Carmel council discusses urgent parking solutions and low-hanging fruit strategies

The Carmel-by-the-Sea City Council Special Committee Meeting on June 2, 2025, focused on addressing ongoing parking challenges in the city, with various stakeholders presenting ideas for both immediate and long-term solutions.

Key discussions highlighted the need to differentiate between "low-hanging fruit"—quick and easy-to-implement solutions—and more complex strategies that require additional funding and planning. Maria Roos emphasized the importance of implementing straightforward measures, such as four-way stop signs, to improve traffic flow and safety, particularly for tourists navigating the area.

Cindy Lloyd, an employee at a local hospital, shared her experience with shuttle services that alleviate parking issues, suggesting that similar programs could benefit Carmel's workforce. Ian Martin, a former planning commissioner, pointed out that parking has been a persistent problem for decades, urging the council to prioritize residential needs and avoid pushing parking solutions into residential neighborhoods.

Nancy Toomey from the Carmel Residents Association echoed the call for a balanced approach to parking, advocating for both short-term and strategic long-term solutions. She noted that the implementation of four-way stops in downtown areas had already received preliminary approval from the traffic committee, pending city council endorsement.

Several participants raised concerns about the current in-lieu parking fees, which have not been adjusted in over two decades. Ian Martin argued that these fees are undervalued and should be revised to reflect current market conditions, while Chuck Najarian highlighted the need for compliance with the California Environmental Quality Act (CEQA) to address cumulative parking impacts from ongoing developments.

The meeting concluded with a consensus on the necessity of a focused workshop to explore parking solutions further, ensuring that both immediate and future needs of residents, businesses, and visitors are adequately addressed. The council plans to continue discussions on these critical issues in upcoming sessions.