From the Mayor’s Desk: “A Community That Leans In”

An Inspiring Response

Over the past few weeks, something remarkable happened—quietly, without ceremony, but deeply meaningful for our city. We sent out invitations for nine seats open across four city boards and commissions: Historic Resources, Forest and Beach, Library, and Community Activities. These aren’t ceremonial roles—they’re essential to how we operate. Volunteers in these seats thoughtfully deliberate, provide critical guidance, and help us balance preservation, progress, and quality of life.

We weren’t sure how much interest we’d receive. These volunteer roles require time, effort, and the patience to work through complex, often contentious issues. But we received seventeen applications—nearly twice as many as there were seats.

Not Just Applicants—Community Builders

What stood out even more than the number was the spirit behind the applications. Mayor Pro Tem Delves and I had the privilege of interviewing every one of these public servants in waiting. These weren’t just names on a list—they were people with deep professional expertise, fresh ideas, and, most importantly, a passion for Carmel. Some had served before, but most were stepping forward for the first time. Nearly every person said some version of: “Even if I’m not selected, I still want to help.” That kind of spirit isn’t common—but in Carmel, it’s becoming common place.

Why This MattersAt a time when civic engagement is declining in many places—and public trust in government is often shaky—this moment reminded us of something essential: People do want to help. They just need to be invited in and shown that their efforts will matter.

Our commissions are where democracy plays out at a human scale. They’re made up of neighbors working through policies that shape our everyday lives—reviewing plans, balancing competing values, and doing it all out of care for our community. We are looking for action-oriented, team-first contributors—and Carmel is showing up.

To All Who Participated

This week, I called every applicant personally. To those that we’ll be recommending for Council approval in June we say thank you. You’re joining a long tradition of residents who’ve quietly helped keep Carmel exceptional. Your role may be advisory, but your impact will be real.

To those not selected this time we say thank you just as much. Your willingness to serve is exactly what every healthy city needs—and we’ll look for ways to harness your energy. Good things are happening in Carmel with resident workgroups, a major library project, planning and beautification initiatives, and a large number of volunteer organizations providing many ways to contribute. We especially thank those that have served before.

A Community That Moves

TogetherThe challenges ahead—wildfire preparedness, infrastructure, parking, housing, managing tourism—are complex. This moment made us feel that this complexity becomes much more manageable when we approach it together. When people lean in—not with rigid opinions, but with open minds and steady hands—we build trust, uncover creative solutions, and make progress. If you’re reading this and wondering whether there’s a role for you in your city—there is. Reach out to Council or Commission members. Volunteer. Attend meetings. Join a workgroup. Every contribution, large or small, moves us forward because Carmel will thrive when the whole town speaks up, steps in, and steps up.

Thank You for Leaning In

This process proved that civic engagement is alive and well in Carmel-by-the-Sea. To everyone who continues to show up for this community—thank you. Your commitment is what keeps our village the special place we all cherish.

To hear a podcast generated from this column, visit cli.re/leanin.

Dale Byrne, Mayor of Carmel-by-the-Sea

dbyrne@cbts.us