Soledad City Council made significant strides towards shaping the future of the community during its regular meeting on May 1, 2024. A key focus was the ongoing development of the city’s General Plan, which aims to guide growth and policy for the next 20 years. Council members engaged in a detailed discussion about refining the vision statement and guiding principles, emphasizing the importance of inclusivity and environmental stewardship.

Council Member Ron Salvador Sanchez proposed revisions to the vision statement, suggesting it should reflect the city’s commitment to equity and sustainability. His proposed wording highlighted Soledad as a welcoming and diverse community dedicated to improving quality of life and supporting businesses. This initiative aims to ensure that the city’s aspirations resonate with the needs of all residents, particularly those from underserved communities.

The council also discussed the integration of environmental stewardship into the guiding principles. While some members expressed the need for a standalone focus on climate action, others suggested incorporating these elements under existing categories like equity and health. The consensus was to enhance the guiding principles to explicitly address environmental justice, ensuring that future policies reflect the community's commitment to sustainability and equitable development.

City staff confirmed that a separate Climate Action Plan is in progress, which will complement the General Plan by outlining specific strategies for addressing climate change and promoting clean energy. This plan will be integrated into the broader framework, ensuring that environmental considerations are woven into all aspects of city planning.

As the council moves forward, they plan to finalize the guiding principles and vision statement, with the expectation of returning to the community for further input on specific elements. This collaborative approach aims to create a comprehensive and inclusive plan that not only addresses current needs but also anticipates future challenges.

The discussions from this meeting underscore the council's commitment to fostering a vibrant, equitable, and sustainable Soledad, setting a clear direction for the city’s growth and development in the coming decades.