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HomeMy WebLinkAbout05-09-2022 LaPA Committee Meeting Complete Agenda Packet OC6SAN ORANGE COUNTY SANITATION DISTRICT ORANGE COUNTY SANITATION DISTRICT SPECIAL NOTICE REGARDING CORONAVIRUS (COVID-19) AND ATTENDANCE AT PUBLIC MEETINGS Governor Newsom signed Assembly Bill (AB) 361 on September 16, 2021, which, in part, addresses the conduct of public meetings in light of the continued State of Emergency order. Effective October 1, 2021, AB 361 suspends the requirements located in California Government Code, Section 54953, Subdivision (b), Paragraph (3) specifically pertaining to the conduct of public meetings. As such, the Orange County Sanitation District (OC San) Board of Directors has determined that due to the size of OC San's Board of Directors (25), and the health and safety of the members, the Board of Directors will be participating in meetings of the Board telephonically and via Internet accessibility. PUBLIC PARTICIPATION Your participation is always welcome. OC San offers several ways in which to interact during meetings. You will find information as to these opportunities below. ONLINE MEETING PARTICIPATION You may join the meeting live via Teams on your computer or similar device or web browser by using the link below: Click here to join the meeting We suggest testing joining a Teams meeting on your device prior to the commencement of the meeting. For recommendations, general guidance on using Teams, and instructions on joining a Teams meeting, please click here. Please mute yourself upon entry to the meeting. Please raise your hand if you wish to speak during the public comment section of the meeting. The Clerk of the Board will call upon you by using the name you joined with. Meeting attendees are not provided the ability to make a presentation during the meeting. Please contact the Clerk of the Board at least 48 hours prior to the meeting if you wish to present any items. Additionally, camera feeds may be controlled by the meeting moderator to avoid inappropriate content. HOW TO PARTICIPATE IN THE MEETING BY TELEPHONE To join the meeting from your phone: Dial (213) 279-1455 When prompted, enter the Phone Conference ID: 714 120 108# All meeting participants may be muted during the meeting to alleviate background noise. If you are muted, please use *6 to unmute. You may also mute yourself on your device. Please raise your hand to speak by use *5, during the public comment section of the meeting. The Clerk of the Board will call upon you by using the last 4 digits of your phone number as identification. NOTE: All attendees will be disconnected from the meeting at the beginning of Closed Session. If you would like to return to the Open Session portion of the meeting, please login or dial-in to the Teams meeting again and wait in the Lobby for admittance. VIEW THE MEETING ONLINE ONLY The meeting will be available for online viewing only at: https://ocsd.legistar.com/Calendar.aspx HOW TO SUBMIT A COMMENT You may provide verbal comment in real time during the meeting. In order to provide a verbal comment, please raise your hand as described above or alert the Clerk of the Board before or during the public comment period. You may also submit your comments and questions in writing for consideration in advance of the meeting by using the eComment feature available online at: https://ocsd.legistar.com/Calendar.aspx or sending them to OCSanClerk(o)_ocsan.gov with the subject line "PUBLIC COMMENT ITEM # (insert the item number relevant to your comment)" or "PUBLIC COMMENT NON-AGENDA ITEM". You may also submit comments and questions for consideration during the meeting by using the eComment feature available online at: https://ocsd.legistar.com/Calendar.aspx. The eComment feature will be available for the duration of the meeting. All written public comments will be provided to the legislative body and may be read into the record or compiled as part of the record. TECHNICAL SUPPORT PRIOR TO AND DURING MEETINGS For technical assistance before and during the meeting, please call 714-593-7431. For any other questions and/or concerns, please contact the Clerk of the Board's office at 714-593-7433. Thank you, in advance, for your patience in working with these technologies. We appreciate your interest in OC San! 1 Ellis Avenue Fountainuntain Valley,CA 92708 OC6SAN7.4.962.24., ORANGE COUNTY SANITATION DISTRICT www.ocsan_gov May 2, 2022 serving: -,naheim Brea NOTICE OF REGULAR MEETING Buena Park Cypress Fountain Valley LEGISLATIVE AND PUBLIC AFFAIRS COMMITTEE cullerton ORANGE COUNTY SANITATION DISTRICT ,crcen Grove Huntington Beach Monday, May 9, 2022 — 4:30 P.M. Irvine La Habra La Palma ACCESSIBILITY FOR THE GENERAL PUBLIC Los Alamitos Your participation is always welcome. Specific information as to how to participate in this meeting is detailed in the Special Notice attached to Newport Beach this agenda. In general, OC San offers several ways in which to interact Orange during meetings: you may join the meeting live via Teams on your Placentia computer or similar device or web browser, join the meeting live via telephone, view the meeting online, and/or submit comments for Santa Ana consideration before or during the meeting. Seal Beach Stanton Tustin The Regular Meeting of the Legislative and Public Affairs Committee of the Orange County Sanitation District will be held at the above location and in the Villa Park manner indicated on Monday, May 9, 2022 at 4:30 p.m. County of Orange Costa Mesa Sanitary District Midway City Sanitary District Irvine Ranch lerk oftKe Poard Water District Yorba Linda Water District Our Mission:To protect public health and the environment by providing effective wastewater collection, treatment, and recycling. LEGISLATIVE & PUBLIC AFFAIRS BOARD MEETING DATE COMMITTEE MEETING DATE Monday, 05/09/22, 4:30 p.m. 05/25/22 JUNE DARK 06/22/22 Monday, 07/11/22, 4:00 p.m. 07/27/22 AUGUST DARK 08/24/22 Monday, 09/12/22, 4:30 p.m. 09/28/22 OCTOBER DARK 10/26/22 Monday, 11/14/22, 4:30 p.m. 11116122 ** DECEMBER DARK 12121122 ** JANUARY DARK 01/25/23 Monday, 02106123 * 02/22/23 Monday, 03/13/23, 4:30 p.m. 03/22/23 Monday, 04/10/23, 4:00 p.m. 04/26/23 * Meeting will be held on the first Monday of the month **Meeting will be held on the third Wednesday of the month ROLL CALL LEGISLATIVE & PUBLIC AFFAIRS COMMITTEE Meeting Date: May 9, 2022 Time: 4:30 p.m. Adjourn: COMMITTEE MEMBERS (7) Jesus J. Silva, Chair Marshall Goodman, Vice-Chair Kim Carr, Member-At-Large AnthonyKuo, Member-At-Large Andrew Nguyen, Member-At-Large John Withers, Board Chair Chad Wanke, Board Vice-Chair OTHERS Brad Hogin, General Counsel STAFF Jim Herber , General Manager Rob Thompson, Assistant General Manager Lorenzo Tyner, Assistant General Manager Celia Chandler, Director of Human Resources Kathy Millea, Director of Engineering Riaz Moinuddin, Director of Operations & Maintenance Lan Wiborg, Director of Environmental Services -Kelly Lore, Clerk of the Board ORANGE COUNTY SANITATION DISTRICT Effective 03/07/2022 BOARD OF DIRECTORS Complete Roster ALTERNATE AGENCY/CITIES ACTIVE DIRECTOR DIRECTOR Anaheim Stephen Faessel Gloria Ma'ae Brea Glenn Parker Cecilia Hupp Buena Park Art Brown Connor Traut Cypress Paulo Morales Anne Hertz-Mallari Fountain Valley Patrick Harper Ted Bui Fullerton Jesus J. Silva Nick Dunlap Garden Grove Steve Jones John O'Neill Huntington Beach Kim Carr Dan Kalmick Irvine Anthony Kuo Farrah N. Khan La Habra Rose Espinoza Steve Simonian La Palma Marshall Goodman Nitesh Patel Los Alamitos Ron Bates NONE Newport Beach Brad Avery Joy Brenner Orange Kim Nichols Chip Monaco Placentia Chad Wanke Ward Smith Santa Ana Johnathan Ryan Hernandez Nelida Mendoza Seal Beach Sandra Massa-Lavitt Schelly Sustarsic Stanton David Shawver Carol Warren Tustin Ryan Gallagher Austin Lumbard Villa Park Chad Zimmerman Robert Collacott Sanitary/Water Districts Costa Mesa Sanitary District Bob Ooten Art Perry Midway City Sanitary District Andrew Nguyen Mark Nguyen Irvine Ranch Water District John Withers Douglas Reinhart Yorba Linda Water District Brooke Jones Ted Lindsey County Areas Board of Supervisors Donald P. Wagner Doug Chaffee "'06SAN ORANGE COUNTY SANITATION DISTRICT LEGISLATIVE AND PUBLIC AFFAIRS COMMITTEE Regular Meeting Agenda Monday, May 9, 2022 - 4:30 PM Board Room Administration Building 10844 Ellis Avenue Fountain Valley, CA 92708 (714) 593-7433 ACCOMMODATIONS FOR THE DISABLED: If you require any special disability related accommodations, please contact the Orange County Sanitation District(OC San) Clerk of the Board's office at (714) 593-7433 at least 72 hours prior to the scheduled meeting. Requests must specify the nature of the disability and the type of accommodation requested. AGENDA POSTING: In accordance with the requirements of California Government Code Section 54954.2, this agenda has been posted outside the main gate of the OC San's Administration Building located at 10844 Ellis Avenue, Fountain Valley, California, and on the OC San's website at www.ocsan.gov 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 the Board of Directors, are available for public inspection in the office of the Clerk of the Board. AGENDA DESCRIPTION: The agenda provides a brief general description of each item of business to be considered or discussed. The recommended action does not indicate what action will be taken. The Board of Directors may take any action which is deemed appropriate. MEETING AUDIO: An audio recording of this meeting is available within 24 hours after adjournment of the meeting at https://ocsd.legistar.com/Calendar.aspx or by contacting the Clerk of the Board at(714) 593-7433. NOTICE TO DIRECTORS: To place items on the agenda for a Committee or Board Meeting, the item must be submitted in writing to the Clerk of the Board: Kelly A. Lore, MMC, (714) 593-7433/ klore@ocsan.gov at least 14 days before the meeting. FOR ANY QUESTIONS ON THE AGENDA, BOARD MEMBERS MAY CONTACT STAFF AT: General Manager: Jim Herberg,jherberg@ocsan.gov/(714) 593-7300 Asst. General Manager: Lorenzo Tyner, Ityner@ocsan.gov/(714)593-7550 Asst. General Manager: Rob Thompson, rthompson@ocsan.gov/(714) 593-7310 Director of Human Resources: Celia Chandler, cchandler@ocsan.gov/(714)593-7202 Director of Engineering: Kathy Millea, kmillea@ocsan.gov/(714) 593-7365 Director of Environmental Services: Lan Wiborg, Iwiborg@ocsan.gov/(714) 593-7450 Director of Operations & Maintenance: Riaz Moinuddin, rmoinuddin@ocsan.gov/(714)593-7269 LEGISLATIVE AND PUBLIC Regular Meeting Agenda Monday, May 9, 2022 AFFAIRS COMMITTEE CALL TO ORDER PLEDGE OF ALLEGIANCE ROLL CALL AND DECLARATION OF QUORUM: Clerk of the Board PUBLIC COMMENTS: Your participation is always welcome. Specific information as to how to participate in a meeting is detailed in the Special Notice attached to this agenda. In general, OC San offers several ways in which to interact during meetings: you may join the meeting live via Teams on your computer or similar device or web browser,join the meeting live via telephone, view the meeting online, and/or submit comments for consideration before or during the meeting. You may provide verbal comment in real time during the meeting. In order to provide a verbal comment, please raise your hand (directions provided in the Special Notice attached to this agenda) or alert the Clerk of the Board before or during the public comment period. You may submit your comments and questions in writing for consideration in advance of the meeting by using the eComment feature available online at: https://ocsd.legistar.com/Calendar.aspx or sending them to OCSanClerk@ocsan.gov with the subject line "PUBLIC COMMENT ITEM # (insert the item number relevant to your comment)"or"PUBLIC COMMENT NON-AGENDA ITEM". You may also submit comments and questions for consideration during the meeting by using the eComment feature available online at: https://ocsd.legistar.com/Ca/endar.aspx. The eComment feature will be available for the duration of the meeting. All written public comments will be provided to the legislative body and may be read into the record or compiled as part of the record. REPORTS: The Committee Chairperson and the General Manager may present verbal reports on miscellaneous matters of general interest to the Directors. These reports are for information only and require no action by the Directors. CONSENT CALENDAR: Consent Calendar Items are considered to be routine and will be enacted, by the Committee, after one motion, without discussion. Any items withdrawn from the Consent Calendar for separate discussion will be considered in the regular order of business. 1. APPROVAL OF MINUTES 2022-2291 RECOMMENDATION: Approve Minutes of the Regular Meeting of the Legislative and Public Affairs Committee held April 11, 2022. Originator: Kelly Lore Page 1 of 3 LEGISLATIVE AND PUBLIC Regular Meeting Agenda Monday, May 9, 2022 AFFAIRS COMMITTEE Attachments: Agenda Report 04-11-2022 LaPA Committee Minutes NON-CONSENT: 2. PUBLIC AFFAIRS UPDATE FOR THE MONTH OF APRIL 2022 2022-2287 RECOMMENDATION: Recommend to the Board of Directors to: Receive and file the Public Affairs Update for the month of April 2022. Originator: Jim Herberg Attachments: Agenda Report Outreach and Media Summary Report - April 2022 OC Register CA Water Edition 2022 Wastewater 101 - Citizens Academy (Virtual) Doing Business with OC San 3. PUBLIC AFFAIRS STRATEGIC PLAN FOR FISCAL YEARS 2020-2022 2022-2296 YEAR-END REPORT RECOMMENDATION: Recommend to the Board of Directors to: Receive and file the Public Affairs Strategic Plan for Fiscal Years 2020 - 2022 Year-End Report. Originator: Jim Herberg Attachments: Agenda Report Public Affairs Strategic Plan FY 2020-2022 Presentation - PAO Strat Plan Yr End Report 4. LEGISLATIVE AFFAIRS UPDATE FOR THE MONTH OF APRIL 2022 2022-2281 RECOMMENDATION: Recommend to the Board of Directors to: Receive and file the Legislative Affairs Update for the month of April 2022. Originator: Jim Herberg Attachments: Agenda Report Federal Legislative Update - ENS Resources Federal Legislative Matrix - ENS Resources Presentation - ENS Legislative Update State Legislative Update - TPA State Legislative Matrix - TPA Presentation - TPA Legislative Update Grant Tracker 2022 Page 2 of 3 LEGISLATIVE AND PUBLIC Regular Meeting Agenda Monday, May 9, 2022 AFFAIRS COMMITTEE INFORMATION ITEMS: 5. PUBLIC AFFAIRS DRAFT STRATEGIC PLAN FOR FISCAL YEARS 2022-2272 2022-2024 RECOMMENDATION: Information Item. Originator: Jim Herberg Attachments: Agenda Report Public Affairs Draft Strategic Plan Fiscal Years 2022-2024 Presentation - PAO Draft Strat Plan FY22-24 DEPARTMENT HEAD REPORTS: CLOSED SESSION: None. OTHER BUSINESS AND COMMUNICATIONS OR SUPPLEMENTAL AGENDA ITEMS, IF ANY: BOARD OF DIRECTORS INITIATED ITEMS FOR A FUTURE MEETING: At this time Directors may request staff to place an item on a future agenda. ADJOURNMENT: Adjourn the Committee meeting until the Regular Meeting of the Legislative and Public Affairs Committee on July 11, 2022 at 4:00 p.m. Page 3 of 3 ration LEGISLATIVE AND PUBLIC AFFAIRS Ad10844t Ellis Avenuueg SAN COMMITTEE Fountain Valley, 92708 (714)593-743433 ORANGE COUNTY SANITATION DISTRICT Agenda Report File #: 2022-2291 Agenda Date: 5/9/2022 Agenda Item No: 1. FROM: James D. Herberg, General Manager Originator: Kelly A. Lore, Clerk of the Board SUBJECT: APPROVAL OF MINUTES GENERAL MANAGER'S RECOMMENDATION RECOMMENDATION: Approve Minutes of the Regular Meeting of the Legislative and Public Affairs Committee held April 11, 2022. BACKGROUND In accordance with the Board of Directors Rules of Procedure, an accurate record of each meeting will be provided to the Directors for subsequent approval at the following meeting. RELEVANT STANDARDS • Resolution No. OC SAN 21-04 ATTACHMENT The following attachment(s) may be viewed on-line at the OC San website (www.ocsan.gov) with the complete agenda package: • Minutes of the LaPA Committee meeting held April 11, 2022 Orange County Sanitation District Page 1 of 1 Printed on 4/29/2022 powered by LegistarTM Orange County Sanitation District Monday, April 11, 2022 Minutes for the 4:00 PM LEGISLATIVE AND PUBLIC Board Room AFFAIRS COMMITTEE SAN Administration Building ORANGE COUNTY SANITATION DISTRICT 10844 Ellis Avenue Fountain Valley, CA 92708 (714) 593-7433 CALL TO ORDER A regular meeting of the Legislative and Public Affairs Committee of the Orange County Sanitation District was called to order by Committee Chair Jesus J. Silva on Monday, April 11, 2022 at 4:00 p.m. in the Administration Building of the Orange County Sanitation District. Chair Silva stated that the meeting was being held telephonically and via Internet accessibility in accordance with new provisions in California Government Code Section 54953 and Resolution No. OC SAN 22-11, due to the continued State of Emergency Order. Chair Silva announced the teleconference meeting guidelines and Director Kim Carr led the flag salute. ROLL CALL AND DECLARATION OF QUORUM: Roll call was taken and a quorum was declared present, as follows: PRESENT: Jesus Silva, Marshall Goodman, Kim Carr, Anthony Kuo, Andrew Nguyen, Chad Wanke and John Withers ABSENT: None STAFF PRESENT: Kelly Lore, Clerk of the Board, and Mo Abiodun were present in the Board Room. Jim Herberg, General Manager; Rob Thompson, Assistant General Manager; Lorenzo Tyner, Assistant General Manager; Celia Chandler, Director of Human Resources; Kathy Millea, Director of Engineering; Riaz Moinuddin, Director of Operations and Maintenance; Lan Wiborg, Director of Environmental Services; Tanya Chong; Daisy Covarrubias; Tina Knapp; Rebecca Long; Joshua Martinez; Kelly Newell; Wally Ritchie; and Thomas Vu were in attendance telephonically. OTHERS PRESENT: Brad Hogin, General Counsel; Eric O'Donnell, Townsend Public Affairs (TPA); and Eric Sapirstein, ENS Resources were in attendance telephonically. PUBLIC COMMENTS: None. REPORTS: Chair Silva reminded the Committee of the Special meeting of the Board of Directors to be held on April 13, 2022 at 4:30 p.m.; and that in-person tours of Plant No. 1 for the Board of Directors are currently be scheduled. General Manager Jim Herberg did not provide a report. Page 1 of 4 LEGISLATIVE AND PUBLIC Minutes April 11, 2022 AFFAIRS COMMITTEE CONSENT CALENDAR: 1. APPROVAL OF MINUTES 2022-2237 Originator: Kelly Lore MOVED, SECONDED, AND DULY CARRIED TO: Approve Minutes of the Regular Meeting of the Legislative and Public Affairs Committee held March 14, 2022. AYES: Jesus Silva, Marshall Goodman, Kim Carr, Anthony Kuo, Andrew Nguyen and John Withers NOES: None ABSENT: Chad Wanke ABSTENTIONS: None NON-CONSENT: 2. LETTERS OF SUPPORT FOR: A.B. 1724 (STONE) WASHING 2022-2169 MACHINES: MICROFIBER FILTRATION, A.B. 2787 (QUIRK) MICROPLASTICS IN PRODUCTS, AND A.B. 2771 (FRIEDMAN) COSMETIC PRODUCTS: SAFETY Originator: Jim Herberg Senior Public Affairs Specialist Rebecca Long provided a brief explanation of each bill. MOVED, SECONDED, AND DULY CARRIED TO: Approve Letters of Support for: A. A.B. 1724 (Stone) Washing Machines: Microfiber Filtration; B. A.B. 2787 (Quirk) Microplastics in Products; and C. A.B. 2771 (Friedman) Cosmetic Products: Safety. AYES: Jesus Silva, Marshall Goodman, Kim Carr, Anthony Kuo, Andrew Nguyen and John Withers NOES: None ABSENT: Chad Wanke ABSTENTIONS: None Board Vice-Chair Chad Wanke arrived at the meeting at approximately 4:16 p.m. 3. LEGISLATIVE AFFAIRS UPDATE FOR THE MONTH OF MARCH 2O22 2022-2228 Originator: Jim Herberg Page 2 of 4 LEGISLATIVE AND PUBLIC Minutes April 11, 2022 AFFAIRS COMMITTEE In response to a question from Director Silva at a previous meeting, Mr. Herberg stated that General Counsel has opined that OC San has the capability of purchasing property from another government agency at less than fair market value when it is in the best interest of the public and both agencies are collaborating on the project, and they make the determination and agree to the price. Eric Sapirstein, ENS Resources, provided a PowerPoint presentation which included issues regarding non-flushable wipes, Fiscal Year 2023 appropriations, PFAS/PFOA liability, and Build America/Buy America. Eric O'Donnell, TPA, provided a PowerPoint presentation which including a general overview of the policy committee deadline,; COVID-19 regulations, key proposals in Sacramento, Executive Order N-7-22 (Drought Order), and priority legislation of interest for 2022. MOVED, SECONDED, AND DULY CARRIED TO: Recommend to the Board of Directors to: Receive and file the Legislative Affairs Update for the month of March 2022. AYES: Jesus Silva, Marshall Goodman, Kim Carr, Anthony Kuo, Andrew Nguyen, Chad Wanke and John Withers NOES: None ABSENT: None ABSTENTIONS: None 4. PUBLIC AFFAIRS UPDATE FOR THE MONTH OF MARCH 2O22 2022-2232 Originator: Jim Herberg Principal Public Affairs Specialist Daisy Covarrubias provided a PowerPoint presentation which provided information regarding tours held, various events and community involvement, construction outreach, and social media activities in the months of March/April 2022. MOVED, SECONDED, AND DULY CARRIED TO: Recommend to the Board of Directors to Receive and file the Public Affairs Update for the month of March 2022. AYES: Jesus Silva, Marshall Goodman, Kim Carr, Anthony Kuo, Andrew Nguyen, Chad Wanke and John Withers NOES: None ABSENT: None ABSTENTIONS: None Page 3 of 4 LEGISLATIVE AND PUBLIC Minutes April 11, 2022 AFFAIRS COMMITTEE INFORMATION ITEMS: None. DEPARTMENT HEAD REPORTS: None. CLOSED SESSION: None. OTHER BUSINESS AND COMMUNICATIONS OR SUPPLEMENTAL AGENDA ITEMS, IF ANY: None. BOARD OF DIRECTORS INITIATED ITEMS FOR A FUTURE MEETING: None. ADJOURNMENT: Chair Silva declared the meeting adjourned at 4:51 p.m. to the next Regular Legislative and Public Affairss Committee meeting to be held on Monday, May 9, 2022 at 4:30 p.m. Submitted by: Kelly A. Lore, MMC Clerk of the Board Page 4 of 4 ration LEGISLATIVE AND PUBLIC AFFAIRS Ad10844t Ellis Avenuueg SAN COMMITTEE Fountain Valley, 92708 (714)593-743433 ORANGE COUNTY SANITATION DISTRICT Agenda Report File #: 2022-2287 Agenda Date: 5/9/2022 Agenda Item No: 2. FROM: James D. Herberg, General Manager SUBJECT: PUBLIC AFFAIRS UPDATE FOR THE MONTH OF APRIL 2022 GENERAL MANAGER'S RECOMMENDATION RECOMMENDATION: Recommend to the Board of Directors to: Receive and file the Public Affairs Update for the month of April 2022. BACKGROUND Staff will provide an update on recent public affairs activities. RELEVANT STANDARDS • Maintain influential legislative advocacy and a public outreach program • Build brand, trust, and support with policy makers and community leaders • Maintain collaborative and cooperative relationships with regulators, stakeholders, and neighboring communities • Listen to and seriously consider community input on environmental concerns PROBLEM The Orange County Sanitation District (OC San) is well-recognized within the water/wastewater industry; however, within our service area there is limited knowledge by our customers of the important work we do to protect public health and the environment. In general, the customers we serve do not realize that when they improperly dispose of waste into the sanitation system, it can negatively affect our sewer lines, our treatment plants, and the quality of water we supply to the Groundwater Replenishment System. PROPOSED SOLUTION By providing tours, community outreach, education, and general communication via OC San's website, social media outlets, and direct mailings, we can educate the community, local agencies, and businesses on our messaging such as the What2Flush program, energy production, water recycling, biosolids, and our source control program. This, in turn, helps improve the quality of wastewater that is recycled or released to the ocean. Orange County Sanitation District Page 1 of 3 Printed on 4/29/2022 powered by LegistarTM File #: 2022-2287 Agenda Date: 5/9/2022 Agenda Item No: 2. RAMIFICATIONS OF NOT TAKING ACTION If we do not educate the community, local agencies, and area businesses about OC San, we may not have the support necessary to deliver our mission. ADDITIONAL INFORMATION - ACTIVITES FOR THE MONTH OF APRIL 2022 Outreach Report An outreach report that includes tours, website postings, social media postings, construction notifications, speaking engagements, and more is included as an attachment to this Agenda Report. Virtual Tours As COVID-19 restrictions have eased, exceptions have been made for small in-person tours. This month we held three tours for a few of our Board Members, reaching a total of six people. Social Media Over the last month, OC San remained active on our social media accounts to continue connecting with our audience. This is a quick snapshot of what we did: • Facebook: 23 posts and reached 16k people • Twitter: 19 posts and reached 5.2k people • Instagram: 17 posts and reached 5.7k people • Linkedln: 7 posts and reached 4k people Presentations This month staff presented at the Water Environmental Foundation (WEF) on OC San's collection system, and General Manager Jim Herberg provided a presentation on Large Scale Battery Storage with Utility Executives. Construction Outreach OC San continues to keep communities informed of construction activities throughout our service area. There are currently active projects in Fountain Valley, Los Alamitos, Seal Beach, Westminster, Buena Park, Anaheim, and within both of our treatment facilities. Website updates, email and text alerts, and notifications continue to be distributed as the projects progress. OC Water Insert For the third year in a row, OC San joined other local agencies throughout the county in a California Water supplemental educational insert which was featured in the Thursday, April 21 Orange County Register issue. The insert highlighted who we are, what we do, and our Capital Improvement Program. The insert is provided as an attachment to this agenda report. Children's Water Festival OC San participated in the Orange County Water District's Children's Water Festival, April 25-29. The virtual event featured a mix of live, on-demand, and grab-and-go activities. OC San submitted a 20-minute prerecorded video created by staff highlighting what to flush and our No Wipes in the Pipes campaign. The event reached more than 7,000 third, fourth, and fifth grade students from Orange County. Orange County Sanitation District Page 2 of 3 Printed on 4/29/2022 powered by LegistarTM File #: 2022-2287 Agenda Date: 5/9/2022 Agenda Item No: 2. Community Newsletter The spring issue of the electronic community newsletter, The OC San Connection, was shared with our public via social media, distribution email lists, and with our member agencies. The issue features stories on various construction projects, OC San initiatives, and much more. The issue can be found online at www.ocsan.gov. Member Agency Outreach Toolkit Every quarter an outreach toolkit is created with topics of interest for our customers that is sent to our member agencies to share on their various communication channels. This quarter's toolkit features the upcoming Wastewater 101 - Citizens Academy. The academy was created to give community members an inside look into our operations. The first session starts on Thursday, May 9 and will conclude at the June Board meeting with a certificate presentation to all the participants. For further details, a link is provided on the Agenda for this item. Vendor Information Workshop The second of five vendor workshops will be hosted on May 3. The focus of this workshop is to present upcoming maintenance services contract opportunities to prospective bidders. Over 75 participants registered for the event. The next workshop is scheduled for July. Details can be found using the link provided on the Agenda for this item. Association Society of Civil Engineers (ASCE) OC San was awarded the Outstanding Wastewater Project Award for the State College Sewer Construction Project. This is the second time that OC San has been awarded for this project by ASCE. The award was received by the project consultant, Lee and Ro, who attended on our behalf. ATTACHMENT The following attachment(s) may be viewed on-line at the OC San website (www.ocsan.gov) with the complete agenda package: • Outreach and Media Summary Report - April 2022 • Orange County Register California Water Edition 2022 Orange County Sanitation District Page 3 of 3 Printed on 4/29/2022 powered by LegistarTM Outreach and Media Summary OC j6 SAh ORANGE COUNTY SANITATION DISTRICT April 2022 OC San Public Affairs Office Table of Contents OUTREACH REPORT..................................................................PAGE 1 FACEBOOK POSTINGS ..................................................................PAGE 2 TWITTER POSTINGS ..................................................................PAGE 5 INSTAGRAM POSTINGS...............................................................PAGE 6 LINKEDIN POSTINGS...................................................................PAGE 8 NEWSARTICLES........................................................................................ PAGE 13 Outreach Report April 2022 Date Tours Attendees Tour Guide 04/08/2022 Chair Withers/and Director Gallagher 2 Jim Herberg 04/14/2022 Director Brooke Jones 2 Jim Herberg 04/22/2022 Director Andrew Nguyen 2 Jim Herberg Date Speaking Engagements/Events Attendees Presenter 04/06/2022 Utility Exec Peer to Peer on Large 20 Jim Herberg Scale Battery Storage 04/21/2022 WEF Conference Presentation on *200 Dickie Fernandez Collections System 04/25/2022 Children's Water Festival *6000 Project Area Construction Outreach Notifications #of People Website Posts and Reached Text Alerts Anaheim/ Project Update 1 website alert Buena Park Fountain Valley Project Update 1 website alert Los Alamitos/ Project Update 1 website post/ Seal Beach 1 text alert Westminster Project Update—night work notification 2 website post/ 3 text alert External #of People Communications Distribution Reached 5 Minutes Per One 216 Month Board Member One 50 Talking Points Website Posts 10 posts 423 views Facebook 23 posts 16k reached Twitter 19 tweets 5.2k reached Instagram 17 posts 5.7k reached Linkedln 7 posts 4 k reached *These events have not occurred at time of this report,therefore#of attendees is estimated. 1 Facebook Posts April 2022 Page Overview Discovery Post reach 14,228 Post engagement 606 ® New Page Followers 6 Interactions ® Reactions 159 * Comments 21 A Shares 20 Photo Views 78 R Link Clicks 102 2 Posts Last 90 Days Date OC San has joined other local agencies throughout the Post Reach Engagement county in a California Water supplemental educational insert 27 1 in the OC Register.Click here to view:... Wed,Apr 20 Lets talk about FOG baby,lets talk about Fats and Grease. Post Reach Engagement ls).Just a friendly C San nder that 48 7C t O D NOT be put down OG 11 #FOGClogs SHOULD Tue.Apr 19 Night work starts tomorrow night in City of Westminster. Post Reach Engagement Visit www.ocsan.govlWestminster for details. 550 55 Mon.Apr 18 ,JUKA A lot of our programs are run by volunteers.Our tour guides, Post Reach Engagement public speakers and the team members you see at event 194 16 booths,they're all OC San employees who volunteer their... Sun,Apr 17 There is still time to register for the first series of the Post Reach Engagement Wastewater 101-Citizens Academy.Visit 145 9 ocsan.govlwastewater101 to register. Sat,Apr 16 Shine Bright like a Diamo.....Welder.For Post Reach Engagement #NationalwelderMonth We are showing off our highly 327 43 experienced welders.Check out our stories throughout the... Fri,Apr 15 Congratulations to Raul Cuellar on his promotion to Post Reach Engagement Engineering Manager in the Construction Management 15 38 Division.To learn more about him and his experience visit... Thu,Apr 14 Yay to us for recently receiving the Honor Award for Post Reach Engagement q:A Optimized Odor Control and Cleaning in Sewer System from 365 51 the American Academy of Environmental Engineers and... ANNINP— Wed.Apr 1.3 OC San lab named first California public laboratory to Post Reach Engagement receive accreditation to detect PFAS in wastewater.What 41 16 does that mean for OC San?Visit ocsan.gov to find out. Tue,Apr 17 Teamwork makes the dream work and an essential part of Post Reach Engagement that team are our interns!They come from all sorts of 321 43 educational backgrounds and schools.It just felt right to... Mon,Apr 11 3 Orange County Sanitation District created a class. Post Reach Engagement Mon,Apr 11 0 -' Construction work is coming to the City of Seal Beach.Visit Post Reach Engagement ocsan.govllosalamitos for more info @sealbeachpolice 128 5 Sat,Apr 9 The secret is out!OC San is holding a Virtual Wastewater Post Reach Engagement 101-Citizens Academy and it was made specifically for you. 11720 84 To register for this FREE Academy visit... Fri,Apr R A Special Board of Directors Meeting is happening on March Post Reach Engagement 13 at 4:30 p.m.It will be followed by the Administration 100 8 jistri Committee Meeting at 5 p.m.Click here to view the agenda: :AUFC..,, Thu.Apr 7 Don't get caught flushing wipes down the pipes.Remember Post Reach Engagement that#MomKnowsBest and that only Pee,Poop and Toilet 118 16 Paper belongs in the toilet.#WipesAreTrash#3Ps Wed,Apr 6 Wondering what constructions projects are happening Post Reach Engagement around OC?Visit ocsan.govlconstruction to learn about the 220 3 regional sewer upgrades OC San is working on.... Mon,Apr 4 The Legislative and Public Affairs Committee Meeting is Post Reach Engagement happening on April 11 at 4 p.m,Click here to view the 34 0 agenda: Mon,Apr 4 Starting April right with some action shots of the first grade Post Reach Engagement 40 beam an pile cap concrete pour at the site of our new 246 33 Headquarters Building in Fountain Valley.#OCSanAtWork Fri,Apr 1 The Operations Committee Meeting is happening on April 6 Post Reach Engagement at 5 p.m.Click here to view the agenda: 59 0 Ilstrict Wed,Mar 30 If you're an educator in the area.Check this event out and Post Reach Engagement see how you and your class can get involved. 147 12 Tue,Mar 29 ialHe More OC San career opportunities have been added!Check Post Reach Engagement out ocsan.gov1Jobs to apply.#CareerslnWastewater 841 22 #OCSanJobs ,w Mai 79 The latest and greatest on the Los Alamitos Trunk Sewer Post Reach Fngemonu,nt Project.Construction on Northbound Los Alamitos Blvd.at 116 1 _ Bradbury Rd from 8:30am-5pm.Details at... Fri,Mar 25 Interested in working for a wastewater treatment plant? Post Reach Engagement Apply to one of our open positions at ocsan.govljobs 455 44 o — Thu,Mar 24 4 Twitter Posts April 2022 Account horr, sAN Orange County Sanitation District„rocs-,_� -. Paye 1pdmeu daisy 28 day summary with change over previous period Tweennipressions Profile visits Mentions Followers 20 Tii.ir 5,529 Ta.6% 1,536 T60.7% 9 yto.0% 1,737 Ti Apr 2022•19 days so far... TWEET HIGHLIGHTS Top Tweet earned 1,415 impressions Top mention earned 18 engagements Get your Tweets in front of OC San lab named first California public 374Water more people laboratory to receive accreditation to detect I gyp,-+ Promoted Tweets and content open up your PFAS in wastewater.What does that mean EERmag reach on Twitter to more people. Excellentfeaturewith OCSanD@csENGINrict! for OC San?Visit ocsan.gov to find out. about our work with @OCSanDistrict! pic.twitter.com/p2Hs7Wee5J Inkd.in/dJumh2Rr$SCWO #engineering#scwo#water#pfas L7< V, APR 2022 SUMMARY Tweets Tweel impressions View Tweet 16 4,742 2 Profile visits Mann, Top media Tweet earned 1,172 impressions 1,124 5 Don't get caught flushing wipes down the 0,2 03 916 Remember that pipes. New mllowers View Tweet activity view an Tweet activity and that only Pee,Poop and Toilet Paper _1 belongs in the toilet.#WipesAreTrash#3Ps pic.twitter.com/vf7ZMgfwAQ Top Follower followed by 3B40 people I Jimmy Bernot,PhD*00 I ou •1 Marine Biologist I NSF postdoc @NMNH, @Senckenberg&@NHM London working on View Tweet activity View all Tweet activity crustacean genomics,parasite evolution&copepod taxonomy#Teaminvert he/him View profile 5 Instagram Posts April 2022 ocsandistrict Edit Profile .,S'AN 793 posts 1,259 followers 82 following OC Sanitation District The OC Sanitation District provides wastewater collection,treatment,and recycling for approx 2.6 million people in central&north Orange County. ocsan.gov ®POSTS VIDEOS -SAVE❑ r.TAGGED I.ALIFVKNIA IJ r j • ENGINEERING MANAGER Wastewater , E 11• WING M RAUL CUELLAR ACADEMy Wi OPTIMIZED ODOR CONTROL AND CLEANING �r IN SEWER SYSTEM 101 T i 1 mo ntratla 6 Learn about OC San's • Current and Upcoming WE ARE � Construction Projects! HIRING 4A CONSTNU('7 i PECIALIST(OCEAM MONITORING) w O n2am.- � �MANHOLE WORK STARTING MONDAY,MARCH 28 an�u uuc.n cw w wu�euoic�wru o��o .w.unw Al-.-,nmA serve,vroJ«l ru.cwwn 7 E osts Analytics Last 30 day activity 1 .1 K A 54.7% Search appearances 0 Last 7 days 264 A 13.8% Unique visitors 40 v 13% New followers 6.8K . 15% Post impressions 19 . 26.7% Custom button clicks 8 Orange County Sanitation District SAN OC San has joined other local agencies throughout the county in a California Water supplemental educational insert in the OC Register.Click here to view: https://In kd.i n/gZvSgviQ CALIFORNIA r ORANGE COUNTY 2022 MOM Orange County Sanitation District =� 3.598 followers 3d•(P _MCt*i_M There is still time to register for the first series of the Wastewater 101-Citizens Academy.Visit ocsan.gov/wastewater101 tO register. SA""A V-� • • ens Acam_' SPRI NG 2022 t shop Schedule or uestions E-mail: 9 Orange County Sanitation District ---� 3 598 follower; 3d•® .w�. 374Water 1 G20 follovaer' 5d Excellent feature with Civil+Structural Engineer Media about our work with Orange County Sanitation District! https://Inkd.in/dJumf�`Rr ..:ee Mo r� f . , �. OC San and 374Water Enter into an Agreement to Deploy the First Commercial-Scale AirSCWO System _.e-gineermag.com•2 min read Orange County Sanitation District 5d•� Congratulations to Raul Cuellar on his promotion to Engineering Manager in the Construction Management Division.To learn more about him and his experience visit ocsan.gov ENGINEERING MANAGER RAUL CUELLAR 10 Orange County Sanitation District —= 3 548'cllaaers bd•0 Congrats to OC San for recently receiving the Honor Award for Optimized Odor Control and Cleaning in Sewer System from the American Academy of Environmental Engineers and Scientists.Way to go team! PAN ��. ,• t HONOR AWARD • ACADEMY � 1M1\\IWi\\II�IV I\ra\IIH�•\\rll\71�R' % - OPTIMIZED ODOR CONTROL AND CLEANING IN SEWER SYSTEM Orange County Sanitation District ® _ OC San lab named first California public laboratory to receive accreditation to detect PFAS in wastewater.What does that mean for OC San?Visit ocsan.gov to find out. • ��-: i�j�5i��►ems wit.�� _ ?_�•�..+ 11 Orange County Sanitation District 5H 1;,•m The secret is out!OC San is holding a Virtual Wastewater 101-Citizens Academy and it was made specifically for you.To register for this FREE Academy visit ocsan.gov/wastewater'101 1 � . series that will cover all aspects of OC San including Operations, Budgets,Capital Improvements, i 12 Article Date Resource Link https://www.ocsan.gov/home/showdocument Los Alamitos Newsletter-OC San Construction 25-Mar-22 Los Alamitos Newsletter ?id=32721&t=637860508386088211 https://www.ocsan.gov/home/showdocument The Supervisor's Scoop: Latest Third District News 31-Mar-22 Donald Wagner Newsletter ?id=32635&t=637846568364614967 https://www.ocsan.gov/home/showdocument March Hydrospectives 31-Mar-22 OCWD ?id=32637&t=637846573128752821 https://www.ocsan.gov/home/showdocument Los Alamitos Newsletter-OC San Construction 1-Apr-22 Los Alamitos Newsletter ?id=32719&t=637860508371713169 https://www.waste360.com/sustainability/los- Los Angeles County Sanitation Districts Achieve Carbon angeles-county-sanitation-districts-achieve- Neutrality 13-Apr-22 Waste 360 carbon-neutrality https://www.ocsan.gov/home/showdocument Los Alamitos Newsletter-OC San Construction 13-Apr-22 Los Alamitos Newsletter ?id=32689&t=637854428871184037 https://www.ocsan.gov/home/showdocument ACC-OC Weekly Update 13-Apr-22 ACC-OC Weekly Update ?id=32691&t=637854461211987798 https://www.ocsan.gov/home/showpublished 2022 CA Water OC Edition 21-Apr-22 OC Register document/32701 OC San Announces Wastewater 101-A Virtual Citizen's https://www.ocsan.gov/home/showdocument Academy! 22-Apr-22 ACC-OC WEEKLY UPDATE ?id=32717&t=637860498430775282 https://www.ocsan.gov/home/showdocument CASA Newsletter I 22-Apr-22 CASA Connects ?id=32723&t=637861274670879219 13 CALIFORNIA ORANGE COUNTY 2022 lA a 'LAW ir.. - - '•� 7 ����> 1. 4� :fir � .'tR`r-f., - a�i ly1..��',t �r •.r�l � r ' _ /�� � � ''�• I ILI, - %� '� 1.lly�t ..f ` y •��-'��. 001 jr ON �, i r".�yi ^•+Yet.., .... le R'-;�. 6 laf ,a� l;M�' 'F + � " ,' / ° S. yy — >r.rt.'1 _ - M,.,. y :f,;•r �.:; ,f :ci`i I'i�;` C4�f k' i''''"-; i- �''' ADVERTISING SUPPLEMENT TO THE ORANGE COUNTY REGISTER- PUBLISHED BY CIVIC PUBLICATIONS,INC. - • oThis supplement did not involve the editorial staff of the Orange County Register. SCWC SCAN FOR �� Printed with recycled paper. � DIGITAL EDITION M in v Above,Diamond Valley Lake in Hemet,built by Metropolitan,provides water storage close to home.Water agencies offer turf replacement rebates to encourage residents to plant drought-tolerant landscapes, as shown at right. The Drought Is Back Photos Courtesy of Metropolitan is hard to believe California was facing one of the worst Climate Change droughts in its history just a few years ago.The state has since made tremendous strides in water conservation and supply management. But now the drought is back,and it's Drives Weather Extremes worse than ever. Social scientists use"disaster fatigue"to describe a form of emotional exhaustion that shapes what we do when faced By Elizabeth Smilor with multiple emergencies or disasters.And many researchers Special Sections Writer agree:the past two years have been hard on many Californians with wildfires,drought,and COVID-19. Disaster fatigue may indeed have set in, making it hard for many of us to fully grasp the severity of the drought and take action to save water. other Nature has not been easy on Californians lately. But we must try. I've worked in water for decades,and I have Wildfires have scorched millions of acres, an extended drought is draining our never seen water planners and managers this worried about reservoirs,Sierra snowpack is well below average....and climate change science tells what is on the horizon for our region.With this drought's us it will only get worse. severity,we are starting to see the impacts of climate change Coupled with the pandemic, it's no surprise if helplessness causes us to throw up our hands in in real-time.Saving water now may hold off dire consequences despair when we hear we're not conserving enough water.With water still flowing freely from most in the future. of our taps, it's hard to feel like this drought is severe. But it is. In preparing for this issue, I have been amazed by the The good news is regional water managers, some featured in this section,are preparing for the forward-thinking work done by so many community and water worst-case scenario so that water still flows from your faucet. Gov. Gavin Newsom has asked leaders to help stretch limited supplies through water recycling urban water suppliers to activate level 2 of their water shortage contingency plans,which means and reuse,stormwater capture,groundwater cleanup,and businesses and residents will be asked to take conservation up a notch. desalination.These efforts are critical to building water supply resiliency from the impacts of climate change,earthquakes, "We can't just wait for the rain to come," said Metropolitan Water District of Southern California droughts,aging infrastructure and more.There is much work General Manager Adel Hagekhalil. "What we need to do is take bold,strategic actions today to adapt to be done, but progress is happening. to this future." Your interest in what's happening with Southern California's Drought is defined as a prolonged period of water shortage.This drought has been characterized water supply is greatly appreciated and I hope you will join us as a meteorological, hydrological and agricultural one, meaning the state has had below average in saving water as well as in our efforts to address California's rainfall which has affected streamflow and reservoir levels as well as food production due to a lack of water issues. soil moisture. Please connect with us on Facebook or Instagram,where What makes this drought different?The simple answer is climate change. you'll find us under the username socalwater.We will love to hear from you! Charley Wilson CALIFORNIA WATER I ORANGE COUNTY Executive Director Publisher Sean Fitzgerald is an advertising supplement published by Editor Elizabeth Smilor Civic Publications, Inc. ©2022, owned The Southern California Water Coalition is a nonprofit,nonpartisan public Art Director Christie Robinson and operated by Chris Lancaster. education partnership dedicated to informing Southern Californians about our water needs and our state's water resources. Contributors Elizabeth Smilor For comments or questions, email Sean Fitzgerald at Sean@VoxCivic.com. 2 California Water I Orange County 1 2022 URBAN WATER CONSERVATION a. While urban • • percent of y overall use,it is still important . save every drop. Half of urban water use is for outdoor landscaping,so outside is a good place to start.The state Department of Water Resources is granting Metropolitan$2 million for its regional turf replacement program.Metropolitan offers residents a$2-per-square-foot rebate for lawn 1 v replacement,but • offer more. For indoor use,check for rebates from your water agency for • •w showerheads and toilets, / yl� appliances. S � Other home conservation tips: Check for leaks,inside and out.If your water bill seems high,request a leak audit. 1 Vshorter • uTurn off water while • and shaving. —> Wash only full loads of dishes and clothes,and don't run faucet constantly when hand washing. Water b'l �. �..•r� tut- L. -' -� ra,�` your / often and then only during cool parts of the day. The water years,from Oct. 1 through Sept 30, of 2020 and 2021 were the driest consecutive years on Put a layer of mulch over plants and trees. record for rainfall in California. December storms stirred optimism, but dry conditions returned at the start of this year and as of the end of March nearly all of the state is in severe or extreme drought,according to the The other half of Southern California's water National Integrated Drought Information Center(drought.gov). is locally sourced from stormwater capture, "We are experiencing climate change whiplash in real time with extreme swings between wet and dry groundwater basins and recycled water. conditions.That means adjusting quickly based on the data and the science,"said California Department of Metropolitan built Diamond Valley Lake in Hemet, Water Resources (DWR) Director Karla Nemeth. "While we had hoped for more rain and snow, DWR has which opened in 2003,to create more storage been preparing for a third consecutive year of drought since October. capacity close to home. A recent study published in the journal Nature Climate Change that analyzed tree rings to determine that "That project is saving us with 800,000 acre-feet the American West is in the worst megadrought in 1,200 years,found that human-caused climate change is of storage,"said Hagekhalil of Diamond Valley. "We responsible for about 42 percent of the soil moisture deficit since 2000. need more large projects to store water in wet years "Without climate change,the past 22 years would have probably still been the driest period in 300 years," so it is available." said UCLA geographer Park Williams,the lead author of the study. "But it wouldn't be holding a candle to the Orange County's Groundwater Replenishment megadroughts of the 1500s, 1200s or 1100s." System, a joint collaboration of Orange County Where Southern California's Water Comes From Water District(OCWD)and OC San, is the world's largest water purification system for indirect potable On average,water use in California is 50 percent environmental,40 percent agricultural and 10 percent reuse.The GWRS can produce up to 100 million urban, according to the Public Policy Institute of California. gallons of water per day of near-distilled, high- "While we have made historic investments to protect our communities,economy and ecosystems from quality water. That is enough to meet the needs the worsening drought across the West, it is clear we need to do more,"said Gov. Newsom, in announcing of nearly 850,000 residents in north and central the revised guidelines that could set day or time limits on watering in residential areas and ban watering Orange County. ornamental grass on commercial properties. "Amid climate-driven extremes in weather,we must all continue Water managers agree a reliable water future to do our part and make water conservation a way of life." requires investment in local, regional and state About 30 percent of Southern California's urban water comes from the State Water Project,a system infrastructure, innovation in recycling water, of reservoirs and canals that carry water from Northern California to regional water agencies.Another groundwater protection, storage and conservation. 25 percent is imported from the Colorado River Basin,which supplies water to seven U.S.and Mexican Reaching that future will require cooperation states and 29 federally recognized tribes with approximately 40 million people. Both of these sources are amongst all water users and managers. compromised by record-setting drought. "Metropolitan is what it is because of the "What we're seeing now is a strain on both systems.We haven't seen this before where both the Colorado member agencies,and was created to facilitate River system and the State Water Project are strained,"said Hagekhalil. "It's a wake-up call for all of us." this coordination because no one can do things A cooperative of 26 member agencies, Metropolitan provides more than half the water used by 19 million alone and nobody should. Our strength is in ourcollaboration and our working together,"said people in six Southern California counties.Some areas are more dependent upon water from the State Water Hagekhalil. "My commitment is to continue working Project than others and with both systems under stress, redistribution becomes more difficult. for all our member agencies and make sure no one "The water playbook that we've used for 100 years,can't be used anymore. said Metropolitan's Hagekhalil. is left behind.We take care of our communities and "The new chapter in the playbook is you recycle every drop and store it, and when you have heavy rain,you make sure every community has the water they can move it and put it both underground and above ground." need:" O Civic Publications, Inc. 1 3 r` i Orange County Students Learn the value of Water Through Environmental Literacy 0 ver the past several years,the Municipal Water District of Orange County's of pride,serving their communities and contributing to a green (MWDOC) investment in K-14 water education has grown substantially,evolving economy. Developing new workforce pathways benefits industry to include programs and hands-on learning activities for all Orange County and educational institutions, as well as young students and their students deeply rooted in environmental literacy. Using the local environment future families. as the context for learning, students gain practical knowledge about the world WEEA is sponsored by the Metropolitan Water District of around them by investigating,asking questions, and finding solutions to issues affecting their Southern California, Los Angeles Department of Water& Power, communities. From drought,earthquakes, erosion, and wildfires to aging infrastructure and Moulton Niguel Water District,Water Replenishment District of dwindling resources, leaders of tomorrow become better equipped for the responsibility of Southern California,and the Western Municipal Water District, lifelong environmental and community stewardship and develop the skills needed to find with active support from the California Environmental Education reasonable solutions to real-world problems. Foundation, California Community Colleges,and Big Picture Each year, nearly 70,000 students in grades K-12 participate in the MWDOC Choice School Learning. O Programs presented by Shows That Teach and the Orange County Department of Education's Inside the Outdoors.Through active involvement,students learn about their local water supply sources,the critical need for good water stewardship and conservation,and water providers' challenges each day to deliver clean, safe, reliable water to homes,schools,and businesses. C Orange County water providers opt-in to the MWDOC Choice School Programs to bring dynamic,water-centric learning experiences to K-12 students in their service areas.These programs inspire the county's youngest water users to make thoughtful, informed decisions to protect the natural resources we depend on every day. Programs are offered in-person, online, and a combination of both. Paving the Way for the Next Generation of Water and Energy Workers i In 2020, MWDOC assumed leadership of the Water Energy Education Alliance(WEEA or Alliance).WEEA was formed in 2018 to establish partnerships between education and industry leaders looking to build and strengthen career pathways to water and energy jobs for Southern MWDOC SPEAKERS BUREAU California high school students.The Alliance has grown significantly under MWDOC's Have questions about water?We have answers! leadership. It is now a collation of nearly 60 professional organizations from Los Angeles, Is your community,business,or civic group looking for a keynote speaker Inland Empire, Orange County, and San Diego that include water and energy providers, for your next event?The Municipal Water District of Orange County's departments of education, school districts,colleges,technical trade schools, and more. Speakers Bureau is here for you.Topics may include:where Orange County As California braces for a wave of expected retirements from the last of the Baby water comes from,drought,water supply solutions,water conservation Boomers,WEEA has mobilized to find solutions for the gaps that will be left by the industry programs,education initiatives for Orange County students,and more! professionals that have proudly served California communities for decades.Water workers are For more information visit offered competitive wages,great benefits, and long-term stability and are instilled with a sense www.mwdoc.com/water-education/book-a-speaker/ 4 California Water I Orange County 1 2022 Water Is Life To Keep It Flowing We Must Invest More ater is life.The last few years have only highlighted the `purple pipe,'to brackish water desalination. Still,with climate change and importance of water as increased handwashing and a growing population,we will face regular water shortages without new another extended drought continued to persist in our investments in Southern California water,either imported or local. realities.As we continue to weather the societal and This is why the MWDOC Board of Directors emphatically supports economic impacts of the pandemic and recent global the Doheny Ocean Desalination Project--an undertaking that would events,the rising cost of goods and services poses a challenge for many. create a local and drought-proof water supply utilizing environmentally- Affordability and equitable access to clean water and sanitation for all friendly slant well technology that is fully compliant with the California are encapsulated in the United Nation's Sustainable Development Goals Ocean Plan Desalination Amendment,which is intended to protect the (as SDG 6),and it's a critical priority for water utilities across the state.As beautiful coastline that we all cherish as one of our state's greatest jewels. we continue to realize the impacts of climate change over the years and MWDOC's 2018 Orange County Reliability Study deemed the Doheny make investments to ensure sustainable and reliable water supplies for Project one of the most cost-effective investments to meet system and the future,we are constantly balancing the costs of these investments supply reliability needs.The report prescribes the Doheny Project with with affordability and access to water. the San Juan Watershed Project as the core reliability improvement With the last historic drought in strategy for South Orange County. California, much of our community When it comes to affordability, nothing supplants reinforcing the realized how much of an impact water use conveyance of our supplies from the Delta. About half of the water used efficiency and conservation (particularly throughout Orange County comes from imported supplies. MWDOC's �.. outdoors)can help make a difference.We 2018 Reliability Study designated the Delta Conveyance Project(DCP) -OVA", also recognized how challenging it could the single most cost-effective project for long-term water supply ' be to convey nuanced messaging - while reliability. Some may argue that inflation has eschewed the project's turning off all outdoor watering often did economics;when you consider the economies of scale,the DCP is still the more harm than good, dialing back the most affordable way to ensure water flows reliably throughout the state. outdoor irrigation to avoid overwatering Desalination, recycling, storage, and other local projects are certainly part resulted in positive impacts to reducing of the blueprint for long-term reliability.Without completion of the DCP, runoff while limiting water waste. these options will not guarantee sufficient supplies. At the Municipal Water District of Our future is bright.We will ensure a great future with continued Orange County(MWDOC),we've taken investments into the development of the next generation of water a multi-faceted approach to everything stewards through our education and outreach programs and a sustainable, from public outreach and education to water resource planning.We have reliable,and affordable water supply portfolio that addresses the diverse Ricky the Raindrop,who's been around since the 1970s,to strategic needs and challenges throughout our beloved community.As we say, partnerships across the state to further water education for all ages.We water is life,and as the lifeblood of our provide water use efficiency rebates for residential and commercial water community,economy, and environment, users and even landscape designs that feature beautiful, colorful,and lush it's our most precious resource that we're California native plants that are part of the 806 native species found in committed to protecting and preserving our local biodiversity hotspot. Our team proactively advocates for sound, for generations to come. (D meaningful legislation that aligns with the policy principles set forth Megan Yoo Schneider by our board of directors to ensure high-quality, safe, sustainable,and MWDOC Board President ®OC affordable drinking water for all for now and the future. Division 7 MW Orange County already utilizes a robust portfolio of water supplies from Indirect Potable Reuse(IPR), better known as water recycling or (:Leo Board Members lik VPA a I Al Nederhood Larry D. Dick Robert R. McVicker Karl W.Seckel Sat Tamaribuchi Jeffery M.Thomas Division 1 Division 2 Division 3 Division 4 Division 5 Division 6 Director Director Vice President Director Director Director Civic Publications, Inc. 1 5 The Sites Reservoir Project will be situated on the west side of the Sacramento Valley,approximately 10 miles west of Maxwell,Calif,in Glenn and Colusa Counties. Inset:Existing Infrastructure Fish Screens _ �^ �, ""fir_-�.`�-- _ __ � ^+•mow: _ I 11,z ` `t � , ' .� �: Wit^ n- - r�' 1 }1�r\� J d r •- _ - 1 �( �4 .Y. S *Ites ese rvo i r Is a Solution to7::� California's Megadrought hen it comes to water,California continues to break records, for use during 2021 when we it was badly needed. And a good portion of that and not the kind we like to brag about. water would have been held over for use in 2022 which is an equally bad or According to a recent study by Nature Climate Change, worse water year. the West Coast's drought has worsened so much in one year, In summation,Sites can best be described as an insurance policy.And if the that it is now the driest in at least 1,200 years and is a worst- scientific projections are correct about the impacts of climate change,then case climate change scenario playing out live. In fact, it's being labeled as a having Sites Reservoir will mean we will be able to collect even more water in the "megadrought" reservoir for use during future extended droughts. With January through March 2022 turning out to be the driest months on The Sites Authority is advancing Sites Reservoir because it's needed for the record, many water suppliers are leaning more on their stored water supplies. Sac Valley.And we're proud the project is supported by local water agencies, In many ways,Sites is exactly what a state burdened by droughts and irrigation districts,and municipalities across California.We're also proud to have atmospheric rivers needs.Sites would capture and store water from the the State and Federal government investing in the project.This is a beneficiary Sacramento River during high flows without hurting the river fishery—after all pays project which is how future large water infrastructure will need to be other water rights and regulatory requirements are met— and is made available implemented. Sites would cover the diverse needs of the entire state,and to California's environment, communities, and farms when it's most needed — importantly,the foundation starts with support of local participants right in the especially during times of drought. But Sites Reservoir is just part of the solution proposed project area's backyard. —we can and must utilize all the tools in our toolbox— recycling, conservation, It's critical that we continue to invest in a broad range of solutions to ensure desalination,groundwater replenishment, and more yes, more water storage. a resilient water future,and Sites Reservoir would increase water storage, help Sites Reservoir does not dam any major river.The reservoir would be located alleviate symptoms, and address the impacts of a megadrought. It's time to build off-stream and be situated in the Glenn and Colusa counties. Sites is designed to Sites now. O help the environment, not cause harm.And a large portion of the water saved in Sites is specifically set aside for fisheries and the environment during dry years. f)40J m This is a first of its kind and a model for successful future water management. ' �� If Sites had been in place prior to 2021,we could have captured and stored much of the excess prior years flood flows for use in what was a very dry year, and California would have had an additional 1 million acre-feet of water available www.sitesproject.org 6 California Water I Orange County 1 2022 �r �• r r r ' r r •r r r• t A. 000, mot• � � ! ►- y � .A a F r Bu *ild *inga Fourth Aqueduct to Preserve our Quality of Life he mission of the South Coast Water SCWDupply Portfolio 3. Recycled Water for Landscapes - Committing District(SCWD) is to provide available to significant recycled water infrastructure and affordable water for our customers improvements and potable irrigation site while protecting our environment. Our Doheny Project would provide up to 5 MGD conversions,working toward our goal of reusing magnificent beaches and coastline, 100 percent of our sewage sent to the Coastal combined with what many refer to as the best climate IMG"o„PR,pyR Treatment Plant by 2035. in the world, helps draw two million-plus visitors to I:�ao�\ 4. Potential Indirect or Direct Potable Reuse -The our area annually. SCWD Board is exploring the potential for indirect I W For many decades, Southern California has gotten its �� 2035 RP and direct potable reuse for roughly 20 percent of SUPPLY MIX water from three sources - the Los Angeles Aqueduct I its long-term portfolio. (which serves the City of Los Angeles),the California 5. Groundwater Recovery - Our brackish desalination Aqueduct,and the Colorado River Water Aqueduct. facility can produce up to 15 percent of our total The California and Colorado River Aqueduct serve MIND Imported III Recycled Water a Doherty Ocean Desalination drinking water supply. Southern California and other regions. .Local Groundwater New Water Conservation •IPR/DPR 6. MWD and MWDOC - Continuing our long-time Cities pull in water from the groundwater basin partnership on imported water. managed by OCWD,where it is treated extensively, mixed with Santa Ana River water and further filtered through natural processes. Our proposed ocean desalination facility in Dana Point near Doheny State Thanks to this resource, north and central Orange County receives 75 percent Beach will meet all State Ocean Plan requirements and will provide up to five groundwater and just 25 percent via the Metropolitan Water District(MWD). million gallons per day of local, safe,drought-proof, and high-quality drinking water. Unlike north and central Orange County, south County does not have a true and robust groundwater basin. Hence, roughly 90 percent of south Orange Thanks to bipartisan support,we have received $32.4 million in grants from the County relies on MWD to provide imported water. State and Federal government.We want to thank U.S. Senators Dianne Feinstein and Alex Padilla, Congressmembers Mike Levin and Michelle Steel, State Senator SCWD (and MWDOC) has spent nearly two decades analyzing the feasibility pat Bates,Assemblymembers Cottie Petrie-Norris and Laurie Davies,and of ocean desalination and,after multiple intensive studies and cost analyses, Supervisor Lisa Bartlett for their continued support. the SCWD Board believes a "fourth aqueduct" is how we may best meet our customers' needs. Rather than a physical pipeline,though, it is a combination This"fourth aqueduct"will enable SCWD to continue providing reasonably of efforts to ensure we have an affordable, clean, high-quality, safe,and local priced water during droughts,earthquakes, and other natural disasters. water supply. Preserving our economy and the quality of life we enjoy is a mission we can all share. O SCWD has embraced a one water approach to a diversified water portfolio: 1. Doheny Desal - Our proposed ocean desalination facility is an essential SOUTH COAST element we can and should develop to meet our customers' needs. WATER DISTRICT 2. Conservation - Continued water efficiency levels of roughly 20 percent Partnering With The Community since 2013,the equivalent water use of 3,000 single family homes. Civic Publications, Inc. 1 7 NJ r Mx Fill i/-yU/'�✓ .1 t�- 1 � ..! .. dam, - -i - r _ _ _ ,•�!��m`=,}.�. -K' �...< _ - � ��` �=- � �:\?`�r� .gyp —" SI. - k - _ l �y .III - 2 sc The Headworks facility construction will rehabilitate and replace aging infrastructure at OC San's Plant No.1 in Fountain Valley.The goal of this project is to strengthen the reliability of the infrastructure,increase the lifespan of critical assets and improve plant-wide operations and services. O rangeCountyan * tation iDostr* ctII Renewing our Regional Sewer Infrastructure ith carefully planned and executed projects, the Orange County Sanitation District (OC San) �y is delivering essential wastewater services for today and the future. Our Capital Improvement Program (CIP) is designed to ensure resilient, reliable, and sustainable infrastructure to protect public health and the environment. "Good planning and collaboration enables us to keep our facilities operating without interruption. It is the only way to be successful," said OC San Board Chairman John Withers. "Our staff are highly qualified and knowledgeable.They understand the importance of planning for any eventuality.We are preparing for today, tomorrow and the future to ensure that we are able to continue to provide effective wastewater treatment." 0 OC San provides regional wastewater collection, treatment, and recycling to 2.6 million people within a 480-square mile service area in central and northwest Orange County. OC San's two resource recovery and "Good planning and wastewater treatment facilities, located collaboration enables in Fountain Valley and Huntington Beach, "OC San has been dedicated to our mission to us to keep our facilities treat an average daily wastewater flow protect public health and the environment for operating without of more than 180 million gallons per day _ over 65 years.As we look into the future and p g lion. It is the only from three separate sources— residential, move forward with our projects, we remain interruption. y commercial, and industrial.The majority of steadfast in our focus on ensuring innovative, way to be successful." sustainable, and reliable service for our this treated water is recycled by our partners John Withers the Orange County Water District through generation and those to come." OC San Board Chairman the Groundwater Replenishment System, James D. Herberg which uses advanced treatment processes OC San General Manager to treat the water creating a new, reliable, 8 California Water I Orange County 1 2022 high-quality source of water.The remainder of the treated wastewater is safely released to the Pacific Ocean five miles offshore. Ten Year Capital Improvement Program INVESTING IN THE FUTURE ional LA OC San Ensuring reliable wastewater collection, SewerProjects HABRA BREA S°,"' 'a" a treatment and recycling requires sound ange infrastructure.The CIP is OC San's long-term Anaheim YORBA ounty program to maintain and upgrade its Buena Park FULLE ON LIINDA \ infrastructure including the vast network of Costa Mesa PLAC NTIA pipelines, pump stations and treatment facilities. Cypress UENA OC San's CIP is engineered to provide reliable Fountain Valley PAL A PARK wastewater collection, treatment, and recycling FullertonANAHEIIII services operating 24 hours per day, 365 days Huntington CYP E S r—� PARR per year.The CIP is reviewed annually to validate -' - LOS ANT N /� and prioritize projects that will move forward. ALANIIT _ ARDLos ORANGE As many of OC San's existing facilities near the NewAla _ort Beach RO end of their useful lives,the main driver for many Orange SEAL Till STER of the CIP projects today is rehabilitation and BEAC replacement. Over$5.8 billion of CIP spending is Placentia �— SAN A projected over the next 20 years. Santa Ana UNIAI AN TUSTIN Seal Beach ALL Despite the pandemic, OC San issued $475 Stanton million of construction contracts for more than Tustin HUN INc 20 capital projects during fiscal year 2020-21. Villa Park B H IRVINE The activities addressed a range of projects, Westminster COST' MESA with notable efforts on finalizing designs for PROJECT START YEAR c s..�e«.- significant multi-year construction projects such 5.- � Curcent Projects a Srooi, as the Headworks Rehabilitation (pictured to 2022-2026 5 NEWPORT the left),which is a six-year project focused on immommi 2027-2032 BEACH upgrading major components of the wastewater ZentNo.1(Pi) treatment process. Plant No 2(P2) Construction also began on our new Administrative Headquarters Complex across the OC San maintains 388 miles of regional pipelines in the collection system and 15 pump stations. street from Plant No. 1 in Fountain Valley.This Construction activities include manhole repairs and replacement, upgrades at our two treatment facilities in will allow various administrative staff dispersed Huntington Beach and Fountain Valley, pipeline repairs and replacement,and upgrades to pump stations. throughout the Fountain Valley facility to come together in a centralized location.Ten aging buildings and temporary trailers will be demolished, preserving space for future wastewater infrastructure.The three-story office building will We Want to Work With You include an educational center, public lobby, surface parking, and pedestrian bridge connecting the new building to Plant No. 1 across the street in OC San is dedicated to serving the Fountain Valley.The new building is slated for Leadership in Energy and residents and businesses in our Environmental Design (LEED) Gold certification. " : communities,and this extends to In addition to upgrades at our two plants, members of our community contracting with local vendors. Have will notice construction in the streets.As part of the rehabilitation of the a company that might fill our needs? Western Regional Sewers, the Orange-Western Sub-Trunk& Los Alamitos Join o at one of our upcoming `;, Vendor Workshops. Trunk Sewer Rehabilitation will continue in the cities of Anaheim, Buena Park, Cypress, Los Alamitos, Seal Beach, and the unincorporated area of = - All workshops are —�� .. Tuesdays at 10 a.m. Rossmoor. Over eight miles of pipelines and 100 manholes will be either -- rehabilitated or replaced. O =- - • Maintenance Services: May 3 • Professional Services, Goods, -JC! 6SAN and Supplies:July 12 • Construction Services: Sept. 13 . Maintenance Services: Nov.8 ORANGE COUNTY SANITATION DISTRICT Interested in doing business with OC San go to: www.ocsan.gov I @ManDistrict www.ocsan.gov/doingbusiness ® © � To learn more about OC San's CIP go to: www.ocsan.gov/construction Civic Publications, Inc. 1 9 Y =1 •it Creaflng a Resilient, Local Water Supply Santa Margarita Water District to Build Its First Drinking Water Treatment Plant s Santa Margarita Water District's service area and population grows, it is expanding and improving local By Elizabeth Smilor water supply and resiliency. Special Sections Writer In the past year,the District completed the annexation of the city of San Juan Capistrano's water and sewer utility that includes the San Juan Groundwater Plant, began filling Orange County's largest recycled water reservoir at Trampas Canyon,and is ready to construct its first drinking water treatment plant,the Ranch Water Filtration Plant. "When we tie the Ranch Filtration Plant into Trampas Reservoir, it will take water that would have otherwise been used once and lost to the ocean and put it back to beneficial use multiple times," said General Manager Dan Ferons. "If we're going to import water from Northern California or from the Colorado River,we feel it's very important to use it as many times as we can gee► The District serves about 200,000 residents in Mission Viejo, Rancho Santa Margarita,San Juan Capistrano, / Coto de Caza,Wagon Wheel, Las Flores,Talega, Ladera Ranch,and Rancho Mission Viejo. It currently provides customers with roughly 9.8 billion gallons of drinking water per year,about five percent comes from the San Juan Groundwater Plant;the rest is imported. It recycles about 2.8 billion gallons of wastewater per year for irrigation, construction, and other uses. t:. The District's board of directors set a goal to diversify its water supply by 2030 by accomplishing three objectives: create a local drinking water supply; recycle 100 percent of its wastewater; and establish a six-month supply of "if we're going to import drinking water stored in the service area for an emergency. water from Northern On the recycled water front,the District has put about 326 million gallons of recycled water into Trampas Reservoir since it was dedicated in October 2020.The reservoir has a storage capacity of 1.6 billion gallons of recycled water- California or from the enough to fill 2,500 Olympic-size swimming pools. Colorado River, we feel it's "Trampas real) is an important piece in our water supply portfolio.The whole idea is to fill it and empty it as man p Y� p p ppYp p Y Y very important to use it as times in a year as we can and put recycled water in there when it's not needed for irrigation," Ferons said. "It really many times as we can." is a great accomplishment of the District to have not only Trampas, but Upper Oso and Portola reservoirs,where we Dan Ferons can store recycled water and draw it down when it's needed." SMWD General Manager The San Juan Groundwater Plant on San Juan Creek(which the District acquired with the annexation of San Juan Capistrano's water utility), currently provides about five percent of the District's potable water demand.Work has begun to optimize the plant and double its production.The Ranch Filtration Plant will treat groundwater from the 10 California Water I Orange County 1 2022 r At left,Trampas Canyon Reservoir was dedicated in October 2020 and began filling with recycled water last year. It is now at about one-fifth its capacity.Above,officials celebrate the annexation of the San Juan Capistrano water and sewer utility in November 2021. Santa Margarita Water District's Waterworks Garden,at right,shows residents and businesses drought-tolerant landscape designs and irrigation methods. San Juan Basin to supply some 1.6 billion gallons of drinking water per year to The other way local actions make a difference is through water use efficiency customers at full buildout.Additional infiltration and recharge basins along San and conservation.To give customers an idea of what's possible for efficient Juan Creek will bring the District to its goal of local water supply for indoor use. landscaping,the District has a demonstration garden at its headquarters with "The Ranch Filtration Plant is going to double our local capacity,"said Deputy different styles of drought-tolerant landscaping, plants,and irrigation methods on General Manager Don Bunts. "In an all-out emergency we will ask our customers display.The District team meets with customers to offer advice on specific things not to irrigate anything, but they will have the indoor water they need.We're a they can do in and around their homes that will save water both indoors and out. third of the way there. Everything we build,the better off we are., The District is also working with developers to create water-wise landscaping and water-efficient homes. The ongoing drought has made Santa Margarita's efforts that much more important and timely. "We have a lot of new growth in our area, but water demand is not going up proportionally with the population," said Bunts. In fact,said Ferons, current water "The public is aware of the drought situation and is more receptive to long-term use is less than it was 10 years ago despite the growth. projects,"said Bunts. "As we're seeing continual drought,they are looking to us to make sure we're demonstrating that we're doing all we can to keep the water Santa Margarita Water District is proud of its investments in water resilience flowing." and sustainability and will work to continue to provide a safe, reliable water supply to the growing south Orange County area. O While the District focuses on local needs, Ferons pointed out how projects benefit the region and state as well. "During normal times,we'll still be operating `iarIta Ma12got2ita this new filtration plant and that will free up imported water that can go to a Wote>a Distrzict disadvantaged community or into regional storage," Ferons said. • too The Water Festival is Back! A free, family-friendly water awareness event that includes: bus tours of Orange County's largest recycled water reservoir, Trampas Canyon; walks through the Waterworks Garden to learn . ` 40 about drought-friendly plants and garden designs; information 40 from garden professionals, water experts, and dozens of exhibitors; I /� children's activities; live music; food trucks and more. WHEN: Saturday, May 7 from 10 a.m. to 1 p.m. ' WHERE: SMWD Headquarters at the corner of I � Oso Parkway and Antonio Parkway(26111 Antonio) For more information,go to www.smwd.com/Fest►val Civic Publications, Inc. 11 10 TOP TIPS incredibleSoulleirn California is home to many industry. Read about 10 inspiring women working in California water today FROM FEMALE who offer started.when they LEADERS Their reflections on their careers,their support advice ATER _ member IN WCoalition Board o . several also chair or co-chairforces. PATTY CORTEZ ALLISON FEBBO Patty Cortez, Mayor for City of Covina, SCWC board For Allison Febbo, the general manager of the Mojave member, and co-chair of the SCWC Legislative Task Water Agency, inspiration to pursue a career in water Force, encourages new professionals to learn as started with the female role models throughout her _ much as they can and not be afraid to ask questions. life. "I had a science teacher in high school who went She reflected on moments at the beginning of her /�-� out of her way to acknowledge and support my interest career when she was intimidated by others'titles and and abilities in the subject," said Febbo,who also 4b expertise. "Over time, I found that the water industry _ chairs SCWC's Delta Issues Task Force. "And later, a is a very supportive community across all levels," said i college professor and scientist guided my development Cortez. "I wish I had taken those early moments to ask and was a great role model." More recently, Febbo questions and increase my knowledge in the field." was encouraged by a colleague at the Mojave Water Cortez herself brings tremendous expertise and experience that benefits Agency. "Laura King Moon,the assistant general manager of State Water the water field, including a background in public relations,work as a district Contractors, made regular efforts to advise and support me through my staffer for a member of Congress, and public affairs and legislative project career development,"added Febbo. management for an energy utility. She considers herself fortunate to have been motivated by several influential "I truly believe every position I had prepared me to be where I am today," women throughout her education and career and hopes to do the same for said Cortez. "My background helped me realize that my passion was working young women looking to enter the water industry today. I would advise in government and communicating to the public.Thankfully I have been young women to expose themselves to as many networking,training, and fortunate enough to combine the two into my position today." leadership experiences as possible throughout their career, including finding a trusted mentor to help with guidance and advice," said Febbo. "Find a comfortable work/life balance.We must develop and honor ourselves as HEATHER DYER whole individuals to make sustained contributions to water." Looking back on the beginning of her career, Heather Dyer, the CEO and general manager of the San Bernardino Valley Municipal Water District, never CAROL LEE GONZALES-BRADY ..�. imagined that the to job at a water district was in g p 1 Carol Lee Gonzales-Brady,the Board President of her professional future. "I am an endangered species the Rancho California Water District and co-chair biologist by training," said Dyer. "If I could give myself , of SCWC's Legislative Task Force,was inspired by advice when I was new to the water industry, it would prominent water rights attorney and Laguna Beach be to take off your blinders and let yourself imagine r County Water District Commissioner Susan Trager to what is possible and what path you might take." pursue and persist in her work in the water industry. "I Dyer discovered that her skill set was applicable across had the honor and pleasure of counting her as a dear many aspects of her work throughout her career. "At the beginning, I never friend for years," said Gonzales-Brady. fully understood my ,`why.' My why is complex problem solving to make the When one is just starting out in their career, it can be world a better place. I wish I had figured that out earlier."She encourages easy to get caught up with worries about what other young women just entering their field to figure out their"why,"too. "That will people think. But the best advice that she'd give those starting out is to not drive your future to do work that you love." to try too hard to please everyone. "There will always be those who may not like you or may even work against you for a variety of reasons," said Gonzales- Brady. "But respect is more important than popularity, so make sure you focus on producing high-quality work." SANDY KERL JANICE RUTHERFORD Sandy Kerl, general manager of the San Diego County Janice Rutherford, SCWC Board Chair and the Second Water Authority and chair of SCWC's Colorado River District Supervisor of the County of San Bernardino, is Task Force, found inspiration from a female water continually inspired by women's hard work, expertise, veteran of her district who pioneered innovation. "' and contributions to the water sector. Her shoutout "Maureen Stapleton, SDCWA's retired general is to Debby Cherney,who served as the Eastern manager, helped to create water reliability through Municipal Water District's Deputy General Manager. innovation and creativity in the San Diego region that "Debby impresses me with her work ethic as well as had never been done before and is standing the test her desire to expand her knowledge of policy and of time during this historic drought in California:' It's ,} government iss es,"said Rutherford. "She is dedicated these dynamic approaches that Kerl hopes to see more :r to helping other women succeed in their career paths, women bringing to the future of water. and I admire her commitment to excellence in public As one who spent her entire career in public service, starting as an intern and service." working her way up, Kerl knows a thing or two about professional growth and development. "Avail yourself to all opportunities to learn and engage," Kerl KATHYJ.TIEGS advised all newcomers to the water industry. "Seize opportunities to attend Kathy J.Tiegs, former SCWC Board Chair and longtime webinars,training, conferences, mentorships, and new assignments for which director of Cucamonga Valley Water District,was you will have to stretch to achieve the desired outcome." motivated by another strong leader in water. "Pat ss Mulroy, the retired general manager of Southern JOONE KIM-LOPEZ ` Nevada Water Authority, inspired me throughout my As a former police officer,Joone Kim-Lopez is unafraid l career," said Tiegs. "In a male-dominated industry, she to stand up for those who can't speak for themselves. encouraged women to get involved in water issues and "I can't sit by and see injustice,"said Kim-Lopez,who pursue leadership and elected positions. I am forever n is now the general manager of the Moulton Niguel = grateful to Ms. Mulroy for the example she set in Water District. "I hope that women will be more '" blazing the path for women in the water industry." impactful in establishing justice because when you talk Tiegs also had a welcoming statement for young women entering the water about diversity and inclusion,what it comes down to industry. "You are the next generation of women water leaders to protect our is justice. She hopes that her leadership will continue most vital resource:water, said Tiegs. The water industry provides you with to inspire regional inclusion efforts and keep moving the opportunity to achieve your long-term goals, take on leadership roles, water in the direction of equity. work with a diverse multidisciplinary group of professionals, meet interesting There were many women in water that Kim-Lopez looked up to when she people, influence collaboration and outcomes, and most importantly, have entered the public leadership. "Environmentalist Frances Spivy-Weber, your voice heard as more and more women get involved in water issues." Orange County-based water leaders Cathy Green and Pam Tobin, and San Bernardino County-based water leader Kathy Tiegs all spoke up and stuck up for others," said Kim-Lopez. "I admired that." She went on to articulate EUNICE ULLOA IF.9 her hope for the water industry's future to include more perspectives from Mayor Eunice Ulloa of the City of Chino grew up in different backgrounds. "We have the ability to make things better for the � �d;ti� the hub of the citrus and dairy industry, making her keen) aware of the importance of water from a young people of California," said Kim-Lopez. "Find your calling. Get involved in your a y p community." � i+, age.When she served as the executive director of the Chino Basin Water Conservation District, she was 0 excited to see many young women entering the water KRIS MURRAY ; industry. Kris Murray, Chair of the Santa Ana Regional Water Ulloa,who has served on the Chino City Council Quality Control Board and president of KLM Strategies, r. - ` I a women-owned consulting firm advancing sustainable since 1984, recounted a time that she felt re inspired by one of her hires: I hired a young woman with a projects, encourages women's involvement in the t doctorate in Water Science and Management to lead our education programs. water industry. "Women are still underrepresented r Her passion for her work, her knowledge and understanding of the science despite many rewarding career paths within the water of water, and the art of educating others about water were infectious. Her industry," said Murray. She recommends that women y energy and creativity in teaching students about water by getting them out entering the sector identify mentors to guide them and in the field, experiencing the complexity firsthand, and passing along those to join associations and industry groups that will help skills to educators were exciting and inspiring.When she spoke,you could see them develop their skills, broaden their contacts, and lightbulbs turning on in the room. I think that for those of us who have been open opportunities for leadership. in the water industry a long time, it is important to look at the issues from "The future of water must include a comprehensive focus on the nexus new perspectives." between climate change, sustainability of our natural resources,water quality and supply," said Murray,who also chairs SCWC's Water Energy Efficiency Task Force. "I look forward to watching women in water innovate new ways to resolve these issues and secure the long-term resiliency of our industry! SCWC / Matte `r ater . '• • "Scwc HEAR FROM TOP WATER LEADERS Alt EPISODES III �!�•i��Sr�.��•�rj��i s•i �� Ili.:�::• :•!!t�i!�!!I(,, V 1t(t(t(tltii` (l Sri1/I:1 l#114 /Ir 11 r 1/1 VIVA alas ■t/II l/rl t/I IS11 oaf A i�i��t►y� y�i�a�Vls ■tuuunurrul Adel • _ • General Manager, • •�,"1�L'a"�> iiiil .t`.��Z, L`�L►i�i�i�L iiiiA+ Metropolitan Water District PAP Joaquin E • Chair, • Water Director,:41 Resources Control Board, and Karla • • . Dept. of r Water Resources Public Policy Instituteof California; Ajami, then with Stanford Water Faith Kearns, author, Getting to • of Science Communications #4 1 Senator • • Assemblyman Eduardo Garcia • 1 Martha Guzman, head of Pacific Southwest; fellow, Stanford Water in the West www.socalwater.org/podcast/ anywhere • podcasts 14 California Water I Orange County 1 2022 Southern California Voices _ t � c Need to Be Heard on - Water nves men t�r R �^ 40;4 ! � y� - r�^c•.»a:<. \"fit__`.�a r .!C s the state of California continues to experience drought conditions, Rdbulld SoCal water infrastructure investment has become a top priority for many Partnership organizations. The Southern California Water Coalition is just one of the groups that has SCV � called on state leaders to use budget surplus funds to invest in additional WATER K water infrastructure. SCWC has joined with eleven other organizations to call for more funding for projects that will help to increase local and regional water supply _ t development, fix aging infrastructure, improve water quality and investment in new and existing water storage projects. The coalition has also called for investment in water recycling and reuse projects that �� INDUSTRIAL p pp Y g p Mojave A 5 S 0ONME 1 0 N will help to stretch our limited supplies b allowing us to use each drop of water more � IEA A 5 f 0 C I A T I • N than once. With the right investment, these organizations hope that California can Water P/"'i iifthe l�nironmefi g g p PrtnrrtinR the Environment begin to address its chronic water woes. Agency • Local and regional water resilience investments - $2.5 billion o Large-scale regional water recycling ( o Investments in local recycled water projects (ill I ORANGE COUNTY o Investments in additional local and regional water supply ,,NIKI,ll� BUSINESS COUNCIL development and water use efficiency initiatives The Leading Voice of Business • State Water Project subsidence repairs - $585 million �Z Los Angeles County SOUTHERN CALIFORNIA • Treatment for drinking water constituents of emerging ed Business Federation LEADERSHIP COUNCIL concern - $500 million 5,T•9, ,�,^• •e,.•.,�..5.�• . • Water storage - $1 billion o Supplemental funding for Proposition 1 surface and groundwater storage projects s o Investments in dam safety projects 0 o Investments in groundwater storage and related infrastructure Civic Publications, Inc. 1 15 yy 1= bewatervAse.conf o - ration LEGISLATIVE AND PUBLIC AFFAIRS Ad10844t Ellis Avenuueg SAN COMMITTEE Fountain Valley, 92708 (714)593-743433 ORANGE COUNTY SANITATION DISTRICT Agenda Report File #: 2022-2296 Agenda Date: 5/9/2022 Agenda Item No: 3. FROM: James D. Herberg, General Manager SUBJECT: PUBLIC AFFAIRS STRATEGIC PLAN FOR FISCAL YEARS 2020-2022 YEAR-END REPORT GENERAL MANAGER'S RECOMMENDATION RECOMMENDATION: Recommend to the Board of Directors to: Receive and file the Public Affairs Strategic Plan for Fiscal Years 2020 - 2022 Year-End Report. BACKGROUND The Orange County Sanitation District's (OC San) Public Affairs Office is responsible for creating, organizing, and disseminating all internal and external communication. The primary objective of the Public Affairs team is to deliver messages that are accurate, transparent, and designed to foster trust and confidence. Results from the Communications Audit presented in March 2020 were used in the development of the Strategic Plan. The Communications Audit helped clarify the path moving forward and identify opportunities for the Public Affairs Office to explore. An integrated Public Affairs Strategic Plan is essential to effectively manage the variety of audiences served. RELEVANT STANDARDS • Build brand, trust, and support with policy makers and community leaders • Maintain collaborative and cooperative relationships with regulators, stakeholders, and neighboring communities • Make it easy for people to understand OC San's roles and value to the community • Maintain influential legislative advocacy and a public outreach program PROBLEM There are various initiatives and messages that the Public Affairs Office must share with internal and external stakeholders for the continued operation and efficiency of OC San. The messaging must be consistent, concise, and thoroughly planned to be efficient and effective. PROPOSED SOLUTION The current Public Affairs Strategic Plan includes goals, objectives, strategies, and tactics to execute the various messages and efforts set forth by OC San. The two-year plan will be completed in June Orange County Sanitation District Page 1 of 2 Printed on 5/2/2022 powered by LegistarTM File #: 2022-2296 Agenda Date: 5/9/2022 Agenda Item No: 3. 2022, with updates that have been provided to the Legislative and Public Affairs Committee every six months since adoption in July 2020. PRIOR COMMITTEE/BOARD ACTIONS February 2022 - Received and filed the Public Affairs Strategic Plan for Fiscal Year 2020-2022 Mid- Year Update. July 2021 - Received and filed the Public Affairs Strategic Plan for Fiscal Years 2020-2022 Year End Update. February 2021 - Received and filed the Public Affairs Strategic Plan for Fiscal Years 2020-2022 Mid- Year Update. July 2020 - Approved the Public Affairs Strategic Plan for Fiscal Years 2020-2022. ADDITIONAL INFORMATION Year-End Public Affairs Highlights (July 2021 - April 2022): • Launched the OC San Connection Newsletter - published three electronic newsletters. • Partnered with the Heritage Museum of Orange County to develop virtual content for local schools and content for in-person tours. • Developed the Organizational Advocacy and Outreach Policy for inclusion in OC San's 2021 Strategic Plan. • Over 550 internal posts on The San Box. • Hosted 23 tours. • 89 website posts. • 10 speaking engagements reaching over 6,000 people. • Received four awards. • Over 371 posts on multiple social media platforms. • Distributed four Outreach Toolkits to OC San's Member Agencies to help with OC San messaging. • Distributed 16 construction notifications reaching nearly 74,000 people. • Updated the 2022 Legislative & Regulatory Plan. • Published the OC San Annual Report FINANCIAL CONSIDERATIONS All items included in the Public Affairs Strategic Plan FY 2020-2022 are included in the FY 2020-2022 Budget. ATTACHMENT The following attachment(s) may be viewed on-line at the OC San website (www.ocsan.gov) with the complete agenda package: • Public Affairs Strategic Plan FY 2020-2022 • Presentation Orange County Sanitation District Page 2 of 2 Printed on 5/2/2022 powered by LegistarTM MEN No NONE PUBLIC AFFAIRS RATEuIC P I A N Fiscal Years 2020-21 and 2021 -2022 Introduction The Orange County Sanitation District's (OCSD) Public Affairs Office (PAO) is responsible for creating, organizing, and disseminating all internal and external communication. The primary objective of our Public Affairs team is to deliver messages that are accurate, transparent, and designed to foster public trust and confidence. An integrated Public Affairs Strategic Plan is essential to deal effectively with the variety of audiences we serve. The Public Affairs staff provides services and tools and implements programs to meet the communication needs of several audiences for OCSD. This includes planning and implementing media relations; website and intranet site content; construction outreach; elected officials, and government relations; internal communications, education, and outreach; and graphic development. The Public Affairs Office has created a Strategic Plan for Fiscal Years 2020 - 2022. This Plan is developed based upon the principles of OCSD's Mission of protecting public health and the environment and will support the implementation of OCSD's Strategic Plan. This Plan offers a vision to unify our communication efforts and focus resources to achieve the greatest impact and greatest results. This plan was created amidst the COVID-19 pandemic thus resulting in modifications to the goals and objectives. Much of what is planned and created by this group is based on external factors and therefore outside of our control. The Public Affairs Office will follow the guidance set forth by Management and the Board of Directors to carry out OCSD's messaging and support our member agencies. Background Information The Orange County Sanitation District represents 20 cities, 4 special districts and a portion of the unincorporated County of Orange. This area represents a community of 2.6 million people with approximately 550,000 customer accounts. Unlike most public agencies where there is direct contact with customers, at the Orange County Sanitation District, billing occurs through the County of Orange property tax bills. Therefore, the Sanitation District, must work through other means to communicate with the public and the rate payers. We have a 25-member Board of Directors, and over 600 employees within six departments with various goals and objectives. While these groups work independently on a variety of projects, the goal of the Public Affairs Office is to provide support and messaging that is consistent throughout the agency so that we are one voice, representing the same overall goals, and portraying the same brand. 1 While there are many challenges with serving such a large and diverse customer base, there are also great opportunities working through the strategies laid out in this Plan. Public Affairs Team The division is staffed with six full-time employees and overseen by the Manager. Jennifer Cabral, Administration Manager Daisy Covarrubias, Principal Public Affairs Specialist Rebecca Long, Senior Public Affairs Specialist Kelly Newell, Public Affairs Specialist Belen Carrillo, Public Affairs Specialist Gregg Deterding, Graphics Designer Cheryl Scott, Administrative Assistant Each of these staff members carry out specific functions to meet the communication goals and objectives laid out in this Plan. Situation Analysis • There is a global pandemic occurring which has shifted the way we operate and perform our mission of protecting public health and the environment. As we learn to navigate the recovery phase and move into new social distancing norms, our communication efforts will be modified accordingly to meet the needs of the agency, community, and workforce. • Due to COVID-19, close to 50 percent of staff is working remotely. The uncertainty of the pandemic creates unknown future work conditions for staff. These circumstances impact the ability and method of communicating and reaching employees, thus alternative communication techniques must be explored and implemented. • OCSD is in the third year of a five-year rate program, with a scheduled 1.2 percent increase in fees to take effect July 1. Due to the economic impacts of COVID-19 the rate increase for Fiscal Year 2020-2021 will be delayed with no significant financial impacts to OCSD operations. • There could potentially be a significant turnover of board members in 2020. Succession management and onboarding for the board members is critical for the success of this agency. 2 • During the COVID-19 pandemic, OCSD has sustained its operational, planning, and preparation efforts to ensure there is no lapse in service today or in the future. As an essential service, OCSD has continued to execute the Capital Improvement Program (CIP) to keep the regional projects on schedule that are enhancing our entire service area. In Fiscal Year 2020-2021 OCSD is on track to bid and issue $500 million of construction contracts for over 35 projects. Mission The Public Affairs Office is committed to communicating information about OCSD in a timely, accurate and accessible way to the employees, the Board of Directors, our member agencies, the public, and the news media. • We are committed to open, honest, clear, and respectful two-way communication with our audiences. • We are dedicated to informing others about how OCSD serves the public and protects the environment. • We are committed to outstanding customer service by responding to requests quickly and efficiently. • We are dedicated to teamwork and collaboration as well as being creative and taking the initiative to be out in front of issues. Audiences This Public Affairs Plan focuses largely on four primary audiences. • Internal o Board of Directors o Executive Management Team o Employees o Retirees • The Public o Ratepayers o Member Agencies o Residents, Businesses, Commuters Impacted by OCSD Construction o OCSD Neighbors in Fountain Valley and Huntington Beach o Schools and Students o Tour Groups 3 • Industry o Water/Wastewater Agencies o Trade Organizations o Trade Media • Influential Public o Local, State, and Federal Elected Officials o Environmental Groups o Local Media Agency Key Messages • OCSD is committed to protecting public health and the environment by providing effective wastewater collection, treatment, and recycling. • OCSD is more than a wastewater treatment facility, we are a resource recovery facility making use of all our byproducts. • OCSD is dedicated to exceeding wastewater quality standards used for resource recovery. • OCSD is committed to proper planning to ensure that the public's money is wisely spent. • OCSD's assets are monitored and evaluated regularly to ensure top performance and timely replacement. • OCSD values communicating our mission and strategies with those we serve and all other stakeholders. • OCSD will provide reliable, responsive, and affordable services in line with our customer needs and expectations is a top priority for OCSD. • OCSD focuses on creating the best possible workforce where safety, productivity, customer service, and training are a top priority. • OCSD has worked very hard to create an integrated planning environment which begins with the expectations of its Board of Directors and flows down to the work product of each employee. We have worked hard to assure our staff members are communicating and providing transparent services to each other in support of the plan. 4 • OCSD has developed an integrated Planning/Asset Management system that allows for intentional, thoughtful decision making to maintain current operations while adding resilience and meeting new challenges. • OCSD has an organizational structure with informal relationships between employees that allow for collaboration toward common goals. Public Affairs' Goals for Fiscal Year 2020/21 and 2021/22 1. Optimize communication with our internal audience including those operating in the field with limited time to access online communication. 2. Continue to build OCSD's reputation as infrastructure leaders in the wastewater and resource recovery industry. 3. Cultivate relationships with traditional and social media journalists and influencers to promote OCSD's programs and initiatives. 4. Enhance OCSD's image and branding by utilizing proper messaging in external communication pieces such as OCSD's website, presentation, digital media, and advertising. Maintain a positive experience and image for our visitors. 5. Identify and implement avenues for education and outreach within OCSD's service area to further promote OCSD as a resource recovery agency, promote OCSD's mission and promote career opportunities within the wastewater industry. 6. Develop and implement outreach programs that will engage the communities affected by OCSD construction projects. 7. Participate in proactive engagement in legislative advocacy efforts that could impact OCSD and the wastewater industry. 8. Monitor, track, and apply for grants available and that make business sense to OCSD. 9. Ensure that local elected officials, member agencies, stakeholders, and OCSD Board Members are actively engaged in the work of OCSD. 10. Ensure the Public Affairs Office serves as the primary spokesperson for OCSD during normal business and crisis scenarios and facilitates the dissemination of information. 11. Ensure the General Manager and Assistant General Managers are supported with information necessary to communicate to the varied OCSD audiences. To achieve these goals, the Public Affairs Office presents the following strategies and tactics, along with the primary staff assigned to that area. While individual staff members are the key contacts for each of the goals, the team works collectively and collaboratively, reflecting our core values. Our staff recognizes the key role we play at OCSD, not only communicating 5 information, but also teaching and consulting others and serving as a resource to our Board of Directors, employees, the wastewater industry, and our member agencies. As we navigate through the pandemic recovery efforts, the team will follow this plan, and make necessary modifications to effectively communicate OCSD's strategic direction. Flexibility is implemented into this plan to deal with the dynamic situation we are all in. Public Affairs Strategies and Tactics 1. Category: Employee Communications Program Manager: Rebecca Long, Program Coordinator/Support: Kelly Newell, Belen Carrillo, Gregg Deterding, and Cheryl Scott Goal (what): Optimize communication with our internal audience including those operating in the field with limited time to access online communication. Objective (measure): Create employee engagement by utilizing the identified communication methods to share agency wide messages. Increase the availability of employee communications by five percent based on previous plan's goals. Strategy (why): We value open and honest communication with our employees. PAO is committed to various efforts aimed at keeping OCSD employees informed about important topics, increasing the overall quality of communications to our employees while tying the business aspects of the agency with the human-interest side. Tactics (how): • Keep information on MyOCSD homepage current, relevant, and useful for OCSD employees by working with the various Departments to gather information that should be shared. • On a regular basis, staff will continue to support various departments with their communication and outreach needs. • PAO will produce six Pipeline newsletters per year with a goal of circulation by the third week of the publication month. • PAO will track Volunteer Incentive Program (VIP) points for all participating employees and coordinate the VIP appreciation celebration. • Create employee recognition and celebratory events throughout the year that comply with new social distancing guidelines, may include small in-person gatherings and virtual events. To include but not limited to the Annual Holiday Lunch, the Harvest Festival, and VIP Celebration, etc. 6 • Continue with the Honor Walk program which acknowledges retired staff and past Board Members for their contribution to OCSD. The recognition event will be hosted every other year starting in 2021. • Write and coordinate the 3 Things to Know email blast to be distributed to all staff each Monday. • Produce monthly Digester bulletin. • Coordinate and produce two Town Hall meetings (live and/or pre-recorded) to keep employees informed and engaged. • Host organizational awareness lunch-n-learns monthly to keep staff informed about agency programs and initiatives. • Research and identify an agency-wide digital message system to provide messages in staff areas across both plants and the Mt. Langley office space. Implementation to occur in Fiscal Year 2021-2022. 2. Category: Industry Experts Program Manager: Daisy Covarrubias Program Coordinator/Support: Kelly Newell, Gregg Deterding, and Cheryl Scott Goal (what): Establish and solidify OCSD's reputation as infrastructure leaders in the wastewater and resource recovery industry. Objective (measurable): Increase participation in strategic organizations through conferences, networking activities and awards by five percent. Strategy (why): To build positive public perception and confidence among our various audiences. Tactics (how): • Encourage participation and presentation in conferences. • Encourage and support award application submittals. • Publicize and coordinate award acceptance logistics. • Track all awards won by OCSD by keeping a master list. • Track and promote staff abstract's and publications. 3. Category: Media Relations Program Managers: Daisy Covarrubias and Rebecca Long Program Coordinators: Kelly Newell, Belen Carrillo, Gregg Deterding, and Cheryl Scott 7 Goal (what): Cultivate relationships with traditional and social media journalists and influencers. Objective (measurement): Increase media coverage with positive stories about OCSD. Strategy (why): While a presence in the community is important to putting a face on our agency, media (traditional and social) is equally important with a broader reach and a more direct line of communication. Tactics (how): • Annually update media list to stay current and fresh. • Develop a press kit to be online and interactive. • Build a calendar of news release topics of interest to the public and stakeholders. • Invite media for a facility tour (virtual or small group). • Develop media strategies for important events, decisions, or actions. e.g. CIP Campaign (see details in Category 6: Capital and Maintenance Outreach) • Conduct media training for Board leadership, EMT and key staff members. • Generate weekly (3-5 times) social media posts about the good things happening at OCSD with focus on OCSD's accomplishments and mission. • Continue with social media campaigns #OCSDatWork, #What2Flush, and those currently supporting ongoing efforts. 4. Category: Agency Branding and Messaging Program Manager: Daisy Covarrubias Program Coordinators/Support: Gregg Deterding, Kelly Newell, and Cheryl Scott Goal (what): Enhance OCSD's image and branding by utilizing proper messaging in external communication pieces such as OCSD's website, presentations, digital media and advertising, which includes maintaining a positive experience for OCSD visitors. Objective (measure): Launch a rebranding campaign for a new logo and a modified name over the next two fiscal years. Update collateral material, signage, website, social media accounts, and promotional material as appropriate and as it is used. Include in messaging that OCSD's official name remains Orange County Sanitation District. Maintain the lobby(s) current and informative with relevant information, i.e. displays, awards case, etc. Strategy (why): A cohesive voice, message, look, and feel are critical to the public perception that an organization holds with its community. A positive and pleasant in-person experience reinforces OCSD's culture and Core Values as well as showcasing OCSD as industry leaders, and a well-run organization, leaving behind the stigma of typical government agencies. 8 Tactics (how): • Update and maintain the corporate identity manual to provide guidance on use of the logo, name, use of fonts, and graphics. • Keep website current with informative news stories posted weekly. • Provide presentations, consultation, and advice on the branding and image of OCSD. • Develop new key messages focused on new branding logo and name. • Develop new collateral materials around the key messages. • Incorporate OCSD's messaging and branding into all external presentations. • Explore advertising options to inform public of agency efforts and role in economic development. • Fulfill all requests for graphics, photos, and logos. • Conduct second phase of community poll to determine name recognition and reach. • Develop an online community newsletter for digital distribution within our service area to increase awareness of OCSD, our programs, and initiatives. • Develop a branding plan for the new Headquarters Building. • Maintain the lobby wall in the Administration Building at Plant No. 1 and the Operations Center at Plant No. 2 with OCSD's current branding and messaging. • Rotate flags on light poles along Street Parkway on a biennial basis. • Keep the award display cabinet up to date by rotating awards. • Keep the retiree display in the Administration Building hallway up to date. On an annual basis collect the names of the retirees and update the display board. • Maintain and coordinate the installation of Honor Walk bricks on a biennial basis. • Display collateral material in a neatly and organized manner displayed with current and relevant information. S. Category: Educational Outreach Program Manager: Rebecca Long Program Coordinators/Support: Kelly Newell, Belen Carrillo, Gregg Deterding, and Cheryl Scott Goal (what): Identify and implement avenues for education and outreach within OCSD's service area to promote OCSD's mission and vision. Objective (measurement): Create and identify new educational opportunities including virtual events and webinars to promote and educate the community on OCSD's work and the essential service provided. Strategies (why): To further promote OCSD as a resource recovery agency, promote OCSD's mission and promote career opportunities within the wastewater industry. 9 Tactics (how): • Execute the Inside the Outdoors contract for Fiscal Year 2020-2021 to continue OCSD's educational program including the Sewer Science program to 500 students within Orange County and introduce them to OCSD's pilot virtual tour program. • Implement virtual tour program in lieu of physical tours of the plant which are temporarily suspended due to COVID-19. An estimated 1,000 participants will take part in the virtual tour program per year. • Evaluate the participation of community events due to COVID-19 restrictions. Once events are rescheduled within OCSD's service area, participation will be evaluated to determine safety for staff, and overall impact and reach. • Continue to encourage and promote the Volunteer Incentive Program to have a pool of staff that volunteer for events and speaking engagements that OCSD participates in. • Expand OCSD's speaker's bureau to provide a wider set of speakers available. • Create a Public Service Announcement (PSA) Contest—work with local colleges and high schools in our service area to create a promotional PSA for OCSD on a biennial basis. Obtain a minimum of 20 individual and/or group entries. • Implement a Wastewater 101 Academy for our ratepayers, fellow agencies, and influential public to showcase OCSD operations and initiatives. Host a minimum of four (4) sessions per cycle. • Research and obtain a Mobile Educational Unit utilize at public events that helps generate greater understanding of the wastewater process and OCSD's messaging. 6. Category: Capital and Maintenance Outreach Program Managers: Daisy Covarrubias and Tanya Chong from Engineering, Program Coordinators/Support: Belen Carrillo, Kelly Newell, Gregg Deterding, and Cheryl Scott Goal (what): Develop and implement outreach programs that will engage the communities affected by OCSD construction projects. Objective (measurement): Develop, implement, and provide outreach support for over 20 capital projects scheduled to break ground in fiscal years 2020/2021 and 2021/2022 within 12 cities. Strategy (why): Form a positive presence in the community prior to the start of construction projects or maintenance activities that is personal and proactive. Provide impacted community with information ahead of construction activities. Inform them of the benefits and need for the project to gain support and understanding of the necessary construction. 10 Tactics (how): • Proactively offer briefings and community meetings to impacted neighborhoods, civic groups, businesses, schools, churches, and other institutions within the project area on an as needed basis. • Launch CIP Campaign to highlight the efforts of the program and the financial contributions to the local economy. • Explore the option of placing advertising pieces in communities/areas impacted by construction. • Respond to inquiries within a 24-hour period. • Provide project description and notifications to impacted residents at least two weeks before construction begins. • Update collateral materials, fact sheets and website with current construction information on an as needed basis. • Maintain ongoing communications with city staff and Board Members on current and upcoming construction outreach projects in affected cities. • Maintain ongoing communications with impacted residents within the project area through collateral material (e.g., flyers, door hangers, emails, text alerts, social media posts, etc.). • Measure customer satisfaction through a construction outreach survey to be distributed at the close of construction programs. 7. Category: Legislative Affairs Program Manager: Rebecca Long Program Coordinator/Support: Kelly Newell, Gregg Deterding, and Cheryl Scott Goal (what): Proactive engagement in legislative advocacy efforts that could impact OCSD and the wastewater industry. Objective (measure): Continue positive relationships with local, state, and federal officials through facility tours, meetings, and bill tracking as stated in the Legislative Plan. Strategy (why): Legislative advocacy is an important aspect of our business. Having relationships and being actively involved, providing input and OCSD's perspective on potential legislature can and does directly affect OCSD and our business. The Public Affairs Office is responsible for executing the Board approved Legislative Plan, which is updated on an annual basis. In addition, staff is responsible for tracking state and federal legislation, managing the Sanitation District's legislative advocates, and seeking appropriations and grants. 11 Tactics (how): • Develop and implement Annual Legislative Plan in the second quarter of each fiscal year. • Track bills and maintain a priority list of key legislation. • Provide regular updates to the Legislative and Public Affairs Committee on state and federal matters. • Host legislative tours. • Engage in Advocacy Days in Sacramento and Washington DC twice a year. • Take positions on bills that could affect OCSD or the industry. • Work with industry organizations on state and federal issues to ensure OCSD's positions are communicated. • Partner with industry organizations to co-host virtual events and activities. • Manage the legislative advocates' contracts and facilitate regular communication between lobbyists, staff, and the Board of Directors. 8. Category: Grants Coordination Program Manager: Rebecca Long Program Coordinator/Support: Kelly Newell, Gregg Deterding, and Cheryl Scott Goal (what): Monitor, track, and apply for grants available to OCSD. Objective (measure): Apply and obtain grants for qualified OCSD projects and programs. Strategy (why): Outside funding is important in moving OCSD projects and programs forward. With ongoing attention to government spending, it is vital for OCSD to apply for and secure grants to offset costs when available. Tactics (how): • Apply for two grants a year based on availability. • Develop Grant Policy during fiscal year 2020-2021. • Research grant opportunities and report out to the Legislative and Public Affairs Committee. • Seek appropriations and grants and provide support to other divisions seeking grant funding. • Secure letters of support. • Publicize grant awards received. • Create and measure outcomes. 12 9. Category: Local Government Affairs Program Manager: Daisy Covarrubias Program Coordinators/Support: All PAO staff Goal (what): Ensure that local elected officials, member agencies, stakeholders, and OCSD Board Members are actively engaged in the work of OCSD. Objective (measure): Provide at least two communication tools per month. Strategy (why): Keeping OCSD's influential public engaged in OCSD's projects and accomplishments are critical to the support and success of our agency. Tactics (how): • Provide Board of Director's with speaking points following every OCSD board meeting that can be used when reporting back to their respective councils and community groups. • Facilitate an orientation for new Board members. • Develop and keep a current list of monthly informational presentations. • Maintain an informational presentation video library for the Board of Directors on key agency topics. • Provide regular reports to the Legislative and Public Affairs Committee. • Develop OCSD's Annual Report. • Publish a Five Minutes Per Month, each month. • Coordinate presentations to each member agency. • Participate in government affairs committees. • Invite new council members within OCSD's service area to take a tour of OCSD. • Create and distribute quarterly outreach tool kits for member agency PIOs to help them easily share and disseminate information about OCSD. • Host a "State of the District" event for influential leaders throughout the infrastructure and water/wastewater industry, including virtual option. 10. Category: Crisis Management Program Manager: Rebecca Long Program Coordinators/Support: All PAO Staff Goal: Ensure the Public Affairs Office serves as the primary spokesperson for OCSD during normal business and crisis scenarios and facilitates the dissemination of information. 13 Objective: Ensure that the PIOs in the PAO can respond in a crisis. Provide a crisis communication training course every two years by an outside consultant and an annual refresher course by staff. Strategy: It is imperative during a crisis that OCSD be proactive and provide clear and effective messaging to employees, public, and the media. Tactics (how): • Maintain an updated crisis communication plan including regular briefings with staff to identify possible issues and responses. • Maintain and update PAO's Continuity of Operations Plan (COOP). • Work with Risk and Safety Management on Public Affair's role in an emergency, including our role via the Integrated Emergency Response Plan. • Ensure proper procedures are in place for Board, employees, and public notification. • Maintain updated contact lists for resource, member, and partnering agencies to coordinate and assist during crisis. • Develop protocols on everyday PAO tasks to facilitate the operations of the group in a time of crisis. 11. Category: General Manager Support Program Manager: Daisy Covarrubias Program Coordinators/Support: All PAO Staff Goal: Ensure the General Manager and Assistant General Managers are supported with information necessary to communicate to the varied OCSD audiences. Objective: Develop monthly communication pieces on behalf of the General Manager. Ensure General Manager (or designee) is participating and involved in promoting OCSD's initiatives. Strategy: Collaborate with the General Manager to prepare communication and messaging that reflects the mission and vision of OCSD. Tactics (how): • Assist the General Manager and the Assistant General Managers with keeping the Board Members informed and up to date with OCSD activities. • Assist in the development of the General Manager's Monthly Report. • Develop talking points for Board and Committee meetings. • Develop material and speaking points for presentations and speaking engagements. • Support the development of the OCSD Strategic Plan. • Assist in the development of the General Managers Annual Work Plan. 14 • Manage Ask the GM questions submitted. • Coordinate and support VIP tours guided by General Manager and Assistant General Managers. Closing Comments This plan is a broad outline of the Public Affairs Office program. As new issues arise, new functions and duties will evolve as well. The role of the Public Affairs Office is to stay ahead of issues, be responsive and flexible to meet the needs of the agency. We will adjust our program accordingly. Appendix A. Highlights of Performance Results from Fiscal Years 2018/2019 -2019/2020 B. Public Affairs Portfolio Fiscal Year 2019/2020 15 Appendix A: Highlights of Performance Results from FY 2018/2019 and 2019/2020 • Over 75 construction outreach pieces distributed regarding specific CIP projects reaching over 155,0000 people • 800 internal communications publications: 3 Things to know email, Digester, Pipeline and MyOCSD • 11 internal events • 18 published news releases • Over 30 articles mentioning and/or focusing on OCSD • 1,350 Social Media posts reaching over 400,000 people • 85 Website posts • 17 Community Events reaching nearly 12,000 people • 54 Speaking Engagements (8 career days) • 283 Tours reaching approximately 4,534 guests • 1,700 students reached via Sewer Science Program • 22 Agency Awards Received • 2 State of the District events reaching 215 guests • 2 grants were successfully applied for and received totaling $42,000 for Headquarters Project and Tour Signage • 40 legislative bills monitored and tracked • 4 Federal Position letters and 12 State Position letters issued • Governor agreed with 2 of our bills/positions: o SB 212: Jackson. Solid waste: pharmaceutical and sharps waste stewardship. o SB 1440: Hueso. Energy: biomethane: biomethane procurement New Tactics Introduced • Member Agency Outreach Toolkit • Board Member Speaking Points • Virtual Town Hall • Orange County Polling • Communications Audit • Paid Advertisement— OC Register Water Insert • Regional Outreach Program (CIP) • Tour signage 16 Q Aublic Affairs Division o 1 :44 Ellis Avenue • • Fountain Valley, CA 92708 9o��cT�N6 ENv�Po���= THE 5/2/2022 Public Affairs Year-End Report July 2021 - April 2022 �-- Ui Dui III 1 Public Affairs Staff Jennifer Cabral,Administration Manager • Daisy Covarrubias,Principal Public Affairs Specialist • Rebecca Long,Senior Public Affairs Specialist • Kelly Newell,Public Affairs Specialist • Belen Carrillo,Public Affairs Specialist • Gregg Deterding,Graphic Designer • Cheryl Scott,Administrative Assistant • Interns Extension of Our Team • Tanya Chong,Principal Staff Analyst(Engineering) • Jennifer Wein,Staff Analyst(Engineering) • VIPs 2 1 5/2/2022 PAO Strategic Plan Year-End Update (July 2021 — April 2022) EMPLOYEES EXPERTS MEDIA BRANDING EDUCATION s p '°•`" MA 614 10 speaking 4 press release OC San logo—cont. communication engagements 56 articles 89 website post 23 virtual tours pieces 6 awards 533 social media 3 Community Heritage Museum posts Newsletters WW 101 Video Library 3 PAO Strategic Plan Year-End Update (July 2021 — April 2022) CONSTRUCTION LEGISLATIVE GRANTS GOVT AFFAIRS CRISIS GM SUPPORT ® ■ (��IiDii�iiiii ME o®off ��I 16 Printed Monitoring Annual Report COVID Response 10 GM Monthly Notification 6 Federal Letters 3 Outreach Toolkits Memo 74,000 people 10 State Letters 10 Board Member GM Work Plan reached Speaking Points Strategic Plan 35 web updates 2 Vendor Workshops 4 4 2 5/2/2022 Recommendation Recommend to the Board of Directors to: • Receive and File the Public Affairs Strategic Plan for Fiscal Years 2020- 2022 Year-End Report 5 Questi • 6 3 ration LEGISLATIVE AND PUBLIC AFFAIRS Ad10844t Ellis Avenuueg SAN COMMITTEE Fountain Valley, 92708 (714)593-743433 ORANGE COUNTY SANITATION DISTRICT Agenda Report File #: 2022-2281 Agenda Date: 5/9/2022 Agenda Item No: 4. FROM: James D. Herberg, General Manager SUBJECT: LEGISLATIVE AFFAIRS UPDATE FOR THE MONTH OF APRIL 2022 GENERAL MANAGER'S RECOMMENDATION RECOMMENDATION: Recommend to the Board of Directors to: Receive and file the Legislative Affairs Update for the month of April 2022. BACKGROUND The Orange County Sanitation District's (OC San) legislative affairs program includes advocating OC San's legislative interests; sponsoring legislation (where appropriate); and seeking Local, State, and Federal funding for projects and programs. Staff will provide an update on recent legislative and grant activities. RELEVANT STANDARDS • Maintain influential legislative advocacy and a public outreach program • Build brand, trust, and support with policy makers and community leaders • Maintain collaborative and cooperative relationships with regulators, stakeholders, and neighboring communities PROBLEM Without a strong advocacy program, elected officials may not be aware of OC San's mission, programs, and projects and how they could be impacted by proposed legislation. PROPOSED SOLUTION Continue to work with Local, State, and Federal officials to advocate OC San's legislative interests. Help to create/monitor legislation and grants that would benefit OC San, the wastewater industry, and the community as a whole. To assist in our relationship building activities, we will continue to reach out to our elected officials providing facility tours, one-on-one meetings, and trips to Washington D.C. and Sacramento. Orange County Sanitation District Page 1 of 2 Printed on 5/2/2022 powered by LegistarTM File #: 2022-2281 Agenda Date: 5/9/2022 Agenda Item No: 4. RAMIFICATIONS OF NOT TAKING ACTION If we do not work with Local, State, and Federal elected officials, legislation could be passed that negatively affects OC San and the wastewater industry as a whole. Additionally, a lack of engagement may result in missed funding opportunities. ADDITIONAL INFORMATION FEDERAL: • The United States Environmental Protection Agency (USEPA) continues to move forward with its rulemaking effort to designate Per- and Polyfluoroalkyl Substances (PFAS) under Superfund. Under the Comprehensive Environmental Response, Compensation, and Liability Act (CERCLA), PFAS is pending final review within the Administration. It is thought that during the month of April/May a proposal could be published in the Federal Register seeking to list PFAS as hazardous. • The Administration has submitted its FY 2023 budget request to Congress. The USEPA request is at a record level of funding at $11.3 billion. Within the request is $4 billion for the State Revolving Loan Fund (SRF) program and $200 million to support the agency's ongoing PFAS regulatory roadmap. STATE: • The month of March saw amendments to hundreds of bills, the introduction of numerous legislative proposals with major budget impacts, and the Legislature returning to its full pace as it works to consider the 2,115 bills introduced during the 2022 legislative session. • February marked the deadline for new bill vehicle introductions, it did not mark the deadline for new legislative language. Assembly and Senate leadership set hard mid-late March deadlines for major amendments and amendments to "spot" legislation to be submitted. The month of March featured hundreds of major amendments to existing legislation, many of which completely altered the scope and intent of the previous versions. ATTACHMENT The following attachment(s) may be viewed on-line at the OC San website (www.ocsan.gov) with the complete agenda package: • ENS Resources Legislative Update • Federal Legislative Matrix - ENS Resources • Presentation - ENS Legislative Update • Townsend Public Affairs (TPA) Legislative Update • State Legislative Matrix - TPA • Presentation - TPA Legislative Update • Grant Matrix 2022 Orange County Sanitation District Page 2 of 2 Printed on 5/2/2022 powered by LegistarTM Ll �V RESOURCES TO: Rebecca Long FROM: Eric Sapirstein DATE: April 15, 2022 SUBJECT: Washington Update The past month of congressional actions centered on budget matters and preparing for mark up of a Water Resources Development Act of 2022 in both the House and Senate. The markup is anticipated in May. Because of the Easter and Passover Recess, Congress is out of session for the latter half of the month. • Fiscal Year 2023 Budget Request The Administration transmitted its FY 2023 budget request to Congress. The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency request is notable for the record level of funding at$11.3 billion. Within the request is $4 billion for the State Revolving Loan Fund (SRF) program and $200 million to support the agency's ongoing PFAS regulatory roadmap. Notably the proposed increase would support the priority to increase the number of enforcement officials at the agency by at least 100 staff. The request set in motion consideration of Community Project requests by Member offices. OC San submitted a request for such assistance to those Orange County Congressional Delegation Members that are supporting such requests (Steel, Lowenthal, Kim, Correa). Assuming that the request is approved, the Members will submit the project request to the Committees on Appropriations for consideration and incorporation into any final fiscal year spending bill. Any final decisions are unlikely before late fall. • Environmental Equity Plan Issued by USEPA Administrator Regan As part of the Administration's effort to target federal resources and polices to disadvantaged and underserved communities,Administrator Regan released a plan of action to ensure that the agency's internal operations align with the White House's Justice 40 Initiative. 1 This initiative seeks to ensure that 40 percent of federal infrastructure investments'benefits support such communities. The plan would direct the agency to take actions to support enhanced community engagement and projects,work with other federal agencies, and generally improve communications on how the initiative will improve environmental equity. The plan can be found at: https:[/www.epa.gov/environmentaljustice/equity-action-plan • PFAS Legislation to Address Cleanups and Liability Senate action on legislation that would mandate new controls on PFAS, and any related site cleanups remains to be scheduled in the Senate Committee on Environment and Public Works. The expectation that a draft bill would be available in the past several weeks has failed to be realized. In part,this is attributable to opposition to imposing CERCLA (Superfund) liability for PFAS contamination. Instead, efforts are being made to develop an approach that would focus on increased funding of research and treatment technologies to ensure that the appropriate science-based approaches are designed and that cleanup technologies are available. However, at the same time, United States Environmental Protection Agency (USEPA) continues to move forward with its rulemaking effort to designate PFAS under Superfund. Currently, a proposal to designate PFAS under CERCLA is pending final review within the Administration. It is speculated that within weeks, a proposal could be published in the Federal Register seeking to list PFAS as hazardous. Should this occur, pressure may increase upon Congress to take action to place a legislative hold on the effort. The basis of such possible action is a desire for further data to support the protection of public health from PFAS threats as well as the consequences of potential Superfund liability being imposed on wastewater agencies that might have wastewaters or biosolids containing such chemicals. 2 Oc6SAN ORANGE COUNTY SANITATION DISTRICT Federal Legislative Report - April 2022 BiLLs Bill Id US S 3956 Location United States Title WIPPESAct Summary Directs Federal Trade Commission to require manufacturers to print"Do Not Flush" labels on non-flushable wipes product packaging and mirrors Labeling requirements that are Law in California. It also directs U.S. Environmental Protection Agency to establish a grants program to assist states, utilities, non- profits, and public-private partnerships in education and outreach activities to educate ratepayers on the new label and proper disposal methods.The bill includes a preemption clause requiring states to enact identical labeling practices for covered products. Bill is the companion legislation to House bill H.R. 4602. Status Introduced Last Action Read twice and referred to the Committee on Commerce, Science, and Transportation.. March 30, 2022 Bill Id US HR 6591 Location United States Title PIPES Act Summary Codifies International Water Services Flushability Group's "(PAS)101: 2020 Criteria for Recognition as a Fuushable Product" and require wipes manufacturers to demonstrate and certify with the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (USEPA) that their wipes product(s) comply with the criteria to be able to market the wipes as "flushable" and/or"sewer and septic safe" The PIPES Act is complementary to the WIPPES Act (HR 4602) that requires wipes manufacturers to label synthetic wet wipes as "Do Not Flush" Status Introduced Last Action Referred to the House Committee on Energy and Commerce.. February 03, 2022 Priority High Position Support Bill Id US HR 3684 2of10 Location United States Title Infrastructure Investment and Jobs Act Summary Comprehensive infrastructure investment package that provides the biggest infusion of U.S. federal spending on infrastructure in decades, including $55 billion for water infrastructure.The bill also includes a Western Water Infrastructure Title to address U.S. Bureau of Reclamation water infrastructure funding programs. Enacted into law on November 15, 2021. Became Public Law No: 117-58. Status Passed Last Action Became Public Law No: 117-58.. November 15, 2021 Priority High Position Monitor Bill Id US HR 1917 Location United States Title Hazard Eligibility and Local Projects Act Summary $540 million for the Hazard Mitigation Grant (HMG) program; $249 million for the Predisaster Mitigation (PDM) program; and, $175 million for the Flood Mitigation Assistance (FMA) program. Would expedite the approval of grants for certain property acquisition and relocation projects that are funded by those programs.The bill would require FEMA to approve grants for all applications submitted under those programs —including those submitted after January 1, 2016—if a project satisfies the following two conditions: The project is for acquisition or relocation of a vulnerable property, regardless of whether the applicant initiated planning or construction before or after applying for assistance; and The project is exempt from environmental review requirements under the National Environmental Policy Act (NEPA). Status Considering Last Action Received in the Senate and Read twice and referred to the Committee on Homeland Security and Governmental Affairs.. November 15, 2021 Priority High Position Monitor 3of10 Bill Id US HR 4443 Location United States Title COMPOSTAct Summary Creates a new Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) administered grant program for state, local, tribal, and territorial governments and for nonprofits, which would offer three types of grants: planning grants, measurement grants, and reduction grants. Program would be authorized at $200 million for each of the Fiscal years 2021-2031. Status Introduced Last Action Referred to the Subcommittee on Conservation and Forestry..August 11, 2021 Position Monitor Bill Id US HR 4602 Location United States Title WIPPESAct Summary Pulled out of the Break Free From Plastic Pollution Act. Not later than 2 years after enactment, directs FTC, with consultation from U.S. Environmental- Protection Agency (USEPA), to require manufacturers of single-use wet wipes print a "Do Not Flush" label notice on wipes product packaging. Below is a summary of the WIPPES Act's key provisions: - Not later than 2 years after date of enactment, the Federal Trade Commission (FTC), in consultation with USEPA, will issue regulations to require wipes manufacturers to print clear and visible "Do Not Flush" label notices on non-flushable wet wipes product packaging. - Prohibition on the representation or marketing of flushable attributes, performance, or efficacy benefits for non-flushable wipes products. - FTC may bring penalty fines of not more than $2,500 for each day a manufacturer Fails to comply with Labeling requirements.Total fine amount may not exceed $100,000 for a single violation. - FTC wiLL develop guidance for manufacturers to conduct education and outreach campaigns on new Labeling requirements and provide consumers with the Following information: presence of the new LabeL notice on product packaging,what products have the new Label notice, intended effects of Label notice on consumer behavior regarding the disposal of the products, and outreach may not promote, advocate, or depict wipes other than the wipes products defined by Legislation. Status Introduced Last Action Referred to the Subcommittee on Consumer Protection and Commerce..JuLy 4of10 22, 2021 Priority High Position Support Bill Id US HR 2467 Location United States Title PFAS Action Act of 2021 Summary Addresses the public health and environmental risks posed by PFAS contamination, including addressing, monitoring, and treating for PFAS contamination in water supplies. Includes directive for USEPA to designate PFOA and PFOS as hazardous substances under CERCLA, also known as Superfund law, within one year after enactment of the bill and within five years determine whether to designate all PFAS substances as hazardous under CERCLA.Also includes other regulatory measures to detect, monitor, and treat for PFAS in water supplies. Status Considering Last Action Received in the Senate and Read twice and referred to the Committee on Environment and Public Works..July 22, 2021 Priority High Position Oppose Bill Id US HR 3622 Location United States Title Clean Water Standards for PFAS Act of 2021 Summary Require the U.S.Environmental Protection Agency (USEPA) to develop effluent limitations guidelines and standards and water quality criteria for PEAS under the Federal Water Pollution Control Act and authorize $200 million in Federal grants to publicly owned treatment works to implement such guidelines and standards. Specifically, the Clean Water Standards for PFAS Act would do the Following: • Require USEPA to develop water quality criteria under the Clean Water Act for all measurable PFAS chemicals within two years of bill's enactment and develop effluent limitations guidelines and standards for all measurable PFAS chemicals within four years, including establishing pretreatment standards to prevent introduction of PFAS into POTWs and stopping PFAS at the source prior to contaminating municipal water systems. Identifies nine priority industry categories of industries that USEPA must 5of10 establish standards for. • Authorizes $200 million in grants per year through Fiscal years 2022-2026 to assist POTWs with implementation of developed Limitations and standards. Status Introduced Last Action Referred to the Subcommittee on Water Resources and Environment..June 01, 2021 Priority High Position Monitor Bill Id US S 1907 Location United States Title Clean Water Standards for PFAS Act of 2021 Summary Companion bill to H.R. 3622.The bill would require the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (USEPA) to develop effluent limitations guidelines and standards and water quality criteria for PFAS under the FederaL Water Pollution Control Act and provide Federal grants to publicly owned treatment works to implement such guidelines and standards. SpecificaLLy, the Clean Water Standards for PFAS Act would do the Following: • Require USEPA to develop water quality criteria under the Clean Water Act for all measurable PFAS chemicals within two years of bill's enactment and develop effluent limitations guidelines and standards for all measurable PFAS chemicals within four years, including establishing pretreatment standards to prevent introduction of PFAS into POTWs and stopping PFAS at the source prior to contaminating municipal water systems. • Identifies nine priority industry categories of industries that USEPA must establish standards for. • Authorizes $200 million in grants per year through Fiscal years 2022-2026 to assist POTWs with implementation of developed Limitations and standards. Status Introduced Last Action Read twice and referred to the Committee on Environment and Public Works.. May 27, 2021 Priority High Position Monitor Bill Id US HR 3404 Location United States 6of10 Title FUTURE Western Water Infrastructure and Drought Resiliency Act Summary The FUTURE Western Water Act is a comprehensive package that aims to address western water infrastructure and drought response needs, including: infrastructure development, improved technology and data, waterjob training and education, and ecosystem protection and restoration.Among the Provisions, the Legislation includes provisions from Water Recycling Investment and Improvement Act(H.R. 1015),which increases the authorization Level, for the Title XVI program to $500 million From the current $50 million. CASA supports H.R. 1015.The biWs the four major policy components. - Infrastructure Development: authorizes $750 million For sustainable, multi- benefit water storage projects, authorizes $500 million for water recycling and reuse projects, authorizes $260 million for innovative water desalination projects, and establishes process to authorize new major water storage projects owned or supported by USD01. - Improved Technology and Data: invests in water data and technology to improve water management and reducing energy and water waste - types of investments include expanded water technology "X-Prize" to support new stream gages and the development and deployment of emerging technologies to help manage and improve water supply availability. -Water Job Training and Education: Federal support for water education activities, collaborative water management efforts and training, and professional development support for water sector workforce. - Ecosystem Protection and Restoration:To reverse fish and wildlife species decline, eligible measures include new voluntary incentives for farmers to provide waterbird habitats, expanded watershed health project funding, support wildlife refuges, multi-benefit water storage projects that provide benefits for water supply and wildlife, and improved drought planning efforts to protect biodiversity. Status Introduced Last Action Referred to the Subcommittee on Water Resources and Environment.. May 21, 2021 Priority High Position Support Bill Id US HR 1563 Location United States Title To extend the authorities under the Water Infrastructure Improvements For the Nation Act of 2016 providing operational Flexibility, drought relief, and other benefits to the State of California. 7of10 Status Introduced Last Action Referred to the Subcommittee on Water, Oceans, and Wildlife..April 21, 2021 Priority High Position Oppose Bill Id US HR 2238 Location United States Title Break Free From Plastic Pollution Act of 2021 Summary Would reduce plastic production, increase recycling, and protect Frontline and fenceline communities from the burden of toxic emissions from plastic waste by changing the incentives of the industry.The bill shifts the burden of cleanup to the corporations that produced the plastics.Would direct the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (USEPA) to establish regulations to require covered manufacturers, as defined by the bill, to print clear and visible "Do Not Flush" labeling notice on product packaging. Eligible labeling protocol mirrors the protocols outlined in the state bill.As with the state bill, the "Do Not Flush" symbol is defined by the INDA and EDANA Guidelines for Assessing the Flushability of Disposable Nonwoven Products (Edition 4; May 2018). BFFPPA addresses pollution caused by microfibers from textiles and general microplastics through the water waste stream.The bill would establish a new grants program to support projects that reduce microfiber pollution through either improving industry and manufacturing best practices to reduce the generation of textile-based microfiber pollution or improve the Filtration technology for textile-based microfiber pollution in washing machines and at wastewater treatment plants.The bill does not define an authorization amount for the program. The legislation would also create a separate USEPA pilot program to study the efficacy and cost effectiveness of tools, technologies, and techniques used to remove and prevent the release of microplastics into the environment. Under the program, studies will be conducted to test natural and green infrastructure, and mechanical removal systems and Filtration technologies. The bill identifies eligible locations to carry out testing studies to include wastewater treatment Facilities, stormwater systems, and drinking water systems.The bill does not define an authorization amount for this new pilot program. Status Introduced Last Action Referred to the Subcommittee on Environment and Climate Change.. March 29, 2021 8of10 Priority High Position Support Bill Id US S 984 Location United States Title Break Free From Plastic Pollution Act of 2021 Summary Would reduce plastic production, increase recycling, and protect Frontline and fenceline communities from the burden of toxic emissions from plastic waste by changing the incentives of the industry.The bill shifts the burden of cleanup to the corporations that produced the plastics.Would direct the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (USEPA) to establish regulations to require covered manufacturers, as defined by the bill, to print clear and visible "Do Not Flush" labeling notice on product packaging. Eligible labeling protocol mirrors the protocols outlined in the state bill.As with the state bill, the "Do Not Flush" symbol is defined by the INDA and EDANA Guidelines For Assessing the Flushability of Disposable Nonwoven Products (Edition 4; May 2018). BFFPPA addresses pollution caused by microfibers from textiles and general microplastics through the water waste stream.The bill would establish a new grants program to support projects that reduce microfiber pollution through either improving industry and manufacturing best practices to reduce the generation of textile-based microfiber pollution or improve the Filtration technology for textile-based microfiber pollution in washing machines and at wastewater treatment plants.The bill does not define an authorization amount for the program. The legislation would also create a separate USEPA pilot program to study the efficacy and cost effectiveness of tools, technologies, and techniques used to remove and prevent the release of microplastics into the environment. Under the program, studies will be conducted to test natural and green infrastructure, and mechanical removal systems and Filtration technologies. The bill identifies eligible locations to carry out testing studies to include wastewater treatment Facilities, stormwater systems, and drinking water systems.The bill does not define an authorization amount For this new pilot program. Status Introduced Last Action Read twice and referred to the Committee on Finance.. March 25, 2021 Priority High Position Support 9of10 Bill Id US HR 1881 Location United States Title To amend the Federal Water Pollution Control Act with respect to permitting terms, and for other purposes. Summary Extends the National Pollution Discharge Elimination System (NPDES) permit to up to, but not exceeding, 10 years from the current 5 years, for a municipality. Status Introduced Last Action Referred to the Subcommittee on Water Resources and Environment.. March 15, 2021 Priority High Position Monitor Bill Id US HR 1015 Location United States Title Water Recycling Investment and Improvement Act Summary Increases the authorization level for the Title XVI Program to $500 million from the current $50 million and makes it a permanent program.The bill strikes requirement that projects must be in drought or disaster areas and strikes the requirement that the projects need to be designated in an appropriations legislation. Status Introduced Last Action Referred to the Subcommittee on Water, Oceans, and Wildlife.. March 15, 2021 Priority High Position Support 10 of 10 1 ORANGE NTY SANITATION DISTRICT LEGISLATIVE AND PUBLIC AFFAIRS COMMITTEE FEDERAL UPDATE May 9, 2022 Page , ENS RESOURCES THE ISSUES Fiscal Year 2023 Appropriations PFAS/PFOA Liability Build America/Buy America Page 2 ENS RESOUR 1 FISCAL YEAR 2023 APPROPRIATIONS Committee on Appropriations Timeline Community Project Request Status—Hou Delegation Senate Community Project Status Outlook Page 3 ENS RESOURCES PFAS UPDATE Water Sector Joint Position Congress: Senate Committee On Environment and Public Works Legislative Initiative Pending Research and Development Destruction Technology Support Opposition To Liability Designation Strong v USEPA Issues Update: NPDES/Effluent Limitations Toxicity Assessments Drinking Water Standard Page 4 ENS 1 BUILD AMERICA/BUY AMERIC Office of Management and Budget Buy America Guidance Released to Agencies to Meet 5/14/2022 USEPA Implementation Procedures Imminent All Manufactured Products Captured Adjustment Period of 6 Months Expected Potential Off-Ramps 55 percent Domestic Content Waivers Cost Availability Public Interest Applies only to FY 2022 Funding and FutureENS Page 5 RRSOVRCE9 Questions a ? 9 Page 6 ENS T 0 W N S E N D TPA MEMORANDUM To: Orange County Sanitation District From: Townsend Public Affairs Date: April 14, 2022 Subject: Monthly Legislative Report State Legislative Update The month of March saw amendments to hundreds of bills, the introduction of numerous legislative proposals with major budget impacts, and the Legislature returning to its full pace as it works to consider the 2,115 bills introduced during the 2022 legislative session. Below is an overview of notable legislative happenings in the past month. While February marked the deadline for new bill vehicle introductions, it did not mark the deadline for new legislative language. Assembly and Senate leadership set hard mid-late March deadlines for major amendments and amendments to "spot" legislation to be submitted, meaning the month of March featured hundreds of major amendments to existing legislation — many of which completely altered the scope and intent of their previous versions. Governor Newsom Issues Executive Order to Bolster Drought Response Following the driest first three months of a year in the state's recorded history, this month Governor Gavin Newsom took steps to drive water conservation at the local level, calling on local water suppliers to move to Level 2 of their Water Shortage Contingency Plans, which require locally appropriate actions that will conserve water across all sectors, and directing the State Water Resources Control Board to consider a ban on the watering of decorative grass at businesses and institutions. Governor Newsom signed an Executive Order that directs the State Water Resources Control Board (SWRCB) to evaluate the adoption of regulations banning irrigation of"non-functional" turf (or grass), such as decorative grass adjacent to large industrial and commercial buildings. The ban would not include residential lawns or grass used for recreation, such as school fields, sports fields and parks. The Department of Water Resources estimates this ban alone will result in potential water savings of several hundred thousand acre-feet. An acre-foot of water serves the needs of approximately three households for a year. In addition to the water supplier conservation measure, the Order includes a number of key directives for local governments: • New Local Well Permittinq Requirements. Local governments may not approve a permit for a new groundwater well or alteration of an existing well in a basin with a Groundwater Sustainability Agency (medium- or high-priority) without first obtaining written verification from the managing Groundwater Sustainability Agency; and must determine that the groundwater will is not likely to interfere with nearby wells and/or cause subsidence that may damage nearby infrastructure. This excludes small and domestic wells. • Certain Water Haulinq Ordinances Suspended. Suspends all local prohibitions on hauling of water for human consumption, cooking, or sanitation out of a water basin of origin, or public agency jurisdiction. • Groundwater Recharge Projects Expedited. Expedites and reduces permitting requirements for groundwater recharge projects to support future flood-flows. • Expanded Illegal Diversion Enforcement. Expands State Water Board inspections for illegal diversions and/or waste and unreasonable use of water. • Funding Requests for State Agencies. Requests state agencies to submit proposals for drought mitigation by April 15, 2022 for inclusion in the Governor's May Revision budget. COVID-19 Updates • Assembly Member Buffy Wicks Announced she will not move forward with vaccine Mandate legislation - This month, Assembly Member Wicks announced she will hold AB 1933 during the 2022 session. The bill would have mandated vaccines for workplaces (for both employees and independent contractors) and require employers to verify that their workers are immunized. New hires would need to have at least one shot by their first day — and the second within 45 days. Assembly Member Wicks cited strong public safety union opposition and the decline in COVID-19 cases as reasons for holding the bill. AB 1933 constituted the most comprehensive push for vaccine mandates/reform as it pertained to the COVID-19 pandemic. Other legislation, like Senator Scott Wiener's SB 866, which would allow minors aged 12 years and older to consent to a vaccine without parental oversight, is still active. • Legislators consider, and vote to not repeal the COVID-19 state of emergency — This month, the Senate Committee on Governmental Organization considered the merits of SCR 5 (Melendez), which would end the COVID-19 State of Emergency and all of the current Executive Orders related to the emergency if passed by both houses. It was the first hearing the bill received since Senator Melendez introduced the bill in 2020. The measure failed on a 4-8 party line vote. However, it was granted reconsideration to allow Senator Melendez to bring it forward at a later date. During the bill's discussion, proponents iterated that the existing State of Emergency constituted a violation of the separation of powers doctrine and that the decline in COVID- 19 should lead to the end of the emergency. 2 Opponents of the measure noted that the State of Emergency allows for the coordination of aid and resources across federal, state, and local agencies and provides for the stability of existing Executive Orders relating to COVID-19, such as remote meeting flexibility. Representatives from the California Professional Firefighters Association and the California Hospital Association spoke in opposition to the measure, citing concerns that ending the Emergency could impact hospital and public safety staffing, and the ability for emergency services to respond. Multiple Proposals Emerge to Offset High Gas Prices This past month featured multiple proposals to help offset the cost of soaring gas process, which include issuing hard-cash rebates to Californians, foregoing the gas tax, and combinations of both. Below is an overview of each proposal: • Governor Newsom champions "pas tax holiday,"then adds cash rebates for all drivers— Governor Newsom expanded on his original "gas tax holiday" proposal and released details for a more comprehensive rebate plan. This plan includes $11 billion in budget surplus funds for the following programs: o $400 debit cards to every CA vehicle owner, which will be distributed via DMV records to cover those who don't earn enough to pay taxes. Owners of electric vehicles and individuals who lease cars will also be eligible, o $750 million to provide three months of free public transit throughout the state, o Up to $600 million to pause the diesel sales tax for one year; and o $523 million to pause the gas inflation adjustment, set to become effective July 1, 2022. Ultimately, this proposal will require legislative approval. Assembly and Senate leadership have signaled that they are against pausing the gas inflation adjustment, which they say is a critical component to financing transportation infrastructure improvements throughout the state. • Democratic Legislators Announce Gas Rebate Plan for all tax-paying Californians — Assembly Member Petrie-Norris and other members of the Assembly Democratic Caucus unveiled a new legislative proposal to offer all tax-paying Californians a $400 tax rebate to offset high gas and goods prices. The proposal would dedicate approximately$9 billion of the state's budget surplus toward providing $400 rebates to all Californians who pay state income taxes, regardless of their income. The proposal framework was in response to the rising price of gas and presents an alternative solution to Governor Newsom's proposal to issue a "gas tax holiday" before the gas price inflation readjustment period on July 1. This proposal differs from the Governor's plan in that it would be extended to all tax-paying Californians — regardless of car ownership status. It also does not include a gas tax suspension. 3 Eviction Protections Legislation Signed into Law On March 31, Assembly Bill 2179 (Grayson and Wicks)was signed into law. The bill extends the date on which landlords may initiate eviction proceedings from April 1 to July 1, as long as an application is submitted by March 31 to a rent relief program. The legislation is designed to allow struggling tenants and the state another three months to finish sending out rental relief payments. The measure includes an urgency clause, meaning its provisions are effective immediately. The state's eviction moratorium was scheduled to expire without intervention on March 31. For the last two years, lawmakers have negotiated legislation to protect renters against eviction if they have faced pandemic-related hardship. California received a total of$5.2 billion in federal funds to establish a rent relief program last year to help alleviate the burden of debt for renters and landlords. However,these programs have been oversubscribed and backlogged in the distribution of sought relief payments. In February, legislators approved an early action budget bill to free up state funds and expedite the backlog of applications, which also eased restrictions on who could qualify for the relief. AB 2179 was expedited through the legislative process, following the introduction of the bill's language only a week prior to its signing into law. Notably, Lieutenant Governor Eleni Kounalakis signed the bill into law because Governor Newsom was vacationing out of state until April 12. She is the first woman to sign a bill into law in the state of California. 4 OC San State Bills of Interest ProposedTHER 01101 AUTHOR ME EARN SON &= AB 1001 C. Garcia [D] Amends the California Environmental Quality Act(CEQA)to 1) require Currently in the Senate Watch Legislative and Regulatory ACC-OC - NYC mitigation to compensate for adverse air or water quality impacts in a waiting to be assigned to Policies: Air Quality- LOCC-Watch disadvantaged community(DAC)to mitigate those impacts directly in the committees Support measures that CASA- Disapprove affected community and 2) require all public agencies implementing CEQA maintain and enhance local CSDA-Oppose to give consideration to the principles of environmental justice by ensuring decision-making authority, ACWA- Oppose the fair treatment and meaningful involvement of people of all races, where appropriate, in the cultures, incomes, and national origins. development and implementation of air quality attainment strategies. AB 1240 Ting [D] Requires the Air Resources Board (ARB)to prepare an updated report on Currently in the Senate Watch Legislative and Regulatory ACC-OC - NYC specified issues related to indoor air quality. Requires ARB, on or before waiting to be assigned to Policies: Air Quality- LOCC-Watch January 1, 2025, to submit to the Legislature an addendum updating its prior committees Support measures that CASA- NYC indoor air quality report. Requires ARB to consider updates on potential maintain and enhance local CSDA- NYC health effects from ozone-emitting consumer products, natural gas sources, decision-making authority, ACWA- NYC and per-and poly-fluoroalkyl substances (PFAS). where appropriate, in the development and implementation of air quality attainment strategies. AB 1724 Stone [D] Current law, to protect public health and water quality, regulates a broad Referred to the Assembly Support State Priorities: Support ACC-OC - NYC range of consumer products and processes, including water softeners, water Environmental Safety and legislation or regulations that LOCC-Watch treatment devices, and backflow prevention devices, among others. This bill Toxic Materials restrict the use of CASA- Support would require, on or before January 1, 2024, that all washing machines sold Committee microplastics and chemicals CSDA- NYC as new in California contain a microfiber filtration system. The bill would also of emerging concern in any ACWA-Watch require all state-owned washing machines to contain a microfiber filtration product that is disposed of system. through the sewer system. AB 1774 Seyarto [R] This bill would require the Judicial Council to adopt rules of court applicable Referred to the Assembly Support Legislative and Regulatory ACC-OC - NYC to actions or proceedings brought to attack, review, set aside, void, or annul Natural Resources Policies: Special Districts - LOCC -Watch the certification or adoption of an environmental impact report for water Committee and the Oppose further state CASA- NYC conveyance or storage projects, or the granting of project approvals, Assembly Judiciary regulations that adversely CSDA-Watch including any appeals to the court of appeal or the Supreme Court, to be Committee impact special district ACWA-Watch resolved, to the extent feasible, within 270 days of the filing of the certified financing, operations, and record of proceedings with the court to an action or proceeding seeking administration. judicial review of the lead agency's action related to those projects. AB 1817 Ting [D] Would prohibit, beginning January 1, 2024, any person from distributing, Currently on the Watch State Priorities: Monitor ACC-OC - NYC selling, or offering for sale in the state any textile articles that contain Assembly Floor state legislation as well as LOCC -Watch regulated PFAS, and requires a manufacturer to use the least toxic State Water Resources CASA- Support alternative when replacing regulated PFAS in textile articles to comply with Control Board (SWRCB) CSDA-Support these provisions. regulatory activity related to ACWA- Favor PFAS. OC San State Bills of Interest AB 1944 Lee [D] Current law, the Ralph M. Brown Act, requires, with specified exceptions, Referred to the Assembly Watch Legislative and Regulatory ACC-OC - NYC that all meetings of a legislative body of a local agency, as those terms are Local Government Policies: Special Districts - LOCC-Watch defined, be open and public and that all persons be permitted to attend and Committee Oppose further state CASA-Watch participate. Current law, until January 1, 2024, authorizes a local agency to regulations that adversely CSDA-Watch use teleconferencing without complying with those specified impact special district ACWA- teleconferencing requirements in specified circumstances when a declared financing, operations, and Watch/Amend state of emergency is in effect, or in other situations related to public health. administration. This bill would specify that if a member of a legislative body elects to teleconference from a location that is not public, the address does not need to be identified in the notice and agenda or be accessible to the public when the legislative body has elected to allow members to participate via teleconferencing. AB 1985 Rivas [D] Current law requires the Department of Resources Recycling and Recovery Referred to the Assembly Watch Legislative and Regulatory ACC-OC - NYC (CalRecycle), in consultation with the state board, to adopt regulations to Appropriations Policies: Biosolids, LOCC-Support achieve these organic waste reduction goals, including a requirement Committee Organics, and Biogas - CASA- Support if intended to meet the goal that not less than 20% of edible food that is Support compost associations Amended currently disposed of be recovered for human consumption by 2025. This bill and local cities and agencies CSDA- NYC would require CalRecycle to compile and maintain on its internet website a in education, market ACWA- NYC list, organized by ZIP Code, of information regarding persons or entities that expansion activities, and produce and have available state organic waste products and update the list meeting mandates to buy- at least every 6 months. back compost and other organics diverted from landfill. AB 2026 Friedman [D] Would prohibit an online retailer that sells or offers for sale and ships Referred to the Assembly Watch State Priorities: Support ACC-OC - NYC purchased products in or into the state from using single-use plastic Appropriations legislation or regulations that LOCC-Watch packaging that consists of shipping envelopes, cushioning, or void fill to Committee restrict the use of CASA- NYC package or transport the products, on and after January 1, 2024, for large microplastics and chemicals CSDA- NYC online retailers, as defined, and on and after January 1, 2026, for small of emerging concern in any ACWA- NYC online retailers, as defined. The bill would prohibit a manufacturer, retailer, product that is disposed of producer, or other distributor that sells or offers for sale and ships purchased through the sewer system. products in or into the state from using expanded or extruded polystyrene packaging to package or transport the products, except as provided. AB 2041 E. Garcia [D] Would require the State Water Resources Control Board to take specified Referred to the Assembly Watch State Priorities: Monitor ACC-OC - NYC actions if the state board adopts a primary drinking water standard with a Environmental Safety and state legislation as well as LOCC-Watch compliance period for which public water systems are given a designated Toxic Materials State Water Resources CASA- NYC period of time to install necessary measures, including, but not limited to, Committee Control Board (SWRCB) CSDA- NYC installation of water treatment systems, to comply with the primary drinking regulatory activity related to ACWA-Watch water standard without being held in violation of the primary drinking water PFAS. standard. Those actions would include, among other actions, developing a financial plan to assist public water systems that will require financial assistance in procuring and installing the necessary measures. OC San State Bills of Interest • - • • I • AB 2247 Bloom [D] This bill would require the Department of Toxic Substances Control to work Referred to the Assembly Support State Priorities: Monitor ACC-OC - NYC with the Interstate Chemicals Clearinghouse to establish, on or before Environmental Safety and state legislation as well as LOCC-Watch January 1, 2024, a publicly accessible reporting platform to collect Toxic Materials State Water Resources CASA- Co- information about PFAS and products or product components containing Committee and the Control Board (SWRCB) Sponsor regulated PFAS, as defined, being sold, offered for sale, distributed, or Assembly Judiciary regulatory activity related to CSDA- NYC offered for promotional purposes in, or imported into, the state. This bill Committee PFAS. ACWA- Favor would require a manufacturer to provide, within 30 days, a certificate attesting that the manufacturer's PFAS or product or product component containing PFAS complies with certain requirements. The bill would subject a manufacturer who violates this requirement to civil penalties not to exceed $2,500 per day, up to a maximum of$100,000 for each violation. AB 2374 Bauer-Kahan [D] Under current law, the dumping of commercial quantities of waste, as Passed the Public Safety Watch Legislative and Regulatory ACC-OC - NYC defined, is punishable as a misdemeanor and also includes escalating fines. Committee and is Policies: Biosolids, LOCC -Watch This bill would increase the maximum fine for the dumping of commercial currently in the Assembly Organics, and Biogas - CASA- Support quantities of waste from $3000 to$5000 for the first conviction, from $6000 Business and Professions Support compost associations CSDA- NYC to $10,000 for the second conviction, and from $10,000 to $20,000 for the Committee and local cities and agencies ACWA- NYC third and any subsequent convictions. in education, market expansion activities, and meeting mandates to buy- back compost and other organics diverted from landfill AB 2387 E. Garcia [D] Would enact the Safe Drinking Water, Wildfire Prevention, Drought Passed the Assembly Watch Guiding Priorities: Support ACC-OC - NYC Preparation, Flood Protection, Extreme Heat Mitigation, and Workforce Water, Parks, and legislation or regulations that LOCC -Watch Development Bond Act of 2022, which, if approved by the voters, would Wildlife Committee and is restrict the use of CASA- Support if authorize the issuance of bonds in the amount of$7,430,000,000 pursuant currently in the Assembly microplastics and chemicals Amended to the State General Obligation Bond Law to finance projects for safe Natural Resources of emerging concern in any CSDA- NYC drinking water, wildfire prevention, drought preparation, flood protection, Committee product that is disposed of ACWA- Favor if extreme heat mitigation, and workforce development programs. This bill through the sewer system. amended contains other related provisions. AB 2428 Ramos [D] The Mitigation Fee Act, requires a local agency that establishes, increases, Referred to the Assembly Watch Legislative and Regulatory ACC-OC - NYC or imposes a fee as a condition of approval of a development project to, Local Government Policies: Special Districts - LOCC-Watch among other things, determine a reasonable relationship between the fee's Committee and the Oppose further state CASA-Watch use and the type of development project on which the fee is imposed. The Assembly Housing and regulations that adversely CSDA- NYC Mitigation Fee Act also imposes additional requirements for fees imposed to Community Development impact special district ACWA- NYC provide for an improvement to be constructed to serve a development Committee financing, operations, and project, or which is a fee for public improvements, as specified, including administration. that the fees be deposited in a separate capital facilities account or fund. This bill would require a local agency that requires a qualified applicant, as described, to deposit fees for improvements, as described, into an escrow account as a condition for receiving a conditional use permit or equivalent development permit to expend the fees within 5 years of the deposit. OC San State Bills of Interest AB 2449 Rubio [D] Current law, until January 1, 2024, authorizes a local agency to use Referred to the Assembly Watch Legislative and Regulatory ACC-OC - NYC teleconferencing without complying with specified teleconferencing Local Government Policies: Special Districts - LOCC-Watch requirements in specified circumstances when a declared state of Committee Oppose further state CASA- Support emergency is in effect, or in other situations related to public health. This bill regulations that adversely CSDA- NYC would authorize a local agency to use teleconferencing without complying impact special district ACWA- with those specified teleconferencing requirements if at least a quorum of financing, operations, and Support/Amend the members of the legislative body participates in person from a singular administration. location clearly identified on the agenda that is open to the public and situated within the local agency's jurisdiction. The bill would impose prescribed requirements for this exception relating to notice, agendas, the means and manner of access, and procedures for disruptions. The bill would require the legislative body to implement a procedure for receiving and swiftly resolving requests for reasonable accommodation for individuals with disabilities, consistent with federal law. AB 2536 Grayson [D] Current law requires a local agency that conducts an impact fee nexus study Referred to the Assembly Oppose Legislative and Regulatory ACC-OC - NYC to follow certain standards and practices, as specified. Current law also Local Government Policies: Special Districts - LOCC -Watch requires a local agency to hold at least one open and public meeting prior to Committee Oppose further state CASA- Oppose levying a new fee or service charge, as specified. This bill would, on and regulations that adversely CSDA- Oppose after January 1, 2023, require a local agency that imposes fees for water impact special district ACWA- Oppose connections or sewer connections, or imposes capacity charges, as financing, operations, and unless amended provided, and that conducts a study to support the estimate of the administration. reasonable cost of providing the service to follow certain standards and practices, as defined and specified. AB 2647 Levine [D] The Ralph M. Brown Act requires the meetings of the legislative body of a Referred to the Assembly Watch Legislative and Regulatory ACC-OC - NYC local agency to be conducted openly and publicly, with specified exceptions. Local Government Policies: Special Districts - LOCC-Sponsor Current law makes agendas of public meetings and other writings distributed Committee and the Oppose further state CASA- Support to the members of the governing board disclosable public records, with Assembly Judiciary regulations that adversely CSDA- NYC certain exceptions. Current law requires a local agency to make those Committee impact special district ACWA- Favor writings distributed to the members of the governing board available for financing, operations, and public inspection at a public office or location that the agency designates. administration. This bill would instead require a local agency to make those writings distributed to the members of the governing board available for public inspection at a public office or location that the agency designates or post the writings on the local agency's internet website in a position and manner that makes it clear that the writing relates to an agenda item for an upcoming meeting. OC San State Bills of Interest • - • • • AB 2771 Friedman [D] Would prohibit a person or entity from manufacturing, selling, delivering, Passed the Assembly Support State Priorities: Monitor ACC-OC - NYC holding, or offering for sale in commerce any cosmetic product that contains Environmental Safety and state legislation as well as LOCC-Watch perfluoroalkyl and polyfluoroalkyl substances PFAS. Toxic Materials State Water Resources CASA- Support Committee and is Control Board (SWRCB) CSDA- NYC currently in the Assembly regulatory activity related to ACWA- NYC Health Committee PFAS. AB 2787 Quirk [D] The Microbeads Nuisance Prevention Law prohibits a person from selling or Referred to the Assembly Support Guiding Priorities: Support ACC-OC - NYC offering for promotional purposes in the state any personal care products Natural Resources legislation or regulations that LOCC -Watch containing plastic microbeads that are used to exfoliate or cleanse in a rinse- Committee and the restrict the use of CASA- Support off product, including, but not limited to, toothpaste. This bill would, on and Assembly Environmental microplastics and chemicals CSDA- NYC after specified dates that vary based on the product, ban the sale, Safety and Toxic of emerging concern in any ACWA- NYC distribution in commerce, or offering for promotional purposes in the state of Materials Committee product that is disposed of designated products, such as leave-in cosmetics products and waxes and through the sewer system. polishes, if the products contain intentionally added microplastics, as defined. The bill would exclude from this ban products consisting, in whole or in part, of specified substances or mixtures containing microplastics. The bill would make a violator liable for a civil penalty not to exceed $2,500 per day for each violation. AB 2811 Bennett [D] This bill would require, commencing January 1, 2024, all newly constructed Currently in the Assembly Watch Legislative and Regulatory ACC-OC - NYC nonresidential buildings with a total gross floor area of 100,000 square feet Environmental Safety and Policies: Special Districts - LOCC -Watch or more be constructed with dual plumbing to allow the use of nonpotable Toxic Materials Oppose further state CASA- NYC water sources for all applicable nonpotable water demands and provide for Committee regulations that adversely CSDA-Oppose the collection, onsite treatment, and reuse of available onsite rainwater, impact special district Unless Amended graywater, and foundation drainage. The bill would establish exemptions to financing, operations, and ACWA- Not Favor these requirements, including waiver by the board on a project-by-project administration. basis if the board finds that strict compliance would have a significant adverse impact on public health, downstream water rights, water quality, operation of a sewer collection or treatment system, or plant life, fish, or wildlife. SB 45 Portantino [D] This bill directs CalRecycle to, in consultation with ARB, to provide Currently in the Assembly Watch Legislative and Regulatory ACC-OC - NYC assistance to local jurisdictions, including, but not limited to, any funding waiting to be assigned to Policies: Biosolids, LOCC -Watch appropriated by the Legislature in the annual Budget, to help them comply committees Organics, and Biogas - CASA- Support if with SB 1383 regulations. Support compost associations amended and local cities and agencies CSDA-Support if in education, market amended expansion activities, and ACWA- NYC meeting mandates to buy- back compost and other organics diverted from landfill. OC San State Bills of Interest • - • • • SB 54 Allen [D] This bill would establish the Plastic Pollution Producer Responsibility Act, Currently in the Assembly Watch State Priorities: Support ACC-OC - NYC which would prohibit producers of single-use, disposable packaging or waiting to be assigned to legislation or regulations that LOCC-Support in single-use, disposable food service ware products from offering for sale, committees restrict the use of Concept selling, distributing, or importing in or into the state such packaging or microplastics in any product CASA- NYC products that are manufactured on or after January 1, 2032, unless they are that is disposed of through CSDA-Watch recyclable or compostable. the sewer system. ACWA- NYC SB 230 Portantino [D] Would require the State Water Resources Control Board to establish, Currently in the Assembly Watch State Priorities: Monitor ACC-OC - NYC maintain, and direct an ongoing, dedicated program called the Constituents waiting to be assigned to state legislation as well as LOCC -Watch of Emerging Concern Program to assess the state of information and committees State Water Resources CASA-Watch recommend areas for further study on, among other things, the occurrence Control Board (SWRCB) CSDA-Support of constituents of emerging concern (CEC) in drinking water sources and regulatory activity related to ACWA- Favor treated drinking water. The bill would require the state board to convene, by PFAS. an unspecified date, the Science Advisory Panel to review and provide recommendations to the state board on CEC for further action, among other duties. The bill would require the state board to provide an annual report to the Legislature on the ongoing work conducted by the panel. SB 891 Hertzberg [D] The bill extends the Stormwater Quality Improvement Act's requirement for Passed the Senate Watch Legislative and Regulatory ACC-OC - NYC businesses to demonstrate enrollment with stormwater discharge permits to Governance and Finance Policies: Special Districts - LOCC-Watch not just business licenses, but also equivalent instruments or permits. The Committee and is Oppose further state CASA- NYC bill provides that a business license or equivalent instrument or permit currently in the Senate regulations that adversely CSDA- NYC issued for the sole purpose of raising revenue must also comply. SB 891 Environmental Quality impact special district ACWA- NYC also prohibits cities and counties from developing their own process for Committee financing, operations, and determining whether the IGP covers a facility. When a city or county administration. transfers compliance information to the State Water Board, the bill requires those records be subject to the CPRA. SB 892 Hurtado [D] Would require the Office of Emergency Services (CaIOES)to develop, Currently in the Senate Watch Legislative and Regulatory ACC-OC - NYC propose, and adopt reporting requirements applicable to companies and Appropriations Policies: Security-Support LOCC -Watch cooperatives in the food and agriculture industry if they identify a significant Committee funding for the hardening of CASA- NYC and verified cyber threat or active cyberattack. The bill would require a water essential regional facilities CSDA- Oppose and wastewater systems sector entity serving more than 3,300 people to such as water recycling and Unless Amended report their risk assessments and emergency response plan required by the sewer collection and recycling ACWA- Oppose America's Water Infrastructure Act of 2018 to the California Cybersecurity sites. Unless Amended Integration Center, the Department of Water Resources, and the State Water Resources Control Board. SB 991 Newman [D] This bill, until January 1, 2033, authorizes local agencies, defined as any Currently in the Senate Support Legislative and Regulatory ACC-OC - NYC city, county, city and county, or special district authorized by law to provide Appropriations Policies: Special Districts - LOCC -Watch for the production, storage, supply, treatment, or distribution of any water Committee Oppose further state CASA- Support from any source, to use the progressive design-build process for public regulations that adversely CSDA- NYC works projects in excess of$5,000,000, similar to the progressive design- impact special district ACWA- Favor build process authorized for use by the Director of General Services. The bill financing, operations, and would require specified information to be verified under penalty of perjury. administration. OC San State Bills of Interest . - SB 1157 Hertzberg [D] Existing law, until January 1, 2025, establishes 55 gallons per capita daily as Passed the Senate Oppose Legislative and Regulatory ACC-OC - NYC the standard for indoor residential water use. Existing law establishes, Natural Resources and Unless Policies: Water Quality and LOCC-Watch beginning January 1, 2025, the greater of 52.5 gallons per capita daily or a Water Committee and is Amended Supply-Support legislation CASA- Oppose standard recommended by the department and the board as the standard currently in the Senate and regulation that promote Unless Amended for indoor residential water use, and beginning January 1, 2030, establishes Appropriations improved water use efficiency CSDA- NYC the greater of 50 gallons per capita daily or a standard recommended by the Committee through state assistance in ACWA- Oppose department and the board as the standard for indoor residential water use. evaluating and implementing Unless Amended The bill would instead require that from January 1, 2025, to January 1, 2030, new programs and the standard for indoor residential water use be 47 gallons per capita daily technologies and increasing and beginning January 1, 2030, the standard be 42 gallons per capita daily. public awareness of water use efficiency. SB 1345 Ochoa-Bogh [R] This bill revises various provisions in the Dig Safe Act related to operator Referred to the Senate Watch Legislative and Regulatory ACC-OC - NYC and excavator responsibilities when preparing for and conducting Appropriations Policies: Special Districts - LOCC -Watch excavations. The Dig Safe Act excludes non-pressurized sewer lines, storm Committee Oppose further state CASA- Oppose drains, and drain lines from the definition of"subsurface installations." SB regulations that adversely CSDA-Oppose 1345 repeals that exclusion. The Dig Safe Act also exempts Caltrans, as an impact special district Unless Amended operator of subsurface installations, from being a member of, participating financing, operations, and ACWA- NYC in, and sharing in the costs of a regional notification center(RNC). SB 1345 administration. repeals that exemption on January 1, 2025. Legend: ACC-OC-Association of California Cities, Orange County LOCC - League of California Cities NYC - Not Yet Considered CASA-California Association of Sanitation Agencies ACWA-Association of California Water Agencies CSDA- California Special Districts Association 5/2/2022 TOWNSEND PUBLIC AFFAIRS EST TPA 1998 OC ,SAN ORANGE COUNTY SANITATION DISTRICT Legislative And Public Affairs Committee Update WWW.TOWNSENDPA.COMMay 9, 2022 CALIFORNIANORTHERN CALIFORNIA-CENTRAL CALIFORNIA-SOUTHERN 1 Sacrament • General Overview 2022 • Senate and Assembly Policy Committees first-house deadlines passed • Senate and Assembly Appropriations Suspense File Hearing expected to be May 19 • Social distancing requirements being lifted throughout Legislative public spaces •C San LaPA: Legislative Update: I 2 1 5/2/2022 ProposalsKey - • Gas Tax Rebate Update Conservatorship A' Court May Revise Legislature's Budget Priorities • ..ate: May 9,2022 Page Senate Budget Priority Proposal billion - Water and Drought • $1.5 billion for recycling, stormwater capture, and groundwater cleanup • $2 billion to rebalance state water supply and water rights • $1.5 billion for new CA Water Trust to acquire lands with senior water rights from willing sellers • $1.5 billion to ensure all Californians have safe drinking water • 4 2 5/2/2022 2022 Priority - • • of Interest Description AB Stone Requires all state-owned washing machines to Currently in Asm. 1724 [D] contain a microfiber filtration system with a mesh Appropriations size of 100 microns or smaller Committee AB Bloom [D] Require manufacturers of Per-and Polyfluoroalkyl Currently in the 2247 substances(PFAS)or products containing PFAS to Asm. disclose the presence of PFAS in those products in a Appropriations publicly accessible database Committee AB Grayson[D] Recently amended to reinforce existing requirements Heard in the 2536 for fee studies and require evidence to support that Assembly Local the fee or capacity charge does not exceed the Government estimated reasonable cost of providing service.CASA Committee on no longer opposing. May 4 AB Friedman [D] Would prohibit any person from distributing,selling, Currently on the 2771 or offering for sale in the state any textile articles Assembly Floor that contain intentionally added regulated PFAS. Requires least toxic alternative • i 5 2022 Priority - • • of Interest AB 2787 Quirk[D] Would establish a Constituents of Emerging Concern Currently in the Program to recommend areas for further study on Assembly the occurrence of CECs in drinking water Appropriations Committee SB 991 Newman [D] Allows local agencies that provide for the production, Currently on the storage,supply,treatment,or distribution of water to Senate Floor use progressive design-build for projects over$5 million SB 1157 Hertzberg[D] This bill would change the change the standards for Passed the Senate indoor residential water use,to reflect those and is currently in recommended by DWR and the SWRCB. the Assembly • i 6 3 5/2/2022 OC6SAN TOWNSEND ORANGE COUNTY SANITATION DISTRICT PUBLIC AFFAIRS E: TPA 1998 Thank You Cori Takkinen Eric O'Donnell Vice President SeniorAssociate CTakkinen@townsendpa.com EODonnell@townsendpa.com www.townsendpa.com www.townsendl,)a.com OC San LaPA: Legislative Update: May 9, I 7 4 OC San's Grant and Loan Funding Tracker 2022 Name of Grant/Loan Synopsis of Grant/Loan Amount of Grant/Loan Amount Applying Y/N Project/Pro ram Reason Match Deadline Category Rcvd Grant/ Applying for g g rY Financing Y/N FEDERAL The Title XVI Water Reclamation and Reuse Projects funding opportunity allows for sponsors of water reclamation and reuse projects that are congressionally authorized Reclamation is making up to$20 million The Sanitation District developed a $20 million or 25%of The Water Infrastructure Improvements or are eligible under section 4009(c)of the W IIN Act to request cost-shared funding for Final Expansion of GWRS Act(W IIN) planning,design and/or construction of those Projects.Water reclamation and reuse available for those projects authorized under the $3 million No Headworks(P2-122) proposal in 2019 that could be used as project costs 6/28/2019 Water/Infrastructure N/A projects provide improved efficiency,flexibility during water shortages and diversifies WIIN Act. a basis for a new submittal. whichever is less. the water supply. STATE Name of Grant/Loan Synopsis of Grant/Loan Amount of Grant/Loan Amount Y/N Project/Pro ram Reason Match Deadline Category Rcvd Grant/ Applying for Applying g g rY Financing Y/N Food-Waste Co-Digestion facility The grant program is to lower overall greenhouse gas emissions by expanding existing 2 in Huntington.at Plant No TBD if FY 2022 Grant Applications will be We will review the possible funding capacity or establishing new facilities in California to reduce the amount of California- Beach to accept up to 150 wet Organics Grant Program(CalRecycle) generated green materials,food materials,and/or Alternative Daily Cover being sent to available.It is possible that other organics TBD TBD tons per day(wtpd)of pre- opportunity to determine if it is a fit for TBD TBD Energy/Recycling Pending NOFA landfills. related applications will also be available. processed source separated the Sanitation District. organics. The Proposition 1 IRWM Grant Program,administered by DWR,provides funding for projects that help meet the long-term water needs of the state,including:Assisting Due to negotiations between oC stakeholders and the water infrastructure systems adapt to climate change; op will review the possible funding Santa Ana Watershed Project Authority(SAWPA(,$7.18 TBD No Projects Currently Proposition 1 IRWM Grant Providing incentives throughout each watershed to collaborate in managing the TBD TBD opportunity to determine if it is a fit for TBD TBD Water TBD region's water resources and setting regional priorities for water infrastructure;and Million from the Santa Ana IRWM Project Funding Area Identified the Sanitation District. Improving regional water self-reliance,while reducing reliance on Sacramento-San designated for North and Central Orange County. Joaquin Delta. Updated 4/18/2022 ration LEGISLATIVE AND PUBLIC AFFAIRS Ad10844t Ellis Avenuueg SAN COMMITTEE Fountain Valley, 92708 (714)593-743433 ORANGE COUNTY SANITATION DISTRICT Agenda Report File #: 2022-2272 Agenda Date: 5/9/2022 Agenda Item No: 5. FROM: James D. Herberg, General Manager SUBJECT: PUBLIC AFFAIRS DRAFT STRATEGIC PLAN FOR FISCAL YEARS 2022-2024 GENERAL MANAGER'S RECOMMENDATION RECOMMENDATION: Information Item. BACKGROUND The Orange County Sanitation District's (OC San) Public Affairs Office is responsible for creating, organizing, and disseminating all internal and external communication. The primary objective of the Public Affairs team is to deliver messages that are accurate, transparent, and designed to foster trust and confidence. An integrated Public Affairs Strategic Plan is essential to effectively manage the variety of audiences we serve. Staff will provide an overview of the Draft Strategic Plan and request feedback for incorporation, and present the final Plan for approval in July. RELEVANT STANDARDS • Build brand, trust, and support with policy makers and community leaders • Maintain collaborative and cooperative relationships with regulators, stakeholders, and neighboring communities • Make it easy for people to understand OC San's roles and value to the community • Maintain influential legislative advocacy and a public outreach program PROBLEM There are various initiatives and messages that the Public Affairs Office must share with our internal and external stakeholders for continued operation and efficiency of OC San. The messaging must be consistent, concise, and thoroughly planned to be efficient and effective. PROPOSED SOLUTION The proposed Public Affairs Strategic Plan includes goals, objectives, strategies, and tactics to execute the various messages and efforts set forth by OC San. The plan will be in place for two years, with updates provided every six months to the Legislative and Public Affairs Committee. Orange County Sanitation District Page 1 of 2 Printed on 5/2/2022 powered by LegistarTM File #: 2022-2272 Agenda Date: 5/9/2022 Agenda Item No: 5. PRIOR COMMITTEE/BOARD ACTIONS N/A ADDITIONAL INFORMATION N/A FINANCIAL CONSIDERATIONS All items included in the Public Affairs Draft Strategic Plan FY 2022-2024 are included in the proposed FY 2022-2024 Budget. ATTACHMENT The following attachment(s) may be viewed on-line at the OC San website (www.ocsan.gov) with the complete agenda package: • Public Affairs Draft Strategic Plan Fiscal Years 2022-2024 • Presentation Orange County Sanitation District Page 2 of 2 Printed on 5/2/2022 powered by LegistarTM PAO Strategic Plan FY 2022-24 May 2022 Public Affairs Strategic Plan FY 2022-2024 Introduction The Orange County Sanitation District's (OC San) Public Affairs Office (PAO) is responsible for creating, organizing, and disseminating all internal and external communication. The primary objective of the PAO is to deliver messages that are accurate, transparent, and designed to foster public trust and confidence. An integrated Public Affairs Strategic Plan is essential to deal effectively with the variety of audiences we serve. The PAO staff provides services and tools and implements programs to meet the communication needs of several audiences for OC San. This includes planning and implementing media relations; website and intranet site content; construction outreach; elected officials and government relations; internal communications, education, and outreach; and graphic development. The PAO has created a Strategic Plan for Fiscal Years 2022 - 2024. This Plan is developed based upon the principles of OC San's Mission of protecting public health and the environment and will support the implementation of OC San's Strategic Plan.This Plan offers a vision to unify our communication efforts and focus resources to achieve the greatest impact and greatest results. This plan was created as we are in the process of recovering and moving into our new normal post the COVID-19 pandemic. At the creation of the previous PAO Strategic Plan, it was impossible to project the length of time that COVID-19 would impact our lives and operations, as such some items are carrying over to this new plan. Because much of what is planned and created by this group is based on external factors and therefore outside of our control, flexibility and fluidity is integrated into the plan. The PAO will follow the guidance set forth by management and the Board of Directors to carry out OC San's messaging and support our member agencies. Background Information OC San represents 20 cities, 4 special districts and a portion of the unincorporated County of Orange. This area represents a community of 2.6 million people with approximately 550,000 customer accounts. Unlike most public agencies where there is direct contact with customers, at OC San, billing occurs through the County of Orange property tax bills. Therefore, OC San must work through other means to communicate with the public and the rate payers. 1 PAO Strategic Plan FY 2022-24 May 2022 We have a 25-member Board of Directors, and over 600 employees within six departments with various goals and objectives. While these groups work independently on a variety of projects, the goal of the PAO is to provide support and messaging that is consistent throughout the agency so that we are one voice, representing the same overall goals, and portraying the same brand. While there are many challenges with serving such a large and diverse customer base, there are also great opportunities working through the strategies laid out in this Plan. Public Affairs Team The division is staffed with six full-time employees and overseen by a manager. Jennifer Cabral, Administration Manager Daisy Covarrubias, Principal Public Affairs Specialist Rebecca Long, Senior Public Affairs Specialist Kelly Newell, Public Affairs Specialist Belen Carrillo, Public Affairs Specialist Gregg Deterding, Graphics Designer Cheryl Scott, Administrative Assistant Each of these team members carry out specific functions to meet the communication goals and objectives laid out in this Plan. Situation Analysis • The world is attempting to recover from a pandemic and return to a sense of normalcy, though identifying what -that remains to be seen. However, OC San has been able to continue with its operations and meet the mission of protecting public health and the environment. • While operations continue for OC San, the business functions have been modified to meet the health and safety guidelines established. • To ensure the safety of our critical on-site staff, approximately 50 percent of staff have been working remotely for the last two years. As stability with the health crisis is reached, telecommuting staff is beginning to return on-site. Communication methods have and will continue to address the varied audiences, work schedules and work environments to maintain open and transparent communications. 2 PAO Strategic Plan FY 2022-24 May 2022 • OC San is concluding a five-year rate program, with a rate study about to begin. Public communication must factor in the financial impacts to the OC San rate payers as decisions and communication is made regarding proposed fees for the next five years. • OC San has seen a high number of retirements this year resulting in significant personnel movement and new hires. Communicating OC San's culture and reinforcing the importance in relationships are essential to the effectiveness and functionality of the agency. • OC San experienced high turnover in the Board of Directors in 2021. Continuous engagement with the Board Members is critical for the success of this agency. • As an essential service, OC San has continued to execute the Capital Improvement Program (CIP) to keep the regional projects on schedule that are enhancing the regional sewer system throughout the service area. In the next two fiscal years, OC San plans to award 28 construction contracts worth a total of$400 million. • In partnership with the Orange County Water District, OC San is constructing facilities to complete the final expansion of the Groundwater Replenishment System (GWRS). Once completed, OC San will be able to recycle 100 percent of the reclaimable flow and allow GWRS to produce enough water for 1 million people. • OC San is constructing a new administrative headquarters building in the City of Fountain Valley across the street from Plant No.1. The project will allow OC San to consolidate administrative staff into one building thus creating additional space for process facilities in the plant.The building is designed to be welcoming and inviting to the public.The main entry plaza will feature educational exhibits highlighting OC San's mission of protesting public health and environment. Mission The Public Affairs Office is committed to communicating information about OC San in a timely, accurate and accessible way to the employees, the Board of Directors, our member agencies, the public, and the news media. • We are committed to open, honest, clear, and respectful two-way communication with our audiences. • We are dedicated to informing others about how OC San serves the public and protects the environment. • We are committed to outstanding customer service by responding to requests quickly and efficiently. • We are dedicated to teamwork and collaboration as well as being creative and taking the initiative to be out in front of issues. 3 PAO Strategic Plan FY 2022-24 May 2022 Audiences This Public Affairs Plan focuses largely on four primary audiences. • Internal o Board of Directors o Executive Management Team o Employees o Retirees • The Public o Ratepayers o Member Agencies o Residents, Businesses, Commuters Impacted by OC San Construction and Maintenance o OC San Neighbors near our facilities (plants and pump stations) o Schools and Students o Tour Groups • Industry o Water/Wastewater Agencies o Trade Organizations o Trade Media • Influential Public o Local, State, and Federal Elected Officials o Environmental Groups o Local Media Agency Key Messages • OC San is committed to protecting public health and the environment by providing effective wastewater collection, treatment, and recycling. • OC San is more than a wastewater treatment facility; we are a resource recovery facility making use of all our byproducts. • OC San is dedicated to exceeding wastewater quality standards used for resource recovery. • OC San is committed to proper planning to ensure that the public's money is wisely spent. 4 PAO Strategic Plan FY 2022-24 May 2022 • OC San's assets are monitored and evaluated regularly to ensure top performance and timely replacement. • OC San values communicating our mission and strategies with those we serve and all other stakeholders. • Providing reliable, responsive, and affordable services in line with our customer needs and expectations is a top priority for OC San. • OC San focuses on creating the best possible workforce where safety, productivity, customer service, and training are a top priority. • OC San has worked very hard to create an integrated planning environment which begins with the expectations of its Board of Directors and flows down to the work product of each employee. We have worked hard to assure our staff members are communicating and providing transparent services to each other in support of the plan. • OC San has developed an integrated Planning/Asset Management system that allows for intentional, thoughtful decision making to maintain current operations while adding resilience and meeting new challenges. • OC San has an organizational structure with informal relationships between employees that allow for collaboration toward common goals. Public Affairs' Goals for Fiscal Year 2022/23 and 2023/24 1. Optimize communication with our internal audience including those operating in the field. 2. Continue to build OC San's reputation as infrastructure leaders in the wastewater and resource recovery industry. 3. Cultivate relationships with traditional and social media journalists and influencers to promote OC San's programs and initiatives. 4. Enhance OC San's image and branding by utilizing proper messaging in external communication pieces such as OC San's website, presentation, digital media, and advertising. Maintain a positive experience and image for our visitors. 5. Identify and implement avenues for education and outreach within OC San's service area to further promote OC San as a resource recovery agency, promote OC San's mission and promote career opportunities within the wastewater industry. 5 PAO Strategic Plan FY 2022-24 May 2022 6. Develop and implement outreach programs that will engage the communities affected by OC San's construction projects. 7. Ensure proactive engagement in legislative advocacy efforts that could impact OC San and the wastewater industry. 8. Monitor, track, and apply for grants available and that make business sense to OC San. 9. Ensure that local elected officials, member agencies, stakeholders, and OC San Board Members are actively engaged in the work of OC San. 10. Ensure the Public Affairs Office serves as the primary spokesperson for OC San during normal business and crisis scenarios and facilitates the dissemination of information. To achieve these goals, the PAO presents the following strategies and tactics, along with the primary staff assigned to that area. While individual staff members are the key contacts for each of the goals, the team works collectively and collaboratively, reflecting our core values. Our staff recognizes the key role we play at OC San, not only communicating information, but also teaching and consulting others and serving as a resource to our Board of Directors, employees, the wastewater industry, and our member agencies. As we navigate through the pandemic recovery efforts, the team will follow this plan, and make necessary modifications to effectively communicate OC San's strategic direction. Flexibility is implemented into this plan to deal with the dynamic situation we are all in. Public Affairs Strategies and Tactics 1. Category: Employee Communications Program Manager: Rebecca Long, Program Coordinator/Support: Kelly Newell, Belen Carrillo, Gregg Deterding, and Cheryl Scott Goal (what): Optimize communication with our internal audience including those operating in the field. Objective (measure): Create employee engagement by utilizing the identified communication methods to share agency wide messages. Strategy (why): We value open and honest communication with our employees. PAO is committed to various efforts aimed at keeping OC San employees informed about important topics, increasing the overall quality of communications to our employees while tying the business aspects of the agency with the human-interest side. 6 PAO Strategic Plan FY 2022-24 May 2022 Tactics (how): • Keep information on The San Box homepage current, relevant, and useful for OC San employees by working with the various departments to gather information that should be shared. • On a regular basis, staff will continue to support various departments with their communication and outreach needs. • PAO will produce six Pipeline newsletters per year with a goal of circulation by the third week of the publication month. • PAO will track Volunteer Incentive Program (VIP) points for all participating employees and coordinate the VIP appreciation celebration. • Create employee recognition and celebratory events throughout the year that comply with health guidelines, this may include small in-person gatherings and virtual events. To include but not limited to the Annual Holiday Lunch, the Harvest Festival, and VIP Celebration, etc. • Commemorate OC San's achievement of reusing 100 percent of the reclaimable flow upon completion of the Groundwater Replenishment System's Final Expansion. Celebrate the milestone and acknowledge the accomplishment with staff and stakeholders. • Continue with the Honor Walk program which acknowledges retired staff and past Board Members for their contribution to OC San. The recognition event will be hosted every other year starting in 2023. • Write and coordinate the 3 Things to Know email blast to be distributed to all staff each Monday. • Produce monthly Digester bulletin. • Support and promote OC San "U", OC San's training program. 2. Category: Industry Experts Program Manager: Daisy Covarrubias Program Coordinator/Support: Kelly Newell, Gregg Deterding, and Cheryl Scott Goal (what): Establish and solidify OC San's reputation as infrastructure leaders in the wastewater and resource recovery industry. Objective (measurable): Increase participation in strategic organizations through conferences, networking activities and awards by five percent. Strategy (why): To build positive public perception and confidence among our various audiences. Tactics (how): 7 PAO Strategic Plan FY 2022-24 May 2022 • Encourage participation and presentation in conferences • Encourage and support award application submittals • Publicize and coordinate award acceptance logistics • Track all awards won by OC San by keeping a master list • Track and promote staff abstracts, and publications 3. Category: Media Relations Program Managers: Daisy Covarrubias and Rebecca Long Program Coordinators: Kelly Newell, Belen Carrillo, Gregg Deterding, and Cheryl Scott Goal (what): Cultivate relationships with traditional and social media journalists and influencers. Objective (measurement): Increase media coverage with positive stories about OC San. Strategy (why): While a presence in the community is important to putting a face to our agency, media (traditional and social) is equally important with a broader reach and a more direct line of communication. Tactics (how): • Annually update media list to stay current and fresh. • Develop a press kit to be online and interactive. • Build a calendar of news release topics of interest to the public and stakeholders • Invite media for a facility tour (virtual or small group). Rolling over to new plan as unable to complete due to COVID-19 restrictions. • Develop media strategies for important events, decisions, or actions. e.g. CIP Campaign (see details in Category 6: Capital and Maintenance Outreach) • Conduct media training for Board leadership, EMT and key staff members. Rolling over to new plan as unable to complete due to COVID-19 restrictions. • Weekly (3-5 times) social media posts about the happenings at OC San with focus on OC San's accomplishments and mission. • Continue with social media campaigns #OCSanAtWork, #What2Flush, and those currently supporting ongoing efforts. 4. Category: Agency Branding and Messaging Program Manager: Daisy Covarrubias Program Coordinators/Support: Gregg Deterding, Kelly Newell, and Cheryl Scott 8 PAO Strategic Plan FY 2022-24 May 2022 Goal (what): Enhance OC San's image and branding by utilizing proper messaging in external communication pieces such as OC San's website, presentations, digital media, advertising, which includes maintaining a positive experience for OC San visitors. Objective (measure): Continue with OC San's branding campaign including updating collateral material, signage, and promotional material as appropriate and as it is used. Maintain the lobby(s) current and informative with relevant information, i.e., displays, awards case, etc. Strategy (why): A cohesive voice, message, look, and feel are critical to the public perception that an organization holds with its community. A positive and pleasant in-person experience reinforces OC San's culture and core values as well as showcasing OC San as industry leaders, and a well-run organization, leaving behind the stigma of typical government agencies. Tactics (how): • Develop new website to better meet the information, transparency and usability needs of our visitors while meeting accessibility standards. • Maintain website accuracy, relevancy and timeliness with new stories posted weekly. • Provide presentations, consultation, and advice on the branding and image of OC San. • Develop new collateral materials around the key messages. • Explore advertising options to inform the public of agency efforts and role in enhancing the local economy. • Fulfill all requests for graphics, photos, and logos. • Continue with online community newsletter. Increase reach and distribution list. • Develop a branding plan for the new Headquarters Building. • Develop an educational display in the headquarters building to illustrate OC San's reuse and recycling efforts in support of the environment and public health. Display to be revealed when new building is unveiled. • Maintain the lobby wall in the administration building at Plant No. 1 and the Operations Center at Plant No. 2 with OC San's current branding and messaging. • Rotate flags on light poles at Plant No. 1 and at Plant No. 2 on a biennial basis. • Keep the award display cabinet up to date by rotating awards. • Keep the retiree display in the Administration Building hallway up to date. On an annual basis collect the names of the retirees and update the display board. • Maintain and coordinate the installation of Honor Walk bricks on a biennial basis. • Display collateral material in a neatly and organized manner displayed with current and relevant information. • Develop a video library of OC San programs to utilize as educational and promotional tools. • Promote the development and implementation of OC San's permittee awards program that recognizes industries for improving their adherence to excellent standards. 9 PAO Strategic Plan FY 2022-24 May 2022 • Support and promote the development of an awards program for biosolids truck drivers. • Develop a campaign to showcase OC San's diversity to be launched internally and externally. S. Category: Educational Outreach Program Manager: Rebecca Long Program Coordinators/Support: Kelly Newell, Belen Carrillo, Gregg Deterding, and Cheryl Scott Goal (what): Identify and implement avenues for education and outreach within OC San's service area to promote OC San's mission and vision. Objective (measurement): Create and identify new educational opportunities including virtual events and webinars to promote and educate the community on OC San's work and the essential service provided. Strategies (why): To further promote OC San as a resource recovery agency, promote OC San's mission and promote career opportunities within the wastewater industry. Tactics (how): • Execute the Inside the Outdoors contract for Fiscal Year 2022-2023 to continue the educational partnership that includes the Sewer Science program to 500 students within Orange County and introduce them to OC San's virtual tour program. • Reinstate physical plant tours and continue offering the virtual tour to increase the reach of OC San's tour program. • Identify 10-12 community event opportunities for OC San to participate in to inform and educate the community on the important role OC San plays in public health and the environment. • Continue to encourage and promote the Volunteer Incentive Program to have a pool of staff that volunteer for events and speaking engagements that OC San participates in. • Expand OC San's speaker's bureau to provide a wider set of speakers available. • Public Service Announcement (PSA) Contest—work with high schools in our service area to create a promotional PSA for OC San on a biennial basis. Obtain a minimum of 20 individual and/or group entries. • Continue hosting Wastewater 101 Citizen Academy for our ratepayers, and influential public to showcase OC San operations and initiatives. Host a minimum of four (4) series per year. • Support the Heritage Museum of Orange County's educational efforts by supplying material to be used for virtual and in-person teaching of OC San's key messages. 10 PAO Strategic Plan FY 2022-24 May 2022 6. Category: Capital and Maintenance Outreach Program Managers: Daisy Covarrubias and Tanya Chong from Engineering, Program Coordinators/Support: Belen Carrillo, Kelly Newell, Gregg Deterding, Cheryl Scott, and Jennifer Wein from Engineering Goal (what): Develop and implement outreach programs that will engage the communities affected by OC San construction and maintenance activities. Objective (measurement): Develop, implement, and provide outreach support for over 15 capital projects scheduled to break ground in fiscal years 2022/2023 and 2023/2024 in more than 10 cities. Strategy (why): Form a positive presence in the community prior to the start of construction projects or maintenance activities that is personal and proactive. Provide impacted community with information ahead of construction activities. Inform them of the benefits and need for the project to gain support and understanding of the necessary construction. Tactics (how): • Proactively offer briefings and community meetings to impacted neighborhoods, civic groups, businesses, schools, churches, and other institutions within the project area on an as needed basis. • Explore the option of placing advertising pieces in communities/areas impacted by construction. • Respond to inquiries within a 24-hour period. • Provide project description and notifications to impacted residents at least two weeks before construction begins. • Update collateral materials, fact sheets and website with current construction information on an as needed basis. • Maintain ongoing communications with city staff and Board Members on current and upcoming construction outreach projects in affected cities. • Maintain ongoing communications with impacted residents within the project area through collateral material (e.g., flyers, door hangers, emails, text alerts, social media posts, etc.). • Measure customer satisfaction through a construction outreach survey to be distributed at the close of construction programs. • Support the Vendor Outreach Program to promote OC San business opportunities with local businesses. 11 PAO Strategic Plan FY 2022-24 May 2022 7. Category: Legislative Affairs Program Manager: Rebecca Long Program Coordinator/Support: Kelly Newell, Gregg Deterding, and Cheryl Scott Goal (what): Proactive engagement in legislative advocacy efforts that could impact OC San and the wastewater industry. Objective (measure): Continue positive relationships with local, state, and federal officials through facility tours, meetings, and bill tracking as stated in the Legislative Plan. Strategy (why): Legislative advocacy is an important aspect of our business. Having relationships and being actively involved, providing input and OC San's perspective on potential legislature can and does directly affect OC San and our business. The PAO is responsible for executing the Board approved Legislative Plan, which is updated on an annual basis. In addition, staff is responsible for tracking state and federal legislation, managing OC San's legislative advocates, and seeking appropriations and grants. Tactics (how): • Develop and implement Annual Legislative Plan in the second quarter of each fiscal year. • Track bills and maintain a priority list of key legislation. • Provide regular updates to the Legislative and Public Affairs Committee on state and federal matters. • Host legislative tours. • Engage in Advocacy Days in Sacramento and Washington DC once a year. • Take positions on bills that could affect OC San or the industry. • Work with industry organizations on state and federal issues to ensure OC San's positions are communicated. • Partner with industry organizations to co-host virtual events and activities. • Manage the legislative advocates' contracts and facilitate regular communication between lobbyists, staff, and the Board of Directors. 8. Category: Grants Coordination Program Manager: Rebecca Long Program Coordinator/Support: Kelly Newell, Gregg Deterding, and Cheryl Scott Goal (what): Monitor, track, and apply for grants available to OC San. Objective (measure): Apply and obtain grants for qualified OC San projects and programs. 12 PAO Strategic Plan FY 2022-24 May 2022 Strategy (why): Outside funding is important in moving OC San projects and programs forward. With ongoing attention to government spending, it is vital for OC San to apply for and secure grants to offset costs when available. Tactics (how): • Apply for two grants a year based on availability. • Ensure Grant Policy is updated and current. • Research grant opportunities and report out to the Legislative and Public Affairs Committee. • Seek out available grant funding opportunities for OC San and its various divisions • Secure letters of support. • Publicize grant awards received. • Create and measure outcomes. 9. Category: Local Government Affairs Program Manager: Daisy Covarrubias Program Coordinators/Support: All PAO staff Goal (what): Ensure that local elected officials, member agencies, stakeholders, and OC San Board Members are actively engaged in the work of OC San. Objective (measure): Provide at least two communication tools per month Strategy (why): Keeping OC San's influential public engaged in OC San's projects and accomplishments are critical to the support and success of our agency. Tactics (how): • Provide Board of Directors with speaking points following every OC San board meeting that can be used when reporting back to their respective councils and community groups. • Support an orientation (as needed) for new Board members. • Develop and keep a current list of monthly informational presentations. • Maintain an informational presentation video library for the Board of Directors on key agency topics. • Provide regular reports to the Legislative and Public Affairs Committee. • Develop OC San's Annual Report. • Publish a Five Minutes Per Month, each month. • Participate in government affairs committees. 13 PAO Strategic Plan FY 2022-24 May 2022 • Invite new council and board members within OC San's service area to take a tour of OC San and offer presentations to their respective agencies on OC San programs and efforts. • Create and distribute quarterly outreach tool kits for member agency PIOs to help them easily share and disseminate information about OC San. • Host a "State of the District" event for influential leaders throughout the infrastructure and water/wastewater industry, including virtual option. • Develop an outreach program for member agencies regarding inflow and infiltration issues within their sewer systems. The program will aim to educate, inform, and reduce inflow and infiltration affecting the local and regional sewer system. 10. Category: Crisis Management Program Manager: Rebecca Long Program Coordinators/Support: All PAO Staff Goal: Ensure the PAO serves as the primary spokesperson for OC San during normal business and crisis scenarios and facilitates the dissemination of information. Objective: Ensure that the PIOs in the PAO can respond in a crisis. Provide the necessarily tools and material to follow established protocols and support the situation as needed. Strategy: It is imperative during a crisis that OC San be proactive and provide clear and effective messaging to employees, public, and the media. Tactics (how): • Maintain an updated crisis communication plan including regular briefings with staff to identify possible issues and responses. • Maintain and update PAO's Continuity of Operations Plan (COOP). • Work with Risk and Safety Management on Public Affair's role in an emergency, including our role via the Integrated Emergency Response Plan. • Ensure proper procedures are in place for Board, employees, and public notification. • Maintain updated contact lists for resource, member, and partnering agencies to coordinate and assist during crisis. • Develop protocols on everyday PAO tasks to facilitate the operations of the group in a time of crisis. 14 PAO Strategic Plan FY 2022-24 May 2022 11. Category: General Manager Support Program Manager: Daisy Covarrubias Program Coordinators/Support: All PAO Staff Goal: Ensure the General Manager and Assistant General Managers are supported with information necessary to communicate to the varied OC San audiences. Objective: Develop monthly communication pieces on behalf of the General Manager. Ensure General Manager (or designee) is participating and involved in promoting OC San's initiatives. Strategy: Collaborate with the General Manager to prepare communication and messaging that reflects the mission and vision of OC San. Tactics (how): • Assist the General Manager and the Assistant General Managers with keeping the Board Members informed and up to date with OC San activities. • Assist in the development of the General Manager's Monthly Report. • Develop talking points for Board and Committee meetings. • Develop material and speaking points for presentations and speaking engagements. • Support the development of the OC San Strategic Plan. • Assist in the development of the General Managers Annual Work Plan, including mid- year and end of year reports. • Manage Ask the GM questions submitted. • Coordinate and support VIP tours guided by General Manager and Assistant General Managers. • Coordinate and produce two Town Hall meetings (live and/or pre-recorded) to keep employees informed and engaged. Closing Comments This plan is a broad outline of the Public Affairs Office program. As new issues arise, new functions and duties will evolve as well. The role of the Public Affairs Office is to stay ahead of issues, be responsive and flexible to meet the needs of the agency. We will adjust our program accordingly. New Tactics Introduced • Vendor Outreach Program • Inflow/Infiltration Member Outreach Campaign 15 PAO Strategic Plan FY 2022-24 May 2022 • New Five-Year Rate Structure • OC San Website Development • Biosolids Driver Rewards Program • Permittee Awards • Diversity Campaign • Heritage Museum Educational Program • Video Library 16 5/2/2022 Public Affairs Strategic Plan FY 2022 - 2024 1 • Operations • Employees / OC San Culture • Community Current • Post COVID-19 Situation • 100 percent reclaimable flow • Sewer Rate Study • Capital Improvement Program • GWRS Final Expansion • Headquarters Building • Board Members z z 1 5/2/2022 PAO Strategic Plan EMPLOYEES EXPERTS MEDIA BRANDING EDUCATION •Internal Speaking Social Media New website In-person tours Communication engagements campaigns Headquarters •Community Events •100%Rec.flow ,Awards •Press Kit Branding Plan •PSA Contest •Honor Walk Media Training •Advertising WW 101 •News Release Video Library VIP Calendar •Awards (permittees/drivers) • Diversity Campaign 3 3 PAO Strategic Plan CONSTRUCTION LEGISLATIVE GRANTS GOVT AFFAIRS CRISIS GM SUPPORT © OF '� ARM� •Community Legislative Plan Policy State of the District Response Plan GM Monthly Report Briefings&Mtgs •Track&monitor Monitor& Outreach Toolkits Develop Protocols GM Work Plan •City Briefings Letters of Apply Inflow/Infiltration Strategic Plan •Paid Advertisement supportioppose Outreach •Presentations •Council Member(s) Town Halls Tour •Speaking Points 4 4 2 5/2/2022 • La PA Review Next • Adoption of Plan in July 2022 Steps • Implementation 5 Questi • 6 3 ORANGE COUNTY SANITATION DISTRICT COMMON ACRONYMS ACWA Association of California LOS Level Of Service RFP Request For Proposal Water Agencies APWA American Public Works MGD Million Gallons Per Day RWQCB Regional Water Quality Association Control Board AQMD Air Quality Management MOU Memorandum of SARFPA Santa Ana River Flood District Understanding Protection Agency ASCE American Society of Civil NACWA National Association of Clean SARI Santa Ana River Engineers Water Agencies Interceptor BOD Biochemical Oxygen Demand NEPA National Environmental Policy SARWQCB Santa Ana Regional Water Act Quality Control Board California Air Resources Non-Governmental Santa Ana Watershed CARB Board NGOs Organizations SAWPA Project Authority CASA California Association of NPDES National Pollutant Discharge SCADA Supervisory Control And Sanitation Agencies Elimination System Data Acquisition National Water Research Southern California CCTV Closed Circuit Television NWRI Institute SCAP Alliance of Publicly Owned Treatment Works CEQA California Environmental O& M Operations&Maintenance SCAQMD South Coast Air Quality Quality Act Management District Capital Improvement Orange County Council of SOCWA South Orange County CIP Program OCCOG Governments Wastewater Authority CRWQCB California Regional Water OCHCA Orange County Health Care SRF Clean Water State Quality Control Board Agency Revolving Fund CWA Clean Water Act OCSD Orange County Sanitation SSMP Sewer System District Management Plan CWEA California Water Environment OCWD Orange County Water District SSO Sanitary Sewer Overflow Association EIR Environmental Impact Report OOBS Ocean Outfall Booster Station SWRCB State Water Resources Control Board EMT Executive Management Team OSHA Occupational Safety and TDS Total Dissolved Solids Health Administration US Environmental Protection Professional EPA Agency PCSA Consultant/Construction TMDL Total Maximum Daily Load Services Agreement FOG Fats, Oils, and Grease PDSA Professional Design Services TSS Total Suspended Solids Agreement Per-and Polyfluoroalkyl Waste Discharge gpd gallons per day PFAS Substances WDR Requirements GWRS Groundwater Replenishment PFOA Perfluorooctanoic Acid WEF Water Environment System Federation Water Environment& ICS Incident Command System PFOS Perfluorooctanesulfonic Acid WERF Reuse Foundation IERP Integrated Emergency POTW Publicly Owned Treatment WIFIA Water Infrastructure Response Plan Works Finance and Innovation Act Water Infrastructure JPA Joint Powers Authority ppm parts per million WIIN Improvements for the Nation Act Local Agency Formation PSA Professional Services WRDA Water Resources LAFCO Commission I Agreement I Development Act ORANGE COUNTY SANITATION DISTRICT GLOSSARY OF TERMS ACTIVATED SLUDGE PROCESS—A secondary biological wastewater treatment process where bacteria reproduce at a high rate with the introduction of excess air or oxygen and consume dissolved nutrients in the wastewater. BENTHOS —The community of organisms, such as sea stars, worms, and shrimp, which live on, in, or near the seabed, also known as the benthic zone. BIOCHEMICAL OXYGEN DEMAND (BOD) — The amount of oxygen used when organic matter undergoes decomposition by microorganisms.Testing for BOD is done to assess the amount of organic matter in water. BIOGAS—A gas that is produced by the action of anaerobic bacteria on organic waste matter in a digester tank that can be used as a fuel. BIOSOLIDS—Biosolids are nutrient rich organic and highly treated solid materials produced by the wastewater treatment process. This high-quality product can be recycled as a soil amendment on farmland or further processed as an earth-like product for commercial and home gardens to improve and maintain fertile soil and stimulate plant growth. CAPITAL IMPROVEMENT PROGRAM (CIP) — Projects for repair, rehabilitation, and replacement of assets. Also includes treatment improvements, additional capacity, and projects for the support facilities. COLIFORM BACTERIA—A group of bacteria found in the intestines of humans and other animals, but also occasionally found elsewhere, used as indicators of sewage pollution. E. coli are the most common bacteria in wastewater. COLLECTIONS SYSTEM — In wastewater, it is the system of typically underground pipes that receive and convey sanitary wastewater or storm water. CERTIFICATE OF PARTICIPATION (COP)—A type of financing where an investor purchases a share of the lease revenues of a program rather than the bond being secured by those revenues. CONTAMINANTS OF POTENTIAL CONCERN (CPC) — Pharmaceuticals, hormones, and other organic wastewater contaminants. DILUTION TO THRESHOLD (D/T) —The dilution at which the majority of people detect the odor becomes the D/T for that air sample. GREENHOUSE GASES (GHG) — In the order of relative abundance water vapor, carbon dioxide, methane, nitrous oxide, and ozone gases that are considered the cause of global warming ("greenhouse effect"). GROUNDWATER REPLENISHMENT SYSTEM(GWRS)—Ajoint water reclamation project that proactively responds to Southern California's current and future water needs. This joint project between the Orange County Water District and OCSD provides 70 million gallons per day of drinking quality water to replenish the local groundwater supply. LEVEL OF SERVICE (LOS)—Goals to support environmental and public expectations for performance. N-NITROSODIMETHYLAMINE (NDMA) — A N-nitrosamine suspected cancer-causing agent. It has been found in the GWRS process and is eliminated using hydrogen peroxide with extra ultra-violet treatment. NATIONAL BIOSOLIDS PARTNERSHIP(NBP)—An alliance of the NACWA and WEF,with advisory support from the EPA. NBP is committed to developing and advancing environmentally sound and sustainable biosolids management practices that go beyond regulatory compliance and promote public participation to enhance the credibility of local agency biosolids programs and improved communications that lead to public acceptance. PER-AND POLYFLUOROALKYL SUBSTANCES (PFAS) — A large group (over 6,000) of human-made compounds that are resistant to heat,water,and oil and used for a variety of applications including firefighting foam,stain and water-resistant clothing, cosmetics, and food packaging. Two PFAS compounds, perfluorooctanesulfonic acid (PFOS)and perfluorooctanoic acid (PFOA) have been the focus of increasing regulatory scrutiny in drinking water and may result in adverse health effects including developmental effects to fetuses during pregnancy, cancer, liver damage, immunosuppression,thyroid effects, and other effects. PERFLUOROOCTANOIC ACID (PFOA) — An ingredient for several industrial applications including carpeting, upholstery, apparel, floor wax, textiles, sealants,food packaging, and cookware(Teflon). PERFLUOROOCTANESULFONIC ACID (PFOS)—A key ingredient in Scotchgard, a fabric protector made by 3M, and used in numerous stain repellents. PLUME—A visible or measurable concentration of discharge from a stationary source or fixed facility. PUBLICLY OWNED TREATMENT WORKS (POTW)—A municipal wastewater treatment plant. SANTA ANA RIVER INTERCEPTOR (SARI) LINE—A regional brine line designed to convey 30 million gallons per day of non- reclaimable wastewater from the upper Santa Ana River basin to the ocean for disposal,after treatment. SANITARY SEWER—Separate sewer systems specifically for the carrying of domestic and industrial wastewater. SOUTH COAST AIR QUALITY MANAGEMENT DISTRICT (SCAQMD) — Regional regulatory agency that develops plans and regulations designed to achieve public health standards by reducing emissions from business and industry. SECONDARY TREATMENT — Biological wastewater treatment, particularly the activated sludge process, where bacteria and other microorganisms consume dissolved nutrients in wastewater. SLUDGE—Untreated solid material created by the treatment of wastewater. TOTAL SUSPENDED SOLIDS(TSS)—The amount of solids floating and in suspension in wastewater. ORANGE COUNTY SANITATION DISTRICT GLOSSARY OF TERMS TRICKLING FILTER—A biological secondary treatment process in which bacteria and other microorganisms, growing as slime on the surface of rocks or plastic media, consume nutrients in wastewater as it trickles over them. URBAN RUNOFF—Water from city streets and domestic properties that carry pollutants into the storm drains, rivers, lakes, and oceans. WASTEWATER—Any water that enters the sanitary sewer. WATERSHED—A land area from which water drains to a particular water body. OCSD's service area is in the Santa Ana River Watershed.