This Week on the Central Coast
It's Concours time! Also, Carmel restaurants debate the future of outdoor dining-parklets and the Monterey District Attorney created a new Wrongful Conviction Unit.
Monterey Car Week begins Thursday, August 5
The numerous shows and auctions are listed at the link. The first event, “Concours at Pasadera”, begins on Thursday, August 5. “Concours on the Avenue”, on Tuesday, August 10, is the first event in Carmel and will close Ocean Avenue. The Pebble Beach events will begin on Thursday, August 12, with the “Tour d’Elegance” and will continue until August 15. Depending on location, masking protocols may vary.
Carmel Restaurants fighting to keep outdoor parklets
On September 15, all restaurant parklets are supposed to be taken down in Carmel. However, a few restaurant owners would like them to stay, saying the outdoor seating has attracted new customers. Customers who are more cautious of indoor dining while COVID is still spreading enjoy having the option to eat outside.
Some Carmel residents are not so happy about the seating, arguing they violate city ordinances and take up already limited parking space. The issue will likely come up at a city council meeting on September 7, one week before the parklet ordinance expires.
Inspired by other counties, Monterey County District Attorney creates a Wrongful Conviction Unit
The new unit will review cases of those who believe they were wrongly convicted or who received a harsher sentencing than necessary due to changes in California law (such as marijuana possession charges). If the unit decides to take up the case, a thorough investigation will be made and the department says it will do all in its power to correct the charges.
Prior to the Wrongful Conviction Unit, there were no local means to overturn a wrongful conviction.
