Malibu Mayor Gives Update On City’s Fire Response, Sets Town Hall For Next Week

Good afternoon, I am Mayor Doug Stewart of the City of Malibu and I would like to thank you for being here as we provide an update on the City’s response to the Palisades Fire.

First and foremost, I want to extend our heartfelt gratitude to the first responders, emergency crews, and all the agencies and organizations who have been working tirelessly during this crisis. Your bravery and commitment in the face of such immense challenges are deeply appreciated, and we are forever grateful for your service.

To our residents, I want to acknowledge the frustration and hardship you are experiencing. Many of you are understandably anxious to return to your homes. We hear you, and we are doing everything in our power to make that happen as quickly and safely as possible. However, we remain in the midst of an active fire incident. Red Flag and Extreme Weather conditions are expected to persist through tomorrow, and crews are continuing their critical work to address multiple hazards in the affected area such as gas leaks, hot spots and smolders, addressing downed powerlines and ensure overall safety.

We know there is a perception that the City isn’t doing enough. I want to assure you that City staff have been working around the clock alongside our partners to respond to this historic and unprecedented event. We are inspecting infrastructure, clearing streets of debris, assisting with damage assessments and stabilizing the area to pave the way for safe re-entry; while simultaneously getting everything in place for expedited rebuilds. We ask for your patience and understanding as our teams—along with law enforcement, fire crews, and utility providers—continue this vital work.

We also need to address and dispel a rumor circulating in the community: there is no permit for expedited re-entry into evacuation zones. Any claims or offers to provide such a permit are false. Additionally, we are aware that some residents have hired private contractors who are requesting access to the evacuation zones. Private contractor access is not permitted at this time. We urge all residents to adhere to the evacuation orders for their safety and the safety of the crews working in these areas.

Damage assessments are ongoing, and residents in mandatory evacuation zones can visit recovery.lacounty.gov to access updates. This website is being updated with photos of properties as our partners at CalFire complete their assessments. By entering your address, you can see if your property has been evaluated and access available information.

Southern California Edison continues to monitor conditions closely. SCE will re-energize circuits when it is safe, even if only for a few hours, to provide temporary relief to residents. We encourage everyone to use these windows of power to charge devices and prepare for potential outages.

SoCalGas crews are actively working in Area 1, north and west of Pepperdine University. As of this morning, they have restored service to an additional 71 customers, bringing the total to 678 restored out of the approximately 13,600 initially impacted. Restoration efforts will continue tomorrow in the northwest Malibu area. Residents can also visit the SoCalGas community information booth at the Pavilions, 29211 Heathercliff Road, from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m., for updates and assistance.

It is important to emphasize that access into the mandatory evacuation zones is not authorized at this time. This restriction is in place to protect both residents and the emergency crews working tirelessly in the area. If you have critical needs, we encourage you to call 310-456-2489 to provide your information.

In addition to our immediate response, the City is committed to long-term recovery. Our team is actively participating in the Disaster Recovery Assistance Center at Westside Pavilions, 10850 West Pico Blvd., Los Angeles, to support residents navigating the rebuilding process.

We have scheduled a Town Hall meeting for Malibu residents next Tuesday, January 21 at 6 p.m. at Malibu High School. This will provide an opportunity to hear updates, ask questions, and learn more about ongoing recovery efforts.

Again, Access to the evacuation zones remains prohibited at this time. If you have critical needs, such as pet recovery or medications, our city team is working with Incident Command to compile a list. Please call 310-456-2489 to provide your information, and what you need access to. We will provide that to representatives here at incident command for when the time comes.

We know this fire has taken a profound toll on our community. I want to take a moment to acknowledge those who have suffered unimaginable losses. To the families who have lost loved ones and to those still searching for missing family members, please know that our hearts are with you. We grieve alongside you and stand ready to support you in any way we can during this incredibly difficult time.

For ongoing updates specific to Mailbu, we encourage everyone to follow the City of Malibu on our official channels:

•     Facebook, Instagram, and X  @CityofMalibu

•     Visit our website at www.malibucity.org/palisadesfire

For residents and our local businesses needing financial assistance, please visit recovery.lacounty.gov or visit the Disaster Resource Center.

Thank you all for your strength, patience, and resilience during this incredibly challenging time. Together, we will overcome this crisis and rebuild stronger than ever.