Staff had recommended consolidating the three commissions into a single Housing and Human Services Commission with seven members to streamline operations
The Santa Monica City Council has decided to retain the Disabilities Commission as an independent body, rejecting a staff proposal to merge it with the Housing and Human Services commissions.
The decision came during a Jan. 13 meeting as part of a five-year review of the city’s 20 boards, commissions and one task force aimed at improving efficiency and reducing administrative costs.
Staff had recommended consolidating the three commissions into a single Housing and Human Services Commission with seven members to streamline operations and align with departmental structures.
The council also approved converting the Urban Forest Task Force into a formal commission, reducing membership on the Arts Commission and Public Safety Reform and Oversight Commission, and making other administrative changes.
Additional measures include shortening reappointment waiting periods, revising absence policies and eliminating council liaisons to advisory bodies.
Changes will take effect July 1, 2026, pending ordinance updates.
