Wildfire Preparedness and Homeowners Insurance Workshop

Dear Neighbors,

A picture is indeed worth a thousand words. The image from tonight's Wildfire Preparedness and Homeowners Insurance Workshop speaks volumes about the crisis facing our community. Seeing so many hands raised of those who have been dropped by their insurance companies was truly sobering.

I have been asked many times what my plans are as a candidate for 5th district supervisor to address this insurance emergency. Too many of our neighbors, including those on fixed incomes like our elderly residents, face the panic of being priced out of the homes they've lived in for decades after being forced into the California FAIR plan.

While this is primarily a state issue, there are actions the county board of supervisors can take to support our most vulnerable areas at risk of losing home insurance. First, supporting our local fire districts must be a top priority, as the location of firehouses factors into insurers' decisions on coverage areas. Second, we need to provide resources and amplify the efforts of non-profits like the Fire Safe Council where I serve on the board, working tirelessly on mitigation.

As your supervisor, I will be a vocal advocate bringing attention to issues like the legally-required mitigation discounts that residents report not receiving, even after taking all the right steps. Earlier this afternoon a representative from the insurance commissioners office gave a presentation at the Board of Supervisors meeting at the request of Supervisor Friend. I thank him for that. But we must keep pushing.

As a CZU Fire survivor myself, I am thrilled to see this level of engagement onfire safety. Having lost my home, I wouldn't wish that struggle on anyone. The old saying is true - a stitch in time saves nine. By getting ahead of this together as a community, we can create a fire-resilient future for Santa Cruz County.

In Community, always.

Christopher