Santa Monica, California Development News
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Santa Monica City Council Meeting June 9, 2026 - Jun 09, 2026
Published: Jul 7, 2026
Community Groups Urge Santa Monica to Withdraw Support for Controversial AB 1740
The City Council considered a proposal to withdraw Santa Monica's support and co-sponsorship of Assembly Bill 1740, with multiple speakers urging the council to do so. Speakers, including high school students representing "Surfers Who Serve," the Coastal Alliance, and the Surfrider Foundation, argued that the bill is divisive and controversial, and that Santa Monica should not use its name to promote such legislation. They emphasized the importance of protecting the Santa Monica Bay for future generations and respecting community concerns. The council was asked to consider the long-term consequences of decisions being made today.
Santa Monica Council Approves SB 707 Open Meeting Rules, Defers Other Governance Changes
The City Council considered amendments to its Rules of Order, including requirements from Senate Bill 707 regarding open meetings. Key discussions revolved around scheduling closed sessions, managing council member discussion items, structuring public comment, and updating rules for meeting efficiency and technology use. The council decided to bifurcate the item, approving the SB 707-mandated policies for immediate adoption by July 1st and deferring other rule changes for further discussion and a more detailed presentation. Concerns were raised about the late distribution of the extensive staff report and the potential impact of rule changes on public participation and council member independence. The council voted to approve the SB 707 policies, with other proposed rule changes to be revisited.
Santa Monica Secures $2 Million Grant for PICO Freeway Cap Study
The City Council approved a resolution authorizing the acceptance of a $2 million Reconnecting Communities Pilot Program grant from the California Department of Transportation for the Reconnecting PICO project. This grant, along with a city match of over $500,000, will fund a feasibility study for freeway "cat parks" along the I-10 segment from 11th to 20th Street in the PICO neighborhood. The project aims to reconnect communities, address historical disparities, promote economic opportunities, and mitigate environmental justice concerns. The study will include an existing conditions analysis, community outreach, concept development, constructability review, and a final report, with a planned completion date of July 31, 2029. Councilmember Raskin made a motion, seconded by Councilmember Snell, to move forward with the staff-recommended actions and to direct staff to explore trade-offs between capping and other alternatives, including freeway removal, reaffirming the city's commitment to closing the freeway.
Santa Monica Assesses Water Supply: Surplus Projected for 2026-2027
The City Council voted to approve the city's 2026 Annual Water Supply and Demand Assessment, which projects a water surplus for the upcoming year. The assessment, required by state law, indicates no water shortage under the projected dry and hot conditions, with a 34% surplus when conservation measures are applied. The city will continue Stage Two water conservation (20% reduction). Staff clarified that this assessment focuses on the projected year and that other city plans address long-term growth and infrastructure capacity.
Santa Monica Approves $550,000 Settlement in Employment Action Lawsuit
The City Council approved a settlement in the Lori Gentils versus City employment action case for $550,000 and certain non-monetary terms. The City denies liability and fault in the settlement. The vote to approve the settlement was five to two, with Mayor Pro Temswig and Councilmember Hall voting no. This matter was discussed in closed session.
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