Local News Briefs: Santa Monica Police Launch High-Tech SMART Center

SANTA MONICA — The Santa Monica Police Department officially launched its new Santa Monica Analytical Real-Time Center (SMART Center) this week, marking a major upgrade in the city’s public safety infrastructure.

The state-of-the-art facility integrates live data from cameras, drones, and other sources to provide real-time intelligence to officers in the field. Officials say the center will improve crime prevention, emergency response times, investigative capabilities, and coordination across departments, with a focus on priorities such as crime suppression, homelessness response, and traffic safety.

Mayor Caroline Torosis and police leaders described the SMART Center as a tool to deliver a clearer operational picture during incidents, enhancing safety for both the public and first responders. The department has already used aspects of the integrated system at active scenes, and the permanent center is now fully operational.

SANTA MONICA — The Santa Monica City Council has authorized license agreements and municipal code changes to support a series of high-profile events tied to the 2026 FIFA World Cup, a major music and cultural festival, and the 2028 Olympic and Paralympic Games.

The plans include the Michelob ULTRA Pitchside Club, a free 21-and-over fan experience on the Santa Monica Pier from June 11–25, 2026. The activation will feature live match viewing, interactive games, cultural programming, and athlete appearances, with the goal of boosting foot traffic and supporting local businesses during the tournament.

Additional activations include a planned two-day Goldenvoice music and cultural festival this fall and various experiences connected to the 2028 Games. City officials say the events represent a significant opportunity for tourism and economic revitalization in the coming years.

LAHSA Announces Major Layoffs Amid County Shifts

LOS ANGELES — The Los Angeles Homeless Services Authority (LAHSA) has announced plans to issue layoff notices to 284 employees on April 30, with most positions ending June 30, as the agency undergoes a major restructuring.

The cuts, which include 216 union-represented staff and 68 non-represented employees, are driven by the Los Angeles County Board of Supervisors’ decision to create a new County Department of Homeless Services and Housing and shift substantial funding away from LAHSA. In total, the restructuring will eliminate 414 positions, including 130 currently vacant ones.

The move affects regional homelessness services, including programs that have operated in Santa Monica and other Westside communities. LAHSA officials say they are working to support affected employees during the transition while refocusing on a narrower mission.

Spike in Flea-Borne Typhus Cases Reported in Santa Monica

SANTA MONICA — Los Angeles County public health officials are reporting a record number of flea-borne typhus cases, with Santa Monica identified as one of three localized outbreak areas in 2025.

County data shows 220 cases of the bacterial illness last year — the highest total ever recorded — up from 187 cases in 2024. Nearly 90 percent of patients required hospitalization. Symptoms include fever, headache, chills, body aches, and a rash, and the disease is treatable with antibiotics if caught early.

Health authorities urge residents to protect themselves and pets by using flea control products, securing trash, avoiding contact with stray animals, and preventing wildlife from nesting near homes. Cases have been linked to fleas carried by rats, opossums, and free-roaming cats.

These briefs are written in a neutral, factual tone suitable for local publication. Let me know if you’d like any adjustments, expansions, or headlines changed!