Laguna Beach Talks Power Line Undergrounding, SB 584

LAGUNA BEACH, CA — Can undergrounding (burying) power lines save residents lives and property in times of wildfire?

Mayor Bob Whalen and Senator John Moorlach are looking to save lives and property through the introduction of Senate Bill 584, the wildfire mitigation through the undergrounding of powerlines.

"Laguna Beach has restricted access with only three ways in and out," Whalen said. "We are concerned about things from a public safety standpoint."
The introduction of SB 584 expedites opportunities for high-risk jurisdictions to underground power lines, as well as to establish a Wildfire Mitigation Oversight Board to develop and implement policies that reduce the looming threat of more wildfires.

In their research, Laguna officials say overhead utility lines and equipment have caused devastating blazes, with the apparatus of California’s three largest utilities being responsible for igniting over 2,000 fires between 2014 and 2017.
According to the Laguna Beach Fire Department Fire Chief Mike Garcia, a downed power pole can either spark a fire or halt a mass exodus of residents fleeing in times of wildfire.

"As we work with our power companies, they come forward and say they will do a power shut off" in times of wildfire, Laguna Beach Fire Captain said. but that hampers communication which often relies on wifi in the homes and cell service.

"Cities and utilities need to work together," Moorlach said. "That time is now."