You only have to look to our neighbors in Malibu and the Santa Monica Mountains to understand the real and devastating impact wildfires can have on a community. The 2018 Woolsey Fire burned nearly 100,000 acres in Ventura and Los Angeles County. This blaze not only destroyed 1,643 structures but also claimed three lives and led to the evacuation of almost 300,000 people.
Ensuring the safety of our community — especially those living in high fire danger areas — is my utmost concern during wildfire season. The increasing threat of wildfires, exacerbated by climate change and human activity, is deeply alarming. Already this year, 275,058 acres have burned across California.
Following last month's devastating wildfires in Lahaina, councilmembers called on our City Departments to report on our readiness. As the representative of a high fire severity zone and member of our Public Safety Committee, this is of utmost importance. You can find our discussion below:
LAFD Leads In Technology
The Los Angeles Fire Department (LAFD) is at the forefront of innovation and advanced technology to ensure safety in our high fire severity zones and beyond. Key technology to enhance wildfire safety and response include:
Continuous surveillance with live cameras strategically positioned in high-risk areas.
Unmanned Aerial Systems Program (UAS) to deploy drones that offer real-time aerial views during significant incidents.
Infrared radar equipment to detect and analyze hotspots.
Sophisticated wildfire modeling projection programs that assess environmental conditions, wind patterns, and other variables to predict wildfire progression.
The LAFD also has a robust fleet of aerial units, specialized wildfire hand crews, and mutual aid arrangements with key partners like the Los Angeles County Fire Department.
California's Fire Insurance Crisis
The risk of fires has created an insurance crisis for California property owners, and many here in Los Angeles are struggling to find coverage on the private market. Five years after the Woolsey fire, people who lost everything are still wrangling with their insurance companies to rebuild their homes and find new providers.
This week, I went on air with John Phillips to talk about the insurance crisis and the impacts of increased fire calls on our local public safety infrastructure.
Knowing what to do during a wildfire can save your life. LA 35 recently aired a Wildfire Prevention & Evacuation segment featuring insights from LAFD, LAPD, MySafe:LA, and EMD. Watch the segment below.
Temescal Canyon Road Update
The work on Temescal Canyon Road will start on Monday, October 2nd and should be finished by the end of the month. We are mindful of traffic impacts and how critical this route is for emergency ingress and egress to the Pacific Palisades. We appreciate your ongoing patience and cooperation as we move forward with these essential repairs.
Should The 90 Freeway Be Torn Down?
You probably saw the recent LA Times article discussing a proposal from Streets for All to tear down the 90 freeway to build 4,000 units of new housing, a park, dedicated bike path, and a bus rapid corridor. Some government officials have come out in support of the concept, but I want to hear directly from you. Please take a moment to fill out this survey and let us know what you think!
Weigh In On Public Transportation
TheCity is working to improve LA's bus rider experience and wants to hear from you.
There are multiple ways to weigh in:
Zoom Webinar: Join the online meeting on Thursday, October 5th at 6:00 p.m. (Register).
Follow & Comment: Sign up for project updates or leave a comment on the proposed improvements.
All are welcome, so share the invitation with your family, friends and coworkers. Visit the website (LABusStop.com) to find out more about the project and on attending a meeting.
50 Years of PPCC!
Congratulations to the Pacific Palisades Community Council as they mark their 50th Anniversary! Join us for the Jubilee & Community Celebration, with lots of great food and activities for the entire family.
Event Details:
Venue: Simon Meadow, 17775 Sunset Blvd., Pacific Palisades
Date & Time: Sept 30, from 12-4PM
Park's Pick
This week's "Park's Pick" goes to Mo’s Place in Playa del Rey. With over 30 years as a cornerstone of the community, Mo's is all about friends and good times. During my recent visit for Park’s Pick, it seemed as though the whole community was there for trivia night! Establishments like Mo's are the heartbeat of our community, and it's an honor to spotlight them as a small business deserving of our support.
Adopt-A-Pet
Introducing Lucille! At 1 year and 4 months old, this 66-pound bundle of joy adores playing in large dog playgroups. If you're looking to add a playful and loving pup to your family, visit our North Central Center and make Lucille a cherished member of your home!
Let's Stay Connected!
TRACI PARK
Councilwoman, 11th District
Log onto our #Better11 District Website for the latest information on upcoming meetings and community resources!
