Today, the Los Angeles County Board of Supervisors unanimously approved a motion introduced by Supervisor Kathryn Barger to provide critical economic recovery support to Altadena following the devastating Eaton Fire.
“Our small business owners are the backbone of Altadena’s economy, and we must do everything we can to help them recover,” said Los Angeles County Board of Supervisors Chair Kathryn Barger. “This motion provides much-needed financial relief and economic opportunities that will help rebuild and strengthen Altadena. By investing in local businesses, job creation, and public awareness, we are taking critical steps toward ensuring a full and lasting recovery.”
The motion sets key directives in motion and establishes important programs aimed at revitalizing the local economy, supporting affected businesses, and creating job opportunities for impacted residents.
The following are key provisions in Supervisor Barger’s motion:
- Approving pop-up events and restaurants in vacant lots in Altadena for up to five years to encourage community engagement and economic activity.
- Setting aside 500 Youth@Work positions next fiscal year to employ youth impacted by the Eaton Fire, providing them with meaningful job opportunities and career development.
- Establishing a satellite America’s Job Center of California (AJCC) in Altadena to connect residents with employment resources and job placement assistance.
- Designing and implementing a “shop local” public awareness campaign to support and promote businesses in Altadena as they work to recover.
- Directing the L.A. County Development Authority to create a small business loan program, allocating up to $6.5 million to assist businesses that survived the fire, ensuring they have the financial support needed to rebuild and thrive.
“This is about reaffirming our County’s commitment to long-term recovery efforts in Altadena,” said Supervisor Barger. “It is my personal mission to ensure that both residents and businesses receive the support they need to rebuild stronger than before the Eaton Fire. It will not define our community.”