Damien Newton
191 POSTS
Damien is the executive director of the Southern California Streets Initiative which publishes Santa Monica Next, Streetsblog Los Angeles, Streetsblog San Francisco, Streetsblog California and Longbeachize.
The Salary Discussion: Let’s Start with the Basics
Last week's report on salaries of the top earners in Santa Monica has struck a nerve and dominated the political discussion in the city...
Happy Birthday, Bike Center!
Happy 5th birthday to our BFFs at Bike Center. They have a party planned tonight that if it weren't my own birthday I would...
Right-Wing Hit Piece on SaMo Employees Unravels Under Basic Scrutiny
Earlier this week, CBS2 News breathlessly reported the "news" that Santa Monica City Employees make more money than those of surrounding cities. The report,...
WaiveCar, Free Car-Share Program Tested in Santa Monica, Plans Expansion Throughout Los Angeles
Last January, WaiveCar launched in Venice and Santa Monica, but now the company has plans to allow licensed drivers access to "free cars" throughout...
Free Market Think Tank: Santa Monica Sure Does Pay Its Employees a Lot of Money
For those of you that missed it, last night CBS 2 News in Los Angeles broadcast a story about the much higher-than-average wages that...
Latest
SMC Symphony Orchestra Performs Dec. 14
The following is a submission from SMC.The Santa Monica College...
Celebrating New Deal History at Samohi
The following is a very lightly edited submission from...
County Seeks Public Input on Transit Gaps; Santa Monica Neighbors Encouraged to Participate
Do you take transit in Culver City? How about...
OPA Update 12/1/25: OPA Holiday Party & Miracle on Main St. THIS Sunday, New City Law Requires Owners to Register Vacant Properties, & Street...
OPA Holiday Party DetailsMark your calendar to join us the...

