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Home My WebLink About07-13-2020 Legislative Committee Meeting Complete Agenda PacketORANGE COUNTY SANITATION DISTRICT SPECIAL NOTICE REGARDING CORONAVIRUS (COVID-19) AND ATTENDANCE AT PUBLIC MEETINGS On March 4, 2020, Governor Newsom proclaimed a State of Emergency in California as a result of the threat of COVID-19. On March 12, 2020 and March 18, 2020, Governor Newsom issued Executive Order N-25-20 and Executive Order N-29-20, which temporarily suspend portions of the Brown Act which addresses the conduct of public meetings. The General Manager and the Chairman of the Board of Directors have determined that due to the size of the Orange County Sanitation District’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 Internet accessibility. PUBLIC PARTICIPATION Your participation is always welcome. The Legislative and Public Affairs Committee meeting will be available to the public online at: https://ocsd.legistar.com/Calendar.aspx You may submit your comments and questions in writing for the Committee’s consideration in advance of the meeting only by sending them to OCSDClerk@ocsd.com with the subject line “PUBLIC COMMENT ITEM # (insert the item number relevant to your comment)” or “PUBLIC COMMENT NON-AGENDA ITEM”. Submit your written comments by 9:00 a.m. on Monday, July 13, 2020. All public comments will be provided to the Committee and may be read into the record or compiled as part of the record. Thank you. July 7, 2020 NOTICE OF MEETING LEGISLATIVE AND PUBLIC AFFAIRS COMMITTEE ORANGE COUNTY SANITATION DISTRICT Monday, July 13, 2020 – 3:30 p.m. ACCESSIBILITY FOR THE GENERAL PUBLIC Due to the spread of COVID-19, the Orange County Sanitation District will be holding all upcoming Board and Committee meetings by teleconferencing and Internet accessibility. This meeting will be available to the public online at: https://ocsd.legistar.com/Calendar.aspx A regular meeting of the Legislative and Public Affairs Committee of the Orange County Sanitation District will be held in the manner indicated herein on Monday, July 13, 2020 at 3:30 p.m. LEGISLATIVE AND PUBLIC AFFAIRS COMMITTEE MEETING DATES BOARD MEETING DATES Monday 07/13/20 3:30 p.m. 07/22/20 AUGUST – DARK 08/26/20 Monday 09/14/20 12:00 p.m. 09/23/30 OCTOBER – DARK 10/28/20 Monday 11/09/20 12:00 p.m. 11/18/20 * DECEMBER – DARK 12/16/20 * JANUARY – DARK 01/27/21 Monday 02/08/21 12:00 p.m. 02/24/21 Monday 03/08/21 12:00 p.m. 03/24/21 Monday 04/12/21 3:30 p.m. 04/28/21 Monday 05/10/21 12:00 p.m. 05/26/21 JUNE – DARK 06/23/21 * Meeting will be held on the third Wednesday of the month ROLL CALL LEGISLATIVE & PUBLIC AFFAIRS COMMITTEE Meeting Date: July 13, 2020 Time: 3:30 p.m. Adjourn: COMMITTEE MEMBERS (7) Peter Kim, Chair Allan Bernstein, Vice-Chair Lucille Kring, Member-At-Large Erik Peterson, Member-At-Large Christina Shea, Member-At-Large David Shawver, Board Chair John Withers, Board Vice-Chair OTHERS Brad Hogin, General Counsel STAFF 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 Lan Wiborg, Director of Environmental Services Kelly Lore, Clerk of the Board ORANGE COUNTY SANITATION DISTRICT Effective 06/16/2020 BOARD OF DIRECTORS Complete Roster AGENCY/CITIES ACTIVE DIRECTOR ALTERNATE DIRECTOR Anaheim Lucille Kring Denise Barnes Brea Glenn Parker Cecilia Hupp Buena Park Fred Smith Connor Traut Cypress Mariellen Yarc Stacy Berry Fountain Valley Steve Nagel Patrick Harper Fullerton Jesus J. Silva Jan Flory Garden Grove Steve Jones John O’Neill Huntington Beach Erik Peterson Lyn Semeta Irvine Christina Shea Anthony Kuo La Habra Tim Shaw Rose Espinoza La Palma Peter Kim Nitesh Patel Los Alamitos Richard Murphy Dean Grose Newport Beach Brad Avery Joy Brenner Orange Mark Murphy Kim Nichols Placentia Chad Wanke Ward Smith Santa Ana Nelida Mendoza David Penaloza Seal Beach Sandra Massa-Lavitt Schelly Sustarsic Stanton David Shawver Carol Warren Tustin Allan Bernstein Chuck Puckett Villa Park Robert Collacott Chad Zimmerman Sanitary/Water Districts Costa Mesa Sanitary District James M. Ferryman Bob Ooten Midway City Sanitary District Andrew Nguyen Margie L. Rice Irvine Ranch Water District John Withers Douglas Reinhart Yorba Linda Water District Brooke Jones Phil Hawkins County Areas Board of Supervisors Doug Chaffee Donald P. Wagner Orange County Sanitation District LEGISLATIVE AND PUBLIC AFFAIRS COMMITTEE Regular Meeting Agenda Monday, July 13, 2020 - 3:30 PM Board Room Administration Building 10844 Ellis Avenue Fountain Valley, CA 92708 (714) 593-7433 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 Sanitation District’s Administration Building located at 10844 Ellis Avenue, Fountain Valley, California, and on the Sanitation District’s website at www.ocsd.com 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. Please contact the Clerk of the Board's office at (714) 593-7433 to request the audio file. 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@ocsd.com at least 14 days before the meeting. FOR ANY QUESTIONS ON THE AGENDA, BOARD MEMBERS MAY CONTACT STAFF AT: General Manager: Jim Herberg, jherberg@ocsd.com / (714) 593-7300 Asst. General Manager: Lorenzo Tyner, ltyner@ocsd.com / (714) 593-7550 Asst. General Manager: Rob Thompson, rthompson@ocsd.com / (714) 593-7310 Director of Human Resources: Celia Chandler, cchandler@ocsd.com / (714) 593-7202 Director of Engineering: Kathy Millea, kmillea@ocsd.com / (714) 593-7365 Director of Environmental Services: Lan Wiborg, lwiborg@ocsd.com / (714) 593-7450 LEGISLATIVE AND PUBLIC AFFAIRS COMMITTEE Regular Meeting Agenda Monday, July 13, 2020 CALL TO ORDER PLEDGE OF ALLEGIANCE ROLL CALL AND DECLARATION OF QUORUM: Clerk of the Board PUBLIC COMMENTS: You may submit your comments and questions in writing for the Committee's consideration by sending them to the Clerk of the Board at OCSDClerk@ocsd.com with the subject line "PUBLIC COMMENT ITEM # (insert the item number relevant to your comment)" or "PUBLIC COMMENT NON-AGENDA ITEM". Submit your written comments by 9:00 a.m. on July 13, 2020. All public comments will be provided to the Committee 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. 1.2020-984APPROVAL OF MINUTES RECOMMENDATION: Approve Minutes of the Regular Meeting of the Legislative and Public Affairs Committee held March 9, 2020. Originator:Kelly Lore Agenda Report 03-09-2020 Legislative Committee Minutes Attachments: NON-CONSENT: 2.2020-1134PUBLIC AFFAIRS UPDATE FOR THE MONTHS OF MARCH THROUGH JUNE 2020 RECOMMENDATION: Recommend to the Board of Directors to: Receive and file the Public Affairs Update for the months of March through June 2020. Originator:Jim Herberg Page 1 of 3 LEGISLATIVE AND PUBLIC AFFAIRS COMMITTEE Regular Meeting Agenda Monday, July 13, 2020 Agenda Report Outreach and Media Summary Report, March-June 2020 Attachments: 3.2020-1146PUBLIC AFFAIRS STRATEGIC PLAN FOR FISCAL YEARS 2020-2022 RECOMMENDATION: Recommend to the Board of Directors to: Approve the Public Affairs Strategic Plan for Fiscal Years 2020 - 2022. Originator:Jim Herberg Agenda Report PAO Strategic Plan FY2020-2022 Appendix B - Public Affairs Portfolio FY2019-2020 PAO Strategic Plan Presentation Attachments: 4.2020-1147LEGISLATIVE AFFAIRS UPDATE FOR THE MONTHS OF MARCH THROUGH JUNE 2020 RECOMMENDATION: Recommend to the Board of Directors to: Receive and file the Legislative Affairs Update for the months of March through June 2020. Originator:Jim Herberg Agenda Report Federal Update - ENS Resources H.R. 2 Support Letter H.R.2 Summary Cares Act Comment Letter Cares Act Comment Letter Two Heroes Act Comment Letter Federal Legislative Matrix - ENS Resources State Update Townsend Public Affairs AB 2762 Support Cosmetics Safety AB 3163 Support Energy Biomethane Procurement State Legislative Matrix Townsend Grant Matrix 2019 - 2020 Attachments: INFORMATION ITEMS: None. DEPARTMENT HEAD REPORTS: Page 2 of 3 LEGISLATIVE AND PUBLIC AFFAIRS COMMITTEE Regular Meeting Agenda Monday, July 13, 2020 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: The next Legislative and Public Affairs Committee meeting is scheduled for Monday, September 14, 2020 at 12:00 p.m. Page 3 of 3 Orange County Sanitation District LEGISLATIVE AND PUBLIC AFFAIRS COMMITTEE Agenda Report Administration Building 10844 Ellis Avenue Fountain Valley, CA 92708 (714) 593-7433 File #:2020-984 Agenda Date:7/13/2020 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 March 9, 2020. 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. OCSD 19-19 ATTACHMENT The following attachment(s)may be viewed on-line at the OCSD website (www.ocsd.com)with the complete agenda package: ·Minutes of the Legislative and Public Affairs Committee meeting held March 9, 2020 Orange County Sanitation District Printed on 7/6/2020Page 1 of 1 powered by Legistar™ Orange County Sanitation District Minutes for the LEGISLATIVE AND PUBLIC AFFAIRS COMMITTEE Monday, March 9, 2020 12:00 PM Board Room Administration Building 10844 Ellis Avenue Fountain Valley, CA 92708 (714) 593-7433 CALL TO ORDER A meeting of the Legislative and Public Affairs Committee was called to order by Committee Chair Peter Kim on Monday, March 9, 2020 at 12:02 p.m. in the Administration Building of the Orange County Sanitation District. Committee Chair Kim led the pledge of allegiance. DECLARATION OF QUORUM: A quorum was declared present, as follows: PRESENT:Peter Kim, Allan Bernstein, Lucille Kring, Erik Peterson, Christina Shea, David Shawver and John Withers ABSENT:None Jim Herberg, General Manager; Robert Thompson, Assistant General Manager; Lorenzo Tyner, Assistant General Manager; Kathy Millea, Director of Engineering; Lan Wiborg, Director of Environmental Services; Celia Chandler, Director of Human Resources; Kelly Lore, Clerk of the Board; Jennifer Cabral; Tanya Chong; Daisy Covarrubias; Brian Engeln; Rebecca Long; Kelly Newell; Wally Ritchie; and Ruth Zintzun. OTHERS PRESENT: Brad Hogin, General Counsel; Eric Sapirstein, ENS Resources (via teleconference); Eric O’Donnell, Townsend Public Affairs (TPA); Cori Williams, Townsend Public Affairs (TPA); and Jon Barilone and Ryder Smith (Tripepi Smith). PUBLIC COMMENTS: None. REPORTS: General Manager Jim Herberg provided an update to the Committee on the recent steps that OCSD has taken in light of the Coronavirus. CONSENT CALENDAR: 1.APPROVAL OF MINUTES 2020-895 Originator: Kelly Lore MOVED, SECONDED, AND DULY CARRIED TO: Page 1 of 4 LEGISLATIVE AND PUBLIC AFFAIRS COMMITTEE Minutes March 9, 2020 Approve Minutes of the Regular Meeting of the Legislative and Public Affairs Committee held February 10, 2020. AYES:Peter Kim, Lucille Kring, Erik Peterson, Christina Shea, David Shawver and John Withers NOES:None ABSENT:Allan Bernstein ABSTENTIONS:None NON-CONSENT: Chair Kim stated that staff requested that Item No. 7 be moved forward. 7.COMMUNICATIONS AUDIT REPORT 2020-949 Originator: Jim Herberg Administration Manager Jennifer Cabral introduced Jon Barilone and Ryder Smith from Tripepi Smith who provided an informative PowerPoint presentation regarding the Communication Audit that was recently conducted. WITHOUT OBJECTION ORDERED TO: Recommend to the Board of Directors to: Receive and file the Communications Audit Report. 2.ORANGE COUNTY SANITATION DISTRICT’S MEMBERSHIPS 2019-784 Originator: Jim Herberg Mr. Herberg provided a brief verbal presentation of the current agency memberships. WITHOUT OBJECTION ORDERED TO: Receive and file the report. Committee Vice-Chair Bernstein arrived at the meeting at 12:27 p.m. 3.PUBLIC AFFAIRS UPDATE FOR THE MONTH OF FEBRUARY 2020 2020-936 Originator: Jim Herberg Principal Public Affairs Specialist Daisy Covarrubias distributed "The Neighborhood Connection". Ms. Cabral stated that OCSD will begin advertising in the "OC Register" in April 2020. WITHOUT OBJECTION ORDERED TO: Recommend to the Board of Directors to: Page 2 of 4 LEGISLATIVE AND PUBLIC AFFAIRS COMMITTEE Minutes March 9, 2020 Receive and file the Public Affairs Update for the month of February 2020. 4.LEGISLATIVE AFFAIRS UPDATE FOR THE MONTH OF FEBRUARY 2020 2020-940 Originator: Jim Herberg Senior Public Affairs Specialist Rebecca Long provided an update on her recent visit to Washington, DC for the CASA conference. Eric Sapirstein, ENS Resources, provided an update on key legislative activities including: PFAS and flushable wipes, budget and appropriations, and permit terms and infrastructure. Mr. Sapirstein played a video clip presentation from the US EPA regarding the Water Reuse action plan. Cori Williams and Eric O'Donnell, TPA, provided a PowerPoint presentation regarding the current legislative schedule; Governor's State of the State address; and provided information regarding AB 1672 (Bloom) - Flushable wipes, SB 931, AB 2560 (Quirk) - State Board, SB 996 (Portantino), and SB 1056 (Portantino). Staff announced that the Chair and Vice-Chair, along with staff, will be travelling to Sacramento on March 31st for an Advocacy Day. WITHOUT OBJECTION ORDERED TO: Recommend to the Board of Directors to: Receive and file the Legislative Affairs Update for the month of February 2020. Board Vice-Chair Withers departed the meeting at 1:00 p.m. 5.OPPOSE ASSEMBLY BILL 2093 2020-941 Originator: Jim Herberg MOVED, SECONDED, AND DULY CARRIED TO: Approve letter opposing Assembly Bill (AB) 2093 - Public Records: Writing Transmitted by Electronic Mail: Retention (Gloria). AYES:Peter Kim, Allan Bernstein, Lucille Kring, Erik Peterson, Christina Shea and David Shawver NOES:None ABSENT:John Withers ABSTENTIONS:None 6.LETTER OF SUPPORT FOR THE WATER INFRASTRUCTURE IMPROVEMENTS FOR THE NATION ACT 2020-942 Originator: Jim Herberg Page 3 of 4 LEGISLATIVE AND PUBLIC AFFAIRS COMMITTEE Minutes March 9, 2020 MOVED, SECONDED, AND DULY CARRIED TO: Approve the Letter of Support for Water Infrastructure Improvements for the Nation Act (WIIN). AYES:Peter Kim, Allan Bernstein, Lucille Kring, Erik Peterson, Christina Shea and David Shawver NOES:None ABSENT:John Withers ABSTENTIONS:None INFORMATION ITEMS: None. DEPARTMENT HEAD REPORTS: None. OTHER BUSINESS AND COMMUNICATIONS OR SUPPLEMENTAL AGENDA ITEMS, IF ANY: None. BOARD OF DIRECTORS INITIATED ITEMS FOR A FUTURE MEETING: None. ADJOURNMENT: Committee Chair Kim declared the meeting adjourned at 1:12 p.m. to the next Legislative and Public Affairs Committee meeting, Monday, April 13, 2020 at 3:30 p.m. Submitted by: __________________ Kelly A. Lore, MMC Clerk of the Board Page 4 of 4 Orange County Sanitation District LEGISLATIVE AND PUBLIC AFFAIRS COMMITTEE Agenda Report Administration Building 10844 Ellis Avenue Fountain Valley, CA 92708 (714) 593-7433 File #:2020-1134 Agenda Date:7/13/2020 Agenda Item No:2. FROM:James D. Herberg, General Manager SUBJECT: PUBLIC AFFAIRS UPDATE FOR THE MONTHS OF MARCH THROUGH JUNE 2020 GENERAL MANAGER'S RECOMMENDATION RECOMMENDATION: Recommend to the Board of Directors to: Receive and file the Public Affairs Update for the months of March through June 2020. 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 (Sanitation District)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 for the Groundwater Replenishment System. PROPOSED SOLUTION By providing tours,community outreach,education,and general communication via the Sanitation District’s website,social media outlets,and direct mailings,we have the ability to 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 Printed on 7/6/2020Page 1 of 3 powered by Legistar™ File #:2020-1134 Agenda Date:7/13/2020 Agenda Item No:2. TIMING CONCERNS N/A RAMIFICATIONS OF NOT TAKING ACTION If we do not educate the community,local agencies,and area businesses about the Sanitation District, we may not have the support necessary to deliver our mission. PRIOR COMMITTEE/BOARD ACTIONS N/A ADDITIONAL INFORMATION March Tours* Activity ## of Guests OCSD/OCWD Tours 3 61 OCSD Tours 6 89 Speaking Engagements 4 250 *On March 19 all tours of the facility and external events were canceled in response to COVID-19. Current Activities - March- June 2020 COVID-19 Response The Sanitation District’s Emergency Operations Center was activated to address the growing concerns of COVID-19.As decisions were being made,the Public Affairs Office (PAO)was communicating with our internal and external audience to keep all informed.A webpage on our intranet site was created to have one consolidated place for staff to find information and updates on the Sanitation District’s action and response efforts.An extranet site was also created to give employees on COVID-19 administrative leave the same opportunity to stay informed.Both sites are updated regularly with the most recent information available.The PAO team has also been monitoring the conversations taking place locally,statewide,and federally regarding action plans and response efforts. To safeguard the safety of employees,all tours and participation in external physical events have been cancelled for the remainder of the year. Social Media Social Media has been heavily used as a means of connecting with our stakeholders during the last few months.The Sanitation District has continued to share information about the Sanitation District being an essential service,promoting the What2Flush campaign,and the Sanitation District’s normal operations during the pandemic. Orange County Sanitation District Printed on 7/6/2020Page 2 of 3 powered by Legistar™ File #:2020-1134 Agenda Date:7/13/2020 Agenda Item No:2. Virtual Tour To continue with our educational efforts,a virtual tour of Plant No.1 has been created.With plant tours suspended,this provides a safe alternative to learn about our process and efforts.This virtual tour will give the Sanitation District the capability to reach different organizations/groups/schools and allow them to still get the tour experience although not physically onsite.Virtual tours will also allow our reach to expand beyond our service area. Presentations In June,General Manager Jim Herberg,participated in a virtual presentation to the Orange County Business Council (OCBC)to discuss the Sanitation District’s plan for resiliency which included our response to COVID-19.The presentation also highlighted the Capital Improvement Program and some large-scale projects that will be advertising for construction in the coming months.He also participated in the Water Environment Federation (WEF)Coronavirus Roundtable series in May.The event was hosted by leaders from across the water sector to discuss how the coronavirus pandemic is affecting operations, business, and people. Lan Wiborg,Director of Environmental Services,participated in a COVID-19 webinar for the California Water Environment Association (CWEA)and California Association of Sanitation Agencies (CASA)to discuss wastewater surveillance and the Sanitation District’s action to safeguard the safety of staff while maintaining operations. CEQA N/A FINANCIAL CONSIDERATIONS N/A ATTACHMENTS The following attachment(s)may be viewed on-line at the OCSD website (www.ocsd.com)with the complete agenda package: ·Outreach and Media Summary Report, March - June 2020 Orange County Sanitation District Printed on 7/6/2020Page 3 of 3 powered by Legistar™ Outreach and Media Summary March - June 2020 O C S D P u b l i c A f f a i r s O f f i c e Table of Contents OUTREACH REPORT…………………………………………………………PAGE 1 FACEBOOK POSTINGS ……………………………………………...............PAGE 2 TWITTER POSTINGS …………………………………………………………PAGE 9 INSTAGRAM POSTINGS………………………………………………………PAGE 13 ARTICLE SUMMARY………………………………………………………….PAGE 18 Outreach Report March Date Event Attendees 3/4/20 Vanguard Nursing (Julia Wilson) 8 College 3/4/20 UK Reporter 1 Adult 3/5/20 CSUF Nursing (Marilyn & Yolanda) 27 College 3/6/20 USF Nursing (Veronica Velasco) 26 College 3/7/20 Santiago Canyon College 20 College 3/9/20 Tarbut School (Arnie Benn) 7 HS Facebook Posts March-June 2020 Graphs of Page Likes, Post Reach and Total Views for March-May 2020 Twitter Posts March- June 2020 Instagram Posts March- June 2020 Article Date Resource Link Oceanside leads county with plan to make recycled water safe to drink 2/20/2020 San Diego Union Tribune https://www.sandiegouniontribune.com/communities/north-county/oceanside/story/2020-02- 20/oceanside-leads-county-with-plan-for-potable-recycled-water State promotes innovation through mass timber competition 3/3/2020 Western Farm Press https://www.farmprogress.com/crops/state-promotes-innovation-through-mass-timber- competition Barrera: Climate Change Is the Real Threat to Latinx 3/13/2020 The Voice of OC https://voiceofoc.org/2020/03/barrera-climate-change-is-the-real-threat-to-latinx/ OCWD Commends Collaboration Of EPA's National Water Reuse Action Plan 3/12/2020 Water Online https://www.wateronline.com/doc/ocwd-commends-collaboration-epa-s-national-water-reuse- action-plan-0001 Poseidon desal plant gets fresh analysis, but coronavirus delays Friday meeting 3/13/2020 Orange County Register https://www.ocregister.com/2020/03/12/key-issues-for-poseidon-desal-plant-get-expert- analysis-but-coronavirus-delays-friday-meeting/ Orange County commends collaboration on water reuse plan 3/13/2020 Water Finance and Management https://waterfm.com/orange-county-commends-collaboration-on-water-reuse-plan/ Virus doesn’t affect tap water, but it could be in raw sewage 3/18/2020 Orange Coutny Register https://www.ocregister.com/2020/03/17/coronavirus-doesnt-jeopardize-tap-water-but-it- might-be-carried-in-raw-sewage/ Coronavirus: California issues warning about disinfecting wipes 3/18/2020 Mercury News https://www.mercurynews.com/2020/03/17/coronavirus-california-issues-warning-about- disinfecting-wipes/ Disinfecting wipes are being flushed down toilets and causing major pipe problems 3/20/2020 CNN News https://www.cnn.com/2020/03/20/us/wipes-flush-toilet-pipes-wellness-trnd/index.html Three miles of sewer pipes to be replaced as part of Westminster Avenue Sewer Project 3/31/2020 Orange County Breeze http://www.oc-breeze.com/2020/03/31/179786_three-miles-of-sewer-pipes-to-be-replaced-as- part-of-westminster-avenue-sewer-project/ Coronavirus at beaches? Surfers, swimmers should stay away, scientist says 4/2/2020 Los Angeles Times https://www.latimes.com/california/story/2020-04-02/coronavirus-ocean-swimming-surfing- safe-beaches-los-angeles Law Review: The three Ps: pee, paper and poo 4/2/2020 Sierra Sun https://www.sierrasun.com/opinion/columns/law-review-the-three-ps-pee-paper-and-poo/ Flushable Wipes’ Bust Flush for Wastewater Treatment 4/8/2020 Dana Point Times https://www.danapointtimes.com/flushable-wipes-bust-flush-wastewater- treatment/?fbclid=IwAR2oq9L7kh9G1Mx1CXsPBuTDLv13zMoB2XumPDdMkVWKZCwDXTiLuHye LM8 Poop tests in sewage might predict coronavirus surge 5/8/2020 OC Register https://www.ocregister.com/2020/05/08/poop-tests-in-sewage-might-predict-coronavirus- surge/ Local Water Resilience Projects Receive $65.8 Million in Grants from DWR 6/4/2020 CA Water News Daily http://californiawaternewsdaily.com/drought/local-water-resilience-projects-receive-65-8- million-in-grants-from-dwr/ Media Articles for March- June Orange County Sanitation District LEGISLATIVE AND PUBLIC AFFAIRS COMMITTEE Agenda Report Administration Building 10844 Ellis Avenue Fountain Valley, CA 92708 (714) 593-7433 File #:2020-1146 Agenda Date:7/13/2020 Agenda Item No:3. FROM:James D. Herberg, General Manager SUBJECT: PUBLIC AFFAIRS STRATEGIC PLAN FOR FISCAL YEARS 2020-2022 GENERAL MANAGER'S RECOMMENDATION RECOMMENDATION: Recommend to the Board of Directors to: Approve the Public Affairs Strategic Plan for Fiscal Years 2020 - 2022. BACKGROUND The Orange County Sanitation District’s (Sanitation District)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 earlier this year 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 we serve. 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 OCSD’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 the Sanitation District.The messaging must be consistent, concise, and thoroughly planned to be efficient and effective. Orange County Sanitation District Printed on 7/7/2020Page 1 of 2 powered by Legistar™ File #:2020-1146 Agenda Date:7/13/2020 Agenda Item No:3. PROPOSED SOLUTION The proposed Public Affairs Strategic Plan includes goals,objectives,strategies,and tactics to execute the various messages and efforts set forth by the Sanitation District.The plan will be in place for two years, with annual updates provided to the Legislative and Public Affairs Committee. PRIOR COMMITTEE/BOARD ACTIONS March 2020 - Received and Filed the Communications Audit Report. December 2019 -Received and Filed the November 2019 Public Affairs Update with the Communications Audit status. October 2019 -Received and Filed the Public Affairs Year End Report with the Communications Audit as a 2020 General Manager’s Work Plan goal. ADDITIONAL INFORMATION N/A FINANCIAL CONSIDERATIONS All items included in the Public Affairs Strategic Plan FY 2020-2022 are budgeted in the FY 2020- 2022 Budget. ATTACHMENT The following attachment(s)may be viewed on-line at the OCSD website (www.ocsd.com)with the complete agenda package: ·Public Affairs Strategic Plan Fiscal Years 2020-2022 ·Public Affairs Portfolio Fiscal Year 2019-2020 (Appendix B to Public Affairs Strategic Plan) ·Presentation Orange County Sanitation District Printed on 7/7/2020Page 2 of 2 powered by Legistar™ Fiscal Years 2020-21 and 2021-2022 STRATEGICPLAN PUBLIC AFFAIRS 1 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. 2 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. 3 • 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 4 • 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. 5 • 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 6 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. 7 • 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 8 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. 9 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. 5. 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. 10 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. 11 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. 12 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. 13 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. 14 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. 15 •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 16 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 Public Affairs Division10844 Ellis AvenueFountain Valley, CA 92708 PUBLICAFFAIRSPORTFOLIO Fiscal Year 2019-2020 Outreach Special Events Internal Projects Branding Reports 3 22 27 46 51 TABLEOFCONTENTS 2 3 OUTREACH 4 OUTREACH Working with OCSD CONSTRUCTION BIDOPPORTUNITIES HEADQUARTERS COMPLEX, OCSD PROJECT NO. P1-128A Construction Estimate: $99,100,000 Advertise for Bid: July 2020Construct a new headquarters building to house administrative and engineering staff in the City of Fountain Valley. Includes surface parking and a pedestrian/utility bridge over Ellis Avenue to OCSD’s Plant No. 1. The new 3-story building will be approximately 109,000 gross square feet of workplace including a lobby housing the Board Room/Multipurpose Room. The proposed construction will be comprised of a hybrid mass timber and steel braced structure. Preliminary rendering – view from Ellis Avenue HEADWORKS REHABILITATION AT PLANT NO. 1, OCSD PROJECT NO. P1-105 Construction Estimate: $291,800,000 Advertise for Bid: August 2020 Rehabilitates and upgrade facilities at the Plant No. 1 Headworks. Facilities to be rehabilitated include the Metering and Diversion Structure, the Bar Screen Building, the Bin Loading Building, the Main Sewage Pump Station, the Grit Basins, the Primary influent channels, the Headworks Odor Control Scrubbers, and electrical power distribution and control systems. The project will also include demolition of the original Headworks No. 1 facilities and unused Chlorine Building pumps. Metering and Diversion Structure Grit Chamber A-SIDE PRIMARY CLARIFIERS REPLACEMENT AT PLANT NO. 2, OCSD PROJECT NO. P2-98A Construction Estimate: $143,000,000 Advertise for Bid: October 2020Demolish and replace four existing A-Side Primary Clarifiers with flat covers; replace the South Scrubber Complex with a dual stage chemical scrubbing odor control treatment system; replace existing utilities; demolish power building; and install a new power building. A-Side Primary Clarifiers Primary Clarifier OCSD uses PlanetBids, a centralized online bidding system, for the procurement of its goods, equipment, and services. Vendor registration is required. Once registered on PlanetBids, you will be able to search for bid requests, login to download documents, and bid electronically. For more information about current or upcoming bid opportunities: Visit www.ocsd.com/bids Call the Bid Line714.593.7850 VE N D O R R E G I S T R A T I O N The Orange County Sanitation District (OCSD) is a special district governed by a 25-member Board of Directors comprised of 20 cities, four special districts, and one representative from the Orange County Board of Supervisors. OCSD provides wastewater collection, treatment, and recycling for approximately 2.6 million people living within a 479-square-mile area of central and northwestern Orange County. Our wastewater collection facilities include 389 miles of sewer pipes and 15 pump stations, located throughout our service area. Each day we treat approximately 185 million gallons of wastewater from residential, commercial, and industrial sources at our two plants: Reclamation Plant No. 1 in Fountain Valley and Treatment Plant No. 2 in Huntington Beach. WHO WE ARE Reclamation Plant No. 1 (Administration Offices)10844 Ellis AvenueFountain Valley, California 92708 Treatment Plant No. 222212 Brookhurst StreetHuntington Beach, California 92646 Phone: 714.962.2411www.ocsd.com Follow us on: WORKINGWITHOCSD DESIGN SERVICES OPPORTUNITIES TPAD Digester Facility at Plant No. 2 OCSD Project No. P2-128 Construction Estimate: $265,100,000 Consultant RFP Advertise Date: January 2020 Proposal Deadline: March 13, 2020 Replace the mesophilic anaerobic digesters at OCSD’s Plant No. 2 with new digesters in a temperature-phased anaerobic digester (TPAD) configuration. This project will build six new thermophilic digesters, Class A batch tanks, cooling facilities, and associated sludge pumping, digester mixing, power distribution, and controls. Main Street Pump Replacement and Force Main Rehabilitation, OCSD Project No. 7-67 Construction Estimate: $10,000,000 Consultant: RFP Advertise Date: January 2020 Proposal Deadline: March 31, 2020 The Main Street Pump Station is located on Main Street north of the John Wayne Airport, in the City of Irvine. This project will replace five of the original pumps, supporting piping, and rehabilitate the dual 42-inch force mains approximately 6,000 feet in length. Plant 2 Warehouse Relocation, OCSD Project No. P2-126 Construction Estimate: $5,500,000 Construction: RFP Advertise Date: July 2020 This project will construct a new replacement warehouse building and demolish the existing warehouse at OCSD’s Plant No. 2. Brochure 5 OUTREACH Construction Orange County Sanitation District MAINTENANCE / CONSTRUCTIONNOTICE September 2019 Where In the city of Huntington Beach, adjacent to the Santa Ana River Trail north of Hamilton Avenue along the fence line of the Sea Spray Condominium parking lot area. What Orange County Sanitation District (OCSD) will be placing erosion control measures consisting of dirt removal, grading, removal and replacement of fiber rolls, and other items as required.To ensure the safety of everyone, the pedestrian gate from the Sea Spray Condominium parking lot to the Santa Ana River Trail will be closed for the duration of the work. When Week of September 9, 2019 Work hours are 7 a.m. – 4 p.m., M - F Dates and times are subject to change due to operational or inclement weather. Why Properties adjacent to the Santa Ana River have major pipelines and utilities owned and maintained by OCSD. Erosion control will be placed to protect these utilities and mitigate erosion. Who OCSD is the public agency that provides regional wastewater collection, treatment, and recycling services for approximately 2.6 million people in central and northwest Orange County. OCSD operates two facilities – Reclamation Plant No. 1 in Fountain Valley and Treatment Plant No. 2 in Huntington Beach – and treat an average of 185 million gallons of wastewater each day. For more information, please call our dedicated Community Liaison on the Construction Hotline (714) 378-2965 or email constructionhotline@ocsd.com 10844 Ellis Ave., Fountain Valley, CA 92708-7018www.ocsd.com | Connect with us on social media @ocsewers Orange County Sanitation District URBAN RUNOFFThrough the Urban Runoff Program, OCSD accepts the diversion of urban runoff to the sewer when it is not raining. The urban runoff is treated before being released into the ocean, or sent to the Orange County Water District for reclamation. GROUNDWATER REPLENISHMENT SYSTEM GWRS is the world’s largest advanced water purification system for potable reuse. This project is jointly sponsored by OCSD and the Orange County Water District. SOURCE CONTROLThrough the Source Control Program, OCSD regulates and monitors industries to keep toxic pollutants out of the sewage system. NERISSAOn board the Nerissa, OCSD’s 60-foot ocean research vessel, we sample 35 square miles of the ocean, testing and monitoring ocean sea life and sediments from the ocean floor to make sure no pollutants cause harm to marine life. WASTEWATER TREATMENTAt OCSD, wastewater goes through preliminary, primary, and secondary treatment before being discharged into the ocean or sent to the Groundwater Replenishment System (GWRS). To take a tour visit us at OCSD.com/tours. Follow us on social media @ocsewers. THE MOREYOU KNOW! 09/03/19 Notice 6 OUTREACH Construction Have Questions? Please Contact Our Community Liaison(657) 208-7900 ConstructionHotline@ocsd.com Phase B of the Newhope Sewer Replacement Project Orange County Sanitation District State College Sewer Construction PROJECT BEGAN IN SEPTEMBER 2018 N More information at www.OCSD.com/StateCollege Connect with us at @ocsewers Location:State College Blvd. from Underhill Ave. to south of SR-91 Timeframe: Summer 2019 – Winter 2020* Location: State College Blvd. from Ball Rd. to Vermont Ave. Timeframe: Spring - Summer 2019* *lateral connections will occur at later date Rev. 7/18/19 City of Anaheim’s water line infrastructure will be simultaneously upgraded with construction of the new sewer line. Lincoln to La Palma Timeframe: Spring – Summer 2020 Ongoing Future Completed(lateral connections will occur from Fall 2019 – Winter 2020) Location: Returning to intersection of State College Blvd. & Orangewood Ave Timeframe: Winter 2019 (Angel’s offseason) Location:State College Blvd. from Vermont Ave. to Underhill Ave. Timeframe:Spring 2020 – Fall 2020* (Extended work hours required) STATE COLLEGE SEWERCONSTRUCTION Phase B of theNewhope Sewer Replacement Project The Orange County Sanitation District (OCSD) is starting construction on State College Blvd. from just south of the 91 freeway to Orangewood Avenue in the City of Anaheim to replace four miles of sewer. The work will be done in segments, please note the various time frames for each area highlighted on the map. Lane closures will be required for all work so we advise that you plan your commutes accordingly. Please refer to our website or the Construction Hotline for specific details. (Dates are subject to change due to operational factors or inclement weather). *OCSD is a public agency that provides regional wastewater collection, treatment, and recycling services for approximately 2.6 million people in central and northwest Orange County. STATE COLLEGESEWER CONSTRUCTION ALERT ORANGE COUNTYSANITATION DISTRICT Stay informed Please sign up to receive text alerts and email notifications at www.OCSD.com/StateCollege or email us at ConstructionHotline@ocsd.com For more information, please contact our dedicated Community Liaison at 657.208.7900. Connect with us on social media @ocsewers Sewer Pipes HOW WE INSTALL 1 2 3 4 5 PIPE INSTALLATION After area is excavated, shored, and prepared, the pipe is installed segment by segment (pipe segments vary in length based on size of the pipe). MANHOLE CONSTRUCTION Once pipe in installed, the manholes are constructed to allow access in the future for maintenance and operation of the line. STREET RESTORATION Repair of medians and curb and gutter that may have been impacted. The last step is to pave and restripe the road back to its original condition. TRAFFIC CONTROL First step is to establish the work zone by setting up lane closures, traffic cones, k-rail, etc. This helps provide a safe work area. Orange County Sanitation District (If pipe is installed in new aligment bypass is not required). SEWER BYPASS A bypass system is installed to redirect the sewer flow to be able to replace the aged pipe while maintaining sewer service. 08/2019 Brochure 7 OUTREACH Construction WESTMINSTER BLVD. SEWER PROJECT Orange County Sanitation District Starting as early as April 2020 and concluding late 2022 Monday to Friday, 5 a.m. – 7 p.m. Dates and times are subject to change due to operational factors or inclement weather. Some locations will require night work hours and notice will be provided. March 2020 Starting locationWork will commence in the City of Seal Beach on Westminster Blvd. between Seal Beach Blvd. and Bolsa Chica Rd. It is about a 2-mile stretch of work activity in the City of Seal Beach before work commences in the City of Westminster, east of Bolsa Chica Rd. What to expectMost work for the Seal Beach portion of Westminster Blvd. will be within the center median. The roadway will be widened, traffic lanes restriped, and k-rail set in place to accommodate the work in the median area. There will be periodic traffic delays and restrictions reducing the number of open travel lanes during nonpeak traffic hours. Thank you for your patience, we appreciate your support as we work to improve Orange County’s regional sewer. SEWER CONSTRUCTION IS STARTING The Orange County Sanitation District (OCSD) is about to start construction on the Westminster Blvd. Sewer Project on nearly 3 miles of regional sewer pipelines. Stay informedVisit the project website to learn more atwww.OCSD.com/westminster. Questions?Contact the Construction Hotline 714.378.2965 or email ConstructionHotline@ocsd.com. Seal Beach Blvd SEAL BEACH WESTMINSTER Not to Scale N Westminster Blvd. Bolsa Bolsa Bo l s a C h i c a Ch a n n e l HammonPlace Rancho R d Valley V i e w Sp r i n g d a l e Westminster Blvd.Force Main Replacement Sp r i n g d a l e 405 405 22 What is this project?This project will replace and reconstruct nearly three miles of the existing sewer force main system consisting of two parallel 36-inch diameter sewer pipelines on Westminster Boulevard between Seal Beach Boulevard and Hammon Place/Rancho Road in the cities of Seal Beach and Westminster. A force main system are pipes used to move wastewater under pressure by use of a pump station. Force mains are necessary when gravity flow is not sufficient to move wastewater. THE FACTS WESTMINSTER BLVD. SEWER PROJECT Orange County Sanitation District Questions?If you would like additional information, please call the OCSD Construction Hotline at (714) 378-2965 or e-mail ConstructionHotline@ocsd.com. For additional information on the Orange County Sanitation District please visit www.ocsd.com/westminster or through social media @ocsewers. The Orange County Sanitation District (OCSD) is a public agency that provides wastewater collection, treatment, and recycling services for approximately 2.6 million people in central and northwest Orange County. OCSD operates two facilities – Reclamation Plant No. 1 in Fountain Valley and Treatment Plant No. 2 in Huntington Beach – and treat an average of 185 million gallons of wastewater each day. About us Why is theproject needed?The aging infrastructure is over 40 years ago with only one of the two pipelines in service. This project is required to maintain a reliable and effective wastewater collection system expected to last 40-50 years. When is the project scheduled?Construction is scheduled to begin as early as Spring 2020 and last until late 2022. What impacts can be expected?OCSD is working diligently on this project to ensure every possible measure is taken to minimize public impacts. There may be traffic restrictions reducing the number of travel lanes. There may be elevated noise levels, vibration, and other related impacts. Mitigation measures will be put in place to ensure compliance with City ordinances as well as minimize the impacts to our neighbors. We are working closely with the cities, in addition to the OCTA 405 Improvement Project team. Seal Beach Blvd. SEAL BEACH WESTMINSTER Not to Scale N Westminster Blvd. Bolsa Bolsa Bo l s a C h i c a Ch a n n e l HammonPlace Rancho R d Valley V i e w Sp r i n g d a l e Westminster Blvd.Sewer Project Sp r i n g d a l e 405 405 22 Mailer 8 OUTREACH Construction If you would like additional information, please call our dedicated Community Liaison on the Construction Hotline (657) 208-7900 or e-mail constructionhotline@ocsd.com 10844 Ellis Avenue, Fountain Valley, CA 92708-7018 | www.ocsd.com State College Sewer Progress Please support your local businesses and merchants along State College Blvd. during construction. They remain open and are always accessible. Yes We’re OPEN During construction of this project, extensive traffic control is required for the safety and welfare of everyone. We ask that you please drive carefully and obey all of the traffic signs posted. Pedestrians should exercise caution when crossing the street and only use the designated crosswalks. Safety is our priority. YourSafety Matters Este boletín está disponible en español en nuestra pagina de internet www.ocsd.com/StateCollege This project is one of life’s necessities - updating the sewer system that flushes away waste and water from bathrooms, laundry, and dishwashers is vital to our community’s health and safety. We thank you for your patience as we complete this necessary project. Connect with us on social @ocsewers STATE COLLEGESEWER CONSTRUCTION Orange County Sanitation District Sign up to receive text alerts and e-notifications at www.ocsd.com/StateCollege NEIGHBORHOOD BULLETIN We have installed about 60 percent of the pipe...so what is taking so long to finish?We are making great progress with the sewer installation along State College Blvd., however, it’s a big job with a lot of puzzle pieces to put together so it takes quite a bit of time. Each area has to be done in stages. Let’s take a look at some of the many “pieces” involved in sewer installation: What’s the Construction on State College Blvd? The Orange County Sanitation District (OCSD), the regional sewer provider, is currently replacing four miles of sewer with a larger pipe on State College Boulevard from the SR-91 to Orangewood Avenue in the City of Anaheim. Construction began in summer 2018 and is scheduled to be completed in late 2020. Traffic Control and K-RailLane closures, traffic cones, and K-rail are put in place to establish construction zone area and provide a safe work space. Excavation and ShoringExcavated trenches are 20 feet deep and need to be secured with large plates installed on both sides of the trench. This “shoring” prevents the trench from caving in, keeping the construction crew and all the necessary equipment in the trench safe. Once the site is secured, the dirt is removed. Pipe InstallationCrews work 20 feet below street level to safely install the pipe. Removal of Shoring and BackfillThe area is restored to allow for complete access of the road giving the illusion that the work is complete. This is a temporary step that needs to be done prior to us coming back to put the main line in service. Restoration: Street, Median, LandscapingThis is the final step in the process. Repair medians, curbs and gutters, landscape, irrigation, and pave and re-stripe the road back to its original condition. It’s a big job, and this is a big pipe... 4 1/2 feet in diameter to be exact! These steps are a simplified version of how the work is done, as each stage has its own specific complexities. We may appear to be finished in one area, only to come back at a later date for additional necessary work, but in the end, all the puzzle pieces all fit together so the sewer system can keep operating. Winter 2020 Manhole Construction and Connection of Lateral LinesOnce the pipe is installed downstream, crews return to the area to construct manholes for future access of the pipe and to connect laterals to the new line. To do this, the area must once again be trenched and shored to initiate connection of the line. Once completed, the laterals will take water generated from homes and business to the newly installed sewer line. Why Is Construction Taking So Long? Mailer 9 OUTREACH Construction The Orange County Water District (OCWD) is constructing two large tanks and a pump station at the north end of the Orange County Sanitation District’s (OCSD) Plant No. 2 in Huntington Beach. The tanks will have a combined capacity of six million gallons of reclaimable water that will be pumped 3.5 miles to the GWRS facility in Fountain Valley for treatment and injection into our groundwater basin. Construction Activity: Current – Spring 2022 Work Hours: Monday – Friday, 7 a.m. – 7 p.m. What to Expect: Construction activity, equipment and associated noise may be noticeable. Please be assured that we adhere to all city ordinances and permit requirements. CONSTRUCTION INFORMATION We understand that construction can be an inconvenience and thank you for your patience. Call: Construction Hotline 714.378.2965 Email: ConstructionHotline@ocsd.com Visit: www.ocsd.com/gwrs Flyer For more information, please call our dedicated Community Liaison on the Construction Hotline (714) 378-2965 or email ConstructionHotline@ocsd.com. For general information about GWRS please visit www.OCWD.com/GWRS Deep Soil Mixing May 2020 – August 2020 Mon – Fri, 7 a.m. – 5 p.m. Work dates and times are subject to change due to inclement weather, operational factors, and environmental impacts. Deep soil mixing activity took place on the OCSD Ocean Outfall System project in July 2019. Upcoming Construction Activity to Commence As part of the Groundwater Replenishment System (GWRS) Final Expansion, the Orange County Water District (OCWD) is constructing two large tanks and a pump station at the north end of the Orange County Sanitation District (OCSD) Plant No. 2. The contractor on the project is beginning to prep for deep soil mixing, a method for enhancing the ground capacity and strength by improving soils underneath the location of the future structures. An auger is attached to a crane-supported equipment, the auger drills into the ground and constructs cement-mixed columns below the ground surface. WHAT TO EXPECT • Noise from construction equipment and activity may be noticeable for nearby residents. • Any minor vibrations as a result from this activity will be closely monitored. • Increased truck traffic may be noticeable. Please note we do not allow our contractors to stage on Brookhurst Street. They are immediately let in after clearing security. Any vehicles that queue along Brookhurst Street are not related to any projects taking place at OCSD. • Please be assured that we adhere to all city ordinances and permit requirements. • After the deep soil mixing activity is completed, excavation will take place at the location of the new tanks to be constructed. This will require trucks in and out of the facility. ABOUT GWRS GWRS is the world’s largest potable water purification system, taking highly treated wastewater that would have previously been discharged into the Pacific Ocean and purifying it using a three-step advanced treatment process consisting of microfiltration, reverse osmosis, and ultraviolet with hydrogen peroxide. Postcard Fact Sheet 10 OUTREACH Construction MACARTHUR PUMP STATION ORANGE COUNTY SANITATION DISTRICT CONSTRUCTION ALERT If you would like additional information, please call our dedicated Community Liaison on the Construction Hotline (714) 378-2965 or e-mail ConstructionHotline@ocsd.com What: Orange County Sanitation District (OCSD) will be replacing two existing valves at our MacArthur Pump Station. A bypass pumping operation will be in place during the work to continue to provide uninterrupted wastewater services to the community while the pump station is temporarily out of service. A temporary bypass system of pumps and above ground pipes will require traffic control and lane closures along southbound MacArthur Blvd. Driveways will remain accessible. Left turns will not be allowed for northbound MacArthur Blvd. between Newport Plaza Dr. and Birch St. When: Continuous work starting Friday, August 2 at 8 p.m. to Sunday, August 4 at 8 p.m. Where: MacArthur Pump Station located at 4219 MacArthur Blvd., Newport Beach Above ground bypass pipes and traffic control will extend along MacArthur Blvd. between Michelson Dr. and Von Karman Ave./Newport Plaza Dr. Why: Operational equipment are nearing the end of their useful life and need replacement. This work is being done during the weekend to minimize impacts to traffic. The pump station is critical to the conveyance of wastewater to 2 regional treatment facilities located in Fountain Valley and Huntington Beach. If the pump station is not operational 24 hours a day, there could be a sewer back up eventually leading to a sewage spill. Construction Activity at the MacArthur Pump Station August 2 – 4, 2019 10844 Ellis Avenue, Fountain Valley, CA 92708-7018 | www.ocsd.com | Connect with us on social @ocsewers For immediate assistance while the work is taking place, please call the OCSD Control Center at (714) 593-7025 CONSTRUCTION ALERT SEE INSIDE For More Information Stay informed Call the Construction Hotline at (714) 378-2965Email ContructionHotline@ocsd.comVisit www.ocsd.com The Orange County Sanitation District is a public agency that provides regional wastewater collection, treatment, and recycling services for approximately 2.6 million people in central and northwest Orange County. Connect with us on social media @ocsewers ORANGE COUNTY SANITATION DISTRICT10844 Ellis Avenue, Fountain Valley, CA 92708-7018 Mailer 11 OUTREACH Construction NoParking Orange County Sanitation DistrictWARNING 10844 Ellis Ave., Fountain Valley, CA 92708-7018www.ocsd.com Monday - Friday, 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. The Orange County Sanitation District maintenance crew needs access to the driveway for schedule maintenance work. This odor control dosing station allows OCSD to keep the odorous smells away. PLEASE NOTE: Costa Mesa Police Department will be ISSUING CITATIONS to individuals who do not comply. Questions? Please refer to posted signs. Notice OUTREACH Construction WORKING WITH OCSD Over the next ten years, OCSD’s Capital Improvement Program plans to spend $2.8 billion in projects, which include: TPAD DIGESTER FACILITY AT PLANT NO. 2, PROJECT NO. P2-128 Construction Estimate: $265,100,000 Consultant RFP Advertise Date: January 2020 This project will enhance the existing anerobic digesters and build six new thermophilic digesters, Class A batch tanks, and cooling facilities. HEADQUARTERS COMPLEX, PROJECT NO. P1-128A Construction Estimate: $99,100,000 Advertise for Bid: July 2020 Construct a new headquarters building to house administrative and engineering staff in the City of Fountain Valley. HEADWORKS REHABILITATION AT PLANT NO. 1, PROJECT NO. P1-105 Construction Estimate: $291,800,000 Advertise for Bid: July 2020 Rehabilitate and upgrade facilities at the Plant No. 1 Headworks, including Metering and Diversion Structure, the Bar Screen Building, the Bin Loading Building, the Main Sewage Pump Station, the Grit Basins, the Primary influent channels, the Headworks Odor Control Scrubbers, and electrical power distribution and control systems. A-SIDE PRIMARY CLARIFIERS REPLACEMENT AT PLANT NO. 2, PROJECT NO. P2-98A Construction Estimate: $143,000,000 Advertise for Bid: October 2020 Demolish and replace four existing A-Side Primary Clarifiers with flat covers; replace the South Scrubber Complex with a dual stage chemical scrubbing odor control treatment system; replace existing utilities; demolish power building; and install a new power building. For a list of all upcoming design consultant and construction bid opportunities, visit www.ocsd.com/bids Event Sign 12 13 OUTREACH Construction Plant No. 2 Neighborhood Newsletter theneighborhoodconnection published by the orange county sanitation district {Vol. 1, No. 7} Fall 2019 Over the next several years, Orange County Sanitation District’s (OCSD) Capital Improvement Program is focusing on infrastructure and resource recovery. This OCSD publication is to keep you, our neighbors, informed about construction activities at our Huntington Beach treatment facility (Plant No. 2). READY, SET, GO! (Continued next page) The world’s largest potable water reuse project is getting BIGGER. The Final Expansion of the Groundwater Replenishment System (GWRS) will allow us and the Orange County Water District (OCWD) to recycle an additional 30 million gallons of water per day (MGD) for a grand total of 130 MGD. This system allows us to decrease our dependence on imported water by producing enough water for one million Orange County residents. We’ve shared with you in previous newsletter issues that in order to meet the 130 MGD goal we need to take flow from Plant No. 2 in Huntington Beach and pump it up to the GWRS facility in Fountain Valley. What we haven’t told you is what that means for Plant No. 2. Construction Begins 14 OUTREACH Construction Thank You Card Thank you for attending our Huntington Beach facility tour. We would love to hear your thoughts on how we can improve the tour. What did you think of the tour? ____________________________________________________ ____________________________________________________ ____________________________________________________ ____________________________________________________ ____________________________________________________ Do you have any suggestions on how we can improve the tour? ____________________________________________________ ____________________________________________________ ____________________________________________________ ____________________________________________________ ____________________________________________________ THANK YOU Follow us on social media @OCSEWERS. City Planner Marketing Piece Sample Mug 15 OUTREACH Construction How we install SEWER PIPES TRAFFIC CONTROL First step is to establish the work zone by setting up lane closures, traffic cones, k-rail, etc. This helps provide a safe work area. SEWER BYPASS A bypass system is installed to redirect the sewer flow to be able to replace the aged pipe while maintaining sewer service. (If pipe is installed a new alignment bypass is not required). PIPE INSTALLATION After area is excavated, shored, and prepared, the pipe is installed segment by segment (pipe segments vary in length based on size of the pipe). MANHOLECONSTRUCTION Once pipe in installed, the manholes are constructed to allow access in the future for maintenance and operation of the line. STREET RESTORATION Repair of medians and curb and gutter that may have been impacted. The last step is to pave and restripe the road back to its original condition. Poster 16 OUTREACH Social Media Report Sewer EmergenciesCall 714.962.2411 Our offices will be closedMonday, May 25, 2020 MEMORIALDAY Social Media Art 17 OUTREACH Videos Videos 18 OUTREACH Events Event Sign A SENSEOF PURPOSE Do you know what should go down the drain that is sewer safe? It’s simple, the toilet is only meant to fl ush the three Ps— pee, poop, and paper. ORANGE COUNTY SANITATION DISTRICT Follow us on social media @OCSEWERS. Visit us at www.OCSD.com OCSD maintains nearly 400 miles of regional sewer pipelines in Orange County. Through the wastewater treatment process, we produce enough electricity to power a city the size of Brea. We collect 185 million gallons of wastewater a day. That’s enough to fi ll Angel Stadium more than 2 times in a 24 hour period. We supply 130 mgd of treated wastewater to OCWD for the Groundwater Replenishment System. It is used to produce 100 mgd of purifi ed water. 130mgd 100mgd 19 OUTREACH Award CLIMATE RESILIENCEPlanning for Future Risks: ORANGE COUNTY SANITATION DISTRICT AT ORANGE COUNTY SANITATION DISTRICT Orange County Sanitation DistrictClimate and Catastrophic Event Resilience Policy The Sanitation District aims to design, maintain, and operate valuable wastewater assets that withstand or adapt to adverse conditions in a reasonable manner that is both cost-effective and sustainable for present and future generations. These adverse conditions include heavy rains, flooding, sea level rise, earthquakes, tsunamis, extreme heat, wildfires, and electrical grid interruptions. Achieving Greenhouse Gas (GHG) Emission Goals Adaptation Planning for infrastructureBuilding Level Flood Protection Boundary Level Flood Protection Flood Protection and ResiliencySimple adaptations can be incorporated into individual facilities to protect against flooding. Building level solutions generally protect a greater number of assets at a lower cost than asset level solutions by preventing flood water from entering the facility. Flooding in Orange County Many of OCSD’s facilities are located near the coast, enclosed bays, or rivers, making flooding a major risk to the services provided by OCSD. Flooding threatensinfrastructure near thecoast and major channels,including Plant No. 2and a number ofpump stations. Coastal infrastructure isvulnerable to tsunamis. Fire and flying embers area risk to buildings nearheavy vegetation. Greenhouse gases,such as carbon dioxide,impact the earth’satmosphere and climate. Inland areas are subjectto higher temperaturesand longer heat waves. Climate Forces Considered as Part of the Study OCSD is constantly striving to be resilient, reliable, and forward-thinking. Recognizing the value of our infrastructure and the risks posed by different forces of nature, we have conducted a climate resiliency study to better prepare for the future. A typical floodwall design to withstand storm Vulnerabilities By focusing efforts on high priority infrastructure and understanding site-specific risks, OCSD can provide resiliency and adaptability within upgrades to infrastructure and facilities. Safety and Access Orange County Register, 2012 Orange County Register, 1983 Climate change is expected to result in more extreme storms, increased flood depths, and raised sea levels. Possible Sewer Backups Water Quality Impacts and Environmental Damage Poster 20 OUTREACH Award Application The Orange County Sanitation District congratulates Chris Cervellone on his induction as a Life Member of the American Society of Civil Engineers Los Angeles Chapter. Chris Cervellone retired in 2017 after 33 years of service. www.ocsd.com Follow us @ocsewers Program Advertisement 21 OUTREACH Other Wastewater Discharge Request Process Please fill out the Discharge Authorization Request form HERE. Submit a Generator/Requestor Profile Have other disposal methods been considered not feasible? Is the proposed discharge in compliance with OCSD Wastewater Discharge Ordinance Prohibitions, Terms, Conditions, & Limits? Is the request for washwater? (mobile detailing, carpet cleaning, pressure washing, steam cleaning, & other similar activities) Can the wastewater be treated to meet compliance? Collect a sample of all wastewater and analyze for pollutants expected to be present and Submit a Laboratory Analysis Report (refer to OCSD’s Wastewater Discharge Regulations Ordinance article 2 for detailed list) Submit the Requested Information & Documents to OCSD to begin the review process. Authorization will be issued from OCSD if approved. Pursue Other Disposal Option Evaluate other disposal options such as wastehauling, reuse/recycle, etc. Submit an Alternative Disposal Evaluation Determine a discharge location that is acceptable to the local sewer authority (city/municipality), property owner, and/or OCSD (depending on the owner of the discharge point)Please see OCSD’s Answers to Questions About Disposal of Washwater Yes Yes No Yes Yes No Regulation: OCSD WDR Ordinance Conduct treatment of wastewater and notify OCSD of treatment method and details No No Generator/Requestor Responsibility: OCSD Review Process 3-7 business daysQuestions?Contact your local permit specialist HERE. Orange County Santitation District Flyer STATE • Secure funding for infrastructure, collection improvements and renewable energy at the Fountain Valley Plant No. 1 and Huntington Beach Plant No. 2. • Support legislation or regulations that restrict the use of microplastics or wipes and the disposal into the sewer system. • Work with legislators to ensure that unrealistic regulations are not placed on wastewater treatment facilities. FEDERAL • Advocate for federal water infrastructure funding including State Revolving Fund and the Water Infrastructure Improvements for the Nation (WIIN) Act. • Work with the Administration and Congress to advance permitting processes including 10-year National Pollutant Discharge Elimination System (NPDES) permits. • Promote restoration of federal deductibility of state and local tax payments and oppose elimination or restriction on the use or availability of tax-exempt financing for public infrastructure. ORANGE COUNTY SANITATION DISTRICT 2020 LEGISLATIVE PRIORITIESKEY MESSAGE CARD ORANGE COUNTY SANITATION DISTRICT 10844 Ellis Avenue, Fountain Valley, CA 92708, www.ocsd.com 01/2019 GUIDING PRIORITIES • Seek funds for OCSD projects through grants, appropriations, or other means; • Maintain local control over governance of special districts and other local entities; • Oppose redundant regulatory requirements; • Support legislative regulatory streamlining that promotes public health and the environment. @OCSewers 2019 LEGISLATIVE PRIORITIES KEY MESSAGE CARD Legislative Card Wastewater Discharge Request Process Include the following:• Facility Name• Location/Address• Contact Information• Description• Origin Process• Treatment, Disposal History• Volume & Frequency Submit a Generator/Requestor Profile Have other disposal methods been considered not feasible? Is the proposed discharge in compliance with OCSD Wastewater Discharge Ordinance Prohibitions, Terms, Conditions, & Limits? Is the request for washwater? (mobile detailing, carpet cleaning, pressure washing, steam cleaning, & other similar activities) Can the wastewater be treated to meet compliance? Collect a sample of all wastewater and analyze for pollutants expected to be present and Submit a Laboratory Analysis Report (refer to OCSD’s Wastewater Discharge Regulations Ordinance article 2 for detailed list) Submit the Requested Information & Documents to OCSD to begin the review process. Authorization will be issued from OCSD if approved. Pursue Other Disposal Option Evaluate other disposal options such as wastehauling, reuse/recycle, etc. Submit an Alternative Disposal Evaluation Determine a discharge location that is acceptable to the local sewer authority (city/municipality), property owner, and/or OCSD (depending on the owner of the discharge point) Review OCSD Business Rule B70.00.R01 Washwater Disposal Guidelines Yes Yes No Yes Yes No Regulation: OCSD WDR Ordinance Conduct treatment of wastewater and notify OCSD of treatment method and details No No Generator/Requestor Responsibility: OCSD Review Process 3-7 business daysQuestions? Contact your local permit specialist HERE. Orange County Santitation District 22 SPECIALEVENTS 23 SPECIAL EVENTS Centrifuge Ribbon Cutting Ribbon Cutting CENTRIFUGEFACILITYInvitation CENTRIFUGE FACILITY Ribbon Cutting Saturday, July 27, 2019 Continental Breakfast and Networking Welcome and Introductions Supervisor, Michelle Steel Opening Remarks Board Chairman, David Shawver Centrifuge Ribbon Cutting Presentation General Manager, Jim Herberg Official Ribbon Cutting and Conclusion Vice Chairman, John Withers Tour immediately following program Poster 24 SPECIAL EVENTS State of the District 65 Years of Impressions Orange County Sanitation District State Districtof the Breakfast Friday, October 258 a.m. - 10 a.m. Join our Board of Directors and General Manager as we discuss our accomplishments and exciting advances. An optional tour of our Fountain Valley Plant No. 1 will take place immediately following the event. Mile Square Golf Course Clubhouse10401 Warner AvenueFountain Valley, CA 92708 Invitation 65 Years of Impressions Orange County Sanitation District State Districtof theBreakfast Friday,October 25, 20198 a.m. - 10 a.m. Join our Board of Directors and General Manager as we discuss our accomplishments and exciting advances. For more information or questions email: forinformation@ocsd.com An optional tour of our Fountain Valley Plant No. 1 will take place immediately following the event. Mile Square Golf Course Clubhouse10401 Warner AvenueFountain Valley, CA 92708 Save the Date Save the date www.ocsd.com Breakfast and Networking Call Meeting to Order Board Chairman, David Shawver Welcome and Pledge of Allegiance Board Chairman, David Shawver State of the District Presentation General Manager, Jim Herberg Adjourn Meeting Board Chairman, David Shawver Facility tour immediately following program. A bus will be available to take you to our OCSD Plant No. 1 Headquarters located at: 10844 Ellis Ave., Fountain Valley, CA State 2019 Districtof the Program Orange County Sanitation District Friday, October 258 a.m. - 10 a.m. 65 Years of Impressions #OCSDStateOfTheDistrict FOLLOW US @OCSEWERS Program 65 Years of Impressions Lapel Pin 25 SPECIAL EVENTS Open House Passport Submit completed passportto enter opportunity drawing Namethe Crane Name: Phone: E-mail: Drop off completed form at either Welcome Booth by 12 p.m. Winning name will be announced on Facebook, Instagram, and Twitter @ocsewers. YES, I would like to receive updates and information from OCSD. Grover Frasier Crane Bumblebee Stay Connected! Follow us @ocsewers Our newest OCSDcrane looks like a... Share your experience using #OCSDturns65 *Winner need not be present. Limit one entry per person. Employees are not eligible for drawing. Celebrating 65 years of Impressions 1 3 2 4 5 6 7 89101112 13 14 15 16 17 18 19 202122 Orange CountySanitation District Celebrating 65 years of Impressions 1 3 2 4 5 6 7 89101112 13 14 15 16 17 18 19 202122 Orange CountySanitation District Banners Banners 26 SPECIAL EVENTS Open House Poster OPPORTUNITY DRAWING PRIZES JBL SPEAKER AMAZON FIRE TV CUBEFIT BIT COMPOSTGIVEAWAY Help your garden grow Poster How Many Battery Cells?• 1,020 per pod • 16,320 per Powerpack • Over 2.4 million total How Much Capacity?• 5 megawatts, 31 megawatt hours • Same number of battery cells as 547 Tesla Model 3s (long range model) • Enough energy to supply 1,675 houses for a day (18.5 kwh/day per house) Savings?• Anticipate saving of $450,000 per year • Saving occurs by reducing peak energy demand charges • Operates during peak power or when requested by the utility Largest behind-the-meter battery storage system in the United States BATTERYSTORAGESYSTEM Battery Cell (Tesla 2170) Pod (16 per Powerpack) Powerpack (900VDC)(148 Total)Inverter (Converts 900VDC to 480VAC) (8 Total) Poster 27 INTERNAL PROJECTS 28 INTERNAL PROJECTS Employee Communications Monthly Bulletin Please be sure to obtain supervisor approval for all events and presentations during work hours. ORANGE COUNTY SANITATION DISTRICT APRIL 2020 YOUR SMARTPHONE KNOWS ALL YOUR SECRETS Put it on lockdown with these tips • Update your operating system and apps: Many software updates contain bug fixes and security improvements that guard your smartphone against data breaches, intrusions and vulnerabilities. • Lock your smartphone: Always engage a six-digit passcode to access your device. Consider fingerprint scanning and Face ID as a fast alternative. • Turn your Bluetooth and Wi-Fi off when not in use: Bluetooth channels are a common form used by hackers to invade your privacy. Thank you to the Laboratory team for preparing the first batch of bleach-based disinfection spray (150 bottles to be exact). This will help us keep common areas clean due to the COVID-19 pandemic. In order to minimize disruption to regular laboratory operations, division managers are to submit orders/requests to the lab on behalf of their team and arrange pick up. Social Distancing: A New Reality We keep hearing that we need to implement social distancing to help stop or slow down the spread of COVID-19. What is social distancing? Put simply, it means avoiding crowds. To comply please do the following: • Stay at least 6 feet away from other people. • Avoid handshaking, hugging or other intimate types of greetings – greet others with a wave, nod or bow instead. • Avoid non-essential travel. • Avoid crowds, especially in poorly ventilated spaces. • Do not go out if you are sick or think you are sick. Immediately call your doctor. Use Microsoft Teams to Communicate As a reminder, Teams can be used to communicate effectively amongst individuals or groups. Chats, conference calls, and sharing your desktop are all great ways to communicate from a distance. If you have any questions, please contact the Service Desk at x4357 or click IT Services on MyOCSD, scroll down to Microsoft Teams. Lab Heroes  OCSD@Work TOP: Elaine Galvez and AnthonyPimentel. BOTTOM: Marta Dudek, Joel Finch, Joseph Robledo and Brandon Yokoyama, Div. 630. Employee Bi-MonthlyNewsletter ORANGE COUNTY SANITATION DISTRICT YOUR SOURCE FOR OCSD NEWS AND INFORMATION July/August2019 Thank you to the following employees who shared their summer memories, vacations and adventures. (a) Adam McMurdy, Senior Mechanic; (b) Paul Ayala, Engineering Associate; (c) Pinky Burke, Data Management Tech II; (d) Monica Sanchez, Contract/ Purchasing Assistant; (e) Joshua Martinez, Info Tech Analyst II; (f) Brian Finkelstein, Associate Engineer; (g) Bobby Martinez, Storekeeper; and (h) Bob Bell, Maintenance Supervisor Summer TimeFunFun (a)(b) (c) (d) (e) (f) (g) (h) 29 INTERNAL PROJECTS Employee Event - VIP Luncheon CHRIS CERVELLONE In recognition of your commitment to community outreach and education by participating in the Volunteer Incentive Program July 2018 - June 2019 ____________________________________ James D. Herberg, General Manager I make a lastin g impression Certificate Staff Appreciation Giveaway 30 INTERNAL PROJECTS Employee Event - Harvest Festival Join us for a SPOOKTACULAR Halloween Event! Come dressed as your Favorite Disney Character/ Disney Villain! Thursday, October 31 11:30 a.m. - 1 p.m. Plant No. 1, HR Parking Lot »Department & Individual Costume Contests »Door Decorating Contest - Winner Announced »Relay Race, Food and Fun! Visit MyOCSD for more information. HALLOWEENParty Table Tent Backdrop Web Banner 31 INTERNAL PROJECTS Employee Event - Holiday Luncheon H a p p y H o l i d a y s Backdrop MyOCSD Banner Staff Appreciation Giveaway 32 INTERNAL PROJECTS Safety Contest K i d 's Art Co n t e s t K i d 's Art Con t e s t Enter the 2019“What Safety Means To Me!” Calendar Art Contest Showcase different ways to be safe at home, work and school. Twelve students will receive a certificate of appreciation and have their artwork featured in the 2020 “What Safety Means To Me” calendar. Four Grand Prizes: Winners will receive a $100 Visa® Gift Card and will be honored at an awards presentation during the October Board Meeting. ARTWORKDEADLINE:FRIDAY, AUGUST 30 For entry form and official rules, visit Myocsd.com. Flyer 10844 Ellis Avenue | Fountain Valley, CA | 92708 | www.ocsd.com The Risk Management Division hosted the fifth annual Safety Poster Contest at OCSD. The art contest is open to children with a relative or sponsor who works at OCSD in grades K-12 (ages 5-18). It aims to promote and support the safety, health, and well-being of our employees, our families, and our communities. Additionally, it aims to reduce injuries and accidents by fueling our Safety Culture through the excitement, inspiration, and creativity of our kids. In 2019, we received 21 entries. The Safety Committee voted on the winners, which are featured by month in this calendar. Enjoy and thank you to all of our participants! WHATSAFETY MEANSTO ME2020 Calendar Calendar Winning Poster 33 INTERNAL PROJECTS Cards HolidaysHappy General Manager’sHoliday Card 34 INTERNAL PROJECTS Risk SAFETY AWARENESSFOREVERYONESAFE SafetyGramRISK MANAGEMENT DIVISION Bulletin Gram MyOCSD Sharepoint Page 35 INTERNAL PROJECTS Employee Event Sticker Wednesday, September 18 3:15 p.m.- 4:45 p.m. Plant No. 2 Operations Center End of Ice Cream Social Poster 36 INTERNAL PROJECTS Board Member Outreach On behalf of the Board of Directors. I personally want to extend my sincere thanks and appreciation to you for all of our accomplishments this year. We continued to carry out our mission by serving the people of Orange County. This was through a team effort and hard work by everyone. I thank all of you for your support and dedication to the Orange County Sanitation District. May you enjoy the holiday with your family, and I am looking forward to another great and successful year. Best Wishes,David Shawver, Board Chairman HAPPY nEWyEAR MyOCSD Post Email Message Prepared by Board Services GUIDE TOBUSINESS Board of Directors’2020ORANGE COUNTY SANITATION DISTRICT Board Member Book OCSD Board Leadership OCSD Board re-elected the City of Stanton Mayor David Shawver as Chairman of the OCSD Board of Directors and John Withers, of the Irvine Ranch Water District Board of Directors will continue to serve as Vice-Chairman. OCSD Participates in Wastewater Based Epidemiology for COVID-19 Recognizing the potential role of wastewater as a tool for COVID-19 surveillance, OCSD has agreed to provide samples to three projects which are managed by the California State Water Resource Control Board, University of Arizona’s Water and Energy Sustainable Technology Center, Stanford University and University of Michigan. OCSD’s efforts were recently published in the Orange County Register and the California Association of Sanitation Agencies newsletter. Both publications can be found on OCSD’s website at www.ocsd.com. Orange County Business Council Highlights OCSD Efforts OCSD has partnered with the Orange County Business Council (OCBC) to promote OCSD as an essential service, continuing to invest in infrastructure improvements and progress with over $500 million in construction projects scheduled to break ground over the next 14 months. OCBC has agreed to highlight OCSD’s positive impact on the County's economy and business climate as they move forward with their programs. OCSD is featured in the Orange County Register’s California Water Insert For the first time ever, OCSD joined other local agencies throughout the county in a California Water supplemental educational insert featured in the Sunday, May 17 Orange County Register. The piece highlights OCSD’s role of protecting public health and the environment for Orange County. The issue can be found on OCSD’s website at ocsd.com. OCSD Sewer Construction Projects Seal Beach Specific In Seal Beach, the Westminster Blvd. Sewer Project is just getting started by first establishing the work zone by surrounding the center median area with K-rail for nearly a two mile stretch on Westminster Blvd. This project will construct two new force mains and will be in construction until fall 2022. If you have questions you can contact OCSD’s community liaison at 714-378-2965 or at ConstructionHotline@ocsd.com. Anaheim Specific In Anaheim, work continues on the State College Sewer Project. Installation of the last mile of pipeline between Vermont Ave. and Underhill Ave. is underway with crews working from 5 a.m. to 3 a.m. making use of daylight and light traffic due to the Stay-At-Home orders. A city water line is also being constructed between Lincoln Ave. and La Palma Ave. Construction is slated to be completed in early 2021. If you have any questions you can contact OCSD’s community liaison at 657-208-7900 or at ConstructionHotline@ocsd.com. Huntington Beach Specific In Huntington Beach, preparation for construction of the Groundwater Replenishment System Final Expansion continues. The ground is being strengthened for construction of two large tanks by using deep soil mixing. Over the next several months, tall mixing rigs will be seen over the tree line on Brookhurst St. as they construct cement-mixed columns below the surface to reinforce the ground. If you have any questions contact OCSD’s community liaison at 714-378-2965 or at ConstructionHotline@ocsd.com. May 2020 Board Member Talking Points 37 INTERNAL PROJECTS Human Resources Postcard BENEFITS OPEN ENROLLMENT IS HERE!OCTOBER 1-15, 2019 BenefitsFor the WayYou Live Banner OCTOBER 1-15, 2019 2020 OPEN ENROLLMENT 38 INTERNAL PROJECTS Human Resources Sticker Poster Retirement Slide 39 INTERNAL PROJECTS Human Resources Ergonomics for Telecommuters The purpose of these guidelines is to assist employees working from home with setting up an eective work space to improve safety, comfort and productivity. Designated Work Area • Before beginning work, assess your work area to ensure it is free from trip hazards such as boxes, loose cords, open drawers, kid’s toys, etc. • Although it may be tempting to work from your bed, couch or bent over a coee table, it is important to choose a standard table to improve comfort and overall body positioning. A couch or a bed does not provide stability and may cause discomfort to the body. • Work at a desk or table with adequate knee and foot clearance so that you can sit/stand close to your laptop or monitor. • Setup your work area with everything you need. • Make sure your work area has adequate lighting. • While on the phone, use a headset or handsfree device. Chair Selection• If possible, use an adjustable chair to maintain a 90-degree bend in your knees, waist, and elbows. • If needed, use a rolled-up hand towel for extra lower back support. • If your chair is too low, sit on a cushion to raise your seat height or extend your feet to allow for proper blood circulation. • If your chair is too high, use a box as a footrest for support. Posture• Maintain an upright posture, avoid slouching. • If sitting, try to ensure that the small of your back is supported, your shoulders are relaxed (not slumped, not elevated), and that there is no unwelcome pressure on the back of your knees. • If standing (e.g. at your kitchen worktop), keep your legs, torso, neck and head approximately in line and vertical – don’t slouch, lean or twist to the side. • Be cautious of resting body parts on edges which can create a contact stress. Handout Brochure 40 INTERNAL PROJECTS Human Resources GISMATCHINGTOOLLooking for a rideshare partner? Try the new GIS Matching tool. OCSD employees can identify and connect with other employees based on their ridesharing needs within their area. Employees can indicate their rideshare preferences and their general living vicinity without using their exact address! Simple and easy! »Go to MyOCSD and click on Rideshare under Employee Center. »To find fellow rideshare users, click on the GIS Matching tool button. »To sign up for Rideshare Program, click on Employee Rideshare Interest button. For more information, contact Laurie Klinger at ext. 7169 or Adam Montoya at ext. 7026 Flyer Incentive Flyer The Rideshare Team is pleased to announce the new cash incentive pilot program is NOW AVAILABLE! You can EARN CASH for your commute: More information is available on MyOCSD. To learn more about the Rideshare Program, visit MyOCSD’s Employee Center Tab then choose Rideshare to see all the current incentives. Mode of transportationVanpool*Walk/Bicycle BusCarpool/Train/Electric Vehicles** IncentiveUp to $55 monthly subsidy***$30 monthly subsidy*** $20 monthly subsidy***$10 monthly Subsidy*** *Amounts are calculated monthly and vary based on vehicle size and number of participants. The maximum cash incentive for vanpooling is $55 per month. Vanpool cash incentives are not taxable.**To qualify for subsidy, vehicle must be designated as a Zero Emissions Vehicle (ZEV). A plug-in hybrid electric vehicle (PHEV) may only be considered if the entire home-to-work trip is made exclusive-ly with electric power.***Requires minimum monthly rideshare days depending on schedule: 5/8 = 10x; 9/80 = 9x; 4/10 = 8x; 3/12 = 7x 12/19 41 INTERNAL PROJECTS COVID-19 Communications Signage COVID-19virus All Visitors and Contractors of the Orange County Sanitation District (OCSD) As guests of OCSD, we want to ensure your safety and well-being during this ever-changing time in our community. OCSD is closely monitoring the developments on COVID-19 and monitoring the evolving guidelines from leading public health authorities, to reduce the risk of transmission. To help ensure the health and well-being of all, we have implemented the following protocols: • All guests and, contractors are to follow the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) guidance on steps to prevent illness (social distancing, washing hands for a minimum of 20 seconds, wearing a face cover, etc.). • If you don’t feel well, show signs of the virus, or believe to have been exposed to the virus, we ask that you please not enter any of our facilities. Additional OCSD actions include: • All OCSD tours of any of its facilities are canceled. • OCSD will not host any outside organizations at any of our locations including large meetings, social gatherings, or events. OCSD’s safety measures in response to COVID-19 will remain in effect until further notice. Additional questions regarding COVID-19 should be addressed to theOrange County Health Care Agencies: 1.800.564.8448 04/15/20 Face Mask MyOCSD Covid-19 Page 42 INTERNAL PROJECTS Employee Intranet Site MyOCSD Home Page 43 INTERNAL PROJECTS Other FAA Licensed Pilot ORANGE COUNTY SANITATION DISTRICT Safety Vest Patch 44 INTERNAL PROJECTS Other Veterans Day Poster 45 INTERNAL PROJECTS Other Toy Drive Poster toydrive Bring a new unwrapped toy or sports equipment worth at least $10 or more to help Orange County children and teens in need this holiday season. Cash donations are also welcomed. Contact: Fawn Elizondo, ext. 7125 to make cash donations or questions. All proceeds will be donated to the Spark of Love Toy Drive. MyOCSD Banner Ad 46 BRANDING 47 BRANDING OCSD University OCSDU OCSDU2020EST. O C S D EST.2020 EST.2020 Logo Concepts 48 BRANDING Green Vehicle Branding Vehicle Signage 49 BRANDING OC SAN Logos OC SAN SAN ORANGE COUNTY SANITATION DISTRICT ORANGE COUNTY SANITATION DISTRICT SANOCORANGE C O U N T Y SANITATIO N DI S T R ICT P R O TECTING THE EN VI R O N MENT SANORANGE C O U N T Y SANITATIO N D I S T R ICT P R O TECTING THE ENV I R O N MENT OC OC SANPROTECTING THE ENVIRONMENT OC SAN • PROT E C TIN G THE ENVIRONMENT • O RANGE COUNTY SANITAT I O N DIS T RICT ORANGE COUNTY SANITATION DISTRICT SAN ORANGE C O U N TY SANITATIO N D IS T R I CT P R O TECTING THE EN V IR O N MENT ORANGE COUNTY SANITATION DISTRICT ORANGE COUNTY SA NITA TIO N DISTRICT Logo Concepts 50 BRANDING Website Website Home Page Website — In The News Page 51 REPORTS 52 REPORTS CELEBRATING65 YEARS OFIMPRESSIONS ANNUAL REPORT | 2018-19 Annual Report 53 REPORTS BIOSOLIDS MANAGEMENT COMPLIANCE REPORT Year 2019 ORANGE COUNTY SANITATION DISTRICT EPA 40 CFR Part 503 Project Team for Dewatering and Thickening Centrifuges Project P1-101 at Plant No. 1. Biosolids Report Cover Design 54 REPORTS Budget Book Orange County Sanitation District, California FISCAL YEARS 2020-2021and 2021-2022 PROPOSEDBUDGET ADOPTEDJUNE 24, 2020 55 REPORTS CIP Annual Report FISCALYEAR18/19 PREPARE PLAN PROVIDECAPITAL IMPROVEMENT PROGRAM 56 REPORTS Orange County Sanitation DistrictComprehensive Annual Financial Report for the year ended June 30, 2019 Orange County, California Financial Report Cover Design 57 REPORTS Orange County, California Orange County Sanitation DistrictFirst Quarter Financial Report for the period ended September 30, 2019 Financial Report Cover Design 58 Financial Report Cover Design ORANGE COUNTY SANITATION DISTRICTMid-Year Financial Report for the period ended December 31, 2019 Orange County, California REPORTS 59 Financial Report Cover Design ORANGE COUNTY SANITATION DISTRICTThird Quarter Financial Report for the period ended March 31, 2020 Orange County, California REPORTS 60 REPORTS Strategic Plan Cover Design 61 REPORTS Management Retreat Cover Design ExecutiveManagement Team ANNUAL RETREAT Thursday, August 1, 2019 7:30 a.m. - 3 p.m. SCCWRP 3535 Harbor Boulevard Suite 110 Costa Mesa, CA 92626 62 REPORTS Resource Protection Report Cover Design Orange CountySanitation District RESOURCE PROTECTION DIVISION Annual Report PRETREATMENT PROGRAM 2018-19 63 REPORTS Orange County Sanitation District INVESTMENT POLICY Calendar Year 2020 Adopted December 18, 2019 Investment Policy Cover Design Public Affairs Division10844 Ellis Avenue | Fountain Valley, CA 92708 Public Affairs Strategic PlanFY2020-2022 Daisy Covarrubias, Pr. Public Affairs Specialist Legislative & Public Affairs Committee July 13, 2020 Public Affairs 2 PAO 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 Extension of Our Team •Tanya Chong, Principal Staff Analyst (Engineering) •VIPs 3 Two -Year Review July 2018 –June 2020 Comm Audit 65th Anniv. Campaign OC Polling Paid Advertisement (OCR Water insert) Open House Tour Signage 4 Two -Year Review Regional Outreach Program Centrifuge Ribbon Cutting Member Agency Outreach Toolkit Board Member Speaking Points Virtual Town Hall 5 Current Situation •Sewer Fee Rates •Board Member turnover •Capital Improvement Program •Headquarters Building •Groundwater Replenishment System Final Expansion •Operations •Workforce •Community •Essential Services •Financial 6 PAO Strategic Plan Fiscal Years 2020 –2022 7 Plan –Cont. 8 Next Steps •LaPA review and adoption •Implement Plan 9 Orange County Sanitation District LEGISLATIVE AND PUBLIC AFFAIRS COMMITTEE Agenda Report Administration Building 10844 Ellis Avenue Fountain Valley, CA 92708 (714) 593-7433 File #:2020-1147 Agenda Date:7/13/2020 Agenda Item No:4. FROM:James D. Herberg, General Manager SUBJECT: LEGISLATIVE AFFAIRS UPDATE FOR THE MONTHS OF MARCH THROUGH JUNE 2020 GENERAL MANAGER'S RECOMMENDATION RECOMMENDATION: Recommend to the Board of Directors to: Receive and file the Legislative Affairs Update for the months of March through June 2020. BACKGROUND The Orange County Sanitation District’s (Sanitation District)legislative affairs program includes advocating the Sanitation District’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 the Sanitation District’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 the Sanitation District’s legislative interests.Help to create/monitor legislation and grants that would benefit the Sanitation District,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 D.C. and Sacramento. Orange County Sanitation District Printed on 7/6/2020Page 1 of 3 powered by Legistar™ File #:2020-1147 Agenda Date:7/13/2020 Agenda Item No:4. TIMING CONCERNS N/A RAMIFICATIONS OF NOT TAKING ACTION If we do not work with Local,State,and Federal elected officials,legislation could be passed that negatively affects the Sanitation District and the wastewater industry as a whole.Additionally,a lack of engagement may result in missing out on funding opportunities. ADDITIONAL INFORMATION Staff has been working with Senators Feinstein and Harris,and our House congressional delegation, to address issues of concern.The Sanitation District was notified that the proposed House Fourth Phase of assistance (Heroes Act),provides a total of $3 trillion,including paid leave tax credits and low-income ratepayer assistance.Final passage and enactment of this bill is anticipated by early August with Senate Majority Leader McConnell's pledge to take up the bill.The House passed an infrastructure bill,Invest in America Act (H.R.2),setting the stage for Senate action later this year. H.R.2 provides $40 billion for clean water infrastructure assistance as well as grants to support smart water technologies adoption. In support of potential funding opportunities through the COVID-19 stimulus bills,two Cares Act comment letters have been sent into the Orange County Congressional Delegation.An additional comment letter was sent to both Senator Feinstein and Senator Harris for consideration when crafting the Heroes Act.These letters asked that when developing these bills for COVID-19 stimulus legislation, Special Districts like the Sanitation District be considered. On Tuesday,June 30 the Sanitation District submitted a letter of support to Speaker Pelosi and Leader McCarthy for the Moving Forward Act (H.R.2).This bill would provide important funding to the core federal water infrastructure programs,which could help with potential Sanitation District projects.Additionally,if passed,H.R.2 would help to close the funding gap to meet the country’s demand for reliable water/wastewater infrastructure while stimulating employment that has been devastated by COVID-19. Additionally,during the past few months,staff and TPA have been working on bill positions for two state bills and monitoring many others: ·On June 5,the Sanitation District sent a letter of support for Assembly Bill 2762 (Muratsuchi)- Cosmetics:Safety.AB 2762 will expand the definition of adulterated cosmetics to include those that have per-and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS)as ingredients.Toxic substances, such as those found in cosmetic products,that enter the wastewater stream through domestic or residential sources are among the most difficult for the Sanitation District to regulate and control.AB 2762 would help reduce the amount of toxic substances,including PFAS,in the wastewater influent that the Sanitation District receives. ·On June 8,the Sanitation District sent a letter of support for Assembly Bill 3163 (Salas)- Energy:Biomethane:Procurement.AB 3163 will redefine biomethane to include methane produced from organic waste feedstock including sludge and food waste digestion.This Orange County Sanitation District Printed on 7/6/2020Page 2 of 3 powered by Legistar™ File #:2020-1147 Agenda Date:7/13/2020 Agenda Item No:4. produced from organic waste feedstock including sludge and food waste digestion.This change would allow this product to be eligible for gas utility procurement,expanding its value to the Sanitation District. FINANCIAL CONSIDERATIONS N/A ATTACHMENT The following attachment(s)may be viewed on-line at the OCSD website (www.ocsd.com)with the complete agenda package: ·Federal Update - ENS Resources ·H.R. 2 Support Letter ·H.R. 2 Summary ·Cares Act Letter ·Cares Act Letter Two ·Heroes Act Letter ·Federal Legislative Matrix - ENS Resources ·State Update - Townsend Public Affairs ·Assembly Bill 2762 (Muratsuchi): Cosmetics ·Assembly Bill 3163 (Salas) - Energy: Biomethane: Procurement ·State Legislative Matrix - Townsend Public Affairs ·Grant Matrix Orange County Sanitation District Printed on 7/6/2020Page 3 of 3 powered by Legistar™ 1 | P a g e TO: Rebecca Long FROM: Eric Sapirstein DATE: June 22, 2020 SUBJECT: Washington Update Over the past month, Congress slowly began addressing both continued COVID-19 federal assistance, as well as more routine matters like fiscal year 2021 spending bills. Washington, D.C. is slowly reopening, which is allowing for a semblance of normal operations to begin. To this end, the House and Senate are scheduled to be in session for most of July and recessing for the traditional August break. While Congress will be in session, a number of Members are likely to remain in their congressional districts, working remotely since they can vote by proxy. The following summarizes the outlook for legislative efforts in the coming weeks of interest to OCSD. OCSD’s Recent Actions Taken OCSD Staff and ENS have been working with Senator Feinstein and Harris, and our House congressional delegation to address issues of concern related to COVID-19 funding opportunities. As such, three comment letters were submitted to the OC Delegation and Senators in support of the stimulus bill and inclusion of Special Districts. This includes two comment letters on the CARES Act and one on the HEROES Act. HEROES Act (H.R. 6800) Phase IV Coronavirus Package Efforts to address the continuing economic impacts of the virus continue. Following House passage of H.R. 6800, the Senate is expected to debate its version of a relief package in mid-July. The key issue of dispute is the cost of the assistance package. H.R. 6800 is a $3 trillion bill. Senate Republicans would like to limit the cost to $1 trillion. The White House appears to have a $2 trillion package in mind. Without regard to the actual funding level, it now appears that wastewater utility ratepayer assistance, payroll tax credits for mandatory leave, and access for assistance through the Federal Reserve’s Municipal Facility (purchase local debt) for Special Districts will be part of any final agreement. On this last point, OCSD’s letters to Senators Feinstein and Harris on this matter seemed to support the priority for such assistance, as the Senators wrote to the Federal Reserve Chairman and the Treasury Secretary urging such access. A copy of 2 | P a g e the letter was provided to OCSD staff. Once enacted, the program will provide OCSD with a potential source of assistance if it wishes to reduce its debt burden. Liability Waivers for COVID-19 One issue that continues to gain traction is providing some level of liability protection to employers that seek the return of employees. Private sector stakeholders, notably the Chamber of Commerce and National Association of Manufacturers are seeking to secure a comprehensive liability waiver. Opposition from union stakeholders and the NGO community exists. Nonetheless, as noted above, this effort is focused on making the matter a part of any final COVID-19 package. After participating in a water sector stakeholder conference call on the policy issue, it seems highly unlikely that the public sector will work actively on the issue. Instead, national water sector groups can be expected to provide input to Congress on issues of concern without taking a position. For California, the Governor’s recently issued Executive Order, making contracting COVID-19-related illnesses a workplace matter could limit the impact of any federal waiver. Infrastructure Legislation Moving in House After three years of posturing, Congress and the White House may be on the verge of addressing infrastructure. As reported earlier, the priority to restart the economy is becoming a priority. To this end, the House is expected to debate and pass, the Moving Forward Act (H.R. 2) by July 2. A selected summary of the measure is attached. For OCSD, the key point is the significant commitment of resources for clean water needs, including $40 billion for the SRF program and $600 million to support water recycling projects. The massive, almost 3,000-pages, bill contains billions of dollars for water, wastewater, and ecosystem infrastructure programs. It also provides for assistance to disadvantaged communities. The prospect that the measure will pass as introduced is slim. It is a starting point for negotiations later this summer between Congress and the White House. The president has stated that he would like to sign an infrastructure bill into law. In the past he has urged passage of at least a $1 trillion package and H.R. 2 while carrying a higher price does address the key areas of interest to the White House. Orange County Sanitation District 10844 Ellis Avenue, Fountain Valley, CA 92708 714.962.2411 | www.ocsd.com Our Mission: To protect public health and the environment by providing effective wastewater collection, treatment, and recycling June 30, 2020 The Honorable Nancy Pelosi The Honorable Kevin McCarthy Speaker of the House Republican Leader U.S. House of Representatives U.S. House of Representatives Washington, D.C. 20515 Washington, D.C. 20515 Dear Speaker Pelosi and Leader McCarthy: The Orange County Sanitation District (OCSD), located in Fountain Valley, California writes to express our strong support for the Moving Forward Act (H.R. 2). As the House of Representatives prepares to debate and vote on this vital legislation, we believe that it represents a responsible and much needed federal commitment to our nation’s clean water infrastructure needs. As introduced, H.R. 2 would provide important funding to the core federal water infrastructure programs. It would help to close the funding gap to meet the country’s demand for reliable water/wastewater infrastructure while stimulating employment that has been devastated by COVID-19. As an agency serving more than two million Orange County citizens and businesses it is imperative that we are able to provide this essential service to our community. The commitment of more than $60 billion to support the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (USEPA) State Revolving Loan Funds and $1 billion in assistance to construct water recycling facilities, would promote innovative water quality treatment while addressing resiliency impacts and help to close the water/wastewater infrastructure funding gap. Revenue provisions such as the restoration of advanced refunding of municipal debt and Build America Bonds would also help local agencies, like OCSD, close the funding gap to meet the need to address water infrastructure rehabilitation and expansion The value of the federal government’s role in supporting water infrastructure cannot be overstated. Because of the United States Bureau of Reclamation Title XVI water recycling program and the USEPA’s Water Infrastructure Finance and Innovation Act, OCSD and the Orange County Water District were able to construct the world’s largest advanced water recycling facility known as the Groundwater Replenishment System (GWRS). As a partner in GWRS, we are proud it has been internationally recognized and today is delivering enough sustainable water to our community of two million that essentially drought proofs the region by reusing OCSD’s highly treated water. Without federal assistance, we would have been hard-pressed to construct GWRS. Page Two Our Mission: To protect public health and the environment by providing effective wastewater collection, treatment, and recycling. Again, OCSD appreciates the leadership you are providing to restore the nation’s economic health and well-being. Swift passage and enactment of H.R. 2’s water infrastructure provisions would serve as a catalyst to restart the economy and ensure the delivery of safe and reliable water supplies for the future. Please do not hesitate to contact Jennifer Cabral, OCSD’s Administration Manager at (714) 593-7581 or via email at jcabral@ocsd.com should you have any questions. Thank you for your continued support of the Orange County Sanitation District. Sincerely, David John Shawver Board Chairman CC: Orange County Delegation 1 | P a g e Selected Summary The Moving Forward Act (H.R. 2) I. PFAS INFRASTRUCTURE GRANT PROGRAM • GRANT PROGRAM (Sec. 33101) Would establish a new grants program for affected community water systems to pay for capital costs associated with the implementation of eligible treatment technologies. o Within 12 months of enactment, the Administrator must publish guidance describing scope and timing for the grants program. o No later than 150 days after the date of enactment, and every two years thereafter, the Administrator shall publish a list of treatment technologies that are effective at removing all detectable amounts of PFAS from drinking water. o Funding priority will be given to community water systems that serve a disadvantaged community; will provide at least a 10 percent cost share for the cost of implementing an eligible treatment technology; or demonstrate the capacity to maintain the eligible treatment technology to be implemented. o Authorizes not more than $500,000,000 for each of the fiscal years 2021 through 2025 for this grants program. II. WATER RESOURCES INFRASTRUCTURE • Watershed Restoration (Sec. 81233) Would establish a competitive grant program to award grants to eligible entities (Irrigation district, water district, or other organization with water or power delivery authority) for restoration projects that improve watershed health in a Reclamation State. o Authorizes $150,000,000 for each fiscal year through fiscal year 2026 • Volume cap on private activity bonds (Sec. 90104) Would increase the state ceiling on tax-exempt private activity bonds to an amount equal to $135 (currently $62.50) multiplied by the State population, or to $402,220,000 (currently $225,000,000). o Would modify the tax code to remove state volume caps on the issuances of government private activity bonds used by water and wastewater systems for infrastructure investment. 2 | P a g e • Wastewater Infrastructure Workforce Investment (Sec. 22102) No later than 2 years after enactment, USEPA Administrator submit report to congressional committees outlining: o Assessment of current and future POTW workforce needs, with an estimate of number of future positions needed for POTWs and technical skills and education needed for identified positions o Summary of USEPA actions (including federal investment) to promote workforce development o Agency recommendations to address needs • Watershed, Wet Weather, and Resiliency Projects (Sec. 22104) Amends CWA to include “Increased Resilience of Treatment Works-Efforts“ to: o Assess future risks and vulnerabilities of POTWs to manmade or natural disasters (including wet weather and sea level rise) o Carry out planning, designing, or constructing of projects on systemwide or areawide basis to increase resilience of POTWs through: ▪ Conservation of water or enhancement of water use efficiency ▪ Enhancement of wastewater + stormwater management by increasing watershed preservation and protection (e.g. green infrastructure, reclamation and reuse of wastewater and stormwater, such as through aquifer recharge zones, modification or relocation of existing POTWs, enhancement of energy efficiency or generation of recovered or renewable energy in management of wastewater and stormwater) o Authorizes $1 billion until expended. Requires not less than 15% appropriated goes to assist municipalities with population less than 10,000 • Pilot Program for Alternative Water Source Projects (Sec. 22105) Amends CWA section 220(d) so that project receiving construction funds under Reclamation Projects Authorization and Adjustment Act of 1992 is ineligible for grant assistance under this section o Authorizes $600 million o Not less than 15% of funds will go to eligible entities projects designed to server fewer than 10,000 individuals o Federal cost share not to exceed 25% or $20 million, whichever is less for alternative water source project that has receive funds under Reclamation Projects Authorization and Adjustment Act of 1992 3 | P a g e • Sewer Overflow and Stormwater Reuse Municipal Grants (Sec. 22106) CWA section 221 amended, Federal cost share of activities carried out using grant made to financially distressed community will not be less than 75% of cost o Authorizes $400 million for each of the fiscal years 2021 – 2025 o Requires USEPA to ensure that of amounts granted to municipalities, not less than 20% is granted to populations less than 20,000 o Amends section 516(b)(1) of CWA, so that reports to Congress must include summary of the costs to implement measures necessary to address the resilience and sustainability of POTWs to manmade or natural disasters • Capitalization Grants (Sec. 22109) CWA section 602(b) is amended by inserting “efficient energy use (including through implementation of technologies to recapture and reuse energy produced in the treatment of wastewater)” o To extent sufficient eligible projects/activities for capitalization grants received by State under this title and section 205(m) – State will use not less than 15% of funds for projects to address green infrastructure, water or energy efficiency improvements, other environmentally innovative activities • Water Pollution Control Revolving Loan Funds (Sec. 22110) States may use allotted funding amounts to provide additional subsidization that does not exceed 30% of total amount received by State in capitalization grants or annual average over previous 10 years of amounts deposited by State in SRF o Authorizes $40 billion over five years o For each FY2021-2025 extent there are sufficient applications for additional subsidization that meet outlined requirements by section, State will use an amount not less than 10% of total amount received by state in capitalization grants to provide additional subsidization for the fiscal year • Safe Drinking Water State Revolving Loan Funds (Sec. 33103) Provides $20 billion over five years. • Allotment of Funds (Sec. 22111) State may reserve each fiscal year up to 1% of sums allotted to State under section to carry out workforce development, training, and retraining activities 4 | P a g e • Report on Financial Capability of Municipalities ((Sec 22115) Directs USEPA to review existing implementation guidance for evaluating financial resources available to a municipality to implement CWA requirements to determine if guidance needs to be revised. During evaluation USEPA should consider: o Report by National Academy of Public Administration – “Developing a New Framework for Community Affordability of Clean Water Services” o Report developed by National Environmental Justice Advisory Council entitled “EPA’s Role in Addressing Urgent Water Infrastructure Needs of Environmental Justice Communities” o Report by AWWA, NCCWA, and WEF entitled “Developing a New Framework for Household Affordability and Financial Capability Assessment in the Water Sector” o Recommendations of Environmental Financial Advisory Board related to municipal financial capability assessments o Other information Administrator deems appropriate o USEPA is to provide public notice, consult, and solicit advise and recommendations from States and local governments, stakeholders, and NGOs when conducting review o No later than 18 months after date of enactment USEPA will submit a report to congressional committees with jurisdiction of review results • Emerging Contaminants (Sec. 22116) USEPA will award grants to owners and operators of POTWs for implementation of pretreatment standard or effluent limitation developed by USEPA for the introduction or discharge of perfluoroalkyl or polyfluoroalkyl substance or other pollutant identified by Administrator as a potential contaminant of emerging concern o Authorizes $200 million for each of the fiscal years 2021-2025 III. LOCAL/REGIONAL WATER PROTECTION • Nonpoint Source Management Programs (Sec.22201) Authorizes $200 million for each of the fiscal years 2021-2025 5 | P a g e • San Francisco Bay Restoration Grant Program (Sec. 22302) Estuary Partnership is defined as San Francisco Estuary Partnership o San Francisco Bay Plan means a plan developed by Director, comprehensive conservation and management plan for San Francisco Bay estuary until plans are completed o USEPA will establish a San Francisco Bay Program Office within USEPA Region 9 HQ o Administrator will appoint Director to the Office with appropriate management, technical, and environmental experience and expertise to Bay o Director will annually compile priority project list, consistent with San Francisco Bay Plan, identifying projects, activities, and studies including: restoration projects and habitat improvement for fish, waterfowl, and wildlife o Projects and activities should advance goals and objectives of plan for: ▪ Water quality improvement including reduction of marine litter ▪ Wetland, riverine, estuary restoration and protection ▪ Nearshore and endangered species recovery ▪ Adaption to climate change o Director will consult with Estuary Partnership, State of CA, affected local governments in Bay watershed, San Francisco Bay Restoration Authority, and any other relevant stakeholders o No later than 5 years after enactment, Director, will review and revise comprehensive conservation and management plan approved for San Francisco Bay estuary to develop plan to guide projects, activities, and studies o At least once every 5 years after completion of plan, Director will review and revise plan as appropriate o Director may provide funding via cooperative agreements, grants, or other means to state and local agencies, special districts, public or nonprofit agencies, institutions, or organizations for projects, activities, and studies identified on priority list o Amounts provided to eligible entity will not exceed amount equal to 75% of total project, activity, or study cost o Not less than 25% of costs will be provided from non-federal sources o Section authorized at $25 million for each of fiscal years 2021-2025 o In each of the fiscal years 2021-2025 President will submit information regarding each federal department and agency involved in San Francisco Bay protection and restoration as part of annual budget submission to Congress 6 | P a g e • Section 22304. Great Lakes Restoration Initiative Reauthorization (Sec. 22304) Authorizes the following: o $375 million for FY2022 o $400 million for FY2023 o $425 million for FY2024 o $450 million for FY2025 o $475 million for FY2026 • National Estuary Program Reauthorization (Sec. 22305) Authorized at $50 million for each of fiscal years 2022 -2026 o Includes identification of ‘‘Peconic Bay, New York; Casco Bay, Maine; Tampa Bay, Florida; Coastal Bend, Texas; San Juan Bay, Puerto Rico; Tillamook Bay, Oregon; Piscataqua Region, New Hampshire; Barnegat Bay, New Jersey; Maryland Coastal Bays, Maryland; Charlotte Harbor, Florida; Mobile Bay, Alabama; Morro Bay, California; and Lower Columbia River, Oregon and Washington” o Purpose of conference is for the management plan that recommends and addresses effects of recurring extreme weather events on the estuary including: ▪ Identification and assessment of vulnerabilities in estuary and development and implementation of adaption strategies o USEPA will award grants to selected estuaries or those that relate to coastal resiliency of such estuaries. Grant funding can go towards addressing: ▪ Stormwater runoff ▪ Accelerated land loss ▪ Sea level rise ▪ Extreme weather IV. Public Lands, Tribal Communities and Resilient Natural Infrastructure - Interior/U.S. Bureau of Reclamation (Sec. 80000) • Requires each California region dependent upon Delta water supplies to improve regional self-sufficiency through investment in water use efficiency, water recycling, advanced water technologies • Operate CVP to deliver water as reasonably possible to drought impacted areas and minimize harm to fish and wildlife • Reclamation fund surplus to be used to offset costs of program spending through water reuse, desalination, and water storage projects • Competitive Title XVI grants program ($500 million) for water recycling amended to emphasize priority for regional projects, multiple benefits including improved water quality. Strikes requirement for congressional approval of projects. Increases federal share to $30 million per project. • Establishes process for study of storage projects, including identification of project benefits 7 | P a g e • Watershed grants assistance to improve watershed health authorized $650 million over five years • Provides $750 million funding (50% federal cost share) for storage projects (federal, natural, and major federally assisted). Major federally assisted projects include surface and groundwater storage not federally owned, ecosystem restoration, and conveyance facilities. Compliance with federal environmental mandates required. Projects must be more than $250 million. • “Standard Federally assisted storage project” is one that costs less than $250 million. Governor must request assistance among other criteria to be eligible for federal assistance. Approval dependent upon fish and wildlife benefits versus losses • CalFed storage projects authorization extended related to WIIN Act with conditions including state approval of project • Redefines eligible desalination projects as those that constructed, operated and maintained by public entity or water deliverer and provides a federal benefit. Project must be consistent with state coastal plans. Federal share limited to 25%. Priority for assistance to projects that address drought and reduce reliance on imported water and that address imperiled ecosystems. • Disadvantaged communities in need of safe and reliable water supplies provided with $100 million in grants assistance. (population of community less than 60,000) • Improved data and technology assistance provided to support water recycling and desalination, X-prize for water technology breakthroughs, and other initiatives. Priority to fund federal stream gages $45 million authorized • Innovative Technology Adoption grants authorized to help foster adoption of technologies that can identify water losses in nondestructive manner from pipes and canals, provide data on pipe integrity (leak and gas pocket detection), real time monitoring of weather monitoring reservoir operations, real time monitoring of aquifer management, use of real time sensors to improve management of other water infrastructure assets, improve water use efficiency and conservation, including through behavioral water efficiency, supervisory control an data acquisition systems or other system modernizations • $25 million to support for critically important fisheries authorized to include “commercially and recreationally important “ fisheries as part of drought planning assistance including hatcheries improvements and retrofits • $125 million provided to support aquatic ecosystem restoration projects Orange County Sanitation District 10844 Ellis Avenue, Fountain Valley, CA 92708 714.962.2411 | www.ocsd.com Our Mission: To protect public health and the environment by providing effective wastewater collection, treatment, and recycling April 20, 2020 The Honorable Congressman Cisneros U.S. House of Representatives 431 Cannon House Office Building Washington, DC 20515 Dear Representative Cisneros: As Congress develops the next legislative package of economic stabilization to respond to the threats from the Coronavirus, it is vital that any package include technical corrections to the CARES Act to assist with potential economic impacts from the Coronavirus (COVID-19). As a designated essential service, the Orange County Sanitation District (OCSD) is seeking that you work to include a number of provisions to help us weather the COVID-19 pandemic. Our requests are grounded in the principle that the public wastewater sector provides critical health services that support stable economies and a healthy citizenry. OCSD specifically seeks that the following issues be addressed in the next phase of Coronavirus legislation: 1. Equal Tax Treatment: The CARES Act provided the private sector with payroll tax credits to help offset the costs of mandatory paid sick, family and medical leave. This tax credit was denied to the public sector, even though OCSD is also liable for such payroll taxes. We urge that the prohibition on providing tax credits to public agencies, contained in the CARES Act, be repealed as part of this next phase of assistance. 2. Special District Eligibility for Direct Assistance: The CARES Act provided direct assistance to state and units of local government. However, this eligibility has been interpreted not to include Special Districts. As a result, financial assistance under the Coronavirus Relief Fund (Fund) is unavailable to OCSD, denying funding to critical infrastructure. OCSD requests that you work to clarify the definition of local government to specifically include political subdivisions of a state, thereby capturing Special Districts. This is vital to allow for consideration of federal assistance that can help OCSD meet its mission to protect human health. OCSD also wishes to take this opportunity to call for a robust federal commitment to water infrastructure. For many years, we have called on Congress and the Administration to support federal assistance to help rebuild our nation’s clean water infrastructure. We understand that consideration is underway to develop infrastructure legislation that can support recovery from COVID-19. Our Mission: To protect public health and the environment by providing effective wastewater collection, treatment, and recycling. Page two In the past, the clean water community has repeatedly demonstrated the value and return on investment that infrastructure dollars dedicated to the clean water sector can provide. We will be reaching out to you and your staff in the near future to provide a list of projects we have planned that could greatly contribute to an economic recovery in Orange County. Thank you for your attention to this important issue. Please do not hesitate to contact Jennifer Cabral, OCSD’s Administration Manager at (714) 593-7581 or via email at jcabral@ocsd.com should you have any questions. Thank you for your continued support of the Orange County Sanitation District. Sincerely, David John Shawver Board Chairman Orange County Sanitation District 10844 Ellis Avenue, Fountain Valley, CA 92708 714.962.2411 | www.ocsd.com Our Mission: To protect public health and the environment by providing effective wastewater collection, treatment, and recycling April 20, 2020 The Honorable Congressman Correa U.S. House of Representatives 1039 Cannon House Office Building Washington, D.C. 20515 Dear Representative Correa: As Congress develops the next legislative package of economic stabilization to respond to the threats from the Coronavirus, it is vital that any package include technical corrections to the CARES Act to assist with potential economic impacts from the Coronavirus (COVID-19). As a designated essential service, the Orange County Sanitation District (OCSD) is seeking that you work to include a number of provisions to help us weather the COVID-19 pandemic. Our requests are grounded in the principle that the public wastewater sector provides critical health services that support stable economies and a healthy citizenry. OCSD specifically seeks that the following issues be addressed in the next phase of Coronavirus legislation: 1. Equal Tax Treatment: The CARES Act provided the private sector with payroll tax credits to help offset the costs of mandatory paid sick, family and medical leave. This tax credit was denied to the public sector, even though OCSD is also liable for such payroll taxes. We urge that the prohibition on providing tax credits to public agencies, contained in the CARES Act, be repealed as part of this next phase of assistance. 2. Special District Eligibility for Direct Assistance: The CARES Act provided direct assistance to state and units of local government. However, this eligibility has been interpreted not to include Special Districts. As a result, financial assistance under the Coronavirus Relief Fund (Fund) is unavailable to OCSD, denying funding to critical infrastructure. OCSD requests that you work to clarify the definition of local government to specifically include political subdivisions of a state, thereby capturing Special Districts. This is vital to allow for consideration of federal assistance that can help OCSD meet its mission to protect human health. OCSD also wishes to take this opportunity to call for a robust federal commitment to water infrastructure. For many years, we have called on Congress and the Administration to support federal assistance to help rebuild our nation’s clean water infrastructure. We understand that consideration is underway to develop infrastructure legislation that can support recovery from COVID-19. Our Mission: To protect public health and the environment by providing effective wastewater collection, treatment, and recycling. Page two In the past, the clean water community has repeatedly demonstrated the value and return on investment that infrastructure dollars dedicated to the clean water sector can provide. We will be reaching out to you and your staff in the near future to provide a list of projects we have planned that could greatly contribute to an economic recovery in Orange County. Thank you for your attention to this important issue. Please do not hesitate to contact Jennifer Cabral, OCSD’s Administration Manager at (714) 593-7581 or via email at jcabral@ocsd.com should you have any questions. Thank you for your continued support of the Orange County Sanitation District. Sincerely, David John Shawver Board Chairman Orange County Sanitation District 10844 Ellis Avenue, Fountain Valley, CA 92708 714.962.2411 | www.ocsd.com Our Mission: To protect public health and the environment by providing effective wastewater collection, treatment, and recycling April 20, 2020 The Honorable Senator Feinstein 331 Hart Senator Office Building Washington, D.C. 20510 Dear Senator Feinstein: As Congress develops the next legislative package of economic stabilization to respond to the threats from the Coronavirus, it is vital that any package include technical corrections to the CARES Act to assist with potential economic impacts from the Coronavirus (COVID-19). As a designated essential service, the Orange County Sanitation District (OCSD) is seeking that you work to include a number of provisions to help us weather the COVID-19 pandemic. Our requests are grounded in the principle that the public wastewater sector provides critical health services that support stable economies and a healthy citizenry. OCSD specifically seeks that the following issues be addressed in the next phase of Coronavirus legislation: 1. Equal Tax Treatment: The CARES Act provided the private sector with payroll tax credits to help offset the costs of mandatory paid sick, family and medical leave. This tax credit was denied to the public sector, even though OCSD is also liable for such payroll taxes. We urge that the prohibition on providing tax credits to public agencies, contained in the CARES Act, be repealed as part of this next phase of assistance. 2. Special District Eligibility for Direct Assistance: The CARES Act provided direct assistance to state and units of local government. However, this eligibility has been interpreted not to include Special Districts. As a result, financial assistance under the Coronavirus Relief Fund (Fund) is unavailable to OCSD, denying funding to critical infrastructure. OCSD requests that you work to clarify the definition of local government to specifically include political subdivisions of a state, thereby capturing Special Districts. This is vital to allow for consideration of federal assistance that can help OCSD meet its mission to protect human health. OCSD also wishes to take this opportunity to call for a robust federal commitment to water infrastructure. For many years, we have called on Congress and the Administration to support federal assistance to help rebuild our nation’s clean water infrastructure. We understand that consideration is underway to develop infrastructure legislation that can support recovery from COVID-19. Our Mission: To protect public health and the environment by providing effective wastewater collection, treatment, and recycling. Page two In the past, the clean water community has repeatedly demonstrated the value and return on investment that infrastructure dollars dedicated to the clean water sector can provide. We will be reaching out to you and your staff in the near future to provide a list of projects we have planned that could greatly contribute to an economic recovery in Orange County. Thank you for your attention to this important issue. Please do not hesitate to contact Jennifer Cabral, OCSD’s Administration Manager at (714) 593-7581 or via email at jcabral@ocsd.com should you have any questions. Thank you for your continued support of the Orange County Sanitation District. Sincerely, David John Shawver Board Chairman Orange County Sanitation District 10844 Ellis Avenue, Fountain Valley, CA 92708 714.962.2411 | www.ocsd.com Our Mission: To protect public health and the environment by providing effective wastewater collection, treatment, and recycling April 20, 2020 The Honorable Senator Harris 112 Hart Senator Office Building Washington, D.C. 20510 Dear Senator Harris: As Congress develops the next legislative package of economic stabilization to respond to the threats from the Coronavirus, it is vital that any package include technical corrections to the CARES Act to assist with potential economic impacts from the Coronavirus (COVID-19). As a designated essential service, the Orange County Sanitation District (OCSD) is seeking that you work to include a number of provisions to help us weather the COVID-19 pandemic. Our requests are grounded in the principle that the public wastewater sector provides critical health services that support stable economies and a healthy citizenry. OCSD specifically seeks that the following issues be addressed in the next phase of Coronavirus legislation: 1. Equal Tax Treatment: The CARES Act provided the private sector with payroll tax credits to help offset the costs of mandatory paid sick, family and medical leave. This tax credit was denied to the public sector, even though OCSD is also liable for such payroll taxes. We urge that the prohibition on providing tax credits to public agencies, contained in the CARES Act, be repealed as part of this next phase of assistance. 2. Special District Eligibility for Direct Assistance: The CARES Act provided direct assistance to state and units of local government. However, this eligibility has been interpreted not to include Special Districts. As a result, financial assistance under the Coronavirus Relief Fund (Fund) is unavailable to OCSD, denying funding to critical infrastructure. OCSD requests that you work to clarify the definition of local government to specifically include political subdivisions of a state, thereby capturing Special Districts. This is vital to allow for consideration of federal assistance that can help OCSD meet its mission to protect human health. OCSD also wishes to take this opportunity to call for a robust federal commitment to water infrastructure. For many years, we have called on Congress and the Administration to support federal assistance to help rebuild our nation’s clean water infrastructure. We understand that consideration is underway to develop infrastructure legislation that can support recovery from COVID-19. Our Mission: To protect public health and the environment by providing effective wastewater collection, treatment, and recycling. Page two In the past, the clean water community has repeatedly demonstrated the value and return on investment that infrastructure dollars dedicated to the clean water sector can provide. We will be reaching out to you and your staff in the near future to provide a list of projects we have planned that could greatly contribute to an economic recovery in Orange County. Thank you for your attention to this important issue. Please do not hesitate to contact Jennifer Cabral, OCSD’s Administration Manager at (714) 593-7581 or via email at jcabral@ocsd.com should you have any questions. Thank you for your continued support of the Orange County Sanitation District. Sincerely, David John Shawver Board Chairman Orange County Sanitation District 10844 Ellis Avenue, Fountain Valley, CA 92708 714.962.2411 | www.ocsd.com Our Mission: To protect public health and the environment by providing effective wastewater collection, treatment, and recycling April 20, 2020 The Honorable Congressman Lowenthal U.S. House of Representatives 125 Cannon House Office Building Washington, D.C. 20515 Dear Representative Lowenthal: As Congress develops the next legislative package of economic stabilization to respond to the threats from the Coronavirus, it is vital that any package include technical corrections to the CARES Act to assist with potential economic impacts from the Coronavirus (COVID-19). As a designated essential service, the Orange County Sanitation District (OCSD) is seeking that you work to include a number of provisions to help us weather the COVID-19 pandemic. Our requests are grounded in the principle that the public wastewater sector provides critical health services that support stable economies and a healthy citizenry. OCSD specifically seeks that the following issues be addressed in the next phase of Coronavirus legislation: 1. Equal Tax Treatment: The CARES Act provided the private sector with payroll tax credits to help offset the costs of mandatory paid sick, family and medical leave. This tax credit was denied to the public sector, even though OCSD is also liable for such payroll taxes. We urge that the prohibition on providing tax credits to public agencies, contained in the CARES Act, be repealed as part of this next phase of assistance. 2. Special District Eligibility for Direct Assistance: The CARES Act provided direct assistance to state and units of local government. However, this eligibility has been interpreted not to include Special Districts. As a result, financial assistance under the Coronavirus Relief Fund (Fund) is unavailable to OCSD, denying funding to critical infrastructure. OCSD requests that you work to clarify the definition of local government to specifically include political subdivisions of a state, thereby capturing Special Districts. This is vital to allow for consideration of federal assistance that can help OCSD meet its mission to protect human health. OCSD also wishes to take this opportunity to call for a robust federal commitment to water infrastructure. For many years, we have called on Congress and the Administration to support federal assistance to help rebuild our nation’s clean water infrastructure. We understand that consideration is underway to develop infrastructure legislation that can support recovery from COVID-19. Our Mission: To protect public health and the environment by providing effective wastewater collection, treatment, and recycling. Page two In the past, the clean water community has repeatedly demonstrated the value and return on investment that infrastructure dollars dedicated to the clean water sector can provide. We will be reaching out to you and your staff in the near future to provide a list of projects we have planned that could greatly contribute to an economic recovery in Orange County. Thank you for your attention to this important issue. Please do not hesitate to contact Jennifer Cabral, OCSD’s Administration Manager at (714) 593-7581 or via email at jcabral@ocsd.com should you have any questions. Thank you for your continued support of the Orange County Sanitation District. Sincerely, David John Shawver Board Chairman Orange County Sanitation District 10844 Ellis Avenue, Fountain Valley, CA 92708 714.962.2411 | www.ocsd.com Our Mission: To protect public health and the environment by providing effective wastewater collection, treatment, and recycling April 20, 2020 The Honorable Congresswoman Katie Porter U.S. House of Representatives 1117 Longworth House Office Building Washington, D.C. 20515 Dear Representative Porter: As Congress develops the next legislative package of economic stabilization to respond to the threats from the Coronavirus, it is vital that any package include technical corrections to the CARES Act to assist with potential economic impacts from the Coronavirus (COVID-19). As a designated essential service, the Orange County Sanitation District (OCSD) is seeking that you work to include a number of provisions to help us weather the COVID-19 pandemic. Our requests are grounded in the principle that the public wastewater sector provides critical health services that support stable economies and a healthy citizenry. OCSD specifically seeks that the following issues be addressed in the next phase of Coronavirus legislation: 1. Equal Tax Treatment: The CARES Act provided the private sector with payroll tax credits to help offset the costs of mandatory paid sick, family and medical leave. This tax credit was denied to the public sector, even though OCSD is also liable for such payroll taxes. We urge that the prohibition on providing tax credits to public agencies, contained in the CARES Act, be repealed as part of this next phase of assistance. 2. Special District Eligibility for Direct Assistance: The CARES Act provided direct assistance to state and units of local government. However, this eligibility has been interpreted not to include Special Districts. As a result, financial assistance under the Coronavirus Relief Fund (Fund) is unavailable to OCSD, denying funding to critical infrastructure. OCSD requests that you work to clarify the definition of local government to specifically include political subdivisions of a state, thereby capturing Special Districts. This is vital to allow for consideration of federal assistance that can help OCSD meet its mission to protect human health. OCSD also wishes to take this opportunity to call for a robust federal commitment to water infrastructure. For many years, we have called on Congress and the Administration to support federal assistance to help rebuild our nation’s clean water infrastructure. We understand that consideration is underway to develop infrastructure legislation that can support recovery from COVID-19. Our Mission: To protect public health and the environment by providing effective wastewater collection, treatment, and recycling. Page two In the past, the clean water community has repeatedly demonstrated the value and return on investment that infrastructure dollars dedicated to the clean water sector can provide. We will be reaching out to you and your staff in the near future to provide a list of projects we have planned that could greatly contribute to an economic recovery in Orange County. Thank you for your attention to this important issue. Please do not hesitate to contact Jennifer Cabral, OCSD’s Administration Manager at (714) 593-7581 or via email at jcabral@ocsd.com should you have any questions. Thank you for your continued support of the Orange County Sanitation District. Sincerely, David John Shawver Board Chairman Orange County Sanitation District 10844 Ellis Avenue, Fountain Valley, CA 92708 714.962.2411 | www.ocsd.com Our Mission: To protect public health and the environment by providing effective wastewater collection, treatment, and recycling April 20, 2020 The Honorable Congressman Rouda U.S. House of Representatives 2300 Rayburn House Office Building Washington, D.C. 20515 Dear Representative Rouda: As Congress develops the next legislative package of economic stabilization to respond to the threats from the Coronavirus, it is vital that any package include technical corrections to the CARES Act to assist with potential economic impacts from the Coronavirus (COVID-19). As a designated essential service, the Orange County Sanitation District (OCSD) is seeking that you work to include a number of provisions to help us weather the COVID-19 pandemic. Our requests are grounded in the principle that the public wastewater sector provides critical health services that support stable economies and a healthy citizenry. OCSD specifically seeks that the following issues be addressed in the next phase of Coronavirus legislation: 1. Equal Tax Treatment: The CARES Act provided the private sector with payroll tax credits to help offset the costs of mandatory paid sick, family and medical leave. This tax credit was denied to the public sector, even though OCSD is also liable for such payroll taxes. We urge that the prohibition on providing tax credits to public agencies, contained in the CARES Act, be repealed as part of this next phase of assistance. 2. Special District Eligibility for Direct Assistance: The CARES Act provided direct assistance to state and units of local government. However, this eligibility has been interpreted not to include Special Districts. As a result, financial assistance under the Coronavirus Relief Fund (Fund) is unavailable to OCSD, denying funding to critical infrastructure. OCSD requests that you work to clarify the definition of local government to specifically include political subdivisions of a state, thereby capturing Special Districts. This is vital to allow for consideration of federal assistance that can help OCSD meet its mission to protect human health. OCSD also wishes to take this opportunity to call for a robust federal commitment to water infrastructure. For many years, we have called on Congress and the Administration to support federal assistance to help rebuild our nation’s clean water infrastructure. We understand that consideration is underway to develop infrastructure legislation that can support recovery from COVID-19. Our Mission: To protect public health and the environment by providing effective wastewater collection, treatment, and recycling. Page two In the past, the clean water community has repeatedly demonstrated the value and return on investment that infrastructure dollars dedicated to the clean water sector can provide. We will be reaching out to you and your staff in the near future to provide a list of projects we have planned that could greatly contribute to an economic recovery in Orange County. Thank you for your attention to this important issue. Please do not hesitate to contact Jennifer Cabral, OCSD’s Administration Manager at (714) 593-7581 or via email at jcabral@ocsd.com should you have any questions. Thank you for your continued support of the Orange County Sanitation District. Sincerely, David John Shawver Board Chairman Orange County Sanitation District 10844 Ellis Avenue, Fountain Valley, CA 92708 714.962.2411 | www.ocsd.com Our Mission: To protect public health and the environment by providing effective wastewater collection, treatment, and recycling April 20, 2020 The Honorable Congresswoman Sanchez U.S. House of Representatives 2329 Rayburn House Office Building Washington, D.C. 20515 Dear Representative Sanchez: As Congress develops the next legislative package of economic stabilization to respond to the threats from the Coronavirus, it is vital that any package include technical corrections to the CARES Act to assist with potential economic impacts from the Coronavirus (COVID-19). As a designated essential service, the Orange County Sanitation District (OCSD) is seeking that you work to include a number of provisions to help us weather the COVID-19 pandemic. Our requests are grounded in the principle that the public wastewater sector provides critical health services that support stable economies and a healthy citizenry. OCSD specifically seeks that the following issues be addressed in the next phase of Coronavirus legislation: 1. Equal Tax Treatment: The CARES Act provided the private sector with payroll tax credits to help offset the costs of mandatory paid sick, family and medical leave. This tax credit was denied to the public sector, even though OCSD is also liable for such payroll taxes. We urge that the prohibition on providing tax credits to public agencies, contained in the CARES Act, be repealed as part of this next phase of assistance. 2. Special District Eligibility for Direct Assistance: The CARES Act provided direct assistance to state and units of local government. However, this eligibility has been interpreted not to include Special Districts. As a result, financial assistance under the Coronavirus Relief Fund (Fund) is unavailable to OCSD, denying funding to critical infrastructure. OCSD requests that you work to clarify the definition of local government to specifically include political subdivisions of a state, thereby capturing Special Districts. This is vital to allow for consideration of federal assistance that can help OCSD meet its mission to protect human health. OCSD also wishes to take this opportunity to call for a robust federal commitment to water infrastructure. For many years, we have called on Congress and the Administration to support federal assistance to help rebuild our nation’s clean water infrastructure. We understand that consideration is underway to develop infrastructure legislation that can support recovery from COVID-19. Our Mission: To protect public health and the environment by providing effective wastewater collection, treatment, and recycling. Page two In the past, the clean water community has repeatedly demonstrated the value and return on investment that infrastructure dollars dedicated to the clean water sector can provide. We will be reaching out to you and your staff in the near future to provide a list of projects we have planned that could greatly contribute to an economic recovery in Orange County. Thank you for your attention to this important issue. Please do not hesitate to contact Jennifer Cabral, OCSD’s Administration Manager at (714) 593-7581 or via email at jcabral@ocsd.com should you have any questions. Thank you for your continued support of the Orange County Sanitation District. Sincerely, David John Shawver Board Chairman Orange County Sanitation District 10844 Ellis Avenue, Fountain Valley, CA 92708 714.962.2411 | www.ocsd.com Our Mission: To protect public health and the environment by providing effective wastewater collection, treatment, and recycling April 27, 2020 The Honorable Congressman Cisneros U.S. House of Representatives 431 Cannon House Office Building Washington, D.C. 20515 Dear Representative Cisneros: Recently, the Orange County Sanitation District (OCSD) wrote to request that the next phase of the Coronavirus (COVID-19) economic and health response legislation include language to support explicitly the needs of Special Districts like OCSD that provide critical health services to the public. We were surprised and deeply disappointed that the legislative agreement, pending before the U.S. Senate and U.S. House of Representatives, which is expected to pass by the end of this week, fails to address any of the issues that we and our fellow public agencies have communicated to your office. Congress had an opportunity as part of the pending relief package to provide OCSD and other Special Districts that deliver critical services with much needed support as was previously extended to larger municipal and county governments in prior assistance packages. OCSD’s economic and public health needs are as important as other governmental organizations. Many of our ratepayers have been hit hard by this pandemic. As an essential service, it is not only our job it is our duty to continue to protect public health and the environment. We request immediate action to ensure that the following needs, presented below, are addressed as part of the next COVID-19 assistance response. During this unprecedented time, we ask that the next COVID-19 package of assistance provide for the following: • Equal Tax Treatment: The CARES Act provided the private sector with payroll tax credits to help offset the costs of mandatory paid sick, family and medical leave. This tax credit was denied to the public sector, even though OCSD is also liable for such payroll taxes. We urge that the prohibition on providing tax credits to public agencies, contained in the CARES Act, be repealed as part of this next phase of assistance. • Special District Eligibility for Direct Assistance: The CARES Act provided direct assistance to state and units of local government. However, this eligibility has been interpreted not to include Special Districts. As a result, financial assistance under the Coronavirus Relief Fund (Fund) is unavailable to OCSD, denying funding to critical infrastructure. OCSD requests that you work to clarify the definition of local government to specifically include political subdivisions of a state, thereby capturing Special Districts. This is vital to allow for consideration of federal assistance that can help OCSD meet its mission to protect human health. Our Mission: To protect public health and the environment by providing effective wastewater collection, treatment, and recycling. Page Two OCSD deeply appreciates the unwavering support you have provided to our past efforts to provide for an improved quality of life for the citizens of Orange County. Thank you for your attention to this important issue. Please do not hesitate to contact Jennifer Cabral, OCSD’s Administration Manager at (714) 593-7581 or via email at jcabral@ocsd.com should you have any questions. Thank you for your continued support of the Orange County Sanitation District. Sincerely, David John Shawver Board Chairman Orange County Sanitation District 10844 Ellis Avenue, Fountain Valley, CA 92708 714.962.2411 | www.ocsd.com Our Mission: To protect public health and the environment by providing effective wastewater collection, treatment, and recycling April 20, 2020 The Honorable Congressman Correa U.S. House of Representatives 1039 Cannon House Office Building Washington, D.C. 20515 Dear Representative Correa: As Congress develops the next legislative package of economic stabilization to respond to the threats from the Coronavirus, it is vital that any package include technical corrections to the CARES Act to assist with potential economic impacts from the Coronavirus (COVID-19). As a designated essential service, the Orange County Sanitation District (OCSD) is seeking that you work to include a number of provisions to help us weather the COVID-19 pandemic. Our requests are grounded in the principle that the public wastewater sector provides critical health services that support stable economies and a healthy citizenry. OCSD specifically seeks that the following issues be addressed in the next phase of Coronavirus legislation: 1. Equal Tax Treatment: The CARES Act provided the private sector with payroll tax credits to help offset the costs of mandatory paid sick, family and medical leave. This tax credit was denied to the public sector, even though OCSD is also liable for such payroll taxes. We urge that the prohibition on providing tax credits to public agencies, contained in the CARES Act, be repealed as part of this next phase of assistance. 2. Special District Eligibility for Direct Assistance: The CARES Act provided direct assistance to state and units of local government. However, this eligibility has been interpreted not to include Special Districts. As a result, financial assistance under the Coronavirus Relief Fund (Fund) is unavailable to OCSD, denying funding to critical infrastructure. OCSD requests that you work to clarify the definition of local government to specifically include political subdivisions of a state, thereby capturing Special Districts. This is vital to allow for consideration of federal assistance that can help OCSD meet its mission to protect human health. OCSD also wishes to take this opportunity to call for a robust federal commitment to water infrastructure. For many years, we have called on Congress and the Administration to support federal assistance to help rebuild our nation’s clean water infrastructure. We understand that consideration is underway to develop infrastructure legislation that can support recovery from COVID-19. Our Mission: To protect public health and the environment by providing effective wastewater collection, treatment, and recycling. Page two In the past, the clean water community has repeatedly demonstrated the value and return on investment that infrastructure dollars dedicated to the clean water sector can provide. We will be reaching out to you and your staff in the near future to provide a list of projects we have planned that could greatly contribute to an economic recovery in Orange County. Thank you for your attention to this important issue. Please do not hesitate to contact Jennifer Cabral, OCSD’s Administration Manager at (714) 593-7581 or via email at jcabral@ocsd.com should you have any questions. Thank you for your continued support of the Orange County Sanitation District. Sincerely, David John Shawver Board Chairman Orange County Sanitation District 10844 Ellis Avenue, Fountain Valley, CA 92708 714.962.2411 | www.ocsd.com Our Mission: To protect public health and the environment by providing effective wastewater collection, treatment, and recycling April 20, 2020 The Honorable Senator Feinstein 331 Hart Senator Office Building Washington, D.C. 20510 Dear Senator Feinstein: As Congress develops the next legislative package of economic stabilization to respond to the threats from the Coronavirus, it is vital that any package include technical corrections to the CARES Act to assist with potential economic impacts from the Coronavirus (COVID-19). As a designated essential service, the Orange County Sanitation District (OCSD) is seeking that you work to include a number of provisions to help us weather the COVID-19 pandemic. Our requests are grounded in the principle that the public wastewater sector provides critical health services that support stable economies and a healthy citizenry. OCSD specifically seeks that the following issues be addressed in the next phase of Coronavirus legislation: 1. Equal Tax Treatment: The CARES Act provided the private sector with payroll tax credits to help offset the costs of mandatory paid sick, family and medical leave. This tax credit was denied to the public sector, even though OCSD is also liable for such payroll taxes. We urge that the prohibition on providing tax credits to public agencies, contained in the CARES Act, be repealed as part of this next phase of assistance. 2. Special District Eligibility for Direct Assistance: The CARES Act provided direct assistance to state and units of local government. However, this eligibility has been interpreted not to include Special Districts. As a result, financial assistance under the Coronavirus Relief Fund (Fund) is unavailable to OCSD, denying funding to critical infrastructure. OCSD requests that you work to clarify the definition of local government to specifically include political subdivisions of a state, thereby capturing Special Districts. This is vital to allow for consideration of federal assistance that can help OCSD meet its mission to protect human health. OCSD also wishes to take this opportunity to call for a robust federal commitment to water infrastructure. For many years, we have called on Congress and the Administration to support federal assistance to help rebuild our nation’s clean water infrastructure. We understand that consideration is underway to develop infrastructure legislation that can support recovery from COVID-19. Our Mission: To protect public health and the environment by providing effective wastewater collection, treatment, and recycling. Page two In the past, the clean water community has repeatedly demonstrated the value and return on investment that infrastructure dollars dedicated to the clean water sector can provide. We will be reaching out to you and your staff in the near future to provide a list of projects we have planned that could greatly contribute to an economic recovery in Orange County. Thank you for your attention to this important issue. Please do not hesitate to contact Jennifer Cabral, OCSD’s Administration Manager at (714) 593-7581 or via email at jcabral@ocsd.com should you have any questions. Thank you for your continued support of the Orange County Sanitation District. Sincerely, David John Shawver Board Chairman Orange County Sanitation District 10844 Ellis Avenue, Fountain Valley, CA 92708 714.962.2411 | www.ocsd.com Our Mission: To protect public health and the environment by providing effective wastewater collection, treatment, and recycling April 20, 2020 The Honorable Senator Harris 112 Hart Senator Office Building Washington, D.C. 20510 Dear Senator Harris: As Congress develops the next legislative package of economic stabilization to respond to the threats from the Coronavirus, it is vital that any package include technical corrections to the CARES Act to assist with potential economic impacts from the Coronavirus (COVID-19). As a designated essential service, the Orange County Sanitation District (OCSD) is seeking that you work to include a number of provisions to help us weather the COVID-19 pandemic. Our requests are grounded in the principle that the public wastewater sector provides critical health services that support stable economies and a healthy citizenry. OCSD specifically seeks that the following issues be addressed in the next phase of Coronavirus legislation: 1. Equal Tax Treatment: The CARES Act provided the private sector with payroll tax credits to help offset the costs of mandatory paid sick, family and medical leave. This tax credit was denied to the public sector, even though OCSD is also liable for such payroll taxes. We urge that the prohibition on providing tax credits to public agencies, contained in the CARES Act, be repealed as part of this next phase of assistance. 2. Special District Eligibility for Direct Assistance: The CARES Act provided direct assistance to state and units of local government. However, this eligibility has been interpreted not to include Special Districts. As a result, financial assistance under the Coronavirus Relief Fund (Fund) is unavailable to OCSD, denying funding to critical infrastructure. OCSD requests that you work to clarify the definition of local government to specifically include political subdivisions of a state, thereby capturing Special Districts. This is vital to allow for consideration of federal assistance that can help OCSD meet its mission to protect human health. OCSD also wishes to take this opportunity to call for a robust federal commitment to water infrastructure. For many years, we have called on Congress and the Administration to support federal assistance to help rebuild our nation’s clean water infrastructure. We understand that consideration is underway to develop infrastructure legislation that can support recovery from COVID-19. Our Mission: To protect public health and the environment by providing effective wastewater collection, treatment, and recycling. Page two In the past, the clean water community has repeatedly demonstrated the value and return on investment that infrastructure dollars dedicated to the clean water sector can provide. We will be reaching out to you and your staff in the near future to provide a list of projects we have planned that could greatly contribute to an economic recovery in Orange County. Thank you for your attention to this important issue. Please do not hesitate to contact Jennifer Cabral, OCSD’s Administration Manager at (714) 593-7581 or via email at jcabral@ocsd.com should you have any questions. Thank you for your continued support of the Orange County Sanitation District. Sincerely, David John Shawver Board Chairman Orange County Sanitation District 10844 Ellis Avenue, Fountain Valley, CA 92708 714.962.2411 | www.ocsd.com Our Mission: To protect public health and the environment by providing effective wastewater collection, treatment, and recycling April 20, 2020 The Honorable Congressman Lowenthal U.S. House of Representatives 125 Cannon House Office Building Washington, D.C. 20515 Dear Representative Lowenthal: As Congress develops the next legislative package of economic stabilization to respond to the threats from the Coronavirus, it is vital that any package include technical corrections to the CARES Act to assist with potential economic impacts from the Coronavirus (COVID-19). As a designated essential service, the Orange County Sanitation District (OCSD) is seeking that you work to include a number of provisions to help us weather the COVID-19 pandemic. Our requests are grounded in the principle that the public wastewater sector provides critical health services that support stable economies and a healthy citizenry. OCSD specifically seeks that the following issues be addressed in the next phase of Coronavirus legislation: 1. Equal Tax Treatment: The CARES Act provided the private sector with payroll tax credits to help offset the costs of mandatory paid sick, family and medical leave. This tax credit was denied to the public sector, even though OCSD is also liable for such payroll taxes. We urge that the prohibition on providing tax credits to public agencies, contained in the CARES Act, be repealed as part of this next phase of assistance. 2. Special District Eligibility for Direct Assistance: The CARES Act provided direct assistance to state and units of local government. However, this eligibility has been interpreted not to include Special Districts. As a result, financial assistance under the Coronavirus Relief Fund (Fund) is unavailable to OCSD, denying funding to critical infrastructure. OCSD requests that you work to clarify the definition of local government to specifically include political subdivisions of a state, thereby capturing Special Districts. This is vital to allow for consideration of federal assistance that can help OCSD meet its mission to protect human health. OCSD also wishes to take this opportunity to call for a robust federal commitment to water infrastructure. For many years, we have called on Congress and the Administration to support federal assistance to help rebuild our nation’s clean water infrastructure. We understand that consideration is underway to develop infrastructure legislation that can support recovery from COVID-19. Our Mission: To protect public health and the environment by providing effective wastewater collection, treatment, and recycling. Page two In the past, the clean water community has repeatedly demonstrated the value and return on investment that infrastructure dollars dedicated to the clean water sector can provide. We will be reaching out to you and your staff in the near future to provide a list of projects we have planned that could greatly contribute to an economic recovery in Orange County. Thank you for your attention to this important issue. Please do not hesitate to contact Jennifer Cabral, OCSD’s Administration Manager at (714) 593-7581 or via email at jcabral@ocsd.com should you have any questions. Thank you for your continued support of the Orange County Sanitation District. Sincerely, David John Shawver Board Chairman Orange County Sanitation District 10844 Ellis Avenue, Fountain Valley, CA 92708 714.962.2411 | www.ocsd.com Our Mission: To protect public health and the environment by providing effective wastewater collection, treatment, and recycling April 20, 2020 The Honorable Congresswoman Katie Porter U.S. House of Representatives 1117 Longworth House Office Building Washington, D.C. 20515 Dear Representative Porter: As Congress develops the next legislative package of economic stabilization to respond to the threats from the Coronavirus, it is vital that any package include technical corrections to the CARES Act to assist with potential economic impacts from the Coronavirus (COVID-19). As a designated essential service, the Orange County Sanitation District (OCSD) is seeking that you work to include a number of provisions to help us weather the COVID-19 pandemic. Our requests are grounded in the principle that the public wastewater sector provides critical health services that support stable economies and a healthy citizenry. OCSD specifically seeks that the following issues be addressed in the next phase of Coronavirus legislation: 1. Equal Tax Treatment: The CARES Act provided the private sector with payroll tax credits to help offset the costs of mandatory paid sick, family and medical leave. This tax credit was denied to the public sector, even though OCSD is also liable for such payroll taxes. We urge that the prohibition on providing tax credits to public agencies, contained in the CARES Act, be repealed as part of this next phase of assistance. 2. Special District Eligibility for Direct Assistance: The CARES Act provided direct assistance to state and units of local government. However, this eligibility has been interpreted not to include Special Districts. As a result, financial assistance under the Coronavirus Relief Fund (Fund) is unavailable to OCSD, denying funding to critical infrastructure. OCSD requests that you work to clarify the definition of local government to specifically include political subdivisions of a state, thereby capturing Special Districts. This is vital to allow for consideration of federal assistance that can help OCSD meet its mission to protect human health. OCSD also wishes to take this opportunity to call for a robust federal commitment to water infrastructure. For many years, we have called on Congress and the Administration to support federal assistance to help rebuild our nation’s clean water infrastructure. We understand that consideration is underway to develop infrastructure legislation that can support recovery from COVID-19. Our Mission: To protect public health and the environment by providing effective wastewater collection, treatment, and recycling. Page two In the past, the clean water community has repeatedly demonstrated the value and return on investment that infrastructure dollars dedicated to the clean water sector can provide. We will be reaching out to you and your staff in the near future to provide a list of projects we have planned that could greatly contribute to an economic recovery in Orange County. Thank you for your attention to this important issue. Please do not hesitate to contact Jennifer Cabral, OCSD’s Administration Manager at (714) 593-7581 or via email at jcabral@ocsd.com should you have any questions. Thank you for your continued support of the Orange County Sanitation District. Sincerely, David John Shawver Board Chairman Orange County Sanitation District 10844 Ellis Avenue, Fountain Valley, CA 92708 714.962.2411 | www.ocsd.com Our Mission: To protect public health and the environment by providing effective wastewater collection, treatment, and recycling April 20, 2020 The Honorable Congressman Rouda U.S. House of Representatives 2300 Rayburn House Office Building Washington, D.C. 20515 Dear Representative Rouda: As Congress develops the next legislative package of economic stabilization to respond to the threats from the Coronavirus, it is vital that any package include technical corrections to the CARES Act to assist with potential economic impacts from the Coronavirus (COVID-19). As a designated essential service, the Orange County Sanitation District (OCSD) is seeking that you work to include a number of provisions to help us weather the COVID-19 pandemic. Our requests are grounded in the principle that the public wastewater sector provides critical health services that support stable economies and a healthy citizenry. OCSD specifically seeks that the following issues be addressed in the next phase of Coronavirus legislation: 1. Equal Tax Treatment: The CARES Act provided the private sector with payroll tax credits to help offset the costs of mandatory paid sick, family and medical leave. This tax credit was denied to the public sector, even though OCSD is also liable for such payroll taxes. We urge that the prohibition on providing tax credits to public agencies, contained in the CARES Act, be repealed as part of this next phase of assistance. 2. Special District Eligibility for Direct Assistance: The CARES Act provided direct assistance to state and units of local government. However, this eligibility has been interpreted not to include Special Districts. As a result, financial assistance under the Coronavirus Relief Fund (Fund) is unavailable to OCSD, denying funding to critical infrastructure. OCSD requests that you work to clarify the definition of local government to specifically include political subdivisions of a state, thereby capturing Special Districts. This is vital to allow for consideration of federal assistance that can help OCSD meet its mission to protect human health. OCSD also wishes to take this opportunity to call for a robust federal commitment to water infrastructure. For many years, we have called on Congress and the Administration to support federal assistance to help rebuild our nation’s clean water infrastructure. We understand that consideration is underway to develop infrastructure legislation that can support recovery from COVID-19. Our Mission: To protect public health and the environment by providing effective wastewater collection, treatment, and recycling. Page two In the past, the clean water community has repeatedly demonstrated the value and return on investment that infrastructure dollars dedicated to the clean water sector can provide. We will be reaching out to you and your staff in the near future to provide a list of projects we have planned that could greatly contribute to an economic recovery in Orange County. Thank you for your attention to this important issue. Please do not hesitate to contact Jennifer Cabral, OCSD’s Administration Manager at (714) 593-7581 or via email at jcabral@ocsd.com should you have any questions. Thank you for your continued support of the Orange County Sanitation District. Sincerely, David John Shawver Board Chairman Orange County Sanitation District 10844 Ellis Avenue, Fountain Valley, CA 92708 714.962.2411 | www.ocsd.com Our Mission: To protect public health and the environment by providing effective wastewater collection, treatment, and recycling April 20, 2020 The Honorable Congresswoman Sanchez U.S. House of Representatives 2329 Rayburn House Office Building Washington, D.C. 20515 Dear Representative Sanchez: As Congress develops the next legislative package of economic stabilization to respond to the threats from the Coronavirus, it is vital that any package include technical corrections to the CARES Act to assist with potential economic impacts from the Coronavirus (COVID-19). As a designated essential service, the Orange County Sanitation District (OCSD) is seeking that you work to include a number of provisions to help us weather the COVID-19 pandemic. Our requests are grounded in the principle that the public wastewater sector provides critical health services that support stable economies and a healthy citizenry. OCSD specifically seeks that the following issues be addressed in the next phase of Coronavirus legislation: 1. Equal Tax Treatment: The CARES Act provided the private sector with payroll tax credits to help offset the costs of mandatory paid sick, family and medical leave. This tax credit was denied to the public sector, even though OCSD is also liable for such payroll taxes. We urge that the prohibition on providing tax credits to public agencies, contained in the CARES Act, be repealed as part of this next phase of assistance. 2. Special District Eligibility for Direct Assistance: The CARES Act provided direct assistance to state and units of local government. However, this eligibility has been interpreted not to include Special Districts. As a result, financial assistance under the Coronavirus Relief Fund (Fund) is unavailable to OCSD, denying funding to critical infrastructure. OCSD requests that you work to clarify the definition of local government to specifically include political subdivisions of a state, thereby capturing Special Districts. This is vital to allow for consideration of federal assistance that can help OCSD meet its mission to protect human health. OCSD also wishes to take this opportunity to call for a robust federal commitment to water infrastructure. For many years, we have called on Congress and the Administration to support federal assistance to help rebuild our nation’s clean water infrastructure. We understand that consideration is underway to develop infrastructure legislation that can support recovery from COVID-19. Our Mission: To protect public health and the environment by providing effective wastewater collection, treatment, and recycling. Page two In the past, the clean water community has repeatedly demonstrated the value and return on investment that infrastructure dollars dedicated to the clean water sector can provide. We will be reaching out to you and your staff in the near future to provide a list of projects we have planned that could greatly contribute to an economic recovery in Orange County. Thank you for your attention to this important issue. Please do not hesitate to contact Jennifer Cabral, OCSD’s Administration Manager at (714) 593-7581 or via email at jcabral@ocsd.com should you have any questions. Thank you for your continued support of the Orange County Sanitation District. Sincerely, David John Shawver Board Chairman Orange County Sanitation District 10844 Ellis Avenue, Fountain Valley, CA 92708 714.962.2411 | www.ocsd.com Our Mission: To protect public health and the environment by providing effective wastewater collection, treatment, and recycling June 15, 2020 The Honorable Dianne Feinstein U.S. Senate 331 Hart Senate Office Building Washington, D.C. 20510 RE: Fourth Coronavirus Response Legislation Dear Senator Feinstein: The Orange County Sanitation District (OCSD) located in Orange County, California writes to support the House passage of the Health and Economic Recovery Omnibus Emergency Solutions Act, H.R. 6800 (HEROES). OCSD would like to request that when the Senate considers the HEROES Act that provisions to support local agencies, including Special Districts, are included in any final compromise. OCSD is a public agency that provides wastewater collection, treatment, and recycling for approximately 2.6 million people in central and northwest Orange County. OCSD is a special district that is governed by a 25-member Board of Directors comprised of 20 cities, four special districts, and one representative from the Orange County Board of Supervisors. OCSD has two operating facilities that treat wastewater from residential, commercial, and industrial sources. We appreciate your past support of emergency spending to address COVID-19 and today we write to urge swift Senate passage of the fourth package of assistance. When the Senate considers HEROES, we seek your leadership to amend the bill to provide direct federal assistance to Special Districts. Also, we ask that you include water and wastewater sector employees as essential workers under the HEROES Fund. Below we describe the elements that OCSD believes need to be included in the final HEROES Act: Special District Eligibility for Direct Assistance: The CARES Act, established the Coronavirus Relief Fund (Fund) to deliver financial assistance to states and local governments. It did not extend such financial support to Special Districts. The absence of citing “political subdivisions of a state” within the definition excluded Special Districts from receiving federal assistance. This circumstance shuts out a substantial portion of the public sector that provides critical public health services. In California, many of our largest wastewater providers are Special Districts and are the sole source of this important public health service to tens of millions of Californians. HEROES, as passed by the House, failed to include a definition to allow such public entities with vital assistance. We request that you clarify this eligibility inequity in the Senate, by providing Special Districts with a dedicated funding assistance set-aside in HEROES. Page Two Our Mission: To protect public health and the environment by providing effective wastewater collection, treatment, and recycling. Equal Tax Treatment: OCSD supports HEROES provision of payroll tax credits to the public sector to help offset mandatory paid sick, medical and family leave. The simple extension of the current CARES Act tax credit provided to the private sector would remedy an important equity issue. Summary: The next phase of federal assistance must, at a minimum, provide for the following forms of assistance: •Provide Special Districts with their own funding set-aside to support the critical public health services that communities rely upon during this crisis; •Extend payroll tax credits eligibility to the public sector for purposes of mandatory paid sick, medical and family leave. Thank you for your attention to this important issue. Please do not hesitate to contact Jennifer Cabral, OCSD’s Administration Manager at (714) 593-7581 or via email at jcabral@ocsd.com should you have any questions. Thank you for your continued support of the Orange County Sanitation District. Sincerely, David John Shawver Board Chairman Orange County Sanitation District 10844 Ellis Avenue, Fountain Valley, CA 92708 714.962.2411 | www.ocsd.com Our Mission: To protect public health and the environment by providing effective wastewater collection, treatment, and recycling June 15, 2020 The Honorable Kamala Harris U.S. Senate 112 Hart Senate Office Building Washington, D.C. 20510 RE: Fourth Coronavirus Response Legislation Dear Senator Harris: The Orange County Sanitation District (OCSD) located in Orange County, California writes to support the House passage of the Health and Economic Recovery Omnibus Emergency Solutions Act, H.R. 6800 (HEROES). OCSD would like to request that when the Senate considers the HEROES Act that provisions to support local agencies, including Special Districts, are included in any final compromise. OCSD is a public agency that provides wastewater collection, treatment, and recycling for approximately 2.6 million people in central and northwest Orange County. OCSD is a special district that is governed by a 25-member Board of Directors comprised of 20 cities, four special districts, and one representative from the Orange County Board of Supervisors. OCSD has two operating facilities that treat wastewater from residential, commercial, and industrial sources. We appreciate your past support of emergency spending to address COVID-19 and today we write to urge swift Senate passage of the fourth package of assistance. When the Senate considers HEROES, we seek your leadership to amend the bill to provide direct federal assistance to Special Districts. Also, we ask that you include water and wastewater sector employees as essential workers under the HEROES Fund. Below we describe the elements that OCSD believes need to be included in the final HEROES Act: Special District Eligibility for Direct Assistance: The CARES Act, established the Coronavirus Relief Fund (Fund) to deliver financial assistance to states and local governments. It did not extend such financial support to Special Districts. The absence of citing “political subdivisions of a state” within the definition excluded Special Districts from receiving federal assistance. This circumstance shuts out a substantial portion of the public sector that provides critical public health services. In California, many of our largest wastewater providers are Special Districts and are the sole source of this important public health service to tens of millions of Californians. HEROES, as passed by the House, failed to include a definition to allow such public entities with vital assistance. We request that you clarify this eligibility inequity in the Senate, by providing Special Districts with a dedicated funding assistance set-aside in HEROES. Page Two Our Mission: To protect public health and the environment by providing effective wastewater collection, treatment, and recycling. Equal Tax Treatment: OCSD supports HEROES provision of payroll tax credits to the public sector to help offset mandatory paid sick, medical and family leave. The simple extension of the current CARES Act tax credit provided to the private sector would remedy an important equity issue. Summary: The next phase of federal assistance must, at a minimum, provide for the following forms of assistance: •Provide Special Districts with their own funding set-aside to support the critical public health services that communities rely upon during this crisis; •Extend payroll tax credits eligibility to the public sector for purposes of mandatory paid sick, medical and family leave. Thank you for your attention to this important issue. Please do not hesitate to contact Jennifer Cabral, OCSD’s Administration Manager at (714) 593-7581 or via email at jcabral@ocsd.com should you have any questions. Thank you for your continued support of the Orange County Sanitation District. Sincerely, David John Shawver Board Chairman OCSD Federal Bills of Interest BILL AUTHOR SUMMARY LATEST ACTION OCSD POSITION OTHER POSITIONS H.R. 1162 Rep. Grace Napolitano (D-CA) Water Recycling Investment and Improvement Act. Establishes a grant program for the funding of water recycling and reuse projects, and for other purposes. House - 3/11/20 Ordered to be Reported (Amended) out of Committee on Natural Resources by 19-12 Watch CASA SUPPORTS H.R. 1497 Rep. Peter DeFazio (D-OR) Water Quality Protection and Job Creation Act of 2019. Provides nearly $23.5 billion in direct infrastructure investment over the next five years to address wastewater infrastructure and local water quality challenges. This bill allocates $20 billion in grants for the Clean Water State Revolving Fund. House - 10/29/19 Ordered to be Reported Out as amended by voice vote Watch CASA SUPPORTS H.R. 535 Rep. Debbie Dingell (D-MI)R PFAS Action Act of 2019. To require the Administrator of the Environmental Protection Agency to shall designate per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances as hazardous substances under the Comprehensive Environmental Response, Compensation, and Liability Act of 1980. House - 1/13/20 Passed House and reported to the Senate Committee on Environment and Public Works Watch NYC H.R. 876 Rep. Peter DeFazio (D-OR) Pacific Northwest Earthquake Preparedness Act of 2019. Requires the FEMA to develop a plan for the purchase and installation of an earthquake early warning system for the Cascadia Subduction Zone. The term "Cascadia Subduction Zone". House - 2/6/19 Passed House by voice vote, received in Senate and referred to Committee on Homeland Security and Governmental Affairs Watch NYC H.R. 667 Rep. Jaime Herrera Beutler (R-WA) Regulatory Certainty for Navigable Waters Act. Repeals the Waters of the United States rule and amend the Federal Water Pollution Control Act definition of navigable waters, and for other purposes. House - 2/7/19 Referred to Subcommittee on Water Resources and Environment Watch NYC Federal Legislation 2019 - 2020 Priority Updated June 19, 2020 OCSD Federal Bills of Interest BILL AUTHOR SUMMARY LATEST ACTION OCSD POSITION OTHER POSITIONS S. 403 Sen. Sheldon Whitehouse (D-RI) IMAGINE Act. A bill to encourage the research and use of innovative materials and associated techniques in the construction and preservation of the domestic transportation and water infrastructure system, and for other purposes. Senate - 2/7/19 Referred to Committee on Environment and Public Works Watch NYC H.R. 977 Rep. Brian Mast (R-FL) Toxic Health Threat Warning Act of 2019. To require the Corps of Engineers to notify affected communities before releasing water contaminated with cyanobacteria from flood risk management projects, and for other purposes. House - 2/7/19 Referred to Subcommittee on Water Resources and Environment Watch NYC H.R. 358 Rep. Juan Vargas (D-CA) California New River Restoration Act of 2019. Requires the USEPA to establish a California New River restoration program for the New River. USEPA must (1) implement projects, plans, and initiatives for the New River supported by the California-Mexico Border Relations Council; and (2) provide grants and technical assistance for coordinating restoration and protection activities. House - 2/7/19 Referred to Subcommittee on Water Resources and Environment Watch NYC S. 376 Sen. Rand Paul (R-KY) Defense Environment and Property Act of 2019. A bill to amend the Federal Water Pollution Control Act to clarify the definition of navigable waters, and for other purposes. Senate - 2/7/19 Referred to Committee on Environment and Public Works Watch NYC H.R. 658 Rep. Rosa DeLauro National Infrastructure Development Bank Act. Facilitates efficient investments and financing of infrastructure projects and new job creation through the establishment of a National Infrastructure Development Bank, and for other purposes. House - 2/7/19 Referred to Subcommittee on Economic Development, Public Buildings, and Emergency Management Watch NYC H.R. 1137 Rep. John Garamendi (D-CA) To amend the Water Resources Development Act of 1986 to repeal the authority relating to reprogramming during national emergencies. House - 2/12/19 Referred to the Subcommittee on Water Resources and Environment Watch NYC Updated June 19, 2020 OCSD Federal Bills of Interest BILL AUTHOR SUMMARY LATEST ACTION OCSD POSITION OTHER POSITIONS H.R. 1317 Rep. Harley Rouda (D-CA) Coastal Communities Adaption Act. Improves the resilience of the built and natural environment to natural disasters and climate change using, among other measures, natural and nature-based features, and for other purposes. House - 3/6/19 Referred to Subcommittee on Water Resources and Environment Watch NYC S. 638 Sen. Tom Carper (D-DE) PFAS Action Act. A bill to require the Administrator of the Environmental Protection Agency to designate per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances as hazardous substances under the Comprehensive Environmental Response, Compensation, Liability Act of 1980, and for other purposes. Senate - 2/28/19 Referred to Committee on Environment and Public Works Watch NYC S. 611 Sen. Bernie Sanders (I-VT) Water Affordability, Transparency, Equity, and Reliability Act of 2019. A bill to provide adequate funding for water and sewer infrastructure, and for other purposes. Senate - 2/28/19 Referred to Committee on Environment and Public Works Watch NYC H.R. 1331 Rep. Angie Craig (D-MN) Local Water Protection Act. To amend the Federal Water Pollution Control Act to reauthorize certain programs relating to nonpoint source management, and for other purposes. House - 4/9/19 Passed House 329-56. Received in Senate, referred to Committee on Environment and Public Works Watch NYC H.R. 1764 Rep. John Garamendi (D-CA) To amend the Federal Water Pollution Control Act with respect to permitting terms, and for other purposes. House - 3/15/19 Referred to Subcommittee on Water Resources and Environment Watch CASA, NACWA, ACWA - SUPPORTS S. 950 Sen. Debbie Stabenow (D-MI) PFAS Detection Act of 2019. Requires the Director of the United States Geological Survey to perform a nationwide survey of perfluorinated compounds, and for other purposes. Senate - 3/28/19 Referred to Committee on Environment and Public Works Watch NYC S. 933 Sen. Sheldon Whitehouse (D-RI) BLUE GLOBE Act. Improves data collection and monitoring of the Great Lakes, oceans, bays, estuaries, and coasts, and for other purposes. Senate - 3/28/19 Referred to Committee on Commerce, Science, and Transportation Watch NYC Updated June 19, 2020 OCSD Federal Bills of Interest BILL AUTHOR SUMMARY LATEST ACTION OCSD POSITION OTHER POSITIONS S. 914 Sen. Roger Wicker (R-MS) Coordinated Ocean Observations and Research Act of 2019. Reauthorizes the Integrated Coastal and Ocean Observation System Act of 2009, to clarify the authority of the Administrator of the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration with respect to post-storm assessments, and to require the establishment of a National Water Center, and for other purposes. Senate - 12/5/19 Placed on Senate Legislative Calendar Watch NYC H.R. 2019 Rep. Jerry McNerney (D-CA) Smart Energy and Water Efficiency Act of 2019. Provides for a smart water resource management pilot program. House - 4/9/19 Referred to Committee on Science, Space, and Technology Watch NYC H.R. 1904 Rep. Raul Grijalva (D-CA) Indian Water Rights Settlement Extension Act. Amends the Omnibus Public Land Management Act of 2009 to make the Reclamation Water Settlements Fund permanent. House - 4/4/19 Committee on Natural Resources Hearings Held Watch NYC H.R. 2205 Rep. David McKinley (R-WV) Water Quality Certification Improvement Act of 2019. Amends the Federal Water Pollution Control Act to make changes with respect to water quality certification, and for other purposes. House - 4/11/19 Referred to Subcommittee on Water Resources and Environment Watch NYC H.R. 2189 Rep. Dutch Ruppersberger (D-MD) Digital Coast Act. Requires the Secretary of Commerce, acting through the Administrator of the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration, to establish a constituent-driven program to provide a digital information platform capable of efficiently integrating coastal data with decision-support tools, training, and best practices and to support collection of priority coastal geospatial data to inform and improve local, State, regional, and Federal capacities to manage the coastal region, and for other purposes. House -11/26/19 Placed on Union Calendar Watch NYC Updated June 19, 2020 OCSD Federal Bills of Interest BILL AUTHOR SUMMARY LATEST ACTION OCSD POSITION OTHER POSITIONS S. 1069 Sen. Tammy Baldwin (D-WI) Digital Coast Act. A bill to require the Secretary of Commerce, acting through the Administrator of the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration, to establish a constituent-driven program to provide a digital information platform capable of efficiently integrating coastal data with decision-support tools, training, and best practices and to support collection of priority coastal geospatial data to inform and improve local, State, regional, and Federal capacities to manage the coastal region, and for other purposes. Senate - 6/18/20 Placed on Senate Legislative Calendar under General Orders. Calendar No. 481 Watch NYC S. 1087 Sen. John Barrasso (R-WY) Water Quality Certification Improvement Act of 2019. A bill to amend the Federal Water Pollution Control Act to make changes with respect to water quality certification, and for other purposes. Senate - 11/19/19 Committee on Environment and Public Works hearings held Watch NYC H.R. 2473 Rep. Josh Harder (D-CA) S.A.V.E. Water Resources Act. Promotes water supply reliability and improved water management for rural communities, the State of California, and the Nation, and for other purposes. House - 3/11/20 Ordered to be Reported (Amended) by 19-12 Watch NYC S. 1251 Sen. Jeanne Shaheen (D-NH) Safe Drinking Water Assistance Act of 2019. Improves and coordinate interagency Federal actions and provide assistance to States for responding to public health challenges posed by emerging contaminants, and for other purposes. Senate - 4/30/19 Referred to Committee on Environment and Public Works Watch NYC H.R. 2458 Rep. Debbie Mucarsel-Powell (D-FL) WISE Act. Amends the Federal Water Pollution Control Act to require a certain percentage of funds appropriated for revolving fund capitalization grants be used for green projects, and for other purposes. House - 5/2/19 Referred to Subcommittee of Water Resources and Environment Watch NYC H.R. 2377 Rep. Brendan Boyle (D-PA) Protect Drinking Water from PFAS Act of 2019. Requires the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) to address the level of perfluoroalkyl and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS) in drinking water. Specifically, the EPA must publish a maximum contaminant level goal and promulgate a national primary drinking water regulation for total PFAS. PFAS are man-made chemicals that may lead to adverse human health effects. House - 9/26/19 Forwarded to Full Committee by voice vote Watch NYC Updated June 19, 2020 OCSD Federal Bills of Interest BILL AUTHOR SUMMARY LATEST ACTION OCSD POSITION OTHER POSITIONS H.R. 2533 Rep. Frank Pallone (D-NJ) Providing Financial Assistance for Safe Drinking Water Act. To assist community water systems affected by PFAS contamination, and for other purposes. House - 9/26/19 Forwarded to Full Committee by voice vote Watch NYC H.R. 2566 Rep. Darren Soto (D-FL) To require the Administrator of the Environmental Protection Agency to revise the Safer Choice Standard to provide for a Safer Choice label for pots, pans, and cooking utensils that do not contain PFAS, and for other purposes. House - 9/26/19 Forwarded to Full Committee by voice vote Watch NYC H.R. 2577 Rep. Antonio Delgado (D-NY) PFAS Right-To-Know Act. Amends the Emergency Planning and Community Right-To-Know Act of 1986 to include per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances on the Toxics Release Inventory, and for other purposes. House - 9/26/19 Forwarded to Full Committee by voice vote Watch NYC S. 1372 Sen. Debbie Stabenow (D-MI) PFAS Accountability Act of 2019. A bill to encourage Federal agencies to expeditiously enter into or amend cooperative agreements with States for removal and remedial actions to address PFAS contamination in drinking, surface, and ground water and land surface and subsurface strata, and for other purposes. Senate - 5/8/19 Referred to Committee on Environment and Public Works Watch NYC H.R. 2705 Rep. Earl Blumenauer (D-OR) Water Infrastructure Trust Fund Act of 2019. To establish a Water Infrastructure Trust Fund, and for other purposes. House - 5/15/19 Referred to Subcommittee on Water Resources and Environment Watch NYC H.R. 2755 Rep. Brendan Boyle (D-PA) Buy America 2.0 Act. To standardize and extend certain Buy America Provisions. House - 5/16/19 Referred to Subcommittee on Aviation Watch NYC S. 1473 Sen. Kristen Gillibrand (D-NY) Protect Drinking Water from PFAS Act of 2019. A bill to amend the Safe Drinking Water Act to require the Administrator of the Environmental Protection Agency to set maximum contaminant levels for certain chemicals, and for other purposes. House - 5/15/19 Referred to Committee on Environment and Public Works Watch NYC Updated June 19, 2020 OCSD Federal Bills of Interest BILL AUTHOR SUMMARY LATEST ACTION OCSD POSITION OTHER POSITIONS S. 1535 Sen. Mark Warner (D-VA) Reinventing Economic Partnerships and Infrastructure Redevelopment Act. A bill to facilitate efficient investments and financing of infrastructure projects and new, long-term job creation through the establishment of an Infrastructure Financing Authority, and for other purposes. Senate - 5/16/19 Referred to Committee on Finance Watch NYC H.R. 2776 Rep. Lori Trahan (D-MA) Stop Sewage Overflow Act. To make certain municipalities eligible for grants under the Federal Water Pollution Control Act, and for other purposes. House - 5/16/19 Referred to Subcommittee on Water Resources and Environment Watch NYC H.R. 2800 Rep. Elissa Slotkin (D-MI) PFAS Monitoring Act of 2019. To amend the Safe Drinking Water Act to require continued and expanded monitoring of perfluoroalkyl and polyfluoroalkyl substances in drinking water, and for other purposes. House - 5/17/20 Referred to Subcommittee on Environment and Climate Change Watch NYC S. 1507 Sen. Shelley Moore Capito (D-WV) A bill to include certain perfluoroalkyl and polyfluoroalkyl substances in the toxics release inventory, and for other purposes. Senate - 6/27/19 Passed as an amendment to National Defense Authorization Act (S. 1790) Watch NYC S. 1613 Sen. Ed Markey (D-MA) Contaminant and Lead Electronic Accounting and Reporting Requirements for (CLEARR) Drinking Water Act of 2019. Amends the Safe Drinking Water Act to update and modernize the reporting requirements for contaminants, including lead, in drinking water, and for other purposes. Senate - 5/22/19 Referred to Committee on Environment and Public Works Watch NYC S. 1570 Sen. James Risch (R-ID) Aquifer Recharge Flexibility Act. Provides flexibility to allow greater aquifer recharge, and for other purposes. Senate - 10/29/19 Placed on Senate Legislative Calendar Watch NYC H.R. 2871 Rep. Russ Fulcher (R-ID) Aquifer Recharge Flexibility Act. Provides flexibility to allow greater aquifer recharge, and for other purposes. House - 6/10/19 Referred to Subcommittee on Water Resources and Environment Watch NYC Updated June 19, 2020 OCSD Federal Bills of Interest BILL AUTHOR SUMMARY LATEST ACTION OCSD POSITION OTHER POSITIONS S. 1604 Sen. Amy Klobuchar (D-MN) Local Water Protection Act. Amends the Federal Water Pollution Control Act to reauthorize certain programs relating to nonpoint source management, and for other purposes. Senate - 5/22/19 Referred to Committee on Environment and Public Works Watch NYC S. 1730 Sen. Kamala Harris (D-CA) Living Shorelines Act of 2019. Directs the Administrator of the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration to make grants to State and local governments and nongovernmental organizations for purposes of carrying out climate-resilient living shoreline projects that protect coastal communities by supporting ecosystem functions and habitats with the use of natural materials and systems, and for other purposes. Senate - 6/5/19 Referred to Committee on Commerce, Science and Transportation Watch NYC S. 1837 Sen. Kristen Gillibrand (D-NY) PIPE Act. A bill to require the Administrator of the Environmental Protection Agency to establish a discretionary grant program for drinking water and wastewater infrastructure projects, and for other purposes. Senate - 6/13/19 Referred to Committee on Environment and Public Works Watch NYC H.R. 3254 Rep. Antonio Delgado (D-NY) PIPE Act. To require the Administrator of the Environmental Protection Agency to establish a discretionary grant program for drinking water and wastewater infrastructure projects, and for other purposes. House - 6/14/19 Referred to Subcommittee on Water Resources and Environment Watch NYC H.R. 3521 Rep. Greg Stanton (D-AZ) Wastewater Infrastructure Workforce Investment Act. To amend the Federal Water Pollution Control Act with respect to wastewater infrastructure workforce development, and for other purposes. House - 6/27/19 Referred to the Subcommittee on Water Resources and Environment Watch NYC H.R. 3541 Rep. Salud Carbajal (D-CA) Coastal State Climate Preparedness Act of 2019. To amend the Coastal Zone Management Act of 1972 to require the Secretary of Commerce to establish a coastal climate change adaptation preparedness and response program, and for other purposes. House - 11/15/19 Placed on Union Calendar Watch NYC S. 2086 Sen. Tammy Duckworth (D-IL) National Opportunity for Lead Exposure Accountability and Deterrence Act of 2019. To amend the Safe Drinking Water Act to improve transparency under the national primary drinking water regulations for lead and copper, and for other purposes. Senate - 7/11/19 Referred to Committee on Environment and Public Works Watch NYC Updated June 19, 2020 OCSD Federal Bills of Interest BILL AUTHOR SUMMARY LATEST ACTION OCSD POSITION OTHER POSITIONS S. 1932 Sen. Cory Gardner (R-CO) Drought Resiliency and Water Supply Infrastructure Act. To support water infrastructure in Reclamation States, and for other purposes. Senate - 7/18/19 Subcommittee Hearings Held Watch CASA, NACWA, NWRA, ACWA - SUPPORTS H.R. 3115 Rep. Frank Pallone (D-NJ) Living Shorelines Act of 2019. To direct the Administrator of the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration to make grants to State and local governments and nongovernmental organizations for purposes of carrying out climate-resilient living shoreline projects that protect coastal communities by supporting ecosystem functions and habitats with the use of natural materials and systems, and for other purposes. House - 11/26/19 Placed on the Union Calendar Watch NYC H.R. 3510 Rep. Josh Harder (D-CA) Water Resources Research Amendments Act. To amend the Water Resources Research Act of 1984 to reauthorize grants for and require applied water supply research regarding the water resources research and technology institutes established under that Act. House - 7/25/20 Subcommittee hearings held Watch NYC H.R. 3723 Rep. Mike Levin (D-CA) Desalination Development Act. To promote desalination project development and drought resilience, and for other purposes. House - 3/11/20 Ordered to be Reported (Amended) by 13-10 Watch NYC H.R. 3677 Rep. Dan Kildee (D-MI) National Opportunity for Lead Exposure Accountability and Deterrence Act of 2017. To amend the Safe Drinking Water Act to improve transparency under the national primary drinking water regulations for lead and copper, and for other purposes. House - 7/11/19 Referred to Subcommittee on Environment and Climate Change Watch NYC H.R. 3919 Rep. Seth Moulton (D-MA) Creating Opportunity And Sustainability Through Science Act. To require research in coastal sustainability and resilience, to ensure that the Federal Government continues to implement and advance coastal resiliency efforts, and for other purposes. House - 8/7/19 Referred to Subcommittee on Water, Oceans, and Wildlife Watch NYC S. 2236 Sen. Cory Booker (D-NJ) Environmental Justice Act of 2019. To require Federal agencies to address environmental justice, to require consideration of cumulative impacts in certain permitting decisions, and for other purposes. Senate - 7/23/19 Referred to Committee and Public Works Watch NYC Updated June 19, 2020 OCSD Federal Bills of Interest BILL AUTHOR SUMMARY LATEST ACTION OCSD POSITION OTHER POSITIONS H.R. 4033 Rep. Dan Kildee (D-MI) Water Justice Act. To provide supplemental appropriations for safe and secure water, and for other purposes. House - 9/4/19 Referred to Subcommittee on Commodity Exchanges, Energy, and Credit Watch NYC H.R. 3944 Rep. Kevin Hern (R-OK) To amend the Water Resources Reform and Development Act of 2014 to modify the procedure for communicating certain emergency risks, and for other purposes. House - 7/25/19 Referred to Subcommittee on Water Resources and Environment Watch NYC H.R. 3923 Rep. Raul Ruiz (D-CA) Environmental Justice Act of 2019. To require Federal agencies to address environmental justice, to require consideration of cumulative impacts in certain permitting decisions, and for other purposes. House - 8/15/19 Referred to Subcommittee on the Constitution, Civil Rights, and Civil Liberties Watch NYC S. 2456 Sen. Tom Udall (D-NM) Clean Water Through Green Infrastructure Act. To establish centers of excellence for innovative stormwater control infrastructure, and for other purposes. Senate - 9/10/19 Referred to Committee on Environment and Public Works Watch NYC H.R. 4266 Rep. Denny Heck (D-WA) Clean Water Through Green Infrastructure Act. To establish centers of excellence for innovative stormwater control infrastructure, and for other purposes. House - 9/11/19 Referred to Subcommittee on Water Resources and Environment Watch NYC S. 2466 Sen. Kamala Harris (D-CA) Water Justice Act. To provide supplemental appropriations for safe and secure water, and for other purposes. Senate - 9/11/19 Referred to Committee on Environment and Public Works Watch NYC Updated June 19, 2020 OCSD Federal Bills of Interest BILL AUTHOR SUMMARY LATEST ACTION OCSD POSITION OTHER POSITIONS H.R. 4347 Rep. Matt Cartwright (D-PA) PREPARE Act of 2019. To enhance the Federal Government’s planning and preparation for extreme weather and the Federal Government’s dissemination of best practices to respond to extreme weather, thereby increasing resilience, improving regional coordination, and mitigating the financial risk to the Federal Government from such extreme weather, and for other purposes. House - 9/19/19 Ordered to be reported out of Committee by Voice Vote Watch NYC S. 2596 Sen. Tammy Duckworth (D-IL) Voluntary Water Partnership for Distressed Communities Act of 2019. To amend the Safe Drinking Water Act to authorize certain community water systems to enter into partnerships to improve the water systems, and for other purposes. Senate - 10/15/19 Referred to Committee on Environment and Public Works Watch NYC S. 2636 Sen. Ben Cardin (D-MD) Clean Water Infrastructure Resilience and Sustainability Act. To amend the Federal Water Pollution Control Act to establish a program to make grants to eligible entities to increase the resilience of publicly owned treatment works to natural hazards, and for other purposes. Senate - 10/17/19 Referred to Committee on Environment and Public Works Watch NYC H.R. 4687 Rep. Harley Rouda (D-CA)SMART Infrastructure Act. To waive certain procurement provisions for a project that receives funds from certain Federal agencies. House - 10/17/19 Referred to Committees on Transportation and Infrastructure, Science, Space, and Technology, Agriculture, and Energy and Commerce Watch NYC H.R. 4780 Rep. Salud Carbajal (D-CA) National Infrastructure Investment Corporation Act of 2019. To establish a Government corporation to provide loans and loan guarantees for infrastructure projects, and for other purposes. House - 10/23/19 Referred to Subcommittee on Highways and Transit Watch NYC S. 2687 Sen. Ben Cardin (D-MD) Low-Income Water Customer Assistance Programs Act of 2019. To amend the Safe Drinking Water Act and the Federal Water Pollution Control Act to establish pilot programs to assist low-income households in maintaining access to sanitation services and drinking water, and for other purposes. Senate - 10/23/19 Referred to Committee on Environment and Public Works Watch NYC Updated June 19, 2020 OCSD Federal Bills of Interest BILL AUTHOR SUMMARY LATEST ACTION OCSD POSITION OTHER POSITIONS S. 2674 Sen. Shelley Moore Capito (D-WV) Assuring Quality Water Infrastructure Act. To amend the Safe Drinking Water Act to establish a grant program for improving infrastructure asset management by small public water systems, and for other purposes. Senate - 10/23/19 Referred to Committee on Environment and Public Works Watch NYC S. 2767 Sen. Doug Jones (D-AL) A bill to amend the Federal Water Pollution Control Act to establish a pilot competitive grant program for improving the sharing of water quality data, and for other purposes. Senate - 10/31/19 Referred to Committee on Environment and Public Works Watch NYC H.R. 5347 Rep. TJ Cox (D-CA) Disadvantaged Community Drinking Water Assistance Act. To require the Secretary of the Interior to establish a grant program to close gaps in access to safe drinking water in disadvantaged communities, and for other purposes. House - 2/12/20 Ordered to be Reported (Amended) by voice vote Watch NYC H.R. 5341 Rep. Tom Rice (R-SC) Discouraging Frivolous Lawsuits Act. To amend the Federal Water Pollution Control Act with respect to citizen suits and the specification of disposal sites, and for other purposes. House - 12/9/19 Referred to Subcommittee on Water Resources and Environment Watch NYC S. 3160 Sen. Elizabeth Warren (D-MA) Affordable Safe Drinking Water Act of 2020. To amend the Federal Water Pollution Control Act and the Safe Drinking Water Act to modify the payment periods of loans from State revolving funds under those Acts, and for other purposes. Senate - 1/8/20 Referred to Committee on Environment and Public Works Watch NYC S. 3171 Sen. Sheldon Whitehouse (D-RI) Protect and Restore America's Estuaries Act. A bill to amend the Federal Water Pollution Control Act to reauthorize the National Estuary Program, and for other purposes. Senate - 1/9/20 Referred to Committee on Environment and Public Works Watch NYC H.R. 5589 Rep. Suzanne Bonamici (D-OR) Blue Carbon for Our Planet Act. To establish an Interagency Working Group on Coastal Blue Carbon, and for other purposes. House - 1/17/20 Referred to Subcommittee on Water, Oceans, and Wildlife Watch NYC Updated June 19, 2020 OCSD Federal Bills of Interest BILL AUTHOR SUMMARY LATEST ACTION OCSD POSITION OTHER POSITIONS H. Res. 797 Rep. Debbie Dingell (D-MI) Encouraging the Environmental Protection Agency to maintain and strengthen requirements under the Clean Water Act and reverse ongoing administrative actions to weaken this landmark law and protections for United States waters. House - 1/14/20 Referred to Subcommittee on Water Resources and Environment Watch NYC S. 3227 Sen. Bernie Sanders (I-VT) Prevent Future American Sickness Act of 2020. To require the Administrator of the Environmental Protection Agency to designate per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances as hazardous substances under the Comprehensive Environmental Response, Compensation, and Liability Act of 1980, and for other purposes. Senate - 1/28/20 Referred to Committee on Environment and Public Works Watch NYC H.R. 5694 Rep. Tom McClintock (R-CA) Endangered Species Transparency and Reasonableness Act of 2020. To amend the Endangered Species Act of 1973 to require publication on the internet of the basis for determinations that species are endangered species or threatened species, and for other purposes. House - 1/31/20 Referred to Subcommittee on Water, Oceans, and Wildlife Watch NYC S. 3306 Sen. Jeff Merkley (D-MA) MICRO Plastics Act of 2020. A bill to establish a microplastics pilot program, and for other purposes. Senate - 2/13/20 Referred to Committee on Environment and Public Works Watch NYC H.R. 5902 Rep. Brian Mast (R-FL) MICRO Plastics Act of 2020. A bill to establish a microplastics pilot program, and for other purposes. House - 2/14/20 Referred to Subcommittee on Water Resources and Environment Watch NYC H.R. 5845 Rep. Alan Lowenthal (D-CA) Break Free From Plastic Pollution Act of 2020. To amend the Solid Waste Disposal Act to reduce the production and use of certain single-use plastic products and packaging, to improve the responsibility of producers in the design, collection, reuse, recycling, and disposal of their consumer products and packaging, to prevent pollution from consumer products and packaging from entering into animal and human food chains and waterways, and for other purposes. House - 2/12/20 Referred to Subcommittee on Water Resources and Environment Watch CASA supports Updated June 19, 2020 OCSD Federal Bills of Interest BILL AUTHOR SUMMARY LATEST ACTION OCSD POSITION OTHER POSITIONS S. 3944 Sen. Tom Udall (D-NM) Break Free From Plastic Pollution Act of 2020. To amend the Solid Waste Disposal Act to reduce the production and use of certain single-use plastic products and packaging, to improve the responsibility of producers in the design, collection, reuse, recycling, and disposal of their consumer products and packaging, to prevent pollution from consumer products and packaging from entering into animal and human food chains and waterways, and for other purposes. Senate - 6/17/20 Full Committee hearings held Watch CASA supports H.R. 5856 Rep. Terri Sewell (D-AL) To amend the Federal Water Pollution Control Act to establish a decentralized wastewater grant program, and for other purposes. House - 2/12/20 Referred to Subcommittee on Water Resources and Environment Watch NYC S.3274 Sen. Cory Booker (D-NJ) A bill to amend the Federal Water Pollution Control Act to establish a decentralized wastewater grant program, and for other purposes. Senate - 2/11/20 Referred to Environment and Public Works Watch NYC H.R.6395 Rep. Adam Smith (D-WA) National Defense Authorization Act of 2021. Authorizes appropriations for fiscal year 2021 for military activities of the Department of Defense and for military construction, to prescribe military personnel strengths for such fiscal year, and for other purposes. House - 6/23/20 Subcommittee hearings held Watch NYC H.R. 748 Rep. Joe Courtney (D-CT) CARES Act. Amends the Internal Revenue Code of 1986 to repeal the excise tax on high cost employer-sponsored health coverage. House - 3/27/20 Became Public Law No: 116-136.Watch NYC H.R. 6552 Rep. Rashida Tlaib (D-MI) Emergency Water is a Human Right Act. Prohibits water shutoffs during the COVID-19 emergency period, provide drinking and waste water assistance to households, and for other purposes. House - 4/20/20 Referred to Subcommittee on Water Resources and Environment Watch NYC S. 3591 Sen. John Barrasso (R-WY) America's Water Infrastructure Act of 2020. Provides for improvements to the rivers and harbors of the United States, to provide for the conservation and development of water and related resources, to provide for water pollution control activities, and for other purposes. Senate - 5/11/20 Reported out of Committee on Environment and Public Works Watch NYC Updated June 19, 2020 OCSD Federal Bills of Interest BILL AUTHOR SUMMARY LATEST ACTION OCSD POSITION OTHER POSITIONS S. 3590 Sen. John Barrasso (R-WY) Drinking Water Infrastructure Act of 2020. Amends the Safe Drinking Water Act to reauthorize certain provisions, and for other purposes. Senate - 5/11/20 Reported out of Committee on Environment and Public Works Watch NYC H.R. 6800 Rep. Nita Lowey (D-NY) The HEROES Act. Making emergency supplemental appropriations for the fiscal year ending September 30, 2020, and for other purposes. House - 5/15/20 Passed House by 208-199; Referred to Senate Watch NYC S. 3811 Sen. Dianne Feinstein (D-CA) A bill to provide financial assistance for projects to address certain subsidence impacts in the State of California, and for other purposes. Senate - 5/21/20 Referred to the Committee on Energy and Natural Resources Watch NYC H.R. 7073 Rep. John Garamendi (D-CA) To amend the Social Security Act to include special districts in the coronavirus relief fund, to direct the Secretary to include special districts as an eligible issuer under the Municipal Liquidity Facility, and for other purposes. House - 6/1/20 Referred to Committee on Oversight and Reform, and in addition to the Committee on Financial Services, Watch NYC Updated June 19, 2020 OCSD Federal Bills of Interest BILL AUTHOR SUMMARY LATEST ACTION OCSD POSITION OTHER POSITIONS S. 3944 Sen. Tom Udall (D-NM) Break Free From Plastic Pollution Act of 2020. Amends the Solid Waste Disposal Act to reduce the production and use of certain single-use plastic products and packaging, to improve the responsibility of producers in the design, collection, reuse, recycling, and disposal of their consumer products and packaging, to prevent pollution from consumer products and packaging from entering into animal and human food chains and waterways, and for other purposes. Senate - 6/11/20 Referred to Committee on Environment and Public Works Watch NYC S. XXXX Sen. James Inhofe (R-OK) National Defense Authorization Act of 2021. To authorize appropriations for fiscal year 2021 for military activities of the Department of Defense, for military construction, and for defense activities of the Department of Energy, to prescribe military personnel strengths for such fiscal year, and for other purposes. Senate - 6/11/20 Reported out of Committee on Armed Services 25-2 Watch NYC H.R. 2 Rep. Peter DeFazio (D-OR) Moving Forward Act. To authorize federal funds to support transportation, energy, water, environment and green infrastructure, resiliency and disaster mitigation, housing, healthcare, and broadband infrastructure activities, and for other purposes. House - 6/22/20 Referred to Committee on Rules Watch NYC Legend: ACC-OC- Association of California Cities, Orange County LOCC- League of California Cities NYC- Not Yet Considered CASA- California Association of Sanitation Agencies NACWA - National Association of Clean Water Agencies ACWA- Association of California Water Agencies CSDA- California Special Districts Association Updated June 19, 2020 To: Orange County Sanitation District From: Townsend Public Affairs, Inc. Date: June 22, 2020 Subject: Legislative and Public Affairs Agenda Report State Legislative Update In May, both the Assembly and Senate returned to the Capitol for legislative business and to continue their work on the State budget. The Assembly reconvened from recess on May 4, while the Senate reconvened on May 11. May 29 was the last day for policy committees to refer fiscal bills to the Appropriations Committee. There were approximately 300 bills pending before the Assembly Appropriations Committee and nearly 60 bills pending in the Senate Appropriations Committee before Committee’s considered their lists of bills during the first week of June. Furthermore, on May 14, Governor Newsom released the May Revise to his January Budget proposal. The May Revise included significant spending reductions due to decreased state revenue as a result of the COVID-19 pandemic. Total state budget spending from the Governor is now proposed to be $203 billion, down from $222 billion in January. On the day of the June 15 budget deadline, the Legislature passed a Budget to fulfill their constitutional obligations. However, due to the COVID-19 pandemic and the vast effects it has had on the State economy, the Budget that was passed and sent to the Governor had not been negotiated with the Administration as is typical in normal Budget years. Instead, the Legislature and the Governor are continuing their negotiations past the June 15 deadline and will announce the details of a Budget deal shortly. The Governor has also been holding daily press conferences to address immediate issues such as the ongoing COVID-19 pandemic and protests throughout the State due to the recent death of George Floyd. On May 30, the Governor declared a state of emergency in Los Angeles County and approved the request for Los Angeles to deploy members of the national guard to assist the city, county, and the surrounding areas. Below are the upcoming tentative dates for the Legislature. June 22 – 26: Senate Floor session only June 25: Last day for a legislative ballot measure to qualify for the November General Election June 26: Last day for each house to pass bills introduced in that house June 2020 Report 2 Governor’s COVID-19 Action Summary Below is a summary of the major COVID-19 actions taken by the State Administration in May: • June 18: Mandatory mask order. Governor Newsom issues a mandatory mask or face covering while in public or high-risk settings, including shopping, taking public transit, or seeking medical care. • June 15: CalWORKS eligibility, extended real estate deadlines. Governor Newsom issued an executive order that extends waivers temporarily broadening the capability of counties to enroll persons into the California Work Opportunity and Responsibility to Kids (CalWORKs) program. The order also extends deadlines related to the payment of real estate license application and renewal fees and continuing education requirements for licensees. • June 5: Sanitizer production. Governor Newsom issued an executive order that allows the temporary manufacture of over-the-counter drugs and medical devices by firms not currently licensed by the California Department of Public Health. • May 29: Rent Eviction, DMV, Childcare. Governor Newsom issued an executive order extending authorization for local governments to halt evictions for renters impacted by the COVID-19 pandemic, through July 28. The order also extends the waiver permitting the Department of Motor Vehicles to allow for mail-in renewals of driver’s licenses and identification cards, and waives certain programmatic and administrative requirements that restrict child care and afterschool programs from serving children of essential infrastructure workers. • May 22: Contact Tracing. Governor Newsom launched “California Connected”, the state’s comprehensive contact tracing program and public awareness campaign. • May 12: Testing. Governor Newsom announced that more than 1 million diagnostic tests for the virus have been conducted statewide. • May 8: November Election. Governor Newsom signed an executive order that requires each county’s elections officials to send vote-by-mail ballots for the November 3, 2020 General Election to all registered voters. • May 7: Phase 2. Governor Newsom modified the stay-at-home order by issuing industry guidance that allows certain businesses to begin reopening with modifications that reduce risk and establish a safer environment for workers and customers. • May 6: Property Taxes. Governor Newsom issued an executive order that waives penalties on property taxes for residents and small businesses experiencing economic hardship based on COVID-19 and extending the deadline for filing property tax statements. June 2020 Report 3 Summary of Re-Opening California On April 14, the Governor released six indicators to be considered in order to move forward with re-opening the State. The six indicators for modifying the stay-at-home order are: 1. The ability to monitor and protect our communities through testing, contact tracing, isolating, and supporting those who are positive or exposed; 2. The ability to prevent infection in people who are at risk for more severe COVID-19; 3. The ability of the hospital and health systems to handle surges; 4. The ability to develop therapeutics to meet the demand; 5. The ability for businesses, schools, and childcare facilities to support physical distancing; and 6. The ability to determine when to reinstitute certain measures, such as the stay-at-home orders, if necessary. In late April, the Governor then laid out four stages to re-open the State. Those four states to re-open California are: Stage 1: Individuals stay at home unless they are a member of the essential workforce. Stage 2: Lower risk workplaces re-open, including: • Non-essential manufacturing (toys, furniture, clothing, etc.) • Schools • Childcare facilities • Retail businesses for curbside pick-up • Offices where working remote is not possible, but can be modified to make the environment safer for employees Stage 3: Higher risk workplaces re-open, which require close proximity to other people, including: • Hair salons • Nail salons • Gyms • Movie theaters • Sporting events without live audiences • In-person religious services (churches and weddings) Stage 4: Ending the stay-at-home order, which would allow for the re-opening of: • Concert venues • Convention centers • Sporting events with live audiences June 2020 Report 4 In June, most of the State’s counties are currently in the early and mid-part of Stage 3. However, if the State continues to see an increase in the number of cases, the Governor could enact the stay-at-home order again with few modifications. May Revise Summary On May 14, Governor Newsom released the May Revise of his FY 2020-21 State budget. The May Revise represents a dramatic change from the Governor’s January Budget, as it reflects the impact of the coronavirus pandemic on the State’s economy, as well as the increased demand for many State services. The full impact of the pandemic has led to a projected budget deficit of $54 billion, with an out-year structural deficit of approximately $45 billion per year. This deficit has materialized in the last three months, as the State has seen a 22.3% reduction in state revenues generated from sales tax, personal income tax, and corporate taxes. In response, Governor Newsom has proposed a budget that addresses the short fall through a mix of budget cuts, revenue generating measures, internal borrowing, accessing of state reserves, and increased resources from the federal government. The May Revise budget proposal contains $133.9 billion in General Fund spending. This represents a reduction in General Fund spending of $12.5 billion, or a 9.4% decrease, from the current budget year. The budget proposal addresses the projected $54.3 billion budget deficit by utilizing the following strategies: • Cancelled Expansions and Other Reductions ($8.4 billion) • Reserves ($8.8 billion) • Borrowing/Transfers/Deferrals ($10.4 billion) • New Revenues ($4.4 billion) • Federal Funds ($8.3 billion) • Triggered Spending Reductions ($14.0 billion) The May Revise incorporates significant funding in the current year, as well as in the upcoming budget year, for response to the coronavirus. The May Revise contains $1.8 billion in funding for the current year to reflect activities that have been undertaken, which will largely be funded with funding received from the federal government. The May Revise also estimates that the Proposition 98 guarantee will decline by $19 billion over what was projected in January. The May Revise proposes to mitigate these losses through a mix of solutions, including revenue generation (which will increase the overall amount of Proposition 98 funding), the use of federal funds, and revising CalPERS/CalSTRS contributions. June 2020 Report 5 Priority Legislation AB 1672 (Bloom) – Solid waste: nonwoven disposable products (OCSD Supports) AB 1672 would require, commencing January 1, 2021, certain nonwoven disposal products to be labeled clearly and conspicuously to communicate that they should not be flushed. The bill would prohibit a covered entity, as defined, from making a representation about the flushable attributes, benefits, performance, or efficacy of those nonwoven disposal products. Action Taken: A letter of support signed by Chairman Shawver on April 2, 2019. AB 1672 is currently in the Senate Rules Committee waiting to be assigned to policy committees. AB 2762 (Muratsuchi) – Cosmetics: Safety (OCSD Supports) AB 2762 would prohibit a person or entity from manufacturing, selling, delivering, holding, or offering for sale, in commerce any cosmetic product that contains any of several specified intentionally added ingredients, including certain strains of PFAS/PFOA. Action Taken: A letter of support signed by Chairman Shawver on June 5, 2020 was submitted. AB 2762 is currently in the Senate Rules Committee waiting to be assigned to policy committees. AB 3163 (Salas) – Energy: biomethane: procurement (OCSD Supports) AB 3163 would define “biomethane” as methane produced from an organic waste feedstock, rather than biogas, that meets specified standards and is either produced from the anaerobic decomposition of organic material or produced from the non-combustion thermal conversion of specified materials. This would allow greater uses for the byproducts produced by OCSD facilities. Action Taken: A letter of support signed by Chairman Shawver on June 8, 2020 was submitted to Assemblyman Salas’ Office. AB 3163 is currently in the Senate Rules Committee waiting to be assigned to policy committees. Orange County Sanitation District 10844 Ellis Avenue, Fountain Valley, CA 92708 714.962.2411 | www.ocsd.com Our Mission: To protect public health and the environment by providing effective wastewater collection, treatment, and recycling June 5, 2020 The Honorable Al Muratsuchi California State Assembly State Capitol Room 2179 Sacramento, CA 94249-0050 Re: Support AB 2762 (Muratsuchi) – Cosmetics: safety Dear Assemblymember Muratsuchi: On behalf of the Orange County Sanitation District (OCSD), I am writing in support of AB 2762, which would expand the definition of adulterated cosmetics to include those that have per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS) as ingredients. OCSD is a public agency that provides wastewater collection, treatment, and recycling for approximately 2.6 million people in central and northwest Orange County. OCSD is a special district that is governed by a 25-member Board of Directors comprised of 20 cities, four special districts, and one representative from the Orange County Board of Supervisors. OCSD has two operating facilities that treat wastewater from residential, commercial, and industrial sources. OCSD receives and treats over 185 million gallons of wastewater per day. The treated water is either sent to the Orange County Water District for advanced water purification and re-use or is sent to the ocean through an ocean outfall, which is carefully managed by OCSD. OCSD has always been a good steward of public health and strives to protect the environment. Toxic substances, such as those found in cosmetic products, that enter the wastewater stream through domestic or residential sources are among the most difficult for OCSD to regulate and control. OCSD must rely heavily on public outreach and consumer product regulations to keep these chemicals from domestic or residential sources out of the wastewater stream. AB 2762 would help reduce the amount of toxic substances, including PFAS, in the wastewater influent that OCSD receives. For the above reasons, OCSD is pleased to support AB 2762. Sincerely, David John Shawver Board Chairman cc: Orange County Legislative Delegation California Association of Sanitation Agencies Orange County Sanitation District 10844 Ellis Avenue, Fountain Valley, CA 92708 714.962.2411 | www.ocsd.com Our Mission: To protect public health and the environment by providing effective wastewater collection, treatment, and recycling June 8, 2020 The Honorable Rudy Salas California State Assembly State Capitol Room 4016 Sacramento, CA 94249-0050 Re: Support AB 3163 (Salas) – Energy: biomethane: procurement Dear Assemblymember Salas: On behalf of the Orange County Sanitation District (OCSD), I am writing in support of AB 3163 which would expand the definition of biomethane to include methane produced from the non- combustion thermal conversion of certain organic materials. OCSD is a public agency that provides wastewater collection, treatment, and recycling for approximately 2.6 million people in central and northwest Orange County. OCSD is a special district that is governed by a 25-member Board of Directors comprised of 20 cities, four special districts, and one representative from the Orange County Board of Supervisors. OCSD has two operating facilities that treat wastewater from residential, commercial and industrial sources. The breakdown of organic waste in landfills releases methane into the atmosphere, which is damaging short-lived climate pollutant. However, as part of the wastewater treatment process, OCSD produces biogas by the anaerobic digestion process of sludge. OCSD has always been a steward of public health and strives to find environmentally conscious methods to use biogas as a renewable energy. Specifically, AB 3163 would redefine biomethane to include methane produced from organic waste feedstock including sludge and food waste digestion. This change would allow this product to be eligible for gas utility procurement, expanding its value to OCSD. For the above reasons, OCSD is pleased to support AB 3163. Sincerely, David John Shawver Board Chairman cc: Orange County Legislative Delegation California Association of Sanitation Agencies OCSD State Bills of Interest BILL AUTHOR SUMMARY LATEST ACTION OCSD POSITION LEGISLATIVE PLAN OTHER POSITIONS AB 69 Ting [D]Land use: accessory dwelling units. Current law requires the Department of Housing and Community Development to propose building standards to the California Building Standards Commission, and to adopt, amend, or repeal rules and regulations governing, among other things, apartment houses and dwellings, as specified. This bill would require the department to propose small home building standards governing accessory dwelling units smaller than 800 square feet, junior accessory dwelling units, and detached dwelling units smaller than 800 square feet, as specified, and to submit the small home building standards to the California Building Standards Commission for adoption on or before January 1, 2021. Two Year Bill Watch Legislative and Regulatory Policies: Special Districts - Oppose further state regulations that adversely impact special district financing, operations, and administration. ACCOC - NYC LOCC - Watch CASA - NYC ACWA - NYC CSDA - Watch AB 134 Bloom [D]Safe Drinking Water Restoration Would require the State Water Resources Control Board to report to the Legislature by July 1, 2025, on its progress in restoring safe drinking water to all California communities and to create an internet website that provides data transparency for all of the board’s activities described in this measure. The bill would require the board to develop metrics to measure the efficacy of the fund in ensuring safe and affordable drinking water for all Californians. Two Year Bill Watch State Priorities: Support legislation or regulations that restrict the use of microplastics in any product that is disposed of through the sewer system. ACCOC - NYC LOCC - Watch CASA - NYC ACWA - NYC CSDA - Watch AB 291 Chu Emergency preparedness Would establish a Local Emergency Preparedness and Hazard Mitigation Fund to support staffing, planning, and other emergency mitigation priorities to help local governments meet emergency management, preparedness, readiness, and resilience goals. The bill would, upon appropriation by the Legislature, require the Controller to transfer $500,000,000 to the fund. The bill would require the Office of Emergency Services to establish the Local Emergency Preparedness and Hazard Mitigation Fund Committee under the Standardized Emergency Management System Advisory Board. Currently in the Senate Rules Committee waiting to be assigned to policy committees Watch State Priorities: Secure funding through grants and legislation for infrastructure, collection improvements and alternative renewable energy at the Fountain Valley, Plant No. 1 and Huntington Beach, Plant No. 2. ACCOC - NYC LOCC - Watch CASA - NYC ACWA - NYC CSDA - Watch AB 292 Quirk [D]Recycled water: raw water and groundwater augmentation Current law requires the State Water Resources Control Board, on or before December 31, 2023, to adopt uniform water recycling criteria for direct potable reuse through raw water augmentation, as specified. This bill would eliminate the definition of “direct potable reuse” and instead would substitute the term “groundwater augmentation” for “indirect potable reuse for groundwater recharge” in these definitions. The bill would require, on or before December 31, 2023, the state board to adopt uniform water recycling criteria for raw water augmentation. Two Year Bill - Currently in the Inactive File Watch Legislative and Regulatory Policies: Water Quality and Supply - Support measures that promote and provide for the use of reclaimed water. ACCOC - NYC LOCC - Watch CASA - NYC ACWA - NYC CSDA - Support Proposed Legislation 2020-2021 High Priority OCSD State Bills of Interest BILL AUTHOR SUMMARY LATEST ACTION OCSD POSITION LEGISLATIVE PLAN OTHER POSITIONS AB 352 E. Garcia [D]Wildfire Prevention, Safe Drinking Water, Drought Preparation, and Flood Protection Bond Act of 2020. Would enact the Wildfire Prevention, Safe Drinking Water, Drought Preparation, and Flood Protection Bond Act of 2020, which, if approved by the voters, would authorize the issuance of bonds in the amount of $3,920,000,000 pursuant to the State General Obligation Bond Law to finance a wildlife prevention, safe drinking water, drought preparation, and flood protection program. The bill would provide for the submission of these provisions to the voters at the November 3, 2020, statewide general election. Two Year Bill Watch Legislative and Regulatory Policies: Grant Funding - Support legislation, bonds, programs and projects that provide funding for: infrastructure construction and rehabilitation, special studies and research or projects relating to security, environmental education, water quality, wastewater processing, urban runoff, wastewater recycling, biosolids and organics management, water quality improvement, resource recovery, or alternative energy. ACCOC - Watch LOCC - Watch CASA - Watch ACWA - Watch CSDA - Watch AB 841 Ting [D]Drinking water: contaminants: perfluoroalkyl and polyfluoroalkyl substances. Would require the Office of Environmental Health Hazard Assessment to adopt and complete a work plan within prescribed timeframes to assess which substances in the class of perfluoroalkyl and polyfluoroalkyl substances should be identified as a potential risk to human health, as provided. The bill would require the office, as part of those assessments, to determine which of the substances are appropriate candidates for notification levels to be adopted by the state board. The bill would require the Office of Environmental Health Hazard Assessment, by January 1, 2022, to provide to the Legislature an update on the assessment. Two Year Bill Watch Legislative and Regulatory Policies: Source Control - Support legislation and funding mechanisms that reduce the amount of trash, waste, chemicals, and harmful organic material that enter the sewer system. LOCC - Watch AB 992 Mullin [D]Open meetings: local agencies: social media Would provide that the Ralph M. Brown Act does not apply to the posting, commenting, liking, interaction with, or participation in, internet-based social media platforms that are ephemeral, live, or static, by a majority of the members of a legislative body, provided that a majority of the members do not discuss among themselves business of a specific nature that is within the subject matter jurisdiction of the legislative body of the local agency. Currently in the Senate Rules Committee waiting to be assigned to policy committees Watch Legislative and Regulatory Policies: Special Districts - Oppose further state regulations that adversely impact special district financing, operations, and administration. CASA - Watch OCSD State Bills of Interest BILL AUTHOR SUMMARY LATEST ACTION OCSD POSITION LEGISLATIVE PLAN OTHER POSITIONS AB 1080 Gonzalez [D]California Circular Economy and Plastic Pollution Reduction Act Would establish the California Circular Economy and Plastic Pollution Reduction Act, which would require the Department of Resources Recycling and Recovery, in consultation with the State Water Resources Control Board and the Ocean Protection Council, to adopt, on or before January 1, 2023, regulations to achieve, by 2030, a 75% reduction by manufacturers and retailers of the waste generated from single-use packaging and products offered for sale or sold in the state through source reduction, recycling, or composting. Two Year Bill - Currently in the Inactive File Watch State Priorities: Support legislation or regulations that restrict the use of microplastics in any product that is disposed of through ACWA - Watch AB 1484 Grayson [D]Mitigation Fee Act: housing developments. This bill would prohibit a local agency from imposing a housing impact requirement adopted by the local agency on a housing development project, as defined, unless specified requirements are satisfied by the local agency, including that the housing impact requirement be roughly proportional in both nature and extent to the impact created by the housing development project. Currently in the Senate Rules Committee waiting to be assigned to policy committees Watch Legislative and Regulatory Policies: Special Districts - Oppose further state regulations that adversely impact special district financing, operations, and administration. CSDA - Watch AB 1672 Bloom [D]Solid waste: flushable products The California Integrated Waste Management Act of 1989, administered by the Department of Resources Recycling and Recovery, generally regulates the disposal, management, and recycling of solid waste. This bill would, among other things, on or after January 1, 2021, prohibit a covered entity, as defined, from labeling a covered product as safe to flush, safe for sewer systems, or safe for septic systems, unless the product is a flushable wipe that meets certain performance standards. The bill would require nonflushable products to be labeled clearly and conspicuously to communicate that they should not be flushed, as specified. Currently in the Senate Rules Committee waiting to be assigned to policy committees Support Legislative and Regulatory Policies: Source Control - Support legislation that regulates the disposal of flushable wipes. ACCOC - NYC LOCC - Watch CASA - Sponsor ACWA - Support CSDA - Support AB 1751 Chiu [D]Water and sewer system corporations: consolidation of service. This bill, the Consolidation for Safe Drinking Water Act of 2019, would authorize a water or sewer system corporation to file an application and obtain approval from the commission through an order authorizing the water or sewer system corporation to consolidate with a public water system or state small water system that has fewer than 3,300 service connections and serves a disadvantaged community, or to implement rates for the subsumed water system. Two Year Bill Watch Legislative and Regulatory Policies: Special Districts - Oppose further state regulations that adversely impact special district financing, operations, and administration. ACCOC - NYC LOCC - NYC CASA - NYC ACWA - NYC CSDA - NYC OCSD State Bills of Interest BILL AUTHOR SUMMARY LATEST ACTION OCSD POSITION LEGISLATIVE PLAN OTHER POSITIONS AB 1924 Grayson [D]Housing development: fees Would require that a fee levied or imposed on a housing development project by a local agency be proportionate to the square footage of the proposed unit or units. Dead Watch Legislative and Regulatory Policies: Special Districts - Oppose further state regulations that adversely impact special district financing, operations, and administration. ACCOC - NYC LOCC - NYC CASA - NYC ACWA - NYC CSDA - NYC AB 1945 Salas [D]Emergency services: first responders Would, for purposes of the California Emergency Services Act, define “first responder” as an employee of the state or a local public agency who provides emergency response services, including a peace officer, firefighter, paramedic, emergency medical technician, public safety dispatcher, public safety telecommunicator, emergency response communication employee, rescue service personnel, or emergency manager. Does not explicitly include water or wastewater personnel. Currently in the Senate Rules Committee waiting to be assigned to policy committees Watch Legislative and Regulatory Policies: Special Districts - Oppose further state regulations that adversely impact special district financing, operations, and administration. ACCOC - NYC LOCC - Watch CASA - Watch ACWA - Watch CSDA - Watch AB 2093 Gloria [D]Public records: writing transmitted by electronic mail: retention Would, unless a longer retention period is required by statute or regulation, require a public agency for purposes of the California Public Records Act to retain and preserve for at least 2 years every writing containing information relating to the conduct of the public’s business prepared, owned, or used by any public agency that is transmitted by electronic mail. Dead Watch Legislative and Regulatory Policies: Special Districts - Oppose further state regulations that adversely impact special district financing, operations, and administration. ACCOC - NYC LOCC - Oppose CASA - Watch ACWA - NYC CSDA - Oppose AB 2107 Rodriguez [D]Local government: securitized limited obligation notes Current law, until December 31, 2019, authorizes a special district to issue, as specified, securitized limited obligation notes for the acquisition or improvement of land, facilities, or equipment. This bill would extend that authorization to December 31, 2024. Currently in the Senate Rules Committee awaiting assignment to policy Committees Watch Legislative and Regulatory Policies: Special Districts - Oppose further state regulations that adversely impact special district financing, operations, and administration. ACCOC - NYC LOCC - Watch CASA - NYC ACWA - NYC CSDA - Support AB 2182 Rubio [D]Emergency backup generators: water and wastewater facilities: exemption Would exempt the operation of an alternative power source, as defined, to provide power to a critical facility, as defined, from any local, regional, or state regulation regarding the operation of that source. The bill would authorize providers of essential public services, in lieu of compliance with applicable legal requirements, to comply with the maintenance and testing procedure set forth in the National Fire Protection Association Standard for Emergency and Standby Power System, NFPA 110, for alternative power sources designated by the providers for the support of critical facilities. Dead Watch Guiding Principles: Oppose redundant regulatory and legislative requirements that cause undue constraints on efficient operations. ACCOC - NYC LOCC - Watch CASA - Watch ACWA - Watch CSDA - Support OCSD State Bills of Interest BILL AUTHOR SUMMARY LATEST ACTION OCSD POSITION LEGISLATIVE PLAN OTHER POSITIONS AB 2364 Rubio [D]Municipal separate storm sewer systems: financial capability analysis Would require the State Water Resources Control Board, by July 1, 2021, to establish financial capability assessment guidelines for municipal separate storm sewer system permittees that are adequate and consistent when considering the costs to local jurisdictions. The bill would require the state board and the regional boards to continue using available regulatory tools and other approaches to foster collaboration with permittees to implement permit requirements in light of the costs of implementation. Dead Watch Legislative and Regulatory Policies: Water Quality and Supply - Support measures that promote and provide for the use of reclaimed water. ACCOC - NYC LOCC - Watch CASA - Watch ACWA - Watch CSDA - Watch AB 2560 Water quality: notification and response levels: procedures The California Safe Drinking Water Act requires the State Water Resources Control Board to adopt drinking water standards for contaminants in drinking water based upon specified criteria and requires any person who owns a public water system to ensure that the system, among other things, complies with those drinking water standards. The act requires a public water system to provide prescribed notices within 30 days after it is first informed of a confirmed detection of a contaminant found in drinking water delivered by the public water system for human consumption that is in excess of a maximum contaminant level, a notification level, or a response level established by the state board. This bill would require the state board to comply with specified public notice and comment procedures when establishing or revising notification or response levels. Currently in the Senate Rules Committee waiting to be assigned to policy committees Watch State Priorities: Monitor state legislation as well as State Water Resources Control Board (SWRCB) regulatory activity related to PFAS. ACCOC - NYC LOCC - Watch CASA - Watch ACWA - Watch CSDA - Watch AB 2612 Maienschein [D]Greenhouse Gas Reduction Fund: recycling: appropriation Would, beginning in the 2020–21 fiscal year, would continuously appropriate $100,000,000 from the Greenhouse Gas Reduction Fund annually to the Department of Resources Recycling and Recovery for in-state organic waste recycling projects that reduce greenhouse gas emissions and achieve certain organic waste disposal goals, as specified. The bill, beginning in the 2020–21 fiscal year, would also continuously appropriate $100,000,000 from the fund annually to the department for in- state recycling projects that reduce greenhouse gas emissions and help achieve a specified state policy relating to solid waste, as specified. Currently in the Assembly Natural Resources Committee Watch Guiding Principles: Seek funds for OCSD projects through grants, appropriations, or other means. ACCOC - NYC LOCC - Support CASA - Support ACWA - Watch CSDA - Watch AB 2762 Muratsuchi [D]Cosmetics: safety. The Sherman Food, Drug, and Cosmetic Law prohibits the manufacture, sale, delivery, holding, or offer for sale of adulterated cosmetics, and prescribes when a cosmetic is adulterated, including when it bears or contains a poisonous or deleterious substance that may render it injurious to users when used as directed in the cosmetic’s labeling or advertising or under customary or usual conditions. Provisions of this law are enforced by the State Department of Public Health. This bill would, commencing January 1, 2025, prohibit a person or entity from manufacturing, selling, delivering, holding, or offering for sale, in commerce any cosmetic product that contains any of several specified intentionally added ingredients, except under specified circumstances. Currently in the Senate Rules Committee waiting to be assigned to policy committees Watch State Priorities: Monitor state legislation as well as State Water Resources Control Board (SWRCB) regulatory activity related to PFAS. ACCOC - NYC LOCC - NYC CASA - Support ACWA - NYC CSDA - NYC OCSD State Bills of Interest BILL AUTHOR SUMMARY LATEST ACTION OCSD POSITION LEGISLATIVE PLAN OTHER POSITIONS AB 2943 Ting [D]Surplus property: disposal Current law prescribes requirements for the disposal of surplus land, as defined, by a local agency, as defined. Current law requires land to be declared surplus land or exempt surplus land, as supported by written findings, before a local agency takes any action to dispose of it consistent with the agency’s policies or procedures. This bill would provide that the provisions regulating the disposal of surplus land shall not be construed to require a local agency to dispose of land that is determined to be surplus. Dead Watch Legislative and Regulatory Policies: Special Districts - Oppose further state regulations that adversely impact special district financing, operations, and administration. ACCOC - NYC LOCC - Watch CASA - Watch ACWA - Watch CSDA - Watch AB 3147 Gabriel [D]Fees for development projects Would require a judicial action or proceeding to be conducted in accordance with other procedures that, among other things, require a protest to be filed within 90 days after the imposition of the fees and an action to attack, review, set aside, void, or annul the imposition of the fees to be filed within 180 days after delivery of a specified notice by the local agency. The bill would require revenues in excess of actual cost to be used to reimburse the payor of the fee or service charge. Dead Watch Legislative and Regulatory Policies: Special Districts - Oppose further state regulations that adversely impact special district financing, operations, and administration. ACCOC - NYC LOCC - Watch CASA - Watch ACWA - Watch CSDA - Oppose AB 3163 Salas [D]Energy: biomethane: procurement. Current law requires the Public Utilities Commission, in consultation with the State Air Resources Board, to consider adopting specific biomethane procurement targets or goals for each gas corporation so that each gas corporation procures a proportionate share, as determined by the commission, of biomethane annually, as specified. Current law defines “biomethane” for that purpose as biogas that meets specified standards adopted by the commission for injection into a common carrier pipeline. This bill would instead define “biomethane” for that purpose as methane produced from an organic waste feedstock, rather than biogas, that meets those specified standards and is either produced from the anaerobic decomposition of organic material or produced from the noncombustion thermal conversion of specified materials. Currently in the Senate Rules Committee waiting to be assigned to policy committees Watch Legislative and Regulatory Policies: Biosolids and Biogas - Support streamlined legislation, regulations and policies that encourage the procurement of biogas, biosolids, and compost. ACCOC - NYC LOCC - Watch CASA - Support ACWA - NYC CSDA - Watch AB 3256 Garcia [D]Climate risks: bond measure The California Drought, Water, Parks, Climate, Coastal Protection, and Outdoor Access For All Act of 2018, approved by the voters as Proposition 68 at the June 5, 2018, statewide direct primary election, authorizes the issuance of bonds in the amount of $4,000,000,000 pursuant to the State General Obligation Bond Law to finance a drought, water, parks, climate, coastal protection, and outdoor access for all program. This bill would state the intent of the Legislature to enact a bond measure that would address climate risks to the State of California. Passed the Assembly Appropriations Committee and sent back to the Assembly Rules Committee Watch Guiding Principles: Seek funds for OCSD projects through grants, appropriations, or other means. ACCOC - NYC LOCC - Watch CASA - Watch ACWA - Watch CSDA - Watch OCSD State Bills of Interest BILL AUTHOR SUMMARY LATEST ACTION OCSD POSITION LEGISLATIVE PLAN OTHER POSITIONS ACA 1 Aguiar-Curry [D]Local government financing: affordable housing and public infrastructure: voter approval. The California Constitution prohibits the ad valorem tax rate on real property from exceeding 1% of the full cash value of the property, subject to certain exceptions. This measure would create an additional exception to the 1% limit that would authorize a city, county, city and county, or special district to levy an ad valorem tax to service bonded indebtedness incurred to fund the construction, reconstruction, rehabilitation, or replacement of public infrastructure, affordable housing, or permanent supportive housing, or the acquisition or lease of real property for those purposes, if the proposition proposing that tax is approved by 55% of the voters of the city, county, or city and county, as applicable, and the proposition includes specified accountability requirements. Currently on the Assembly Floor Watch Guiding Principles: Seek funds for OCSD projects through grants, appropriations, or other means. ACCOC - NYC LOCC - Support CASA - Support ACWA - NYC CSDA - Support SB 667 Hueso [D]Greenhouse gases: recycling infrastructure and facilities. Would require the Department of Resources Recycling and Recovery to develop, on or before January 1, 2021, and would authorize the department to amend, a 5-year investment strategy to drive innovation and support technological development and infrastructure, in order to meet specified organic waste reduction and recycling targets, as provided. The bill would require, on or before June 1, 2021, the department, in coordination with the Treasurer, to develop financial incentive mechanisms, including, but not limited to, loans and incentive payments, to fund organic waste diversion and recycling infrastructure. Two Year Bill Watch Legislative and Regulatory Policies: Biosolids and Biogas - Support the promotion and funding of local pilot programs, studies, and research for the beneficial use of biosolids. ACCOC - NYC LOCC - Support CASA - Support ACWA - NYC CSDA - NYC SB 931 Wieckowski [D]Local government meetings: agenda and documents This bill would require, if the local agency has an internet website, a legislative body or its designee to email a copy of, or website link to, the agenda or a copy of all the documents constituting the agenda packet if the person requests that the items be delivered by email. The bill would require, where the local agency determines it is technologically infeasible to send a copy of all documents constituting the agenda packet or a website link containing the documents by electronic mail or by other electronic means, the legislative body or its designee to send by electronic mail a copy of the agenda or a website link to the agenda and mail a copy of all other documents constituting the agenda packet in accordance with the mailing requirements. Dead Oppose Legislative and Regulatory Policies: Special Districts - Oppose further state regulations that adversely impact special district financing, operations, and administration. ACCOC - NYC LOCC - Oppose CASA - Oppose ACWA - Oppose CSDA - Oppose OCSD State Bills of Interest BILL AUTHOR SUMMARY LATEST ACTION OCSD POSITION LEGISLATIVE PLAN OTHER POSITIONS SB 996 Portantino [D]State Water Resources Control Board: Constituents of Emerging Concern Program Would require the State Water Resources Control Board to establish, maintain, and direct an ongoing, dedicated program called the Constituents of Emerging Concern Program to assess the state of information and recommend areas for further study on constituents of emerging concern in drinking water that may pose risks to public health. The bill would require the state board to establish the Stakeholder Advisory Group and, by an unspecified date, the Science Advisory Panel, both as prescribed, to assist in the gathering and development of information for the program, among other functions. The bill would require the program to provide opportunities for public participation, including conducting stakeholder meetings and workshops to solicit relevant information and feedback for development and implementation of the program. Dead Watch State Priorities: Monitor state legislation as well as State Water Resources Control Board (SWRCB) regulatory activity related to PFAS. ACCOC - NYC LOCC - Watch CASA - Watch ACWA - Watch CSDA - Watch SB 1044 Allen [D]Firefighting equipment and foam: PFAS chemicals. Would, commencing January 1, 2022, require any person, including a manufacturer, as defined, that sells firefighter personal protective equipment to any person or public entity to provide a written notice to the purchaser at the time of sale if the firefighter personal protective equipment contains perfluoroalkyl and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS), and would provide that a violation of this requirement is punishable by a specified civil penalty. The bill would require the seller and the purchaser to retain the notice on file for at least 3 years and to furnish the notice and associated sales documentation to the State Fire Marshal within 60 days upon request, as provided. Currently on the Senate Floor Watch State Priorities: Monitor state legislation as well as State Water Resources Control Board (SWRCB) regulatory activity related to PFAS. ACCOC - NYC LOCC - Watch CASA - Watch ACWA - Watch CSDA - Support SB 1052 Hertzberg [D]Water quality: municipal wastewater agencies Would establish municipal wastewater agencies and would authorize a municipal wastewater agency, among other things, to enter into agreements with entities responsible for stormwater management for the purpose of managing stormwater and dry weather runoff, to acquire, construct, expand, operate, maintain, and provide facilities for specified purposes relating to managing stormwater and dry weather runoff, and to levy taxes, fees, and charges consistent with the municipal wastewater agency’s existing authority in order to fund projects undertaken pursuant to the bill. Dead Watch Legislative and Regulatory Policies: Water Quality and Supply - Support measures that promote and provide for the use of reclaimed water. ACCOC - NYC LOCC - NYC CASA - Sponsor ACWA - Watch CSDA - Support OCSD State Bills of Interest BILL AUTHOR SUMMARY LATEST ACTION OCSD POSITION LEGISLATIVE PLAN OTHER POSITIONS SB 1056 Portantino [D]Drinking water: testing: perfluoroalkyl and polyfluoroalkyl substances. Would require the State Water Resources Control Board, on or before January 1, 2022, to certify a methodology or methodologies for testing drinking water, groundwater, and surface water for perfluoroalkyl and polyfluoroalkyl substances, as provided, and to accredit qualified laboratories in California to analyze perfluoroalkyl and polyfluoroalkyl substances pursuant to the adopted methodology or methodologies. Dead Watch State Priorities: Monitor state legislation as well as State Water Resources Control Board (SWRCB) regulatory activity related to PFAS. ACCOC - NYC LOCC - Watch CASA - Watch ACWA - Watch CSDA - Watch SB 1099 Dodd [D]Emergency backup generators: critical facilities: exemption Would, consistent with federal law, require air districts to adopt a rule, or revise its existing rules, to allow critical facilities with a permitted emergency backup generator to use that emergency backup generator during a deenergization event or other loss of power, and to test and maintain that emergency backup generator, as specified, without having that usage, testing, or maintenance count toward that emergency backup generator’s time limitation on actual usage and routine testing and maintenance. The bill would prohibit air districts from imposing a fee on the issuance or renewal of a permit issued for those critical facility emergency backup generators. Currently on the Senate Floor Watch Guiding Principles: Oppose redundant regulatory and legislative requirements that cause undue constraints on efficient operations. ACCOC - NYC LOCC - Watch CASA - Watch ACWA - Watch CSDA - Support OCSD State Bills of Interest BILL AUTHOR SUMMARY LATEST ACTION OCSD POSITION LEGISLATIVE PLAN OTHER POSITIONS SB 1159 Hill [D]Workers’ compensation: COVID-19: critical workers. Would, until an unspecified date, define “injury” for a critical worker, as specified, to include illness or death that results from exposure to coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) under specified circumstances. The bill would create a disputable presumption, as specified, that an injury that develops or manifests itself while a critical worker is employed arose out of and in the course of the employment. Currently on the Senate Floor Watch Legislative and Regulatory Policies: Human Resources - Support measures to reform current workers compensation formulas that rely on a proportionate exposure formula. ACCOC - NYC LOCC - Watch CASA - Watch ACWA - Watch CSDA - Watch SB 1352 Hueso [D]Gas corporations: renewable gas procurement Would require the Public Utilities Commission to establish a renewable gas, as defined, procurement program that requires each gas corporation to procure renewable gas in an amount so that, by January 1, 2030, at least 20 percent of the total volume of gas delivered to core customers in California by that gas corporation is renewable gas. The bill would require the commission, in designing and implementing the program, to ensure that the renewable gas procurement program is a cost-effective means to achieve forecast reductions in emissions of short-lived climate pollutants pursuant to specified laws and that the program complies with all applicable state and federal laws. Dead Watch Legislative and Regulatory Policies: Biosolids and Biogas - Support streamlined legislation, regulations and policies that encourage the procurement of biogas, biosolids, and compost. ACCOC - NYC LOCC - Watch CASA - Watch ACWA - NYC CSDA - NYC 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 OCSD's Grant and Loan Funding Tracker 2019- 2020 Name of Grant/Loan Synopsis of Grant/Loan Amount of Grant/Loan Amount Applying for Applying Y/N Project/Program Reason Match Deadline Category Rcvd Grant/ Financing Y/N Organics Grant Program The Organics Grant Program is part of California Climate Investments, a statewide program that puts billions of cap- and-trade dollars to work reducing greenhouse gas emissions, strengthening the economy, and improving public health and the environment - particularly in disadvantaged and/or low-income communities. The Cap- and-Trade program also creates a financial incentive for industries to invest in clean technologies and develop innovative ways to reduce pollution. California Climate Investments projects include affordable housing, renewable energy, public transportation, zero-emission vehicles, environmental restoration, more sustainable agriculture, recycling, and much more. At least 35 percent of these investments are made in disadvantaged and low-income communities. $16,112,753 ($13,312,753 is available for fiscal year (FY) 2018–19, and $3 million is available for fiscal year (FY) 2019–20) $ 3 million Yes Food-Waste Co-Digestion facility at Plant No.2 in Huntington Beach to accept up to 150 wet tons per day (wtpd) of pre- processed source separated organics. We will review the possible funding opportunity to determine if it is a fit for the Sanitation District. TBD 11/21/2019 Energy/Recycling No. We did not qualify for the grant Integrated Regional Water Management (IRWM) Grant Program 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 water infrastructure systems adapt to climate change; Providing incentives throughout each watershed to collaborate in managing the region's water resources and setting regional priorities for water infrastructure $3,000,000.00 per grant award NA No NA TPA and OCSD are monitoring the grant program development from the Santa Ana Watershed Project Authority (SAWPA). Currently, there is not an opportunity or a match for us to apply for this grant oppotunity. TPA and OCSD will continue to watch this and other matches. 50%NA. Will return in 2021 for Round 2 Water No The Water Infrastructure Improvements Act (WIIN) The Title XVI Water Reclamation and Reuse Projects funding opportunity allows for sponsors of water reclamation and reuse projects that are congressionally authorized or are eligible under section 4009(c) of the WIIN Act to request cost-shared funding for planning, design and/or construction of those Projects. Water reclamation and reuse projects provide improved efficiency, flexibility during water shortages and diversifies the water supply. Reclamation is making up to $20 million available for those projects authorized under the WIIN Act. $3 million Yes Final Expansion of GWRS Headworks (P2-122) The Sanitation District applied for Headworks Segregation project that will help to bring more water to the GWRS. $20mm or 25% of project costs whichever is less. 6/28/2019 Water/ Infrastructure TBD We are waiting to hear back on this grant and anticipate to receive notice by Summer 2020 Stormwater and CSO Grant Program USEPA is authorized to provide grants assistance of public agencies to control stormwater flows and CSO's. Funding through state awards. Funding cost-share is not identified in the law TBD TBD. We will monitor for possible funding opportunities/A TBD FY 2020 - $28 million Yes Anticipate by July 2020 Water/ Infrastructure TBD The Department of Energy (DOE), USBR and USEPA The DOE’s Office of Energy Efficiency is likely to continue to be funded by Congress to support such efforts as biogas, biosolids and green energy. Through the WaterSmart program, USBR will issue solicitations for innovative approaches to managing water and water treatment through technology and processes for FY 2020 - $60 million TBD TBD. We will monitor for possible funding opportunities Project Funding Opportunity: Energy production to reduce costs of recycled water through innovative technologies. Innovative water monitoring technology that can produce efficient real time monitoring and data analysis, Biogas Management and Use Improvements. We will review the possible funding opportunity to determine if it is a fit for the Sanitation District. N/A TBD Energy/Water/Infrastructure TBD STATE FEDERAL Updated 6/19/2020 OCSD's Grant and Loan Funding Tracker 2019- 2020 Name of Grant/Loan Synopsis of Grant/Loan Amount of Grant/Loan Amount Applying for Applying Y/N Project/Program Reason Match Deadline Category Rcvd Grant/ Financing Y/N The Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) Supporting Anerobic Digestion in Communities.$300,000 $300,000 No The goal of this funding opportunity is to increase use of AD to manage food waste. Another goal is to support the development of new AD infrastructure in the U.S. EPA is interested in funding projects that increase anaerobic digestion capacity in the United States. We will not be applying for this grant as after further research we do not feel we will be qualified as there is an educational component that we do not meet No 7/14/2020 Energy/Recycling Nlo Community Partnering Program Grant Metropolitan Water District The primary focus of the Community Partnering Program (CPP) is sponsorship of water conservation and water-use efficiency programs and activities. Applications must be submitted 30 days prior to the start date of the event or program. Requests for a maximum $2,000 award will be reviewed year-round and funds are awarded throughout the year. Funds are limited, however, and may be depleted prior to the ending of this fiscal year (June 30). $2,000 Yes For Plant No. 1 Signage Applied Match ongoing Education Yes Mass Timber Competition CalGovOps The California Government Operations Agency (GovOps) will award $500,000 in grants as part of the statewide California Mass Timber Building Competition. Grants will be awarded to selected proponent teams presenting viable and repeatable mass timber solutions for commercial and multi-family projects in California. The competition is being hosted by GovOps and administered by WoodWorks – Wood Products Council. $40,000 Yes Headquarters Building Applied No 03/18/19 Environment Yes Other Updated 6/19/2020 ORANGE COUNTY SANITATION DISTRICT COMMON ACRONYMS ACWA Association of California Water Agencies LOS Level Of Service RFP Request For Proposal APWA American Public Works Association MGD Million Gallons Per Day RWQCB Regional Water Quality Control Board AQMD Air Quality Management District MOU Memorandum of Understanding SARFPA Santa Ana River Flood Protection Agency ASCE American Society of Civil Engineers NACWA National Association of Clean Water Agencies SARI Santa Ana River Interceptor BOD Biochemical Oxygen Demand NEPA National Environmental Policy Act SARWQCB Santa Ana Regional Water Quality Control Board CARB California Air Resources Board NGOs Non-Governmental Organizations SAWPA Santa Ana Watershed Project Authority CASA California Association of Sanitation Agencies NPDES National Pollutant Discharge Elimination System SCADA Supervisory Control And Data Acquisition CCTV Closed Circuit Television NWRI National Water Research Institute SCAP Southern California Alliance of Publicly Owned Treatment Works CEQA California Environmental Quality Act O & M Operations & Maintenance SCAQMD South Coast Air Quality Management District CIP Capital Improvement Program OCCOG Orange County Council of Governments SOCWA South Orange County Wastewater Authority CRWQCB California Regional Water Quality Control Board OCHCA Orange County Health Care Agency SRF Clean Water State Revolving Fund CWA Clean Water Act OCSD Orange County Sanitation District SSMP Sewer System Management Plan CWEA California Water Environment Association OCWD Orange County Water District SSO Sanitary Sewer Overflow EIR Environmental Impact Report OOBS Ocean Outfall Booster Station SWRCB State Water Resources Control Board EMT Executive Management Team OSHA Occupational Safety and Health Administration TDS Total Dissolved Solids EPA US Environmental Protection Agency PCSA Professional Consultant/Construction Services Agreement TMDL Total Maximum Daily Load FOG Fats, Oils, and Grease PDSA Professional Design Services Agreement TSS Total Suspended Solids gpd gallons per day PFAS Per- and Polyfluoroalkyl Substances WDR Waste Discharge Requirements GWRS Groundwater Replenishment System PFOA Perfluorooctanoic Acid WEF Water Environment Federation ICS Incident Command System PFOS Perfluorooctanesulfonic Acid WERF Water Environment & Reuse Foundation IERP Integrated Emergency Response Plan POTW Publicly Owned Treatment Works WIFIA Water Infrastructure Finance and Innovation Act JPA Joint Powers Authority ppm parts per million WIIN Water Infrastructure Improvements for the Nation Act LAFCO Local Agency Formation Commission PSA Professional Services Agreement WRDA Water Resources 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) – A joint 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.