In response to the ongoing firestorm in Los Angeles, Mayor Karen Bass has issued an Executive Order aimed at facilitating a swift rebuilding process for affected residents and businesses. The order also includes updates to the local emergency declaration in light of continued dangerous wind conditions.
The main objectives of this order are as follows:
1. Coordinate debris removal and mitigate risks from rainstorms – This involves creating task forces with various agencies, including the California Office of Emergency Services, to develop a streamlined program for debris removal and address potential hazards caused by wet weather.
2. Clear obstacles for home rebuilding – A one-stop-shop will be established to expedite permits in impacted areas, city departments will be directed to speed up building permit reviews/inspections, state CEQA discretionary review will be bypassed, “like-for-like” rebuilding will be allowed without city discretionary review processes.
3. Make 1,400 units of housing available immediately – The Department of Building and Safety is instructed to fast-track approvals known as temporary certificates of occupancy for 1,400 units currently in progress across the City.
4.Establish a framework for securing additional regulatory relief and resources- All city departments have been given one weekto report back with requestsfor further relief from state/federal regulations/requirementsand funding neededfor recovery efforts.
Accordingly,Bass stated,”This unprecedented natural disaster calls fora unique response that prioritizes expeditingthe reconstructionof homes,businesses,and communities.” She added that this executive order is just the first step towards cutting through red tapeand bureaucracyin favorof urgent action based on common senseand compassion.The goalis getting Angelenosback into their homesas quicklyas possible.
