Westside

BEACH ADS: While some cities fight to prevent advertising along scenic sections of their roadways, Malibu is courting the idea.

Malibu is the site of frequent fire, flood and mud disasters, and the catastrophes have triggered the need for about a dozen four-wheel drive vehicles for use by its employees.

But the city cannot afford the cost. So officials have proposed a swap: If an auto dealer or other business will donate a four-by-four, the vehicle can display a small, “tasteful” advertisement, Malibu Public Works Director John Clement said.