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Salinas, Monterey County sign revised five-year MOU to jointly govern SHARE Center shelter
Summary
The committee approved a recommended resolution to adopt a revised five-year memorandum of understanding (MOU) with Monterey County clarifying joint governance, 50/50 operational cost-sharing, county ownership of the facility and the city's role in operator procurement for the SHARE Center shelter.
The Housing & Land Use Committee voted to recommend approval of a revised five-year memorandum of understanding (MOU) between the City of Salinas and Monterey County to jointly govern, fund and operate the SHARE Center emergency shelter.
Keisha Lopez, homeless services manager for the city's housing and community development team, presented the MOU and said it clarifies roles and responsibilities developed during the shelter's operations. Key provisions include a shared 50/50 operational cost responsibility (subject to funding availability), county ownership of the facility and primary responsibility for capital improvements, and the city's responsibility to lead the operator procurement process (RFP) under a defined timeline. Lopez said the MOU also explicitly defines capital improvements (for example, roof replacement, major HVAC or structural work) versus maintenance costs, which are shared.
Lopez described the MOU as a practical step to reduce operational confusion, improve joint fundraising and grant applications, align oversight and reporting, and support consistent public communications about the shelter. The proposed term is five years (2025—2029) with options to renew two additional five-year terms.
Committee members asked whether the county would serve as the lead on future grant applications; Lopez said the county is the fiscal lead and could serve as lead applicant for specific grants while the city and county would collaborate as appropriate. Members also asked for examples of capital projects; Lopez confirmed the MOU classifies roof replacement and major system upgrades as capital improvements and therefore primarily the county's responsibility.
Public comment from a Building Healthy Communities representative expressed support and urged clearer communications and education to residents about the shelter's operations.
Motion and outcome: Council member Salazar moved and Council member Sandoval seconded a motion recommending City Council approve the five-year MOU with Monterey County clarifying joint governance and cost-sharing for the SHARE Center. Roll-call votes recorded in favor and the motion passed.
The committee's recommendation will be forwarded to the City Council for final approval.
