Controversial developer defaults on Promenade loans
Leo Pustilnikov, a developer who has clashed repeatedly with Santa Monica city officials over downtown governance and housing projects, has defaulted on a $37.5 million loan connected to retail property…
Santa Monica Airport Violated Federal Law Over Fees, FAA Rules
The Federal Aviation Administration has determined Santa Monica Municipal Airport violated federal law by accumulating surplus revenues it intends to spend on general city services when the airport closes, rather…
Santa Monica Homelessness Rises 5% Despite LA County Declines
July Venice Homelessness Declined — Venice’s unsheltered homeless population dropped 22% in 2024, falling by 165 people to around 585. Researchers found no clear policy explanation for the decline, unlike…
Police searching for elderly resident
The Santa Monica Police Department has issued a Silver Alert for Ana Lopez who was last seen at Pico Blvd and 7th Court. Ana Lopez Published: December 29, 2025, 7:16…
Los Angeles County’s Record Christmas Rainfall Causes Flooding
Los Angeles County experienced its wettest Christmas in modern history last week as a powerful “Pineapple Express” atmospheric river dumped extreme rainfall across the region from Dec. 22-29, shattering decades-old…
Newsletter: Dec 29, 2025
Front & Center Biblical levels of rain (for SoCal) fell over Christmas During the calm before our next storm, we can't help but marvel at our season-to-date rainfall..READ Get your…
Cities can’t punish outreach workers for helping homeless Californians under new law
By Marisa Kendall, CalMatters Physician assistant Brett Feldman checks Carla Bolen’s blood pressure at her encampment on the Figueroa Street Viaduct above Highway 110 in Elysian Valley Park in Los…
Santa Monica Downtown Shooting Latest in String of Violent Crimes
June Entertainment Zone Debut Downtown Santa Monica is launching an entertainment zone allowing alcohol consumption in designated areas, starting with seven participating restaurants. Additionally, a proposal was made to host…
Santa Monica Safety Concerns: Shootings, Beach Closures Rise
May Parking Overhaul Debated Consultants proposed replacing downtown’s 90-minute free parking with flat rates to raise revenue. Business leaders opposed the plan, fearing it would deter visitors. The DTSM board…
Santa Monica News Roundup: Malibu School Separation Setback
Malibu School Separation A county report recommended against the creation of an independent Malibu School District, stating it fails eight of nine state criteria. The report cited concerns regarding financial…