As the sun dipped low over Carmel-by-the-Sea, the Forest and Beach Commission gathered in city hall, ready to address pressing concerns about the town's cherished natural spaces. The meeting, held on August 21, 2025, began promptly at 2:30 PM, with Chair Mickey leading the assembly through the Pledge of Allegiance and welcoming public comments.

The atmosphere was charged with community spirit as residents took the floor to voice their concerns about the state of local parks and gardens. Cindy Lloyd, a passionate advocate for the First Murphy Garden, expressed her gratitude for the city’s public works department while highlighting the urgent need for better watering practices. “We need to keep Carmel Carmel,” she emphasized, her words resonating with the audience.

Following her, Melanie Billig echoed similar sentiments, stressing the dire situation of the town's greenery. “We are desperately in need of watering all around Carmel,” she urged, pointing out that many newly planted trees were suffering due to inadequate care. Her plea underscored a growing concern among residents about the sustainability of the town’s landscaping efforts, especially as the warmer months approached.

The commission members listened intently, acknowledging the challenges posed by the current drought conditions and the limitations of available resources. The discussions highlighted a critical intersection of community engagement and environmental stewardship, as residents rallied for action to preserve the beauty of their town.

As the meeting progressed, the commission also announced a special City Council meeting scheduled for September 3, focusing on the popular sport of pickleball, indicating a broader commitment to community recreation alongside environmental concerns.

With the meeting drawing to a close, the urgency of the residents' messages lingered in the air, a reminder of the delicate balance between nature and community in Carmel-by-the-Sea. The commission's next steps will be crucial in addressing these pressing issues, as the town looks to maintain its picturesque charm amidst the challenges of climate change and resource management.