Nearly 13,000 Join Congressman Brad Sherman’s Emergency Telephone Town Hall on the Pacific Palisades Fire
Los Angeles, CA – On Wednesday, January 15, Congressman Brad Sherman(CA-32) hosted an Emergency Telephone Town Hall to address the ongoing Pacific Palisades Fire in the heart of his district. Nearly 13,000 joined Sherman’s Town Hall to hear crucial updates, learn of available resources for assistance and voice their concerns on the devastating fires impacting the district. The event featured special guests CAL FIRE Deputy Chief Lonny Olson, LA County Supervisor Lindsey Horvath, and FEMA Regional Administrator Bob Fenton, who offered critical insights on disaster response and recovery efforts.
"With the worst fire in U.S. history striking at the heart of my district, the safety and well-being of our community remain my highest priority,” said Congressman Sherman. "This town hall ensured that residents had direct access to key officials and accurate, real-time information about the steps being taken to combat the fire and provide relief to those affected.”
Deputy Chief Lonny Olson of CAL FIRE provided an overview of containment efforts, fire behavior, and ongoing challenges due to the region's steep terrain and dry conditions. He emphasized the importance of continued community vigilance and cooperation with evacuation orders to support firefighter safety.
Supervisor Lindsey Horvath addressed the County's emergency response coordination, evacuation protocols, and resources for displaced residents. "Our community stands resilient, and we are working around the clock to provide shelter, support, and information to those impacted," Horvath stated.
FEMA Regional Administrator Bob Fenton assured residents that federal disaster assistance programs are in place to support the region and outlined the steps for filing claims and seeking emergency aid. He urged residents to document any damages and remain aware of federal relief timelines.
Congressman Sherman emphasized his commitment to working closely with federal, state, and local partners to secure additional resources for wildfire prevention and recovery. He also highlighted the importance of wildfire mitigation funding, disaster preparedness, and resilience efforts.
"Our fight doesn’t end when the flames are extinguished—it continues as we rebuild stronger, more prepared communities," Sherman concluded.
The Congressman encouraged residents to stay in contact with his office and other official channels for ongoing updates and access to disaster assistance resources.
During the Telephone Town Hall, Sherman requested input from residents by asking a series of survey questions about their thoughts and concerns.
The results of the survey questions are as follows:
1. In past disasters Congress has not imposed conditions -- just provided help. Should Congress impose conditions on aid to California so that Washington makes decisions on land management and water management?
-Yes 17%
-No: 73%
-Unsure: 10%
2. Have you applied with FEMA for federal assistance? *
-No, I have not applied: 50%
-Yes, I have applied and had a good experience: 17%
-Yes, I have applied and was left confused or unhappy: 26%
-Other: 7%
*For this question, we asked only people who live in the evacuation area to answer; for the other two survey questions, we asked everyone to answer
3. Should we enforce homesite vegetation clearance strictly: if you don’t clear, the government does, sends you a bill and you pay - or lien on your home?
-Yes: 64%
-Inspections and letters only but no government contractor messing my bushes: 27%
-No: 10%
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