Dear Readers,

Despite vehement opposition from some in the audience at this week's city council meeting, the council approved a 5-year, $2 million contract for legal services -- a deal the mayor called "a bargain." Mary Schley reports.

The public utilities commission is set to issue a decision on a permit for the Monterey Peninsula's desal plant. Could the end of our water woes finally be at hand? Kelly Nix has that one.

A county supervisor is calling for a permanent ban on parking across Highway 1 from Point Lobos. Chris Counts explains why.

The ballot for the November municipal election is all set, with three candidates for mayor and three for city council. An upscale downtown restaurant has lost its bid to stay open later. The CHP has been handing out a lot more traffic tickets in Pebble Beach. The school district is trying to decide whether to buy a prime piece of real estate on Carmel Valley Road. A significant step forward has been taken toward restoring commuter rail service between Salinas and San Jose. Yet again, the city council is looking at possible uses for Flanders Mansion. A CHS alum is making his mark in documentary films -- including at the top of an African volcano. With Car Week in the offing, a parade of classic cars has been heading down Highway 1, but not for the reason you might think. And my editorial explains why our 25-year water shortage never had to happen, and didn't accomplish anything.

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