City of Malibu, CA

10/07/2024 | Press release | Distributed by Public on 10/07/2024 17:57

City Manager Updates October 7, 2024 UPCOMING

MONDAY, OCTOBER 7, 2024

UPCOMING

KEY ANNOUNCEMENTS

(NEW) GOVERNOR SIGNS SB 1297 AUTHORIZING SPEED CAMERAS IN MALIBU TO PROTECT PUBLIC SAFETY ON PCH

The City is proud to announce that Governor Newsom signed Senate Bill 1297 (Senator Ben Allen) into law. The City is deeply grateful to Senator Ben Allen and Assemblymember Jacqui Irwin for their leadership in getting this bill passed, to Governor Newsom for signing the bill, and to County Supervisor Lindsey Horvath for her strong advocacy throughout the process. This landmark legislation will provide an important deterrent to slow down drivers and help make PCH safer for residents, commuters, visitors, cyclists, and pedestrians. SB 1297 is a key part of Malibu's "all of the above" approach to help reduce the growing number of tragedies on PCH, which includes legislation, infrastructure and technology, increased traffic enforcement, and public outreach and education. The law authorizes the installation of speed feedback signs and speed safety systems along Malibu's 21-miles of PCH, one of California's most hazardous corridors. In the coming months, the City will begin the next steps, including developing a Speed System Use Policy and Impact Report, designing camera installations, a public education campaign, and installation of the cameras. There will also be an initial period when only warnings are issued.

(NEW) SENATE BILL 1509 FOR STRICTER PENALTIES FOR EXCESSIVE SPEEDING VETOED

Mayor Doug Stewart issued the following statement in response to the Veto of SB 1509:

"I am disappointed by the veto of Senate Bill 1509, the "NOT in California Act." This bill was designed to address a critical issue impacting the safety of Malibu's residents and visitors: excessive speeding on the Pacific Coast Highway (PCH), a road that has seen far too many tragedies over the years." "While I understand Governor Newsom's concerns about the administrative and fiscal impacts of the bill, the fact remains that speeding is the leading cause of fatal accidents on our roads. Over the past decade, Malibu has lost 61 lives on PCH due to speeding, and just last year, we suffered the devastating loss of four Pepperdine students in a tragic incident where speeding was the primary factor." "Malibu is fully committed to road safety and has embraced an "all of the above" approach to protecting lives on the Pacific Coast Highway (PCH). This includes long-term infrastructure improvements, public education campaigns, and enhanced law enforcement. In January 2024, we brought the California Highway Patrol (CHP) back to Malibu with a dedicated task force, significantly increasing enforcement in conjunction with the Los Angeles County Sheriff's Department (LASD). These efforts have already contributed to a 36% reduction in injury collisions. However, enforcement alone is not enough-stronger penalties for repeat offenders are critical to further deter dangerous driving behavior and make our roads safer for everyone." "I urge the Legislature to work quickly to find an alternative that addresses the Governor's concerns while still delivering on the core intent of SB 1509-to protect people from the dangers of excessive speeding. The people of Malibu, and the countless Californians who travel along our roads every day, deserve action to ensure their safety." See the Governor's veto letter.

(NEW) COURT RULES IN FAVOR OF CITY OF MALIBU IN LONG-RUNNING LAWSUIT BY MALIBU TOWNSHIP COUNCIL

The California Court of Appeal upheld a ruling in favor of the City of Malibu in a lawsuit initiated by the Malibu Township Council (MTC) in 2013. MTC's legal battle against the City has spanned 12 years, with courts consistently siding with Malibu. This latest ruling reinforces the City's decisions regarding a proposed swap of the Charmlee Nature Preserve for a portion of Malibu Bluffs Park. MTC claimed that the City violated the Public Records Act and the Brown Act, which govern public meeting and records transparency and access. The case involved extensive document discovery, with the Trial Court ruling in favor of Malibu on all six claims brought by MTC. Although MTC appealed certain aspects, the Appellate Court confirmed the City's compliance with legal procedures regarding the park swap. However, it remanded one unrelated issue regarding a closed-session proposal related to the City's attorney fee negotiations with the California Coastal Commission and Santa Monica Mountains Conservancy. Despite the City's decision to halt the park swap, MTC continued to pursue litigation, leading to significant legal costs for Malibu. The Court's decision reiterated that the City acted lawfully throughout the process, concluding MTC's prolonged challenge against the City's actions.

(NEW) COMMUNITY LANDS SPECIAL WORK SESSION, OCTOBER 24

The City of Malibu has successfully completed Phase 2 of the outreach and engagement process for the Malibu Community Lands Project. As the project progresses, the City is finalizing the project outcomes report with its consultant team. To keep the community informed, the City invites residents to attend a Special Work Session of the City Council on Thursday, October 24, at 1:00 PM in the City Council Chambers. During this meeting, community members will have the opportunity to address the City Council regarding the project outcomes. Please note that the City Council will not take action on the report until its regular meeting on October 28, allowing time for community input to be considered before any decisions are made. For more information, visit the project website.

CHANGES COMING TO CITY COUNCIL MEETING FORMAT AND START TIMES

The Malibu City Council has adopted Ordinance 521, officially changing the time and organization of City Council meetings. Starting October 14, Regular Council meetings (still on the second and fourth Mondays of each month) will begin at 5:30 PM. The meeting agenda has been restructured to move the Consent Calendar, presentations, and reports from the City Manager, Commissions, and Committees prior to 6:30 PM. Public Comment and Councilmember comments will continue to be heard at 6:30 PM. These changes are meant to improve meeting efficiency, ensuring that administrative and presentation items are addressed promptly, allowing more time for public engagement and deliberation on actionable City business items.

Additional details include:

  • Earlier Start Time: Meetings will now begin at 5:30 PM, 60 minutes earlier than before. This adjustment is intended to allow the Council to deliberate on actionable City business at a more reasonable hour while also ensuring that administrative or ministerial items are addressed earlier in the evening.
  • Consent Calendar: The Consent Calendar will be addressed before 6:30 PM. This change will help both the Council and City Staff complete these administrative items promptly, avoiding delays caused by other actions. The public still can comment on the entire Consent Calendar, and Councilmembers will retain the ability to pull items for further discussion. However, the public will no longer have the ability to pull items off the Calendar for discussion, but may request that the Council do so.
  • Presentations: Presentation items will be heard immediately after the Consent Calendar and prior to 6:30 PM. This adjustment is designed to accommodate participants who need to present, ensuring their items are addressed early in the meeting.
  • Written and Oral Communications: The order of communications during meetings will be reorganized as follows:
    • Commission/Committee/City Manager Updates (before 6:30 PM)
    • Public Comment concerning matters not on the agenda (at 6:30 PM)
    • City Council Subcommittee Reports/Mayor and Councilmember Reports (resuming after Public Comment)

Council meetings will continue to be held in-person at City Hall and virtually over Zoom, with public commenting available in both formats. Videos of all Council meetings are available to view on-demand on the YouTube channel (click "Live Videos"). All City Council agendas and staff reports, along with viewing and commenting instructions, are posted in advance on the website. We appreciate your understanding and cooperation as we implement these adjustments to better serve our community.

PCH SAFETY EFFORTS UPDATE

The City of Malibu is committed to doing everything possible to improve safety on our 21 miles of Pacific Coast Highway (PCH), which has long been a top priority for the community. See the past and current measures to improve PCH safety on the dedicated webpage. For decades, PCH safety has been a top priority for Malibu. The City Council declared a local state of emergency to address the increasingly dangerous conditions on the highway, culminating in the tragic deaths of four Pepperdine University students struck by a speeding driver while walking along PCH in October 2023. Since 2010, 61 people have lost their lives on PCH.

(NEW) City of Malibu Moves Forward with Speed Camera Implementation Following Signing of SB 1297

Following Governor Gavin Newsom's signing of SB 1297 into law, the City of Malibu is taking swift action to implement speed cameras along Pacific Coast Highway (PCH) in order to reduce speeding and enhance road safety. This critical step is part of the City's comprehensive efforts to protect residents, visitors, and all who travel through Malibu.

The City has launched a Request for Proposals (RFP) to develop a Speed Safety System Use Policy and a Speed Safety System Impact Report, which are essential first steps in implementing the speed camera system. These measures will ensure the program is rolled out responsibly and in accordance with the state statute outlined in the bill. Proposals must be electronically submitted to Susan Duenas, Public Safety Director, at [email protected] no later than 4:00 p.m. on Friday, November 1, 2024. A copy of the full proposal is available on The City's bid webpage..

"We are committed to moving forward with the speed camera program as quickly as possible, while adhering to all state guidelines," said Malibu Mayor Doug Stewart. "This is an important tool in our ongoing efforts to improve safety on PCH, and we will continue to keep the community informed as we progress."

The City's Public Works Department has already identified the locations where speed cameras will be placed based on the highest rates of speed-related collisions and fatalities.

The speed cameras will be installed in the following high-risk areas along PCH:

  • Decker Canyon
  • Between Guernsey Avenue & Morning View
  • Latigo Canyon
  • Between Carbon Beach Terrace & Carbon Canyon
  • Tuna Canyon

The law goes into effect in January 2025, and the City is focused on moving swiftly while ensuring that all necessary regulatory processes are followed. Malibu remains dedicated to an "all of the above" approach to road safety, combining enforcement, education, and infrastructure improvements. The speed cameras will complement these ongoing efforts to reduce dangerous speeding and protect lives.

PUBLIC SAFETY

(NEW) HOMELESS OUTREACH UPDATE

The City's Homeless Outreach Team, consisting of three outreach workers from The People Concern reported that in August 2024, it engaged with 90 people experiencing homelessness in Malibu. Six of them were placed in permanent or interim housing where they will be connected to a broad network of services. One of the people placed in housing was a person grappling with severe physical and mental health challenges that greatly impacted their mobility. After a coordinated medical intervention and establishment of a support system of local and County resources, the Outreach Team was able to successfully transition them into an interim housing facility where they are now on the path to permanent housing. Current and past monthly Homeless Outreach reports are available on the webpage.

FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS (FAQ) ON HOMELESSNESS IN MALIBU

The City has compiled a Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ) on homelessness in Malibu, covering the City's actions and abilities to address homelessness, implications of recent court decisions, jurisdictions, encampments, fire season considerations, and more. See the complete FAQ.

  • For more information about the City's efforts to address homelessness in the community, visit the webpage.
  • For questions or concerns, contact Luis Flores, Public Safety Coordinator at [email protected] or call 310-456-2489, ext. 236.
  • To request homeless outreach services, contact the Malibu Homeless Outreach Team (The People Concern) at [email protected] or call 310-460-2638.
  • To report a person experiencing homelessness who appears to be a danger to themselves or others, contact the Malibu / Lost Hills Sheriff's Station at 818-878-1808.

FIRE SAFETY

(NEW) FIRE CHIEF DREW SMITH TO GIVE FIRE SEASON OUTLOOK AT OCTOBER 14 COUNCIL MEETING

As part of the City's fire season preparedness efforts, the City will host a fire season outlook led by Los Angeles County Fire Department (LACoFD) Chief Drew Smith with the Public Safety Department at the City Council meeting Monday, October 14, 5:30 PM at City Hall and via Zoom. (Note the new start time for City Council meetings.) The presentation will provide information about the outlook for this fire season, current and forecasted conditions, and what has been done to prepare. City Hall is located at 23825 Stuart Ranch). For remote viewing and commenting instructions, visit the Virtual Meetings webpage.

(NEW) CITY COUNCIL TO DECLARE LOCAL EMERGENCY DUE TO HAZARDOUS FIRE CONDITIONS TO FACILITATE ENCAMPMENT REMOVAL

The City Council will be asked to adopt a Resolution declaring the existence of a local emergency and initiating a program for reducing the risk of fires associated with individuals engaged in unpermitted camping at the October 14 Council meeting. On June 24, 2024, the Council adopted a Resolution that established criteria for declaring the existence of a local emergency and initiating a program for reducing the risk of fires associated with individuals engaged in unpermitted camping in Very High Fire Hazard Severity Zones (VHFHSZ) and establishing criteria for when to terminate the local emergency. The criteria for declaring the existence of a local emergency was set at a Live Fuel Moisture (LFM) of 65% or less as determined by the Los Angeles County Fire Department (LACoFD) Forestry Division for Santa Monica Mountains Chamise. On September 27, 2024, the Los Angeles County Fire Department Forestry Division posted an LFM of 65% for Santa Monica Mountains Chamise.

The LFM is the percentage of water content to dry matter in live vegetation. LFM can be as high as 300% and is considered critical at 60%. It should be noted that large fire growth may still occur with LFM levels as high as 80% if we have substantial wind and lower humidities. The LACoFD Forestry Division conducts sampling throughout the county approximately every two weeks and posts the results on its website.

(NEW) FIRE SEASON - THE FIRE SAFETY LIAISONS ARE MONITORING FIRE WEATHER CONDITIONS 

CURRENT WILDFIRE CONDITIONS - LIVE FUEL MOISTURE AT 65% (60% IS CRITICAL)

Currently in Malibu, our Live Fuel Moisture (LFM) levels are at 65% as of September 27, down from 72% on August 23. That is in line with the historical average for this time of year. The strong vegetation growth from last winter's heavy winter rains is drying out quickly, and is near the critical 60% level, which will greatly increase the fire hazard, especially when the seasonal hot, dry Santa Ana winds begin. LFM is the water content percentage of living vegetation, and an important indicator of how fast and large a brush fire can spread. LFM is measured every two weeks by the LA County Fire Department and posted on the website. Throughout fire season, residents should regularly monitor wildfire weather conditions on local news and at the NWS Los Angeles / Oxnard website. (See preparedness tips below).

WHAT DOES "RED FLAG MEAN"? get familiar with terms used FOR wildfire conditions

During fire season, starting now, residents should closely monitor the weather and fire conditions on local news and the NWS LA/Oxnard website. and be familiar with these terms that the Fire Department and other agencies use.

Red Flag Event - Red Flag Events are defined by critical weather and fire danger conditions that could lead to extensive wildfire occurrences and/or control problems on existing wildfires or prescribed burns. These conditions occur when relative humidity is 15% or lower, together sustained winds or frequent gusts of 25 MPH or more, for at least three hours in a 12-hour period. Red Flag events normally require the combination of critical fuel conditions (very low Live Fuel Moisture) and critical weather conditions (high wind and low humidity). Several combinations of fuels and weather conditions may combine to produce a Red Flag Event. These conditions, driven by the Santa Ana winds, create the highest risk for wildfires to grow fast, large, and powerful, and to spread quickly, threatening lives and property. 

Fire Weather Watch - A fire weather watch is issued to advise partner agencies of the possible development of Red Flag conditions in the near future, generally the next 24 to 72 hours. Under certain conditions, a watch can be issued for the first 12 hours.

Red Flag Warning - A Red Flag Warning is issued to advise agencies of occurring or imminent Red Flag conditions, generally within the next 12 to 24 hours.

MAKE A RED FLAG PLAN, FOLLOWING LA COUNTY'S "READY, SET, GO" FORMULA!

It is crucial that every family create a Red Flag Plan so that when a Red Flag Warning is issued, you're ready to act to keep yourself and your family safe. The good news is, we don't need to be caught off-guard. We know that these fire conditions are coming around the same time every year, and we have time to prepare. There is also a shared responsibility among the City, the community, and first responders to achieving community-wide preparedness and resilience. 

Ready: Prepare your home and family. Clear brush around your property, harden your home against fire, and stock up on emergency supplies. Sign up for emergency alerts from the City and County. Sign up for alerts and see all current City alertson the Alerts webpage. Sign up for LA County emergency alerts.

Set: Be alert and ready to evacuate when Red Flag conditions are forecast. Monitor weather and emergency information on local news. Check your emergency supplies and review your emergency plans. Check on disabled or elderly neighbors. Make sure your vehicles are fueled, your garage doors are set to manual, and your bags are packed. Plan for your pets.

Go: When authorities say it's time to evacuate, go immediately. Close all windows, doors, and gates before you leave.

For more detailed information, see the LA County Ready Set Go guide.  For more assistance with preparing your Red Flag Plan, contact the Fire Safety Liaisons at [email protected].

GENERAL WILDFIRE PREPAREDNESS

GET PREPARED NOW - Now is the time to get prepared! It is crucial to complete your mandatory brush clearance. Check your family or business emergency plans and supplies, and check for expiration dates of food, medication, water and batteries. Remember your pets! Seniors, people with disabilities or mobility challenges, and owners of horses and other large animals should make special plans to be able to evacuate early and safely.

HOME/PROPERTY HARDENING - Focus on clearing defensible space around your home, moving any flammable material and dead vegetation away from the house. Schedule your free Home Wildfire Assessment with our Fire Safety Liaisons. They will come to your home and point out easy steps to protect your home from the millions of flying, burning embers that can fly out more than a mile ahead of a wind-driven fire, a leading cause of homes burning down during wildfires.

PREPAREDNESS PLAN & EMERGENCY SUPPLIES - Learn how to create a family or business emergency plan and gather supplies in the City's Emergency Survival Guide. Include evacuation routes and reunification locations and an out-of-state emergency contact, sign up for emergency alerts from the City and Los Angeles County, and be sure to check in on elderly or disabled neighbors to ensure that they are informed and prepared.

GET HELP FROM THE CITY'S FIRE SAFETY LIAISONS - For assistance or information about brush clearance, or to schedule a Home Wildfire Assessment, or for guidance on wildfire preparedness for your family or business, please contact our Fire Safety Liaisons at [email protected] or call 310-456-2489.

SAFETY LIAISONS ARE AVAILABLE TO HELP NEIGHBORHOODS ATTAINING FIREWISE USA RECOGNITION

The City's Fire Safety Liaisons are available to help neighborhoods attain Firewise USA recognition, which improves fire safety and can help with fire insurance. Firewise USA is a free, voluntary program to provides a simple framework to help neighbors work together to improve wildfire safety and resilience in their neighborhoods. Any neighborhood, HOA, POA, condominium complex, or mobile home park with more than eight but fewer than 2,500 units is eligible to apply. The City now has five recognized Firewise USA communities, including Big Rock Mesas, Malibu Canyon Villas, Malibu Country Estates, Malibu West, and Portico At Malibu, and three more are in the process. In addition to several items in the City's Home Wildfire Assessment program, becoming a recognized Firewise USA community is one of the factors that insurance companies must consider for discounts under new Department of Insurance Safer from Wildfires regulations. See details. As CAL FIRE designated Regional Coordinators, the Fire Safety Liaisons can help neighborhoods through the entire process. For more information, visit Firewise website. For further questions or schedule a meeting for your neighborhood, email Fire Safety Liaison Bradley Yocum at [email protected].

COMPLETING YOUR MANDATORY BRUSH CLEARANCE IS STILL CRITICAL

The June 1 deadline for mandatory brush clearance has passed, but it is still crucial for Malibu homeowners to get started on their mandatory brush clearance. Proper brush clearance is one of the most important ways to make your home and the community more resistant to wildfires. If you have not yet completed your brush clearance and need help or information, please contact our Fire Safety Liaisons at [email protected] or call 310-456-2489, we are here to help you. Brush clearance helps create the "defensible space" that firefighters need to safely and effectively protect life, property, and the environment. Be sure to complete your brush clearance before the June 1 deadline to avoid fines. For more information including a list of vendors, maps, a video and more, visit the LA County Fire Department website.

SIGN UP NOW FOR A HOME WILDFIRE ASSESSMENT AND ASSISTANCE WITH BRUSH CLEARANCE

In addition to completing mandatory brush clearance, one of the best ways to protect your home and community is to get a free Home Wildfire Assessment. The assessment involves a 30-to-60-minute exterior inspection of your property by the City's Fire Safety Liaisons looking at what can be done to make the home and property less vulnerable to the millions of flying embers from a wind-driven wildfire, a leading cause of homes burning down in wildfires. You'll get a checklist of steps to take to harden your property, such as removing dead vegetation or wood furniture that is touching the house and covering attic vents with fine steel mesh. For more information and to schedule a free Home Wildfire Assessment, visit the Fire Safety webpage or call 310-456-2489, ext. 238, or email [email protected].

APPLICATIONS AGAIN BEING ACCEPTED FOR FREE HAZARD TREE REMOVAL PROGRAM

PROGRAM APPLIES TO DEAD TREES ONLY. OPEN TO MALIBU CITY RESIDENTS ONLY. The City is once again accepting applications for the free Hazard Tree Removal Program. The City secured an additional $326,000 in grant funding to extend the popular program. This is the third round since the program started in 2021. The program is one of the concrete steps that the City is taking to improve wildfire safety across the community in Malibu. It empowers residents to make their homes and properties less vulnerable to wildfire, which in turn protects entire neighborhoods by reducing the fuel that fires need to spread. The City's Fire Safety Liaisons and a licensed arborist will come to your home and determine if the trees meet the program's criteria for removal. For more information and to sign up, visit the webpage.

PLANNING

(NEW) WOOLSEY FIRE NON-CONFORMING STRUCTURES DEADLINE, NOVEMBER 8, 2024

The deadline to submit a Planning Verification application to rebuild non-conforming structures destroyed or damaged in the Woolsey Fire without having to bring the structure into compliance with current ordinances is November 8, 2024. Woolsey Fire victims who will not meet this deadline are encouraged to request an extension using the online form. In 2024, the City Council extended the deadline to submit a Planning Verification to November 8, 2024, and to obtain building permits for an approved Planning Verification to November 8, 2026. For more information, visit the Fee Waiver & Deadline webpage.

(NEW) CITY OF MALIBU'S HOUSING ELEMENT MOVES CLOSER TO FINAL APPROVAL

The City Council took a significant step toward securing a certified Housing Element by approving a resolution adopting a revised draft and related code amendments at its September 23 meeting. The action moved the City closer to approving a housing development plan to meet all economic segments of the community, as required under State housing laws. The approved draft will next be reviewed by the State Department of Housing and Community Development (HCD) for conformance with State housing law after the City's previously adopted October 2021 Housing Element was rejected by the State. The City held a public review period from September 27 through October 3. Next steps include submitting the adopted draft Housing Element to HCD for review; a second reading and adoption of the Ordinance and Code amendments by the City Council on October 14; submitting the approved document to HCD and the Coastal Commission by October 18, after which a certification letter may be issued. Formal "certification" of the Housing Element is important to enhance the City's eligibility for grant funds and provides legal validity and protections to the City's General Plan and land use regulations. For more details, see the staff report. Watch video of the hearing.

(NEW) MALIBU REBUILDS - STATISTICS

Rebuilding from the Woolsey Fire remains a top priority for the City. Here are the current Woolsey Fire rebuild statistics. See continuously updated statistics on the Rebuild Portal. Out of 465 destroyed homes: 

  • Single-family home rebuild applications submitted: 372
    (of which 362 have been approved by the Planning Department)
  • Single-family home rebuild applications under planning review: 10
  • Single-family homes complete: 174
  • Multifamily building units complete: 18
  • Multifamily building permits issued: 18
  • Projects under construction: 121
  • Inspections approved: 10,668
  • Inspections total: 19,118
  • Single-family home rebuild building permits issued: 295

DEVELOPMENT PORTAL - ADU PLANNING SUBMITTALS

In an effort to streamline the submittal of an Accessory Dwelling Unit planning application, the Planning Department launched the ADU submittal option to the Development Portal. These application requests will be flagged for processing. In April 2024, the City launched the Development Portal for applicants or owners to submit projects, get status updates, keep track of progress on their projects, and manage documents and fees. Property owners have access to individual projects, real-time updates, Departments' revisions, required documents, and fee information. Since launching the portal, 650 building professionals and residents have registered and over 6,000 documents have been uploaded. Click here to access the Portal.

ENVIRONMENTAL SUSTAINABILITY AND BUILDING SAFETY

(NEW) BULKY ITEM PICK-UP, OCTOBER 19

The City is partnering with Waste Management to host a free bulky item pickup on Saturday, October 19. Household bulky items are oversized materials that will not fit into a solid waste bin such as a mattress or a sofa. Residents are encouraged to donate gently-used items to charitable organizations or thrift shops. Place bulky items curbside before 6:00 AM on October 19. The bulky items may be picked up by a different truck and driver than the normal waste hauling service. Please visit the City's website to schedule an appointment and to view acceptable items.

(NEW) CALIFORNIA COASTAL CLEANUP DAY, SEPTEMBER 21

On September 21, the City of Malibu Environmental Programs staff collaborated with the California Wildlife Center and Heal the Bay to host the 2024 Coastal Cleanup Day at Nicholas Canyon Beach. A total of 33 volunteers participated in the cleanup effort, including Mayor Pro Tem Marianne Riggins. Volunteers removed nearly 200 lbs. of trash and recyclables from the beach! Some notable items removed were a buoy, a Thule bike rack, and a mini fridge containing dog waste bags. Additionally, dozens of pounds of microplastics were recovered which avoided further plastic pollution in our ocean and beaches. Volunteers were highly engaged, and the event provided an excellent opportunity for the Malibu community to engage with City staff and the Wildlife Center, learn about the City's environmental programs and the Wildlife Center's work, learn about the importance of protecting our coastal environment.

(NEW) ORGANICS RECYCLING VIRTUAL TRAINING AND KITCHEN CADDY GIVEAWAY

The City is offering an organic waste recycling virtual training on Wednesday, October 16, 7:00 PM, funded by CalRecycle. The Organic Waste Recycling Program is an important way that Malibu can fulfill its commitment as a community to be part of the efforts to address climate change and protect the environment. Attendees will receive a free dishwasher safe, 1.9-gallon kitchen scraps caddy to help you conveniently separate food waste to be recycled (limit one per household). The Zoom meeting link for this and future trainings is posted on the webpage.

(NEW) RESIDENTIAL SOLAR PERMITTING PLATFORM

The City is partnering with Symbium to launch a residential solar project permitting portal. State law (SB 379) requires most California cities and counties to implement an online, automated permitting platform that verifies code compliance instantly for a residential solar energy system, or solar paired with storage. Licensed contractors seeking to pull permits under SB 379 will be able to apply for instantaneous plan review approval via the portal. Projects must meet specific criteria to qualify for an instant solar permit. For more information, including checklists, visit the portal.

 OWTS PRACTITIONER MEETINGS

The City invites registered onsite wastewater treatment system (OWTS) practitioners that provide services in OWTS design, installation, inspection, and operation and maintenance to one-on-one meetings with the City's Environmental Health Administrator to discuss new requirements for home occupation uses that place additional strain on the OWTS, discuss the status of OWTS serving multi-family, commercial, and home-occupation use properties, provide feedback on the City's current practices, and help shape the agenda for an upcoming OWTS Practitioner-wide meeting. City-registered OWTS practitioners can schedule a meeting via Calendly. Additional information about the City's Environmental Health and Wastewater Management programs can be found on our website or by visiting Environmental Health's counter hours (Monday to Thursday, 8:00 AM - 12:00 PM).

EXTERIOR ELEVATED ELEMENTS (E3) INSPECTOR LIST

State Senate Bill 721 and SB 326 require inspections of E3s such as balconies, decks, and stairs by January 1, 2025. This program applies to multifamily buildings with three or more dwelling units. In order to assist property owners and home owner associations, the City has compiled a list of E3 Design Professionals who can complete the inspection and report. It is recommended to check to licenses and complaint records on the website prior to hiring any company. For more information, visit the City's E3 webpage, call 310-456-2489, ext. 390, or email [email protected].

TAKE THE COASTAL VULNERABILITY ASSESSMENT SURVEY

The City invites community members to share their thoughts on the Coastal Vulnerability Assessment and projected impacts of sea level rise in Malibu. Community input is crucial as the City plans for the future. Click here to take the two-minute survey. The draft report and virtual workshop recording with technical results of projected sea-level rise impacts are available on the Coastal webpage. For more information, call 310-456-2489, ext. 390, or email [email protected].

COMMUNITY SERVICES

(NEW) PARK TALES, OCTOBER 10

The Community Services Department and the Malibu Library will host Park Tales Storytime on Thursday, October 10, 10:00 AM at Malibu Bluffs Park. The program theme, "Creatures, Critters, and Crawlers" includes an art activity and a free snack. Pre-registration is recommended but not required.  For more information, visit the Special Events webpage.

(NEW) WOMEN'S SELF-DEFENSE WORKSHOP, OCTOBER 11

Learn essential techniques and strategies to boost confidence, raise self-awareness, and gain practical skills to be safe in everyday situations. Join this complimentary women's workshop on Friday, October 11, 4:30 PM at the Michael Landon Center at Malibu Bluffs Park. For more information, visit the webpage.

(NEW) DISCOVER SCUBA, OCTOBER 12

Take the PADI® experience to learn about diving and the SCUBA certification course. Highly trained PADI® Professionals from Malibu Divers will cover the basics of SCUBA on Saturday, October 12, 1:30 PM at the Malibu Community Pool at Malibu High School. SCUBA gear will be provided. Advanced registration is required. For more information and to register, visit the webpage.

(NEW) OCTOBER POETRY PROGRAMS, OCTOBER 13 & 19

Aspiring poets of all ages are invited to join the free poetry readings and workshops in October. An RSVP is not required. The Ripple Effect, a poetry writing workshop led by Poet Laureate Nathan Hassall, is offered on Saturday, October 12, 2:00 PM at the Michael Landon Center at Malibu Bluffs Park. Caffeinated Verse featuring Robert Hass takes place Saturday, October 19, 11:00 AM at the Malibu Library. For more information, visit the Poetry webpage.

(NEW) LEGACY PARK NATURE JOURNALING, OCTOBER 13

Record observations, questions, and feelings through nature journaling that will have you seeing the world in a whole new way at the City's journaling activity, Sunday, October 13, 9:30 AM - 10:30 AM at Legacy Park. No art skills are required. Coordinated in partnership with the Santa Monica Mountains Nature Journaling Club. Free with required RSVP. For more information and to reserve a space, visit the Outdoor Recreation webpage.

(NEW) YOUTH BASKETBALL REGISTRATION ENDS OCTOBER 14

Registration for the Winter Youth Basketball League is open through Monday, October 14. The coed recreational league is available for players in Kindergarten through eighth grade. Beginning in late November, volunteer coaches will lead weekly practices at Malibu schools. Games will take place on Saturdays starting December 7 at Malibu High School. For more information, visit the Basketball webpage.

(NEW) MALIBU LIBRARY SPEAKER SERIES, OCTOBER 22

Craig Grossi, Marine Corps veteran will share a captivating story of how he rescued a stray dog, Fred, from the battlefield and their journey together. It is a story of love, loyalty, and the power of positivity. The free event takes place on Tuesday, October 22, 7:00 PM at Malibu Library. An RSVP is required. For more information or to RSVP, visit the Library Speaker Series webpage.

MALIBU CITY GALLERY DEREK SCHIMMING EXHIBITION, SEPTEMBER 16 - OCTOBER 25 

The Malibu Arts Commission invites all of Malibu to enjoy "Derek Schimming: An Artist Retrospective," the City's public art exhibition in the Malibu City Gallery that honors Schimming, a beloved Malibu artist and supporter of the arts community. Also on display are over 10 pieces of artwork from Shimming's fellow artists from the Malibu Arts Association. The exhibition will be on display through October 25 and is open Monday - Friday, 8:00 AM to 4:00 PM. Free, no tickets or RSVPs needed. For more information, visit the Arts Commission website. 

TRANCAS CANYON PARK MULTIPURPOSE FIELD CLOSED FOR IMPROVEMENTS, SEPTEMBER 16 - NOVEMBER 1 

Trancas Canyon Park multipurpose field will be closed for annual rest and turf renovation from September 16 through November 1. The rest and renovation are important in keeping the field safe and playable throughout the year. Other facilities at Trancas Canyon Park will remain open. For details on other parks and playgrounds, visit the Facilities webpage.  

PUBLIC WORKS

(NEW) PCH SIGNAL SYNCHRONIZATION PROJECT

The contractor is currently conducting boring operations between Malibu Canyon and John Tyler, which were expected to finished by Friday, October 4. Throughout the project area, installation of fiber optics is ongoing. Crews are actively installing new vaults, utility boxes, controller cabinets, and additional equipment. The contractor is also preparing for the installation of new traffic signal poles and enhancements at several ADA access ramps. The project is the City's largest project to date to address PCH safety and traffic congestion. It will make PCH a safer "Smart Corridor" by installing communication lines between the existing traffic signals on PCH from Topanga Canyon Boulevard to John Tyler Drive to synchronize the signals to existing traffic conditions. It will allow signals to be controlled remotely by the Caltrans Traffic Management Center to lower traffic speeds and reduce congestion. For more information, visit the project webpage.

(NEW) MICHAEL LANDON COMMUNITY CENTER ROOF REPLACEMENT PROJECT

This project entails the removal of the roof at the Michael Landon Center and installation of a new roof. This project was awarded at the September 23 Council meeting. The City expects to start construction in November or December.

(new) ADDITIONAL PUBLIC WORKSHOP ON CALTRANS' PCH MASTER PLAN FEASIBILITY STUDY, OCTOBER 23

Caltrans will host its sixth public workshop for the Pacific Coast Highway (PCH) Master Plan Feasibility Study Wednesday, October 23, 6:00 PM to 8:00 PM in-person at City Hall (23825 Stuart Ranch Road). The first three public workshops in Round One gathered input from residents, businesses, and other stakeholders to identify safety priorities for the highway. Based on that input, the fourth, and fifth workshops in Round Two focused on presenting and soliciting feedback on design alternatives and other recommendations to improve safety on PCH. Drawing on this latest feedback, the upcoming sixth workshop in Round Three will present updated design alternatives and safety recommendations for PCH for public comment. For more information, visit the project website or email [email protected].

OUTREACH & FEEDBACK

E-NOTIFICATIONS

The City maintains a robust e-notification systemso the community can stay informed about all the City's activities. Sign up to receive messages by text or email on the City's e-notifications page.

FURTHER QUESTIONS

For questions or comments, contact the City Manager at [email protected].

See Past City Manager Updates