Sustainability Commission & Clean Beaches Joint Meeting17th, 2026

The City of Santa Monica held a joint meeting of the Sustainability Commission and Clean Beaches Committee on August 20, 2026, focusing extensively on environmental and water quality issues related to local beaches and stormwater infrastructure. Key procurement-related discussions included updates on capital improvement projects such as the Pico Kenner outfall trash Best Management Practices (BMP) project, surface drainage improvements, and the Memorial Park stormwater project. The meeting reviewed budget allocations, with approximately $77.5 million received since 2008 and $67.3 million expended on CIP projects, leaving a balance of about $10.2 million. Specific contract details were discussed, including a $2 million encumbrance for surface drainage design and a $1 million encumbrance for the Pico Kenner project design, currently at 10% completion. The committee also discussed a pending EPA stormwater infrastructure grant request between $5.2 million and $15 million, with a 75% federal and 25% local funding split. Maintenance contracts for stormwater BMPs were reviewed, including a five-year contract with United Stormwater for inspection and cleaning services. The meeting included a presentation by Stantech Engineers on design alternatives for the Pico Kenner project, highlighting challenges with flood risk and permitting. Additionally, water quality monitoring efforts by Heal the Bay were detailed, including over 130 samples taken at an estimated $150 each, funded partly by city grants and philanthropic efforts. The meeting concluded with discussions on ongoing monitoring, future funding, and coordination with multiple agencies for project implementation and permitting.