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Malibu council approves letter to governor seeking coastal cleanup; council asks to broaden scope
Summary
Council approved a letter to the governor requesting state and federal help for coastal debris and septic hazards, and directed staff to add brief language to cover watershed and inland environmental impacts and to seek Army Corps assistance.
Malibu — The City Council on Feb. 24 approved a staff‑drafted letter asking the governor’s office for help removing coastal debris, addressing damaged septic systems and damaged seawalls, and securing federal support for cleanup.
Director Yolanda explained staff recommended the coastal focus because ‘‘that’s where we’ve run into hurdles’’ getting cleanup support from stakeholders such as the Army Corps and Cal OES; she added staff and coastal engineers had assessed toxins and runoff affecting the shoreline. Several council members and public commenters urged expanding the letter to note that inland and watershed areas also need assistance. Councilmember Silverstein proposed adding a sentence to make clear the request covers other areas that impact the ocean; the motion to approve the letter with that edit passed by voice vote.
The council also asked staff to add a specific reference asking for Army Corps assistance; the motion included direction that the final letter be sent in a form approved by the city manager or city attorney so it could be transmitted quickly.
What it means: The approved letter directs the governor’s office to prioritize coastal debris removal and clarifies the city may follow with additional language to call out watershed and inland environmental hazards that harm coastal water quality. Staff said the city continues to coordinate with CalRecycle, the Army Corps and state agencies and will brief residents at a debris town hall on Feb. 26.
Next steps: Staff will finalize the letter with the agreed language and the mayor was authorized to sign the letter after it is revised and approved by the city manager or city attorney.
