On September 11, 2023, Vice Mayor Urban Carmel welcomed members of the City’s Infrastructure Funding Study Committee, thanking them for their service and willingness to study the critical infrastructure and funding issues before the City.
“This is an amazing town," he remarked. "When a challenge occurs, people rise up and get involved. They commit their time, their intelligence, their education, their expertise, their common sense, even their own pocketbook to get things done. There are so many examples of residents helping – helping our seniors, keeping the streams clean, supporting our schools, helping our library foundation, and so much more. This town has such amazing capabilities. Our residents' dedication is unparalleled.”
Looking at a 10-15 year timespan, the committee aims to address looming infrastructure needs and seek sustainable recurring funding solutions. They will work to draft a recommendation on financial strategy for the City Council's consideration, set against the backdrop of the next decade's infrastructure needs. Recent assessments, spanning areas like facilities, storm drains, bridges, and sidewalks, have helped gauge the scale of infrastructural needs and potential investments.
The inaugural meeting encompassed member introductions, a review of the Brown Act, and insights into the City’s Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion (DEI) initiatives. City Manager Todd Cusimano detailed the committee's mandate: evaluating infrastructure needs, exploring funding solutions, and considering community feedback to shape their recommendations.
The committee elected Jim Parinello as Chair, Jerry Cahill as Co-Chair, and Helena Goddard as Honorary Vice Chair. Alongside the primary meetings scheduled for October and November, subcommittees will convene regularly to focus on areas such as Survey/Communications, Budget/Funding Options, and Infrastructure.
Learn more about the committee members and their backgrounds.
Check out the Infrastructure Funding Study Committee webpage.