Monterey County supervisors moved forward on forming a joint county–city ad hoc to coordinate planning and economic development for the Salinas Intermodal Transportation Center.

Richard Vaughn, the county’s economic development manager, told the Board the referral (submitted by Supervisor Glenn Church) asks the county and the City of Salinas to appoint representatives to a small committee that would coordinate strategy, administrative support and tourism efforts for the intermodal center. Vaughn said staff do not anticipate costs beyond county staff time and that any need for outside consultant expertise would require a separate funding decision.

Supervisor Church and Supervisor Alejo expressed support for a “hands‑on” committee focused on carrying proposals forward and coordinating with city staff. Chair Lopez proposed appointing Supervisors Church and Alejo to the ad hoc immediately to signal county interest; she said no formal vote was necessary and the appointments were made pending the city’s reciprocation.

Vaughn said staff would return with a more substantive update in 2026 unless the board provided different direction. The action establishes the ad hoc and gives staff a schedule to bring back more detailed recommendations.

The board did not take a formal recorded vote on program funding at the meeting.