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Historic Resources Board approves Steinbeck House and three other certificates of appreciation
Summary
The Salinas Historic Resources Board voted to grant certificates of appreciation to the Steinbeck House and three local properties, approving each nomination individually; one board member abstained on the 512 Pajaro Street nomination because of an association with occupants.
The Salinas Historic Resources Board voted to grant Certificates of Appreciation to four nominated properties, including the Steinbeck House at 132 Central Avenue.
Assistant Planner Yesenia Segovia told the board staff received six nominations total — three for programs/activities and three for projects — and recommended all six. She highlighted the Steinbeck House for its education and outreach work, noting the house attracts international visitors and offers guided tours that interpret John Steinbeck’s life and local history. "It provides meaningful education about John Steinbeck's life and legacy," Segovia said.
Board members discussed nomination materials and publicity. One member asked whether the Steinbeck House had received prior recognition; Segovia confirmed it had, and she said staff will post recipients on the city's website once web access is restored. The board asked that the list and images be made available so the public can see past awardees.
The board voted on nominations one property at a time. Recorded roll-call votes show the following outcomes: Steinbeck House (132 Central Avenue) — approved, unanimous; 54 Harvest Street — approved, unanimous; 36 Los Laureles Avenue — approved, unanimous; 512 Pajaro Street — approved (four yes, one abstention by Board Member Collender, who said she belongs to several associations connected to that address).
Staff said the process for distributing certificates will follow last year’s approach: recipients will be contacted and may receive certificates by mail or pick them up at the office, and there may be a public recognition timed with a council meeting. Planning Manager Grant Leonard described the prior year's recognition at City Council and confirmed staff will notify recipients after the board's selection.
The meeting record shows the board asked staff to post awardee information online and to consider improving online promotion so residents are more aware of nomination opportunities and preservation successes. The board also discussed encouraging public nominations and noted the awards are intended to recognize preservation work by owners and community organizations.
The board then moved on to administrative reports and other agenda items.
