The number of people experiencing homelessness in Malibu fell to 44 in 2026, marking the fifth consecutive year of decline. City officials credit their outreach team, which has placed hundreds of people into housing since 2017.
Santa Monica officials are considering expanding the downtown Entertainment Zone, where patrons can carry alcoholic drinks while walking outdoors. The zone could grow from its current three-block area to encompass much of downtown after showing no increase in crime.
SMDP's weekly guide highlights Santa Monica's vibrant scene with DineLA Restaurant Week's final days, the Leonard Cohen tribute at Broadstage, Venice's food-replica workshops, and Grammy events in Los Angeles through February 6.
Assemblymember Rick Chavez Zbur introduced the Right to Human Customer Service Act requiring large California businesses to provide human customer service within five minutes. The bill aims to end situations where consumers are trapped in automated systems.
Applications are now open for cannabis retailers in Santa Monica with a first-come, first-served process. The program includes a social equity component and a 4% cannabis business tax that was approved by 66% of Santa Monica voters in 2022.
Sunny. High 78F. Winds W at 5 to 10 mph.
Today: ☀️ High 78° / Low 55°
Tomorrow: ☀️ High 78° / Low 57°
First Up
Student Involved in Low-Speed Collision with Waymo Autonomous
A student was involved in a low-speed collision with an autonomous vehicle near Grant Elementary School on last week, though no injuries were reported, according to Santa Monica police.
The
The Santa Monica City Council voted 6-1 to adopt new worker recall and retention protections for hospitality businesses on the city-owned pier, requiring employers to rehire laid-off workers and retain existing staff for 90 days after ownership changes.
Spry Fitness, a new appointment-only gym at 2222 Pico Blvd. in Santa Monica, offers personalized training in a non-intimidating environment. Owner Evan Spry, a former history teacher and local resident, designed the studio to welcome clients ages 12 to 80+.
Twenty years after officials recommended phasing out methyl bromide, the toxic pesticide remains widespread in California. New UCLA research shows some communities face exposure nearly double state safety recommendations, with port areas like Long Beach at highest risk.
City alleges systematic conversion of rent-controlled units to Airbnb rentals violated municipal housing law
The city of Santa Monica has filed a lawsuit against a family of landlords who control
Several Santa Monica businesses earned recognition for their environmental leadership at the Green Business Certification Awards held January 16th at the Santa Monica Family YMCA, celebrating their commitment to sustainable practices and rigorous environmental standards.
