Malibu to extend private-security pilot for fire-affected neighborhoods; Public Safety Commission to review

The Malibu City Council on June 9 directed staff to bring back an amendment extending the city’s short-term private-security program for fire‑impacted neighborhoods by 90 days, after which the Public Safety Commission will conduct a 60‑day review and report to council. The move effectively allows the pilot program — initially implemented as a 30‑day arrangement — to continue up to roughly 120 days while the commission evaluates scope and performance.

Staff said the program was initiated to supplement patrols in burned neighborhoods and to deter looting and trespass. Public commenters raised procurement concerns: Aaron Jones (International Protective Service) said his company, which offers drone and aviation services, submitted a proposal but was not selected and asked the city to explain scoring and selection. Other speakers asked for transparency about where contractors were deployed and for a simple activity report showing how often patrols covered specific streets and private roads.

Council members emphasized the program must be time-limited and fiscally managed. Councilmember comments focused on balancing neighborhood needs for security with cost: one council member noted the 120-day effort could cost the city in excess of $1 million and urged staff to set clear end points and hand-over plans so residents can obtain long-term security solutions. Council also asked staff to include performance metrics and deployment logs when they return with the extension agreement.

The council also asked the Public Safety Commission to consider the following in its review: documented patrol frequency by neighborhood and route, relationship to sheriff response and coordination, any use of cameras/drones, and a cost-benefit assessment. The council asked staff to provide a draft agreement showing the additional 90 days and reporting expectations before the extension takes effect.