Malibu City Manager Updates - October 30, 2020

Press release from the City of Malibu:

October 30, 2020

UPCOMING

• Friday, October 30, 7:00 - 10:00 PM - Halloween Drive-In Movie: "The Nightmare Before Christmas" (Reservation Required)
• Saturday, October 31, 7:00 - 10:00 PM - Halloween Drive-In Movie: "Ghostbusters"(Reservation Required)
• Monday, November 2, 6:30 PM - Virtual Planning Commission Meeting
• Wednesday, November 4, 5:00 PM - Virtual Public Safety Commission Meeting
• Thursday, November 5, 6:30 PM - Virtual Adjourned Regular City Council Meeting
• Friday, November 6, 8:30 - 10:30 AM - Business Round Table

NOVEMBER 3, 2020 GENERAL MUNICIPAL ELECTION

Want to know where your ballot is? Visit https://california.ballottrax.net/voter/.

A 24-hour Vote by Mail Ballot Drop Box is available outside of Malibu Library, which is located at 23519 Civic Center Way.

Vote Center locations are available online. The following vote centers are located in Malibu:

Malibu Elementary School (listed as Juan Cabrillo Elementary School)

30237 Morning View Drive

Multi-purpose Room

October 30 - November 2: 10:00 AM to 7:00 PM

November 3: 7:00 AM to 8:00 PM

Christian Science Church

28635 Pacific Coast Highway

Sunday School Building

October 30 - November 2: 10:00 AM to 7:00 PM

November 3: 7:00 AM to 8:00 PM

Webster Elementary School

3602 Winter Canyon Road (this portion of Civic Center Way is only accessible from Malibu Canyon Road)

Multi-purpose Room

October 24 - November 2: 10:00 AM to 7:00 PM

November 3: 7:00 AM to 8:00 PM

Election results will be available beginning at 8:00 PM on Tuesday, November 3 on the Los Angeles County Registrar/Recorder-County Clerk website.

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. Key updates from the County’s COVID-19 Dashboard as of October 29, 2020 include the following:

• 112 confirmed cases and 3 deaths in the City of Malibu - an increase of 5 case and no deaths from October 22
• 303,369 confirmed cases and 6,956 deaths in LA County - an increase of 9,304 cases and 84 deaths from October 22
• 755 current hospitalizations in LA County - a decrease of 2 from October 22

The City’s Emergency Operations Center has been activated since March 12 to manage the City’s response. Current operational objectives include:

• Monitor news for changes to regulations that impact City residents and businesses
• Post updates on all social media platforms on an as-needed basis
• Identify City rules and regulations that need adjustment due to the pandemic
• Respond to community concerns regarding compliance with State and County Public Health Orders
• Maintain field operations per health guidelines and ramp up virtual operation capabilities
• In addition, the City continues to provide nearly all regular City services and all staff are working. In order to protect visitors and City staff, visitors are allowed in City Hall by appointment only

LOS ANGELES COUNTY DEPARTMENT OF PUBLIC HEALTH UPDATE

On October 23, the Los Angeles County Department of Public Health (LACDPH) Officer issued a revised Health Officer Order to allow some outdoor entertainment centers and indoor personal care establishments to reopen with protocols, increased the percentage of high needs students allows on K-12 campuses from 10% to 25%, allowed schools with approved waiver applications to conduct classroom instruction, and clarified permitted food services at indoor malls and shopping centers. Revised protocols for Outdoor Operations at Wineries and Breweries were also issued. More information is available on the LACDPH website.

MASK ORDINANCE

On October 12, Council introduced on first reading Ordinance No. 473 requiring the use of face coverings during the COVID-19 pandemic. The second reading and adoption of Ordinance No. 473 is scheduled for the November 5, 2020 Adjourned Regular Meeting. The staff report is available on the City's website. The ordinance requires the use of a face covering over both the nose and mouth with certain exceptions. Exceptions include when persons in a residential zone, or vehicle, who are six feet away or more from any person who is not part of their household and others considerations based on age, medical requirements, the need to communicate with persons who are hearing impaired, and participation in water-based activities. The ordinance also subjects violations to a fine of $50 per violation but allow an individual to avoid citation if they immediately comply with the ordinance.

ADJOURNED REGULAR NOVEMBER 5, 2020

Due to widespread power outages impacting Malibu, the October 26, 2020 Virtual City Council Meeting was adjourned to Thursday, November 5, 6:30 PM. The agenda is available on the City's website.

SCHOOL DISTRICT SEPARATION VIRTUAL TOWN HALL OCTOBER 28

On October 12, the Council voted unanimously to reinstate the City’s petition for unification of a Malibu Unified School District to the Los Angeles County Office of Education (LACOE) Committee on School District Organization. Malibu families have long advocated for separation from the Santa Monica Malibu Unified School District (SMMUSD) citing inequities between the educational opportunities offered in Santa Monica and Malibu and an overwhelming desire for local control over their children’s education among other concerns. To address residents’ concerns and support the community’s efforts for local control, the City Council has established school district separation as one of the Council’s top three priorities under public safety and Woolsey Fire Rebuild for the last two years. The City's petition had been put on hold pending negotiations with SMMUSD. Councilmembers Karen Farrer and Rick Mullen who currently serve on the City’s School District Separation Ad Hoc Committee and have been overseeing the negotiations with SMMUSD presented an update on the status of the negotiations along with the City’s financial consultants at the October 12 Council Meeting. Video of the October 12 Meeting is available online.

On October 28, the City hosted a Virtual Town Hall on School District Separation. During the Town Hall, the School District Separation Ad Hoc Committee and the City's consultant team presented information about the City's efforts to separate from the Santa Monica-Malibu Unified School District (SMMUSD) and gain local control of Malibu public schools through the formation of a new, separate Malibu Unified School District and answered questions from the public. Video of the Virtual Town Hall is available online.

SUPPORT FOR LOCAL BUSINESSES

The City Council continues to implement planning regulations to help local businesses impacted by COVID-19 public health orders. On September 14, the Council adopted an ordinance to temporarily waive certain sign regulations to help businesses advertise. Ordinance 471U provides local businesses temporary assistance in promoting their businesses and attracting customers. The ordinance allows business owners and non-residential use operators to install up to two temporary signs. Temporary signs may include portable signs (A-frame or sandwich board type signs), wall signs, window signs and banners for purposes of advertising a business or non-residential use located within the City. The ordinance allows placement of up to one of these temporary signs in the public right-of-way or in a private street or easement. Temporary sign permits may be approved by the Planning Director administratively. To submit your temporary sign permit application (no fee required), email mplanning@malibucity.org.

The City Council previously adopted the Temporary Restaurant Recovery Program allowing local restaurants to temporarily expand their seating areas to adjacent common areas or sidewalks with physical distancing and other public health protocols in place to slow the spread of coronavirus. Since the Council’s approval of the program, the Planning Department has issued 15 permits. For more information about this program, visit the Restaurant Recovery web page.

MALIBU REBUILDS STATISTICS

In the last week, 4 more homes were completed allowing 4 more families to return home to Malibu. Here are the current rebuild statistics:

• Single Family Dwellings planning approvals issued - 265
• Single Family Dwellings building permits issued – 154
• Single Family Dwelling complete- 15

MALIBU REBUILDS – NOVEMBER 8, 2020 DEADLINE

The November 8 deadline to submit an application to rebuild non-conforming homes and structures without having to bring the structure into compliance or seek variances is fast approaching. Applications must be submitted to the Planning Department prior to the November 8 deadline. Homeowners are encouraged to submit their applications prior to the November 8 deadline or request an extension of the two-year period. It is free to submit an extension request. Extensions may be granted by the Planning Commission when the request demonstrates that due to unusual circumstances, the deadline creates an undue hardship. The applications and submittal instructions are available on the City's website or, to submit your request for a time extension, contact fire rebuild staff at Ashah@malibucity.org.

On September 29, the City Council initiated a code amendment to extend the deadlines. On November 2, the Planning Commission will hold a public hearing on the amendment and provide a recommendation to the City Council. The staff report is available online. If the proposed amendment is adopted, it will go into effect after November 8. Extension requests should be submitted before November 8.

MALIBU REBUILDS – FEE WAIVER DEADLINES

Fee waiver applications must be received by December 30, 2020, all required Planning Department applications for the project must be deemed complete by December 30, 2020, and all required building permits must be obtained by June 30, 2021. Please note that the Woolsey Fire fee waivers are non-transferable should the property change ownership. If a waiver is obtained, a Certificate of Occupancy will only be issued to the property owner who filed the affidavit establishing primary residence at the time of the Woolsey Fire. All fees associated with post-approval revisions to the project’s Planning Department approval or building permit issuance will not be waived and will be charged in accordance the City’s Adopted Fee Schedule prior to issuance of a Certificate of Occupancy. For more information, visit the City’s Fee Waiver web page.

MALIBU REBUILDS – REBUILD PLANNING CONSULTATIONS

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, visit the Rebuild Page, where you can view rebuild options and find all related forms and handouts.

MALIBU REBUILDS – BUILDING HEIGHT

New homes under construction will be required to submit a Height Survey Certification at framing inspection in order to verify City-approved heights. Any projects that are built to a height that is higher than allowed by code or by approved plans may be subject to a Stop Work Order, project revisions to remove the excess height or additional permitting to allow the height (if feasible). If you have any questions or concerns, please contact Planning staff at 310-456-2489, ext. 385.

SCE’S CLEAN ENERGY AND RESILIENCY (CLEAR) REBUILD PROGRAM

SCE is providing enhanced incentives up to $17,500 for energy-efficient new home construction in areas affected by the Woolsey Fire. The CLEAR Program offers enhanced incentives to encourage rebuilding to or above the 2019 Building Energy Efficiency Standards (Title 24), including clean, energy-efficient, solar and battery storage, and resilient design. If interested, email CLEAR@sce.com or call 1-866-723-2257. More information on fire rebuild resources and rebates is available on the City's website.

BUILDING SAFETY ONLINE PERMITTING SERVICES

Over the counter permits (building, mechanical, electrical, plumbing, septic and excavation) and plan checks can now be submitted through the City's Online Building Permit Request Portal. To help facilitate Building Safety reviews, Building Safety has transitioned to electronic plan check submittals, permits, and invoices. Visit the City’s Building and Safety web page to find out how to start an electronic plan check submittal and permit request or email mbuilding@malibucity.org for more information.

FIRE-RESISTANT LANDSCAPE ORDINANCE

In response to the Woolsey Fire, in March 2020, the City Council adopted Ordinance No. 461 - the Fire- Resistant Landscaping Ordinance. The Ordinance strives to minimize the risks to life and property as a result of fire, and protect property from damage caused by fires, by restricting the fuels available for the spread of fires. The City has launched a web page to help homeowners comply with the ordinance and to further protect their homes. For more information, visit the Fire-Resistant Landscaping web page.

OCTOBER 26 AND 27 WIND EVENT

The City of Malibu learned of a widespread unplanned power outage impacting western Malibu on Monday, October 26 at approximately 9:30 AM. At the request of the City Manager, Los Angele County Sheriff's deputies were dispatched to assist with traffic lights that were disabled at (Pacific Coast Highway) PCH and Corral Canyon Road, and at Zumirez Drive and Heathercliff Road.

The City issued traffic alerts at 10:19 AM and10:29 AM, and a utility alert at 10:34 AM. In addition to these alerts, the City issued two other traffic alerts regarding road closures due to fallen trees from the winds. City staff also posted notifications on social media, Nextdoor, the front page of the City website and the City’s phone hotline.

If a fire had broken out that necessitated evacuations, the City would have deployed emergency generators to the traffic signals on PCH to help facilitate traffic management. The City's emergency generators were purchased with the intent to provide power to traffic signals in the event of a fire and evacuations. They are not intended to provide power to traffic signals for general power outages. PCH and traffic signals on PCH are owned and operated by Caltrans and the State of California. The City does not own or operate the traffic signals, however, the City’s PCH Signal Synchronization Project, slated to commence in 2022, will provide a permanent backup power source to PCH signals between Coastline and John Tyler.

The City received an initial warning from Southern California Edison (SCE) at 2:24 PM on Monday regarding a possible future Public Safety Power Shut-Off (PSPS) on the Cuthbert Circuit that covers the general area from Latigo Canyon to Bonsall Drive. The City also received messages on Monday regarding power outages on Malibu Road, and on Tuesday received PSPS messages regarding Malibu Road. However, according to Edison, a PSPS event did not happen anywhere in Malibu.

The City was in regular communication with SCE on Monday and Tuesday to try to obtain clarifications and updated information to provide to the community. SCE has stated that due to the numerous issues that were occurring simultaneously throughout its service area, they were unable to provide timely information to the City and the community.

The normal protocol for a PSPS event is that SCE is required to notify partner agencies and customers 48 hours, then again 24 hours, in advance, any time SCE is considering shutting off power to prevent its equipment from starting wildfires during extremely dangerous fire conditions (high winds, Santa Anas, high temperatures and low humidities). Whenever SCE notifies the City that it is considering a PSPS for any circuit in Malibu, the City sends out emergency alerts and warning messages on the website, social media, Nextdoor and the phone hotline. Ever since SCE began implementing Public Safety Power Shutoffs, the City also has been conducting ongoing public awareness efforts to help the community be prepared for a PSPS or any widespread power outage.

City staff is scheduled to meet with SCE officials on Friday, October 30 to discuss the communication issues and conflicting messages that were issued regarding power outages and PSPS.

2020 WILDFIRE SEASON PREPAREDNESS

The City’s Public Safety staff are in full stride preparing for the upcoming fire season. Although fires can happen any time during the year, the most damaging fires occur in the fall and early winter when hot, dry, powerful Santa Ana winds are blowing, and fuel moistures are low. City staff participated in a virtual exercise with regional response partners in August to begin coordinating communication and response actions. The exercise scenario focused on a fire in Topanga that was moving quickly toward Malibu. Some of the strategies that were discussed included directing evacuees west, utilizing Zuma as a temporary safe refuge, and deploying emergency generators to traffic signals if power is lost. Some of the action items from the exercise included working with the agency partners to draft emergency messaging templates that will be consistent across the region, developing a plan for managing a temporary safe refuge area at Zuma Beach, and conducting a public education campaign regarding the newly established evacuation zones. To complement this exercise, City staff will participate in virtual Emergency Operations Center exercises to practice new procedures based on COVID-19 pandemic restraints.

Community preparedness events were conducted throughout September as part of National Preparedness Month. In addition, staff developed a weed whacker fire safety flyer that is available to community groups to distribute and/or post on community bulletin boards. The flyer is available in English and Spanish.

2020 WILDFIRE SEASON: EVACUATION PLAN

At its regular meeting on February 24, 2020, the City Council adopted the Mass Evacuation Plan as an update to the City’s Emergency Operations Plan. The Mass Evacuation Plan was one of the findings of a working group assembled after the 2018 Woolsey Fire to improve disaster coordination, communication, and evacuation among all of the public agencies that might respond to a disaster in Malibu. The Evacuation Plan, Evacuation Zone Maps, Evacuation terms and a search function to find out what your home’s Zone is, are all available on the City’s Evacuations web page. The Evacuation Plan was recently updated to incorporate the State’s new evacuation terminology, including:

• Evacuation Order: Immediate threat to life. This is a lawful order to leave now. The area is lawfully closed to public access.
• Evacuation Warning: Potential threat to life and/or property. Those who require additional time to evacuate, and those with pets and livestock should leave now.
• Shelter in Place: Go indoors. Shut and lock doors and windows. Prepare to self-sustain until further notice and/or contacted by emergency personnel for additional direction.
• Evacuation Order(s) Lifted: The formal announcement of lifting evacuations in an area currently under evacuation.
• Hard Closure: Closed to all traffic except fire and law enforcement.
• Soft Closure: Closed to all traffic except Fire, law enforcement and critical incident resources (i.e. Caltrans, city/county roads etc. or those needed to repair or restore infrastructure).
• Resident Only Closure: Soft closure with the additional allowance of residents and local government agencies assisting with response and recovery.

2020 WILDFIRE SEASON: EVACUATION ZONES

As part of the City’s Mass Evacuation Plan, the City partnered with the Los Angeles County Fire and Sheriff’s Departments to establish official Evacuation Zones. The Zones follow Malibu’s historic fire corridors. In the event of a large fire, officials may use the Evacuation Zones to quickly identify the timing, order, and routes of evacuation for specific areas to be more effective and avoid traffic bottlenecks.

On September 14, the City mailed postcards to residents with information on their assigned Evacuation Zone. Residents are encouraged to become familiar with their Zone and evacuation routes and memorize their Evacuation Zone number. The Zones are available to view on the City’s website at: MalibuCity.org/Evac. Residents may also search by their address to learn the Zone in which their home is located on the City's website at: MalibuCity.org/ZoneSearch

2020 WILDFIRE SEASON: WILDFIRE AND FIRE SAFETY WEB PAGE

To help prepare for peak wildfire season, community members are encouraged to visit the City’s Wildfire and Fire Safety page, for ongoing information and resources. Topics featured on the webpage include:

• Home Ignition Zone Assessments
• The Community Wildfire Protection Plan
• How to Create a Defensible Home
• How to Build an Action Plan
• Red Flag Warning and Fire Weather Watch
• Live Fuel Moisture
• House Fire Safety
• Weed Whacker Safety

For more information about any of these topics, contact Fire Safety Liaison Jerry Vandermeulen at 310-456-2489, ext. 387 or JVandermeulen@malibucity.org, or FireSafety@malibucity.org.

2020 WILDFIRE SEASON: CURRENT LIVE FUEL MOISTURE

Tracking live fuel moisture (LFM) is an important part of maintaining situational awareness and determining critical fire danger and/or Red Flag Conditions. The LFM has reached a critical level of 59%. A live fuel moisture reading of 60% or less is considered critical. LFM is defined as the percentage of water content to dry matter content in live vegetation. LFM can be as high as 200% and critical levels (60% or less) are usually reached by mid-October in a “normal” year. The Los Angeles County Fire Department Forestry Division conducts sampling approximately every two weeks and posts the results on their website. The full Los Angeles County Live Fuel Moisture summary and the current Santa Monica Mountains Live Fuel Moisture are both available online.

2020 WILDFIRE SEASON: SIGN UP FOR ALERTS AND DISASTER NOTIFICATIONS

If you are not already signed up to receive alerts and disaster notifications, now is the time to get that done. Make sure all members of your family, business, or organization are signed up for emergency, weather and traffic alerts by text and email from the City. To sign up, visit the E-notify web page and scroll down to Alert Center. When there is an imminent threat to any part of our community or evacuations, the City issues Disaster Notifications (similar to reverse 9-1-1) to the specific area that is being threatened. Last year, the City acquired a database of all cell phone numbers with accounts with a 90265 address. If you wish create an account or edit an exiting account in the City’s Disaster Notification System, you can you can visit the Disaster Notifications sign up portal, create a profile, and change your contact information. If the threat is widespread, the City can issue a Wireless Emergency Alert (WEA) which goes to all cell phones within the City with no subscriptions necessary, so it reaches visitors as well as residents. For more information about all of the City’s different types of alerts, go to the City’s web page.

2020 WILDFIRE SEASON: OBTAIN A DOLPHIN DECAL FOR RESIDENT ONLY ROAD CLOSURES

Malibu’s Dolphin Decal vehicle identification program was established to assist emergency personnel in identifying residents and other individuals who need to access their homes and businesses during some types of emergencies. In the event of a Resident Only road closure, the Dolphin Decal may expedite passage into the restricted area. When approaching a roadblock, all motorists will be checked for proof of residency or business in the Malibu area or to ensure they have a Dolphin Decal on their vehicle. This decal is used to assist in identification only and gives no special rights or privileges to the holder. Decals are non-transferable and non-refundable. There is no expiration date on the decals. To register for a Dolphin Decal, or for more information, visit the Dolphin Decal Program Page or call City Hall at 310-456-2489.

2020 WILDFIRE SEASON: EMERGENCY SURVIVAL GUIDE

The Malibu Emergency Survival Guide is now available. The Guide is based on the Los Angeles County Survival Guide but customized for Malibu. This comprehensive guide includes information about creating an emergency plan, emergency food and supplies, what to do when disaster strikes, basic first aid, important phone numbers and hazards specific to Malibu. The City encourages neighborhood and community groups to make an appointment to pick up the booklets in bulk to distribute in your neighborhood. To make an appointment to pick up the guide for your neighborhood/community group, contact Sarah Kaplan, Public Safety Specialist, at skaplan@malibucity.org or 310-456-2489, ext. 368.

CITY ACHIEVEMENTS OCTOBER 2019 - OCTOBER 2020

As part of the City Manager’s evaluation on October 12, 2020, a presentation was provided to the City Council highlighting the City's most significant achievements, projects, legislation, actions and events. The presentation includes highlights of the work that each Department has been doing throughout the year, the status of the City's budget and finances, a summary of policies, actions, campaigns and initiatives, programs and services that serve the Malibu community. The presentation is available on the City's website.

AWARD FOR TRANSPARENCY & EXCELLENCE IN FINANCIAL REPORTING

The City of Malibu was awarded a Certificate of Achievement for Excellence in Financial Reporting from the Government Finance Officers Association of the United States and Canada (GFOA) for its Fiscal Year 2019-2020 Comprehensive Annual Financial Report (CAFR). Submissions are judged by an impartial panel of experts to determine if they meet the high standards of the CAFR Program. This is the 19th consecutive year the City has received this award. To see the 2019-2020 CAFR as well as CAFRs from previous years, visit http://malibucity.org/financialreports.

CLEAN UP MALIBU DAY

On October 27, the City hosted a Clean Up Malibu Day. Malibu City staff, the City's maintenance crews, Los Angeles County Public Works, Caltrans and volunteers spent the morning collecting trash along Malibu's streets and beaches to address some of the impacts of the high volume of summer visitors and prevent more trash from reaching the ocean.

PLANNING DEPARTMENT UPDATE

After five years as the City’s Planning Director and a total of 14 years working for the City, Bonnie Blue announced plans to relocate to her home state of Florida to be closer to her family. On October 26, the Council will present a commendation to Planning Director Bonnie Blue, upon her retirement, in recognition of her service to the City.

Assistant Planning Director Richard Mollica has been named the Acting Planning Director for the City of Malibu effective October 21, 2020 to ensure continuity of planning services while the City continues its search for a permanent Planning Director. Richard has a master’s degree in Urban and Regional Planning, has a certification from the American Institute of Certified Planners and has worked for the City for over 15 years in various roles within the Planning Department.

SHORT-TERM RENTALS

On September 14, the City Council held a public hearing regarding short-term rental (STR) regulations including the Enforcement Ordinance and the Hosted Ordinance:

• Enforcement Ordinance - On September 29, the City Council held a second reading and adopted Ordinance No. 468 to provide enforcement tools to regulate STRs. The effective date of the ordinance is January 15, 2021. Information on the new STR permitting program and regulations will be announced soon.
• Hosted Ordinance – On November 5, the "Hosted" STR ordinance will be considered by the City Council. The staff report is available on the City's website. For more information on the proposed Hosted STR Ordinance and a description of the changes requested, visit the City’s Short-Term Rental web page at the City's Short-Term Rental web page at malibucity.org/STR.

For more information and the history of the City’s consideration of STR regulations, visit the STR webpage at malibucity.org/STR.

SURFACE PARKING LOT USE ZONING/LCP AMENDMENT

On November 9, the City Council will hold a virtual public hearing to consider proposed amendments to the Zoning Ordinance and Local Coastal Program (LCP) to allow stand-alone surface parking lots as a conditionally permitted use. Currently, parking lots are allowed in conjunction with another use but not as a stand-alone use. If approved by City Council, the LCP amendment would have to be certified by the California Coastal Commission before the regulations could go into effect. For more information about the upcoming hearing, please review the Notice of Public Hearing. The staff report is available on the City's website.

PARKING MANAGEMENT PLAN – CORRAL BEACH AND ZUMA BEACH AREAS

On September 14, the City Council adopted Ordinance 469 to implement parking restriction in the Corral Beach and Zuma Beach areas. In order to implement the Ordinance, a Coastal Development Permit (CDP) is required for each area. On October 19, the Planning Commission approved CDPs for the signs to be installed in the Corral Beach and Zuma Beach locations. Once the Coastal Commission approves the CDPs, the installation of the signs can proceed.

WIRELESS COMMUNICATION FACILITIES

As City Council directed on September 29, 2020, a Request for Proposals for Wireless Communication Facilities Application Review Services has been issued. The RFP is available on the City's website. Proposals are due on Monday, November 30.

PASSPORT SERVICES

In order to keep City staff and the community safe during the COVID-19 pandemic, the City is not accepting passport appointments at this time. The U.S. Department of State has a phased plan for reopening services and, as of October 14, is offering routine service (10-12 week turnaround) and expedite service (4-6 week turnaround, $60 extra) at currently operational Passport Acceptance Facilities. Visit the U.S. Department of State website for travel advisories in place.

CLEAN POWER ALLIANCE DEFAULT CHANGE TO 100% GREEN POWER OCTOBER 2020

In October 2019, City Council voted to adopt Clean Power Alliance’s (CPA) 100% Green Power as the default rate for CPA customers in the City to reduce the impacts of climate change and air pollution. Starting in October 2020, Malibu’s CPA customers will receive 100% renewable power generated by solar, wind and other renewable and carbon-free resources. Malibu’s CPA customers can choose a different rate option with lower cost and lower renewable content at any time. To change your rate option or see how your bill compares with SCE, visit the website or call CPA at 888-585-3788.

VIRTUAL ENVIRONMENTAL CENTER

The Environmental Sustainability Department’s Virtual Environmental Center allows residents to enjoy virtual activities from home and learn about the City’s environmental projects. Virtual activities include SMMUSD Go Green Challenge for students, Smart Gardening webinars (October-November), Know Your H2O webinars (October- December), California Friendly Landscaping and Turf Removal webinars (October-November), and recycling tips.

SELF-REGENERATING WATER SOFTENER BAN

The City has adopted a ban on the use of salt-based regenerative water softeners for properties connected to the Civic Center Wastewater Treatment Facility to reduce the salts in the groundwater. Installation of new salt and potassium chloride-based self –regenerating water softeners is prohibited at properties connected to the Civic Center Wastewater Treatment Facility and existing systems must be removed by October 28, 2020.

CITY TO CO-SPONSOR MALIBU FILM SOCIETY TWO-NIGHT DRIVE-IN OCTOBER 30-31

On October 12, the Council approved the request from the Malibu Film Society that the City co-sponsor the two-night drive-in October 30-31. The Halloween Drive-In Movie Nights will feature family-friendly movies on a giant three-story-tall screen. Films are held at the Chili Cookoff site in the Civic Center area, starting at 7:00 PM. Reservations are required and can be made at www.MalibuFilmSociety.org.

VIRTUAL RECREATION CENTER

The Community Services Department’s Virtual Recreation Center (VRC) allows residents to enjoy recreation programs from home during the pandemic. The VRC features a wide variety of programs, activities, and classes designed to help residents of any age stay active and entertained. Programs are updated frequently, so make sure to visit the Virtual Recreation Center on a regular basis.

CHARMLEE WILDERNESS PARK

Charmlee Wilderness Park reopenned to the public on Monday, October 19, with COVID-19 safety protocols in place. The park is open daily from 8:00 AM to sunset. For more information regarding the COVID-19 safety protocols is available on the Community Services Department web page.

TEMPORARY SKATE PARK

Reservations are available Monday - Friday from 10:00 AM to 6:00 PM. Skaters can reserve one two-hour skate session through our online reservation system every other day, up to one week in advance. Operating hours will continue to be adjusted through the fall and winter, as sunset occurs earlier in the evening.

PERMANENT SKATE PARK VIRTUAL PUBLIC DESIGN MEETING #2

The City will hold the second Virtual Public Design Meetings for the Permanent Skate Park on Tuesday, November 10. Participants will be able to log-on via Zoom or YouTube to watch the meetings, learn about the project, and provide feedback regarding the design. In order to accommodate as many participants as possible, two one-hour sessions will be held at 5:00 PM and 6:00 PM. For more information on how to watch the meeting or RSVP to participate, please visit the Skate Park web page.

COMMUNITY POOL AND WINTER SWIM PROGRAM REGISTRATION OPEN OCTOBER 28

Registration for the Malibu Seawolves Swim Team and Masters Swim opened on October 28 at 8:00 AM. The Seawolves Swim Team is available for swimmers ages 9 to 18 and the Masters Swimming program for adults 18 years of age and older with capacity limits and Covid-19 Safety Protocols in place. Lap Swim registration is also available each Sunday at 8:00 AM for the upcoming week. Swimmers can register for the SeaWolves Swim Program, Masters Swim, and Lap Swim online. Please note: Due to limited pool space, Lap Swim is only available by making a reservation through the online reservation system. No walk-ups are allowed.

CIVIC CENTER WASTEWATER TREATMENT FACILITY PHASE 2

On October 12, the City Council awarded a contract for assessment engineering services for the formation of an assessment district for the Civic Center Water Treatment Facility Phase 2. The City hosted a virtual community meeting on September 17 to provide an update on the project. Additional information on the project is available on the City's website. The City will conduct a follow up community meeting in December 2020.

GUARDRAIL REPLACEMENT PROJECT

The Guardrail Replacement Project consists of replacement of guardrails damaged by the Woolsey Fire at various locations within the City. The only remaining work for this project includes final grading/earthwork around the already repaired guardrails. The project is anticipated to be completed by late Fall 2020. Damaged guardrails located next to retaining walls will be replaced as part of the City’s forthcoming Latigo Retaining Wall Project to minimize associated damage to the adjacent walls.

ROUTINE STREET MAINTENANCE

City maintenance crews continue to monitor and maintain all City streets and canyon roads. This includes but is not limited to signs, striping, litter removal, pothole repairs, storm drain maintenance and various other repair work. Additionally, crews continue to assist Caltrans with litter and debris removal along Pacific Coast Highway. They also monitor temporary parking restrictions as requested during the COVID-19 pandemic.

FEMA PRELIMINARY FLOOD MAPS APPEAL

The City is in the process of appealing the revised FEMA Preliminary Flood Maps. These revised maps 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 their review. The City received comments from FEMA regarding the City’s Flood Map revisions. The City’s consultant is working on the responses and will be providing FEMA with additional information within the next few weeks. The letter and more information is available on the City's Floodplain Management web page.

CIVIC CENTER WAY IMPROVEMENTS PROJECT

This project will improve the horizontal and vertical sight distance, create additional space for motorists, pedestrians, bicyclist and transit to travel along Civic Center Way between Malibu Canyon Road and Webb Way. From September 21 to December 2020 (weather permitting) a portion of Civic Center Way between Vista Pacifica and the private driveway of 23901 Civic Center Way will be temporary closed. The temporary closure will include access for emergency vehicles to utilize the street during emergency situations. Work hours will be Monday through Friday 7:00 AM to 4:00 PM with some work scheduled on Saturdays. The temporary closure will not prevent access to any adjacent side streets or private driveways. Additionally, the Contractor will not be working during red flag warnings. Additional information is available on the City’s website.

DUME DRIVE AND FERNHILL DRIVE SPEED HUMPS PROJECT

This project includes the installation of speed humps on Dume Drive and Fernhill Drive from Grayfox Street to Cliffside Drive. Construction bids were due on October 8, 2020. The apparent low bidder is J&H Engineering. An item will be presented to the City Council on November 9 to award a contract for construction. The staff report is available on the City's website.

BLUFFS PARK WORKOUT STATION

The project is located at the Malibu Bluffs Park and consists of removal of the existing zip-line play structure and poured-in-place rubber surface, installation of a new workout station, including a new poured-in-place rubber surface similar to the existing surface, and installation of signage included with the workout station equipment. On October 12, Council awarded the construction contract to Civic Construction Associates.

CITY HALL ROOF REPLACEMENT PROJECT

This project consists of replacing the City Hall roof. The project is current out for public bidding. The construction bid information is available on the City's website. Bids are due on November 18, 2020.

MALIBU PARK DRAINAGE IMPROVEMENTS

This project consists of work to repair and improve several drainage structures located within the Malibu Park Neighborhood along Cuthbert Road, Busch Drive and Harvester Road, Morning View Drive, and Birdview Avenue that were damaged during severe storms in the aftermath of the Woolsey Fire. The project is current out for public bidding. The construction bid information is available on the City's website. Bids are due on November 19, 2020.

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.