Svbj apr 2018 by salinaschamber

BUSINESS JOURNAL

INSIDE THIS ISSUE: Parking Enforcement P.7

Chamber Trip to Italy

Vacation Benefits P.10

P.5

New Member Profiles

P.13

Buy Local - Contractors P.12

City Budget Crisis: Firefighters Compensation by Paul J. Farmer, Chamber CEO This is the fourth article in the “City Budget Crisis” series where we focus on the City of Salinas’s major challenge with an ongoing budget deficit. The first three articles are available on the Chamber’s website at www.SalinasChamber.com Those articles covered the following topics: 1. The ever-increasing cost of the City’s employee benefits and pensions 2. Overtime costs, focusing on the Police and Fire Departments (which together average $5M per year) 3. The Fire Department’s special deal and “binding arbitration”

First, the source of our information – much of it comes from the City of Salinas itself. Financial figures come from the City’s Finance Department. For the third article in this series, the 64-page Memo of Understanding (ie, the employment agreement) between the City and the Firefighters union was drawn upon. For the current article, information on the compensation of any California public employee is available through a website called Transparent California. It is a free searchable database that anyone with Internet access can use (www.TransparentCalifornia.com).

The present article aims to resist editorializing and will simply publish publicly-available information on the compensation of employees in the Fire Department of the City of Salinas. Before we get to that, the Chamber would like to clarify several points. Employee Name

1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 11 12 13 14 15

Cortez, Hector Manuel Loomis, Brett D Flynn, Robert A Shoemaker, Herbert Eugene Rodriguez, Edmond Anthony Myhre, Scott James Klemek, Samuel Peter II VanderVeen, Shane Eliot Criste, Steven Michael Emery, Keith P Lauderdale, Edward Maitland Cheney, Matthew APRIL 2018 Lesch, Cary Ray Evarts, Matthew Hawkins Rodriguez, Frankie

Classification

Next, we aim to be fair. Before publication, we have shared information and articles with the Firefighters union (which is a member of the

Regular Pay

Overtime Pay

Fire Captain 108,912 174,197 Deputy Fire Chief 161,362 37,442 Firefighter 85,422 166,194 Battalion Chief 108,164 48,280 Fire Chief 175,917 2,952 Battalion Chief 141,922 31,262 BC/Fire Marshal 142,798 35,805 Fire Captain 109,048 78,948 Firefighter 85,870 120,592 Fire Captain 105,720 62,814 Fire Captain 101,353 61,990 Fire Captain 96,492 81,997 Fire Captainwww.SalinasChamber.com 106,434 80,046 Battalion Chief EMS/Trng 133,421 11,220 Fire Captain 105,085 68,377

Other Pay

32,197 73,883 28,919 99,905 79,522 61,936 40,512 31,277 25,504 36,975 40,738 28,954 25,368 34,901 5,897

Total Pay

315,306 272,687 280,535 256,349 258,391 235,120 219,115 219,273 231,966 205,509 204,081 207,443 211,848 179,542 179,359

Retirement + Health/ Dental/Vision

Total Compensation Costs

53,762 369,068 64,266 336,953 51,280 331,815 60,977 317,326 50,519 308,910 60,977 296,097 56,058 275,173 45,300 264,573 32,242 264,208 55,501 261,010 56,740 260,821 CRISIS - Continued on page 4 52,782 260,225 1 47,350 259,198 56,234 235,776 50,900 230,259

Something for everyone Whether youâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;re managing a chronic condition, working on your fitness level or looking for ways to de-stress, Salinas Valley Memorial can put you on the path to wellness. Check out our monthly offerings at svmh.com/health.

www.SalinasChamber.com

APRIL 2018

The Chamber – Stronger, Together

PROFESSIONAL STAFF ■ Roxanne

by Jim Bogart, 2018 Chamber Board Chair (& President, Grower-Shipper Association) We hope you have been reading closely, the series of articles that your Chamber has been researching and publishing on the many reasons for the City of Salinas’s structural budget deficit. This is a complex, multifaceted challenge and it is one that we must face together as a community. The solutions will require our elected officials to make some difficult and likely unpopular decisions.

always advocating on your behalf in this regard.

Chamber Engages on Your Behalf Tackling the City’s structural budget deficit is a challenge that fits perfectly with the mission of the Chamber. When closing a budget gap, the options are very clear – you either reduce costs, increase revenues, or both. The City has been working on doing just that.

Members like you financially support the vital work of the Chamber by renewing your membership and by sponsoring the two major events we put on each year (next up is our Centennial Gala on Oct 6). If you’re able to reconsider your investment level and perhaps step up to a higher level, we have recently revisited and improved the many ways we say “thank you” for your investment. Please send a note to our CEO at President@SalinasChamber.com or call him at the Chamber 831751-7725 and he’ll gladly discuss options with you. There’s another way you can help us, that doesn’t take anything out of your pocket. Spread the word. Talk to other people about

One of the concerns for the business community is that “increasing revenues” usually means higher taxes and fees. The City has also been doing that. But a balance must be stricken that is not excessively burdensome to businesses and other organizations operating here. The Chamber is

How You Can Help To celebrate our Centennial year, we are working to welcome 100 new members this year. Success with this goal will strengthen the Chamber so we can continue doing important work that benefits you and the entire community – like focusing on solutions to the City’s deficit.

the work the Chamber is doing. It can be as simple as saying “Did you see the Chamber article on the City’s budget deficit?” If your friends and the companies you associate with are not members, browbeat them into joining. Kidding! But seriously, we are “stronger, together.” Any business worth its salt depends on client referrals. For the Chamber, this is especially true. Would you take a moment to consider who should be with us from those in your Rolodex (for those of us who still use those! Maybe I should say “in your smartphone contacts”)? Again, we ask that you contact our Chamber CEO. You don’t have to do anything else. Just consider the value of your relationships and the trust others have in you - that’s a tremendous asset to the Chamber. As your Board Chamber Chair this year, I humbly thank you for the support you provide our organization. With 100 years in our rear-view mirror, because of you, we’ll be around for many years to come building a stronger community.

Thank you!

Noble Boss, Membership Director ■ Sydney Allred, Member Services Coordinator ■ Phillip Saldaña, Operations Manager ■ Thom Taft, Finance Manager ■ Paul Farmer, CEO & Chief Member Advocate

2018 EXECUTIVE COMMITTEE ■ Chair

of the Board Jim Bogart (Grower-Shipper Association) ■ Past Chair Frank Geisler (Geisler3) ■ Vice Chair, GRC Kevin Dayton (Labor Issues Solutions) ■ Vice Chair, Membership John Bailey (Alternative Dispute Resolution) ■ Vice Chair, Finance William J. Hastie (Hastie Financial Group) ■ Vice Chair, Events Julie Ann Lozano (MBS Business Systems)

2018 BOARD OF DIRECTORS ■ Lindsey

Berg-James (Noland, Hamerly, Etienne & Hoss) ■ Mark Boos (Girl Scouts of California's Central Coast) ■ Kalah Bumba (Consultant Community/Health) ■ Raymond Costa (RHC Management - McDonald's) ■ John Haupt (Blach Construction) ■ Jeff Lamb (Farm Fresh Deli & Café) ■ Adrienne Laurent (Salinas Valley Memorial Healthcare System) ■ Rodney Meeks (Credit Consulting Services) ■ Tom Meyer (1st Capital Bank) ■ Esmeralda Montenegro Owen (Hartnell College) ■ Cody Ramsey (Mann Packing) ■ Kristy Santiago (KION TV) ■ Ba Tang (Union Bank)

CHAMBER LIAISONS ■ Peter

Kasavan (SPARC)

■ Matt

Ottone

LEGAL COUNSEL

CREATING A STRONG LOCAL ECONOMY PROMOTING THE COMMUNITY PROVIDING NETWORKING OPPORTUNITIES POLITICAL ACTION REPRESENTING THE INTERESTS OF BUSINESS WITH GOVERNMENT

APRIL 2018

www.SalinasChamber.com

➟ CRISIS - Continued from page 1 Chamber, incidentally). While representatives from the Firefighters union have spoken with the Chamber, they have not submitted anything in writing that refutes any of the information we have presented. They are welcome to share their viewpoint, which the Chamber may publish in a future Business Journal. Why have costs with the Fire Department been a focus of several articles in this series? It is because it as an important overall driver of costs for the City, but just as importantly, the Chamber anticipated that the Firefighters would invoke the “binding arbitration” which was described in our third article. As we expected, they did that so the City and the Firefighters union is currently engaged in that process (and will be, for a number of months to come). The Chamber’s spotlighting important facets of this topic is very timely. Finally, the Chamber would like to make a few brief comments before we share the numbers. Most people would agree that our firefighters, as vital public safety servants, deserve to be compensated fairly. It is up for discussion just what constitutes fair compensation. In our next article in this series, we will include data comparing the pay rates of our local fire personnel with peers in similar cities. Readers will see in the data accompanying this article, the total financial compensation for the year 2017 for each individual in the Fire Department. The Chamber has not redacted these numbers, but has grouped some data to make the attached chart more readable. After due consideration, we decided to publish the names of employees. As mentioned above, all of this is publiclyavailable information. We are simply collating it and making it easier for citizens to understand. The Chamber is not making value judgments on the compensation of any individual employees. It should be pointed out that some employees, if they live locally, are more likely to be called upon to work overtime. (There is a significant number of fire personnel who do not live locally, which we may expound upon in a future article.) As described in the most recent article, the overtime needs of the department are directly related to the current MOU that mandates staffing levels. Finally, in a future article, we will also report on the number of structure fires and the nature of other calls responded to by the Fire Department. For the present article, our focus is simply to share the department’s compensation data. ■

3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 11 1 12 2 13 3 14 4 15 5 16 6 17 7 18 8 19 9 20 10 21 11 22 12 23 13 24 14 25 15 26 16 27 17 28 18 29 19 30 20 31 21 32 22 33 23 34 24 35 25 36 26 37 27 38 28 39 29 40 30 41 31 42 32 43 33 44 34 45 35 46 36 47 37 48 38 49 39 50 40 51 41 52 42 53 43 54 44 55 45 56 46 57 47 58 48 59 49 60 50 61 51 62 52 63 53 64 54 65 55 66 56 67 57 68 58 69 59 70 60 71 61 72 62 73 63 74 64 75 65 76 77 78 79 80 81 82 83 84 85 86 87 88 89 90 91 92 93 94 95 96 97 98 99 100 101

Flynn, Robert A Shoemaker, Herbert Eugene Rodriguez, Edmond Anthony Myhre, Scott James Klemek, Samuel Peter II VanderVeen, Shane Eliot Criste, Steven Michael Employee Name Emery, Keith P Lauderdale, Edward Maitland Cortez, Hector Manuel Cheney, Matthew Loomis, Brett D Lesch, Cary Ray Flynn, Robert A Evarts, Matthew Hawkins Shoemaker, Herbert Eugene Rodriguez, Frankie Rodriguez, Edmond Anthony Dirksen, Douglas A Myhre, Scott James Vaughn, Christopher Klemek, Samuel PeterKevin II Houchin, ScottShane Eliot VanderVeen, Knapp, Christopher J Criste, Steven Michael Limon, Emery,Alejandro Keith P A Thornton, Skylar Thurle Lauderdale, Edward Maitland Vallejo, Cheney,Alexander Matthew J Skinner, Kevin P Lesch, Cary Ray Vaughn, Michele Hawkins Lea Evarts, Matthew Wider, JohnFrankie Thomas Rodriguez, Alvarez, Dirksen, Gustavo Douglas A Stallcup, William Patterson Vaughn, Christopher Kevin Majewski, Benjamin Houchin, Scott Flores, Martin Rodriguez Knapp, Christopher J Meraz, Alfonso L A Limon, Alejandro Marmolejo, Joshua A Thornton, Skylar Thurle White, EdwardJ Vallejo,Paul Alexander Robbert, Peter P Augustine Skinner, Kevin Watson, Thomas Vaughn, Tim Michele Lea Hostetter, Joshua D Wider, John Thomas Ruiz, Sergio M JR Alvarez, Gustavo Hurst, Gregory Stallcup, WilliamW Patterson Glick, Lauren Suzanne Majewski, Benjamin Asamoto, Robert S Flores, Martin Rodriguez Valdez, ErnestoLG Meraz, Alfonso Pimentel, Carlos A Marmolejo, Joshua A Perkins, JonEdward Earl White, Paul Bryant, Patrick Robbert,Shannon Peter Augustine Koch, Ted A Thomas Watson, Tim Woods, Anna Kristine Hostetter, Joshua D Shea, DennisMMatthew Ruiz, Sergio JR Marshall, Alexander Hurst, Gregory W Wade Pottorff, CappySuzanne A Glick, Lauren Ryan, Peter J Asamoto, Robert S Kiburi, Akili Valdez,Mashaad Ernesto G Mizer, Michael J A Pimentel, Carlos Bausch, Perkins, Jeffery Jon EarlAlexander Maloney, Kevin Chiharu Bryant, Shannon Patrick Fenwick, Paul W Koch, Ted A Victor, Jason William Woods, Anna Kristine Furey, David Austin Shea, Dennis Matthew Augustine, Baron R JR Marshall, Alexander Wade Matthews, Kurtis Michael Pottorff, Cappy A Linnane, Zachary Patrick Ryan, Peter J Ramirez-Regalado, Jesus Kiburi, Mashaad Akili Alexander, Ryan L Mizer, Michael J Smith, David Robert Bausch, Jeffery Alexander Marques, Robert C Maloney, Kevin Chiharu Pacelli, Jacqueline Maria Fenwick, Paul W Ellison, Michael D Victor, Jason William Valverde, Mario Carrillo III Furey, David Austin Tait, Joseph Frank Augustine, Baron R JR Lomker, Jared Wayne Matthews, Kurtis Michael McCown, Eric Richard Linnane, Zachary Patrick Mitchell, Collin Christopher Ramirez-Regalado, Jesus McBrian, Patrick Lawrence Alexander, Ryan L Melia, Thomas Brendan Smith, David Robert Goulart, Marques,James RobertRC Lynch, James Pacelli, Robert Jacqueline Maria Makanani, Timothy Ellison, Michael D Noeau JR Filamor, Mark Anthony Lagleva Guerrero, Hector Emmanuel Pinol, Zachary Robert Short, Seth Matthew Alaga, Jason Paul Nitenson, Matthew Stuart Crews, Neil Michael Daniels, Kyle Merrill DeWitt, Garrett Marion Valenzuela, Sean Steven Kile, Devin James Garcia, Jose Gerardo Robinson, Cynthia A Sotomayor, Michael Alfred Duggan, Michael Paget Luzod, Thomas Lujan, Pamela M Gonzalez, Cristina Bravo Webb, Sabrina Marie Simpson, Travis Albert Nijem, Rasik Abdu Magno, Richard Angelo JR Lopez, Richard A Suarez, Jessica Mendoza Treuge, Mark H Vanderhorst, Philip Charles

Firefighter Battalion Chief Fire Chief Battalion Chief BC/Fire Marshal Fire Captain Firefighter Classification Fire Captain Fire Fire Captain Captain Fire Captain Deputy Fire Chief Fire Captain Firefighter Battalion Battalion Chief Chief EMS/Trng Fire Fire Captain Chief Fire Captain Battalion Chief Battalion Chief BC/Fire Marshal Emrgncy Med Svcs Offcr Fire Captain Fire Captain Firefighter Fire Fire Captain Captain Fire Fire Captain Captain Firefighter Fire Captain Fire Fire Captain Captain Battalion Battalion Chief Chief EMS/Trng Fire Fire Captain Captain Fire Fire Engineer Captain Fire Captain Battalion Chief Fire Captain Emrgncy Med Svcs Offcr Fire Captain Fire Captain Fire Fire Engineer Captain Fire Fire Engineer Captain Fire Engineer Firefighter Fire Fire Captain Captain Fire Engineer Battalion Chief Fire Engineer Fire Captain Fire Engineer Fire Engineer Fire Fire Engineer Captain Firefighter Fire Captain Fire Fire Captain Captain Fire Fire Engineer Engineer Fire Engineer Fire Engineer Fire Engineer Fire Engineer Fire Fire Engineer Captain Fire Fire Engineer Engineer Fire Fire Captain Engineer Firefighter Fire Engineer Fire Captain Fire Engineer Fire Engineer Firefighter Firefighter Fire Captain Fire Fire Captain Engineer Fire Fire Engineer Engineer Fire Fire Engineer Engineer Firefighter Fire Engineer Fire Captain Fire Engineer Fire Engineer Fire Captain Fire Captain Firefighter Fire Engineer Fire Captain Fire Engineer Fire Engineer Fire Engineer Firefighter Firefighter Fire Captain Firefighter Fire Engineer Firefighter Fire Engineer Firefighter Firefighter Fire Captain Fire Captain Fire Engineer Fire Engineer Firefighter Fire Captain Firefighter Fire Engineer Firefighter Fire Engineer Firefighter Fire Engineer Firefighter Firefighter Firefighter Firefighter Firefighter Firefighter Fire Inspector Firefighter Firefighter Fire Captain Firefighter Fire Engineer Firefighter Firefighter Firefighter Firefighter Firefighter Firefighter Firefighter Firefighter Firefighter Firefighter Firefighter Fire Inspector Administrative Secretary Firefighter Firefighter Fire Engineer Office Technician Office Technician Fire Inspector Firefighter Firefighter Fire Recruit Fire Engineer Temp-Office Technician Temp-Fire Plan Checker Temp-Fire Inspector DEPARTMENT TOTALS

www.SalinasChamber.com

85,422 166,194 28,919 280,535 108,164 48,280 99,905 256,349 175,917 2,952 79,522 258,391 141,922 31,262 61,936 235,120 142,798 35,805 40,512 219,115 109,048 78,948 31,277 219,273 Regular Other 85,870 Overtime 120,592 25,504 231,966 Total Pay Pay Pay Pay 105,720 62,814 36,975 205,509 101,353 61,990 ###### 40,738 204,081 108,912 174,197 315,306 96,492 81,997 28,954 207,443 161,362 37,442 ###### 272,687 106,434 80,046 ###### 25,368 211,848 85,422 166,194 280,535 133,421 11,220 34,901 179,542 108,164 48,280 ###### 256,349 105,085 68,377 5,897 179,359 175,917 2,952 ###### 258,391 106,973 30,459 35,581 173,013 141,922 31,262 ###### 235,120 103,811 37,944 39,582 181,337 142,798 35,805 ###### 219,115 122,093 2,931 ###### 43,754 168,778 109,048 78,948 219,273 100,622 49,846 ###### 19,329 169,797 85,870 120,592 231,966 98,837 71,333 14,250 184,420 105,720 62,814 ###### 205,509 104,979 28,928 29,117 163,024 101,353 61,990 ###### 204,081 86,149 51,414 26,287 163,850 96,492 81,997 ###### 207,443 104,273 36,299 18,142 158,714 106,434 80,046 ###### 211,848 119,359 23,743 33,582 176,684 133,421 11,220 ###### 179,542 105,065 50,783 1,619 157,467 105,085 68,377 5,897 179,359 87,304 52,793 20,510 160,607 106,973 30,459 ###### 173,013 96,594 45,476 15,139 157,209 103,811 37,944 ###### 181,337 101,119 45,201 8,037 154,357 122,093 2,931 ###### 168,778 106,052 27,896 14,088 148,036 100,622 49,846 ###### 169,797 92,959 22,953 32,862 148,774 98,837 71,333 ###### 184,420 90,779 36,641 22,737 150,157 104,979 28,928 ###### 163,024 92,900 44,939 7,998 145,837 86,149 51,414 ###### 163,850 107,121 19,394 22,263 148,778 104,273 36,299 ###### 158,714 96,535 48,956 10,638 156,129 119,359 23,743 ###### 176,684 91,548 32,651 14,160 138,359 105,065 50,783 1,619 157,467 85,298 53,363 16,835 155,496 87,304 52,793 ###### 160,607 93,206 33,471 11,365 138,042 96,594 45,476 ###### 157,209 86,900 61,310 158,572 101,119 45,201 10,362 8,037 154,357 110,512 36,110 11,668 158,290 106,052 27,896 ###### 148,036 92,249 23,194 17,986 133,429 92,959 22,953 ###### 148,774 92,828 51,071 18,178 162,077 90,779 36,641 ###### 150,157 92,774 33,924 7,522 134,220 92,900 44,939 7,998 145,837 90,699 42,785 1,901 135,385 107,121 19,394 ###### 148,778 94,394 31,535 7,552 133,481 96,535 48,956 ###### 156,129 95,115 28,290 16,540 139,945 91,548 32,651 ###### 138,359 84,287 50,194 6,929 141,410 85,298 53,363 ###### 155,496 94,366 11,102 19,755 125,223 93,206 33,471 ###### 138,042 87,585 31,660 7,138 126,383 86,900 61,310 ###### 158,572 87,074 44,596 10,769 142,439 110,512 36,110 ###### 158,290 86,492 32,849 2,506 121,847 92,249 23,194 ###### 133,429 90,334 33,065 13,932 137,331 92,828 51,071 ###### 162,077 91,764 24,555 6,662 122,981 92,774 33,924 7,522 134,220 83,663 34,679 6,698 125,040 90,699 42,785 1,901 135,385 106,720 10,213 1,848 118,781 94,394 31,535 7,552 133,481 93,122 36,499 4,480 134,101 95,115 28,290 ###### 139,945 91,833 18,910 6,098 116,841 84,287 50,194 6,929 141,410 92,131 13,417 7,140 112,688 94,366 11,102 ###### 125,223 94,937 18,348 11,683 124,968 87,585 31,660 7,138 126,383 94,057 30,033 2,890 126,980 87,074 44,596 ###### 142,439 72,423 57,744 5,242 135,409 86,492 32,849 2,506 121,847 84,065 8,072 12,453 104,590 90,334 33,065 ###### 137,331 70,286 37,782 11,249 119,317 91,764 24,555 6,662 122,981 86,291 20,737 11,231 118,259 83,663 34,679 6,698 125,040 102,256 10,818 2,561 115,635 106,720 10,213 1,848 118,781 87,701 16,246 13,810 117,757 93,122 36,499 4,480 134,101 66,145 28,735 2,089 96,969 91,833 18,910 6,098 116,841 83,106 25,902 1,309 110,317 92,131 13,417 7,140 112,688 71,169 32,716 10,863 114,748 94,937 18,348 ###### 124,968 72,796 25,226 14,744 112,766 94,057 30,033 2,890 126,980 72,430 24,152 11,155 107,737 72,423 57,744 5,242 135,409 69,154 23,787 10,580 103,521 84,065 8,072 ###### 104,590 70,178 12,528 1,222 83,928 70,286 37,782 ###### 119,317 75,661 532 5,645 81,838 86,291 20,737 ###### 118,259 67,880 26,515 1,900 96,295 102,256 10,818 2,561 115,635 59,056 20,202 1,128 80,386 87,701 16,246 ###### 117,757 67,803 14,400 10,373 92,576 67,930 22,554 1,901 92,385 58,948 12,984 6,057 77,989 68,133 22,259 1,663 92,055 55,410 16,357 18,134 89,901 58,862 11,993 5,346 76,201 70,453 12,937 2,223 85,613 73,152 20,758 1,208 95,118 67,660 15,545 1,894 85,099 62,408 21,543 6,413 90,364 59,245 6,273 1,839 67,357 61,230 3,336 64,566 56,701 - 15,109 71,810 46,842 24,248 1,950 73,040 42,399 6,703 9,921 59,023 1,719 2,513 53,587 57,819 49,504 9,848 59,352 47,106 421 4,906 52,433 34,716 1,649 2,748 39,113 31,867 1,357 3,534 36,758 5,417 1,131 11,311 17,859 10,188 183 1,095 11,466 15,425 15,425 13,194 13,194 12,461 12,461 $8.3m $3.2m $1.6m $13.1m

51,280 331,815 60,977 317,326 50,519 308,910 60,977 296,097 56,058 275,173 45,300 264,573 Retirement + Total 32,242 264,208 Health/ Compensation 55,501 261,010 Dental/Vision Costs 56,740 260,821 53,762 369,068 52,782 260,225 64,266 336,953 47,350 259,198 51,280 331,815 56,234 235,776 60,977 317,326 50,900 230,259 50,519 308,910 54,332 227,345 60,977 296,097 44,386 225,723 56,058 275,173 52,145 220,923 45,300 264,573 51,062 220,859 32,242 264,208 35,647 220,067 55,501 261,010 54,449 217,473 56,740 260,821 49,320 213,170 52,782 260,225 53,602 212,316 47,350 259,198 33,785 210,469 56,234 235,776 50,882 208,349 50,900 230,259 46,592 207,199 54,332 227,345 48,310 205,519 44,386 225,723 50,684 205,041 52,145 220,923 53,816 201,852 51,062 220,859 52,495 201,269 35,647 220,067 44,744 194,901 54,449 217,473 48,901 194,738 49,320 213,170 42,771 191,549 53,602 212,316 32,573 188,702 33,785 210,469 49,953 188,312 50,882 208,349 31,734 187,230 46,592 207,199 49,092 187,134 48,310 205,519 28,304 186,876 50,684 205,041 27,391 185,681 53,816 201,852 51,787 185,216 52,495 201,269 22,114 184,191 44,744 194,901 49,244 183,464 48,901 194,738 47,899 183,284 42,771 191,549 49,218 182,699 32,573 188,702 42,418 182,363 49,953 188,312 40,905 182,315 31,734 187,230 52,397 177,620 49,092 187,134 49,223 175,606 28,304 186,876 32,328 174,767 27,391 185,681 51,064 172,911 51,787 185,216 35,305 172,636 22,114 184,191 49,052 172,033 49,244 183,464 45,196 170,236 47,899 183,284 50,904 169,685 49,218 182,699 32,354 166,455 42,418 182,363 48,959 165,800 40,905 182,315 49,026 161,714 52,397 177,620 35,330 160,298 49,223 175,606 32,590 159,570 32,328 174,767 19,653 155,062 51,064 172,911 47,391 151,981 35,305 172,636 31,529 150,846 49,052 172,033 31,911 150,170 45,196 170,236 34,282 149,917 50,904 169,685 31,298 149,055 32,354 166,455 41,290 138,259 48,959 165,800 26,623 136,940 49,026 161,714 20,218 134,966 35,330 160,298 20,901 133,667 32,590 159,570 20,425 128,162 19,653 155,062 14,506 118,027 47,391 151,981 33,884 117,812 31,529 150,846 33,983 115,821 31,911 150,170 19,509 115,804 34,282 149,917 32,997 113,383 31,298 149,055 20,628 113,204 19,509 111,894 33,665 111,654 19,479 111,534 21,408 111,309 33,574 109,775 19,050 104,663 9,523 104,641 19,509 104,608 8,518 98,882 31,441 98,798 33,032 97,598 17,295 89,105 9,008 82,048 20,079 79,102 21,229 79,048 15,868 75,220 15,611 68,044 8,772 47,885 3,935 40,693 860 18,719 6,614 18,080 15,984 15,984 15,425 13,194 12,461 $3.6m $16.8m

APRIL 2018

Chamber Trip - Italy! By (and with) Chamber CEO Paul Farmer

Have you traveled with our Chamber (and me) yet? If not, read on – you might want to join us. Traveling with the Chamber is a fantastic way to travel internationally with someone you trust and our group travel rates will save you plenty of dough and headache. The Chamber and our travel partner agency handle all the details so all you have to do is enjoy yourself. Especially with the new friends you’ll make on our trip, that’s not hard! Our Chamber travel group travels on our own private motor coach. A professional tour guide accompanies us on the trip, takes care of the logistical details and shares with us the background and histories of the places we visit. Some good news this year. Good news? Actually, it’s great if you don’t like packing and unpacking. And if you like staying in really nice hotels, I’d say the news is even greater. We’ll be staying in a beautiful 4+ star hotel in Sorrento (overlooking the glorious Amalfi Coast) for our entire stay. We’ve learned – a very nice hotel is key to having a top-notch vacation experience. The sites we will be visiting are nearby, meaning the bus rides each day are short. And if you want some leisure time to yourself, that’s easy enough with this trip. We have two optional days built in, take advantage of them so you can do your own discovering or take it a little slower if you like. You won’t need a vacation to recover from your vacation. Our travel partner this year has bent over backwards for us. This is the

APRIL 2018

Impor tant!

Due t o ove rw po adde pularity, whelming da eh date second de ave optio n (Oc parture t 25). Cont ac t us f

or de

tails.

third year in a row we’ll be traveling with them. Those who joined us last year in Ireland know about all the special treatment we enjoyed. If you haven’t been to Italy before, you’re probably going to want to add a 2-day post-trip extension to visit Rome. There’s a reason Italy is the #1 destination in Europe. This will be my third time in Rome and I absolutely love it. If you want to spend even more time in Italy, we can easily arrange that into this trip. There are so many cool things to share, you’re going to have to learn more about it. Please join us for the no-pressure Travelers Information session on on April 18 (details in the ad beside this article). Or shoot me a note: President@SalinasChamber.com Our traveler satisfaction is very high because the tours are top-notch, the pricing is very competitive (thank you, group discounts) and…let it never be said that I don’t know how to show people a good time!

2018 Chamber Trip (open to anyone)

Italy

Amalﬁ & Pompeii

Oct 10 - Oct 17, 2018 OR - NEW OPTION Oct 25 - Nov 1, 2018

8 Day Journey of a Life�me Includes Breakfasts & 2 Dinners Highlights: Stunning Amalﬁ Coast, historic City of Pompeii (where Mount Vesuvius erupted), Sorrento, Capri, Ravello, Positano Our 4-star Bristol Hotel overlooks the coast DISCOUNTED RATE:

$2999 Rate is double-occupancy, + all taxes and fees = $150 $450 deposit holds your seat

Is Italy for You? You’re invited to a

Travel Presentation

One more thing:

a little over half of our travelers are couples, but we also get a lot of singles who like to travel with our always-friendly group. Also, every year we get a few groups of friends who decide to leave the spouses at home and have their own adventure with us. So…set aside any reasons you might have for not joining us and at least come hear about the trip! ■

www.SalinasChamber.com

When: Weds April 18, 6-7pm Where: Salinas Valley Chamber 119 E Alisal St, Salinas Info: (831) 751-7725

Pompeii

Or email us for a brochure to President@SalinasChamber.com

Marketing 101

MBCP Accepting Applications For Advisory Council

tips & advice on digital marketing by Phil Fisk, President Coastline Marketing Group

Where Does Your Target Market Hang Out? If you don’t know where your target market is hanging out, you aren’t marketing effectively. This means that you have to be cautious about how you utilize your resources until you figure out where they are. Not all demographics are in the same places. Some people might be on Facebook, Twitter, or Instagram. Others might be spending their time on Vimeo or YouTube because of enjoying videos. Others might not be on social media at all. This means that you have to figure out where people are so that you can target them and communicate with them about your brand. Many times, it is trial and error. If you aren’t reaching your target market on one platform, try another. You also have to ask yourself if you have the technical skills to launch and manage a marketing campaign on a specific platform. For example, you might know your way in and out of Facebook, but if you have a younger demographic that is spending more time on Instagram, you might need to consider outsourcing to ensure that you’re doing your marketing campaign justice.

Don’t Waste Your Time Where Your Fans Aren’t Spending Their Time. The biggest mistake small business owners make is trying to be everywhere. It’s a waste of time to be all over Twitter if that’s not where your fans are. If they’re on Facebook almost exclusively, that’s where you should be. Otherwise, you’re wasting resources on people who don’t care about what your messages are. Once you have identified your target market, it’s a lot easier to figure out where you should be. Professionals are more likely to be on LinkedIn while moms are more likely to be on Facebook or Pinterest. Have a college demographic? Consider using a variety of photos to discuss your products on Instagram. If you’re genuinely not sure where you should be focusing your energy, take a look at your competition. Where are they? If the two of you share the same demographic, you might want to be where they are, especially if it looks like they currently have the leg up on you in terms of sales and leads. The sooner you find out where your target audience is spending their time, you can start spending more of your time there, too. It will allow you to become more visible, which in turn will help you to obtain more qualified leads. ■

Monterey Bay Community Power (MBCP) has initiated the application process for seats on their Community Advisory Council. After the motion was passed by unanimous vote at the last MBCP Board Meeting, members of the business, agriculture, hospitality, environmental, and residential communities were some of the first to apply. Eleven qualified CAC members who best represent the diversity of the TriCounty region will be selected. A subcommittee made up of County Supervisors from Monterey, San Benito and Santa Cruz Counties will identify top candidates, after which members of the MBCP Policy Board will vote to determine the final selection. The CAC will be tasked with providing feedback and input to uphold MBCP’s goals to maximize

greenhouse gas reduction, stabilize and reduce customer rates and costs, and invest in local energy projects and programs. Maintaining these commitments will also allow MBCP to make good on one of their foundational goals; keeping surplus revenues local by reinvesting them in our community. As a public agency committed to transparency and inclusivity, a unanimous decision in support of the Community Advisory Council was a victory for everyone involved. The MBCP Community Advisory Council application form can be found on the website at www.mbcommunitypower.org. Please click on “Jobs” and then “Community Advisory Council” for the form. Applications are due April 30, 2018. ■

The Transformer Of Autonomous Farmbots Can Do 100 Jobs On Its Own

The first fully autonomous ground vehicles hitting the market aren’t cars or delivery trucks—they’re robo-farmhands. The Dot Power Platform is a prime example of an explosion in advanced agricultural technology, which Goldman Sachs predicts will raise crop yields 70 percent by 2050. But Dot isn’t just a tractor that can drive without a human for backup. It’s the Transformer of ag-bots, capable of performing 100-plus jobs, from hay baler and seeder to rock picker and manure spreader, via an arsenal of tool modules. And though the hulking machine can carry 40,000 pounds, it

www.SalinasChamber.com

navigates fields with balletic precision. Farmers map their land using an aerial drone or GPS receiver, upload that data to the Dot controller—a Microsoft Surface Pro—then unleash the beast into the field. The tireless machine can run around the clock, pausing only to refuel its 75-gallon diesel tank, and will save growers an estimated 20 percent in fuel, labor, and equipment costs. The first six Dots will be sold to farmers in grain-rich Saskatchewan, Canada, this spring (before a wider rollout next year). Get ready for a tech-tended bumper crop. ■

APRIL 2018

Money for Historic Buildings

Brown Still to Appoint CA Chief Justice

by Kevin Dayton, Chamber Board

One of California’s most powerful posts has been empty for over six months

“The Mills Act is the single most important economic incentive program in California for the restoration and preservation of qualified historic buildings by private property owners.” That’s what the California State Parks Office of Historic Preservation says about this state law. It allows California cities and counties to enter into contracts with owners of qualified historic properties for restoration and maintenance of those properties. In exchange, the city or county provides the owners with a property tax credit. Few historic property owners know that the City of Salinas now participates in the Mills Act program. On December 7, 2015, the Salinas Historic Resources Board conducted a public hearing and voted unanimously to recommend City Council approval of a Mills Act program. On June 1, 2016, the Salinas Planning Commission conducted a public hearing and also voted unanimously to recommend City Council approval of the program. And on June 28, 2016, the Salinas City Council unanimously approved the Mills Act program. There is no shame in applying for a

tax break through the city’s Mills Act program. Three levels of policymakers for the City of Salinas believe the city’s historic properties are an asset to the city. They want property owners to actively participate in restoration and preservation of those properties. But so far only two properties (both residential) have obtained the tax break from the city. Hardly anyone is applying for it. Travel around Salinas and you’ll see, scattered about, beautiful Victorian homes. You’ll see grand old houses, bungalows with character, and downtown commercial buildings with interesting facades. Do you own a historic building in Salinas? Do you have work colleagues, family, or friends who own a historic building in Salinas? Let them know about the city’s Mills Act program. Information on applying is available at the City of Salinas website. For example, see "City Info Bulletin 28 - How To Apply For A Mills Act Historic Property Tax Savings Contract.” Or, contact the Salinas Valley Chamber of Commerce. We will help you. ■

Parking Enforcement Expands Hours As of mid-March, the City of Salinas’s Public Works Department has expanded parking enforcement to evenings and weekends. At a recent City Council Meeting, one Council Member suggested enforcement stop between 8am - 4pm Monday through Friday and enforcement only be activated on weekends and evenings. But thanks to the City Council's

APRIL 2018

February 20, 2018 approval of a mid-year budget amendment for Parking Enforcement, a balanced approach can now be implemented as enforcement staff is doubling its capacity to manage both strategies. Parking enforcement requests from the public are best managed through SalinasConnect or by contacting the City by phone at (831) 758-7322. ■

by John Myers, LA Times Gov. Jerry Brown's answer to a reporter's question during a recent news conference was both evasive and, by the end, unflinchingly honest. The topic was his search for a new California Supreme Court justice. "It's going very well," Brown said cagily. "I'm searching my mind very carefully." Moments later came the bottom line: "I've appointed three. The fourth could be very decisive." It's now been over six months since former Justice Kathryn Werdegar retired after more than 23 years, one of the longest runs in state history. And it wasn't as though she quit suddenly, having given Brown more than five months' notice. But summer turned to fall and now winter, and the governor has still not appointed someone to take Werdegar's place, leaving the court with six of its seven members. There is no deadline for Brown to make his selection. This kind of cautious approach — on a decision that will profoundly affect California's highest court — is perhaps one of the most significant changes between Brown 1.0, the man who governed from 1975 to 1983, and Brown 2.0, who's been on the job since 2011. In his first tour of duty, Brown appointed seven justices, one shy of the record held jointly by his father, the late Gov. Edmund "Pat" Brown, and Gov. George Deukmejian. But it was the 1977 selection of a chief justice who had never been a judge, Rose Bird, that left a lingering impression about the man who selected her. Criticized for relying on her personal beliefs as much as the law on topics like the death penalty, Bird was removed by voters in 1986. Two other Brown appointees also were dismissed in that election. Brown, who also served as California's attorney general from 2007

www.SalinasChamber.com

to 2010, has appeared more deliberate in his choices this time around: Justices Goodwin Liu, Mariano-Florentino Cuéllar and Leondra Kruger. The governor again has selected men and women who had not previously served as judges. And the three justices he's already chosen have the kind of legal resumes that seem to align with Brown's cerebral approach to the law and governing. While voters must agree to retain California Supreme Court justices at least every 12 years, each of Brown's current appointees is in their 40s and poised to serve long enough to become one of his greatest legacies. A number of items on the 2018 docket for the high court pose fascinating questions about life and work in the Golden State. From cases on the rules regarding overtime pay to local taxation to potential liabilities in the world of online advertising, the six justices could no doubt use some help. And then there are a handful of cases involving public employee pensions, cases that have sparked great interest in California's political world. The justices will be asked to rule on the core premise of the state's long-standing principle that pension promises made on the day a public sector worker is hired can't be taken back, even if that employee won't retire until years later. In one of the cases, Brown has filed his own brief to defend a 2012 law he signed that eliminated a pension perk boosting retirement benefits. The person he's soon to select could be a key vote on that very case. Which gets us back to what the governor said about this next state Supreme Court pick being decisive. "I want to understand how that decisiveness should work," Brown told reporters. So, too, do a lot of other Californians. It's anyone's guess when the governor will come to that understanding. john.myers@latimes.com ■

Federal Tax Reform Benefits California

Unemployment Rate Improves

by Loren Kaye, California Foundation for Commerce and Education Federal Tax Reform Means More Business Taxes for California California’s corporate tax base may increase by up to 12 percent as a result of federal tax reform legislation, according to a study recently released by the State Tax Research Center. This means that revenues from California’s corporate income tax could increase by as much as $1.3 billion – without any action by state lawmakers to increase corporate tax rates or income definitions. Larger tax revenues will result from the new tax reform law, which limited deductions and changed foreign-tax rules. The federal tax law imposed new restrictions on companies’ ability to deduct interest payments, exchange property without paying capital-gains taxes, deduct some fringe benefits and immediately write off future research costs. At the federal level, those changes were far outweighed

4.3%

by the rate cut. According to Karl Frieden, vice president and general counsel at the Council on State Taxation, the study’s sponsor, “The state tax increase for corporations is totally inadvertent.” The windfall from federal tax reform will likely produce even more revenue than would a recently-proposed constitutional amendment to impose a 10 percent surcharge on corporate net incomes of more than $1 million. The avowed purpose of that measure is “to share with ordinary California taxpayers the economic gains provided by federal income tax cuts for corporations with over one million dollars ($1,000,000) in net income.” It turns out that federal tax reform will accomplish that goal without the Legislature casting a vote. ■

Unemployment Rate

EDD reports California's unemployment rate (seasonally adjusted) in February dropped to 4.3% from January’s revised 4.4%, the best performance since the current unemployment series began in 1976. Total employment was up 12,800 from January, while total unemployment dropped 8,900. As a result, the total labor force essentially remained level with a gain of only 3,900. The US unemployment rate remained steady at 4.1% for the fifth month in a row. National employment was up 785,000, unemployment up by 22,000, and the labor force grew by 806,000 as the underlying unadjusted numbers showed an expansion of 1.8% as more workers re-entered the labor force.

Lunch and Learn “Get the Most Out of Your Membership”

Bring your personal laptop, so you can follow along, and create your organization’s profile and digital banner ad for the Chamber’s website • •

“I’M INTRIGUED – TELL ME MORE!”

•

Free to Chamber Members who bring their own lunch $10 for Prospective Members + $10 if you order a Box Lunch through the Chamber

Please visit the Chamber website to register for any of the upcoming events on page 19, or contact the Chamber for more info. (831) 751-7725 or info@SalinasChamber.com

Wednesday April 18th, 2018 11:30-1pm

www.SalinasChamber.com

Located at the Salinas Valley Chamber Office: 119 E. Alisal St., Salinas

APRIL 2018

Leadership Monterey County Begins Leadership Monterey County kicked off its 2018 Leadership Monterey County Program with a welcome reception at the Salt Wood Kitchen and Oysterette in Marina, CA on March 22nd. Paul Farmer, President and CEO of the Salinas Valley Chamber of Commerce and Kimbley Craig, President and CEO of the Monterey County Business Council welcomed current and past participants and gave a preview of the upcoming program. Special thanks to Jeroen Gerrese, General Manager of The Sanctuary Resort and Salt Wood Kitchen & Oysterette for hosting us that evening. Also special thanks to PG&E and Scudder Roofing for sponsoring our Kickoff Reception. On February 23rd, the class gathered for “Hospitality Day,” an in-depth view of the hospitality industry in Monterey County. During the first class, participants learned of the complexities of a public/private partnership between the City of Monterey and Portola Hotel & Spa, and the impacts that can occur with employee The Leadership class poses for a photo with work schedules, Janine Chicourrat (GM, Portola Hotel & Spa). group meetings, scheduled conventions, and overall hotel budgeting when there's a year-long delay in opening the regional conference center. We toured the new Monterey Conference Center, learned of the upgrades

APRIL 2018

to the beautiful facility, and new capabilities of the meeting spaces. We discussed Monterey County Convention and Visitors Bureau, Transit Occupancy Taxes (TOT) and Tourism Improvement District (TID) taxes, and what that money is used for in the county. We learned of the history of Cannery Row and discussed Monterey County Hospitality Association and the role they play in political advocacy. We toured the Lodge at Pebble Beach, and Casa Palmero, and viewed the new Fairway One rooms that the Pebble Beach Company has recently unveiled. We also discussed Pebble Beach Company's role in transportation with their funding of a roundabout on Highway 68, the expansive employee housing project that they're building, and their philosophy on environmental issues – for example, all of Taking advantage of a beautiful day, Ted Balestreri their golf courses (VP of Community Relations, Cannery Row Company) use recycled talks about the history of Cannery Row. water. We would like to offer our special thanks to the following local leaders who took time out of their busy schedules to personally tour and answer questions from our group: Janine Chicourrat (GM, Portola Hotel & Spa), Doug Phillips (GM, Monterey Conference Center), Nancy Whitman (Director of Sales, Monterey Conference Center) Tammy Blount (CEO, MCCVB), Ted Balestreri (VP of Community Relations, Cannery Row Company) and Julie Weaver (GM, The Lodge at Pebble Beach and Casa Palmero). We are fortunate to have such generous and capable talent in our local hospitality industry! ■

www.SalinasChamber.com

Learn About Vacation Benefits

Inspire, Motivate, Prepare and Organize Women to Engage and Reinvest.

by Sharilyn Payne, Fenton & Keller Although not required by law, many employers offer their employees vacation benefits to allow them time for rest and relaxation. In California, if an employer chooses to offer vacation benefits, there are certain requirements with which it must comply. Many states allow employers to have “use it or lose it” policies that provide that if an employee does not use his or her vacation benefits by a certain date, the employee loses them. California, however, does not allow “use it or lose it” vacation policies. Under California law, vacation benefits are considered to be deferred wages for services rendered. That means that once vacation benefits are earned, like wages, they cannot be taken away. When an employee quits or is discharged, the employer must pay out all vacation benefits that the employee has accrued but has not used at the employee’s pay rate at time of separation from the company. For that reason it is extremely important that an employer maintain records of accrued and used vacation for each employee eligible for the benefit. According to a May 2017 report in Forbes, only 23% of employees are taking all of their eligible time off, and the average employee takes about half of his or her vacation time. If an employer cannot take away an employee’s unused vacation, but must instead pay it out at the time of separation, what can be done to prevent an employee from accruing vacation benefits for years resulting in a potentially large payment to the employee at the time of termination? California law addresses this issue by allowing an employer to cap an employee’s benefits at 1.5 or 2 times the employee’s annual accrual of benefits. For example, if an employee can earn up to 40 hours of vacation per year and the employer allows a cap of 1.5 times the employee’s

annual accrual of vacation benefits, the employee can accrue up to 60 hours of vacation. Once the vacation accrual hits that ceiling, vacation stops accruing until the employee uses some of the vacation hours. An employer that provides vacation benefits should have a written policy that clearly sets forth specifics like eligibility requirements, the accrual rate, when an employee can start using accrued benefits, the cap on benefits, and the employer’s policy on the amount of notice an employee must give if he or she wants to take vacation. Despite some restrictions under California law, an employer has a great deal of discretion in the vacation benefits it offers. For example, an employer can choose to provide vacation benefits to all employees, to regular full-and parttime employees, or only to regular full-time employees. It can increase the accrual rate depending on the years of service, or never increase the accrual rate. It can require an employee to work a certain amount of time before the employee can use vacation benefits, or it can allow employees to use vacation benefits immediately upon accrual, or even before they are accrued. Having these specifics in writing is one of the keys to avoiding any misunderstanding or claim. By knowing the California law on vacation benefits, and preparing a detailed written vacation policy that complies with that law, an employer can meet its goals of keeping its workforce happy, and at the same time minimize liability. Sharilyn Payne is a lawyer with the Fenton & Keller law firm in Monterey. This article is intended to address topics of general interest, and should not be construed as legal advice. For more information, please visit www.fentonkeller.com.

www.SalinasChamber.com

APRIL 2018

In Memoriam

Weak Consumer Spending Presents a Puzzle That boost—along with high stock and property values, and a labor market that has added an average of 242,000 jobs a month over the past three months—is expected to prod Americans to go out shopping. The hope is that, in turn, factories will ramp up production and economic growth will pick up. So far, that hasn’t happened. “The consumer genuinely is taking a little bit of a breather,” said JPMorgan Chase economist Michael Feroli. He struggled to explain the latest dip but said the ingredients for stronger spending and economic growth are still there. “We think the fundamentals are still supportive of better growth ahead.” ■

Sam Downing It is with great regret promotes civic involvement that the Chamber shares the and community spirit as passing of one of our area’s demonstrated by local visionary leaders, Mr. Sam the many SVMHS employees Downing. Sam was recognized who actively participate on as the Chamber’s Citizen of non -profit boards and the Year in 2009. community activities. Sam Downing began The list of organizations his journey in the nationally impacted by Sam’s generosity recognized Salinas Valley represents many facets of our Memorial Healthcare System community and include the (SVMHS) where he became Sam Downing, American Heart Association, the Chief Executive Officer 1944 — 2018 American Red Cross, California in 1984. His leadership was International Airshow, California Rodeo instrumental in developing what was Association, National Steinbeck Center, once a small rural hospital into the Rancho Cielo, United Way, American nationally-renowned healthcare system Cancer Society- Relay for Life and that benefits our community today. Children’s Miracle Network. Sam’s professional and personal Sam was a beloved husband achievements are a clear testament to and father, who touched many lives. his expertise, tenacity and his leadership The Chamber extends our sympathies qualities. He set the bar high in terms to his personal family and his family of community involvement through his at SVMHS with whom he worked for own efforts and through the culture he so many years. ■ helped build at SVMHS. It is a culture that

NTRAL C O

SER

•

You started depreciating those buildings during years where tax rates were at their highest under the assumption you'd get those deductions "over time." Now, due to tax changes, you get some of your money, but at 21% instead of 35% (therefore, your overall deduction is worth 40% less next year than it is this year). Call me today if you need to get started to meet your tax filing deadline, before the tax season rush. Tax Day is April 17.

Bill Andrews, Senior Advisor - Growth Management Group WAndrews@GMGSavings.com | 408.761.0738 - Serving the Central Coast -

APRIL 2018

•

Have you been following the tax code changes? You should seriously consider moving on this quickly.

Statistics show that 90% of commercial property owners, and even their tax professionals, have overlooked this one valuable tax entitlement.

Do you or your business own commercial buildings or apartment complexes?

T FOR 90 Y

VING T

The U.S. job market is booming and workers’ paychecks are growing thanks to a tax cut and raises. But Americans hunkered down on spending last month, a puzzle for an economy that leans heavily on their willingness to consume. Sales at U.S. retailers fell 0.1% in February, marking a threemonth slide. Much of the decline was tied to lower sales of cars and weak gasoline prices. Americans also reduced shopping for furniture, health products, groceries and electronics. February was when many Americans saw the first tangible evidence of the $1.5 trillion tax cut that President Donald Trump signed into law late last year. Tax withholdings fell, increasing take-home pay.

Client Focused. Relationship Driven. A Tradition of Excellence Since 1928 Agriculture Law Business & Taxation Construction Creditor’s Rights Estate Planning Labor & Employment Litigation Personal Injury Public Agencies Real Estate & Land Use

www.SalinasChamber.com

333 Salinas Street Salinas, CA 93901 831.424.1414 470 Camino El Estero Monterey, CA 93940 831.373.3622

nheh.com

Contractors Associated Builders and Contractors Northern California Chapter ABCNorCal.org Associated Services Heating Solar & Air AssociatedHeating.net Aurum Consulting Engineers Monterey Bay ACEMB.com Ausonio Ausonio.com

CED- Consolidated Electrical Distributors CedSalinas.shopced.com Coastal Plumbing CoastalPlumbingCa.com DBA Electric DbaElectric.com Earth Systems Pacific EarthSystems.com

EMC Planning Group EmcPlanning.com Freeman Painting JerryFreemanPainting.com

Axiom Engineers AxiomEngineers.com Belli Architectural Group BelliAG.com Blach Construction Blach.com

Granite Construction Company GraniteConstruction.com Harris & Associate WeAreHarris.com

Brady Company- Central California Brady.com

JM Electric JMElectric.com

Johnson Electronics Johnson-Electronics.com

Smith & Enright Landscaping SmithEnright.com

Kasavan Architects Kasavanarch.com

SSB: Construction, Painting, Roof Coating SSBConstruction.com Star and Stripes Roofing (831) 214-6218

Kleinfelder Kleinfelder.com Landset Engineers Landseteng.com Martin & Fahey Concrete (831) 582-9011 Mill Construction Company MillConstruction.com Property Restoration Services PrsreStore.com Ruggeri- Jensen - Azar Rja-Gps.com

The Don Chapin Company DonChapin.com Tom's Septic Construction TomsSeptic.com Tunstall Engineering Consultants (831) 758-2765 Val's Plumbing & Heating ValsPlumbing.com

Scheel Construction ScheelConstruction.com

A Special Thanks to Our Strategic Partners and Stakeholder Members

www.SalinasChamber.com

APRIL 2018

New Member Profiles ARCpoint labs ARCpoint labs is a family owned, full-service testing and collections facility. Our services including a wide array of drug testing panels for any need, preemployment and onsite testing, DNA testing for paternity, immigration, infidelity, wellness, or ancestry, DOT and federally mandated testing, and background screening. We aim to bring advanced DNA, wellness, and drug testing services to the Salinas/ Monterey area to keep its workers safe, its citizens healthy, and its businesses thriving and growing. www.ARCPointLabs.com/monterey-bay

Magnitude Visuals is a production company offering business to business video production services, highlighting your company’s presence with the power of visual information. Careful analysis of costs for media services and current video technology revealed that businesses need faster and cheaper solutions for video to communicate with clients, other businesses, and employees. Our capabilities range from large scale productions, to social media snippets. www.MagnitudeVisuals.com (831) 204-1972

Monterey Amberjacks Monterey Amberjacks is a professional baseball team that plays at Sollecito Baseball Park (next to Dennis The Menace Playground) in the Summer, June 1st-July 16th. The Amberjacks games are Friday, Saturday, and Sunday. Amberjacks Youth Baseball Camps – 1-day camps are an exciting opportunity for boys and girls to learn the game of baseball. Coached by the Monterey Amberjacks’ coaches and players, registration and game schedule is available online. www.MontereyAmberjacks.com

Skylake Tree Service We are a full-service tree company serving the South Bay, San Benito, Santa Cruz and Monterey Counties. We work with golf courses, residents, and local businesses. We trim trees, remove trees, plant trees and will assess what your trees need. The owner of Skylake Tree Service, John Hagins is a certified ISA Arborist and Contractor. We are Licensed, Insured and Bonded. JohnJHagins@aol.com • (408) 768-2799

Stars and Stripes Roofing We have been covering homes for over 10 years. We are a full-service roofer servicing the tri-county areas. We install new roofs, repair, and replace existing damaged areas. Need new gutters or a skylight? We are the company for all your roofing needs. Call for a free estimate and relax with confidence that you are working with Stars and Stripes Roofing. (831) 214-6218 Lic#1004994

APRIL 2018

Photo by Batista Moon Studio

Magnitude Visuals

Charles T. Chrietzberg, Jr., MCB President/CEO; Jim Hayes, Owner; Polar Service Company; Clarissa Rowe, MCB Community Relations Officer; Kathy Torres, VP MCB SBA Loan Officer

Polar Service Co, Inc. offers refrigeration sales, service and installation throughout Salinas, Monterey, Santa Cruz, the Santa Clara Valley and San Benito Counties. We are 307 W. Market Street also an authorized dealer and warranty service Salinas, CA 93901 (831) 424-3988 provider for all major refrigeration equipment www.polarservice.com manufacturers. Established in 1964, retail and industrial corporations, large and small, have depended on us for their service needs for over 50 years!. “Monterey County Bank offers our business a knowledgeable & courteous staff, capable of handling all of our commercial banking needs. It is a great partnership!” Jim Hayes, Polar Service Company, Inc.

Call Monterey County Bank Today! Monterey (831) 649-4600 Pacific Grove (831) 655-4300 Carmel Rancho (831) 625-4300 Salinas (831) 422-4600

www.SalinasChamber.com

$5,000,000 SBA Loan Limit

Oldest Locally Owned, Locally Managed Bank in Monterey County - OVER 35 YEARS! The Leading SBA Lender in Monterey County Member F.D.I.C.  Equal Housing Lender

Chamber Events

Look What We Found! We’ve started preparing for the Chamber’s 100 year anniversary this year. Check out what we’ve found in our vault! Virginia Rocca Bartonwas born in St. Mary’s, Idaho, and moved to Salinas at the age of 10 during the great depression. In 1940, immediately following her graduation from San Jose State University, Virginia was hired to work at Alisal School. She was just 21 years old. During her tenure at Alisal, she started the first kindergarten class, was promoted to principal, and in 1947 became the first Superintendent of Alisal Union School District. She remained in that role until her retirement in January 1977. On February 2, 1978, the Salinas Valley Chamber of Commerce honored Virginia with the formal designation of “Outstanding Citizen” for her exemplary community service, support and dedication to our local organizations. On July 1, 1980 the Virginia Rocca Barton Elementary School opened in Salinas, named in her honor for her many years of service and contributions to the school district.

These gentlemen are excited to get to see Chartwell School at our recent Monthly Networking Mixer.

Connect at Lunch visited our popular member Alvarado Street Brewery at their restaurant located at 426 Alvarado St in downtown Monterey.

www.SalinasChamber.com

APRIL 2018

Chamber Ambassador

Oscar Garcia

Born in Los Angeles in the early 1980’s, Oscar Garcia lived his childhood and teenage years in Guatemala City. In 2004, he moved to Los Angeles and one year later he enlisted in the U.S. Marines as a Combat Videographer.

In 2010 Oscar decided to pursue film studies. In the digital cinema revolution that followed, he spotted changes that meant diversification and decentralization of content across the United States, making it easier for filmmakers to shoot their films at lower costs anywhere.

APRIL 2018

In 2014, he served as a Visual Information Specialist for Pinnacles National Park, where he worked with scientists and interpreters for the “Centennial” outreach campaign of the National Park Service.

In 2017 after wearing uniforms and production crew - hats for more than 12 years, Oscar decided to open Magnitude Visuals in the heart of the Salinas Valley, with a vision toward local professional productions and national distribution for films. With a vast knowledge in Film Production, Entertainment Business, and Public

Relations, Oscar is confident that the region is fertile not just for agriculture, but for audio-visual content as well. Magnitude Visuals creates short and feature length films as their primary course of business, but their services extend to corporate videos and outreach campaigns. Think bold and think without boundaries. Magnitude Visuals is here to make those ideas a reality, connect with

www.SalinasChamber.com

your clients or your staff. Let your next message to the world be our next motion picture! ■

Focus on Non-Profits Salinas Valley Business Women’s Network Salinas Valley Business Women’s Network was formed in 1986 to give women an opportunity to come together to grow their businesses. Dynamic speakers challenge us to the next level, professionally and personally. We celebrate together, because we are stronger together. Our person and homes are better served with connections we make, which also results in our businesses expanding. One year after we formed, we joined the Salinas Valley Chamber, and we have been together now over 30 years. We are career and entrepreneurial women in the business community, and a few brave men! Many of our members are non-profits as well. We do “Calls To Action” to find tangible ways to support them. For instance, last year we did a Relay for Life of

Salinas team, and we had an Interview Workshop for WELI of Hartnell, which was called “Women’s Education Leadership Institute.” For several decades, we have given cash grants to non-profits nominated by our members such as: First Tee of Monterey, Ag Against Hunger, and Partners for Peace. The theme for our network lunches this year is “Life Lessons Learned: Extraordinary Women Doing Extraordinary Things.” We started strong with Monica Abbott, 2008 Olympic Medalist and 2020 hopeful. March celebrated motherhood with Amanda Bakker of

Tatum’s Garden/Tatum’s Treehouse. On April 18th Gail Higginbotham, Founder and Creative Director of Ariel Theatrical will be our guest speaker. Addition guest speakers include: Susan Shillinglaw, Director of the National Steinbeck Center on May 16th, and Helen Grady of Papillon Center for Grief and Transition on June 20th. Come check us out, first-timers are $15. Third Wednesdays 11:30am-1pm at the Hampton Inn on Work Street in Salinas. www.svbwn.org ■

Non-Profit Calendar Apr 3: 13th Annual Women’s Fund Luncheon

Apr 17: Healthy Living

Apr 7: Carr Lake Weed Warriors

Apr 21: Builders & Brews

11-1:30pm Hyatt Regency Monterey (Conference Center) 831-375-9712 • WomensFund2018.eventbrite.com Non-Profit: Community Foundation for Monterey County 9-1pm 618 Sherwood Drive, Salinas 831-625-5523 BigSurLandTrust.org/upcoming-events.htm Non-Profit: Big Sur Land Trust

Apr 7: 13th Annual Seniors' Prom, Swing Into Spring 6:30-10pm 940 N Main St, Santa Lucia Rm, Salinas CA 93906 • 831-757-6030 Non-Profit: Salinas Senior Center

Apr 11: Defining Hope Film Screening & Dinner with Guided Conversation 5:30-9pm 525 Lighthouse Ave., Pacific Grove 831-333-9025 • HospiceGiving.org/events Non-Profit: Hospice Giving Foundation

Apr 12: Music, Memories & Mood

1:30-2:30pm 21 Lower Ragsdale Dr., Monterey 800-272-3900 • alz.org/norcal Non-Profit: Alzheimer's Association

for the Brain and Body 2-3:30pm 21 Lower Ragsdale Dr., Monterey 800-272-3900 • alz.org/norcal Non-Profit: Alzheimer's Association 3-7pm 395 Old Natividad Rd., Salinas 831-758-1624 • ccbabuilds.com Non-Profit: Central Coast Builders Association

Apr 21: Ciao! Cioppino! 2018

5:30-8:30pm San Carlos Hall, 500 Church St., Monterey 831-899-0492 • lssmc.net Non-Profit: Legal Services for Seniors

May 11: Max's Paws for a Cause |

Speakeasy at the Quail 6-9pm 8205 Valley Greens Dr., Carmel Valley 831-704-6473 MaxsHelpingPaws.org/pawsforacause Non-Profit: Max's Helping Paws Foundation

May 16: Older American's Month BBQ Style Dinner 5:45-7pm Hartnell Student Center, Salinas CA 93901 831-757-6030 Non-Profit: Salinas Senior Center

Apr 28: Marks Ranch Grand Opening Day

May 19: 2018 Gala- Roaring 20's Party

May 6: Wag n' Walk - people and pet

Every Friday:

9-1pm 497 Monterey-Salinas Highway, Salinas 831-625-5523 BigSurLandTrust.org/upcoming-events.htm Non-Profit: Big Sur Land Trust walkathon and festival 9-12pm Custom House PlazaMonterey State Historic Park, Monterey 831-264-5403 • SPCAMC.org/wagnwalk Non-Profit: SPCA for Monterey County

www.SalinasChamber.com

5-10pm 400 River Road, Salinas 831-455-1901 MontereyZoo.org/events Non-Profit: Monterey Zoological Friday Night Dinners 5:30- 7:30pm 710 Old Stage Road, Salinas 831-444-3521 RanchoCieloYC.org Non-Profit: Rancho Cielo

APRIL 2018

Chamber Events The Monterey Museum of Art is focusing on women with its art collection this year.

Monterey Regional Waste Management District has invested big in its new processing equipment. The MRWMD facility gains national attention and kudos for being on the cutting edge.

Advanced Solutions from f your y locally owned business neighbors. Interactive Touch Display p y Simply p y touch a TRUTOUCH H display p y and experience p an incredible p presentation platform.

From large copiers to small laser printers!

The Chamber welcomes new member Turner's Outdoorsman to Salinas, 1411 N Davis Rd (near Walmart).

Owner Kurt Dillard and his wife celebrate the continued success of Valley Trophies & Detectors, a business started by Kurt’s parents 60 years ago.

APRIL 2018

Document Solutions with leading edge technology for your growing office needs. 

Air Print Wireless



Scan Solutions

Phone 831-759-8760 startdbs.com 540 Work St. Suite E, Salinas, CA 93901 Call us to schedule a no obligation presentation in your office or our showroom.

www.SalinasChamber.com

Protect your Business from Wire Fraud

Member News Acevedo Joins RE/MAX

by Lindsey Berg-James In today’s increasingly digital world, businesses have become prime targets for wire fraud scams. Picture this: your company is involved in a substantial transaction with a vendor. There is a fair amount of email traffic going back and forth between the two businesses regarding the terms of the transaction. When it comes time to submit payment you receive an email from your vendor including their wiring instructions. The email looks identical to your vendor’s email address and stresses the importance of receiving payment right away. Wanting to keep your vendor happy and to finalize the transaction, you approve the payment and send the funds. Shortly thereafter you learn that your vendor never sent you the wiring instructions and has not received payment. The money has already left your bank account. Unfortunately, your company has fallen victim to a wire fraud scam. An attacker gained access to either your or your vendor’s email systems, or both, monitored the communications going back-and-forth related to the transaction, and requested payment right when the funds became due. They used an email that looks nearly identical to your vendor’s address and would require careful scrutiny to determine it was fraudulent. The email stressed the importance of completing the transaction right away

to ensure that subsequent deadlines are met. Your company no longer has the funds to complete the transaction and likely won’t be able to recover the amount it already wired to the fraudulent account. In order to avoid falling prey to this type of fraudulent wire transaction, businesses should consider the following best practices: • Provide clear instructions to business partners in advance on how payment information should be communicated. • Always verify each wire transfer request. Call the person, using the number you have previously used (not a new number in the wire request), to verbally verify the request and the information. • Provide a hard copy of your wiring instructions or send them via fax and request phone confirmation of receipt. • Require employees to change their email passwords on a regular basis. • Avoid using free web-based email systems to conduct business. • Train your employees. If an employee receives a suspicious email, direct him or her to notify management immediately. If you are a victim of wire fraud, notify law enforcement and your financial institution immediately, and investigate whether your email system has been compromised. ■ Copyright 2018 by Noland, Hamerly, Etienne & Hoss Lindsey Berg-James is a civil litigation and employment law attorney with Noland, Hamerly, Etienne & Hoss law firm in Monterey and Salinas. This article is intended to address topics of general interest, and should not be taken as legal advice. For more information, visit www.nheh.com, or contact the author at lbergjames@nheh.com.

RE/MAX UNLIMITED has announced that Realtor® Gina Acevedo is the latest addition of the growing real estate franchise. Gina brings to the office more than 17 years of local real estate experience on the Central Coast with over $7M in sales. Gina is a local resident of Aromas, active in the community with Children’s Miracle Network, Aromas Home & School Club Board Member, Pacific Point Christian District Wide Fundraiser & Aromas 4-H. RE/MAX UNLIMITED is a locally owned and operated Gina Acevedo full-service real estate brokerage located at 8050 San Miguel Cyn Road, Prunedale, CA 93907.

UnChained Team Grows UnChained is excited to announce three new team members. Joining the Board of Directors are Sandy Ettinger and Marlo Botelli-Aepli. Ettinger is an advocate for trafficked children and shelter dogs. Botelli-Aepli works in Worldwide Training Delivery and Development at Apple. Jen Walker, a certified humane education specialist, has joined the UnChained staff as Operations Manager and Program Trainer. Walker is the founder of Growing Kinder, Inc. and a professional dog trainer. UnChained is a 501(c)(3) that pairs dogs in need of adoption with youth in need of empathy and self-esteem. www.LivingUnchained.org

Steinbeck Real Estate Grows Angela Savage, Broker of Steinbeck Real Estate announced the addition of REALTOR Monica Wason to the Sales Team. “Monica comes to us with an impressive reputation as an adored local business owner. Our entire team is looking forward to wonderful things for Monica and we are honored to have her as part of our team!” Savage stated. Steinbeck Real Estate is an independent, locally owned operated real estate company in Monterey County. Located in the Heart of the Salinas of Salinas Valley & Downtown Monica Wason Carmel by-the-Sea. Salinas Valley Office: 12 West Gabilan Street, Salinas CA. 93901. Carmel-by-the-Sea Office: Su Vecino Court, on Dolores Street between 5th & 6th.

www.SalinasChamber.com

Salinas Valley Chamber of Commerce @SalinasChamber Salinas Valley Chamber of Commerce

APRIL 2018

Earth Day Mixer THURSDAY, APRIL 19TH 5:00 - 7:30PM Presenting Sponsor

Hosted By

April May 2018 Apr

11 Apr

18 Apr

19 Apr

Co-Sponsors

Government Relations Committee (GRC) Meeting

Lunch and Learn – Get the Most Out of Your Membership 11:30-1pm • Chamber Conference Room

May

•

Donations Accepted)

RSVP at SalinasChamber.com For questions or sponsorship, call Steve at (831) 455-1876 or via email: steve@mcshanesnursery.com

5-6pm • 1220 S Main

12-1pm • 343 Main St.

Ribbon Cutting – Christopher M. Mulé, DDS Inc. 5-5:30pm • 130 E. Romie Ln.

Ribbon Cutting – Windsor Gardens Rehabilitation Center of Salinas 1-1:30pm • 637 E. Romie Ln.

May

Ribbon Cutting – incotec

•

12-1pm • Chamber Conference Room

Government Relations Committee (GRC) Meeting

May

Donations & silent auction will benefit The Lincoln School Healthy Kids Program. To donate to the silent auction contact Kelsi at sp@mcshanesnursery.com

Thur., April 19TH, 5:00-7:30PM McShane’s Nursery 115 Monterey—Salinas Hwy. (831) 455-1876 FREE Admission ( Non Profit

Ambassador Committee Meeting

Connect at Lunch – Gordon's Café and Catering

•

5-7:30pm • 115 Monterey- Salinas Hwy.

May

•

Earth Day Mixer – McShane's Landscapping

Ribbon Cutting – Boardwalk Subs

•

11:30-1pm • Chamber Conference Room

Apr

Featured Non-profit

11:30-1pm • Chamber Conference Room 11-3pm • 1293 Harkin Rd.

APRIL 2018

www.SalinasChamber.com

GROWTH STARTS SMALL.

R a b o b a n k A m e r i c a . c o m /G r o w Personal Banking

Business Banking

Home Lending

Food & Agriculture

Capitola-Santa Cruz 3555 Clares Street, Suite X (831) 475-5412

King City 532 Broadway (831) 385-4144

Seaside 1658 Fremont Blvd. (831) 394-6900

Castroville 10601 Merritt Street (831) 633-3302

Monterey 439 Alvarado Street (831) 242-2000

Soledad 2149 H. De La Rosa Sr. Street (831) 678-7338

Gilroy 805 First Street (408) 842-1938

Pacific Grove 561 Lighthouse Avenue (831) 649-5010

Watsonville 1915 Main Street (831) 768-2668

Gonzales 400 Alta Street (831) 675-3637

Salinas Main 301 Main Street (831) 737-1213

Hollister 1730 Airline Highway, Suite 310 (831) 638-4861

Salinas Westridge 1285 North Davis Road (831) 784-7700

www.SalinasChamber.com

APRIL 2018