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https://us06web.zoom.us/j/8613319467?pwd=ffa5wXB286uH0qevgDcLZ3JBg0nCZY.1&omn=88461176021
Meeting ID: 861 331 9467
Passcode: rubio
Meeting summary
Quick recap
This neighborhood meeting focused on reconstruction progress and community updates following the wildfire. Residents discussed various construction challenges, including building code changes that require deeper caissons and more extensive slope stabilization work. Michael shared updates on his remediation process, with his second round of cleaning nearly complete and seeking recommendations for final clearance testing companies. The group exchanged contact information for contractors, gardeners, and service providers, including Santiago for gardening services, Julio Palacio for handyman work, and S&J for hygienist services. Residents also discussed ongoing issues with construction vehicles parking on neighbor’s properties and concerns about unauthorized trash dumping, with Robin reporting incidents of someone stealing trash cans and the sheriff’s limited response to these problems. The conversation ended with updates on water bill increases from Las Flores water company and discussions about reconstruction timelines, with Mendes and Darrell sharing that their permits are ready and they expect a 14-month build timeline once they select a contractor.
Next steps
- Robin: Look for and share the name and contact information of the licensed hygienist/testing company (S and J) with Michael.
- Robin: Look for and share the name and contact number of the gardener/landscaper (Santiago) with Michael.
- Barbara: Send Michael the name of the gardener she and Judy use.
- Mendes: Add gardener/contractor contact information (including Jose Ramirez) to the shared neighborhood resource list on the network.
- Adrienne: Share Julio Palacio’s contact information with the group.
- Robin: Send pictures of the individual knocking over trash cans to the sheriff via social media or email, if possible.
- Darrell and Mendes: Complete notes from builder interviews, narrow down to top 3 builders, and coordinate with architect for final interviews and bid process.
- Robin: Call sheriff again about ongoing issues with trash cans and share available photos/evidence.
Summary
Building Regulations and Permit Processes
The group discussed building regulations and permit processes. Darrell explained that developers are required to maintain a “like-for-like” rebuild plus 10% overall, though specific criteria for what constitutes acceptable changes wasn’t clearly defined. Janie shared that her original roof design at 15 feet was deemed too high and had to be lowered due to these regulations. Angela expressed confusion about inconsistent application of rules, noting that while her project is 27% larger in square footage due to extended ceiling heights, it’s still approved as like-for-like because it maintains the same number of bedrooms and bathrooms.
Construction Remediation Challenges Discussion
The group discussed construction and remediation challenges, particularly focusing on slope stabilization issues and remediation testing. Janie shared that their architect initially approved a like-for-like garage move but later discovered it didn’t meet requirements, requiring them to revert to the original location. Michael, who is in the final stages of remediation, sought recommendations for clearance testing companies, with Robin suggesting a company recommended by Fox Law and Janie mentioning Titan as an option used by her daughter. The discussion highlighted common challenges with slope management and remediation testing that several participants, including Al and Becky, were experiencing in their respective projects.
Fire Restoration and Gardening Services
The group discussed recommendations for restoration companies and gardening services following a fire incident. Michael shared his experience with a restoration company and sought recommendations for reliable contractors, with Robin and others suggesting Fox Law’s preferred vendor over ServPro. The discussion also covered gardening services, with several participants sharing their trusted gardeners including a recommended contractor who charges $300 for comprehensive cleaning services. Barbara and Janie mentioned their long-standing relationships with established gardeners who have served their community for many years.
Service Providers Contact Sharing
The group discussed sharing contact information for various service providers including gardeners, handymen, and HVAC specialists. Mendes created a topic on the network to compile these contacts, starting with Jose Ramirez and Santiago (gardener at 818-434-2940). Adrienne recommended Julio Palacio, a handyman with experience from Steve’s Home Maintenance, providing his contact details including email and phone number. The discussion also included information about Mario Vele, a gardener, and Huberto, who works for a property owner up the hill.
Property Line Construction Discussion
The group discussed property line issues related to construction and retaining walls. Janie shared that rebuilding required a survey ensuring 5-foot setbacks from property lines and 20-foot setbacks from the curb. Mendes clarified that retaining walls should typically be built on the property owner’s side of the line, unless there’s an agreement with neighbors. Adrienne expressed concerns about a retaining wall being built directly on the property line, which she felt was inappropriate and potentially hazardous during rainy weather. The discussion concluded with information about property markers indicating where property lines are located.
Retaining Wall Project Concerns
Adrienne discussed concerns about a retaining wall project, noting that the 11-foot wall is not level with the land and she cannot safely access her property. The project has stopped for over a week, potentially due to waiting for inspection, though two inspectors have already visited the site. Robin advised Adrienne to obtain the contact information of the head contractor to address issues directly, as this would be the person ultimately held liable for the project. Angela shared similar concerns about construction vehicles being parked on a neighbor’s lot without permission during her construction project.
Construction Vehicle Property Damage Issues
The group discussed issues with construction vehicles and workers damaging property and creating messes on shared dirt areas. Angela expressed frustration about contractors not following proper protocols, and Darrell suggested installing a fence to address the problem. Robin reported an incident where a teenager on a bike was caught on camera knocking down trash cans, with the behavior occurring on Tuesdays around 3:34 PM, and the group discussed reporting this to authorities.
Neighborhood Security and Insurance Issues
The group discussed ongoing issues with neighborhood security and insurance claims. Robin reported increased activity at Rubio Vista, including suspicious parking and trash dumping, though sheriff presence has decreased since initial patrols. The discussion then shifted to insurance experiences, with participants sharing varying experiences with State Farm and Allstate adjusters. While some reported difficulties with delays and communication, others, like Janie and Adrienne, had positive experiences with timely responses and support from their insurance companies.
Construction Progress and Water Bills
The group discussed construction progress, with Darrell and Mendes reporting they had interviewed their final contractor and would be ready to build soon, with groundbreaking expected in about 2 months. The construction documents are ready and the architect will help manage the bidding process with 4 selected builders. The conversation also touched on high water bills from Las Flores, with residents sharing their experiences and discussing the impact of recent flooding incidents on their bills. Janie inquired about construction next door, which Mendes explained was due to new code requirements for deeper caisson installation on steep terrain, causing delays of about a month in obtaining permits.