Santa Monica · issues
Civic issues
Topics getting the most attention in Santa Monica public meetings, ranked by how frequently they come up.
Juneteenth proclamation
The council proclaimed June 19 as Juneteenth, honoring the 34th annual community celebration coming June 20 at Virginia Avenue Park.
One Santa Monica People's Academy
The city celebrated the first cohort of 25 residents who completed the six-session civics academy, with zero dropouts — and a push to join commissions.
2026 Water Supply Assessment
Even in a hot, dry-year scenario the city projects a 14% water surplus (34% with conservation), and it will stay in Stage 2 conservation — good news for water reliability and rates.
Adult aquatics permit fee increase
A Recreation and Parks commissioner asked the council to reject an adult aquatics permit fee increase, arguing Santa Monica's rates already far exceed neighboring cities and that the permit groups pay near 100% cost recovery.