Kennedy Zak
Journalist covering economics, housing, local government, wildfire recovery and more. Published with the Los Angeles Business Journal, Glendale News-Press, Burbank Leader, Dallas Morning News and Annenberg Media.
Covering the L.A. Wildfires
The January 2025 wildfires in Los Angeles burned through more than 50,000 acres of land, killed dozens of residents and destroyed more than 16,000 homes. From the economic impacts – both short and long-term – as well as the colossal task of rebuilding the Pacific Palisades and Altadena communities, these stories help unpack the struggles Angelenos are facing and the attempts for solutions from the public and private sectors.
The Los Angeles County Economic Development Corporation estimates that the total economic impact of the fires could be as high as $10 billion.
CA launched a $105M mortgage assistance program for natural disaster victims.
Cosmic Builders opened mobile robotic microfactory in Pacific Palisades where a robot is able to frame homes on site, resulting in structural paneling being completed 80% cheaper and 10 times faster than the traditional process.
Genesis Builders emerged post fires to create building plans and solutions for victims of the Eaton Fire.
Prices and the deal volume for lot sales trend up in Palisades and drop in Altadena.
Data platform launched by residents aims to bring transparency and resources to Pacific Palisades.
Experts estimate a $5 billion gap in total between what fire victims are receiving in insurance payouts versus what it will cost to rebuild.
Real estate experts weigh in on obstacles to rebuilding.
Select Works
‘Mixed-income housing as a good social endeavor’ — a look into Crenshaw
Entertainment companies roll back DEI policies
‘He Threw the Last Punch Too Hard’ — an exhibit on domestic violence
‘It’s About Time’ — Glendale police officer faces assault charge
Tariffs shake up industrial warehouse scene
Glendale mayoral election ends in public furor
Housing and Education
Trump orders local Veteran center to increase housing
Affordable housing developments rise in some of L.A. County’s traditionally more affluent neighborhoods
Glendale City Council sets ‘renoviction’ restrictions
Glendale City Council to demolish affordable housing complex
Glendale schools face cyber ransomeware attack
Budget pressure squeezes Glendale Unified School District
Glendale teachers rally ahead of wage negotiations
Investment Trends
The swift climb of exchange-traded funds (ETFs)
Gold stock reaches historic heights amid geopolitical tensions
Varying generational views on wealth
Impact and Equity
Funding landscape for women and minority-owned businesses
Local leaders denounce anti-LGBTQ+ hate speech
Inclusive Action focuses on reducing the racial wealth gap through microlending
