… this time for their “Money Makeover” column. Unfortunately, the reporter got several facts wrong.
- I have a Special Use Permit, not a lease. The 100-year lease thing is one piece of misinformation that just will not die.
- My permit fees are annual, not monthly.
- The Forest Service only requires me to vacate the cabin when there is a rain event, such as the one going on right now. While the danger of debris flows remains, the Forest service will continue to suspend our special use permits only for the duration of a storm that might trigger a debris flow. So once the rains pass there is no obstacle to me moving back into the canyon.
- And for my place, if it is damaged by flooding or debris, I know for a fact that I won’t be allowed to rebuild.
Other than that, the gist of the article is accurate. My finances are a mess, and short of winning the Lottery, I have no choice but to sell the cabin.
Enjoy… I think…
~B~
http://www.latimes.com/business/la-fi-makeover17-2010jan17,0,6959422.story