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Record 21 Candidates Seek Altadena Town Council Seats in Post-Fire Election

Published on Wednesday, October 22, 2025 | 5:19 am
 

Twenty-one candidates stepped forward Tuesday night to compete for seats on the Altadena Town Council in what officials called an unprecedented show of civic engagement, as the community continues rebuilding from the devastating Eaton Fire that destroyed homes across the foothill area in January.

The historic candidate forum featured emotional testimonies from fire survivors, business owners, educators and longtime residents — many who lost their homes — all pledging to guide Altadena’s recovery over the next two years. The turnout represents the largest field of candidates in the chair’s tenure on the council.

“I don’t think that certainly in my time on council that we’ve had this many candidates,” said the council chair Victoria Knapp, noting the remarkable response across multiple census tracts.

The candidates are competing for seats representing eight census tracts, with elections scheduled for early November. Many spoke of personal loss and their determination to rebuild not just structures, but community.

The Eaton Fire, which burned through Altadena on Jan. 7, displaced thousands of residents across the community. Nearly 400 building permits have been issued for reconstruction so far, with 262 projects already under construction.

Dorothy Wong, running for reelection in Census Tract 4603.01, brought her message of resilience and cultural preservation to the forum.

“I love Altadena. Let’s build Funky Altadena, resilient and sustainable for these next two years,” Wong said, her voice breaking with emotion as she spoke of the community and neighbors she recognizes.

The diverse field includes architects, educators, business owners, engineers and community organizers. Several candidates bring professional expertise in disaster recovery, workforce development and public policy.

Brandon Perez, whose statement was read at the forum, framed the election as a defining moment: “Our community stands at a defining moment. The wildfire that forever changed our town left behind deep scars, but also a powerful reminder of who we are — strong, compassionate, and determined to rebuild.”

The candidates will participate in a virtual forum Oct. 28 before voting begins in early November. Polling locations will include the Altadena Main Library, Loma Alta Park and several local businesses.

Council Member Isis Moulden, who chairs the election committee, said the response demonstrates the community’s determination to shape its own recovery. Pre-registration is available online to expedite the voting process for displaced residents.

“This is truly amazing,” said Council Member Nic Arnzen.”I’m touched at all of you running.”

The council also heard updates Tuesday on reconstruction progress, including the Lincoln Avenue bridge scheduled to reopen before Thanksgiving, and the launch of the Eaton Fire Collaboratory, a 36,000-square-foot resource center for fire survivors.

The meeting concluded with candidates urging community members to participate in the election, regardless of whether they currently reside in Altadena or are temporarily displaced.

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