West LA Times

Journalist Ann Vandersteel said that Janisse Quiñones, appointed by Karen Bass to lead the Los Angeles Department of Water and Power (LADWP), earns significantly more than her male predecessor, with an annual salary of $750,000. Vandersteel noted this in a January 9 post on X, highlighting that the city faced major water issues during firefighting efforts.

“Breaking: Janisse Quinones is the New Head of L.A. Department of Water and Power. She was recommended to the position by Mayor Karen Bass back in May 2024,” Vandersteel said in her post. “She makes $750,000 a year—nearly twice as much as her male predecessor. And almost one year later, L.A. is out of water for fighting fires.”

A press release from May 14, 2024, by the Los Angeles Department of Water & Power confirmed Quiñones as CEO and Chief Engineer after her recommendation by Mayor Bass on April 19, 2024. Quiñones is the first Latina to head LADWP and succeeded Martin L. Adams after his 40-year tenure. She is tasked with advancing clean energy goals, modernizing infrastructure, and ensuring affordable utilities for vulnerable communities.

Ann Vandersteel is the host of Steel News & Right Now with Ann Vandersteel | Right Now with Ann Vandersteel (Facebook)

ABC-7 (KABC) reported in May 2024 that the Los Angeles City Council confirmed Quiñones's appointment at a salary nearly double that of Adams's $435,000. Council members justified the increase as necessary to attract top private-sector talent. Quiñones emphasized that her salary was competitively set during hiring.

According to Cal Fire, as of January 27, the Palisades and Eaton Fires are largely contained after starting on January 7. The Palisades Fire has burned over 23,000 acres and caused multiple fatalities and injuries. The Eaton Fire has similarly caused significant destruction and loss of life. Santa Ana winds and drought conditions exacerbated these fires.

On January 9, 2025, People Magazine reported Victor Shaw died trying to protect his home from the Eaton Fire. His sister Shari Shaw had urged him to evacuate due to health issues but had to leave when flames approached their home. Upon returning, she found their house destroyed; Shaw was discovered outside with a water hose in hand.

Ann Vandersteel hosts Steel News & Right Now with Ann Vandersteel and advocates for constitutional and medical freedoms according to her website. As an investigative journalist, she has reported on various issues including the U.S. Southern border crisis.