# Zoom September 19th 2026 at 1:30pm **URL:** \ **Category:** Zoom Meetings\ **Created:** [September 4, 2026, 8:38pm UTC](https://rubio.discourse.group/t/zoom-september-19th-2026-at-1-30pm/250 "2026-09-04T20:38:11Z")\ **Posts on this page:** 1\ **Page:** 1
**Author:** ![mendesweber](https://yyz1.discourse-cdn.com/flex033/user_avatar/rubio.discourse.group/mendesweber/32/10_2.png) [@mendesweber](https://rubio.discourse.group/u/mendesweber)\ **Post date:** [September 4, 2026, 8:38pm UTC](https://rubio.discourse.group/t/zoom-september-19th-2026-at-1-30pm/250/1 "2026-09-04T20:38:11Z")
## Quick recap The meeting was a community check-in for neighbors affected by the fire, focusing on insurance, construction, and legal updates. Janie’s asked about insurance requests for “upgrades,” and the group discussed code upgrades, Title 24, and how insurance handled such claims, including a costly French drain due to an underground spring. They shared experiences with SBA loans, rebates from SoCalGas and SoCal Edison, and the shift toward all-electric systems like heat pumps and water heaters. Michael described remediation and repair challenges in a standing home, while others reported progress on new builds, with some homes nearing completion. Darrell announced that the Federal Disaster Tax Relief Act was extended, removing federal tax on future settlements. The group discussed the SCE lawsuit, possible settlement timing, bellwether trials, and lawyer fees. They also talked about neighborhood rebuilding activity, boulder and rock availability from Janie’s site, travel plans, and the idea of future block parties and open houses. ## Next steps ### Janie’s - [Reach out to neighbor Kathy (and possibly Jim) to inform them about the Samaritan’s Purse home-building program and see if they qualify.](https://tasks.zoom.us?meetingId=vYwujRe1ReK4%2Fcd37m1Ffg%3D%3D&stepId=66430763-b471-11f1-a934-8ad3db2d8beb) - [Plan and organize an open house event at her property once the house is framed, inviting neighbors for tours and brunch.](https://tasks.zoom.us?meetingId=vYwujRe1ReK4%2Fcd37m1Ffg%3D%3D&stepId=66430ba9-b471-11f1-9309-8ad3db2d8beb) - [Allow neighbors to come and select boulders/rocks from her property for landscaping, coordinating logistics for their removal.](https://tasks.zoom.us?meetingId=vYwujRe1ReK4%2Fcd37m1Ffg%3D%3D&stepId=6643125b-b471-11f1-9c2f-8ad3db2d8beb) ### Michael - [Decide whether to proceed with a third round of remediation or move forward with insulation, painting, and HVAC installation to move back into his standing home.](https://tasks.zoom.us?meetingId=vYwujRe1ReK4%2Fcd37m1Ffg%3D%3D&stepId=66430ef5-b471-11f1-9a9a-8ad3db2d8beb) ### angelarooney - [Share the information and list of qualifying items for SoCalGas rebates with the group.](https://tasks.zoom.us?meetingId=vYwujRe1ReK4%2Fcd37m1Ffg%3D%3D&stepId=66430241-b471-11f1-9d1c-8ad3db2d8beb) ### Collaboration - [Darrell’s and Mendes: Finalize and sign the contract with the builder, with a planned start date in October-November.](https://tasks.zoom.us?meetingId=vYwujRe1ReK4%2Fcd37m1Ffg%3D%3D&stepId=6643099c-b471-11f1-81ba-8ad3db2d8beb) - [All attendees: Stay in regular contact with their lawyers regarding the lawsuit, providing all necessary documentation promptly to be prioritized for mediation.](https://tasks.zoom.us?meetingId=vYwujRe1ReK4%2Fcd37m1Ffg%3D%3D&stepId=66430d65-b471-11f1-89db-8ad3db2d8beb) - [Darrell’s and Mendes: Reach out to SoCal Edison to inquire about any rebate programs for all-electric homes.](https://tasks.zoom.us?meetingId=vYwujRe1ReK4%2Fcd37m1Ffg%3D%3D&stepId=664310a5-b471-11f1-9d91-8ad3db2d8beb) ## Summary ### Technical Connectivity Issues Resolution The meeting began with technical difficulties as participants experienced audio and video connectivity issues. Mendes worked to resolve the problems by adjusting settings and bandwidth, with participants eventually improving their connections by lowering video quality. Additional participants, including Michael and Barbara, joined the call as the technical issues were being resolved. ### SBA Loan and Insurance Coverage Janie’s discussed challenges with insurance and SBA loan requirements for home upgrades, particularly regarding a $40,000 French drain installation due to an underground spring discovery. Mendes suggested that the SBA loan might cover the French drain as it relates to flood resilience improvements. The discussion revealed that while Janie’s has received guidance from their SBA representative that the French drain would likely be covered, they are still seeking clarity on insurance coverage for other aspects of their renovation, including cabinetry, landscaping, and flooring. ### Construction and Landscaping Updates The group discussed construction updates, with Angel noting that 14 homes are currently under construction in their area and mentioning that a neighbor is expected to move in next month. The conversation shifted to discussing a neighbor’s new backyard landscaping with artificial grass, where concerns were raised about water drainage during rain, though Mendes assured the group that proper installation with a sand layer and proper maintenance would address these concerns. Janie offered to provide boulders and rocks from their property for anyone needing landscaping materials. ### Boulder Removal and Distribution Plan Janie discussed the large number of boulders discovered during construction on their property, which were naturally found when digging 6 feet deep. She offered the boulders to neighbors for free, suggesting they could be used for landscaping or as decorative elements. The group discussed logistics of removing the boulders, with Janie mentioning they would use some along the driveway and that neighbors could claim them by marking their selection. ### Federal Disaster Tax Relief Extension The group discussed the extension of the Federal Disaster Tax Relief Act, which will provide tax exemption for those affected after 2025 and into 2027. Janie shared updates about her dogs’ health issues following the fire. The conversation then shifted to home remediation and upgrades, with Michael expressing uncertainty about whether to continue cleaning existing systems or replace them, noting the lack of clear industry standards for remediation work. Barbara mentioned she hadn’t pursued upgrades as she had recently remodeled her home before the fire. ### Home Renovation and Heat Pump Michael outlined the remaining work needed to move back into his house, including insulation, interior painting, bathroom renovations, and paver installation in the front. The group discussed the transition to electric heat pumps as a recommended solution in California, with Darrell explaining that both SoCal Gas and South SoCal Edison offer rebates for heat pumps and intelligent water heaters. Janie asked about applying for rebates before installation, though the conversation ended without a clear answer. ### SoCalGas Rebate Process for Fire Survivors The group discussed rebates available through SoCalGas for fire survivors, with Angel sharing information about the application process which requires prior approval before placing orders. Darrell and Janie confirmed they are proceeding with gas appliances including a gas stove and fireplace in their new build, despite new building codes typically restricting gas installations. The discussion concluded with updates on reconstruction progress, with Darrell and Mendes’s contract nearly finalized for a October-November start, and mentions of other community members waiting for lawsuit settlements before proceeding with their rebuilds. ### Eaton Fire Home Rebuilding Program The group discussed a home rebuilding program for families affected by the Eaton fire, with Mendes mentioning that funding is available for up to 100 homes and there are 30 spots remaining for eligible families. Janie suggested reaching out to neighbors Kathy and Jim about potentially using their underinsured lot for the program, as they are interested in returning to the area despite Jim’s health concerns. The participants shared links about the program, including information from [Pasadenanow.com](http://Pasadenanow.com) and [AltadenaCDC.org](http://AltadenaCDC.org), with Mendes noting that the program is similar to Habitat for Humanity in its approach. ### Summer Travel and Reconstruction Plans The group discussed summer travel plans, with Mendes sharing details about an upcoming Mediterranean cruise on the World Traveler ship in October from Athens to Barcelona. The conversation then shifted to home building projects, where Darrell and Janie discussed their rebuild being estimated at around $2 million and concerns about insurance payouts not covering the full cost or addressing the emotional impact of the fire. The discussion ended with uncertainty about whether the ultimate settlement would be sufficient compared to current SCE estimates. ### SCE Settlement Analysis Discussion Angelarooney shared her analysis of the SCE settlement offer, explaining that after accounting for various factors including insurance payouts, the worst-case scenario would result in over a million dollars. She noted that while the settlement wasn’t ideal for renters or people with minor children, she was considering taking it until her attorney advised they could do better. Janie’s mentioned a potential issue regarding lawyer fees for those who switch lawyers after initially signing with another firm. ### SoCal Edison Settlement Negotiations The group discussed the SoCal Edison settlement negotiations and bellwether trials scheduled for January. Janie explained that Edison would likely settle by December to maintain access to $14 billion in state funds, as losing even one trial would disqualify them from using this money. The participants discussed the importance of completing required tasks to prioritize their cases, with Janie and Jeff noting their priority status due to age and medical conditions. ### Home Reconstruction Timeline Discussion The group discussed construction timelines for home rebuilds, with Janie sharing that her rebuild is expected to take 14-16 months, though initially estimated at 8 months. Janie proposed hosting an open house tour once the house framing is complete instead of a groundbreaking ceremony due to extreme heat conditions. The group discussed potentially organizing future block parties and social gatherings once construction is further along, with Darrell suggesting monthly gatherings and Janie recalling previous successful neighborhood events. * * * **Attendees:** Mendes Weber (Organizer), dcfav (External), Brian Biedebach (External), Darrell’s S25 Ultra (External), Darrell Mendesweber (External), Michael Farah (External), Janie’s iPad (2) (External), iPhone (External), barbaramadden (External), angelarooney (External)## Quick recap The meeting was a community check-in for neighbors affected by the fire, focusing on insurance, construction, and legal updates. Janie’s asked about insurance requests for “upgrades,” and the group discussed code upgrades, Title 24, and how insurance handled such claims, including a costly French drain due to an underground spring. They shared experiences with SBA loans, rebates from SoCalGas and SoCal Edison, and the shift toward all-electric systems like heat pumps and water heaters. Michael described remediation and repair challenges in a standing home, while others reported progress on new builds, with some homes nearing completion. Darrell announced that the Federal Disaster Tax Relief Act was extended, removing federal tax on future settlements. The group discussed the SCE lawsuit, possible settlement timing, bellwether trials, and lawyer fees. They also talked about neighborhood rebuilding activity, boulder and rock availability from Janie’s site, travel plans, and the idea of future block parties and open houses. ## Next steps ### Janie’s - [Reach out to neighbor Kathy (and possibly Jim) to inform them about the Samaritan’s Purse home-building program and see if they qualify.](https://tasks.zoom.us?meetingId=vYwujRe1ReK4%2Fcd37m1Ffg%3D%3D&stepId=66430763-b471-11f1-a934-8ad3db2d8beb) - [Plan and organize an open house event at her property once the house is framed, inviting neighbors for tours and brunch.](https://tasks.zoom.us?meetingId=vYwujRe1ReK4%2Fcd37m1Ffg%3D%3D&stepId=66430ba9-b471-11f1-9309-8ad3db2d8beb) - [Allow neighbors to come and select boulders/rocks from her property for landscaping, coordinating logistics for their removal.](https://tasks.zoom.us?meetingId=vYwujRe1ReK4%2Fcd37m1Ffg%3D%3D&stepId=6643125b-b471-11f1-9c2f-8ad3db2d8beb) ### Michael - [Decide whether to proceed with a third round of remediation or move forward with insulation, painting, and HVAC installation to move back into his standing home.](https://tasks.zoom.us?meetingId=vYwujRe1ReK4%2Fcd37m1Ffg%3D%3D&stepId=66430ef5-b471-11f1-9a9a-8ad3db2d8beb) ### angelarooney - [Share the information and list of qualifying items for SoCalGas rebates with the group.](https://tasks.zoom.us?meetingId=vYwujRe1ReK4%2Fcd37m1Ffg%3D%3D&stepId=66430241-b471-11f1-9d1c-8ad3db2d8beb) ### Collaboration - [Darrell’s and Mendes: Finalize and sign the contract with the builder, with a planned start date in October-November.](https://tasks.zoom.us?meetingId=vYwujRe1ReK4%2Fcd37m1Ffg%3D%3D&stepId=6643099c-b471-11f1-81ba-8ad3db2d8beb) - [All attendees: Stay in regular contact with their lawyers regarding the lawsuit, providing all necessary documentation promptly to be prioritized for mediation.](https://tasks.zoom.us?meetingId=vYwujRe1ReK4%2Fcd37m1Ffg%3D%3D&stepId=66430d65-b471-11f1-89db-8ad3db2d8beb) - [Darrell’s and Mendes: Reach out to SoCal Edison to inquire about any rebate programs for all-electric homes.](https://tasks.zoom.us?meetingId=vYwujRe1ReK4%2Fcd37m1Ffg%3D%3D&stepId=664310a5-b471-11f1-9d91-8ad3db2d8beb) ## Summary ### Technical Connectivity Issues Resolution The meeting began with technical difficulties as participants experienced audio and video connectivity issues. Mendes worked to resolve the problems by adjusting settings and bandwidth, with participants eventually improving their connections by lowering video quality. Additional participants, including Michael and Barbara, joined the call as the technical issues were being resolved. ### SBA Loan and Insurance Coverage Janie’s discussed challenges with insurance and SBA loan requirements for home upgrades, particularly regarding a $40,000 French drain installation due to an underground spring discovery. Mendes suggested that the SBA loan might cover the French drain as it relates to flood resilience improvements. The discussion revealed that while Janie’s has received guidance from their SBA representative that the French drain would likely be covered, they are still seeking clarity on insurance coverage for other aspects of their renovation, including cabinetry, landscaping, and flooring. ### Construction and Landscaping Updates The group discussed construction updates, with Angel noting that 14 homes are currently under construction in their area and mentioning that a neighbor is expected to move in next month. The conversation shifted to discussing a neighbor’s new backyard landscaping with artificial grass, where concerns were raised about water drainage during rain, though Mendes assured the group that proper installation with a sand layer and proper maintenance would address these concerns. Janie offered to provide boulders and rocks from their property for anyone needing landscaping materials. ### Boulder Removal and Distribution Plan Janie discussed the large number of boulders discovered during construction on their property, which were naturally found when digging 6 feet deep. She offered the boulders to neighbors for free, suggesting they could be used for landscaping or as decorative elements. The group discussed logistics of removing the boulders, with Janie mentioning they would use some along the driveway and that neighbors could claim them by marking their selection. ### Federal Disaster Tax Relief Extension The group discussed the extension of the Federal Disaster Tax Relief Act, which will provide tax exemption for those affected after 2025 and into 2027. Janie shared updates about her dogs’ health issues following the fire. The conversation then shifted to home remediation and upgrades, with Michael expressing uncertainty about whether to continue cleaning existing systems or replace them, noting the lack of clear industry standards for remediation work. Barbara mentioned she hadn’t pursued upgrades as she had recently remodeled her home before the fire. ### Home Renovation and Heat Pump Michael outlined the remaining work needed to move back into his house, including insulation, interior painting, bathroom renovations, and paver installation in the front. The group discussed the transition to electric heat pumps as a recommended solution in California, with Darrell explaining that both SoCal Gas and South SoCal Edison offer rebates for heat pumps and intelligent water heaters. Janie asked about applying for rebates before installation, though the conversation ended without a clear answer. ### SoCalGas Rebate Process for Fire Survivors The group discussed rebates available through SoCalGas for fire survivors, with Angel sharing information about the application process which requires prior approval before placing orders. Darrell and Janie confirmed they are proceeding with gas appliances including a gas stove and fireplace in their new build, despite new building codes typically restricting gas installations. The discussion concluded with updates on reconstruction progress, with Darrell and Mendes’s contract nearly finalized for a October-November start, and mentions of other community members waiting for lawsuit settlements before proceeding with their rebuilds. ### Eaton Fire Home Rebuilding Program The group discussed a home rebuilding program for families affected by the Eaton fire, with Mendes mentioning that funding is available for up to 100 homes and there are 30 spots remaining for eligible families. Janie suggested reaching out to neighbors Kathy and Jim about potentially using their underinsured lot for the program, as they are interested in returning to the area despite Jim’s health concerns. The participants shared links about the program, including information from [Pasadenanow.com](http://Pasadenanow.com) and [AltadenaCDC.org](http://AltadenaCDC.org), with Mendes noting that the program is similar to Habitat for Humanity in its approach. ### Summer Travel and Reconstruction Plans The group discussed summer travel plans, with Mendes sharing details about an upcoming Mediterranean cruise on the World Traveler ship in October from Athens to Barcelona. The conversation then shifted to home building projects, where Darrell and Janie discussed their rebuild being estimated at around $2 million and concerns about insurance payouts not covering the full cost or addressing the emotional impact of the fire. The discussion ended with uncertainty about whether the ultimate settlement would be sufficient compared to current SCE estimates. ### SCE Settlement Analysis Discussion Angelarooney shared her analysis of the SCE settlement offer, explaining that after accounting for various factors including insurance payouts, the worst-case scenario would result in over a million dollars. She noted that while the settlement wasn’t ideal for renters or people with minor children, she was considering taking it until her attorney advised they could do better. Janie’s mentioned a potential issue regarding lawyer fees for those who switch lawyers after initially signing with another firm. ### SoCal Edison Settlement Negotiations The group discussed the SoCal Edison settlement negotiations and bellwether trials scheduled for January. Janie explained that Edison would likely settle by December to maintain access to $14 billion in state funds, as losing even one trial would disqualify them from using this money. The participants discussed the importance of completing required tasks to prioritize their cases, with Janie and Jeff noting their priority status due to age and medical conditions. ### Home Reconstruction Timeline Discussion The group discussed construction timelines for home rebuilds, with Janie sharing that her rebuild is expected to take 14-16 months, though initially estimated at 8 months. Janie proposed hosting an open house tour once the house framing is complete instead of a groundbreaking ceremony due to extreme heat conditions. The group discussed potentially organizing future block parties and social gatherings once construction is further along, with Darrell suggesting monthly gatherings and Janie recalling previous successful neighborhood events. * * * **Attendees:** Mendes Weber (Organizer), dcfav (External), Brian Biedebach (External), Darrell’s S25 Ultra (External), Darrell Mendesweber (External), Michael Farah (External), Janie’s iPad (2) (External), iPhone (External), barbaramadden (External), angelarooney (External)