Council approves 30-day plan to test and remediate soil in Pacific Palisades parks, medians and public facilities

Council members approved a motion instructing the Bureau of Engineering, in coordination with the Bureau of Sanitation, Bureau of Street Services, General Services Department and Recreation and Parks, to report to council in 30 days with a work plan to test and remediate soil at city facilities, parkways and medians in the Pacific Palisades burn zone and to identify funding sources and FEMA reimbursement eligibility.

The amendment directing the 30-day work plan was read into the record by the clerk. The motion calls for a cross-departmental work plan and for identification of funding sources and potential FEMA reimbursement eligibility. Council member Tracy Park said the amendment "is a motion relative to a work plan to test and remediate the soil at city park properties, parkways, and medians in the burn zone of the Pacific Palisades, and identify funding sources for a soil study and eligibility for reimbursement by the Federal Emergency Management Agency."

Public commenters including Sue Cole (Pacific Palisades Community Council) and other residents voiced anxiety about soil toxicity and asked the city to move rapidly. Cole said the community supports the item and urged testing so residents can return to parks and public streets with confidence.

The clerk called the roll; the item passed 4-0 with one member absent.

Ending: Departments were instructed to return in 30 days with a detailed testing and remediation work plan, proposed funding sources and FEMA-reimbursement eligibility for the proposed activities.