Meeting summary
Quick recap
The group discussed various property and neighborhood matters in Los Angeles, including insurance claims, HOA considerations, and security concerns. They explored building regulations and tree requirements in Altadena, particularly regarding garage construction and heritage oaks, while also discussing the potential implementation of form-based code to address mansionization issues. The conversation ended with a discussion about historical covenants in their neighborhood and plans to reconvene in the future.
Next steps
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Darrell: Check if the “trail closed” sign is still present when visiting the property to check on the temporary power pole and Edison transformer hookup.
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Robin: Share the Ring camera replacement information with Gary for posting on the Review Action Network.
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Robin: Check on the trail condition during her Thursday visit to the property.
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Darrell: Follow up on the feasibility of establishing a new HOA for the neighborhood.
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Mendes: Gather information about the costs associated with re-recording deeds for an HOA.
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Mendes: Follow up with Elizabeth Lopez when needed.
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Robin: Share information about the January 2027 trial date with interested neighbors.
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All members: Consider the simplified HOA approach suggested by Richard regarding single-story rebuilds.
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Mendes: Follow up on Kovork’s request for a video monitoring system or security gate.
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Richard: Consult with his architect about redesigning plans to include an ADU to qualify for like-for-like permitting and avoid garage relocation requirements.
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Darrell: Explore community security options once construction begins in the neighborhood.
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Community members: Consider discussing security concerns with the sheriff once construction begins.
Summary
Downtown LA Operations Update
The group discussed their current situation in downtown Los Angeles and the view from Darrell’s master bedroom. They talked about their previous jester, John Acre, who has moved on to another disaster, and mentioned that they currently don’t need a new jester as they are focusing on maximizing their coverage B. Shelley inquired about Elizabeth Lopez, who has been sending weekly emails to Mendes, but Mendes hasn’t had any specific requests for her services yet.
Insurance Claims and Benefits Discussion
The group discussed insurance claims and benefits, with Darrell noting they received 110% of their coverage. Robin mentioned a Ring doorbell camera replacement program for fire-damaged devices, and the group agreed to share this information through the Review Action Network. They also discussed helping an elderly neighbor, Al Nakata, who needed assistance accessing online information for his insurance claim.
HOA Meeting and Legal Updates
The group discussed an upcoming HOA meeting expected to have 9-10 attendees, and Robin mentioned Fox Laws’ Zoom meeting scheduled for Tuesday, noting that the trial date is now set for January 2027. Darrell shared that Edison had turned over previously withheld documents, which confirmed their suspicions of negligence, and suggested that these documents would be shared with other parties. The conversation concluded with a brief discussion about Amazon’s entry into the autonomous vehicle market, specifically their acquisition of Zoox and plans to deploy vehicles in Las Vegas with potential expansion to LA by 2026.
Rubio Highlands HOA Revival Discussion
The group discussed the possibility of reviving an HOA for the Rubio Highlands neighborhood to enforce rules like maintaining two-story height restrictions and preventing view obstructions. They acknowledged challenges in re-establishing the HOA, including the need for property owners to re-record their deeds and concerns about legal complexities and costs. Richard suggested keeping the rules simple, such as maintaining the original single-story building concept, rather than getting involved in complex legal language. The group also touched on the idea of installing a video monitoring system or gate at the community’s entrance, but noted potential costs and loss of services associated with gating.
Review Highlands Property and Trail Updates
The group discussed property sales in Review Highlands, noting that Jonice sold her lot for $825,000, while another house sold for close to $800,000. They also addressed concerns about trail maintenance and littering in the area. Darrell mentioned that temporary power poles had been approved and they were working to get Edison to hook up the transformer. The group agreed to check on the trail sign and discuss the ongoing issues with trail maintenance and littering.
Property Security and Construction Planning
Robin, Richard, and Darrell discussed concerns about unauthorized access to a property, particularly during rebuilding, and the potential for attracting unwanted individuals and theft of materials. They agreed on the need for better security measures, such as fencing and possibly hiring an armed guard, and considered involving the sheriff’s office for community safety. Darrell mentioned that Angela Rooney might be among the first to start construction, and they explored the possibility of finding a local site to manage construction waste.
ADU Building Ordinance Insights
Darrell shared insights about using an ADU (Accessory Dwelling Unit) to navigate new building ordinances, suggesting it could allow for increased square footage without triggering additional property taxes. Richard mentioned his project faced challenges with new ordinances requiring changes to his garage location and pool equipment placement. The group discussed how an attached ADU could be built on top of the garage, with Mendes confirming this was an idea proposed by their architect.
Garage Placement and HOA Challenges
Darrell advised Richard to consult with their architect about garage placement and alignment with the front door, as this was a key issue in their planning discussions. The group discussed the challenges of establishing an HOA at this late stage, noting that it would require voluntary deed recordings from property owners, which would be difficult to achieve, especially with developers involved. Mendes suggested that if they knew of neighbors planning to sell empty lots, they might be willing to include HOA covenants in their deeds, but this would require finding an attorney and managing escrow processes, which seemed impractical at this time.
Altadena Form-Based Code Discussion
Darrell and Richard discussed the potential implementation of form-based code in Altadena to address mansionization issues and improve land use. They explored the benefits of such codes, including increased walkability and bikeability, and planned to organize “smart talks” to educate the community on new urbanism and related concepts. Richard shared his experience with an ongoing home renovation project, highlighting the importance of staying in touch with architects and designers to avoid delays. The conversation also touched on the challenges faced by other cities in planning and rebuilding efforts, as well as potential modifications to Richard’s home to accommodate additional living spaces.
Altadena Tree Regulation Appeal Support
The group discussed challenges with building regulations and tree requirements in Altadena, particularly regarding garage construction and canopy tree planting. Richard shared that he received an order to plant specific trees, including some that might not be flame-resistant, and was given a 45-day period to appeal. Darrell and Mendes offered support, suggesting that Richard could argue for grandfathering rights and pointing out that neighbors had successfully fought similar requirements. The group agreed to help Richard gather signatures and documentation for his appeal, with Mendes providing his email address for sharing relevant information.
Heritage Oak Tree Regulations
The group discussed tree regulations, particularly regarding heritage oaks, with Mendes clarifying that while one can plant an oak in their garden, removing an existing heritage oak without permission is prohibited and results in fines. Richard clarified that he is not allowed to cut down or come into contact with existing oaks, though he can build near them with proper distance. Robin shared that a young oak tree between her and Lynn Boyle’s house had experienced some damage but recovered, and Darrell noted that many trees that were initially thought to be dead are actually coming back to health.
Historical Neighborhood Covenant Discussion
The group discussed historical covenants in their neighborhood, including restrictions from the 1960s that prohibited people of color from owning property and restricted their movements. They found original documents showing these discriminatory covenants, which were later amended. The discussion also touched on ADUs (Accessory Dwelling Units) and how they would not have been allowed under the original HOA rules due to kitchen restrictions. The conversation ended with plans to reconvene in a few weeks.
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