DTSM, Inc. Summary of Services Report: Legion Corporation Background
To address the evolving needs of Downtown Santa Monica businesses and stakeholders, DTSM, Inc. worked with the City of Santa Monica to amend its Services Agreement. This amendment facilitated the introduction of a one-year pilot program for private security services in the district, currently managed by Legion Corporation. The program officially commenced on December 1, 2023.
Summary of Services
Legion Corporation has deployed security officers daily throughout the district from 6 AM to 10 PM. Deployment specifics include two officers assigned to Zone 1, two officers to Zone 2, and two officers collectively covering Zones 3, O, and L. These officers are tasked with responding to incidents reported by the community as well as those observed during their patrols.
On June 27, 2024, Legion Corporation submitted a six-month progress report to the DTSM, Inc.
Board of Directors, summarizing their activities and interactions. The report highlighted 1,569 interactions with brick-and-mortar businesses and 4,509 interactions with Santa Monica visitors.
The most common incidents responded to were 1,274 incidents of trespassing, 3,716 incidents of observed drug use, and 3,836 incidents of prohibited activities on the Third Street Promenade, which include smoking, bicycle riding, and skateboarding.
Program Feedback
During the Board meeting, Lieutenant Geraldo Leyva of the Santa Monica Police Department (SMPD) commended the efforts of Legion Corporation’s officers and noted their valuable contribution to public safety. Additionally, Legion Corporation presented positive feedback from businesses and visitors, reflecting strong community support for the program.
DTSM, Inc. conducted a survey among commercial property owners and businesses to further assess the program's effectiveness. The survey revealed that 86.4% of respondents wanted the program to continue through the end of Fiscal Year 2024/2025. Many respondents underscored the program's critical importance to the community by providing specific feedback.
Next Steps
At the July 26, 2024, Board meeting, DTSM, Inc. resolved to formally request the City of Santa Monica to amend its Services Agreement, aiming to extend the Downtown Private Security Program. DTSM, Inc. has also secured funding to sustain the program through the end of the current fiscal year. DTSM, Inc. now seeks to amend its Services Agreement with the City of Santa Monica to continue the program indefinitely.