Monterey revisits wharf leases

A hotly debated issue was back on the table in Monterey Tuesday night.

With a four to one vote, the city council decided to simplify its leasing guidelines for the wharf.

The new rules said the wharf’s rent should be fair to both residents and tenants. And as existing leases expire, the city will work with those tenants in hopes of retaining them.

Several store owners spoke in support of the city’s effort.

“People will need to be able to make a living and if it’s going to be burdensome, then we won’t have the locals to participate on the wharf, then it will have to go to chains with very big bank accounts,” wharf tenant Mary Alice Cerrito Fettis said.

Others said they were happy with the previous terms.

“I’m very aware of the fact that there are individuals who have businesses on the wharf, and I think they are getting what I think are rates that are not fair for the rest of the community,” Monterey resident Judy Karas said.

Some council members said the simplified guidelines give the city more flexibility to best meet the needs of different businesses.

Mayor Clyde Roberson said the council is keeping the best interest of the public in mind as they make decisions.

PREVIOUS STORY: A hot topic back on the table Tuesday night in Monterey as city leaders discuss leases for Old Fisherman’s Wharf.

The Monterey City Council is discussing whether to keep, change or scrap its leasing policy.

KION’S Linda Zhang will have more on the story at 10 and 11 p.m.