SAN DIEGO -- The City Council Monday formalized a declaration of a state of emergency in the wake of the wildfires that ravaged parts of San Diego.

The proclamation helps clear the way for city officials to pursue state and federal assistance.

"Thousands of lives were disrupted as a result of this terrible crisis, and I want you all to know that your city and your neighbors will be here to help you rebuild your lives," Mayor Jerry Sanders said.

According to Sanders, 365 homes were destroyed and another 30 damaged inside the city limits. Particularly hard hit by the Witch Creek Fire was the community of Rancho Bernardo.

Sanders said he has directed Jay Goldstone, the city's chief operating officer, to craft a report on the city's response to the wildfire.

"There are things we could have, should have done better, and I want to learn from this experience," he said.

The mayor thanked the city's firefighters, police officers, paramedics and volunteers who helped those impacted by the fires.

"Individuals and maybe even entire communities show their true character when the going gets tough, and we certainly had the opportunity to evidence that last week," Sanders said.

Councilman Jim Madaffer said the city has learned a lot since the 2003 Cedar Fire swept through the city.

"Experience can really be the best teacher," Madaffer said. "We were ready this time. We were far better prepared."

Council President Scott Peters concurred.

"Clearly, we will all have ideas of what we can do better," Peters said. "I think in general, things went very well in a tough situation."

The City Council Tuesday will consider waiving building and demolition permit fees for those who lost their homes in the wildfires.