|
|
|
As many know the state of DC Fast charging in Pasadena has declined significantly. While efforts are being made, the improvements have been minimal at best.
A recently provided report on the state of DC Fast chargers paints a picture that is worse than has been reported… Pasadena Now refused to approve a comment made on their story, that claimed that PWP reports 60% of chargers are working and that ZERO DC Fast chargers are operational in Glendale. Both of which claims are blatantly false.
The data provided through a PRA request There are some obvious missteps the city is taking regarding the control and management of the DC Fast charger systems. Hopefully we see some adjustments and corrections made.
Several people have sent in correspondence related to the City Budget for 2025-2026 related to the state of EV Charging.
PRA last week. I converted the pdf into an Excel file to more easily digest the information and it is worse than what I have experienced. The summary on the bottom of the Excel says it all. 45 Total 12 Operational 28 Non Operational 5 Partial- Not operational 33 Total not functioning properly 27% Percent Operational 73% Percent Non Operational 1. The new parking of 2 hours on fast chargers is not acceptable, it is not a best practice to "allow" a 2 hour use of a fast charger. Del Mar has a 30min posted limit. That's what we need at all locations. If you leave and come back or switch to another charger, that's ok, but at least give someone else a change to charge. 2. The rate PWP is charging is low, to the point that many charge on PWP chargers vs at home because the rate can be less. The rate is about half of what others including Tesla, charge. Why? The rate seriously needs to be increased to at least a 25% increase. Still competitive and have funds to properly maintain chargers. 3. Someone needs to ask where all the money went? Where did the millions go? 4. Overstay fees need to be implemented, if you are fully charged or over the 30 minutes on DC fast charging you should be charged 50cents a minute or more. Tesla charges $1 per minute. This is a precious resource that needs property use rules. And those that don't follow should be penalized. 5. Parking enforcement needs to better patrol the EV charges and enforce CVC 22511 which is posted. 6. We need to stop comparing with other cities that may or may not have worse charging situations. Why not compare to cities that have better charging and have partnerships with EV charging companies like IONNA and Gravity and EVCS and others... 7. On point 6, the bottom line may be that PWP/Pasadena should not be in the EV charging space. Mismanagement challenges and other issues have plagued the project. Perhaps it makes sense to engage multiple vendors/providers to install / replace those charger locations that are not working, like Glanarm/Arroyo. That site has been mostly out of service for many months. There is basically one working charger and it is a handicap parking spot. Most of the chargers PWP has deployed are slower than the slowest Tesla Supercharger at 50Kw from PWP to 72kW from Tesla... The latest generation of common DC Fast Chargers are upwards of 250kW and even much higher. That's where we need to be.
Pasadena has prided itself in having EV charging in Pasadena. And we will focus on DC Fast chargers.
For a long time, there’s been a decline in the Pasadena PWP’s ability to not only manage but maintain the city EV charging infrastructure.
In particular we see that with DC Fast charging which is what the majority of people who charge their vehicles want. Having over 200 L2 chargers is a waste of city resources. They could get rid of 75% of these chargers and very few people would notice or care. The focus needs to be on DC Fast charging and having a bunch of 50kW chargers that are older than five years is contributing to the problem. The city blames contractors and manufacturers for the state of the chargers, but there are other EV networks using the exact same chargers with remarkable reliability.
For instance EVCS a local company based in Arcadia has more EV chargers than PWP and from personal experience the reliability of these chargers is almost 100%. The biggest problem with EVCS is access to the chargers, for instance with EVCS the DC Fast chargers at LA Fitness which they have a partnership with, most of the time at the Pasadena location there are cars blocking access to the chargers. Vehicles are parked in the spots not charging, may times not even an EV. There is a CVC 22511 that if posted would allow for the citing and towing of vehicles in violation.
The city needs to strongly consider engaging with providers who know how to manage this space.
Mistakes have been made, to double down with spending even more money to haphazardly try to “fix” what is broken doesn’t seem to be working.
The disarray of EV chargers at Glenarm/Arroyo has been disastrous, to have basically one out of eight working. And the that works has a electrical tape patched connector and is a handicap parking spot. The Powerflex app shows two chargers working, only one works as of the past few days.
There’s a new Italian Deli coming to Pasadena. Located in what used to be The George at 1615 E Washington Blvd, Pasadena.
Construction is in process and the signs are up that the owners are looking for servers, hosts, and cooks.
The name of the restaurant is The Italian Deli. website
https://www.theitaliandeli.co/
The can be reached at info@theitaliandeli.com
They have applied for a new liquor license type 41 for beer and wine, under the United Restaurants LLC.
Public Health Launches Eaton Fire Soil Testing Program
The Los Angeles County Department of Public Health is launching a residential soil lead testing program in the area downwind of the Eaton Fire.
Following a motion by the Board of Supervisors on April 15, Public Health has been directed to use up to $3 million from the County’s Lead Paint Hazard Mitigation Program to carry out a targeted testing initiative for homes downwind of the Eaton Fire—where the most significant lead findings from the soil sampling conducted by Roux Associates and confirmed by multiple independent researchers, including Caltech and the LA Times.
The program is expected to run until December 2025.
The program uses a self-collection model: residents will be provided with simple, clear instructions on how to collect soil samples from their own yards and drop off their sample at the One Stop Permit Center – Public Health Table at 464 W. Woodbury Road, Suite 210, Altadena, CA 91001 Monday–Friday between 8 a.m. and 4:30 p.m.
“Los Angeles County is committed to being responsive to the needs of our residents impacted by the Eaton Fire, which is why we’re providing soil testing resources and support to ensure residents can make informed decisions about their health,” said Los Angeles County Board of Supervisors Chair Kathryn Barger. “The Department of Public Health’s soil testing program is free, convenient and will provide concerned residents accurate information about the environmental health of their soil.”
“We know how deeply concerned residents are about the safety of their homes and neighborhoods,” said Barbara Ferrer, PhD, MPH, MEd, Director, Los Angeles County Department of Public Health. “This soil testing program for properties downwind of the Eaton Fire—where the highest lead levels were found—is meant to provide accurate, data-driven information for residents to make informed choices to protect their health.”
The samples will be picked up by certified laboratories contracted by the County. Residents will receive results by email within 7 to 10 business days, along with a link to a dedicated webpage that helps residents interpret results and offers health-based guidance on what to do next.
About 26,000 homes in the areas where the highest levels of lead soil concentrations will receive postcards in the mail and Public Health will conduct targeted door to door outreach.
Those impacted by the Eaton Fire interested in participating can visit ph.lacounty.gov/eaton-soil-
Today the CAL FIRE – Office of the State Fire Marshal (OSFM) seized over 100,000 pounds of illegal fireworks discovered in Commerce, CA, located in Los Angeles County.
CAL FIRE – OSFM responded to a claim of a current fireworks importer/exporter licensee with CAL FIRE – OSFM not following laws and regulations related to requirements of their license.
This seizure results from a CAL FIRE – OSFM investigation of a current fireworks importer/exporter licensee not following laws and regulations required by their license.
CAL FIRE – OSFM would like to commend ongoing efforts to help curb the use and sales of illegal fireworks, protecting the public from the hazards they present. Additionally, we would like to thank Los Angeles County Fire Department as well as the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms, and Explosives (ATF) Task Force. The collaborative efforts of all agencies involved demonstrate their ongoing commitment to protecting our communities.
“As we approach the 4th of July and a typical increase in usage of illegal fireworks, this seizure should be a reminder of our zero tolerance to illegal fireworks in California,” said California State Fire Marshal Daniel Berlant.
Since January 2025, California has seen over 4 million dollars in property loss from fireworks-caused fires. CAL FIRE would like to remind everyone that it is illegal to sell, transport, or use in California fireworks that do not carry the “Safe and Sane” seal, and to possess or use fireworks in a community where they are not permitted. Violations of these limitations are subject to fines up to $50,000, and up to one year in jail.
If you have information related to this case, don’t hesitate to contact the CAL FIRE – OSFM Arson and Bomb Unit at arsonbomb@fire.ca.gov.
Discover essential tips for a responsible and fire-safe celebration along with ways to protect your community from CAL FIRE at FireworksSafetyCA.org.
To read the entire news release, visit https://conta.cc/4jjgH5g.
CAL FIRE Seizes Over 100,000 Pounds from Illegal Fireworks Operation in Los Angeles County
Commerce, CA – Today the CAL FIRE – Office of the State Fire Marshal (OSFM) seized over 100,000
pounds of illegal fireworks discovered in Commerce, CA, located in Los Angeles County.
CAL FIRE – OSFM responded to a claim of a current fireworks importer/exporter licensee with CAL
FIRE – OSFM not following laws and regulations related to requirements of their license.
This seizure results from a CAL FIRE – OSFM investigation of a current fireworks importer/exporter
licensee not following laws and regulations required by their license.
CAL FIRE – OSFM would like to commend ongoing efforts to help curb the use and sales of illegal
fireworks, protecting the public from the hazards they present. Additionally, we would like to thank Los
Angeles County Fire Department as well as the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms, and Explosives
(ATF) Task Force. The collaborative efforts of all agencies involved demonstrate their ongoing
commitment to protecting our communities.
“As we approach the 4th of July and a typical increase in usage of illegal fireworks, this seizure should
be a reminder of our zero tolerance to illegal fireworks in California,” said California State Fire Marshal
Daniel Berlant.
Since January 2025, California has seen over 4 million dollars in property loss from fireworks-caused
fires. CAL FIRE would like to remind everyone that it is illegal to sell, transport, or use in California
fireworks that do not carry the “Safe and Sane” seal, and to possess or use fireworks in a community
where they are not permitted. Violations of these limitations are subject to fines up to $50,000, and up to
one year in jail.
California has zero tolerance for the sale and use of illegal fireworks. Illegal fireworks include:
• Sky rockets
• Bottle rockets
• Roman candles
• Aerial shells
• Firecrackers
• Other fireworks that explode, go into the air, or move on the ground in an uncontrollable manner
Fireworks are illegal in parts of California due to the significant risk they pose, as they cause severe
injuries and millions of dollars in property damage each year. Large grass crops and dry vegetation
increase the threat of devastating fires throughout all of California.
If you have information related to this case, don’t hesitate to contact the CAL FIRE – OSFM Arson and
Bomb Unit at arsonbomb@fire.ca.gov.
Discover essential tips for a responsible and fire-safe celebration along with ways to protect your
community from CAL FIRE at FireworksSafetyCA.org.
|
Semi-Annual Pancake Breakfast
Saturday, May 31 • 8am-10:30am
Grocery Outlet Altadena
|
|
|
Benefits Altadena Mountain Rescue Team and other local organizations. Tickets are $5. You can buy your tickets through PayPal or Venmo (scan QR codes) or at Sheriff’s Station, Grocery Outlet, El Patron or altadenarotary.org.
|
|
|
|
Be Part of the Los Angeles Wildfires Exposure Study
|
|
|
This UCLA Research Study aims to understand how toxic substances and social and economic disruptions from the Palisades and Eaton wildfires affect people’s health and well-being in the short term. The findings will help develop safety guidelines for communities in wildfire-prone areas. Your participation is voluntary.
Eligibility Criteria
Study Activities
In-person visits will be scheduled at UCLA or in the Pasadena area.
Interested?
Call: +1-866-519-1795
Email: coeh@ph.ucla.edu
Apply at: https://coeh.ph.ucla.edu/la-
|
|
|
|
Disaster Recovery Centers to Permanently Close May 31; Resources Transitioning to New Locations
|
|
The two Disaster Recovery Centers (DRCs) for the Los Angeles Wildfires are permanently closing Saturday, May 31, 2025, at 4 p.m. and federal resources will be transitioning to new locations.
Current DRC Locations and Hours
The Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) and Small Business Administration (SBA) will be transitioning from the current DRC locations to county and city run facilities. Federal resources will be available at their new locations beginning Monday, June 2, 2025.
Services Will Continue at:
If you applied for FEMA assistance, it’s important to stay in touch with FEMA to track and update your application should you receive an insurance settlement or denial and as your situation changes to work through any approval processes. FEMA representatives can explain available assistance programs and help you with resources for your recovery needs. Learn more at fema.gov/disaster/4856
Rental Assistance is available for eligible individuals and families who were displaced by the wildfires. If you were displaced and need assistance covering housing costs, you should contact FEMA to determine your eligibility for this program.
SBA’s Customer Service Representatives are available at the Centers to answer questions, help applicants complete their disaster loan application, accept documents, and provide updates on an application’s status.
Additional Resources
|
This week has been more of the same. Nothing has really changed at Pasadena’s PWP DC Fast charging facilities.
Del Mar – 1 DCFC – on app, there are two DC Fast chargers, only one appears to work consistently. These are older Tritium chargers where only one connector can be used at a time.
Robinson Park – 5 DCFC – on app – update – only 2 working. Which is NO change from from what has been the case for many weeks. – the signage has still not been updated, the chargers are still showing that one can use both sides of the charger.
Victory Park – 3 DCFC – on app, two appear to be working at this time, which is one more than last week. But the third is on, and is not responding.
Glenarm(Arroyo Electric Vehicle) – 2 DCFC on app, appears that several are off and not showing on app. None of the chargers appear to be working.
Marengo Plaza – 20 DCFC on app, will have to go and see, someone reported that you can park for an hour with paying, but I don’t believe this is true, we will inquire and see what we find out If these chargers work, then be able to park for one hour without paying would certainly help. Even 30 minutes would be helpful for those trying to charge.
Shoppers Lane – spent some time here, these are all CCS chargers with dual port 150kW capability but nobody is seeing even close to this. At least have of the ports are inoperable or chargers are turned off. Connectors are broken, credit card machines are not working.
So of the six locations where Pasadena PWP has DC Fast charging, we don’t know where to rank any of them, but we know they are still in very bad shape, Promises from PWP have not delivered the half of broken chargers working. Unless all the chargers are Marengo Plaza are working which I highly doubt. That would be the only way that half of the chargers would be working. What the city should do is pull out half of the chargers at Marengo and place the working ones at Victory Park and Robinson Park and Del Mar, to get the maximum working chargers to the community. Having a large number of chargers on a rooftop parking is a disservice to the community.
And the cost needs to be addressed, at .15 nonpeak and .20 peak, these costs are below what anyone would pay. They need to be more competitive but they also need to work. Free is great too but if they don’t work and they cannot be supported what good is it.
As usual Tesla chargers work, from what I have seen in the past week, there’s been maybe 2-3 out of the dozens of superchargers that are not working.