LAKEPORT, Calif. – At its monthly meeting on Friday, April 8, the Sons In Retirement group had the opportunity to hear an update on the impact that the Valley fire had on Lake County.

Supervisor Rob Brown was the guest speaker and reported that there were 1,281 homes destroyed along with hundreds of businesses.

Brown stated that 89 permits had been issued and that approximately 65 percent of primary residences were ready to be occupied.

Brown also explained that many people had no insurance because insurance companies canceled their policies after the Rocky fire, and that the “Hope City” foundation was helping to rebuild approximately 140 homes for those without insurance.

He stated that of the 209 homes in the Anderson Springs area only 19 were left standing and that testing of the septic system would be necessary in order to rebuild.

When asked what the county was doing to help, Brown pointed out that the Board of Supervisors had approved the hiring of two additional building inspectors, had applied for a $2 million grant, and arranged for the use of Konocti Resort to house about 60 families.

He also stated that the total cost of recovery would be around $100 million.

Sons In Retirement is a social organization for men of retirement age who are pursuing the goal of enjoying their later years. 

Branch 168 holds a Luncheon on the second Friday of each month at the TNT Restaurant in Lakeport. 

If you are interested in learning more about Sons In Retirement contact Membership Committee Chair Larry Powers at 707-263-3403 or visit the state Web site at http://sirinc.org/sirhappenings/ .