Altadena Not For Sale: Community Fights Corporate Land Grabs After the Eaton Fire
Investor ownership has surged after the Eaton Fire. Residents are organizing to protect their homes, their history, and their future.
Before the Eaton Fire, fewer than 5 percent of homes in the impacted zone were owned by investors or corporations. Today, that number is closer to 41 percent.
According to Altadena Not For Sale, at least 104 fire-zone properties have been sold post-disaster, with 24 of them purchased by just eight for-profit entities. Developers, REITs, and private equity firms are targeting Altadena as an opportunity zone.
Grassroots organizers are mobilizing. Melissa Michelson, co-founder of Altadena Not For Sale, and Gabriela, a local screen printer who lost everything in the fire, are leading efforts to resist displacement and keep Altadena in the hands of its people.
“This is not just about housing. It’s about who this place is for.”
What’s at Stake
An early proposal requested 493 million dollars to fund land trusts and mission-driven redevelopment of fire-damaged properties. That plan was later reduced to 200 million dollars, with fewer details about oversight, density, or who would benefit.
Melissa and others have asked for clarity from LA Community Land Trust and Senator Sasha Renee Perez’s team. They’re still waiting.
Community Demands
Halt corporate purchases in disaster zones
Establish land trusts for community ownership
Protect zoning that reflects Altadena’s character
Support restoration of historic architectural styles
Take Action
Follow @altanot4sale on Instagram and Facebook
Upcoming Zoom Meeting
Join the organizing call on Monday, May 26 or Tuesday, May 27 from 7 to 8 p.m.
Email Melissa at altadenas.not.for.sale@gmail.com by Sunday, May 25 at 8 p.m. to receive the link. (Sorry for the late notice)
This is not just about one fire. It is about how we rebuild, and who gets to stay.