Phase 1 of Palisades Fire debris removal completed ‘months ahead of expectations,’ Bass says

LOS ANGELES - Los Angeles Mayor Karen Bass on Wednesday addressed a significant milestone marking wildfire recovery efforts in the Palisades area.

Early completion

What we know:

Mayor Bass visited an Impacted Worker and Family Recovery Center in Boyle Heights, where hundreds of Angelenos have already received assistance. 

She discussed the early completion of Phase 1 debris removal months ahead of schedule.

"I think it is most important to reflect back on what our city has been through - the worst natural disaster in our lifetime. We have a history of incredible collaboration with every level of government," Bass said. "The most important thing is we are collaborating with each other and the recovery is moving fast."

The first Palisades property was cleared of all fire debris last week, completing both Phase 1 and Phase 2 of the debris removal process.

Phase 1 debris removal, conducted by the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA), involves the removal of highly toxic materials, including electric vehicle batteries. 

Phase 2 involves a full clearing of the lot to prepare it for rebuilding. 

Bass helped to accelerate the rebuilding process by issuing an emergency directive that helped streamline rebuilding efforts and expedited permit reviews.

Significant milestone

What they're saying:

"Recovery continues to progress months ahead of expectations, and we will keep pushing forward. Today marks another milestone in our commitment to rebuilding the Palisades as quickly and safely as possible. Thank you to the EPA and their many crews," Bass stated.

Questions over leadership

The backstory:

Tensions have been rising between Bass, some city council members, and some firefighters over the mayor's firing of LAFD Chief Kristin Crowley. Bass said Crowley's removal from the position was because of her response to the recent Palisades and Eaton Fires.

But Bass is standing by her decision and dismissing criticism that she did not consult city leaders about her decision.

SUGGESTED: Mayor Bass removes Kristin Crowley as LAFD Chief

"I don't think for most of the members of the council that they were surprised by the action that I took because they were well aware of the issues that were going on," Bass said.

She reiterated that on the day of the Palisades Fire, Crowley sent 1,000 firefighters home rather than keep them on overtime.

The other side:

One day after she was fired as Chief of the Los Angeles Fire Department, Crowley, spoke out, saying in part that it was "an absolute honor" to serve as the city's fire chief.

The full statement read:

"As a humble public servant for over the past 30 years, 25 of those with the LAFD, it has been an absolute honor to represent and lead the men and women of one of the greatest fire departments in the world. As the Fire Chief, I based my actions and decisions on taking care of our firefighters so that they could take care of our communities. Serving others before self, having the courage and integrity to do what is right, and leading with compassion, love and respect have guided me throughout my career. I am extremely proud of the work, sacrifice and dedication of our LAFD members, both sworn and civilian."

SUGGESTED: Ex-LAFD Chief Kristin Crowley issues statement after removal

What's next:

When asked if Crowley were to appeal her removal as chief and get the support of the council, would Bass accept it?

"We'll see," she replied.

Bass also dismissed claims that the tensions are impacting the response, pointing out that the EPA announced that Phase 1 of debris removal in the Palisades Fire is complete, months faster than anticipated, and that water has been restored to 40% of homes that survived the Palisades Fire.