The actions of the Malibu City Council get curious-er and curious-er. The council accused its planning commission of violating the Brown Act, and the commission was practically dissolved when two commissioners were dismissed and one resigned in protest. Whether the commissioners were in violation or received inadequate advice remains unanswered. However, the action and reaction destroyed one of the more capable commissions this city has had in its 14-year life.
Now the council has been found guilty of violating the Brown Act. The do-er is now the do-ee, and the do-er this time is the California Court of Appeal 2nd District. The verdict was a unanimous one from the three justices against the do-ee Malibu City Council.
It will be interesting to see whether council members will resign to help defray the cost the city may incur as a result of this violation. Or, will the council again appeal to a higher court with more unknown cost to the city and a result similar to the last time it took a questionable case to a higher court and lost.
Efrom Fader