Our latest Santa Monica Pulse shows residents are almost evenly split when it comes to requirements to show proof of vaccination at indoor bars, wineries, breweries, lounges and nightclubs in Los Angeles County. 49 percent oppose the policy, while another 47 percent support it. This tracks with last month’s poll, which found residents were split on implementing a vaccine mandate in Santa Monica for indoor public spaces.

At a recent City Council meeting, controversy sparked over the Council’s use of “13 items” as a way to bring public issues up for discussion. Councilmember Brock has used this procedure in the past to raise concerns over several issues, including public safety and noise levels in Santa Monica. It mainly entails a Councilmember submitting an agenda item for the Council to discuss and then hear public comment on toward the end of the meeting. It can also lead Councilmembers to vote on an action regarding the issue.

But some of Councilmember Brock’s colleagues criticized his approach. We asked residents to weigh in.

When asked if 13 items were an effective way to raise concerns to the Council, 32 percent of residents said “yes.” However, the majority (59 percent) said they were unsure. It could be that many residents are unfamiliar with this Council protocol.

Speaking of 13 items, we asked residents about two that were brought up at a recent Council meeting.

One asked staff to draft a noise ordinance that would limit amplified sound, specifically music, in public parks. When asked if such an ordinance should also include bull horns, loud speakers or other potentially disruptive noise, 55 percent of residents said “yes.” Another 29 percent said “no,” while 15 percent were unsure.

Another 13 item asked staff to review and allocate resources for safety and security measures in Downtown Santa Monica. We asked residents if they felt enough was being done to keep this area safe. A resounding 73 percent said “no,” while just 11 percent said “yes.” Another 14 percent were unsure.