Empty Reservoir Sparks Outrage and Lawsuits

The Santa Ynez Reservoir in Pacific Palisades, built in response to a history of devastating wildfires, stood empty when residents needed it most during a recent wildfire outbreak. The reservoir, holding 117 million gallons of water, was offline for repairs at the time, leading to the destruction of homes and prompting outrage against the Los Angeles Department of Water and Power (DWP).

The decision to keep the reservoir empty for nearly a year has raised urgent questions from residents and city leaders alike. Why was this critical lifeline left dry when it was needed to combat the spreading wildfires in the area? The saga began in January 2024 when a tear was discovered in the reservoir’s floating cover, leaving it vulnerable to contamination and reducing its capacity to less than half.

Delays in Repairs and Legal Battles

Despite DWP policy calling for immediate repairs to such damages, it took months for the repairs to begin. The process of draining the reservoir to facilitate repairs was deemed time-consuming, leading to further delays. The utility eventually issued a bid for repairs in April, with only one company submitting an offer at a cost of $130,000.

The empty reservoir went largely unnoticed by residents, as the city’s broader water system provided enough supply for daily needs. However, the absence of the reservoir during the wildfires has sparked numerous lawsuits against the DWP, with Governor Gavin Newsom ordering an investigation into the matter.

Residents Reflect on Losses

For residents like Peggy Holter and Hunter Simon, the impact of the empty reservoir hits close to home. Holter, who once felt assured that her property would be safe due to the reservoir’s presence, now faces the reality of losing her home due to diminished water pressure. Simon, who benefited from previous fires due to helicopter water drops, now mourns the loss of his family’s home, believing it could have been saved if the reservoir had been filled.

As the community grapples with the aftermath of the wildfires and the lengthy rebuilding process ahead, questions linger about the effectiveness of municipal water systems in combating such intense blazes. While lawsuits and investigations continue, residents are left to reflect on what could have been if the Santa Ynez Reservoir had been filled and operational during the recent wildfire crisis.