THURSDAY, MARCH 12, 2026
Mayor’s Podcast Episode 3: Downtown Plan, Artist Live Work Properties, and Hillside Development
In Episode 3, Mayor Mark Orgill discusses several issues that residents have recently raised in the community. The episode includes an overview of the Environmental Impact Report process for the Downtown Specific Plan and explains how environmental review informs decision making before any policy direction is considered.
The conversation also addresses questions about the appraisal values associated with the artist live work properties recently acquired by the Laguna Beach Community Land Trust. Mayor Orgill explains the appraisal process and the City’s role in supporting the preservation of these properties.
The episode concludes with a brief discussion about hillside development and how the City’s General Plan and zoning laws guide where and how development may occur.
Ocean Avenue & Beach Streetscape Project Update
The City encourages interested community members to participate at the March 18, 2026, Planning Commission meeting, to be held at 6:00 P.M., to discuss the concept plans for the Ocean Avenue and Beach Street Streetscape project.
Proposed improvements include sidewalk widening and replacements, curb bump-outs for landscape opportunities, traffic calming for enhanced pedestrian safety, and discussion about trees. Feedback will be received at the meeting to finalize engineering designs and return for Planning Commission Design Review in Summer 2026.
Share your comments and questions about the proposed project by emailing Alpha Santos, Project Manager, at asantos@lagunabeachcity.net.
"You’re Invited!" Retail Attraction Brochure
The City is doubling down on its commitment to a vibrant local economy. This month, the City unveil a refreshed recruitment brochure designed to attract high-quality tenants that fit the unique character of the community.
The City’s Economic Development team has launched a new Retail Attraction Brochure, serving as a "pitch deck" for Laguna Beach. This brochure helps property owners and brokers recruit businesses by providing a professional, data-driven look at why Laguna is the premier place to do business. The brochure features:
- Up-to-Date Metrics: Latest data on household income and consumer spending.
- Market Snapshot: A look at current brand mix and cultural amenities
- Direct Access: QR codes linking prospective tenants to City investment projects and resources.
Why it matters: By giving owners and brokers better tools to market their spaces, we may help fill vacancies faster. “Interested in seeing the new brochure? You can view the digital version on the City’s Economic Development webpage or reach out to Louie Lacasella in the City Manager’s Office at llacasella@lagunabeachcity.net to learn more about how the City is supporting local business growth.”
Registration is Now Open for the ASICS Laguna Beach Trophy Invitational!
The ASICS Laguna Beach Trophy Invitational is set to return to Laguna Beach High School, March 20–21.
Field events will take place on Friday, March 20, followed by track events on Saturday, March 21. Teams are invited to register now with and secure their spot in this premier track and field event.
Entries are open through Sunday, March 15 at 11:59 p.m., with accepted entries announced on Monday, March 16 by noon. - Friday meet time: 1:00 PM-9:00 PM - Saturday meet time: 6:00 AM-6:00 PM (races start at 7:30 am)
Annual Low Cost Neuter/Spray Program Sponsored by PUP Laguna Beach
Requirements:
- Must be a Laguna Beach or Laguna Woods resident (proof of residency required).
- Maximum of two vouchers per household.
- If purchasing a voucher for a K-9, the dog must be currently licensed with Laguna Beach or Laguna Woods. A license may be purchased at the time of voucher purchase if proof of a valid rabies vaccination is provided.
- Cash or check only.
- The last day to purchase a voucher is March 31, 2026. Procedures will take place in April.
- Participating veterinarians are Laguna Beach Animal Hospital and Laguna Beach Animal Medical Center.
* Residents may not choose the veterinarian. The surgery performed will be a traditional canine/feline castration or ovariohysterectomy.
Revitalizing Commercial Properties: Commercial Property Maintenance Program Hits Milestone
The City is proud to announce that the Commercial District Beautification & Property Maintenance Program has officially reached a significant milestone: 30 properties have been successfully refreshed to meet the community’s standards.
What is the Program? Launched to ensure business districts reflect the world-class beauty of Laguna Beach, this initiative focuses on proactive curb appeal improvements.
The program focuses on several key areas of improvement:
- Fresh Paint & Finishes: Addressing peeling paint or weathered facades.
- Structural Integrity: Repairing damaged awnings, and signage.
- Cleanliness: Eliminating grime, cobwebs, and sidewalk debris to create a welcoming environment.
A Results-Driven Approach By utilizing existing City staff to provide outreach and guidance, the program has achieved visible results without using General Fund dollars for construction or material costs.
Why It Matters
A polished commercial district isn't just about aesthetics; it’s about economic vitality.
- Economic Vitality: Inviting storefronts encourage pedestrians to linger and shop locally.
- Property Values: Consistent upkeep protects and enhances long-term real estate value.
- Community Pride: Well-maintained properties foster a shared sense of belonging and care.
What’s Next? With 30 properties already transformed, the City is just getting started. The City committed to maintaining this momentum to keep Laguna Beach looking its absolute best.
Want to learn more? Are you a property or business owner interested in participating? Please contact Louie Lacasella in the City Manager’s Office at llacasella@lagunabeachcity.net for more information.
Tom Fruin Returns to City Hall
February 20 - April 30, at Laguna Beach City Hall, 505 Forest Ave
Renowned artist, Tom Fruin, will be installing a trio of plexiglass and steel sculptures titled “Beacon”, “Duty Calls” and “Rubik’s Cube House” on the lawn at City Hall. The sculptures are a nod to utilitarian design and structures we usually overlook, casting colorful shadows and reflecting sunlight during the day while interior lighting creates a captivating glow in the evening.
Have a Wonderful Weekend! 🌴
Printed copies of the newsletter are available Fridays at the Community & Susi Q Center. Alternative Language Options Available Upon Request.