Civic Issues

Topics getting the most attention in Santa Monica public meetings, ranked by how frequently they are discussed.

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2 issues in budget

HighBudget

City Council Election Campaign Finance

Money is pouring into Santa Monica’s City Council race, with Doug Trussler topping the field thanks to a $225K self-funded campaign while Lana Negrete leads in actual donor support. The winners will help set city policy for years, so the cash race matters beyond Election Day.

1 mention (1 this month)Last discussed Oct 29, 2026

MediumBudget

Parcel Tax Ballot Measure

Santa Monica voters will decide whether to approve a parcel tax this election. The measure would add a property tax based on each parcel, with the money going to whatever local services the ballot language specifies. The source also compares it with similar measures in nearby cities.

1 mention (1 this month)Last discussed Oct 14, 2026