Santa Monica Neighbors Civic Education
Understanding how our city works shouldn’t require a law degree.
The Santa Monica Civic Education Series is a community resource created to help residents understand how local government decisions are studied, funded, and made.
Each week we break down one part of how city government works, including:
• How City Council makes decisions
• What commissions do
• How the city budget works
• How to read staff reports
• Where public input fits into the process
Local government decisions shape our neighborhoods, infrastructure, housing, environment, and public services.
When residents understand the process, they can participate more effectively and hold government accountable.
This series is designed to make Santa Monica’s civic process clear, accessible, and transparent for everyone.
Follow along each week for new guides, explainers, and visual resources.
