Concerns over flood protection dominated the Long Beach City Council meeting on October 7, 2025, as officials discussed the installation of new bulkheading along Monroe Boulevard. Residents voiced worries that without additional bulkheads, vulnerable areas could face devastation in future hurricanes.

City officials confirmed that while public land is being addressed, private landowners are not mandated to upgrade their bulkheads unless they fail. This policy has raised alarms among residents, particularly regarding the bulkhead in front of Mount Sinai Hospital, which is at risk of being overwhelmed in severe weather. "Not until it fails again," was the response regarding the hospital's responsibility to repair its bulkhead, highlighting a gap in immediate flood defense.

The council also discussed funding, revealing that they are working with FEMA to secure additional financial support for ongoing projects. However, the costs are rising, complicating the recovery process. Residents are eager for transparency, with one community member urging the council to provide regular updates and hold meetings to keep the public informed about the project’s progress and any significant changes.

As the city grapples with the realities of climate change and rising sea levels, the urgency for comprehensive flood protection measures remains a top priority for both officials and residents alike. The council's commitment to addressing these concerns will be crucial in safeguarding Long Beach from future flooding disasters.