City hears Boys & Girls Club report and MST announces $38 youth summer bus pass

The Gonzales City Council on June 1 heard a report from Jose Moran, director of growth initiatives for the Boys & Girls Clubs of Monterey County, and approved continued city partnership with the program.

"Since launching our program earlier this year from February through May, we have had the privilege of serving more than 270 youth in Gonzales," Moran said, noting an average daily attendance of 40 to 50 participants and a mix of academic support, enrichment and mentorship activities. He asked the council to continue the partnership to expand services next school year. Council moved, seconded and approved the partnership by voice vote.

Separately, Max MTO, a Civic Spark fellow, speaking on behalf of Monterey-Salinas Transit (MST), announced the activation of a youth summer bus pass for riders 18 and under. The pass grants unlimited MST rides for June, July and August for $38; the normal monthly pass is $35. "To get three months for $38 is an extreme discount," Max said and asked the council to help spread the word to constituents.

Council members praised the expanded youth services, highlighted the GYC presentation earlier in the meeting and expressed support for continued investments in after-school programming and affordable summer mobility for young residents. The council did not attach additional funding details at the meeting beyond approving the partnership and encouraging outreach about the MST pass.