Consulting Firm Hired for Public Engagement on Wildfires

Los Angeles County has hired a consulting firm associated with anti-Trump retired general Stanley McChrystal to handle public engagement about recent wildfires. McChrystal has a history of criticizing Presidents Obama and Trump. The decision to hire McChrystal was announced in February for an independent review of evacuation policies. Another controversial arrangement involved the Los Angeles City Council hiring Hagerty Consulting despite past issues with misappropriating funds.

Los Angeles City Council Frustrations Over Building Permits Post-Palisades Fire

Members of the Los Angeles City Council express frustration over only four building permits being issued since the Palisades Fire, despite paying $10 million to Hagerty Consulting for a report. The council questions the efficiency of the process and the decision to hire an outside agency.

Controversial Hiring of Hagerty Consulting for Palisades Fire Recovery

Los Angeles Mayor Karen Bass hired Hagerty Consulting behind closed doors to manage the recovery from the recent Palisades Fire. The firm was chosen despite two former consultants pleading guilty to defrauding New York City. Mayor Bass defended the decision, stating that Hagerty has a proven track record in the State of California and will work closely with local government for the project.

Controversial Mayoral Tenure of Steve Hagerty

Steve Hagerty, founder of Hagerty Consulting, was chosen to lead Los Angeles' rebuilding effort by Mayor Karen Bass. Hagerty had a controversial tenure as mayor of Evanston, Illinois, facing issues such as defrauding New York City, controversies over city management, and violating the Illinois Open Meetings Act. He left office after just one term.

Fraud by Disaster Recovery Experts at Hagerty Consulting

Two former disaster recovery experts at Hagerty Consulting pleaded guilty to defrauding New York City of Hurricane Sandy relief funds. They were sentenced to probation and home confinement, and had to pay back unlawfully received money.