January 11, 2026
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SMa.r.t. Column: The Mansionization of Santa Monica

Editor’s note: This column originally appeared in print in 2016.  In the 1980s, Santa Monica’s single family zoning code was rewritten and modified to prevent the “mansionization” of small homes on small lots, from being […]

SMa.r.t. Column: Wheeling Electrically

A recent weekend visit to Dana Point, on the Orange County coastline, revealed a curious scene: dozens, if not hundreds of folks using electric bicycles to visit the coastline, ride in the streets and travel […]

Population Loss: New Era or Pandemic Glitch?

By Tom Elias, Columnist The numbers suggest a major change is underway in California. It would take a Nostradamus to know if that change is real and long lasting or if those proclaiming it are […]

OP-Ed: DTSM Chair Barry Snell on Safety Ambassadors

By Barry Snell Chair, Downtown Santa Monica, Inc. Board of Directors  The Downtown Santa Monica, Inc. (DTSM) Board of Directors and staff are fully aware of concerns regarding public safety along our beloved Third Street […]

Affordable Spaces for Small Business

Los Angeles County recently proposed a program providing financial incentives for certain “Legacy” family businesses in their original historical location. They have been facing financial hardships for a variety of reasons like COVID, gentrification, and […]

​​Doubt Removed: Oil Refiners Gouging Us

By Tom Elias, Columnist There was some room for doubt back in February, when gasoline prices rose precipitously: Until the oil companies who refine most California gas unveiled their first-quarter profits, it would be impossible […]

Is the Big Housing Crunch Mostly Fiction?

By Tom Elias, Columnist In some parts of California, there is definitely a housing crunch: small supplies of homes for sale, prices that escalate even when population has apparently stabilized and high prices that exclude […]