Santa Monica Mayor Phil Brock recently appeared on *California Insider* to address the ongoing concerns surrounding homelessness and public safety in the city. Despite widespread reports of crime and growing homelessness, Mayor Brock reaffirmed that Santa Monica is still thriving, with new investments and housing developments underway.
During the interview with host Siyamak Khorrami, Mayor Brock acknowledged the significant challenges posed by the city's position at the end of the Route 66 and the Metro rail line, which has become a passageway for homeless individuals from across Los Angeles. "I was at the end of the rail line and saw 47 homeless people exit the train between 12 and 2 a.m.," he said, adding that an estimated 6,000 unhoused individuals pass through Santa Monica annually.
Brock emphasized Santa Monica's "compassionate but accountable" approach, balancing the need to provide support services with enforcing anti-camping laws. The city is allocating over $10 million to homelessness solutions and another $30 million toward police and fire response, aiming to manage the growing concerns. He also noted efforts to build affordable housing and supportive services, while increasing patrols and surveillance to deter criminal activity.
Despite the challenges, Brock expressed optimism about the future, highlighting the billion-dollar investments coming to downtown Santa Monica, the upcoming World Cup festivities in 2026, and the city’s role as a host for beach volleyball during the 2028 Olympics. The mayor called on residents to remain engaged with local governance and support the community's recovery and revitalization.
Santa Monica, he emphasized, is "open for business" and remains committed to its residents and visitors alike.
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