FEMA office on Woodburry in Altadena (Photo – Melissa Michelson)
Los Angeles County Supervisor Kathryn Barger issued a statement today responding to President Trump’s executive order aimed at accelerating wildfire rebuilding efforts.
By News Desk
Barger said she supports responsible efforts to speed up rebuilding and noted that Los Angeles County already has several measures in place to expedite the process. These include a local self-certification program, streamlined approvals for modular and factory-built homes, and pre-approved building plans. She added that permits currently spend just over 30 business days in the County’s plan-check process, with additional delays often stemming from coordination among architects, engineers, and builders.
The statement comes as the White House announced Tuesday that Trump had signed an executive order intended to reduce bureaucratic hurdles and accelerate rebuilding in Pacific Palisades and Eaton Canyon, nearly a year after wildfires destroyed homes and businesses across roughly 40,000 acres. However, questions remain about the order’s practical impact, as state and local officials note that a nearly $34 billion disaster aid request has yet to move forward in Congress.
Barger acknowledged the administration’s recognition of the Federal Emergency Management Agency’s (FEMA) role in disaster recovery, but emphasized that the most urgent challenge facing the Altadena region is financial. She noted that many families lack the capital needed to begin or continue rebuilding and warned that Los Angeles County could soon face a mass sheltering crisis as insurance payouts and emergency relief funds are depleted.
As FEMA’s responsibilities expand, Barger expressed hope that the federal government will work closely with Los Angeles County to establish a mass housing and sheltering program and provide long-term disaster assistance, including Community Development Block Grant–Disaster Recovery funds. She concluded that survivors deserve full support from all levels of government to ensure they have a fair opportunity to rebuild their lives.
Sara Cardine, he is looking for a reason for a grand jury to discredit his strongest opponent. It is so obvious – like the Epstein files he will never release.
There are a couple of provisions in the executive order that seem concerning, about auditing how funds were spent in CA and potentially demanding repayment…..seems like something that could be applied punatively.