Sterling Clipple from LA County Public Works announced a storm forecast with 1-3 inches of rain expected for the coast and valleys, and 3-6 inches for the foothills and mountains.
The county has deployed 8,000 sandbags and is offering free engineering advice for mud flow mitigation.
Supervisor Barger discussed the selection process for the Altadena Recovery Commission, emphasizing community representation.
Colonel Saucer addressed debris removal logistics, including the use of North Los Robles for some waste streams.
Public Health advised residents to avoid homes with significant fire debris and to use appropriate protective equipment during cleanup.
The meeting also covered the opt-out process for debris removal, the use of Farnsworth Park for staging, and the potential for waiving permit fees for fire-damaged properties.
Action Items
[ ] Supervisor Barger to provide more information on the Altadena Recovery Commission by the end of the week.
[ ] Public Works to release more information on the opt-out process and permit requirements this week.
[ ] Public Works and Regional Planning to clarify the timeline for permit fee waivers and potential reimbursements.
[ ] Public Health and other departments to align on guidance for residents with homes still standing, including the 100-foot safety radius, and coordinate with the Department of Insurance.
Outline
Storm Preparation and Flood Control Measures
Sterling Clipple from LA County Public Works discusses the upcoming storm forecast, expected rain from Wednesday to Friday, with heavier rain on Thursday and Friday.
Rainfall expectations: 1-3 inches for the coast and valleys, 3-6 inches for the foothills and mountains.
Isolated mud flows, blocked streets, and potential mud in certain areas are anticipated.
County flood control district has assessed all facilities and is prepared to protect public, property, and the environment.
K-rails and 8000 sandbags have been placed at key spots, and free engineering advice is available for mud flow mitigation.
Selection and Duration of Altadena Recovery Commission
Supervisor Barger explains that the Altadena Recovery Commission (ARC) will be community-driven with representation from the community.
Interested community members can contact Supervisor Barger's office via email to participate.
The ARC will operate for about five years to get the rebuilding effort off the ground.
Debris Removal and Traffic Management
Colonel Saucer addresses concerns about debris removal trucks on North Los Robles, confirming it will be a regular thoroughfare.
Residential streets are being assessed to move waste streams to appropriate receiving facilities.
North Robles will be utilized for some debris streams, and efforts are made to minimize congestion and move quickly from residential streets.
Investigation into Sheriff's Response and Looting
Supervisor Barger refers the question about the alleged difference in Sheriff officers' response to Captain Williams.
Captain Williams explains that patrols are conducted equally throughout Altadena, with increased patrols, home checks, and aerial surveillance.
The home check system is in place, and the helicopter and drone system are operational for Altadena.
Debris Cleanup and Homeowner Responsibilities
Colonel Saucer explains that surviving homeowners need to take precautions when debris is being cleared on their street.
The wet method is used to minimize particle transfer into the air, and personnel use appropriate personal protective equipment.
Air monitors are placed on employees and at work sites to ensure safety and public health.
Ash Footprint and Property Cleanup
Colonel Saucer defines the ash footprint as the area where fire ash debris is visible on the ground.
Non-destroyed structures like garages and driveways are typically not eligible for the personal property Debris Removal Program.
The Army Corps will remove fire ash debris down to six inches, and homeowners can elect to keep foundations if they wish.
Opt-Out Process and Permit Fees
Public Works confirms that there is a confirmation process for the online ROE form and that responses are sent within a few weeks.
An opt-out process is available, and property owners can pull permits through the Epic LA system to use private contractors.
Permit fees are reimbursable through private insurance, and more information about the opt-out process will be available on recovery.lacounty.gov.
Septic Tanks and Pools
Public Works states that septic tanks are not included in the debris removal process and must be removed separately.
Pools on destroyed properties will be drained and concrete removed, and existing pool water may be used for the wet method.
For standing homes, guidance is available on Public Health's website for cleaning pools without draining them.
Tree Markings and Removal
Colonel Saucer explains that tree markings indicate trees in the ash footprint or deemed hazardous by an arborist.
Homeowners can have a say in which trees are removed, and the process involves a conversation with the Army Corps and Public Works.
Trees outside the ash footprint may be considered for retention if there is a strong desire from the property owner.
Lot Surveying and Zoning Regulations
The county is considering providing or assisting with lot surveying to determine lot boundaries and set corner monuments.
The Planning Department will issue a single certificate of compliance for most Altadena properties to ensure proper subdivision.
The county is not attempting to make SB 9 lot splitting illegal but is considering precluding it in mapped very high fire hazard severity zones.
Temporary Housing and ADUs
Property owners can live in surviving ADUs while rebuilding, provided debris is cleared within a 100-foot radius.
ADUs can be built prior to the primary home and remain permanent after rebuilding.
Temporary housing permits are required for ADUs, and pre-fabricated ADUs can be used for temporary living.
Fast Track Approval and Zoning Standards
Fast Track approval is available for like-for-like rebuilds, plus a 10% overage for new code requirements.
Design professionals should visit the DRC for advice and attend forums held by Public Works.
Future homes will be built to meet minimum code standards, with incentives and rebates to lower costs.
Public Health Guidance and EPA Operations
Public Health advises individuals to stay out of homes with significant fire debris and to use appropriate personal protective equipment.
The EPA is handling the removal and transport of household hazardous materials, with Farnsworth Park and the Altadena golf course used for staging.
The EPA will complete clearance by the end of February, with some properties deferred to the Army Corps for household hazardous material removal.
