Los Angeles Mayor Karen Bass has changed her decision regarding the payment of Steve Soboroff, the city’s wildfire recovery czar. Initially, Soboroff was set to receive $500,000 for three months of work, paid by charitable organizations. However, after public backlash, Bass announced that he would now work for free.
The news was first reported by the Los Angeles Times on Saturday, revealing that Soboroff, a real estate developer and civic official, would be compensated for his role as “chief recovery officer.” After criticism, Bass stated, “Steve is always there for LA. I spoke to him today and asked him to work for free. He said yes. We agree that we don’t need anything distracting from the recovery work.”
Another individual, real estate executive Randy Johnson, was also set to receive $250,000 from philanthropic groups for assisting Soboroff. Like Soboroff, he will now also work for free. However, the mayor’s office did not reveal which charities were involved in the funding.
City Councilwoman Monica Rodriguez expressed frustration over the initial payments, calling them excessive. She questioned why private donations were being used to pay individuals instead of directly helping fire victims.
Public reactions were mixed. Some, including former Trump official Ric Grenell, criticized the payment. Grenell, who was part of a recent roundtable discussion in the Pacific Palisades, called it “gross and offensive,” adding that many people are volunteering without pay.
Local residents also voiced concerns. Larry Vein, a homeowner affected by the fires, stated that no one should profit from a disaster. Steve Danton, who lost his home and is currently in temporary housing, called it a “money grab” and said the city’s leadership was failing.
Soboroff defended the original payment, explaining that he has decades of experience in civic projects. He stated that he was asked to dedicate all his time to the role, which required him to give up other consulting work. However, he clarified that his compensation was not coming from city funds or wildfire aid money.
Despite the controversy, Soboroff continues his efforts, working with federal agencies, advising on rebuilding permits, and helping families return to their homes. He emphasized that his priority is to take action rather than simply study the issues.
With both Soboroff and Johnson now working without pay, the focus shifts back to rebuilding and recovery efforts for the communities affected by the wildfires.
