The City of Santa Monica Launches Bitcoin Office
The City of Santa Monica has officially launched a Bitcoin Office to enhance education and explore economic opportunities related to Bitcoin, cementing its position as a leader in crypto innovation.
Approved unanimously by the Santa Monica City Council on July 11, the initiative was unveiled to the public through its official webpage on Aug. 8.
Partnering with Proof of Workforce, a nonprofit dedicated to Bitcoin education, the office aims to educate the local community, foster partnerships for economic recovery, and identify Bitcoin-related career opportunities for residents and students.
While generating excitement, the initiative has sparked concerns among some city officials regarding legal and financial risks associated with Bitcoin promotion. The office stresses the importance of understanding crypto risks.
Proof of Workforce, founded in 2023 by Santa Monica firefighter Dominick Bei, helps workers and unions grasp Bitcoin’s role in advancing their objectives. The nonprofit is committed to empowering organizations to leverage Bitcoin for their well-being.
In addition to educational endeavors, the Bitcoin Office is promoting the upcoming “Bitcoin Peer to Pier Festival” on Oct. 18, highlighting Santa Monica’s dedication to integrating Bitcoin into its economic landscape as a tech powerhouse in the “Silicon Beach” region.