Dena Rise Up Plans Altadena Gathering to Discuss Next Fire-Recovery Legislation

Dena Rise Up Coalition plans to bring Eaton Fire survivors and recovery advocates together in Altadena on Sunday, Oct. 18, to review state legislative efforts and discuss what they want lawmakers to address next.

The gathering at Loma Alta Park is intended to give homeowners and tenants a say in the coalition’s priorities for the next legislative cycle, according to an advisory issued Thursday.

Organizers also plan to recognize community members who helped draft and advocate for state measures.

The event is scheduled from 1 to 5 p.m. at the county-operated park, 3330 N. Lincoln Ave. Organizers say food, a DJ and live music will be provided. They also expect state Sen. Sasha Renée Pérez, whose district includes Altadena, to attend.

“This Sunday, we will take the time to hear from fire survivors to hear what the community wants for the next legislative cycle, homeowners and tenants,” coalition lead organizer Florence Annang said in the advisory.

Esther Lopez, identified by organizers as a fire survivor, said the gathering reflects the importance of residents speaking publicly about their needs. “Speaking out about the dire and desperate needs we face as fire survivors reminds us how important it is to advocate for our community and how we can win.”

The state legislative session brought both new wildfire protections and setbacks for measures sought by fire survivors. Gov. Gavin Newsom signed Assembly Bill 1642 in September, establishing a framework for wildfire smoke-contamination testing and cleanup standards. He also signed Pérez’s Senate Bill 1090, placing a three-year pause on a state housing-density provision in Altadena.

But Newsom vetoed Pérez’s Senate Bill 878, which would have imposed financial penalties for certain insurance claim-payment delays.

The coalition has organized trips to Sacramento to press lawmakers on recovery costs, housing stability and insurance protections.

Gayle Nicholls-Ali, another survivor quoted in the advisory, said her participation in Sacramento showed her the value of collective action. “Now is the time to talk about what comes next.”

NEED TO KNOW

Event: Dena Rise Up Coalition at Loma Alta Park gathering. When: Sunday, Oct. 18. Time: 1 to 5 p.m. Where: Loma Alta Park, 3330 N. Lincoln Ave., Altadena. For more, call Florence Annang at (626) 487-7259 or email avisiontovictory@icloud.com.