Office of the HCD Ombudsperson

The Ombudsperson is a neutral and confidential resource available to the public, applicants, developers and HCD staff.

The role of the Ombudsperson is to listen to concerns, answer questions, and help people understand and resolve issues related to planning, permitting, and development processes in the County of Monterey.

The Ombudsperson does not take sides or make decisions, but instead helps guide people toward solutions, a better understanding and the resources they need.

The Ombudsperson can give you the time you need to ask questions or discuss your particular situation. 

The Ombudsperson may be able to help when:

• An applicant wants to better understand the status of their project.
• A neighbor wants to discuss or ask questions about a proposed development.
• An applicant is seeking clarification about policies, timelines, or communication.

You can reach the Ombudsperson by phone, email, or in person.

All conversations are voluntary and will be kept confidential to the fullest extent requested and allowed by law.

Contact information is listed below:

Phone: 831-784-5976
Email: HCDOmbudsperson@countyofmonterey.gov

Office: 1441 Schilling Place, 2nd floor, Salinas, CA 93901

The Ombudsperson provides a confidential and neutral resource for resolving land-use, planning, and code-enforcement concerns. This role operates as resource and advocate for residents, builders, and staff as they navigate complex housing and community development processes.

The goals of the Ombudsperson are to foster transparency, fairness, and constructive dialogue. The role bridges individual concerns with systemic improvements, ensuring that policies and procedures support both community trust and organizational effectiveness.  

The Ombudsperson is a neutral, confidential resource who helps you navigate planning, permitting, and code enforcement concerns.

In Detail:

• Listen to concerns, clarify issues and gather information to resolve problems.
• Explain policies, procedures, and options for next steps.
• Facilitate communication between community members and HCD staff.
• Engage in problem solving and discuss options for a resolution.
• Explore fair, constructive approaches to resolving conflict.
• Identify broader themes or systemic issues for leadership review.
• Direct people to the right office, program, or resource as needed.

Reach out to the Ombudsperson any time you need help understanding, navigating, or constructively addressing a concern with planning, permitting, or code enforcement.

It may be helpful to contact the Ombudsperson if:

• You are unsure about county processes, timelines, or requirements.
• You feel your concern is not being heard or addressed.
• Communication with staff has broken down or become difficult.
• You want to explore options for resolving a dispute before it escalates.
• You notice a broader issue that may affect others, not just your individual case.

The Ombudsperson cannot change laws, provide legal advice, or act as your representative in official proceedings.

In Detail:

• Make or change county policies, codes, or regulations.
• Provide legal advice or act as legal counsel.
• Serve as a formal advocate or representative in hearings or appeals.
• Conduct official investigations or overturn decisions.
• Replace existing complaint, appeal, or grievance procedures.

The Ombudsperson helps with concerns about fairness, communication, and navigating county processes.

Common examples include:

• Questions or confusion about planning, permitting, or code enforcement procedures.
• Concerns that a case is not being handled in a timely or consistent way.
• Communication breakdowns between residents, builders, and county staff.
• Questions about how to resolve a violation or meet compliance requirements.
• Situations where a property owner feels fines, fees, or requirements are unclear or disproportionate.
• Identifying broader patterns that may point to the need for clearer policies or improved processes.