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Meeting Video
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The meeting covered a range of topics including neighborhood security, debris removal processes, and rebuilding efforts following a natural disaster. Participants discussed the use of communication tools, the involvement of various agencies in the recovery process, and the need for collective action in decision-making. The meeting also touched on infrastructure updates, legal considerations, and the importance of staying informed about county activities and events during the recovery phase.
Next steps
• All residents to fill out the Google spreadsheet for opting in/out of debris removal and providing insurance carrier information.
• Darrell to create a topic on the Rubio Action Network for sharing architect and designer recommendations.
• Kevork to share building strategies and engineering contacts on the Rubio Action Network.
• Residents to email agenda items for future meetings to mendesweber@gmail.com
• Darrell and team to reach out to non-responsive residents to ensure they are informed and included.
• Residents to continue attending town hall meetings and sharing information with neighbors.
• Darrell to follow up on getting more clarity about FEMA funding for debris removal.
• Residents to consider security options for the neighborhood during rebuilding.
• Residents to wear respirators when visiting the affected area.
• Charise to share information about architects interviewed on the Rubio Action Network.
Summary
There was also a discussion about the right of entry and opt-in process, with Darrell sharing a Google form for addresses in the neighborhood.
Debris Removal Process and Decisions
The team discussed the debris removal process following a natural disaster. Darrell explained that the Army Corps of Engineers would cover phase one, which involves hazardous waste removal, and phase two, which involves debris removal. Leslie added that her company is a subcontractor to the Army Corps of Engineers and would handle the debris removal process. The team also discussed the importance of opting in or out of the debris removal process, with Darrell clarifying that opting out would require insurance coverage. The deadline for making decisions was confirmed as March 31st. The team also discussed the need for collective action in submitting their decisions.
Neighborhood Security and Rebuilding Discussion
The meeting focused on the topic of neighborhood security, particularly in the context of the ongoing rebuilding process in the area. The participants discussed the potential need for a security patrol or private security company to monitor the area, especially during the construction phase. They also considered the possibility of a gate to prevent unauthorized access. The idea of coordinating with neighboring communities was brought up, with the suggestion of forming a neighborhood solution and then sharing it with other communities. The sheriff’s department was also mentioned as a potential partner in this effort. Additionally, the group discussed the need for safety measures in the area, including the closure of a trailhead that was deemed unsafe. The conversation ended with the suggestion of further research into the feasibility of a security patrol.
Debris Removal Funding and Responsibilities
Kevork expressed concerns about the source of funds for debris removal, particularly if it wasn’t covered by their insurance. Darrell and Leslie clarified that if FEMA was involved, the Federal Government would provide the funds. Leslie further explained that the debris removal task was a specific FEMA item, and if FEMA didn’t pay, the State would be on the hook. Janie emphasized that insurance companies would be billed by FEMA, not the policyholders. Kevork requested more official clarity on the matter, and Darrell suggested researching further at town council meetings.
Using Discourse App and Fox Law
Darrell led a discussion on how to use the Discourse app for creating topics of interest and addressing issues on the Rubio Action Network. Darrell also introduced the recovery.la county gov website as a useful resource for staying informed about county activities and events. He mentioned that they had consulted with lawyers, with Fox Fire Attorneys, being the preferred choice due to their experience with wildfires and disaster recovery. Darrell clarified that Fox Law would handle a mass tort case, not a class action suit. Troy asked about the percentage of the award that would go to the lawyer if they win, to which Darrell responded that it would be 25%. The conversation ended with no further questions or topics for discussion.
Power, Gas, and Water Update
Leslie provided an update on the power, gas, and water situation in the neighborhood. She mentioned that the electric company has checked every connection and is ready to turn the street lights on, while the gas company is testing for leaks. The water situation is more complex, with the Cobb Reservoir still intact but the other two reservoirs lost. Leslie also mentioned that the water district within Las Flores, Cobb, has only 49 connections left after losing two-thirds of its connections in the fire. She encouraged everyone to keep the meetings going to ensure progress. Michael raised concerns about the safety of certain trees in the area, to which Darrell responded that the hazardous trees will be removed during phase 1, while downed trees would be removed as part of phase 2.
Rebuilding Plans and Assistance Discussion
In the meeting, Michael suggested starting the permitting process for rebuilding, emphasizing the need for everyone to return to their homes as soon as possible. Darrell mentioned the creation of a template design for homes to help with the planning process. Charise shared their plan to rebuild and interview architects, while Kevork offered his expertise as a licensed contractor and suggested building more sustainable homes. Gary mentions there is plenty of time to consider hiring professionals who you can work well with, and to form rebuilding plans that are responsive to future needs. Leslie mentioned the successful placement of K-rails on Pleasant Ridge to protect the road and homes. The conversation ended with Darrell encouraging everyone to fill out a Google spreadsheet to help identify those who may be out of touch and need assistance.