Bruce and Mindy Silverstein left their Malibu home due to the Franklin fire and stayed in a nearby hotel watching in fear as the fire threatened their property. They had moved to California from the East Coast to be closer to their children and loved their home in the Santa Monica Mountains. Despite the dangers of wildfires, they remained committed to the community even after the Woolsey fire destroyed many homes in 2018.
Bruce, a lawyer, became more involved in local government after the Woolsey fire and was elected to the City Council in 2020. He was reelected last month and sworn into office on the same evening the Franklin fire started. The fire damaged their home, but firefighters managed to save it, although they lost most of their possessions to smoke and water damage.
The Silversteins have been staying at a friend’s place and hotels while waiting to hear more about their home. Despite the challenges, they are grateful for the outpouring of support from friends and the community. Bruce has received calls and emails from constituents expressing gratitude for the firefighters who saved lives and properties during the fire.
After the Woolsey fire, Bruce worked to help residents reduce legal fees and access therapy services to cope with the trauma. He believes this experience has prepared him to assist residents and the city in recovering from the Franklin fire. The Silversteins have no plans to leave Malibu and are focused on rebuilding their home and community.
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