Santa Monica's four weekly farmers markets offer fresh local produce throughout January 2026. Highlights include peak-season citrus and avocados, new vendors like Bakeman Bars and Fat Uncle Farms, plus live entertainment at Pico and Main Street markets.
A longtime Santa Monica resident argues for closing SMO Airport by 2028 as mandated by a 2014 citywide referendum. The letter challenges claims about the airport's economic benefits and raises concerns about increasing jet fuel pollution.
The Santa Monica Daily Press's podcast 'A Developing Story' has topped national charts, ranking #1 for Local News on Goodpods and in the top 5% of podcasts worldwide. The six-episode series on Santa Monica's housing development has resonated far beyond city limits.
Santa Monica offers numerous New Year's Eve options from family-friendly countdowns to upscale dining and dance parties. Plus, don't miss the historic Route 66 Centennial Kickoff on January 3 at the Santa Monica Pier.
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.
August 2024 brought major leadership changes to Santa Monica as Police Chief Ramon Batista and City Attorney Doug Sloan resigned, marking three senior departures. The month also saw controversial housing policy changes and continued challenges with retail theft.
In September 2024, charter carrier JSX applied to operate daily flights from Santa Monica Airport starting in 2025 using quiet turboprop aircraft, even as city officials reaffirmed the airport will still close permanently in 2028.
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.
July 2024 brought contrasting homeless statistics to the Westside, with Santa Monica reporting a 5% increase primarily from people living in vehicles, while Venice saw its unsheltered population drop 22%. The month also saw major changes to the DTSM board and algorithmic rental pricing banned.
Santa Monica police are investigating a shooting in the downtown area, the latest in a series of violent incidents raising community concerns about public safety. Officials are responding with increased security measures as the entertainment zone launches.
