Santa Monica City Council Meeting August 11, 2026

The City of Santa Monica City Council held a meeting on August 11, 2026, which included extensive discussions on several procurement and budget-related matters. Key procurement topics included the approval of an amendment to purchase 10 additional electric buses from Gillig, with a noted cost increase due to inflation and production delays, funded primarily through federal and state grants. The council also reviewed the Virginia Avenue Apartments rehabilitation project, where staff and Community Corporation of Santa Monica (CCSM) reported a projected $2.4 million budget overrun driven by unforeseen hard costs and relocation expenses. Potential funding sources to bridge this gap were discussed, including grants and project-based vouchers. The council emphasized the importance of tenant communication and transparency. Additionally, the council authorized entering into an exclusive negotiating agreement (ENA) with AEG Presents Goldenvoice to assess the revitalization of the Civic Auditorium as a live entertainment venue, with a requirement for a detailed financial analysis. The meeting also covered the Human Services Grant Program (HSGP) funding guidelines for 2027-2031, focusing on expanding eligible services, improving frontline worker compensation, and increasing funding to meet growing community needs. The council approved the release of the RFP for HSGP and discussed the importance of outcome-based reporting and transparency. Other items included accepting resignations from various boards and allocating discretionary funds to support the Santa Monica College women's soccer program. Several votes were taken to approve contracts, budgets, and agreements related to these procurement activities.