Here is [the video recording](https://us06web.zoom.us/rec/share/4b-E6mJy0bIvuGdBhi3mpXlcCUF9dEwuprJ0D7eLzHIfjLPa537WWK1JoaxV4OJA.JoD-wVdzaUiz2Cqp?startTime=1749322733000 Passcode: CP?&MX7e).
Meeting summary for Rubio Zoom Meeting (06/07/2025)
Quick recap
The group discussed various home improvement measures and fire prevention strategies, including sprinkler systems, solar panels, and ember-resistant modifications, with members sharing their experiences of recent fires and recovery efforts. They explored community-based solutions for fire safety, including camera systems and neighborhood improvements, while addressing concerns about unauthorized visitors and property protection. The conversation concluded with discussions about rebuilding efforts in the neighborhood, insurance challenges, and the need for updated emergency contacts and security measures.
Next steps
- Mike: Go to permitting center to pull permits for gate, speed bumps, and camera system installation
- Robin: Follow up on soil sample test results from USC
- Robin: Continue following up with Army Corps regarding property erosion issues and damage claims
- Robby: Share fire footage with Al Nakata for investigation purposes
- Michael: Look through Don and Beverly Hadner’s and Burger family’s paperwork for potential HOA documentation and historical property information
- Darrell: Continue monitoring property weekly to check its condition
- Darrell’s gardeners: Clear out all mustard weed from the property
- Michael: Share the neighborhood contact list via email with the group
- Mendes: Get the neighborhood contact list from Lena Kelly and forward it to Michael for comparison
- Darrell & Mendes: Consider organizing a neighborhood-wide initiative for “No Trespassing” and “Rebuilding in Progress” signs for empty lots
- Robin: Share documentation about historical property restrictions with Darrell for potential redlining evidence
- Mendes: Send information about the design-build firm to neighbors via email blast and consider creating postcards for those not connected digitally
- Mendes: Send out the next meeting invitation right after today’s meeting
- Mendes: Handle legal aspects if neighbors can provide old HOA documentation
- All residents: Consider putting up “Private Property, No Trespassing” signs on their properties to enable sheriff response
- All residents: Update their current contact information for the neighborhood emergency contact list
Summary
Post-Fire Home Recovery Updates
Robby shared updates about his home recovery after a fire, noting that while most remediation work was complete, he was planning to replace windows and his Trex deck, with the latter potentially being replaced by a hardscape. He mentioned that his solar system, batteries, and Starlink survived the fire, and he had been living in the house throughout the recovery process, with his wife and daughter recently returning. The conversation concluded with a brief discussion about potential future home improvements, including a possible pool or jacuzzi, with Robby expressing interest in incorporating fire safety features.
Fire Suppression and Documentation
Robby described his efforts to control a fire by remotely activating sprinkler zones around his property, which he believed helped suppress the flames. He shared that his home survived the fire, possibly due to the dampened vegetation and sprinkler system, and noted that the video documentation of the event was useful when filing an insurance claim. The group discussed the timing of the fire’s spread, with Robby and Barbara agreeing that it began around 11 PM, and Darrell mentioned seeing ember storms around 1 AM.
Wildfire Resilience Strategies Shared
The group discussed their experiences with fire prevention and resilience during recent wildfires. Michael shared that his sprinkler system activated every night for four months before the fire, potentially helping to save his property. Robby mentioned having ember-resistant roof modifications and solar panels, which he credited with minimizing damage. The conversation highlighted various home improvement measures like fire-resistant materials, landscaping choices, and local business support, with Mel being praised as an example of comprehensive fire preparation.
Neighborhood Security and Permit Plans
The group discussed a neighbor’s plans to pursue permits for various neighborhood improvements, including a gate, speed bumps, and a camera system for license plate capture, which Darrell noted could be useful for security. They also addressed concerns about unauthorized visitors and potential squatters, with Darrell warning that failing to address squatters could result in legal issues. Barbara mentioned that Gwen McMullins was having trouble joining the meeting, and Mendes helped resolve the technical issue by sending her the meeting details.
Community Fire Safety Initiatives
The group discussed implementing community-based camera systems for license plate recording and fire safety improvements. Darrell emphasized the need to train neighborhoods on modern fire suppression techniques and suggested working with the fire department to implement new, less toxic substances. Mendes noted that property taxes could be reallocated for more sensible modern fire safety measures, while Robby mentioned insurance companies offering pre-fire risk assessments.
Fire Damage and Prevention Discussion
The group discussed their experiences with fire damage, noting that while some materials like turf and patio furniture were singed but didn’t fully combust, others like cushions and sun shades melted. Michael suggested exploring the possibility of sprinkler systems in the Rubio Highlands area, similar to those he remembered from his childhood in Glendale, though Barbara and others agreed that trees might be more effective for fire prevention.
Tsunami Sirens and Solar Updates
The group discussed the need to reinstall tsunami sirens as a failsafe measure to improve emergency notifications, particularly in areas like Pasadena and Altadena. They also talked about soil testing results, with Robin mentioning that a hygienist would visit her home on Tuesday, and discussed the fire that destroyed several houses on Rubio Vista, with Robby and others sharing their experiences and footage of the event. Darrell and Robby discussed their solar panel setups, noting the changing rules around battery storage and installation.
Sprinkler System Installation Planning
The group discussed sprinkler system installation plans, with Robby sharing his experience of spacing them 3 feet apart and recommending metal pipes over PVC. They agreed to install sprinklers at the four corners of the property, ensuring coverage of buildings, and to run them by the pool. Robin raised concerns about potential two-story structures blocking their panoramic view, particularly from Jonice’s lot down to George’s and Jean’s lots. Michael mentioned finding old blueprints from 1965 that included HOA restrictions, which Darrell found interesting as it could indicate their area was redlined, though Mendes noted that redlining maps are unlikely to be changed.
Erosion Damage and FEMA Appeal
Robin discussed ongoing issues with property damage caused by erosion, which she attributes to the Army Corps. Despite contacting multiple agencies and providing extensive documentation, she has not received help. Robin is appealing to FEMA and has filed complaints with various departments, including the fire department and LA County. She expressed frustration over being denied grants due to incorrect damage assessments and the difficulty in getting her property damage recognized.
Insurance Challenges and Adjuster Experiences
Robin discussed meeting with Fox Law in Pasadena and mentioned an ongoing case against State Farm, raising concerns about potential complications if State Farm learns about it. Darrell shared experiences with insurance adjusters, noting inconsistencies in treatment between different adjusters and companies, and mentioned that Kevin and Lena are considering getting a new adjuster. Michael expressed frustration with the Fair Plan, highlighting its limitations and the challenges faced by homeowners, while Darrell and Michael also discussed the importance of fireproofing homes and the difficulties of rebuilding even with insurance and loans.
Neighborhood Rebuilding and Security Measures
The group discussed rebuilding efforts in the neighborhood, with some residents choosing modern styles while others formed a co-op to maintain the original look. They agreed to spread the word about a design-build firm offering discounts for multiple neighbors, and discussed the need for an updated contact list for emergencies. The group also addressed concerns about trespassing and property protection, with suggestions to consider “no trespassing” signs and possibly working with the sheriff to address security issues.
Mendes Weber is inviting you to a scheduled Zoom meeting.
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Meeting ID: 861 331 9467
Passcode: rubio