Casey McKeon | Mayor
Office: (714) 536 – 5237 | 2000 Main Street, Huntington Beach, CA 92648 | www.huntingtonbeachca.gov
July 21, 2026
Sheila F . Hanson
Presiding Judge
Orange County Superior Court
Office of the Grand Jury
700 Civic Center Drive West
Santa Ana, CA 92701
RE: HUNTINGTON BEACH RESPONSE TO GRAND JURY REPORT
Honorable Sheila F. Hanson,
On behalf of the City Council and with the support of the Huntington Beach Fire Department, I am pleased to submit Huntington Beach’s formal response to the Orange County Grand Jury’s report, “Wildfires Hit Home. ” The attached document, reviewed and approved by the City Council, addresses each finding and recommendation as required.
We recognize the Grand Jury’s concerns regarding the increasing frequency and severity of wildfires in Orange County, particularly in wildland-urban interface areas. With the release of updated Local Responsibility Area maps, Huntington Beach now includes a designated High Fire Hazard Severity Zone (HFHSZ). While our city faces a lower wildfire hazard compared to other Orange County communities, we remain vigilant and proactive in our approach.
The Fire Department has implemented a defensible space inspection program and maintains robust community outreach program. We are committed to expanding outreach to all affected residents and participating in countywide wildfire prevention initiatives.
We agree with the Grand Jury’s findings and support recommendations for increased community engagement, participation in annual wildfire prevention fairs, and promotion of programs such as Safer from Wildfires and AB 888. Huntington Beach will continue to provide residents with the knowledge and resources needed to reduce fire risk and maintain resilient communities.
Office: (714) 536 – 5553 | 2000 Main Street, Huntington Beach, CA 92648 | www.huntingtonbeachca.gov Thank you for the opportunity to respond. We look forward to continued collaboration and communication to protect Huntington Beach and Orange County residents.
Sincerely,
Casey McKeon
Mayor
Enclosure: Huntington Beach’s Required Responses from “Wildfire Hits Home”
cc: Orange County Grand Jury
Orange County Board of Supervisors
City Council
City Manager
Fire Chief