HomeMy WebLinkAbout04-24-2024 Steering Committee Meeting Complete Agenda Packet
SPECIAL NOTICE
PUBLIC ATTENDANCE & PARTICIPATION AT PUBLIC MEETINGS
Steering Committee Meeting
Wednesday, April 24, 2024
5:00 p.m.
Your participation is always welcome. OC San offers several ways in which to interact during meetings. You will find information as to these opportunities below. IN-PERSON MEETING ATTENDANCE
You may attend the meeting in-person at the following location: Orange County Sanitation District Administration Building
10844 Ellis Avenue
Fountain Valley, CA 92708 ONLINE MEETING PARTICIPATION
You may join the meeting live via Teams on your computer or similar device or web browser by
using the link below: Click here to join the meeting
We suggest testing joining a Teams meeting on your device prior to the commencement of the
meeting. For recommendations, general guidance on using Teams, and instructions on joining a Teams meeting, please click here. Please mute yourself upon entry to the meeting. Please raise your hand if you wish to speak
during the public comment section of the meeting. The Clerk of the Board will call upon you by
using the name you joined with. Meeting attendees are not provided the ability to make a presentation during the meeting. Please contact the Clerk of the Board at least 48 hours prior to the meeting if you wish to present any
items. Additionally, camera feeds may be controlled by the meeting moderator to avoid
inappropriate content.
HOW TO PARTICIPATE IN THE MEETING BY TELEPHONE To join the meeting from your phone: Dial (213) 279-1455
When prompted, enter the Phone Conference ID: 255 084 402# All meeting participants may be muted during the meeting to alleviate background noise. If you are muted, please use *6 to unmute. You may also mute yourself on your device.
Please raise your hand to speak by use *5, during the public comment section of the meeting. The Clerk of the Board will call upon you by using the last 4 digits of your phone number as identification. NOTE: All attendees will be disconnected from the meeting at the beginning of Closed
Session. If you would like to return to the Open Session portion of the meeting, please login or dial-in to the Teams meeting again and wait in the Lobby for admittance. WATCH THE MEETING ONLINE
The meeting will be available for online viewing at:
https://ocsd.legistar.com/Calendar.aspx SUBMIT A COMMENT
You may submit your comments and questions in writing for consideration in advance of the meeting by using the eComment feature available online at: https://ocsd.legistar.com/Calendar.aspx or sending them to OCSanClerk@ocsan.gov with the subject line “PUBLIC COMMENT ITEM # (insert the item number relevant to your comment)”
or “PUBLIC COMMENT NON-AGENDA ITEM”.
You may also submit comments and questions for consideration during the meeting by using the eComment feature available online at: https://ocsd.legistar.com/Calendar.aspx. The eComment feature will be available for the duration of the meeting.
All written public comments will be provided to the legislative body and may be read into the record or compiled as part of the record.
For any questions and/or concerns, please contact the Clerk of the Board’s office at
714-593-7433. Thank you for your interest in OC San!
April 17, 2024
NOTICE OF REGULAR MEETING
STEERING COMMITTEE
ORANGE COUNTY SANITATION DISTRICT
Wednesday, April 24, 2024 – 5:00 P.M.
Administration Building
10844 Ellis Avenue
Fountain Valley, CA 92708
ACCESSIBILITY FOR THE GENERAL PUBLIC
Your participation is always welcome. Specific information as to how to
participate in this meeting is detailed on the Special Notice attached to
this agenda. In general, OC San offers several ways in which to interact
during this meeting: you may participate in person, join the meeting live
via Teams on your computer or similar device or web browser, join the
meeting live via telephone, view the meeting online, and/or submit
comments for consideration before or during the meeting.
The Regular Meeting of the Steering Committee of the Orange County
Sanitation District will be held at the above location and in the manner
indicated on Wednesday, April 24, 2024 at 5:00 p.m.
STEERING COMMITTEE & BOARD MEETING DATES
May 22, 2024
June 26, 2024
July 24, 2024
August 28, 2024
September 25, 2024
October 23, 2024
November 20, 2024 *
December 18, 2024 *
January 22, 2025
February 26, 2025
March 26, 2025
April 23, 2025
* Meeting will be held on the third Wednesday of the month
ROLL CALL STEERING COMMITTEE
Meeting Date: April 24, 2024 Time: 5:00 p.m.
Adjourn: COMMITTEE MEMBERS (7)
Chad Wanke, Board Chair
Ryan Gallagher, Board Vice-Chair
Jon Dumitru, Operations Committee Chair
Christine Marick, Administration Committee Chair Pat Burns, Member-At-Large
Glenn Grandis, Member-At-Large
John Withers, Member-At-Large
OTHERS
Brad Hogin, General Counsel
STAFF Rob Thompson, General Manager
Lorenzo Tyner, Assistant General Manager
Mike Dorman, Director of Engineering
Laura Maravilla, Director of Human Resources
Riaz Moinuddin, Director of Operations & Maintenance
Wally Ritchie, Director of Finance
Lan Wiborg, Director of Environmental Services
Kelly Lore, Clerk of the Board
ORANGE COUNTY SANITATION DISTRICT Effective 01/23/2024 BOARD OF DIRECTORS Complete Roster
AGENCY/CITIES ACTIVE DIRECTOR ALTERNATE DIRECTOR
Anaheim
Stephen Faessel
Carlos A. Leon
Brea Christine Marick Cecilia Hupp
Buena Park Joyce Ahn Art Brown
Cypress Scott Minikus Bonnie Peat
Fountain Valley Glenn Grandis Ted Bui
Fullerton Bruce Whitaker Nick Dunlap
Garden Grove Stephanie Klopfenstein John O’Neill
Huntington Beach Pat Burns Gracey Van Der Mark
Irvine Farrah N. Khan Kathleen Treseder
La Habra Rose Espinoza Jose Medrano
La Palma Debbie Baker Mark I. Waldman
Los Alamitos Jordan Nefulda Shelley Hasselbrink
Newport Beach Brad Avery Erik Weigand
Orange Jon Dumitru John Gyllenhammer
Placentia Chad Wanke Ward Smith
Santa Ana Johnathan Ryan Hernandez Benjamin Vazquez
Seal Beach Schelly Sustarsic Lisa Landau
Stanton David Shawver Carol Warren
Tustin Ryan Gallagher Austin Lumbard
Villa Park Robbie Pitts Jordan Wu
Sanitary/Water Districts
Costa Mesa Sanitary District Bob Ooten
Art Perry
Midway City Sanitary District Andrew Nguyen Tyler Diep
Irvine Ranch Water District John Withers Douglas Reinhart
Yorba Linda Water District Phil Hawkins Tom Lindsey
County Areas
Board of Supervisors Doug Chaffee Donald P. Wagner
STEERING COMMITTEE
Regular Meeting Agenda
Wednesday, April 24, 2024 - 5:00 PM
Conference Room A
Administration Building
10844 Ellis Avenue
Fountain Valley, CA 92708
(714) 593-7433
ACCOMMODATIONS FOR THE DISABLED: If you require any special disability related accommodations,
please contact the Orange County Sanitation District (OC San) Clerk of the Board’s office at (714) 593-7433 at
least 72 hours prior to the scheduled meeting. Requests must specify the nature of the disability and the type
of accommodation requested.
AGENDA POSTING: In accordance with the requirements of California Government Code Section 54954.2, this
agenda has been posted outside the main gate of the OC San's Administration Building located at 10844 Ellis
Avenue, Fountain Valley, California, and on the OC San’s website at www.ocsan.gov not less than 72 hours
prior to the meeting date and time above. All public records relating to each agenda item, including any public
records distributed less than 72 hours prior to the meeting to all, or a majority of the Board of Directors, are
available for public inspection in the office of the Clerk of the Board.
AGENDA DESCRIPTION: The agenda provides a brief general description of each item of business to be
considered or discussed. The recommended action does not indicate what action will be taken. The Board of
Directors may take any action which is deemed appropriate.
MEETING RECORDING: A recording of this meeting is available within 24 hours after adjournment of the
meeting at https://ocsd.legistar.com/Calendar.aspx or by contacting the Clerk of the Board at (714) 593-7433.
NOTICE TO DIRECTORS: To place items on the agenda for a Committee or Board Meeting, the item must be
submitted in writing to the Clerk of the Board: Kelly A. Lore, MMC, (714) 593-7433 / klore@ocsan.gov at least 14
days before the meeting.
FOR ANY QUESTIONS ON THE AGENDA, BOARD MEMBERS MAY CONTACT STAFF AT:
General Manager: Rob Thompson, rthompson@ocsan.gov / (714) 593-7110
Asst. General Manager: Lorenzo Tyner, ltyner@ocsan.gov / (714) 593-7550
Director of Engineering: Mike Dorman, mdorman@ocsan.gov / (714) 593-7014
Director of Environmental Services: Lan Wiborg, lwiborg@ocsan.gov / (714) 593-7450
Director of Finance: Wally Ritchie, writchie@ocsan.gov / (714) 593-7570
Director of Human Resources: Laura Maravilla, lmaravilla@ocsan.gov / (714) 593-7007
Director of Operations & Maintenance: Riaz Moinuddin, rmoinuddin@ocsan.gov / (714) 593-7269
STEERING COMMITTEE Regular Meeting Agenda Wednesday, April 24, 2024
CALL TO ORDER
ROLL CALL AND DECLARATION OF QUORUM:
Clerk of the Board
PUBLIC COMMENTS:
Your participation is always welcome. Specific information as to how to participate in a meeting is detailed in the
Special Notice attached to this agenda. In general, OC San offers several ways in which to interact during
meetings: you may participate in person, join the meeting live via Teams on your computer or similar device or
web browser, join the meeting live via telephone, view the meeting online, and/or submit comments for
consideration before or during the meeting.
REPORTS:
The Board 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.
1.2024-3581APPROVAL OF MINUTES
RECOMMENDATION:
Approve minutes of the Regular meeting of the Steering Committee held March 27,
2024.
Originator:Kelly Lore
Agenda Report
03-27-2024 Steering Committee Minutes
Attachments:
2.2024-3569LEGISLATIVE AFFAIRS UPDATE FOR THE MONTH OF MARCH 2024
RECOMMENDATION: Recommend to the Board of Directors to:
Receive and file the Legislative Affairs Update for the month of March 2024.
Originator:Rob Thompson
Page 1 of 4
STEERING COMMITTEE Regular Meeting Agenda Wednesday, April 24, 2024
Agenda Report
Federal Legislative Update
Federal Matrix
State Legislative Update
State Matrix
PFAS Cleanup Under CERCLA Letter of Concern
SB 1034 Letter of Support
AB 2626 Letter of Support
SB 1210 Letter of Oppose
AB 2515 Letter of Support
SB 1072 Letter of Support
Attachments:
3.2024-3571PUBLIC AFFAIRS UPDATE FOR THE MONTH OF MARCH 2024
RECOMMENDATION: Recommend to the Board of Directors to:
Receive and file the Public Affairs Update for the month of March 2024.
Originator:Rob Thompson
Agenda Report
Outreach and Media Report - March 2024
Attachments:
NON-CONSENT:
4.2024-3536ORANGE COUNTY SANITATION DISTRICT’S MEMBERSHIPS AND
AGREEMENTS
RECOMMENDATION: Recommend to the Board of Directors to:
Receive and file the Orange County Sanitation District’s Memberships and Agreements
list.
Originator:Rob Thompson
Agenda Report
OC San Memberships and Agreements
Attachments:
INFORMATION ITEMS:
None.
DEPARTMENT HEAD REPORTS:
Page 2 of 4
STEERING COMMITTEE Regular Meeting Agenda Wednesday, April 24, 2024
CLOSED SESSION:
During the course of conducting the business set forth on this agenda as a regular meeting of the Board, the
Chairperson may convene the Board in closed session to consider matters of pending real estate negotiations,
pending or potential litigation, or personnel matters, pursuant to Government Code Sections 54956.8, 54956.9,
54957 or 54957.6, as noted.
Reports relating to (a) purchase and sale of real property; (b) matters of pending or potential litigation; (c)
employment actions or negotiations with employee representatives; or which are exempt from public disclosure
under the California Public Records Act, may be reviewed by the Board during a permitted closed session and are
not available for public inspection. At such time the Board takes final action on any of these subjects, the minutes
will reflect all required disclosures of information.
CONVENE IN CLOSED SESSION.
CS-1 2024-3526CONFERENCE WITH LEGAL COUNSEL RE EXISTING LITIGATION -
GOVERNMENT CODE SECTION 54956.9(d)(1)
RECOMMENDATION: Convene in Closed Session:
Number of Potential Cases: 1
Orange County Sanitation District v. Robert M. Jackson, et al., Orange County Superior
Court Case No. 30-2024-01379706-CU-OR-CJC.
Agenda Report
Steering CS Memo re Robert Jackson 4-24-24
Attachments:
CS-2 2024-3550PUBLIC EMPLOYEE APPOINTMENT 54957(b)(1)
RECOMMENDATION: Convene in Closed Session:
Public Employee Appointment
Number of Employees: 1
·General Counsel
Agenda Report
Steering CS Memo re General Counsel Appointment 4-24-24
Attachments:
CS-3 2024-3588CONFERENCE WITH LEGAL COUNSEL RE EXISTING LITIGATION -
GOVERNMENT CODE SECTION 54956.9(d)(1)
RECOMMENDATION: Convene in Closed Session:
Number of Cases: 1
Arlin Blazevic v. Orange County Sanitation District; Natasha Dubrovski; Lorenzo Tyner;
and Does 1-100, inclusive, Superior Court of California, County of Orange, Case No.
30-2020-01149812-CU-WT-CJC.
Page 3 of 4
STEERING COMMITTEE Regular Meeting Agenda Wednesday, April 24, 2024
Agenda Report
Steering CS Memo re Blazevic Litigation 4-24-24
Attachments:
RECONVENE IN REGULAR SESSION.
CONSIDERATION OF ACTION, IF ANY, ON MATTERS CONSIDERED IN CLOSED
SESSION:
OTHER BUSINESS AND COMMUNICATIONS OR SUPPLEMENTAL AGENDA ITEMS, IF
ANY:
BOARD OF DIRECTORS INITIATED ITEMS FOR A FUTURE MEETING:
At this time Directors may request staff to place an item on a future agenda.
ADJOURNMENT:
Adjourn the meeting until the Special Meeting of the Steering Committee on May 22, 2024 at
2:00 p.m.
Page 4 of 4
STEERING COMMITTEE
Agenda Report
Administration Building
10844 Ellis Avenue
Fountain Valley, CA 92708
(714) 593-7433
File #:2024-3581 Agenda Date:4/24/2024 Agenda Item No:1.
FROM:Robert Thompson, 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 Steering Committee held March 27, 2024.
BACKGROUND
In accordance with the Board of Directors Rules of Procedure,an accurate record of each meeting
will be provided to the Directors for subsequent approval at the following meeting.
RELEVANT STANDARDS
·Resolution No. OC SAN 22-37
ATTACHMENT
The following attachment(s)may be viewed on-line at the OC San website (www.ocsan.gov)with the complete agenda
package:
·March 27, 2024 Steering Committee meeting minutes
Orange County Sanitation District Printed on 4/15/2024Page 1 of 1
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Orange County Sanitation District
Minutes for the
STEERING COMMITTEE
Wednesday, March 27, 2024
5:00 PM
Conference Room A
Administration Building
10844 Ellis Avenue
Fountain Valley, CA 92708
(714) 593-7433
CALL TO ORDER
A regular meeting of the Steering Committee of the Orange County Sanitation District was
called to order by Board Chairman Chad Wanke on Wednesday, March 27, 2024 at 5:00 p.m.
in the Administration Building of the Orange County Sanitation District.
ROLL CALL AND DECLARATION OF QUORUM:
The Clerk of the Board declared a quorum present as follows:
PRESENT:Chad Wanke, Ryan Gallagher, Pat Burns, Jon Dumitru, Glenn
Grandis, Christine Marick and John Withers
ABSENT:None
STAFF PRESENT:
Rob Thompson, General Manager; Lorenzo Tyner, Assistant General Manager; Mike
Dorman, Director of Engineering; Laura Maravilla, Director of Human Resources; Riaz
Moinuddin, Director of Operations and Maintenance; Wally Ritchie, Director of Finance; Lan
Wiborg, Director of Environmental Services; Kelly Lore, Clerk of the Board; Jennifer Cabral;
Mortimer Caparas; Daisy Covarrubias; Raul Cuellar; Thys DeVries; Martin Dix; Justin Fenton;
Al Garcia; Tina Knapp; Perla Rodriguez; and Ruth Zintzun were present in Conference Room
A. Rob Michaels was present telephonically.
OTHERS PRESENT: Brad Hogin, General Counsel; Lindsay Caro, Associate Counsel; Gary
Weisberg, Associate Counsel; Laura Drottz Kalty, Special Counsel, Liebert Cassidy
Whitmore; and Danielle Dychter, Special Counsel, Michael Sullivan & Associates LLP were
present in Conference Room A. Eric O'Donnell, Townsend Public Affairs; Cori Takkinen,
Townsend Public Affairs; and Erik Sapirstein, ENS Resources were present telephonically.
PUBLIC COMMENTS:
None.
REPORTS:
Chair Wanke and General Manager Rob Thompson did not provide reports.
Page 1 of 4
STEERING COMMITTEE Minutes March 27, 2024
CONSENT CALENDAR:
1. APPROVAL OF MINUTES 2024-3515
Originator: Kelly Lore
MOVED, SECONDED, AND DULY CARRIED TO:
Approve minutes of the Regular meeting of the Steering Committee held February 28,
2024.
AYES:Chad Wanke, Ryan Gallagher, Pat Burns, Jon Dumitru, Glenn
Grandis, Christine Marick and John Withers
NOES:None
ABSENT:None
ABSTENTIONS:None
2. PUBLIC AFFAIRS UPDATE FOR THE MONTH OF FEBRUARY 2024 2024-3529
Originator: Rob Thompson
MOVED, SECONDED, AND DULY CARRIED TO: Recommend to the Board of
Directors to:
Receive and file the Public Affairs Update for the month of February 2024.
AYES:Chad Wanke, Ryan Gallagher, Pat Burns, Jon Dumitru, Glenn
Grandis, Christine Marick and John Withers
NOES:None
ABSENT:None
ABSTENTIONS:None
3. LEGISLATIVE AFFAIRS UPDATE FOR THE MONTH OF FEBRUARY
2024
2024-3530
Originator: Rob Thompson
MOVED, SECONDED, AND DULY CARRIED TO: Recommend to the Board of
Directors to:
Receive and file the Legislative Affairs Update for the month of February 2024.
AYES:Chad Wanke, Ryan Gallagher, Pat Burns, Jon Dumitru, Glenn
Grandis, Christine Marick and John Withers
NOES:None
ABSENT:None
ABSTENTIONS:None
Page 2 of 4
STEERING COMMITTEE Minutes March 27, 2024
NON-CONSENT:
None.
INFORMATION ITEMS:
None.
DEPARTMENT HEAD REPORTS:
None.
CLOSED SESSION:
CONVENED IN CLOSED SESSION PURSUANT TO GOVERNMENT CODE SECTIONS
54957.6, 54956.9(d)(1), & 54957(b)(1).
The Committee convened in closed session at 5:02 p.m. Confidential minutes of the Closed
Sessions have been prepared in accordance with the above Government Code Sections and
are maintained by the Clerk of the Board in the Official Book of Confidential Minutes of Board
and Committee Closed Session meetings.
CS-1 CONFERENCE WITH LABOR NEGOTIATORS - GOVERNMENT 2024-3513
CODE SECTION 54957.6
Director Jon Dumitru recused himself and left the room during Item No. CS-1.
CONVENED IN CLOSED SESSION:
Designated Representatives: General Manager Robert Thompson, Assistant General
Manager Lorenzo Tyner, Director of Human Resources Laura Maravilla, and Chief
Negotiator Laura Kalty.
Employee Organizations: (3)
International Union of Operating Engineers, Local 501; Orange County Employees
Association; and the Supervisory and Professional Management Group.
CS-2 CONFERENCE WITH LEGAL COUNSEL RE EXISTING LITIGATION -
GOVERNMENT CODE SECTION 54956.9(d)(1)
2024-3527
CONVENED IN CLOSED SESSION:
Number of Cases: 1
Gina A. Tetsch, Workers’ Compensation Claim, Workers Compensation Appeals
Board, Case No. ADJ11373743.
Page 3 of 4
STEERING COMMITTEE Minutes March 27, 2024
CS-3 CONFERENCE WITH LEGAL COUNSEL RE EXISTING LITIGATION -
GOVERNMENT CODE SECTION 54956.9(d)(1)
2024-3514
CONVENED IN CLOSED SESSION:
Number of Cases: 1
Orange County Sanitation District v. Robert M. Jackson, et al., Orange County Superior
Court Case No. 30-2024-01379706-CU-OR-CJC.
CS-4 PUBLIC EMPLOYEE PERFORMANCE EVALUATION 54957(b)(1)2024-3528
CONVENED IN CLOSED SESSION:
Public Employee Performance Evaluation
Number of Employees: 1
·General Counsel
RECONVENED IN REGULAR SESSION.
The Committee reconvened in regular session at 5:45 p.m.
CONSIDERATION OF ACTION, IF ANY, ON MATTERS CONSIDERED IN CLOSED
SESSION:
General Counsel Brad Hogin stated there was no reportable action.
OTHER BUSINESS AND COMMUNICATIONS OR SUPPLEMENTAL AGENDA ITEMS, IF
ANY:
None.
BOARD OF DIRECTORS INITIATED ITEMS FOR A FUTURE MEETING:
None.
ADJOURNMENT:
Chair Wanke declared the meeting adjourned at 5:46 p.m. to the next Regular Steering
Committee meeting to be held on Wednesday, April 24, 2024 at 5:00 p.m.
Submitted by:
__________________
Kelly A. Lore, MMC
Clerk of the Board
Page 4 of 4
STEERING COMMITTEE
Agenda Report
Administration Building
10844 Ellis Avenue
Fountain Valley, CA 92708
(714) 593-7433
File #:2024-3569 Agenda Date:4/24/2024 Agenda Item No:2.
FROM:Robert Thompson, General Manager
SUBJECT:
LEGISLATIVE AFFAIRS UPDATE FOR THE MONTH OF MARCH 2024
GENERAL MANAGER'S RECOMMENDATION
RECOMMENDATION: Recommend to the Board of Directors to:
Receive and file the Legislative Affairs Update for the month of March 2024.
BACKGROUND
The Orange County Sanitation District’s (OC San)legislative affairs program includes advocating for
OC San’s legislative interests;sponsoring legislation (where appropriate);and seeking Local,State,
and Federal funding for projects and programs.
RELEVANT STANDARDS
·Maintain influential legislative advocacy and a public outreach program
·Build brand, trust, and support with policy makers and community leaders
·Maintain collaborative and cooperative relationships with regulators,stakeholders,and
neighboring communities
PROBLEM
Without a strong advocacy program,elected officials may not be aware of OC San’s mission,
programs, and projects and how they could be impacted by proposed legislation.
PROPOSED SOLUTION
Continue to work with Local,State,and Federal officials to advocate for OC San’s legislative
interests.Help to create and monitor legislation and grants that would benefit OC San,the
wastewater industry,and the community.To assist in relationship building efforts,OC San will
continue to reach out to elected officials through facility tours,one-on-one meetings,and trips to
Washington D.C. and Sacramento.
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File #:2024-3569 Agenda Date:4/24/2024 Agenda Item No:2.
RAMIFICATIONS OF NOT TAKING ACTION
If OC San does not work with Local,State,and Federal elected officials,legislation could be passed
that negatively affects OC San and the wastewater industry.Additionally,a lack of engagement may
result in missed funding opportunities.
ADDITIONAL INFORMATION
Activities in March
·Federal Update:
On March 12,OC San staff submitted a letter of concern regarding passive receiver liability for
PFAS cleanup under Comprehensive Environmental Response,Compensation,and Liability
Act (CERCLA)(attached).The letter was submitted to Senator Tom Carper,Chairman,and
Senator Shelley Moore Capito,Ranking Member,for the Committee on Environment and
Public Works.The letter requested the Committee to amend CERCLA to ensure agencies
such as ours receive protections from frivolous and unwarranted litigation.
·State Update:
On March 5,OC San took a support position on Senate Bill (SB)1034 (attached).This bill
adds a clause to the “unusual circumstances”definition pertaining to a request of the
California Public Records Act.SB 1034 allows agencies to focus on keeping their
communities safe during a state of emergency.
On March 22,OC San took a support position on Assembly (AB)2626 (attached).This bill
addresses near-term challenges for local governments through a 10-year extension for
compliance with the Zero-Emission Vehicle mandates.This would allow the industry to
improve electric vehicle and battery technologies.
Activities in April
·Federal Update:
The US EPA issued its final PFAS rules.The rules establish drinking water standards and
designate PFAS chemicals as hazardous substances under CERCLA.OC San’s Federal
lobbyist and associations anticipate litigation from the water sector challenging the science
relied upon by EPA to set the four parts per trillion level of the standard.There is no
immediate or near-term impact to OC San.We continually discuss developments of PFAS
regulations with OCWD.
·State Update:
On April 8,OC San took an oppose position on Senate Bill (SB)1210 (attached).This bill
would prohibit a connection fee or capacity charge for water,sewer,and electrical services
from exceeding one percent of the reported building permit value for that housing unit.
On April 8,OC San took a support position on Assembly Bill (AB)2515 (attached).This bill
seeks to ensure that additional PFAS compounds are kept out of the environment.The bill
would also require a manufacturer of a menstrual product to provide persons that offer the
product for sale or distribution in the State with a certificate of compliance stating that the
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File #:2024-3569 Agenda Date:4/24/2024 Agenda Item No:2.
product for sale or distribution in the State with a certificate of compliance stating that the
product is compliant with these provisions and does not contain any regulated PFAS
compounds.
On April 8,OC San took a support position on Senate Bill (SB)1072 (attached).This bill
would clarify that if a water or wastewater rate or charge results in collecting revenues in
excess of the costs of service,the excess revenues would be used to reduce future rates or
charges.Ratepayers would not be entitled to any refund;however,ratepayers will retain the
right to a refund for billing errors.
ATTACHMENT
The following attachment(s)may be viewed on-line at the OC San website (www.ocsan.gov)with the complete agenda
package:
·Federal Legislative Update
·Federal Matrix
·State Legislative Update
·State Matrix
·PFAS Cleanup Under CERCLA Letter of Concern
·SB 1034 Letter of Support
·AB 2626 Letter of Support
·SB 1210 Letter of Oppose
·AB 2515 Letter of Support
·SB 1072 Letter of Support
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TO: Rebecca Long
FROM: Eric Sapirstein
DATE: April 3, 2024
SUBJECT: Washington Update
Congress succeeded in reaching agreement on the outstanding Fiscal Year 2024
appropriations bills, putting in place budgets for all federal agencies, eliminating a
partial government shutdown, six months into the fiscal year. Given the delay in
finalizing spending bills, Congress now has less than five months to develop and
pass Fiscal Year 2025 spending bills. Prospects for final passage by September 30
seem remote. If agreements prove elusive, another Continuing Resolution will be
required to avoid a government shutdown in the weeks leading up to the
congressional and presidential elections. The following summarizes issues of
interest to OC San that arose during the past month.
• Fiscal Year 2025 Appropriations
On March 11, the Administration transmitted its budget request to Congress for
fiscal year 2025 that begins on October 1, 2024. The budget, which is
traditionally dead on arrival, is notable for a general status quo request. Where
reductions in programs were requested, the justification of the request is
premised on the fact that the supplemental funding through the Bipartisan
Infrastructure Law (BIL) would compensate for the cuts. Where increases in
spending were requested, the requests were targeted toward the
Administration’s climate, enforcement, and environmental justice programs. For
example, the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency’s (EPA) State Revolving Loan
Fund program would be cut by almost $500 million. The BIL funding of
approximately $1 billion would help to offset the cut. At the same time, EPA’s
enforcement budget would be boosted to support more robust effort to address
impacts to disadvantaged communities. With regard to the regulation of per- and
polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS), the agency continues to request funding for
its PFAS Roadmap priorities including the development of effluent limitation
guidelines to support source control efforts and monitoring of wastewater and
biosolids for PFAS presence.
2 | P a g e
Budget Request Impact to OC San
The Administration budget request would not immediately impact OC San
because Congress is unlikely to act on a final spending bill before the November
elections. This means that the election outcomes will more likely than not dictate
how any final budget might be developed. To this end, the most likely impact to
OC San might involve funding of programs that would result in the development
of new requirements for biosolids management and treatment of PFAS.
• Senate PFAS Liability Hearing
The Senate Committee on Environment and Public Works held a hearing into
PFAS Comprehensive Environmental Response, Compensation and Liability Act
(CERCLA) liability and the need for liability protections for the
wastewater/water sector and other passive receivers. The hearing heard from
the Environmental Working Group (EWG), New Mexico’s Secretary of
Environment, two attorneys representing the wastewater/water and solid waste
sectors, and a CERCLA liability expert from the Congressional Research Service
(CRS). Of special note, the committee received more than 280 letters from
stakeholders, including OC San, calling for a liability exemption for the
wastewater/sector and other passive receivers. The hearing was notable for
several reasons.
o Claims that United States Environmental Protection Agency (USEPA’s)
willingness to rely upon its enforcement discretion were demonstrated to
be inadequate because such an approach would not protect a passive
receiver from third party litigation. Additionally, witnesses documented
the legal costs associated with working with USEPA to be provided a
shield that fails in the final analysis to protect an agency. The CRS
witness concurred with the view that discretionary enforcement
essentially failed to provided protections.
o A powerful point was made by the wastewater/water and solid waste
sectors witnesses that even if an entity were to seek protection (shield)
under USEPA’s discretionary approach, it would require becoming part of
any settlement agreement. This would ironically define a party as a PRP
and allow an entity not party to the agreement to pursue litigation against
a utility.
o Claims that the wastewater/water and solid waste sectors were
responsible for polluting water and soils and that these entities did
nothing to address the threats over decades were effectively proven
without merit when the points were made that there are no treatment
standards by which to control for PFAS.
o On the process that USEPA relied upon to propose PFAS designation
under CERCLA, witnesses, other than EWG, noted that the agency action
is unprecedented and that it should have relied on the Resource
Conservation and Recovery Act to address clean-ups as the foundation of
any response. They further noted that the appropriate process should
3 | P a g e
have first listed PFAS as a hazardous constituent and then proceed to
determine if it is a hazardous waste and then determine if it should be a
hazardous substance under CERCLA.
o Committee was also put on notice that should PFAS designation be
finalized, it would likely limit management options for disposal as the
potential liability in accepting waste such as residuals would become too
risky and ultimately lead to disposal of residuals in hazardous waste sites,
increasing costs and creating a capacity issue.
o Congressional Research Service validated the concerns from the
wastewater/water sector that USEPA had taken a novel approach to
listing PFAS under CERCLA, and this seemed to buttress committee
members’ concerns about how USEPA could justify the listing approach.
o Committee members on a bipartisan basis emphasized that a bipartisan
agreement must be reached on the issue before the committee could
consider legislation.
Impact of Hearing on OC San Interests
OC San has advocated for liability protections from any PFAS hazardous
substance designation under CERCLA, including letters to the committee on the
importance of protecting passive receivers like OC San . The hearing vividly
illustrate and refuted the assertions of the NGO community that EPA’s use of its
enforcement authority on a discretionary basis is not a viable solution to avoid
innocent parties like OC San from becoming ensnared in the CERCLA liability net.
OC San’s concerns that CERCLA PFAS designation would lead to the loss of
approved biosolids management techniques simply because of potential liability
exposure was also forcefully demonstrated. Last, Senators’ statements on the
need to invest in new destruction technologies through federal assistance would
appear to support OC San’s commitment to identify and demonstrate such
technologies.
In the final analysis, the hearing witnesses delivered a cogent argument that
Congress must address the liability protection needs of the wastewater and
water sectors.
• USEPA Preparing to Issue Final PFAS Rule
USEPA’s finalization of rules establishing drinking water standards and
designating PFAS chemicals as hazardous substances under CERCLA continue. It
appears that on or about April 15, the drinking water standard (Maximum
Contaminant Level) will be published in final. We anticipate litigation from the
water sector challenging the science relied upon by EPA to set the 4PPT level of
the standard.
The designation of PFAS as a hazardous substance under CERCLA remains under
development. However, the EPA is expected to publish a final rule in April
unless Congress signals a desire to delay the rule while it works on a legislative
fix to passive receivers’ concerns.
4 | P a g e
Last, EPA has issued a request for public comments on a proposal to identify
PFAS as hazardous constituents. This effort could lead to EPA formally
identifying PFAS as a hazardous waste and subsequently a possible hazardous
substance under CERCLA. The logic of this rulemaking lies in the fact that if the
current PFAS designation under CERCLA is successfully litigate, due to EPA’s
failure to first identify PFAS as hazardous constituents and wastes, then a second
approach would be in process that could lead to designation.
• PFAS Technology Guidance
EPA is expected to publish new guidance on PFAS destruction technology
priorities. Instead of dictating technologies, the agency is anticipated to allow
industry to design and develop treatment and destruction technologies that
could advance the management of PFAS chemicals.
Title
To amend the Federal Water Pollution Control Act with respect
to permitting terms, and for other purposes.
Description
This bill extends the maximum term for certain permits issued
under the National Pollutant Discharge Elimination System
(NPDES) program. Specifically, the bill extends the maximum
term for NPDES permits issued to states or municipalities from
5 to 10 years. Under the program, the Environmental
Protection Agency issues permits to discharge pollutants from
point sources, such as pipes, into waters of the United States.
Primary Sponsors
John Garamendi
Bill Summary: Last edited by Sarah Sapirstein at Apr 3, 2024,
6:52 PM
H.R. 1181 would provide state permitting authorities to issue ten
year NPDES permits to publicly owned wastewater treatment
agencies. The authority would not extend to privately owned
treatment facilities such as industrial dischargers. The bill was
unanimously adopted as an amendment to H.R. 7023 on the House
floor. The House passed H.R. 7023 on a vote of 213-205 and it has
been referred to the Senate Committee on Environment and Public
Works.
Introduction Date: 2023-02-24
Title
WIPPES Act
Primary Sponsors
Lisa McClain
Bill Summary: Last edited by Sarah Sapirstein at Jan 4, 2024,
9:37 PM
Directs the Federal Trade Commission, in consultation with the
Environmental Protection Agency, Commissioner of Food and
Drugs, and the Consumer Product Safety Commission (as
appropriate depending on the type of covered product involved) to
issue “Do Not Flush” labeling requirements for nonflushable wipes,
including baby wipes, household wipes, disinfecting wipes and
personal care wipes. The requirements mirror California's labeling
law and has the support from the wipes industry, national clean
water sector, civil engineers, and environment advocates.
Companion Senate bill: S. 1350.
Introduction Date: 2023-04-27
Federal Legislative Report - April 2024
Last Updated: April 03, 2024
Bills by Issue
Priority: High (6)
Bill Number
HR 1181
Last Action
Referred To The Subcommittee On
Water Resources And Environment
2023 02 27
Status
In House
Position
Monitor
Priority
High
Bill Number
HR 2964
Last Action
Ordered To Be Reported Amended By
The Yeas And Nays 42 0 2023 12 06
Status
In House
Position
Monitor
Priority
High
Title
PFAS Accountability Act of 2024
Primary Sponsors
Madeleine Dean
Bill Summary: Last edited by Eric Sapirstein at Feb 20, 2024, 5:46
PM
H.R. 7194 would create a cause of action under the Toxics
Substances Control Act to allow a citizen or class of citizens to
litigate against a manufacturer of PFAS that improperly discharged
PFAS into the environment and created a public health impact.
Companion legislation in the Senate: S. 3725. Sponsor: Rep.
Madeline Dean (D-NH)
Introduction Date: 2024-02-01
Title
WIPPES Act
Primary Sponsors
Jeff Merkley
Bill Summary: Last edited by Sarah Sapirstein at Jan 4, 2024,
9:38 PM
Directs the Federal Trade Commission, in consultation with the
Environmental Protection Agency, Commissioner of Food and
Drugs, and the Consumer Product Safety Commission (as
appropriate depending on the type of covered product involved) to
issue “Do Not Flush” labeling requirements for nonflushable wipes,
including baby wipes, household wipes, disinfecting wipes and
personal care wipes. The requirements mirror California's labeling
law and has the support from the wipes industry, national clean
water sector, civil engineers, and environment advocates.
Companion House bill: H.R. 2964.
Introduction Date: 2023-04-27
Bill Number
HR 7194
Last Action
Referred To The Subcommittee On
Environment Manufacturing And
Critical Materials 2024 02 02
Status
In House
Position
Monitor
Priority
High
Bill Number
S 1350
Last Action
Read Twice And Referred To The
Committee On Commerce Science And
Transportation 2023 04 27
Status
In Senate
Position
Monitor
Priority
High
Title
Water Systems PFAS Liability Protection Act
Description
Water Systems PFAS Liability Protection Act This bill exempts
specified water management entities from liability under the
Comprehensive Environmental Response, Compensation, and
Liability Act of 1980 (CERCLA) for releases of certain
perfluoroalkyl or polyfluoroalkyl substances, commonly
referred to as PFAS. Specifically, the entities covered under
the bill are public water systems, publicly or privately owned
or operated treatment works, municipalities with a
stormwater discharge permit, political subdivisions or special
districts of a state that act as a wholesale water agency, and
contractors performing the management or disposal activities
for such entities. Under the bill, the exemption only applies if
a specified entity transports, treats, disposes of, or arranges
for the transport, treatment or disposal of PFAS consistent
with applicable laws and during and following the conveyance
or treatment of water under federal or state law, such as
through the management or disposal of biosolids consistent
with the Federal Water Pollution Control Act. Liability for
damages or costs associated with the release of certain PFAS
must not be precluded if an entity acted with gross
negligence or willful misconduct.
Primary Sponsors
Cynthia Lummis
Bill Summary: Last edited by Eric Sapirstein at Mar 28, 2024,
8:47 PM
S. 1430 would provide a limited CERCLA liability (section 107)
exemption for PFAS family of chemicals for water and wastewater
agencies. S. 1430 would not exempt an agency from liability in
cases of gross negligence.
Introduction Date: 2023-05-03
Title
STREAM Act
Primary Sponsors
Dianne Feinstein
Bill Summary: Last edited by Eric Sapirstein at Feb 20, 2024, 5:49
PM
S. 2162 renews expiring provisions of the WIIN Act. It would
increase funding authorizations for surface and groundwater
storage projects, water recycling, desalination, and ecosystem
restoration projects. Among the changes that would be authorized
would be priorities for water supply projects that include enhanced
public benefits (fisheries, wildlife and disadvantage communities
drinking water reliability). It would also provide for enhanced water
transfers to support temporary fallowing of agriculture lands to
support wildlife habitats. (BILL PROVISIONS LIKELY TO
INCORPORATED INTO LARGER WESTERN WATER LEGISLATION) No
Sponsor at the writing
Introduction Date: 2023-06-22
Bill Number
S 1430
Last Action
Read Twice And Referred To The
Committee On Environment And Public
Works 2023 05 03
Status
In Senate
Position
None
Priority
High
Bill Number
S 2162
Last Action
Committee On Energy And Natural
Resources Subcommittee On Water And
Power Hearings Held 2023 07 19
Status
In Senate
Position
Monitor
Priority
High
Priority: Medium (1)
Title
Clean Water SRF Parity Act
Description
Clean Water SRF Parity Act This bill expands the state
revolving fund established under the Clean Water Act,
including by allowing low-interest loans to be given to
privately owned treatment works to address wastewater.
Currently, loans are given to wastewater systems that are
publicly owned.
Primary Sponsors
John Garamendi
Bill Summary: Last edited by David French at Jan 23, 2023, 3:54
PM
Amends eligibility provisions for the Federal Water Pollution Control
Act’s Clean Water State Revolving Fund so that all wastewater
customers have the ability to benefit from the program’s low-
interest loans. Supported by NAWCA Also introduce in 117th
Congress - No Action
Introduction Date: 2023-01-10
Title
Water Affordability, Transparency, Equity, and Reliability Act of
2023
Description
Water Affordability, Transparency, Equity, and Reliability Act of
2023 This bill increases funding for water infrastructure,
including funding for several programs related to controlling
water pollution or protecting drinking water. Specifically, it
establishes a Water Affordability, Transparency, Equity, and
Reliability Trust Fund. The fund may be used for specified
grant programs. The bill increases the corporate income tax
rate to 24.5% to provide revenues for the fund. In addition,
the bill revises requirements concerning the clean water state
revolving fund (SRF) and the drinking water SRF, including by
prohibiting states from providing financial assistance using
amounts from the clean water SRF for projects that will
provide substantial direct benefits to new communities other
than projects for constructing an advanced decentralized
wastewater system. It also creates or reauthorizes several
grant programs related to water infrastructure, such as grants
for removing lead from drinking water.
Primary Sponsors
Bonnie Watson Coleman
Bill Summary: Last edited by Eric Sapirstein at Feb 20, 2024, 5:55
PM
Sponsor: Rep. Bonnie Coleman D-NJ Co-Sponsor: Rep. Katie Porter
D-CA
Introduction Date: 2023-03-22
Bill Number
HR 250
Last Action
Referred To The Subcommittee On
Water Resources And Environment
2023 02 01
Status
In House
Position
Monitor
Priority
Medium
Priority: Low (2)
Bill Number
HR 1729
Last Action
Referred To The Subcommittee On
Commodity Markets Digital Assets And
Rural Development 2023 04 25
Status
In House
Position
Monitor
Priority
Low
Title
Water Affordability, Transparency, Equity, and Reliability Act of
2023
Description
Water Affordability, Transparency, Equity, and Reliability Act of
2023 This bill increases funding for water infrastructure to
control water pollution or protect drinking water. Specifically,
it establishes a Water Affordability, Transparency, Equity, and
Reliability Trust Fund. The fund may be used for specified
grant programs. The bill increases the corporate income tax
rate to 24.5% to provide revenues for the fund. In addition,
the bill revises requirements concerning the clean water state
revolving fund (SRF) and the drinking water SRF, including by
prohibiting states from providing financial assistance using
amounts from the clean water SRF for projects that will
provide substantial direct benefits to new communities other
than projects for constructing an advanced decentralized
wastewater system. It also creates or reauthorizes several
grant programs related to water infrastructure, such as grants
for removing lead from drinking water.
Primary Sponsors
Bernie Sanders
Bill Summary: Last edited by Eric Sapirstein at Feb 20, 2024, 5:56
PM
S. 938 would establish a $35 billion trust fund to support the
construction of water and wastewater treatment systems. Funding
would be derived from an increase in the corporate tax rate. The
bill also imposes requirements for Department of Justice and
USEPA to carryout activities to determine whether water and
wastewater operators discriminate in the provision of services.
USEPA must also investigate the impact of rates on service cut-
offs. Additional provisions would address use of assistance to
promote regionalization of systems and limitations on the use of
federal assistance to support projects that address growth. The bill
enjoys 500 NGO organizational support. It has five cosponsors.
Sponsor: Sen. Bernie Sanders I-VT
Introduction Date: 2023-03-22
Title
Investing in Our Communities Act
Description
Investing in Our Communities Act This bill reinstates the
exclusion from gross income for interest on certain bonds
issued to advance the refunding of a prior bond issue. The
exclusion was repealed for bonds issued after 2017.
Primary Sponsors
David Kustoff
Bill Summary: Last edited by Sarah Sapirstein at Apr 5, 2023,
4:08 PM
Legislation restores tax-exempt advance refunding for municipal
bonds to allow states and local governments to more efficiently
invest in projects.
Introduction Date: 2023-03-28
Bill Number
S 938
Last Action
Read Twice And Referred To The
Committee On Finance 2023 03 22
Status
In Senate
Position
Monitor
Priority
Low
Priority: None (2)
Bill Number
HR 1837
Last Action
Referred To The House Committee On
Ways And Means 2023 03 28
Status
In House
Position
None
Priority
None
Title
Clean Water Allotment Modernization Act of 2023
Description
Clean Water Allotment Modernization Act of 2023 This bill
revises the formula the Environmental Protection Agency
(EPA) uses to determine how to distribute funds from the
Clean Water State Revolving Fund (SRF) program. Under the
program, the EPA allocates funding to states for water quality
infrastructure projects, such as wastewater systems and
stormwater management projects. In FY2024-FY2028, the EPA
must provide an initial allotment to each state that is equal to
the amount the state received in FY2023. The EPA must also
provide an additional allotment to each state that is based on
its share of the U.S. population. In FY2029 and each
subsequent fiscal year, the EPA must use an updated
allotment formula, which is based on the needs of states as
identified in the most recently available clean watersheds
needs survey. Beginning in FY2024, the formula must also
provide allotments for Indian tribes and territories. In addition,
the formula must provide an allotment for EPA's oversight of
SRF projects to ensure they use American iron and steel.
Primary Sponsors
Marco Rubio
Bill Summary: Last edited by Eric Sapirstein at Apr 29, 2023, 9:02
PM
Provides for a set aside from Clean Water SRF appropriations to
conduct Buy America oversight compliance, establishes that each
state's allotment must be at the same level as FY 23 during FY 24-
28 and additional allotments based on percent of state population
to the nation. FY 29 and beyond allotments to be determined by
new formula based upon Clean Water Needs Survey.
Introduction Date: 2023-01-26
Bill Number
S 115
Last Action
Read Twice And Referred To The
Committee On Environment And Public
Works 2023 01 26
Status
In Senate
Position
Monitor
Priority
None
Powered by
Page 1
M E M O R A N D U M
To: Orange County Sanitation District
From: Townsend Public Affairs
Date: April 4, 2024
Subject: State Legislative Monthly Report
STATE LEGISLATIVE UPDATES
The month of March continued with the Legislature’s quick pace of considering and amending
legislation to ensure bills progressed through their first house. In addition to the growing
momentum of legislative progress within the Legislature, March featured numerous developments
related to addressing priority issues such as the State Budget, retail theft, and affordability in the
utility sector. The Legislature also observed its Spring Recess from March 22 – March 29 and
returned to Sacramento on April 1.
March featured numerous policy committees and robust agendas for bill considerations. This pace
will continue through April and May before bills cross over to their second house by the May 24
legislative deadline. The Legislature will shift its focus once again to the budget process in May,
which marks the release of the Governor’s “May Revision” of the January budget proposal,
followed by the constitutional deadline of July 1 wherein the Governor must sign a budget bill into
law.
In addition to policy committee events, March saw several bill amendments. With the bill
introduction deadline on February 16, the Legislature introduced 1,520 Assembly Bills and 639
Senate Bills, for a total of 2,159 bills. In addition, there are 397 combined Assembly and Senate
“2-year bills” that were introduced in 2023, which have been able to resume the legislative process
since January 2024.
State Budget Update—Senate Releases Early Action Plan
On March 14, the Senate released its budget priorities document, which overviews their proposed
amendments to the Governor’s January budget proposal. The priority document is titled “Protect
our Progress,” and serves as an important benchmark for the negotiations between the
Governor’s Administration, the Assembly, and the Senate one how each stakeholder would like
to see the State’s spending plan for the fiscal year implemented. Since the release of the
Governor’s January Budget proposal, which outlined a $38 billion projected shortfall, the
Legislative Analyst Office (LAO) has reported the problem could grow by an additional $15 billion,
which would take the shortfall to $53 billion. The May Revision of the January Budget Proposal
which will incorporate April tax receipts and revenue returns data will provide a more precise
number, which could range from lower than $38 billion to higher than $53 billion.
Page 2
These conversations and budget negotiations are particularly relevant to OC San because of the
impacts they can have on priority pots of funding from the State or on the likelihood of Member
directed spending from the Budget.
The Senate report suggests that the Legislature could enhance the management of the shortfall
by promptly implementing several billion dollars' worth of proposed solutions. To be precise, the
adoption of $17.1 billion in solutions, aligned with the Governor's proposal for a partial utilization
of the Rainy-Day Fund, constitutes Step 1 of the Senate's Protect Our Progress 2024 budget plan,
achieving the following objectives:
• “Shrinks the Shortfall” from a projected $38-$53 billion to a more manageable $9-24 billion.
• Positions the Legislature and the Governor to best protect progress by maximizing the
time and energy spent focusing on the most challenging solutions to close the remaining
budget shortfall during the critical time leading up to the June 15 constitutional deadline
for the Legislature to pass the Budget Bill.
Step 2 of the Senate’s Protect Our Progress 2024 budget plan, is anticipated to be released later
in the Spring and will provide a comprehensive proposal for a balanced, responsible budget that
protects core programs and services. The release of the priority outline document will soon be
complemented by the Assembly’s priorities, which will eventually be incorporated into the
Legislature’s official budget proposal bill following negotiations between both houses.
On March 20, Governor Newsom and Senate Pro Tem McGuire reached a tentative compromise
to help close the current budget shortfall. Currently, no official language has been released,
however, a compromise is anticipated to address the current shortfall with cost savings of
between $12-18 billion.
California Water Supply Conditions
In recent years, Spring has generally marked the end of California's rainy season. Spring also
marks a pivotal time of year for water managers in the State to record snow levels in the Sierra
Nevada. This year, water reservoirs are marginally surpassing the average levels at the Sierra
Nevada and the Colorado River Basin, which are pivotal reservoirs of water.
Additionally, this year marks an anomaly; despite prolonged drought and occasional heavy floods
during the winter, the Sierra snowpack is currently reporting average levels. By comparison, this
time last year Sierra snowpack hovered around 230 percent of average, replacing a dismal year
of just 35 percent the year before.
The National Weather Service has issued a winter storm warning for the Sierra for early April,
forecasting approximately one to two feet of snow. A relatively normal snowpack is a good sign
and helps water managers plan effectively for water deliveries in the upcoming year. Particularly
of an interest to OC San, a strong snowpack likely suggests more water deliveries to Southern
California and a decreased likelihood of mandatory reductions or conservations orders that can
impact OC San operations.
OC San
State
Bills of Interest
BILL AUTHOR SUMMARY LATEST ACTION OC SAN
POSITION LEGISLATIVE PLAN OTHER
POSITIONS
AB 805 Arambula [D]Authorizes the State Water Resources Control Board (State Water Board)
to require a sewer service provider—for a sewer system that has the
reasonable potential to cause a violation of water quality objectives; impair
present or future beneficial uses of water; or cause pollution, nuisance, or
contamination of waters of the state—to contract with an administrator
designated or approved by the State Water Board.
Currently in the Senate
Rules Committee
Watch Legislative and Regulatory
Policies: Special Districts -
Oppose further state
regulations that adversely
impact special district
financing, operations, and
administration.
ACC-OC - NYC
LOCC - NYC
CASA - Work With
Author
CSDA - Oppose
ACWA - Not Favor
AB 1567 E. Garcia [D]Would enact the Safe Drinking Water, Wildfire Prevention, Drought
Preparation, Flood Protection, Extreme Heat Mitigation, Clean Energy, and
Workforce Development Bond Act of 2024, which, if approved by the
voters, would authorize the issuance of bonds in the amount of
$15,995,000,000 pursuant to the State General Obligation Bond Law to
finance projects for safe drinking water, wildfire prevention, drought
preparation, flood protection, extreme heat mitigation, clean energy, and
workforce development programs.
Referred to the Senate
Natural Resources and
Water Committee and
the Senate Governance
and Finance Committee
Watch Guiding Priorities: Obtain
financial assistance for OC
San projects through grants,
loans, and legislative
directed funding.
ACC-OC - NYC
LOCC - Support if
Amended
CASA - Support if
Amended
CSDA -Support if
Amended
ACWA - Support if
Amended
AB 1820 Schiavo [D]Current law requires a housing development project be subject only to the
ordinances, policies, and standards adopted and in effect when the
preliminary application was submitted. This bill would authorize a
development proponent that submits a preliminary application for a
housing development project to request a preliminary fee and exaction
estimate, as defined, and would require the local agency to provide the
estimate within 20 business days of the submission of the preliminary
application. For development fees imposed by an agency other than a city
or county, the bill would require the development proponent to request the
preliminary fee and exaction estimate from the agency that imposes the
fee.
Will be heard in the
Assembly Housing and
Community Development
Committee on April 10
Watch Legislative and Regulatory
Policies: Special Districts -
Oppose further state
regulations that adversely
impact special district
financing, operations, and
administration.
ACC-OC - NYC
LOCC - NYC
CASA - NYC
CSDA - Oppose
ACWA - Oppose
Unless Amended
AB 2257 Wilson [D]This bill would prohibit, if a local agency complies with specified
procedures, a person or entity from bringing a judicial action or proceeding
alleging noncompliance with the constitutional provisions for any new,
increased, or extended fee or assessment, as defined, unless that person
or entity has timely submitted to the local agency a written objection to that
fee or assessment that specifies the grounds for alleging noncompliance,
as specified. This bill would provide that local agency responses to the
timely submitted written objections shall go to the weight of the evidence
supporting the agency’s compliance with the substantive limitations on fees
and assessments imposed by the constitutional provisions.
Introduced Watch Legislative and Regulatory
Policies: Special Districts -
Oppose further state
regulations that adversely
impact special district
financing, operations, and
administration.
ACC-OC - NYC
LOCC - NYC
CASA - Support
CSDA - Support
ACWA - Sponsor
Proposed Legislation 2024
High Priority
OC San
State
Bills of Interest
BILL AUTHOR SUMMARY LATEST ACTION OC SAN
POSITION LEGISLATIVE PLAN OTHER
POSITIONS
AB 2515 Papan [D]This bill would similarly prohibit any person from selling in the state any
menstrual products that contain regulated PFAS, as defined. The bill would
require, no later than January 1, 2027, the Department of Toxic
Substances Control (DTSC), in consultation with the State Department of
Public Health, to identify and assess the hazards of chemicals or chemical
classes that can provide the same or similar function in menstrual products
as regulated PFAS and that can impact vulnerable populations and to
make this information publicly available on the DTSC’s internet website.
Introduced Support State Priorities: Monitor
state legislation as well as
State Water Resources
Control Board (SWRCB)
regulatory activity related to
PFAS.
ACC-OC - NYC
LOCC - NYC
CASA - Support
CSDA - Watch
ACWA - NYC
AB 2626 Dixon [D]This bill would extend the compliance dates for local government set forth
in the Advanced Clean Fleets Regulation by 10 years. The bill would
prohibit the state board from taking enforcement action against a local
government for violating the Advanced Clean Fleets Regulation if the
alleged violation occurs before January 1, 2025.
Referred to the Assembly
Transportation
Committee and the
Assembly Natural
Resources Committee
Watch Legislative and Regulatory
Policies: Special Districts -
Oppose further state
regulations that adversely
impact special district
financing, operations, and
administration.
ACC-OC - NYC
LOCC - NYC
CASA - NYC
CSDA - Support
ACWA - NYC
AB 2735 Rubio [D]This bill would authorize a public utility, as defined, to enter into a joint
powers agreement with a public agency for the purpose of jointly exercising
any power common to the contracting parties. The bill would also authorize
a public utility and one or more public agencies to provide insurance, as
specified, by a joint powers agreement. The bill would also authorize a
public utility and one or more public agencies to enter into a joint powers
agreement for the purposes of risk-pooling, as specified.
Will be heard in the
Assembly Insurance
Committee on April 17
Watch Legislative and Regulatory
Policies: Special Districts -
Oppose further state
regulations that adversely
impact special district
financing, operations, and
administration.
ACC-OC - NYC
LOCC - NYC
CASA - NYC
CSDA - NYC
ACWA - Watch
AB 2761 Hart [D]This bill would enact the Reducing Toxics in Packaging Act, which would
prohibit, beginning January 1, 2026, a person from manufacturing, selling,
offering for sale, or distributing in the state plastic packaging that contains
certain chemicals, as specified. The bill would exclude from that prohibition
packaging used for certain medical, drug, and federally regulated products.
The bill would authorize the imposition of a civil penalty for a violation of
that prohibition, as specified.
Will be heard in the
Assembly Environmental
Safety and Toxic
Materials Committee on
April 9
Watch State Priorities: Support
legislation or regulations that
restrict the use of
microplastics and chemicals
of emerging concern in any
product that is disposed of
through the sewer system.
ACC-OC - NYC
LOCC - NYC
CASA - NYC
CSDA - Watch
ACWA - NYC
AB 2894 Gallagher [D]Spot Bill related to Indoor Residential Water Use Introduced Watch Legislative and Regulatory
Policies: Special Districts -
Oppose further state
regulations that adversely
impact special district
financing, operations, and
administration.
ACC-OC - NYC
LOCC - NYC
CASA - NYC
CSDA - Watch
ACWA - NYC
OC San
State
Bills of Interest
BILL AUTHOR SUMMARY LATEST ACTION OC SAN
POSITION LEGISLATIVE PLAN OTHER
POSITIONS
AB 3073 Haney [D]Would require the State Department of Public Health, in consultation with
participating wastewater treatment facilities, local public health agencies,
and other subject matter experts, to create a pilot program to test for high-
risk substances and related treatment medications in wastewater. Under
the bill, the goal of the program would be to determine how wastewater
data can be used by state and local public health programs to address
substance abuse in California. The bill would require the department to
develop a list of target substances to be analyzed during the program that
may include cocaine, fentanyl, methamphetamine, xylazine, methadone,
buprenorphine, and naloxone. The bill would require the department, on or
before July 1, 2025, to solicit voluntary participation from local public health
agencies and wastewater treatment facilities, as specified. The bill would
require the department to work with the participating agencies and facilities
to collect samples and to arrange for those samples to be tested by
qualified laboratories. The bill would require the department, in consultation
with public health agencies and subject matter experts, to analyze test
results to determine possible public health interventions.
Will be heard in the
Assembly Environmental
Safety and Toxic
Materials Committee on
April 9
Watch Legislative and Regulatory
Policies: Special Districts -
Oppose further state
regulations that adversely
impact special district
financing, operations, and
administration.
ACC-OC - NYC
LOCC - NYC
CASA - Support, if
amended
CSDA - Oppose
Unless Amended
ACWA - Watch
ACA 2 Alanis [R]Would establish the Water and Wildfire Resiliency Fund within the State
Treasury, and would require the Treasurer to annually transfer an amount
equal to 3% of all state revenues that may be appropriated as described
from the General Fund to the Water and Wildfire Resiliency Fund. The
measure would require the moneys in the fund to be appropriated by the
Legislature and would require that 50% of the moneys in the fund be used
for water projects, as specified, and that the other 50% of the moneys in
the fund be used for forest maintenance and health projects, as specified.
Referred to the Assembly
Water, Parks, and
Wildlifre Committee and
the Assembly Natural
Resources Committee
Watch Guiding Priorities: Obtain
financial assistance for OC
San projects through grants,
loans, and legislative
directed funding.
ACC-OC - NYC
LOCC - NYC
CASA - NYC
CSDA - Watch
ACWA - NYC
SB 867 Allen [D]Would enact the Drought, Flood, and Water Resilience, Wildfire and Forest
Resilience, Coastal Resilience, Extreme Heat Mitigation, Biodiversity and
Nature-Based Climate Solutions, Climate Smart Agriculture, Park Creation
and Outdoor Access, and Clean Energy Bond Act of 2024, which, if
approved by the voters, would authorize the issuance of bonds in the
amount of $15,500,000,000 pursuant to the State General Obligation Bond
Law to finance projects for drought, flood, and water resilience, wildfire and
forest resilience, coastal resilience, extreme heat mitigation, biodiversity
and nature-based climate solutions, climate smart agriculture, park
creation and outdoor access, and clean energy programs.
Currently in the
Assembly Natural
Resources Committee
Watch Guiding Priorities: Obtain
financial assistance for OC
San projects through grants,
loans, and legislative
directed funding.
ACC-OC - NYC
LOCC - Support if
Amended
CASA - Support if
Amended
CSDA - Support if
Amended
ACWA - Support if
Amended
OC San
State
Bills of Interest
BILL AUTHOR SUMMARY LATEST ACTION OC SAN
POSITION LEGISLATIVE PLAN OTHER
POSITIONS
SB 903 Skinner [D]This bill would, beginning January 1, 2030, prohibit a person from
distributing, selling, or offering for sale a product that contains intentionally
added PFAS, as defined, unless the Department of Toxic Substances
Control has made a determination that the use of PFAS in the product is a
currently unavoidable use, the prohibition is preempted by federal law, or
the product is used. The bill would specify the criteria and procedures for
determining whether the use of PFAS in a product is a currently
unavoidable use, for renewing that determination, and for revoking that
determination. The bill would require the department to maintain on its
internet website a list of each determination of currently unavoidable use,
when each determination expires, and the products and uses that are
exempt from the prohibition. The bill would impose a civil penalty for a
violation of the prohibition, as specified.
Passed the Senate
Environmental Quality
Committee and will be
heard in the Senate
Judiciary Committee
Support State Priorities: Monitor
state legislation as well as
State Water Resources
Control Board (SWRCB)
regulatory activity related to
PFAS.
ACC-OC - NYC
LOCC - Support
CASA - Sponsor
CSDA - Watch
ACWA - Favor
SB 937 Wiener [D]The Planning and Zoning Law requires each county and each city to adopt
a comprehensive, long-term general plan for its physical development, and
the development of specified land outside its boundaries, that includes,
among other mandatory elements, a housing element. Existing law
extended by 18 months the period for the expiration, effectuation, or
utilization of a housing entitlement, as defined, that was issued before, and
was in effect on, March 4, 2020, and that would expire before December
31, 2021, except as specified. Existing law provides that if the state or a
local agency extended the otherwise applicable time for the expiration,
effectuation, or utilization of a housing entitlement for not less than 18
months, as specified, that housing entitlement would not be extended an
additional 18 months pursuant to these provisions. This bill would extend
by 24 months the period for the expiration, effectuation, or utilization of a
housing entitlement, as defined, that was issued before January 1, 2024,
and that will expire before December 31, 2025, except as specified. The bill
would toll this 24-month extension during any time that the housing
entitlement is the subject of a legal challenge.
Referred to the Senate
Housing Committee
Watch Legislative and Regulatory
Policies: Special Districts -
Oppose further state
regulations that adversely
impact special district
financing, operations, and
administration.
ACC-OC - NYC
LOCC - NYC
CASA - NYC
CSDA - Oppose
Unless Amended
ACWA - Oppose
Unless Amended
SB 1034 Seyarto [R]This bill would revise the unusual circumstances under which the time limit
may be extended to include the need to search for, collect, appropriately
examine, and copy records during a state of emergency proclaimed by the
Governor when the state of emergency has affected the agency’s ability to
timely respond to requests due to decreased staffing or closure of the
agency’s facilities.
Passed the Senate
Judiciary Committee and
will be heard in the
Senate Appropriations
Committee
Support Legislative and Regulatory
Policies: Special Districts -
Oppose further state
regulations that adversely
impact special district
financing, operations, and
administration.
ACC-OC - NYC
LOCC - Support
CASA - Watch
CSDA - Support
ACWA - Favor
OC San
State
Bills of Interest
BILL AUTHOR SUMMARY LATEST ACTION OC SAN
POSITION LEGISLATIVE PLAN OTHER
POSITIONS
SB 1072 Padilla [D]This bill would require, if a property-related fee or charge creates revenues
in excess of the local government’s reasonable cost of providing the
specific benefit or specific government service, that the excess revenues
be used only to reduce the subsequently adopted and following property-
related fee or charge. The bill would declare that this provision is
declaratory of existing law.
Introduced Support Legislative and Regulatory
Policies: Special Districts -
Oppose further state
regulations that adversely
impact special district
financing, operations, and
administration.
ACC-OC - NYC
LOCC - NYC
CASA - Support
CSDA - Support
ACWA - Favor
SB 1147 Portantino [D]Would require, among other things, the Office of Environmental Health
Hazard Assessment (OEHHA) to study the health impacts of microplastics
in drinking water, including bottled water, in order to evaluate and identify
safe and unsafe levels of microplastics in those types of water, and, on or
before January 1, 2026, to develop and deliver to the State Water
Resources Control Board, among other things, public health standards and
goals for a safe level of microplastics in those waters. The bill would
require the state board, on or before January 1, 2028, to adopt and
implement those public health standards and goals developed and
delivered by OEHHA, and to provide those public health standards and
goals to local water agencies, along with other specified information
provided by OEHHA. The bill would also require the state board to
establish testing and reporting requirements for an annual testing of
microplastics in bottled water sold in or into this state, as specified.
Will be heard in the
Senate Environmental
Quality Committee on
April 17
Watch Legislative and Regulatory
Policies: Source Control -
Support legislation and/or
regulations that restrict the
use of microplastics and
chemicals of emerging
concern in any product that is
disposed of through the
sanitary sewer system.
ACC-OC - NYC
LOCC - NYC
CASA - Oppose
Unless Amended
CSDA - Oppose
Unless Amended
ACWA - Oppose
Unless Amended
SB 1210 Skinner [D]The California Constitution establishes the Public Utilities Commission,
with jurisdiction over all public utilities. Current law defines the term “public
utility” for certain purposes to include, among other corporations, every gas
corporation, electrical corporation, water corporation, and sewer system
corporation, where the service is performed for, or the commodity is
delivered to, the public or any portion thereof. This bill would, for new
housing construction, prohibit a connection, capacity, or other point of
connection charge from a public utility, as defined, or a special district,
including a municipal utility district, for electrical, gas, sewer, or water
service from exceeding 1% of the reported building permit value of that
housing unit. The bill would require a public utility or special district to issue
an above-described charge over a period of at least 10 years commencing
on the date when the housing unit is first occupied, as specified. The bill
would require a public utility or special district to publicly report on its
internet website the amount of any charge issued each year pursuant the
above-described provision by the housing unit’s address.
Passed the Senate
Energy Utilities and
Communications
Committee, will be heard
next in the Senate Local
Government Committee
Oppose Legislative and Regulatory
Policies: Special Districts -
Oppose further state
regulations that adversely
impact special district
financing, operations, and
administration.
ACC-OC - NYC
LOCC - NYC
CASA - Oppose
CSDA - Oppose
ACWA - Oppose
SB 1266 Limon [D]Prohibits, commencing January 1, 2025, a person from manufacturing,
selling, or distributing in commerce, any children’s feeding product,
children’s sucking product, or children’s teething product that contains
perfluoroalkyl and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS) or any form of
bisphenol unless the use is a temporarily essential chemical, as defined.
Passed the Senate
Environmental Quality
Committee and will be
heard in the Senate
Health Committee
Watch State Priorities: Monitor
state legislation as well as
State Water Resources
Control Board (SWRCB)
regulatory activity related to
PFAS.
ACC-OC - NYC
LOCC - NYC
CASA - Watch
CSDA - NYC
ACWA - NYC
OC San
State
Bills of Interest
BILL AUTHOR SUMMARY LATEST ACTION OC SAN
POSITION LEGISLATIVE PLAN OTHER
POSITIONS
SB 1393 Niello [R]This bill would require the state board to establish the Advanced Clean
Fleets Regulation Appeals Advisory Committee by an unspecified date for
purposes of reviewing appeals of denied requests for exemptions from the
requirements of the Advanced Clean Fleets Regulation. The bill would
require the committee to include representatives of specified state
agencies, other state and local government representatives, and
representatives of private fleet owners, the electric vehicle manufacturing
industry, and electrical corporations, as provided. The bill would require the
committee to meet monthly and would require recordings of its meetings to
be made publicly available on the state board’s internet website. The bill
would require the committee to consider, and make a recommendation on,
an appeal of an exemption request denial no later than 60 days after the
appeal is made.
Failed to pass Senate
Environmental Quality
Committee.
Watch Legislative and Regulatory
Policies: Special Districts -
Oppose further state
regulations that adversely
impact special district
financing, operations, and
administration.
ACC-OC - NYC
LOCC - Support
CASA - NYC
CSDA - Support
ACWA - 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
March 12, 2024
The Honorable Tom Carper, Chairman
The Honorable Shelley Moore Capito, Ranking Member
Committee on Environment and Public Works
United States Senate
Washington, DC 20510
Dear Chairman Carper and Ranking Member Capito:
As the Committee on Environment and Public Works considers the critical need to
address passive receiver liability for per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS) cleanup
under Comprehensive Environmental Response, Compensation, and Liability Act
(CERCLA), the Orange County Sanitation District (OC San) believes the committee must
amend CERCLA. This will ensure clean water agencies like OC San are provided
protections from frivolous and unwarranted litigation. Our request is consistent with
past congressional actions that delivered such protections to preclude the use of
CERCLA liability to cast a net of liability over innocent, passive receivers.
We generally support USEPA’s efforts to eliminate and clean-up sites contaminated by
perfluorooctanoic acid (PFOA), perfluorooctane Sulfonate (PFOS), and other PFAS.
However, such efforts must recognize that utilities do not use, manufacture, or sell
these compounds. Rather, chemical and product manufacturers create and sell these
compounds that result in discharges to clean water systems. As part of our role in
protecting public health and the environment through treatment of wastewater
influent, PFAS and other constituents are concentrated, and then appropriately
disposed of via wastewater effluent and/or biosolids. This process is accomplished
consistent with all applicable laws, including the Clean Water Act.
The USEPA has signaled that it intends to employ “enforcement discretion” and not
pursue CERCLA cleanup liability against drinking water and wastewater systems related
to PFAS. However, this does not protect water and wastewater systems against CERCLA
claims filed by third parties, nor does it prevent polluters from entangling local
agencies in CERCLA litigation or actions by employing the “joint and several” CERCLA
liability regime to attempt to offload their cleanup responsibility onto our ratepayers.
Without guardrails to protect water and wastewater agencies (and by extension, the
public ratepayers we serve), the CERCLA hazardous substances designation would
divert limited public resources to defend against such litigation.
Page Two
Moreover, subjecting ratepayers to polluter and third-party initiated CERCLA litigation
directly conflicts with the “polluter pays” principle at the core of CERCLA. Ultimately,
without a passive receiver’s exemption, CERCLA designation will result in increased
water and wastewater rates nationwide, and financially burden local governments that
were not responsible for the manufacture and sale of these chemicals. Congress must
develop and pass liability protections to protect water systems and their ratepayers
against these claims.
On behalf of OC San, we urge you to protect water and wastewater system ratepayers
nationwide by providing clear and targeted liability protections for passive receivers
that appropriately handle and dispose of PFAS.
If you have any questions, please do not hesitate to contact Jennifer Cabral, OC
San Administration Manager, at (714) 593-7581 or via mail at JCabral@ocsan.gov.
Sincerely,
Chad P. Wanke
Board Chairman
March 5, 2024
The Honorable Kelly Seyarto
California State Senate
1021 O Street, Suite 7120
Sacramento, CA 95814
RE: SB 1034 (Seyarto): California Public Records Act: State of Emergency
Orange County Sanitation District – Support
Dear Senator Seyarto,
On behalf of the Orange County Sanitation District (OC San), I am writing today to support
Senate Bill (SB) 1034. This bill adds a clause to the “unusual circumstances” definition pertaining
to a request of the California Public Records Act (CPRA). If the Governor proclaims a state of
emergency, this qualifies as an “unusual circumstance” as defined in SB 1034, which extends
the response time for a public records request to no more than 14 additional days.
A state of emergency can affect state and local agencies’ ability to timely respond to CPRA
requests due to decreased staffing or closure of the agency’s facilities. Additionally, difficulties
can include a combination of resource constraints, logistical hurdles, safety concerns, and the
need to prioritize immediate needs. SB 1034 allows for an extension to the existing law which
requires agencies to respond within 10 days of receiving the request, as the state of emergency
proclaimed by the Governor falls under an “unusual circumstance”. The agency would now have
an extension of not more than 14 days to respond. With an extension during a state of
emergency, this will allow agencies to prioritize urgent and life-threatening situations, instead
of allocating resources to stay within CPRA compliance.
SB 1034 allows agencies to focus on keeping their communities safe during a state of
emergency. During a state of emergency, agencies may face a surge in demand for their
services while simultaneously experiencing resource constraints. These constraints can include
shortages in staffing, equipment, and supplies, and immediate safety concerns, making it
difficult to promptly respond to public record requests to stay within the compliance period. SB
1034 allows agencies to focus on keeping their communities safe in a state of emergency.
OC San applauds your leadership on this issue and is honored to support SB 1034. If you have
any questions, please do not hesitate to contact Jennifer Cabral, Administration Manager,
at (714) 593-7581 or via mail at JCabral@ocsan.gov.
Sincerely,
Chad P. Wanke
Board Chairman
March 22, 2024
Chairperson Isaac Bryan
Assembly Committee on Natural Resources
1020 N Street, Room 164
Sacramento, CA 95814
(916) 319-2092
Re: AB 2626 Advanced Clean Fleets regulations: local governments (Dixon) – SUPPORT
Dear Chairperson Bryan:
The Orange County Sanitation District (OC San) supports Assembly Bill (AB) 2626. As you know
California’s local governments are facing challenges in attempts to meet the propagated
California Air Resources Board (CARB) compliance standards and dates associated with State
mandates to convert fleets to zero-emission vehicles (ZEV). Generally, local governments
support the State’s goal of making efforts to mitigate climate change.
If passed, AB 2626 will address near-term challenges for local governments through a 10-year
extension for compliance with the ZEV mandates. This would allow the industry to improve
electric vehicle and battery technologies along with manufacturing the volume of vehicles
necessary to outfit the fleets of nearly 500 cities, 58 counties, and thousands of special districts
in California.
AB 2626 seeks a more practical approach to compliance with the current ZEV regulations
established by CARB to provide time for local governments to partner with private industry to
address the issues of availability, cost, and operational impacts.
If you have any questions, please do not hesitate to contact Jennifer Cabral, OC San
Administration Manager, at (714) 593-7581 or via mail at JCabral@ocsan.gov.
Sincerely,
Chad P. Wanke
Board Chairman
April 8, 2024
The Honorable Nancy Skinner
California State Senate
1021 O Street, Room 8630
Sacramento, CA 95814
Re: Senate Bill (SB) 1210 (Skinner) - Oppose
Dear Senator Skinner:
On behalf of the Orange County Sanitation District (OC San), that provides wastewater collection,
treatment, and recycling for approximately 2.6 million people in central and northwest Orange
County, I write to express our opposition to SB 1210.
As you are aware, SB 1210 would prohibit a connection fee or capacity charge for water, sewer,
and electrical services from exceeding one percent of the reported building permit value for that
housing unit. Capacity charges are assessed on the customer to cover the cost of maintaining or
constructing infrastructure necessary to meet the additional sewer demand from connections,
such as constructing a new wastewater treatment facility.
Capacity charges also fund the costs of developing new supply necessary to service additional
demand. These fees are highly regulated under Proposition 26 and the Mitigation Fee Act. These
laws require fees to be justified, reasonable, and proportionate to the services provided, and they
mandate transparency, accountability, and public participation in the fee-setting process.
In its current state, this bill would result in a significant underfunding of infrastructure to provide
essential sewer services for new homes in Orange County, and throughout the state. Additionally,
this bill would result in higher sewer rates for existing customers who would be forced to subsidize
the infrastructure needed to support new developments.
For the above reasons, we must respectfully oppose SB 1210, unless it is amended to address our
concerns. We look forward to continuing our dialogue with your office and seeking amendments to
resolve our concerns.
If you have any questions, please contact Jennifer Cabral, OC San Administration Manager, at (714)
593-7581 or via email at JCabral@ocsan.gov.
Sincerely,
Chad P. Wanke
Board Chairman
STEERING COMMITTEE
Agenda Report
Administration Building
10844 Ellis Avenue
Fountain Valley, CA 92708
(714) 593-7433
File #:2024-3571 Agenda Date:4/24/2024 Agenda Item No:3.
FROM:Robert Thompson, General Manager
SUBJECT:
PUBLIC AFFAIRS UPDATE FOR THE MONTH OF MARCH 2024
GENERAL MANAGER'S RECOMMENDATION
RECOMMENDATION: Recommend to the Board of Directors to:
Receive and file the Public Affairs Update for the month of March 2024.
BACKGROUND
Included in this report are recent activities of interest managed by the Public Affairs Office for the
month of March 2024.
RELEVANT STANDARDS
·Maintain influential legislative advocacy and a public outreach program
·Maintain collaborative and cooperative relationships with regulators,stakeholders,and
neighboring communities
·Listen to and seriously consider community input on environmental concerns
PROBLEM
The Orange County Sanitation District (OC San)is a distinguished entity in the water/wastewater
industry.Despite our industry recognition,there may be limited awareness among our customers
regarding the pivotal role we play in protecting public health and the environment.The absence of
direct communication through a billing method may contribute to this gap in knowledge.
It is our responsibility to ensure that our ratepayers are aware of the vital services we provide.Many
customers may not realize that improper waste disposal into the sanitation system can adversely
impact our sewer lines,treatment plants,and the quality of water supplied through GWRS.By
enhancing communication channels and fostering understanding,we aim to bridge the gap and
empower our ratepayers with the knowledge needed to support and appreciate the essential work we
undertake for the well-being of our community and the environment.
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File #:2024-3571 Agenda Date:4/24/2024 Agenda Item No:3.
PROPOSED SOLUTION
By providing tours,community outreach,education,and general communication via OC San’s
website,social media,and direct mailings,we can share information with 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 and the knowledge and understanding of
wastewater treatment.
RAMIFICATIONS OF NOT TAKING ACTION
Neglecting to inform the community,local agencies,and area businesses about OC San could lead
to insufficient support for our mission, hindering our ability to fulfill our responsibilities effectively.
PRIOR COMMITTEE/BOARD ACTIONS
July 2022 - Public Affairs Strategic Plan for Fiscal Years 2022-2024 approved.
ADDITIONAL INFORMATION
Activities in March:
Outreach Report
An outreach report that includes tours,website,social media posts,construction notifications,
speaking engagements, and more is attached to this Agenda Report.
Social Media
OC San messaging,announcements,and program updates were posted across OC San’s social
media platforms. Our social media handle is @OCSanDistrict.
·Facebook: 15 posts reaching 2.8k people
·X: 11 posts reaching 705 people
·Instagram: 25 posts reaching 4.1k people
·LinkedIn: 5 posts and reaching 2.9k people
Presentations and Industry Coverage
In March,staff participated in 15 tours which included Cypress College;Santiago Canyon College;
Anaheim Hills Elementary;Spirit Christian Academy;University of California,Irvine;Yucaipa Valley
Water;SCAQMD;and Bassett Adult School.Staff also participated as judges in the Orange County
Science and Engineering Fair,held two Wastewater 101 Citizens Academy classes,and participated
in the two-day OCWD Children’s Water Festival where staff engaged with over 300 students.Staff
also participated in career days at Villa Park Middle School,Carver Elementary School in Long
Beach,and Monte Vista Elementary School.In total,we reached 800 people for the month.Details
can be found in the Outreach Report.
Internal Communication
In March,there were 61 posts on the employee intranet -The San Box and four weekly emails were
distributed on relevant topics for the week.
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Construction Outreach Update
Outreach efforts continue for OC San construction activities throughout the service area.Projects
are ongoing in Fountain Valley,Costa Mesa,Buena Park,Anaheim,Newport Beach,and within both
of our treatment plants.Website updates,email text alerts,and direct notifications continue to be
distributed as the projects progress.Details on each project can be found at
www.ocsan.gov/construction.
Employee Appreciation Day
On March 1,OC San celebrated employees by acknowledging their contributions and providing cards
of appreciation that could be shared with their colleagues.
March Retirement Celebration
On March 20,OC San hosted a celebration for all retiring employees.This gave staff an opportunity
to share stories and send off dedicated employees with a heartfelt goodbye.Retirees from the last
couple of years were also invited to attend.
OC San Celebrates 70 Years with a Community Open House
2024 marks OC San’s 70th anniversary.To commemorate this milestone,OC San is hosting a
Community Open House on Saturday,June 8 to celebrate our history and achievements.Our
member and sister agencies are invited to participate in the event by hosting a booth of their own.
The event will be filled with informational booths,tours of the plant and headquarters,entertainment,
and much more. Information is available at www.ocsan.gov.
Member Agency Toolkit
On a quarterly basis,OC San creates a toolkit of topics of interest for our member agencies to share
across their various communication platforms.This quarter’s toolkit focused on our upcoming Open
House.The toolkit had two purposes;the first was for event promotion and the second was inviting
the member agencies to participate in the event by hosting a booth of their own.
OC San Video Contest
OC San launched its 2024 Video Contest offering high school and college students who live or attend
school within OC San’s service area an opportunity to create an educational video.This year’s
theme was "Find Yourself at OC San"with the intent to highlight careers in wastewater.Video
submittals were due March 31 and we received six entries.The winning videos will be showcased on
our social media platforms and our website. Winners will be announced at the June Board Meeting.
Activities in April:
OC San Attends and Presents at CWEA Conference
OC San staff from various divisions attended the CWEA Conference from April 9-12 to present on
various disciplines,including research,educational outreach,automated data tools to improve lab
efficiency, our thickening and dewatering plant water study, and treatment plant improvements.
La Palma Community Conversation Event
OC San participated in the La Palma Community Conversation night to discuss various OC San
initiatives with residents and community members.
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File #:2024-3571 Agenda Date:4/24/2024 Agenda Item No:3.
OC San Hosts a Booth at Costa Mesa Earth Day
OC San is participating in an Earth Day event held by the City of Costa Mesa on April 20.Staff will
talk with residents about OC San and all that we do to support public health and the environment.
OC San Connection Newsletter
The spring issue of the OC San Connection is scheduled for publication and distribution in April.The
issue will include highlights of our history,information about the Open House,and construction
improvements throughout our service area.The newsletter is distributed electronically to
approximately 4,000 people.
Take a Kit to Your Kid Day
This year,the “Take Your Kid to Work Day”event has been switched around.A fun activity kit is
being sent home with parents to share with their children to show them their role at OC San.The
activities are fun-filled for both children and parents.The kit includes worksheets,coloring sheets,
goodies, and more.
OC San’s Local Lobbyist on Board
As part of OC San’s Strategic Plan,a local lobbyist was brought on board to assist with local agency
outreach.The initial kick-off meeting occurred this month.Beginning next month,a report on
activities will be included in the Outreach Report.
CEQA
N/A
FINANCIAL CONSIDERATIONS
All items mentioned are included in OC San’s FY 2022-2024 Budget.
ATTACHMENT
The following attachment(s)may be viewed on-line at the OC San website (www.ocsan.gov)with the complete agenda
package:
·Outreach and Media Report - March 2024
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Outreach and Media
Summary
March 2024
OC San Public Affairs Off ice
Table of Contents
OUTREACH REPORT…………………………………………………………PAGE 1
FACEBOOK POSTINGS ……………………………………………...............PAGE 3
TWITTER POSTINGS …………………………………………………………PAGE 4
INSTAGRAM POSTINGS………………………………………………………PAGE 5
LINKEDIN POSTINGS………………………………………………………....PAGE 6
NEWS ARTICLES……………………………………………………………………………. PAGE 7
Outreach Report March 2024
Date Tours Attendees Tour Guide
3/124 Segerstrom High School 19 Jenna Obenshain
3/4/24 Yucaipa Valley Water staff 4 Justin Fenton/
Andrew Brown
3/5/24 University of California, Irvine 4 Ponce Navarro
3/9/24 Spirit Christian Academy 14 Dickie Fernandez/
Andrew Brown
3/11/24 Coastline Regional Occupational 17 Charles Falzone
3/12/24 Residential 2 Marianne Kleine
3/13/24 LA County Sanitation District staff 3 Michael Huls/
Chris Wheatley
3/1324 Cyress College 29 Marianne Kleine
3/14/24 Iranian Media 2 Rebecca Long
3/20/24 Anaheim Hills Elementary 9 Jenna Obenshain/
Donald Herrera
3/22/24 Santiago Canyon College 17 Eric Halverson
3/23/24 Bassett Adult School 4 Shabbir Basrai
3/25/24 University of California, Irvine 8 Reza Sobhani
3/26/24 LA County Sanitation District staff 1 Anthony Chang
3/29/24 South Coast AQMD staff 12 Randa AbuShaban/
Tom Meregillano
Date Speaking Engagements/Events Attendees Presenter
3/6/24 Orange County Science and
Engineering Virtual Fair 100
Cindy Murra/
Jeff Brown/ Dawn
Myers/ Yiping Cao/
David Lo/
Courtney Sakuma/
Jenna Obenshain/
Rachel Van Exel/
Shawn Carman
3/724 Wastewater 101 Citizens Academy 20 Rob Thompson/
Lorenzo Tyner
3/19/24 Career Day at Villa Park Middle School 40 Belen Carrillo
3/21/24 Wastewater 101 Citizen Academy
Protecting our Environment 23 Sam Choi/
Mark Kawamoto/
Tom Meregillano
1
3/25/24 Career Day at Carver Elementary 120 Sterling Harris
3/27-28/24 Children’s Water Festival 350
Dindo Carrillo, Dawn
Myers/ David Lo/
Randa AbuShaban/
Victoria Pilko/ Sam
Choi/ Kelly Newell/
Rachel Orejel/
Belen Carrillo/
Tom Meregillano
3/28/24 Career Day at Monte Vista Elementary 120
Shabbir Basrai/
Jenna Obenshain/
Jenny Gomez
Project Area Outreach Notifications # of People
Reached
Website Posts and
Text Alerts
Anaheim/ Orange Western Sewer - project
update 2,700
4 website posts/
2 text alerts
Costa Mesa Airway-Airport Loop Sewer Project –
update 30
2 website posts
Fountain Valley Bushard Diversion Structure Project –
start of construction 4,000
1 website post/
1 text alert
Newport Beach MacArthur Sewer Construction –
update 1 website update/
1 text
External
Communications Distribution # of People
Reached
5 Minutes Per
Month OC San Takes Action 216
Board Member
Talking Points One 50
Website Posts 8 posts 2.1k views Website
Facebook 15 posts 2.8k reached Social Media
Twitter 11 tweets 705 reached Social Media
Instagram 25 posts 4.1k reached Social Media
LinkedIn 5 posts 2.9k reached Social Media
2
Post performance - Facebook Pages
Data from 01 Mar, 2024 to 31 Mar, 2024
Sources
Orange County Sanitation DistrictO
Orange County Sanitation
District
Mar 31, 14:19O On this very wet Easter, we ask that you defer water-using chores until a er the
storm has passed. Our sewer system works extra hard on rainy days like this.
Thanks for helping your regional sewer provider.
5.26%61 57
Orange County Sanitation
District
Mar 30, 14:02O 2024 marks 70 Years of OC San, to celebrate we are counting down to our FREE
Open House on June 8 where you can come onsite and see everything that
happens behind the wall and even take a tour. Visit ocsan.gov to register!
4.76%133 126
Orange County Sanitation
District
Mar 26, 16:29O The OC San Audit Ad Hoc Committee Meeting is happening on April 3, 2024 at
3:30 pm. Click here to view the agenda:6.25%85 80
Orange County SanitationDistrict
Mar 24, 18:00O Exciting news, we are celebrating 70 years of Environmental Impact by hosting aFREE Open House to let the community discover the incredible work we do inwastewater management and environmental protection. Don't miss out on…5.19%163 154
Orange County SanitationDistrict
Mar 22, 17:02O Let's celebrate #WorldWaterDay! Here at OC San, our e orts make a hugesplash! Find out for yourself by joining us at our Open House in June and take atour. For more info visit ocsan.gov 5.31%121 113
Orange County SanitationDistrict
Mar 21, 17:14O The OC San Steering Committee Meeting (5 pm) and Board of Directors Meeting
(6 pm) are happening on 3/27/24. Click here to view the agenda:1.69%61 59
Orange County SanitationDistrict
Mar 20, 19:02O We were as shocked as Janice! These companies who make "flushable wipes"are not our F.R.I.E.N.D.S…. get it. Flushable wipes belong in the trash becausethey can cause clogs in the pipes.2.88%110 104
Orange County SanitationDistrict
Mar 18, 19:01O Next time you follow that DIY haircut tutorial… remember that hair goes in thetrash not down the drain!!!! Hair balls can happen inside your pipes and ours. Toclear them out is no easy task either. #What2Flush 1.52%136 132
Orange County SanitationDistrict
Mar 16, 15:01O 3 things that should never go down the kitchen sink are fats, oils and greases.
Make sure you throw them in the trash instead!! Remember that #FOGClogs 6%213 200
Orange County SanitationDistrict
Mar 14, 21:01O Happy Sunshine week! Sunshine Week aims to increase public awarenessregarding the significance of transparent governance and encouragesdiscussions on the consequences of excessive government confidentiality. At …2.02%106 99
Orange County SanitationDistrict
Mar 12, 22:48O Overnight Construction Happening. For full details visit ocsan.gov/AirwayAirport
City of Costa Mesa 3.32%1,108 1,083
Orange County SanitationDistrict
Mar 12, 22:39O High School and College Students can win up to $500! The deadline for the OCSan Video Contest is coming up on March 31! For full details visit ocsan.gov/video 5.19%188 154
Orange County Sanitation
District
Mar 12, 17:55O The Administration Committee Meeting is happening tomorrow at 5 p.m. Click
here to view the agenda:0%51 45
Orange County Sanitation
District
Mar 07, 22:55O Check out our new name sign! It’s giving ENVIRONMENTALLY AWARE vibes. It’s
giving INNOVATIVE vibes. It’s giving OC San.9.3%227 215
Orange County Sanitation
District
Mar 01, 19:15O When the wipe says "flushable." Remember that even though wipes may be
labeled as "flushable" they are not, they belong in the trash because they can
cause clogs in your pipes and ours.
3.81%229 210
DATE POST ENGAGEMENT RATE IMPRESSIONS REACH
3
Post performance - Twitter
Data from 01 Mar, 2024 to 31 Mar, 2024
Sources
@OCSanDistrictO
@OCSanDistrict
Mar 30, 14:01O 2024 marks 70 Years of OC San, to celebrate we are counting down to our FREE
Open House on June 8 where you can come onsite and see everything that
happens behind the wall and even take a tour. Visit http://ocsan.gov to registe…
6.85%5 73
@OCSanDistrict
Mar 24, 18:00O We are celebrating 70 years of Environmental Impact by hosting a FREE Open
House to highlight the work we do in wastewater management & environmental
protection. Don't miss out on tours, interactive booths, free ice cream, and mor…
0%0 67
@OCSanDistrict
Mar 22, 17:00O Let's celebrate #WorldWaterDay! Here at OC San, our e orts make a huge
splash! Find out for yourself by joining us at our Open House in June and take a
tour. For more info visit http://ocsan.gov https://twitter.com/OCSanDistrict/sta…
3.57%2 56
@OCSanDistrict
Mar 20, 19:00O We were as shocked as Janice! These companies who make "flushable wipes"are not our F.R.I.E.N.D.S…. get it. Flushable wipes belong in the trash becausethey can cause clogs in the pipes. https://twitter.com/OCSanDistrict/status/1…6.94%5 72
@OCSanDistrict
Mar 18, 19:00O Next time you follow that DIY haircut tutorial… remember that hair goes in thetrash not down the drain!!!! Hair balls can happen inside your pipes and ours. Toclear them out is no easy task either. #What2Flush https://twitter.com/OCSan…0%0 58
@OCSanDistrict
Mar 16, 15:00O 3 things that should never go down the kitchen sink are fats, oils and greases.Make sure you throw them in the trash instead!! Remember that #FOGClogs https://twitter.com/OCSanDistrict/status/1769015837959000509/photo/1 0%0 84
@OCSanDistrict
Mar 14, 21:00O Happy Sunshine Week! This week increases public awareness of transparentgovernance and encourages discussions on the consequences of excessivegovernment confidentiality. We are always open to the public about everythi…2.5%1 40
@OCSanDistrict
Mar 12, 22:48O Overnight Construction Happening. For full details visit http://ocsan.gov/AirwayAirport @CityofCostaMesa https://twitter.com/OCSanDistrict/status/1767684120316936527/photo/1 1.82%1 55
@OCSanDistrict
Mar 12, 22:39O High School and College Students can win up to $500! The deadline for the OCSan Video Contest is coming up on March 31! For full details visit http://ocsan.gov/video https://twitter.com/OCSanDistrict/status/1767681867816309009/ph…1.49%1 67
@OCSanDistrict
Mar 07, 22:55O Check out our new name sign! It’s giving ENVIRONMENTALLY AWARE vibes. It’sgiving INNOVATIVE vibes. It’s giving OC San. https://twitter.com/OCSanDistrict/status/1765873993720971392/photo/1 12.2%5 41
@OCSanDistrict
Mar 01, 19:15O When the wipe says "flushable." Remember that even though wipes may belabeled as "flushable" they are not, they belong in the trash because they cancause clogs in your pipes and ours. https://twitter.com/OCSanDistrict/status/…3.26%3 92
DATE POST ENGAGEMENT RATE ENGAGEMENTS IMPRESSIONS
4
Post performance - Instagram Business
Data from 01 Mar, 2024 to 31 Mar, 2024
Sources
ocsandistrictO
ocsandistrict
Mar 30, 14:01O 2024 marks 70 Years of OC San, to celebrate we are counting down to our FREE
Open House on June 8 where you can come onsite and see everything that
happens behind the wall and even take a tour. Visit ocsan.gov to register!
6.71%183 11 164
ocsandistrict
Mar 28, 22:44O (No description)0%130 0 129
ocsandistrict
Mar 28, 22:40O (No description)0%145 0 144
ocsandistrict
Mar 27, 23:38O If you haven’t done so visit our website to register for a tour at our open house!0%72 0 72
ocsandistrict
Mar 27, 22:11O (No description)0%71 0 71
ocsandistrict
Mar 27, 21:50O Just enter a video less than 1 minute in length Submit before March 31 0%70 0 70
ocsandistrict
Mar 27, 21:49O Deadline to submit is March 31! Don’t miss out on this chance to win up to $500!0%74 0 73
ocsandistrict
Mar 27, 18:08O Teaching hundreds of kids the 3 Ps today.0%88 0 87
ocsandistrict
Mar 27, 18:04O Relay Race at the @ocwaterfest 0%100 0 99
ocsandistrict
Mar 25, 14:44O Sign Up Now for a FREE Tour:0%125 0 122
ocsandistrict
Mar 24, 18:01O Exciting news, we are celebrating 70 years of Environmental Impact by hosting aFREE Open House to let the community discover the incredible work we do inwastewater management and environmental protection. Don't miss out on…10.81%359 23 333
ocsandistrict
Mar 22, 18:34O Danger: Cute turtles at OC San 0%185 0 183
ocsandistrict
Mar 22, 18:20O FriYay Moment - Touring the Treatment Plant 0%211 0 207
ocsandistrict
Mar 22, 17:02O Let's celebrate #WorldWaterDay! Here at OC San, our e orts make a huge
splash! Find out for yourself by joining us at our Open House in June and take a
tour. For more info visit ocsan.gov
6.02%179 9 166
ocsandistrict
Mar 20, 19:02O We were as shocked as Janice! These companies who make "flushable wipes"
are not our F.R.I.E.N.D.S…. get it. Flushable wipes belong in the trash because
they can cause clogs in the pipes.
7.01%288 18 271
ocsandistrict
Mar 18, 19:01O Next time you follow that DIY haircut tutorial… remember that hair goes in the
trash not down the drain!!!! Hair balls can happen inside your pipes and ours. To
clear them out is no easy task either. #What2Flush
4.41%460 15 431
ocsandistrict
Mar 16, 15:01O 3 things that should never go down the kitchen sink are fats, oils and greases.Make sure you throw them in the trash instead!! Remember that #FOGClogs 5.76%205 9 191
ocsandistrict
Mar 14, 21:01O Happy Sunshine week! Sunshine Week aims to increase public awareness
regarding the significance of transparent governance and encourages
discussions on the consequences of excessive government confidentiality. At …
5%129 6 120
ocsandistrict
Mar 12, 22:40O High School and College Students can win up to $500! The deadline for the OC
San Video Contest is coming up on March 31! For full details visit ocsan.gov/vide
o
6.47%176 5 139
ocsandistrict
Mar 12, 14:07O Deadline to submit is coming up! March 31 For more details visit:0%0 0 89
ocsandistrict
Mar 11, 15:05O (No description)0%0 0 132
ocsandistrict
Mar 07, 22:55O Check out our new name sign! It’s giving ENVIRONMENTALLY AWARE vibes. It’sgiving INNOVATIVE vibes. It’s giving OC San.10.71%413 38 383
ocsandistrict
Mar 07, 19:43O (No description)0%0 0 153
ocsandistrict
Mar 03, 18:16O (No description)0%0 0 147
ocsandistrict
Mar 01, 19:15O When the wipe says "flushable." Remember that even though wipes may be
labeled as "flushable" they are not, they belong in the trash because they can
cause clogs in your pipes and ours.
0.63%175 1 158
DATE POST ENGAGEMENT RATE IMPRESSIONS LIKES REACH
5
Post performance - LinkedIn Pages
Data from 01 Mar, 2024 to 31 Mar, 2024
Sources
Orange County Sanitation District
Orange County Sanitation
District
Mar 30, 14:01
2024 marks 70 Years of OC San, to celebrate we are counting down to our FREE
Open House on June 8 where you can come onsite and see everything that
happens behind the wall and even take a tour. Visit ocsan.gov to register!
5.2%442 10 2
Orange County Sanitation
District
Mar 24, 18:00
Exciting news, we are celebrating 70 years of Environmental Impact by hosting a
FREE Open House to let the community discover the incredible work we do in
wastewater management and environmental protection. Don't miss out on…
7.19%793 24 2
Orange County Sanitation
District
Mar 22, 17:02
Let's celebrate #WorldWaterDay! Here at OC San, our e orts make a huge
splash! Find out for yourself by joining us at our Open House in June and take a
tour. For more info visit ocsan.gov
6.71%656 17 2
Orange County SanitationDistrict
Mar 14, 21:05
Happy Sunshine week! Sunshine Week aims to increase public awarenessregarding the significance of transparent governance and encouragesdiscussions on the consequences of excessive government confidentiality. At …2.55%432 8 0
Orange County SanitationDistrict
Mar 12, 22:39
High School and College Students can win up to $500! The deadline for the OCSan Video Contest is coming up on March 31! For full details visit ocsan.gov/video 6.3%571 3 0
DATE POST ENGAGEMENT RATE IMPRESSIONS REACTIONS SHARES
6
Article Date Source Link
Harvesting water and minerals from waste slurries with
supercritical water oxidation 3/1/2024 Chemical Engineering
https://www.chemengonline.com/supercritical-
water-oxidation/
Large-Scale Construction To Impact Bus Operations 3/7/2024 OC Patch
https://patch.com/california/losalamitos/large-
scale-construction-impact-bus-operations
Orange County Water District and Orange County
Sanitation District Receive National Recognition for Water
Recycling Project 3/13/2024
OC San/OCWD Press
Release
https://www.ocsan.gov/home/showdocument
?id=34443&t=638459379858810802
2024 WateReuse Award Winners Exemplify Leadership
and Innovation 3/20/2024
Municiple Sewer and
Water
https://ocsdgov.sharepoint.com/:b:/s/External
/EeENaQ2PRbFIkmnbpvbExxcBx-
THTiHVXuosyzChlSQEYg?e=P4I7Ku
Socal's Water Resilient Future looks like Ventura Water
Pure 3/24/2024
Sierra Club Angeles
Chapter
https://angeles.sierraclub.org/news_conservati
on/blog/2024/03/socal_s_water_resilient_futu
re_looks_like_ventura_water_pure
Fitch Rates Orange County Sanitation District, CA Rev
Obligations 'AAA'; Outlook Stable 3/28/2024 Fitch Ratings
https://www.fitchratings.com/research/us-
public-finance/fitch-rates-orange-county-
sanitation-district-ca-rev-obligations-aaa-
outlook-stable-28-03-2024/dodd-frank-
disclosure
7
Media Articles
STEERING COMMITTEE
Agenda Report
Administration Building
10844 Ellis Avenue
Fountain Valley, CA 92708
(714) 593-7433
File #:2024-3536 Agenda Date:4/24/2024 Agenda Item No:4.
FROM:Robert Thompson, General Manager
SUBJECT:
ORANGE COUNTY SANITATION DISTRICT’S MEMBERSHIPS AND AGREEMENTS
GENERAL MANAGER'S RECOMMENDATION
RECOMMENDATION: Recommend to the Board of Directors to:
Receive and file the Orange County Sanitation District’s Memberships and Agreements list.
BACKGROUND
The Orange County Sanitation District (OC San)has memberships and agreements with various
associations and professional organizations.The attached document provides a list of seven
agencies,associations,and/or organizations which OC San and staff are currently members of at an
individual annual rate of $50,000 or greater.
RELEVANT STANDARDS
·Build brand, trust, and support with policy makers and community leaders
·Maintain collaborative and cooperative relationships with regulators,stakeholders,and
neighboring communities
·Provide professional growth and development
PROBLEM
OC San is a leader in the water/wastewater industry and to maintain that status it is important that
staff engage in various groups to discuss and share our experiences.Staying up to date on trends,
current and upcoming technology, and the future of the industry is imperative.
PROPOSED SOLUTION
Allow staff to continue participation in associations and organizations that support the mission and
vision of OC San,as well as the goals and objectives of the Strategic Plan.Staff will continue to
develop skills,learn about improvements in the industry,and share proven successes with other
agencies, while continuing to maintain an active role as an industry leader.
Orange County Sanitation District Printed on 4/16/2024Page 1 of 2
powered by Legistar™
File #:2024-3536 Agenda Date:4/24/2024 Agenda Item No:4.
PRIOR COMMITTEE/BOARD ACTIONS
March 2022 -Legislative and Public Affairs Committee received and filed the OC San Memberships
and Agreements List.
ADDITIONAL INFORMATION
OC San has reviewed and analyzed the value each membership provides.As a result of this effort,
staff has eliminated memberships resulting in a cost of approximately $10,000 due to value and/or
usage.
FINANCIAL CONSIDERATIONS
These memberships have been budgeted in FY 2022-23 and 2023-24 budget (within each relevant
division) and will be included in the upcoming FY 2024-25 and 2025-26 budget.
ATTACHMENT
The following attachment(s)may be viewed on-line at the OC San website (www.ocsan.gov)with the complete agenda
package:
·OC San Memberships and Agreements List
Orange County Sanitation District Printed on 4/16/2024Page 2 of 2
powered by Legistar™
OC San Memberships and Joint Powers Authority
Organization Purpose Level of Participation Liaison
Cost
JOINT POWERS AUTHORITY
National Water Research Institute (NWRI)
NWRI sponsors projects and programs focused on ensuring safe, reliable sources of water for current and future generations.
Board of Directors Director: Jon Dumitru / Alternate: Rob Thompson
$50,000
Southern
California Coastal Water Research Project (SCCWRP)
SCCWRP is a leading U.S. environmental research
institute that works to develop a scientific foundation for informed water-quality management in Southern California and beyond.
Seat on
Commission
Rob Thompson /
Lan Wiborg
$550,000
MUTUAL AID ORGANIZATIONS
Water Emergency Response Orange County (WEROC)
WEROC is administered by the Municipal Water District of Orange County. It supports and manages countywide emergency preparedness, planning, response, and recovery efforts among Orange
County water and wastewater utilities.
Agreement Laura Maravilla $57,000
OTHER
CSUF Center for Demographic Research (CDR)
CDR is a nonprofit research center dedicated to the development and support of demographic research. It’s mission is to provide accurate and timely data
regarding population, housing, and employment
characteristics in an efficient and cost-effective manner.
Memorandum of Understanding
Mike Dorman $ 70,000
Organization Purpose Level of Participation Liaison Cost
Page 2
PROFESSIONAL ASSOCIATIONS / INDUSTRY ORGANIZATIONS – AGENCY MEMBERSHIPS
National Association of
Clean Water
Agencies (NACWA)
National Association of Clean Water Agencies represents the interests of publicly owned
wastewater treatment facilities, collection systems,
and stormwater management agencies before the United States Congress, several Federal agencies, and in the courts.
Agency Membership Rob Thompson $80,000
Clean Water
SoCal
Formally the Southern California Alliance of Publicly
Owned Treatment Works is a nonprofit organized to ensure that regulations affecting wastewater treatment plants and collection systems are reasonable and, in the public’s, best interest. They
also provide low-cost training to members and
California Water Environment Association (CWEA) contact hours.
Agency
Membership/ Seat on Board of Directors and
Committees
Lan Wiborg
$50,000
Water Research Foundation (WRF) The Water Research Foundation engages exclusively in nonprofit, charitable, and educational activities designed to initiate, supervise, coordinate, promote, and finance research geared to ensuring
water quality and improving water service to the
public. Research areas include technology, operation, and management of water, wastewater, reuse, collection, treatment, and supply systems.
Agency Membership Rob Thompson
$100,000
STEERING COMMITTEE
Agenda Report
Administration Building
10844 Ellis Avenue
Fountain Valley, CA 92708
(714) 593-7433
File #:2024-3526 Agenda Date:4/24/2024 Agenda Item No:CS-1
FROM:Robert Thompson, General Manager
SUBJECT:
CONFERENCE WITH LEGAL COUNSEL RE EXISTING LITIGATION - GOVERNMENT CODE
SECTION 54956.9(d)(1)
GENERAL MANAGER'S RECOMMENDATION
RECOMMENDATION: Convene in Closed Session:
Number of Potential Cases: 1
Orange County Sanitation District v. Robert M. Jackson, et al., Orange County Superior Court Case
No.30-2024-01379706-CU-OR-CJC.
BACKGROUND
During the course of conducting the business set forth on this agenda as a regular meeting of the
Board,the Chairperson may convene the Board in closed session to consider matters of pending real
estate negotiations, pending or potential litigation, or personnel matters.
Reports relating to (a)purchase and sale of real property;(b)matters of pending or potential
litigation;(c)employment actions or negotiations with employee representatives;or which are exempt
from public disclosure under the California Public Records Act,may be reviewed by the Board during
a permitted closed session and are not available for public inspection.At such time the Board takes
final action on any of these subjects, the minutes will reflect all required disclosures of information.
RELEVANT STANDARDS
·Government Code Sections 54956.8, 54956.9, 54957, or 54957.6, as noted
ATTACHMENT
The following attachment(s)may be viewed on-line at the OC San website (www.ocsan.gov)with the complete agenda
package:
·Memorandum from General Counsel
Orange County Sanitation District Printed on 4/16/2024Page 1 of 1
powered by Legistar™
WOODRUFF & SMART, APC
555 ANTON BOULEVARD, SUITE 1200 | COSTA MESA, CA 92626-7670 | TELEPHONE (714) 558-7000 | FAX (714) 835-7787
WWW.WOODRUFF.LAW
M E M O R A N D U M
TO: Hon. Chair and Members of the Orange County Sanitation District Steering
Committee
FROM: Bradley R. Hogin, Esq.
General Counsel
DATE: April 16, 2024
RE: Closed Session Items
The Steering Committee desires to hold a closed session on April 24, 2024 for the
purpose of conferring with its legal counsel regarding existing litigation to which the District is a
party. The title of the case is Orange County Sanitation District v. Robert M. Jackson, et al.,
Orange County Superior Court Case No. 30-2024-01379706-CU-OR-CJC. The closed session
will be held pursuant to the authority of California Government Code Section 54956.9(d)(1).
Respectfully submitted,
By_________________________________
Bradley R. Hogin, General Counsel
STEERING COMMITTEE
Agenda Report
Administration Building
10844 Ellis Avenue
Fountain Valley, CA 92708
(714) 593-7433
File #:2024-3550 Agenda Date:4/24/2024 Agenda Item No:CS-2
FROM:Robert Thompson, General Manager
SUBJECT:
PUBLIC EMPLOYEE APPOINTMENT 54957(B)(1)
RECOMMENDATION: Convene in Closed Session:
Public Employee Appointment
Number of Employees: 1
·General Counsel
BACKGROUND
During the course of conducting the business set forth on this agenda as a regular meeting of the
Board,the Chairperson may convene the Board in closed session to consider matters of pending real
estate negotiations, pending or potential litigation, or personnel matters.
Reports relating to (a)purchase and sale of real property;(b)matters of pending or potential
litigation;(c)employment actions or negotiations with employee representatives;or which are exempt
from public disclosure under the California Public Records Act,may be reviewed by the Board during
a permitted closed session and are not available for public inspection.At such time the Board takes
final action on any of these subjects, the minutes will reflect all required disclosures of information.
RELEVANT STANDARDS
·Government Code Sections 54956.8, 54956.9, 54957, or 54957.6, as noted
ATTACHMENT
The following attachment(s)may be viewed on-line at the OC San website (www.ocsan.gov)with the complete agenda
package:
·Memorandum from General Counsel
Orange County Sanitation District Printed on 4/16/2024Page 1 of 1
powered by Legistar™
WOODRUFF & SMART, APC
555 ANTON BOULEVARD, SUITE 1200 | COSTA MESA, CA 92626-7670 | TELEPHONE (714) 558-7000 | FAX (714) 835-7787
WWW.WOODRUFF.LAW
M E M O R A N D U M
TO: Hon. Chair and Members of the Orange County Sanitation District Steering
Committee
FROM: Bradley R. Hogin, Esq.
General Counsel
DATE: April 16, 2024
RE: Closed Session Items
The Steering Committee desires to hold a closed session on April 24, 2024 for the
purpose of conferring regarding the appointment of the District’s General Counsel. Said closed
session will be held pursuant to authority of California Government Code Section 54957(b)(1).
Respectfully submitted,
By_________________________________
Bradley R. Hogin, General Counsel
STEERING COMMITTEE
Agenda Report
Administration Building
10844 Ellis Avenue
Fountain Valley, CA 92708
(714) 593-7433
File #:2024-3588 Agenda Date:4/24/2024 Agenda Item No:CS-3
FROM:Robert Thompson, General Manager
SUBJECT:
CONFERENCE WITH LEGAL COUNSEL RE EXISTING LITIGATION - GOVERNMENT CODE
SECTION 54956.9(D)(1)
RECOMMENDATION: Convene in Closed Session:
Number of Cases: 1
Arlin Blazevic v.Orange County Sanitation District;Natasha Dubrovski;Lorenzo Tyner;and Does 1-
100,inclusive,Superior Court of California,County of Orange,Case No.30-2020-01149812-CU-WT-
CJC.
BACKGROUND
During the course of conducting the business set forth on this agenda as a regular meeting of the
Board,the Chairperson may convene the Board in closed session to consider matters of pending real
estate negotiations, pending or potential litigation, or personnel matters.
Reports relating to (a)purchase and sale of real property;(b)matters of pending or potential
litigation;(c)employment actions or negotiations with employee representatives;or which are exempt
from public disclosure under the California Public Records Act,may be reviewed by the Board during
a permitted closed session and are not available for public inspection.At such time the Board takes
final action on any of these subjects, the minutes will reflect all required disclosures of information.
RELEVANT STANDARDS
·Government Code Sections 54956.8, 54956.9, 54957, or 54957.6, as noted
ATTACHMENT
The following attachment(s)may be viewed on-line at the OC San website (www.ocsan.gov)with the complete agenda
package:
·Memorandum from General Counsel
Orange County Sanitation District Printed on 4/17/2024Page 1 of 1
powered by Legistar™
WOODRUFF & SMART, APC
555 ANTON BOULEVARD, SUITE 1200 | COSTA MESA, CA 92626-7670 | TELEPHONE (714) 558-7000 | FAX (714) 835-7787
WWW.WOODRUFF.LAW
M E M O R A N D U M
TO:
FROM:
DATE:
RE:
Hon. Chair and Members of the Orange County Sanitation District Steering
Committee
Bradley R. Hogin, Esq.
General Counsel
April 24, 2024
Closed Session Item
The Steering Committee desires to hold a closed session on April 24, 2024 for the
purpose of conferring with its legal counsel regarding existing litigation to which the District is a
party. The title of the case is Arlin Blazevic v. Orange County Sanitation District; Natasha
Dubrovski; Lorenzo Tyner; and Does 1-100, inclusive, Superior Court of California, County of
Orange, Case No. 30-2020-01149812-CU-WT-CJC. The closed session will be held pursuant to
the authority of California Government Code Section 54956.9(d)(1).
Respectfully submitted,
By_________________________________
Bradley R. Hogin, General Counsel
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.