LA Mayor Karen Bass Aims to Streamline Rebuilding After Wildfires with Executive Order
Streamlining Processes for Rebuilding and Debris Removal
Los Angeles Mayor Karen Bass has issued an executive order to streamline processes for rebuilding homes and clearing debris in the wake of devastating wildfires, following up on a similar order signed by Gov. Gavin Newsom.
Order Aims to Expedite Rebuilding and Recovery
Bass signed the order late Monday night to help residents in Pacific Palisades and other city areas rebuild homes lost in the ongoing fires and lay the foundations for businesses to recover as well, according to her office. The mayor also updated the local emergency declaration for similar purposes. The order comes as dangerous wind conditions continue to threaten the city.
Key Provisions of the Executive Order
Under the executive order, the city will:
* Form task forces to develop a program for coordinated debris removal and mitigate risks from rain storms in partnership with the California Office of Emergency Services and other county, state, and federal agencies
* Establish a one-stop-shop to streamline the issuance of permits in all impacted areas, direct city departments to expedite all building permit review/inspections, bypass state California Environmental Quality Act discretionary review, allow rebuilding “like for like” and waive other discretionary review processes
* Direct the Department of Building and Safety to expedite approvals known as temporary certificates of occupancy for 1,400 units of housing currently in the pipeline across the city
* Require all city departments to produce in one week a list of additional relief needed from state and federal regulations and requirements, as well as state and federal funding needed for recovery
Current Situation and Response Efforts
As of Tuesday morning, the nearly 24,000-acre Palisades Fire was 17% contained. In the city’s jurisdiction last week, firefighters also responded to the Hurst fire in Sylmar, Sunset fire in the Hollywood Hills, Sunswept fire in Studio City, Archer fire in Granada Hills, Woodley fire in the Sepulveda Basin, and the Kenneth fire in West Hills.
Conclusion
The executive order aims to expedite the rebuilding process and provide relief to those affected by the wildfires. By streamlining processes and coordinating efforts, the city hopes to get residents back home and businesses back up and running as quickly as possible.
FAQs
Q: What is the purpose of the executive order?
A: The executive order aims to streamline processes for rebuilding homes and clearing debris in the wake of devastating wildfires.
Q: What are the key provisions of the executive order?
A: The order establishes a one-stop-shop for permit issuance, expedites building permit review/inspections, and waives discretionary review processes, among other provisions.
Q: How will the city coordinate debris removal efforts?
A: The city will form task forces to develop a program for coordinated debris removal and mitigate risks from rain storms in partnership with state and federal agencies.
Q: What is the current status of the Palisades Fire?
A: As of Tuesday morning, the nearly 24,000-acre Palisades Fire was 17% contained.
