City Of Malibu: City Manager Updates March 26, 2021

Press release from the City of Malibu:

March 26, 2021

Upcoming

• Friday, March 26 - Deadline to apply for the 2021-2022 Harry Barovsky Memorial Youth Commission  
• Monday, March 29 - Registration opens for Spring Day Camps
• Saturday, March 27 - 8:30 PM -9:30 PM - Turn off lights for Earth Hour
• Friday, April 2, 8:30 AM - Malibu Business Roundtable
• Friday, April 2 - Registration opens for Girls Softball Clinic

COVID-19 RESPONSE UPDATE

City staff continues to monitor and respond to the pandemic by participating in regular briefings and conference calls with partner agencies and issuing alerts and notifications regarding changes to the situation. On March 24, Los Angeles County Department of Public Health (LADPH) confirmed 92 new deaths and 666 new cases of COVID-19. Other key updates from the County’s COVID-19 Dashboard  as of March 24, 2021 include the following:  

• 381 confirmed positive cases and 7 deaths in the City of Malibu to date
• 1,215,736 confirmed cases and 22,960 deaths in LA County to date
• 719 current hospitalizations in LA County, a decrease of 142 since March 17 

(NEW) COVID-19 VACCINATION - ALL CALIFORNIANS ELIGIBLE FOR THE COVID-19 VACCINE WITHIN 3 WEEKS 

Gov. Gavin Newsom announced Thursday, March 25, 2021 that, under the state’s new guidelines, Californians 50 years and older will become eligible on Thursday, April 1, with those 16 and older following on April 15. See the guidelines. The state also loosened guidelines on March 25 to permit health care providers in lower-income areas to offer a vaccine to anyone they think should get one — an attempt to accelerate the inoculation of communities disproportionately ravaged by the virus.

Vaccination Appointments in LA County - For Los Angeles County residents, check your vaccination eligibility, see what documents you will need, learn what to expect before, during and after vaccination, and make a vaccination appointment on the Los Angeles County Department of Public Health website. Residents with disabilities or without computer access can call 833-540-0473 between 8:00 AM and 8:30 PM, 7 days a week for help with appointments.

Vaccine Appointment Assistance for Seniors - Malibu residents 65 and over who need assistance with booking a COVID-19 vaccine appointment can call the City of Malibu’s COVID-19 Vaccination Appointment Help Line at 310-456-2489, ext. 357. Seniors may also reserve a free ride through the City’s Dial-A-Ride service to and from confirmed COVID-19 vaccination appointments in Agoura Hills, Calabasas, Pacific Palisades, Santa Monica and Westlake Village by calling 424-346-8444. Due to HIPPA constraints, City staff cannot make an appointment for you, however, they can help you navigate the system and provide information. (Dial-A-Rides are available for other medical appointments for a small fee). The COVID-19 Help Line and Dial-A-Ride services are available Monday through Friday. Riders are required to register for the Dial-A-Ride program by calling 310-456-2489, ext. 357 or visiting the Senior Center web page.

COVID-19 Supplemental Paid Sick Leave - On March 19, Governor Newsom signed SB 95 requiring all California employers of 25 or more to provide COVID-19 Supplemental Paid Sick Leave for employees who are unable to work due to COVID-19 including going to get vaccinated. The Governor has made the leave retroactive to January 1, 2021. Learn more. 

COVID-19 - FURTHER EASING OF RESTRICTIONS IN LOS ANGELES COUNTY AS OF SATURDAY, MARCH 20

The LADPH updated its Health Officer Order to further ease restrictions as of March 20: Breweries, distilleries, and wineries may re-open for outdoors if not serving a bona fide meal; a specific protocol for Limited Services, Appendix W is added; and increase the number of participants obtaining in-person behavioral health or substance use disorder support in therapeutic small group meetings and obtaining in-person faith based small group counseling services, where the services cannot reasonably be practiced remotely. For complete details, see the updated Order.

COVID-19 - MASK ORDINANCE STILL IN EFFECT IN MALIBU

The City's Ordinance No. 473 requiring the use of face coverings in order to slow the spread of the coronavirus and protect vulnerable people during the pandemic is still in effect in City limits. Face covering must cover the nose and mouth. Exceptions: when in a residential zone, in a vehicle, while more than six feet away from people from another household, children under 2, people with medical requirements, who need to communicate hearing impaired people, while participating in water-based activities. Violators may avoid the $50 fine by immediately complying. See the complete requirements and exceptions. 

UPDATED TSUNAMI HAZARD AREA MAPS FOR MALIBU AVAILABLE NOW - JOIN cOMMUNITY MEETING APRIL 13

The California Tsunami Program’s updated Tsunami Hazard Area Maps that provide information about potential inundation areas in Malibu are now available to view on the state tsunami website. You can see the tsunami risk in your location by typing in your address. Most of Malibu is not at significant risk. However, the Malibu Lagoon area could see water depths as deep as eight feet and many ocean front homes and sections of Pacific Coast Highway could be severely impacted by a tsunami generated by a 9.3 magnitude earthquake on the Alaska-East Aleutians fault. Public Safety staff will provide an overview of the updated maps and what it means for Malibu on Tuesday, April 13 at 6:00 PM during a virtual community meeting. As part of California’s Tsunami Preparedness Week, March 22 – 26, residents are encouraged to review the tsunami maps and preparedness guides on the state's website. For more information about the tsunami hazard, contact the City Public Safety Office at 310-456-2489, ext. 368.

WATCH THE COMMUNITY WILDFIRE PROTECTION PLAN COMMUNITY MEETING VIDEO 

Video is available of the virtual community meeting that the City held on March 10 about the draft Community Wildfire Protection Plan (CWPP). Everyone in the community was encouraged to watch the meeting, ask questions and share their input. The draft plan is available to view on the Fire Safety webpage. You can submit comments by email to FireSafety@MalibuCity.org through April 9. In June of 2019, the City was awarded a $100,000 Cal Fire grant for the development of a CWPP. A CWPP identifies and prioritizes areas for hazardous fuel reduction treatments and outlines an action plan that will protect at-risk communities and essential infrastructure from wildfire, as well as make recommendations to reduce structural ignitability throughout the community. Having a CWPP in place also increases the City's chances of securing grant funding to implement the recommended action items. 

SIGN UP NOW FOR THE CITY'S VIRTUAL COMMUNITY EMERGENCY RESPONSE TEAM (CERT) TRAINING CLASSES 

Due to COVID-19, the City’s regular schedule of ongoing CERT training courses is temporarily shifting to a hybrid model where students take the classroom portion online in the safety of their own homes. Registration is now open for the online classroom portion. Upon completion of the online section, they will be eligible to take the in-person training portion when it is safe to do so. The City will announce schedule of the in-person portion and final drill as soon as they are set, and will directly notify those who have completed the online portion. CERT training includes instruction in disaster preparedness, fire suppression, disaster medical, search and rescue, disaster psychology and terrorism. Students will be guided through the sign-up process and sent periodic check-ins during the self-paced online portion. During the drill, students get a chance to use the skills they learned in the classes. For more information or to register, email PublicSafety@malibucity.org or call 310-456-2489, ext. 368 or visit the CERT webpage. 

MALIBU REBUILDS - STATISTICS

Staff continues to work with homeowners to rebuild. Here are the current rebuild statistics: 

• Single Family Dwellings approved by Planning - 302
• Single Family Dwellings building permits issued - 173
• Single Family Dwellings complete - 24
• Multifamily – Malibu Garden Apartment permits were issued -12 apartment units

MALIBU REBUILDS – WOOLSEY FIRE FEE WAIVER APPLICATION DEADLINES EXTENDED 

On March 22, the City Council extended the Woolsey Fire rebuild fee waiver deadlines: fee waiver applications and eligible projects must be received by the Planning Department by December 30, 2021, and all required building permits must be obtained by June 30, 2022. Homeowners are encouraged to schedule a complimentary one-on-one consultation with the Rebuild Team to explore their fee waiver and rebuild options, which are posted in the Rebuild webpage. Contact the Rebuild Team at ashah@malibucity.org or by calling 310-456-2489, ext. 385. For more information, visit the Fee Waiver webpage. 

MALIBU REBUILDS - PLANNING CONSULTATIONS AND REBUILD RESOURCES

The Fire Rebuild team is available for complimentary one-on-one consultations about any fire rebuild project. Contact Aakash Shah at ashah@malibucity.org to set an appointment for phone or online meeting. For ideas about how to get started with your project, as well as numerous handouts, forms and resources, visit the Rebuild webpage. 

School District Separation - SIGN UP FOR E-NOTIFICATIONS, TAKE THE SURVEY, VISIT THE WEB PAGE, JOIN THE APRIL 17 HEARING

Children and youth in Malibu and the surrounding unincorporated area have attended schools within the Santa Monica-Malibu Unified School District (SMMUSD) since prior to the City's incorporation. Local school families and community groups have long expressed the desire to separate from SMMUSD and to form an independent Malibu Unified School District (MUSD). On October 12, 2020, the Council voted unanimously to reinstate the City's petition for unification of an independent MUSD to the Los Angeles County Office of Education (LACOE) Committee on School District Organization (County Committee). On March 3, 2021, the County Committee voted to hold a preliminary hearing on the City’s petition on Saturday, April 17. This is a victory, but a first of many steps in the journey to an independent MUSD. In preparation for the April 17 Preliminary Hearing, residents are urged to stay informed and stay involved. Here are some suggestions:

Submit personal testimonials sharing their experiences with SMMUSD and the reasons why they support the formation of an independent MUSD using the online form.

Stay informed by following the City’s social media platforms (Facebook, Twitter, Instagram, Next Door) for regular updates and information about school separation.

Sign up for the School Separation e-notification list for updates, including the upcoming April 17 preliminary hearing, or visit the City’s web page for more information on local efforts to form an independent MUSD.

WIRELESS COMMUNICATION FACILITY (WCF) ORDINANCE UPDATE HEARING ON APRIL 12 & ONLINE SURVEY THROUGH APRIL 5

Public Hearing – On April 12, the City Council will hold a virtual public hearing to consider the draft WCF ordinance. The draft ordinance will be released next week and available for review on the City’s website. Online Survey – As part of the outreach effort for the WCF Ordinance update, the City has launched an online survey that residents can take through April 5. The survey results will be presented to the City Council during its April 12 public hearing. For more information about the WCF ordinance, visit the project web page. 

(NEW) 2021 Earth Month, Earth Day, earth Hour Activities

Earth Hour - On Saturday, March 27 from 8:30 PM to 9:30 PM, join the City of Malibu and millions of people around the world in observing Earth Hour by turning off lights for an hour to raise awareness about the need to conserve energy and to address climate change. This is the first ever “Virtual Spotlight” to create an unmissable sight in an online platform. Learn more. 

International Dark Sky Week - During the week of April 5-12, join the Dark Skies movement to reduce light pollution that harms wildlife. The International Dark-Sky Association promotes solutions that allow people to preserve and appreciate dark, star-filled skies while enjoying the benefits of responsible outdoor lighting. In 2020, the City implemented the Dark Sky Ordinance to preserve Malibu’s nighttime sky and to protect wildlife. Learn more.  

Recycle Day - On Saturday, April 17, 10:00 AM to 2:00 PM, residents can drop off electronic and household hazardous waste and confidential paper documents to be securely, safely and properly recycled in the upper parking lot of City Hall. Documents will be securely shredded. Latex paint, motor oil, batteries and electronics, and paper documents are accepted. Please wear a face covering and remain in your vehicle with windows closed for COVID-19 safety. For more information and the list of acceptable items, visit the web page.

WEST BASIN OFFERS FREE RAIN BARREL HOME DELIVERY PROGRAM

West Basin Municipal Water District is currently offering free, contactless delivery of rain barrels directly to qualifying homes. The 55-gallon, eco-friendly rain barrels will help Malibu residents collect rainwater to use for landscaping and reduce urban runoff. One rain barrel can save up to 620 gallons per year. To register for a rain barrel delivery or learn more about the program, visit the West Basin website. 

SCE RATE INCREASES WILL RESULT IN CPA RATE INCREASES

On February 1, 2021, Southern California Edison (SCE) raised Delivery and PCIA rates. This will result in rate increases for all SCE customers, including those who get generation service from Clean Power Alliance (Clean Power Alliance) in Malibu. This change is due to an increase in SCE charges, as CPA rates are not changing at this time. CPA has said it will explore ways to mitigate some of these SCE increases on behalf of its customers. Meanwhile, CPA promotes programs such as CARE and FERA that provide eligible customers with financial assistance on their electric bills. CPA's Power Share program, launched in late February, will provide 20% discounts to eligible residents. For more information, visit CPE's website.

(NEW) GIRLS SPORTS CLINICS STARTING IN APRIL 

The City is offering free girls sports clinics for youth ages 7-13, including a softball clinic on Friday, April 2, and a volleyball clinic on Saturday, April 10. The clinics will take place at Malibu Bluffs Park, and attendees must pre-register by visiting the web page or by calling 310-456-2489, ext. 239.

(NEW) SPRING 2021 RECREATION GUIDE NOW AVAILABLE ONLINE

The Community Services Department’s Spring Quarterly Recreation Guide and Newsletter is now available on the Department web page. The recently redesigned guide provides schedules, program descriptions, facility hours, and other updates on City services, events and programs between April and June 2021

(NEW) MALIBU’S YOUTH COMMISSION AT WORK

The Harry Barovksy Memorial Youth Commission participated in a Park, Beach, and Trail Beautification Weekend March 20-21. Youth Commissioners visited City parks, beaches and trails to pick up litter, and took photos of their activity that will be featured on the Community Services Department’s social media channels to inspire and encourage young people in Malibu to get involved in volunteering and community service. Local high school students interested in applying for the 2021-2022 Harry Barovsky Youth Commission are encouraged to visit the Youth Commission web page. The application deadline is Friday, March 26 and the 2021-2022 Commission term will begin in September 2021.

spring DAY CAMP REGISTRATION OPENS MARCH 29

The Community Services Department in partnership with the Boys and Girls Club is offering four-week day camps for youth grades K-5 beginning April 12. Registration opens on Monday, March 29. Day camps include basketball, soccer, girls-only camps and Jedi Training. Programs will be held at Malibu Elementary, Webster Elementary, and Juan Cabrillo Middle School. For more information or to register, visit the registration web page or call 310-456-2489, ext. 239.

(New) CIVIC CENTER WATER TREATMENT FACILITY PHASE 2 Meeting planned in april

In April, a community meeting about the CCWTF Phase 2 will be scheduled and details will be announced on the City website, social media and e-notifications. On October 12, City Council approved an agreement with 30 Three Sixty Public Finance, Inc. to perform Assessment Engineering Services for this project. The project was approved by the Planning Commission on February 1. The consultant is working on the easements in the Serra and Malibu Colony neighborhoods. Additional information is available on the project webpage. 

(NEW) TRANCAS CANYON PARK REPAIRS

Temporary repairs were made to the septic system at the restrooms for Trancas Canyon Park. Other maintenance items will be completed next week and the restrooms will be opened shortly after. 

FEMA PRELIMINARY FLOOD MAPS APPEAL

The City is in the process of appealing the revised FEMA Preliminary Flood Maps, which change the flood zone and flood depth along the City’s coastline. The proposed changes could have an impact to all existing properties and any new development along the beach. Since December 2019, the City’s consultant (Moffat & Nichol) conducted several conference calls with FEMA regarding the City’s proposed methodology to determine the base flood elevations along the coastline. They also performed a new land survey and then re-calculated the depth of flooding along the coastline. The majority of the sections analyzed showed a lower base flood elevation. The City’s consultant submitted the revised calculations to FEMA for review and received comments on the revisions. The City’s consultant is working on the responses and will be providing FEMA with additional information this spring. The letter and more information is available on the City's Floodplain Management web page. 

CIVIC CENTER WAY IMPROVEMENTS PROJECT DELAYED UNTIL MID APRIL DUE TO WEATHER

Unfortunately, due to weather delays, the opening of the Civic Center Way Improvements Project phase 2 lane closure has been delayed until the middle of April. This project will improve safety and traffic flow for motorists, pedestrians, bicyclist and transit by improving the horizontal and vertical sight distance and creating additional space to travel along Civic Center Way between Malibu Canyon Road and Webb Way. Residents should use caution while driving within the construction zone. Phase 2 of the project remains closed in both directions between the entry to Malibu Canyon Village Condos and Webb Way. Access is preserved for emergency vehicles. Work hours are Monday through Friday, 7:00 AM to 4:00 PM with some work scheduled on Saturdays. Additional information is available on the City’s website. 

PCH SIGNAL Synchronization Improvements

This Signal Synchronization project will improve traffic signal communications along PCH to reduce congestion and improve safety for all modes of travel by utilizing Intelligent Transportation System (ITS) elements. Design is currently underway with an anticipated bid date in Fall of 2021. The project spans 8 miles on PCH between Topanga Canyon Boulevard and John Tyler Drive, and includes the following improvements:

• New fiber-optic cable and communications equipment to improve traffic signal communications
• New adaptive traffic signal controllers at each intersection 
• Traffic Signal Intersection Upgrades with battery backup systems 
• CCTV cameras along the corridor 
• Changeable Dynamic Message Signs 
• Emergency vehicle preemption 
• New countdown pedestrian signal heads, Accessible Pedestrian Signal (APS) upgrades, and curb ramp upgrades 

Malibu Park Drainage Improvements

This project consists of the design and construction to repair and improve several drainage structures located within the Malibu Park Neighborhood and Birdview Avenue. Locations are included along Cuthbert Road, Busch and Harvester, Morning View Drive, and Birdview Avenue. These repairs and improvements are a result of the severe storm drainage failures associated with the aftermath of the Woolsey Fire. Design has been completed. On November 19, 2020, the City received six bids for this project. The City Council rejected all bids on January 25, and staff has modified the design of the project and placed it out to bid with bids due on April 16.

CITY HALL ROOF REPLACEMENT PROJECT

Staff has completed design to replace the existing roof and construction bids were received on November 18, 2020. The apparent low bidder was 101 Roofing and Construction, Inc.  This project was awarded on January 11. The contractor continues to provide City staff material submittals for review and approval. Work is expected to begin in late March and be completed in May, weather permitting.

Bluffs Park Workout Station

The new Workout Station at Malibu Bluffs Park consists of removing the existing zip-line play structure and poured-in-place rubber surface, and installing a new workout station, including a new poured-in-place rubber surface like the existing surface, and new signage. Demolition is complete, and the new equipment has been ordered. However, due to fabrication delays, the equipment arrival date has been delayed until March. This project is expected to be completed in April.

VERIZON UTILITY WORK on Cross Creek Road

Verizon will be installing a new underground conduit along Cross Creek Rd approximately 100 ft. north of PCH. The remaining work includes pavement restoration. Verizon is waiting for a Caltrans permit to complete the paving portion.

Malibu Canyon Road Waterline - lane closures on Malibu Canyon

This project consists of upgrading the existing waterline on Malibu Canyon Road from PCH to Malibu Knolls and from Malibu Crest to Potter Road (HRL). This work will result in intermittent lane closures on Malibu Canyon Road Monday through Thursday 9:00 AM to 3:00 PM and Fridays 9:00 AM to 1:00 PM. Construction started in late February 22 is expected to last for two months. 

E-Notifications

The City maintains a robust e-notification system so the community can stay informed about all the City’s activities. Sign up to receive messages by text or email on the City’s e-notifications page. 

Further Questions

For questions or comments, contact the City Manager at RFeldman@MalibuCity.org. 

See Past City Manager Updates 

This press release was produced by the City of Malibu. The views expressed here are the author’s own.