Loading...
HomeMy WebLinkAbout2008-12 MINUTES OF STEERING COMMITTEE MEETING Orange County Sanitation District Wednesday, December 17, 2008, at 5:30 p.m. A meeting of the Steering Committee of the Orange County Sanitation District was held on Wednesday, December 17, 2008, at 5:30 p.m., in the District's Administrative Office. A quorum was declared present, as follows: STEERING COMMITTEE MEMBERS: STAFF PRESENT: DIRECTORS PRESENT. Doug Davert, Chair Jim Ruth, General Manager Larry Crandall, Vice Chair Bob Ghirelli, Assistant General Manager Bill Dalton, Operations Committee Chair Nick Arhontes, Director of Oper. & Maintenance Mark Waldman,Administration Committee John Linder, Engineering Manager Chair Ed Torres, Director of Technical Services Jim Ferryman Lorenzo Tyner, Director of Finance and Phil Luebben Administrative Services David Shawver Michael Gold, Legislative Affairs Liaison Jeff Reed, Human Resources Manager DIRECTORS ABSENT: Penny Kyle, Clerk of the Board OTHERS PRESENT: PALE I Ryal Wheeler c THE C4E �No�?iWc'r Gino Rapagna aANae oou PUBLIC COMMENTS JAN 288�2009 There were no public comments. REPORT OF THE COMMITTEE CHAIR Chair Davert extended the invitation to all Steering Committee members to attend the mid-year CASA conference to be held January 21-24, 2009 in Indian Wells. REPORT OF GENERAL MANAGER Jim Ruth, General Manager, provided a brief overview of his monthly status report. REPORT OF GENERAL COUNSEL Brad Hogin, General Counsel, reported that the hearing on the motion to dismiss,filed by certain defendants in the Federal case NRDC at al. v. SCAQMD at al., in which the Sanitation District joined, was continued by the Court to February 2, 2009. The case challenges the SCAQMD's continued use of offsets of emission exchanges. Minutes of the Steering Committee December 17, 2008 Page 2 ACTION ITEMS (1) 1. MOVED, SECONDED AND DULY CARRIED: Approve minutes of the November 17, 2008 Steering Committee meeting. Director Shawver abstained. INFORMATION ITEMS (2) 2. Legislative Affairs Report—Government Affairs Manager, Michael Gold, advised that the state senate and assembly were meeting on a new proposal that the democrats believe will not require an approval of 2/3 majority to pass due to some loopholes. CLOSED SESSION The Steering Committee convened at 5:25 p.m. in Closed Session, pursuant to Government Code Section 54956.9(b) to discuss one matter. Confidential Minutes of the Closed Session held by the Steering Committee have been prepared in accordance with Government Code Section 54957.2, and are maintained by the Clerk of the Board in the Official Book of Confidential Minutes of Board and Committee Closed Meetings. The Steering Committee reconvened at 5:35 p.m. in regular session. OTHER BUSINESS, COMMUNICATIONS OR SUPPLEMENTAL AGENDA ITEMS. IF ANY There were none. ADJOURNMENT The next Steering Committee meeting is scheduled for Wednesday, January 28, 2009. The Chair declared the meeting adjourned at 5:35 p.m. Submitted by: &e' Penny M. tyle Clerk of the Board Distributed at t9 t!t Steering Committee meeting. INFRASTRUCTURE STIMULUS ASSISTANCE The Orange County Sanitation District(OCSD) has identified four(4) projects that are good candidates for economic stimulus funding, based upon timing and benefits. These projects are: Project Title Congressional District Construction rooact location Cost Replacement of Bitter Point Pump Station John Campbell(R-48) $27 million Replacement of the Rocky Point Pump Station John Campbell(R-48) $19 million Sludge Digester Rehabilitation at Plant 1 Dana Rohrabacher(R-48) $42.5 million Rehabilitation of Odor Control Facilities at Plant 1 Dana Rohrabacher(R-48) $27 million Each of these projects will generate approximately 100 to 200 local jobs from construction. The number of secondary jobs created is unknown. Any non-Federal share of the project will be funded locally. Other details are as follows: Replacement of Bitter Point Pump Station Replacement of the Rocky Point Pump Station Both of these projects are located in Newport Beach and replacement is needed because the pump stations are 70+years old. The aging infrastructure needs to be replaced to increase reliability in bringing wastewater to the treatment plant and prevent sewage spills in a coastal city. The project will bring greater community benefits with Increased odor control and will meet current national and state standards for construction. Both projects have been on the books for many years (since the 1990's)for replacement. Sludge Digester Rehabilitation at Plant 1 This project rehabilitates aging facilities and improves solids handling processes, and enables more effective and efficient operation of primary and secondary treatment systems for better quality effluent. This project helps OCSD more efficiently treat wastewater by improving existing infrastructure. As OCSD explores using biosolids as an alternative energy source,this project will increase the availability of high quality materials. Moreover,the rehabilitation project will produce digester gas(methane), a green power source to fuel generators at Plant 1. Also,this project is part of OCSD's Federal mandate to upgrade to full secondary treatment by 2012. Rehabilitation of Odor Control Facilities at Plant 1 This project replaces existing odor control and foul air collection and treatment facilities and was shelved a few years ago due to lack of funding. The project has direct community and air quality benefits because it reduces the"odor footprint' around plant 1 (located in a residential area)and Improves the overall air quality. Distributed at / i9 Df Townsend Steering Commi ee meeting. PUBLIC AFFAIRS, INC. MEMORANDUM To: Orange County Sanitation District From: Christopher Townsend, President Heather Dion, Director Casey Elliott, Senior Legislative Associate Date: December 8, 2008 Subject: Monthly Status Report On December 81" the Assembly and Senate convened Joint Session of the Legislature. The purpose of the session was to hear from the officials who oversee the State's finances. The witnesses that spoke to the Joint Session were State Controller John Chiang, State Treasurer Bill Lockyer, Department of Finance Secretary Mike Genest, and Legislative Analyst Mac Taylor. While each speaker addressed a different facet of the State's financial situation, the four officials were unified in their primary message: The State is in the midst of a significant economic downturn. This downturn has resulted in a multi-year budget deficit that is currently estimated at $25 billion and growing. In order to effectively and responsibly address this deficit the Legislature must consider all potential fixes and must act immediately. Any delay in action will only result in an increased deficit and a dwindling number of solutions. After the four officials spoke, the members of the Joint Session engaged in a question and answer session for the next hour. Questions were raised regarding the State's financial condition, as well as the potential impact on the State K various proposed reductions or revenue enhancements. The questions demonstrated that most members had not suspended their ideologies despite the gravity of the current budget situation. Legislative Analyst, Mac Taylor The Legislative Analyst provided a brief outline of the State's current budget situation. (The LAO's presentation is attached to this email). • The current budget problem, if no action is taken, would amount to $28 billion over the next 19 months. o $9 billion shortfall in the current FY 2008-09 budget year o $19 billion deficit projected in 2009-10. • This budget session is different from prior budget shortfalls due to: o Anticipated long recovery from current economic slowdown o A number of solutions have already been used in previous years o A large ongoing operations costs • If the Legislature were to attempt to address the budget deficit through taxes alone, all of the following taxes would need to be adopted: o 2 cent sales tax (would result in highest sales in the nation) 1 0 15 percent income tax surcharge (would result in highest income tax in the nation) 0 2 percent corporate tax increase( would result in highest corporate tax rate in the nation) • If the Legislature were to attempt to address the budget deficit through cuts alone, all of the following payments would need to be eliminated: o Eliminate funding for LIC and CSII o Eliminate funding for welfare payments o Eliminate funding to in-home support services and mental health • If the Legislature approved the proposal laid forth by the Governor, the proposal would come close to addressing the budget shortfall in the 2008-09 budget year and the 2009-10 budget yeas; however, the State would face a $10 billion shortfall beginning in FY 2010-11. • The LAO stressed that R is vitally important for the Legislature to act as soon as possible. The sooner the Legislature acts: o Provides more revenue/cuts in current year o Any current year deficit will have to be addressed in the upcoming budget o Signals to other parties of the cuts to come o Provides flexibility for State's cash flow Department of Finance, Secretary Mike Genest As the Secretary for the Department of Finance, Mr. Genest is responsible for overseeing the creation of the State's budget and works very closely with the Governor in creating his budget proposals. The main emphasis of Mr. Genest is that the State must act immediately to prevent the budget from further spiraling out of control. As an example, Mr. Genest indicated that the Legislature's failure to act on the Govemor's proposal, which he released in November, resulted in a $2 billion loss in potential solutions (i.e. same proposal would net $2 billion less than it did two months ago). Mr. Genest indicated that if the Govemor's proposal is adopted soon, then the budget deficit will be made more manageable in the FY 2009-10 budget year. The Department of Finance projects that if the Legislature adopts the Governors proposal (or a similar proposal)by February 2009 the State will face a $2.3 billion deficit at the end of the 2008-09 budget year and would be facing a $3.6 billion deficit in 2009-10. If no action is taken by February 1, 2009, then the current year deficit would end at$9.5 billion and the projected deficit for 2009-10 would be over$25 billion. In addition to the large budget deficit that would result from inaction, the State will face a shortage of cash if the Legislature fails to adopt budget solutions. In fact, if no actions are taken, the State will be forced to borrow from internal and external sources in order to pay the State's bills. The State will also be forced to not pay certain vendors beginning in March. The State Controller spoke about this in more detail. State Controller, John Chiang The Controllers primary message was that inaction on the part of the Legislature would have dire effects on the State. The budget is a yearly spending plan based on anticipated revenues. The budget is the responsibility of the Department of Finance, whereas the Controller is responsible for the State's day-today cash management. Mr. Chiang indicated that the State spends the most cash in the first quarter of each year and the bulk of the collections come in fourth quarter. This cash demand cycle requires the Controller to borrow from several internal and external sources each year in order to pay all of the State's obligations on time. This year the State is looking at potentially running out of cash in late February or early March. There are several reasons for the State's current cash shortage: o The State's revenue is lower than was projected in the FY 2008-09 budget. It is likely that the State will fall $7 billion to $9 billion below projections. o The Controller identified a need to sell $7 billion in revenue anticipation notices in order to even out the cash cycle. The State was only able to sell $5 billion, thereby resulting in a $2 billion cash shortage. o The State's revenue continues to come in below projections. The State's November revenue fell below revised projections. The failure to act will pose major problems in March and the State could potentially have a negative cash balance when the new fiscal year begins on July 16. The Controller indicated that the State only has a few choices should the State run out of cash: o Cash management—Determine mandated payments and prioritize payments accordingly. This is a temporary solution. o Revenue anticipation warrant— External borrowing with a high interest rate, potentially in the range of 10%. o Warrants(IOUs)—Only once since the Great Depression has the State issued IOUs. Not all State obligations can be paid for using IOUs. Additionally, any revenue that comes to the State after IOUs have been issued must be dedicated to the IOUs. A cash shortage will result in significant costs to the State in the form of federal penalties, higher interest rates, and lawsuits. These options are significantly worse than any cut or revenue enhancements. State Treasurer, BIII Lockyer The Treasurer spoke last and made an effort not to duplicate information that the previous speakers had provided. The primary focus of the Treasurers testimony was that a delay in action by the Legislature will result in a halting of hundreds of infrastructure projects and cause great harm to the State's economy. The Treasurer oversees the bond funds that are used finance highway, school, and other voter approved bond construction projects. This fund is about to run out of money. The funds that are in this account supply cash to various infrastructure projects and other large cash needs. The account is the replenished by the regular sale of bonds. The bonds that are sold to replenish the account are directly tied to the State's financial health. That is to say, if investors do not have confidence in the State's finances then they will not purchase the bonds. Failure by the Legislature to act on the budget will make it nearly impossible for the Treasurer to sell these important bonds. If the Treasurer runs out of money, the State will need to halt hundreds of infrastructure projects throughout the State. Additionally, there will be no funds for any type of economic stimulus that the Legislature may wish to adopt based on long-term infrastructure investments. The infrastructure projects that would be halted would result in a $12 billion loss to private companies and the loss of 200,000 construction related jobs. Distributed at Steering Committee meeting. _ 7 t i II 7 1 -- it 1 CASA Mid-Year Conference Ensuring Clean Water for California January 21-24, 2009 Hyatt Grand Champions 44-fi00 Indian Wells Lane Indian Wells, CA 92210 Phone: (760) 341-1000 Toll Free: (800)233-1234(central reservations) www.grandchampions.hyaft.com Our Mission Statement President's Message The mission of the California Association of Sanitation Agencies is to provide Dear CASA Members: leadership.advocacy and information to our I look forward to welcoming you to our 2009 Mid-Year Conference,January 21-24 at members,legislators, the Hyatt Grand Champions, Indian Wells. In these times of economic instability,the and the public.and to upcoming new year promises to hold added challenges for public agencies to provide promote partnerships vital services while fulfilling the commitment to preserve and protect public health and on clean water and the environment.Therefore,the program spotlights presentations on various financial beneficial reuse issues that we hope you will find timely and informative. issues that protect public health and the The program features several program highlights worth mentioning: environment. •Daniel Dowell Director of LAIF's Investment Division will speak; •Celeste Cantu,Executive Director.Santa Ana Watershed Project Authority will mod- erate a panel that features protecting public funds through local investments; •Dublin San Ramon Services District will offer a first hand account of Variable Rate Demand Obligations(VRDO); •Don't miss the Annual Recognition Reception sponsored by the CASA Associates on Thursday evening.All registered delegates and guests are invited;and, •For a change of pace,join Roland Williams,General Manager of Castro Valley Sani- tary District for a fun run, Friday during lunchtime. I will open the conference at Thursday's luncheon where delegates will be briefed on the results of our annual Executive Board Planning Session. I hope to see you in Palm Springs for the conference and ask that you join me at the President's Reception Friday evening to network with fellow colleagues. Until then, best regards and please don't hesitate to call the CASA office with questions about the conference. Sincerely. 1u /Harry T.P ce CASA President CASA Mid-Year Conference Ensuring Clean Water for California .. ... ... .. .... ... ........ ..... Golf Tournament Registration form Rancho A golf tournament has been set for Wednesday,January 21,2009 at the RANCHO Mirage MIRAGE COUNTRY CLUB.A shotgun St I o,lod for 600am please arrive rm later than 7:30 a.m. The country club is located at the comer of Bob Hope Drive and Frank Sinatra Drive.The Wednesday club has a dram code.No short shorts,blue jeans or t-shirts we permitted. January, 21, 2009 8:00 a.m.! COST. S 70.00-this includes green fees,golf carts&tournament prizes. If you plan to participate,please return this form,together with a check for$70.00. You must send this form in to be eligible to play. Make checks payable to Mike Dunbar RETURN FORM BY January 12th(Maps and foursomes will be sent at that time.) Send form to: Golfer: Mike Dunbar South Coast Water District P.O.Box 30205 District/Finn: Laguna Niguel,CA 92607-0205 Phone:(949)499-4555 Phone: FAX FAX:(949)499-4256 Cell:(949)533-4052 www.mdunbar@smd.org Preferred foursome: Please note the early start time of 8.00 a.m. POLICY. You must be registered for the conference to participate. Hotel Information Please make your reservations as soon as possible. Hyatt Grand Champions Health and Fitness Center,along with a wide w- December 20. Your help will ensure all mem- 44-600 Indian Wells Lane my of onsite amenities.Hotel guests have com- bars attending the conference have a=in at Indian Wells,CA 92210 plimentary use the Shopper Hopper to local at- the negotiated rate and alleviate CASNs liability Toll Free:(800)233-1234(central reservations) tractions.Further information is available at the for additional costs associated with contractual Websfte:wwwgrandchampions.hyall.corn hotel's front seek. obligations regarding the=in block. Room Reservations: Ground Transportation - Palm Springs Int'l CASA'S Late Cancellation Policy: • CASA Room Rate:S230.75(including tax)- Aimort: CASA initiated a Late Cancellation Policy be- for Single/Double Occupancy -Taxi Service(approx.$60 one-way) cause of the large number of cancellations in • Please identify yourself as a CASA member -Shuttles by advanced reservation: the final days approaching each conference. to receive this special rate At Your Service Shuttle(760)343-0666 Our contractual obligations with the hotel hold •Cut-Off Date for Reservations is Saturday, -Car Rentals CASA liable if we do not meet our=in guar- Decemberl)%2WS antees. Please note CASAs Late Cancellation •Check-in:4:00 p.m./Check-out:12:00 p.m. Hotel Room Reservations and Waiting List; Policy on the bottom of the registration farm. •The Hyatt is a large property;some=in lo- The Hyatt Grand Champions reservations dl If you cannot attend, send a colleague in your cations may cause attendees to walk a long Pertinent will manage the CASA waiting list and place by notifying the CASA office.The late fee distance. assures us that our delegates will be able to for canceling on or before January 9 is$25, reserve a=in based on CASNs group black. No refunds after January 9 Ground Transportation: This year,the Reservations Department will ac. The Hyatt Grand Champions located in the cept a maximum of three(3)moms under one Overllow Hotel; foothills of the San Jacinto Mountains in Indian name. The conference page on CASNs web The Marriott Renaissance Esmeralda is located Wells(Palm Springs area)is a 25 minutes travel site-wwwcasawelb.org will include the Hyatts next door to the Hyatt Grand Champions;=in time from Palm Springs Int'l Airport or 70 miles online room reservations link.If you make ad- rates are based on availability.For reservations from Ontario Int'l Airport. Them is no cost for vaned reservations for delegates and some call(760)773-4444, self-parking and the=in rate includes unlim- of those individuals do not register for the ited access to the Ague Serena Spa facilities, conference please cancel those moms by WEDNES AY January 21 ,• .U' THUFIS ar 2009 January 22, 2009 9:00 a.m.-2:30 p.m. 7:30 a.m.-9:00 a.m. 12:15 p.m.-1:30 p.m. CSRMA Training Seminar Continental Breakfast Federal Legislative Committee See registration form ......................................................... Work Group ............................................... 8:00 a.m.-5:00 p.m. ......................................I.................. B:DO f'.m,-2:30 p.m. Registration 1:30 p.m.-4:00 p.m. Golf Tournament ......................................................... GENERAL SESSION Rancho Mirage County Club 8:00 a.m.-iI a.m. Surviving Turbulent Economic Times AIR ISSUES FORUM tat Vice President Ron young presiding 12:00 p.m.-5:00 p.m. Chair Frank Caparx Sanitation Districts ....................................I.................... Registration of Los Angeles County 1:45 p.m.-2:30 p.m. ............................................... ......................................................... Protecting Your Security 3:00 p.m.-5:00 p.m. 9:15 a.m.-10:15 a.m. Investments-Is LAIF Safe? CASA Executive Board Meeting LAND ISSUES FORUM Daniel Dowell,Director,Investment ............................................... Chair Mike Sullivan,Sanaeflon Districts Division-State Treesurera Office 5:30 P.m.-7 0 P.m. of Los Angeles County ......................................................... CSRMA Executive Board 2:30 p.m.-3:00 p.m. Meeting Emerging Regulatory Issues Dublin San Ramon Services District -Bob Bastian,U.S.EPA Office of Watertinvifed) and the Wall Street Credit Crunch -Greg Kesw,,CASA BiosolMS Program Manager Or...Was Polonius Right When He """"""""""""""""""""""""""' Told Hamlet"Neither a Borrower nor 10:30 a.m.-12:00 p.m. aLender Be"?A Case Study WATER ISSUES FORUM -Bert Michaiczyk,General Manager Char Ben Horenshnn,East Bay Municipal -Lod Rose,Financial Services Managed Ufilify District Treasurer(invited) 1.Where Do We Go From Here?A Case -- - - -- - for Water Quality Permitting Reform 3:00 p.m.-3:15 p.m. White Paperby the Massachusetts Coalition Break for Wafer Resources Stewardship ....................................I.................... Tom Walsh,Engineer-DirectodTreasurer 3:15 p.m.-4:OO p.m. Upper Blackstone Water Pollution An Agency's Role In Protecting Abatement District-Millbury,MA Webcast Public Funds Through Local 2.NACWA-Proposed Watershed Act Investments Charles Logue,Director of Regulatory Panel Moderator.Celeste Cantu,General Affairs,Oregonk Clean Water Ser ices ManagerSenta Ana Watershed Prgect ..............................I.......................... Authority 11:30 a.m.-12:00 P.M. 4.....0....m.-4:3............................................. New Member Orientation :0 p. 0 p.m. .................................I.........I............. Highlights of No Drugs Down the 12:15 p.m.-1:30 p.m. Drain!-Statewide Campaign OPENING CONFERENCE LUNCHEON Jim Colson, Td-TAC Chair formgistered delegates andguests .......... .............................................. 6:00 p.m.7:00 p.m. - President's Welcome and Executive Welcome reception sponsored by Board Report the CASA Associates Executive Director s Report Allregistereddekgates andguestsare invited. FRI AY 'January 23, 2009 7.30 a.m.-9:00 a.m. 12:00 p.m.-1:30 p.m. 1:30 p.m.-3:00 p.m. CSRMA Board of Directors Meeting Associates Committee Meeting Managers Meeting(for general ......................................................... Chair F'ervar Anwar,Brown and Caldwell managers,public works directors, 8:00 a.m.-9:00 a.m. How the Housing Crash and Credit senior staff,and consultants) State Legislative Committee Work Group Squeeze Are Impacting(or likely to Chair Michael Abramson,Napa Sanitation . :O.O.am...9:30'.................................... District 8:00 a.m.-9:30 a.m. Impact)Wastewater Utilities? """""""" **... .. ... ""' Decision Analysis:A Systematic, Continental Breakfast 12:00 p.m.-1:15 p.m. Analytical and Transparent Process for """"" " """"..... """"' Lunch on Your Own Making Optimal Decisions 9:00 a.m.Guest a.m. -OR- Decision analysis requires use of Spouse Guest Meat 8 Greet 12:15 p.m.-1:15 p.m. methods and memos for considering Chefs Cooking Demo NEW Run,Walk-Get Fit While Having risk and competing trade-offs. Making """"""""""'""""""""..... "" Fun!Come join us for a 5k run/walk for optimal decisions requires a systematic 9:00 a.m.-12:00 p.m. lunch. approach to ensure the decisions are Public Policy Sessions All fitness levels are welcome By signing up sound,transparent,and defensible. ......................................................... on the registration form 9:00 a.m.-10:00 a.m. ......................................................... FEDERAL LEGISLATIVE UPDATE Castro Valley Sanitary District's Roland 3:00 p.m.-3:15 p.m. Chair Shamn Glen,Sanitation Districts of Los Williams has been in athletics his entire Break Angeles County life.He started running at the age of six; ......................................................... New Directions In The New ran track in college and was considered 3:15 p.m.-4:00 p.m.-GENERAL SESSION New Directions and New Congress an Olympic hopeful.Roland has coached, President Harry T.Price presiding and Admin•Washington D.C. Report, Eric trained and participates in several sporting Keynote Speaker Saphsteln,CASA Legislative activities.He continues his training regiment ......................................................... Advocate while working as the General Manager 4:15 p.m.-5:00 p.m. •Update on High Priority Issues of the Castro Valley Sanitary District Program Planning Meeting • in the San Francisco Bay Area. Chair Paul Hushes,Leucadia Wastewater Legislative Committee Report located ......................................................... Roland will lead CASA's fun run/walk. District 10:15 a.m.-11:15 a.m. ......................................................... ......................................................... STATE LEGISLATIVE UPDATE 1:30 p•m.-3:00 p.m. &DO p.m.-7:00 p.m. Chair Tim Anderson,Sonoma County Water Directors Meeting(for elected/appointed President's Reception governing officials) Agency Chair Wyatt Tmxel,Inland Empire Utilities State Legislative Report, Mike Dillon, Agency CASA Lobbyist -Regulatory Affairs Report,Bobbi Risk and Reward:What You Should Larson,CASA Director of Legal and Know About Asset Risk Management Regulatory Affairs Ken Harbw,Director of Management ......................................................... Services,Brown and Caldwell DAYAY 11:15 a.m.-12:00 p.m. In hard times,it becomes more important SATUR SATUR 24, 2UU9 Private Sewer Lateral Task Force Report than ever to focus our resources where they Dawd Williams, Tack Force Chair and will have the greatest impact on the service Execuffm Board Member levels we deliver.Mr.Harlow will discuss .............................I..........................I approaches to asset risk management, 7:30 a.m.-9:00 a.m. 11:00 a.m.-12:00 p.m. with real-life examples,to show how risk is Exen, oard Meeting Communications Committee Meeting measured.He will show how an improved .................I........................ ....._........ Chair Michele McKinney Underwood,, Western understanding of risk leads to the best 8:00 a.m.-9:00 a.m. Municipal Water District service levels regardless of the resource Closing Breakfast ......................................................... limitations all utilities face. ......................................................... 10:00 a.m.-4:00 p.m. 9:00 a.m.-10:30 a.m. Attorneys Meetings Communications Connection: Directors CLOSING GENERAL SESSION Chair Mark Cornelius,Snyder,,Cornelius 8 Input Sought president Harry T.Price presiding Michele McKinney Underwood, CASH Communication Committee Chair Committee Reports on action items; and closing remarks. CASH Hyatt 21 -2 2009 Grand Champions,Indianan Wells, CA Mid-Year Conference Ensuring Clean Water for California Registration Form - please select the appropriate box and complete information-REGISTER BY JANUARY 9 ❑Delegate$425 ❑Thurs.only$212.50 ❑Fd.only$2/2.50 ❑ Yee,I will Join Roland for the Get Fit Fun Run on Friday First Name: task Name: Nickname: Title: Agency/Firm: Guest First Name: Guest last Name: ❑Delegate$425 ❑Thurs.only$212.50 ❑Fri.only$212.50 ❑ Yes,I will Jain Roland for the Get Fit Fun Run on Friday First Name: Last Name: Nickname: Tee: Agencyhlm,: Guest Fine Name: Guest Last Name: ❑Delegate$425 El Thum.only$212.50 ❑Fri.only$212.50 ❑ Yes,1 will Join Roland for the Get Ft Film Run on Friday First Name: Last Name: Nickname: Title: Agency/Firm: Guest First Name: Guest Last Name: Registration Fees No.of Delegates include all functions x S425= No.of Delegates,Thursday only x$212.50= No.of Delegates,Friday only x$212.50= No.of Attorneys for Committee Meeting only x$100= No.of Guests includes Receptions and Breakfast functions: x$ 65= No.of Guests for Conference Luncheon only x$ 50= Total: Payment Method ❑Online registration with credit card visit us at www.casawels org and click on"Conference"-Visa and MasterCard accepted online Purchase Orders: Mail check-Check s: IMPORTANT CASA e$25 cancellations fee on or before Friday,January 9,2009 1215 K Street,Suite 2290 e No Refund for late cancellations after January 9,2009 Sacramento,CA 95614 fe1: (916) =Send a colleague if you can not attend,please notify the office 231- fax:(916)231-21412141 CSRMA Training Seminar CSRMA Risk Management Seminar at CASA... Sponsored by:California Sanitation Risk Management Authority(CSRMA) Sessions and Topics When 9:00-10:30 a.m. Wednesday,January 21,2009 The Six Steps of the Interactive Process:Considering and providing job 9:00 a.m.-2:30 p.m. accommodations for employees with injuries and disabilities. (registration and continental breakfast begins Would you like to understand your obligations for conducting the Interactive Pro- at 8.30 a.m.) cess?Better yet,would you like to know all the"nuts and bolts"of how to best con- duct the Interactive Process?This program will not only review of the six steps of Where the Interactive Process but will also highlight the penalties for not interacting,show Hyatt Grand Champions Resort you the best ways to document your efforts and results,and put together your tool 44-600 kit of forms and resources to successfully navigate the potential pitfalls. Indian Wells Lane Indian -Roberta Etcheverry,CPDM Indian Wells,CA Phone:7fi0-34b10001000 10:30-10:45 a.m. Break Cost 10.45 a.m.-12:00 p.m. The seminar is free to all CSRMA members. CSRMP. _, _:idhe-Turnkey Risk Solutions There will be a nominal fee of$50 for all Just CC .-1 non-CSRMA members(Cash or check only, From managing contractor liability to creating ADA-compliant job descriptions to payable to CSRMA either in advance or at creating a custom Business Continuity Plan to creating customized CalOSHA com- the door). pliance programs,CSRMA's Risk Control Online is proud to roll out several new and exciting turnkey disk solutions designed especially with CSRMA members in How to register mind.Came and see how these new interactive online tools will save your agency money in consultants,staff time and help your agency better control its nsk! R=gistrauon via mu GSHIdA web site at: -David Patzer,CSRMA Risk Control Adviser http://www.sipeonlinetraining.con✓csrma/ _....._ _... _... _....... viewSeminamclm 12:00-1:00 p.m. Lunch 1:00-2:30 p.m. Please contact David Patzer,CSRMA Risk Employee Performance Evaluations:Are yours a Ticking Bomb? Control Advisor at losscontmlftboglobal. it can be difficult to inform an employee that his work is not up to par,or that she net or at 707.373.9709. has an attitude or attendance problem.Often,managers feel it is better to give a good or neutral performance review--or not give a review at all--than to sit down with the employee and be candid about deficiencies and the steps necessary to - -- -. ....._..... ......... .._....... achieve acceptable performance. Please Note: Not only is the failure to give honest performance feedback unfair to the employee- It is Important we have an accurate head- -there is no chance to obtain the information necessary to improve-but it could count prior to the date of the seminar to also result in significant legal liability for the employer if it decides to terminate the ensue that lunch is available for those at- poorly performing employee.Terminated or disciplined employees have obtained tending the Seminar Please take a moment sizeable jury awards and ouBOFcourt settlements based upon claims that they to pre-register ff you plan to attend. "didn't know"their performance fell short of expectations. - - - -This seminar will provide the"why's'and"how's"of conducting effective employee performance appraisals. -Melanie Petunia,Lleben Cassidy Whitmore CASA i 1215 K Street,Suite 2290 Sacramento,CA 95814 i I t f I I I ip f I PRELIMINARY CONFERENCE PROGRAM CASA CASA .lid= ar Confe-% rence Ensuring Clean Water for California � A STATE OF CALIFORNIA } )SS. COUNTY OF ORANGE } Pursuant to California Government Code Section 54954.2, 1 hereby certify that the Notice and the Agenda for the Steering Committee meeting held on 2008,was duly posted for public Inspection in the main lobby of the District's offices on if r. 2008. at IN WITNESS WHEREOF, I have hereunto set my hand this L_th day of 2008. Penny Kyle, Ckkk of the B ~rd Orange County Sanitation istdct rr r Z' ORANGE COUNTY SANITATION DISTRICT O N EPx1P Fwn E14s hey GA Fwnraw M7 `8 December 10, 2008 327[)B9C)1H Pt) 8nx 8127 9P7P8-8127 w .ocsd mm Phone (1141982.0411 NOTICE OF MEETING Fox (714)9821)868 STEERING COMMITTEE s na Arwlreun Brea BIMI19 P9M ORANGE COUNTY SANITATION DISTRICT ��eeb FM=111 Vel19y Full9rmr: WEDNESDAY, DECEMBER 17. 2008 - 5:30 P.M. G9nielt fLeva Hwwnyn6,8n9,:b ADMINISTRATIVE OFFICES Irr"r9 10844 ELLIS AVENUE L.Mabre FOUNTAIN VALLEY, CALIFORNIA 92708 I9 P.O. W W W.00SD.COM Las Alemi[nr. Ne[HnM Bae9h LFelx7e FM,gnub A regular meeting of the Steering Committee of the Orange s9nw nna County Sanitation District will be held at the above location, date Berl s9anb and time. 6Ten[nn T. Vlla P.e mx» tlwa b s¢Mete 5en�,y f)rsrn2 Mxiwev U[Y S9Mnry Uwmct IrWn9 D.V. lNe[er D.V. Cnunq,H(}'9ngo We pm[ec.public Ireakb entl Ux,envinmmen[by pmv l,,q efa Ivesrewarar tallecb9n,u'eapnen[.entl mryCliny. STEERING COMMITTEE AND BOARD MEETING DATES *December 17, 2008 January 28, 2009 February 25, 2009 March 25, 2009 April 22, 2009 *May 20, 2009 June 24, 2009 July 22, 2009 August 26, 2009 September 23, 2009 October 28, 2009 *November 18, 2009 *December 16, 2009 *Meetings being held the third Wednesday of the month. STEERING COMMITTEE (1) Roll Call: Meeting Date: December 17, 2008 Meeting Time: :30 imm. Committee Members Doug Davert, Board Chair................................................... ........... _ Larry Crandall, Vice Chair................................................... ........... _ Mark Waldman,Administration Committee Chair................ ........... Bill Dalton, Operations Committee Chair............................. ........... JimFerryman...................................................................... ..........._ PhilLuebben....................................................................... ........... DavidShawver.................................................................... ..........._ Others Brad Hogin, General Counsel............................................. ........... Staff Jim Ruth, General Manager.................................................... Bob Ghirelli, Assistant General Manager.................................. . Nick Arhontes, Director of Operations& Maintenance................. . Jim Herberg, Director of Engineering....................................... . Ed Torres, Director of Technical Services..................................— Lorenzo Tyner, Director of Finance&Administrative Services........ Michael Gold, Legislative Affairs Liaison.................................... Penny Kyle, Clerk of the Board........................................... Other Staff Present AGENDA REGULAR MEETING OF THE STEERING COMMITTEE ORANGE COUNTY SANITATION DISTRICT WEDNESDAY, DECEMBER 17, 2008 AT 5:30 P.M. ADMINISTRATIVE OFFICE 10844 Ellis Avenue Fountain Valley, California www.ocsd.com DECLARATION OF QUORUM PUBLIC COMMENTS REPORT OF COMMITTEE CHAIR REPORT OF GENERAL MANAGER REPORT OF GENERAL COUNSEL ACTION ITEMS (1) 1. Approve minutes of the November 17, 2008 Steering Committee meeting. INFORMATION ITEMS (2) 2. Legislative Affairs Report- Gold (Book Page 8) Book Page I December 17, 2008 CLOSED SESSION (3) During the course of conducting the business set forth on this agenda as a regular meeting of the Steering Committee,the Chair may convene the Committee in closed session to consider matters of pending real estate negotiations,pending or potential litigation,or personnel matters,pursuant to Government Code Sections 54956.8, 54956.9,54957 or 54957.6,as noted. Reports relating to(a)purchase and sale of real property; (b)matters of pending or potential litigation; (c)employment actions or negotiations with employee representatives;or which are exempt from public disclosure under the California Public Records Act, may be reviewed by the Directors during a permitted closed session and are not available for public inspection. At such time as final actions are taken by the Board on any of these subjects,the minutes will reflect all required disclosures of information. Convene in closed session, if necessary. 3. CONFERENCE WITH LEGAL COUNSEL RE. ANTICIPATED LITIGATION (Government Code Section 54956.9(b)) Significant Exposure to Litigation Number of Potential Cases: 1 Reconvene in regular session. Consideration of action, if any, on matters considered in closed session. OTHER BUSINESS AND COMMUNICATIONS OR SUPPLEMENTAL AGENDA ITEMS, IF ANY ADJOURNMENT The next Steering Committee meeting is scheduled for January 28, 2009 at 5:30 p.m. Book Page 2 December 17, 2008 Agenda Postina: In accordance with the requirements of California Government Code Section 54954.2,this agenda has been posted in the main lobby of the District's Administrative offices not less than 72 hours prior to the meeting date and time above. All public records relating to each agenda item, including any public records distributed less than 72 hours prior to the meeting to all, or a majority of all, of the members of District's Board,are available for public inspection in the office of the Clerk of the Board,located at 10844 Ellis Avenue, Fountain Valley, California. Items Not Posted: In the event any matter not listed on this agenda is proposed to be submitted to the Committee for discussion and/or action, it will be done in compliance with Section 54954.2(b) as an emergency item or because there is a need to take immediate action,which need came to the attention of the Committee subsequent to the posting of agenda, or as set forth on a supplemental agenda posted in the manner as above, not less than 72 hours prior to the meeting date. Public Comments: Any member of the public may address the Steering Committee on specific agenda items or matters of general interest. As determined by the Chair, speakers may be deferred until the specific Rem is taken for discussion and remarks may be limited to three minutes. Matters of interest addressed by a member of the public and not listed on this agenda cannot have action taken by the Committee except as authorized by Section 54954.2(b). Consent Calendar: PJI matters placed on the consent calendar are considered as not requiring discussion or further explanation, and unless a particular item is requested to be removed from the consent calendar by a Director of staff member,there will be no separate discussion of these items. All items on the consent calendar will be enacted by one action approving all motions, and casting a unanimous ballot for resolutions included on the consent calendar. PJI items removed from the consent calendar shall be considered in the regular order of business. The Committee Chair will determine if any items are to be deleted from the consent calendar. Items Continued: Items may be continued from this meeting without further notice to a Committee meeting held within five(5)days of this meeting per Government Code Section 54954.2(b)(3). Meetina Adioumment: This meeting may be adjoumed to a later time and items of business from this agenda may be considered at the later meeting by Order of Adjournment and Notice in accordance with Government Code Section 54955(posted within 24 hours). Accommodations for the Disabled: The Board of Directors Meeting Room is wheelchair accessible. If you require any special disability related accommodations, please contact the Orange County Sanitation District Clerk of the Board's office at(714)593-7130 at least 72 hours prior to the scheduled meeting. Requests must specify the nature of the disability and the type of accommodation requested. Notice to Committee Members: For any questions on the agenda or to place any dems on the agenda, Committee members should contact the Committee Chair or Clerk of the Board ten days in advance of the Committee meeting. Committee Chair: Doug Davert (714)318-9550 General Manager: James D. Ruth (714)593-7110 General Counsel: Brad Hogin (714)415-1006 Clerk of the Board: Penny Kyle (714)593-7130 E-mail: pkvleriaocsd.win Book Page 3 MINUTES OF STEERING COMMITTEE MEETING Orange County Sanitation District Wednesday, November 19, 2008, at 5:30 p.m. A meeting of the Steering Committee of the Orange County Sanitation District was held on Wednesday, November 19, 2008, at 5:30 p.m., in the Diisbicrs Administrative Office. A quorum was declared present, as follows: STEERING COMMITTEE MEMBERS: STAFF PRESENT: DIRECTORS PRESENT: Doug Davert, Chair Jim Ruth, General Manager Larry Crandall, Vice Chair Bob Ghirelli,Assistant General Manager Bill Dalton Nick Arhontes, Director of Oper. & Maintenance Jim Ferryman Jim Herberg, Director of Engineering Phil Luebben Ed Torres, Director of Technical Services Ken Parker, Operations Committee Chair Lorenzo Tyner, Director of Finance and Mark Waldman, Administration Committee Administrative Services Chair Michael Gold, Legislative Affairs Liaison Tod Haynes, Engineering Manager DIRECTORS ABSENT Penny Kyle, Clerk of the Board OTHERS PRESENT: Ryal Wheeler Brentives Chris Townsend Heather Dion PUBLIC COMMENTS There were no public comments. REPORT OF THE COMMITTEE CHAIR Chair Davert reported that the CASA Conference would be held January 21-24, 2009 at Indian Wells. He reminded the Directors that an ethics training session would be held at the Sanitation District on December 2"d, and to contact the Clerk of the Board to reserve a seat. It was also reported that Director Parker would be leaving the Board next month. He was appointing Bill Dalton as the Chair of the Operations Committee and Dave Shawver as the Vice Chair. REPORT OF GENERAL MANAGER Jim Ruth, General Manager, provided a brief review of his monthly status report. An update on the Strategic Plan was provided by Bob Ghirelli,Assistant General Manager. The updated plan includes five new initiatives provided at the Strategic Plan Workshop at no additional costs. Book Page 4 Minutes of the Steering Committee November 19, 2008 Page 2 REPORT OF GENERAL COUNSEL Brad Hogin, General Counsel, reported that the Sanitation District joined Los Angeles County Sanitation Districts in filing a motion to intervene in a Federal case which challenges the South Coast Air Quality Management District(SCAQMD) to continue using internal offsets of emission exchanges. The case is scheduled to be heard December 11, 2008. ACTION ITEMS (1 -2) 1. MOVED, SECONDED AND DULY CARRIED: Approve minutes of the October 22, 2008 Steering Committee meeting. 2. MOVED, SECONDED AND DULY CARRIED: Recommend to the Board of Directors to: a) Approve the Five-Year Strategic Plan dated November 2008; and, b) Direct staff to implement the goals and strategies contained in the Plan. INFORMATION ITEMS(3) 3. Legislative Affairs Report—Government Affairs Manager, Michael Gold, reported that the Legislative Workshop would be held on January 28, 2009, at 4:30 p.m., prior to the Steering Committee meeting. The committee received an update via telephone by the federal lobbyists, and suggested a trip to Washington, DC should be considered in February or early March to meet with the delegates. The state lobbyists, Christopher Townsend and Heather Dion, were also in attendance and provided a brief update. CLOSED SESSION The Steering Committee convened at 6:11 p.m. in Closed Session, pursuant to Government Code Section 54956.9(b)to discuss one matter. Confidential Minutes of the Closed Session held by the Steering Committee have been prepared in accordance with Government Code Section 54957.2, and are maintained by the Clerk of the Board in the Official Book of Confidential Minutes of Board and Committee Closed Meetings. The Steering Committee reconvened at 6:25 p.m. in regular session. OTHER BUSINESS, COMMUNICATIONS OR SUPPLEMENTAL AGENDA ITEMS, IF ANY There were none. Book Page 5 Minutes of the Steering Committee November 19, 2008 Page 3 ADJOURNMENT The next Steering Committee meeting is scheduled for Wednesday, December 19, 2008. The Chair declared the meeting adjourned at 6:25 p.m. Submitted by: Penny M. K I Clerk of the Board Book Page 6 STEERING COMMITTEE re o•a tzftr/zoos AGENDA REPORT Rem Numbe Iem Nu be Orange County Sanitation Dismct z FROM: James D. Ruth, General Manager Originator: Michael Gold, Government Affairs SUBJECT: Legislative, Policy and Political Update GENERAL MANAGER'S RECOMMENDATION Information Only SUMMARY This report is the monthly update from Washington, D.C. and Sacramento highlighting lobbyists' activities, OCSD legislative priorities and other information of interest to the Steering Committee. PRIOR COMMITTEE/BOARD ACTIONS None ADDITIONAL INFORMATION Year-end report on 2008 goals At the beginning of this year, the Steering Committee and Board of Directors adopted goals for the state and federal legislative programs, which were incorporated into the 2008 Legislative Platform. Below is a status report on the progress made towards these goals in advance of the January 28 legislative planning session with staff and lobbyists. 2008 Goals • Seek Federal authorizations and appropriations for the SARI line relocation, upgrades to secondary treatment, homeland security upgrades and the sewer science program. In addition to partisan bickering that prevented Congress from passing any significant budget legislation in 2008, the financial crisis at the end of the year wiped out all chances for Federal appropriations. • Continue pursuing legislative and regulatory changes ensuring that wastewater agencies can apply for water and infrastructure bond funds. Staff was successful in this area as the State Legislature passed, and the Governor signed, SB 1XXX implementing the water bonds from 2006. The language we lobbied to include in the bill that allows wastewater projects to be eligible for Integrated Regional Water Management Plan funding (IRWMP), was part of the enrolled legislation. �a -Sc F..Na.P 1.I amass 01�7 Page t Book Pave 9 • Develop demonstration programs related to energy recovery or reuse related to climate i change mitigation as a way to attract additional State and Federal grants. Staff worked with Air Products to find funding for a hydrogen demonstration project using digester gas and while our efforts to seek Federal funding did not materialize, the project did receive sufficient funding from the State Air Resources Board. • Monitor climate change legislation at both the State and Federal levels. Working through state and national associations, OCSD staff has monitored the progress of climate change legislation in Washington, D.C. and worked with these associations to ensure our interests are protected. It is very unlikely that any legislation will move through Congress this year. • Work with cities, the County and other special districts to fight any proposed property tax shifts to balance the State's budget. One of the brightest spots of 2008 was stairs aggressive efforts to right off a State take- away of property tax dollars. Beginning with a coordinated campaign by OCSD and OC Water District, meetings in Sacramento with Board members and Legislators and pressing CASA, we avoided any shifts this year. Looking ahead to 2009 At the moment, the key phrases for 2009 are budget deficits and stimulus funding at both the State and Federal levels. The State Legislature's inability to resolve the ongoing deficit has resulted in not only a nearly $30 billion shortfall for next year, but also an immediate cash-flow crunch that if not solved by February, means California will not have the money to pay its bills. With this in mind, a key goal for 2009 will be continuing to protect local property taxes from a state raid. On the other hand, at the Federal level, deficits seem to be a good thing with the incoming Obama administration calling on Congress to invest billions in infrastructure projects to ignite the slow economy. As reported last month, as much as $850 million could come to California for wastewater infrastructure projects, the big question, however, is how this money will be distributed—through a Federal agency (such as EPA) or through the States. Mark your calendars] The annual legislative strategic planning session will be held just prior to the January Steering Committee meeting on January 28, 2008 at 4:30 PM. At the meeting, we will discuss goals for the coming year and any changes to the Legislative Platform. JR:mg i Form No.Ddd-io3-I Agenda Repot_sc Page 2 Bock Paee 9 2008 Legislative Tracking Bill Number Summary PmItIcm* Status AB 642 (Wolk) Design-build authority for water and wastewater agencies and cities/countiesthat provide these Watch To Governor- services. Signed Into Law AB 983 (Mal This bill provides that there is an implied warranty in the accuarcy and completeness of the plans Oppose To Governor- and specificiations. The bill shifts the burden to the agency if something wrong occurs after the Vetoed completion of the project and the contractor could claim error in the plan, rather than construction. AB 1654 Implements the Water Quality and SupplyBond Act of 2006 to include wastewater treatment as Support To Governor- Huffman eligible for funding under the Integrated Regional Water Management Plans. Incorporated In SIB Signed into 1xx Law AS 1978(Solorio) Sponsored by the County of Orange. Bill clarifies that that GIS and mapping data will be subject to Support Died same public records act laws as computer software and not subject to public records rules and a may be sold for non-commercial use 0 r. d All 2270(Laird) Promotes greated water recycling and allows wastewater treatment agencies to regulate water Support To Governor- sofenters for the purpose of reducing salts in the wastewater supply. Vetoed 0 AS 2716(Mal Mandates sick leave for all employees working seven or more days in a year(bill written to include Oppose Died all part-time employees)and applies to both public and private sector. All 2986(Lenol Requires the State Water Resources Control Board to review. grade and monitor sewage Oppose To Governor- treatment plants, including collection systems. Allows the Water Boards to impose fees to finance Vetoed the program. 5B 1176(Peratal A redo of Perata's SB 1001 last year(vetoed by the Governor). This bill makes changes to the Oppose Died Regional Water Quality Control Board membership, including lowering the number of members from nine to seven.Amended into AS 2769(Levine) Fa MFD ,Ml Fp✓iN Pmm-Sc 01 d 7 Page 3 ORANGE COUNTY SANITATION DISTRICT (714) 962-2411 www.ocsd.com Mailing Address: P.O. Box 8127 Fountain Valley, California 92728-8127 Street Address: 10844 Ellis Avenue Fountain Valley, Califomia 92708-7018