City Staff Working Behind the Scenes for Federal Disaster Funds for Infrastructure Fire Damage

When the Palisades and Franklin Fires struck Malibu, the damage was devastating. On January 8, 2025, President Biden issued a Major Disaster Declaration, unlocking FEMA Public Assistance funding. Since then, City staff have worked tirelessly to secure reimbursement for fire recovery costs-ensuring Malibu residents aren't left to shoulder the financial burden.

So far, 17 projects totaling more than $13.28 million in damages have been submitted. The breakdown:

• Debris Removal (Cat A): $1.86M - clearing burned material from city roads, parks, and properties.
• Emergency Protective Measures (Cat B): $5.16M - costs for the Emergency Operations Center, City Hall smoke cleanup, sandbags, guardrail protection, septic tank abatement, and emergency security.
• Roads & Bridges (Cat C): $1M - fire-related roadway and bridge repairs.
• Water Control Facilities (Cat D): $3.16M - storm drains and deep-water systems, especially in Big Rock.
• Parks & Facilities (Cat G): $2.1M - repairs at Las Flores Creek Park and other recreation areas.

FEMA covers 100% of emergency work for the first 180 days. After 180 days, any expenses would follow FEMA 75% thereafter (with California covering 18.75% and Malibu 6.25%).

Malibu is also pursuing Hazard Mitigation Grants for projects like drainage repairs, traffic signal backup power, and private property wildfire mitigation-building resilience for the future.

This behind-the-scenes effort means every expense documented by staff adding to Malibu's recovery, ensuring our community rebuilds quickly, safely, and stronger than before.

See the presentation to City Council on the reimbursement work.