The City of Santa Monica has appointed Aileen Reynolds as Housing and Human Services Director. Reynolds brings over a decade of experience from NYC, where she helped secure housing for 43,000 households. She starts January 12 with an annual salary of $258,756.
Senator Ben Allen joined his community to mark the one-year anniversary of the devastating Palisades Fire, honoring those who died while committing to continued support for recovery efforts in Pacific Palisades and Malibu.
Rep. Brad Sherman commemorated the one-year anniversary of the devastating January 2025 Palisades Fire that struck Pacific Palisades, highlighting $7 billion in federal aid already provided and urging the Trump administration not to block $15 billion in additional disaster recovery funding.
Santa Monica City Council will consider consolidating the Disabilities, Housing, and Human Services commissions into a single body and removing council liaisons to prevent undue influence in the most significant restructuring since 2021.
One year after devastating wildfires swept through Malibu and surrounding areas, Palisades Village launched a light memorial that will shine nightly until January 31. The three beams symbolize reflection, gratitude, and hope for the affected communities.
One year after the January wildfire in Pacific Palisades, recovery is driven by community leaders who stepped up where formal systems fell short. From business advocacy to infrastructure planning, neighbors built the recovery architecture themselves.
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.
The FAA has determined Santa Monica Municipal Airport violated federal law by accumulating surplus revenues intended for general city services after the airport's closure, rather than using those funds for aviation purposes as required.
The California Strategic Growth Council approved a $49.9 million grant for Santa Monica, with $35M funding the 1318 4th Street affordable housing development and $14.3M supporting sustainable transportation projects including electric buses and protected bike lanes.
After losing 20% of her real estate portfolio in the Pacific Palisades fire, developer Elaine Culotti is spearheading a movement for the community to secede from Los Angeles, citing the city's inadequate disaster response and structural failings.
Santa Monica City Council unanimously approved a self-certification program allowing businesses to obtain building permits in as little as one day, bypassing weeks of city review. The program launches April 2026 for commercial renovations, including restaurants.
The Malibu City Council has appointed Joseph 'Joe' Irvin as the city's next city manager following an extensive recruitment process. Irvin, who brings over 20 years of municipal leadership experience, will begin his tenure March 2, 2026.
