“We Love Altadena” sign at Woodbury and Los Robles (Photo – Melissa Michelson)
In an effort to support Altadena’s recovery from the devastating Eaton Fire, the Los Angeles County Board of Supervisors unanimously approved a motion on Tuesday, April 1, aimed at providing critical economic recovery resources to the community.
By News Desk
This initiative aims to ensure that small businesses, residents, and the broader community have the support needed to rebuild and thrive.
Led by Supervisor Kathryn Barger, the motion introduces a robust set of provisions tailored to address the immediate and long-term needs of Altadena’s economy, businesses, and residents. Among these provisions are the establishment of pop-up events and restaurants, the creation of job opportunities for youth, and a public awareness campaign to promote local shopping.
Key Provisions of the Motion
- Pop-up Events and Restaurants:
The motion authorizes the temporary use of vacant lots in Altadena for pop-up events and restaurants, with a duration of up to five years. This initiative is designed to stimulate community engagement, boost economic activity, and provide a platform for local entrepreneurs and food vendors to re-enter the market. - Youth Employment Opportunities:
The motion allocates 500 Youth@Work positions for the upcoming fiscal year to employ youth affected by the Eaton Fire. These positions will provide young people with valuable work experience, career development opportunities, and a chance to rebuild their futures. - Satellite America’s Job Center of California (AJCC):
AA satellite AJCC will be established in Altadena, offering residents direct access to job placement assistance, employment resources, and workforce development services. This will help individuals impacted by the fire find new job opportunities and acquire skills to support long-term career growth. - “Shop Local” Campaign:
Supervisor Barger’s motion directs the launch of a public awareness campaign aimed at promoting Altadena’s businesses as they recover. The campaign will encourage both residents and visitors to support local shops, restaurants, and services, fostering community pride and strengthening the local economy. - Small Business Loan Program:
The motion also directs the Los Angeles County Development Authority to establish a small business loan program, allocating up to $6.5 million in financial aid. This support will help businesses that survived the Eaton Fire to rebuild and remain operational, ensuring they continue to serve the Altadena community.
“Our small business owners are the backbone of Altadena’s economy, and we must do everything we can to help them recover,” said Supervisor Barger, who also serves as the Chair of the Los Angeles County Board of Supervisors. “This motion provides much-needed financial relief and economic opportunities that will help rebuild and strengthen Altadena. By investing in local businesses, job creation, and public awareness, we are taking critical steps toward ensuring a full and lasting recovery.”
As recovery efforts unfold, local leaders and residents remain hopeful that these initiatives will help Altadena regain its vitality, creating new opportunities for growth and success.
Small businesses would benefit greater from grants and not loans that have to be paid back.