Bass Appoints Developer Steve Soboroff to Rebuild LA
Mayor Names Soboroff as Chief Recovery Officer
Mayor Karen Bass has appointed Steve Soboroff, managing director of Soboroff Partners and former president of the L.A. Police Commission, as the chief recovery officer to lead the rebuilding efforts in Pacific Palisades and surrounding areas after the L.A. wildfires.
Wildfires Devastate Los Angeles County
The multiple weeklong fires that began on January 7 destroyed or damaged more than 16,000 structures and killed at least 27 people across 45 square miles of Los Angeles County, causing the evacuation of more than 100,000 residents.
Bass Praises Soboroff’s Expertise
“Steve Soboroff’s name is attached to hope,” Bass said, when naming him as L.A. fire recovery czar. “No one is better equipped to create a rebuilding plan than Soboroff.”
Soboroff’s Background and Experience
Soboroff is a well-known businessman who has spearheaded the development of Playa Vista and the Crypto.com Arena, formerly Staples Center, in Downtown Los Angeles. He has also led the complicated move of the space shuttle Endeavour through Los Angeles to the California Science Center in Exposition Park.
Rebuilding Efforts Underway
Soboroff will work directly with the mayor and city departments to come up with a comprehensive strategy for rebuilding and expediting the safe return of residents, workers, businesses, schools, nonprofits, libraries, and parks in fire-ravaged areas.
Quote from Soboroff
“People in L.A. are hurting. They are frustrated, like the mayor said. They’re confused. They want to know what they can do today. They can’t get back to their homes to find the pictures of their loved ones. And a whole lot of people are out of work, as a community has been wiped off the face of the Earth. A community that’s about 120 years old. I lived in it. My kids grew up in it for 40 years.” “What we need, and what I hope people will start out with today, is hope.”
Investigation into Fire Disaster
Bass has also announced that the city will launch a full investigation into the handling of the fire disaster, after criticism ranging from the preparedness of the fire department to the availability of water in the Palisades.
Conclusion
The appointment of Steve Soboroff as chief recovery officer marks a significant step in the rebuilding efforts in Pacific Palisades and surrounding areas. With his extensive experience and expertise, Soboroff is well-equipped to lead the city’s recovery efforts and help affected residents and businesses get back on their feet.
FAQs
Q: What is the role of the chief recovery officer?
A: The chief recovery officer is responsible for developing and implementing a comprehensive strategy for rebuilding and expediting the safe return of residents, workers, businesses, schools, nonprofits, libraries, and parks in fire-ravaged areas.
Q: What is the scope of the rebuilding efforts?
A: The rebuilding efforts will focus on restoring and rebuilding homes, businesses, schools, and other essential infrastructure in Pacific Palisades and surrounding areas.
Q: When will the rebuilding efforts begin?
A: The rebuilding efforts are already underway, with Soboroff working closely with the mayor and city departments to develop a comprehensive plan for the recovery efforts.
