Here are the latest updates for Palisades. Good news! Last night, Mayor Bass amended her Friday announcement to reopen the Palisades to the general public which was scheduled to happen today at 8 AM. With so many concerns about security, toxic and hazardous materials, unsafe roads, debris flow, and other hazards in this active disaster zone, it is imperative that we continue restricting access only to residents, business owners, essential workers, and authorized personnel.
I spent much of the past few days in discussions with Mayor Bass, LAPD Chief McDonnell, and Governor Newsom to identify a solution and retain the National Guard and law enforcement support at pass-holder checkpoints, and I appreciate their willingness to hear our concerns and work with us. Please know that I will continue advocating for resources to ensure our community remains safe and protected.
In other recovery news, this week, the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) began Phase 1 of debris cleanup, removing toxic and hazardous household materials from impacted properties. This is a critical step to ensure the safety of residents and the environment before full-scale debris clearing can begin.
Los Angeles County also released their Right of Entry (ROE) form to kickstart the Phase 2 debris removal. Property owners have until March 31 to decide whether to OPT IN to the government-run debris removal program led by the United States Army Corps of Engineers, at no out-of-pocket cost to the property owner.
If you choose to OPT OUT of the government program, you will pay for your own debris removal, which may be a significant cost. Keep in mind that if you OPT IN to the government program, you can change your mind later and OPT OUT. But once you OPT OUT, you cannot change your mind and OPT IN later. This is an important decision with long-term consequences, so I urge everyone to have their questions answered before making this important decision.
As we think about the future and rebuilding our beloved Palisades, we all have a lot of concerns about density and development. We are going to have many conversations about all this in the weeks and months to come, but I want to be very clear: I intend for us to rebuild back the Palisades to what it was, not a place we no longer recognize. Among other things, this week Councilmember Nazarian and I introduced a Resolution calling for Statewide legislation to stop predatory land grabs in fire-damaged communities before they happen. I will continue fighting to ensure that your families, not hedge funds, shape the future of the Palisades.
Our recovery is far from over, but each week, we take another step toward rebuilding stronger and more resilient. Please stay engaged, complete your Right of Entry form to Opt In or Opt Out of Phase 2 debris removal, and reach out if you have any questions. My team and I are here for you.
TRACI PARK
Councilwoman, 11th District
Our #Better11 Updates!
CD11's beautification efforts are in full swing across our Westside neighborhoods, including community beautification projects, CARE+ operations, storm preparations and more. We are making good progress and are here to help. If there is an area in your neighborhood that needs special attention, let us know!
Sullivan Canyon Recovery Update
Earlier this week, I had the chance to update residents on our recovery efforts in Sullivan Canyon, where the Palisades fire hit close to many homes. We worked with local agencies to keep debris removal moving forward and make sure everyone understood the DWP’s water notice. I also ensured trash service was back on track after some delays, so the neighborhood can return to some sense of normalcy. It’s been a tough time, but we are getting through it.
New Horizon School Visit to Los Angeles City Hall
This Friday, my staff gave the Sawtelle-based school, New Horizon, a grand tour of City Hall! These 4th- and 5th-graders got to see the Council Chambers, the Tom Bradley Room at the top of City Hall, and even the City Attorney's Office. Thanks so much for visiting us!
Westchester Family YMCA Donation Center &
Volunteer Opportunity
The Westchester Family YMCA is actively seeking volunteers for their Wildfire Relief Efforts at the temporary Y Community Cares Center. Whether you’re helping at the center (located at 8015 S Sepulveda Blvd) or volunteering as a driver, your support makes a difference. To register, head to the YMCA website and choose from available shifts.
Let's Stay Connected!
Log onto our #Better11 District Website for the latest information on upcoming meetings and community resources!
