Barger with FEMA Region 9 Administrator Bob Fenton alongside L.A. County leaders (Photo – Office of Supervisor Barger)
Last week, Los Angeles County Supervisor Kathryn Barger met with federal emergency officials in Washington, D.C., to advocate for expanded disaster recovery assistance for Altadena in the wake of the devastating Eaton Fire.
By News Desk
In a meeting with FEMA Region 9 Administrator Bob Fenton, who has been on the ground in Altadena since the onset of the fire, Barger called for the inclusion of commercial properties—such as businesses, schools, nonprofits, and houses of worship—in the federal debris removal program. She specifically requested that the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers assist in clearing debris from these vital community spaces.
“I’ve heard loud and clear from Altadena residents that ensuring debris removal for businesses, schools, nonprofits, and houses of worship is a priority so they can begin rebuilding,” said Barger. “The Army Corps and FEMA have been strong partners in the recovery of our Altadena community and I’m grateful for their listening ear and active role in our community’s rebuilding, both locally in the community and as allies in D.C.”
Currently, FEMA has approved private property debris removal for single-family homes and, through coordinated efforts with state and county partners, expanded eligibility to include owner-occupied multifamily units. Barger is advocating for the next step—adding commercial properties to that list to ensure comprehensive cleanup across the Eaton Fire burn area.
“Clearing all affected lots is critical before broader rebuilding can move forward,” she emphasized.
Barger also used the meeting to support California Governor Gavin Newsom’s supplemental budget request for disaster relief, which includes targeted funding for Altadena.
As recovery transitions into rebuilding, Barger pledged to continue advocating for the needs of Altadena residents at every level of government.
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