The rain has not stopped much needed work to clean up the burnt home after the fires in Palisade and Altadena in January. The crew had to adjust their methods to keep up with debris removal despite fluctuating weather conditions.
The U.S. Army Corps of Engineers have revised some of the process to avoid rain and ensure that cleaning efforts continue. Officials say they are closely monitoring weather conditions and adjusting them as needed, with the ultimate goal of helping residents progress through the reconstruction process.
Army crews actively remove debris affected by the Eton fire and clean up the cleaning properties. So far, 367 properties for Altadena and another 262 for Palisade have been cleared. This means that the ashes and fire fragments have been completely removed.
“All affected properties must be cleared,” said Mark Pestralla, director of Los Angeles County Public Works.
The county outlined two options for homeowners. They can choose government-led cleanup through Army engineers or hire licensed private contractors to handle the work.
To participate in federally adjusted cleanups, homeowners must submit an “entry rights” form. According to the Army Corps website, nearly 5,000 homeowners have completed the process, but more than 13,000 properties are eligible. Authorities will urge those who have not yet completed their applications to do so before the March 31 deadline.
“Residents want to do this as quickly as possible, so they are weighing their options. “We ask that you make a commitment by March 31st, either way.”
Once the property is cleared by the Army, crews apply hydro-power mulch to promote regrowth and implement erosion control measures before final inspection. Once the property is officially specified as “complete”, it is ready for rebuild.
That’s the scene where Margot Schuber and her architect Trinidad Campbell are eagerly awaiting. With many of them cleared, they can finally start to bring their vision to life with the new home.
“I’m very excited!” said the steerer.
NBC4 has been tracking Steuber’s progress since her home was first cleaned up in the first Altadena, which was cleaned by the Army Corps of Engineers.
County officials say 80-100 reconstruction permit applications have already been filed in Altadena, but have not yet been fully approved.
Campbell, who submitted a Steuber rebuild plan earlier this month, said they are No. 13 on the list.
The county is working to speed up the permit review process with the aim of confirming the rebuild permit within two weeks.
Once the update is available, NBC4 will continue to provide information on the latest progress in its rebuilding efforts.
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