Residents of Pacific Palisades are understandably upset after a local homeowner, who lost their house to a fire last year, received an eviction fine from the city.
“It’s really insulting and just cruel. We’re homeless, and now we’re being hit with this bill,” said Carol Sandborn, who lived in her home for 40 years. She expressed her feelings by scrawling in red ink on the notice before sending it back. “Honestly, I was a bit taken aback.”
Fines from the Los Angeles Fire Department are typically handed down to property owners in high-risk zones who don’t clear hazardous vegetation, which is crucial for slowing wildfire spread. However, locals argue that the fire department has not inspected the construction site and stated they won’t pay the fines due to this issue. The bill reflected a $31 charge for the supposed violation.
One resident shared their frustration, saying, “This is just the last straw. They’re still trying to squeeze money out of us after what we’ve been through.” They added, “Sure, thirty-one dollars isn’t a huge amount, but it’s the principle—I’m not paying.”
Several others have received similar notifications, and there’s a growing wave of anger among the community. The mayor’s office mentioned that they’re collaborating with the fire department to look into the situation.
Attempts to contact the billing department resulted in voicemail only, with no way to leave a message or directly address the fines.
“It’s really unfortunate that at a time like this, it feels like the city isn’t on our side,” Sandborn remarked.
Eventually, the mayor’s office acknowledged the fine as “unacceptable.” The Los Angeles Fire Department hasn’t yet commented on the matter.
“Those who lost their homes should not have to deal with these charges,” the mayor’s office stated, adding that they are in discussions with LAFD about how to proceed.
