May 30, 2025 | Housing, Safety
By Ariana Bindman
May 30, 2025
Growing a third of America’s crops and generating billions of dollars each year, California’s Central Valley is both an economic stalwart and an increasingly popular home to millions of people. But according to new research from scientists at several state universities, climate change, urban development and agricultural activities could be making an environmental problem in the region even worse, increasing health risks for the residents who live there.
Apr 10, 2025 | Legislation, Safety
By Diana Nicole
April 10 2025
HOMEOWNERS’ RIGHTS – In fire-prone parts of California, a quiet but sweeping transformation is underway—one that will determine not just how we defend homes from wildfire, but how much freedom we have in our own yards.
Soon, under a new state mandate, homeowners in designated fire zones may no longer be allowed to grow a lavender bush next to their deck. A mature tree near the corner of the house may be declared a risk, even if it is well maintained, provides shade, privacy, and a place for birds. And that potted lemon tree? Too tall, too close to a window, and suddenly—noncompliant.
Feb 25, 2025 | Housing, Safety
By Megan Fan Munce
Feb 25, 2025
State Farm General, California’s largest home insurer by far, estimates it will pay $7.6 billion to survivors of the Los Angeles wildfires. The staggering figure is the highest loss estimate of any insurer so far, which makes sense due to the size of the company and its exposure: A Chronicle analysis of policy data found that State Farm insured more households in and around the fire perimeters than any other company. It’s already paid $1.75 billion to policyholders.
Feb 23, 2025 | Uncategorized, Meetings, Safety
Town Hall Meeting Saturday, March 1, 2025 1PM to 4PM Mitchell Park Community Cntr, 3700 Middlefield Rd, Palo Alto CA Fire hazard and growth-driven safety problems in Palo Alto, the Bay Area, and beyond. A Town Hall about safety issues that could directly impact you....
Feb 12, 2025 | Safety, Housing
By ETHAN VARIAN
UPDATED: February 12, 2025
Bay Area homeowners likely will be on the hook for a share of a massive bailout of California’s insurer of last resort after it ran out of money to pay claims arising from the devastating Los Angeles wildfires.
State regulators announced this week that they will allow the program, known as the FAIR Plan, to collect $1 billion in emergency payments from private insurers — who are expected to pass a significant portion of those costs on to policyholders across the state.
Feb 10, 2025 | Meetings, Safety
