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Latest Population Figures Show Monterey County's Growth is Accelerating

Each year, in May, the California State Department of Finance releases population growth figures for the entire state. In 1998, Monterey County grew at 2.7% and was the third fastest growing county in California. 1999 figures were just released on May 3, 2000. They show that the county's growth rate has accelerated. During 1999, Monterey County's population grew by 3%. Monterey County is now tied with Placer County, near Sacramento, as the fourth fastest-growing county in California.

"The high population growth rate of the last few years was caused by a temporary "bubble" … In the next two decades Monterey County's population will grow at an average rate of 1.85% a year…(emphasis added)."

--Common Ground Monterey County

In their recently released report, "Stability and Change in Monterey County," Common Ground Monterey County touts a "fact-based" approach to land use policy. The current facts about Monterey County's population growth are revealed in the detailed figures provided below. Monterey County is one of the fastest growing counties in California, and the expanding economy of the Silicon Valley will likely continue to put immense pressures on Monterey County's farmland, water resources, and urban infrastructure.

LandWatch urges adoption of a five-point program of sound planning policies, to prepare for the continued growth pressures that are likely to affect the future of Monterey County, it agriculturally based economy, and the quality of life of its residents.

Population Increases in Monterey County Cities 1998-1999
City	1998 Population	1999 Population	% Increase
MONTEREY	387,500	399,300	3%
CARMEL-BY-THE-SEA	4,530	4,630	2.2%
DEL REY OAKS	1,680	1,710	1.8%
GONZALES	6,800	7,150	5.1%
GREENFIELD	10,350	10,750	3.9%
KING CITY	10,400	10,850	4.3%
MARINA	18,200	18,500	1.6%
MONTEREY	32,800	33,350	1.7%
PACIFIC GROVE	17,300	17,600	1.7%
SALINAS	129,800	134,700	3.8%
SAND CITY	190	200	5.3%
SEASIDE	29,700	30,300	2%
SOLEDAD	23,100	23,900	3.5%
UNINCORPORATED	102,700	105,700	2.9%

LandWatch's mission is to protect Monterey County's future by addressing climate change, community health, and social inequities in housing and infrastructure. By encouraging greater public participation in planning, we connect people to government, address human needs and inspire conservation of natural resources.

CONTACT

306 Capitol Street #101
Salinas, CA 93901

PO Box 1876
Salinas, CA 93902-1876

Phone (831) 759-2824

Fax (831) 759-2825

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