Margot Steuber Becomes First To Rebuild
While the rebuilding process is off to a sluggish start, one story stands out: Margot Stueber, a 68-year-old Altadena resident, became the first to break ground on a new home. Her 100-year-old cottage on West Palm Street was completely destroyed in the fire, but after months of cleanup, planning, and permitting delays, reconstruction is officially underway.
“It’s the first day of my new life,” Stueber said at the groundbreaking ceremony, joined by her architect Trinidad Campbell and LA County Supervisor Kathryn Barger. Stueber’s new home will be a modern, bright-blue single-family house—marking a fresh start after tremendous loss.
Altadena Rebuilding Not Without Challenges
Despite early promises of a streamlined process, Stueber’s permit took nearly two months to be approved—four times longer than the county’s stated goal of two weeks. The delay was due in part to the multiple reviews required by separate departments within the county government.
Supervisor Barger has since proposed a motion to simplify the process through a self-certification system. Under this plan, licensed architects and engineers could sign off on plans without needing additional layers of review—mirroring practices already in place in parts of the City of Los Angeles.
A Call For Urgency Amidst Meddling Bureaucracy
The slow pace of recovery has not gone unnoticed. Public figures, including actress Mandy Moore, who lost several family properties in the fire, have openly criticized the “red tape” and “endless hoops” that continue to stall rebuilding efforts. Even California Governor Gavin Newsom has called for faster solutions, including the use of artificial intelligence to speed up permit reviews.
What This Means for the Altadena Rebuilding Process
At Rose City Homes, we understand that rebuilding isn’t just about homes—it’s about restoring community and hope. While the road ahead may still be long, the first groundbreaking in Altadena signals a turning point.
If you’re in the Altadena real estate market looking for guidance during this rebuilding phase, our team is here to help. From navigating permits to coordinating with architects and contractors, Rose City Homes is committed to being a resource during this critical time.
