Burbank Council Moves to Mandate Earthquake Safety Retrofits

During a recent Burbank City Council meeting, officials discussed the introduction of a mandatory earthquake hazard reduction ordinance aimed at enhancing the safety of existing wood-frame residential buildings. The proposed ordinance would require retrofitting of structures identified as having soft, weak, or open front walls, with an enforcement date set for January 1, 2030.

Key discussions centered around the financial implications for property owners, particularly small landlords, who may struggle to afford the retrofitting costs. Council members expressed concerns about the potential burden on these landlords, especially in light of rising interest rates for loans, which could range from 7% to 15% depending on credit ratings. The council acknowledged the need for financial assistance programs to help property owners manage these costs and discussed the possibility of exploring state and federal funding opportunities.

A significant point of contention was the proposed $38 monthly pass-through cost to tenants, which would help cover the costs of the retrofitting. Some council members suggested that this amount should be revisited, with proposals to either lower it or extend the payment period to lessen the financial impact on tenants and landlords alike.

The council also considered the need for an appeal process for property owners facing financial hardship, allowing them additional time to secure funding for the necessary retrofits. This appeal process would be separate from existing engineering-related appeals already in place.

In a unanimous vote, the council decided to introduce the ordinance while directing staff to further explore financial assistance options and incentives for early compliance. The council emphasized the importance of balancing public safety with the financial realities faced by property owners, aiming to ensure that the retrofitting process does not inadvertently contribute to the housing crisis in the area.

The council plans to revisit the ordinance and related discussions before the end of the year, with a commitment to providing ample time for thorough consideration of all aspects involved.