Los Angeles County Board of Supervisors Chair Kathryn Barger issued the following statement today in response to Governor Gavin Newsom’s newly issued Executive Order on housing protections, which includes a key provision affecting future development in Altadena’s commercial corridors along Lake Avenue and Fair Oaks Avenue:
“I commend Governor Newsom for taking decisive action to preserve commercial space along these two critical corridors. Altadena’s local economy may be small, but it is powered by resilient, hardworking small businesses. As these businesses continue to recover and rebuild—or, for those that remain open, strive to survive despite the challenges of a displaced customer base—this Executive Order will serve as an important safeguard to preserve commercial space and the local economy.
By preventing the permanent loss of commercial sites in our business corridors, the Governor’s action ensures that our small businesses can continue to serve the community without the looming threat of redevelopment pressures pushing them out.
Recovery isn’t just about residents returning to their homes—it’s about ensuring that the restaurants, coffee shops, dry cleaners, and other essential services they rely on remain in place to help them rebuild their daily lives.
By suspending certain state provisions, the Governor’s directive eliminates regulatory barriers that could otherwise displace commercial development from Altadena’s commercial and mixed-use corridors. It also ensures that future development enhances—rather than undermines—the community’s pedestrian-friendly design and vibrant business environment. This balanced approach is key to preserving Altadena’s unique character while also expanding much-needed housing opportunities.
I encourage our local stakeholders to seize this opportunity to collaborate on smart, sustainable development solutions that serve our residents. Together, we can shape a future for Altadena that protects its charm while thoughtfully addressing its housing needs.”