News from Santa Monica.
A ruling by the California Fair Political Practices Commission (FPPC) could have far-reaching implications for political activists seeking part-time political offices. Santa Monica Mayor Pro Tem Jesse Zwick has been told by state political regulators that he should step back…
Santa Monica officials have appointed Darrick Jacob as the city’s next Chief of Police, marking the first time in more than 40 years that the department’s top post has been filled from within its own ranks. The appointment was announced…
Los Angeles County residents affected by the January 2025 wildfires or by sudden income loss tied to federal immigration enforcement can now apply for rental assistance through the County’s Emergency Rent Relief Program (ERRP). The program follows the Los Angeles…
I know that many of you, like me, are devoted readers of the excellent emails sent every day by historian and Boston College Professor, Heather Cox Richardson. I also imagine, since so much is coming in over our virtual transoms,…
Downtown Santa Monica will soon host a bold new wave of illuminating signage that is sure to alter the downtown fabric. On Tuesday evening, the council voted to amend the Municipal Code and approve a new ordinance establishing a digital…
In 2024, the Santa Monica City Council faced a tough decision. The Los Angeles 2028 Olympic organizing committee (LA28) presented the city with a proposal to host the beach volleyball competition in a temporary mini-stadium built near the Pier. The…
The following is a submission from the Pier Corporation. Pacific Park on the Santa Monica Pier is lighting up the season with a dazzling holiday show on its world-famous Pacific Wheel. The 90-foot-tall Ferris wheel will sparkle with brilliant patterns…
The following is the first speech given by Mayor Caroline Torosis moments after her swearing in ceremony last night, Tuesday, December 9. The video begins at the start of her speech. A transcript follows. Thank you colleagues. Thank you former…
Earlier this week, the city, together with Downtown Santa Monica, Inc., launched a new survey to gather resident feedback on the Third Street Promenade Entertainment Zone. The “Entertainment Zone Survey – Residents” aims to assess how the promotion of expanded…
The following was originally posted by the City of Santa Monica. The holidays have officially arrived in Santa Monica—lights are twinkling, storefronts are buzzing, and our streets are filled with shoppers, visitors, and neighbors enjoying the season. With all that…
City Manager Oliver Chi has announced a new set of parking rates for city-owned lots that will take effect early next year. In his weekly letter to city staff and stakeholders, Chi outlined updates that include both permanent adjustments and…
It began with a growing discomfort among many Americans concerning the questionable uses of our military forces. First, we saw soldiers in full battle gear invading several (Democratic-run) American cities, deployed, ostensibly, to “protect” federal property. We immediately understood, however,…
(Yup, it’s the fundraising post. Already convinced? Click here to get started on making your tax-deductible donation.) Normally at this time of the year, you’re bombarded with non-profits (and the Daily Press) asking for donations while demonstrating how well positioned…
OPA Holiday Party Details Mark your calendar to join us the Edgemar Restaurant THIS Sunday, Dec. 7, from 3:00pm – 6:00pm. Click here to add the holiday party to your calendar. Apps and soda and one drink are free for OPA members and $10…
Following a daylong mediation on October 30, 2025, the City of Santa Monica and Constance White reached a settlement outlining steps the city will take to recognize the legacy of Silas White and his efforts to establish the historic Ebony…
