The Pasadena City Council approved sweeping emergency measures Friday to assist residents affected by the January 7 Eaton Fire, including expanded utility assistance and public health protections amid destruction that preliminary information indicates has damaged or destroyed over 7,000 structures in the area.
According to Water and Power Department documents, the physical, emotional, and economic toll of the disaster has overwhelmed many residents as they begin the long process of recovery.
The Council authorized the Water and Power Department to pause billing for customers who lost homes or businesses to the fire, while also suspending late fees and service interruptions for 60 days for those under evacuation orders.
Additionally, the Water Leak Assistance Program’s annual funding will increase from $50,000 to $500,000, with eligible residents in evacuation zones able to receive credits up to $5,000 for excessive water usage between January 7 and February 6.
The Public Health Department reported 37 cases of norovirus among approximately 310 evacuees at the Pasadena Convention Center shelter as of Thursday afternoon. Officials have implemented enhanced sanitation protocols in response.
The City’s vital records office at 1845 North Fair Oaks has reopened, operating from 8:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m., with fee waivers for disaster-related document requests. On its first day, the office processed 13 disaster-related waiver applications, issued 22 certificates, and handled 10 standard transactions. A special opening is scheduled for tomorrow between 10:00 a.m. and 1:00 p.m.
Transportation officials announced enforcement of time restrictions, parking meters, and loading zones will resume in commercial areas and City-owned lots starting January 21, while overnight parking restrictions remain suspended through January to accommodate displaced residents.
The fiscal impact of the late fee suspensions is estimated at less than $100,000, with potential Federal Emergency Management Agency reimbursement available. The expanded water assistance program’s $450,000 cost will be funded through non-rate payer revenue.
According to City records, catastrophic windstorms and destructive fires prompted evacuation orders for more than 100,000 residents in Pasadena and Altadena after winds exceeding 70 miles per hour fueled the rapidly spreading fire.
The Water and Power Department continues operating three turbines at its Glen arm power plant for backup generation after losing one of two major transmission lines. The department serves approximately 38,000 metered water connections and over 67,000 electrical connections within the City.