Development News for Malibu, California

Public Safety Commission Addresses Speeding, Wildfire Preparedness, and Food Truck Enforcement

The commission discussed ongoing concerns regarding speeding on Lower Los Flores, including a recent incident involving a motorcyclist. The city clerk confirmed that the agenda was properly posted on May 28, 2026. A resident shared personal experiences of dangerous driving and expressed worries about potential fatalities. Staff provided an update on the speed camera program, stating that the vendor contract is approved and the public education phase is beginning, with cameras expected to be operational in September. The disaster council will review the evacuation plan next week and make recommendations to the city council. Updates were also provided on the Mike Trenum public safety award ceremony, a letter of support for an LA County home hardening grant, and the launch of an incident management team. Mobile sirens are nearing operational status, with council approval expected on June 22nd, and a social media campaign for public safety is set to launch in July. A temporary impound yard at Malibu High School reported success over Memorial Day weekend, towing over 40 cars. Ordinances regarding off-street parking and oversized vehicles are being considered to address homelessness and illegal parking. Funding for a motel voucher program to assist the homeless outreach team was mentioned. The graffiti removal program and ongoing hiring for an administrative analyst for the speed camera program were also discussed. The live fuel moisture is currently 75%, significantly lower than the historical average, increasing fire risk. The city has achieved its 15th Firewise community and is working on five more. Home wildfire assessments and evacuation training are being incorporated into community action plans. A part-time position for fire safety is being filled. The commission also discussed concerns about a close Zuma underpass, construction on West Channel and Sunset, and the dangerous condition of palm trees near HR due to fire risk. Issues with PCH maintenance, including palm frond hazards and fire risks, were raised, referencing a past fire at Ralph's Market. Discussions also included the operational status of speed cameras and the need for signage. A social media campaign to redirect hikers to less crowded trails was suggested. Road maintenance, including cracks and holes, and a past fatality involving a cyclist were highlighted. The potential for a suspension bridge between East Malibu and Santa Monica was proposed for study. Data from speed signs on Point Dume was mentioned as a potential source for traffic analysis. Concerns about K-rail installation on Malibu Canyon Road were raised. The condition of Ralph's roof, with significant leakage and fear of collapse, was reported, along with out-of-order lights at the Routs parking plaza, affecting employee safety and leading to early closures. The need for brush clearance and defensible space was emphasized. The subdivision review program, created after devastating wildfires, aims to identify neighborhoods with high wildfire risk and limited evacuation options, recommending measures like secondary access, reflective signage, and parking restrictions during red flag warnings. The effectiveness of home hardening was highlighted by the survival of over half of houses in Big Rock after the Palisades fire. The current food truck enforcement approach, involving multi-agency operations and daily patrols, has led to compliance with licensing, health permits, and parking regulations. An amendment to the oversized vehicle ordinance to prohibit parking within 20 feet of driveways or intersections is planned. The sheriff's department reported a busy May with 146 citations issued and over 500 hours worked. Notable incidents included a large rig stuck on Bird View, response to the Sandy and Jasper fires, and a rescue of beachgoers trapped by the tide on Memorial Day. A high-speed chase on PCH resulted in two arrests for racing and reckless driving. The sheriff's department also reported a 38.3% increase in Part 1 crimes year-to-date, though overall crime is down 35% from 2021. A missing child incident at Pepperdine University was resolved quickly with significant resource deployment. The city nominated the local SER team for an award for their actions during the Palisades fire. Railing conditions at Frog Beach were noted as a safety concern due to rust. Parking enforcement reported strong numbers for April, with plans to increase enforcement in the summer months. Homeless outreach efforts resulted in six individuals being moved off the street, three temporarily housed, two permanently housed, and one relocated. The department is seeking additional resources and personnel to enhance these efforts. Concerns were raised about illegal parking creating hazards in bike lanes and blocking traffic.