HomeMy WebLinkAbout01-28-2026 Steering Committee Complete Agenda PacketNOTICE OF REGULAR MEETING AGENDA
PUBLIC PARTICIPATION NOTICE
ORANGE COUNTY SANITATION DISTRICT
STEERING COMMITTEE
JANUARY 28, 2026 - 5:00 PM
ACCESSIBILITY FOR THE GENERAL PUBLIC
Your participation is always welcome. OC San offers several ways in which to interact during
this meeting.
www.ocsan.gov
IN-PERSON MEETING ATTENDANCE
OC San Headquarters: 18480 Bandilier Circle, Fountain Valley, CA 92708
ONLINE MEETING PARTICIPATION
Join the meeting now
PARTICIPATE BY TELEPHONE
Dial: (213) 279-1455
MEETING PARTICIPATION INSTRUCTIONS
Details on how to participate can be found on our website at
Phone Conference ID: 634 953 551#
WATCH THE MEETING ONLINE
The meeting will be available for online viewing at:
SUBMIT A COMMENT
Online at: https://ocsd.legistar.com/Calendar.aspx or by emailing: OCSanClerk@ocsan.gov
ROLL CALL STEERING COMMITTEE
Meeting Date: January 28, 2026 Time: 5:00 p.m.
COMMITTEE MEMBERS (7)
Ryan Gallagher, Board Chair
Jon Dumitru, Board Vice-Chair
Pat Burns, Operations Committee Chair Christine Marick, Administration Committee Chair
Chad Wanke, Member-At-Large
John Withers, Member-At-Large
VACANT, Member-At-Large
OTHERS
Scott Smith, General Counsel
STAFF
Rob Thompson, General Manager
Lorenzo Tyner, Assistant General Manager
Jennifer Cabral, Director of Communications 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
STEERING COMMITTEE
Regular Meeting Agenda
Wednesday, January 28, 2026 - 5:00 PM
Headquarters - Huntington Beach Room
18480 Bandilier Circle
Fountain Valley, CA 92708
(714) 593-7433
View Current Board of Directors
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 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.
SUBMIT A COMMENT: You may submit your comments and questions in writing in advance of, or during
the meeting by using the eComment feature available online at: https://ocsd.legistar.com/Calendar.aspx
or by sending them to OCSanClerk@ocsan.gov with the subject line "PUBLIC COMMENT ITEM # [insert
relevant item number]" or "PUBLIC COMMENT NON-AGENDA ITEM". 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.
NOTICE TO DIRECTORS: To place items on the agenda for a Committee or Board Meeting, the item must
be submitted 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 Communications: Jennifer Cabral, jcabral@ocsan.gov / (714) 593-7581
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
Upcoming Meeting Dates
STEERING COMMITTEE Regular Meeting Agenda Wednesday, January 28, 2026
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.
1.2026-4692APPROVAL OF MINUTES
RECOMMENDATION:
Approve minutes of the Regular meeting of the Steering Committee held November 19,
2025.
Originator:Kelly Lore
Attachments:
NON-CONSENT:
2.2026-4659UPDATE TO RULES OF PROCEDURE FOR THE CONDUCT OF
BUSINESS OF THE ORANGE COUNTY SANITATION DISTRICT
RECOMMENDATION: Recommend to the Board of Directors to:
A. Approve a Board of Directors Policy to implement new Brown Act amendments
regarding meeting disruption procedures pursuant to Senate Bill 707; and
B. Adopt Resolution No. OC SAN 26-02 entitled: “A Resolution of the Board of
Page 2 of 5
STEERING COMMITTEE Regular Meeting Agenda Wednesday, January 28, 2026
Directors of the Orange County Sanitation District establishing Rules of
Procedure for the Conduct of Business of the Orange County Sanitation District,
and repealing Resolution No. OC SAN 24-09”.
Originator:Jennifer Cabral
Attachments:
3.2026-4771
RECOMMENDATION: Recommend to the Board of Directors to:
Approve a policy which states that Orange County Sanitation District (OC San) should
not compensate government entities for potential loss of revenue, including sales tax,
property tax or economic opportunity when OC San acquires real property in the
entity’s jurisdiction.
Originator:Lorenzo Tyner
Attachments:
4.2026-4718GENERAL MANAGER’S FY 2025-2026 WORK PLAN MID-YEAR
REPORT
RECOMMENDATION: Recommend to the Board of Directors to:
Receive and file the General Manager’s FY 2025-2026 Work Plan Mid-Year Report.
Originator:Rob Thompson
Attachments:
5.2026-4679ORANGE 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
Attachments:
Page 3 of 5
STEERING COMMITTEE Regular Meeting Agenda Wednesday, January 28, 2026
INFORMATION ITEMS:
None.
DEPARTMENT HEAD REPORTS:
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 2025-4592PUBLIC EMPLOYEE PERFORMANCE EVALUATION - GOVERNMENT
CODE SECTION 54957(b)(1)
RECOMMENDATION: Convene in Closed Session:
Public Employee Performance Evaluation
Number of Employees: 1
·General Counsel
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.
Page 4 of 5
STEERING COMMITTEE Regular Meeting Agenda Wednesday, January 28, 2026
ADJOURNMENT:
Adjourn the meeting until the Regular Meeting of the Steering Committee on February 25,
2026 at 5:00 p.m.
AFFIDAVIT OF POSTING
I hereby certify under penalty of perjury and as required by the State of California, Government Code §
54954.2(a), that the foregoing Agenda was posted online at www.ocsan.gov, in the lobby, and outside the main
door of Orange County Sanitation District Headquarters at 18480 Bandilier Cir. Fountain Valley, CA 92708 not
less than 72 hours prior to the meeting date and time above. All public records relating to each agenda item,
including those distributed less than 72 hours prior to the meeting to a majority of the Board of Directors, are
available for public inspection with the Clerk of the Board.
/s/ Kelly A. Lore, MMC
Clerk of the Board
January 21, 2026
Page 5 of 5
STEERING COMMITTEE
Agenda Report
Headquarters
18480 Bandilier Circle
Fountain Valley, CA 92708
(714) 593-7433
File #:2026-4692 Agenda Date:1/28/2026 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 November 19, 2025.
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 24-09
ATTACHMENT
The following attachment(s)may be viewed on-line at the OC San website (www.ocsan.gov)with the complete agenda
package:
·November 19, 2025 Steering Committee meeting minutes
Orange County Sanitation District Printed on 1/20/2026Page 1 of 1
powered by Legistar™
Orange County Sanitation District
Minutes for the
STEERING COMMITTEE
Wednesday, November 19, 2025
5:00 PM
Huntington Beach Room
Headquarters
18480 Bandilier Circle
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 Vice Chairman Jon Dumitru on Wednesday, November 19, 2025 at
5:02 p.m. in the Orange County Sanitation District Headquarters.
ROLL CALL AND DECLARATION OF QUORUM:
The Clerk of the Board declared a quorum present as follows:
PRESENT:Ryan Gallagher, Jon Dumitru, Pat Burns, Glenn Grandis, Christine
Marick, Chad Wanke and John Withers
ABSENT:None
STAFF PRESENT: 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; Mo Abiodun; Daisy Covarrubias; Raul
Cuellar; Don Cutler; Jason Daniel; Thys DeVries; Martin Dix; Justin Fenton; Rob Michaels;
Tania Moore; Thomas Vu; Kevin Work; Sammady Yi; and Ruth Zintzun were present in the
Huntington Beach Room.
OTHERS PRESENT: Scott Smith, General Counsel; and Dustin Nirschl, Associate Counsel
BBK; were present in the Huntington Beach Room.
PUBLIC COMMENTS:
None.
REPORTS:
Board Vice Chair Dumitru and Assistant General Manager Lorenzo Tyner did not provide
reports.
CONSENT CALENDAR:
1.APPROVAL OF MINUTES 2025-4569
Originator: Kelly Lore
MOVED, SECONDED, AND DULY CARRIED TO:
Page 1 of 5
STEERING COMMITTEE Minutes November 19, 2025
Approve minutes of the Regular meeting of the Steering Committee held October 22,
2025.
AYES:Jon Dumitru, Pat Burns, Glenn Grandis, Christine Marick and John
Withers
NOES:None
ABSENT:Ryan Gallagher and Chad Wanke
ABSTENTIONS:None
2.ORANGE COUNTY SANITATION DISTRICT 2025 STRATEGIC PLAN 2025-4538
Originator: Rob Thompson
Adopt the Orange County Sanitation District 2025 Strategic Plan.
AYES:Jon Dumitru, Pat Burns, Glenn Grandis, Christine Marick and John
Withers
NOES:None
ABSENT:Ryan Gallagher and Chad Wanke
ABSTENTIONS:None
NON-CONSENT:
3.BOARD OF DIRECTORS COMPENSATION 2025-4471
Originator: Kelly Lore
Consider the automatic five percent (5%) increase to Board Member Compensation in
accordance with Ordinance No. OC SAN-62, effective January 1, 2026.
AYES:Jon Dumitru, Pat Burns, Glenn Grandis, Christine Marick and John
Withers
NOES:None
ABSENT:Ryan Gallagher and Chad Wanke
ABSTENTIONS:None
4.FLOW EXCHANGE AND GAP FLOWS AGREEMENTS 2025-4500
Originator: Mike Dorman
Page 2 of 5
STEERING COMMITTEE Minutes November 19, 2025
Vice Chair Dumitru provided a brief update of the item.
MOVED, SECONDED, AND DULY CARRIED TO: Recommend to the Board of
Directors to:
A. Approve and authorize the General Manager to execute the Flow Exchange
Agreement between Orange County Sanitation District and Irvine Ranch Water
District, in a form approved by General Counsel; and
B. Approve and authorize the General Manager to execute the GAP Flows
Agreement between Orange County Sanitation District, Irvine Ranch Water
District, and Orange County Water District, for a term of 20 years, in a form
approved by General Counsel.
AYES:Jon Dumitru, Pat Burns, Glenn Grandis, Christine Marick and John
Withers
NOES:None
ABSENT:Ryan Gallagher and Chad Wanke
ABSTENTIONS: None
Board Chair Ryan Gallagher arrived at the meeting at 5:05 p.m.
5. RATE SETTING PROCESS 2025-4572
Originator: Wally Ritchie
Approve initiating the rate setting process a year early to allow Orange County
Sanitation District to assess rates across the service area including new customer
bases.
AYES:Ryan Gallagher, Jon Dumitru, Pat Burns, Glenn Grandis, Christine
Marick and John Withers
NOES:None
ABSENT:Chad Wanke
ABSTENTIONS:None
INFORMATION ITEMS:
None.
DEPARTMENT HEAD REPORTS:
None.
Page 3 of 5
STEERING COMMITTEE Minutes November 19, 2025
Director Chad Wanke arrived at the meeting at 5:13 p.m.
CLOSED SESSION:
CONVENED IN CLOSED SESSION PURSUANT TO GOVERNMENT CODE SECTION
54959(D)(4).
The Committee convened in closed session at 5:08 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 LEGAL COUNSEL RE ANTICIPATED
LITIGATION - GOVERNMENT CODE SECTION 54956.9(D)(4)
2025-4610
CONVENED IN CLOSED SESSION:
Number of Potential Cases: 2.
Initiation of litigation.
RECONVENED IN REGULAR SESSION.
The Steering committee reconvened in regular session at 5:37 p.m
CONSIDERATION OF ACTION, IF ANY, ON MATTERS CONSIDERED IN CLOSED
SESSION:
General Counsel Scott Smith did not provide a report.
OTHER BUSINESS AND COMMUNICATIONS OR SUPPLEMENTAL AGENDA ITEMS, IF
ANY:
None.
BOARD OF DIRECTORS INITIATED ITEMS FOR A FUTURE MEETING:
None.
ADJOURNMENT:
Chair Gallagher declared the meeting adjourned at 5:38 p.m. to the next Regular Steering
Committee meeting to be held on Wednesday, December 17, 2025 at 5:00 p.m.
Page 4 of 5
STEERING COMMITTEE Minutes November 19, 2025
Submitted by:
__________________
Kelly A. Lore, MMC
Clerk of the Board
Page 5 of 5
STEERING COMMITTEE
Agenda Report
Headquarters
18480 Bandilier Circle
Fountain Valley, CA 92708
(714) 593-7433
File #:2026-4659 Agenda Date:1/28/2026 Agenda Item No:2.
FROM:Robert Thompson, General Manager
Originator: Jennifer Cabral, Director of Communications
SUBJECT:
UPDATE TO RULES OF PROCEDURE FOR THE CONDUCT OF BUSINESS OF THE ORANGE
COUNTY SANITATION DISTRICT
GENERAL MANAGER'S RECOMMENDATION
RECOMMENDATION: Recommend to the Board of Directors to:
A. Approve a Board of Directors Policy to implement new Brown Act amendments regarding
meeting disruption procedures pursuant to Senate Bill 707; and
B. Adopt Resolution No. OC SAN 26-02 entitled: “A Resolution of the Board of Directors of the
Orange County Sanitation District establishing Rules of Procedure for the Conduct of Business
of the Orange County Sanitation District, and repealing Resolution No. OC SAN 24-09”.
BACKGROUND
On October 3,2025,Governor Newsom signed into law Senate Bill 707 (SB 707),which amends the
Ralph B.Brown Act Government Code Section with the intent to diversify and increase public
engagement during local government meetings of legislative bodies,such as the Orange County
Sanitation District (OC San) Board of Directors and Committee meetings.
Among the various new requirements under SB 707,all qualified legislative bodies must now offer
hybrid meetings (through a two-way phone or video platform).OC San has been providing hybrid
meetings via Microsoft Teams for several years and will continue to do so in the future.
In addition,SB 707 requires the Board of Directors to formally adopt a policy,on or before July 1,
2026,that outlines how to restore hybrid meeting broadcast disruptions that prevent the public from
virtually attending and participating in a meeting.
RELEVANT STANDARDS
·Ensure the public’s money is wisely spent
·Maintain a culture of improving efficiency to reduce the cost to provide the current service level
or standard
·Maintain influential legislative advocacy and a public outreach program
Orange County Sanitation District Printed on 1/21/2026Page 1 of 2
powered by Legistar™
File #:2026-4659 Agenda Date:1/28/2026 Agenda Item No:2.
PROBLEM
The new requirements of SB 707 require updates to the Board of Directors Resolution establishing
Rules of Procedure for the Conduct of Business of OC San.
PROPOSED SOLUTION
Staff has updated the Resolution to include various updates and prepared the attached draft Policy
(Attachment A)to satisfy this new State requirement.The Policy mirrors the meeting disruption
guidelines that are already outlined in SB 707,which requires the legislative body to take a recess
and try to restore service for at least one hour.If service cannot be restored within one hour,the
legislative body must conduct a roll call vote confirming that good faith efforts were made and the
public interest in continuing the meeting outweighs remote access. (Cal. Gov. Code § 54953.4(b)(1).)
Please note that the public would maintain the ability to view Board and Committee meetings live via
OC San’s livestream on its website,and may also view and participate in person at the meeting
location.
The attached draft Policy (Attachment A)outlines the accommodation that will take place if
disruptions were to occur. If adopted, the requirements will go into effect immediately.
TIMING CONCERNS
The Board of Directors must formally adopt a policy on or before July 1, 2026.
RAMIFICATIONS OF NOT TAKING ACTION
OC San would not be in compliance with legislative guidelines in accordance with SB 707.
PRIOR COMMITTEE/BOARD ACTIONS
August 2024 -Adopted Resolution No.OC SAN 24-09 entitled:“A Resolution of the Board of
Directors of the Orange County Sanitation District establishing Rules of the Procedure for the
Conduct of Business of the Orange County Sanitation District,and repealing Resolution No.OC SAN
22-37”.
FINANCIAL CONSIDERATIONS
N/A
ATTACHMENT
The following attachment(s)may be viewed on-line at the OC San website (www.ocsan.gov)with the complete agenda
package:
·Resolution No. OC SAN 26-02 - Redline
·Resolution No. OC SAN 26-02 - Clean
Orange County Sanitation District Printed on 1/21/2026Page 2 of 2
powered by Legistar™
OC SAN 26-XX-124-
09-17
RESOLUTION NO. OC SAN 24-0926-XX
A RESOLUTION OF THE BOARD OF DIRECTORS OF
ORANGE COUNTY SANITATION DISTRICT
ESTABLISHING RULES OF PROCEDURE FOR THE
CONDUCT OF BUSINESS OF THE ORANGE COUNTY
SANITATION DISTRICT, AND REPEALING RESOLUTION
NO. OC SAN 22-3724-09
WHEREAS it is necessary to establish rules of procedure to facilitate the orderly
handling of business to come before the Orange County Sanitation District (OC San)
Board of Directors and Standing, Steering, Special and Ad Hoc Committees.
NOW THEREFORE, the Board of Directors of the Orange County Sanitation
District DOES HEREBY RESOLVE, DETERMINE AND ORDER:
Section 1: Rules of Procedure. That the following rules of procedure be adopted
for the conduct of business of the Orange County Sanitation District (Sanitation District):
A. Regular Meetings. There shall be a regular monthly meeting of the Board
of Directors of OC San on the fourth Wednesday of every month at 6:00 p.m., in the
Administrative Offices of OC San, located at 18480 Bandilier Circle, Fountain Valley,
California; provided, however, if the fourth Wednesday of the month falls upon a legal
holiday, said monthly meeting shall be held on the next day thereafter, at the same time
and place, unless the Board of Directors adjourns to a different date and time. OC San’s
Plant No. 2, located at 22215 Brookhurst Street, Huntington Beach shall serve as an
alternate location for holding meetings of the Board of Directors.
The Board of Directors may adjourn any regular, special or adjourned special
meeting to a time and place certain, as specified in the order of adjournment.
B. Special Meetings. A special meeting of the Board of Directors may be called
in either one of the following ways:
(1) By the Chairperson of the Board of Directors; or
(2) By the written request of a majority of the Steering Committee
delivered to the Clerk of the Board.
The call or notice for special meeting shall be in writing and delivered electronically
or by mail at least twenty-four (24) hours before the time of such meeting, as specified in
the notice. Any notice deposited in the regular mail addressed to a Director at the address
he or she has on file with the Clerk of the Board postage prepaid, sixty (60) hours in
advance of any such meeting as specified in the notice, shall be presumed to have been
delivered. If the notice is delivered electronically, the Clerk of the Board should use an
electronic “read receipt” to ensure delivery. If a Director has not read the notice, the Clerk
OC SAN 26-
XX24-09-2
will diligently attempt to contact the Director by telephone as soon as possible after the
publication of the notice.
The call or notice shall specify the time and place of the special meeting, a
description of the business to be transacted and copies of all pertinent material.
Such notice may be dispensed with as to any Director or Alternate Director who,
at or prior to the time the meeting convenes, files with the Clerk of the Board a written
waiver of notice. Such waiver may be given by facsimile or electronic mail. Such notice
may also be dispensed with as to any member who is actually present at the meeting at
the time it convenes. The Clerk of the Board shall diligently attempt to notify each Director
personally of the time, place and purpose of said meeting, not less than twenty-four (24)
hours before the time of said meeting.
The call or notice shall be posted in the administrative offices’ public lobby and in
a location freely accessible to the public at least twenty-four (24) hours prior to the special
meeting.
C. Meetings Adjourned by Clerk of the Board. If at any regular, adjourned
regular, special or adjourned special meeting there is not a quorum of Directors present,
the Clerk of the Board may declare the meeting adjourned to a stated time and place and
shall cause written notice of the adjournment to be given in the same manner as for a
special meeting, unless such notice is waived as provided for in special meetings. Within
twenty-four (24) hours after the time of the adjournment, a copy of the order or notice of
adjournment shall be conspicuously posted on or near the door of the place where the
meeting was held and, in a location, freely accessible to the public.
D. Notices to News Media. When any local newspaper of general circulation,
radio or television station requests, in writing, notices of meetings of the Board of
Directors, the Clerk of the Board shall thereafter, until receipt of a notice terminating said
request, deliver notices of regular, regular adjourned and special adjourned meetings to
such newspapers, radio or television stations. Delivery shall be made in the same manner
as delivery is made to the Directors.
E. Conduct of Meetings.
(1) Procedural Rules. The procedural rules for debate and action shall
be as set forth in Table 1, attached hereto and adopted herein by reference. Robert’s
Rules of Order shall not be applicable or govern the procedures for the conduct of OC
San business.
(2) Legal Officer. In any case of ambiguity or uncertainty in the
interpretation or application of these Rules to any procedure, the presiding officer may
direct such question for a ruling to the Board’s General Counsel, who shall be the
parliamentarian of the Board.
OC SAN 26-
XX24-09-3
(3) Obtaining the Floor and Making Motions. Any member of the Board
wishing to speak, or any member of the public wishing to address the Board, must first
be recognized by the Chairperson. The Chairperson must recognize any member of the
Board who seeks the floor when appropriately entitled to address the Board.
Any member of the Board, including the Chairperson, may bring a
matter of business properly before the Board by making a motion. Any member, including
the Chairperson, except the member making the motion, may second the motion. Once
a motion is seconded, it may be opened for discussion and debate, in accordance with
the procedures in Subsection (4) below.
(4) Rules for Discussion, Debate and Deliberation by the Board. The
procedures for consideration and action on all matters to come before the Board shall be
in compliance with the terms of this Section, as follows:
(a) Each item on the Agenda will be introduced in a form of a
report by either the General Manager, a member of the Executive Management Team,
General Counsel, Special Counsel, or the Clerk of the Board.
(b) Upon completion of the report, the Chairperson will allow for
direct questions regarding the item, by Directors, each in turn, and in the order as selected
by the Chairperson.
(c) Upon completion of the question period, the Chairperson will
entertain a motion and second for consideration by the Board.
(d) Discussion among the Directors will follow. Each Director will
be recognized to address the Board in the order selected by the Chairperson, with a five
(5) minute time limit for each Member wishing to speak on the Agenda item, unless the
time limit is waived by the Chairperson. Directors should limit comment to the subject
matter, item, or motion currently being considered. There will be no interruptions of the
Director who has been recognized. Attempted interruptions will be declared out-of-order,
and the Director attempting to interrupt will be asked to remain silent until recognized.
(e) As an additional courtesy to everyone, repetition of comments
will be discouraged in the interest of time and, at the discretion of the Chairperson, can
be declared out-of-order.
(f) After each Member who wishes to speak has been recognized
and completed their remarks, a single three (3) minute period of rebuttal will be allowed
any Director, unless the time limit is waived by the Chairperson.
(g) If it appears to the Chairperson that any Director is pursuing a
line of questioning or commentary due to lack of preparation or prior review with OC San’s
Staff, the Director’s time will be declared to have been used up, and no further inquiry will
be allowed.
OC SAN 26-
XX24-09-4
(h) Upon adoption of a motion on an Agenda item, there will be
no further discussion of that item.
(5) Decorum in Debate. All Members shall address their remarks to the
Chairperson and confine them to the business then pending and subject to discussion
before the Board, avoiding personalities and reflections upon anyone’s motives.
(6) Closing or Limiting Debate. At all times, the Board shall endeavor to
allow free and open debate among Members of the Board. However, in the discretion of
the Chairperson, it may become necessary to close or limit debate, so that action can be
taken by the Board. An order by the Chairperson closing or limiting the debate can only
be set aside by a majority vote of the Board.
F. Quorum. A majority of the Directors shall constitute a quorum of the Board.
G. Chairperson and Vice Chairperson of the Board. A Chairperson and Vice
Chairperson of the Board shall be elected by a majority vote of Directors at the regular
meeting in June of each year and will assume office July 1st. The nominations for
Chairperson and Vice Chairperson shall be made at the regular Board meeting in May of
each year. Any person nominated for Chairperson shall be deemed to be nominated for
Vice Chairperson in the event the person is not elected as Chairperson. Thereafter, the
nominees shall prepare a statement setting forth their qualifications for the office sought.
The statements should be forwarded to the Clerk of the Board who will in turn forward by
electronic mail to the members of the Board of Directors with the Agenda and other
meeting material for the June regular meeting. If only one individual is nominated for
Chairperson at the regular Board meeting in May, that individual shall be deemed elected
as Chairperson, no election shall be held in June, and the individual shall assume office
July 1st. If only one individual is nominated for Vice Chairperson at the regular Board
meeting in May, that individual shall be deemed elected as Vice Chairperson, no election
shall be held in June, and the individual shall assume office July 1st.
The Chairperson and Vice Chairperson shall serve at the pleasure of a majority of
the Directors. In the event the office of Chairperson becomes vacant due to resignation
or retirement of the incumbent prior to the expiration of the regular term, the Vice
Chairperson shall automatically succeed to the office of the Chairperson and shall
continue to serve through the remainder of the regular term unless sooner removed by
action of a majority of the Directors. In the event the office of Vice Chairperson becomes
vacant prior to the expiration of the regular term, nominations, and the election of a
Director to serve in that capacity shall be conducted at the next regular Board meeting.
The person so elected shall serve the balance of the regularly scheduled term unless
sooner removed as a result of action by a majority of the Directors.
The Chairperson shall not serve more than two consecutive one-year terms for
which they have been elected to the office of Chairperson. The Vice Chairperson shall
OC SAN 26-XX24-
09-5
not serve more than two consecutive one-year terms for which they have been elected to
the office of Vice Chairperson.
H. Presiding Officer. The Chairperson of the Board shall preside during
meetings of the Directors. In the absence of the Chairperson, the Vice Chairperson shall
preside.
I. Clerk of the Board and Minutes. The Board of Directors shall have a person
designated to serve as Clerk of the Board. The Clerk of the Board will be appointed to
the position by the General Manager and shall report to the General Manager or their
designee. The Clerk of the Board will be a regular full-time employee, subject to all the
rules and policies applicable to all regular full-time employees. The Clerk of the Board
shall attend all meetings of the Board of Directors, unless excused by the Chairperson,
and shall prepare an accurate record of each meeting for submission to the Directors and
subsequent approval at the following meeting; provided, however, that when an
adjourned, special or special adjourned meeting of the Board of Directors immediately
precedes a regular meeting, Minutes of said meeting shall be submitted for approval at
the next meeting of the Board following said regular meeting.
In the preparation of Official Minutes of a meeting of the Board of Directors, the
Clerk of the Board will not record the name of the Director who moves or who seconds
the adoption of a motion or Resolution but will reflect the votes by name of each Director
on each item brought before the Board.
In the absence of the Clerk of the Board, an Assistant Clerk of the Board shall be
appointed to exercise the duties of the Clerk of the Board.
J. Regular Business to Come Before the Board of Directors. Insofar as
practicable, all items of business to be taken up at a regular meeting of the Board shall
be submitted to the Clerk of the Board, who shall include the Agenda all such items
submitted by Directors, the General Manager and General Counsel, and all formal
communications. The General Manager, in consultation with the Board Chairperson and
Board Vice Chairperson, shall determine agenda items for OC San Board of Director
Meetings. Directors should prepare in advance of meetings and be familiar with items on
the agenda. Directors shall make a reasonable effort to meet with the General Manager
or related staff before meetings to receive answers to questions regarding the agenda.
The Order of Business on the agenda for regular meetings of the Board of Directors
shall be:
i. Call to Order
ii. Invocation and Pledge of Allegiance
iii. Roll Call and Declaration of Quorum
iv. Public Comment - Pursuant to the Brown Act, public comment will be
allowed on items on the Board/Committee agendas at the beginning
of the meeting either on agenda items or general comments within
OC SAN 26-XX24-
09-6
the subject matter jurisdiction of OC San. Public comments are
limited to no more than three minutes each. Individuals desiring to
speak are encouraged to submit a request to speak card or place an
eComment online to the Clerk of the Board.
v. Special Presentations - Special presentations shall be scheduled as
necessary in recognition of employee or Director service, or other
requested presentations. Requests for special presentation must be
submitted to the Clerk of the Board in writing in advance of the
agenda publication deadline. The Clerk of the Board will coordinate
the scheduling of presentations with the Board Chairperson.
vi. Board Chairperson / General Manager Reports - The reports portion
of the meeting provides the Chairperson and the General Manager
the opportunity to briefly comment on OC San business, operations,
projects and other items of interest.
vii. Public Hearings - Public Hearings may be required on certain items
as prescribed by state or federal law. The regular time for public
hearings is established by this resolution.
viii. Elections – Annually or when deemed necessary.
ix. Consent Calendar - Items on the Board/Committee Agenda which
are considered to be of a routine nature by the General Manager
shall be listed on the “Consent Calendar.” These items shall be
approved, adopted, etc. by one motion of the Board and majority
vote.
Directors may comment on Consent Calendar items or ask for minor
clarifications without the need for pulling the item for separate
consideration. Items requiring deliberation should be pulled for
separate consideration.
x. Receive and File - Items that require no action; and if no objection,
the Chairperson may so order.
xi. Committee Items – Items approved at the monthly Committee
meetings are brought forward under each Standing Committee title
on the agenda for Board approval. These items may be treated as
a consent calendar by one motion of the Committee and majority
vote.
xii. Non-Consent – Items on the Board/Committee Agenda which have
not been previously considered and require study, report, or action.
OC SAN 26-XX24-
09-7
xiii. Information Items – Educational or Items of interest that require no
action.
xiv. AB 1234 Disclosure Reports – This item allows Board members to
provide a brief oral report regarding the disclosure of outside
committees, conferences, training, seminars, et. Attended at the
Agency’s expense, per Government Code §53232.3(d).
xv. Closed Session - During the course of conducting the business set
forth on an agenda as a regular meeting, the Chairperson may
convene the Board/Committee in closed session pursuant to
pursuant to Government Code Sections 54956.8, 54956.9, 54957 or
54957.6, as noted.
All written materials and verbal information regarding closed session
items shall remain confidential. No member of the Board of Directors,
employee of OC San, or any other person present shall disclose to
any person the content or substance of any discussion which takes
place in a closed session unless authorized by General Counsel and
a majority of the Board of Directors.
xvi. Other Business and communications or Supplemental agenda items
– Prior to adjournment, the Board Chairperson will inquire if there is
any other business to bring before the meeting.
xvii. Board of Directors initiated items for a future meeting - This portion
of the meeting allow Directors to request an agenda item for a future
meeting. If the Board Chair or a majority of the body indicates
support for the request at that time, then the item shall be placed on
a future agenda. Upon support for the request, the Board of
Directors/Committee will provide direction to staff on the information
that is desired to be presented when the item is placed on a future
agenda.
xviii. Adjournment
The Board Chairperson shall have the discretion to change the order of business.
The Clerk of the Board shall electronically mail to each Director a notice of such
regular meetings, together with a proposed Agenda, not later than the Friday immediately
preceding such regular meetings. Said Agenda, insofar as possible, shall include copies
of Resolutions, except as hereafter provided, and a description of all matters to be
considered, together with any additional pertinent material.
Agendas shall be posted in a location freely accessible to the public not less than
seventy-two (72) hours in advance of the meeting.
OC SAN 26-XX24-
09-8
Resolutions designated as “standard” and adopted by the Board of Directors from
time to time, and approved as to form and content, need not be included with said Agenda;
provided, however, that the information completing said standard Resolutions shall be set
forth on the Agenda listing, and copies of said standard Resolutions shall be on file with
the Clerk of the Board at the meeting time and place.
Items of business not known at the time the regular Agenda is electronically mailed
as herein provided, may be considered as supplemental Agenda items; provided that all
requirements of the Ralph M. Brown Act (California Government Code Sections 54950 et
seq.) are satisfied.
No business, except with consent of two-thirds of the Directors present (a majority
of Directors present for emergency actions), and only if permitted by the Ralph M. Brown
Act, not appearing on the regular or supplemental Agendas may be brought before the
Board of Directors.
The meeting Agenda shall provide for an opportunity for members of the public to
address the Board on items on the Agenda and non-Agenda items of public interest. As
determined by the Chairperson, speakers may be deferred until the specific Agenda item
is taken for discussion, and remarks may be limited to three (3) minutes. Speakers on
non-Agenda items may address only items that are within the subject matter jurisdiction
of the Board of Directors. Time allotted for such presentations is limited to three (3)
minutes or less. Total time allotted for all public input on each non-Agenda item is limited
to thirty (30) minutes to one (1) hour, taking into consideration the number of persons
filing a request to address the Board. However, time allotments may be waived by a
majority vote of the Board.
K. Handling of Business and Voting. During the course of a Board meeting,
routine matters listed on the Agenda for consideration will be referred to by Agenda Item
Number only.
Voting on all Resolutions shall be by roll call, except if waived by unanimous voice
vote, in which event, the Chairperson may order a unanimous ballot cast in favor of the
motion or Resolution under discussion. The name of each Director shall be called only
once.
On matters of considerable interest or on which there appears to be a controversy,
the motion or Resolution shall be read by title or repeated by the Chairperson. The
Chairperson shall thereafter call for discussion of the motion or Resolution, at which time
any member may discuss the pending matter. Any person other than a Director present
at the meeting may speak on the motion if recognized by the Chairperson. Sole discretion
as to the extent of discussion outside of the membership of the Board shall rest with the
Chairperson. At the close of discussion, the Chairperson may, at the Chairperson’s
discretion, repeat the motion or Resolution pending, and thereafter, call for a vote.
OC SAN 26-XX24-
09-9
The Clerk of the Board shall determine and state whether or not a motion or
Resolution is adopted by roll call vote. On all other matters, the Chairperson shall
determine the outcome of the voting.
L. Committees.
(1) Standing Committees.
(a) Steering Committee: There shall be a permanent Committee
designated as the Steering Committee, comprised of the Chairperson of the Board, the
Vice Chairperson of the Board, the Chairperson of each of the Standing Committees and
three at-large members selected by the Chairperson of the Board. The Vice Chairperson
of each of the Standing Committees shall serve as the designated Alternate, in the
absence or inability to serve by any Chairperson. In the absence or inability of any
designated member of the Steering Committee to serve, his/her city/agency appointed
Alternate Director may not serve in that member’s absence.
The Committee shall conduct an annual performance evaluation of the
General Manager and submit recommendations on their compensation to the Board of
Directors. The Committee shall also review the General Manager’s evaluation and
compensation of the executive management employees, based on established criteria,
and executive management’s goals and objectives for the following year.
The Committee shall also conduct an annual performance evaluation of
General Counsel and submit recommendations to the Board of Directors as provided by
Resolution No. OCSD 12-03.
The Committee shall make recommendations to the Board of Directors on labor
negotiations and other related activities as may be needed or appropriate.
The Committee shall also be authorized to assign new subjects of significant
importance to the appropriate Standing Committee for study, evaluation and
recommendation.
The Steering Committee shall meet on the fourth Wednesday of each month at
5:00 p.m. preceding the Board’s meeting, or at the call of the Chairperson of the Board of
Directors.
(b) Administration Committee: There shall be a permanent
Administration Committee (Communications, Finance & Administrative Services,
Environmental Services, and Human Resources) to advise the Staff and make
recommendations on matters related to the communication, financial, budgeting,
administrative, environmental and personnel human resources policies and programs of
OC San.
The Committee shall review with the Staff the procedures for development,
preparation and format of the annual budget and recommend appropriate change, and
OC SAN 26-XX24-
09-10
counsel the Staff during the budget process to assure the proper interpretation and
implementation of the Board’s policies and that the desired procedures have been
followed.
The responsibility for consideration and adoption of OC San budget rests with the
Board of Directors.
The Committee shall periodically interview and recommend the selection of outside
auditors. The Committee shall review the result of the annual audit of OC San’s accounts
with representatives of the outside audit firm, including any comments received
recommending improvements. The Committee shall review management’s response to
these comments and make appropriate recommendations for implementation.
Periodically, the Committee shall recommend employment of an outside firm to
audit internal control procedures to safeguard the assets of OC San.
The Committee shall interview and make recommendations on the employment of
investment-banking firms, bond counsel and, if necessary or desired, financial advisors,
to be used in connection with OC San’s financing programs.
The Committee shall periodically coordinate recommendations on personnel
audits of OC San’s operations or segments of the operations on an as-needed basis.
The Committee shall make recommendations on personnel policies and
procedures, insurers and coverage, procurement procedures and such other related
activities as may be needed or appropriate.
The Committee shall also review issues pertaining to OC San’s National Pollutant
Discharge Elimination System (NPDES) Ocean Outfall Discharge Permit, including
annual review of the contractor(s) performing the ocean monitoring and research
programs required as a condition of said permit, and related issues regarding protection
of the marine waters off metropolitan Orange County’s coastline from impacts resulting
from OC San’s operations and discharge of treated wastewater.
The Committee shall review issues pertaining to the impact on OC San of
legislative and regulatory proposals and submit appropriate recommendations on the
matters.
The Committee shall also be responsible for overseeing the contractual
arrangements with OC San’s legislative advocates to provide advocacy services in
Sacramento and Washington, D.C. In carrying out its responsibilities, the Committee shall
receive regular status reports from the advocates and staff and monitor and recommend
positions on legislative and regulatory proposals.
The Committee shall also review issues pertaining to OC San’s public outreach,
branding, and communications activities, evaluate alternatives and make
recommendations to the Board of Directors.
OC SAN 26-XX24-
09-11
The Chairperson of the Board of Directors shall appoint a Committee Chairperson
and a Committee Vice Chairperson for the Administration Committee. The Committee
Chairperson and Committee Vice Chairperson shall serve at the pleasure of the
Chairperson of the Board of Directors.
The Administration Committee shall consist of thirteen members, as follows:
(1) The Chairperson of the Board of Directors;
(2) The Vice Chairperson of the Board of Directors;
(3) The Committee Chair of the Administration Committee;
(4) The Committee Vice Chair of the Administration Committee; and
(5) Nine additional Directors appointed by the Chairperson of the Board of
Directors.
Other than the Board Chairperson and the Board Vice Chairperson, no Director
who serves on the Operations Committee shall be eligible to serve concurrently on the
Administration Committee. In the absence of the Board Chairperson, his or her alternate
Director may attend meetings of the Administration Committee.
The Administration Committee shall meet on the second Wednesday of each
month at 5:00 p.m., or at the call of its Chairperson.
(c) Operations Committee: There shall be a permanent
Committee designated the Operations Committee (Engineering and Operations &
Maintenance). With the goal of compliance with all public health and environmental laws
and regulations, the Operations Committee shall review and submit appropriate
recommendations on the matters pertaining to the operation of OC San wastewater
treatment process, including such matters as current and projected service/flow needs,
level and quality of treatment, conservation, recycling and reuse activities and air quality
issues.
The Committee shall also review matters pertaining to contractual arrangements
by OC San to provide sewerage services to areas outside OC San’s boundaries or
approved spheres of influence.
The Committee shall review plans for the future needs of OC San, explore
alternatives and make recommendations to the Board of Directors.
The Operations Committee shall also review and submit appropriate
recommendations on matters pertaining to capital projects which address operational
needs, including the selection of professional consulting services to assist in studying,
planning and designing needed OC San wastewater treatment systems and support
OC SAN 26-XX24-
09-12
facilities, including computerized systems, in accordance with the Board’s established
policies and procedures for procuring such services; the Committee shall further review
construction projects for said facilities in accordance with applicable public works laws
and Board policies. Said oversight shall include the contracts for professional services
and public works construction projects and addenda or change orders thereto. In carrying
out its responsibilities, the Committee shall receive advance notice and regular status
reports on the projects from Staff, and monitor, visit and observe OC San wastewater
systems operational functions and major capital construction projects.
The Chairperson of the Board of Directors shall appoint a Committee Chairperson
and a Committee Vice Chairperson of the Operations Committee. The Committee
Chairperson and Committee Vice Chairperson shall serve at the pleasure of the
Chairperson of the Board of Directors.
The Operations Committee shall consist of fourteen members, as follows:
(1) The Chairperson of the Board of Directors;
(2) The Vice Chairperson of the Board of Directors;
(3) The Committee Chair of the Operations Committee;
(4) The Committee Vice Chair of the Operations Committee; and
(5) Ten (10) additional Directors appointed by the Chairperson of the Board of
Directors.
Other than the Board Chairperson and the Board Vice Chairperson, no Director
who serves on the Administration Committee shall be eligible to serve concurrently on the
Operations Committee. In the absence of the Board Vice-Chairperson, his or her
Alternate Director may attend meetings of the Operations Committee.
The Operations Committee shall meet on the first Wednesday of each month at
5:00 p.m., or at the call of its Chairperson.
(2) Special and Ad Hoc Committees. In addition to the Standing
Committees, the Chairperson of the Board of Directors, the Chairperson of a Standing
Committee or a majority of the Directors, may appoint from time to time, Special or Ad
Hoc Committees to study and report on specific matters. Such Committees shall be
temporary in nature, and their assignments shall pertain to a current, specific issue. Upon
completion of the assigned task, the Ad Hoc or Special Committee will be dissolved.
The Chairperson and Vice Chairperson of Special and Ad Hoc Committees shall
be appointed by the Chairperson of the appointing authority.
Each Special and Ad Hoc Committee shall meet at the call of its Chairperson.
OC SAN 26-XX24-
09-13
M. Alternate Directors: If a regular Director cannot attend a meeting of the
Operations Committee, the Administration Committee or the full Board of Directors, the
Director’s alternate may attend in place of his or her regular Director. An alternate Director
may not, however, attend a meeting of any other Committee in the absence of his or her
regular Director. An Alternate Director serving in place of a regular member shall not act
as Chairperson or Vice Chairperson of the Board or any Committee, even if the absent
regular member serves as Chairperson or Vice Chairperson of one of those bodies. If
the regular Director and the Alternate Director are both unable to attend the meeting, the
regular Director may request that the meeting be teleconferenced. The request may be
approved, at the Board Chairperson’s discretion, provided that all requirements of the
Ralph M. Brown Act (California Government Code Section 54950 et seq.) are able to be
satisfied.
N. Teleconferenced Meetings:
(1) There are various methods to allow teleconferenced meetings within
the Ralph M. Brown Act (California Government Code Sections
54950 et seq.) (Brown Act).
(2) If the OC San regular Director and the Alternate Director are both
unable to attend the meeting of the Operations Committee,
Administration Committee, or the Board of Directors, the regular
Director may request that the meeting be teleconferenced. The
request may be approved, by providing notice to the Clerk of the
Board; and at the Board Chairperson’s discretion, provided that all
requirements of the Ralph M. Brown Act (California Government
Code Section 54950 et seq.) are able to be satisfied.
N.O. Motion to Refer to a Standing Committee. Any Director at a Board or
Committee meeting may move to have a policy or any other activity affecting OC San, or
any one of the member Agencies, referred to a Standing Committee for study and report.
This motion shall be a privileged motion, and when duly seconded, discussion thereof
shall be limited to Directors only. Said motion shall receive an affirmative vote of a
majority of the Directors for adoption.
P. All meetings of the Board of Directors and Standing Committees shall be publicly
available in person; via two-way remote participation; and live streamed on OC San’s
website. All meetings and are recorded. T and the audio/video recording of any open and
public meeting shall be subject to inspection pursuant to the California Public Records
Act.
Q. A policy to manage disruptions during two-way remote participation during
Brown Act meetings has been established and is attached as “Attachment A”. The policy
includes procedures for responding to a disruption in the telephonic or internet services
that provide two-way remote public access to meetings of Orange County Sanitation
District (OC San) Board of Directors, as required by the Gov. Code § 54953.4. The policy
ensures transparency, public participation, and continuity of government during
technology disruptions.
OC SAN 26-XX24-
09-14
Section 2: Procedure for Consideration of Demands for Corrective Action.
A. Requirement of Written Demand. Prior to any person commencing a judicial
action for injunction or mandamus to declare any action taken by the Board void because
of failure to observe Brown Act requirements, such person must first serve upon the Clerk
of the Board a written demand describing the alleged violation and demanding corrective
action. Such demand must be served upon the Clerk of the Board within thirty (30) days
of the complained of action. Failure to serve any such demand within this thirty (30) day
period shall result in the loss of any right to challenge any action to have been taken in
violation of Sections 54953, 54954.2 or 54956 of the California Government Code.
B. Consideration of Corrective Action. Upon receipt of such a demand,
consideration of the demand shall immediately be placed on the Agenda for the next
meeting of the Board of Directors. If the demand is received less than seventy-two (72)
hours prior to the time set for the next meeting, the Board may determine that the notice
constitutes the initiation of litigation, and that the need to take action on the threatened
OC SAN 24-096-
XX-15
litigation arose subsequent to the posting of the Agenda and may consider it at that
meeting pursuant to Section 1(J) above. A description of any item so placed on the
Agenda shall include both consideration of the demand, and the possibility of corrective
action, by the Board.
In considering such demands, the Board shall first determine, by motion,
whether corrective action should be taken. If no motion to take corrective action is carried,
the Clerk of the Board shall inform the demanding party in writing of the Board’s decision
not to cure or correct the challenged action.
C. Implementing Corrective Action. If a motion to take corrective action
passes, the Chairperson may entertain a motion implementing corrective action. Any
motion implementing corrective action shall address the concerns raised in the
consideration of corrective action. The motion implementing corrective action may include
a motion to rescind prior action taken, as appropriate. Passage of a motion to rescind
invalidates prior action only as of the time of the passage of the motion, and not from the
date of the initial action. A motion implementing corrective action resulting from a written
demand is out-of-order if the action complained of (a) was in connection with the sale or
issuance of notes, bonds or other evidence of indebtedness, or any contract, agreement
or incident thereto; or (b) gave rise to a contractual obligation upon which a party has, in
good faith, detrimentally relied. In any event, the Board shall notify the party making the
demand in writing of its decision to take corrective action and shall describe any corrective
action taken. This notice shall be given to the demanding party as soon as possible after
the meeting, but in no event more than thirty (30) days after receipt of the demand.
Section 3: Resolution No. OC SAN 22-3724-09 is hereby repealed.
Section 4: This Resolution shall become effective immediately.
PASSED AND ADOPTED at a regular meeting of the Board of Directors held
August 28, 2024January 28, 2026.
Ryan P. Gallagher
Board Chairman
ATTEST:
Kelly A. Lore, MMC
Clerk of the Board
OC SAN 24-096-
XX-16
APPROVED AS TO FORM:
Scott C. Smith
General Counsel
OC SAN 24-096-
XX-17
STATE OF CALIFORNIA )
) ss
COUNTY OF ORANGE )
I, Kelly A. Lore, Clerk of the Board of Directors of the Orange County Sanitation District,
do hereby certify that the foregoing Resolution No. OC SAN 24-0926-XX was passed and
adopted at a regular meeting of said Board on the 28th day of August 2024January 2026
by the following vote, to wit:
AYES:
NOES:
ABSENT:
ABSTENTIONS:
IN WITNESS WHEREOF, I have hereunto set my hand and affixed the official seal of
Orange County Sanitation District this 28th day of August 2024January 2026.
Kelly A. Lore, MMC
Clerk of the Board of Directors
Orange County Sanitation District
OC SAN 24-096-
XX-18
TABLE 1
BOARD PROCEDURES AND ORGANIZATION
SUMMARY OF MOTIONS
A. PRIVILEGED MOTIONS
Kind of
Motion
Second
Required
Debatable
Amendable
Vote
Required
Purpose
Adjourn Yes No No Majority To end the
meeting
To Take a
Recess
Yes No No Majority To interrupt a
meeting for a
short time or to
provide an
intermission
Raise a
Question of
Privilege
No No No None To obtain action
immediately in an
emergency
B. MAIN MOTION AND RELATED
SUBSIDIARY MOTIONS
Kind of
Motion
Second
Required
Debatable
Amendable
Vote
Required
Purpose
Main
Motion
Yes Yes Yes Majority To introduce new
business
Amend
Main
Motion
Yes Yes Yes Majority To modify or alter a
motion
Substitute
Motion
Yes Yes Yes Majority To replace the main
motion entirely
OC SAN 24-096-
XX-19
Previous
Question
Yes No No Majority To close debate on
the main or
amended motion
immediately
Continue to
a Certain
Time
Yes Yes Yes Majority To defer action
To Table Yes No No Majority To discontinue
consideration until
brought back by vote
of the Board
Take a
Motion
from the
Table
Yes No No Majority To bring before the
group a motion
previously tabled
Limit or
Extend
Limits of
Debate
Yes No Yes Majority To limit or extend
limits of debate
Refer to a
Committee
Yes Yes Yes Majority To place business in
hands of a
Committee
Withdraw a
Motion
No No No None To withdraw a
motion before it is
voted on
Reconsider Yes Yes No Majority
must be
by a
Director
who voted
for the
prevailing
side on
the
original
motion
To secure a new
vote on a motion
previously voted
upon
OC SAN 24-0926-
XX-20
C. INCIDENTAL RULES
NON-RANKING
Kind of
Motion
Second
Required
Debatable
Amendable
Vote
Required
Purpose
Request to
Suspend
the Rules
Yes No No Two-
Thirds
To facilitate business
ordinarily contrary to
the rules of the
organization
Override
Order of
the Chair
Yes No No Majority To have Board
majority rule on the
order
Point of
Order
No No No None To enforce the rules
of the organization
OC SAN 24-0926-
XX-21
Attachment “A”
Orange County Sanitation District
Board of Directors Policy
Brown Act Meeting Disruption
DATE ADOPTED: XX-XX-2026
SUBJECT: Policy to manage disruptions to two-way remote participation during Brown Act
meetings per SB 707
__________________________________________________________________
Policy: Disruption of Telephonic or Internet Service During Public Meetings
1. Background
Senate Bill 707 (2025) amended the Brown Act to require eligible legislative bodies to adopt, on
or before July 1, 2026, a policy addressing how the agency will respond to disruptions in
telephonic or internet service that prevent members of the public from attending or observing a
meeting remotely. This policy is adopted to comply with that requirement and to ensure continuity
of public participation during technical disruptions.
2. Purpose
This policy establishes procedures for responding to a disruption in the telephonic or internet
services that provide two-way remote public access to meetings of Orange County Sanitation
District Board of Directors, as required by the Brown Act (Gov. Code § 54953.4). The policy
ensures transparency, public participation, and continuity of government during technology
disruptions.
3. Definitions
For purposes of this policy:
“Disruption” means any failure, outage, or other interruption that prevents members of the
public from attending or observing the meeting via these remote access services.
“Remote access services” means the two-way telephonic service and/or two-way audiovisual
platform used to provide real-time remote public attendance and observation of meetings.
4. Applicability
This policy applies to all open and public meetings of Orange County Sanitation District at which
remote public participation is offered or required under the Brown Act.
5. Procedures in the Event of a Service Disruption
5.1 Response to Service Disruption
OC SAN 24-0926-
XX-22
If the Board/Committee Chairperson or Clerk of the Board become aware of a disruption to
the agency’s remote access services that prevents members of the public from attending or
observing the meeting remotely:
1. The Board/Committee Chairperson or Clerk of the Board shall immediately announce the
disruption to the public.
2. The Board/Committee Chairperson may then call for a recess of the open session or
convene the legislative body in closed session, consistent with the Brown Act.
3. Staff shall begin efforts to diagnose and restore the disrupted service.
4. The meeting shall remain in recess for at least one hour or until service is restored,
whichever is sooner. The recess period may be extended if restoration efforts are ongoing.
5.2 Efforts to Restore Service
The agency shall make good faith efforts to restore remote access services, which may
include:
Troubleshooting platform or teleconferencing software
Resetting or replacing audiovisual equipment
Attempting alternative connection methods
Contacting necessary support staff or service providers
Switching to back-up equipment or platforms, if available
The Clerk of the Board shall document the restoration efforts undertaken.
6. Reconvening the Open Session
6.1. Timing
The open session may be reconvened after at least one hour has elapsed from the time of
disruption or as soon as service is restored, whichever occurs earlier.
6.2. If Service Is Restored
If the remote access service is restored before or at the time the meeting reconvenes, the
meeting shall continue as normal.
6.3. If Service Is Not Restored
If service has not been restored after one hour, the Board of Directors or Committee may
reconvene and:
1. Adjourn the meeting; or
2. Continue the meeting in open session by adopting, by roll call vote, the following, or a
substantially similar, finding:
“Orange County Sanitation District has made good faith efforts to restore telephonic or
internet service in accordance with its adopted policy, and the public interest in continuing
the meeting outweighs the public interest in remote public access.”
OC SAN 24-0926-
XX-23
Upon adoption of the finding, the legislative body may continue the open session despite the
fact that remote access services have not been restored.
7. Recordkeeping
The Clerk of the Board shall enter a brief statement into the meeting minutes, including the
following:
The nature and time of the disruption
The restoration efforts undertaken
The time the meeting was reconvened (if applicable)
Any finding adopted pursuant to Section 6.3
8. Review and Updates
This policy may be amended by the Orange County Sanitation District Board of Directors at a
noticed public meeting in open session, not on the consent calendar.
OC SAN 26-02-1
RESOLUTION NO. OC SAN 26-02
A RESOLUTION OF THE BOARD OF DIRECTORS OF
ORANGE COUNTY SANITATION DISTRICT
ESTABLISHING RULES OF PROCEDURE FOR THE
CONDUCT OF BUSINESS OF THE ORANGE COUNTY
SANITATION DISTRICT, AND REPEALING RESOLUTION
NO. OC SAN 24-09
WHEREAS it is necessary to establish rules of procedure to facilitate the orderly
handling of business to come before the Orange County Sanitation District (OC San)
Board of Directors and Standing, Steering, Special and Ad Hoc Committees.
NOW THEREFORE, the Board of Directors of the Orange County Sanitation
District DOES HEREBY RESOLVE, DETERMINE AND ORDER:
Section 1: Rules of Procedure. That the following rules of procedure be adopted
for the conduct of business of the Orange County Sanitation District (Sanitation District):
A. Regular Meetings. There shall be a regular monthly meeting of the Board
of Directors of OC San on the fourth Wednesday of every month at 6:00 p.m., in the
Administrative Offices of OC San, located at 18480 Bandilier Circle, Fountain Valley,
California; provided, however, if the fourth Wednesday of the month falls upon a legal
holiday, said monthly meeting shall be held on the next day thereafter, at the same time
and place, unless the Board of Directors adjourns to a different date and time. OC San’s
Plant No. 2, located at 22215 Brookhurst Street, Huntington Beach shall serve as an
alternate location for holding meetings of the Board of Directors.
The Board of Directors may adjourn any regular, special or adjourned special
meeting to a time and place certain, as specified in the order of adjournment.
B. Special Meetings. A special meeting of the Board of Directors may be called
in either one of the following ways:
(1) By the Chairperson of the Board of Directors; or
(2) By the written request of a majority of the Steering Committee
delivered to the Clerk of the Board.
The call or notice for special meeting shall be in writing and delivered electronically
or by mail at least twenty-four (24) hours before the time of such meeting, as specified in
the notice. Any notice deposited in the regular mail addressed to a Director at the address
he or she has on file with the Clerk of the Board postage prepaid, sixty (60) hours in
advance of any such meeting as specified in the notice, shall be presumed to have been
delivered. If the notice is delivered electronically, the Clerk of the Board should use an
electronic “read receipt” to ensure delivery. If a Director has not read the notice, the Clerk
OC SAN 26-02-2
will diligently attempt to contact the Director by telephone as soon as possible after the
publication of the notice.
The call or notice shall specify the time and place of the special meeting, a
description of the business to be transacted and copies of all pertinent material.
Such notice may be dispensed with as to any Director or Alternate Director who,
at or prior to the time the meeting convenes, files with the Clerk of the Board a written
waiver of notice. Such waiver may be given by facsimile or electronic mail. Such notice
may also be dispensed with as to any member who is actually present at the meeting at
the time it convenes. The Clerk of the Board shall diligently attempt to notify each Director
personally of the time, place and purpose of said meeting, not less than twenty-four (24)
hours before the time of said meeting.
The call or notice shall be posted in the administrative offices’ public lobby and in
a location freely accessible to the public at least twenty-four (24) hours prior to the special
meeting.
C. Meetings Adjourned by Clerk of the Board. If at any regular, adjourned
regular, special or adjourned special meeting there is not a quorum of Directors present,
the Clerk of the Board may declare the meeting adjourned to a stated time and place and
shall cause written notice of the adjournment to be given in the same manner as for a
special meeting, unless such notice is waived as provided for in special meetings. Within
twenty-four (24) hours after the time of the adjournment, a copy of the order or notice of
adjournment shall be conspicuously posted on or near the door of the place where the
meeting was held and, in a location, freely accessible to the public.
D. Notices to News Media. When any local newspaper of general circulation,
radio or television station requests, in writing, notices of meetings of the Board of
Directors, the Clerk of the Board shall thereafter, until receipt of a notice terminating said
request, deliver notices of regular, regular adjourned and special adjourned meetings to
such newspapers, radio or television stations. Delivery shall be made in the same manner
as delivery is made to the Directors.
E. Conduct of Meetings.
(1) Procedural Rules. The procedural rules for debate and action shall
be as set forth in Table 1, attached hereto and adopted herein by reference. Robert’s
Rules of Order shall not be applicable or govern the procedures for the conduct of OC
San business.
(2) Legal Officer. In any case of ambiguity or uncertainty in the
interpretation or application of these Rules to any procedure, the presiding officer may
direct such question for a ruling to the Board’s General Counsel, who shall be the
parliamentarian of the Board.
OC SAN 26-02-3
(3) Obtaining the Floor and Making Motions. Any member of the Board
wishing to speak, or any member of the public wishing to address the Board, must first
be recognized by the Chairperson. The Chairperson must recognize any member of the
Board who seeks the floor when appropriately entitled to address the Board.
Any member of the Board, including the Chairperson, may bring a
matter of business properly before the Board by making a motion. Any member, including
the Chairperson, except the member making the motion, may second the motion. Once
a motion is seconded, it may be opened for discussion and debate, in accordance with
the procedures in Subsection (4) below.
(4) Rules for Discussion, Debate and Deliberation by the Board. The
procedures for consideration and action on all matters to come before the Board shall be
in compliance with the terms of this Section, as follows:
(a) Each item on the Agenda will be introduced in a form of a
report by either the General Manager, a member of the Executive Management Team,
General Counsel, Special Counsel, or the Clerk of the Board.
(b) Upon completion of the report, the Chairperson will allow for
direct questions regarding the item, by Directors, each in turn, and in the order as selected
by the Chairperson.
(c) Upon completion of the question period, the Chairperson will
entertain a motion and second for consideration by the Board.
(d) Discussion among the Directors will follow. Each Director will
be recognized to address the Board in the order selected by the Chairperson, with a five
(5) minute time limit for each Member wishing to speak on the Agenda item, unless the
time limit is waived by the Chairperson. Directors should limit comment to the subject
matter, item, or motion currently being considered. There will be no interruptions of the
Director who has been recognized. Attempted interruptions will be declared out-of-order,
and the Director attempting to interrupt will be asked to remain silent until recognized.
(e) As an additional courtesy to everyone, repetition of comments
will be discouraged in the interest of time and, at the discretion of the Chairperson, can
be declared out-of-order.
(f) After each Member who wishes to speak has been recognized
and completed their remarks, a single three (3) minute period of rebuttal will be allowed
any Director, unless the time limit is waived by the Chairperson.
(g) If it appears to the Chairperson that any Director is pursuing a
line of questioning or commentary due to lack of preparation or prior review with OC San’s
Staff, the Director’s time will be declared to have been used up, and no further inquiry will
be allowed.
OC SAN 26-02-4
(h) Upon adoption of a motion on an Agenda item, there will be
no further discussion of that item.
(5) Decorum in Debate. All Members shall address their remarks to the
Chairperson and confine them to the business then pending and subject to discussion
before the Board, avoiding personalities and reflections upon anyone’s motives.
(6) Closing or Limiting Debate. At all times, the Board shall endeavor to
allow free and open debate among Members of the Board. However, in the discretion of
the Chairperson, it may become necessary to close or limit debate, so that action can be
taken by the Board. An order by the Chairperson closing or limiting the debate can only
be set aside by a majority vote of the Board.
F. Quorum. A majority of the Directors shall constitute a quorum of the Board.
G. Chairperson and Vice Chairperson of the Board. A Chairperson and Vice
Chairperson of the Board shall be elected by a majority vote of Directors at the regular
meeting in June of each year and will assume office July 1st. The nominations for
Chairperson and Vice Chairperson shall be made at the regular Board meeting in May of
each year. Any person nominated for Chairperson shall be deemed to be nominated for
Vice Chairperson in the event the person is not elected as Chairperson. Thereafter, the
nominees shall prepare a statement setting forth their qualifications for the office sought.
The statements should be forwarded to the Clerk of the Board who will in turn forward by
electronic mail to the members of the Board of Directors with the Agenda and other
meeting material for the June regular meeting. If only one individual is nominated for
Chairperson at the regular Board meeting in May, that individual shall be deemed elected
as Chairperson, no election shall be held in June, and the individual shall assume office
July 1st. If only one individual is nominated for Vice Chairperson at the regular Board
meeting in May, that individual shall be deemed elected as Vice Chairperson, no election
shall be held in June, and the individual shall assume office July 1st.
The Chairperson and Vice Chairperson shall serve at the pleasure of a majority of
the Directors. In the event the office of Chairperson becomes vacant due to resignation
or retirement of the incumbent prior to the expiration of the regular term, the Vice
Chairperson shall automatically succeed to the office of the Chairperson and shall
continue to serve through the remainder of the regular term unless sooner removed by
action of a majority of the Directors. In the event the office of Vice Chairperson becomes
vacant prior to the expiration of the regular term, nominations, and the election of a
Director to serve in that capacity shall be conducted at the next regular Board meeting.
The person so elected shall serve the balance of the regularly scheduled term unless
sooner removed as a result of action by a majority of the Directors.
The Chairperson shall not serve more than two consecutive one-year terms for
which they have been elected to the office of Chairperson. The Vice Chairperson shall
OC SAN 26-02-5
not serve more than two consecutive one-year terms for which they have been elected to
the office of Vice Chairperson.
H. Presiding Officer. The Chairperson of the Board shall preside during
meetings of the Directors. In the absence of the Chairperson, the Vice Chairperson shall
preside.
I. Clerk of the Board and Minutes. The Board of Directors shall have a person
designated to serve as Clerk of the Board. The Clerk of the Board will be appointed to
the position by the General Manager and shall report to the General Manager or their
designee. The Clerk of the Board will be a regular full-time employee, subject to all the
rules and policies applicable to all regular full-time employees. The Clerk of the Board
shall attend all meetings of the Board of Directors, unless excused by the Chairperson,
and shall prepare an accurate record of each meeting for submission to the Directors and
subsequent approval at the following meeting; provided, however, that when an
adjourned, special or special adjourned meeting of the Board of Directors immediately
precedes a regular meeting, Minutes of said meeting shall be submitted for approval at
the next meeting of the Board following said regular meeting.
In the preparation of Official Minutes of a meeting of the Board of Directors, the
Clerk of the Board will not record the name of the Director who moves or who seconds
the adoption of a motion or Resolution but will reflect the votes by name of each Director
on each item brought before the Board.
In the absence of the Clerk of the Board, an Assistant Clerk of the Board shall be
appointed to exercise the duties of the Clerk of the Board.
J. Regular Business to Come Before the Board of Directors. Insofar as
practicable, all items of business to be taken up at a regular meeting of the Board shall
be submitted to the Clerk of the Board, who shall include the Agenda all such items
submitted by Directors, the General Manager and General Counsel, and all formal
communications. The General Manager, in consultation with the Board Chairperson and
Board Vice Chairperson, shall determine agenda items for OC San Board of Director
Meetings. Directors should prepare in advance of meetings and be familiar with items on
the agenda. Directors shall make a reasonable effort to meet with the General Manager
or related staff before meetings to receive answers to questions regarding the agenda.
The Order of Business on the agenda for regular meetings of the Board of Directors
shall be:
i. Call to Order
ii. Invocation and Pledge of Allegiance
iii. Roll Call and Declaration of Quorum
iv. Public Comment - Pursuant to the Brown Act, public comment will be
allowed on items on the Board/Committee agendas at the beginning
of the meeting either on agenda items or general comments within
OC SAN 26-02-6
the subject matter jurisdiction of OC San. Public comments are
limited to no more than three minutes each. Individuals desiring to
speak are encouraged to submit a request to speak card or place an
eComment online to the Clerk of the Board.
v. Special Presentations - Special presentations shall be scheduled as
necessary in recognition of employee or Director service, or other
requested presentations. Requests for special presentation must be
submitted to the Clerk of the Board in writing in advance of the
agenda publication deadline. The Clerk of the Board will coordinate
the scheduling of presentations with the Board Chairperson.
vi. Board Chairperson / General Manager Reports - The reports portion
of the meeting provides the Chairperson and the General Manager
the opportunity to briefly comment on OC San business, operations,
projects and other items of interest.
vii. Public Hearings - Public Hearings may be required on certain items
as prescribed by state or federal law. The regular time for public
hearings is established by this resolution.
viii. Elections – Annually or when deemed necessary.
ix. Consent Calendar - Items on the Board/Committee Agenda which
are considered to be of a routine nature by the General Manager
shall be listed on the “Consent Calendar.” These items shall be
approved, adopted, etc. by one motion of the Board and majority
vote.
Directors may comment on Consent Calendar items or ask for minor
clarifications without the need for pulling the item for separate
consideration. Items requiring deliberation should be pulled for
separate consideration.
x. Receive and File - Items that require no action; and if no objection,
the Chairperson may so order.
xi. Committee Items – Items approved at the monthly Committee
meetings are brought forward under each Standing Committee title
on the agenda for Board approval. These items may be treated as
a consent calendar by one motion of the Committee and majority
vote.
xii. Non-Consent – Items on the Board/Committee Agenda which have
not been previously considered and require study, report, or action.
OC SAN 26-02-7
xiii. Information Items – Educational or Items of interest that require no
action.
xiv. AB 1234 Disclosure Reports – This item allows Board members to
provide a brief oral report regarding the disclosure of outside
committees, conferences, training, seminars, et. Attended at the
Agency’s expense, per Government Code §53232.3(d).
xv. Closed Session - During the course of conducting the business set
forth on an agenda as a regular meeting, the Chairperson may
convene the Board/Committee in closed session pursuant to
pursuant to Government Code Sections 54956.8, 54956.9, 54957 or
54957.6, as noted.
All written materials and verbal information regarding closed session
items shall remain confidential. No member of the Board of Directors,
employee of OC San, or any other person present shall disclose to
any person the content or substance of any discussion which takes
place in a closed session unless authorized by General Counsel and
a majority of the Board of Directors.
xvi. Other Business and communications or Supplemental agenda items
– Prior to adjournment, the Board Chairperson will inquire if there is
any other business to bring before the meeting.
xvii. Board of Directors initiated items for a future meeting - This portion
of the meeting allow Directors to request an agenda item for a future
meeting. If the Board Chair or a majority of the body indicates
support for the request at that time, then the item shall be placed on
a future agenda. Upon support for the request, the Board of
Directors/Committee will provide direction to staff on the information
that is desired to be presented when the item is placed on a future
agenda.
xviii. Adjournment
The Board Chairperson shall have the discretion to change the order of business.
The Clerk of the Board shall electronically mail to each Director a notice of such
regular meetings, together with a proposed Agenda, not later than the Friday immediately
preceding such regular meetings. Said Agenda, insofar as possible, shall include copies
of Resolutions, except as hereafter provided, and a description of all matters to be
considered, together with any additional pertinent material.
Agendas shall be posted in a location freely accessible to the public not less than
seventy-two (72) hours in advance of the meeting.
OC SAN 26-02-8
Resolutions designated as “standard” and adopted by the Board of Directors from
time to time, and approved as to form and content, need not be included with said Agenda;
provided, however, that the information completing said standard Resolutions shall be set
forth on the Agenda listing, and copies of said standard Resolutions shall be on file with
the Clerk of the Board at the meeting time and place.
Items of business not known at the time the regular Agenda is electronically mailed
as herein provided, may be considered as supplemental Agenda items; provided that all
requirements of the Ralph M. Brown Act (California Government Code Sections 54950 et
seq.) are satisfied.
No business, except with consent of two-thirds of the Directors present (a majority
of Directors present for emergency actions), and only if permitted by the Ralph M. Brown
Act, not appearing on the regular or supplemental Agendas may be brought before the
Board of Directors.
The meeting Agenda shall provide for an opportunity for members of the public to
address the Board on items on the Agenda and non-Agenda items of public interest. As
determined by the Chairperson, speakers may be deferred until the specific Agenda item
is taken for discussion, and remarks may be limited to three (3) minutes. Speakers on
non-Agenda items may address only items that are within the subject matter jurisdiction
of the Board of Directors. Time allotted for such presentations is limited to three (3)
minutes or less. Total time allotted for all public input on each non-Agenda item is limited
to thirty (30) minutes to one (1) hour, taking into consideration the number of persons
filing a request to address the Board. However, time allotments may be waived by a
majority vote of the Board.
K. Handling of Business and Voting. During the course of a Board meeting,
routine matters listed on the Agenda for consideration will be referred to by Agenda Item
Number only.
Voting on all Resolutions shall be by roll call, except if waived by unanimous voice
vote, in which event, the Chairperson may order a unanimous ballot cast in favor of the
motion or Resolution under discussion. The name of each Director shall be called only
once.
On matters of considerable interest or on which there appears to be a controversy,
the motion or Resolution shall be read by title or repeated by the Chairperson. The
Chairperson shall thereafter call for discussion of the motion or Resolution, at which time
any member may discuss the pending matter. Any person other than a Director present
at the meeting may speak on the motion if recognized by the Chairperson. Sole discretion
as to the extent of discussion outside of the membership of the Board shall rest with the
Chairperson. At the close of discussion, the Chairperson may, at the Chairperson’s
discretion, repeat the motion or Resolution pending, and thereafter, call for a vote.
OC SAN 26-02-9
The Clerk of the Board shall determine and state whether or not a motion or
Resolution is adopted by roll call vote. On all other matters, the Chairperson shall
determine the outcome of the voting.
L. Committees.
(1) Standing Committees.
(a) Steering Committee: There shall be a permanent Committee
designated as the Steering Committee, comprised of the Chairperson of the Board, the
Vice Chairperson of the Board, the Chairperson of each of the Standing Committees and
three at-large members selected by the Chairperson of the Board. The Vice Chairperson
of each of the Standing Committees shall serve as the designated Alternate, in the
absence or inability to serve by any Chairperson. In the absence or inability of any
designated member of the Steering Committee to serve, his/her city/agency appointed
Alternate Director may not serve in that member’s absence.
The Committee shall conduct an annual performance evaluation of the
General Manager and submit recommendations on their compensation to the Board of
Directors. The Committee shall also review the General Manager’s evaluation and
compensation of the executive management employees, based on established criteria,
and executive management’s goals and objectives for the following year.
The Committee shall also conduct an annual performance evaluation of
General Counsel and submit recommendations to the Board of Directors as provided by
Resolution No. OCSD 12-03.
The Committee shall make recommendations to the Board of Directors on labor
negotiations and other related activities as may be needed or appropriate.
The Committee shall also be authorized to assign new subjects of significant
importance to the appropriate Standing Committee for study, evaluation and
recommendation.
The Steering Committee shall meet on the fourth Wednesday of each month at
5:00 p.m. preceding the Board’s meeting, or at the call of the Chairperson of the Board of
Directors.
(b) Administration Committee: There shall be a permanent
Administration Committee (Communications, Finance & Administrative Services,
Environmental Services, and Human Resources) to advise the Staff and make
recommendations on matters related to the communication, financial, budgeting,
administrative, environmental and human resources policies and programs of OC San.
The Committee shall review with the Staff the procedures for development,
preparation and format of the annual budget and recommend appropriate change, and
counsel the Staff during the budget process to assure the proper interpretation and
implementation of the Board’s policies and that the desired procedures have been
OC SAN 26-02-10
followed.
The responsibility for consideration and adoption of OC San budget rests with the
Board of Directors.
The Committee shall periodically interview and recommend the selection of outside
auditors. The Committee shall review the result of the annual audit of OC San’s accounts
with representatives of the outside audit firm, including any comments received
recommending improvements. The Committee shall review management’s response to
these comments and make appropriate recommendations for implementation.
Periodically, the Committee shall recommend employment of an outside firm to
audit internal control procedures to safeguard the assets of OC San.
The Committee shall interview and make recommendations on the employment of
investment-banking firms, bond counsel and, if necessary or desired, financial advisors,
to be used in connection with OC San’s financing programs.
The Committee shall periodically coordinate recommendations on personnel
audits of OC San’s operations or segments of the operations on an as-needed basis.
The Committee shall make recommendations on personnel policies and
procedures, insurers and coverage, procurement procedures and such other related
activities as may be needed or appropriate.
The Committee shall also review issues pertaining to OC San’s National Pollutant
Discharge Elimination System (NPDES) Ocean Outfall Discharge Permit, including
annual review of the contractor(s) performing the ocean monitoring and research
programs required as a condition of said permit, and related issues regarding protection
of the marine waters off metropolitan Orange County’s coastline from impacts resulting
from OC San’s operations and discharge of treated wastewater.
The Committee shall review issues pertaining to the impact on OC San of
legislative and regulatory proposals and submit appropriate recommendations on the
matters.
The Committee shall also be responsible for overseeing the contractual
arrangements with OC San’s legislative advocates to provide advocacy services in
Sacramento and Washington, D.C. In carrying out its responsibilities, the Committee shall
receive regular status reports from the advocates and staff and monitor and recommend
positions on legislative and regulatory proposals.
The Committee shall also review issues pertaining to OC San’s public outreach,
branding, and communications activities, evaluate alternatives and make
recommendations to the Board of Directors.
The Chairperson of the Board of Directors shall appoint a Committee Chairperson
and a Committee Vice Chairperson for the Administration Committee. The Committee
OC SAN 26-02-11
Chairperson and Committee Vice Chairperson shall serve at the pleasure of the
Chairperson of the Board of Directors.
The Administration Committee shall consist of thirteen members, as follows:
(1) The Chairperson of the Board of Directors;
(2) The Vice Chairperson of the Board of Directors;
(3) The Committee Chair of the Administration Committee;
(4) The Committee Vice Chair of the Administration Committee; and
(5) Nine additional Directors appointed by the Chairperson of the Board of
Directors.
Other than the Board Chairperson and the Board Vice Chairperson, no Director
who serves on the Operations Committee shall be eligible to serve concurrently on the
Administration Committee. In the absence of the Board Chairperson, his or her alternate
Director may attend meetings of the Administration Committee.
The Administration Committee shall meet on the second Wednesday of each
month at 5:00 p.m., or at the call of its Chairperson.
(c) Operations Committee: There shall be a permanent
Committee designated the Operations Committee (Engineering and Operations &
Maintenance). With the goal of compliance with all public health and environmental laws
and regulations, the Operations Committee shall review and submit appropriate
recommendations on the matters pertaining to the operation of OC San wastewater
treatment process, including such matters as current and projected service/flow needs,
level and quality of treatment, conservation, recycling and reuse activities and air quality
issues.
The Committee shall also review matters pertaining to contractual arrangements
by OC San to provide sewerage services to areas outside OC San’s boundaries or
approved spheres of influence.
The Committee shall review plans for the future needs of OC San, explore
alternatives and make recommendations to the Board of Directors.
The Operations Committee shall also review and submit appropriate
recommendations on matters pertaining to capital projects which address operational
needs, including the selection of professional consulting services to assist in studying,
planning and designing needed OC San wastewater treatment systems and support
facilities, including computerized systems, in accordance with the Board’s established
policies and procedures for procuring such services; the Committee shall further review
construction projects for said facilities in accordance with applicable public works laws
and Board policies. Said oversight shall include the contracts for professional services
and public works construction projects and addenda or change orders thereto. In carrying
OC SAN 26-02-12
out its responsibilities, the Committee shall receive advance notice and regular status
reports on the projects from Staff, and monitor, visit and observe OC San wastewater
systems operational functions and major capital construction projects.
The Chairperson of the Board of Directors shall appoint a Committee Chairperson
and a Committee Vice Chairperson of the Operations Committee. The Committee
Chairperson and Committee Vice Chairperson shall serve at the pleasure of the
Chairperson of the Board of Directors.
The Operations Committee shall consist of fourteen members, as follows:
(1) The Chairperson of the Board of Directors;
(2) The Vice Chairperson of the Board of Directors;
(3) The Committee Chair of the Operations Committee;
(4) The Committee Vice Chair of the Operations Committee; and
(5) Ten (10) additional Directors appointed by the Chairperson of the Board of
Directors.
Other than the Board Chairperson and the Board Vice Chairperson, no Director
who serves on the Administration Committee shall be eligible to serve concurrently on the
Operations Committee. In the absence of the Board Vice-Chairperson, his or her
Alternate Director may attend meetings of the Operations Committee.
The Operations Committee shall meet on the first Wednesday of each month at
5:00 p.m., or at the call of its Chairperson.
(2) Special and Ad Hoc Committees. In addition to the Standing
Committees, the Chairperson of the Board of Directors, the Chairperson of a Standing
Committee or a majority of the Directors, may appoint from time to time, Special or Ad
Hoc Committees to study and report on specific matters. Such Committees shall be
temporary in nature, and their assignments shall pertain to a current, specific issue. Upon
completion of the assigned task, the Ad Hoc or Special Committee will be dissolved.
The Chairperson and Vice Chairperson of Special and Ad Hoc Committees shall
be appointed by the Chairperson of the appointing authority.
Each Special and Ad Hoc Committee shall meet at the call of its Chairperson.
M. Alternate Directors: If a regular Director cannot attend a meeting of the
Operations Committee, the Administration Committee or the full Board of Directors, the
Director’s alternate may attend in place of his or her regular Director. An alternate Director
may not, however, attend a meeting of any other Committee in the absence of his or her
regular Director. An Alternate Director serving in place of a regular member shall not act
as Chairperson or Vice Chairperson of the Board or any Committee, even if the absent
OC SAN 26-02-13
regular member serves as Chairperson or Vice Chairperson of one of those bodies.
N. Teleconferenced Meetings:
(1) There are various methods to allow teleconferenced meetings within
the Ralph M. Brown Act (California Government Code Sections
54950 et seq.) (Brown Act).
(2) If the OC San regular Director and the Alternate Director are both
unable to attend the meeting of the Operations Committee,
Administration Committee, or the Board of Directors, the regular
Director may request that the meeting be teleconferenced. The
request may be approved by providing notice to the Clerk of the
Board; and provided that all requirements of the Brown Act are able
to be satisfied.
O. Motion to Refer to a Standing Committee. Any Director at a Board or
Committee meeting may move to have a policy or any other activity affecting OC San, or
any one of the member Agencies, referred to a Standing Committee for study and report.
This motion shall be a privileged motion, and when duly seconded, discussion thereof
shall be limited to Directors only. Said motion shall receive an affirmative vote of a
majority of the Directors for adoption.
P. All meetings of the Board of Directors and Standing Committees shall be publicly
available in person; via two-way remote participation; and live streamed on OC San’s
website. All meetings are recorded and the audio/video recording of any open and public
meeting shall be subject to inspection pursuant to the California Public Records Act.
Q. A policy to manage disruptions during two-way remote participation during
Brown Act meetings has been established and is attached as “Attachment A”. The policy
includes procedures for responding to a disruption in the telephonic or internet services
that provide two-way remote public access to meetings of Orange County Sanitation
District (OC San) Board of Directors, as required by the Gov. Code § 54953.4. The policy
ensures transparency, public participation, and continuity of government during
technology disruptions.
Section 2: Procedure for Consideration of Demands for Corrective Action.
A. Requirement of Written Demand. Prior to any person commencing a judicial
action for injunction or mandamus to declare any action taken by the Board void because
of failure to observe Brown Act requirements, such person must first serve upon the Clerk
of the Board a written demand describing the alleged violation and demanding corrective
action. Such demand must be served upon the Clerk of the Board within thirty (30) days
of the complained of action. Failure to serve any such demand within this thirty (30) day
period shall result in the loss of any right to challenge any action to have been taken in
violation of Sections 54953, 54954.2 or 54956 of the California Government Code.
B. Consideration of Corrective Action. Upon receipt of such a demand,
consideration of the demand shall immediately be placed on the Agenda for the next
meeting of the Board of Directors. If the demand is received less than seventy-two (72)
hours prior to the time set for the next meeting, the Board may determine that the notice
constitutes the initiation of litigation, and that the need to take action on the threatened
OC SAN 26-02-14
litigation arose subsequent to the posting of the Agenda and may consider it at that
meeting pursuant to Section 1(J) above. A description of any item so placed on the
Agenda shall include both consideration of the demand, and the possibility of corrective
action, by the Board.
In considering such demands, the Board shall first determine, by motion,
whether corrective action should be taken. If no motion to take corrective action is carried,
the Clerk of the Board shall inform the demanding party in writing of the Board’s decision
not to cure or correct the challenged action.
C. Implementing Corrective Action. If a motion to take corrective action
passes, the Chairperson may entertain a motion implementing corrective action. Any
motion implementing corrective action shall address the concerns raised in the
consideration of corrective action. The motion implementing corrective action may include
a motion to rescind prior action taken, as appropriate. Passage of a motion to rescind
invalidates prior action only as of the time of the passage of the motion, and not from the
date of the initial action. A motion implementing corrective action resulting from a written
demand is out-of-order if the action complained of (a) was in connection with the sale or
issuance of notes, bonds or other evidence of indebtedness, or any contract, agreement
or incident thereto; or (b) gave rise to a contractual obligation upon which a party has, in
good faith, detrimentally relied. In any event, the Board shall notify the party making the
demand in writing of its decision to take corrective action and shall describe any corrective
action taken. This notice shall be given to the demanding party as soon as possible after
the meeting, but in no event more than thirty (30) days after receipt of the demand.
Section 3: Resolution No. OC SAN 24-09 is hereby repealed.
Section 4: This Resolution shall become effective immediately.
PASSED AND ADOPTED at a regular meeting of the Board of Directors held
January 28, 2026.
Ryan P. Gallagher
Board Chairman
ATTEST:
Kelly A. Lore, MMC
Clerk of the Board
APPROVED AS TO FORM:
Scott C. Smith
General Counsel
OC SAN 26-02-15
STATE OF CALIFORNIA )
) ss
COUNTY OF ORANGE )
I, Kelly A. Lore, Clerk of the Board of Directors of the Orange County Sanitation District,
do hereby certify that the foregoing Resolution No. OC SAN 26-02 was passed and
adopted at a regular meeting of said Board on the 28th day of January 2026 by the
following vote, to wit:
AYES:
NOES:
ABSENT:
ABSTENTIONS:
IN WITNESS WHEREOF, I have hereunto set my hand and affixed the official seal of
Orange County Sanitation District this 28th day of January 2026.
Kelly A. Lore, MMC
Clerk of the Board of Directors
Orange County Sanitation District
OC SAN 26-02-16
TABLE 1
BOARD PROCEDURES AND ORGANIZATION
SUMMARY OF MOTIONS
A. PRIVILEGED MOTIONS
Kind of
Motion
Second
Required
Debatable
Amendable
Vote
Required
Purpose
Adjourn Yes No No Majority To end the
meeting
To Take a
Recess
Yes No No Majority To interrupt a
meeting for a
short time or to
provide an
intermission
Raise a
Question of
Privilege
No No No None To obtain action
immediately in an
emergency
B. MAIN MOTION AND RELATED
SUBSIDIARY MOTIONS
Kind of
Motion
Second
Required
Debatable
Amendable
Vote
Required
Purpose
Main
Motion
Yes Yes Yes Majority To introduce new
business
Amend
Main
Motion
Yes Yes Yes Majority To modify or alter a
motion
Substitute
Motion
Yes Yes Yes Majority To replace the main
motion entirely
OC SAN 26-02-17
Previous
Question
Yes No No Majority To close debate on
the main or
amended motion
immediately
Continue to
a Certain
Time
Yes Yes Yes Majority To defer action
To Table Yes No No Majority To discontinue
consideration until
brought back by vote
of the Board
Take a
Motion
from the
Table
Yes No No Majority To bring before the
group a motion
previously tabled
Limit or
Extend
Limits of
Debate
Yes No Yes Majority To limit or extend
limits of debate
Refer to a
Committee
Yes Yes Yes Majority To place business in
hands of a
Committee
Withdraw a
Motion
No No No None To withdraw a
motion before it is
voted on
Reconsider Yes Yes No Majority
must be
by a
Director
who voted
for the
prevailing
side on
the
original
motion
To secure a new
vote on a motion
previously voted
upon
OC SAN 26-02-18
C. INCIDENTAL RULES
NON-RANKING
Kind of
Motion
Second
Required
Debatable
Amendable
Vote
Required
Purpose
Request to
Suspend
the Rules
Yes No No Two-
Thirds
To facilitate business
ordinarily contrary to
the rules of the
organization
Override
Order of
the Chair
Yes No No Majority To have Board
majority rule on the
order
Point of
Order
No No No None To enforce the rules
of the organization
OC SAN 26-02-19
Attachment “A”
Orange County Sanitation District
Board of Directors Policy
Brown Act Meeting Disruption
DATE ADOPTED: 01-28-2026
SUBJECT: Policy to manage disruptions to two-way remote participation during Brown Act
meetings per SB 707
__________________________________________________________________
Policy: Disruption of Telephonic or Internet Service During Public Meetings
1. Background
Senate Bill 707 (2025) amended the Brown Act to require eligible legislative bodies to adopt, on
or before July 1, 2026, a policy addressing how the agency will respond to disruptions in
telephonic or internet service that prevent members of the public from attending or observing a
meeting remotely. This policy is adopted to comply with that requirement and to ensure continuity
of public participation during technical disruptions.
2. Purpose
This policy establishes procedures for responding to a disruption in the telephonic or internet
services that provide two-way remote public access to meetings of Orange County Sanitation
District Board of Directors, as required by the Brown Act (Gov. Code § 54953.4). The policy
ensures transparency, public participation, and continuity of government during technology
disruptions.
3. Definitions
For purposes of this policy:
“Disruption” means any failure, outage, or other interruption that prevents members of the
public from attending or observing the meeting via these remote access services.
“Remote access services” means the two-way telephonic service and/or two-way audiovisual
platform used to provide real-time remote public attendance and observation of meetings.
4. Applicability
This policy applies to all open and public meetings of Orange County Sanitation District at which
remote public participation is offered or required under the Brown Act.
5. Procedures in the Event of a Service Disruption
5.1 Response to Service Disruption
If the Board/Committee Chairperson or Clerk of the Board become aware of a disruption to
OC SAN 26-02-20
the agency’s remote access services that prevents members of the public from attending or
observing the meeting remotely:
1. The Board/Committee Chairperson or Clerk of the Board shall immediately announce the
disruption to the public.
2. The Board/Committee Chairperson may then call for a recess of the open session or
convene the legislative body in closed session, consistent with the Brown Act.
3. Staff shall begin efforts to diagnose and restore the disrupted service.
4. The meeting shall remain in recess for at least one hour or until service is restored,
whichever is sooner. The recess period may be extended if restoration efforts are ongoing.
5.2 Efforts to Restore Service
The agency shall make good faith efforts to restore remote access services, which may
include:
Troubleshooting platform or teleconferencing software
Resetting or replacing audiovisual equipment
Attempting alternative connection methods
Contacting necessary support staff or service providers
Switching to back-up equipment or platforms, if available
The Clerk of the Board shall document the restoration efforts undertaken.
6. Reconvening the Open Session
6.1. Timing
The open session may be reconvened after at least one hour has elapsed from the time of
disruption or as soon as service is restored, whichever occurs earlier.
6.2. If Service Is Restored
If the remote access service is restored before or at the time the meeting reconvenes, the
meeting shall continue as normal.
6.3. If Service Is Not Restored
If service has not been restored after one hour, the Board of Directors or Committee may
reconvene and:
1. Adjourn the meeting; or
2. Continue the meeting in open session by adopting, by roll call vote, the following, or a
substantially similar, finding:
“Orange County Sanitation District has made good faith efforts to restore telephonic or
internet service in accordance with its adopted policy, and the public interest in continuing
the meeting outweighs the public interest in remote public access.”
Upon adoption of the finding, the legislative body may continue the open session despite the
fact that remote access services have not been restored.
OC SAN 26-02-21
7. Recordkeeping
The Clerk of the Board shall enter a brief statement into the meeting minutes, including the
following:
The nature and time of the disruption
The restoration efforts undertaken
The time the meeting was reconvened (if applicable)
Any finding adopted pursuant to Section 6.3
8. Review and Updates
This policy may be amended by the Orange County Sanitation District Board of Directors at a
noticed public meeting in open session, not on the consent calendar.
STEERING COMMITTEE
Agenda Report
Headquarters
18480 Bandilier Circle
Fountain Valley, CA 92708
(714) 593-7433
File #:2026-4771 Agenda Date:1/28/2026 Agenda Item No:3.
FROM:Robert Thompson, General Manager
Originator: Lorenzo Tyner, Assistant General Manager
SUBJECT:
COMPENSATION TO GOVERNMENT ENTITIES AS A RESULT OF THE ORANGE COUNTY
SANITATION DISTRICT ACQUIRING REAL PROPERTY IN THEIR JURISDICTION
GENERAL MANAGER'S RECOMMENDATION
RECOMMENDATION: Recommend to the Board of Directors to:
Approve a policy which states that Orange County Sanitation District (OC San)should not
compensate government entities for potential loss of revenue,including sales tax,property tax or
economic opportunity when OC San acquires real property in the entity’s jurisdiction.
BACKGROUND
During a recent OC San real property purchase process,the Board discussed whether OC San
should be responsible for making up property and sales tax revenue another government entity might
forego as a result of OC San acquiring real property for its operations.
The Board tasked staff and the General Counsel to research this issue and report back to the Board.
Staff and General Counsel have completed the analysis and determined that OC San is not
responsible for,and should not compensate government entities for,loss of revenue,real or
estimated.OC San has no obligation or authority to pay the equivalent of private party taxes,real or
estimated,to another government entity when acquiring property.OC San is responsible for paying
its fair share of the cost of its operations including normal and customary cost recovery fees for cities
such as permit fees, connection fees, inspection fees, traffic impact fees, and the like.
RELEVANT STANDARDS
·Protect OC San assets
·Ensure the public’s money is wisely spent
·Build brand, trust, and support with policy makers and community leaders
PROBLEM
Currently,OC San does not have a policy regarding compensation to government entities when OC
San acquires real property in another government entity’s jurisdiction.
Orange County Sanitation District Printed on 1/21/2026Page 1 of 3
powered by Legistar™
File #:2026-4771 Agenda Date:1/28/2026 Agenda Item No:3.
PROPOSED SOLUTION
Approve a policy stating OC San does not compensate government entities for real or estimated lost
revenue when OC San acquires real property in the government entity’s jurisdiction.
TIMING CONCERNS
N/A
RAMIFICATIONS OF NOT TAKING ACTION
The Board will lack clarity regarding potential compensation to government entities should OC San
purchase real property in the future.This could result in delays,inconsistencies,and operational
impacts.
PRIOR COMMITTEE/BOARD ACTIONS
N/A
ADDITIONAL INFORMATION
OC San is a duly organized County Sanitation District as defined by the California Health and Safety
Code,Section 4700.As such OC San has certain rights and responsibilities defined in State statute.
OC San has a right to buy and sell property for its necessary operations.It has a right to use public
rights-of-way without paying fees or buying additional property rights to the underlying owner (HSC
4759) and it is not subject to property tax levies on its owned property.
All Orange County cities and many Orange County special districts -including OC San --are
impacted by the tax-exempt status of the Federal,State,County,school district,and other regional
special districts,together with non-profit uses,which negatively affect property tax revenue.It is
inequitable to the ratepayers within OC San’s service area that do not live in a particular area where
land is acquired to pay for lost future revenue of another city where they are not receiving services.
A similar example of this principle is that OC San did not request any compensation from a city in the
OC San service area that recently purchased 2.86 acres of private property to build a new fire
station. OC San had received a property tax increment that is now lost.
California law severely limits OC San’s ability to tax and charge fees and pay taxes to host agencies
not otherwise due.The regulatory requirements placed upon OC San by federal,state,and local
governments are driving the need for OC San to expand its property footprint.The ever-increasing
clean air and clean water treatment requirements force OC San to increase the treatment works and
administrative support footprint to meet the more stringent requirements.
CEQA
N/A
Orange County Sanitation District Printed on 1/21/2026Page 2 of 3
powered by Legistar™
File #:2026-4771 Agenda Date:1/28/2026 Agenda Item No:3.
FINANCIAL CONSIDERATIONS
The recommended action will have no fiscal or budgetary impact.
ATTACHMENT
The following attachment(s)may be viewed on-line at the OC San website (www.ocsan.gov)with the complete agenda
package:
N/A
Orange County Sanitation District Printed on 1/21/2026Page 3 of 3
powered by Legistar™
STEERING COMMITTEE
Agenda Report
Headquarters
18480 Bandilier Circle
Fountain Valley, CA 92708
(714) 593-7433
File #:2026-4718 Agenda Date:1/28/2026 Agenda Item No:4.
FROM:Robert Thompson, General Manager
SUBJECT:
GENERAL MANAGER’S FY 2025-2026 WORK PLAN MID-YEAR REPORT
GENERAL MANAGER'S RECOMMENDATION
RECOMMENDATION: Recommend to the Board of Directors to:
Receive and file the General Manager’s FY 2025-2026 Work Plan Mid-Year Report.
BACKGROUND
Each year,the General Manager prepares a work plan of activities supporting Orange County
Sanitation District’s (OC San)strategic goals and initiatives to be accomplished during the fiscal year.
The General Manager’s FY 2025-2026 Work Plan was received and filed by the Steering Committee
in June 2025. Attached is the mid-year report for the General Manager’s FY 2025-2026 work plan.
RELEVANT STANDARDS
·Maintain a culture of improving efficiency to reduce the cost to provide the current service level
or standard
·Plan for and execute succession, minimizing vacant position times
·Cultivate a highly qualified, well-trained, and diverse workforce
·Maintain and adhere to appropriate internal planning documents (Biosolids,Odor,and Energy
Master Plans)
·Use all practical and effective means for resource recovery
PRIOR COMMITTEE/BOARD ACTIONS
June 2025 - Received and filed the General Manager’s FY 2025-2026 Work Plan.
ADDITIONAL INFORMATION
The General Manager’s proposed work plan includes 21 goals for the fiscal year.Thus far,five items
in the work plan have been completed and the remainder are on track to be completed by June 30,
2026.
Orange County Sanitation District Printed on 1/20/2026Page 1 of 2
powered by Legistar™
File #:2026-4718 Agenda Date:1/28/2026 Agenda Item No:4.
FINANCIAL CONSIDERATIONS
All items included in the General Manager’s Work Plan are budgeted in the FY 2025-2026 Budget.
ATTACHMENT
The following attachment(s)may be viewed on-line at the OC San website (www.ocsan.gov)with the complete agenda
package:
·General Manager’s FY 2025-2026 Work Plan Mid-Year Report
Orange County Sanitation District Printed on 1/20/2026Page 2 of 2
powered by Legistar™
January 28, 2026
TO: Chairman and Members of the Board of Directors FROM: Robert C. Thompson General Manager
SUBJECT: General Manager’s FY 2025-2026 Work Plan Mid-Year Update I am pleased to present the mid-year update for my Fiscal Year 2025-2026 Work Plan.
The Work Plan has 21 individual goals organized into four strategic categories: Business
Principles, Environmental Stewardship, Wastewater Management, and Workplace Environment. At the mid-year point, five of the 21 goals have been completed, and the remainder are on track for completion by the end of the fiscal year.
1. Business Principles
• CIP Staffing Plan – Create a Capital Improvement Program (CIP) staffing plan by December 31, 2025, to minimize Supplemental Engineering Services,
improve succession planning, and streamline the project delivery process. Update: Complete. The staffing plan was completed and presented at the October Operations and Administration Committees.
• Customer Service Portal – Complete the project Scope of Work, conduct a Request for Proposal, and award a contract to create a customer service portal by June 30, 2026. The portal will allow external stakeholders to access information, manage accounts, and interact with OC San’s services to improve
convenience and service efficiency. Update: In Progress. The Customer Service Portal is currently undergoing user testing on the Service Now platform. The first portal service area is the Easement Disposition. Additional services have been identified and will be
added.
• Small and Replacement Projects Funding Process Improvement – Develop a new process for funding small replacement and repair projects to
create more transparency, efficiency, and budget control by December 31,
2025.
General Manager’s FY 2025-2026 Mid-Year Update January 28, 2026 Page 2 of 5
Update: Complete. Finance and Engineering collaboratively developed the new process for small project funding. The process meets the needs of OC San and provides more transparency and budget control.
• Operational AI Opportunities – Identify and prioritize opportunities to optimize OC San administrative, operational and treatment processes through the application of Artificial Intelligence (AI). This may include leveraging historical
SCADA data, CMMS data, LIMs data, and potentially visual information for an
AI system that can prompt operators by June 30, 2026. Update: In Progress. Operations & Maintenance and Engineering have met with vendors on AI technology applications for the wastewater industry.
Internally, staff has met to develop and prioritize initiatives and feasibility of
implementation. Additional discussions are underway to review and finalize the pertinent application of AI.
• Cybersecurity – Conduct a cyber penetration test and red team assessment of the process control systems by June 30, 2026. Update: In Progress. A vendor has been selected and planning for the testing is underway. The penetration test / red team assessment will take place in
February.
• Delinquent Fee Policies for Discharge Permits – Update OC San ordinances and policies regarding delinquent fees and penalties for discharge
permits by March 31, 2026. Update: In Progress. Finance, Environmental Services, and General Counsel have reviewed existing ordinances and policies to identify areas of improvement for completion by March 31, 2026.
• Digital Asset Management – Receive final technical memos for proposed asset database improvements and risk framework for major, critical assets by June 30, 2026.
Update: In Progress. The final technical memo for asset database improvements is being finalized by the consultant. The final risk framework technical memo is on track to be complete by June 30, 2026.
• Debt Financing – Identify and pursue debt refunding opportunities that reduce costs for OC San and its ratepayers. If refunding criteria are met, complete the transaction by March 31, 2026.
General Manager’s FY 2025-2026 Mid-Year Update January 28, 2026 Page 3 of 5
Update: Complete. Working with our financial advisor, we successfully refunded the 2016A debt issue saving OC San and its ratepayers approximately $14 million over the life of the debt.
2. Environmental Stewardship
• Vehicle Mobility Study – Conduct a study to right-size OC San’s
transportation fleet and support compliance with clean air standards by June
30, 2026. Update: In Progress. The study is currently underway and will be completed by the end of June 2026.
• Fats, Oil, and Grease (FOG) Outreach – Develop updated Fats, Oils and Grease outreach and compliance materials for food service establishments within OC San service area by June 30, 2026. Update: In Progress. Material development is underway for the FOG binder to be shared with food service establishments in OC San's service area. The binder will include material in written form as well as graphical illustrations to help deliver the messages and will be completed before by June 30, 2026.
• Pretreatment Information Management System – Develop a Scope for Work (SOW) for a Pretreatment Information Management System to replace the existing system by June 30, 2026.
Update: In Progress. Staff developed a generic version SOW and are conducting pretreatment business process analyses to ensure alignment with ordinance and operating protocols.
• Industrial Waste Survey – Update the Industrial Waste Survey program to utilize information management tools to gather business licensing information to more effectively identify sewer users that are required to have discharge permits by June 30, 2026.
Update: In Progress. Staff performed initial screening of OC San service area and identified over 6,000 potential new industrial users. A work plan is being developed to enable screening of all potential users in a systematic and efficient manner.
3. Wastewater Management
General Manager’s FY 2025-2026 Mid-Year Update January 28, 2026 Page 4 of 5
• Plant No. 1 Distributed Control System Human Machine Interface – (Carried over from FY 24/25) Transition Plant No. 1 to the ABB Distributed
Control System under project J-120 by March 31, 2026. Update: In Progress. Completed the transition of the Plant No. 1 process areas. The transition of the Plant No. 1 electrical system will be complete by March 31, 2026.
• Property Management – Conduct surveys of properties with identified encroachments or access limitations to OC San’s property rights by June 30, 2026. Update: In Progress. The assessments are 90 percent complete and surveys in areas of discrepancy have begun. The effort is anticipated to be completed by June 30, 2026.
• Supercritical Water Oxidization – (Carried over from FY 24/25) Complete the six-month vendor demonstration of the six-ton Supercritical Water Oxidation unit by March 31, 2026.
Update: In Progress. Staff is coordinating for the pending receipt and installation of the SCWO unit and commissioning activities.
• Biosolids Deep Well Injection – (1) Initiate Phase 1 biosolids deep well
injection permitting process by October 31, 2025, and (2) develop the outreach
Scope of Work for Phase 1 of the biosolids deep well injection program by June 30, 2026. Update: Complete. (1) Initiated the permitting process. (2) Completed the
scope of work for outreach support. Request for Proposal expected to be
released in early 2026. Contract award is anticipated by no later than summer 2026.
• High Flow Exercise – Develop and conduct a comprehensive high flow exercise by June 30, 2026, to evaluate Emergency Operation Center performance, processes, and operational efficiency. This exercise will simulate high influent wastewater emergencies and ruptures affecting the Santa Ana River Interceptor (SARI) trunkline to ensure preparedness and coordination
among all relevant departments and agencies. Update: In Progress. Staff received multiple bids and selected a vendor to facilitate multiple exercises designed to engage staff and strengthen emergency response capabilities. The exercise is slated for May 2026 and will
include participation from the EOC team.
General Manager’s FY 2025-2026 Mid-Year Update January 28, 2026 Page 5 of 5
4. Workplace Environment
• Physical Security Master Plan – Develop a physical security master plan based on findings from past audits and surveys with a focus on mitigating risk, compliance with applicable regulations and standards, and enhancing security measures in OC San facilities and operations by June 30, 2026.
Update: In Progress. Staff received four competitive bids and selected the vendor in December 2025. The project will take 16 weeks to complete, and the plan will outline recommendations to enhance overall security measures.
• Operator Certification Support – Develop and implement a wastewater
laboratory and data science training curriculum to support wastewater operator certification by June 30, 2026. Update: In Progress. Training is being developed. O&M along with
Environmental Compliance staff have coordinated to determine the scope and
audience of the curriculum being developed.
• Vocational Training – Investigate partnership opportunities with vocational
training institutions to enhance workforce sourcing efforts, with a focus on addressing hard-to-fill positions by June 30, 2026. Update: In Progress. Staff actively participate in advisory councils with Long Beach City College and Summit College, providing guidance on curriculum
development and career pathways for vocational and trade occupations within the wastewater industry. OC San hosted operator certification training to address the void in senior operator roles requiring advanced certification.
RCT:clr
STEERING COMMITTEE
Agenda Report
Headquarters
18480 Bandilier Circle
Fountain Valley, CA 92708
(714) 593-7433
File #:2026-4679 Agenda Date:1/28/2026 Agenda Item No:5.
FROM:Robert Thompson, General Manager
SUBJECT:
ORANGE COUNTY SANITATION DISTRICT’S MEMBERSHIPS AND AGREEMENTS
GENERAL MANAGER'S RECOMMENDATION
RECOMMENDATION:
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 and wastewater industry,and to maintain that status,it is important
that staff engage in various groups to discuss and share experiences.Staying up to date on trends,
current and emerging technology, and the future of the industry is imperative.
PROPOSED SOLUTION
Allow staff to continue participation in associations and organizations that support OC San’s mission
and vision,as well as the goals and objectives of the Strategic Plan.Through this involvement,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 1/21/2026Page 1 of 2
powered by Legistar™
File #:2026-4679 Agenda Date:1/28/2026 Agenda Item No:5.
PRIOR COMMITTEE/BOARD ACTIONS
April 2024 -Received and filed the Orange County Sanitation District’s Memberships and
Agreements list.
ADDITIONAL INFORMATION
OC San conducts an annual assessment of all organizational memberships to ensure alignment with
operational needs and cost-effectiveness.Following this review,the memberships listed in this report,
each exceeding $50,000 annually,remain unchanged from the previous year.The evaluation also
identified two memberships below the $50,000 threshold that will not be renewed-the American
Public Works Association and the Center for Environmental Protection and Research Development-
due to limited cost-benefit value and participation.
FINANCIAL CONSIDERATIONS
These memberships have been budgeted in FY 2024-25 and 2025-26 budget (within each relevant
division)and will be included in the upcoming FY 2026-27 and 2027-28 budget.Based on escalation
reflected in actual costs to date and anticipated escalation consistent with current trends,the total
budget has increased from $988,000 to $1,059,000.
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 1/21/2026Page 2 of 2
powered by Legistar™
Organization Level of Participation Liasion Cost
National Water Research
Institute (NWRI)
Board of Directors Director: Jon Dumitru
/Alternate: Rob
Thompson
$50,000
Southern California Coastal
Water Research Project
(SCCWRP)
Seat on Commission Rob Thompson/ Lan
Wiborg
$597,000
Organization Level of Participation Liasion Cost
Water Emergency Response
Orange County (WEROC)
Agreement Laura Maravilla $72,000
Organization Level of Participation Liasion Cost
CSUF Center for
Demographic Research
(CDR)
Memorandum of
Understanding
Mike Dorman $75,000
Organization Level of Participation Liasion Cost
National Association of
Clean Water Agencies
(NACWA)
Agency Membership Rob Thompson $90,000
Clean Water SoCal (SCAP) Agency Membership/ Seat
on Board of Directors and
Committees
Lan Wiborg $60,000
Water Research Foundation
(WRF)
Agency Membership Rob Thompson $115,000
$1,059,000
Professional Association/Industry Organization
Purpose
Purpose
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.
Formerly known as the Southern California Alliance of Publicly Owned Treatment Works,
Clean Water SoCal 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.
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.
Grand Total
OC San Memberships and Joint Powers Authority
NWRI sponsors projects and programs focused on ensuring safe, reliable sources of
water for current and future generations.
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.
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.
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.
Joint Powers Authority
Mutual Aid Organization
Purpose
Purpose
Other
STEERING COMMITTEE
Agenda Report
Headquarters
18480 Bandilier Circle
Fountain Valley, CA 92708
(714) 593-7433
File #:2025-4592 Agenda Date:1/28/2026 Agenda Item No:CS-1
FROM:Robert Thompson, General Manager
SUBJECT:
PUBLIC EMPLOYEE PERFORMANCE EVALUATION -GOVERNMENT CODE SECTION 54957(B)
(1)
RECOMMENDATION: Convene in Closed Session:
Public Employee Performance Evaluation
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 1/21/2026Page 1 of 1
powered by Legistar™
Scott C. Smith
(949) 263-
Phone: (949) 263-2600 | Fax: (949) 260-0972
bbklaw.com
Memorandum
Honorable Chair and Members of the Orange County Sanitation District Steering Committee
From:
Date:
Re:
The Steering Committee will hold a closed session on January 28, 2026, for the purpose of considering the evaluation performance of Agency General Counsel. The closed session will be held pursuant to the authority of California Government Code section 54957(b)(1).
Respectfully submitted, SCOTT C. SMITH
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
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 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
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.