KING CITY — King City leaders highlighted progress in infrastructure, housing, public safety and economic development during the annual State of the City address on March 11 at the Salinas Valley Fairgrounds.
The event, held inside the Orradre Building, was co-sponsored by the King City Chamber of Commerce and Agriculture and the Rotary Club of King City.
Speaking during the presentation, Mayor Mike LeBarre said the city has focused on ensuring that investments directly improve residents’ quality of life.
“The decisions that we make as one body are, how do we make sure that what we’re spending actually impacts the life and the quality of life of our residents and their families,” LeBarre said. “We’re a family community, and we’re a hard-working community.”
Among the projects highlighted was the opening of the city’s Downtown Plaza last year and continued improvements in the downtown area, efforts leaders say are intended to both enhance community pride and encourage economic development.
LeBarre also pointed to progress on the city’s planned multimodal transit center, which will include passenger rail service. The city recently received notification from state transportation officials that Union Pacific Railroad and the state have agreed to allow two stops at the location — one for Amtrak and another for a future carrier.
“That means we get to start working and get our passenger service going very, very quickly,” LeBarre said.
LeBarre noted that the new transit station’s location could spur mixed-use housing and retail development, opening opportunities for investment in the downtown area.
He also addressed the city’s recent takeover of sewer billing and a mandated $120 million upgrade to the wastewater treatment system, noting state grants are helping offset costs for residents.
New city manager outlines priorities
New City Manager Jose Arreola, who began his role Feb. 23, told attendees the city is well positioned for future growth.
“The state of our city is strong,” Arreola said. “Even more importantly, it is full of opportunity.”
Arreola outlined several priorities for the coming year, including public safety, housing development, infrastructure improvements, economic vitality and promoting community health.
He said the city is moving forward with the next phase of a comprehensive plan aimed at reducing youth violence. The effort includes plans for a youth job development and placement program, a street outreach team and expanded police patrol and investigative staffing.
“When we invest in our young people, we invest in the long-term safety and prosperity of our community,” Arreola said.
Housing remains another key focus. Arreola said the city will celebrate the grand opening of Casa de Esperanza, a 45-unit transitional housing development at the former Days Inn property (1130 Broadway St.), on March 19 at 10:30 a.m.
“This project represents more than new housing,” he said. “It’s hope, stability and a pathway forward for individuals and families who are working to rebuild their lives.”
Plans are also underway for 40 low-income apartments at Hills Ranch, with construction potentially beginning as early as May. In addition, King City’s Grocery Outlet is planning to open its doors in May.
The city is also continuing its commitment as a Blue Zones community, promoting healthy habits and well-being among residents.
“As city manager, my commitment is to lead with integrity, to work collaboratively with our wonderful city council and mayor, and to show that we are focused on delivering results for our residents,” Arreola said.
Police chief discusses crime trends, staffing
Public safety was another major topic during the address. Police Chief Robert Masterson reported that several key crime categories declined over the past year.
Most notably, homicides were down 75% compared with the previous reporting period, following a spike tied to a 2024 mass shooting that claimed four lives. Assaults decreased 27%, and auto thefts fell by 70%, Masterson said. However, burglaries increased from 19 cases to 31, a 50% rise, and theft-related crimes increased 16%.
“These statistics are more than just numbers,” Masterson said. “They represent lives lost, families who have suffered unimaginable loss and a community affected by the senseless crime that occurs occasionally.”
Masterson also noted the department is facing staffing challenges. While the department is budgeted for 18 sworn positions, six officers are currently out on leave or unavailable for duty, leaving about nine officers to cover patrol operations around the clock.
“Right now our department is facing a significant staffing shortage,” Masterson said.
Despite those challenges, he said officers remain committed to community policing and building relationships with residents. He highlighted proactive efforts, such as school patrols and community engagement programs, designed to strengthen relationships with youth and prevent crime before it occurs.
During his remarks, Masterson also paused to remember Sgt. Ryan Kenedy, who died while on duty last year. The department will mark the one-year anniversary of his passing on March 25.
“Sgt. Kenedy was more than an officer,” Masterson said. “He was a leader, a mentor, a friend and a public servant dedicated to serving his community.”
Masterson shared a story of Kenedy playing basketball with local youth, highlighting the officer’s dedication to connecting with the community beyond his official duties.
LeBarre closed last week’s event by emphasizing that city government works in partnership with residents.
“Local government isn’t just about paying the bills and fixing the roads,” he said. “It’s about reflecting the community.”
