INSIDE A vocal flower blooms in Beverly Canon Gardens smmirror.com
May 2 - May 8, 2025 Volume CXXIII Issue 214
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Santa Monicans Petition Waymo to Reduce Charging Station Noise Residents say the constant beeping — described as a nonstop “beep-beepbeep” from vehicles backing out — has created a public nuisance
Dozens of Santa Monica residents have signed a petition calling on autonomous vehicle company Waymo to reduce noise pollution from its charging stations, citing disruption to daily life in the neighborhood. The petition, launched by local resident Christopher Potter on Change.org, has gathered over 60 verified signatures and aims to reach 75. It targets Waymo Management and urges the company to reduce the volume of the backup warning beeps emitted by its vehicles while they are
operating in their private charging lots at Euclid Street and Broadway. Residents say the constant beeping — described as a non-stop “beep-beep-beep” from vehicles backing out — has created a public nuisance near an elementary school and several apartment complexes. Petitioners are also calling on Waymo to limit its operations during nighttime hours and to engage more directly with the community about concerns. “Our once peaceful neighborhood has become a hub for noise pollution,” the petition reads. “It’s imperative that Waymo respects the right to peace and tranquility of the residents of Santa Monica.” Some neighbors allege that their efforts to raise the issue have been ignored. One resident claims a paper petition was removed without explanation, and others say their emails to the company and the City of Santa Monica have gone unanswered. Another neighbor was reportedly issued a restraining order by Waymo for attempting to block vehicles from entering the lot. In a statement to local media station Fox 11, Waymo said it is “committed to being a positive presence in Santa Monica”
and is “actively working with the City’s Department of Transportation to explore and implement mitigations that address neighbors’ concerns.” Waymo began expanding its fully autonomous ride-hailing service, Waymo
One, into Los Angeles in late 2023 after receiving approval from the California Public Utilities Commission (PUC). The expansion allows its vehicles to operate in a 63-square-mile area stretching from Santa Monica to Downtown Los Angeles.
Open Alcohol Consumption on 3rd Street Promenade Could be Allowed by Summer The entertainment zone plan builds on a bill signed by Gov. Newsom, which allows public drinking areas
Santa Monica officials are advancing a plan to allow open alcohol consumption seven days a week on the city’s Third Street Promenade in an effort to boost economic recovery and revitalize the downtown area. The City Council this week directed staff to develop a framework for establishing an “entertainment zone” under a new state law, allowing adults over 21 to drink alcoholic beverages openly within designated boundaries from 8 a.m. to 2 a.m. daily. The initiative expands on an earlier proposal for a limited one-year pilot program permitting alcohol during select special events. Under the proposed rules, participating
businesses would serve drinks in nonglass, non-metal containers. Patrons would be issued wristbands following age verification, and signs would clearly mark the entertainment zone’s perimeter. The plan is part of a broader strategy by Santa Monica officials to support local businesses hit hard by the pandemic and attract more foot traffic downtown. Previous recovery efforts have included relaxed land use restrictions, streamlined permitting processes, and outdoor dining expansions through the Santa Monica Outdoors Program. The entertainment zone plan builds on Senate Bill 969, signed by Gov. Gavin Newsom last year, which allows cities to establish public drinking areas. The legislation follows San Francisco’s successful Front Street Entertainment Zone pilot, which saw a dramatic increase in business sales and community engagement during special events, the agenda item pointed out. Police and fire officials have recommended safety measures such as barriers at entry points and increased law enforcement staffing during events. Public
Works will work closely with organizers to manage trash and maintain zero-waste practices. Businesses will also be required to notify the ABC through an online portal before participating. The first event under the entertainment zone pilot is expected to coincide with
Downtown Santa Monica’s annual Pride celebration in June. City staff will monitor the program’s effectiveness and present recommendations to the Council after the one-year trial period.