Monterey voters say yes to hiring full-time firefighters, approve budget measures

Monterey voters say yes to hiring full-time firefighters, approve budget measures

Voters overwhelmingly approved the hiring of three full-time firefighters and weekend per diem staff. While it is a big ask for taxpayers, relying on volunteers is posing a safety risk.

Monterey Passes Budget On First Reading

With final tweaks still to come, Monterey Aldermen passed the new fiscal year budget on first and second reading Monday night. Monterey Mayor Alex Garcia said officials closely examined bills in many areas and found some areas of savings. As for rates the town charges, the Finance Committee has been looking at raising garbage rates by 50 percent to help the sanitation department become self-sustaining. Finance Committee Chairman Jamie Phillips. …