Malibu will host a community commemoration on January 7 marking one year since the devastating Palisades Fire that claimed 12 lives and destroyed over 6,800 structures across Los Angeles' westside communities, becoming California's third-most destructive wildfire.
Santa Monica's housing market cooled significantly in 2025, with rents falling 1.2% in November and median home prices dropping 10.5% year-over-year to $1.75 million. Only 37% of homes sold above list price as buyers gained negotiating power.
Pacific Palisades will commemorate the one-year anniversary of the January 7 Palisades Fire with a ceremony honoring the 12 lives lost. The event on Wednesday includes a flag presentation, procession, and community lunch.
The Los Angeles County Board of Supervisors has ratified a local emergency proclamation for recent winter storms that caused widespread damage. The declaration enables the county to seek reimbursement for storm-related damages and accelerate recovery efforts.
Wildland firefighters across California are willing to wear respiratory protection despite concerns about mobility and safety, UCLA researchers found. The study comes as firefighters face increasing exposure to carcinogens and toxins from wildfires affecting the Los Angeles region.
Bank of America has committed $10 million in zero-interest loans to Community Development Financial Institutions supporting housing, nonprofit facilities and small business recovery from the Eaton and Palisades fires across Los Angeles.
Santa Monica's December 2025 featured significant developments including controversial City Council decisions, the start of Pier Bridge construction, approval of Olympic beach events, and shifting positions on housing development and abuse litigation.
Santa Monica ordered Waymo to halt overnight operations after noise complaints, while Malibu approved $1.6M for PCH safety improvements. The month also saw new businesses announced and LA was named the 'Rattiest City' in America.
Santa Monica City Council unanimously approved City Manager Oliver Chi's comprehensive revitalization plan addressing a projected $29.6 million budget deficit and operational inefficiency. The multi-year strategy reorganizes departments and deploys $60 million in reserves for immediate investments.
The Santa Monica-Malibu Unified School District has appointed Crystal Gonzalez as transportation supervisor, effective Dec. 1. With over 10 years of experience, Gonzalez previously worked at Antelope Valley Schools Transportation Agency as a driver and dispatcher.
The Santa Monica-Malibu Unified School District has approved a $2.8 million purchase of property adjacent to Franklin Elementary School to expand the campus, which is currently half the recommended size for its student population.
The iconic Pacific Wheel on Santa Monica Pier will display New Year's greetings in 16 languages using 174,000 LED lights from sunset to midnight on Dec. 31-Jan. 1. Visitors can view the illuminated 90-foot Ferris wheel from the beach or watch online.
