The Los Angeles City Council established a special committee on Wednesday, Jan. 22, to guide the wildfire recovery effort in a “swift, equitable and sustainable manner.”
In a unanimous vote, the council approved a motion to create the Ad Hoc Windstorm and Wildfire Recovery Committee, which will lead all aspects of the city’s recovery and rebuilding.
Members of the committee have yet to be announced.
The motion was introduced by City Council President Marqueece Harris-Dawson, Councilmember Traci Park and Councilmember Bob Blumenfield.
“Our hillsides were charred,” Park said. “Businesses that housed the entrepreneurial spirit of our city had been reduced to rubble. Homes, which just the night before had provided respite and peace, are gone.”
Park represents the 11th District, which includes the Pacific Palisades. As of Wednesday, the Palisades fire had reached 68% containment and the death toll stood at 11.
“It’s where we will problem-solve and find solutions, and ultimately chart a path so every impacted resident can finally make their way home,” Park said. “This committee will also be just as much about restoring public faith in our city’s emergency and disaster response.”
Councilmember Monica Rodriguez, who represents the 7th District, encompassing northeast San Fernando Valley neighborhoods such as Sylmar, Pacoima, La Tuna Canyon and Lake View Terrace, said, “We are the ones that need to be on the front lines leading this conversation, attuned to the needs of our communities, but making sure that no community is left behind in that conversation.”