City suspends street sweeping to combat wildfire ash dust clouds

In a recent Hermosa Beach Public Works Commission meeting, officials addressed critical public health concerns stemming from recent wildfires, particularly the use of leaf blowers. The Public Health Department has issued a strong recommendation to halt their use to mitigate air quality issues caused by ash and dust. The city is actively working with Athens Services to manage street sweeping operations, which have been temporarily suspended in residential neighborhoods due to complaints about dust clouds generated by street sweepers disturbing the ash on the roads. Officials hope to resume these operations by Tuesday, pending improvements in air quality.

Additionally, updates were provided on ongoing infrastructure projects, including the installation of new water mains on Bayview Drive, which is nearing completion. The work will pause for the Martin Luther King Jr. holiday, with final restoration efforts expected to follow shortly after.

The commission also highlighted various maintenance activities, such as the replacement of shade sails at South Park and reseeding efforts at local parks, which are underway to prepare for the upcoming Little League season. Notably, three trees removed without permits last August have been replaced, with the responsible resident billed for the costs.

As the city navigates these challenges, officials are committed to ensuring public safety and maintaining the community's infrastructure, while also addressing environmental concerns. The next steps include monitoring air quality and continuing to communicate with residents about the ongoing efforts to manage dust and ash in the area.