From the Mayor’s Desk: A Night of Milestones and Momentum

An Extraordinary Evening

Some council meetings feel routine. Others remind you why local government matters. Last night was one of those rare evenings where everything came together: a community showing up in force to witness celebrations, help shape its future, and see clear decisions. It was, in every sense, an extraordinary night in Carmel-by-the-Sea.

A Positive Start

The night began with report outs from three remarkable Carmel High students, followed by an update from the architects on the Harrison Library Centennial Restoration Project. We heard the project is moving forward with strong public engagement, growing momentum and vision, and tremendous fundraising success to date on this projected $17.5 million effort.

Volunteers in Policing/CERT Commended

We then recognized outstanding members of our Volunteer in Policing and CERT program for years of meritorious service. These individuals give their time and talents freely to assist our first responders. Their dedication helps our town function with care and hospitality, and it was good to see their work honored.

A Life Saved

The recognition continued with a moment that showed why our public safety team is so respected. Two police officers were honored for saving a life through fast action and CPR. The individual they revived stood before the chamber to thank them publicly. Seeing him speak underscored the quiet heroism our officers demonstrate every day.

Honoring Chip Rerig

After ten years of thoughtful leadership, City Administrator Chip Rerig is heading into retirement. Organizations, residents, and council members stepped forward to thank him for his service and deep love for our village. He received proclamations, applause, and some of the warmest comments I’ve heard on the dais. It was a fitting sendoff for a leader who guided our one-square-mile city with professionalism and heart. Chip, who has been by my side my first year in office, promised he’ll keep reading the Pine Cone and stay in touch.

Pickleball Front and Center

Pickleball supporters and concerned neighbors overflowed the chamber. The energy was high, the opinions strong, and the desire to be heard unmistakable. For more than two years, the city wrestled with how pickleball could coexist in a quiet neighborhood at Forest Hill Park. We commissioned studies, tried limited play, reviewed enforcement strategies, and considered quieter equipment. In the end, the evidence was clear: the sound and scale of pickleball overwhelmed the neighborhood.

After hearing public comment and a robust discussion, the council voted 5–0 to enact the site-specific ordinance. It reflected our responsibility to protect the peace and livability of residential areas while still supporting recreation elsewhere. We will continue working with the School District to expand access at Carmel Middle School and watch for other opportunities.

Street Addresses After 100 Years

The council then moved forward unanimously on a decision Carmel has debated for a century: implementing street addresses. Our “no addresses” tradition has charmed visitors but challenged emergency response, navigation, and daily functioning. After years of study and discussion, the council approved a detailed plan developed by an outstanding committee. It preserves our character while improving safety and usability for residents and businesses—truly a historic step.

Forward Momentum

We ended the night by approving an employment contract for Acting City Manager Brandon Swanson, capped by supportive comments. With an engaged community, multiple proclamations, and three more 5-0 decisions by a council working together with clarity and purpose, Carmel is moving forward with respect for its past and confidence in its future. I look forward to seeing you at our next meeting. To hear a podcast generated from this column go to cli.re/milestones.

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

dbyrne@cbts.us