Government & Politics
Stay connected with Santa Monica’s political landscape through our comprehensive government coverage. From City Hall decisions and policy developments to regional political issues affecting our community, we provide in-depth reporting on the governance shaping our coastal city. Our coverage spans local legislation, political campaigns, policy debates, and the key decisions made by elected officials and government departments. Follow city administrative changes, public policy initiatives, and political developments that impact Santa Monica residents. Whether tracking specific legislation or following broader political trends, trust Santa Monica Daily Press for thorough, balanced coverage of local government and politics.
With one cyclist dead and another injured, Council approves new safety measures
In last night’s refreshingly succinct City Council meeting, councilmembers voted unanimously to strengthen the City’s Vision Zero safety commitment to...
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Council votes to support the Justice for Renters Act by the narrowest of margins
In last Tuesday’s meeting, City Councilmembers voted to support the Justice for Renters Act by the narrowest of margins, passing...
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Attempt by Mayor Davis to refine language regarding Council’s direction for a rotational mayor fails
In a small but significant discussion item, scheduled towards the end of last Tuesday’s meeting shortly after midnight, City Council...
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Council approves zoning changes allowing for the sale and delivery of adult-use cannabis
In Tuesday’s meeting Council approved changes to the city’s zoning code to allow for expanded retail cannabis sales, finally acknowledging...
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Budget review, plus continued items, promise to pack out Oct. 24 Council meeting agenda
Last week’s City Council meeting may have set a new record as it drifted into the early hours of Wednesday...
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Council rejects proposal for lottery form of outreach regarding future use of airport land
City Councilmembers rejected a public lottery form of public outreach to determine the future use of the land currently at...
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Council votes 4-3 to participate in new ‘zero bail’ lawsuit
In Tuesday’s significantly longer-than-usual City Council meeting, Councilmembers voted 4-3 to join a lawsuit over the County’s newly implemented Zero...
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Council to debate joining lawsuit over new bail system
The Santa Monica City Council will consider joining a lawsuit over the County’s newly implemented Zero Bail system at their...
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Council says ‘so long swimmer girl’ and ‘hello housing’ with proposal for 570 new housing units
All seven councilmembers voted to allow negotiations to begin with AMCAL Multi-Housing, Inc. for the development of 570 affordable and...
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Councilmember clash over unregulated representation, reiterates divisions among members
A seemingly straightforward agenda item regarding the amendment of Council rules of order and procedure turned into a hotbed of...
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