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Tustin Will Get $1 Million from US Navy For Hangar Fire Cleanup
The historic blimp hangar, at right, seen as it burned on Nov. 7, 2023.
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Jae C. Hong
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Associated Press
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Topline:
The Tustin City Council approved an agreement with the U.S. Navy to provide up to $1 million in federal funds to help clean up the aftermath from the Tustin Marine Corps Air Station fire. The decision came during an emergency city council meeting Friday.
Why it matters: Tustin Mayor Austin Lumbard said the agreement is the first step in getting the situation resolved. He wants the federal funding to be directed towards cleaning up neighborhoods that are dealing with potentially hazardous ash and debris.
Why now: Since the hangar belongs to the Navy, the city isn’t able to even go on the property, Councilmember Ryan Gallagher noted. He said the agreement shows the city understands the health risks and is taking charge of the clean-up.
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The backstory: Councilmember Rebecca Gomez said Tustin city officials, surrounding city leaders, and members of Congress from Orange County and neighboring areas have been working behind the scenes to advocate for the city with the federal government.
What's next: The Navy will need to clean-up the charred remains of the hangar. The debris could still pose a risk to the public, especially when the winds pick up as they have the last few days, Mayor Lumbard noted.
Go deeper: …to learn more about Orange County’s state of emergency.
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