Donna Jett critiques youth center plans and supports community room in police meeting

During the recent City Council Special Meeting in Carmel-by-the-Sea, community members voiced strong opinions on the proposed police facility and its surrounding amenities. Donna Jett, a frequent attendee of police meetings, commended the professionalism of the police department while expressing skepticism about the necessity of certain features in the new facility.

Jett raised concerns about the proposed shooting range and the community room, suggesting that the latter could be eliminated or downsized due to low usage. "Nobody uses that space," she stated, questioning the need for a plaza that she felt was underutilized.

She also criticized the idea of a youth center, arguing that it was impractical to have men and women using gym facilities at all hours. Jett emphasized the importance of practical amenities, such as showers, and urged the council to focus on the functionality of the facility rather than its exterior design.

Highlighting the need for a community gathering space, she argued that a community room could foster better relationships between residents and police, enhancing community trust. Jett concluded by urging the council to move forward with the reduced plan for the police facility, suggesting that ongoing delays and modifications were merely "band-aids" that would ultimately increase costs.

The meeting underscored the community's desire for a balanced approach to public safety and facility planning, with an emphasis on practicality and community engagement. As discussions continue, the council faces the challenge of addressing these concerns while staying within budget constraints.