Quick recap
During this neighborhood meeting, residents discussed their ongoing home rebuilding progress after the wildfire. Angela reported that walls are up on her property with second-story construction starting next week, though she’s dealing with door placement issues that need to be fixed before the second story begins. Darrell shared that their bidding process is underway with two contractors remaining, and they’ve started interior design shopping at Delano in Pasadena, which offers free design services for fire victims. Michael provided an update on his remediation work, explaining that testing showed some issues that required replacing the tub, furnace, AC system, and window seals, with ducting and AC work planned for summer. Jeff and Janie reported significant delays with their engineers not meeting timelines for structural and civil engineering plans, though they hope to get approval next week. The group discussed concerns about SB9 and other density-increasing legislation affecting their neighborhood, with Darrell mentioning plans to send a letter to legislature requesting a moratorium on such developments during the rebuilding period. Adrienne shared details about construction issues on her property, explaining that work was halted due to retaining wall engineering problems and permit requirements, highlighting the importance of proper oversight during rebuilding.
Next steps
Angela
Darrell
Mendes
Michael
Summary
Home Construction Progress Update
Darrell and Angela discussed their home construction progress, with Angela noting how surprising it is to see walls going up and the transformation from a flat area. Darrell shared that their project is moving forward with plan checking and bidding process, while they’ve also started interior design shopping including cabinetry and flooring options at Delano in Pasadena, which offers free design services for fire victims. Angela mentioned construction issues with doors being placed incorrectly in their kitchen, with the architect promising to fix the problems before proceeding with the second story construction.
Construction and Environmental Challenges Discussion
The group discussed construction challenges, with Angela and Michael sharing experiences about the importance of daily oversight during building projects, even when working with trusted contractors. They discussed having separate architects and contractors, with Darrell noting that their architect Alice focuses on design perfection and will be involved in site visits. The conversation shifted to concerns about toxic soil and air quality in their area, though Darrell expressed skepticism about local air quality issues given their proximity to the mountains.
Canteen Safety and House Plans
Michael reported that the canteen testing revealed some safety issues that he plans to address, including replacing the AC unit, fixing window seals, and changing out compromised windows. He noted that while the testing wasn’t completely comprehensive, he’s prioritizing safety improvements within budget constraints rather than conducting a full renovation. Janie updated the group that their house plans are delayed due to structural engineers not meeting timelines, with the stamped plans expected the following week, after which they can proceed with construction once permits are obtained.
Local Construction and Development Concerns
The group discussed local construction activities, with neighbors noting that several homes in the area have started renovations or rebuilding. Darrell raised concerns about new state housing laws SB9 and its exemptions in high fire zones, mentioning plans for Altadena Heritage to send letters to legislature requesting a moratorium on these developments until more rebuilding occurs. Angela mentioned a potential 7-9 unit development on Dorothy Street, and the group discussed approximately 20 SB9 projects and a dozen other similar developments in the area.
Housing Density Law Challenges
The group discussed challenges with SB1123 and SB9 housing density laws in Altadena, particularly regarding 200 permit applications for SB9 and 20 for SB1123. Darrell explained that many permits are being pulled by investors rather than homeowners, which doesn’t align with the original intent of providing additional income and improving density for residents. The group noted that severe wildfire hazard areas restrict density increases, and they discussed a potential seven-unit development on Dolores Street as an example of bungalow-style housing that might be acceptable.
Property Sale and Development Discussion
The group discussed a property sale where Jeff, who had a greenhouse with an American flag, sold his lot to a developer before moving to New Mexico. The discussion centered on whether a developer would create a quality or “cheesy” house on the property, with Gary and Darrell sharing insights about local construction standards and California Construction as a potential builder option. Darrell mentioned that California Construction could provide decent homes at around $3.50 per square foot, though they ultimately chose a different builder for their own project due to preference for custom home builders.
Neighborhood Construction Progress Updates
The group discussed construction progress and challenges in their neighborhood. Darrell and Mendes shared positive experiences with California Construction, noting their work quality and reasonable costs around $350 per square foot. Angela and Janie discussed their SBA loan process, with Angela successfully obtaining $865 in coverage after extensive documentation of fire mitigation and code upgrades. Adrienne provided an update on construction issues affecting her property, explaining that a neighboring project was halted due to retaining wall engineering problems and permit requirements. The group also discussed upcoming SCE infrastructure changes, including the potential removal of a telephone pole and transition to underground services in the area.