City of Malibu, CA

10/21/2024 | Press release | Distributed by Public on 10/21/2024 18:22

City Manager Updates October 21, 2024 UPCOMING

MONDAY, OCTOBER 21, 2024

UPCOMING

KEY ANNOUNCEMENTS

(NEW) CITY TAKES ACTION TO IMPLEMENT SPEED CAMERA SYSTEMS ON PCH

The City is taking a significant step toward improving road safety on Pacific Coast Highway (PCH) by starting the process of implementing an automated speed camera system immediately after the Governor's signing of Senate Bill1297 (Senator Ben Allen), allowing speed cameras on PCH in Malibu. The City issued a Request for Proposals (RFP) to develop a Speed Safety System Use Policy and an Impact Report. The speed cameras will be strategically installed in the following high-risk areas on PCH: Decker Canyon, between Guernsey Avenue and Morning View Drive, Latigo Canyon, between Carbon Beach Terrace and Carbon Canyon Road, and Tuna Canyon Road. The deadline to submit bids is Friday, November 1. This initiative is a vital tool in our ongoing efforts to reduce speeding and enhance safety for all who travel through Malibu on PCH. For more details, see the press release.

(NEW) COMMUNITY LANDS PROJECT REPORT TO BE PRESENTED IN OCTOBER

The City thanks all community members for giving their input on the future uses of the City's Community Lands over the past few months. From late-April through September, community input was gathered on the City's 61 acres of community land: Chili Cook Off, Triangle, Heathercliff, Trancas and La Paz. The City of Malibu has successfully completed Phase 2 of the outreach and engagement process. The City Council, Parks & Recreation Commission and Arts Commission will review the feedback received and determine the next steps in the process at several community meetings in October. 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. Meetings details will be posted in advance on the website.

  • Tuesday, October 22, 5:00 PM - Joint Parks & Recreation Commission and Arts Commission Meeting
  • Thursday, October 24, 1:00 PM - Special Council Meeting
  • Monday, October 28, 5:30 PM - City Council Meeting

CHANGES 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 or Consent Calendar (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.

NOVEMBER 5, 2024 GENERAL MUNICIPAL ELECTION

(NEW) VOTE CENTER LOCATIONS IN MALIBU FOR NOVEMBER 5, 2024 GENERAL MUNICIPAL ELECTION

Los Angeles County has posted the list of Vote Centers in Los Angeles County, including Malibu, on the RegistrarRecord/County Clerk website. The website defaults to only show 11-day Vote Centers. In order to see the complete list, select "four-day Vote Centers" as well. City election information will be posted and updated on the Elections webpage as it becomes available. Voters in Los Angeles County may cast ballots at any Vote Center in the County.

11 DAY VOTE CENTERS OPEN IN MALIBU AREA OCTOBER 26 - Election Day, Tuesday, November 5
Malibu City Hall
23825 Stuart Ranch Rd, Malibu 90265
Hours: 10/26 - 11/04: 10AM - 7PM
11/05: 7AM - 8PM

Westlake Village City Hall
31200 Oak Crest Dr, Westlake Village
Hours: 10/26 - 11/04: 10AM - 7PM
11/05: 7AM - 8PM

Founders Hall
200 Civic Center Way, Calabasas
Hours: 10/26 - 11/04: 10AM - 7PM
11/05: 7AM - 8PM

4 DAY VOTE CENTERS IN MALIBU AREA NOVEMBER 2 - ELECTION DAY, NOVEMBER 5
Christian Science Church-Malibu
28635 Pacific Coast Hwy, Malibu
Hours: 11/02 - 11/04: 10AM - 7PM
11/05: 7AM - 8PM

Malibu High School
30215 Morning View Dr, Malibu 90265
Hours: 11/02 - 11/04: 10AM - 7PM
11/05: 7AM - 8PM

Topanga Library
122 N Topanga Canyon Blvd, Topanga
Hours: 11/02 - 11/04: 10AM - 7PM
11/05: 7AM - 8PM

PUBLIC SAFETY

(NEW) ILLEGAL ENCAMPMENT REMOVED AT LAS TUNAS BEACH

On October 15, City staff, LA County Beaches & Harbors, and the LA County Sheriff's Department cleared an encampment along Las Tunas Beach with Beaches & Harbors. All debris found within the area was removed. Outreach services were offered, and citations were issued in the lead-up to the encampment clearance. The City's Outreach Team and the Sheriff's Department continue to actively engage people experiencing homelessness throughout the City, citing and arresting when needed, and offering housing opportunities and resources to those receptive to services. For more information about the City's efforts to address homelessness in the community, visit 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) CHIEF DREW SMITH GIVES 2024 FIRE SEASON OUTLOOK, ANTICIPATING A HIGH-RISK WILDFIRE SEASON

As part of the City's fire season preparedness efforts, the City hosted the annual fire season outlook led by Los Angeles County Fire Department (LACoFD) Chief Drew Smith the City Council meeting October 14. Chief Smith highlighted that last winter's heavy rains have resulted in heavy new vegetation growth, which, as it has dried out over the summer into critical fuel moisture levels, has become highly flammable fuel for brush fires. Those fuels will continue to dry out until the first significant rainfall arrives, usually by November and December. He reported that the current La Niña weather pattern is expected to bring the seasonal rain later than usual and contribute to a higher-than-usual fire risk. The Fire Department bases its analysis on 100 years' worth of climatology data, current climatology data, weather forecasts, fuel sampling data and input from the National Weather Service. Our fire starts are usually human caused. Watch video of the presentation.

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

On October 14, the City Council declared a local emergency, initiating a program for reducing the risk of fires associated with people engaged in unpermitted camping, based on criteria established in June. The criteria was set at a Live Fuel Moisture (LFM) of 65% or less as determined by the LA County Fire Department (LACoFD) Forestry Division. 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% or below. 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 humidity. The LACoFD Forestry Division conducts sampling throughout the county approximately every two weeks and posts the results on its website.

(NEW) CITY OF MALIBU EMERGENCY OPERATIONS PLAN UPDATE

The City Council reviewed and approved the update to the City's Emergency Operations Plan (EOP). The EOP outlines how Malibu will respond to major emergencies like natural disasters, cyber attacks, and national security threats. It does not cover everyday emergencies or routine procedures but focuses on large-scale disasters that require extensive coordination with outside agencies. Cities in California must adhere to state and federal planning guidelines to qualify for disaster assistance. Emergency plans should be updated every five years, and Malibu's current plan was last updated in 2019. In April 2023, the City hired a consultant to assist in updating the plan. This update included meetings with community groups to ensure that the City incorporated local resources, such as Malibu Community Emergency Response Team (CERT), the Sheriff's Volunteers on Patrol (VOP), the Boys and Girls Club and the American Red Cross, into our response strategies. Meetings were held to define each group's roles and capabilities in emergencies. For more information, see the staff report.

(NEW) CITY WILDFIRE SEASON PREPAREDNESS MEASURES

At the October 14 Council meeting, the Public Safety Department gave a presentation on the measures that the City takes every year to mitigate and prevent fires, and to lessen the impact of potential wildfires on the community, lives, homes and infrastructure. In addition, the City works on helping the community be prepared, training staff to be ready, and planning and coordinating a potential wildfire response with the LA County Fire and Sheriff's Departments and other partner agencies. Some of the City's measures include:

  • Hazard Tree Removal Program - 670 hazardous trees removed
  • Home Wildfire Assessments - 38 in 2024, 515 total assessments
  • Firewise Communities - 4 new Firewise Communities for a total of 6
  • Santa Monica Mountains Regional Firesafe Council
  • Brush Clearance on City Properties
  • Wildfire Risk Emergency Declaration
  • Refreshed the Emergency Bins
  • Conducted EOC Training for Staff
  • Updated the Emergency Operations Plan
  • Gained Access to LA-RICS
  • Conducted Fire Extinguisher & CERT Training
  • Hosted a Public Safety and Preparedness Fair

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

We are now in fire season, and 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 alerts on 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.

Click here to print and download the Red Flag Plan flyer. 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.

(NEW) SAFETY LIAISONS ARE AVAILABLE TO HELP NEIGHBORHOODS ATTAIN FIREWISE USA RECOGNITION - FOUR MORE COMMUNITIES ACHIEVE FIREWISE STATUS

With the assistance of the City's Fire Safety Liaisons, four additional neighborhoods in Malibu have achieved Firewise status: Malibu West, Malibu Canyon Vista, Portico at Malibu, and Rambla Pacifico. They join Big Rock Mesa and Malibu Country Estates, which have already achieved Firewise status. Currently there are five communities in various stages of certification: Malibu Gardens, Paradise Cove, Zumirez, Toscanca, Vista Pacifica Broad Beach.

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.

In addition to getting a Home Wildfire Assessment, 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 and to schedule an appointment, visit the Firewise website, or 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 state-certified Housing Element after meeting the milestones laid out in the Housing Element Stipulated Judgment. The City's revised 6th Cycle Housing Element was submitted to the California Department of Housing and Community Development (HCD) on October 4, 2024. On October 17, the Local Coastal Program (LCP) amendments (Ordinance 523 and Resolution No. 24-49) were transmitted to the California Coastal Commission (CCC) for its certification review. On October 18, 2024, an executed copy of Ordinance 523 approving the Malibu Municipal Code (MMC) and Local Coastal Program (LCP) amendments was submitted to HCD along with proof that the LCP amendments were submitted to the CCC. In addition, these documents were transmitted to the HCD legal team and the State Attorney General. City staff anticipates receiving the certification letter from HCD, as it previously found that the draft Housing Element met the statutory requirements of State Housing Element Law. For more information, visit the Housing Element webpage.

(NEW) DEVELOPMENT PORTAL - ADU PLANNING SUBMITTALS

In an effort to streamline submissions of Accessory Dwelling Unit (ADU) planning applications, the Planning Department launched the ADU application 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 quickly and easily submit projects, get status updates, keep track of progress on their projects, and manage documents and fees. It also allows 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 more than 6,000 documents have been uploaded. Click here to access the Portal.

(NEW) LOS ANGELES COUNTY FIRE DEPARTMENT PLANNING REVIEW UPDATE

The Planning Department recently initiated a periodic update of Planning Review Process with the Los Angeles County Fire Department (LACoFD) Fire Prevention Unit. Staff from both agencies reviewed the types of Malibu applications and projects that require Fire Department plan review in the initial planning conformance review phase. Using the Planning Department's Guide to Los Angeles County Fire Department and Water District Routing, the LACoFD Fire Prevention and Forestry Fuel Modification Units review planning applications to ensure emergency apparatus access, water supply for fire protection, review of architectural drawings for means of egress requirements, as well as review landscape plans for structures located in the Fire Hazard Severity Zones. The joint effort resulted in numerous instances where the LACoFD waived the need to be involved in a formal review process, simplifying the City's planning process and timeline for applicants. For more information, review the Planning Department's Guide to Los Angeles County Fire Department and Water District Routing.

(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: 10,650
  • Inspections total: 19,081
  • 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) CALRECYCLE SITE VISIT / AUDIT

On October 9, staff accompanied two regional CalRecycle representatives on a site visit to Paradise Cove Café and Vintage Grocers. Both establishments were commended for their implementation of organics recycling, the elimination of plastics and polystyrene, and restaurant's staff use of the City's Zero Waste Training Guides. Staff also facilitated a tour of residential neighborhoods where the three-bin waste services (recycling, trash, and organics) have been fully implemented in compliance with state mandates. The representatives recognized Malibu's success in meeting all SB 1383 requirements and noted that the City is regarded as a model jurisdiction for SB 1383 compliance, serving as an example for neighboring cities. The City's leadership in sustainable waste management is a direct result of the dedication and collaboration between staff, residents, and local businesses. For more information on the City's solid waste management and recycling initiatives, visit the Recycling webpage.

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) MALIBU LIBRARY SPEAKER SERIES, OCTOBER 22

On Tuesday, October 22, 7:00 PM at Malibu Library, Author and Veteran, Craig Grossi will share the captivating story of how he rescued a dog he later named Fred from the battlefield. The book, "Craig & Fred," describes their incredible journey together. It is a story of love, loyalty, and the power of stubborn positivity. The event is free to attend, but an RSVP is required. Visit the Speaker Series website to RSVP or for additional information.

LEGACY PARK NATURE WALK AND STORYTIME, OCTOBER 23

Enjoy a guided nature walk through beautiful Legacy Park with park educators and naturalists on Wednesday, October 23, 10:00 AM to 11:00 AM. The event is suitable for children ages five and under. Learn about the abundant birds, animals, and plants and explore nature close-up with a magnifying glass. The walk will culminate with Storytime at the amphitheater led by a Malibu librarian. Children must be accompanied by an adult. Meet at the Malibu Library. The program is free, and reservations are required. For more information, visit the Outdoor Recreation webpage.

(NEW) HALLOWEEN BU BASH CARNIVAL, OCTOBER 25

Don't miss the spooky fun at the City's Halloween Bu Bash Carnival on Friday, October 25, 2:00 PM to sunset at Malibu Bluffs Park (PCH and Malibu Canyon). Designed for children ages 2-10, the event includes carnival games, bounce houses, spooky story time with the Malibu Library, and a costume parade. Limited walk-up registrations, $10 per person. Facepainting and tasty food from D'AmoresMa Pizza Truck and Creamy Boys Ice Cream will be available for a purchase. For more information, and to pre-register for the event, visit the Special Events webpage.

(NEW) NATIVE PLANT GIVEAWAY, NOVEMBER 3

The Community Services Department has partnered with the Los Angeles County Fire Department, Forestry Division to host a native plant giveaway and garden walk, Sunday, November 3, 9:30 AM to 10:30 AM at the Legacy Park Amphitheater. Transform your garden into a reflection of our local Santa Monica Mountains. Learn how to grow native plants successfully in your home garden. The program is free to attend, but reservations are required. For more information and to RSVP, visit the Outdoor Recreation webpage.

(NEW) HOLIDAY HOURS

Malibu City Hall, the Senior Center, and the Community Pool will be closed in observance of the Veterans Day holiday on Monday, November 11. All City parks will be open from 8:00 AM to Sunset. View the City's facility and park listing, and holiday hours on the City's website.

(NEW) NOVEMBER POETRY PROGRAMS, NOVEMBER 16 & 23

Aspiring poets of all ages are invited to join the free poetry readings and workshops in November. An RSVP is not required. Caffeinated Verse featuring Michael Mark takes place Saturday, November 16, 11:00 AM at the Malibu Library. The Ripple Effect, a poetry writing workshop led by Poet Laureate Nathan Hassall, is on Saturday, November 23, 2:00 PM at the Michael Landon Center at Malibu Bluffs Park. For more information, visit the Poetry webpage.

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

Crews continue to investigate, excavate, and place concrete for the installation of many new traffic signal poles. Crews also continue to install new fiber at various locations within the project limits. All boring operations have been completed. 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 involves the removing and replacing the roof at the Michael Landon Community Center at Malibu Bluffs Park. Construction is scheduled to begin December 2 and be completed before the end of the year. The project was awarded at the September 23 Council meeting.

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