Good morning, Long Beach. It’s Monday, Dec. 1. Here’s what you need to know to start your day. Sign up to get this in your inbox every week at LBPost.com/newsletters.

City meetings

Despite city police saying crime has dropped in Long Beach, a growing number of business owners and lobbyists say the amount of vandalism, theft and threats, especially downtown, has only worsened, to an extent that it’s forced some to move elsewhere.

Now, three City Council members are asking the city to review the effectiveness of its homeless programs, from CARE Court — aimed at addressing mental illness — to its encampment-clearing policies. Their request also asks for city officials to study whether it’s possible to set money aside for more patrols around retail blocks and entertainment areas.

Citing a rise in demand and new statewide mandates, the city is asking the City Council to approve $7.8 million more for its rebuild of the city police training academy.

While the bulk of the rebuild is complete, the city is set to host its 100th recruitment class this winter, and officials say new requirements have made its active combat and gas house training facilities obsolete and in need of replacement. 

This increase would make it a $44 million project, to include auxiliary costs and design.

The city Utilities Commission will hear a presentation on the year-to-year rates of water main breaks, their causes and plans for replacing aging pipes. Another overview will be provided to the commissioners on the state’s water supply. 

At Wednesday’s meeting for the Pedestrian Safety Advisory Committee, members will discuss placement of school crossing guards, including one at the intersection of Burnett Street and Pacific Avenue. 

And on Tuesday, the Los Angeles County Board of Supervisors is expected to implement a county ban on the use of face masks by any law enforcement authorities, an ordinance largely targeted at the practice by federal immigration authorities during ICE raids.

Business events and information

  • It’s that time of year again. Long Beach Mayor Rex Richardson is expected to have his third annual State of Business address on Friday at Hyatt Regency (200 S. Pine Ave.) from 11:30 a.m. to 1:30 p.m. The address will highlight the accomplishments under his tenure and tease at upcoming developments in the city. Tickets start at $150 for members, while tables range from $1,500 to $7,500. For more information, visit here.
  • It’s the season of giving, but that doesn’t necessarily mean it’s easier to get donations. For those nonprofits looking to finish the year strong with one last fundraising campaign, the Nonprofit Partnership is hosting an online breakfast series on Thursday from 9 a.m. to 11 a.m. Rates start at $25; for more information, visit the link provided. 
  • What happens when young talent gets the investment it deserves: Here’s what it looks like when young adults navigating major life transitions get a real chance to build skills, gain experience and thrive with the help of local employers and organizations that are ready to open doors for emerging talent. Made possible by Merge Opportunities.

ICYMI — California and national news

  • After 48 years, it seemed Great Beginnings Preschool found its end. But then came a second chance. (Long Beach Post)
  • California is about to cut power company profits to historic lows. Your bill will barely drop (CalMatters)
  • Snapchat is nearing 1 billion monthly users. Why can’t it turn a profit? (Los Angeles Times)
  • California court tosses Wonderful Company lawsuit over farmworker unionization law (CalMatters)