Editor's Note: The Daily Press is currently running it's annual Year in Review coverage summarizing the news from 2025. Each month will have it's own summary posted to smdp.com and available in print.
June
Entertainment Zone Debut
Downtown Santa Monica is launching an entertainment zone allowing alcohol consumption in designated areas, starting with seven participating restaurants. Additionally, a proposal was made to host "Futpool" events for the 2026 FIFA Club World Cup to further revitalize the area.
Former Daily Press office to become 132 units of housing
The former Santa Monica Daily Press office building at 1640 5th Street received approval for conversion into 132 residential units. The project transformed the historic property into housing, marking a significant redevelopment in downtown Santa Monica. The conversion represented part of ongoing efforts to increase residential density and adapt underutilized commercial buildings for housing purposes.
Malibu High School Seniors Face Prosecution After Overnight Vandalism Spree
Malibu High School seniors faced potential prosecution after an overnight vandalism spree damaged school property. The incident involved significant destruction requiring costly repairs. School administrators and law enforcement investigated the matter, with students potentially facing criminal charges and disciplinary action. The vandalism occurred during traditional senior activities, prompting discussions about appropriate celebrations and consequences for destructive behavior.
County task force to reshape government holds first meeting
Los Angeles County formed a task force to implement historic governance reforms following voter approval of measures restructuring county leadership. The group worked to transition to an elected executive model and expand Board of Supervisors representation. Implementation required coordination among multiple departments to establish new governmental structures and operational procedures for the reformed system.
Businesses prepare for opening of DTSM Entertainment Zone in two weeks
Downtown Santa Monica businesses prepared for the entertainment zone's opening in two weeks, allowing open-container alcohol consumption along Third Street Promenade. Business owners anticipated increased foot traffic and sales while addressing security concerns. The zone required special licensing, trained staff, and coordination with police to manage the first-of-its-kind Southern California program.
Malibu works to save its struggling businesses
Malibu took emergency steps to aid struggling businesses after the Palisades Fire and Pacific Coast Highway closure devastated local commerce. The city implemented fee waivers, expedited permits, and financial assistance programs. Business owners reported dramatic revenue losses as tourists avoided the area. Officials worked to accelerate recovery and restore economic activity.
Santa Monica city workforce hovers at 6% vacant with new hiring freeze in place
Santa Monica's city workforce hovered at 6% vacancy with a new hiring freeze in place due to budget constraints. The freeze affected multiple departments as the city faced ongoing fiscal challenges. Officials implemented the measure to control personnel costs while maintaining essential services. Some positions remained exempt from the freeze.
Hundreds Choose to Sell Rather Than Rebuild After Palisades Fire
Hundreds of Palisades Fire survivors chose to sell their properties rather than rebuild, citing insurance complications, construction costs, and lengthy timelines. Many homeowners faced challenges with adequate coverage, permitting delays, and emotional exhaustion. Real estate activity increased as owners opted to relocate rather than navigate the complex multi-year rebuilding process.
Water Rates to Increase by 20% Next Year Santa Monica water rates increased by 20% for the following year to fund infrastructure improvements and maintain aging systems. The rate hike addressed rising operational costs, drought management programs, and necessary repairs to water distribution networks. City officials cited the increases as essential for ensuring reliable water service and meeting state conservation requirements.
Four Rescued Sea Lions Returned to the Wild as Marine Crisis Eases Four rescued sea lions were returned to the wild as the marine mammal crisis eased along California's coast. The animals recovered at rehabilitation facilities after stranding due to malnutrition and illness. Marine Mammal Care Center staff reported improved ocean conditions and food availability enabled successful releases, marking progress in addressing the environmental crisis.
Santa Monica Animal Shelter Fundraiser Returns on Saturday with a Day of Adoptions, Auctions and Activities Santa Monica Animal Shelter's fundraiser returned Saturday featuring pet adoptions, auctions, and family activities. The event raised funds for shelter operations, medical care, and community programs. Attendees participated in adoption drives, silent auctions, demonstrations, and entertainment while supporting the shelter's mission to care for homeless animals and promote responsible pet ownership.
Santa Monica Landlord Settles Harassment, Discrimination Cases for $685,000 A Santa Monica landlord settled harassment and discrimination cases for $685,000 after tenants alleged intimidation tactics and civil rights violations. The settlement resolved claims involving multiple tenants who reported hostile living conditions, illegal eviction attempts, and discriminatory practices. City officials emphasized the outcome as accountability for landlords who violated tenant protection laws.
Living Wage for All Coalition Launches in Santa Monica with Push for $30 Countywide Minimum The Living Wage for All Coalition launched in Santa Monica, pushing for a $30 countywide minimum wage. Organizers argued existing wages failed to match the region's high cost of living. The coalition gathered support from labor groups, community organizations, and workers demanding legislation to establish higher wage standards across Los Angeles County.
Council Limits Public Comment Duration During Meetings Santa Monica City Council limited public comment duration during meetings, reducing individual speaking time to manage lengthy sessions. The policy change sparked debate about civic engagement and access to government. Officials defended the measure as necessary for efficient meetings, while critics argued it restricted public participation in local decision-making processes.
Moon-Bound Messages Launched from Santa Monica's Fairmont Hotel Moon-bound messages were launched from Santa Monica's Fairmont Miramar Hotel as part of a lunar time capsule project. Participants submitted personal messages, artwork, and cultural artifacts for spaceflight to the moon. The initiative combined space exploration with community engagement, allowing residents to contribute to humanity's permanent lunar archive.
Will Rogers 5th Graders Close the Year with International Baccalaureate Presentations Will Rogers Elementary fifth graders closed the academic year with International Baccalaureate exhibition presentations showcasing research projects and learning. Students presented inquiry-based work to families and community members, demonstrating skills developed through the IB Primary Years Programme. The culminating event highlighted students' critical thinking, collaboration, and communication abilities.
Immigration Fears Prompt Panic from Locals on the Internet Immigration enforcement concerns prompted online panic among Santa Monica area residents following reports of ICE activity. Social media circulated unverified claims about immigration sweeps, creating anxiety in immigrant communities. Local officials and advocates worked to provide accurate information, clarify policies, and calm fears while directing residents to legal resources and support services.
From Lava Pits to Wand Battles, Dream Park Aims to Reboot the Promenade with Mixed Reality Dream Park aimed to revitalize Third Street Promenade with mixed reality attractions featuring lava pits, wand battles, and immersive experiences. The entertainment concept combined physical spaces with augmented reality technology to create interactive adventures. Developers positioned the attraction as a draw for families and tourists, offering innovative entertainment to boost foot traffic downtown.
Santa Monica Is Not Actually a Sanctuary City, but It Does Oppose Immigration Crackdowns Santa Monica clarified it was not officially a sanctuary city but opposed immigration enforcement crackdowns. City leaders explained local police did not participate in federal immigration operations per state law. Officials emphasized community trust and public safety priorities while distinguishing their policies from formal sanctuary city designations, addressing confusion about the city's immigration stance.
Santa Monica Advances Cannabis Retail Ordinance with Social Equity Focus Santa Monica advanced a cannabis retail ordinance prioritizing social equity applicants affected by past drug enforcement. The framework established licensing criteria, location restrictions, and support programs for equity businesses. City officials aimed to create opportunities for communities disproportionately impacted by cannabis criminalization while regulating the emerging retail market and generating tax revenue.
Bikes May Be Allowed in Bus Lanes as Part of Transit Discussion at City Hall Santa Monica considered allowing bicycles in bus lanes during transit discussions at City Hall. The proposal aimed to improve cyclist safety and connectivity while managing street space efficiently. Officials weighed benefits of expanded bike access against potential transit delays, seeking solutions to accommodate multiple transportation modes in limited right-of-way areas.
Airport Debate Takes Off at Planning Commission Santa Monica Airport debates intensified at Planning Commission meetings as the city considered the facility's future use. Discussions centered on redevelopment options, community benefits, aviation interests, and federal obligations. Commissioners evaluated proposals for converting airport land to parks, housing, or mixed-use development following the airport's closure agreement with federal authorities.
Could Digital Billboards Light the Way to Economic Growth Downtown? Santa Monica explored whether digital billboards could support downtown economic growth through advertising revenue and visual enhancements. The proposal generated debate about aesthetics, light pollution, and commercialization versus fiscal benefits. City officials weighed potential income against community character concerns as they considered modernizing signage regulations for revenue generation.
Santa Monica Police Prepares for Weekend Protest, Caution Against Repeat of 2020 Violence Santa Monica police prepared for weekend protests, cautioning against repeating 2020 violence that damaged businesses. Officers increased staffing, coordinated with neighboring agencies, and established security perimeters downtown. Authorities balanced First Amendment rights with public safety concerns, implementing measures to prevent looting and destruction while facilitating peaceful demonstrations.
As Local Crime Rises and Falls, Homelessness Remains the Driving Factor Santa Monica crime statistics fluctuated with homelessness remaining the primary driving factor behind incidents. Police data showed connections between unhoused populations and property crimes, public disturbances, and quality-of-life complaints. Officials discussed enforcement approaches, social services, and housing strategies to address the intersection of homelessness and public safety concerns.
No Kings Protest Comes to Santa Monica on Saturday A "No Kings" protest arrived in Santa Monica on Saturday as demonstrators gathered to express opposition to concentrated political power. Participants rallied peacefully, voicing concerns about democratic institutions and governmental accountability. The event reflected broader national movements advocating for systemic reforms and challenging executive authority in the political system.
Hands-Only CPR Training Kiosk Debuts in Santa Monica, Aiming to Turn Bystanders into Lifesavers A hands-only CPR training kiosk debuted in Santa Monica to teach bystanders life-saving techniques. The interactive station provided free five-minute training sessions on compression-only CPR. Public health officials positioned the technology in high-traffic areas to increase community preparedness for cardiac emergencies and improve survival rates through immediate bystander intervention.
Palisades Fire Map Offers Stark Look at Destruction, Raises Deeper Questions About Recovery A Palisades Fire map provided stark visualization of destruction while raising questions about recovery challenges. The detailed mapping showed structure losses, burn severity, and infrastructure damage across affected neighborhoods. The data informed discussions about rebuilding timelines, insurance adequacy, fire prevention measures, and long-term community resilience planning for future disasters.
Malibu Seeks Public Input on Speed Camera Program for Pacific Coast Highway Malibu sought public input on implementing a speed camera program for Pacific Coast Highway to address dangerous driving conditions. Officials proposed automated enforcement to reduce speeding and improve safety along the notorious corridor. The initiative required community feedback and state authorization, with supporters citing frequent accidents and pedestrian fatalities as justification for technology-based traffic enforcement.
Santa Monica Council Approves Shared Bus-Bike Lanes in Split Vote Santa Monica City Council approved shared bus-bike lanes in a split vote following contentious debate about safety and transit efficiency. The decision allowed cyclists to use designated bus-only lanes on certain routes. Supporters emphasized improved bicycle connectivity while opponents worried about conflicts between buses and bikes, delays to transit service, and rider safety concerns.
Santa Monica Trio Honored as Hometown Heroes for Dramatic Apartment Fire Rescue Three Santa Monica residents were honored as hometown heroes for rescuing neighbors during a dramatic apartment fire. The individuals entered a burning building, alerting residents and helping people evacuate before firefighters arrived. City officials recognized their bravery and quick action that prevented injuries or deaths during the emergency, highlighting community courage and selflessness.
Finally, Some Good News: Bay Cities Deli Is Back Open Bay Cities Deli reopened to community celebration after temporary closure, bringing relief to loyal customers. The beloved Santa Monica Italian delicatessen and market resumed operations serving signature sandwiches and groceries. The reopening ended uncertainty about the iconic establishment's future, with patrons eager to return for the famous Godmother sandwich and neighborhood gathering spot.
LA County Backs Federal Tax Credit for Disaster-Hardened Homes Los Angeles County backed federal tax credits for disaster-hardened homes to encourage fire-resistant construction and retrofits. Officials supported legislation incentivizing homeowners to invest in protective measures like fire-resistant materials, ember-resistant vents, and defensible space. The initiative aimed to reduce wildfire damage, lower insurance costs, and improve community resilience through financial incentives.
Santa Monica Landmarks Commission Denies Historic Status for 1912 Craftsman Home Santa Monica Landmarks Commission denied historic designation for a 1912 Craftsman home despite its architectural significance. Commissioners determined the property had undergone substantial alterations compromising its historic integrity. The decision allowed potential demolition or significant modifications, disappointing preservation advocates who argued for protecting the century-old structure's remaining original features and neighborhood character.
Long Beach Man Charged in Attempted Sexual Assault of Elderly Woman A Long Beach man faced charges for attempted sexual assault of an elderly woman in Santa Monica. Police arrested the suspect after investigating the attack on the vulnerable victim. Prosecutors filed felony charges including assault with intent to commit rape and elder abuse, seeking substantial prison time for the alleged predatory crime against the senior resident.
Santa Monica Board Continues Review of 132-Unit Housing Project Over Design Concerns Santa Monica's Architectural Review Board continued reviewing a 132-unit housing project due to design concerns about massing, aesthetics, and neighborhood compatibility. Board members requested modifications to building height, facades, and street-level engagement. The development faced scrutiny over its impact on surrounding properties, with officials seeking improvements before final approval of the residential project.
Thousands Rally Peacefully in Santa Monica Against Immigration Raids and Military Displays Thousands rallied peacefully in Santa Monica protesting immigration raids and military displays of force. Demonstrators marched through downtown expressing opposition to federal enforcement actions and militarized responses. The event featured speakers, chanting, and signs advocating for immigrant rights, with police monitoring but no incidents reported during the orderly demonstration of community solidarity.
Council Praises Departing Civic Activist Even as She Calls on Them to Do More for Residents Santa Monica City Council praised a departing civic activist for years of community service while she urged officials to better serve residents. The honored advocate challenged the council during her farewell remarks to prioritize affordable housing, homelessness solutions, and equity. Officials acknowledged her contributions while she maintained accountability pressure on elected leaders to deliver meaningful results.
County Board Approves Fee Relief for Wildfire Survivors Los Angeles County Board of Supervisors approved fee waivers and relief for wildfire survivors rebuilding homes. The measure eliminated permit fees, expedited processing, and reduced costs for fire victims navigating reconstruction. Officials aimed to ease financial burdens and accelerate recovery, providing regulatory relief to families already facing insurance challenges and construction expenses.
Summit Explores Human Potential Beyond Technology A Santa Monica summit explored human potential beyond technology, emphasizing personal development, creativity, and consciousness. Speakers discussed meditation, emotional intelligence, relationships, and purpose alongside technological advancement. The event challenged tech-centric worldviews, advocating for balanced approaches integrating human wisdom, connection, and wellbeing with innovation in the digital age.
Tourism Leaders Tout Economic Boost, Urge Realism at Santa Monica Summit Tourism leaders touted Santa Monica's economic benefits while urging realistic expectations at an industry summit. Officials presented visitor spending data, job creation, and tax revenue generated by tourism. Speakers acknowledged challenges including infrastructure strain, housing pressures, and quality-of-life impacts, calling for balanced strategies maximizing economic gains while managing tourism's community effects.
Santa Monica Council Reviews Boulevard Safety Study Amid Calls for Bolder Changes Santa Monica City Council reviewed a boulevard safety study while advocates demanded bolder traffic calming measures. The report recommended improvements to crosswalks, signals, and speed limits. Community members pushed for protected bike lanes, road diets, and aggressive redesigns to prevent pedestrian deaths, criticizing incremental approaches as insufficient for achieving Vision Zero goals.
Santa Monica Woman Celebrates 106th Birthday After Decades of Global Teaching A Santa Monica woman celebrated her 106th birthday after spending decades teaching internationally. The centenarian shared stories of her career educating students across multiple countries and continents. Friends, family, and former students honored her longevity, contributions to education, and remarkable life spanning over a century of global experiences and dedication to learning.
State Files Price Gouging Charges Against Beverly Hills Realtor California filed price gouging charges against a Beverly Hills realtor for allegedly exploiting wildfire victims through inflated rental prices. State Attorney General accused the defendant of charging excessive rates to displaced families during the emergency. The case sought penalties, restitution, and accountability for predatory practices targeting vulnerable people during disaster recovery when housing demand surged.
Endangered Fish Return Home After Five-Month Fire Recovery Endangered northern tidewater gobies returned to Topanga Canyon Lagoon after five months recovering at Southern California aquariums following the Palisades Fire. Biologists rescued the fish when wildfire debris contaminated their habitat. Eight organizations collaborated on the rescue, funded by donations and grants, successfully rehabilitating and releasing the fish to their restored natural environment.
Santa Monica's Entertainment Zone Launches, Bringing With It Crowds, Cocktails and Concerns Over Cost and Control Santa Monica's entertainment zone launched, allowing open-container alcohol on Third Street Promenade, drawing crowds while raising concerns about costs and enforcement. The pilot program permitted drinking in designated areas with participating businesses. Officials monitored crowds, security challenges, and financial impacts as the first-of-its-kind Southern California initiative tested balancing nightlife activation with public safety management.
Soulstice Returns to Main Street on Saturday Soulstice festival returned to Main Street on Saturday, celebrating community with live music, vendors, food, and family activities. The annual street fair attracted thousands of attendees enjoying performances, shopping local artisans, and gathering outdoors. The event showcased Santa Monica's cultural diversity and creative spirit while supporting neighborhood businesses through increased foot traffic and community engagement.
Santa Monica Weather Swings from Deluge to Drought as City Returns to Seasonal Norms Santa Monica weather swung dramatically from heavy rainfall to drought conditions as seasonal patterns returned. The city experienced flooding followed by extended dry periods, reflecting California's variable climate. Water officials monitored supplies while encouraging conservation. The weather extremes underscored ongoing climate concerns and the importance of drought preparedness despite occasional winter storms bringing temporary relief.
Tova Capital Acquires Downtown Retail Building for $5.1M Tova Capital acquired a downtown Santa Monica retail building for $5.1 million, adding to its local commercial real estate portfolio. The purchase reflected continued investment interest in the area despite retail challenges. The transaction involved a multi-tenant property with mixed occupancy, with the buyer planning potential repositioning strategies for the downtown location.
Orchestra Santa Monica Extends Music Director's Contract Through 2030 Orchestra Santa Monica extended its music director's contract through 2030, securing leadership continuity for the community ensemble. The board praised the director's artistic vision, audience growth, and programming innovations. The long-term commitment aimed to strengthen the orchestra's regional presence, educational outreach, and musical excellence while planning ambitious seasons through the decade's end.
Downtown Shooting Is Latest in String of Troubling Violent Crimes A downtown Santa Monica shooting became the latest in a series of troubling violent crimes affecting the area. The incident added to concerns about public safety amid rising gun violence. Police investigated while city officials and residents expressed alarm over the trend. Community leaders called for increased law enforcement presence and intervention programs to address escalating violence.
Santa Monica Shooting Is the Latest Violent Incident Involving Waymo's Vehicles A Santa Monica shooting represented the latest violent incident involving Waymo's autonomous vehicles as a crime scene. A suspect allegedly used the robotaxi during or after committing violence. The incident raised questions about passenger screening, criminal misuse of self-driving services, and coordination between tech companies and law enforcement in investigating crimes involving autonomous vehicles.
Roger Nichols, Who Gave Voice to the Carpenters and Santa Monica's Soul, Dies at 84 Roger Nichols, legendary songwriter who gave voice to the Carpenters and Santa Monica's musical soul, died at 84. The composer created timeless hits including "We've Only Just Begun" and "Rainy Days and Mondays." His career spanned decades of influential pop songwriting. Friends, musicians, and fans mourned the loss of the beloved artist who shaped American popular music.
501 Broadway Project Tops Out as the City's Downtown Drive for Density Continues The 501 Broadway housing project topped out, marking construction milestone as Santa Monica's downtown densification continued. The multi-story development added residential units to the urban core. Officials celebrated progress toward housing goals while the project represented ongoing efforts to increase density, create walkable neighborhoods, and address regional housing shortages through transit-oriented development.
Planning Commission Approves 18-Story Housing Project Despite Environmental Appeal Santa Monica Planning Commission approved an 18-story housing project despite environmental appeals challenging the development's impacts. Commissioners determined the project met requirements and benefits outweighed concerns. Opponents cited traffic, shadows, and neighborhood compatibility issues. The controversial approval allowed the high-rise residential tower to proceed toward construction, advancing city densification despite community resistance.
Santa Monica Launches AI-Powered Bus Lane Enforcement as City Expands Surveillance Technology Santa Monica launched AI-powered bus lane enforcement cameras as the city expanded surveillance technology. Automated systems detected and ticketed vehicles illegally using transit-only lanes. Officials touted improved bus speeds and compliance while privacy advocates raised concerns about expanding automated monitoring. The program represented growing use of artificial intelligence in traffic enforcement and urban management.
California Recovers $65 Million in Stolen Goods as Retail Crime Enforcement Surges California recovered $65 million in stolen goods as retail crime enforcement intensified statewide. Task forces targeted organized theft rings, making arrests and seizing merchandise. Attorney General officials reported breaking up sophisticated operations reselling stolen products. The crackdown aimed to combat retail losses, protect businesses, and prosecute criminals exploiting vulnerabilities in the retail supply chain.
Five Local Teenagers Earn Eagle Scout Rank from Troop 2 Five Santa Monica teenagers earned Eagle Scout rank from Troop 2, achieving Scouting's highest honor through leadership and community service projects. The young men completed rigorous requirements including service projects benefiting local organizations. Families and troop leaders celebrated the accomplishments at a Court of Honor ceremony recognizing the scouts' dedication, character development, and commitment to serving others.
Santa Monica Planning Commission Unanimously Approves RAND Building Amendment Santa Monica Planning Commission unanimously approved an amendment to the RAND Corporation building project. The modification addressed design elements, public space, and operational details for the research institution's facility. Commissioners supported the changes after review and public input. The approval advanced the project toward construction while maintaining compatibility with the surrounding Civic Center neighborhood.
Strongman Pulls 34,680-lb Electric Bus to Kick Off Santa Monica's Pier 360 Festival A strongman pulled a 34,680-pound electric bus to kick off Santa Monica's Pier 360 Festival, demonstrating remarkable strength. The feat attracted crowds celebrating the event's opening weekend. The festival featured entertainment, activities, food vendors, and family programming. The bus-pulling spectacle provided memorable entertainment while highlighting the city's electric transit fleet and commitment to sustainability.
Council Approves $800M Budget After Divisive Vote on $50,000 for Neighborhood Associations Santa Monica City Council approved an $800 million budget following divisive debate over $50,000 allocated to neighborhood associations. The contentious vote revealed disagreements about funding priorities and community organization support. Some councilmembers questioned the allocation while others defended empowering grassroots groups. The budget passed despite tensions over how resources should support civic engagement and neighborhood participation.
Malibu Extends Fire Emergency Declarations, Approves Security Contract Extension Malibu extended fire emergency declarations and approved security contract extensions for continued fire zone protection. City Council maintained emergency powers enabling expedited recovery decisions. Officials authorized ongoing private security patrols in affected areas addressing resident safety concerns. The extensions provided flexibility for rebuilding efforts while maintaining heightened response capabilities as the community worked toward long-term recovery.
LA County Reports Historic 22% Drop in Drug Overdose Deaths Los Angeles County reported a historic 22% drop in drug overdose deaths, marking significant progress in combating the opioid crisis. Public health officials attributed declines to naloxone distribution, treatment expansion, and harm reduction programs. Despite improvements, fentanyl remained a major threat. Authorities emphasized continued investment in prevention, treatment, and overdose reversal efforts to sustain downward trends.
Homeless Man Arrested for Shooting Two Teens and a Santa Monica Police Officer A homeless man was arrested for shooting two teenagers and a Santa Monica police officer during a violent confrontation. The suspect opened fire, injuring victims before officers returned fire and apprehended him. All wounded individuals survived with injuries. The incident highlighted dangers officers face and sparked discussions about mental health, homelessness, and gun violence intersections.
Malibu Adopts $110.3 Million Budget Focused on Fire Recovery and Infrastructure Malibu adopted a $110.3 million budget prioritizing fire recovery and infrastructure improvements. The spending plan allocated significant resources to debris removal, emergency services, road repairs, and rebuilding assistance. Officials structured the budget to address immediate disaster needs while maintaining essential city services. The financial framework aimed to support community recovery while strengthening resilience against future emergencies.
Home Prices Rise Near Wildfire Zones Despite Disaster Risk Home prices rose near wildfire zones despite increased disaster risks, defying expectations that fire threats would depress property values. Real estate data showed strong demand in previously burned areas as buyers weighed location benefits against hazards. Limited inventory, desirable communities, and rebuilding activity drove appreciation. Experts noted insurance challenges and climate risks remained concerns despite market resilience in fire-prone regions.
Board Extends Wildfire Price Gouging Protections Through July Los Angeles County Board of Supervisors extended wildfire price gouging protections through July, continuing consumer safeguards for fire survivors. The emergency order prohibited excessive pricing on housing, construction materials, services, and essential goods in affected areas. Officials aimed to prevent exploitation during recovery while giving prosecutors authority to investigate and penalize violations targeting vulnerable disaster victims.
Santa Monica's Beloved but Battered Dinosaurs Face Uncertain Future as City Weighs Repairs, Conservation Santa Monica's beloved dinosaur sculptures at Palisades Park faced uncertain futures as officials weighed repair costs and conservation options. The iconic art installations showed weathering, vandalism damage, and structural deterioration after decades of coastal exposure. City staff evaluated restoration expenses, long-term maintenance needs, and preservation strategies. Community members advocated for saving the cherished landmarks while officials assessed financial feasibility.
Malibu Tackles PCH Safety Crisis with Emergency Declaration, Major Road Projects and Federal Enforcement Grant Malibu addressed Pacific Coast Highway's safety crisis through emergency declarations, major road improvement projects, and federal enforcement grants. Officials implemented speed reduction measures, enhanced signage, and increased patrols following fatal accidents. The multi-pronged approach combined infrastructure upgrades with aggressive traffic enforcement. Federal funding supported technology and personnel to reduce speeding and crashes on the dangerous coastal corridor.
Nordstrom Will Leave Santa Monica Place in August Nordstrom announced it would close its Santa Monica Place location in August, dealing another blow to the struggling mall. The department store's departure removed a major anchor tenant from the property already facing 70% vacancy. The closure reflected broader retail challenges and Nordstrom's nationwide store consolidation strategy. Officials worried about the mall's future as another significant retailer abandoned downtown.