Salinas residents call for affordable housing and public works funding in budget meeting

In the heart of Salinas, the city council meeting on March 25, 2025, buzzed with voices advocating for change and community needs. Residents gathered, their concerns echoing through the chamber, as they urged council members to prioritize transparency and responsiveness in the upcoming budget.

One resident passionately highlighted the results of a recent community survey, emphasizing that housing, public works, and youth programs were at the forefront of residents' priorities. “We need more transparency,” they insisted, calling for budget allocations that truly reflect the needs of the community. They presented three written statements from fellow residents unable to attend, all echoing the same call for support in public works and community development services.

Victor Mora, a representative from District 2, echoed these sentiments, stating that affordable housing remains one of Salinas' most pressing challenges. “We need real solutions,” he urged, advocating for financial support for programs that would provide families with safe and stable homes. Mora also brought forth comments from peers who could not attend, reinforcing the demand for economic opportunities and the need for the city council to be proactive in addressing these issues.

As the meeting progressed, the council allowed for additional public comments, extending the opportunity for residents to voice their concerns. Nydia Soto, an organizer with Building Health in Communities, expressed gratitude to Council Member Barajas for his engagement in local meetings, highlighting the importance of council members being present and involved in community discussions.

The meeting underscored a collective desire for the city council to listen and act on the pressing needs of Salinas residents. With the budget for 2025 and 2026 on the horizon, the call for affordable housing and community development resonated strongly, leaving a clear message: the voices of the community must be heard and prioritized in the decision-making process. As the council prepares to deliberate on these critical issues, the future of Salinas hangs in the balance, shaped by the very voices that seek to uplift it.