Dear Readers,

A report about city spending during the Jason Stilwell administration is out, and the details are disturbing, to say the least. Mary Schley has that story.

An unbelievable legal battle is under way over one of Carmel's most popular restaurants — including a claim for $45,000 a month rent and an assertion by the restaurant's landlord that she owns the restaurant, not just the building. Kelly Nix has that one.

The owner of a would-be tasting room in town reacted quite bitterly after the city council turned aside his request for a permit. Mary Schley has the details of the long saga that ended poorly for Tudor Wines. And she also reports about another council decision this week: to waive permit fees for the Concours on the Avenue.

The desal test well survived yet again in court, and the way is now clear for it to keep testing. Kelly Nix has our report.

If the wheel falls off your bike, what do you do? File a lawsuit, of course. The city's plan to limit beach fires is on its way to the coastal commission, unless all the opponents suddenly give up. Next year's municipal budget will hit $32 million. And, speaking of spending, my editorial explains why the government -- including, it turns out, local government -- can be incredibly wasteful with your money.

Thank you for your interest in our newspaper. As always, I am available to respond to your questions, comments or concerns, and to offer advice about how best to read The Pine Cone on your computer, smartphone or iPad.

Paul Miller, Publisher
paul@carmelpinecone.com

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