The Measure E Oversight Committee meeting held on July 24, 2025, in Salinas, Monterey County, focused on key discussions regarding the city's pavement project and financial management controls.
Committee members raised questions about the transparency of financial information related to the pavement project, specifically concerning the private contract between the city and the contractor. A committee member inquired why certain financial details could not be shared, to which city officials responded that while line item costs are available upon project award, specific payment requests may not be disclosed until the project's completion. Officials indicated they would check if more detailed financial information could be released to enhance understanding of fund allocation.
Additionally, the committee discussed budget management and control measures to prevent overspending by city departments. City officials explained that the city council approves a budget per fund, with further categorization to ensure departments do not exceed their allocated amounts. They noted that while departments can manage expenditures within divisions, they cannot surpass the overall departmental budget. Controls in the financial management system prevent the processing of invoices once budget limits are reached.
The discussions highlighted the committee's commitment to transparency and fiscal responsibility, ensuring that public funds are managed effectively while addressing community concerns about infrastructure projects. The committee plans to follow up on the possibility of releasing more detailed financial information as the pavement project progresses.