Community Activities Commission withdraws approval for ‘Carmel by the Glass’ beach tasting after legal finding

The City of Carmel-by-the-Sea Community Activities Commission voted to withdraw its April 14 approval of the “Carmel by the Glass” wine-tasting event planned for Sept. 19, 2026, after the city attorney advised the commission that the proposal likely conflicts with municipal code prohibiting sales and commercial activity on Carmel Beach.

The vote followed a staff report and legal analysis from the city attorney, who said the application — which described the event as taking place near Scenic and 13th Avenue with anticipated attendance of 300 to 350 — would involve ticketed entry and the serving of wine and prepared food and therefore “would be conducting sales and undertaking commercial activities,” contrary to section 17.20.200L of the municipal code. The attorney recommended the commission approve a motion to withdraw its prior endorsement and allow the director of community activities to decide the permit moving forward, with appeal options to the city administrator and city council.

Applicant Jack Delante defended the proposal as a nonprofit charitable fundraiser that would benefit Set Free Monterey Bay and argued the city had reviewed the event with staff over nearly two years. “This event should not only be allowed, it should be encouraged,” Delante said, adding that no on‑site wine sales would occur and that the event followed standard ABC nonprofit permitting practices.

Public commenters urged procedural fairness and, in some cases, a continuance so key participants could appear in person. Cindy Lloyd urged postponement until principal organizers could attend, and Ian Martin called for a broader review of how the city applies its general plan and municipal code to events on the beach.

Commissioners debated options including continuing the discussion, amending the application to avoid sales or commercial activity, or formally withdrawing the April approval. Vice Chair Ellen Martin moved to withdraw the commission’s April 14 approval; the motion passed by roll call (Katie Ania — yes; Judy Referza — no; Maria Roose — yes; Ellen Martin — yes).

By withdrawing the commission’s prior approval, the application now returns to staff for director review. If the director denies the permit, the applicants may appeal to the city administrator and, if necessary, to the city council. Staff and commissioners noted that a continuance could push appeals past council calendar dates and potentially prevent the event from moving forward this year.

The commission’s action addresses both the interpretation of the municipal code and procedural questions raised by applicants and public commenters. The applicant and supporters said they will consider reworking or resubmitting the proposal, possibly for a different location or under different permit structures.

The commission did not take further action on the event at the meeting; staff will proceed with the director’s review and notify applicants of next steps.