Here are Five Ways to Get More Involved!

November 28, 2018 12:45 PM
by Miranda Iglesias

This article originally appeared in the November-December edition of Seascape. 

The City is proud to have an engaged community. Without its caring residents, Santa Monica wouldn’t be the amazing City it is today. And we want to hear more from you! Whether you want to weigh in on a City project or join a Board or Commission, here are ways you can directly get involved to make the City of Santa Monica an even better place.

    1. COME TO A COUNCIL MEETING

      Get to know your elected officials and speak out about issues you’re passionate about. Council meetings and their agendas are open to the public, and you’re welcome to attend in order to stay informed and advocate for your needs, as well as the needs of your community. The Santa Monica City Council meets every month in the Council Chamber at City Hall. Please turn to page 12 for meeting dates in November and December or go to smgov.net/council for more information.

    2. SUPPORT ISSUES YOU CARE ABOUT

      What’s an issue you’re passionate about? Homelessness? Climate change? Housing? The City partners with dozens of nonprofit organizations that may already be working on issues close to your heart. Support them by donating, signing petitions and writing letters to raise awareness. Volunteering is a GREAT way to support your favorite cause. It’s highly rewarding. Plus, you can meet new people, gain job experience and have fun! Go to weare.santamonica.gov/volunteer to learn more.

    3. JOIN THE COMMUNITY POLICE ACADEMY

      Are you interested in the safety of our community and want to learn more about local law enforcement? Join the Santa Monica Community Police Academy! It’s a free 10-12 week program designed to give you an overview of the Santa Monica Police Department’s functions, responsibilities and operational procedures. Some of the activities may include mock traffic stops and a ride-along with a patrol officer. You must be at least 18 and live, work or attend school in Santa Monica. For more information visit santamonicapd.org.

    4. WEIGH IN ON CITY PROJECTS

      Your opinion matters! The City often invites Santa Monicans to weigh in on important decisions that impact the community. Most recently, the City conducted surveys and hosted community workshops for its Parks and Recreation Master Plan. Look out for future opportunities to weigh in. If you missed out on recent participation for the Parks and Recreation Master Plan, there’s another chance to share your thoughts in early 2019. For more information and to stay informed on this project, visit santamonicaparks.org.

    5. SERVE ON A BOARD OR COMMISSION

      Whether you’re interested in helping seniors or supporting people with disabilities, there’s a commission or board that supports communities you care about. The City Clerk’s Department administers the opening, notification, application and appointment process for Board and Commission vacancies, and you are welcome to apply. Learn more about our Boards and Commission on pages 6-7 or visit smgov.net/clerk

Authored By

Miranda Iglesias
Public Information Coordinator