Carmel City Council approves fire hazard map and discusses parental leave ordinance

The City Council of Carmel-by-the-Sea convened on June 3, 2025, to address several key issues impacting the community, particularly concerning fire safety regulations and employee benefits. The meeting began with discussions surrounding the formation of a task force aimed at addressing discrepancies between state regulations and local needs, particularly in relation to fire hazard management.

Council members expressed concerns about the state's "one size fits all" approach, which they believe undermines local control and could threaten the village's character. A council member highlighted the importance of public engagement throughout the task force's work, emphasizing the need for transparency and community involvement in discussions about fire safety and environmental considerations, especially regarding trees and landscaping.

The council then moved to a formal agenda item, discussing Ordinance Number 2025-02, which amends the municipal code to adopt the 2025 fire hazard severity map as identified by the California State Fire Marshal. After a brief discussion, the council unanimously approved the motion to adopt the ordinance, which is a critical step in aligning local regulations with state mandates.

Following this, the council introduced Ordinance Number 2025-03, which proposes the addition of a Paid Parental Leave section to the municipal code. This initiative aims to enhance employee benefits within the city, reflecting a growing trend towards supporting work-life balance for city employees. The council anticipates further discussion on this ordinance in future meetings.

In conclusion, the meeting underscored the council's commitment to balancing state requirements with local priorities, particularly in fire safety and employee welfare. The formation of the task force and the approval of the fire hazard severity map are significant steps towards addressing community concerns while ensuring compliance with state regulations. The council plans to continue these discussions in upcoming sessions, with a focus on maintaining the unique character of Carmel-by-the-Sea.