Malibu Council introduces new rebuild ambassador for fire-affected neighborhoods

The Malibu City Council held an adjourned regular meeting on May 21, 2025, focusing on the city's rebuilding efforts following recent disasters. The meeting began with discussions surrounding the appointment of a temporary volunteer rebuild ambassador, a role intended to assist homeowners in navigating the rebuilding process.

Council members expressed their support for the initiative, highlighting the importance of having a dedicated liaison for neighborhoods affected by fires. One council member emphasized the need for this new approach to streamline communication between residents and city staff, aiming to facilitate a smoother rebuilding experience. The volunteer, identified as Abe, was praised for his willingness to take on this role, with council members acknowledging the challenges homeowners face during the rebuilding process.

Public comments reflected a sense of urgency and enthusiasm for the initiative. Residents voiced their appreciation for Abe's involvement and urged the council to minimize restrictions on his role, allowing him to communicate freely with the community and media. Concerns were raised about the initial three-month term for the ambassador position, with suggestions to extend it to six months or remove the expiration altogether to allow for ongoing support.

Council discussions included amendments to the proposal, such as including the Woolsey fire area in the rebuilding efforts and addressing the need for a check-in after three months to evaluate the program's effectiveness. Members agreed that transparency and public feedback would be crucial in assessing the initiative's success.

The meeting concluded with a staff report on various commissions, indicating that while the commissions were outlining their work, future discussions would align their efforts with the council's strategic goals. The council acknowledged the need for ongoing communication and collaboration as they move forward with rebuilding Malibu.

Overall, the meeting underscored the city's commitment to supporting residents in their rebuilding efforts and fostering a collaborative environment between the council, staff, and the community.