Malibu

MALIBU—On Friday, May 2, the city of Malibu disclosed that it will hold its first meeting about the Malibu Community Lands on May 21. The meeting is part of a project launching and extensive outreach and engagement program to gather community feedback regarding the future use of five community lands. In the next several months, the city of Malibu will seek input from the community, including residents, businesses and community groups.

The meeting on Tuesday, May 21 will run from 6 p.m. to 7:30 p.m. in the City Council Chambers at Malibu City Hall, located at 23825 Stuart Ranch Road.

According to the city of Malibu website, the meeting will provide background on the Community Lands project and serve as an opportunity for individuals to give insights and engage in meaningful discourse regarding the future use of the following five vacant parcels of land:

-Chili Cook-Off
-Triangle
-Heathercliff
-Trancas
-La Paz

Those unable to attend the event can provide feedback by submitting a public comment or emailing MalibuCommunityLands@MalibuCity.org.

By Trevor

MALIBU—The city of Malibu disclosed on its website that crews are currently working between Big Rock and just north of Las Flores with one north lane closed, needed as three separate crews are working on site (utility investigation/boring operations/fiber installation), as part of the Traffic Signal Synchronization Project on Pacific Coast Highway.

Crews were unable to implement the alternate traffic control (shifting the lanes to the center to keep two lanes open) due to safety reasons, existing infrastructure, and specific locations of ongoing work.

The goal of the project is to synchronize all the traffic signals along an approximately eight-mile section of PCH, between John Tyler Drive and Topanga Canyon Boulevard. Improvements will include new closed circuit TV (CCTV) cameras at each intersection, replace existing signal poles with new signal poles, street improvements and ADA upgrades, ATCS sensors, and changeable message signs. Mid-block sensors will enable Caltrans to monitor traffic flow and speed, then remotely adjust signal timing in the moment.

As of January 25, in response to community concerns, the City of Malibu Public Works Department has adjusted traffic management plan on the PCH Traffic Signal Synchronization project. The new plan aims to enhance traffic flow while balancing project timelines. The revised measures will allow two lanes of traffic in each direction by shifting one travel lane into the center median, when and where possible. The adjustment is designed to address congestion issues, while maintaining production and safety levels for the construction workers and motorists.

Motorists can expect delays during the week between 6 a.m. through 3 p.m. with alternating lane closures in both directions, mostly on the right-hand lanes. The project is on track for completion as planned by the end of 2024. Summer work hours (Memorial Day to Labor Day) will be Monday through Friday 7 a.m. through 4 p.m., with some nighttime work.

The project will make PCH a safer “Smart Corridor” by installing communication lines between the existing traffic signals on PCH from Topanga Canyon Boulevard to John Tyler Drive to synchronize the signals to existing traffic conditions. It will allow signals to be controlled remotely by the Caltrans Traffic Management Center to lower traffic speeds and reduce congestion.

The new equipment will capture real-time traffic data and send it to the traffic signal controllers, which will use state-of-the art software to adjust the traffic signal timing to actual traffic volume. Vehicles going the speed over the speed limit will encounter red lights, while those going the speed limit will encounter green lights. The project will also include new closed circuit TV cameras at each intersection, replace existing signal poles, street improvements and Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) accessibility upgrades, Adaptive Traffic Control System (ATCS) sensors, and changeable message signs.

According to CalTrans, PCH at Malibu Canyon Road handles roughly 4,600 cars per hour, or approximately 40,500 vehicles per day during peak hours in the summer months. About 1,215,000 vehicles pass through Malibu on PCH every month during the summer.

The $34.6 million project is fully funded through Measure R funds administered by the Los Angeles County Metropolitan Transportation Authority and is expected to take about one year to complete.

Residents can expect noise, lights, vibrations, and dust related to the work. Watch for workers and work vehicles in and around the roadway and altered traffic patterns. Under California law, traffic citations are doubled in construction zones.

For more information, visit the project webpage. The project is funded by Measure R Highway Operational improvements.

By Trevor

MALIBU—The city of Malibu announced on its website on April 25 that it will be offering two free fire extinguisher training sessions for community members as part of the city’s efforts toward community-wide emergency preparedness, Wednesday, May 15, at 2 p.m. and 6 p.m. at Malibu City Hall.

The one-hour training sessions will be taught by the City’s Fire Safety Liaisons. A classroom session will cover fire extinguisher mechanics, decision making on when to use a fire extinguisher, and safety considerations. The second part of the training will include a live- fire hands on exercise, with safety supervision.

To register for either training session, email Emergency Services Coordinator Sarah Flores at saflores@malibucity.org.

By Trevor

MALIBU—On April 25, the city of Malibu announced that it will be allowing the development of 79 housing units, 47 which are required to be affordable to low-and very low-income homes. The housing plan is expected to be adopted by September 23, 2024. It is a settlement with California Attorney General Rob Bonta, California Governor Gavin Newsom, and California Department of Housing and Community Development (HCD) Director Gustavo Velasquez allowing the city to reach compliance with the state’s Housing Element Law.

The agreement, which is in the form of a proposed stipulated judgment and must be approved by the court, is related to California’s sixth “housing element update cycle” for the 2021-2029 time period.

Under the state’s Housing Element Law, each city and county in California must periodically update its housing plan to meet its Regional Housing Needs Allocation (RHNA), or share of the regional and statewide housing needs. Located in Los Angeles County, Malibu was required to update its housing plan by October 15, 2021 to accommodate its 79-unit RHNA target. The city submitted a Housing Element Update in 2022, but was not found to substantially comply. After receiving a notice of violation from the state, the city and state conferred in good faith to chart a course for the city to attain compliance.

“Malibu is a community that holds both tremendous need for affordable housing, and tremendous opportunity. This agreement provides an enforceable contract to ensure those housing needs are met,” said HCD Director Gustavo Velasquez. “We are very appreciative to the City of Malibu for working with us to create this path to compliance with state housing law, and my team will provide every resource to help them be successful in that effort.”

“We understand the importance of adhering to the State’s housing element law and are dedicated to fulfilling our obligations,” said Steve Uhring, Mayor of Malibu. “Despite the challenges we’ve encountered, such as the devastation of the Woolsey Fire and the issues caused by the COVID-19 pandemic and staff turnover, our partnership with HCD has been pivotal in guiding us toward a resolution. This settlement reflects the shared goal of the City and State of California to address housing needs effectively in our community.”

A compliant housing element must include an assessment of housing needs, an inventory of resources and constraints relevant to meeting those needs, and a program to implement the policies, goals, and objectives of the housing element. Once the housing element is adopted, it is implemented through zoning ordinances and other actions that put its objectives into effect and facilitate the construction of new homes for Californians at all income levels.

The housing element is a crucial tool for building housing for moderate, low, and very low-income Californians and redressing historical redlining and disinvestment. State income limits for what constitutes moderate, low, and very low-income Californians vary by county and can be found here. In Los Angeles County, the median income for a one-person household is $68,750. A one-person household that earns less than $70,650 is defined as low-income, and a one-person household that earns less than $44,150 is defined as very-low income.

Under the settlement:

Malibu will take several required actions to adopt a compliant housing element by September 23, 2024. The housing element process is typically lengthy — for example, local governments must meet certain public participation requirements and HCD must review every local government’s housing element to determine whether it complies with state law and provides written findings back to each local government — but Malibu has agreed to an expedited timeline and ensuring the public’s participation.

Malibu acknowledges that, until it has adopted a substantially compliant housing element, it may not deny certain low, very low, and moderate-income housing development projects based on the city’s current, outdated general plan and zoning code. This is known as the Builder’s Remedy.

The city of Malibu could be subject to monetary penalties if it remains noncompliant 12 months after the effective date of the stipulated judgment.

A copy of the petition and proposed judgment, which details the settlement terms and remains subject to court approval, can be viewed here and here.

By Trevor

MALIBU—The Los Angeles County Sheriff’s Department is investigating a fatal shooting that transpired on Wednesday, April 24. The LASD reported they were made aware of a shooting at 2:55 p.m. on the 800 Block of Westlake in Malibu.

Authorities arrived on scene to find an adult male dead. The LASD is not able to provide any additional details at the time.

Anyone with information about the shooting is asked to contact the Los Angeles County Sheriff’s Department’s Homicide Bureau at (323) 890-5500. Those wanting to remain anonymous can call “Crime Stoppers” by dialing (800) 222-TIPS (8477), use your smartphone by downloading the “P3 Tips” Mobile APP on Google play or the Apple App Store or by using the website http://lacrimestoppers.org.

By Trevor

MALIBU—On Tuesday, April 16, the city of Malibu announced on its website that it will be launching an extensive outreach and engagement program to gather community feedback about the future use of five community lands.

In 2016 and 2018, Malibu purchased five vacant parcels of land totaling over 61 acres to preserve the lands as community spaces instead of private developments. Prior to any development decisions, the engagement program’s goal was meaningful dialogue and to gather insights on the types of facilities the community prefers.

“This outreach program underscores our commitment to including the needs and views of all of the community,” said Mayor Steve Uhring. “By actively involving our residents and all community members, and others, we are ensuring that Malibu remains a vibrant and thriving community for generations to come.”

In February 2024, Malibu partnered with Tripepi Smith, a community engagement firm specializing in local government, to assist with the initiative. The program’s framework, developed in collaboration with the Malibu City Council, City commission members and city staff, will guide the execution of various outreach activities. The city anticipates executing the program in two phases: Phase 1 will focus on broad outreach to gather initial feedback from the community, while Phase 2 will build on the input received for more refined feedback to aid in future decision-making processes.

Malibu has launched the dedicated website, MalibuCommunityLands.org which will serve as a comprehensive resource, offering background information on the project, guidance for community participation, event calendars, a map pinpointing the community land locations, public input archives, frequently asked questions and avenues for public comments. The community can also contact via the email address: MalibuCommunityLands@MalibuCity.org.

“Through this extensive outreach program, we aim to empower our community members to actively shape the future of Malibu’s community lands,” said City Manager Steve McClary. “We are excited to cultivate and advance a vision for Malibu that ensures these lands meet the long-term needs and aspirations of the entire community.”

By Trevor

MALIBU—The city of Malibu posted on its website that Lindsey P. Horvath, Chair of the Los Angeles County Board of Supervisors, is partnering with California Highway Patrol (CHP), the City of Malibu, Malibu High School, PTSA Malibu, Santa Monica-Malibu Unified School District (SMMUSD), and the Malibu-Lost Hills Station to host “Safe on PCH.”

The weeklong program focuses on safe driving, and will engage students and families to keep roads in Malibu safe for the community.

Pacific Coast Highway impacts the lives of every person in the Malibu region. On Monday, April 29, the lunchtime fair will transpire at 12 p.m. with resources and information from the LASD, CHP, Supervisor Horvath’s Office, and Malibu.

On Tuesday, April 30 at 9 a.m. there will be a Sheriff Impact Presentation, where the Sheriff’s Department will host the IMPACT Teen Drivers’ parent program called Under Your Influence (UYI), which educates parents and teens with evidence-based strategies to help keep teens, their families, and everyone they share the road with safe. The special presentation is for parents and will happen from 9 to 10:30 am at Malibu High School’s Parent Center.

On Wednesday, May 1, there will be a screening of the film, “21 Miles Film” at 6:30 p.m. at Malibu High School. The movie is directed by Michel Shane. There will be a discussion after the movie with a panel moderated by Chair Horvath to inform and educate students and parents about the dangers on PCH and offer tips to make driving on PCH safer for teenagers. Panelists include Captain Jenn Seetoo, Captain Dennis Ford, Robert D. Cohen, Bridget Thompson, and Shane. It will take place in the Malibu auditorium with an expected attendance of over 200 people. This event requires a separate RSVP.

On Thursday, May 2, two school assemblies will transpire coordinated by Malibu High School and CHP. One targeting 6-8th graders (30 minutes) and one for 9th –12th graders (45 minutes). The assembly will include Impact Teen Drivers’ high school program called “What Do You Consider Lethal” (WDYCL) which engages, educates, and empowers students with evidence-based strategies that help them prevent car crashes, particularly those caused by reckless and distracted driving.

On the final day of the week-long event, on Friday, May 3, the Malibu High School will be holding student classroom breakout sessions focused on the causes and effects of distracted driving. There will be a classroom presentation followed by a group activity.

For more details visit: https://www.eventbrite.com/e/safe-on-pch-week-tickets-859158926477?aff=oddtdtcreator. No RSVP is required for the general week, only select events.

By Trevor

MALIBU—The city of Malibu announced they are inviting the community to join a Special Meeting and Work Session of the City Council scheduled for Wednesday, April 10 aimed at providing residents with a comprehensive understanding of the revenue sharing agreement in the context of the ongoing school district separation efforts.

The city reported on its website that the Special Meeting and Work Session will serve as an opportunity for residents to gain insights into the revenue sharing agreement and its implications for the community. The session will focus exclusively on providing details and fostering discussion among Malibu residents and community stakeholders. The Santa Monica-Malibu School District (SMMUSD) will host community workshops for residents of Santa Monica, in addition to joint sessions in May that will be co-hosted by SMMUSD and Malibu.

Throughout the April 10 Work Session, key guiding principles will be emphasized, including equity, fairness, and local control in education. By upholding these principles, the City remains committed to ensuring that decisions regarding educational policies are made with the best interests of the community in mind.

The Special Meeting and Work Session will feature presentations, discussions, and opportunities for residents to ask questions on the revenue sharing agreement. By fostering open communication and collaboration, the city hopes to empower residents to play a role in the school separation process.

All interested residents are invited to attend the Special Meeting and Work Session and participate in the discussion at 6 p.m. at the Council Chambers at Malibu City Hall (23825, Stuart Ranch Rd, first floor). Viewing and commenting instructions for remote participation will be posted with the meeting agenda in advance on the website.

A second workshop will be held on Saturday, April 20 at 10 a.m. Details regarding the second workshop location will be provided in a subsequent announcement.

For more details on Malibu’s school separation efforts contact Deputy City Manager Alexis Brown at 310-456-2489, ext. 300, email abrown@malibucity.org, or visit the Malibu Unified webpage.

By Trevor

MALIBU—On April 3, at approximately 5:30 p.m., a vehicle left the highway by the intersection of Pacific Coast Highway (PCH) and Malibu Canyon Road. According to the Los Angeles Fire Department (LAFD) the vehicle plummeted approximately 150 feet down a cliff and into the vegetation down below.

The driver and lone occupant of the vehicle, was pronounced dead at the scene.

Canyon News reached out to the Los Angeles County Medical Examiner’s Office. Kelly, the Public Information Officer in the Medical Examiner’s Office responded quickly with the following information:

Reports indicate there were two cliffside rescues. This rescue in Malibu was assigned case number is 2024-05591. The deceased has been identified as a 63-year-old female by the name of Tracy Ann Vancura of Camarillo.

The second cliffside rescue happened on April 4, at 7:41 a.m. at 3730 Roxbury St. in San Pedro.

LAFD reported in a press release those firefighters responded by land, air, and sea. First responders able to reach the injured party located at the bottom of Point Ferman Cliffs but discovered that the patient had already died.

A recovery effort was initiated to recover the remains of the individual. The Medical examiner’s case number is 2024-05612. The name and identifying factors of the deceased are still pending notification of next of kin.

By Sharon

MALIBU—On April 1, the city of Malibu disclosed that a month-long series of events and activities in celebration of Earth Month. Community members can enjoy environmental education and recycling activities during April promoting sustainability and environmental stewardship in Malibu. A complete schedule of Earth Month events can be found at www.MalibuCity.org/EarthMonth.

“The guidance in Malibu’s General Plan is very clear. The people of Malibu are a responsible custodian of the area’s natural resources for present and future generations. Our founding fathers recognized that celebrating nature and protecting the environment would unite our community, so I invite everyone in Malibu to be part of our Earth Month activities,” said Mayor Steve Uhring. “Please join with your neighbors in the global effort to protect and preserve our planet.”

April 22 is Earth Day, the world’s largest event focused on preserving the planet. Throughout April, Malibu is committed to inviting community participation in the city’s environmental events highlighting recycling, waste reduction, water conservation, and energy efficiency, and empowering the community to adopt sustainable practices.

For 2024, Earth Month events include Electronic and Household Hazardous Waste Collection, Document Shred Day, Organic Recycling Virtual Training, the 2024 State of the Watershed and a Firescaping class. All events are free for the public to attend. The city will post sustainability tips on social media throughout Earth Month. To see a highlight of all event visit: https://www.malibucity.org/CivicAlerts.aspx?AID=1734.

By Trevor

MALIBU—The city of Malibu is alerting the public to explore Malibu’s spring sports, recreation and cultural programs, classes, facilities and events in the Spring 2024 Recreation Guide and City Newsletter at MalibuCity.org/CommunityServices. Print editions were mailed to Malibu residents during the week of March 4.

“We are proud of the wide variety of high-quality, professionally run educational, sports, artistic and cultural programs, camps and events that we offer our residents,” said Mayor Steve Uhring. “From students and parents, to seniors and young kids, there is something for everyone. I encourage you to browse the guide and find a program that inspires you.”

The city of Malibu indicated on its website that the guide includes informational articles and contact information for City Departments and services.

Residents can find details in the guide about upcoming spring programs offered from March through May, including Afterschool Programs, Outdoor Recreation, Parent and Me Programs, Senior Programs and Excursions, Spring Break Day Camps, and events, including the 24th Annual Chumash Day Native American Powwow and Intertribal Gathering.

Registration for Spring Programs opened on March 11 via the Registration webpage. For ongoing details or up-to-date information on Community Services programs visit the webpage.

By Trevor

MALIBU—On Wednesday, March 27, the city of Malibu announced that the community is invited to an upcoming workshop focused on the Coastal Vulnerability Assessment, offered in-person April 18 and virtually on April 30. The workshop provides a opportunity for the community to share feedback and engage in talks regarding the next steps in addressing the projected impacts of sea-level rise in Malibu.

“We live in a seaside community that is highly vulnerable to sea-level rise, so it is crucial to get everyone in Malibu informed and involved in the efforts to address it,” said Mayor Steve Uhring. “If we collaborate and share ideas, then we can be better able to shape the future of our coastline, and make sure Malibu stays strong and resilient for future generations.”

The city of Malibu noted on its website that the in-person workshop on Thursday, April 18, will take place at 5 p.m. at Malibu City Hall (23825 Stuart Ranch Road). The virtual workshop will be held on Tuesday, April 30, 3 p.m. Zoom link for the virtual workshop is posted at https://tinyurl.com/MalibuCVA.  RSVPs are not required for the events.

Malibu previously presented technical results of projected sea-level rise impacts in the mid-century and late-century at in-person and virtual workshops in November 2023. The recording of the virtual workshop is available at https://youtu.be/qf51xGSahRs.  The draft Coastal Vulnerability Assessment report and interactive GIS map is available at https://malibucity.org/coastal.

The community’s input, gathered through the upcoming workshop, will shape the final stages of the Coastal Vulnerability Assessment as the project approaches completion. For more details, visit https://malibucity.org/coastal, call 310-456-2489, ext. 390, or email mbuilding@malibucity.org.

By Trevor

MALIBU—On Friday, March 22, well-known actor and comedian, Will Smith received a ticket for speeding on the Pacific Coast Highway. Police ticketed Smith for driving 63 miles per hour driving close to 20 mph over the speed limit.

The following information came directly from the California General Code:

“Pacific Coast Highway (PCH) (State Route 1) is a four-lane state highway traversing the city from east to west along the Pacific Coast. The right-of-way includes an intermittent center turning lane. Within the city, PCH is about 25 miles long with a posted speed limit between 45 and 55 miles per hour.

The famous actor did not get away with a warning. PCH is listed as one of the nation’s most scenic highways. The number of fatal accidents on this stretch of highway has resulted in a heavier police presence and many more tickets.

Police first told TMZ that, “No one gets a break for putting the pedal to the metal on such a super dangerous stretch of highway.

Reports indicate there have been as many as 58 fatal accidents on the Pacific Coast Highway in the last 14 years.

Multiple news outlets have reported the speeding ticket as “part of Will Smiths ongoing legal trouble.” One aforementioned article cited Will Smith slapping Chris Rock. That was almost exactly two years ago, at the Oscars. Reports indicate that Smith was banned from the Oscars for 10 years. There hasn’t been any reported criminal activity since that time.

On March 26, Smith released the trailer for his latest film, “Bad Boys Ride or Die.” The action-packed comedy – cop adventure will be released in theaters on June 7. The film was directed by Adil and Bilall and was written by Chris Brenner. The trailer may be found on Will Smith’s Facebook page.

By Sharon

MALIBU—On Monday, March 25, the city of Malibu provided an update on its website related to several road closures because of landslides in the region.

The City Public Works Department is communicating with Caltrans on the closures due to landslides that have been impacting Malibu as Caltrans engineers continue to assess the safety and stability of the slopes and the roadway at the landslide sites in Topanga Canyon and on Pacific Coast Highway.

“We understand the inconvenience and frustration caused by the traffic congestion. The closures are for your safety. We will continue to post any significant changes on social media and other platforms. Meanwhile, we urge residents, commuters and visitors to check navigation apps and Quickmap.dot.ca.gov for the latest road conditions and closures or call Caltrans Highway Information Network at 800-427-7623 before hitting the road. For the most up to date information, follow Caltrans District 7 on X (Twitter) at https://twitter.com/CaltransDist7. Please drive cautiously in the slide areas, and watch for workers and work vehicles in the road,” the city stated on its website.

TOPANGA CANYON REMAINS CLOSED

Topanga Canyon remains closed in both directions from Grand View Drive to PCH until further notice due to the large, active landslide located 1.8 miles north of PCH. Large rocks continue to fall at the site. Caltrans is continuing to monitor the slide. Additional rain is forecasted for the weekend.

FLAGGERS DIRECTING TRAFFIC AT TUNA CANYON & PCH

As of March 22, Caltrans stationed flaggers to direct traffic from Tuna Canyon Road onto to southbound PCH in Malibu to help make it easier and safer for drivers to cross the northbound lanes of PCH and prevent wrong-way drivers from entering the one-way Tuna Canyon Rd.

2 LANES OPEN IN EACH DIRECTION AT PCH & BIG ROCK

Caltrans restriped the median lane on PCH at the ongoing active landslide just south of Big Rock Drive in Malibu to provide two northbound lanes to help alleviate traffic congestion. One northbound lane was taken up by K-rails to halt the active landslide. There are now two northbound and one southbound lanes open. Caltrans is assessing the slide and making plans to clear the roadway. The duration is unknown.

By Trevor

MALIBU—On Thursday, March 21, the city of Malibu announced that community members are invited to attend the 2nd annual North Santa Monica Bay (NSMB) State of the Watershed 2024 event on Thursday, April 25. The event will occur at Malibu City Hall from 1 p.m. to 4 p.m.

“Protecting our beautiful natural surroundings is a big part of life in our community and Malibu is committed to securing the future of our watersheds and marine ecosystems,” said Mayor Steve Uhring. “The North Santa Monica Bay State of the Watershed provides a rare opportunity for residents and multiple public agencies to come together to discuss the challenges our local ecosystems face and how we can address them.”

The city of Malibu announced on its website that the event is a collaborative effort with Watershed Coordinator Melina Sempill Watts and the NSMB Watershed Area Steering Committee, including the cities of Calabasas, Westlake Village, and Agoura Hills, Los Angeles County Department of Public Works, and Los Angeles County Flood Control District, along with other local organizations.

Participants will be able to learn about each jurisdiction’s efforts to enhance water quality, increase access to local water supply, and preserve the wildlife and habitats within our shared ecosystem. Speakers will be available for questions on water quality issues, ongoing initiatives, and actions for a healthy and pollution-free watershed.

Seating is limited and RSVPs are required for the free event. RSVP online at: https://www.eventbrite.com/e/north-santa-monica-bay-state-of-the-watershed-2024-tickets-861204083597?aff=oddtdtcreator. For those who can’t attend in person, virtual participation options will be available.

For more details on the event, including virtual meeting links, visit: https://malibucity.org/EarthMonth. To learn more about the North Santa Monica Bay Watershed Area at visit: https://safecleanwaterla.org/north-santa-monica-bay-watershed-area/

By Trevor

MALIBU—On Wednesday, March 20, the city of Malibu announced on its website that they are currently accepting applications for its hazard tree removal program.

As part of the City of Malibu’s effort to promote community-wide wildfire safety and to help residents protect their homes and properties from wildfires, the City is once again accepting applications for the free Hazard Tree Removal Program.

“The Hazard Tree Removal Program is a great example of the concrete steps that the City is taking to improve wildfire safety across the community in Malibu,” said Mayor Steve Uhring. “Our program empowers residents to make their homes and properties less vulnerable to wildfire, which in turn protects entire neighborhoods and the community by making it more difficult for fires to spread.”

The City was awarded $326,000 in February 2024 to continue a third round of the program, bringing the total grant funding for this highly popular service to $1 million since it launched in 2021. Work is expected to begin in early summer for this round of funding.

The goal of the program is to remove dead trees, or trees that are at risk of falling and creating a threat to life safety, property, infrastructure, and access to neighborhoods for emergency responders. Any dead trees add fuel load that can make future wildfires more powerful. By removing dead trees, the program supports the goal of creating defensible space around homes and reducing vegetation to make homes more likely to survive a wildfire and to follow the Los Angeles County Fire Code.

Residents who were still on the waiting list when the previous grant funds were exhausted will be given priority during this phase of the program.

Once a resident is registered, the property will be visited by a City Fire Safety Liaison and a licensed arborist from the contracted tree service company to ensure that the property meets the grant criteria. Properties must be in the City limits, the trees must be dead and may not be located in an environmentally sensitive area, and there must be adequate access for the equipment needed to perform the work.

For more information and to register for the program, visit the webpage, call Fire Safety Liaison Gabe Etcheverry at 424-422-8802 or email FireSafety@MalibuCity.org.

By Trevor

MALIBU—The city of Malibu announced on its website that the California Insurance Commissioner Ricardo Lara, Assembly member Jacqui Irwin and the Las Virgenes-Malibu Council of Governments (LVMCOG) will host an online town hall meeting to discuss wildfire and disaster insurance on Thursday, April 4.

The event will transpire from 5:30 p.m. to 6:30 p.m. Attendees will be allowed to hear from the experts about how California is addressing the homeowner insurance crisis and how you can navigate the tools to help you get coverage for fires, floods and earthquakes.

The event is free to attend with RSVP. To register for the Zoom event visit here:  https://us06web.zoom.us/webinar/register/WN_9OLNwviLQ8CGfdzJJB6kMQ#/registration.

By Trevor

MALIBU—On March 17, the California Department of Fish and Wildlife reported that a 25 ft. long, 13,000 lb. gray whale washed up on Little Dume Beach. The first sighting of the whale was while it was still in the surf, and was reported to The California Wildlife Center on Saturday, March 16, at approximately 8:00 a.m.

Authorities have indicated that the whale that washed up on Little Dume Beach was a male gray whale calf. The cause of the death of the whale is unknown.

Canyon News reached out to the Assistant Information Officer for the California Department of Fish and Wildlife, Amanda McDermot, but did not hear back in time for print.

According to the Alaska Department of Fish and Game, a gray whale is identified by “their slate gray coloration with gray and white patches on the skin. They are covered in abrasions, blotches, scars, and clusters of white barnacles and orange whale lice. Adult males average 45-46 ft (13.7-14m) in length with adult females being slightly larger.”

Whale lice are reportedly small crablike creatures that crawl all over the whale’s head. They can be beneficial as they feed off of the algae growing on the whale.

Whales Tail LLC reports that the adult females are slightly larger and reach about 50 feet in length. Both sexes weigh up to 30-40 tons. The gray whale’s flukes or tail can span up to 10 feet.

Oregon State University confirms in its reports that the gray whale has few predators. The only natural predators of gray whales are killer whales and large sharks. Killer whales tend to show up along the Oregon coast during late April and May and may target females and calves migrating north during feeding season.

By Sharon

MALIBU—On Wednesday, March 13, the city of Malibu published an updated Revised 2021-2029 Housing Element, which is available for review on the city’s website. Community members are asked to review it between March 13 and March 20 and provide comments on Malibu’s housing needs and potential strategies to address them.

The city indicated in a news release that the Revised Housing Element was updated in response to the California Department of Housing and Community Development’s (HCD) preliminary review of the city’s February 2024 submittal. Comments can be submitted to Planning Director Richard Mollica at rmollica@malibucity.org. For information on where to review the document and other information, visit the Housing Element webpage.

State Housing Element law requires that each City and County identify and analyze existing and projected housing needs within their jurisdictions, and prepare goals, policies, programs, and quantified objectives to further the development, improvement, and preservation of housing.

On February 7, the city of Malibu submitted an updated 2021-2029 draft Housing Element to the California Department of Housing and Community Development (HCD) for review. The updated Draft Housing Element was prepared in response to a letter from HCD dated March 22, 2022. If additional comments are received from HCD, any required revisions will be considered, and the draft will be re-submitted. Once HCD indicates the Housing Element is in compliance, public hearings will be held by the Planning Commission and Malibu City Council to consider the re-adoption of the Housing Element.

Once the City Council adopts the revised Housing Element it will be submitted to HCD for final certification. The updated Draft Housing Element was available for public review and comment from January 8, 2024, through January 24, 2024. City staff held office hours for those with inquiries. In addition, the Malibu City Council held a study session on the draft on January 17, 2024.

Members of the public are asked to provide comments on housing needs in Malibu and weigh in on potential strategies for addressing housing needs. The Revised Housing Element was updated in response to the California Department of Housing and Community Development (HCD) preliminary review of the City’s February 2024 submittal.

Submit Comments to: Richard Mollica, Planning Director, rmollica@malibucity.org; by mail at City of Malibu, c/o Richard Mollica, 23825 Stuart Ranch Road, Malibu, CA 90265; or in-person at City Malibu City Hall (same address as above).

The documents can be reviewed on the city’s website or Malibu City Hall and the Malibu Library.

By Trevor

MALIBU—On March 14, the California Transportation Department (CALTRANS) notified the public with a post on the X, social media site warning travelers that Topanga Canyon Boulevard/State Route 27 is now closed indefinitely due to risks of landslides.

Malibu Photo by Tyrel Johnson

Topanga Canyon Boulevard, also known as State Route 27, was shut down in both directions Saturday between Pacific Coast Highway and Grand View Drive.

The full text of the Tweet is below.

PCH and Topanga Canyon Closures in Malibu.

“Northbound Pacific Coast Hwy [PCH] is reduced to one lane at Porto Marina Way, near Big Rock and north of Corral Canyon Road in Malibu. Topanga Canyon Blvd., is closed in both directions from PCH to Grand View Dr. due to slides until further notice.”

On Wednesday, March 13, Caltrans spokesperson, Eric Menjivar first told The Patch that “The closure is necessary because the slide is still active. Our geologists anticipate more material and boulders to come down at this location. There is no estimated time of reopening, and our geologists are on site daily to assess the stability of the hillside.”

Multiple reports suggests that motorists alternate their detours to relieve some of the expected congestion in those areas.

By Sharon

MALIBU—On Wednesday, March 13, the city of Malibu announced on its website that the Arts Commission is inviting all of Malibu to the city’s next public art exhibition in the Malibu City Gallery, “Mining the Spirit – A Journey with Artist Leigh J. McCloskey,” on display March 25 through May 3 at the Malibu City Gallery at City Hall located at 23825 Stuart Ranch Rd.

The gallery is open Monday through Friday, 8 a.m. to 4 p.m. Tickets or RSVPs are not required.

“Malibu has always drawn artists in every discipline, and we are proud to host an art exhibition highlighting the works of one our talented community members,” said Mayor Steve Uhring. “Leigh McCloskey is a modern renaissance man, he is an artist, author, well known actor and visual philosopher. I hope you can join us for an evening of art, music and discussion as we celebrate Malibu’s thriving artistic community at the opening reception.”

The city of Malibu noted on its website that the opening reception on Sunday, March 24 at 12 p.m. will feature a live musical performance by A Call 2 Peace, a Q&A session with the artist at 1:30 p.m., and complimentary refreshments. RSVPs are not required for this free event.

McCloskey is a long-time resident of Malibu. For over 25 years, McCloskey has opened his Malibu home and studio to the public, hosting Theosophical study groups and tours of his masterwork of fixed 3D multidimensional artwork.

To learn more about the artist and his work, visit https://leighmccloskey.com.  For details about the exhibition, visit the Malibu Arts Commission website.

By Trevor

MALIBU—On Sunday, March 10, at approximately 11:00 p.m. the Los Angeles County Sheriff’s Department (LASD), Lost Hills Station was on the scene working traffic on the Pacific Coast Highway after a landslide with loose mud and rock covering the roadway.

LASD sent out an alert on their X social media page alerting the public of the closure:

“All lanes of PCH are closed at Big Rock Dr. Malibu due to an active landslide. @CaltranDist7 is on the scene, unknown ETA at this time,” LASD posted.

Caltran had their backhoe on site, clearing the debris.  On Monday, March 11, at approximately 9:45 a.m., the following update was given:

“One lane is open at PCH at Big Rock. That lane will be used to alternate eastbound and westbound traffic. Expect heavy traffic. Use alternate routes if possible.”

On March 11, at 6:19 p.m., Southern California 511 posted additional road closures:

“The SR-27 closed in both directions due to [a] rockslide. From Grand View Dr. to Pacific Coast Highway, Route 1 for an unknown duration.”

The Southern California 511 update is as follows:

“The SR-1/PCH has one lane open at the landslide at Big Rock in Malibu, with alternating traffic in both directions. Expect delays.”

PCH, Big Canyon Road, and others have had multiple road closures recently after multiple storms and heavy rainfall that saturated Southern California and caused multiple mudslides.

The LASD webpage has not been updated since March 2023. Please check X (formally Twitter) for updates on traffic and congestion on PCH at Big Rock Drive.

By Sharon

MALIBU—On Wednesday, March 6, authorities reported a driver traveling at a high rate of speed in the wrong direction on Pacific Coast Highway was arrested.

The driver was reportedly driving in a stolen white box truck that appeared to have a Lowe’s decal on the side.

According to reports, officers began their pursuit of the alleged truck thief, on the west side of Los Angeles through Malibu and into Ventura County.  Video of the suspect was supplied by News Chopper 4 and the Los Angeles Police Department Airship.  According to police, the suspect was traveling at close to 80 mph.

After LAPD airship was dispatched, multiple patrol units responded to assist but discontinued the pursuit due to poor road conditions during a torrential downpour. The owners of the stolen box truck had a tracking device on the vehicle and were able to help police pinpoint the suspects’ location.

The box truck nearly missed multiple vehicles before crashing into another box truck traveling southbound on 101 Freeway near Thousand Oaks.  Authorities announced the arrest of the suspect at about 2:40 p.m.

The name of the suspect has not yet been released to the public. 

By Sharon

MALIBU—On Tuesday, March 5, the city of Malibu indicated in a press release that the Malibu City Council took action towards a Permanent Skate Park for its residents. In a 3-2 vote, they approved a settlement agreement with the neighboring property owner, who previously threatened litigation, clearing the way for the project.

The city reported on its website that it is “committed to providing excellent sports and recreation facilities and programs as part of a thriving, health community, and skating has always been an important part of the Malibu culture.”

City Council held a Special meeting on March 4, 2024, to continue talks on the matter from the February 26 regular meeting. The purpose of the meeting was to share the proposed settlement offer with the community and get feedback before making a decision.

Highlights of the proposed settlement agreement include:

-Allowing the neighboring property owner to install landscaping at its own cost to improve the park and prevent graffiti along the perimeter wall of the Skate Park.

-Shifting a portion of the Skate Park 10 feet further away from The Case project homes and lowering one of the above-ground elements.

-Allowing The Case project to lease a portion of the area adjacent to the Temporary Skate Park lot for parking for $5,627 per month until construction begins on the Permanent Skate Park.

-Assigning responsibility to The Case project for all costs related to the changes made to the Permanent Skate Park and requiring a deposit of $150,000 with the City to cover any additional design and construction costs.

On November 30, 2023, the Planning Commission approved the Coastal Development Permit (CDP) for the Permanent Skate Park, and the decision was appealed by the owner of the neighboring property, where “The Case” home development project is under construction.

After filing this appeal, the owner of the neighboring property approached the city of Malibu, and the city and the property owner have been negotiating over a settlement to avoid a potential lawsuit by the property owner.

In 2019, the Malibu City Council directed staff to begin the design concept for a permanent skate park and authorized the installation of a temporary skate park. The 12,500 square-foot Permanent Skatepark will be built at Malibu Bluffs Park, providing a sports and recreation resource and safe community gathering place for youth in the region.

For information on the settlement agreement, and other details review the staff report: https://www.malibucity.org/AgendaCenter/ViewFile/Item/6565?fileID=59693.

By Trevor

MALIBU—The city is inviting all Malibu community members to join the upcoming virtual workshops to learn about the importance of, and be able to successfully participate in, the City’s Organic Waste Recycling Program, on Wednesday, March 13, at 7 p.m.

The organic Waste Recycling Program is an important way Malibu can fulfill its commitment as a community to be part of the efforts to address climate change and protect the environment.

The virtual workshops are meant to help residents properly separate their organic waste and learn about the importance of organics recycling.

March 13, 7:00 PM workshop Zoom link

The city of Malibu was awarded state grant funds to help implement its Organic Waste Recycling Program. Attendees will receive a free kitchen scraps collection caddy (limit one per household). The 1.9 gallon, dishwasher-safe caddies are easy to fill, carry, empty, and clean, offering a convenient way to collect food scraps to be recycled. Those who complete the workshop can contact Environmental Programs staff at 310-456-2489 to arrange to pick up their caddy at Malibu City Hall. Individuals should be prepared to show identification with a Malibu address and proof of attendance.

Malibu has created a free Zero Waste Guide to help residents learn how to sort their food scraps based on their hauler’s requirements. The guide is available on the website.

Each waste hauler serving Malibu has different requirements. Malibu Garbage Disposal District customers can learn more at www.CleanLA.com/OrganicWaste and other City residents can learn more at www.MalibuCity.org/organics.

By Trevor

MALIBU—On February 29, the city of Malibu disclosed that on February 7 the city submitted an updated 2021-2029 draft Housing Element to the California Department of Housing and Community Development (HCD) for review.

The city reported on its website that State Housing Element law requires that each City and County identify and analyze existing and projected housing needs within their jurisdictions, and prepare goals, policies, programs, and quantified objectives to further the development, improvement, and preservation of housing.

The updated Draft Housing Element was prepared in response to a letter from HCD dated March 22, 2022. If additional comments are received from HCD, any required revisions will be considered and the draft will be re-submitted. Once HCD indicates the Housing Element is in compliance, public hearings are held by the Planning Commission and City Council to consider the re-adoption of the Housing Element. Once the Council adopts the revised Housing Element it will be submitted to HCD for final certification.

The updated Draft Housing Element was available for public review and comment from January 8, 2024, through January 24, 2024. City staff held office hours for those with inquiries. In addition, Malibu City Council held a study session on the draft on January 17, 2024.

If additional comments are received from HCD, any required revisions to the Housing Element will be made and the draft will be re-submitted. Once HCD indicates the Housing Element is in compliance, public hearings will be held by the Planning Commission and City Council to consider the re-adoption of the Housing Element. Once the City Council adopts the revised Housing Element it will be submitted to HCD for certification.

The four major and required components of the Housing Element are the following:

-Housing Needs Assessment: An analysis of the City’s demographic, household and housing characteristics and related housing needs.

-Housing Constraints: A review of potential market, governmental, and infrastructure constraints to meeting the City’s identified housing needs.

-Housing Resources: An evaluation of residential sites and financial resources available to address the City’s housing goals.

-The Housing Plan: A plan for addressing the City’s identified housing needs, constraints, and resources through housing goals, policies and programs.

Malibu, along with all jurisdictions in California, is mandated by California State Government Code Sections 65580 to 65589 to prepare Housing Element updates to its General Plan for State certification within a specified timeframe covering a range of years to reflect the most recent trends in demographics and employment that may affect existing and future housing demand and supply. The city of Malibu Housing Element must be updated and certified every 8 years.

The State of California Housing Element Law, enacted in 1969, mandates that local governments adequately plan to meet the existing and projected housing needs of the community in all economic levels. Included in this State law is the requirement that local governments adopt land use plans and regulatory systems that provide opportunities for, and do not unduly constrain, housing development.

Each city in California is required to plan for new housing to accommodate a share of regional needs. The Regional Housing Needs Assessment (“RHNA”) is the process established in State law by which each city’s housing needs are determined. Malibu falls within the Southern California Association of Governments (SCAG) for purposes of this process. SCAG has made the final RHNA allocation assigned to each member city for the October 2021 through October 2029 planning period available at its website.

For a complete history of Malibu’s Housing Element, visit the Housing Element History webpage.

By Trevor

MALIBU—On Thursday, February 29, the city of Malibu announced on its website that the Malibu City Council waived $34,000 in fees for the Malibu Little League (MLL) during the February 12 meeting in order to help support youth sports in the community.

The waived fees are for the use of field and equipment rental for the Snack Shack for the 2024 baseball and softball season. The MLL is Malibu’s primary youth baseball and softball sports league and has used field space at Malibu Bluffs Park since before the City’s incorporation in 1991.

The Malibu Little League is a parent-led volunteer organization that invests in Malibu Bluffs Park infrastructure and fields and worked closely with the city on enhancements to park amenities. Since 2015, MLL increased participation by 112 players. In 2024, MLL expects to have 16 teams with 250 baseball and softball players using Malibu Bluffs Park for weekly team practices and bi-weekly games.

In 2023, MLL had 275 players, with 82 percent of players Malibu residents.

The facility rental fees include:

-Type Pony Baseball Field; Non-Profit Rate $11,574
-Major Baseball Field; Non-Profit Rate $11,574
-Multipurpose Field; Non-Profit Rate $8,171
Total $31,319

Snack Shack equipment rental:

-Equipment (Sink Rental Fee) $2,000

Staff anticipates there will be fluctuations in the facility use schedule

For more details view the staff report.

By Trevor

MALIBU—On February 20, it was announced on its website that the Malibu City Council approved an ordinance to regulate inspections of balconies and other exterior elevated elements on any buildings with three or more units to help protect the public.

“Safety is our No. 1 priority, and no one should have to be afraid because a balcony they are standing on may collapse,” said Mayor Steve Uhring. “This is a common-sense regulation that will protect homeowners from the hidden danger of exterior elements that could collapse, and from liability.”

Exterior elevated elements (E3s) are balconies, decks, porches, stairways, walkways and entry structures that extend beyond exterior walls of a building.

The ordinance was proposed by the Malibu City Council in response to enacted California state laws monitoring exterior elements. The state laws were enacted in response to a 2015 balcony collapse in Berkeley that killed 6 students and injured 7. A subsequent investigation revealed that years of exposure to moisture led to dry rot along the top of the cantilevered balcony framing, causing it to disintegrate and compromise the load-carrying capacity of the supporting elements.

The State of California moved to address deficiencies in the laws around the maintenance and inspection of balconies, decks, and other exterior elevated elements. The primary differences between the Senate Bill (SB) 721 and SB 326 are who they affect and the frequency of inspection. These inspections will identify deterioration issues and determine if repairs are needed.

SB 721 applies to property owners of buildings with three or more dwelling units. The first inspection is required by January 1, 2025 and then every 6 years after.

SB 326 applies to condominium associations. The first inspection is required by January 1, 2025 and then every 9 years after.

All inspections must be completed by a California state-licensed architect, civil engineer, or structural engineer.

The ordinance must be approved by the City Council during a second reading before final adoption. The Environmental Sustainability Department has already developed educational materials including inspection protocols aligning with the new regulations, which can be found on the website or in person at city hall. The program provides concise standards for inspections of these structures and will assist property owners to make necessary repairs or upgrades to ensure their safety.

Malibu will host several town hall meetings in the spring to offer information and assistance to property owners. Further details will be announced.

For more information, including the types of properties that the ordinance applies to, visit: www.malibucity.org/E3.

By Trevor

MALIBU—On February 22, the city of Malibu posted on its website they will be holding a virtual workshop to learn about the importance of, and be able to successfully participate in, the City’s Organic Waste Recycling Program, on Wednesday, March 13, at 7 p.m. via Zoom.

The city of Malibu indicated on its website the organic Waste Recycling Program helps the city fulfill its commitment as a community to be part of the efforts to address climate change and protect the environment.

The virtual workshops are meant to help residents properly separate their organic waste and learn about the impact of organics recycling.

Malibu was awarded state grant funds to help implement its Organic Waste Recycling Program. Attendees will receive a free kitchen scraps collection caddy (limit one per household). The 1.9 gallon, dishwasher-safe caddies are easy to fill, carry, empty, and clean, offering a convenient way to collect food scraps to be recycled. Those who complete the workshop can contact Environmental Programs staff at 310-456-2489 to arrange to pick up their caddy at Malibu City Hall. Participants should be prepared to provide identification with a Malibu address and proof of attendance.

The city created a free Zero Waste Guide to help residents learn how to sort their food scraps based on their hauler’s requirements. The guide is available on the website.

Each waste hauler serving Malibu has different requirements. Malibu Garbage Disposal District customers can learn more at www.CleanLA.com/OrganicWaste and other City residents can learn more at www.MalibuCity.org/organics.

By Trevor

MALIBU—On February 13, the city of Malibu announced efforts to streamline and improve customer service at Malibu City Hall by launching a new customer service queue system for services at public counters.

According to a news release, the new queue management system, “QLess,” was launched in Malibu City Hall in mid-January. It allows customers to sign in on a touchscreen pad, and overhead monitors display their place in line, approximate wait times, when a staff member is available to assist them, and the counter where they will be helped. The system will be able to provide real-time performance statistics.

“The City is constantly working to find ways to improve customer service, efficiency and transparency at City Hall to better serve the community,” said Mayor Steve Uhring. “We understand that time is money for residents who are building, rebuilding, constructing, renovating, or repairing their homes and we want to help them get their projects completed quickly and smoothly.”

The new system builds on Malibu’s efforts to improve customer service at City Hall starting in 2022, including several new modifications to the Planning Department’s project application process to improve services for homeowners and building professionals. Most project submittals with related plans and documents are now available online through a new portal at www.MalibuCity.org/PlanningSubmittalPortal.

Applicants may now submit minor planning applications during Public Counter hours and pay fees at the same time, and created a new step-by-step Planning Submittal Guide, available at: https://malibucity.org/DocumentCenter/View/30677/Planning-Submittal-Guide.

The Planning Department can provide application submittal requirements and fees on behalf of other City Departments, speeding up the process for applicants and decreasing their number of visits to City Hall.

The Planning Department, Environmental Sustainability Department and Public Works Department now have adopted standard submittal requirements and fees for various types of applications.

By Trevor

MALIBU—On February 20, at approximately 8:15 a.m. Los Angeles Sheriff’s Department (LASD) deputies responded to a call in the 28300 block of Rey De Copas Ln. Officers arrived at the scene to a woman barricaded in her home. The Special Enforcement Bureau, and the Special Negotiations Team have been called in for what has turned out to be an hour-long stand-off between the suspect and police.

Special Enforcement Bureau Lieutenant, David Archer posted the following information on Nixle:

“Los Angeles County Sheriff’s Department Special Enforcement Bureau (SEB) personnel are responding to assist Malibu/Lost Hills Station with a barricaded suspect…

SEB Personnel will assume tactical command and Crisis Negotiation Team (CNT) will attempt to make contact with the suspect to bring this to a peaceful resolution.”

LASD updated the information on their Nixle account informing the public that the woman surrendered by 3:30 p.m.

“The suspect surrendered and was taken into custody without further incident. The area is deemed safe, and all neighborhood evacuees are allowed to return to their homes,” LASD stated.

No further information, name or description of the suspect has been released at this time. Police did not release the suspects name or what may have prompted the standoff.

Anyone with more information is encouraged to call the Los Angeles Sheriff’s Department Malibu/Lost Hills Station at (818)878-1808 or call Crimestoppers at (800)222-TIPS (8477)

By Sharon

MALIBU—On February 19, at approximately 1:20 p.m., the Los Angeles County Fire Department responded to a call of a fiery crash in the 34000 block of Pacific Coast Highway (PCH) near Mullholland Highway involving a white range rover and one other vehicle.

Paramedics attended to the injured party who was then air lifted to an area hospital for treatment.

There was significant damage to both vehicles, one reportedly having a charred engine.

PCH remained closed until the wreckage was cleared. This closure comes just days after the announcement of the nightly closings of PCH north of Malibu.

On February 14, multiple news outlets notified the public that all lanes of PCH in both directions would be closed for repairs due to storm damage and erosion from flooding. The closures began each night at 6:00 p.m. and remained closed until 7:00 a.m. from Sycamore Canyon Road to Las Posas Road in Ventura County (Caltrans).

By Sharon

MALIBU—On Thursday, February 8, the city of Malibu announced that Los Angeles County property owners may be eligible for tax relief if their property was damaged or destroyed by the recent storms or other natural disasters such as wildfire, earthquake or flood.

The city of Malibu indicated on its website to qualify, an application for reassessment of the damaged/destroyed property must be filed with the Los Angeles County Assessor’s Office within 12 months of the date of the damage. To qualify, individuals must file an Application for Reassessment: Property Damaged or Destroyed by Misfortune or Calamity (ADS-820) with the Assessor’s Office.

In addition, if one’s property was substantially damaged or destroyed by a Governor-declared disaster, Prop.19 provides for your property’s tax base to be transferred to a comparable property within the same county or another county in California. Visit the Prop. 19 page for more information.

The loss must be greater than $10,000. For more details and to apply, visit:  https://assessor.lacounty.gov/tax-relief/disaster-relief.

By Trevor

MALIBU—On Monday, February 5, the city of Malibu reported on its website that the minimum wage in the city will increase to $17.27 per hour starting July 1, 2024. The increase is in accordance with the City’s Minimum Wage Ordinance which includes a 2.2 percent cost-of-living increase based on the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics Consumer Price Index (CPI) for Urban Wage Earners and Clerical Workers in the Los Angeles – Long Beach – Anaheim statistical region (not seasonally adjusted).

“This wage reflects our dedication to creating a more equitable community in Malibu,” said Mayor Steve Uhring. “By aligning our minimum wage increases with L.A. County and some neighboring cities, we hope to help our local businesses stay competitive and be able to attract excellent staff at a time when companies across the nation face serious staffing challenges.”

The city reports on its website that Malibu’s Minimum Wage Ordinance requires that the minimum wage in the region increase every year on July 1, based on the Consumer Price Index (CPI) increase. The CPI increase is set every year in December by the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics.

Malibu City Council voted on March 28, 2016, to incrementally raise the minimum wage to $15.00 per hour by 2020. Companies with more than 25 employees were required to pay employees no less than $10.50 per hour after July 1, 2016, until reaching $15 per hour in 2020.

To provide smaller local businesses with fewer than 25 employees enough time to adjust to the changes, Malibu’s ordinance provided a one-year delay. Their minimum wage increases started July 1, 2017, and were set to rise annually on the same schedule until reaching $15.00 per hour in 2021. As of July 1, 2022, small businesses with fewer than 25 employees must also adhere to the same minimum wage established by the Ordinance (see Malibu Municipal Code Section 5.36).

All employers in the Malibu city limits are required to print out and display a poster explaining the ordinance, worker rights and protections, how to file a complaint for non-compliance, and other information. The poster is available to download, print out or share at: https://www.malibucity.org/MinimumWagePoster.

It must be placed in the same conspicuous and accessible location at all job sites where mandated federal and state labor postings are required to be displayed. Malibu is conducting direct outreach to businesses in city limits to ensure that that all businesses are aware of and are adhering to minimum wage requirements.

To view a video explaining the ordinance, visit the City’s Minimum Wage webpage.

By Trevor

TOPANGA CANYON/MALIBU—The Los Angeles County Sheriff’s Department posted on its Facebook page that an Evacuation Order was issued for Santa Maria Road from Topanga Canyon, Malibu as a result of high risk of mud and debris. The order is in effect from 6 p.m. February 3 through Tuesday, February 6 at 6 p.m.

Staying in the area could cause a risk to personal safety and have limited ability for medical or rescue personnel to get to them. The American Red Cross established an evacuation center for people impacted at ONE Generation, 18255 Victory Boulevard in Reseda, CA 91335. The center can be contacted at (800) 675-5799.

The Agoura Animal Care Center has been established as the location for affected ANIMALS. Their address is 29525 Agoura Road, Agoura, CA 91301.

Individuals living in the Evacuation Order Area must evacuate immediately to ensure their safety and that of their loved ones.

“Remember to gather medications, pets and important documents, and leave immediately. Stay informed of local news, register for emergency alerts at @readylacounty and @nwslosangeles or visit Emergency – COUNTY OF LOS ANGELES (lacounty.gov),” reads a statement from the LASD Facebook page.

By Trevor

MALIBU—On Wednesday, January 31, the city of Malibu announced that the Malibu Arts Commission invites all to see the City’s next public art exhibition in the Malibu City Gallery, the 2024 Student Art Exhibition, featuring original works by student artists. The closing reception with the artists is on March 10.

“The City’s annual Student Art Exhibition enriches the cultural life of our community and creates an important opportunity for artistic expression and creativity for Malibu’s young artists,” said Mayor Steve Uhring. “I applaud the work of the Malibu Arts Commission which continues to bring interesting and relevant art exhibitions to our City Gallery. I encourage you to come enjoy the exhibition and the reception and meet and support our young artists.”

The 2024 Student Art Exhibition will be on display starting Monday, February 5 until Friday, March 8. The Malibu City Gallery will open to the public Monday through Friday, 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. Reservations are not required, and the exhibit is free to attend. The exhibition was open to students in grades TK through 12 attending Malibu area schools.

The closing artists’ reception takes place on March 10 from 11 a.m. to 2 p.m. and will feature light refreshments and city certificates for the participating artists. This event is free for the public to attend. For more details visit: https://malibucity.org/studentartexhibit.

By Trevor

MALIBU—The city of Malibu announced in a news release on Tuesday, January 30 that as a result of community concerns, the City of Malibu Public Works Department has announced adjustments to the ongoing Pacific Coast Highway (PCH) Traffic Signal Synchronization project. The new plan is expected to enhance traffic flow while balancing project timelines.

As reported on the city’s website, the revised measures will offer two lanes of traffic in each direction by shifting one travel lane into the center median. The adjustment is aimed to address congestion issues, while maintaining production and safety levels for the construction workers and drivers. The new plan is expected to be implemented as soon as possible, pending approval by Caltrans. Malibu recognizes the impact of construction activities on daily commutes and is committed to limiting disruptions wherever possible.

Members of the community have inquired about work being performed at night. The option was considered by the Public Works Department, but they found that working at night would slow down the project timeline and increase project costs by $1 million due to required safety mitigation measures. The decision to proceed with daytime construction is to ensure a balance between project efficiency and community concerns.

Motorists can expect delays weekdays from 6 a.m. thru 3 p.m. The project is on track for completion as planned by the end of 2024.

The project will install communication lines between traffic signals on PCH from Topanga Canyon Boulevard to John Tyler Drive, synchronizing the signals to existing traffic conditions.

This will allow the signals to be controlled remotely by the Caltrans Traffic Management Center to lower traffic speeds and reduce congestion. For more details on the project visit: www.MalibuCity.org/PCHSignalSynch.

By Trevor

MALIBU—On Tuesday, January 30, the city of Malibu Community Services Department announced the invitation for children to join the new “Agents of Discovery” augmented reality program that promotes environmental education and encourages exploration of Malibu’s natural habitats.

The city of Malibu indicated on its website that the mobile app guides kids ages 4-12 on a “mission” throughout Malibu’s Legacy Park to learn about native plants, insects, animals, and birds. It begins at Malibu Library and has 11 challenges, such as finding and identifying plants and animals and answering trivia questions. Children who complete the mission will get a free Malibu Agents of Discovery badge at the Malibu Library. The Malibu Library is located at 23519 West Civic Center Way, Malibu, across the street from Legacy Park.

To get started, participants should download the free Agents of Discovery mobile app from Google Play or the Apple App Store. Click on the “Legacy Park” mission, and the City’s great blue heron will guide the user through the challenges.

The challenges are aimed to start and finish at the library and can be started anywhere in Legacy Park by opening the app and scanning the QR code on one of the informational signs posted around the park. New challenges will be created each season to provide young explorers with new opportunities to learn about Legacy Park’s ecosystems and habitats.
For more details about the Agents of Discovery Program, visit the website.

By Trevor

MALIBU—On Monday, January 29, the city of Malibu noted on its website that non-profit organizations that benefit the Malibu community are invited to apply for Malibu’s General Fund Grant Program for fiscal year 2024-2025.

Applications are accepted now through Friday, March 29 by 4:30 p.m. Additional information about the program and the application can be found at www.MalibuCity.org/GeneralFund.

Applications submitted are reviewed by the City Council Administration and Finance Subcommittee in mid-Spring. The Subcommittee makes recommendations to the City Council for award during the annual budget approval process each June.

By Trevor

MALIBU—On Thursday, January 25, 2024, the city of Malibu announced on its website they approved a long-term contract with the California Highway Patrol (CHP) to establish a dedicated three-officer traffic enforcement taskforce to patrol Pacific Coast Highway (PCH) within City Limits.

According to the city’s website, on January 22, 2024, the Malibu City Council approved the contract for the term of two years, with a financial commitment not to exceed $2 million.
“Active, visible traffic enforcement is one of the most immediate ways to make PCH safer, and will send a message that speeding and reckless driving will not be tolerated in Malibu. Despite PCH being under Caltrans jurisdiction, the City remains committed to doing everything possible within its jurisdictional ability to make PCH safer,” the city stated on its website.

The Malibu City Council declared a local state of emergency on November 13, 2023, in response to the increasing dangerous conditions on PCH, culminating in the deaths of four Pepperdine students struck by a speeding motorist while walking along PCH in October 2023.

The city of Malibu is focused on improving safety on its 21 miles of PCH, which has been a top priority for the community. The city of Malibu does not control PCH, since its incorporation, but has worked closely with Caltrans, the LA County Sheriff’s Department and other partner agencies to find ways to make PCH safer for residents, motorists, pedestrians and cyclists.

According to the City Council Agenda Report, the CHP stopped patrolling Pacific Coast Highway (PCH) in Malibu in 1991 when the city was incorporated, and the city contracted for law enforcement in Malibu with the Los Angeles County Sheriff’s Department (LASD). In 2020, Malibu secured a contract with CHP for On-Call Services for special events, but for the past two years, CHP has been unable to fulfill any requests for assistance.

According to a CHP press report, they have about 1,000 vacant officer positions across the state. CHP attributes the staffing issues to a variety of factors, including increasing retirement rates, job preferences in the private sector, and societal influence; similar issues are facing LASD.

By Trevor

MALIBU—On January 8, the Malibu City Council gave a one-time grant of $353,100 to the Malibu School Leadership Council to support local schools.

According to the city of Malibu’s website, the Malibu Parent Teacher Student Association (PTSA) and Malibu School Leadership Council (MLSC) asked city council for a professionally run centralized fundraising entity to make it possible for the community to raise and spend funds to ensure Malibu public schools have additional resources for academics, arts, and athletics.

For more details, see the staff report: https://www.malibucity.org/AgendaCenter/ViewFile/Item/6451?fileID=57922.

By Trevor

MALIBU—On Friday, January 12, the city of Malibu announced on its website that the Malibu City Council awarded permits to two organizations to operate road race events in the region. The City Council approved agreements with the Malibu Race Series and Zuma Foundation to operate the two road races that the City allows each year.

Both organizations bring significant community and charitable benefits and have plans to reduce traffic impacts.

According to the City Council Agenda Report, on December 11, 2012, the City Council adopted City Council Policy #47 – Road Race Policy (Attachment 1). In accordance with the Road Race Policy, the City may grant a maximum of two temporary use permits for marathons, triathlons, and cycling events per calendar year.

On August 12, 2013, the city of Malibu entered into a 10-year Agreement with Michael Epstein Sports Productions Inc. to host the Malibu Triathlon (Triathlon) through November 1, 2023. From 2017 to 2021 the Agreement transferred between two agencies, and from 2021 to 2023 Super League Holdings PTE LTD (Super League) organized the Triathlon.

On November 14, 2022, City Council reviewed a proposal for a new five-year Agreement with Super League, which would allow them to continue operating the event through October 2027. Council assessed the request and directed staff to bring back an item in January.

On January 9, 2023, Councilmembers Grisanti and Riggins were appointed to the Road Race Ad Hoc Committee (Ad Hoc). The Ad Hoc met with staff, reviewed the Road Race Policy, and recommended opening a Request for Proposals (RFP).

On August 28, 2023, City Council approved opening a Road Race RFP. Staff worked with the Ad Hoc to compile the proposal requirements, timelines, and selection process. The Road Race RFP was issued on August 30, 2023, and the city of Malibu received four proposals by the September 27, 2023, deadline. The Ad Hoc reviewed the proposals and conducted interviews with each race organizer.

The evaluation process examined the organization’s experience in addition to community benefits and involvement, road race impacts, registration data, proposed street closures, and financial documentation.

Following a thorough evaluation and screening process, the Ad Hoc has recommended the city award the agreements for the two allowable Temporary Use Permits to the Malibu Race Series LLC and Zuma Foundation Inc.

Malibu Race Series LLC and Zuma Foundation Inc. demonstrated a commitment to minimizing road closures and community impacts. The organizations will incorporate programs and partnerships with local organizations. In addition to coordinating the adult races, each organization will plan a children’s race to encourage fitness, goal setting, and the race experience. Fundraising opportunities will be prioritized for local non-profit organizations such as the Boys and Girls Club of Malibu and Malibu schools.

Since the December 11, 2023 Regular Council meeting, staff updated the Road Race Agreements with the following,

• Increased insurance limits and added additional coverage requirements following a recommendation from the California Joint Powers Insurance Authority (JPIA).
• Included Red Flag Warnings as a condition for a race postponement and/or cancellation (consistent with City Council Policy #47).
• Changed the MRS 2028 proposed race dates since the initial dates were on a holiday weekend.

Each race organizer agreed to work with city staff and submit all required documents, permits, and referrals as part of the race requirements listed in the City Council Policy #47

– Road Race Policy.

For more information, see the staff report: https://www.malibucity.org/AgendaCenter/ViewFile/Item/6449?fileID=57920

By Trevor

MALIBU—On January 12, the city of Malibu disclosed on its website that on January 8, 2024, the Malibu City Council adopted an ordinance to regulate Accessory Dwelling Units (ADUs) in the city, taking a step toward addressing Malibu’s housing challenges while balancing the need to preserve the community’s rural coastal village character.

The report from the Malibu City Council meeting on December 20, 2023, stated:

“Conduct second reading, unless waived, and adopt Ordinance No. 510, an ordinance of the City of Malibu approving Local Coastal Program Amendment (LCPA) No. 18-002, an amendment to the LCP to update accessory dwelling units (ADU) Regulations, and Zoning Text Amendment (ZTA) No. 18-004, an amendment to Title 17 (Zoning) of the Malibu Municipal Code (MMC) related to definitions, guest homes, and changing the term second units to ADUs, and finding the amendments exempt from the California Environmental Quality Act (CEQA); and 2) Conduct second reading, unless waived, and adopt Ordinance No. 511 approving ZTA No. 18-004, an amendment to Title 17 (Zoning) of the MMC to update ADU regulations and finding the amendments exempt from CEQA.”

Ordinance 510 states: “ORDINANCE NO. 510 AN ORDINANCE OF THE CITY OF MALIBU APPROVING LOCAL COASTAL PROGRAM AMENDMENT 18-002, AN AMENDMENT TO THE
LOCAL COASTAL PROGRAM TO UPDATE ACCESSORY DWELLINGUNIT REGULATIONS, AND ZONING TEXT AMENDMENT NO. 18-004, AN AMENDMENT TO TITLE 17 (ZONING) OF THE MALIBU MUNICIPAL CODE RELATED TO DEFINITIONS, GUEST HOMES AND CHANGING THE TERM SECOND UNITS TO ACCESSORY DWELLING UNITS, AND FINDING THE AMENDMENTS EXEMPT FROM THE CALIFORNIA ENVIRONMENTAL QUALITY ACT.”

The city of Malibu defines an ADU as: “an attached or a detached residential dwelling unit that provides complete independent living facilities for one or more persons and is located on a lot with a proposed or existing primary residence. An accessory dwelling unit also includes the following:
1. An efficiency unit, as defined in Section 17958.1 of the California Health and Safety
Code and the California Building Code; and
2. A manufactured home, as defined in Section 18007 of the California Health and Safety
Code.”

ACCESSORY DWELLING UNIT, ATTACHED – an accessory dwelling unit that is
physically attached to the primary dwelling unit and share an interior wall or as an additional story above the primary dwelling unit, but which has independent, direct access from the exterior.

ACCESSORY DWELLING UNIT, DETACHED – an accessory dwelling unit that is not an
attached accessory dwelling unit.

CAR SHARE VEHICLE – a motor vehicle that is operated as part of a regional fleet by a public or private car-sharing company or organization and provides hourly or daily service. A car share vehicle does not include vehicles used as part of ride-hailing companies such as Uber or Lyft.

COMPLETE INDEPENDENT LIVING FACILITIES – permanent provisions for living,
sleeping, eating, cooking, and sanitation on the same parcel as the single-family or multi-family dwelling is or will be situated.

JUNIOR ACCESSORY DWELLING UNIT – a residential unit that
1. is no more than 500 square feet in size;
2. is contained entirely within an existing or proposed single-family structure;
3. has a separate exterior entrance;
4. includes its own separate sanitation facilities or shares sanitation facilities with the existing
or proposed single-family structure; and
5. includes an efficiency kitchen.

KITCHEN, INCLUDING AN EFFICIENCY KITCHEN – an area within a structure that is
used or designed to be used for the preparation or cooking of food and that contains each of the following:
1. A cooking facility with appliances including, but not limited to: ovens, convection ovens,
stoves, stove tops, built-in grills or similar appliances.
2. A food preparation counter or counters that total at least 15 square feet in area.
3. Food storage cabinets that total at least 30 square feet of shelf space.

A coastal development permit is required for all detached and attached ADUs and ADUs located inside an existing accessory building including when legally established accessory structure is demolished and is replaced with a new structure for the purpose of creating an ADU. Fire sprinklers are required inside an ADU and not short-term rentals less than 30 days will be allowed.

An ADU may be rented, but no ADU may be sold or otherwise conveyed separately from the lot and the primary dwelling (in the case of a single-family lot) or from the lot and all of the dwellings (in the case of a multi-family lot), as stated in Ordinance 510.

For more details, see the staff report: https://www.malibucity.org/AgendaCenter/ViewFile/Item/6435?fileID=57906.

By Trevor

MALIBU—On Monday, January 8, the city of Malibu posted on its website that they are inviting community members to join the upcoming virtual workshops to learn about the importance of, and be able to participate in, Malibu’s Organic Waste Recycling Program, on Wednesday, January 17, at 7 p.m.

The organic Waste Recycling Program allows the city to fulfill its commitment as a community to be part of the efforts to address climate change and protect the environment.

The virtual workshops are aimed to help residents properly separate their organic waste and learn about the importance of organics recycling.

Workshop Zoom Link

Malibu was awarded state grant funds via the SB 1383 local assistance grant program to help implement its Organic Waste Recycling Program. Attendees will receive a free kitchen scraps collection caddy (limit one per household). The 1.9 gallon, dishwasher-safe caddies are easy to fill, carry, empty, and clean, offering a convenient way to collect food scraps to be recycled.

Participants who complete the workshop can contact Environmental Programs staff at 310-456-2489 to arrange to pick up their caddy at Malibu City Hall. Be prepared to show identification with a Malibu address and proof of attendance.

The city created a free Zero Waste Guide to help residents learn how to sort their food scraps based on their hauler’s requirements. The guide is available on the website.
Each waste hauler serving Malibu has different requirements. Malibu Garbage Disposal District customers can learn more at www.CleanLA.com/OrganicWaste and other City residents can learn more at www.MalibuCity.org/organics.

By Trevor

MALIBU—The city is inviting community members to join a virtual community meeting to discuss homelessness in Malibu on Wednesday, January 17, starting at 11 a.m.

“The homelessness crisis impacts everyone, housed and unhoused, here in Malibu and across the state,” said Mayor Steve Uhring. “It is critical that the City continue to offer outreach to help people experiencing homelessness to get into housing and comprehensive services This meeting will offer an opportunity for residents to join the discussions with our homeless service providers, law enforcement, City officials, business and civic leaders, and fellow community members.”

According to the city of Malibu website, participants can ask questions, share concerns, and hear updates on homelessness, homeless outreach efforts, and services from the City’s Homeless Outreach Team through The People Concern, the Los Angeles County Sheriff’s Department (LASD) the Las Virgenes-Malibu Council of Governments (COG) Homeless Outreach Coordinator, and City staff.

The city started contracting for homeless outreach services in 2017, beginning with two outreach workers and expanding in 2020 to include a housing navigator. The city of Malibu is aiming to balance its service-based approach to this humanitarian crisis with the need to address the public safety, environmental, wildfire safety and quality-of-life impacts of homelessness on the community.

The results from the Los Angeles Homeless Service Authority (LAHSA) Homeless Count on January 25, 2023, showed a continued decrease in people experiencing homelessness in Malibu. Since 2017, when the city started tracking the data, the homeless population has continuously declined as follows:

-2017 – 178
-2018 – 155
-2019 – 154
-2020 – 239
-2021 – 157
-2022 – 81
-2023 – 71

The meeting link is posted at www.MalibuCity.org/Homelessness. For more details, contact Public Safety Liaison Luis Flores at 310-456-2489, ext. 236 or lflores@malibucity.org. For information about Malibu’s efforts to address homelessness, visit the Homelessness webpage.

By Trevor

MALIBU—On December 30, the Ventura County Emergency (VC Emergency) information source announced a flood advisory issued by the National Weather Service (NWS) that was in effect until December 30, at 11:00 a.m. PST for southwest California, including portions of southern Los Angeles County and eastern Ventura County.

In addition, VC Emergency announced evacuations for residents bordering the Pacific Coast Highway (PCH) from Seacliff Avenue South to Emma Wood Group Camp. As of December 30, at 2:50 p.m., these evacuations were lifted.

Flood warnings remain for the PCH, into the area of the Santa Monica Mountains and North of Malibu in the Canyon News coverage area along with the aforementioned areas of Los Angeles and Ventura counties. 

High Surf Warnings are still in effect. VC advises residents, and those traveling in these areas, and North of Malibu to avoid all coastal jetties and piers. Due to high waves that could wash people off the jetties and rocks without warning, and rip currents that increase the risk of drowning.

The following beaches and piers are closed through December 31, 2023, due to flooding and possible beach erosion, especially during high tide each morning.

All California State Parks, Ventura State Beach, All City of Ventura public beaches, Ventura Pier, All City of Oxnard public beaches, Port Hueneme Pier, Faria Beach, the Rincon Parkway RV area, Kiddy Beach, Silverstrand Beach, Hollywood by the Sea, McGrath State Beach, Mandalay State Beach, San Buenaventura State Beach, and Emma Wood Campground are all closed.

Channel Islands Harbor Entry and Ventura Harbor Entry are closed.

The following information came directly from the VC website. Those with questions regarding the presence of sandbags are encouraged to contact the City Corporate Yard at 1060 Pacific Avenue in Oxnard, or call (805)385-7950.

Sandbags can be expected from Ventura-Marina Park at 2950 Pierpont Boulevard in Ventura through to the Ventura County Fairgrounds at 10 W. Harbor Boulevard, and to Fire Station 25 located at 5674 Pacific Coast Highway.

By Sharon

MALIBU—On Sunday, December 26, at approximately 6 p.m. a motorcyclist was fatally struck by a car on the Pacific Coast Highway (PCH) in Malibu. The victim, who was later identified as Jose Alfonso De Lira Piedra, 32, of Burbank was declared dead at the scene.

A traffic alert went out on Instagram and X warning travelers that all lanes of PCH in all directions were closed at (SR-1) for a 2.5-mile area south of Leo Carillo State Beach.

There has been an increase in traffic accidents on PCH in recent years. On June 8, the LASD Aviation Unit captured video of a woman rescued after driving off PCH and plunging into the Pacific Ocean.

In October, four Pepperdine University students who were killed by a driver traveling at the speed of 104 mph on PCH. In early December, one individual was ticketed for driving 80 mph in the same area. The speed limit is 45 mph.

On November 17, Lt. Erica Aklufi of the Santa Monica Police Department indicated in an email to Canyon News that a suspect had been arrested after throwing a pole into traffic on November 10.

Canyon News reported a meeting at Malibu City Hall on November 14 where the PCH Task Force met with the Malibu City Council to discuss the dangerous conditions on one of California’s most scenic highways. A website was formed aimed at keeping the community informed of the ongoing efforts to improve safety on PCH. 

According to reports, the LASD, the California Highway Patrol, and other authorities continue to receive an increase in 911 calls due to speeding, reckless driving, accidents, and fatalities on Pacific Coast Highway.

By Sharon

MALIBU—The National Weather Service has issued a high surf advisory for the Malibu region thru Saturday, December 10 at 10 p.m. where dangerous rip currents are possible in the area.

For the Coastal Flood Advisory, moderate coastal flooding is expected per the NWS. In addition, a High Surf Advisory, large breaking waves of 7 to 12 feet with dangerous rip currents. Local sets of 15 to 20 feet will be likely near Point Conception, as well as Hermosa, Manhattan, and Palos Verdes Beaches.

Other regions that can be impacted include Catalina and Santa Barbara Islands, Santa Barbara County Southwestern Coast, Santa Barbara County Southeastern Coast, Malibu Coast and Los Angeles County Beaches.

The flooding of sea water is possible during the time frame, and parking lots, beaches and walkways can be impacted. No significant damage is expected to roads or structures.

Rip currents can pull swimmers and surfers out to sea. Large breaking waves can lead to injury, wash people off beaches and rocks and capsize small boats.

From today through Saturday there can be residual high tides of 6.0 to 6.5 feet that can increase the coastal flooding risk.

The NWS is informing the public to take necessary steps to ensure safety to flood-prone property. Motorists are warned to NOT drive around barricades or through water with unknown depths.

By Trevor

MALIBU—On Wednesday, December 20, at approximately 1:00 p.m. police responded to a call in the 6000 block of Cavalleri Road. The “Two and a Half Men” actor, Charlie Sheen called 911 to his home after a neighbor reportedly tried to strangle him. 

Reports indicate Sheen answered a knock at the door of his Malibu rental home,  to find an irate woman who reportedly attacked him, ripped his shirt, and commenced choking him. Police and an ambulance responded to Sheen’s Malibu home. He was not taken to the hospital.

The female intruder who was later identified as 47-year-old, Electra Schrock, was arrested on charges of assault with a deadly weapon, and an attempted burglary charge. Reports indicate that she was given a court date and released.

This was not the first instance between Schrock and Sheen. The actor relayed to responding officers that he believed that the suspect may have been responsible for dumping trash on his property and putting a sticky substance on his vehicle.

Canyon News checked the inmate roster for the Los Angeles County Sheriff’s Department and did not find any booking records on the suspect.

Carlos Irwin Estevez, 58, known professionally as actor Charlie Sheen is famous for his role in the TV sitcom, “Two and a Half Men”, but appeared in TV dramas and comedies including a slot on “Everybody Loves Raymond”, and films from “Badlands” in the 70s to “Major League II”, “Money Talks”, “Hot Shots”, and the majority of the others he starred in were from the mid-seventies, eighties, nineties, and into the 2000s.  Sheen also played roles opposite his brother Emilio Estevez.

Sheen’s career did not come to a halt but slowed down significantly in the last 20 years due to an alleged drug addiction.  He later admitted publicly to being HIV positive.  He also had some assault charges against him.  Reports indicate that Brooke Mueller, his third wife, and mother to Sheen’s twin sons, Max and Bob, also accused her husband of assault and insinuated that Sheen may be insane.

By Sharon

MALIBU—The city of Malibu announced that city offices will be closed starting Friday, December 22 thru Monday, January 1, 2024. The period is designated for staff to spend quality time with their loved ones.

While city offices will be closed limited city services will be available during this time to ensure that any urgent matters are addressed promptly.

Limited Services: While some city services will be available, such as Code Enforcement and Building Safety Inspections, there will be a decrease in staffing levels, and response times may be longer than usual. The last day to submit Special Event Permits or Temporary Use Permits in 2023 will be December 21.

Emergency Services: Emergency services, including Los Angeles County Fire and Sherriff’s Departments, will operate as usual to ensure the safety and well-being of our community. Public Safety monitoring and alerts will continue.

City Programs and Events: Limited programs will be available at the Michael Landon Community Center. Visit the Community Services Department webpage for more information.

Public Counter Hours

The Planning and Building Safety Online Portal will be unavailable for plan review or permit submittal requests from December 21, 2023, 5:30 p.m. through January 2, 2024, 7:30 a.m. For Planning and permit expirations, email mplanning@malibucity.org or mbuilding@malibucity.org prior to the expiration date. City appeal periods will be tolled to accommodate the closure. The Malibu Municipal Code prohibits construction of any kind on City holidays MMC 8.24.050(G) which includes Christmas and New Year’s Day.

Limited services will be available during the closure via email and phone:

-Code Enforcement – 310-456-2489, ext. 384

-Building Safety Inspections– 310-456-2489, ext. 259

-Fire Rebuild Contract Planner – 310-456-2489, ext. 385 or ashah@malibucity.org

-Contract City Reviewers (Biology, Geology, Coastal Engineering, Environmental Health) – see the handout for contact information.

-Contract Planners – look up Contract Planners’ contact information in the City Staff Directory.

By Trevor

MALIBU—The city of Malibu announced on Thursday, December 14 of the launch of a new website aimed to keeping the community informed about ongoing efforts to improve safety conditions on Pacific Coast Highway (PCH) within Malibu city limits.

The website, www.MalibuCity.org/PCHSafety, is intended to serve as a central hub for updates, resources, and key information related to PCH safety projects, and milestones. This initiative represents a significant step forward in the City’s commitment to transparency, education, and community engagement on all things PCH.

“Our goal is to create an environment where safety is a shared responsibility. This webpage serves as a vital tool for keeping our community and stakeholders informed about the ongoing efforts to enhance public safety on PCH in Malibu,” said City Manager Steve McClary. “We believe that an informed community is a safer community.”

The newly created website is designed to be a one-stop destination for residents, businesses, and visitors seeking the latest information on PCH Safety efforts. Key features include, but are not limited to, the following:

-City Updates: Stay informed about any recent actions taken by the City of Malibu to address safety concerns on PCH.

-Events and Meetings: Find information on recent or upcoming events, meetings and opportunities for community involvement and collaboration relevant to PCH safety.

-PCH Safety Taskforce Updates: Stay engaged with summaries and outcomes from PCH Taskforce meetings as we actively work to address challenges and implement solutions to improve safety along this vital corridor.

-Updates on efforts by County and State Elected Officials: Stay informed on the latest developments from our local and State legislative partners working towards enhancing safety measures on PCH.

-Enforcement Initiatives: Learn about our efforts led by LA County Sherriff’s Department and California Highway Patrol to improve traffic management, promote safe driving practices and address specific safety concerns.

-Resources: Find valuable resources, including PCH traffic and law enforcement reports and statistics to better understand the current state of PCH safety.

-Fact Sheet: A list of actions the City has taken to improve PCH safety.

Improving the safety of Pacific Coast Highway has been a goal for the community. PCH is a state highway under the jurisdiction of Caltrans, leaving the city of Malibu with limited ability to make changes to the highway. Malibu has taken numerous actions and invested millions of dollars in recent years to improve PCH safety within its ability.

Conditions on PCH have gotten hazardous with excessive speeding, reckless and distracted driving, and intoxicated driving. Since 2010, 58 individuals died on Pacific Coast Highway in Malibu. During the past 10 years, the city has had more than 4,000 traffic collisions, 1,600 of which involved injuries, and more than 100,000 traffic citations have been issued. On October 17, 2023, four Pepperdine students were killed after being struck by a speeding motorist while walking on PCH.

On November 13, 2023, the Malibu City Council declared a Local Emergency. The proactive measure underscores the urgency and significance of addressing this threat to public safety in our community.

Community members can visit www.MalibuCity.org/PCHSafety regularly to stay informed and engaged in the collective effort to improve safety on Pacific Coast Highway. Any significant updates on the PCH safety effort will be posted on the website, as well as on the city’s social media platforms.

By Trevor

MALIBU—The Los Angeles County Sheriff’s Department Malibu/Lost Hills Station are searching for two women who have ties to an organized Romanian theft group that targeted a Sephora establishment in Malibu on November 3.

The LASD reported the women entered the Sephora located at 3896 Cross Creek Road around 12:40 p.m. and committed a Grand Theft, after going to the cosmetic section. Once there, they concealed items inside of a black booster skirt. The suspects later exited the establishment with the unpaid items and entered a black 2011 Toyota Sienna Minivan.

The Sephora store suffered a loss of $3,611 in merchandise. Anyone with information about the incident is asked to contact the LASD Malibu/Lost Hills station at (818) 878-1808 ATTENTION: Detective Lopez. Anyone looking to remain anonymous can call “LA Crime Stoppers” by dialing (800) 222-TIPS (8477), use your smartphone by downloading the P3Tips app.

By Trevor

MALIBU—A 1.8 magnitude earthquake was reported 8.7mi WNW of Malibu on Tuesday, December 12. The earthquake was reported at 07:59:53 UTC per the United States Geological Survey.

There were no reports of any damage in the region, but the quake could also be felt in the following cities: Westlake Village, Thousand Oaks, Agoura Hills and Camarillo.

The number of stations that reported the seismic activity was 42 and it had a minimum distance of 5.2 kilometers.

Earthquakes have the potential to cause significant damage to property and injuries to humans with high magnitudes. If ever in the presence of an earthquake, individuals are advised to drop, cover and hold-on.

The USGS reports on its website to do the following if ever in the midst of an earthquake:

•  If you are INDOORS — STAY THERE! Get under a desk or table and hang on to it (Drop, Cover, and Hold on!) or move into a hallway or against an inside wall. STAY CLEAR of windows, fireplaces, and heavy furniture or appliances. GET OUT of the kitchen, which is a dangerous place (things can fall on you). DON’T run downstairs or rush outside while the building is shaking or while there is danger of falling and hurting yourself or being hit by falling glass or debris.
• If you are OUTSIDE — get into the OPEN, away from buildings, power lines, chimneys, and anything else that might fall on you.
• If you are DRIVING — stop, but carefully. Move your car as far out of traffic as possible. DO NOT stop on or under a bridge or overpass or under trees, light posts, power lines, or signs. STAY INSIDE your car until the shaking stops. When you RESUME driving, watch for breaks in the pavement, fallen rocks, and bumps in the road at bridge approaches.
• If you are in a MOUNTAINOUS AREA — watch out for falling rock, landslides, trees, and other debris that could be loosened by quakes.
• If you are near the OCEAN – see these safety rules from NOAA’s Tsunami Warning Center.

The state of California participates in the Great Shakeout Earthquake Drills each year.

By Trevor

MALIBU—A small brush fire was extinguished by firefighters the Los Angeles County Sheriff’s Department Malibu/Lost Hills Station indicated on X on Saturday, December 9.

It was reported that deputies with the LACOFD were on the scene of 19419 Pacific Coast Highway about the fire. Firefighters remained on the scene to monitor any hot spots that could flare up.

Traffic in the region was closed in both direction and reopened to the public after 9:30 p.m. per authorities.

There were no reports of any injuries during the incident.

By Trevor

MALIBU—On November 29, the city of Malibu indicated in a news release that work will start on Pacific Coast Highway (PCH) starting between Topanga Canyon and Big Rock Drive in Malibu the week of December 4 on Malibu’s Traffic Signal Synchronization Project, which is a significant measure to date to improve safety and mobility on PCH.

“Since 2010, 58 individuals have died in accidents on Pacific Coast Highway in Malibu, and it is no surprise that improving safety on this iconic highway has been a top priority for our City,” said Mayor Steve Uhring. “Our signal synchronization project is a major step toward our goal of a safer PCH. Once completed it will make PCH safer for our residents, for the 40,000 commuters who pass through Malibu every day and for the 15 million visitors who visit Malibu every summer.”

The goal of the project is to make PCH a safer “Smart Corridor” by installing communication lines between the existing traffic signals on PCH from Topanga Canyon Boulevard to John Tyler Drive to synchronize the signals to existing traffic conditions. It will allow signals to be controlled remotely by the Caltrans Traffic Management Center to lower traffic speeds and decrease congestion.

New equipment will capture real-time traffic data and send it to the traffic signal controllers who will be using state-of-the art software to adjust the traffic signal timing to actual traffic volume. Vehicles going the speed over the speed limit will run into red lights, while those going the speed limit will encounter green lights. The project has new closed circuit TV cameras at each intersection; replace existing signal poles, street improvements and Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) accessibility upgrades, Adaptive Traffic Control System (ATCS) sensors, and changeable message signs.

The project was approved by the Malibu City Council in 2017 and is a step toward achieving the top priority of Malibu’s PCH Safety Study.

According to CalTrans, PCH at Malibu Canyon Road sees roughly 4,600 cars per hour, or approximately 40,500 vehicles per day during peak hours during the summer months. About 1,215,000 vehicles pass through Malibu on PCH every month during the summer.
In the past 10 years, Malibu had more than 4,000 traffic collisions, 1,600 of which involved injuries and more than 100,000 traffic citations have been issued.

On October 17, 2023, four students from Pepperdine were killed by a speeding motorist while walking along PCH. Excessive speed is a commonly cited violation every year.

Speeding and improper turns are the most common contributing factor to collisions, both ofwhich will be directly addressed by the Traffic Signal Synchronization Project. The system will be used to enhance emergency evacuations and keep traffic moving rapidly and safely.
The $34.6 million project is fully funded through Measure R funds administered by the Los Angeles County Metropolitan Transportation Authority and is expected to take about one year to complete.

Work hours will transpire Monday through Friday 9 a.m. – 3 p.m. with alternating lane closures in both directions, mostly on the right-hand lanes. Summer work hours (Memorial Day to Labor Day) will be Monday through Friday 7 a.m. – 4 p.m., with some nighttime work.

Residents can expect noise, lights, vibrations, and dust while work is being complete. Individuals are sked to look for workers and work vehicles in and around the roadway and altered traffic patterns. Under California law, traffic citations are doubled in construction zones. For more details visit www.MalibuCity.org/PCHSignalSynch.

By Trevor

MALIBU—The city of Malibu announced on November 30 that residents can bring their pets to the Santa Paws event, a Holiday Celebration for Dogs and their Humans on Sunday, December 10 from 10 a.m. to 12 p.m. at Malibu Bluffs Park (24250 Pacific Coast Highway at Malibu Canyon). Reservations are recommended for free, family and animal-friendly event. Dogs must be on a leash and under control of their owner at all times.

Participants and their animals will receive a give-away bag and can sign up for the fun Ugly Holiday Sweater Parade, and there will be treats for people and pups. Local pet businesses and Community Class Dog Obedience instructors from Canine Logic will have information booths. People can take a photo with their dog and Santa from 10:15 a.m. to 11:45 a.m.

Attendees can make a donation to support a local animal shelter by visiting www.MalibuCity.org/HappyHolidays. Holiday attire is encouraged by attendees.

For additional even information visit www.MalibuCity.org/SantaPaws or call 310-317-1364. Register for the event at www.MalibuCity.org/Register (click “All Programs,” Special Events,” “Santa Paws”).

By Trevor

MALIBU—The city of Malibu announced in a press release on Thursday, November 30 that children in the community can attend the annual Breakfast with Santa on Saturday, December 16 from 9 a.m. to 11 a.m. at Malibu City Hall (23825 Stuart Ranch Road).

Attending kids will receive a breakfast box that includes Belgian waffle sticks, fresh fruit cups, and assorted pastries. Adults can enjoy coffee, hot chocolate, orange juice and eggnog (non-alcoholic), while the kids enjoy story time with the Malibu Library, holiday games, art activities, and meet Santa and Mrs. Claus.

Reservations are available online for $10 per person at www.MalibuCity.org/Register (click the “Special Events” tab). The event is expected to sell out ahead of time, so interested parties are asked to register in advance. Walk-up registrations will only be available if spaces are available.

For more event details visit www.MalibuCity.org/Santa or call 310-317-1364.

By Trevor

MALIBU—The city of Malibu is offering guidance to help community members prepare for the predicted El Niño weather patterns and possible damaging weather conditions that could come to the area this winter.

The city reported in a press release that according to an August 2023 ENSO forecast by the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA), there is a greater than 95 percent chance that El Niño conditions will continue through the 2023-24 winter, and a 66 percent chance of a strong El Niño.

Previous strong El Niños have been characterized by extended periods of high intensity rainfall, triggering heavy runoff, floods, mudslides, debris flow, and landslides both inland and along the coast. Past patterns with El Niños coinciding with high tides have affected coastal areas. NOAA predicts approximately 44 days of high tides during the 2023-2024 winter occurring near the holiday, which highlights the need for El Niño preparedness.

Checklist To Help The Community Prepare For the Winter Season Includes:

-Inspect slopes: Visually inspect all sloped areas for signs of erosion gullying, surface cracks, and slumping. Inspect buildings, patios, retaining walls, and garden walls for signs of cracking or rotation, which may indicate slope movement has occurred. If signs of slope movement are observed, consider contacting a California-licensed geologist or geotechnical engineer for a site inspection.

-Inspect bare ground: Large bare areas may be sources for mudflows during rain. Consider covering or vegetating bare areas before storm season. Consider covering and securing mounds of loose soil or fill material.

-Inspect drains and gutters: Visually inspect and remove debris from retaining wall drains, surface drains, culverts, and gutters before storm season. Storm water runoff should be directed into appropriate drainage control areas to avoid excessive soil saturation.

-Inspect structures: Visually inspect all structures, including seawalls, revetments, and bulkheads, for signs of distress, loss of material, obstructed drainage, or exposed reinforcing steel before storm season and after every rainstorm. If significant problems are observed, consider contacting a California-licensed engineer for maintenance suggestions.

-Inspect Roofs: Visually inspect roofs, or hire a roofing contractor, to check for loose tiles, holes or other signs of distress.

For questions about stability, flooding, mudflows or erosion contact the City Geology staff Monday through Thursday 9 a.m. to 12 p.m. or email mbuilding@malibucity.org.

Free sandbags are available at Los Angeles County Fire Stations. Plastic sandbags are prohibited in Malibu, except for use by emergency response agencies during emergency conditions. It is illegal to remove sand from beaches in Los Angeles County. Sand is crucial for beach habitats. Call Fire Stations for availability of sand and sandbags or use the Los Angeles County sandbag locator website.

-Fire Station #70: 3970 Carbon Canyon Road. 310-456-2513
-Fire Station #71: 28722 W. Pacific Coast Highway. 310-457-2578
-Fire Station #88: 23720 W. Malibu Road. 310-456-2812
-Fire Station #99: 32550 Pacific Coast Highway. 310-457-3706

For forecasted strong El Nino conditions, resources for inland and shoreline properties, and other information, visit the El Niño webpage.

By Trevor

MALIBU—The city of Malibu announced on their website that potential PSPS (Public Safety Power Shutoffs) power outages in multiple neighborhoods in east & west Malibu from Monday, November 20 thru Tuesday, November 21 as a result of hazardous windy fire conditions in order to prevent its equipment from starting a wildfire.

The PSPS warning is for multiple circuits (Galahad, Nicholas & Serra circuits), but they can alter with changing wind patterns. Southern California Edison is notifying customers directly. To obtain more details look up PSPS power outage status at http://www.SCE.com/PSPS. Look up your circuit and map at www.MalibuCity.org/PSPS.

Individuals are being informed to be prepared for potential power outages, fire, evacuations, hazardous road conditions due to branches in the road and malfunctioning traffic signals. Under CA law, come to a complete stop at any malfunctioning traffic signal.
Monitor local news using AM/FM car, solar, handcrank and battery powered radios, which work when the power is out.

All flammable furniture and materials should be moved from the house and people are asked to secure furniture. Check on elderly or disabled neighbors. Seniors, people who rely on wheelchairs, medical devices, or are otherwise not mobile, and owners of horses and large animals should consider leaving the area early. Open garaged doors or electric gates beforehand in case the power goes out.

Malibu has an agreement with SCE to station an SCE Community Resource Crew Vehicle at Malibu Bluffs Park (PCH and Malibu Canyon Road) 8 a.m. to 10 p.m. Monday and Tuesday to allow people to charge devices and get information.

LA County power outage preparedness guide – https://ready.lacounty.gov/power-outage.

See power outage preparedness information: https://ready.lacounty.gov/power-outage.

The city of Malibu is expected to send out emergency alerts as needed and post all emergency information on the website. All current City alerts are posted at www.MalibuCity.org/alerts. Sign up for alerts at www.MalibuCity.org/news (scroll down to “Alert Center”). Sign up for LA County emergency alerts at: https://lacounty.gov/emergency/alert-la.

If evacuations transpire, the city will utilize the Everbridge Disaster Notification System. Most cell and landline phone numbers in Malibu are in the system, but residents and businesses can create a profile at www.MalibuCity.org/DisasterNotifications to change or alter additional contact details.

By Trevor

MALIBU—The City will host a Special Public Meeting of the PCH Taskforce on Tuesday, November 14, at 10 a.m. at Malibu City Hall (located at 23825 Stuart Ranch Road) with City, County and State elected officials and Caltrans to discuss ways to address dangerous conditions on Pacific Coast Highway in the region.

State Assemblymember Jacqui Irwin, 42nd District, will chair the meeting, and will be joined by State Senator Ben Allen, 24th District, Malibu Mayor Steve Uhring, LA County Supervisor, 3rd District, Lindsey Horvath, Malibu City Manager Steve McClary, Malibu-Lost Hills Sheriff’s Station Commanding Officer Captain Jennifer Seetoo, Rafael Molina, Deputy District Director, Division of Traffic Operations, Caltrans District 7 and Lee Haber, Chief Safety Officer, Division of Traffic Operations, Caltrans District 7.

Members of the public can attend, watch, and give public comment in person at Malibu City Hall or via the Zoom meeting. Join the Zoom meeting.

The meeting agenda is available online.

The fact sheet on the City of Malibu’s efforts to improve safety on PCH is available to review online.

The City of Malibu reported on its website that the PCH Taskforce is a coalition of law enforcement, traffic engineers, Caltrans, and local and state elected officials working for solutions to make PCH safer for all users, from the McClure Tunnel in Santa Monica to the Ventura County line. The taskforce serves to update residents on ongoing projects related to the highway. It is chaired by Assemblymember Irwin and Senator Allen.

On October 19, the city noted on its website they are working to improve the safety on PCH after 4 students at Pepperdine University were killed after a crash. There are 21 miles of PCH in Malibu.

“The City was shocked and saddened by the loss of the four Pepperdine University students on October 17. Our hearts are with all of those who have been impacted by this tragedy. While the City does not control PCH, since its incorporation, Malibu has worked closely with Caltrans, the LA County Sheriff’s Department and our other partner agencies to find ways to make PCH safer for residents, motorists, pedestrians and cyclists. We will continue to push for resources to achieve a higher level of safety for our community,” said the City of Malibu in a statement.

The city is focused on enhancing safety on PCH, and will continue to do so with the following projects and programs:

CITY-FUNDED TRAFFIC SAFETY IMPROVEMENTS ON PCH

To date, Malibu has allocated and spent approximately $39 million dollars on traffic safety improvement projects on PCH, including:

-PCH Bike Route along Zuma Beach

-PCH and Kanan Dume Arrestor Bed – The project was built to stop runaway vehicles from crashing into PCH

-La Costa pedestrian crosswalk signal

-PCH and Big Rock traffic signal improvements

-PCH traffic signal synchronization project

-PCH median improvements project

-PCH Las Flores and Rambla Pacifico intersection improvements

-PCH and Trancas Canyon Road intersection improvements

The City currently has $8 million dollars of funds obligated towards future PCH safety improvement projects, including:

-PCH median improvements near Paradise Cove and Zuma Beach

-Traffic safety improvements at PCH and Big Rock Drive

-Pedestrian undercrossing at Corral Canyon Beach (by Malibu Seafood)

PCH TRAFFIC SIGNAL SYNCHRONIZATION PROJECT

-Work started in summer 2023 on the City’s most significant measure to date to improve traffic safety and mobility on PCH. Completion expected in 2025.

-Communications lines will be installed between traffic signals on PCH from Topanga Canyon Blvd to John Tyler Drive to synchronize them to existing traffic conditions, and they will be controlled by the Caltrans Traffic Management Center.

-According to CalTrans, during the past 10 years, there have been more than 4,000 collisions on PCH in Malibu. Speeding and improper turns are the most common contributing factors to collisions, both of which will be directly addressed by the Signal Synchronization Project. The system can also be used to help emergency evacuations move quickly and safely. The $34.6 million project is fully funded through County Measure R transportation funds.

PUBLIC SAFETY FUNDING, COLLABORATION WITH PARTNER AGENCIES AND LEGISLATION

PCH is a state highway under the jurisdiction of Caltrans, so Malibu has very limited ability to make changes to PCH. The city does as much as possible to improve safety on PCH within its ability.

-The City dedicates 28.2% of the General Fund, $16.4 million, toward public safety, of which $15 million goes toward our contract with the LA County Sheriff’s Department. The City puts additional funds every year for the Sheriff’s Department to do saturation patrols every weekend.

-Sheriff’s Volunteers on Patrol Program. The City funds the program, including their patrol vehicles – they patrol and report incidents to the Sheriff’s Dept, direct traffic after collisions, offer aid to motorists who have been in collisions and more.

-Sheriff’s Summer Beach Team. The city also funds the Beach Team every summer, which patrols Malibu’s beaches, focusing largely on alcohol consumption on the beach, which is illegal. Their work helps prevent drunk driving on PCH, and last summer they issued more than 1,000 alcohol citations.

-Automated License Plate Readers. The city started installing these tools in 2023 to offer an additional enforcement tool for Sheriff’s Department to address theft, property crimes, and other public safety and crime issues in Malibu by helping to identify suspects in fleeing vehicles, stolen vehicles, suspects with outstanding warrants, etc. The cameras are solar-powered and have backup batteries, can operate day or night, and during a variety of weather conditions.

-PCH Taskforce. For nearly two decades, the City has participated in this active coalition of community representatives, pedestrian and bicycle advocates, law enforcement, city and traffic engineers, Caltrans, and local and state elected officials. Includes cities of Santa Monica, Los Angeles, Malibu and unincorporated Los Angeles County. Collaborating and advocating for traffic safety funding, studies, etc.

-The PCH Taskforce Safety Corridor grant. The grant was awarded to the City on behalf of the PCH Taskforce, funded the purchase changeable message signs for posting traffic safety and emergency messages, three pedestrian and bicycle safety assessments and training events, and educational outreach aimed at all users of the highway, including the PCH Safety Video PSA.

-PCH Safety Study (2015). The study, in collaboration with SCAG, examined road conditions, accident patterns, and proposes strategies to improve safety on PCH in Malibu. The study recommended safety improvements for motorists, cyclists, transit riders and pedestrians. It was funded by a Caltrans Partnership Planning Grant, with a contribution from the City.

-Overnight parking restrictions of RVs and oversized vehicles. The City restricted overnight parking of oversized vehicles on multiple sections of PCH. RVs and oversized vehicles jut out into lanes, reducing visibility, forcing traffic over into the middle of the road, making it hazardous for motorists, cyclists and pedestrians.

By Trevor

MALIBU—On Tuesday, November 7, the city of Malibu noted in a news release the Malibu Arts Commission is inviting all to attend the free opening reception of the city’s next public art exhibition in the Malibu City Gallery, “Moments in Time,” a collection of portrait photographs of Dick Van Dyke, Sunday, November 19 at 12 p.m. at Malibu City Hall.

“We are very proud of the incredibly talented musicians, actors, and artists who call Malibu home, and no one is more beloved than our own Dick Van Dyke,” said Mayor Steve Uhring. “I hope everyone can join us for the opening reception and enjoy this special exhibition providing an up-close and personal look into the adventures of this nationally acclaimed entertainer. I applaud the work of the Malibu Arts Commission which continues to bring new, interesting, and relevant art exhibitions to our City Gallery at City Hall.”

The exhibition will be on display from November 20, 2023 through January 5, 2024 and is open Monday through Friday, 8 a.m. to 4 p.m. The public opening reception will feature live music by “A Call 2Peace” and refreshments. RSVPs are not needed to visit the gallery or to attend the reception.

The collection of portraits is courtesy of Laura Johansen showing the adventures of actor and Malibu resident Dick Van Dyke. It captures Dick’s life in recent years, from performances at the Kennedy Center, to Halloween celebrations, to Mary Poppins red carpets, his impact with fans, and his life out of the spotlight, at home, and with family.

“Laura Johansen’s photographs are pure artwork, almost like paintings,” Van Dyke said of his work with Johansen over the past several years. “Laura is a master of shadow and light and always capturing the moment,” said Dick’s wife, Arlene Van Dyke.

Australian-born Johansen first met Dick and Arlene in 2015 when she took some photos of the couple at a fan art exhibit. She was invited to be Dick Van Dyke’s personal photographer.

“I’m so extremely honored to be taken into their fold, that they value my special type of artwork, and trust me and my photographic eye to bring a little extra magic to their story,” said Johansen. “It isn’t every day a global icon like Dick Van Dyke asks you to come along and join in his whimsical adventures! Oh, and add a little extra whimsy with your camera!”

For more details about the exhibition, visit the Malibu Arts Commission website: https://malibuartsandculture.org/302/Dick-Van-Dyke—Moments-in-Time-Art-Exhi.

By Trevor

MALIBU—The city of Malibu reported on its website that Southern California Edison informed the city of a potential Public Safety Power Shutoff on Serra, Cuthbert and Nicholas circuits in Malibu 9 a.m., Wednesday, November 8 through 3 p.m. on Thursday, November 9 due to hazardous fire conditions, in order to prevents its equipment from starting a fire.

The Cuthbert Circuit area is approximately Latigo Canyon Road to Bonsall Drive and from PCH approximately one mile inland. The Nicholas Circuit area is from Malibu Lagoon eastward to Getty Villa and about 4 miles inland. Serra circuit runs through Malibu Canyon and approximately from Seaver Drive inland to Mulholland Highway. Look up circuit maps and other PSPS information on the city of Malibu website. Individuals can view current power outages and other PSPS information on the SCE website.

The National Weather Service issued a Fire Weather Watch for Los Angeles and Ventura Counties, including Malibu, due to gusty Santa Ana winds and very low humidity from 12 p.m. Wednesday, November 8 through 6 p.m., Thursday, November 9.

There is a 50 percent chance of winds reaching Red Flag duration Wed. afternoon through Thursday afternoon. North/northeast winds of 25 to 35 mph, with gusts up to 40 to 50 mph, and humidity ranging from 8 – 20 percent. If fire ignition occurs there could be rapid spread of wildfire that would lead to a threat to life and property. See NWS LA/Oxnard weather information.

Be prepared for potential fires, evacuations, and power outages and hazardous road conditions due to branches in the road and traffic signal outages. Under California law, always approach an intersection with a malfunctioning traffic signal as if it were an all-way stop sign.

Malibu is coordinating on preparedness with the LA County Fire and Sheriff’s Departments, Caltrans and LA County Public Works.

The Public Safety Team is coordinating with the Sheriff’s Host Team and Malibu Homeless Outreach Team to engage with people experiencing homelessness in Malibu about fire prevention and being prepared for potential evacuations. The Public Works Team will be patrolling the roads monitoring for road hazards, debris, and downed power lines.

The city and Malibu CERT Team are coordinating to be prepared to use radio repeaters and handheld radios and set up an Emergency Information Station at Zuma Beach in case of widespread power outage to be able to provide emergency information and supplies to the community if necessary. The city and KBUU 99.1 FM are coordinating to post emergency information in the local radio broadcast.

By Trevor

MALIBU—On Thursday, November 2, there was a car accident near the scene of the October 17 crash that claimed multiple lives. There were no reported injuries in the November 2 crash. There was reported property damage of the vehicles involved, and one mailbox was destroyed.

Police reports indicate that this is the fourth car accident that has occurred in the vicinity of the Pepperdine University Memorial site that was erected to honor the lives of Pepperdine University students including Niamh Rolston, Peyton Steward, Asha Weir, and Deslyn Williams on this stretch of the Pacific Coast Highway (PCH) that has often been referred to as Dead Man’s Curb.

Reports indicate that Fraser Michael Bohm, the suspect in the fatal collision, was driving at an excessive speed when he slammed into two other vehicles that fatally killed the students.

Reports indicate that Bohm’s attorney, Michael Kraut alleges that this was a road rage incident and that his client was chased onto the PCH by another individual who was also speeding. Bohm faces charges of vehicular manslaughter. His bond was set at $8 million and was then reduced to $4 million.

The most recent traffic reports are posted on Malibu City’s webpage. The information came from the Los Angeles County Sheriff’s Department (LASD) Office, Robert G. Luna, Hall of Justice, reported by Malibu City Manager, Steve McClary.

The report indicates there were 240 citations given for “unsafe speed.” 26 car accidents, in the month of September including those with and without injuries. Of the 26 car accidents, 17 occurred on PCH.

The most frequent primary collision factor was listed by LASD as “unsafe speed.” The most frequent cited violation was also listed as “unsafe speed.”

By Sharon

MALIBU—On October 25, the Los Angeles County District Attorney revealed that Fraser Bohm was charged in a fatal car crash that killed four Pepperdine University students in Malibu on October 17.

“Our hearts go out the families, loved ones and the Pepperdine University family as they cope with this unimaginable pain,” said District Attorney George Gascón. “Today we stand in deep sorrow for the loss of four innocent lives tragically taken in a senseless act. We want to assure the community that we are committed to seeking justice for those who have been taken from us too soon.”

Bohm, 22, is charged in case LA100189 with four counts of murder and four counts of vehicular manslaughter with gross negligence. He pled not guilty to all charges at an arraignment in Department 100 of the Van Nuys Courthouse. At arraignment, the previously set bail of $8 million was reduced by the court to $4 million.

On October 17, Bohm was allegedly speeding in the 21600 block of Pacific Coast Highway in Malibu when witnesses saw him lose control of his car causing him to crash into nearby parked vehicles before hitting four pedestrians who were standing on the side of the roadway. All four pedestrians died at the scene. They were identified as: Niamh Rolston, Peyton Steward, Asha Weir, and Deslyn Williams.

A memorial service was held on October 22, at the Firestone Fieldhouse with lead minister of the University Church of Christ, Pastor Eric Wilson, Assistant Professor of Biology, Helen Holmlund, the divisional dean of Business Administration, Regan Harwell Schaffer, Religion Professor, Dyron Daugherty, the Associate Director for Spiritual Life, Tim Spivey, and Pepperdine President, Jim Gash. Members of the media were not to invited to attend in person.

Pepperdine University released the following statement on their website on October 19:

“To the students who loved, lived with, and were in community with the departed members of our Pepperdine family, my heart is broken with yours,” said University President Jim Gash in a message to the Pepperdine community. “I join you in your grief as we process this profound loss.”

“In this time of immeasurable grief and heartache, we stand together as a community and turn to our faith and each other to find hope and healing in the midst of this tragedy,” said Connie Horton, Vice President for Student Affairs. “Each departed student brought a unique gift and spirit to the University, and we deeply grieve the unfulfilled hopes and aspirations of our precious community members.”

If convicted as charged, Bohm can face the possibility of multiple life sentences. The case was investigated by the Los Angeles County Sheriff’s Department.

By Trevor

MALIBU—On Monday, October 30, the city of Malibu indicated on its website that residents of the community are invited to participate in upcoming workshops and take an online survey to learn about Malibu’s Coastal Vulnerability Assessment and projected impacts of sea level rise, ask questions, and provide input.

The Coastal Vulnerability Assessment will determine the vulnerability and projected impacts of sea level rise in the region for the short-term, mid-term, and long-term.

It can help the city of Malibu know what is at risk and find potential solutions to develop a proactive approach helping the city and community plan for coastal impacts associated with climate change and sea-level rise.

Work on the project for the city’s Coastal Vulnerability Assessment was started in 2019, but posted because of the Coronavirus. The city of Malibu resumed work in the spring of 2023.
Community feedback garnered during the workshops will help inform the final portions of the Coastal Vulnerability Assessment as it nears completion.

An in-person workshop will transpire on Tuesday, November 14, 3 p.m. to 5 p.m. at Malibu City Hall (23825 Stuart Ranch Road) in the Multipurpose Room. A virtual workshop will be held on Thursday, November 16 from 3 p.m. to 5 p.m.

Register for the virtual or in-person workshop.

Community members can share input by taking the online survey. For more details, visit the website, call 310-456-2489, ext. 292, or email sandico@malibucity.org.

By Trevor

MALIBU—Homicide Detectives with the Los Angeles County Sheriff’s Department announced on Friday, October 27 that two suspects responsible for the murder of Javonnta Marshann Murphy, have been arrested and charged. On October 3, Joshua Lee Simmons and Dennis Eugene Vance were arrested in connection with the murder of Murphy, whose body was recovered inside a barrel at Malibu Lagoon State Beach.

At approximately 10:10 a.m., on July 31, a lifeguard from Malibu Beach noticed a 55-gallon plastic barrel drum floating in the lagoon. The lifeguard retrieved the 55-gallon plastic barrel drum, opened it, and discovered a deceased Black male, unclothed.

During the investigation, it was discovered that Simmons was also responsible for an Attempted Robbery in El Monte. On October 5, both suspects were arraigned, and charges were filed against Simmons, 37, and Dennis Vance, 41.

Simmons was charged with Murder – 187 P.C., Personal use of a firearm allegation – 12022.58 P.C., and Criminal Threats – 422(a) P.C. He was also charged with Attempted Robbery – 664/211 P.C., and two counts of Criminal Threats – 422(a) P.C., with a Personal Use of Bear Spray allegation – 12022(b)(1) P.C., in connection with the Attempted Robbery that occurred in El Monte on September 2.

Vance was charged with one count of Accessory After the Fact – 32 P.C., in connection with the murder of Murphy. Both suspects in the case are known to be acquaintances of the victim.

At this time the motive of this case is unknown. There is no additional information available at this time. Anyone with details about the incident is asked to contact the Los Angeles County Sheriff’s Department’s Homicide Bureau at (323) 890-5500.

By Trevor

MALIBU—On Tuesday, October 24, officials with the National Park Service (NPS) in the Santa Monica Mountains announced the temporary closure of Solstice Canyon due to the presence of a young mountain lion that attempted to attack a small dog that was being walked on a leash.

The dog was not injured during the incident. The NPS reportedly rendered aid to the dog’s owner who was reportedly hiking when the mountain lion went after the dog. The hiker received some minor lacerations on his hand when he grabbed his pup to pull him out of harm’s way.

The National Park Service’s Chief of the Wildlife Division, Seth Riley described the injury telling the LAist that the victim received a puncture wound, and it was “A scratch basically, just minor injuries.”

Officials with the NPS reported seeing a second young mountain lion in the vicinity and as a precaution closed Solstice Canyon until 8 a.m. Thursday, October 26.

By Sharon

MALIBU—On October 17, at approximately 8:30 p.m., there was a fatal traffic accident in the 21600 block of Pacific Coast Highway (PCH) near the campus of Pepperdine University. According to authorities, PCH was closed in both directions between Carbon Canyon Road and Las Flores Canyon Road. Law enforcement indicated the road may be closed for an extended period due to the ongoing investigation.

Four women were struck and killed by a car traveling at a high rate of speed. At least three others were injured. The driver has been arrested.

Pepperdine University shared the following details on their website:

“After receiving the tragic news of a fatal accident near the Malibu campus last night, the University has reason to believe the four individuals who were killed on Pacific Coast Highway were Seaver College students. The University is in contact with authorities and will assist with the notifications of family members when appropriate. Our community has experienced a tremendous loss and encourages everyone to prioritize their health and well-being.”

Pepperdine University reminded readers they will not be able to, “share names without official confirmation from local authorities.”

“As our community begins to navigate the profound grief and loss of yesterday’s tragic events, the Hub for Spiritual Life will provide the community opportunities for communal prayer and reflection. Stauffer Chapel will be open today, October 18, from noon to 8 PM and then after The Well. Stauffer Chapel will also be open tomorrow, October 19, from 10 AM to 1 PM, where the University Chaplain and Hub for Spiritual Life staff will be available to provide ministerial care to all who need spiritual support at this time. The Well, which will proceed as scheduled this evening at 8 PM at the Amphitheater, will hold a special night of prayer and worship. All are welcome to pray, reflect, mourn, and share fellowship with one another,” Pepperdine University stated on its website. 

The victims killed in the collision have been identified as seniors Niamh Rolston, Peyton Stewart, Asha Weir, and Deslyn Williams.

A prayer service will be held on Thursday, October 19 at 10 a.m. for members of the Pepperdine community. Members of the media may not attend in person but are welcome to join the event via Zoom.

By Sharon

MALIBU—On Monday, October 16, Matt Myerhoff, Media Information Officer for the city of Malibu indicated in an email to Canyon News that the state of California passed a law expanding support for Californians whose properties have been damaged or destroyed by wildfires by allowing them three additional years to rebuild before a full reassessment of their property value is initiated. The bill was signed into law by Governor Gavin Newsom on October 8, covers properties destroyed or damaged from the 2018 Woolsey Fire.

“Malibu is still recovering from the devastating 2018 Woolsey Fire, the worst natural disaster in the City’s history, and AB 1500 will offer substantial help and additional time to help property owners whose homes were damaged or destroyed to get through the rebuilding process,” said Major Steve Uhring. “I am grateful for the hard work and leadership of our State lawmakers and Governor who fought to get this protection for fire survivors.”

Assemblymember Jacqui Irwin (District 42, Thousand Oaks), whose District includes Malibu, co-authored the Bill with Assemblymember James Gallagher (District 3, Yuba City), and the city of Malibu initiated the legislation.

“Californians who have had their homes significantly damaged or destroyed by wildfires should not be made to suffer more as a result of circumstances outside their control,” said Assemblymember Irwin. “Assembly Bill 1500 provides victims of the Woolsey and Camp fires with the additional time needed to complete reconstruction and retain their base-year property tax values. Today I join with the residents of the cities of Malibu and Paradise in thanking the Governor for signing this legislation into law so the rebuilding of our communities can continue.”

Current law allows California residents whose property was damaged or destroyed by a disaster to apply the base-year value of that property to the home or structure rebuilt on the same site within five years after the disaster, if the rebuilt property is comparable to the damaged or destroyed property. With the extension, specifically for the reconstruction of properties damaged or destroyed in wildfires, it will help homeowners facing difficulty with permitting and construction delays.

Reconstructing a home or business raises additional costs including debris removal, permits, contractors, materials, etc. As a result of COVID-19, owners faced hurdles with the rebuilding process.

For residents of Malibu, the courts were less capable of processing the claims on liability for the Woolsey Fire and to come to a settlement with Southern California Edison, delaying compensation to residents, many of whom relied on that compensation to rebuild.

Malibu homeowners working on Woolsey Fire rebuild projects and need help or information related to the protections that AB 1500 offers can contact the Fire Rebuild Team at 310-456-2489 or email ashah@malibucity.org.

By Trevor

MALIBU—The Calabasas Pumpkin Festival will be held on Sunday, October 22, from 10 a.m. – 5 p.m. at Juan Bautista de Anza Park 3701 Lost Hills Road in Calabasas. The Pumpkin Festival will have live bands, vendors, kid-friendly inflatables, games, a bug and reptile show, a car show, and food truck favorites.

Calabasas is a celebration of its namesake. The word translated into Spanish is Pumpkin or Gourd. There will be pumpkin everything at The Annual Pumpkin Festival, including a pumpkin patch, pumpkin painting and crafts, pumpkin treats, and pumpkin beer may be found at the festival.

All kids 12 and under are invited to the Monster Mash Up Dance at 11 a.m. and are expected to wear a costume.

The Calabasas Pumpkin Festival is brought by the Calabasas Community Services Department. Ticket information may be found on their website.

By Trevor

MALIBU—Community members are invited to give their input on the update of the regional Hazard Mitigation Plan at the Las Virgenes-Malibu Council of Governments (LVMCOG) virtual meeting on Thursday, October 26. The meeting will take place from 6 p.m. to 7 p.m. via Zoom.

The city of Malibu reported on its website, the LVMCOG includes the cities of Malibu, Agoura Hills, Calabasas, Hidden Hills, and Westlake Village. Hazard Mitigation Plans are developed as a regional plan since some hazards cross jurisdictional boundaries.

The goal of the meeting is to gather input from the community on how to decrease the impacts of natural disasters and other hazards in the area.

During the meeting, results of a recent Risk Survey will be shared and used for discussion to review the top hazards that are issues for residents, what preparedness actions they have taken, and additional hazard reduction efforts that are needed to better protect the community.

ZOOM LINK TO JOIN THE MEETING

Meeting ID: 815 7212 5459. Passcode: 284420. Join by phone: 669 900 6833

For more details, contact Public Safety Director Susan Dueñas at 310-456-2489, ext. 313 or sduenas@malibucity.org.

By Trevor

MALIBU—Our Lady of Grace Catholic Church and School will be hosting its annual Fall Carnival from October 20-22 at 177 Ventura Boulevard in Encino. The hours will be Friday 5 p.m. – 11 p.m., Saturday 12 p.m.- 11 p.m. and on Sunday 12 p.m.- 9 p.m.

The carnival will feature rides, bands, dancing, rock and classical music, religious and secular performances, a silent auction, BINGO, food, a sports bar, a Kids Zone, and much more.

Ticket and sponsorship information along with the event schedule may be found on the Our Lady of Grace website. A charitable event will be run by volunteers to benefit Our Lady of Grace Catholic Church and School. They will be closed on Monday, October 23 for Carnival Clean-up.  All volunteers are appreciated.

By Sharon

MALIBU—The city of Malibu will participate in the “Drop, Cover and Hold On” for the Great ShakeOut, the world’s largest simultaneous earthquake preparedness drill on Thursday, October 19, at 10:19 a.m.

The public is encouraged to join the exercise in person at Malibu City Hall or conduct the drill independently, at their home, business, school, house of worship or community-based organization. Anyone at Malibu City Hall at the time of the event is asked to join the city staff for the drill and “Drop Cover and Hold On” which is the safest immediate response to an earthquake.

“A major earthquake can strike at any time and would have severe impacts to Malibu’s community, homes, infrastructure, daily lives and economy. Everyone in Malibu should be prepared for an earthquake and its aftermath, and have emergency plans and supplies to last for several days, including food, water, first aid, and medications – don’t forget your pets,” the city of Malibu indicated in a statement.

For more earthquake preparedness resources visit: www.earthquakecountry.org/sevensteps.

By Trevor

MALIBU—The city of Malibu announced on its website that Malibu City Hall will be closed Wednesday, October 18 at 3 p.m. for an all-staff evacuation drill with the Malibu – Lost Hills Sheriff’s Station and Los Angeles County Fire Department. The closure is  part of the City’s wildfire season and disaster preparedness efforts.

Malibu City Hall will re-open for regular hours Thursday, October 19 at 7:30 a.m.. Sirens and alarms may be audible.

By Trevor

MALIBU—The city of Malibu announced that the family-friendly Halloween Bu-Bash Carnival will transpire on Friday, October 27, from 2 p.m. to 4 p.m. at Malibu Bluffs Park located at 24250 Pacific Coast Highway.

The event is open to the public with an entrance fee of $8. Pre-registration is highly recommended at www.MalibuCity.org/Register. A limited number of walk-up registrations will be available on the day of the event.

Kids ages 2 – 10 years old can play carnival games and prizes, bounce houses, and a costume parade. There will be lots of photo opportunities for kids participating in the activities. Food will be available for purchase from the D’Amores Pizza food truck. For more details, contact the Community Services Department at 310-317-1364 or visit www.MalibuCity.org/BuBash.

By Trevor

MALIBU—The Malibu City Council voted unanimously to adopt the “Malibu Culture Project,” a sweeping plan with concrete steps meant to improve City operations, workplace morale and culture, and staff recruitment and retention during a special meeting on September 27.

The announcement was made on the city’s website on October 5 that the City Council and City Manager have been focusing on addressing challenges facing the city. Some include being able to provide more efficient, effective, consistent services to the community, high staff workloads and high expectations and demands for services and projects from the City Council and the community.

The Malibu City Council took several actions to advance the Malibu Culture Project that include:

-Adopting the plan’s proposed list of 20 priority projects, which replaces the current Work Plan;

-Directing the City Manager to give progress updates on the project every two months during City Council meetings;

-Scheduling the next Strategic Workshop for March 2024 to revisit and, if needed, refresh the Priority List;

-Giving direction to staff to study and come back to the Council to consider action on the recommended list of benefits to improve recruitment and retention.

For additional information on the Malibu Culture Project, including the list of city priorities and other information, see the staff report and watch the video.

By Trevor

MALIBU—On October 2, the city of Malibu announced that the newest Mayor and Mayor Pro Tem for the city were sworn in during the City Council meeting on September 25.

Video of the Malibu City Council changeover is available at: https://www.youtube.com/live/DOXVzRE1eXo?si=QI2mKGRJLY3X7L5l&t=2669 (clip starts at 44:29).

City Councilmember Steve Uhring was nominated by the City Council to serve as the newest Mayor and had his oath of office administered by his wife Marcia.

“I am honored to be elected by the City Council to serve as Mayor and I look forward to continuing my decades of service to the community and representing the people of Malibu in this role,” said Mayor Uhring.

Councilmember Doug Stewart was nominated to serve as Mayor Pro Tem. He was sworn in by his wife Sharon.

“I am honored to be selected by my colleagues to serve as Mayor Pro Tem and I look forward to continuing our collaborative, productive work together,” said Mayor Pro Tem Stewart. “We are all here to serve the people of Malibu.”

Councilmember Bruce Silverstein was thanked for his service to the Council and the community as Mayor and was presented with an honorary plaque.

Malibu is a general law city and operates under the council-manager form of government incorporated in 1991. The five-member City Council is elected at-large to serve four-year terms. The Mayor and Mayor Pro Tem are elected by the councilmembers. For more details visit https://www.malibucity.org/CityCouncil.

By Trevor

MALIBU—The city released the list of recipients of grants for the Fiscal Year 2023/2024 General Fund Grant Program which awards grants each year to local non-profit organizations whose efforts benefit the community on its website on Monday, September 25.

“As a part of the annual budgeting process, the City Council has regularly set aside funds that can be granted to worthy recipients,” said Mayor Bruce Silverstein. “In making recommendations to the full City Council, the Administration & Finance Subcommittee, on which I sit with Councilmember Doug Stewart, we used as a guide that funds should be granted to causes that are both Malibu-based and provide a benefit to the Malibu community. We were blessed with many worthy local causes, and we recommend some level of award to all applicants that satisfied our criteria for a grant, which the City Council unanimously approved.”

Recipients include:

-Aurelia Foundation $2,000

-Boys and Girls Club Malibu $45,500

-California Wildlife Center $7,500

-Cavallo Foundation $8,500

-Children’s Lifesaving Foundation $5,000

-Emily Shane Foundation $5,000

-Esperance Center $1,500

-Friends of Malibu Urgent Care $10,000

-Malibu Adamson House Foundation $10,000

-Malibu Aquatics Foundation $7,500

-Malibu Community Labor Exchange $10,000

-Malibu Elementary School PTA $20,000

-Malibu Foundation $5,000

-Malibu Friends of Music $5,000

-Malibu Search and Rescue $15,000

-Malibu Woman’s Club $7,500

-Poison Free Malibu $5,000

-Sea Save Foundation $5,000

-Webster Elementary School PTA $20,000

-Wishtoyo Foundation $5,000

All submitted applications are reviewed by the City Council’s Administration and Finance Subcommittee, and presented to the Malibu City Council for award during the annual budget approval in June.

For more details about the General Fund Grant Program, visit the website.

By Trevor

MALIBU—The City is partnering with Waste Management to host a free curbside bulky item pickup service for the community on Saturday, October 14.

Household Bulky Items are oversized items that will not fit into a solid waste bin, such as a mattress or a sofa. Residents are encouraged to donate gently used items to charitable organizations or thrift shops. The City organizes a bulky item collection day for residents every year for those who are unable to donate items.

For community members to schedule an appointment they can:

• Call Waste Management’s Service Center at 800-675-1171 before 12:00 PM on Friday, October 13. The Service Center hours are 8:00 AM – 5:00 PM. Universal Waste Systems customers may call 800-631-7016 for bulky item disposal options.
• Describe what items need to be collected so that the bulky item collection can be properly routed.
• Place bulky items at your curbside before 6:00 AM on Saturday, October 14. The bulky items may be picked up by a different truck and driver than your normal waste hauling service.
• Maximum of seven items per household.

Acceptable items include household appliances, furniture, carpet, mattresses, stereos, electronics and refrigerators.

Non-acceptable items include tires, household hazardous waste (paint, motor oil, batteries) spas, camper shells, cast-iron bathtubs or items requiring more than two persons to safety handle. Bulky items cannot exceed eight feet in length, four feet in width or weigh more than 150 pounds.

For upcoming environmental events and to sign up to receive email or text messages about upcoming environmental events go to www.MalibuCity.org/EnviroEvents.

By Trevor

MALIBU—A report detailing 46 recommendations for improving Malibu’s development services was presented during the August 28, 2023 City Council meeting. The city indicated that a consultant was hired last year to conduct a Comprehensive Development Services Review in an effort to improve Malibu’s development services and operations.

As a result of the Woolsey Fire and the Coronavirus pandemic, the city needs improvement to its development services processes.

Malibu is looking to make changes in a cohesive and holistic approach and placed an out a Request for Proposals (RFP) and hired Baker Tilly US, LLP as the consultant to perform the study.

Baker Tilly US, LLP conducted a comprehensive organization assessment, which focused on how the three city departments principally involved in permitting processes deliver development services. It included a review of organization structures, staffing, policies and regulations, customer service, and the management system used to oversee functions related to the development process.

The review considered the role and effectiveness of the Planning Commission and assessment of customer service. The consultant’s report stated while there are challenges in the region that require key changes in the organization, as well as an additional investment in staff and resources, the core process (workflow) in Malibu is normal of cities with high-performing development review processes.

According to the report, the problems with the development process in Malibu are rooted in three areas:

• Policies and Regulations: A lack of clear and consistent policies and regulations that make project review more difficult and time consuming and result in varying outcomes;
• Staffing Resources: Insufficient staffing resources that constrain the City’s capacity to handle the workload; and
• Management System: Missing components and other challenges with the management system (i.e., the interrelated tools, techniques, approaches, and methods used to manage operations), which constrain the organization’s ability to monitor and manage the development process effectively.

The report discusses such issues in detail and provides recommendations designed to address them. The complete report is available to review in the staff report: https://www.malibucity.org/AgendaCenter/ViewFile/Item/6236?fileID=53099.

Video of the presentation to the Malibu City Council is available at: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=B_Do3KHiP4A&t=13855s (clip starts at 3:50:55).

Baker Tilly US, LLP will provide the Malibu City Manager with an implementation action plan the coming weeks, with additional details to be announced once available.

By Trevor

MALIBU—TMZ reported that actor Gary Busey was alleged to be involved in a hit-and-run incident that transpired on Pacific Coast Highway last week. Video was obtained by the media outlet of a woman who indicated Busey rear-ended her vehicle in a shopping parking lot and fled the scene.

The woman followed Busey recording him as she attempted to get his attention to note he collided into her vehicle and fled the scene. Video depicts Busey pulling into a restaurant parking lot where the woman confronted Busey who refused to provide his information, but stated his insurance was Progressive, and he responded, “I’m private.” Before he drives off.

Busey has been acting since 1974 after his debut in the flick “Thunderbold and Lightfoot” directed by Michael Cimino. He was nominated for a Best Actor Oscar for his performance as Buddy Holly in the film “The Buddy Holly Story. Other films the actor has starred in include, “Silver Bullet,” “Lethal Weapon,” “Predator 2,” “The Firm,” and “Under Siege” to name a few.

He has made appearances on reality TV with bits on “Celebrity Rehab with Dr. Drew,” “Celebrity Apprentice” and “Dancing with the Stars.” Busey was injured in a motorcycle accident in December 1988 where he fractured his skull and suffered permanent brain damage after not wearing a helmet. In 1997, he had surgery to remove a cancerous tumor form his sinus cavity.

The Los Angeles County Sheriff’s Department Malibu Station is currently investigating the hit-and-run incident. Busey has not commented on the incident since it was first reported.

By Trevor

MALIBU—The city is collaborating with Heal the Bay to host the 2023 Coastal Cleanup Day at Zuma Lagoon and Westward Beach on Saturday, September 23. The event will transpire from 9 a.m. to 12 p.m. and volunteers are asking for help from adults, children, community groups and businesses.

The city of Malibu indicated on its website that California Coastal Cleanup Day started in 1985, and has become one of the biggest trash collection events in the world, with thousands participating in the state.

“The people of Malibu are a responsible custodian of the area’s natural resources for present and future generations,” said Mayor Bruce Silverstein. “That is a quote from our city’s Vision Statement, and I invite everyone in Malibu to join our city staff on Coastal Cleanup Day to help Malibu stay true to that Vision.”

Things will kick off at Westward Beach by the restroom building on Westward Beach Road www.MalibuCity.org/MalibuCleanupMap2023.  Individuals are asked to look for city of Malibu popup tents.

To protect the environment and create a zero-waste beach cleanup, volunteers are asked to:

-Bring a bucket or bag to collect beach trash

-Bring reusable garden gloves to pick up trash

-Walk, bike, carpool, or use public transportation to the site

-Bring filled reusable water bottles

-Bring sun protection (sunscreen, hat, sunglasses)

-Bring water and snacks (no single-use plastic bottles please)

For those looking to sign up to go Tinyurl.com/MalibuBeachCleanup2023. Volunteers of all ages are welcome. Anyone under 16 years old must be accompanied by an adult. Students can earn three volunteer hours for their participation. Participants are asked to sign the online waiver at https://tinyurl.com/MalibuCACleanup2023Waiver and bring the email confirmation or a signed paper waiver.

By Trevor

MALIBU—On Tuesday, August 22, at approximately 11:55 p.m., the Los Angeles Sheriff’s Department (LASD) Malibu/Lost Hills Station responded to a domestic violence call between a male and female. Authorities were called to the 19400 block of the Pacific Coast Highway south of the Los Tunas Beach near the lifeguard tower.

According to LASD Homicide Detective, Lt. Michael Gomez, officers arriving at the scene found the male between 20-25 years of age suffering from multiple stab wounds to the torso. He was transported to a local hospital where he later died.

The LASD Homicide Division is asking for the public’s help in identifying and locating the suspect who fled the scene.

Anyone with information is asked to call the Malibu/Lost Hills Sheriff’s Station at (818) 878-1808.

By Sharon

MALIBU—Malibu’s Tiny Tot Olympic Games is returning to Malibu Bluffs Park on Sunday, September 17, offering 12 different sporting activities for kids ages 2 to 6 years old.

The city of Malibu indicated in a news release that registration starts at 9:45 a.m. and an Opening Ceremony will start at 10 a.m. for 12 varied sports activities. Pre-registration is encouraged by visiting www.MalibuCity.org/Register. Registration is $5 per child and there will be a limited number of walk-up registrations available the day of the event.

The Community Services Department collaborated with a variety of instructors that will lead the sports activities. Stations include basketball with Momentum Academies, baseball with Train Goat Gainz, skateboarding with Champ Camp, soccer with Super Soccer Stars, surfing with Aspects Academy, tennis with tennis pro John Rom, martial arts with Joey Escobar, ribbon dancing with Gaylene’s Dance Studio, track with Malibu Run and an art activity with Create Studio.

There will be bounce houses and face painting for a nominal fee. Each child will receive a ribbon for their efforts, and photo opportunities will be available for parents.

For more details call the Community Services Department 310-317-1364 or visit www.MalibuCity.org/SpecialEvents.

By Trevor

MALIBU—A fisherman fell onto the rocks below Mastro’s Ocean Club at Pacific Coast Highway and Topanga on Sunday, August 20. A winch rescue by Lost Hills Sheriff’s Station, Los Angeles County Fire Department Los Angeles County Fire Department, Lifeguard Division and McCormick Ambulance EMT’s saved his life and the victim was transported to a trauma center.

The Malibu Search and Rescue Team, LA County Life Guards, LASD, and McCormick Ambulance responded at 5:30 p.m. to a reported male 50s over the side into the rocks below the establishment. The victim had been fishing and fell into the rocks below approximately 30 feet. He suffered a head injury and was in critical condition when rescuers evacuated him using a rescue winch and patient basket.

The combined teamwork during torrential rains and wind of #Hilary made the conditions particularly dangerous for rescuers.

The Malibu Search and Rescue Team posted on their Facebook page Sunday the following statement:

“Prepare for the worst, but hope for the best. Words to LIVE by. Do not hike or seek out the trails until all clear from the impending storm.  Do not try to drive through rushing water. Turn around, don’t drown. Please stay indoors Sunday/Monday.  Watch your local new sources for updates.  #LASD search and rescue resources are on alert. Make sure to have your gas tank or EV batteries full, have food, water, medicines on hand in case of a loss of power or access.”

By Trevor

MALIBU—The National Weather Service forecasts that a storm would impact Southern California, bringing heavy rain, high winds, hazardous road, beach and sea conditions, possible power outages Sunday, August 20 through evening Monday, August 21. Hurricane Hillary is moving up the coast from Baja toward LA County, and weakened to a Tropical Storm by the time it made landfall on Sunday.

The NWS issued a flood watch for LA County, including Malibu, Sunday afternoon through Monday evening. Rainfall rates of up to 1 inch per hour are possible, with 1-4 inches total. Winds were between 30-50 mph in the region.

The public was warned about heavy rain, strong wind, hazardous road conditions with flooding, mud, water and rocks in the road impacting low visibility.

Be prepared for potential flooding of creeks and low-lying and flood-prone locations, hazardous beach and ocean conditions due to beach erosion, rip currents, storm debris in the water, heavy surf and rough waters. Stay off jetties and rocks. People should stay off the beaches and out of the water, as it may be very hazardous, and stay off trails which could be hazardous due to flooding, muddy slippery terrain and rockfalls.

Sign up for alerts from the City www.malibucity.org/news (scroll down to “Alert Center”). Sign up for alerts from LA County (Fire and Sheriff’s Depts) www.Ready.LACounty.gov/Alerts.

The public was informed to secure loose items in their yards and ensure all drains on one’s property are clear (including rain gutters). The public was informed to preepare for power outages, check flashlights and batteries and backup power sources and protect refrigerated food by moving some items to the freezer and getting ice for ice chests. Property owners were informed to take pictures of your property to document the condition before the storm. Storm preparedness tips can be found in the City’s Emergency Survival Guide (p. 74) at www.malibucity.org/survivalguide.

The Los Angeles County Department of Public Health (LADPH) recommends avoiding contact with ocean within 72 hours of significant rainfall, especially near discharging creeks and stormdrains, due to high levels of bacteria and pollutants from storm runoff.

City and County Public Works crews and Caltrans are coordinating, and will be monitoring PCH and canyon roads in Malibu for hazards, using bladetrucks to keep the roadways clear, clearing drainage, and pre-placing equipment.

The Malibu-Lost Hills Sheriff’s Station had additional staff, the LA County Fire Department augmented staffing with extra lifeguards on duty, Mountains Recreation and Conservation Authority (MRCA) and had their Swift Water Rescue Team on hand, and the American Red Cross is on standby.

Monitor weather and emergency information on local news. During power outages, use battery, solar, hand crank or car radios, which will operate: 99.1 FM KBUU, 1070 AM KNX. Monitor weather conditions at https://www.weather.gov/lox. Sign up for weather, beach or emergency alerts via text or email from the City of Malibu at www.malibucity.org/news (scroll down to “Alert Center”).

All current city alerts will be posted on the website: http://www.malibucity.org/Alerts. All emergency information will be posted on the website http://www.malibucity.org and on social media: http://www.facebook.com/CityofMalibu, http://www.twitter.com/CityMalibu and http://www.instagram.com/cityofmalibu. Follow Malibu Lost Hills Sheriff’s Station on social media at https://twitter.com/LHSLASD. Sign up for emergency alerts from LA County (includes Fire and Sheriff’s Depts) www.Ready.LACounty.gov/Alerts.

By Trevor

MALIBU—On Wednesday, August 16, the Los Angeles Sheriff’s Department (LASD) announced that they are seeking the public’s assistance in locating the following individuals. If you have any information on their whereabouts, please contact LASD at the number located on the bottom of this article. Candace Nyphus Poag

On August 12, LASD requested the public’s assistance in finding a 75-year-old missing female who reportedly has dementia.

Candace Nyphus Poag, was last seen Saturday, August 12, at approximately 1:46 p.m. at 6400 block of Cavalleri Road, near Kanan Dume Road.

Poag is a white female approximately 5’6” tall and weighing around 105 pounds. LASD described her as having red hair and hazel eyes. She was last seen wearing red hooded sweatshirt and sweatpants.
LASD deputies indicated that she may be headed to Woodland Hills.

Joseph Brockinton III

On Sunday, August 13, LASD Missing Person’s Unit requested help from the public in finding Joseph Brockington III. He is described by LASD as being a black, 21-year-old male who was last seen on the 1100 block of Formosa Avenue in West Hollywood on June 18, at approximately 3:04 p.m.

Brockington is 5’10,” and approximately 160 pounds. He has brown eyes and black hair he normally keeps braided.

Anyone with information about Poag or Brockington’s whereabouts is asked to call the Sheriff’s Missing Persons Unit at 323-890-5500. Anonymous calls can be made to Crime Stoppers at 800-222-8477.

By Sharon

MALIBU—Two hikers discovered skeletonized remains in Malibu Canyon on Monday, August 7, and an investigation is now underway.

The two hikers were in what was described as an “extremely rugged area with heavy foliage” in Malibu Creek State Park and discovered the remains along with a destroyed vehicle that was marked approximately a year and a half ago. The location was approximately two miles north of Pacific Coast Highway.

It is currently unknown if the vehicle is linked to the remains found. Investigators are trying to determine if the victim was the driver or the passenger of the vehicle. There is some speculation among investigators that the victim may have been thrown from the vehicle as it went over the embankment into the canyon.

On Tuesday, August 8, Malibu Search and Rescue, the Sheriff’s Department and the Medical Examiner were on the scene trying to retrieve the remains.

LASD Homicide Bureau is investigating this case as a missing persons and a possible homicide.

Anyone with information is asked to call Crime Stoppers at (800) 222-TIPS (8477).

By Christianne

MALIBU—On Saturday, August 5th, the Los Angeles County Coroner’s department confirmed the cause of death of the man a lifeguard found inside of a 55-gallon drum in a Malibu lagoon on July 31st. The body was identified as 32-year-old, aspiring rapper, Javonnta Rashann Murphy. According to a report by Deputy Medical Examiner, Robyn Parks, the cause of death was homicide. Javonnta Murphy died of a gunshot wound to the head.

TMZ first reported that Javonnta Murphy is the brother of Jaquan Murphy, who is one of five individuals arrested in connection to the 2020 murder of rapper, “Pop Smoke.”

Javonnta Murphy played in the bands Tank and Booq.

Reports indicate that Javonnta Murphy was from South L.A, where he was raised by his mother, and with four brothers. His father, Javonnie Murphy told Los Angeles News that he was “looking for answers,” and “I want to know what happened to my baby.”

Murphy left behind a 10-year-old son, named Marley, that he had with his girlfriend, Venetta Smith.

“My dad, he loved me very much. He would always play music in his car with me and joke around with me. He always talked about how he loved his family,” Marley told ABC 7. The child’s mother also spoke to the same reporters.

“I’m still trying to process who could do this, more than anything because this seems personal. This seems like a vendetta,” Smith stated.

The family of Javonnta Rashann Murphy set up a GoFundMe page in his name.

Canyon News reached out to the Los Angeles County Medical Examiner-Coroner’s Office for more information. A Public Information Officer (PIO) named, Kelly, responded to the inquiry stating that, “The case is still open,” and indicated that Canyon News will be added to the distribution list once more information becomes available.

By Sharon

MALIBU—The city of Malibu and the Santa Monica-Malibu Unified School District (SMMUSD) are working together with the California Coastal Commission (CCC) to advance the voter-approved Malibu High School (MHS) Project for the benefit of students and families in the community.

“The City of Malibu and the School District remain committed to working together to advance the project and have had several discussions about next steps since the Coastal Commission’s July 12 meeting,” said Malibu City Manager Steve McClary. “The City and the School District are coordinating a meeting with Coastal Commission staff to work together as cooperatively and expeditiously as possible to get the project back before the City Council and back to the Coastal Commission in the fall.”

“We want to thank Malibu parents, staff and community members who shared and expressed the urgency to the Coastal Commission regarding the schedule of this project,” said SMMUSD Superintendent Dr. Antonio Shelton. “Our Malibu students deserve this state-of-the-art educational facility as soon as possible and we seek to prevent further delays that will cost local taxpayers money.”

The city of Malibu indicated in a news release that on July 10, the Malibu City Council voted unanimously to request that the CCC deny the one-year extension requested by its staff and sent a letter to the CCC requesting that the item be placed on a CCC meeting agenda as soon as possible so that the school could be built without further delay.

There were delays as a result of the Woolsey Fire and the pandemic with the coronavirus starting in 2020 were costly. There was a one-year delay proposed by the CCC staff could raise construction costs to the point that the project could become infeasible, according to the SMMUSD.

The Local Coastal Plan Amendment (LCPA) must be approved by the Coastal Commission and adopted by the city of Malibu. The amendment to the Local Coastal Plan (Specific Plan) will allow the Malibu Campus Plan to be implemented in four phases over the next 10 to 15 years.

For each phase of the Specific Plan there will be a Coastal Development Permit approved by City Planning to be constructed. Phase 1 of the campus plan includes a new high school building, restoration of the surrounding Environmentally Sensitive Habitat Area (ESHA) and associated development. Phase 1 is fully funded by general obligation bond Measure M, which passed overwhelmingly by voters in November 2018.

Malibu and the SMMUSD are working constructively with the CCC to advance the project to meet the educational needs of the Malibu community. For more details about the project, visit the SMMUSD website.

By Trevor

MALIBU— The body of a man was discovered inside of a 55 gallon oil drum that was floating in the water of Malibu Lagoon State Beach on Monday, July 31, the Los Angeles County Sheriff’s Department Homicide Bureau’s Lieutenant Hugo Reynaga said at a news conference. 

According to Lt. Reynaga, the black barrel, was first spotted floating in the lagoon around 3 p.m. on Sunday, by a maintenance worker from the state park. The worker kayaked out to the barrel and brought it to shore but refrained from opening it because it was “too heavy.” It was left on the shore.  

By Monday morning, around 10 a.m., a lifeguard noticed the barrel floating out again in the lagoon, and swam out to it and brought it onto the beach. They then opened the barrel and discovered the body.

By 10:30 a.m., LASD Homicide Bureau investigators arrived at the scene at the 23300 block of Pacific Coast Highway. By the afternoon, the barrel – still containing the body – was covered with an easy-up tent while investigators waited for officials from the coroner’s office to arrive. 

The beach was sectioned off for hours, but beach-goers were still swimming and enjoying the beach about 100 yards away, the Los Angeles Times reported. 

Whether the barrel floated into the lagoon from the ocean, or washed out from the shore, is unclear at this time. 

“At about 8 p.m., there’s a high tide here,” Lt. Reynaga said, “and there’s a possibility that the container could have come in from the ocean and then got stuck in the lagoon — but we don’t know.”

“It didn’t look, to me, like the body was decomposing or had been there awhile,” Lt. Reynaga said. 

The identity and cause of death of the victim has not yet been disclosed. This investigation remains ongoing and homicide investigators will reportedly be canvassing nearby camera footage to search for clues, the Los Angeles Times reported.

By Lacy

MALIBU—On July 29, the National Park Service announced the temporary closure of Solstice Canyon Trail, the educational shelter structure, and the TRW Overlook Trail following multiple reports of bee stings.

According to NPS officials, the aforementioned areas will be closed for proper bee removal for at least the next seven days or “Until Further Notice.” The beehives are concentrated near the trailhead in the NPS buildings. NPS contacted Apiarist (a bee specialist) for assistance in removing the bees from the recreation areas. According to experts, the bees must be agitated for several days for them to move on. On the government website for Solstice Canyon, NPS reminds visitors to be prepared stating: “BE PREPARED by taking water, food, a flashlight, a map, and first-aid supplies. Be alert for ticks, bees, rattlesnakes, and poison oak. Let someone know where you are going.”

By Sharon

MALIBU—The City announced the return of Community Emergency Response Team (CERT) training free of charge via in-person classes from August 17 through September 26. The program offers training in basic first aid, search and rescue, disaster preparedness, disaster psychology, and more.

“Following a major disaster, professional first responders who provide fire and medical services may not be able to fully meet the demand for services,” the city’s webpage for CERT reads. 

“Factors such as communications failures, road blockages, and the number of victims, may prevent people from accessing the emergency services they have come to expect at a moment’s notice when 911 is called.” 

The objective of CERT is to expand “community-wide preparedness,” offering the public knowledge of how to safely respond during a natural disaster or accident until officials can arrive.

The CERT program was developed in 1985 by the Los Angeles City Fire Department. It has since been adopted and enhanced by the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) and the National Fire Academy. The course is now recognized nationwide, and over 50,000 citizens have been trained to date. 

From August 27 through September 26, CERT classes will be held at Malibu City Hall, Tuesday evenings from 6 p.m. to 9 p.m. with the exception of the first (August 17) and second to last (September 21) classes which will be held on Thursdays. Only one class can be missed in order to receive the certification.

The structure of the classes is broken down into several modules:

Disaster Preparedness

Team Organization

Medical Class #1

Medical Class #2

Disaster Psychology

Fire Safety and Utility Controls

Light Search and Rescue Operations

Terrorism and CERT

Course Review and Disaster Simulation Drill

To learn more and sign up for the CERT program, visit www.malibucity.org/226/CERT.

By Paige Strickland

MALIBU—On Thursday, July 20, a car traveling on the 101 Freeway reported a collision, with the lone victim being an American black bear, dubbed by the National Park Service (NPS) as, “BB-12.” Authorities confirmed this bear is the same one seen from the Leo Carrillo State Beaches in Malibu, both north and south of Freeway 118, and into the Santa Monica Mountains, where it was determined that he lived alone.

Scientists have indicated that the nearest black bear population is in the Santa Susana Mountains. There has not been any reported evidence of a breeding bear population in the area.

Multiple reports indicate that BB-12 was killed on his sixth time across the Freeway in the vicinity of Newbury Park and Camarillo. The last reported BB-12 citing was as he crossed the 23 Freeway in Moorpark, approximately 16 miles from where the new wilderness crossing is being built. Reports indicate that the $90 million Wallis Annenberg Wildlife Crossing that began on April 22, 2022, has a completion date of 2025.

According to their website, on May 23, NPS captured 210 pound bear roaming just south of the 101 Freeway. Biologist did a complete examination on the bear and determined it to be a male of approximately 3-4 years of age. It was fitted with a GPS radio tracking collar, an ear tag, and set free.

The following statement came directly from the NPS webpage in May of 2023:

“He appears to be the only bear here in the Santa Monica Mountains, and he’s likely been here for almost two years based on our remote camera data,” said Jeff Sikich, the lead field biologist of the park’s two-decade mountain lion study. “This seems to be our first resident bear in the 20 years we have conducted mountain lion research in the area. It will be interesting to see how he shares the landscape with our other resident large carnivores.”

By Sharon

MALIBU—The City of Malibu announced on July 10, that Alexis Brown will be the city’s new Deputy City Manager. She’ll serve at the direction of the city manager and assistant city manager.

Brown served a similar role in Imperial where she worked as assistant city manager. She oversaw eight departments while serving Imperial. Before her position as city manager, she worked in several roles at the city of nearly 15,000: as a management analyst, public information officer and executive assistant to the city manager.

City officials praised what was called Brown’s collaborative nature and communication skills, as well as her track record as a problem solver and developer of strategic vision.

“Malibu welcomes Alexis Brown as the new deputy city manager, and we are excited to have her available to serve our community,” Mayor Bruce Silverstein said in a release. “Alexis has an impressive and varied background, with valuable experience working in relevant roles in local government and serving the residents.”

Brown was named among the “Top 20 Leaders Under 40 in Imperial County” by Valley Women’s Magazine in 2022. She also held the following positions in her career: director of marketing and special events for the Imperial & Brawley Chamber of Commerce and business development specialist for the Imperial Valley Economic Development Corporation.

“I am excited to serve the Malibu community in my new role,” Brown said. “I am looking forward to working with city leadership and staff, and building relationships with all stakeholders.”

Deputy city manager roles include, among others, planning, managing and providing administrative direction and oversight for all activities and operations of the City of Malibu; coordinating assigned activities with City departments, officials, outside agencies, and the public; fostering cooperative working relationships among City departments and various community and regulatory agencies; providing highly responsible and complex administrative assistance to the City Manager, Assistant City Manager, and City Council in coordinating and directing City-wide departmental activities and operations; serving as acting City Manager in the City Manager’s and Assistant City Manager’s absence.

By Christianne

MALIBU—As temperatures are expected to reach triple digits in California this week, local agencies warn hikers of significant heat in coastal valleys and the Santa Monica Mountains through Monday, July 17. 

Malibu Search and Rescue urges the public to avoid hiking in the Santa Monica Mountains unless it’s in the very early hours of the morning. Peak heat is expected to reach from 90 to 105 degrees in coastal valleys and the Santa Monica Mountains.

“We strongly urge you to avoid hiking during daytime (excessive heat) or evening (heat and darkness) hours,” Malibu Search and Rescue said in a Tweet.

Signs of heat exhaustion include dizziness, thirst, heavy sweating, nausea, and weakness. If a person is exhibiting these symptoms, they should be moved to a cooler area, their clothing should be loosened, and they should sip cool water. If symptoms don’t improve, medical help should be sought out to prevent heat stroke. 

Symptoms of heat stroke include confusion, dizziness, and unconsciousness. In the event someone is experiencing heat stroke, call 911 immediately. 

Malibu Search and Rescue also warns hikers of the detrimental effects high levels of heat can have on pets.

“Dehydration happens very quickly. DO NOT HIKE AT ALL WITH DOGS IN THIS WEATHER,” the agency said in a Tweet. “Leave your 4-legged buddy at home so they will be there to greet you when you return.”

LA Animal Services reminds the public about hot weather pet safety:

1. Never leave your pet in a hot car.
2. Give pets plenty of fresh water.
3. Don’t leave pets outdoors for a long time.
4. Avoid hot surfaces.

Signs of overheating in pets can be displays of panting, vomiting, warm and dry skin, or collapsing. 

By Paige Strickland

MALIBU—A vehicle crashed into the Point Dume Village shopping center in Malibu on Tuesday, July 11, at around 9:45 a.m. as first reported by The Malibu Times.

The Malibu/Lost Hills Sheriff’s Station and LA County Fire responded to the incident. Officials found the driver and they were transported to a nearby hospital for minor injuries. No other injuries were reported.

According to reports, the driver in the vehicle was attempting to park and instead of backing out proceeded forward. The collision knocked down three pillars that were supporting a roof above a table and chairs.

The shops nearby will be closed for at least three to five hours. Officials are on standby to ensure that parts of the structure don’t collapse.

By Christianne

MALIBU—On June 26, the City of Malibu removed beach access signs that were installed at three locations along Broad Beach Road, a City-owned street, near Lechuza Beach. The signs require a city permit to be issued to the Mountains Recreation and Conservation Authority (MRCA).

The city of Malibu indicated in a statement that they continue to support public access to beaches in Malibu, which is protected under state law for the entire coast of California. Beach access signs are important to visitors, public safety agencies, and nearby homeowners to ensure that beachgoers stay on safe, maintained beach access paths.

A City Encroachment permit is needed to ensure that signs are placed in a safe location using standardized equipment. Signs installed by MRCA did not have signposts designed to break away for safety when struck by a vehicle, which is required under California and federal law. They had solid 6” steel posts. The signs were removed as they were not permitted and did not conform to safety standards.

In August 2022, MRCA installed the signs for Lechuza Beach on Broad Beach Road without city permits. City Code Enforcement and Public Works notified the MRCA that the signs were unpermitted and would be removed unless a permit was requested and received. Malibu staff offered assistance to help MRCA apply for the needed permit, but MRCA did not request a permit.

MRCA responded by email on June 21 that they would remove the signs the next day. Signs were not removed. The City of Malibu notified MRCA and removed the signs on June 26. MRCA picked up the signs from the city on Friday, July 7.

MALIBU—The city of Malibu reported on its website that the Busch Drive underpass leading to the main entrance of Zuma Beach is currently closed because of flooding. Deputies from the Los Angeles County Sheriff’s Department will be on hand.

Visitors to Zuma Beach should expect:

-Expect traffic backups in and around Zuma.

-Coming from the east/Kanan Dume Road, enter Zuma Beach from PCH in the left lane only, the Busch Drive underpass is closed.

-Have your payment ready in hand.

-Slow down and drive carefully, watch for pedestrians and cyclists.

Individuals are advised to utilize public transit and to consider options from Moorpark and Thousand Oaks www.toaks.org/beachbus; from Agoura Hills https://www.agourahillscity.org/department/community-services-parks-recreation/beach-bus; from Santa Monica: https://www.metro.net/riding/schedules/?line=134-13168.

MALIBU—Airbnb announced on Monday, June 26, that up to four people will have a shot at booking a real-life mansion outfitted to resemble Barbie’s hot pink Malibu DreamHouse, free of charge. 

The Airbnb listing is hosted by Ken, with a profile photo of Ryan Gosling as the Ken character in the upcoming “Barbie” movie, set to release in theaters on July 21. 

“Welcome to my Kendom!” reads the listing. 

“While Barbie is away, she has handed over the keys to her Malibu DreamHouse this summer and my room could be yours for the night. I’ve added a few touches to bring some much-needed Kenergy to the newly renovated and iconic Malibu DreamHouse. Placed perfectly above the beach with panoramic views, this life-size toy pink mansion is a dream come true!”

Per the booking details on Airbnb, starting July 17 at 10 a.m. Pacific Time, anyone can request to book Barbie’s Malibu Dreamhouse. Four guests (two per night) will be selected by Airbnb to spend a night for free on July 21 and July 22.

The mansion features an infinity pool and slide, an “outdoor disco dance floor,” horses, an outdoor gym, and a concierge whose duties include “showing you around and setting out and arranging meals.” Other amenities include an outdoor bar and grill, an ocean-facing deck with a telescope, and a western-themed salon complete with life-sized doll accessories.

Guests will also take home their own set of “yellow-and-pink Impala skates” and a surfboard.

By Paige Strickland

SANTA MONICA—Ocean water use warnings issued by the Los Angeles County Department of Public Health continue to impact beaches this week, including areas near the Santa Monica Pier. They listed six beach areas where bacterial levels in the water exceeded health standards on Monday, June 26. 

Officials caution members of the public to avoid swimming, surfing, and playing in ocean waters of the following beach regions in LA County:

• Topanga Canyon Beach in Malibu. 100 yards up and down the coast from the lagoon.
• Inner Cabrillo Beach in San Pedro. The entire swim area.
• Malibu Lagoon at Surfrider Beach. 100 yards up and down the coast from the public restrooms.
• Mothers Beach in Marina Del Rey. The entire swim area.
• Santa Monica Pier in Santa Monica. 100 yards up and down the coast from the pier.
• Las Flores Creek at Las Flores State Beach. 100 yards up and down the coast from the creek.

The Department of Public Health recommends beachgoers check the department’s Beach Water Quality website before visiting a beach to see if there are any beach water quality warnings in effect.

Routine water quality testing is conducted throughout the week, and each location must meet state health standards before the warning can be lifted. 

“Rain flushes contaminants and pollution from city streets into storm drains, creeks, and rivers. Contaminants such as trash, fertilizer, and pet waste may increase the levels of harmful microorganisms called “pathogenic bacteria” in the ocean to potentially unsafe levels,” LA County Department of Health told Canyon News. 

“The pathogenic bacteria can be present at or near the site where contaminants enter the water.”

Swimming in water contaminated by pathogenic bacteria can cause illness and skin infections. People most likely to develop illnesses or infections are children, the elderly, and people with weakened immune systems. 

Gastroenteritis is the most common illness contracted from pathogenic bacteria in the ocean, which typically enters a person’s system through bacteria-contaminated water swallowed while swimming, according to the Department of Public Health. The symptoms of gastroenteritis include nausea, vomiting, stomachache, diarrhea, headache, or fever. 

Other common illnesses from bacteria-contaminated water include ear, eye, nose, and throat or skin infections. In highly polluted water, swimmers may occasionally be exposed to more serious diseases.

“Fortunately, while swimming-related illnesses are unpleasant, they are usually not very serious,” said LA County Public Health. “They typically require little or no treatment or get better quickly upon treatment and are not expected to have any long-term health effects.”

By Paige Strickland

MALIBU—The city of Malibu and the Los Angeles County Fire Department (LACOFD) is reminding the public that fireworks are illegal in Los Angeles County except for professionally operated, permitted displays, as the public gets ready to celebrate the upcoming Fourth of July holiday.

The possession or use of illegal fireworks in Los Angeles County can result in fines up to $1,000 and up to a year in prison. The LACOFD provides a list of public fireworks displays in the County at https://fire.lacounty.gov/fireworks-safety-and-july-4th-celebration-information.

As of June 22, the LA County Fire Department reports that no professional fireworks displays permits have been issued for July 4, 2023.

Malibu City Hall, the Senior Center and the Community Swimming Pool will be closed for the Independence Day holiday on Tuesday, July 4. City parks will be open from 8 a.m. to sunset. Alcohol, open flames and fireworks are prohibited. For more details on city parks and facilities, visit the Community Services webpage.

Malibu is expecting large numbers of visitors, especially on weekends, and “the city is working with partner agencies and putting out public messaging to help keep Pacific Coast Highway, (PCH), canyon roads, beaches and trails safe and clean for all to enjoy,” as stated on the city’s website.

“We urge all visitors who come to enjoy Malibu’s natural beauty to help keep our roads and beaches safe and clean and honor our efforts to protect our community’s safety, peace and quality of life,” said Mayor Bruce Silverstein.

The city encourages residents and visitors to help keep PCH, canyon roads, beaches and trails safe and clean with these messages on social media, with the hashtag #SafeSummerMalibu:

-Don’t drink and drive – designate sober drivers and use rideshares or taxis.

-Keep your eyes on the road – don’t text and drive.

-Slow down and watch for pedestrians and cyclists on PCH and cars pulling in and out of beach parking.

-Pack it in, pack it out – dispose of your trash in trash containers, and if you see litter, please pick it up and throw it away in a trash container.

-Alcohol, dogs and fires are prohibited on beaches in Malibu.

Malibu coordinates every year with the Los Angeles County Sheriff’s Department (LASD), Los Angeles County Department of Beaches and Harbors, California State Parks, Mountains and Recreation & Conservation Authority (MRCA), and the California Highway Patrol (CHP) to prepare for summer crowds.

The city funds the LASD Beach Team every year from Memorial Day to Labor Day. The beach patrols are an important way to address alcohol consumption on the beaches, which is illegal, and contributes to drunk driving on PCH and canyon roads. Extra traffic officers are also in place to address safety issues on the road.

The MRCA double patrols in its parks from Memorial Day to Labor Day. State Parks will have seven-day coverage and will put extra effort into addressing litter. Beaches and Harbors will increase staffing to assist with parking, maintenance, and trash on the beaches and beach parking lots.

Every summer, Malibu requests additional patrols by LASD and the Sheriff’s Volunteers on Patrol (VOPs). The VOPs are crucial for parking enforcement to ensure beach access and keep the roadways safe, they monitor and report crime and emergencies, and they help direct traffic and ensure safety at accident sites.

Residents can request assistance from CHP with street racing by calling 323-259-3200. Report suspected intoxicated drivers by calling 9-1-1. Residents may sign up for the City’s emergency and traffic alerts (scroll down to “Alert Center”).

In an effort to streamline its emergency communications processes, and in light of the abundance of traffic news and information readily available to the public, Malibu will be providing traffic alerts only during business hours for full road closures (not lane closures); in case of emergencies; or in case of planned or extended closures (such as road or utility projects).

The city will discontinue the Nixle alerting service, which is redundant since Nixle was bought by Everbridge, the system that Malibu uses for disaster notifications. All Nixle subscribers have been merged into the Everbridge system, and will still receive alerts from the City. Eliminating the Nixle system will decrease the time and number of steps it takes to put out emergency messaging.

Malibu will continue to use the website alert system for lower-level emergencies, traffic incidents, utility advisories, and beach advisories by text and email to subscribers when necessary. To sign up for website alerts, or add or remove alert subscriptions, visit the webpage and scroll to “Alert Center.”

For more details about Malibu’s alerting systems, and to sign up, visit the city’s website.

MALIBU—The Resource Conservation District of Santa Monica Mountains (RCDSMM) held a public meeting on June 17 to receive community feedback about the Topanga Lagoon Restoration Project’s proposed construction plans. 

The Topanga Lagoon Restoration Project is a multi-agency effort with goals of protecting and restoring biological and cultural resources, creating more coastal access, and proactively addressing the effects of sea level rise. This includes protecting the habitats of endangered species and preserving sites of indigenous culture.

The Topanga Lagoon is located at the base of Topanga State Park and Topanga Beach. The Restoration Project site spans into the jurisdiction of California State Parks, CalTrans, and LA County of Beaches & Harbors. 

“Wetlands in California have really disappeared quite a bit. We’re down to 5% of what was historically present in California,” said Danielle LeFur, a Senior Environmental Scientist with California State Parks Angeles District.

According to RCDSMM, the Lagoon’s mix of salt and freshwater habitats “act as a natural filtration system to protect water quality, and also hosts some of the rarest of fish and wildlife species.” Endangered species of fish such as the tidewater goby and steelhead trout are present in the lagoon, although “at very low levels.” Other species such as nesting birds, western pond turtles, and two-striped garter snakes also inhabit the greater area.

Once spanning over 30 acres, the lagoon is currently only half an acre and its mouth near the ocean has been downsized due to development. LeFur says the area has been “severely degraded” and “is not very conducive for a lot of wildlife.” Flooding due to rising sea levels is expected to negatively impact the lagoon over the next 30 years.

Jon Ota, an environmental scientist with California State Parks, introduced four alternatives of the Topanga Lagoon Restoration Project that officials are considering.

Alternative One is to end the project entirely, which would negatively impact the environment of the lagoon but keep all of the existing infrastructure. 

Alternative Two focuses on “maximizing the lagoon,” which would expand the habitat from half an acre to 10 acres while adding an acre to the sandy beach area. This option would impact the historic Topanga Ranch Motel, possibly resulting in relocation.

Alternative Three is considering the option that “maximizes historic resources on-site,” primarily focusing on restorations at the Topanga Ranch Motel, turning the buildings into a functioning overnight location, staff offices, or another “interpretive opportunity.” Some of the units at the motel will still be removed due to unstable foundations. This would limit the habitat area to seven acres.

Alternative Four “maximizes sea level rise resiliency,” which calls for realigning the bridge on Pacific Coast Highway over the lagoon. The sandy beach area would gain two more acres, the habitat area would account for seven acres, and the motel would be partially restored. 

All four of the alternatives include plans to expand the existing bridge over the lagoon on PCH from 79 feet to 460 feet.

Officials are in the process of receiving public feedback about each option and have not honed-in on a particular alternative to recommend.

“State Parks and Beaches and Harbors and CalTrans, none of the entities have a preferred preference at this point because as we talk about them we see there’s pluses and minuses of each,” said Jamie King, an RCDSMM Conservation Biologist. 

“We want to hear the public’s voices before these decisions are made, so this is a true public process,” King continued.

William Alford, a Topanga resident, was concerned about restoration plans that may impact local businesses in the area.

“I’ve heard a lot of talk about the Topanga Ranch Motel, and about the burial grounds that we want to protect, all of these heritage resources,” said Alford. 

“My question is what about the businesses that are here in play today? We’re losing our local restaurants, we’re losing the places that are our heritage, the places that we gather, the places that we exchange ideas. What are we going to do to preserve places like the Reel Inn that offer us still that unique experience that ties us to our past?”

“There will be opportunities to relocate certain businesses in certain other areas but it is very possible that there will be a loss as well depending on the alternative that is selected,” LeFur said in response.

LeFur also confirmed that the expansion of the Lagoon would not disturb residential properties nearby, but construction would temporarily affect traffic on PCH for options two, three, and four.

The next phase of the Topanga Lagoon Restoration Project will be the drafting of an Environmental Impact Report (EIR) where members of the public will have another chance to weigh in at a public meeting. A preferred alternative will also be selected. According to the project timeline, The EIR will be completed by 2024. Construction is set to begin in 2026. 

By Paige Strickland

MALIBU—On June 21, James Kwon,  the suspect who broke into  Brosnan estate was released from jail.  According to the Los Angeles County Sheriff’s Department Inmate locater, Kwon was released, “per 849(b) PC FOR DETENTION ONLY.”

The definition of the above legal code used by LASD on Kwon’s records is below.

PC Section 849(b) is used by law enforcement agencies throughout the State to release from custody prisoners who have been arrested for non-violent offenses in cases (a) where there is insufficient evidence and/or (b) which do not justify the expense of incarceration, partially in order to lessen jail overcrowding.

Kwon’s court date was scheduled for June 21, 2023, at 8:30 a.m. at the Van Nuys at the Van Nuys municipal court.  Kwon was released on $50,000 bail.

On Monday, June 19, authorities were called to the neighborhood of Irish actor and producer Pierce Brosnan and his wife, actress, and journalist, Keely Shaye Smith, after a man, later identified as James Kwon, 47, defecated and urinated in the garden of Bronson’s neighbor, before breaking into their laundry room, TMZ first reported.  

The Los Angeles Sheriff’s Department (LASD) responded to the scene of the Brosnan property which is known as, “Orchid House” to clean up.

Reports indicate that after the suspect, whose name has yet to be released, was first seen picking around through the garbage, he then used Brosnan’s neighbor’s backyard as a restroom, before he broke-in and entered Orchid House through the front door making his way back to the laundry room where the suspect cleaned himself up.

Reports indicate that one of the LASD helicopters was used to locate the suspect. He was located and has been taken into police custody by the Lost Hills Station Patrol. Brosnan has since put a restraining order out on James Kwon.

Canyon News contacted the LASD to get a mug shot of the suspect, but did not hear back before print.

Pierce and his wife, Keely, have lived in Orchid House since 2000 following the couple filming “Tomorrow Never Dies.” Public information indicates that the couple put the property which is located on Broad Beach on the market approximately a year ago.

Pierce is most famous for his role as James Bond, appearing in four films of the 007 franchise which include “Goldeneye” (1995), “Tomorrow Never Dies” (1997), The World Is Not Enough (1999), and “Die Another Day” (2002).

By Sharon

MALIBU—The Malibu City Council voted on June 12 to have the Planning Commission start holding its meetings in a hybrid in-person and remote format starting July 17, as result of low COVID-19 conditions in Los Angeles County Los Angeles County.

The city of Malibu reported in a news release that The Planning Commission meetings will follow similar procedures as the City Council meetings, which started holding hybrid meetings as a pilot program on March 27. The hybrid format allows the public to watch or give public comment both in-person at Malibu City Hall and virtually via Zoom. Malibu’s other Commissions, Committees and Boards will continue meeting virtually.

Planning Commission meetings will take place at Malibu City Hall, located at 23825 Stuart Ranch Road, and will simultaneously be held remotely using the Zoom Webinar tool. Members of the public can make public comment during the meetings either in-person or in the remote meeting.

The City Council and staff discussed the impact of the hybrid meeting pilot program for the City Council effecting logistics, staffing, technology and budgetary resources, and public participation. The hybrid meetings have been conducted pursuant to state law (AB 361), which was passed during the pandemic in 2021, allowing local government bodies to hold public meetings remotely during a state of emergency, or if necessary to protect public safety.

Viewing and commenting instructions will be included in Planning Commission meeting agendas and posted on www.malibucity.org/agendacenter. To sign up to receive notifications by text message or email whenever an agenda is posted, amended or cancelled for the Planning Commission or any other city body, visit www.MalibuCity.org/News, scroll down to Agenda Center, and select the desired meeting body.

Written comments may be sent to the Planning Commission at PlanningCommission@MalibuCity.org. The city will continue to broadcast Planning Commission meetings live on Malibu City TV Channel 3, and live and on-demand on the website at www.MalibuCity.org/TV  and the City’s YouTube channel at www.YouTube.com/user/CityofMalibu/videos.

In compliance with the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA), any member of the public who needs special assistance to participate in an in-person meeting at Malibu City Hall may contact Environmental Sustainability Director/Building Official Yolanda Bundy at 310-456-2489, ext. 229. Notification 48 hours prior to a meeting will enable the city of Malibu to make reasonable arrangements to ensure ADA accessibility to the meeting.

Requests to show an audio or video presentation during a Council meeting should be directed to Media Analyst Alex Montano at 310-456-2489, ext. 227 or amontano@malibucity.org by 12 p.m. the day of the meeting.

By Donald

MALIBU—On Saturday, May 27, the city of Malibu started operating a temporary day-use impound yard at a new location at the Malibu High School parking on Morning View Dr.

In the past few weeks, 89 vehicles have been towed into the impound yard, where they are removed at the end of each day. The impound yard will continue to be used on weekends and holidays through September 4 for the temporary storage of vehicles that are towed for illegal parking or posing a public safety hazard in Malibu.

By not towing vehicles to their regular impound yard in Thousand Oaks, the towing companies can tow away more illegally parked vehicles. In doing so, it helps ensure beach access, resident and visitor parking and keeping the roads safe and clear for emergency responders. To obtain more details, view the staff report here.

MALIBU—On Friday, June 9, a woman in a 2002 silver Mercedes drove off the Pacific Coast Highway and into the Pacific Ocean.

The Ventura County Sheriff’s Aviation Unit shared video of the rescue as the California Highway Patrol (CHP) ground and water worked with the aviation unit to get the lone victim of the crash out of the water, above the rocky shores of Malibu. She was hoisted onto the gurney and into the helicopter.

According to CHP, the driver was airlifted to Los Robles Regional Medical Center in Thousand Oaks where she was listed in serious condition. She is expected to recover from her injuries. There was no evidence of a possible DUI.

Reports indicate that the driver’s car was recovered on Sunday, June 11. The name of the victim has not been released.

By Sharon

MALIBU—The city of Malibu revealed that construction is starting on Malibu’s Pacific Coast Highway (PCH) Traffic Signal Synchronization Project in June to improve traffic safety and mobility on PCH.

“PCH is one of California’s most scenic state highways whose beach access and coastal views draw of millions of visitors per year, but it is also Malibu’s Main Street,” said Mayor Bruce Silverstein. “PCH safety and mobility are one of the most important quality of life issues in our community, so I applaud the start of this project.”

The project, which is estimated to take more than one year to complete, will install communication lines between the existing traffic signals on PCH from Topanga Canyon Boulevard to John Tyler Drive to synchronize the signals to existing traffic conditions.

According to CalTrans, PCH at Malibu Canyon Road handles roughly 4,600 cars per hour, or approximately 40,500 vehicles per day during peak hours in the summer months. About 1,215,000 vehicles pass through Malibu on PCH every month during the summer.

In the past 10 years, Malibu had over 4,000 traffic collisions, 1,600 of which involved injuries and more than 100,000 traffic citations have been issued. Excessive speed is the most commonly cited violation each year. Speeding and improper turns are the most common contributing factor to collisions, both which will be directly addressed by the Traffic Signal Synchronization Project. The system can be used strategically to help keep emergency evacuations moving quickly and safely.

The $34.6 million project is fully funded through Measure R funds administered by the Los Angeles County Metropolitan Transportation Authority.

The new traffic signals will be connected to the Caltrans Traffic Management Center, allowing Caltrans to control and operate the signals and the signal system remotely. New equipment will capture actual traffic data and send those details to the traffic signal controllers. The new traffic signal controller will contain state-of-the art software that can adjust the traffic signal timing to actual traffic volume conditions. This will help alleviate traffic congestion on PCH and decrease the response time to manually adjust the traffic signal timing.

Malibu’s contractor will be using the city’s triangular vacant parcel on Civic Center Way, PCH and Webb Way during pre-construction and construction for staging vehicles, employee and construction vehicle parking, a temporary construction office, and storage of materials and new traffic signal poles. Using this region will make the project faster and more efficient, and decrease vehicle traffic on PCH and Malibu Canyon. Per the city’s requests, the contractor will install a temporary fence and screening, and has committed to keep the location clean during construction.

The parcel was used for staging on previous projects, including the Civic Center Water Treatment Facility and the Civic Center Way Improvements Project. The Planning Department has verified that no additional permits will be required for this temporary construction staging area. Malibu will put out public messaging and traffic alerts so that motorists and neighbors know what to expect during the construction period.

For more details, see the staff report: https://www.malibucity.org/DocumentCenter/View/31963/PCH_Signal_Synchronization_staffreport_1-31-2023.

MALIBU—A total of two dozen luxury vehicles parked along Pacific Coast Highway were reportedly vandalized and burglarized between Memorial Day weekend and June 8, according to the Los Angeles County Sheriff’s Department. 

At least two suspects were captured on a resident’s home security camera near Las Flores Canyon in Malibu.

According to KTLA5, the footage shows the suspect shattering a window of the vehicle, and allegedly wiping off their fingerprints. The suspect got into a waiting vehicle with the hazards on and took off. 

The Malibu/Lost Hills Sheriff’s Department is currently investigating the matter as the suspects have yet to be identified. Anyone with details on the incident or if anyone recognizes the suspects in the footage should contact local law enforcement. 

By Paige Strickland

MALIBU—The Los Angeles County Department of Public Health closed down Malibu Lagoon State Beach, Thursday, June 8 due to the spill of an estimated 5,000 to 6,000 gallons of untreated sewage. The beach has yet to reopen to the public.

Officials advise residents and visitors to stay away from ocean water and wet sand in the closed-off areas to avoid the risk of becoming ill. The closures also span a quarter mile North and South of the main beach area. 

According to reporting by CBS, a damaged wastewater line that leaked into a storm drain located at the corner of Malibu Canyon Road and Potter Road was the source of the sewage. The wastewater line has since been stopped, and clean-up efforts are underway.

The Los Angeles County Department of Public Health requires two days of tests that show bacterial levels up to health standards before the area can reopen.

Malibu Lagoon State Beach is not the first beach within Los Angeles County to close due to a sewage spill in 2023.

Two days earlier, on June 6, a sewage spill closed beaches and swimming areas in Long Beach.

According to a press release posted by officials, approximately 50,000 gallons of sewage spilled into the Alhambra Wash which leads to the Rio Hondo Channel flowing into the Los Angeles River. A report by the Los Angeles County Department of Public Health indicated that the spill occurred due to a sewer line blockage. All beaches and swimming areas in Long Beach have since opened back up.

This was the second sewage spill affecting swimming regions in Long Beach this year. The first was caused by malfunctioning sanitation equipment that created a temporary sewer line blockage in Downey. Due to the incident, 250,000 gallons of sewage were released into the ocean on April 20. 

Earlier this year, a sewage spill on January 25 closed Mother’s Beach in Marina del Rey, Venice City Beach, and Dockweiler State Beach. An estimated 24,000 gallons of sewage were released into the ocean due to a blocked sewer line.

To view a map of closures and view beach safety updates, visit the Los Angeles County of Public Health’s website or call Los Angeles County’s 24-hour hotline at 1-800-525-5662.

By Paige Strickland

MALIBU—The city is working to help the community prepare for wildfires, earthquakes, and other disasters with its annual Public Safety Expo on Saturday, June 10 from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. at Malibu City Hall.

“Malibu is vulnerable to many kinds of disasters from wildfires to earthquakes and tsunamis, so it’s our responsibility to be prepared, and the best time to get started is right now,” said Mayor Bruce Silverstein. “I urge every resident, employee, student and business owner in Malibu to join us for the Public Safety Expo to learn how to make a plan and gather supplies so our whole community can be ready and resilient.”

The free event is part of Malibu’s ongoing efforts to help the community be more prepared for wildfires, earthquakes, floods, landslides and any other disasters that nature might bring.

The Los Angeles County Fire Department will provide a presentation about new brush clearance regulations, and the California Department of Insurance will give a presentation on wildfire insurance issues from 12 p.m. to 1 p.m. in the City Council Chambers. The presentations will be recorded and will be made available to watch on the city of Malibu website and social media.

-New Brush Clearance Regulations – Ron Durbin from the Los Angeles County Fire Department Forestry Division will be speaking on AB 3074, approved by the governor on September 29, 2020, establishes Zone 0, a 5-foot Ember Resistant Zone that may require removal of all flammable materials within five feet of any structure.

-Wildfire Insurance Issues – Armine Sargsyan, the Community Relations Outreach Analyst from the California Department of Insurance, will be speaking and answering questions on insurance issues that affect homeowners in the Very High Fire Safety Severity Zone, which encompasses all of Malibu.

Public Safety Responder Appreciation Day – The event will be a celebration of “Public Safety Responder Appreciation Day in Malibu.” To honor law enforcement and firefighting personnel, as well as the many public safety volunteers including Community Emergency Response Team (CERT), Sheriff’s Volunteers on Patrol and Arson Watch, the community is invited to come and show their appreciation by signing a special thank you book that will be presented to each group.

Earthquake Simulator -Take a ride in an earthquake simulator that recreates a realistic and educational experience of a major earthquake inside a house, highlighting the need to make your home more earthquake safe.

“Jaws of Life” Demonstration – The Fire Department will demonstrate a vehicle extraction rescue using the “Jaws of Life.”

Fire Extinguisher Training – Learn how to use a fire extinguisher.

Free Lunch – Coupons for free lunch will be provided to participants in Expo events from two food trucks offering a variety of tasty hot food, including vegan options, and shaved ice. (There will be a Limited supply. Food will also be available for purchase).

Public Safety Specialty Teams and Vehicles; Volunteer Opportunities; Emergency Preparedness Vendors – The Expo is a great opportunity for kids to learn about emergency preparedness and meet public safety and law enforcement professionals in person. Numerous vendors will have emergency preparedness equipment and supplies for sale and demonstration. Learn about a variety of volunteer opportunities with organizations including Arson Watch and Community Emergency Response Team (CERT).

-LA County Sheriff’s Department K-9

-LA County Sheriff’s Department Bomb Squad

-Malibu Search and Rescue

-LA County Fire Department

-LA County Animal Care and Control

-LA County Lifeguards

-Arson Watch

-Insurance providers

The vendors, participating agencies and trainings offered at the Expo will be listed on the website.

By Casey

MALIBU—The city of Malibu announced in a news release that the CineMalibu™ series will be returning to Malibu Bluffs Park for a summer of free, family-friendly outdoor community movie screenings with trivia, games, food trucks and more, starting with “Top Gun” (1986) on Saturday, June 17.

The goal for 2023, is to present iconic movies from the 1980s.

CineMalibu™ Schedule

• “Top Gun” (1986, PG) Saturday, June 17, 7 p.m.
• “E.T.” (1982, PG) Saturday, July 15, 7 p.m.
• “Karate Kid” (1984, PG) Saturday, August 19, 6:30 p.m.

Participants are asked to arrive early to participate in themed activities with the Malibu Library, contests, giveaways, a raffle, and to purchase tasty food from the D’Amores Pizza Truck and treats from Apollo’s Expresso and Shave Ice.

Movies start at sunset and pre-event activities start at 5 p.m. Malibu Bluffs Park is located at 24250 Pacific Coast Highway at Malibu Canyon.

At the city of Malibu booth, show a staff member that you follow the Community Services Department on Facebook, Twitter or Instagram and receive a raffle ticket for a chance to win great prizes, including gift cards to local businesses and a 30 percent off coupon for a Malibu recreation program.

Tickets or RSVPs are not required. Seating is available on a first-come, first-served basis. Bring chairs and blankets. Alcohol is not allowed at Malibu Bluffs Park. Dogs must be on leash and under control of their owners at all times.

Malibu’s CineMalibu™ series has presented free outdoor movie screenings for the community since 2005. For more details, visit www.MalibuCity.org/Cinemalibu or call (310) 317-1364.

MALIBU—Anthony Rauda was found guilty of second-degree murder on Friday, May 26, in the case of a father who was shot and killed while he was camping at Malibu Creek State Park with his children. 

On June 22, 2018, Tristan Beaudette was tent-camping with his two-year-old and four-year-old daughters at Malibu Creek State Park. In the early hours, deputies with the Los Angeles County Sheriff’s Department responded to a report of shots fired in the area. They discovered Beaudette endured a fatal gunshot wound to the head inside the tent. He died before reaching a hospital.

According to the prosecution’s witness, Stacey Sebourn, she was camping nearby on the morning of June 22, 2018. She called 911 after she heard the gunshots, a man shouting for help, and a baby crying.

The shouts for help reportedly came from Beaudette’s brother-in-law, who was also camping with his children nearby. He heard the younger of Beaudette’s two daughters crying without being consoled following “popping sounds.” Once he entered the tent, he witnessed the two girls kneeling in a pool of blood near his brother-in-law’s body. 

After a subsequent burglary incident, a scent dog and bootprints lead investigators to Rauda, who was in a makeshift encampment. According to KCAL News, authorities referred to Rauda as a “survivalist” and found that he lived off of stolen food while sleeping outside in the Malibu area. A rifle in his possession was linked through ballistics testing to the one used in Beaudette’s murder.

While prosecutors were seeking first-degree murder charges in the case of Beaudette, the jury found Rauda guilty of second-degree murder, a lesser charge. He pleaded not guilty. Rauda was also charged with the attempted murder of Beaudette’s two daughters and one other person.

In addition, he was charged with five counts of second-degree commercial burglary, which included break-ins at the Calabasas Community Center and Las Virgenes Water District facilities in 2018. 

The Beaudette family were not the only suspected victims of Rauda; according to the Los Angeles Times, Rauda fired at campsites and cars seven times, starting in November 2016, with a man who discovered pellets from a gunshot blast in his arm while sleeping near the Backbone hiking trail. The man was just one of 11 people believed to be victimized by Rauda. The jury found him acquitted on counts of first-degree and attempted murder involving seven other victims due to lack of evidence. 

By Paige Strickland

MALIBU—The city is inviting the Malibu community members to join the next virtual workshop to learn about the importance of, and how to participate in, the City’s Organic Waste Recycling Program, on Wednesday, June 15 at 7 p.m. Participants will receive a free, 1.9 gallon, dishwasher-safe kitchen scraps caddy.

According to a press release from the city of Malibu, the organic Waste Recycling Program helps Malibu fulfill its commitment as a community to be part of the efforts to address climate change and protect the environment. The virtual workshops are meant to help residents properly separate their organic waste and learn about the importance of organics recycling.

During the virtual training, individuals will learn:

-Why the City’s mandatory Organics Recycling Program is so important for the environment

-How to separate and recycle organic waste to avoid contamination of the waste streams

-The difference between organic and yard waste

After the virtual training, email Mbuilding@malibucity.org or call 310-456-2489, ext. 390 to schedule a time to pick up your caddy. Bring ID with a Malibu address and proof of attendance (a code provided in the training). Supplies are limited. Limit one per household.

Malibu received state SB 1383 Local Assistance Grant Program funds to help implement its Organic Waste Recycling Program.

The city created a free Zero Waste Guide to help residents learn how to sort their food scraps based on their hauler’s requirements. The guide is available on the website. .

Each waste hauler serving Malibu has different requirements. Malibu Garbage Disposal District customers can learn more at www.CleanLA.com/OrganicWaste.

By Casey.

MALIBU—Residents will be able to drop off old paint, motor oil, household chemicals, batteries and electronics to be safely and properly disposed of at the upcoming Household Hazardous and Electronic Waste Collection Saturday, June 17, from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. in the upper parking lot of Malibu City Hall.

The city of Malibu reported on its website that it is important to properly dispose of certain types of household hazardous waste (HHW) and electronic waste. All containers must be clearly labeled to identify the contents. Maximum amount of paint/motor oil accepted is 15 gallons or 125 pounds per trip.

Accepted materials list:

-Paint (water-based only)

-Used motor oil

-Anti-freeze

-Automotive and household batteries

-Compact fluorescent bulbs (unbroken)

-Electronics

City schedules its events on the third Saturday in February, April, June, August, and October. If it rains, the event will be cancelled.

Visit www.888CleanLA.com for information about LA County’s HHW events. For information about all of Malibu’s recycling and environmental events, visit the Enviro Calendar.

MALIBU—The city of Malibu indicated in a news release on Tuesday, May 23, the Malibu Arts Commission invites local artists to submit artwork for consideration to be featured in the next public art exhibition in the Malibu City Gallery, “Shifting Tides.”

Surfing is in Malibu’s DNA, and Malibu played an important role in the global history and culture of surfing, making it a natural subject to inspire local artists.

The submission deadline is Wednesday, June 7. Submissions will only be accepted online at https://shiftingtides.artcall.org.

Artists may submit one original work in any medium for consideration. Selected artists will be notified by June 19. For submission assistance, contact Brittany Saleaumua at 310-456-2489, ext. 349.

The exhibition will be displayed in the Malibu City Gallery in City Hall, located at 23825 Stuart Ranch Rd., from July 17 through August 25. The Gallery is open Monday through Friday, 8 a.m. to 4 p.m. Admission to the gallery is free.

The Malibu Arts Commission invites the community to the free opening reception on Sunday, July 16, at 12 p.m. The Commission will celebrate the artists and Malibu’s surf culture with a live musical performance by “A Call 2Peace,” and complementary food and beverages.

For details on the exhibition or the Malibu Arts Commission, visit www.MalibuArtsCommission.org/CallforArtists or email Community Services Director Kristin Riesgo at KRiesgo@MalibuCity.org.

By Donald

MALIBU—The city of Malibu announced on its website on Monday, May 22, that Westward Beach is one of only two beaches in the continental United States to receive the Blue Flag Environmental Award for meeting more than 30 criteria in environmental education, environmental management, safety and services, social responsibility and environmentally responsible tourism.

As reported on the city of Malibu website, the award from the international environmental organization Blue Flag recognizes Westward Beach between the Zuma Lagoon and Birdview Avenue, and the Blue Flag will be in place from May 25 through September 30.

Residents are invited to attend a public flag-raising ceremony with Blue Flag representatives, officials from the city, Los Angeles County Department of Beaches and Harbors (LACDBH) and others on Thursday, May 25 at 2 p.m. on Westward Beach by the restroom building.

As part of the award program’s mission of sustainable development through environmental education, Westward Beach will provide environmental educational activities to the public. Details about the activities will be posted on an information board at Westward Beach.

“Our sites have worked hard for several months to implement and maintain more than 30 diverse criteria to achieve award status. Their staff and communities can raise their flags with pride for going above and beyond US standards to receive international recognition for sustainable management practices,” said Annie Mercer, program coordinator for the American Shore and Beach Preservation Association (ASBPA). As a National Operator for the international Blue Flag program, ASBPA administers the program in the continental United States, Alaska, and Hawaii, as well as supports sites in reaching criteria compliance.

The program was started in 2020 by staff from the Los Angeles County Department of Beaches and Harbors as a beach management entity advising ASBPA on feasibility information, and officially entered the program as a pilot site in 2021 when the international jury reviewed their Gap Analysis.

“We’re thrilled and honored that the Westward Beach portion of world-famous Zuma Beach will fly one of the first Blue Flags in the United States. The Blue Flag will provide visitors with extra assurance that we are responsibly caring for our coast,” said Gary Jones, Director for the County of Los Angeles’s Department of Beaches and Harbors.

The Blue Flag handed out to over 5,000 beaches, marinas and tourism boats from 50 countries internationally. Sites in the Blue Flag USA program participate in four stages of engagement between the host location and the USA program: Interest, Candidate, Applicant, and Award. Interested beaches engage in Blue Flag presentations and conversations with staff.

Candidate sites submitted their Self-Assessment Questionnaire for staff review and are working to meet criteria through partnerships, educational webinars and toolkits, and one-on-one meetings with staff. Applicant sites meet all the criteria and are ready to submit a full application in the next award cycle. Applications for the Blue Flag USA program open in September and close in December. Awards are issued to sites by the International Jury each year and audited by staff.

For details about the Blue Flag program, visit blueflag.global and blueflag.us.

MALIBU—It was reported on Monday, May 21 that Jay-Z and Beyoncé bought California’s most expensive home paying $200 million in cash for the 30,000 square feet property.

The previous record was $177 million for a property that Netscape co-founder Marc Andreessen paid for in Malibu, in 2021.

Prior to Andreessen setting the record in 2021, it was held by Amazon founder Jeff Bezos who paid $160 million for his Beverly Hills home.

The $200 million dollar home sets the record for the second most expensive residence in the U.S. That record belongs to Kenneth Griffin, founder and CEO of Citadel. The businessman paid $238 million for his New York home in 2019.

Beyoncé, 41 has been active in music since she was a part of the girl group Destiny’s child in 1997. The “Break My Soul” singer has released 7 studio albums. She has appeared in the films “Austin Powers: Goldmember,” “Dreamgirls” and “Obsession.” She is currently on her Renaissance World Tour.

Jay-Z, 53, and has released 13 studio albums. He has collaborated with Rihanna, Linkin Park, Eminem and Alicia Keys. His music was featured in the films “The Harder They Fall” and “The Great Gatsby” (2013).

Beyoncé and Jay-Z married in 2008. They have three children together. They also own an $88 million home in Bel-Air.

By Rob

MALIBU—The city of Malibu is preparing to keep Pacific Coast Highway, canyon roads, beaches and trails safe as Memorial Day weekend begins the start of summer season in the region.

“We urge all visitors who come to enjoy Malibu’s natural beauty to help keep our roads and beaches safe and clean and honor our efforts to protect our community’s safety, peace and quality of life,” said Mayor Bruce Silverstein.

The city reported on its website that Malibu wants residents and visitors to help keep PCH, canyon roads, beaches and trails safe and clean with these messages on social media, with the hashtag #SafeSummerMalibu:

-Don’t drink and drive – designate sober drivers and use rideshares or taxis.

-Keep your eyes on the road – don’t text and drive.

-Slow down and watch for pedestrians and cyclists on PCH and cars pulling in and out of beach parking.

-Pack it in, pack it out – dispose of your trash in trash containers, and if you see litter, please pick it up and throw it away in a trash container.

-Alcohol, dogs and fires are prohibited on beaches in Malibu.

Malibu coordinates each year with the Los Angeles County Sheriff’s Department (LASD), Los Angeles County Department of Beaches and Harbors, California State Parks, Mountains and Recreation & Conservation Authority (MRCA), and the California Highway Patrol (CHP) to prepare for summer crowds.

The city of Malibu funds the LASD Beach Team every year from Memorial Day to Labor Day. The beach patrols address alcohol consumption on the beaches, which is illegal, and contributes to drunk driving on PCH and canyon roads. Extra traffic officers are in place to address safety issues on the road.

State Parks will have seven-day coverage and will put extra effort into addressing litter. Beaches and Harbors will increase staffing to assist with parking, maintenance, and trash on the beaches and beach parking lots.

Each summer, Malibu requests additional patrols by the LASD and the Sheriff’s Volunteers on Patrol (VOPs). The VOPs are crucial for parking enforcement to ensure beach access and keep the roadways safe, they monitor and report crime and emergencies, and they help direct traffic and ensure safety at accident sites.

The city does not control access to the state and county beaches in Malibu, and wants to reassure the Malibu community that it is working with its partner agencies on messaging to visitors to Malibu about the importance of keeping PCH, canyon roads and beaches safe and clean for all.

Residents can request help from CHP with street racing by calling 323-259-3200. Report suspected intoxicated drivers by calling 9-1-1. Residents may sign up for the City’s emergency and traffic alerts at www.MalibuCity.org/News (scroll down to “Alert Center”).

Malibu will discontinue the Nixle alerting service, which is redundant since Nixle was bought by Everbridge, the system that Malibu uses for disaster notifications. All Nixle subscribers have been merged into the Everbridge system, and will still receive alerts from the City. Eliminating the Nixle system will decrease the time and number of steps it takes to put out emergency messaging.

The city of Malibu will continue to use the website alert system for lower-level emergencies, traffic incidents, utility advisories, and beach advisories by text and email to subscribers when necessary. To sign up for website alerts, or add or remove alert subscriptions, visit www.MalibuCity.org/News and scroll to “Alert Center.”

For more details about Malibu’s alerting systems, and to sign up, visit www.MalibuCity.org/EmergencyAlerts.

MALIBU—The city of Malibu announced that the community is invited to donate blood on Thursday, June 8 during the Malibu and American Red Cross Community Blood Drive. The event will be held from 10 a.m. thru 4 p.m. at Malibu City Hall located at 23825 Stuart Ranch Road.

“Giving blood saves lives, and the Red Cross reminds us that donated blood is always needed nationwide and here in our own community,” said Mayor Bruce Silverstein. “I encourage everyone in Malibu to join this important effort.”

The city of Malibu reported on its website that throughout the COVID-19 pandemic, blood donations and blood supplies fell due to facility closures, stay-at-home orders and other impacts. Donated blood is still needed every day for surgeries, emergencies and regular medical procedures. Blood supplies are also used during major emergencies such as earthquakes, hurricanes, shootings or terrorist attacks.

The city of Malibu noted that facemasks are now “individual preference” in line with the Los Angeles County Department of Public Health guidelines.

Participants are asked to register in advance at www.RedCrossBlood.org and enter “CityofMalibu.” For more details, call 818-200-3445. Individuals are asked to bring a photo ID, and drink plenty of water and eat well before and after giving blood.

MALIBU—On Thursday, May 11, authorities arrived to the home of singer/actress Lady Gaga whose real name is Stefani Joanne Angelina Germanotta as a man attempted to gift flowers to the 37 year-old. The man only made as it far as the driveway and attempted to previously leave gifts for the “Just Dance” singer.

The man, whose identity has not been made public was informed by the police that attempting to give gifts to the singer was not a good idea.

Dutch bodyguard Peter Van der Veen is part of Gaga’s security detail. The former policeman previously worked for Australian rapper Iggy Azalea and British singer Adele.

Lady Gaga released her first album “The Fame” in 2008. The album included hits “Just Dance,” “Love Game,” “Paparazzi” and “Poker Face.” Her second album “Born This Way” was released in 2011. It contained hits “The Edge Of Glory,” “Judas” and “Born This Way.”

In 2015, Gaga played Elizabeth Johnson in the fifth season of “American Horror Story.” She won a Golden Globe Award for Best Performance by an Actress in a Limited Series or Motion Picture Made for Television. She was also featured in the sixth season of the show.

Gaga had major roles in films “A Star Is Born” alongside Bradley Cooper and “House Of Gucci” starring Adam Driver and Jared Letto. She was nominated for an Oscar for Best Actress for her work in “A Star is Born.” She won the Oscar for Best Original Song for “Shallow” in 2019.

By Rob

MALIBU—On Monday, May 8, Malibu City Council shared opposition to a new plan aimed to address deputy gangs in the Los Angeles Sheriff’s Department. They all voted unanimously against the proposal and plans on sending a letter to the Board of Supervisors detailing their opposition. 

Back in February the Sheriff Civilian Oversight Commission issued a report revealing evidence that deputy gangs exists in the police department stating that these groups, “engaged in egregious conduct such as violations of law, the excessive use of force, [and] threats to the public or department members” — and deputy cliques, which include both gangs and other “exclusionary subgroups.”

One of the plans to help address this issue was proposed during the city council meeting where the department would rotate deputies between stations at a cadence of no less than every five years. Other recommendations were also proposed. 

“We believe that rotating the deputies currently assigned to the sheriff’s Malibu/Lost Hills Station will disrupt the strong bonds and relationships that local deputies have built, which have been critical to our station’s success,” the council’s letter reads. “By requiring deputies to be reassigned every five years, this recommendation would be depriving our community of experienced and trusted law enforcement personnel with the specific institutional knowledge required to effectively serve the unique and diverse needs of our community.”

According to the report that was published by the Sheriff Civilian Oversight Commission which designed to oversee the LASD, deputy gangs have been operating in various neighborhoods for the past 50 years who are primarily working in predominantly working class and minority neighborhoods. Some of these groups include the Banditos, Executioners, Regulators, Spartans, Grim Reapers, Rattlesnakes and Vikings. 

The report states that among the 80 or so people interviewed, “several witnesses would only testify anonymously and some did so remotely, using a voice distortion device out of fear of physical or professional retaliation. Several witnesses who had agreed to testify withdrew, often the night before the proposed testimony, out of similar fears.” 

These gangs recruit male deputy sheriffs based on their ethnicity and willingness to engage in violence and coverups according to the report. 

“Some of these groups have engaged in acts of violence, threatened acts of violence, placed fellow Deputies at risk of physical harm, engaged in acts celebrating officer-invaded shootings, and created a climate of physical fear and professional retribution to those who would speak publicly about the misconduct of such groups,” the report reads.

“Deputy Cliques that evolve into Deputy Gangs meet the definition of “law enforcement gang” in California Penal Code Section 13670. The problems they cause in the Department, however, go beyond their “gang-like” behavior. Deputy Cliques are rooted in secrecy and exclusivity. They undermine the Department’s leadership and supervision, foster insubordination, and are detrimental to the morale of other deputies and staff by exercising power and decision making that is fundamentally inconsistent with the para-military, chain of command structure of law enforcement agencies such as the Department. By exercising influence ordinarily reserved for supervisors and management, such as controlling assignments, schedules, and promotions, their existence within stations, bureaus and units of the Department violates fundamental principles of professional policing. But Deputy Cliques, whether they meet the definition of “law enforcement gangs” must be eradicated as they are the seeds from which Deputy Gangs develop,” the report included.

Malibu City Council’s decision comes after multiple groups have been urging cities in Los Angeles county to send similar letters. These groups include the Association for Los Angeles Deputy Sheriffs and the union representing deputies.

Canyon News contacted Sheriff Robert G. Luna who is the Sheriff of Los Angeles County and the Association for Los Angeles Deputy Sheriffs for a statement on the matter but did not hear back before print. 

By Christianne

MALIBU—Opening statements for the Tristan Beaudette, 35, murder case were issued on Monday, May 8. Anthony Rauda, 46, is the suspect who is being accused for the murder of Beaudette while he was camping with his family at Malibu State Creek park back in June of 2018.

A witness by the name of Scott McCurdy, who is the victim’s brother-in-law, told the jury at a downtown Los Angeles courthouse that he heard loud popping the night of the murder. He explained that he was in a nearby tent at the campsite and was awakened by the noise. McCurdy stated that he initially thought the sound might have been fireworks or sounds coming from a nearby fire pit. 

During his testimony he explained that he overheard two girls crying. “I heard the girls crying,” he said, telling jurors that Beaudette’s youngest daughter said, “Wet, wet” and that he didn’t think anything about it at the time. He decided to leave his tent to see what was going on. He saw the older sister talking to the younger sister. The girls were identified as Beaudette’s daughters. 

McCurdy approached the girls and tried to comfort them. He also tried to wake his brother-in-law and turned on his phone which was found to be slippery and wet. After he touched the phone he found that his hand had touched blood. 

When he turned and examined the body he found his brother-in-law was in a pool of blood. McCurdy searched for a pulse and tried to get Beaudette’s daughters out of the tent. “I noticed there was nothing in his eyes,” said McCurdy. “I realized he was gone and I left.” McCurdy also stated that he found a small hole in the tent which was recently purchased.

Beaudette was an Allergan scientist from UC Irvine. Both his daughters were aged 2 and 4 during the time of his murder. They were both uninjured. 

Rauda is facing murder charges along with attempted murder charges involving a series of early morning shootings that have transpired between 3 a.m. and 5 a.m, including one in which a man who had been sleeping in a hammock. He is also facing five counts of second-degree commercial burglary involving a series of break-ins, including two at the Calabasas Community Center and two at the Las Virgenes Water District facility between July 2018 and October 2018, that primarily involved food that was taken from the facilities.   

Another witness spoke earlier in Monday’s trial. Stacey Sebourn stated that she was camping at the same location during the morning of the murder. She was sleeping in her tent when she woke up to gunshots. Sebourn recounted that she called 9-1-1 after she heard crying and a man calling for help. 

During her call she said she whispered into her phone because she didn’t want to bring attention to her tent. Sebourn said she was petrified.

By Christianne

MALIBU—The city of Malibu is hosting a free outdoor screening of “21 Miles in Malibu,” the documentary produced by Malibu resident Michel Shane, exploring the safety issue on Pacific Coast Highway in Malibu on Friday, May 19, at 7: 30 p.m. at Malibu Bluffs Park.

According to the city of Malibu website, the event will start with a community discussion about PCH safety, before the screening begins after sunset. The film is a hybrid of personal stories of loss, the history of a loved place, and a cautionary tale of government indifference and citizen activism. The story highlights the Shane family, who lost their 13-year-old daughter Emily Shane in 2010, who was struck by a motorist while walking along Pacific Coast Highway.

The film by Shane Gang Pictures and the directors of “Enormous: The George Story” and the executive producer of “I, Robot,” and “Catch Me If You Can” is intended for audiences 16 years old and older.

The event is free to attend, and tickets are not required. Malibu Bluffs Park is located at 24250 PCH at Malibu Canyon Road. Picnics, blankets, and chairs are welcome. No BBQs or alcohol allowed.

For more details about the screening, visit the city of Malibu website. For information about the film and the project, visit www.21milesinmalibu.com or follow @21milesinmalibu on Instagram.

SANTA MONICA/MALIBU—A Santa Monica Superior Court jury decided on April 21, that rapper Soulja Boy, whose real name is DeAndre Cortez Way, 32, was liable for the payment due to an alleged incident that occurred at his Malibu home on February 1, 2019. Kayla Myers claims she was held against her will and assaulted by the rapper. The rapper rose to fame in 2007 with the single, “Crank That (Soulja Boy).”

Myers indicated in the complaint that Soulja Boy and his assistant assaulted her after she was booted from a party at his home. An argument with the assistant ensued, which Soulja Boy broke up and punched and kicked her. She alleged to be pistol-whipped and tied to a chair in the garage where she was held for over six hours with an extension cord or duct tape.

“Way held the gun to Ms. Myers’ head and told her she was going to die that night and she would not make it home,” the original complaint read.

The rapper denied the allegations and claimed the damage inflicted to Myers was inflicted by his manager. He also claimed Myers was the aggressor on the night of the incident. The jury awarded $1,800 of the damages due to “mental health expenses” and $234,100 towards “physical and mental pain and suffering.”

Soulja Boy has not yet commented on the verdict that was recently announced.

By Rob

MALIBU—On Tuesday, April 25, a traffic collision occurred on Pacific Coast Highway near Rambla Pacifico Street in Malibu.

According to a witness, a white truck was making a left turn into a gas station and collided with a silver SUV. Minor injuries were reported but it is currently unclear which party was injured.

One lane of PCH is closed in each direction at Rambla Pacifico Street while LA County Fire Department and sheriffs are on the scene investigating. Southbound lanes are merging into one and delays are expected.

The city of Malibu announced the road closures around 9 a.m.

By Christianne

MALIBU—The Malibu-Pacific Palisades Chamber of Commerce’s State of the City Address is scheduled for Wednesday, May 3. During the address, Mayor Bruce Silverstein will talk about highlights and achievements accomplished in the previous year and will discuss the city’s finances, address upcoming major projects and issues in the year ahead.

“All of Malibu is invited to join us to discuss and reflect on the City’s successes and challenges and celebrate our beautiful and unique community,” said Mayor Bruce Silverstein.

The free event will occur at 10 a.m. at the Santa Monica College (SMC), Malibu Campus, located at 23555 Civic Center Way (next to the Malibu Library). Space is limited, and RSVPs are required. An overflow room with monitors will be available on site to watch the event.

Each year, the State of the City features speakers including county and state representatives, and is attended by Malibu’s business and civic leaders, and representatives from schools, non-profit organizations, and houses of worship.

Mayor Silverstein will be joined by speakers and special guests including Los Angeles County Supervisor, 3rd District Lindsey P. Horvath, City Manager Steve McClary, SMC Associate Dean Alice Meyering, Malibu-Lost Hills Sheriff’s Station Commanding Officer Captain Jennifer Seetoo and Chamber Board Chair Ian Roven.

Supervisor Horvath will talk about county issues that impact Malibu; Alice Meyering will discuss the new SMC campus; Captain Seetoo will give an update on crime and safety in the community and the new Sheriff’s Substation at the SMC campus; and Ian Roven will give an update on the Chamber’s work to support Malibu businesses.

To RSVP and to find learn more details, including sponsorship opportunities, visit https://www.malibu.org/events/details/state-of-the-city-2023-malibu-address-11077.

MALIBU—On Monday, April 17, Malibu’s Planning Commission voted to continue the Malibu Inn Motel Project until May 31. 

According to the city website, the Malibu Inn Motel, proposed to be located at 22959 Pacific Coast Highway, is for the construction of a new 7,693 square foot motel above a new subterranean parking garage, surface parking lot, grading, retaining walls, landscaping and a new onsite wastewater treatment system; including variances for non-exempt grading in excess of 1,000 cubic yards per acre of commercial development, construction on slopes steeper than 2.5 to 1, surface parking within the required front yard setback, and retaining walls in excess of six feet in height, a site plan review for a building height in excess of 18 feet, not to exceed 28 feet for a pitched roof, a conditional use permit for a new commercial development over 500 square feet and a motel in the CV-1 zoning district, and for a Joint Use Parking Agreement to share parking spaces with the adjacent lot to the east.

This item was presented by Adrian Fernandez who is the assistant planning director and applicant Don Schmitz. 

Fernandez recommended the commission to deny the proposed project as conditioned because they failed to demonstrate no other alternatives that would increase CEQA buffer and would reduce CEQA impact. The commission argued that staff did not notify the public of an alternate analysis. 

Schmitz was asked if he could provide the city with the needed documents but could not provide the specific documents he was asked. “I will do whatever is required, but before tonight this is the first that I heard from anyone that the alternative analysis that we did was somehow inadequate,” Schmitz said. “Everything that we submitted was attached to the staff report.”

The debate went on until close to midnight. 

“If we are going to have meetings that are going until 11:30 at night and we’re wasting hours and hours on things that are being talked about in circles, for all of us, it is not productive, it is not productive for our community,” commissioner Skylar Peak said. “So we need to be diligent on how we’re approaching these things … we have to be sensitive upmost to our staff time. We can’t be taking this long, pushing multiple items to other meetings, time and time again, it’s not fair for everybody.” Peak also motioned to approve the project but Commissioner Jeff Jennings argued that Peak has not had enough experience in the commission.

By Christianne

MALIBU—Residents are invited to explore the region’s summer programs, sports, camps, classes and events for children, adults and seniors in the Community Services Department’s Summer 2023 Recreation Guide and City Newsletter.

The free guide is available online at MalibuCity.org/CommunityServices and will be mailed to Malibu residents the week of April 24. The guide includes informative articles and contact information for city departments and services.

“The guide offers a wide variety of excellent, professionally operated recreation, sports, arts and culture programs that the City offers for the enjoyment and wellbeing of the community,” said Mayor Bruce Silverstein. “I encourage everyone in Malibu to review the guide, you are sure to find something that will pique your interest.”

Residents can find information for upcoming summer programs offered June through August, including Learn to Swim Lessons, Summer Day Camps, CineMalibu Community Movies in the Park, Outdoor Recreation at Charmlee Wilderness Park, Parent and Me Programs, Senior Programs and Excursions, and the Summer Coed Adult Softball League.

The Community Services Department will have an information booth on Saturday, April 29, 10 a.m. to 12 p.m. at Malibu Bluffs Park where community members can ask questions, and pick up a printed copy of the guide and get a giveaway bag. Registration for Summer Programs opens on Monday, May 1 at 8 a.m. at MalibuCity.org/Register.

For more details about Community Services Department programs, visit MalibuCity.org/Aquatics, MalibuCity.org/Daycamps, MalibuCity.org/337/Community-Programs,  and MalibuCity.org/Sports.

MALIBU—On April 11, the city of Malibu tweeted the opening hours for the Temporary Skate Park.

“The Malibu Temporary Skate Park hours are 8 AM to Sunset, Monday through Saturday. It will be open from 11:30 AM to sunset on Sundays to accommodate our Intro to Skateboarding class! For more information, visit http://MalibuCity.org/SkatePark.”

The Temporary Skate Park is located at 24250 Pacific Coast Hwy.

Users are required to bring their own helmet and must wear it at all times while inside the Skate Park. Users must review and adhere to the Skate Park rules.

Coaching programs and a complimentary Girls Skate Clinic class are taking place at the skate park throughout the spring. Information can be found at Skate Park | Malibu, CA – Official Website.

The city of Malibu submitted a Coastal Development Permit (CDP) on January 3 to the Community Services Department regarding the proposed Malibu Bluffs Park Permanent Skatepark.

The City Planning Department and city agencies are examining the proposed plans. After the project is deemed complete and consistent with the City’s Local Coastal Program, a Planning Commission will conduct a public hearing for the CDP application. The city of Malibu expects the Planning Commission hearing to take place in the
summer of 2023.
By Rob

PACIFIC PALISADES—Officials have identified the victim who died in a crash on Saturday, April 8, on Pacific Coast Highway. 

According to the Los Angeles County Coroner’s Office, the victim has been identified as Ashleigh Lawrence, 32, of Los Angeles. 

On the day of the accident, firefighters were called to the 17400 block of West Sunset Boulevard at Palisades Drive at 12:45 a.m. Officials discovered Lawrence and pronounced her dead at the scene. 

Los Angeles Fire Department Spokesman Nicholas Prange explained that a 21-year-old driver was traveling south on PCH Saturday morning when he slammed into a group of pedestrians and vehicles parked on the shoulder overlooking the beach near Palisades Drive.

The collision sent two of the three vehicles into the rocks, hitting Lawrence. Another person was transported to a nearby hospital in serious condition. Five others involved were in fair to moderate condition. The driver was arrested on suspicion of DUI.  The name of the driver has not been disclosed to the public.
By Cristianne

MALIBU—Santa Monica College will celebrate the opening of its new Malibu Campus. “[At] 12:30 p.m. to 2:30 p.m. on Saturday, April 22. The event, which is open to the public, will be held at SMC Malibu Campus, 23555 Civic Center Way, located next to the Malibu Library. Ample parking is available on site, and along Civic Center Way. The open house will include live class demonstrations, campus tours, with Malibu High School and Malibu Community Library (part of the Los Angeles Public Library system) participating to provide information tables for attendees and activities for children, and more,” reads the SMC website.

Santa Monica College is a two-year community college. The main campus is 38 acres and located at 1900 Pico Boulevard in Santa Monica. There are five other satellite locations located across Santa Monica. They offer over 180 degree and certificate programs. Over 30,000 students study at SMC. Eight men’s sports and ten women’s sports are available at the college.

A list of programs available at the college are available using at: https://www.smc.edu/academics/areas-of-interest/all-programs.php

A virtual tour of athletic facilities are available at: https://www.smccorsairs.com/general/2020-21/Virtual_Athletics_Tour

The SMC Historical brochure can be viewed at:                            https://www.smc.edu/about/documents/SMC-HistoricalBrochure.pdf

High school students requesting to speak with an SMC recruitment specialist can do so by filling out the form available at: https://www.smc.edu/student-support/welcome-center or email Outreach@smc.edu  for more details.
By Rob

MALIBU—On Wednesday, April 5, a crane operator was killed after the machinery they were operating toppled over. It crashed into a pole causing downed power lines and a road closure on Thursday, April 6. 

The accident occurred near Las Flores and Canyon Road. Firefighters arrived on the scene around 5:30 p.m. It is unclear what caused the accident. According to reports from the scene, the downed power lines started a small fire in the brush area and trapped the driver inside the overturned crane.

The victim was pronounced dead at the scene. The name of the victim has not been released to the public. 

According to the city of Malibu, Las Flores Canyon Road between Pacific Coast Highway and Hume Road will remain closed at least through Thursday afternoon as Southern California Edison continues to work to repair the downed lines and restore power to customers in the area.
By Christianne

MALIBU—On Saturday, April 15, a waste disposal event will take place in Malibu. The event will take place from 10 a.m. - 2 p.m. at Malibu City Hall – Upper Parking Lot at 23825 Stuart Ranch Road. Attendance is free.

The event will also be held on the third Saturday of June, August, and October. The event will be cancelled under rainy conditions.

A PDF file listing alternative recipes for common household items can be found at: https://dpw.lacounty.gov/epd/hhw/alternative_recipes.pdf.

The city of Malibu website states:

EVENT STAFF WILL ONLY REMOVE HOUSEHOLD HAZARDOUS AND ELECTRONIC WASTE FROM YOUR TRUNK/PICK-UP BED.

Individuals are asked to properly dispose of certain types of household hazardous waste (HHW) and electronic waste. All containers must be clearly labeled to identify the contents. Maximum amount of paint/motor oil accepted is 15 gallons or 125 pounds per trip.

Accepted materials list:

Paint (water-based only)
Used motor oil
Anti-freeze
Automotive and household batteries
Compact fluorescent bulbs (unbroken)
Electronics

Individuals with enquiries can call 310-456-2489.
By Rob

MALIBU—On April 5, National Hockey League veteran Chris Chelios put his Malibu home on the market for $75 million. Chelios purchased the home for $6 million in 2003. He has been playing for the NHL for 27 years.

The four-bedroom main home is 3,795 square feet. Features of the home include high ceilings, skylights, a fireplace and windows that opens to the outdoors. A one-bedroom guest house is located closer to the beach on the property. The guest house has three levels and is equipped with a hot tub and a sauna.

He is ninth in all time appearances in the NHL and his primary residence is in Chicago, Illinois.  The 11-time NHL all-star spent nine seasons with the Chicago Blackhawks. Chelios is one of two people to play for the United States in four Winter Olympic games. Along with the Blackhawks, he also played with the Detroit Red Wings, the Montreal Canadiens and the Atlanta Thrashers.  He became the oldest player to play in the American Hockey League in 2008 representing the Grand Rapids Griffins.

His son, Jake Chelios is a professional hockey player for Kunlun Red Star in China and represented the country in the Olympic games in Tokyo in 2021. His daughter Caley is a hockey commentator and broadcaster. Both of Chelios’ daughters Caley and Tara represented Northwestern University women’s lacrosse program.

The listing is being handled by real estate agent Chris Cortazzo (310) 457-3995 chris@chriscortazzo.com
By Rob

MALIBU—The city of Malibu is offering the next round of the highly popular Community Emergency Response Team (CERT) training. The series of seven classes will be held Thursday evenings from 6 p.m. to 9 p.m., April 13 through May 25 in the Multipurpose Room at Malibu City Hall located at 23825 Stuart Ranch Road.

“Malibu is paradise, but we are vulnerable to all kinds of disasters, from wildfires to earthquakes and landslides, so it’s up to every one of us to be prepared to help ourselves, our families and our community,” said Mayor Bruce Silverstein. “CERT training is one of the best ways to prepare for wildfires and other disasters, and helps us be more resilient as individuals and as a community.”

According to a news release from the city of Malibu website, “CERT is a highly-acclaimed, nationwide program that empowers community members to help themselves and their neighbors during disasters.”

Volunteers are trained on basic first aid, fire suppression, and search and rescue to be able to provide emergency assistance to their neighbors.

CERT volunteers assist the city of Malibu to prepare and respond to disasters. During the Woolsey Fire, Malibu CERT volunteers contributed over 300 hours of service to the emergency response by distributing food and medical supplies, conducting wellness checks, assisting with evacuations, and administering basic first aid.

In 2017, the Malibu City Council adopted the official CERT Program Guidelines, an important step in formally incorporating the program and the trained CERT volunteers into the City’s Emergency Management System.

Malibu’s CERT Team members must complete Federal Emergency Manager Agency (FEMA) trainings, serve at least 30 volunteer hours per year, attend regular meetings and drills, and become registered as Disaster Service Workers.

For more details about the CERT program, or to sign up, visit www.MalibuCity.org/CERT or call Public Safety Liaison Luis Flores at 310-456-2489, ext. 236, or email publicsafety@malibucity.org.

BEVERLY HILLS—The city of Beverly Hills indicated in a press release that the Los Angeles County Department of Public Health (LACDPH) will issue a new Health Officer Order that requires customers to show proof of their COVID-19 vaccination prior to entering indoor bars, wineries, breweries, nightclubs and lounges.

Under the modified Order, employees and customers are required to have at least one vaccine dose by October 7 and both doses by November 4.

The New Health Officer Order will require workers and attendees at outdoor mega events (consisting of crowds over 10,000 people) to show proof of vaccination or a negative COVID-19 test taken within 72 hours before working or attending the event.

Attendees at indoor mega events are already required to show proof of vaccination or a negative test prior to entry. These requirements will also apply to theme parks within the county.

While not required, LACDPH also recommends vaccine verification at indoor portions of restaurants to reduce transmission risk.

This announcement impacts businesses in the City of Beverly Hills. When available, theupdated Health Officer Order can be viewed at beverlyhills.org/coronavirus.

To find the nearest vaccination site, visit VaccinateLACounty.com or beverlyhills.org/covidvaccine. For questions about business impacts from the new Health Office Order, email businessrecovery@beverlyhills.org.

To stay updated on the latest COVID-19 news, visit beverlyhills.org/coronavirus or call the City’s COVID-19 Hotline Monday-Friday from 9:30 a.m. – 6 p.m. at 310-550-4680.

By Donald