Six weeks after the Bridge Fire swept through portions of the Angeles National Forest–burning more than 54,000 acres–recovery efforts are well underway to help community members who lost their homes and property and to protect the community from future flooding threats.
The wildfire left in its wake approximately 8 million cubic yards of debris and sediment. This matter could flow into debris basins, dams, and reservoirs below the burn areas during storms, creating a heightened flooding risk to downstream communities.
Supervisor Kathryn Barger, who introduced a motion earlier this month to kick-start the community’s recovery process, has been in close communication with the Los Angeles County’s Office of Emergency Management–the County’s entity that coordinates multi-agency recovery efforts.
“Wildfire recovery is not a simple process, it has a lot of moving parts and involves many supporting agencies who each have their area of expertise,” stated Supervisor Kathryn Barger. “While I’m pleased Bridge Fire recovery work is in progress, my heart goes out to the residents in Mt. Baldy, Wrightwood, and surrounding communities who lost homes and property. Rebuilding is never easy, it’s a long process. I want my constituents to know I stand by them and they have my full support.”
“Unfortunately, wildlife recovery is not new to Los Angeles County, we’ve been down this path before,” stated Kevin McGowan, Director of Los Angeles County’s Office of Emergency Management. “At Supervisor Barger’s direction, we’ve assembled a strong Task Force composed of disaster experts who have rolled up their sleeves and are working on various fronts to expedite recovery. Support is available and we want the community to know it’s accessible to them now.”
Economic Support
Based on direction from Supervisor Barger’s motion, Los Angeles County’s Treasurer Tax Collector will defer property tax payments due December 10, 2024, for those who own property damaged or destroyed by the Bridge Fire. Payments will be deferred without penalty or interest until the Los Angeles County Assessor reassess damaged property in accordance with state law. Property owners must complete and file a Misfortune and Calamity Claim form within 12 months of the date property was damaged or destroyed to qualify for this financial relief. The loss must exceed $10,000 of current market value.
The U.S. Small Business Administration will also soon announce the availability of low-interest disaster loans to help businesses and homeowners impacted by the Bridge Fire. Businesses of all sizes, homeowners, renters, and non-profit organizations are eligible to apply for loans.
Los Angeles County’s Department of Business Affairs (DCBA) is also providing information to residents on how to report suspected price gouging during a declared emergency. Anyone who believes they are a victim of price gouging should report it to DCBA by dialing 1 (800) 593-8222 or online at dcba.lacounty.gov. More information on how to file a complaint is available here.
Debris Removal and Rebuilding Support
There is now a debris removal process in place for private property owners to help them safely and properly dispose of Household Hazardous Waste and burn debris.
Los Angeles County has worked closely with San Bernardino County to ensure their landfills–which are the closest ones to impacted communities–will accept burn debris from Los Angeles County residents. Anyone with questions about debris removal and rebuilding can visit Public Works’s website for help. Wildfire survivors can also email Public Works at BridgeFire@pw.lacounty.gov or call Public Works’ debris removal hotline at (626) 979-5370 for more information.
Mitigating Burn Scar Risks
Los Angeles County continues closely coordinating with state and federal partners on assessing the burn scar of the still active fire to identify areas of potential risk for mud and debris flow. Once mapping of the burned areas is complete and potential debris flows are identified, emergency response officials from both Los Angeles and San Bernardino Counties jointly develop plans to safeguard residents who could be impacted by debris flows during future heavy storms.
Ongoing Support from LA County Experts
A Bridge Fire Recovery Task Force was formed at Supervisor Barger’s direction and is working directly with impacted community members, having attended the Mt. Baldy Town Council and Wrightwood Fire Safe Council to provide responsive support. Local assistance centers (LACs) were established as a joint effort between Los Angeles and San Bernardino Counties last month, providing in person information, guidance and resources to anyone seeking it. Over 400 people visited the centers last month. Support information featured at the LACs can continue to be accessed virtually at recovery.lacounty.gov/bridgefire.