October 16, 2025

LATEST UPDATES

Malibu Reviews LA After-Action Report to Strengthen Wildfire Preparedness

On Thursday, September 25, Los Angeles County shared the findings from McChrystal Group’s After-Action Review of Alert Notification Systems and Evacuation Policies for the Eaton and Palisades Fires. 


"The County’s After-Action Review Report is a necessary and constructive step toward transparency by taking a hard look at what worked and what didn’t in responding to this disaster," said Mayor Marianne Riggins. "Wildfires don’t recognize city limits, which is why collaboration between local, state, and federal partners is essential. We will continue to work closely with the LAFD, emergency management agencies, and our neighboring communities to improve early warning systems, evacuation planning, fire prevention and public education."


The City is committed to applying the lessons from this report and doing all we can to ensure that every response, coordination effort, and communication channel is stronger and faster moving forward. The City is also in the process of completing its own After Action Report, which involved focus groups and community meetings, and we look forward to sharing that with the public when it’s complete.

Community Development Department Hosts Community Meeting for Rebuild Families & Provides a Presentation on Rebuilding Efforts


The Community Development Department hosted a community meeting for rebuild families, offering updates, expert guidance, and personalized support. These meetings provide an opportunity to hear the latest from City staff, ask questions, and connect with other families going through the rebuild process. Don’t miss the upcoming Fire Rebuild Family meetings on November 18, December 11, and January 14.


At the Special City Council Meeting on Wednesday, October 15, the Community Development Department provided a detailed presentation on the comprehensive rebuilding efforts underway, including revised planning policies and procedures. The City Council has approved Rebuild Policies, all intended to streamline the rebuilding process.

Malibu Launches Archistar eCheck AI to Streamline Wildfire Rebuilds 


The City of Malibu is taking a major step forward in supporting residents affected by wildfires with the launch of Archistar eCheck AI, a new digital tool designed to simplify and speed up the rebuilding process.


Archistar eCheck AI allows property owners and design professionals to digitally pre-check zoning and code compliance, speeding up design review and approvals for architectural and engineering plans.

Stay Informed and Supported — Connect with Your Rebuild Zone Captain

The City has established Rebuild Zone Captains to collect neighborhood-specific insights and strengthen homeowner representation throughout the rebuilding process. These Captains serve as a vital bridge between fire-impacted property owners and the City, improving access to resources, accelerating problem-solving, and enabling direct feedback loops.


The City holds weekly meetings with the Rebuild Zone Captains. In addition to the City, anyone rebuilding is encouraged to connect with their Rebuild Zone Captain on any challenges or questions. 



For immediate assistance, call 310-456-2489, ext. 400. 

RESOURCES SPOTLIGHT

Partner With the Sheriff’’s Department To Protect Your Property


The City encourages fire-impacted property owners to submit a Letter of Agency to the Los Angeles County Sheriff’s Department. This letter authorizes law enforcement to remove trespassers from your property with advance authorization from the property owner — especially important for vacant or infrequently used lots. 



Submitting a Letter of Agency: 

  • Helps enforce trespassing laws 
  • Enhances public safety 
  • Protects vacant or fire-damaged properties from unwanted activity

FEMA Resources Available

California Disaster Unemployment Assistance

If you’ve lost your job or are unable to work due to a disaster, you may be eligible for financial support through California’s Employment Development Department (EDD). Benefits may include Unemployment Insurance, Disability Insurance or Paid Family Leave.

Continued Temporary Housing Assistance Available

If you were displaced by the Los Angeles County wildfires and received initial rental assistance from FEMA, you may be eligible for Continued Temporary Housing Assistance (CTHA). This program offers extended support covering rent and essential utilities for up to 18 months from the disaster declaration date (January 8, 2025), as long as eligibility requirements are met.

FIRE PREPAREDNESS

Letter Of Support For Los Angeles County Wildfire Mitigation Pilot Program


On October 7, the City submitted a letter of support for LA County’s application to FEMA’s Hazard Mitigation Grant Program (HMGP).The County’s proposal would create two new Joint Powers Authorities (JPAs) – one for the Santa Monica Mountains and one for the San Gabriel Mountains. These groups would help cities and agencies work together, share resources and plan long-term wildfire prevention projects.


Malibu continues to play an active role in the County’s Rebuild and Recovery Task Force, helping lead a coordinated, regional response to wildfires.

Protect Your Home from Wildfire: Meet Malibu’s Community Fire Brigade


At its October 15 special meeting, City Council approved a $100,000 grant to the Malibu Community Brigade, a volunteer program dedicated to wildfire readiness and neighborhood protection. These trained volunteers work alongside fire officials to help residents prepare homes, clear defensible space, and support emergency response efforts during wildfires.


Homeowners can request a free home assessment from certified Brigade volunteers to identify vulnerabilities to flying embers—a leading cause of home loss during wind-driven fires. Each participant receives a confidential report with photos and practical recommendations for home hardening.

UPCOMING EVENTS

OCTOBER

17


DEADLINE: Earthquake Brace + Bolt Grant Program Applications Extended


Non-owner-occupied residences are now eligible for EBB retrofit. Don't miss your chance - Register now!

OCTOBER

25


Addressing Funding Gaps For Rebuilds – Virtual Workshop

10:00 AM - 12:00 PM via Zoom


Register here.

CITY SERVICES

Community Development Director Yolanda Bundy Honored With Prestigious National Leadership Award


Community Development Director Yolanda Bundy, M.S., P.E., CBO, CFCO, has been honored with the 2025 Professional Practice Ethics and Leadership Award from the American Society of Civil Engineers (ASCE) at their Annual Conference held on Friday, October 10 in Seattle, Washington. This distinguished award recognizes Director Bundy’s outstanding ethical leadership, integrity, and dedication to public service in the field of civil engineering. 

Malibu Rebuild Community Meetings Continue Through 2025


Malibu’s Community Development Department continues to host a series of community meetings to support homeowners and streamline the rebuilding process. These meetings will take place throughout the remainder of 2025 and into early 2026. 



Upcoming meetings in the series include sessions for Design Professionals and Fire Rebuild Families, offering opportunities to ask questions, share feedback, and learn about tools and resources to assist with rebuilding. 


Upcoming Meetings 

  • Design Professionals: November 13, December 3 
  • Fire Rebuild Families: November 18, December 11, January 14

PALISADES FIRE REBUILD DASHBOARD

Please direct all media inquiries to PIO@MalibuCity.org.

MORE INFORMATION & RESOURCES

Malibu Rebuilds

Community Resources

Small Business Resources

Agenda Center

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