Petition to Preserve the Character of Our Town, Altadena, CA, and Protect Its Residents (Download PDF Here)

 

We, the undersigned residents of Altadena, CA, are united in our commitment to rebuilding our community after the devastating impact of the Eaton Fire. We hereby petition for direct community control over the rebuilding of our beloved community. We assert our right to guide Altadena's resurrection in alignment with our historical values, cultural heritage, and community vision. While we are determined to recover and restore what has been lost, we also recognize the importance of preserving our town's unique character and integrity for current and future generations.

Our Vision

We envision rebuilding Altadena as a self-determined, sustainable community that:

• Preserves and restores our town's rich architectural heritage and historical character.
• Maintains our diverse, middle-class character through thoughtful development.
• Promotes local ownership and community-based decision-making.
• Protects against displacement and gentrification.
• Champions environmental sustainability and resilience.

In light of recent concerns, we petition our local government to take action on the following:

(I)  Protection for Local Homeowners and Residents

1. Enshrine the “Right to Rebuild” for all Altadena homeowners.
   • Allowances for individual homeowners to rebuild in the style of their choosing.
   • Implement preventative measures against corporate ownership (see section II)
2. Guarantee of right of return for displaced residents.
   • Additional support for senior and supported living communities.
   • Additional support for halfway homes and Permanent Supportive Housing communities.
   • Additional support for the displaced BIPOC community.
3. Prevention of displacement through rent control and other protective measures.
   • Moratorium on eviction and mortgage collection until the rebuild is completed.
   • Moratorium on rent increases until the rebuild is complete.
   • Aggressive rent control for all new multi-unit and multi-family developments.
4. Enact policies to prevent aggressive tactics by developers to pressure homeowners to sell their properties during this vulnerable time.
   • Prioritize permit review and approval for Altadena residents over outside development proposals.
   • Enact tax credits and other incentives for homeowners who intend to rebuild and live on the premises.
5. Impose an immediate moratorium on the use of eminent domain for a minimum of 24 months to protect homeowners during the rebuilding process and ensure community-driven recovery efforts.
6. Provide legal and financial resources for homeowners to help them navigate potential offers or disputes.
7. Secure funding for grants, loans, or other assistance to affected residents.
   • Additional resources for individuals who choose to rebuild in the style of their previous home.
   • Provide incentives for homeowners to rebuild and remain in the community.
8. Ensure the protection of our historic Black community and their property to preserve our town's cultural and historical fabric.
9. Maintenance of Altadena's unique residential character through:
   • Protection of historic sites and landmarks.
   • Support for local arts and cultural programs.
   • Preservation of community gathering spaces.
   • Enhancement of educational facilities and programs.
   • Maintenance of Altadena's diverse cultural heritage.

(II)  Restriction of Large-Scale Development, Private Equity Acquisition, and Big Corporate Ownership

1. Establish zoning and land-use regulations that explicitly prohibit large-scale developments by private equity firms or other entities focused solely on profit rather than community welfare.
2. Enforce restrictions that prevent single entities' acquisition of multiple properties to avoid monopolization and displacement of residents.
   • Requirements for affordable housing in all new multi-unit developments.
3. Establishment of a Community Rebuilding Council composed of Altadena residents.
   • Require public hearings and community input for any proposed multi-structure or multi-unit development projects.
   • Prioritize rebuilding efforts that support sustainable, community-driven growth and align with the town’s historical and cultural values.
   • Veto power over large-scale development projects. THIS DOES NOT INCLUDE INDIVIDUAL HOMEOWNERS DEVELOPMENT.
   • Direct community input on all zoning and planning decisions.
   • Ensure transparency and accountability in the decision-making processes regarding land use and urban planning.
4. The county must implement a moratorium on any and all building permits for persons or organizations who have acquired property after the fire. 
5. Preservation of historic architectural styles and landmarks.
6. Restrictions on chain establishments and corporate development.
7. Priority for local businesses and entrepreneurs in commercial development.

(III). Modernize and Safeguard Community Infrastructure

1. Implementation of community-controlled renewable energy systems.
2. Require the installation of underground powerlines to reduce wildfire risks and improve community safety.
3. Update antiquated water, power, and sewage infrastructure to better serve the community (i.e., opportunities to replace septic systems with municipal sewage).
4. Integration of fire-resistant and sustainable building practices.
5. Actively clean and restore Altadena’s water and soil.
6. Preservation and enhancement of green spaces.
7. Protection of local wildlife corridors.

Implementation and Moving Forward

We call for:

• Immediate formation of the Community Rebuilding Council.
• Moratorium on large-scale development until community guidelines are established.
• Creation of a community-led master plan for rebuilding.
• Establishment of local oversight committees for each major aspect of rebuilding.
• Regular community meetings and transparent decision-making processes.

By signing this petition, we affirm our commitment to safeguarding the spirit and resilience of Altadena, California. We urge our local leaders to prioritize the needs and voices of the community as we work together to rebuild and move forward.

This petition reflects the collective voice of LA County communities in support of Altadena. Together, we can ensure that our recovery process remains rooted in our shared values and vision for the future of beautiful Altadena.