EmpowerLA Updates + Resources Regarding Fire Emergency – Tues January 14, 2025

As always, we hope you, your loved ones, and your neighbors are safe. On behalf of EmpowerLA, I extend my heartfelt gratitude to you, the Neighborhood Council system. As our communities continue to face dangerous high wind conditions, potentially fueling new and existing fires, loss of property, power outages, fallen trees, poor air quality, and more, we have seen countless Neighborhood Councils work to provide vital resources and information to communities. Please know that we are here to support you and your efforts in any way we can.

This week, the Department continues to prioritize sharing information and resources related to the windstorm and fires, as well as recovery and rebuilding in line with Mayor Bass’ Emergency Executive Order No. 1. We have been in touch with the Office of City Clerk regarding extending Neighborhood Council election deadlines and emergency spending, and receiving timely updates from the Mayor and city leaders. Please see below for the latest information, updates, and resources.

State of California Alerts and Resources Hub

The State of California recently launched ca.gov/LAFires to serve as a hub for alerts, resources, and more. We encourage you to share this resource with your neighbors as information will be updated as conditions change and resources are added to support impacted communities. The Office of the Mayorwill also continue to serve as a hub for information and updates.

Neighborhood Council Meetings During Ongoing Emergency Conditions

We know Neighborhood Councils play a critical role in the City’s ongoing efforts to provide relief and resources to communities impacted by fires, power outages, and poor air quality. However, we encourage Neighborhood Council leaders to be mindful of conditions when holding meetings. Before agendizing an in-person meeting, please be sure to review any air quality alerts, road closures, evacuation warnings, evacuation orders, and other related information from local emergency personnel. Please also be aware that due to their location and/or emergency activation, City representatives may not be available to attend meetings in the coming weeks. Consider if a virtual meeting could accomplish your priorities more safely if your Neighborhood Council has taken action on SB 411. If you have any questions or would like to seek further guidance, please reach out to your Neighborhood Empowerment Advocate.

Neighborhood Council Elections Update

Due to the ongoing state of emergency, the Office of the City Clerk Elections Division has extended the candidate filing deadline for Regions 9, 10, 5, 6, 7, 8, and 1 by seven (7) days. Regions 11, 12, 2, 3, and 4 are scheduled to proceed as planned. Review the updated election timelines here. Please contact [email protected] if you have any questions or concerns.

Neighborhood Council Funding Updates on Expenditures During Declared Emergencies

On January 8, 2025, the City Clerk’s NC Funding team issued updated guidelines for Neighborhood Council (NC) expenditures during declared emergencies, as outlined in NC Funding Program Policy 5.0 – Expenditures of NC Funds in Declared Emergencies. This policy empowers NC Presidents to authorize emergency services and supplies expenditures of up to $1,000 without prior board approval, provided the conditions outlined in the policy are met.

Since the issuance of this guidance, many NCs have stepped up to support communities affected by the recent wildfires. Understanding that some NCs wish to extend even more assistance during this challenging time, the City Clerk’s office issued additional guidance for NCs seeking to contribute to local non-profits and schools engaged in relief efforts.

NCs now have the option to classify these contributions as "Outreach" expenditures rather than following the traditional NPG process. To facilitate these payments, NCs must submit a Payment Request Document, such as a Contribution Payment Form or Invoice, along with a completed BAC. Payments of $1,000 or less can be authorized by the NC President under emergency guidelines. It is advised that NCs partner with well-established and trusted organizations, such as the American Red Cross, World Central Kitchen, or California Fire Foundation, to ensure that contributions are directed effectively and to avoid the risk of scams or fraud. Contributions can be made via check or credit card, as permitted by funding policies.

For larger contributions exceeding $5,000 to a single organization, a review may be required to ensure compliance. However, in recognition of the urgency of the situation, efforts will be made to expedite the review process and provide timely support to impacted communities.

Throughout this process, NC Presidents and Treasurers are encouraged to maintain close communication with their City Clerk Funding Representatives to ensure compliance with guidelines and to navigate the process effectively. For those seeking to contribute beyond the $1,000 threshold initially authorized by policy, please contact your NC Funding Representative and CC Sofia Anguiano, City Clerk’s Chief Management Analyst ([email protected]) for further assistance.

Donation and Volunteer Opportunities

As the City continues aggressively responding to the fires in LA, we know that there are people from all over the country who are reaching out in support of our communities. You can find opportunities to financially contribute, donate new and gently used goods, and volunteer at lacity.gov/LAstrong.

Additionally, ExpandLA is overloaded with donations of hot/cold food, clothes, sleeping bags, diapers, adult PPE, etc.  They will be at Pasadena City College today from 9am-8pm.  They are looking for organizations to come and take truck loads of supplies if you can and distribute items at your sites, drivers to drive items to places that cannot pick up, and spaces that can hold items where we can deploy drivers. Please contact [email protected] and [email protected] to support.

Finally, YMCA of Metropolitan Los Angeles is calling on organizations to set up Pop-Up Distribution Centers to serve impacted families. These centers can provide essential resources, support, and a safe space for those in need. They have an outpouring of essential items, food, and water we can deliver to centers and can support with volunteer placements. If your Neighborhood Council is interested in joining this effort, please contact [email protected] for detailed information and guidance on how to get started.

Neighborhood Councils and individuals are also encouraged to identify organizations and needs in their local communities to support.

Please continue to stay safe and communicate with your neighbors. Your dedication and efforts to support those affected by the recent wildfires are deeply appreciated. Thank you for your unwavering commitment to our communities during this time of need.

In community,