Emergency Siren System Considered In Malibu

MALIBU, CA — The Malibu City Council unanimously approved moving forward with a $1 million outdoor siren system warning of emergencies.

A city staff report estimated that the design and environmental phase of the project will cost approximately $951,633, of which the city will contribute $237,908. This amount was not included in the Adopted Budget for Fiscal Year 2020-2021

The city is considering three different options: either six sites with high-powered sirens, 20 sites containing a mix of high and low-power sirens, or 33 sites with low power sirens.

The city contracted with the public safety consulting group Mission Critical Partners in Dec. 2019 to alternatives to sirens, most effective strategies, maps with sound coverage areas, and rough cost estimates.

On Monday, representatives presented their findings. They explained that siren systems have limitations covering mountainous areas, but can also be heard well beyond city limits. Representatives therefore advised councilmembers to consult with neighboring communities about the sirens. Newer sirens can also be set at different frequencies, including church bell sounds, during testing so they won't be heard.

Representatives also recommended solar-run systems that could run even when the power is out, and to use fire-resistant steel, rather than wooden, poles. Steel poles are estimated to cost an extra $10,000 per siren.

City officials detailed next steps for planning and installing the sirens. Councilmember Skylar Peak recommended talking to neighboring communities about installing sirens throughout the Santa Monica Mountains. City Manager Reva Feldman said she would discuss the issues with the county Board of Supervisors and the Council of Governments, and Public Safety Director Susan Duenas said she will raise the issue during a Nov. 18 meeting with the Los Angeles County Office of Emergency Management. Duenas also said she wants to hire a consultant to design a more detailed project.