This week in Washington D.C., Supervisor Kathryn Barger met with leaders from FEMA to advocate for disaster recovery needs for Altadena, including commercial property debris removal by the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers that would include businesses, schools, nonprofits, and houses of worship.
Barger met with Bob Fenton, the FEMA Region 9 Administrator, who has been on the ground in the community since the onset of the Eaton Fire.
“I’ve heard loud and clear from Altadena residents that ensuring debris removal for businesses, schools, nonprofits, and houses of worship is a priority so they can begin rebuilding,” Supervisor Barger said. “The Army Corps and FEMA have been strong partners in the recovery of our Altadena community and I’m grateful for their listening ear and active role in our community’s rebuilding, both locally in the community and as allies in D.C. I’m committed to continuing to advocate for Altadena’s needs during every step of the rebuilding process, including during the remainder of the debris removal.”
To date, FEMA has approved private property debris removal for residential properties with single family homes. Through collaborative efforts between the County, State of California, and the federal government, FEMA has expanded the program to include owner-occupied multifamily properties. The County supports FEMA including commercial properties that need assistance from the Army Corps to clear debris. As the County continues its efforts to transition from recovery to rebuilding, ensuring that all lots within the Eaton Fire burn area are cleared is a critical priority before broader rebuilding can move forward.
During the meeting with Fenton, Barger also advocated for federal support for Governor Gavin Newsom’s supplemental budget request for disaster assistance, which includes specific funding for Altadena.