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After warehouse fire, Monterey Park distributes masks and launches air-purifier reimbursement
Summary
Following the Los Palos warehouse fire and related poor air quality, the city declared a local emergency, distributed about 5,000 N95 masks, opened relief sites and approved a $50,000 air-purifier reimbursement program for purchases between June 17 and June 28; 25 applications were received by July 1 and 20 were approved.
City staff briefed the council on emergency actions taken after the Los Palos warehouse fire. Rebecca Bejorquez, an analyst in the city manager's office, said the council declared a local emergency on June 23, about 5,000 N95 masks were distributed from fire stations, Langley Center and the Bergermeyer (Birkenmeier) Library were opened as relief sites and outdoor programming (including fireworks) was canceled through June 28. The council also appropriated $50,000 for an air-purifier reimbursement program to assist residents who bought purifiers between June 17 and June 28; the program allows one reimbursement per household with income-eligible applicants receiving up to $75 or 40% of the purchase price, whichever is less.
Bejorquez said the application period opened June 29 and will remain open through July 31; to date 25 households applied and 20 were approved for roughly $1,000 in total reimbursements. Staff said applications may be returned at the water payments counter or by email and that the city will provide updates to council every 60 days. Council members praised staff for swift action and noted other assistance options, including AQMD programs for those living in heavily affected areas.
