-A newly developed smartphone app that identifies Malibu beach public access points drew praise from open beach advocates and criticism from many in Malibu who were concerned about the idea of sending visitors to many beaches without lifeguards, parking problems near access points and a lack toilets or sanitation.
-Joan House was sworn in as mayor for the fourth time, three before term limits, a never-to-be-repeated record for the City of Malibu. Skylar Peak, who had previously been passed over for Mayor Pro Tem, finally got the job, a sign that his colleagues were comfortable with his rehabilitation.
-LA County officials came to the City Council meeting to explain financing plans for a sweeping $266-million water system overhaul for Malibu and Topanga. The 20-year project is scheduled to begin in 2015. The good news was the first phase, about $57 million, would come out of accumulated reserves and bond money.
-Two weekend brushfires sparked: one on Point Dume, which came perilously close to some mobile homes, and another in Encinal Canyon. The county fire department indicated both were suspicious in nature and arson investigators were assigned.
-The proliferation of many high-end rehab and sober living facilities in Malibu created problems in many neighborhoods, where facilities are frequently clustered. State law, limiting each facility to six patient beds, governs the facilities. City officials indicated they were gearing up for a major crackdown on drug and alcohol treatment, many of which allegedly operate in brazen disregard of local zoning laws.Â
