Leadership, Wildfire Resilience, and Energy Reform: A Conversation on AB 1054 and Local Impact | Episode 8

Guest:
Chris Holden, Former Chair of the Assembly Utilities and Energy Committee; Former Mayor of Pasadena; Advocate with LA Fire Justice

Episode Summary:
In this powerful conversation, we sit down with Chris Holden to explore how decades of public service—from local government to the state legislature—shaped his leadership in one of California’s most critical policy arenas: wildfire and utility regulation.We unpack the origins and impact of AB 1054, a landmark bill designed to stabilize California’s utility sector while driving stronger accountability and wildfire prevention. We discuss the Wildfire Recovery Fund, executive safety oversight, and the difficult tradeoffs involved in crisis legislation.We also hear about his current work with LA Fire Justice, supporting communities like Altadena and Pasadena that continue to face the devastating consequences of wildfires.

Key Topics Covered:

• Growing up in Pasadena and how community roots influence policy
• Why energy and utility regulation became a legislative focus
• The urgency and political climate behind AB 1054
• How the Wildfire Recovery Fund works—and where accountability fits in
• Expert oversight and tying executive pay to safety performance
• Cultural shifts within California utility companies post-AB 1054
• LA Fire Justice’s mission and the needs of local wildfire survivors
• Evolving legislative responses to climate-driven fire risk
• Long-term solutions California must prioritize for resilience

Quotes to Highlight:

“We knew we had to act—not just quickly, but responsibly. Lives and livelihoods were on the line.”
“Accountability isn’t just about dollars. It’s about systemic change.”
“The communities closest to these fires are often the last to get help. That has to change.”

 Connect with Us:

Host & Executive Producer: Colby "Colb" Tyner
📩 Email: [e-mail]
🔗 LinkedIn: linkedin.com/in/colbycolbtyner
📱 Instagram: @officialcolbycolb
🌐 BlueSky: @colbycolb.bsky.social

How to HelpUrban One is supporting the Brotherhood Crusade's Wildfire Relief Fund, which assists Altadena and Pasadena residents affected by the Eaton Fire. Donations provide essential resources such as food, medicine, and necessities to families in need.

To contribute, visit: BrotherhoodCrusade.org

If you have updated information or firsthand stories to share, feel free to reach out directly to Colby. 

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