Quick recap
This meeting focused on updates from residents rebuilding after the fire, including construction progress, solar installation plans, and insurance matters. Participants discussed various reconstruction challenges including foundation work, retaining walls, and the requirement for sprinkler systems in new homes. The group shared experiences with insurance claims and recovery assistance, noting that many residents faced difficulties with FEMA aid due to incorrect mapping designations. Several residents discussed their plans for solar installations, with recommendations to start with Altadena Energy and Solar, and explored the possibility of forming a microgrid for shared energy resources. The meeting also covered landscaping recommendations, with participants sharing contacts for reliable contractors, and concluded with information about the Eaton Fire Collaborative resource center on Woodbury Road.
Next steps
- michael: Email Darrell and Gary the contact information for recommended landscapers/gardeners, including both Herberto and Israel, and indicate which are landscapers versus gardeners.
- Darrell/Gary: Compile a list of recommended landscapers and gardeners from group submissions and post to Rubio Action Network.
- michael: Upload all outstanding expense documentation to the Fox Law Dropbox to ensure all claims are included.
- Mendes: Post information about insurance updates and interest accrual on escrow accounts to the Action Network.
- All interested in solar/battery/microgrid: Research and share information on solar plus battery vendors, microgrid formation, and pricing/quotes via Action Network for group discount consideration.
- All interested in fire prevention systems: Share quotes and information about exterior water/pump systems for fire protection with the group.
- All: Submit recommendations for landscapers/gardeners currently being used to Darrell and Gary for the shared list.
- Mendes: Answer Maggie’s email to confirm that interest is being accrued on escrow accounts.
Summary
Home Construction Foundation Progress
Angela and Darrell discussed their home construction progress, where Angela confirmed they had started the foundation work with a slab approach. Angela mentioned they were waiting for drain inspection before the electrician could begin work, and she expressed satisfaction with their choice of slab foundation despite some concerns about floor hardness. Mendes joined the conversation briefly to share that they had also chosen slab for cost reasons, and Darrell noted that their previous house had moisture issues under the floor, which should be avoided with the new slab construction.
Neighborhood Reconstruction Progress Update
The group discussed neighborhood reconstruction progress, with Darrell mentioning they have builders ready to start and shared positive feedback about a construction company that built modern houses on West Powell. Michael reported that his house remediation work for lead abatement began the previous Thursday, and he observed community volunteers working on a trail near his property. The participants noted increased property values in the area and observed new construction progress, with Edison conducting underground utility work on the west side of the neighborhood.
Construction Projects Progress Update
The group discussed progress on construction projects, including Roger’s retaining wall work and a similar project by Jeff and Jez. Roger shared insights about building code requirements for retaining walls, noting the significant difference between walls under 6 feet and those over 6 feet, which caused him a month and a half delay due to a surveying error. The discussion also covered the requirement for an on-site observer during concrete pouring, who charges $450 for the 2-hour process.
Home Construction and Permits Discussion
The group discussed construction work happening at Marianne Bick’s house, which appeared to involve drilling equipment and potentially geothermal heating. Darrell and Mendes speculated that the work might be related to supporting a deck or patio structure, similar to what Becky and Al are experiencing with their properties. The conversation also covered driveway modifications, where Mendes confirmed that extending a driveway would likely require a permit under sidewalk repair regulations, with associated costs around $100.
Solar Microgrid Planning Discussion
The group discussed solar installation plans, with Roger asking about forming a group to negotiate better prices. Mendes suggested forming a microgrid where neighbors could share electricity and storage, which Darrell supported as a viable option. The group agreed that anyone pursuing solar plus battery systems should research microgrid possibilities and share their findings and quotes on the Action Network to help others make informed decisions.
Solar Installation and System Planning
The group discussed solar panel and battery installation options, with Mendes recommending Altadena Energy and Solar as a local and reliable starting point. Karen shared her positive experience with Altadena Solar, though noted challenges with battery placement due to fire code requirements. The discussion also covered the need for a water pump system to cover multiple properties, with Mendes mentioning a potential cost of under $4,000, and Angela emphasizing the importance of ensuring proper coverage to her property. Regarding transformer costs, Darrell clarified through research that homeowners typically only pay for the line to their house, not the transformer hardware itself.
West Altadena Power Pole Concerns
The group discussed concerns about new power pole installations in West Altadena, where metal poles are being attached to the fronts of new houses rather than being placed underground or in the backyard. Angela observed this pattern while driving through the area and noted it would likely affect the aesthetic appearance of the neighborhood once all wires are installed. The group agreed to investigate further to understand the reasons behind this installation method and whether it might lead to legal challenges regarding equitable treatment of different neighborhoods.
Mandatory Home Sprinkler Systems Discussion
The group discussed mandatory sprinkler systems for new homes, with Darrell confirming that interior sprinklers are now required by code. Michael shared his experience using sprinklers during a fire event, emphasizing the importance of learning how to operate the system manually. The conversation also covered water availability during the fire, with Karen noting that her area lost water supply, while Michael’s neighborhood had water until around 9pm before evacuation.
Landscaping Services and Recommendations
Michael discussed his experience with a landscaper named Herberto, whom he recommended to Karen and others, noting that while the crew is trustworthy, supervision is necessary. The group discussed various landscaping solutions including ice plants for erosion control and terracing, with Darrell mentioning their work with landscape designer Susanna Dad and gardener Ambrosio. The conversation also touched on challenges with finding reliable gardening services due to immigration issues affecting some workers.
Gardening and Home Improvement Discussion
The group discussed sharing information about recommended gardeners and landscapers, with Michael offering to email contacts to Darrell and Robin for inclusion in the Rubio Action Network. Mendes provided guidance on ice plant maintenance, noting its fire resistance requires consistent irrigation. The conversation also covered Robin’s recent AT&T fiber installation experience, which involved replacing copper wiring while minimizing costs. The conversation ended with a brief discussion about an ongoing lawsuit, including information about bellwether plaintiffs, though specific details about insurance and mortgage company practices were not fully resolved.
Litigation and Insurance Discussion
The group discussed litigation roles, with Angela sharing advice from her attorney about avoiding volunteer positions in litigation cases as they would require extensive time commitments and involvement in depositions. The conversation then shifted to insurance matters, where participants discussed rising insurance costs and State Farm’s delayed response times for claims. Michael shared that his auto insurance increased significantly despite having a relatively new Toyota, and the group discussed a potential fire safety program that could offer modest insurance discounts.
Disaster Insurance Claims and Recovery
The group discussed various aspects of insurance claims and recovery assistance following a disaster. They clarified that interest does accrue in escrow accounts, though payment may be delayed by the bank. The discussion covered mortgage forbearance programs and how insurance settlements are handled through escrow accounts, with different portions going to mortgage holders versus direct recipients. The group shared experiences with various assistance programs, noting challenges with FEMA eligibility due to mapping issues and difficulties in obtaining grants despite significant damage. Mendes recommended the Eaton Fire Collaborative as a resource for community support, including available services like mental health support and daycare.