The Palisades fire last year destroyed 97 percent of Allison Holdorff Polhill's neighborhood, leaving her with only a pool and utility pole where her $3 million home once stood. Now rebuilding with fire-resistant materials, Polhill sees an opportunity for the community to become a model for climate resilience. Her vision includes burying power lines, installing water cisterns, and hardening homes against future fires.

City officials are considering creating a special climate disaster resilience district that would use local property tax gains to fund these improvements. The proposal faces significant hurdles, including skepticism from City Council members who worry about diverting funds from the general budget. Councilwoman Katy Yaroslavsky noted that while many want similar districts in their areas, the city cannot afford to drain property tax revenue from other neighborhoods.

Financial challenges compound the recovery efforts. More than a year after the fire, some residents like Marcela Silva remain uncertain about rebuilding. Silva, whose $4 million home burned, has struggled with insurance claims and FEMA denials. The community's attempt to create a resilience model faces resistance from those concerned about affordable housing and government distrust, leaving the future of this wealthy but devastated neighborhood in limbo.