporation. People thought that "the boot of David Jacks was finally off of them." I think this is where a lot of the contempt for David Jacks comes from. Good or bad, the Jacks heavily influenced Monterey. That same year, the City of Pacific Grove was also incorporated - no longer owned by David Jacks.
Our form of Mayor & Council has changed over time. On June 1, 1911 a new City Charter went into affect that had a Mayor and four councilmembers. Carmel Martin was the first Mayor elected by the community. Each councilmember headed one of the four public departments:
1.Finance & Revenue
2.Public Health & Safety
3.Public Works
4.Public Supplies
Today, our City Charter and City Code gives the duties and responsibilities today of our Council, Board, and Commissions. We have a City Manager appointed by Council, elected Mayor, and four councilmembers elected by district. The City Charter has changed numerous times since 1911; take a look at some of the City Clerk Archives if you want a deeper dive!
Our City has navigated budget challenges during the pandemic, multiple times in recent decades, and as far back as 1853. Each time, I believe that our City has come out stronger and more resilient. I know that the City of Monterey budget is at the tip of mind for many in the community. Take a look at the Budget roadmap and drop in Budget Brews at the bottom of this newsletter. The first session is tomorrow, September 4th from 9am to 10:30am. Take a look at the calendar or participate in future discussions about how to keep Monterey fiscally resilient!
Warmly,
Brian
| 
