HomeMy WebLinkAboutMINUTES - 09172013 - C.21RECOMMENDATION(S):
APPROVE and AUTHORIZE the Public Works Director, or designee, to apply for and accept the California
Department of Water Resources Flood Emergency Response Project Grant in an amount not to exceed $1,500,000,
for equipment, maintenance, and service integration with other governmental agencies.
FISCAL IMPACT:
$1,500,000; California Department of Water Resources. The grant award may be lower than the amount requested
and will be for a period of two years from the effective date of the award.
BACKGROUND:
The local agencies as first responders play a key role in management of the flood emergencies in their jurisdictions.
To qualify for Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) disaster funds, local agencies are required to
prepare a Multi-Hazard Mitigation Plan, called an Emergency Action Plan (EAP), which includes planning for all
potential emergencies in their jurisdictions. Generally, it is assumed that local agencies included flood emergencies in
their EAP and would have a plan and enough resources in place to address flood emergencies. However, local
agencies,
APPROVE OTHER
RECOMMENDATION OF CNTY ADMINISTRATOR RECOMMENDATION OF BOARD COMMITTEE
Action of Board On: 09/17/2013 APPROVED AS RECOMMENDED OTHER
Clerks Notes:
VOTE OF SUPERVISORS
AYE:John Gioia, District I Supervisor
Candace Andersen, District II
Supervisor
Mary N. Piepho, District III
Supervisor
Karen Mitchoff, District IV
Supervisor
Federal D. Glover, District V
Supervisor
Contact: Mark Boucher (925)
313-2274
I hereby certify that this is a true and correct copy of an action taken and entered on the minutes of the
Board of Supervisors on the date shown.
ATTESTED: September 17, 2013
David Twa, County Administrator and Clerk of the Board of Supervisors
By: Chris Heck, Deputy
cc: Mark Boucher, Flood Control, Catherine Windham, Flood Control, Marcelle Indelicato, Sheriff-Coroner's Office
C. 21
To:Board of Supervisors
From:Julia R. Bueren, Public Works Director/Chief Engineer
Date:September 17, 2013
Contra
Costa
County
Subject:Department of Water Resources Flood Emergency Response Project Grant, East County area. (100% State)
BACKGROUND: (CONT'D)
in most cases, do not have enough resources to effectively prepare and respond to major floods.
A Department of Water Resources (DWR) assessment of the local agencies’ flood response planning and their
preparedness indicates that in most communities, local agencies’ EAPs may not have an effective flood response
plan, nor do many agencies have enough resources to respond to potential flood emergencies. DWR recognizes
that coordinated flood emergency response throughout the State requires active engagement of the local
emergency responders.
The California Department of Water Resources has funding available for Flood Emergency Response Projects
grants. The original amount of $5 million has been increased to $10 million, and the geographic scope has been
modified. The original $5 million remains available for statewide projects (minus the legal Delta), while another
$5 million is proposed for projects in the legal Delta. This increase in funding represents DWR’s strong
commitment to improving flood preparedness and response at the local level throughout the state. This action is
for the second grant application under this program and is for projects related to the legal Delta. The first Board
action went before the Board on April 9, 2013, and was approved. From that grant, the County will receive
$206,500 for new stream gages and stream gage webpage development. The gages and webpage will be used to
enhance our flood warning systems. The current grant application will request funding for more stream gages for
creeks that drain to the Delta as well as emergency equipment and training related to flood emergency response.
Funding for this Grant Program will be provided through Proposition 1E, the Disaster Preparedness & Flood
Protection Bond Act of 2006 (Section 5096.821 of Chapter 1.699 of Division 5 of the Public Resources Code),
from SBX2 1, which allocates $135 million to the Department “for acquisition, design, and construction of
essential emergency preparedness supplies and projects.” Up to $5 million will be available for the grant program
through 2015.
Under this grant program, the DWR will provide financial assistance through a grant agreement with participating
agencies. Contra Costa County will use this grant funding for local emergency responders to work with the DWR
to improve local flood emergency preparedness and response.
CONSEQUENCE OF NEGATIVE ACTION:
If not approved, we would not be eligible to receive funding through this grant program.
CHILDREN'S IMPACT STATEMENT:
Not applicable.
ATTACHMENTS
DWR Cover Letter
DWR Grant Application
DRAFT APPLICATION
A-1
Application Cover Sheet
Part A – Organizations, financial and legal information
State of California, The Natural Resources Agency, Department of Water Resources
Application for a Competitive Grant under Proposition 1E, Section 5096.821 of Chapter
1.699 of Division 5 of the Public Resources Code.
CONTRA COSTA COUNTY PUBLIC WORKS
255 Glacier Dr.
Martinez, CA 94553
of the County of Contra Costa, State of California, does hereby apply to the
California Department of Water Resources for a grant in the amount of $xxxxxxxx
for the planning and implementations of the following program under the
CONTRA COSTA COUNTY FLOOD EMERGENCY RESPONSE
PROGRAM-DELTA
By _______________________________________ Date ___________
Julia Bueren
Public Works Director
Phone: 925-313-2000
Fax: 925-333-2333
jbuer@pw.cccounty.us
DRAFT APPLICATION
A-2
Applicants Representatives
Project Contact Person: Mark Boucher
Sr. Hydrologist
925-313-2274
F: 925-313-2333
mbouc@pw.cccounty.us
Alternate Contact Person: Rick Kovar
Emergency Services Manager
925-313-9621
F: 925-646-1120
rkova@so.cccounty.us
Type of Organization: Office of Emergency Services
For the geographic extent of the project:
California State Senator: Mark DeSaulnier District: 7th
California Assemblyperson: Jim Frazier District: 11th
Agency Officers
Julia Bueren Public Works Director
William Walker County Health Director
Daryl Louder Contra Costa County Fire Chief
Michael Banks City of Richmond Fire Chief
David O. Livingston Sheriff
Mark Evenson Brentwood Police Chief
DRAFT APPLICATION
A-3
Project Costs and Budget
1. Itemized Budget
STEP-1 - Planning & Coordination Units Unit
Cost ($) Total Cost
Local Flood Safety Plans: Contra Costa Sheriff's Office of Emergency Services for Reclamation
Districts
Update BIMID All Hazard Disaster Preparedness Plan 1 2,015 2,015
New Flood Safety Plan 9 10,000 90,000
Update/Revise Flood Safety Plans 4 5,000 20,000
112,015
Develop flood maps - Contra Costa Sheriff's Office of Emergency Services for Reclamation
Districts
New flood contingency maps: 9 25,000 225,000
Revise current maps 4 10,000 40,000
Update Evacuation Map & Rally Point List - BIMID 1 3,024 3,024
Public Safety maps & Citizen maps 5 10,000 50,000
318,024
New Stream Gauges - Contra Costa County Public Works/Flood
Control
Priority 1 Stream Gauges
HydroLynx Data Collection Systems
(data logger, radio, etc. included.) 4 8,000 32,000
Stream Sensors – pressure transducer or bubbler type 4 1,500 6,000
Cabinet Enclosure 4 1,000 4,000
Labor for coordination/installation/setup 4 12,961 51,844
93,844
Priority 2 Stream Gauges
HydroLynx Data Collection Systems
(data logger, radio, etc. included.) 1 8,000 8,000
Stream Sensors – pressure transducer or bubbler type 1 1,500 1,500
Cabinet Enclosure 1 1,000 1,000
Labor for coordination/installation/setup 1 3,525 3,525
14,025
New Stream Gauges - Contra Costa County Public Works/Flood
Control - Grand Total 107,870
DRAFT APPLICATION
STEP-1 - Planning & Coordination Units Unit
Cost ($) Total Cost
Communication Equipment - BIMID
Purchase four (4) APX7000 700/800 MHz 3 watt & VHF 5 watt
P25 radios - BIMID 1 25,932 25,932
East Bay Regional Communication System Authority (EBRCSA)
Fees 1 2,720 2,720
28,652
IO Radio Sets/ Comms Support/ CP Equipment - Contra Costa Sheriff's Office of Emergency
Services
Motorola APX 7000 Portable Cache (18) 2 84,000 168,000
HAM Radio Base Stations 4 1,000 4,000
Western Shelter Field Tent 2 2,500 5,000
ICP Equipment 1 5,000 5,000
182,000
HAM Radio Base Stations - Contra Costa County Health Services
HAM Radio Base Stations for CCC Medical Facilities 20 1,000 20,000
20,000
STEP-1 - Planning & Coordination "Subtotal 768,560
STEP-2 - Training & Exercises Units Unit
Cost ($) Total Cost
NIMS/SEMS Compliance Training
NIMS Compliance and training - BIMID 2 5,000 10,000
10,000
STEP-2 - Training & Exercises "Subtotal 10,000
STEP 3 - Facilities, Equipment, & Supplies Units Unit
Cost ($) Total Cost
Supplies and Equipment
Stockpile 500 tons of rip/rap for emergency repairs - BIMID 1 16,531 16,531
Purchase (and customize) a mobile Emergency Response Trailer -
BIMID 1 11,636 11,636
28,167
STEP 3 - Facilities, Equipment, & Supplies "Subtotal 28,167
Grand Total $ 806,727
DRAFT APPLICATION
2. Financing Information
Total Cost: $xxxxxx
Amount funded by DWR: $xxxxxx
Amount funded by applicant and partners: $465,000
Source of funds from partner agencies for this Project:
Source Amount Describe Status of Funds
FC District $5,000 Processing CEQA Document
Sheriff’s Office $450,000.00 Annual operating expense of maintain Sheriff’s
helicopter
Sheriff’s SAR Program $10,000.00 Current budget for water training for SAR team
Sheriff’s Volunteer Program On average 40,000 hours of service are donated in-
kind by volunteers in SAR, Dive and amateur radio
programs.
Total: $ $465,000
DRAFT APPLICATION
A-4
Governing Body Resolution
A request for a board order has been submitted and on the Contra Costa Board of Supervisors
agenda for September 17, 2013.
DRAFT APPLICATION
A-5
Partner Agency Letters of Commitment
Letters are coming.
DRAFT APPLICATION
A-6
Applicant’s Authority and Capability
DRAFT APPLICATION
B-1
Project Scope of Work and Tasks
1. Introduction
The Contra Costa County has many Departments and partners that play a part in responding to flood
emergencies. The Sheriff’s Office, Fire Department, Public Works/Flood Control, and Health Services are
working closer together than ever trying to minimize loss of property and lives due to flooding. The
County is also working more closely with Reclamation Districts to assist them in flood response.
The goals we are pursuing are to be better prepared, better trained, better equipped, and better
informed to provide an ever-improving response to flood emergencies in Contra Costa County.
The projects proposed in this grant application consist of providing Flood Safety Plans or updates to
existing plans for XXX of the 14 Reclamation Districts (RD), creation or updates of Flood
Contingency/Safety Maps, training of RD personnel to ensure NIMS/SIMS compliance, communication
equipment, and supplies. (Check completeness)
2. Background
The Contra Costa Office of Emergency Services (OES) is managed by the Contra Costa Sheriff’s Office for
the Operational Area. Contra Costa County Public Works Department (PW) staff that manages the
Contra Costa County Flood Control and Water Conservation District (FCD) is spearheading the grant
application preparation and submittal. Contra Costa OES will be designated to manage the grant once it
is awarded. Agencies submitting projects under this grant will act as the project managers for their
respective projects. Contra Costa Sheriff’s OES in coordination with Sheriff’s Fiscal Services will manage
the fiduciary and administrative requirements of this grant.
OES is coordinating with Public Works/Flood Control, the Fire Department, Health Services and
Reclamation Districts in the County to enhance the County’s preparation and response to flood events.
By submitting one application for law, fire, flood control, health services, and reclamation districts, this
application shows a united effort to increase the response efforts of the County as a whole.
In its May 2011 “Hazard Mitigation Plan Update” (HMP), the County coordinated with two of the
reclamation Districts. These “Special District Partners” were Reclamation District 800 (Byron Tract) and
Reclamation District 830 (Jersey Island). This grant effort emphasized and vision of better coordination
with and among the Reclamation Districts. If the Reclamation Districts are prepared and able to thwart
levee breaches, this will have the additional benefit of protecting the drinking water quality for those in
Contra Costa County served with Delta water supplies.
DRAFT APPLICATION
3. Description of Proposed Project
Our proposal’s projects are organized below using the Step 1, Step 2 and Step 3 categories outlined in
the grant guidelines. These agencies propose the following projects in this grant application that
addresses several activities eligible for funding:
Step 1) Planning and Coordination
The following projects are planning and coordination activities.
a) Flood Safety Plans - Contra Costa County has experienced a variety of flood emergencies over
the past half century. Many of the County’s flood risks are within the “legal delta”. In the East
Contra Costa County area (East County), thirteen Reclamation Districts (RD) and one Municipal
Improvement District (MID) have a need for a new or updated Flood Safety Plans to guide them
in effective protection of their levees during delta flood events. For many of the RDs, Lack of
funding is the primary barrier to developing a plan. This is a unique opportunity to develop or
update the plans or all of the RDs at the same time to provide consistency and a high level of
coordination. There is a great potential for sharing resources and creating plans that work
together in an overall vision for flood response.
The intend is for the Flood Safety plans to, at a minimum, contain the content required by the
Water Code and substantially parallels the State’s June 2011 “Sample Flood Safety Plan”. These
plans will be produced by or in close coordination with experienced RD engineer’s to ensure to
the greatest extent possible that they are realistic, practical, and effective.
MORE COMING?
b) – Most RDs in East County do not have Flood
Contingency Maps (see sample in Figure 1),
Public Safety maps or Citizen Maps for the
Reclamation Districts. Those that may have or
their maps need to be updated to be most
effective. The production or update of the maps
simultaneously will help in identifying resource
sharing opportunities. The grant funding will
provide a rare opportunity for the RDs to
collaborate at a regional level on flood
emergency response planning.
As with the Flood Safety Plans, these maps will
be produced by or in close coordination with
experienced RD engineer’s to ensure to the
greatest extent possible that they are realistic,
practical, and effective.
MORE COMING?
Figure 1 Sample Flood Contingency
Map
DRAFT APPLICATION
c) New Stream Gages – The proposed stream gages will be for collecting and exchanging stream
level information for flood warning. There are no stream gages in the East County that are
connected to a County’s flood warning system.
Contra Costa Public Works Flood Control Division staffs the Contra Costa County Flood Control
and Water Conservation District (FC District). Public Works staff provides the Contra Costa
Emergency Operations Center (EOC) with field intelligence for the flood protection
infrastructure and as well as real time situational awareness during flood emergencies. The
National Weather Service receives the FC District rain data and uses it for forcasting verification
and as on-the-ground data for enancing their warning desiciaion.
The risk in Contra Costa County, from a flood control facilities construction perspective, has
been managed and mitigated well over the last several decades through flood control projects
and floodplain management. There remain locations where flood control projects are needed,
but funding for study and construction of flood control projects is difficult to obtain. Funding for
maintenance of the current flood control facilities (sediment removal) has been a struggle since
the passing of Proposition 13. Also, in some cases land development has increased flows and
potential flooding beyond the design capacity of the flood control facilities reducing the flood
protection. Therefore, certain locations in Contra Costa County will continue to have high flood
risks for the foreseeable future.
NWS Coordination for Flood Warning – Very recently, the FC District staff has had contact with
the Hydrologist from the Monterey Office National Weather Service (NWS). During these
conversations and a two day meeting we learned there is interest on the part of the NWS of
beginning a “new era” in using real time data. Our data, along with sophisticated real-time
modeling supported by the NSWS could provide better prediction and warning times of eminent
flooding on smaller tributaries. Installing new stream gages connected to the Flood Control
District’s remote data collection system will assist in predicating flooding.
FCD Hydroloic Data Collection
System - SystemThe FC District
currently also operates 29 rain
gages and 3 stage gages. All of
the gages operated by the FC
District are connected to
remote data collection units
that allow transmission of data
via SCADA radio to a
centralized base computer at
the FC District office. The
location of the rain and stream
gages the FC District operates
and the radio paths of the
hydrologic data collection
system are shown in Figure 2.
Figure 2: Existing FC District’s Hydrologic Data
Collection System
DRAFT APPLICATION
FCD Flood Forecasting Protocols - The FC District currently uses antecedent rainfall conditions
to measure the potential for flooding. Critical antecedent conditions for flood warning are
defined as follows:
7 inches of rain for the season starting on July 1.
5 inches of rain in the last 30 days.
3 inches of rain in the last 7 days.
If any of these conditions have been met and 2 inches of rainfall is forecast in the next 24 hours,
then flooding is likely in the next 24 hours. This information has been provided to the public via
the FC District’s “7-5-3-2” outreach campaign and is explained in Chapter 13 of the Contra Costa
Hazard Mitigation Plan Update (May 2011). While the antecedent conditions criteria are good
for general flood “forcasting”, they do not inform anyone about what is actually happening on
the ground. Sending staff to watch creeks in case they rise uses up resources that could be used
in more critical flood response tasks.
Funding Needed to Increase Data Collection and Flood Warning Capabilities - Public Works is
seeking funding to enhance the creek sensors capabilities throughout the County by adding
more stream gages to its current hydrologic sensor system. These stream gages will play a
critical role in planning for imminent flooding throughout the County by having real-time stream
stage data transmitted from critical creeks in the County.
Figure 3 is from the Contra Costa Hazard Mitigation Plan Update and shows locations where loss
due to flooding has occurred repeatedly.
Figure 3: Repetitive Loss Area Map from Chapter 13 of the Contra Costa Hazard
Mitigation Plan Update May 2011
DRAFT APPLICATION
Flooding in Contra Costa County occurs primarily on the months of December through February.
The watersheds are relatively small with steep slopes in the upper watersheds. The streams rise
rapidly and can unexpectedly when the ground is saturated and high rainfall intensities occur.
There is a need for more stream gages in Contra Costa County so the EOC can better monitor
the creeks and use that intelligence to provide warnings and assist in the allocation of resources
for flood emergency response actions.
Installation and maintenance of stream gages is a comparatively inexpensive method of
increasing flood response intelligence. The cost can be insignificant compared to the savings
from flood damage (and possibly lost lives) if a gages were present. As soon as a gage is
installed, it can provide creek depth information vital to intelligence during a flood event
through the Public Works Department Flood Control Division (FC District Staff) hydrologic data
collection system. Further study of the creek for its capacity and the watershed’s hydrology
(response to rainfall) can greatly enhance the understanding and confidence in the meaning of
rising stream stage during storms.
Existing Stream Gages - The stream gages that are currently active in Contra Costa County are
presented below in Table 1 and in Figure 4. Currently, only those stream gages owned and
operated by the FC District are connected to the FC District data collection system.
In February 2013, the FC District purchased a $30,000 NovaStar 5 software upgrade that adds
greater flexibility in communicating and transferring data. This new system opens up additional
opportunities for flood emergency communication that can provide better, timelier data for
decision makers during flood or flood control channel related emergencies.
Table 1 – Active Operating Stage Gages in Contra Costing County
(See Figure 4 for locations)
Stream Gage Name Location On System Owner/Operator
Walnut Creek @ Ygnacio Vly Rd Walnut Creek Yes FC District
Marsh Creek @ Marsh Creek Fire Marsh Ck E. of Clayton Yes FC District
Marsh Creek Reservoir S. of Brentwood Yes FC District
Alhambra Creek @ D Street Martinez No City of Martinez*
Wildcat Creek @ Vale Road San Pablo No City of San Pablo*
San Ramon @ San Ramon San Ramon No USGS**
Marsh Creek @ Brentwood Brentwood No USGS **
*Operated by a consultant for the City
**Operated by the US Geological Survey under cost share agreements with local agency.
DRAFT APPLICATION
Figure 4: Active Existing Stream Gages in Contra Costa County
Proposed Stream Gages - In all, the FC District identified 5 Priority 1 locations and 2 Priority 1
locations inside or “serving” the Legal Delta.
provides a summary of the priority gage count
inside the Legal Delta. The FC District is anticipating
being awarded a Flood Emergency Response Grant
from the Statewide round to pay for the installation
or conversion of 11 stream gages as well as funding
to develop a webpage that can be used to display
the current stream depth and flood stage.
These locations that are inside or serve the legal
Delta would be beneficial in providing flood warning
intelligence information. Three of the gages bein
presented were chosen in areas of known flood risk.
The FC District also used the FEMA Flood Insurance
Rate Map (FIRM) GIS layers to locate the optimum Figure 5: Marsh Creek @ Marsh
Creek Fire Stream Gage
DRAFT APPLICATION
gage sites. These sites are where stream gages might be installed to measure to provide flood
warning data and data collection benefit for areas in the FEMA floodplains. Two of the gages are
for an existing large detention basin and a large detention basin that will be constructed by
2015. The proposed gage sites are shown on
Figure 6.
Table 2: Proposed Stream Gages
Description Priority Note
Serving the Legal Delta Boundary
Marsh Creek @ Balfour Rd 1 New
West Antioch Creek @ 10th St 1 New
Upper Sand Creek Basin 2 New
Deer Creek Basin 2 New
Marsh Creek @ Brentwood (new) 2 Provide link to City Sensor
The feasibility of all location has not been verified and there are many factors that determine
the best and most viable gage location. However, we are confident that a gage site can be found
in the close proximity of these locations and fulfill the same purpose.
Local experience of flooding and hydraulic analysis of the proposed gage locations can provide a
very good approximation as to what water levels will produce flooding. The gage can then be
used for warning and indication of flooding to speed response and recovery. Analysis of actual
the stream stage and flow from storm events can verify the flood warning levels and enhance
the storm watch protocols for those locations. More detailed descriptions of the five proposed
stream gages are provided in Table 3.
Figure 6: Planned Stream Gages in Contra Costa County
DRAFT APPLICATION
Table 3: Proposed Stream Gage Descriptions
Gage location Description
Marsh Creek @ Balfour Road This gage would be located upstream of Balfour Road
in Brentwood. The control downstream is a stable
street undercrossing that is armored with RSP and
concrete where a pedestrian path and depressed
service road are present.
West Antioch Creek @ 10th Street. This gage is currently proposed upstream of a double
box culvert and upstream of the location where West
Antioch Creek escapes its banks on a regular basis and
floods and area of low income and known as a
disadvantaged community (DAC).
Marsh Creek @ Brentwood (take
over or new)
This existing gage is not connected to the FC District’s
data collections. The intent is to partner with the USGS
to find a way to slave the data off of their existing
sensor. There is rumor that the USGS may abandon
this stream gage location due to lack of a local
sponsor. With this in mind, we have included the costs
to fully take over this gaging site with our own
equipment.
Upper Sand Creek Basin This detention basin is under construction. Knowing
how it performs is important to understanding the
flooding potential downstream of it. A level gage at
this location would assist if verifying how the basin
functions in real storms.
Deer Creek Basin or Kellogg Creek This is an existing detention basin. A gage on this basin
measuring the water level would provide warning for
when it may spill. The area immediately downstream
may experience flooding and this basin drains to
Marsh Creek which will flood in major storms.
The Deer Creek basin site is being evaluated to
determine if it is the best location for a gage. In the
event it is found to be of minimal value, a site can
likely be found on Kellogg Creek where there is
available public right of way at a good gaging site.
DRAFT APPLICATION
Step 2) Training and Exercises
1. Training the Reclamation District personnel in National Incident Management System (NIMS)
and the California Standardized Emergency Management System (SEMS) compliance – Most of
the RDs personnel are not trained in NIMS/SEMS. This training will educate them in the
terminologies and protocols to enhance their flood emergency response understanding and
effectiveness.
Step 3) Facilities, Equipment and Supplies
a) IO Radio Sets/ Comms Support/ CP Equipment - The Sheriff’s Office of Emergency Services
plays a critical role in responding to critical incidents including flood emergencies. This includes
EOC operations and field response. With this in mind Contra Costa OES is requesting resource
funding to increase their mutual aid incident command and communication capabilities. This
includes acquiring two multi-band mutual aid radio caches that can be utilized by any
responding agencies in a flood emergency.
These caches are similar to what was funded by DWR for Sacramento, Solano and San Joaquin
Counties in previous grant cycles. These radios will be maintained by Contra Costa OES and
available to any agency needing mutual aid communications capability when responding to
critical incidents, including flooding.
An example of why these cache radios are
critical. In 2011 the City of Martinez Police
dispatch system crashed. Their radio
system was inoperable. Contra Costa OES
provided the agencies existing cache
radios and the Sheriff’s Office was able to
dispatch their patrol deputies through
these radios.
With the conversion to the 800 mhz P25
system our existing cache radios are obsolete
and unable to work on the 800 mhz spectrum.
We would like to add these new caches to be
available to be used in future critical events
where all responders could benefit by working
on the same frequencies. This would include
responding to flood incidents. The rescue cited
above included the search for two additional
victims and included Contra Costa County Fire,
Contra Costa Sheriff’s Office, Walnut Creek PD,
Concord PD, Contra Costa Public Works and the
CHP. Having a cache of P25 compliant radios
would make that type of multi-agency response
much more seamless if it happened again.
DRAFT APPLICATION
This request includes funding equipment to enhance the ability to set up and manage Incident
Command Post operations in the field. Equipment will include mobile shelter for environmental
protection in the field CP as well as equipment to effectively set up and manage an incident
command post. This will greatly enhance the ability to command and control critical incidents
including flood operations.
An incident command post set up to respond to an incident during a flood response needs to be
prepared to be weather resistant. Having adequate sheltering capability to manage a large scale
response will be needed. This funding will allow the acquisition of robust shelters designed for
incident management and support.
b) HAM Radio Base Stations - The Contra Costa County EMS Agency is planning to expand the Ham
radio communication network to provide backup uninterrupted medical health operations. This
allows us to establish both new and redundant interoperable communication.
Recent events illustrate the potential communication gap during emergency responses when
15,000 patients surged two Contra Costa County hospitals over a two week period. The Local
Emergency Medical Services Agency coordinated communication for the MedHealth response
with the hospitals. However, the need for an expanded backup communication network will be
necessary during a significant system wide disruption. Without an interoperable
communication system, hospitals, health centers, skilled nursing facilities will be significantly
limited in their ability to receive medical direction and coordinate the transport of the sick and
injured.
The Contra Costa County EMS Agency is planning to expand the Ham radio communication
network to provide backup uninterrupted medical health operations. This allows us to establish
both new and redundant interoperable communication. Currently the 9 county hospitals
exercise their Ham radio communication plans during regular drills. This expansion project
extends the communication capability from the 9 hospitals with Ham radios to a network of
over 30 medical facilities in the county, connecting the smaller health care facilities to the
Emergency Medical Services Agency to widespread disruption within the MedHealth system.
Please refer to the attached maps.
DRAFT APPLICATION
Figure 7 - Current Medical Health Ham Radio Distribution
Figure 8 - Proposed Medical Health Ham Radio Distribution
DRAFT APPLICATION
4. Current deficiencies
The Office of the Sheriff Air Support Unit is responsible for daily patrols of the legal Delta in and
out of Contra Costa County. As important is the ciritical infrastructure, Bay areas and inland
lakes, open space and cities patrolled by this unit. There are a limited number of air assets that
could respons to a “flood Emergency” in Northern California. There are many areas on the
County that are not easily accessible and the only time the areas can be viewed is from a
helicopter.
Due to the aging equipment aboard the helicopters, the Sheriffs’ Air support Unit is requesting
the following items to help continue to protect the most valuable asset this region has to offer.
The Contra Costa County Office of the Sheriff Air Support Unit will be better able to meet the
requirements and mission objectives of deterrence, detection, and SAR with the addition of the
L3 Wescam MX-10 sensor system.
The ability to fly over critical infrastructure and key resources, while examining in detail the
environment, offers the region a true real time solution. Utilizing the Bell 407 helicopter as the
working platform, all operational areas can quickly be reached on a case by case basis. This
range can reduce risk by providing top cover, reconnaissance, and evacuations, if the situation
dictates.
In the event of a flood event or other catastrophic occurrence, the addition of the requested
equipment will increase the success rate of the aircrew. The precision and specifications of the
MX-10 sensor system can locate areas and persons in distress and aid in emergency situations.
Although there are other sensor systems on the market and in use, the MX-10 has the best
resolution and integration scenario needed to complete the mission.
Routine aerial patrols of critical infrastructure, Delta and key resources will be significantly
enhanced with the use of the MX-10 sensor system. During inspection flights of the levee
system, the thermal imaging feature can detect heat variances and allow the aircrew to zoom in
and identify the problem. During a natural disaster, this capability can be used to aid in the
recovery of persons and inspections of potentially dangerous damage to infrastructure.
Additionally The Contra Costa County Office of the Sheriff is requesting funds for the purchase
of a helicopter long line short haul rescue system. This system will enable the Air Support Unit
to complete search and rescue missions during emergency situations anywhere in the region.
Mass Search and Rescue
Currently, there are no short haul helicopter assets in Contra Costa County and only two assets
in the Bay Area. Sonoma County and CHP are the only law enforcement air support
organizations able to provide emergency short haul rescues.
Many times flight crews need to move a rescuer to a victim and/or extricate a victim out of a
dangerous location, such as a flooded areas, home or a victim that is located in water. In order
to do this aircrews use a helicopter rescue technique called a “short haul”. This simple concept
utilizes the helicopter to lift and move rescuers and victims from one location to another using a
fixed rope that is attached to the cargo hook on the bottom of the helicopter as seen in the
flood of Katrina.
DRAFT APPLICATION
A short haul technique may be utilized in two general rescue operations: moving the rescuer
into a victims location (for instance, a rescuer may be short-hauled into a victim who is stranded
on a roof of a vehicle during a flood event); or to extract the victim and rescuer together to a
place of safety, where medical services can be rendered.
The rescuer attached to the end of the rope signals to the crew chief above in the aircraft to
raise, lower or maintain the hover that the pilot has established. Once the rescuer has secured
the victim to the end of the rope or the rescuer and victim have been moved to a safe location,
the helicopter will gently lower the rescuer and victim to the ground. When responding to a
reported rescue condition, the aircrew will pre-rig the helicopter so that once over the scene
they can quickly and effectively deploy a rescuer to the victim and then extract both to a safe
location utilizing whichever method is most appropriate for the situation.
Utilizing the Bell 407 helicopter, the rescue aircrew can quickly be deployed to any operational
area. The Bell 407 has a flight time of three hours and can reach speeds over 140 MPH.
Currently, there are no law enforcement aircrews in Contra Costa County that can complete this
mission. In the greater Bay Area, only Sonoma County and CHP (Napa location) possess this
capability. If there is a terrorist event or natural disaster, the addition of a rescue aircrew with
the capability to locate and short haul persons in distress can be a valuable regional asset.
Currently there are no local resources for K9 water search and rescue. The ability to train three
existing certified SAR k9’s in the discipline of water rescue and recovery will greatly improve the
abilities of the Sheriff’s Office in the rescue and recovery of people with in the creeks and
waterways through- out the County. These K9’s would work in conjunction with the
Department’s Diver Team. Currently divers must enter low visibility waterways and manually
search for drowning victims. Having certified and trained K9’s will greatly reduce the time a
diver needs to be in the water and more importantly reduce the risk to our divers in these
environments.
The Siftwater rescue training saught by Contra Costa Fire Protection District is currently not
happening due to budget restraints. Contra Costa Fire still is mandated with performing rescues
in our waterways. Funding to train current rescuers in the proper techniques of water rescue
will greatly enhance their ability to rescue those in needs. Additionally the risk to the operators
is greatly reduced if they have the proper techniques and capabilities to conduct the rescues.
Without this grant funding this training will not be possible.
5. Explanation of how project will improve and strengthen the
operational area concept.
The Sheriff’s Office provides their services through-out the County and through mutual aid to all
California Counties.
The Sheriff’s Air Unit through-out the course of the year provides its services to all law
enforcement agencies in Contra Costa County. In addition several times a year they are
requested through mutual aid to assist other Bay Area Counties.
DRAFT APPLICATION
The Sheriff’s Search and Rescue Team consists of over 200 volunteers who in 2012 responded to
57 calls for service. Of these 18 missions were to Counties outside of Contra Costa.
The Sheriff’s Dive Team is the only Dive team in Contra Costa County. It’s services are used by
every law enforcement and fire agency in the County. Routinely they respond to Marin, Solano,
Sacramento and San Joaquin Counties.
The Contra Costa Fire Protection District is the largest fire agency in Contra Costa County. They
routinely service other fire agencies in the County through automatic and mutual aid. In addition
they provide strike team through-out the State when called.
All equipment being requested through this grant will greatly enhance the response capabilities
and in the case of Public Works increase the ability to analyze and respond to flood
emergencies.
All equipment would be available to agencies inside and outside of the Contra Costa Operational
Area.
6. How grant will improve the Op Area:
As described above the equipment being requested will enhance the Op Area response to flood
events. The Sheriff’s Office Air Unit is the primary helicopter for use in law enforcement
operations in Contra Costa as well as neighboring counties. Having this unit capable of better
search capabilities with enhanced flir is a great force multiplier. Currently no air units in Contra
Costa have the short haul capability. This function will greatly increase the rescue capabilities
within the County. The air unit is available through mutual aid request and routinely responds
to police agencies throughout the county.
The Op Area search and rescue team and dive teams are trained and respond to flood incidents
in the County and throughout the state routinely. Increasing their training and response
capability will truly benefit the Op Area.
Contra Costa Fire Protection District is the largest fire agency in the Op Area. They are tasked
with flood and swift water rescue in the op area. Funding to assist with their on-going flood
rescue capability is vital to this agency maintaining its capability to respond when called.
While the Contra Costa grant application for DWR funding is scalable, it addresses specific areas
of need.
Explanation of how project will improve and strengthen the operational area
concept.
The Sheriff’s Office provides their services through-out the County and through mutual aid to all
California Counties.
DRAFT APPLICATION
The Sheriff’s Air Unit through-out the course of the year provides its services to all law enforcement
agencies in Contra Costa County. In addition several times a year they are requested through mutual aid
to assist other Bay Area Counties.
The Sheriff’s Search and Rescue Team consists of over 200 volunteers who in 2012 responded to 57 calls
for service. Of these 18 missions were to Counties outside of Contra Costa.
The Sheriff’s Dive Team is the only Dive team in Contra Costa County. It’s services are used by every law
enforcement and fire agency in the County. Routinely they respond to Marin, Solano, Sacramento and
San Joaquin Counties.
The Contra Costa County Fire Protection District is the largest fire agency in Contra Costa County. They
routinely service other fire agencies in the County through automatic and mutual aid. In addition they
provide strike team through-out the State when called.
All equipment being requested through this grant will greatly enhance the response capabilities and in
the case of Public Works increase the ability to analyze and respond to flood emergencies.
All equipment would be available to agencies inside and outside of the Contra Costa Operational Area.
7. Document to establish the level of support. Opposition to the proposed project.
TBD
8. Regional quantity component. Explanation of how the project will be used to
support multi-agency, regional flood emergency response including itemizing all
participating agencies. TBD
As described above the equipment being requested will enhance the Op Area response to flood
events. The Sheriff’s Office Air Unit is the primary helicopter for use in law enforcement
operations in Contra Costa as well as neighboring counties. Having this unit capable of better
search capabilities with enhanced flir is a great force multiplier. Currently no air units in Contra
Costa have the short haul capability. This function will greatly increase the rescue capabilities
within the County. The air unit is available through mutual aid request and routinely responds
to police agencies throughout the county.
The Op Area search and rescue team and dive teams are trained and respond to flood incidents
in the County and throughout the state routinely. Increasing their training and response
capability will truly benefit the Op Area.
Contra Costa County Fire Protection District is the largest fire agency in the Op Area. They are
tasked with flood and swift water rescue in the op area. Funding to assist with their on-going
flood rescue capability is vital to this agency maintaining its capability to respond when called.
1.
DRAFT APPLICATION
9. Provide an explanation of how the proposed project is consistent with the SEMS.
NIMS framework.
2.
All agencies involve in this request are all NIMS and SEMS compliant. Both day to day
operations and emergency response follow the SEMS/ ICS model. In a flood response
equipment being requested through this grant application are appropriate to each agencies
position in the structure of emergency response with in the Operational Area.
Provide documentation that the proposed project is consistent with all relevant Op Area Plan.
The Emergency Operations Plan is an All Hazards Emergency Plan. It outlines that NIMS and
SEMS have been adopted throughout the Operational Area. It states NIMS, SEMS and ICS
principles are to be used during all critical incidents. Whether flood, fire or civil disturbance the
plan outlines the basic structure of how a response will happen.
The current Contra Costa County Emergency Operation Plan outlines 17 specific threat scenarios
emergency planners need to be prepared for in Contra Costa County. Of these threats the plan
outlines specifically Floods, Tsunamis, severe weather (including rain), and Dam Failures (and
includes 25 dams and reservoirs in this assessment).
10. For communications projects, demonstrate that the proposed project is
consistent with CALEMA Interoperability Plan, verified by a letter from the
CALSIEC.
Description of project tasks
This grant request has been broken down into four sections representing each agency involved in
the request. Each agency will be responsible for the purchase and implementation of each of their
projects. All items and trainings have been researched and the vendors have already been
chosen.
Once the grant award is made and depending on the scope of the award the project managers for
each agency will be responsible for setting up the purchase orders, tracking shipments and
submitting the necessary paperwork to the DWR for reimbursement of funds expended.
A. The Sheriff and Health Services equipment purchase and installation tasks are broken down in
the following:
Project Research/ equipment identification – Completed by all agencies.
Purchase Order set up – TBD
Equipment acquisition/training delivered – TBD
Paperwork submitted for completed projects to fiscal agent (Contra Costa Sheriff’s Office) - TBD
Fiscal agent submits completed progress reports, forms and financial data to DWR for
reimbursement – TBD
Closeout of grant – TBD
B. The ConFire swiftwater rescue training will occur as soon as practical considering the
DRAFT APPLICATION
identification of 4 rescue companies with 3 personnel each able to provide backup replacement
while personnel are in training.
C. For the stream gages installations for the FC District, the process will follow a similar pattern as
the Sheriff’s Office equipment procurement and installation, but will have some different tasks.
1. Site reconnaissance and selection – Stream Gage sites are expected to be located in FC right
of way with adequate access for installation and maintenance.
File Notice of Exemption and process CEQA documents.
Procurement of any regulatory permits for work in streams.
Research/equipment identification – FC District has a sole source waiver for the data collection
units and radios. They will purchase the stream sensors from the appropriate vendors
depending on the site conditions, availability of power, and other factors).
Ordering of data collection systems (includes circuit boards, case, radios, solar panels, batteries,
cables) and sensors.
Installation of gages including testing and adjustments.
Development of stream gage web page.
Paperwork submitted for completed projects to fiscal agent (Contra Costa Sheriff’s Office) - TBD
Fiscal agent submits completed progress reports, forms and financial data to DWR for
reimbursement – TBD
Closeout of grant – TBD
Project deliverables
At the end of this grant cycle if awarded to Contra Costa County the capabilities of our first
responders will be greatly enhanced. The Sheriff’s Air program will have an airship with a state
of the art forward looking infra-red camera system able to effectively search in day or night and
during inclement weather situations. The short haul system will allow the air ship to conduct
rescues and recoveries of victims. This is not a current capability in the County. Both systems
when up and running will be available to other agencies in time of need.
Once the stream gages are in operation, the data will be displayed on a webpage accessible to
anyone on the internet including the EOC. The FC District will ensure that EOC staff understand
how to interpret the data on the webpage and will, over time, develop tailored flood stage
warning level similar to those used by DWR and NOAA so as to communicate clearly the level
of concern that should be taken for different water levels at the gages.
Project Opportunities and Constraints
This grant funding will allow the County of Contra Costa to greatly enhance their abilities to
serve the residents of the region in time of flood emergency. Current budget restraints will not
allow any of the agencies listed in this grant to purchase the critical equipment and training
listed.
Without this funding the listed projects in this grant will be severely restricted and most likely
not acquired. While all items listed are critical given the current budget climate they cannot be
purchased. With that being said the equipment and training listed for the Sheriff’s Office and
Fire Department will make the difference in time of flood emergency.
DRAFT APPLICATION
Project Completion Date
TABLE TO BE UPDATED
(Exhibit A presents a detailed project schedule by tasks)
Project 1 - Contra Costa Sheriff's Office
Table is incomplete.
Contra Costa Sheriff's Office of Emergency Services
Motorola APX 7000 Portable Cache (18) 90 Days from grant award
HAM Radio Base Stations 90 Days from grant award
Western Shelter Field Tent 180Days from grant award
ICP Equipment 90 Days from grant award
Project 3
Contra Costa County Public Works
Installation of stream gages 365 Days from grant award
Development of stream gage web page 4 months from award
Addition of new stream gages to web page 365 Days from grant award
Project 4
Contra Costa County Health Services
HAM Radio Base Stations for CCC Medical Facilities 365 Days from grant award
DRAFT APPLICATION
Project total costs
(Exhibit B presents a detailed project costs by tasks)
TABLE TO BE UPDATED
Project 1 - Contra Costa Sheriff's Office
Contra Costa Sheriff's Office of
Emergency Services
Motorola APX 7000 Portable Cache (18) 2 $84,000.00 $168,000.00
HAM Radio Base Stations 4 $1,000.00 $4,000.00
Western Shelter Field Tent 2 $2,500.00 $5,000.00
ICP Equipment 1 $5,000.00 $5,000.00
$182,000.00
$25,000.00
$75,600.00
Project 3 Contra Costa County Public Works
Priority 1 Gages
HydroLynx Data Collection Systems
(data logger, radio, etc. included.) 5 $8,000 $40,000
Stream Sensors – pressure transducer or
bubbler type 5 $1,500 $7,500
Labor for installation and setup (80 hours
@ $126/hr) 5 $10,000 50,000
Priority 2 Gages
HydroLynx Data Collection Systems
(data logger, radio, etc. included.) 4 $8,000 $32,000
Stream Sensors – pressure transducer or
bubbler type 4 $1,500 $6,000
Labor for installation and setup (80 hours
@ $126/hr) 4 $10,000 $40,000
Priority 3 Gages
HydroLynx Data Collection Systems
(data logger, radio, etc. included.) 2 $8,000 $16,000
Labor for installation and setup (40 hours
@ $126/hr) 2 $5,000 $10,000
Stream Gage Web Page Development 1 $5,000 $5,000
$206,500.00
Project 4
DRAFT APPLICATION
Contra Costa County Health Services
HAM Radio Base Stations for CCC Medical
Facilities 20 $1,000.00 $20,000.00
$20,000.00
DRAFT APPLICATION
B-2
Environmental Information Form
Grantees are responsible for complying with all applicable laws and regulations for their
projects, including the California Environmental Quality Act (Please see Exhibit C). Work that is
subject to the California Environmental Quality Act (CEQA) shall not proceed under this
Agreement until documents that satisfy the CEQA process are received by the Department of
Water Resources. Work that is subject to a CEQA document shall not proceed until and unless
approved by the Department. Such approval is fully discretionary and shall constitute a condition
precedent to any work for which it is required. Once CEQA documentation has been completed,
DWR will consider the environmental documents and decide whether to continue to fund the
project or to require changes, alterations or other mitigation (see Exhibit C for details)
Grant Recipient: Contra Costa County
Project Manager: Rick Kovar
Phone Number: 925-646-4461
Address: 50 Glacier Dr. Martinez, CA 94553
1. Is this project exempt from CEQA compliance? Yes No (if no – skip to #2)
If “yes,” provide reasons for exemption. Cite the CEQA Article, Section and Title of the
CEQA exemption, if appropriate.
CEQA statutory exemptions:
http://ceres.ca.gov/topic/env_law/ceqa/guidelines/art18.html
CEQA categorical exemptions:
http://ceres.ca.gov/topic/env_law/ceqa/guidelines/art19.html
Check appropriate box below:
Lead Agency has already filed a Notice of Exemption (NOE) with the State Clearinghouse
and/or County Clerk.
(Attach copy of NOE, receipt of payment of DFG fees, and, if applicable, a copy of Board
Resolution)
Lead Agency will file a NOE with the State Clearinghouse and/or County Clerk.
Provide estimated date: Approximate three months after award of grant
Lead Agency will NOT file a NOE with the State Clearinghouse and/or County Clerk.
If Lead Agency chooses not to file a NOE, sufficient documentation and information must be
submitted to the Project Director, along with this form, to allow DWR to make its own CEQA
findings.
DRAFT APPLICATION
2. If the project will require CEQA compliance, identify the Lead Agency.
CEQA Lead Agency: Contra Costa County Department of Conservation Development
3. Please check types of CEQA documents to be prepared:
Initial Study
Negative Declaration / Mitigated Negative Declaration
Environmental Impact Report
4. Please describe the status of the CEQA documents, expected date of completion, and
estimated cost, if requesting DWR funds relating to CEQA compliance:
Status: Pending
Date of Completion: CEQA will be complete before work in Creeks
Estimated Costs: N/A (FC District will cover all CEQA costs)
5. If the CEQA document has been completed, please provide the name of the document and
the State Clearinghouse number if available. Submit two copies to the Program Manager.
_______________________________ ___________________________
6. Please list all environmental permits you must obtain to complete the project:
(Attach additional pages as necessary)
Type of Permit Required Permitting Agency
Streambed Alteration Agreement Department of Fish And Wildlife
Section 404 Permit US Army Corps of Engineers
401 Certification Regional Water Quality Control Board
This form was completed by:
Mark E. Boucher (925) 313-2274
Print or Type Name Phone Number
September 3, 2013
Signature Date
DWR received environmental documents.
DWR made findings.
DRAFT APPLICATION
Checklist of Materials Required for Application Completion
Application cover letter
A-1 Application Cover Sheet
A-2 Applicant’s Representatives
A-3 Project Costs and Budget
A-4 Local Agency Resolution
A-5 Applicant’s Authority and Capacity
B-1 Project Scope of Work and Tasks
Exhibit A (Detailed Project Schedule by Tasks)
Exhibit B (Detailed Project Costs by Tasks)
Attachment B-2 Environmental Information Form
Exhibit C (CEQA Process for Financial Assistance Programs)
Julia R. Bueren , Director
Deputy Directors
Brian M. Balbas
Stephen Kowalewski
Stephen Silveira
Joe Yee
September 19, 2013
DRAFT
Mr. William Croyle, Branch Chief
Department of Water Resources
Hydrology and Flood Operations Office
Flood Operations Branch
3310 El Camino Avenue, Suite 200
Sacramento CA 95821 RE: Flood Emergency Response Grant - Delta
Project No.:
Dear Mr. Croyle:
Contra Costa County herewith submits three hard copies and an electronic version of an
application for a competitive grant in the amount of $ 1,358,632 (subject to change) to
plan, design, and implement Flood Emergency Response Project for Contra Costa
County. This application additionally requests $5,000 (subject to change) for
reimbursement of the costs of preparing this application.
This application is pursuant to an authorizing resolution of the Governing Body of the
Contra Costa County Board of Supervisors dated September 17, 2013. The application
includes the forms and support materials listed in the enclosures list below.
The work plan, budget, and schedule for this application were prepared by Contra Costa
Public Works in consultation with the staff of the Division of Flood Management,
Hydrology and Flood Operation Office, Flood Operations Branch.
Mr. William Croyle
September 19, 2013
Page 2 of 2
I can be reached at 925-313-2274 or email at mbouc@pw.cccounty.us if you have any
questions during your review.
Sincerely,
Mark Boucher
Sr. Hydrologist
Flood Control Division
MEB:xxx
G:\fldctl\Grant Programs\Flood Emergency Response Projects Grant\Delta Grant\OES DWR 2013 Application 2013-09-03.docx
Enclosures
A-1 – Application Cover Sheet
A-2 – Applicant’s Representatives
A-3 – Project Costs and Budget
A-4 – Local Agency Resolution (To be signed and forwarded 4/9/13)
A-5 – Partner Agency Letter(s) of Commitment
A-6 – Applicant’s Authority and Capability
B-1 – Project Scope of Work and Tasks (including Exhibit A and Exhibit B)
B-2 – Environmental Information Form
Checklist of documents needed for a complete application
Existing Levee Safety Plans, Emergency Action Plans, or Multi-Hazard Mitigation Plans
BIMID
Contra Costa County Hazard Mitigation Plan
c: Julia Bueren, Administration
Mitch Avalon, Administration
Mike Carlson, Flood Control
Rick Kovar, OES
Marcelle, OES