March 1, 2024
When the COVID-19 pandemic forced worldwide shutdowns in tourism, retail, dining, and public events, few cities took it harder than Santa Monica, a city which had long utilized its massive dining, retail, and hotel tax revenues to superfund their city budget. Post-pandemic, the city continues to be challenged by COVID related revenue losses, homelessness, crime, as well as pricey court rulings. TPR, in this exclusive interview, spoke with Santa Monica City Manager David White on how the city is successfully recovering from its difficult position and why he maintains a positive outlook on Santa Monica’s future. In the interview, White talks about reviving the 3rd Street Promenade, civic engagement, their novel approaches to homelessness and crime, as well as projects like the Civic Auditorium and the potential Santa Monica Airport park.
