Malibu council okays short-term private patrols as National Guard demobilizes

The Malibu City Council on May 21 directed the interim city manager to execute a short-term private security agreement to provide 24/7 patrols for fire-affected neighborhoods and checkpoints as the California National Guard prepares to demobilize.

The action follows a staff request and a months‑long spike in interest in how to replace the Guard’s presence once Pacific Coast Highway reopens. Staff told the council the most operational model for the near term would be four patrol cars plus a supervisor working around the clock; staff estimated the first-month cost at about $260,000.

Why it matters: the Guard has provided gate and checkpoint support since the fire. City officials warned that the Guard’s withdrawal will leave gaps that can attract theft, trespass and other property crimes at vacant or damaged homes and at construction sites. The council approved a 30‑day contract now and asked the interim city manager to return with a plan developed with the Public Safety Commission for longer coverage or alternatives.

Staff presentation and options City staff told the council they issued a request for qualifications to identify vendors that could provide unarmed or armed patrols, integrate with the Lost Hills Station of…