Angora -- March 13 building meeting

For Immediate Release:
March 11, 2008
Contact: Judi Harkins, 530.621.6577, Assistant to Supervisor Norma Santiago


COUNTY SUPERVISOR NORMA SANTIAGO HOSTS ENVIRONMENTAL OPEN HOUSE


In response to the surge in permit applications for reconstruction and recovery in the Angora fire area, El Dorado County Supervisor Norma Santiago is hosting an Environmental Open House to show how costs of construction utilizing green and sustainable materials and energies can be affordable.

“My goal has always been to assist in the recovery and reconstruction that will best serve my constituency and the fire survivors. In so doing, I have researched and convened experts in various professional fields who will present options and opportunities for fire survivors and others who want to build green and utilize environmentally conscious methods and materials at an affordable price,” says Santiago enthusiastically.

“A critical component in the recovery of the Angora fire area is a revegetation plan. I will have environmental experts participating at this event who will guide everyone on a landscaping, defensible space, Best Management Practices and indigenous species vegetation plan that will help keep their property safe from fire, prevent erosion, comply with local laws and keep invasive weeds out,” she adds.

Supervisor Santiago envisions this event as a comprehensive look at opportunities for sustainable landscaping, reconstruction and recovery, primarily in the Angora area, but hopefully for everyone who is considering creating a fire safe and environmentally friendly community.

Invited as presenters is a collection of LEED/Green Certified consultants and contractors for building, restoration and remodeling. Also in attendance will be Susie Kocher from the University of California Cooperative Extension outlining an effective revegetation plan. Professionals from agencies will be on hand to answer questions and supply additional information from the Tahoe Regional Planning Agency, Lahontan Water Quality Control Board, Radon at Tahoe, South Tahoe Public Utility District, Tahoe Resource Conservation District, California Tahoe Conservancy, Community Disaster Resource Center, the League to Save Lake Tahoe, and the newly established Angora Reconstruction and Restoration Center (ARRC).

The event will take place at the Lake Tahoe Community College Aspen/Board Room on Thursday, March 13th from 6:00pm – 8:00pm. Information and refreshments will be provided. Representatives from the agencies listed will be on hand to discuss details with the public.

Contact Supervisor Norma Santiago, or her assistant, Judi Harkins, at 530.621.6577, bosfive@co.el-dorado.ca.us