Here is the [recording](https://us06web.zoom.us/rec/share/ttAdJsmKEGf2iBmq60U6CYYioxHpNvJtDQpThEN6NmmqHEi3hn9qb0WYLTd6ZBVD.XRwQq-oTv4f_0uJE Passcode: 0rp4f.9J).
Following is the AI transcript:
Meeting summary for Rubio Action Network Zoom Meeting (05/24/2025)
Quick recap
The meeting covered various aspects of rebuilding and recovery following a disaster, including discussions on construction costs, debris removal, and internet connectivity issues. Participants shared updates on their individual situations, including timelines for returning to their homes and challenges encountered during the restoration process. The group also addressed concerns about property security, insurance coverage, and ongoing communication difficulties in the affected area.
Next steps
- Darrell to keep the group informed about the Cal OSHA situation and share the lawyer’s letter once available.
- Mendes to pursue forming a new HOA if the old HOA documents can be found.
- Darrell to pass on information about architect Martin Fenland to Kevin and Lena.
- Michael to reach out to Daniel for advice on the pack-out process.
- Adrian to compile a list of missing items and submit claims to Allstate.
- Adrian to contact someone to help set up the new TV.
- Adrian to follow up with AT&T about restoring landline and internet service.
- Kevork to discuss with the county engineers about improving the inlet in his backyard to prevent future flooding.
Summary
Team Rubicon and Sailing Stories
The group discusses various topics as members join the call. Mendes shares information about Team Rubicon, a non-profit organization offering free debris removal services. Angela and Roger join from a boat in Catalina Island, sharing their view and discussing their dogs’ aversion to water. Michael mentions a recent viral story about a young man who sailed from Oregon to Hawaii in 25 days with his cat, which Angela compares to her husband’s professional sailing experiences.
OSHA Shutdown and HOA Decisions
Darrell reports that a construction project was recently shut down by Cal OSHA due to concerns about toxic ash in the fire zone, despite previous approvals. This has raised questions about potential conflicts between county and state regulations. The group discusses the implications for their own rebuilding projects and the need for more information. Mendes mentions that Cavork decided not to pursue forming a new HOA due to complexity. Darrell shares his experience interviewing architects, noting that most use time and materials pricing rather than fixed pricing. Daniel recommends architect Martin Fenlon, praising his fixed pricing and ability to navigate permitting issues.
ADU Planning and Insurance Considerations
The group discusses rebuilding strategies and the possibility of adding Accessory Dwelling Units (ADUs) to their properties. Darrell mentions that including an ADU might push them over their insurance coverage limit, so they plan to design for one but build it later. Daniel advises caution with ADUs, warning about potential issues with unwanted guests and tenant rights. The fire chief has indicated that the neighborhood might be grandfathered in regarding multiple access requirements for ADUs in high fire hazard zones. Darrell and Gary are considering an ADU for future caregiver accommodations.
Neighborhood Property Reentry Updates
Daniel and Yvonne are preparing to move back to their two-story house next to Karen and David’s in a few weeks. Barbara plans to return to her house on Rubio Crest in about a month, while Michael hopes to be back by July or August, pending SBA loan approval. John expects to move back in about a month, contingent on passing post-remediation testing. The group discusses the progress of property clearings and remediation efforts in the neighborhood, noting that most properties have been addressed, which is improving the overall atmosphere of the area.
Neighborhood Internet Service Updates
The group discusses internet connectivity issues in their neighborhood following a recent outage. John reports that Spectrum service has been restored for some residents, advising others to contact the company to reactivate their connections. Daniel mentions purchasing Starlink as a backup. Karen shares that Spectrum couldn’t restore her service, so she switched to AT&T fiber, which offered a better price. The conversation reveals varying experiences with internet providers in the area, with some residents having access to fiber options while others are still struggling to get reliable service.
Wildfire Soil Testing and Services
The group discusses soil testing eligibility and home damage assessment following a wildfire. Karen and John find their addresses ineligible for county soil testing but eligible for USC testing. Michael suggests that the fire department’s initial assessment of homes as “green” may be limiting access to grants and services. Daniel encourages advocating for testing and offers to share his soil test results. Karen mentions having paid for indoor testing and removing contaminated items. The conversation then shifts to pack-out services, with Michael receiving quotes of up to $70,000. Daniel offers to provide guidance on pack-out services, describing them as a “scam” that is “insurance friendly.”
Disaster Recovery Construction Timeline Updates
The group discusses rebuilding timelines and costs for homes affected by a disaster. Darrell estimates breaking ground in April next year due to lengthy permitting processes, while Angela’s architect suggests they might start before the end of summer using a streamlined self-certification process. The conversation then shifts to construction costs, with estimates ranging from $550 to $600 per square foot. Daniel warns that actual costs are likely to be higher, potentially reaching $700 or more due to inflation and other factors. Karen, who is remodeling rather than rebuilding, asks about the bidding process for specific elements of her project.
Home Renovation and Energy Options
The group discusses construction costs, solar panels, and energy options for homes. Darrell estimates an average cost of $550 per square foot for renovations, not including solar and battery installations. Karen mentions her existing solar panels are functioning well. The conversation shifts to the requirements for new builds, with some uncertainty about whether solar is mandatory. They also debate the merits of gas versus electric appliances, with Mendes advocating for induction cooking and all-electric systems. Daniel bids farewell to the group, and Andrea is asked to provide an update on her situation, mentioning she returned home a week ago Monday.
Fire Restoration Process Challenges
The homeowner discusses various challenges encountered during the restoration process after a fire incident. They mention issues with ServiceMaster’s cleaning and packing out of soft goods, as well as concerns about asbestos in the popcorn ceiling, which were later dismissed based on neighbor’s experiences and partial testing. The homeowner also details the replacement of several kitchen appliances and electronics due to smoke exposure, including difficulties with installing a new refrigerator. They are currently compiling a list of missing items and waiting for some final repairs to be completed before Allstate closes the case.
Home Security and Communication Challenges
The group discusses ongoing issues with home security and communication in the aftermath of an unspecified event. The main speaker reports living in their home again but expresses concerns about potential burglaries and vandalism in the area. They mention that their security camera is not functioning due to lack of Wi-Fi and AT&T service. The speaker also notes problems with their landline, forcing reliance on a cellular connection for all communication. They are worried about teaching upcoming dance classes via Zoom without proper Internet connectivity. The group briefly touches on the increased presence of neighbors and the overall quiet atmosphere in the area.
Internet and Property Damage Updates
The group discusses ongoing issues with internet connectivity and property damage. Mendes explains that fiber connections are broken and repairs may take a few more weeks. Michael shares concerns about insurance coverage for damaged appliances and is waiting on an SBA loan to begin repairs. Kevork provides an update on debris removal from his property, with significant progress made in the past few days. The meeting concludes with plans to reconvene in two weeks, and participants express optimism about people returning to the neighborhood.
Gary Mendes and Darrell Weber are inviting you to a scheduled Zoom meeting.
Join Zoom Meeting
https://us06web.zoom.us/j/8613319467?pwd=ffa5wXB286uH0qevgDcLZ3JBg0nCZY.1&omn=88286815402
Meeting ID: 861 331 9467
Passcode: rubio