City of Santa Monica

The City Council meeting included a closed session where settlements were approved regarding litigation involving a bicycle injury claim and a dispute with the local firefighters union over a work schedule memorandum. During the public portion, a representative from the Los Angeles County Registrar-Recorder/County Clerk's office provided a presentation on the new voting systems for all people initiative, detailing the shift to a vote center model, the introduction of ballot marking devices, the new interactive sample ballot system, and plans for deploying election staff and volunteers.

The meeting provided an update on the housing policy work plan and compliance with Regional Housing Needs Allocation (RHNA) targets. Staff discussed the process and schedule for the upcoming six-cycle housing element update, the necessity of preparing an Environmental Impact Report (EIR), and the implications of new state laws regarding housing production. Key topics included prioritizing affordable housing development, activating density bonuses, incentivizing housing on the boulevards, and protecting existing housing stock. Staff also outlined the upcoming public engagement process and the status of grant applications for housing element preparation.

The meeting included several closed session items involving litigation and real property negotiations. Specifically, the council approved a settlement for a personal injury claim and directed staff to suspend negotiations regarding city-owned property at Fourth Street and Arizona Avenue pending further guidance from the California Department of Housing and Community Development regarding the Surplus Land Act. Additionally, the mayor provided information on new voting procedures for the upcoming primary election, and the council issued a proclamation designating March as Women's History Month.

The City Council held an emergency meeting to address the COVID-19 pandemic and formally declare a local emergency. Key discussion topics included the ratification of executive orders issued by the City Manager, such as a temporary moratorium on residential and commercial evictions, the closure of the Santa Monica Pier, the suspension of certain parking regulations, and the closure of non-essential businesses to the public. Staff from the Emergency Operations Center provided updates on community communications, public health guidance, and operational changes implemented to ensure public safety and provide support to local residents and businesses.

The City Council meeting included a closed session regarding anticipated and existing litigation, specifically concerning matters with Edward McLean and Guven Ozen, where a settlement was approved for the McLean case. The Council held a commemorative ceremony for the departing City Manager, including the reading of a formal proclamation highlighting her tenure, leadership during the pandemic, and contributions to city operations, equity, and inclusion.