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Rising From the Ashes: Altadena’s Struggles Post-Eaton Fire

The Central Problem

It’s been a year since the Eaton Fire blazed through Altadena, and folks are still picking up the pieces. Over 9,000 structures went down, knocking out nearly half of Altadena’s businesses. Despite the chaos, support from insurance companies and government aid still seems like a distant dream.

Hurdles for Small Businesses

Local entrepreneurs are grumbling about insurance headaches and the lack of substantial state and federal help. Business owners like Matt Schodorf felt snubbed by FEMA. Initially, his Altadena coffee spot wasn’t on the debris removal list. It took media noise and backing from an L.A. County supervisor to get FEMA moving.

Matt Schodorf sheds light on the struggle:

“It feels frustrating because it feels we are very small potatoes… Waive permit fees, clean our lots out. Don’t make us go on national news pleading for help.”

The Emotional Toll

The reality is too harsh for some. Carrie Meyers, who ran a local pet shop, felt the mental and emotional weight pressing heavier after the fire. “People want me back. But I don’t know if we can survive up there,” she lamented. The physical and emotional absence’s tangible, even a year later.

The System’s Inequity

State policies seem skewed, offering upfront payouts to homeowners but not to small businesses. This lack of support slows recovery, leaving pockets empty and dreams deferred. Read all about it here.

Meanwhile, in Legislative News…

$23 Billion for CA Research?

A mix of lawmakers wants to put $23 billion into California’s science research pot. Scott Wiener leads the charge with Senate Bill 895, keen to save California from federal whims. The idea? Funds for vaccines, wildfire solutions, and more, in case D.C. pulls the rug again.

Wiener on California’s role:

“It’s important for California just to be like a rock in the storm, so that we’re just doing science here…”

This push promises drug discounts for Californians and cash for public universities. Even the grad students are on board.

New Rules for Homelessness Funds

Governor Newsom is turning the screws on cities to sort out homeless encampments. The latest twist? Funding strings attached. Places like Mendocino County are in a jam, needing to show their hand with new rules before cash flow resumes. Read more.

Carolyn Coleman of the League of California Cities warns:

“I worry that… we may cause delays in the ability to get more people housed sooner…”

Upcoming Events

Don’t miss this: On Feb 5, dive into trauma-informed care with leaders in Chula Vista or join online. Transform young lives at Mi Escuelita. Register today.

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• Newsom sets election date for District 1 Shasta Scout

California Voices

• The Aliso Canyon facility remains open against public will.
• California’s billionaire tax proposal could be a game-changer for keeping people insured.

That’s the scoop, folks! For more insights, follow CalMatters for independent and nonpar­ti­san news on California’s pressing issues. We’re here to empower you with the truth.