From major community milestones and public safety moments to student achievements, arts, agriculture and housing progress, 2025 was a year of significant change and resilience in South Monterey County.
The following stories were selected by Rustler staff as the top news of the year, highlighting the events and people that shaped King City and surrounding communities. Here is a look back at those stories, month by month.
JANUARY
New Fairgrounds Mural
A large mural honoring U.S. military service members and first responders was completed at the Salinas Valley Fairgrounds in King City. Designed by Salinas artist Brenda Scettrini Saglio, the mural features a Salinas Valley landscape topped with an American flag and the message “Thank You For Your Service,” creating a lasting tribute at a highly visible community site.
Children’s Center Opens
Mee Memorial Healthcare System celebrated the opening of its new Children’s Health and Wellness Center, a major expansion of pediatric services in South Monterey County. The facility provides specialized, child-focused care while increasing capacity at the King City Clinic, marking a transformative step for local healthcare.
Commitment to Immigrants
Monterey County Board of Supervisors unanimously passed a resolution reaffirming the county as a “Welcoming County” for immigrants and refugees. The action included a renewed commitment to public education on constitutional rights amid concerns over planned mass deportations.
FEBRUARY
Competitive Cheer Launches
King City High School introduced its first-ever competitive cheer team, transforming cheerleading into a sanctioned sport for Mustang athletes. In its inaugural season, the team earned multiple first-place finishes and placed third at the CCS Cheer Championships, an extraordinary achievement for a first-year program.
Chamber Award Winners
King City Chamber of Commerce announced its 2024 Business and Community Award recipients, recognizing local leaders, businesses and youth for their service. Honorees included King City Town Square, Debby Norman, Rodolfo Tapia and Dalilah Trujillo.
Farm Day Educates
Hundreds of third graders from South Monterey County schools attended the annual South County Farm Day at the Salinas Valley Fairgrounds. The hands-on event introduced students to agriculture, food production and farming careers through interactive exhibits and live demonstrations.
Trashion Show Dazzles
Alliance on Aging hosted the 2025 King City Trashion Show, drawing a large crowd to the fairgrounds. Designers showcased creative outfits made from repurposed materials, combining art, environmental awareness and fundraising for senior services.
MARCH
FFA Earns Recognition
For the 10th consecutive year, King City High School’s FFA chapter was named among California’s top 20 programs. The recognition reflected strong student participation, leadership development and success in earning state and national degrees.
Sol Treasures Leader Resigns
Sol Treasures announced the resignation of longtime executive director Jeff Hinderscheid, who departed to launch his own theater company. His exit marked a significant transition for the nonprofit arts organization serving South Monterey County.
Riverbed Plan Approved
King City Council approved a comprehensive Riverbed Wildfire Prevention Plan aimed at reducing fire risks along the Salinas River and San Lorenzo Creek. The plan was supported by a Cal Fire grant and years of environmental and safety planning.
New Miss SVF
King City High School junior Jordan Davis was named the 2025 Miss Salinas Valley Fair following a two-day competition. She represented the community in categories including horsemanship, scholastics and poise.
APRIL
Community Mourns Officer
King City Police Sgt. Ryan Kenedy died unexpectedly while on duty in late March, sending shockwaves through the community. Vigils and tributes in April honored his 11 years of service and the deep impact he had on residents and fellow officers.
Local Ballet Returns
Monterey County Dance Foundation presented its original “Beauty and the Beast Ballet” at the Robert Stanton Theater. Featuring nearly 90 local dancers, the production showcased the region’s vibrant arts community.
Nonprofit Donates Guitars
The nonprofit Guitars Not Guns donated nearly 250 guitars and amplifiers to South Monterey County school districts. The effort strengthened music education while promoting creativity as a positive alternative for youth.
MAY
Army Marks 250th Birthday
Fort Hunter Liggett led a 250-mile regional ruck march honoring the U.S. Army’s 250th birthday. The multi-day event brought together servicemembers and civilians to celebrate military service and history.
City Manager Announces Retirement
King City City Manager Steve Adams announced plans to retire after a decade of leadership. His departure will mark the end of a 43-year career in public service.
Lady Mustangs Win League
King City High School’s girls’ swim team captured the Cypress League championship for the first time in 27 years. The victory ended a decades-long drought and highlighted a strong season of teamwork and individual performances.
Fair Draws Thousands
The 81st Salinas Valley Fair returned to King City with four days of food, entertainment and agricultural tradition. The Junior Livestock Auction once again served as a cornerstone event for local 4-H and FFA members.
Homeless Housing Moves Forward
King City secured full funding to convert the former Days Inn into permanent supportive housing. The milestone allowed the city to move forward with escrow and construction planning.
JUNE
Downtown Plaza Opens
King City celebrated the opening of its long-awaited Downtown Plaza and Visitor and History Center. The project transformed a blighted lot into a community gathering space and new home for the Chamber of Commerce.
Large Training Exercise
More than 9,000 soldiers participated in Operation Mojave Falcon 2025 at Fort Hunter Liggett. The historic exercise marked the largest and most complex training event in Army Reserve history.
Support for Immigrants
Officials from Monterey, Santa Cruz and San Benito counties united at a press conference to support immigrant communities. Local sheriffs publicly stated they would not cooperate with ICE operations.
JULY
Rabbit Run Returns
The King City Rotary Club hosted its annual Rabbit Run fundraiser at San Bernabe Vineyards. Proceeds supported scholarships for local high school students.
County Ag Rebounds
Monterey County’s crop and livestock production rebounded to nearly $5 billion in value. Strawberries surpassed $1 billion for the first time in county history.
Library Assistant Retires
Elisa Perez retired from Monterey County Free Libraries after nearly three decades of service. Her career included work across multiple branches and years driving the bookmobile.
Range Upgrade Completed
A $5.6 million modernization of Fort Hunter Liggett’s multipurpose range was completed. The upgrades enhanced military training and readiness capabilities.
Equine Therapy Expands
Wonder Wood Ranch expanded its equine therapy services to South Monterey County. The program offers trauma-informed support and workforce development for at-risk youth.
AUGUST
Casa de Esperanza Breaks Ground
Construction began on Casa de Esperanza, a permanent supportive housing project converting a former motel into 46 studio apartments. The project is scheduled for completion in early 2026.
Supervisor Opens Office
Monterey County Supervisor Chris Lopez opened a new District 3 office in King City. The move increased accessibility to county services for South County residents.
Teacher of the Year
King City High School agriculture teacher Blaise Chaney was named Monterey County Teacher of the Year. He will represent the county in the statewide competition.
Humane Education Expands
SPCA Monterey County expanded its Humane Education programs in South Monterey County schools. The effort aims to reach more students with lessons on empathy and animal welfare.
SEPTEMBER
Blue Zones Certification
Monterey County became the first county in California to earn Blue Zones Community certification. The designation recognizes countywide efforts to improve health, longevity and quality of life.
New Leadership Model
Sol Treasures introduced a co-leadership structure and welcomed new board members. The changes aim to strengthen the organization’s long-term sustainability and regional arts partnerships.
Advanced Imaging System
Mee Memorial Healthcare System introduced California’s first Fuji full-body X-ray and fluoroscopy system. The technology enhances diagnostic capabilities for South Monterey County patients.
OCTOBER
Lake Nacimiento Recognized
The U.S. Postal Service officially recognized Lake Nacimiento as a community name within its ZIP code. The change improved emergency response accuracy and community identity.
City Names New Park
King City selected “Railroad Park” as the name for its newest community park. The park will include a memorial honoring Sgt. Ryan Kenedy, who died unexpectedly earlier in the year.
Arts Council Opens Office
Arts Council for Monterey County opened a new office inside Sol Treasures. The expansion improved access to arts resources for South County artists and nonprofits.
Lifetime Achievement Award
David and Susan Gill of King City received a prestigious lifetime achievement award for their contributions to agriculture and the community. Proceeds from the event supported local causes.
Fun Run Debuts
King City Veterinary Clinic hosted its first Paws and Pumpkins Fun Run. The family-friendly event combined fitness, pets and Halloween festivities.
NOVEMBER
Public Substations Close
Monterey County Sheriff’s Office announced the closure of public lobbies at its King City and Monterey substations due to budget constraints. Patrol services in the communities remained unchanged.
Mustangs Capture Football Title
King City High School’s varsity football team won the PCAL Mission South Division championship for the first time in decades. The victory capped a disciplined and physical season for the Mustangs, which ended the year with a 5-0 league record (9-2 overall).
Electric Street Sweeper
Monterey County introduced its first electric street sweeper in South Monterey County. The new service addressed long-standing requests from unincorporated communities.
Communities Honor Veterans
Cities across the Salinas Valley marked Veterans Day with parades, ceremonies and tributes. Greenfield hosted its first-ever Veterans Day Parade, and King City VFW Post 6747 continued its long-running Veterans Day tradition with a drive-thru barbecue.
YWCA Opens Shelter
YWCA Monterey County opened its first transitional housing shelter in South Monterey County. The site provides safe housing for women and families affected by domestic violence.
DECEMBER
Development Director Plans Retirement
King City Community Development Director Doreen Liberto announced plans to retire in spring 2026. Her decision allows time for a leadership transition under the incoming city manager.
‘Nutcracker’ Celebrates 66 Years
Monterey County Dance Foundation marked the 66th anniversary of its beloved “Nutcracker Ballet.” The production continues to be a cornerstone of the local holiday season.
Hospital Launches Intern Program
Mee Memorial Healthcare System launched a new internship program connecting local students to healthcare careers. The initiative supports workforce development in South Monterey County.
Santa Brings Joy
Santa arrived by helicopter at the Salinas Valley Fairgrounds, delivering toys and meals to 1,500 children and hundreds of families. The annual event highlighted community generosity and holiday spirit.
