Pasadena Mayor Addresses Community in Wake of Devastating Eaton Fire

Pasadena Mayor Victor M. Gordo issued a letter to residents on Monday, Jan. 13 addressing the aftermath of the Eaton Fire, emphasizing community resilience and outlining initial recovery efforts.

The message highlights the collaboration between Altadena and Pasadena communities while acknowledging the significant personal and material losses suffered by residents.

“In the wake of the Eaton Fire, we come together as a community to grieve the profound losses we’ve endured. We mourn the lives lost, the homes that held a lifetime of memories, and the cherished places that have been the heart and soul of our neighborhoods. These losses are deeply personal, and my heart is with every single one of you who is hurting today,” Gordo wrote.

The Mayor specifically recognized the contributions of first responders, including firefighters and police officers, who “rushed toward danger, putting themselves on the line to save lives and protect our community.”

He also praised the diverse volunteer response, noting how “young folks, old folks, and in between folks” joined in parks and street cleanups, with particular recognition for the Pasadena Community Job Center and their Fire Relief Brigade’s leadership.

City staff and public servants have launched immediate support services for affected families while beginning to plan rebuilding efforts. Many of these officials continued working around the clock despite facing personal losses from the fire.

“Altadena and Pasadena—two distinct places with unique identities—are bound together by something greater. We are one family,” Gordo wrote, emphasizing the unique bond between the communities. “And in this family, hope endures. You can see it in the kindness of neighbors helping neighbors. You can feel it in the resolve of public servants and volunteers working around the clock.”

The recovery initiative will focus on both immediate relief and long-term reconstruction.

“As we begin the work of rebuilding—of honoring what was lost and renewing what we hold dear—know that we do not face this challenge alone. Together, we will rise. Together, we will heal. And together, we will forge a future that reflects not only the pain of our losses but also the enduring promise of what we can build together,” Gordo said.

The Mayor’s office has established multiple points of contact for community members seeking assistance. Residents can reach Mayor Gordo directly at (626) 744-4111 or VGordo@cityofpasadena.net.

Additional support staff includes Deputy Mayor Vannia De La Cuba at (626) 744-4741, Executive Assistant Araceli Mellem, and Administrative Analyst Jana Stewart, both available at (626) 744-4111.