An Altadena homeowner and landlord says SoCal Edison’s wildfire recovery program proved to be a lifesaver.
The Eaton Fire destroyed Michael Astalis’ home and 16 buildings on Pine Street, which he was renting for low-income housing. The 77-year-old builder of 50 years said he accepted SoCal Edison's compensation offer because it was in his best interest.
“Otherwise, I could not provide any more housing for my tenants,” he told KNX News’ Karen Adams. “That's what I always did.”
He also said Edison’s compensation “did a lot better than many insurances did,” and that it's going to allow him to start rebuilding as soon as he gets a permit from the county.
His attorney, Benjamin Crump, said that while he respects Assalis' decision, he does not endorse Edison's program.
“My real fear as a Black man who worked so hard all across America for us to get not only equality but equity is that Altadena becomes California's Katrina,” he said.
Crump also represents several black families here in Altadena who lost loved ones and homes in the Eaton Fire.
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