City of Malibu Statement on Transition to Neighborhood Rebuild Zone Captains

The City of Malibu is grateful for Abe Roy's service as the first Rebuild Ambassador, a three-month volunteer position dedicated to supporting fire rebuilding efforts. Mr. Roy worked closely with City staff and the Council to help identify challenges and connect residents to resources.

"As a community, Malibu faces an unprecedented fire recovery that requires innovation and experimentation. Creating a temporary, volunteer Rebuild Ambassador position was an experiment, and while helpful, its term expired, and we have transitioned to our neighborhood-focused Rebuild Zone Captains," said Interim City Manager Candace Bond. "The City appreciates Mr. Roy's contributions and willingness to innovate with us. We remain committed to a rebuilding effort that is community-centered and focused on the goal of a successful recovery."

On May 21, 2025, the City Council established the Rebuild Ambassador position, a temporary, voluntary role with a three-month term that ended August 21. Mayor Marianne Riggins requested a commendation to recognize Mr. Roy's contributions as the City's Rebuild Ambassador during the September 29 City Council meeting.

Individual members of the City Council may suggest a commendation or certificate of recognition without the majority approval of the City Council, per the City's Protocol for City Council Proclamations, Awards and Commendations.

In recent weeks, the City has established Rebuild Zone Captains to collect neighborhood-specific insights and strengthen homeowner representation throughout the rebuilding process. These Captains serve as a vital bridge between fire-impacted property owners and the City, improving access to resources, accelerating problem-solving, and enabling direct feedback loops.

The City Council and staff have worked to make the rebuilding process as fast and smooth as possible, while protecting public safety and Malibu's unique community character. T he City has created the Community Development Department to streamline rebuild efforts by combining the Planning and Environmental Sustainability Departments. The City has also expedited permitting, adopted code amendments, opened the Malibu Rebuild Center, and benefited from the Governor's suspension of Coastal Act requirements . To mitigate costs, the City launched a Fee Waiver Program, eliminating City planning and building permit fees for like-for-like, owner-occupied homes.

The rebuilding process in Malibu is particularly complex due to geological conditions along the coast and hillsides. The Community Development Department processes each application on a careful, site specific basis, helping residents rebuild more resilient and sustainable structures than before.

As the City continues prioritizing community input and collaboration, the City will continue holding weekly meetings with the Rebuild Zone Captains and hosting community meetings. For more information about upcoming events, visit MalibuRebuilds.org/Events .